Defining Hospitality
Defining Hospitality is a podcast that interviews influential figures in the hospitality industry. Hosted by Dan Ryan, founder and CEO of Agency 967, each episode features in-depth one-on-one conversations about what hospitality means to experts, with advice, behind-the-scenes looks at brands, and explorations of unique projects. New episodes are released weekly on Wednesday mornings.
Episodes
Hospitality the Sacred Duty - Colleen Rafferty - Defining Hospitality
Hospitality has ancient roots, and this week's guest traces her own path in the industry back to something surprising: a master's degree in philosophy. What started as bartending to pay for grad school became a full blown philosophy of service, one built on presence, reciprocity, and treating every guest interaction as its own small act of care. From building a team that turned an old mot
Slow Down to Connect - David Rich - Defining Hospitality
What if the best conversations aren't about being interesting, but about being present? In this episode, Dan sits down with his close friend and mentor to explore why so many of us struggle to truly connect, even with people we've known for years. The conversation covers vulnerability, the difference between listening to respond and listening to understand, and why removing performance fr
Slow Partnerships, Fast Loyalty - Diarmaid O'Sullivan - Defining Hospitality
What does luxury actually mean once you strip away the thread counts and marble bathrooms? Dan sits down with Diarmaid O'Sullivan, Director of Marketing at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, a Fairmont Hotel in Bermuda, for a conversation about connection, patience, and the moments that turn a guest into a regular. Diarmaid brings more than 30 years of international experience in hos
Culture By Design - Adam Lara - Defining Hospitality
In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan sits down with Adam Lara, principal at KTGY Interior Design and Branded Environments, to talk about career, culture, and what it really takes to build a studio that works. From formative early experiences to his latest chapter leading a growing team in Chicago, Adam offers a grounded look at what shapes great design work over the long haul.Adam
Small Hotels, Big Margins - Ryan Diggins - Defining Hospitality
In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Ryan Diggins, founder and operator of The Ramble Hotel and co-founder of Gravitas Development, to unpack how his company, Midnight Auteur, builds boutique hotels that lead with food and beverage instead of treating it as an afterthought. Ryan walks through the thinking behind properties like The Ramble in Denver and Municipal Grand in Savannah, why
Making Room for Others - Carl Long - Defining Hospitality
In this episode, Dan sits down with longtime industry counterpart Carl Long for a conversation twenty years in the making. They dig into how relationships compound like interest, why hospitality has resisted disruption from AI, and the vocational program Carl helped build at Richardson High School that's giving students a debt free path into the industry. It is a candid, reflective talk a
Hospitality From Every Angle - Compilation Episode - Defining Hospitality
To celebrate over three years of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan pulls together some of the most powerful moments from the show's history into one episode. From the etymology of the word "hospitality" itself to the sacred duty of welcoming strangers, this compilation revisits the ideas that have shaped the conversation around design, service, and business in our industry. Guests reflect on
Academic Roots, Hospitality Heights - Gary Brandeis - Defining Hospitality
Gary Brandeis, CEO of Scholar Hotels, joins Dan Ryan to talk about a strategy most hoteliers never even consider: betting everything on college towns. Gary explains why a large public university like Penn State makes for one of the most stable demand drivers in hospitality, and how his company has grown to nearly 1,000 rooms in State College alone. The conversation dives into his real est
Connecting the Room - Michelle Finn - Defining Hospitality
In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Michelle Finn, longtime industry fixture and the driving force behind Alis Design Plus, to trace the evolution of hospitality trade events from HD Expo's chaotic 1990s launch (earthquakes, riots and all) to today's design and investment ecosystem. Michelle unpacks her "dinner party" philosophy of hosting, the power of relationships over transaction
Details That Matter - Adrienne Scribner - Defining Hospitality
In this episode, Dan sits down with Adrienne Scribner, principal and managing director of hospitality at Baskerville, to unpack what three decades in hotel design has taught her about the unglamorous work that actually makes projects succeed. They dig into why there is no "coordination fairy" waiting to catch your mistakes, how typing specs into a purchasing system in the early '90s built
The Art of Making Spaces Beloved - Alexa d'Argence- Defining Hospitality
Dan Ryan sat down with Alexa d'Argence, senior interior designer at Ken Fulk Inc., to explore what it really means to design spaces people fall in love with. Alexa pulls back the curtain on KFI's work at the Huntington Hotel in San Francisco and the Beverly Hills Hotel. sharing how a strong concept and cinematic vision guide every decision from the big picture down to the smallest detail.
Niching Down then Grow - Alex Kuby - Defining Hospitality
This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Alex Kuby, Associate Principal at Dyelot and a lifelong student of how built environments shape human experience. From his early days at HBA in Santa Monica to helping lead a studio through a full brand transformation, Alex has spent his career asking what it really means to make people feel seen, supported, and cared for inside a space. Together, Dan an
Beyond the Bulb - Thomas Paterson - Defining Hospitality
Dan Ryan talks with Thomas Paterson, founder and lighting designer at Lux Populi, about one of hospitality's most overlooked design disciplines… light. Thomas explains why lighting designers need a seat at the table from day one, not after the drawings are done, and shares his take on how light shapes a space's emotional experience. The conversation covers the gap between the 2% of projec
Navigating the Peaks of Innovation - Larry Traxler - Defining Hospitality
This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Larry Traxler, a 30+ year veteran of architecture and design, former SVP Global Head of Architecture & Design at Hilton Hotels & Resorts, and founder of Traxworks Hospitality Collaborative, to make the case that great hospitality design isn’t about replicating what’s trending, it’s about understanding place, people, and purpose. From breaking cer
The Art of Belonging - John O’Sullivan - Defining Hospitality
This week, Dan Ryan sits down with John O'Sullivan, hospitality executive, published poet, painter, and Regional Vice President & General Manager at Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, to make the case that great hospitality isn't a service standard, it's a soul practice. A GM at just 25 who started peeling potatoes in a small Irish hotel at 12, John has spent over three decades opening a
Balancing Business and Humanity - David Shove-Brown - Defining Hospitality
This week, Dan Ryan sits down with David Shove-Brown, architect, design leader, educator, and partner at //3877, to make the case that the most powerful thing you can put on your business card isn't a title, it's a philosophy. A firm co-founder who launched his practice in the middle of a recession with a newborn at home and a best friend from college as his only business partner, David h
Pioneering Global Design - Christine McGinnis - Defining Hospitality
This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Christine McGinnis, Director of Design at Wave Design Consultants, to make the case that the most powerful tool a designer can carry isn't a software subscription or a portfolio, it's a passport and a willingness to ask why. A Canadian kid who got locked in a Tiffany's display window in Hong Kong and never really looked back, Christine has spent over two
Global Visions, Local Touches - Genna Panagopoulos - Defining Hospitality
This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Genna Panagopoulos, Vice President of Development at Minor Hotels, to make the case that the most exciting real estate play in hospitality right now isn't in Asia or Europe, it's right here in America. A restaurant kid from Detroit who fell in love with hotels, Genna is the one handed the keys to a 640 property global giant's entire North American future
Redefining Hospitality Through Tech - Tanya Pratt - Defining Hospitality
This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Tanya Pratt, Global VP of Strategy and Product Management at Oracle Hospitality, to prove that the most powerful upgrade a hotel can make isn't to its lobby, it's to its data. A front desk girl turned tech executive, Tanya unpacks how Oracle is collapsing decades of fragmented systems into one seamless guest experience, why cloud adoption exploded the mo
Designing with Magic and Precision - Larah Moravek - Defining Hospitality
This week, Dan Ryan sits down with Larah Moravek, founding partner at Dutch East Design, to make the case that the most powerful thing a designer can bring to a project isn't a mood board, it's a story. Larah pulls back the curtain on how Dutch East blends interior design and branding under one roof, turning narrative driven frameworks into spaces that feel inevitable. With real stories f
Green Means Revenue - JoAnna Abrams - Defining Hospitality
This Earth Day, Dan Ryan welcomes back JoAnna Abrams, founder and CEO of MindClick, to make the case that sustainability isn't just good for the planet, it's good for business. JoAnna reveals how MindClick's product intelligence platform transforms the sustainability data already hiding in hotel FF&E purchases into a competitive weapon, winning corporate travel contracts, boosting sus
Beyond the Front Desk - Walter Peseski - Defining Hospitality
In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Walter Peseski, Senior Vice President of Asset Management at Garfield Public Private, to explore the often misunderstood world of hotel asset management and public private partnerships. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this discussion uncovers how cities, universities, and hospitals are leveraging creative financing structures to bu
The Art of Anticipation - Ed Bakos - Defining Hospitality
In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Ed Bakos, CEO of Champalimaud Design, to explore the evolving dimensions of hospitality in the design world. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this discussion uncovers how the nuances of design, from emotional exchanges to anticipating guest needs, define luxury and authenticity in the hospitality industry today.About the Guest:Ed Ba
What the K-Wave Means for Hotel and Restaurant Design - Thomas Oh & Daphne Shin - Defining Hospitality
In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Thomas Oh, Co-Founder & General Manager of Perilla Korean American Steakhouse, and Daphne Shin, Founder & Principal Designer of the Ruimte, two passionate creators working at the intersection of culture, cuisine, and design. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, the episode delves into the unique approach Thomas and Daphne take t
Curating Luxury Through Sound - Michelangelo L’Acqua - Defining Hospitality
In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Michaelangelo L’Acqua, a global entertainment director and music/lifestyle branding expert, to discuss hospitality as “infrastructure” built through sound, motifs, and emotional arcs across dayparts. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this conversation dives into shifting luxury expectations, analog-era craft, and mentoring creatives
Transforming Hospitality for Millennials - Saxton Sharad - Hideaway Inns & Revival Hotels - Episode # 243
In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Saxton Sharad to explore how hospitality and hotel design are evolving for today’s guest experience. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this conversation dives into micro vacations, invisible hospitality, and how modern leadership is reshaping the way hotels connect with travelers.Saxton shares how Hideaway Inns is redefining hospital
Exploring Data-Driven Trends - Isaac Collazo - STR - Episode # 242
How does data make the hospitality industry come alive?In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan welcomes Isaac Collazo, the Head of Analytics at STR and Co-Host of "Tell Me More, A Hospitality Data Podcast." They dive into the integral role data plays in the hospitality industry, from informing strategic decisions to influencing how businesses can adapt in changing economic clima
Hospitality's Soulful Essence Revealed - Stephanie Hopkins - B2 Design Co - Episode # 241
How do relationships shape the hospitality industry?In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan explores how relationships fundamentally shape the hospitality industry with guest Stephanie Hopkins. As an experienced interior designer and brand specialist, Hopkins shares insights into her extensive career and the essential role that relationships and strategic growth play in navigati
East Coast Design Expansion - Amy Margolis - BAMO Providence - Episode # 240
How do detailed preparations elevate hospitality experiences?In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan interviews Amy Margolis, an esteemed interior designer and studio director at Bamo in Providence, Rhode Island. Moving through her career journey from California to the East Coast, Amy shares her thoughts on being deeply rooted in anticipating guests' needs, curating environments
The Puzzle of Architecture - Andrew Ashey - AAmp Studio - Episode # 239
What does it mean to find joy and creativity in the constraints of adaptive reuse?In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Andrew Ashey, Founder and Principal of AAmp Studio, to discuss the expansive nature of hospitality design, the importance of engaging with diverse community elements, and the delightful challenges presented by adaptive reuse.Takeaways:Architect
The Value of Storytelling - Ian Sharpe - NextTrip - Episode # 238
How can travel channels inspire personal growth and global understanding?In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Ian Sharpe, the Chief Operating Officer of Media at NextTrip, to explore the transformative power of hospitality and storytelling in the realm of global travel. With a vast experience spanning video games and visual media, Ian delves into the intricate
Hospitality’s Innovative Playground - Glenn Nowak - University of Nevada Las Vegas - Episode # 237
How Can Las Vegas Serve as the Ultimate Architectural Laboratory?In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Glen Noack, an accomplished architect and associate professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), to dive into Glen's extensive experience in architecture and hospitality design. They explore various aspects of radical innovation within the built env
The Human Side of Hospitality - Chelsea Hershelman - Coral Tree Hospitality - Episode # 236
Can empathy, curiosity, and a willingness to run toward the fire reshape how leaders design experiences, and careers, in hospitality?In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Chelsea Hershelman, VP of Design and Development at Coral Tree Hospitality, to unpack hospitality as an empathetic act and leadership as influence, not authority. From designing for neurodivers
Leading Through Exploration and Service - Richard Wiese - The Explorer’s Club - Episode # 235
Can exploration, storytelling, and service to others redefine what hospitality really means and why does it start at home?In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Richard Wiese, President of The Explorers Club, Emmy Award–winning TV host, and lifelong explorer. Their conversation spans far beyond travel, unpacking hospitality as a human instinct rooted in curiosity
The Future of Hospitality Is Intelligent Tech - John Duffield - Radical Innovation - Episode # 234
How will AI, biometrics, and healthcare thinking redefine hospitality, and what does the future of truly personalized guest experience look like?In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with John Duffield, a Speaker at Signal Two and an Advisory Board Member at Radical Innovation. They have a wide-ranging conversation on the intersection of hospitality, healthcare, and emerging technology. Dra
Building Resilient Hotel Investment Models - Hugh Taylor - Michels & Taylor - Episode # 233
How do you build a global hospitality business without losing the personal touch, resilience, or trust that defines great service?In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Hugh Taylor, CEO of Michels & Taylor, for an in-depth conversation on leadership, hospitality, and hotel investment. Hugh shares his journey from marketing roles at major hotel brands like Hilton to becoming one of t
Hospitality Starts With People - Thomas Healy - Rockbridge Hospitality Management - Re-Air
On this special re-air episode of Defining Hospitality, we revisit an insightful conversation on people-first leadership, authentic culture, and the true meaning of hospitality with Thomas Healy, President and COO of Rockbridge Hospitality Management. With more than 30 years in the industry, Tom shares lessons shaped by his upbringing in a family-run New Jersey supper club and a career sp
Leadership and Legacy in Hospitality - Marc Bromley - Four Seasons - Re-Air
On this special re-air episode of Defining Hospitality, we revisit a powerful conversation on people-centric leadership and the enduring value of culture with Marc Bromley, Regional Vice President and General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C. Drawing from decades in luxury hospitality, and lessons passed down from his father, legendary hotelier Stan Bromley, Marc shares why e
Quality and Trust in Vacation Rentals - Ashley Ching - Inhaven - Episode # 230
How do you scale hospitality without losing quality, trust, or operational control? In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Ashley Ching, Founder & CEO of Inhaven, for a deep dive into the hidden limits of scale in hospitality and vacation rentals. They explore why service-based businesses often face diseconomies of scale, what leaders can learn from the rapid rise and fall of busine
Building Teams Rooted in Values and Vision - Anna Peretz - Sonesta - Episode # 229
How do you build hospitality experiences, and lead teams, in a way that’s rooted in authenticity, multicultural awareness, and a clear sense of purpose?In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Anna Peretz, Director of Architecture, Design, and Construction at Sonesta International Hotels, to explore her journey from the USSR to Israel to the U.S., and how resilience, cultural diversity, a
Value Driven Growth in New Markets - Paul Sacco - PM Hotel Group - Episode # 228
How do you decide where, and whether, to grow in a way that’s strategic, sustainable, and aligned with your organization’s values?In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Paul Sacco, Chief Growth and Development Officer at PM Hotel Group, to unpack the real thought process behind geographic expansion, from evaluating new markets to choosing the right partners. Paul reveals why his team re
The Future of Airport Design and Leadership - John Anthal - Mancini Duffy - Episode # 227
How do architects create airports that feel human, intuitive, and welcoming while juggling regulations, budgets, and countless stakeholders? In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with John Anthal, Principal and Aviation Sector Leader at Mancini Duffy, to unpack the hidden complexity of airport design, the evolving meaning of hospitality in aviation, and how leadership, technology, and cultu
Creating Connection Through Cuisine - Emmie Nostitz & Zach Knight - Tivity - Episode # 226
What happens when hospitality shifts from serving to empowering, when chefs become creators, not just cooks?In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Emmie Nostitz and Zach Knight, co-founders of Tivity, a platform redefining private dining by connecting clients with talented chefs for personalized in-home and venue experiences. Together, they explore how Tivity empowers chefs to run their
Branding the Human Experience - Matt Ferebee - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 225
What happens when brand becomes more than a logo and turns into a decision-making framework for every part of hospitality?In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Matt Ferebee, co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of FerebeeLane, to explore how powerful brand strategy shapes luxury hospitality experiences from the inside out. Drawing on his work with properties like Blackberry Farm and g
The Power of Community in Hospitality - Margot Stern - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 224
What does authentic, people-centered hospitality look like?In this episode, Dan Ryan talks with Margot Stern, hospitality entrepreneur and founder of Avenida Baja and The Hopewell, about her journey from global marketing at Mattel to building boutique hotels rooted in community and belonging. They explore how authenticity, storytelling, and resilience shape successful hospitality ventures
Building Tomorrow’s Sustainable Hospitality - Jon Buerge - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 223
What does carbon-positive hospitality look like? In this episode, Dan Ryan talks with Jon Buerge, CEO of Urban Villages, about Populus, the world’s first carbon-positive hotel, and how sustainability is reshaping hospitality from the ground up. They explore how design, materials, and mindset can transform guest experiences, strengthen brand loyalty, and create long-term business value.Jon
Building Restaurants That Feel Like Home - Yann de Rochefort - Defining Hospitality - Ep #222
Can structure and systems actually make hospitality feel more human?Yann de Rochefort, founder of Boqueria Restaurants, has spent the last 20 years redefining what modern hospitality feels like. From a single tapas bar in Manhattan to beloved locations across the U.S., Yann has built a restaurant brand rooted in warmth, culture, and design, all while keeping the experience consistent and
Designing for Memory: Storytelling in Interiors - James Lee - Defining Hospitality - Episode #221
What makes hospitality design truly memorable?Today, Dan is joined by James Lee, Hospitality Managing Director and Design Principal at IA Interior Architects. James discusses the blurring lines between architecture and interior design in the context of hospitality, emphasizing the emotional impact of interior spaces. They explore the unique focus of IA on creating immersive and memorable
Beyond Four Walls: Luxury Through Biophilic Design - Grame Labe - Defining Hospitality - Ep #220
What happens when luxury design meets the wild?Award-winning designer, Graeme Labe, Managing Partner and Chief Design Officer at Luxury Frontiers, shares how he’s redefining hospitality by crafting experiences that connect people deeply to nature, while championing sustainability and community. Graeme shares his journey from traditional hospitality design to founding Luxury Frontiers, whi
Leading Hotels Through Change - Scott Roby - Defining Hospitality - Episode #219
What does it take to lead a hotel company through constant headwinds while still inspiring teams and delivering exceptional guest experiences?Today Dan interviews Scott Roby, President of Pacifica Hotels, to explore the state of the hospitality industry. They discuss the importance of focusing on controllable aspects of business, such as team and guest care, amid economic headwinds and le
Serving From the Heart: EQ Over IQ - Manish Puri - Defining Hospitality - Episode #218
Is EQ more important than IQ when it comes to hospitality?Today, Manish Puri, General Manager of the Regent Hotels and Resorts Bali, joins Dan to dive into key topics in the industry, such as sustainability, community, and leadership. They discuss the essence of hospitality, differentiating it from mere service, and delve into the concept of regenerative hospitality and sustainability. Ma
Navigating the Messy Middle - Stephen Wendell - Defining Hospitality - Episode #217
What happens when a hotel developer moves from building Hampton Inns to creating lifestyle hotels with fire pits and Michelin-starred restaurants?Today’s guest is a returning guest, Stephen Wendell, Co-Founder and CEO of Mountain Shore Properties. They explore the shift from select-service properties to luxury and lifestyle hotels, examining the business dynamics and guest experiences tha
From Distress to Success: Hospitality Innovation - Spencer Levine - Defining Hospitality - Ep #216
“Design is subjective, but quality is objective.”Today, Spencer Levine, President of RAL Companies and Affiliates, joins Dan to dive into hospitality development. Spencer shares insights from his extensive career in architecture and landscape development. The conversation covers the importance of delivering tangible and thoughtful hospitality experiences, the significance of strategic par
Elevating Hospitality: Sustainable Engineering - Harzali Hashim - Defining Hospitality - Episode #215
The secret to a hotel's success isn’t just great design; it's what guests don't see.Harzali Hashim, Complex Director of Engineering at Kyo-ya Hotels and Resorts in Honolulu, joins Dan to discuss sustainability engineering within the hospitality industry. They discuss Harzali's extensive 20-year career in hotel and resort engineering, focusing on the importance of maintenance, design, and
Scaling Short-Term Rentals - Sebastián Torres-Calderón - Defining Hospitality - Episode #214
What does it take to manage 420 apartments and create a million memorable moments? On this episode, host Dan Ryan sits down with Sebastián Torres-Calderón, the CEO of Stay U-nique, an award-winning short-term rental company in Spain. Sebastián shares his journey from customer journey intern to CEO and reveals how implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) helped his company n
Cultivating a Host Mindset - Steve Fortunato - Defining Hospitality - Episode #213
What does it mean to develop a host mindset?Today, Dan dives into the transformative principles of the 'host mindset' with Steve Fortunato, founder of roomforty and the Fig House. Steve shares his journey from a restaurateur and caterer to becoming an influential leadership facilitator, emphasizing the importance of making others feel valued. The conversation highlights the impact of hosp
Transformative Retreats - Ben Uyeda and Adam Wininger - Defining Hospitality - Episode #212
What is the power of providing unique experiences?Today, Dan chats with the Co-Founders of Reset Hotels, Ben Uyeda and Adam Wininger, about their unique hotel venture designed for the next generation of conscious travelers. Ben and Adam share insights from their journey in hospitality, emphasizing the importance of midweek group bookings for corporate and wellness retreats, and creating m
It’s About Who Knows You - Eileen Madigan - Defining Hospitality - Episode #211
It’s not just about what you know or who you know, but who knows you. Today, Eileen Madigan, Senior Vice President of Global Interior Design at Las Vegas Sands Corp joins Defining Hospitality to discuss the power of networking and mentoring within the hospitality industry. With over 35 years of experience in luxury interior design, Eileen shares her journey from working at Four Seasons an
Preserving History, Designing the Future - Aimee Sanborn - Defining Hospitality - Episode #210
How is adaptive reuse shaping the hospitality industry?Aimee Sanborn, Senior Vice President of Architecture at Premier joins Dan to dive into adaptive reuse. Aimee shares her passion for preserving history and discusses the challenges and rewards of transforming historic buildings into vibrant, functional spaces. From the streets of downtown Dallas to the lush landscapes of Key West, disc
The Art of Feeling Known - Bruno Viterbo - Defining Hospitality - Episode #209
Ever wondered how a space can make you feel genuinely cared for? Bruno Viterbo, Vice President of Design at Irvine Company, shares his profound insights into 'the sense of being known' and how it transforms hospitality design at every scale. Bruno shares his extensive experience in the design and real estate industries, including insights from his previous roles at Champalimaud Design and
A Seat at Aggie's Table - Aggie Zamir - Defining Hospitality - Episode #208
“We love the one-off projects, but our real passion and what we're really looking for are ownership groups where we can do a project with them, forge a relationship, build that trust, and then we grow alongside them.” Joining Dan is Aggie Zamir, Vice President of National Hospitality and Gaming at Cumming Group. They discuss Aggie's insights into the luxury hospitality industry, the impor
Crafting Generational Memories - Derek De Salvia - Defining Hospitality - Episode #207
“ It's a core tenant of who we are, and it's called put people first. We take care of our people.” Derek De Salvia, Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer at Hilton Grand Vacations, joins Dan today to dive into the world of vacation ownership. The discussion covers the personal and professional aspects of hospitality, the evolution and benefits of the vacation ownership model
Sparking Change: Driving Hilton's Growth - Alissa Klees - Defining Hospitality - Episode #206
“We are a hospitality company first and foremost.” Joining Dan this week is Alissa Klees, the Brand Leader of Spark by Hilton, the trailblazing brand that earned Hilton recognition as one of Fast Company's 2024 Most Innovative Companies. Alissa delves into what hospitality means to her, encompassing both personal and professional interactions. She shares the incredible journey of Spark, f
Sailing into Success - Chris Lenz - Defining Hospitality - Episode #205
It takes determination to dive into hospitality and come out with a boutique hotel that is successful, and that is what Chris Lenz, Founder and CEO of La Compania Hotels and Resorts. Chris shares his journey from opening 37 restaurants to creating extraordinary hotels in Panama. They explore his passion for hospitality, his uncompromising vision, and the meticulous planning that goes into
Beyond the Bell Curve: Luxury and Hospitality - Eric Brey - Defining Hospitality - Episode #204
How can embracing the Japanese concept of omotenashi create better connections? Dr. Eric Brey, a Professor of Hospitality in the School of Management at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, joins Dan on the show today. Eric brings a wealth of experience from his time in the US Army to earning a PhD in hospitality administration and management. They discuss the significance of hospitality in
Charting New Courses - Carmen Vlasceanu - Defining Hospitality - Episode #203
How do you truly make people feel cared for? Dan welcomes Dr. Carmen Vlasceanu, an industry veteran with over 25 years of experience in the hotel, aviation, catering, and cruise industries. They discuss the essence of hospitality, Dr. Carmen's career journey from Romania to Carnival Cruises, and her current roles, including Founder and CEO of Global Hospitality and Maritime Leaders. They
Creating Impact: Sustainability in Hospitality - Andrea Foster - Defining Hospitality - Episode #202
What is the balance between hospitality’s business efforts and sustainability efforts? That’s what Andrea Foster, EVP of Hospitality Development at MindClick, is here to talk about on the podcast. The conversation covers how sustainability initiatives can improve guest experiences and align with corporate values. Andrea discusses the importance of measuring sustainability, the impact of i
Revolutionizing Hospitality Education - Nicolas Graf - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 201
How is hospitality education evolving? Nicolas Graf, chaired professor and Associate Dean at New York University’s Jonathan M Tisch Center of Hospitality, joins Dan today to discuss the realm of hospitality education. Their discussion spans Nicolas's unique career path that started from being a high school dropout and chef apprentice in Switzerland, to becoming a chaired professor of hosp
Building The Dream: Dubai’s Hospitality Scene - Jensen Moonien - Defining Hospitality - Episode #200
There’s a lot that goes on pre-opening in hospitality, whether it be a hotel, a club, or a restaurant. That’s where Jensen Moonien comes in. He is the Founder and Managing Director of La Rencontre, a consulting firm specializing in the F&B space of hospitality. Jensen discusses the importance of hospitality, sharing enduring memories without expecting anything in return, and highlight
Investing in Hospitality - Nate Edgerly and Tom Donaldson - Defining Hospitality - Episode #199
Today’s episode pivots into restaurant investing. Joining Dan is two experts of hospitality financing and investments, Nate Edgerly and Tom Donaldson, the CEO and Chairman of Enzo Group Inc. The discussion goes into the motivations behind investing in hospitality, the critical role of strong management teams, and the unique challenges and opportunities in scaling restaurant businesses. Th
Behind the Smoke: Media in Hospitality - Shawn Walchef - Defining Hospitality - Episode #198
What role does media play in hospitality? This episode welcomes media expert and Owner of Cali BBQ, Shawn Walchef. Shawn discusses his journey from creating award-winning barbecue restaurants in San Diego to building a successful media platform. He shares insights on the importance of hospitality, storytelling, and the role of time in perfecting one's craft. Shawn also offers practical ad
A Lifetime in Hospitality - Xavier Lividini - Defining Hospitality - Episode #197
Sometimes you find yourself born into a business. That’s exactly what landed Xavier Lividini, Managing Partner at Hospitality Advance International, in the hospitality industry as he comes from a family of hoteliers! Xavier shares insights from his extensive career in operations, marketing strategy, and hospitality management and development. The episode covers stories from his time at ic
Beyond the Green: Hospitality & High-Performance - Scott Young - Defining Hospitality - Episode #196
“ Our hospitality starts with education, but it's also having a welcoming point of view.”Scott Young, Founder of SSWING, an innovative indoor golf training facility in New York City, and an expert golfer joins the podcast today to hash out the meaning of hospitality and dive into his business. They discuss the broader meaning of hospitality in various environments, focusing on creating a
Cultivating Joy and Awe - Nathan St. Cyr- Defining Hospitality - Episode # 195
What does it take to be the number one small hostile in North America? Today we welcome Nathan St. Cyr, Co-Founder of Malama Capital and Owner of Howzit Hostels, to tell us just that. Dan and Nathan dive into Nathan's journey within the hospitality industry, including his foundational experiences in sales, his profound motivation rooted in personal history, and the creation of successful
Weaving the Future of Design - Mark Page - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 194
Mentorship is important in encouraging students to enter artistic and creative career paths. Mark Page, Vice President of Design at Mohawk Industries, touches on the importance of fostering connections with colleges and universities to inspire the youth of today to continue their creative paths. Mark also shares insights on the challenges and innovations in flooring, such as the use of su
Building Together - Ian Mills and Becca Roderick- Defining Hospitality - Episode # 193
Today we discuss the intersection of architecture and interior design, finding a common ground for both aspects to complement each other. Ian Mills and Becca Roderick, Executive Directors of Architecture and Interiors, respectively, at Morris Adjmi Architects. They delve into the concept of hospitality, the collaborative process within their firm, and how they align their visions to creat
Behind the Brand - David Carofano - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 192
We’re going all in on branding and strategy for hospitality companies this week! David Carofano, Strategy and Commercial Director at Crown Creative joins as Dan’s guest to discuss the importance of branding in the hospitality industry, from conceptualizing a new project to breathing life into an established brand. David shares his journey, starting from a teenager working in restaurants t
Putting Others First - Thomas Healy - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 191
What’s more important than making guests feel cared for? Today, Thomas Healy joins to discuss the core values of hospitality, the importance of a diverse and inclusive team, and his definition of leadership. He also reflects on how his upbringing in his family's New Jersey restaurant informed his hospitality ethos. The interview touches on significant topics such as the financial aspects
Elevating Spaces and Inspiring Minds - Kellie Sirna - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 190
Mentorship is so valuable, especially in hospitality. Today Dan interviews Kellie Sirna, Owner and Principal of Studio 11 Design. Kellie shares her journey through 20 years in the hospitality design industry, highlighting key milestones such as the purchase and renovation of a historic building, the expansion of her business with sister companies specializing in branding and art, and the
Event Magic and Community Building - Meg Gutowski - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 189
Is there power behind organized chaos? Today, Dan Ryan engages with Meg Gutowski, Vice President of the Independent Lodging Congress (ILC). They discuss the essence of hospitality, the role of ILC in fostering connections among industry professionals, and the unique blend of events hosted by ILC that emphasize genuine human interactions over transactional relationships. Meg shares insight
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