It's Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast
It's Personal Stories is a hospitality-industry podcast that explores the personal journeys behind successful leaders in hotels, travel and service. Hosts David Kong, Dorothy Dowling, Rachel Humphrey and Lan Elliott go beyond titles and résumés to discuss setbacks, self-doubt, vulnerability and resilience. Since 2022 the show has produced more than 250 candid interviews with executives and rising professionals. Episodes focus on lessons in authenticity, balance, perseverance and career growth for the next generation of hospitality leaders.
Episodes
Steven Nicholas_ Managing Principal and Head of Asset Management_ Noble Investment Group_ interviewed by David Kong
After nearly 30 years helping build a successful company, how does a leader want to be remembered?For Steven, the answer has surprisingly little to do with business accomplishments. In our latest It's Personal Stories interview, Steve reflects on what truly matters: family, friendships, and relationships that endure long after our careers. He also shares candid lessons about making difficult
Beth McMahon, President and CEO, Hotels Canada interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
Beth McMahon’s leadership journey reflects a deep curiosity, a commitment to lifelong learning, and a passion for making a meaningful difference. Her career in association management has spanned healthcare, agriculture, environmental organizations, and hospitality, demonstrating the value of bringing fresh perspectives and best practices across industries.A skilled advocate and collaborator, Beth
Dr. Lisa Cain, Professor, FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Lisa’s insights remind us of the value of constantly learning. She encourages us to stay curious, whether through reading trade publications, taking a continuing education course, or pursuing a hobby that makes us happy. She also urges us to stay active, because a moving body cultivates a sharp mind. Above all, trust the process, know yourself, and stay true to your core values.
Greg Friedman, Managing Principal & CEO, Peachtree Group Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Greg shares his leadership thoughts on intuition, adaptability, and having an entrepreneurial spirit. He discusses time as our most valuable asset and why passion for what you do is so important. Greg talks about his own leadership evolution, evaluating risks, and what he looks for in building and developing a team.
Faheem Khan, Executive Director - Head of Lodging & Hospitality SMB Payments, JP Morgan Chase & Co. Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Faheem shares how adaptability and trust have shaped his career. He talks about building genuine relationships and letting the business follow as opposed to always focusing just on the business. Faheem discusses lessons learned from board service, being present as the key to finding work life harmony, and how his leadership style helped him navigate the pandemic.
Eric Lent, Former SVP, Upscale Hotels, IHG Hotels & Resorts, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Eric's guiding career advice dates back to age 17, when a cousin told him to strive to understand your client's business better than your client does, a principle he has carried into every role since. That same instinct shaped how he approached turnarounds later at IHG, where he made a point of listening widely, from frontline teams to owners to industry journalists, before ever proposin
Dr. Tim Flohr, Co-Founder, Hospitality Nexus, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Tim’s insights remind us that growth rarely comes from having every answer. It comes from saying yes, listening closely, and treating people as the most important part of any conversation. His experience encourages us to see setbacks as turning points, not endings. Keep showing up for the unglamorous daily work, and choose action over analysis paralysis, since a wrong decision beats no decision. A
Peter Bheda, Chairman & CEO, Frontera Hotel Group, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Peter’s career began emptying trash as a young immigrant houseman, teaching him never to look down on people. Leadership is a pattern of behavior, not a title: one part strategy, two part judgment, and three parts grace. He separates the risk to the business from the risk to his own ego - being wrong about an idea never means it was wrong to try - and believes listening and a willingness to learn
Karl Bieberach, SVP & Head of Global Development, Belmond, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Karl's reflections encourage listeners to embrace opportunities that stretch them, even when uncertain, and to trust that growth lives just beyond comfort. He reminds us that failure is temporary and should not define our sense of self, and that preserving relationships matters more than winning every negotiation. Above all, he urges building a reputation rather than a resume, because charact
Margaret Egan, EVP & General Counsel, Hyatt Hotels Corporation Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Margaret discusses her 23 year career journey with Hyatt along with her legal career prior to that, including her leadership story, the role corporate purpose plays, and how she has evolved as attorneys have evolved into strategic business leaders. She talks about why self-awareness is such a valuable leadership trait, what she looks for when building great teams, and how she develops the new skil
David Peller Travel Hospitality and Technology Board Member & Advisor interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
Innovation Driven by Curiosity, Humility, and PurposeDavid Peller’s leadership journey is rooted in curiosity, problem-solving, and a lifelong fascination with technology. Introduced to computers at an early age, he learned to view innovation not as novelty but as finding better ways to overcome challenges. His formative leadership experience came while helping launch the first Wagamama restaurant
Gyan Manohar Khurana Asst VP Dusit Hotels & Resorts interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
Gyan Manohar Khurana’s leadership journey began with a conversation that changed the direction of his career. Encouraged by an early mentor who recognized his communication skills and commercial aptitude, he discovered that hospitality extended far beyond guest service into strategy, sales, and business performance. Since then, his career has been shaped by continuous learning, adaptability, and a
Amanda Frasier, President, Standards & Ratings, Forbes Travel Guide, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Amanda's career is a masterclass in treating uncertainty as opportunity rather than obstacle. Her willingness to say yes, paired with a mindfulness around chasing perfection, is a reminder that growth rarely comes from staying comfortable. Just as importantly, her approach to self-advocacy and relationship-building shows that confidence doesn't require volume - it requires clarity about
Robert Ambrozy Exec VP Global Sales GBTA interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
Leadership Built on Trust, Curiosity, and Global PartnershipRobert Ambrozy’s leadership journey began with a passion for travel, languages, and hospitality that emerged during his teenage years while traveling across Europe with his family. Those early experiences exposed him to different cultures and perspectives, reinforcing his belief that people, relationships, and travel would become both his
Indy Adenaw, SVP & General Manager, Upscale Brands Division, Choice Hotels International interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
Ben Brunt, Chief Investment Officer, Noble Investment Group, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Ben's story is a reminder that longevity in one place can be just as powerful a career move as chasing the next opportunity. The depth of trust he has built at Noble - with partners, with his team, and through the cycles of the industry - did not happen by accident; it was the result of showing up fully, year after year. For those earlier in their careers: choose your environment wisely, inve
Karen Stephens, Chief Marketing Officer, Revinate Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Karen details her journey from French professor to CRO and CMO of a hospitality technology company including many of the leadership lessons she's learned along the way. Find out how adaptability is a consistent theme for her and why she seeks out team members who can thrive in ambiguity. Karen discusses wellness, balancing time, the benefits of living internationally, comfort in public speaki
Thomas Penny III, President, Donohoe Hospitality interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Thomas shares some of the many leadership lessons he's learned from his nearly 30 years with Donohoe and his path from dishwasher to president. He discusses his purpose-driven leadership, why representation matters, his commitment to shaping the industry's future, and how AI can be a valuable tool for breaking down traditional barriers to career growth. Thomas talks about his public spe
Robert Mandelbaum, Hotel Researcher and Consultant, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Robert’s career shows what happens when passion, self-knowledge, and service converge over time. He found his niche in hotel data and leaned into it fully - building tools that transformed how the industry benchmarks performance. His advice: follow what energizes you, surround yourself with people you can learn from, and show up for your network the way you hope they will show up for you. Do that
Colin Macdonald, Managing Director & SVP, US & Canada Operations, IHG Hotels & Resorts
Colin shares how his leadership has evolved over 12 years at IHG and the additional leadership skills he's developed through board service, his own curiosity, and lessons from his support system and mentors. He discusses using self awareness to overcome self doubt, his strategies for public speaking and building relationships, and the importance of feedback. Colin talks about wellness, someth
Duane Overgaard, Divisional CEO, Derbysoft interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
Clarity, Discipline, and Global Perspective in Technology LeadershipDuane Overgaard’s leadership journey is grounded in a powerful combination of operational depth and global systems expertise. His formative years at Hilton provided a foundation in how hotels operate and how commercial systems function in practice, while his experience at Sabre expanded his perspective on connectivity, distributio
Chris Hemmeter, Co-Founder & MD, Thayer Investment Partners, interviewed by David Kong
I recently sat down with Chris Hemmeter, Co Founder and Managing Director of Thayer Investment Partners, and one part of our conversation stood out because it applies to all of us, not just entrepreneurs.Chris pushed back on the idea that there is a perfect formula for success. Instead, he shared three qualities he consistently sees in high potential leaders:Integrity: A commitment to truth and a
Adi Bhoopathy, Managing Principal & Head of Capital Markets, Noble Investment Group, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Adi’s career demonstrates that lasting success comes from deliberate choices, not shortcuts. He calls us to reinvent ourselves from within, advocate for our value with facts and preparation, and invest in relationships that deepen over time. His advice to seek honest mentors — people who tell you the truth and challenge your blind spots — is a reminder that growth requires honest counsel. Play the
Andrew Rubinacci, Chief Commercial Officer, FLYR Hospitality, interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
Curiosity, Adaptability, and Leadership Across Hospitality’s Evolving LandscapeAndrew Rubinacci’s career reflects a journey shaped by curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace unexpected opportunities. Beginning in operations with a goal to become a general manager, he moved into revenue management after being identified for a new initiative, becoming the first revenue manager at IHG.
Dr. Leonard Jackson, Program Director, Leven School of Hospitality, Kennesaw State University, interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Leonard discusses his lifelong hospitality career journey, how mentors from his career have shaped his current leadership, and his mantras that guide him. He shares the importance of nurturing relationships, how his curiosity has influenced him, and how he has developed new skills while evolving many existing ones. Leonard talks about the future of hospitality as seen through the eyes of hospitali
Harmeet Mann, CEO, Mehr Consultancy, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Harmeet’s insights reinforce that success is built through systems, support, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Her approach encourages leaders to empower others by providing structure and guidance rather than relying solely on motivation. She reminds us that respect and strong relationships are foundational to sustainable growth. Her perspective on learning highlights the importance of s
Jeff Weinstein, Former Editor in Chief, Hotel Investment Today, interviewed by David Kong
For decades, Jeff Weinstein told the stories of others. This time, it’s his story.A deeply personal conversation about leadership, integrity, fatherhood, and the perspective gained from raising a son with autism. A reminder that success is one thing, but who we become along the way matters far more.
Tina Patel, Chief Financial Officer, Promise Hotels, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Tina shares the pivotal moments behind her career route from college biology major to CFO and how she developed the skills and subject matter expertise to be successful. She talks about her board service on the Federal Reserve and a community bank, how and why she commits her voice to advocacy on behalf of the industry, and how she navigates a family business. Tina discusses building great teams,
Kaushik Vardharajan, Director, Real Estate Programs, Boston University, School of Hospitality Administration
Kaushik’s perspective reminds us that progress comes from curiosity and continuous learning. When we focus on building knowledge instead of fearing the unknown, opportunities expand. His advice encourages us to keep learning, keep asking questions, and keep saying Yes to growth.
Andy Kauffman, Chief Commercial Officer - US & Canada, Marriott International int. by Dorothy Dowling
Integration, Clarity, and Human-Centered Commercial LeadershipAndy Kauffman’s path into commercial leadership was rooted not in traditional sales or revenue management, but in digital performance marketing. Beginning with paid search and performance marketing at Marriott, he built broader product and marketing capabilities before returning to lead commercial performance for the US and Canada. His
Keith Pierce, Co-CEO, Sonesta International Hotels, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Keith shares his career journey and how he’s learned to treat change as opportunity. He reflects on the relationships and sponsors who helped advance his career and how he now pays that forward. Keith also discusses his evolution as a leader, what he would tell his younger self, and how he adapts in the face of ever-changing industry leadership.
Chef Franck Desplechin, Author and CEO & Founder, Incrementum, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Chef Franck emphasizes that personal and professional growth often begins with stepping into uncertainty and developing resilience along the way. Reflecting on pivotal moments in his life, he explains that growth consistently required him to adapt, confront discomfort, and remain determined even when challenges felt overwhelming. Whether navigating new environments, learning unfamiliar skills, or
Laura Smith, Executive Vice President, Global Sales and Partnerships, Hertz Interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
Laura Smith’s career began far from a traditional sales path. After studying languages and starting as a teacher, she joined an airline, where early experience in a lost baggage call center shaped her belief in leading with empathy. She explains that empathy shapes trust and culture, and those two things shape performance. When asked in 2020 to lead the global sales organization at Hertz, she reli
Liz Dahlager, Chief Operating Officer & Partner, Mereté Hotel Management, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Liz emphasizes sustained career growth comes from consistently asking what comes next and seeking opportunities beyond defined roles. She explains the importance of expanding perspective by understanding how different functions connect, particularly financial and operational considerations, and encourages professionals at all levels to learn the broader business language. By intentionally exposing
Suzanne Bagnera, Director of Executive Education, Florida International University, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Suzanne discusses how her transferable skills have aided her hospitality journey from restaurants to hotels to academia and podcasting and how she develops new skills with each role. She shares her strategies for achieving work life harmony, one thing people don't know about her, and what advice she'd give to her younger self. Suzanne talks about her leadership evolution, how the next ge
Calvin Stovall, CEO, Iconic Presentations, interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Calvin talks about his journey from hotel desk agent to keynote speaker to published author of Hidden Hospitality. He discusses the importance of sponsorship, the keys to how the hospitality industry can increase diversity at the leadership level, and his thoughts on public speaking. He shares what he wants his sons to learn from his recent experiences, why we should all bet on ourselves, and how
Michelle Russo, Founder & CEO, hotelAVE, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Michelle’s insights reinforce that personal success is built through curiosity, preparation, and intentional choices. Her advice encourages professionals to rely on data, communicate clearly, and focus on areas where they can create real impact. By advocating for yourself with confidence, building authentic relationships, and staying curious, you position yourself for sustained growth. Her message
Myra Biblowit, Board Director, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Myra shares how choosing and emulating strong role models shaped her leadership and why she puts so much effort into every single public speaking opportunity. She discusses the ways her self-awareness and self-confidence show up in her career decisions and how her leadership has evolved over time. Myra talks about board service, advice to her younger self, and what leadership traits she looks for
Anne Larcade, CEO, Sequel Hotel and Resorts Interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
As her career advanced, Anne describes finding her voice through preparation and experience rather than position. Confidence, she notes, developed over time as she learned to trust data, ask questions, and take responsibility for outcomes. She speaks candidly about moments that required courage, including taking calculated risks and ultimately buying out partners to form Sequel Hotels and Resorts.
Nelson Knight, President, Real Estate and Investments, Apple Hospitality REIT, interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Nelson discusses balancing tradition with innovation in family businesses. He shares his leadership evolution, leaning into curiosity to challenge the status quo, and overcoming self-doubt. Nelson talks about self care and why he'd tell his younger self and others to enjoy each phase of life more.
Miriam Torres, Co-Owner, Parker-Torres Design Inc., interviewed by Lan Elliott
Miriam describes a career shaped by mentorship and an unwavering commitment to service. A turning point came when a mentor immersed her in global luxury hotels, teaching her excellence through real-world experience. That exposure opened doors, built credibility, and reinforced the value of learning by doing. She emphasizes that mentorship is not only about guidance, but about access, trust, and be
Monika Moser, Founder & Director, Monika Moser Consulting, Interviewed by David Kong
Monika Moser shares a career shaped by hospitality, design, and founding her own consulting firm focused on helping organizations transform. She explains that transformation fails when leaders rely on strategy instead of changing everyday behaviors and culture. Monika highlights trust, courage, and consistency as essential leadership qualities, emphasizing that real change happens through presenc
Allison Handy, Chief Commercial Officer, Aimbridge, interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Allison talks about her thoughts and strategies for "moms in hospitality," why mentorship is important to her, and the importance of actually asking rising leaders what they want. She discusses the life lessons she learned during her Semester at Sea in college and the many ways her upbringing continually shapes her leadership style. Allison shares what's one thing that might surpris
Georgine Muntz, CEO, Visual Matrix, interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Georgine discusses her transition into hospitality five years ago, how she instantly knew to build a team around her to help support her, and what changed her overall leadership mindset about work life harmony. She shares how her leadership style has evolved into a collaborative approach and why diversity at all levels of the industry will make us stronger. She talks about taking risks, learning
Monique Lee, Group Vice President, Sales, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
Monique Lee, Group VP Sales, at Wyndham Hotels, shares her career journey from unforgettable childhood hospitality experiences to leading roles. She emphasizes the impact of mentors and the importance of intentional, authentic leadership. Her story highlights resilience, balancing work-life challenges, and leveraging AI for success in today's dynamic sales environment.
David Millili, Founder & Host, Modern Hotelier Podcast, interviewed by David Kong
David Millili's career began as a busboy but grew into leadership roles across hospitality and technology. His journey highlights the power of staying open-minded, surrounding yourself with people you trust, and having the humility to listen. He reminds us that “if you keep your intelligence over your emotions, you’ll always be successful.” His story is a powerful example of how curiosity a
Nancy Mendelson, Founder CEO, NEM Global LLC | Co-Founder, hertelier, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Nancy shares how the road to connection has become a recurring themein her leadership journey. She discusses the importance of listening,knowing your self worth, and trusting your gut. Nancy also sharesdetails about her personal board of directors, what she's learned fromworking internationally, and about her experiences with self doubt andadvocating for yourself and others.
Josiah Mackenzie, Head of Marketing, Actabl, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Josiah shares how his public speaking journey started with a panel ata conference years ago. He discusses how his leadership has evolved,how he develops new skills with each role, and the biggest lessonshe's learned over the past few years. He talks about his curiosity,including what he was curious about as a child and the things he'smost curious about today, and his advice to his younge
Roger Hill, Co-Founder & Executive Chairman of The Gettys Group and Ridgeline Development Partners, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Roger describes how overcoming adversity made his companies stronger, and how rewarding others with the opportunity to lead provides continuity. He also explains how preparation and hard work can turn calculated risks into success. In addition to sharing how one builds a strong career, Roger discusses the benefits of becoming a hotel owner as soon as possible.
Betsy O'Rourke, Commercial Advisor, former Chief Commercial Officer, Xanterra Travel Collection interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
In this interview, Betsy O’Rourke, former Chief Commercial Officer at Xanterra Travel Collection, reflects on her lifelong journey in travel and hospitality—from crewing on boats in Malta to leading global brands. She discusses strategic leadership, resilience through crises, and mentoring future leaders. Betsy emphasizes curiosity, agility, and empathy as essential traits for growth in both busin
Brad Rahinsky, Chairman, Hotel Equities, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Brad shares how his leadership style has evolved over time, including what has gotten better and worse, and how he views team sports playing a role in developing leaders. He discusses what he's learned from board service, how he stays physically and mentally healthy, and why surrounding yourself with the best people, personally and professionally, is critical. Brad also shares some sayings th
Sarah Dandashy, Ask A Concierge, interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Sarah shares why she trusts her instincts when it comes to evaluating risks and the impact her preparation and practice have on her public speaking. She discusses the importance of the outdoors and physical activity on her overall performance and why curiosity is important. She talks about how developing human connections can help you feel more at ease in any environment, how she tackles moments o
Rafat Ali, CEO & Founder, Skift, interviewed by David Kong
Rafat Ali shares his journey from engineer-turned-journalist to serial media entrepreneur, reflecting on the choices, setbacks, and grit behind building Skift. We explore the most admired leadership qualities, founder-led passion, and customer empathy. Don’t miss his parting advice on career compounding, travel, embracing contrarian views, and the power of “ask and you shall receive.”
Brian Proctor, Founder, Leeds Hospitality Group, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Brian shares why investing time upfront is one of the keys to building high-performing teams. He also explains how his The Power of Gratitude at Work program helps transform organizations – and why it’s easy to do. Brian underscores the importance of public speaking and why loving what you do, saying Yes, and raising your hand for more opportunities are critical.
Baron Ah Moo, Senior Vice President of Asset Management, IndoChina Kajima, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Baron shares how he approaches taking major risks, including moving to 5 countries on 3 continents, and the opportunities created by working in emerging markets, plus how those experiences enhanced his career in the U.S. He also explains why one should not pursue a mentor simply because they occupy a role you aspire to as well as the two key qualities he looks for on his teams.
Leora Halpern Lanz, Professor of the Practice, Boston University, School of Hospitality Administration
Leora reveals opportunities to attract and retain the next generation, and she debunks myths about them. Leora also shares tips for developing one’s network into friendships and why doing great work is only Part A of what’s needed to succeed. Plus, she discusses ageism in our industry and why young people should say Yes to opportunities.
Jan Freitag, National Director, Hospitality Analytics, CoStar Group, interviewed by Lan Elliott
One of hospitality’s most prolific, well-respected presenters, Jan shares his public speaking journey, including specific things to do before, during, and after your presentation to elevate your public speaking. He also shares how raising your hand can help you to be “seen” by senior leaders, how he navigates tremendous ambiguity, and why acknowledging people’s humanity is critical.
Rod Clough, President, HVS interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Rod shares his journey from working in high school catering services to becoming President of HVS. He reflects on his growth as a public speaker and his preparation, his approach to leadership, and why he prioritizes and models wellness and self-care. As an openly gay, Latino senior executive, Rob highlights the critical role that workplace culture, inclusion, and representation play in shaping hi
Jacob Messina, CEO, Stayntouch, interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Jacob shares how an early love of video games led to a career in technology and the hospitality industry. He discusses why trust is critical in leadership, reflects on his own leadership evolution and philosophies, and why anticipating and learning from challenges is more important than being perfect. Jacob also talks about cooking as a form of self care and why relationships matter in an industry
Carolyne Doyon, President & CEO, Club Med N. America and Caribbean, interviewed by David Kong
From proving doubters wrong early on to leading with determination and kindness, Carolyne reminds us that “success doesn’t come easy, but small wins build confidence and influence.” She also shared candidly about overcoming imposter syndrome, the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, and why sometimes the best advice is simple: “You’ve got this.” Her story is a powerful example
Petra Deuter, Global Board Director & Interim CEO, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Having worked in over 25 countries, Petra career has been built on taking risks and leaning into the resilience she’s built along the way. In this interview, she explains the advantages of interim executive roles and shares the key factors that drove her success. In addition, she details the three things to keep in mind when advocating for oneself.
Brian Hicks, CEO HSMAI interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
Dorothy Dowling interviews Brian Hicks, CEO of the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International. They discuss Brian's career journey, the importance of intentional career paths, effective team leadership, the significance of networking, and the evolving landscape of technology and innovation in the hospitality industry.“Understand your personal purpose—know where you add the most
Tedd Evers, Global Partner Leader, Travel and Hospitality AWS interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
Dorothy Dowling interviews Tedd Evers, Global Partner, Lead for Travel and Hospitality at AWS, discussing his career journey, leadership during crises, prioritization, and future innovations in hospitality. Tedd emphasizes curiosity, agile thinking, empathy, personal balance, and the critical role of data strategy in transforming the industry.
David Mansbach, Managing Partner, Global Hospitality & Leisure, DHR Global interviewed by Lan Elliott
Dave shares the importance for both career and joy to collide. An accomplished Executive Recruiter, he discusses the Top 2 Tips for negotiating an offer letter, which most people rarely do, and 3 Traits that make current candidates stand out, which differ from the past. He also explains why everyone in hospitality has an obligation to make our industry the Employer of Choice, which it currently
Heather Carnes, Director and Founder, Carnes Agency Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Heather shares how she views taking risks as pushing boundaries and the quote that helps propel her every day in her personal and professional lives. She talks about how she leaned into compassion and adaptability as key leadership traits during the pandemic. She discusses how public speaking has built her confidence and that she overcomes self doubt through changing the narrative in her mind, aid
John Paul Nichols, CEO & President, Club Quarters interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
In a conversation filled with wisdom and experiences, Dorothy Dowling sits down with John Paul Nichols, CEO of Club Quarters, on the hospitality podcast "It's Personal Stories." Nichols takes us through his career, revealing how a strategic blend of opportunistic decisions, international exposure, and cultural diversity has paved the way for his enduring success in the industry.
Lukasz Dabrowski, Senior Vice President, Global Supplier Relations, HRS Group interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
Lukasz shares insights on his extensive international career, leadership lessons, relationship building, and balancing professional and personal life through the Japanese concept of Ikigai.
Donte Johnson, Author, The Hospitality Impact Handbook, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Donte discusses the importance of community on his leadership style and how social impact and business success can go hand in hand. He shares his strategies for overcoming self doubt, building great teams, overcoming challenges, and developing new skills. He also talks about why representation matters, his public speaking journey, and what drives his curiosity.
Peter Ricci, Director of Hospitality & Tourism Management, interviewed by David Kong
Dr. Peter Ricci encourages us to stay open-minded and embrace differences, rather than dismissing them simply because they challenge our preferences. He reminds us not to lose sight of who we are in the face of immediate challenges. In our conversation, we explore the best advice he’s ever received and how he equips his students to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Don’t miss his powerful insig
Craig Sullivan, Founder & President, [CLIC] Media interviewed by Lan Elliott
Craig shares his concerns about the industry's brain trust that will soon retire, and the importance of passing information to future generations. He also explains the importance of listening in building one’s network and how discretion is integral in doing deals. Finally, Craig shares the 3 Magic Words that go a long way in a successful career.
Liam Brown, Former Group President, US & Canada, Marriott International, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
Liam shares his journey from the dining car on the railway to 35 years with Marriott. He discusses the importance of reading, being curious, and preparing for public speaking. He talks about his leadership evolution, how he develops new skills, and what he looks for in building great teams, plus his involvement in associations and his advice to his younger self.
Dr. David Corsun, Director, Fritz Knoebel School of Hospitality Management, University of Denver
David shares his journey from working in NYC restaurants to owning a Manhattan jazz bar, and how that experience motivated him to create humane workplaces, which ultimately led to him leading the University of Denver’s hospitality program. David also explains the benefits of making deposits of “idiosyncrasy credits” in helping one distinguish themselves.
Roland Elter, CCO and MD S&M, Maritim Hotelgesellschaft mbH, interviewed by David Kong
In our conversation, Roland Elter shares powerful insights from his journey:✨ "People are individuals—there’s no one-size-fits-all approach." ✨ "No vision = no success." People need to understand their purpose.We explore the value of building strong habits. For Roland, that means staying curious and actively engaging with others.He also reminds us that effective communication s
Ryan Mann, Partner at McKinsey & Company, interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
Dorothy Dowling interviews Ryan Mann from McKinsey & Company in the 'It's Personal Stories' podcast. Ryan shares his career journey, the pivotal role of COVID in his professional life, and the importance of asking the right questions in consulting. He discusses leadership in consulting, time management, nurturing talent, and future disruptions in the hospitality industry. Ryan e
Daniel C. Peek, President, Americas, JLL Hotels & Hospitality, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Dan shares how perseverance and continuous learning have been instrumental in his career trajectory and why he looks for a positive attitude and the desire to be a part of a team when building high performing teams. Dan also describes the four elements needed to distinguish oneself, and explains why leaders should support team members leaving for a new opportunity.
Scott Berman, Hospitality & Leisure Expert, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Scott discusses the trajectory of his incredible career journey, from 30 years at PwC to his current chapter. He shares his personal connection to Howard University’s Center for Hospitality Leadership and Marriott’s Arne Sorenson. Scott also explains his approach to networking, why saying Yes is so important, and what it takes to be successful as a consultant.
Greg Schulze, Chief Commercial Officer, Expedia Group interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
Greg shares his career journey from industrial engineering to his pivotal roles at American Airlines and Expedia, emphasizing the importance of passion, adaptability, and mentorship. He discusses balancing innovation with operational excellence, staying current through continuous learning and personal growth, and fostering cross-disciplinary talents within his team. Greg underscores the value of h
Abhijit Patel, VP, Revenue Management & Commercial Strategy, Choice Hotels interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
In this episode of 'It's Personal Stories,' Dorothy Dowling interviews Abhijit Patel, VP of Revenue Management at Choice Hotels International, discussing his diverse career journey. Abbat shares his experience of emigrating from India to the U.S., starting in hospitality by washing dishes, and his trajectory through various industries, including Geico and Mars, before finding his fi
Wendy Blissett, Senior Vice President, HREC Investment Advisors, interviewed by Lan Elliott
Wendy shares her incredible journey, rising to senior roles in hospitality brokerage. She explains how she’s overcoming her fear of public speaking, and why champions are critical to career success. She discusses how she built her extensive network and the tip she received from a champion for staying positive when things get hard.
Matt Clyde, President & Chief Strategist, Ideas Collide, interviewed by David Kong
The birth of his daughter led Matt to rethink his purpose - ultimately inspiring him to launch Ideas Collide. In our conversation, he shares invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and the most important lesson he’s learned in life. We dive into his sources of inspiration for continuous innovation, his daily habits, and how he strives for work-life harmony. Plus, don’t miss his insights on me
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