Defining Hospitality

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 sustainable materials and advanced fiber technologies. He discusses the evolving demands of the hospitality industry, being able to offer something creative and beautiful that also meets functional and performance needs. This episode provides valuable perspectives for anyone interested in hospitality design, product innovation, and the flooring industry's future.Takeaways: Understanding and enhancing the guest's journey is essential. Tailor experiences to make guests feel cared for and welcome.Design spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring and relaxing. Consider how elements like flooring can contribute to the overall guest experience.Embrace new materials and technologies. For example, using advanced fibers in carpets that repel stains can increase longevity and maintain aesthetic appeal.Incorporate sustainable practices, such as using recyclable materials in flooring, which can enhance the brand's eco-friendly appeal and reduce environmental impact.Recognize that different segments (hospitality, healthcare, office, etc.) have unique design needs and challenges. Tailor offerings to meet these specific requirements.Build relationships with colleges and design schools to attract fresh talent and foster loyalty among future designers.Ensure that design choices consider maintenance and longevity, making spaces easier to clean and sustain over time.Quote of the Show:“ My ideal is that our clients look to us for innovation, for new styling as being the specialists, as being the trend forecasters. We want them to come to us first. ” - Mark PageLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-page-asid-iida-newh-cmg-a83b9b4/ Website: https://mohawkind.com/ Shout Outs:20:28 - Raiders of the Lost Ark https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raiders_of_the_Lost_Ark 21:59 - Brintons https://www.brintons.net/ 24:20 - LaGuardia https://www.laguardiaairport.com/ 34:34 - BDNY https://bdny.com/ 40:15 - Hirsch Bedner Associates https://www.hba.com/ 40:49 - Baywatch https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baywatch 48:57 - Edwards Theaters https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edwards_Theatres 53:18 - DuPont https://www.dupont.com/ 55:23 - VPI https://www.vpicorp.com/ 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPXApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1sAmazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/

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 create contextually relevant and impactful projects. The conversation covers notable projects like the Wythe Hotel and The Forth, emphasizing how thoughtful design can redefine neighborhoods and meet client expectations. They also discuss the emergence of branded residences and the importance of client buy-in and strategic investment in design.Takeaways: Encourage regular collaboration and communication between the architecture and interior design teams to align on the project's North Star.Conduct thorough research on the location, history, and context of the project site to create designs that are both impactful and fitting with the surroundings.Prioritize elements that make guests feel cared for, regardless of the budget or exclusivity of the experience.Invest in high-quality design, as it can significantly enhance the financial performance of hospitality projects. Tightly manage budgets to ensure investments are spent judiciously and effectively.Be prepared for unexpected challenges, especially in adaptive reuse projects. Have mechanisms in place to manage and respond to these surprises.Keep clients informed and involved throughout the project's lifecycle to ensure continuous alignment and buy-in.Quote of the Show:“ We're bringing the same mentality and sort of rigor to every project because we think that every project can change the neighborhood that it's in.” - Ian Mills“ When you strip everything back and peel things away, hospitality is really about caring for people and fostering community.” - Becca RoderickLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-mills-a77a1a19/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/becca-roderick-45405299/ Website: https://ma.com/ Shout Outs:0:48 - Four Seasons https://www.fourseasons.com/ 0:49 - St. Regis https://st-regis.marriott.com/ 0:54 - AvroKo https://www.avroko.com/ 0:55 - One Kings Lane https://www.onekingslane.com/ 9:09 - Wythe https://www.wythehotel.com/ 10:28 - The Goodtime https://www.thegoodtimehotel.com/ 10:43 - Forth Hotel https://forthatlanta.com/ 18:13 - Morris Adjmi https://www.linkedin.com/in/morris-adjmi-7295918/ 25:31 - The Founder’s Dilemma 27:46 - Frank Gehry https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank_Gehry 54:01 - Theory Building https://ma.com/theory-building.html 54:41 - 837 Washington https://ma.com/837-washington.html 56:36 - Scholastic Building https://ma.com/scholastic-building.html 56:42 - Aldo Rossi https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aldo_Rossi 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPXApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1sAmazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/

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 to becoming a thought leader in hospitality branding. He highlights successful case studies such as the rebranding of The Dead Rabbit and emphasizes the role of brand strategy in creating memorable hospitality experiences. The conversation offers valuable insights for hospitality professionals looking to elevate their brand and connect deeply with their audience.Takeaways: Integrate branding and strategy early in the project development process. Clearly define the brand and ensure everyone involved understands its core values and mission.Develop a comprehensive brand book or playbook that outlines your brand’s mission, vision, values, and strategy. This living document should guide all aspects of your business and be referred to regularly.Ensure that every aspect of the guest experience, from design and music to service and food, aligns with your brand’s story and mission. Every detail should contribute to the overall brand experience.Communicate your brand’s core values and mission regularly to staff, partners, and new team members. This ensures that everyone is aligned and working towards the same goals.Work closely with design and branding experts to ensure that the physical spaces and experiences reflect your brand accurately and creatively.Quote of the Show:“ I learned everything there is to know about front and back of house and I just sort of fell in love with it. I fell in love with the people, the energy, the chaos, the camaraderie of it, every bit of it.” - David CarofanoLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-carofano-25705226/ Website: https://www.crowncreative.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crowncreative/ Shout Outs:4:51 - School of Visual Arts https://sva.edu/ 5:43 - AvroKo https://www.avroko.com/ 11:12 - Debbie Millman https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahmillman/ 13:17 - Local Projects https://www.localprojects.com/ 14:24 - Jake Barton https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-barton-b5a42235/ 17:48 - Marriott https://www.marriott.com/default.mi 27:30 - Ryan Crown https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryantcrownnyc/ 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPXApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1sAmazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/

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 of investing in independent hotels, the role of management companies in fostering employee culture, and the impact of technology on hospitality operations. Tom also shares a personal story about a recent health scare that led him to reevaluate how he spends his time, emphasizing the importance of aligning professional choices with personal values. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of providing authentic, experiential travel experiences for guests.Takeaways: Always strive to make guests feel recognized and valued. Simple gestures like making eye contact and offering a friendly greeting can significantly enhance the guest experience.Ensure that leadership reflects the diversity of the team. This promotes a sense of relatability and trust within the team, which can enhance the overall culture of the workplace.Provide training that emphasizes both procedural knowledge and soft skills like reading nonverbal cues and understanding body language. This helps in offering personalized and compassionate service.Leverage technology to identify patterns in customer behavior and operations. This data can help in making informed decisions to improve efficiency and guest satisfaction.If managing an independent hotel, focus on delivering a unique and engaging guest experience rather than relying on brand recognition alone.Provide opportunities for staff and guests alike to engage in learning experiences, enhancing both personal development and guest satisfaction.Provide opportunities for staff and guests alike to engage in learning experiences, enhancing both personal development and guest satisfaction.Quote of the Show:“Hospitality is that simple. It's about putting yourself second and putting others first.” - Thomas HealyLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-healy-aabb135/ Website: https://www.rockbridgeholdings.com/ Shout Outs:0:47 - Diamond Rock Hospitality https://drhc.com/ 0:49 - Strategic Hotels and Resorts https://strategichotels.com/ 0:50 - Hyatt https://www.hyatt.com/ 2:45 - Independent Lodging Congress https://ilcongress.com/ 21:17 - Marriott https://www.marriott.com/default.mi 21:18 - Four Seasons https://www.fourseasons.com/ 21:19 - Ritz Carlton https://www.ritzcarlton.com/ 21:20 - Hilton https://www.hilton.com/en/ 23:54 - Havana Cabana https://www.havanacabanakeywesthotel.com/ 34:54 - Goldman Sachs https://www.goldmansachs.com/ 46:01 - Adolphus https://www.adolphus.com/ 52:12 - Pelotonian https://www.pelotonia.org/52:13 - RTRX https://rtrx.co/ 58:34 - Outlive https://peterattiamd.com/outlive/ 58:44 - Dr. Attia https://peterattiamd.com 1:03:12 - Flax Trust http://flaxtrust.com/ 1:04:39 - Art Rooney https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Art_Rooney 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPXApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1sAmazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/

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 challenges of entrepreneurship. They explore the importance of mentorship, the evolving landscape of hospitality design, and navigating through the pressures of business restructuring. Kellie also discusses her vision for the future, including international expansion and the development of Studio 11 Design-branded residences. The conversation offers insights into the ups and downs of running a successful design firm and emphasizes the power of collaboration, trust, and perseverance.Takeaways: Actively seek out mentors or become one yourself. Reach out to industry leaders for coffee meetings to gain insights.Focus on building and maintaining trust with clients. High trust levels can result in more creative freedom and better project outcomes.In design projects, delve deeply into the local neighborhood's story rather than relying on broad stereotypes or generalizations. This makes the design more authentic and engaging.Consider expanding available services such as branding and art installations within your firm to maintain a cohesive narrative and offer comprehensive solutions to clients.Invest in creating a collaborative and enriching workspace for your team to foster loyalty and productivity.Explore new and innovative project types, such as multifunctional spaces or projects in unique locations, to stand out and attract interest.Quote of the Show:“ The people in hospitality, we’re a different breed. We live and breathe hospitality. It's who we are.” - Kellie SirnaLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellie-sirna-9847445/ Website: https://studio11design.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studio11design_/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandbottega/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curationbylouverne/ Shout Outs:0:40 - Hospitality Design Magazine https://hospitalitydesign.com/ 0:42 -  Condé Nast https://www.condenast.com/ 0:43 - Forbes https://www.forbes.com/ 0:43 - Wall Street Journal https://www.wsj.com/ 6:24 - Duncan & Miller Design https://duncanmillerdesign.com/ 7:04 - Stacy Elliston  https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-elliston-11305a9/ 21:55 - Ed Kuester https://www.linkedin.com/in/edkuester/ 26:21 - Greg Clay https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-clay-25772010/ 28:00 - Kevin Barry https://kevinbarry.com/ 28:34 - Countrypolitan https://www.countrypolitannashville.com/ 28:45 - Thompson Hotels https://www.hyatt.com/thompson-hotels 29:26 - Hilton Garden Inn https://www.hilton.com/en/brands/hilton-garden-inn/ 36:12 - Chris Alvarado https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-m-alvarado-2911647/ 40:05 - Kelly Wearstler https://www.kellywearstler.com/ 43:35 - Hutton Hotel https://www.huttonhotel.com/ 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPXApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1sAmazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/

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 insights from her extensive experience in the hospitality industry, including planning initiatives, organizing events, and the importance of creating meaningful experiences for attendees. They also delve into personal anecdotes and the intricacies of balancing organized chaos in event planning. The episode emphasizes the transformative power of hospitality and the vital role of independent lodging in the industry.Takeaways: Emphasize the mission of hospitality to care for people on their journeys. This core purpose should guide all actions and decisions.Strive to create experiences that blend the unexpected with fulfilling guest expectations, making their stays magical but ensuring they feel taken care of.Use unique and less formalized settings, like walk-and-talks, immersive experiences, and local tours, to encourage organic interactions and deeper connections among attendees.Building authentic relationships is crucial. In the hospitality industry, human connection and genuine interactions can set your business apart.Engage with local businesses and community members to enhance the collective experience for visitors.Choose venues and spaces that are comfortable and stimulating for guests, considering their comfort during events and interactions.Quote of the Show:“ Trying to figure out the right combination so that it feels very magical, but also you feel like you're taken care of. That's how hospitality has been running through my brain.” - Meg GutowskiLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-gutowski-09b33972/ Website: https://ilcongress.com/ Shout Outs:0:48 - Corinthian Yacht Club https://www.corinthianyc.org/ 1:47 - Bashar Wali https://www.linkedin.com/in/basharwali/ 5:45 - Andrew Benioff https://www.linkedin.com/in/llenrockgroupbenioff/ 7:18 - Cavallo Point Lodge https://www.cavallopoint.com/ 16:50 - Elyse Kirby https://www.linkedin.com/in/jelysekirby/ 17:25 - Sage Hotels https://sagehospitalitygroup.com/ 21:57 - Marquise Stilwell https://www.linkedin.com/in/quise/ 24:01 - Morris Adjmi Architects https://ma.com/ 24:05 - MethodCo https://www.methodco.com/ 25:07 - Alexis Lanman https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexis-lanman-b0b39487/ 25:08 - Jen Parks https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferfigariparks/ 32:35 - Highgate https://www.highgate.com/ 38:38 - Paul Tamburello https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-tamburello-80638512/ 39:16 - Little Man Ice Cream https://www.littlemanicecream.com/ 46:27 - Amy Michaelson Kelly https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-michaelson-kelly-a547a717/ 46:30 - Lark https://www.larkhotels.com/ 46:41 - Shelton Steele https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelton-steele-39521566/ 46:42 - Wrong Way Campground https://www.wrongwaycampground.com/ 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPXApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1sAmazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/

Rob Blood, Founder and Chairman of Lark Hotels, shares his journey from innkeeper to hotel mogul. He emphasizes 'soul-making hospitality,' where genuine connections exceed mere service. Rob discusses innovative approaches in hotel design, sustainability trends, and the importance of a collaborative workplace culture. He also highlights the role of technology in streamlining operations, ensuring staff can focus more on guest interactions. His insights offer a roadmap for creating memorable hospitality experiences that resonate with both guests and employees.

Implementing art and music, seeing potential, and giving back are the key pillars that Mr. Richard Kessler brings to his business. As the Chairman and CEO of The Kessler Collection, and over 50 years of experience in the field of hospitality, Mr. Kessler shares in his unique story. Mr. Kessler discusses his transition from helping found Days Inn to pioneering boutique hotels before they were even a recognized category. He reflects on the resilience needed to navigate economic crises, his passion for creating beautiful spaces, and the significance of hospitality in making guests feel cared for and entertained. Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Kessler highlights his philanthropic efforts, including building an ecumenical family retreat center and an orphanage, driven by his vision of seeing and nurturing potential in people and places. The episode encapsulates his dedication to leaving a lasting impact through both his business ventures and charitable initiatives.Takeaways: Emphasize creating memorable and emotionally impactful experiences for guests.Recognize potential in both people and properties. Look for unique opportunities to transform properties into high-value assets.Be prepared for external challenges like economic downturns and industry-specific crises. Develop resilience and a problem-solving mindset to navigate tough times effectively.Incorporate elements that can set your property apart, such as boutique aesthetics and special themes.Engage directly with guests to understand their experiences and gather feedback. Use guest feedback to continuously improve service and offerings.Look for ways to give back to the community and support charitable causes, in any way that you can.Quote of the Show:“ It's a process of caring for people and entertaining people all at the same time. Some people need more care, some people need more entertainment.” - Richard KesslerLinks:Website: https://www.kesslercollection.com/https://www.newebenezer.org/ Shout Outs:0:51 - Days Inn https://corporate.wyndhamhotels.com/our-brands/days-inn/ 3:54 - The New Ebenezer https://www.newebenezer.org/  4:09 - Georgia Tech https://www.gatech.edu/ 5:44 - University of Georgia https://www.uga.edu/ 7:17 - Cecil Day https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cecil_B._Day 10:48 - Motel 6 https://www.motel6.com/en/home.html 10:59 - Holiday Inn https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/reservation 22:37 - Paul Volcker https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Volcker 26:43 - Mulberry Inn https://www.innatmulberrygrove.com/ 27:13 - The Pirate’s House https://thepirateshouse.com/ 36:40 - Marriott https://www.marriott.com/default.mi 37:35 - The Bohemian Hotel https://www.kesslercollection.com/bohemian-savannah/ 39:02 - The Grand Bohemian https://www.kesslercollection.com/bohemian-orlando/ 51:34 - Treutlen House https://treutlenhouse.com/ 53:09 - From Houses to Homes https://www.fromhousestohomes.org/ 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPXApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1sAmazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/

Hospitality is key, especially under hardships and destruction, something Joe Balcken and Shelton Steele, Co-Owners of the Wrong Way River Lodge and Cabins in Asheville, North Carolina are passionate about. They discuss their unique urban campground hotel and the challenges they've faced. The conversation explores the definition of hospitality, the building of their flood-resilient property, and the impact of a recent historic flood on their business and the local community. The duo share their entrepreneurial journey, the human spirit of resilience, and the importance of tourism in revitalizing Asheville post-disaster. The episode is a testament to perseverance, community, and the spirit of hospitality in the face of adversity.Takeaways: Incorporate local culture and unique features of the area into the business, as shown by Joe and Shelton's emphasis on Asheville’s outdoor personality and countercultural vibe.Build emotional connections with guests by highlighting the distinct aspects and personal stories associated with the property.Ensure infrastructure is resilient to natural disasters by adhering to local zoning and building laws.Utilize existing local networks and connections with other businesses to offer comprehensive guest experiences, whether extreme activities for the adventurous or more relaxed, outdoor-curious activities.Foster strong community bonds and be a part of local recovery efforts, which can also lead to supportive relationships and collaborations.Make every guest feel special and connected to the place by providing immersive and memorable experiences, such as customized murals that resonate with the property's theme.Promote group activities and communal spaces to enhance guest interactions and create memorable experiences. For example, having shared spaces like campfires and communal dining areas.Quote of the Show: “ It's my backyard and I wanted to share it with everyone and create an experience that aligned with my version of Asheville.” - Shelton Steele“ It's part of our mission to connect people with the outdoor experience, whether they be one of those people that's outdoor active or someone that's curious about it.” - Joe BalckenLinks:Joe’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbalcken/ Shelton’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelton-steele-39521566/ Website: https://www.wrongwaycampground.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wrongwaycampground/ Shout Outs:0:59 - All Forward Outdoors https://www.allforwardoutdoors.com/ 1:24 - Independent Lodging Congress https://ilcongress.com/ 7:33 - Pleb Winery https://www.pleburbanwinery.com/ 13:49 - French Broad River https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/French_Broad_River 15:37 - Starman https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starman_(film) 16:26 - Amy Michaelson Kelly https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-michaelson-kelly-a547a717/ 37:51 - Hurricane Katrina https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hurricane_Katrina 39:58 - Meg Gutowski https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-gutowski-09b33972/ 45:43 - Wedge Brewery https://wedgebrewing.com/ 46:00 - Biltmore Estate https://www.biltmore.com/ 49:34 - Western Carolina University https://www.wcu.edu/ 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPXApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1sAmazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/

In this episode, Dan Ryan interviews Robyn Pratt, the General Manager of the Phoenicia Hotel in Malta and Principal of Impact Consulting Limited. Robyn shares her journey from her upbringing in Australia to becoming a leader in the hospitality industry. She elaborates on the importance of genuine employee engagement and shares her approach to creating a strong service culture that results in both happy employees and loyal guests. Robyn also discusses the unique aspects of Malta and how the island's rich history adds to the charm of the Phoenicia Hotel. This episode provides a deep dive into how authentic leadership and a passion for service can elevate any hospitality operation.Takeaways: Recognize that hospitality is about making people feel special and welcome, just as if they are guests in your own home.Appoint a dedicated person to oversee employee wellness, ensuring that your team feels supported both personally and professionally.Spend time interacting with both guests and employees. Regularly walk around the property to engage with your team and understand their daily challenges.Organize monthly general manager's breakfasts or similar informal gatherings where employees from different functions can share ideas and feedback.Implement programs like Employee of the Month, and consider equitable profit-sharing initiatives to incentivize the entire team.Encourage staff to bring their personalities to their roles. Genuine interactions can significantly enhance the guest experience.Implement comprehensive training programs focused on service culture development and provide opportunities for career growth.Quote of the Show:“ The words are easy to say, we've got these values. What does it mean? What does it mean to deliver a value of caring?” - Robyn PrattLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robyn-pratt-33011a/ Website: https://www.phoeniciamalta.com/ Shout Outs:0:52 - Hospitality Daily https://www.hospitalitydaily.com/ 0:53 - Josiah McKenzie https://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahmackenzie/ 13:58 - UNESCO https://www.unesco.org/en 15:21 - Condé Nast https://www.condenast.com/ 23:02 - Verne Harnish https://www.linkedin.com/in/verneharnish/ 35:26 - Four Seasons https://www.fourseasons.com/ 38:09 - Marriott https://www.marriott.com/default.mi 48:14 - Knights of St. John https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knights_Hospitaller 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPXApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1sAmazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/