Hospitality Daily Podcast

In this episode, Steve Palmer, founder and chief vision officer of The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, shares his insights on the importance of creating a positive work environment in the hospitality industry and the impact it can have on both employees and the industry as a whole. Listen now to hear his thoughts on:The mission to improve the hospitality industryCreating a world of abundanceCombating toxic work cultures The enduring appeal of the hospitality industryThe irreplaceable value of human connectionIf you enjoyed this, listen to the rest of our mini-series with Steve:Say Grace: How Sobriety Saved My Life (And How I'm Helping Others)How "Transformational Hospitality" Changed My Life (And Can Change Your Business)Culture As A Business Model: How We Turn Employee Satisfaction into ProfitsHow We Build a Culture of Mentorship A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Ben Powers, CEO of Visiting Media, shares a masterclass on how to sell effectively today with immersive technology and multi-sensory experiences.Ben Powers' Journey (01:39): Discover Ben's background as a serial entrepreneur and how he transitioned from being a wedding photographer to the CEO of Visiting Media.What Visiting Media Does (04:52): Understand how Visiting Media helps hoteliers with immersive technology and multi-sensory experiences to boost sales.Importance of Sales in Hospitality (07:56): Explore why sales are crucial in the hospitality industry and how effective selling can drive revenue and enhance customer experiences.Challenges in Hospitality Sales (12:08): Identify common barriers that hold people back from selling effectively and how to overcome them.Speed and Multi-Sensory Experiences (14:11): Learn about the importance of speed in sales and how multi-sensory experiences can enhance the selling process.Distribution Innovations (20:57): Dive into the exciting innovations in distribution that Visiting Media is working on to streamline and enhance the sales process.Use Cases and Client Examples (24:57): Hear about different implementations of Visiting Media's technology across various hospitality contexts.Data-Driven Insights (31:16): Discover surprising data points that have emerged from using immersive technology in sales and how they can drive better outcomes.Practical Steps for Listeners (36:19): Get actionable advice on how to level up your sales program using technology and process improvements.Evaluating Technology (40:19): Learn key questions to ask when evaluating new technology to ensure it simplifies and enhances your sales efforts.Resources:Visiting Media websiteCase studies and testimonialsWhy work with Visiting MediaBeyond the Booking podcastA few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Brock Taylor, General Manager at Cameo Beverly Hills, shares insights into the sales role in hospitality and its critical importance to the success of a hotel.Understanding the Sales Role in Hospitality (01:33) - why sales matters in a hotel setting.Misconceptions About Sales in Hospitality (02:54) - including the idea that sales is only about direct selling and the importance of being hospitable and understanding guests' needs.Day in the Life of a Sales Professional (03:57) - overview of what a typical day might look like for a sales professional in hospitality, including the different segments they might focus on and the key traits needed for success.Importance of Listening and Understanding Guests (06:00) - the importance of being a good listener to understand and meet the complex needs of guests, especially for event organizers and larger groups.Current Opportunities at Cameo Beverly Hills (06:55) - current job openings on the sales team at Cameo Beverly Hills and the qualities they are looking for in new team members.See career opportunities at Cameo Beverly Hills here. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Steve Palmer, founder and chief vision officer of The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, shares his insights on the importance of mentorship in building a powerful organizational culture.Listen now to learn about:Steve Palmer's Approach to Mentorship (01:00) - his views on the responsibility and privilege of mentoring, and how mentorship can turn a job into a lifelong, satisfying career in hospitality.Creating Roadmaps for Growth (01:47) - the benefits of a growing company and the opportunities it creates for employees, and examples of career progression within the Indigo Road Hospitality Group.Mentorship Programs at Indigo Road (02:10) - details on the mentorship program for new leaders,and the importance of keeping employees inspired and aligned with core values.Promoting from Within (02:58) - the strategy of promoting from within to sustain and nurture company culture, and the advantages of moving experienced employees to new locations for better success rates.Real-life Examples of Promotion and Growth (03:46) - specific examples of employees being promoted and relocated to new cities, and the excitement and growth opportunities for young, ambitious employees. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Steve Palmer, founder and chief vision officer of The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, shares insights on building and maintaining a great organizational culture that drives business success.Understanding Culture as a Business Model (01:21) - Steve explains how culture can be a dynamic and profitable business model, moving beyond superficial perks to create a meaningful work environment.Evaluating Organizational Culture (04:04) - Learn about the methods Indigo Road Hospitality Group uses to assess their culture, including anonymous employee satisfaction surveys and real-time observations.Internal Hospitality and Employee Engagement (06:57) - Discover the concept of internal hospitality and how creating a positive work environment can lead to better customer experiences.Practical Initiatives for a Positive Culture (08:04) - Steve discusses various initiatives like family meals, home loan programs, and free mental health support that contribute to a supportive and engaging workplace.Leadership and Vulnerability (11:09) - Understand the importance of authentic leadership, admitting mistakes, and fostering a culture where employees feel safe and valued. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

Steve Palmer, founder of The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, dives into how transformational hospitality has shaped his life and business. He recalls profound advice from mentor Chris Goss that redefined his perspective on true hospitality versus mere service. Steve shares a heartwarming story from Montage Los Cabos, emphasizing the power of belonging in the hospitality community. He highlights his philosophy, 'To Serve is to Love,' and discusses the importance of genuine connections, regardless of technological advancements. Discover his vision for maintaining consistent hospitality across diverse concepts.

In this episode, Steve Palmer, founder and chief vision officer of The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, shares his inspiring journey to sobriety and how it has influenced his approach to developing a supportive culture within his company. What You'll Learn:Steve Palmer's Personal Journey to Sobriety (01:17) - his early struggles with addiction and the pivotal moment that led him to choose rehab over losing his job.Challenges of Sobriety in the Hospitality Industry (02:10) - the difficulties of maintaining sobriety in an industry where alcohol and drug use are prevalent and how he overcame these challenges.Impact of Sobriety on Career and Company Culture (03:24) - how Steve's sobriety journey led to the creation and success of the Indigo Road Hospitality Group and how it has shaped the company's culture.The Founding of Ben's Friends (05:00) - the story behind Ben's Friends, a support group for hospitality professionals struggling with addiction, and its growth into a nationwide initiative.The Importance of Mental Health Awareness (06:17) - the need for mental health awareness in the hospitality industry and shares how his company supports its employees' well-being.Learn more about Steve's book, Say Grace: How the Restaurant Industry Saved My Life. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

Join Jen Worthington, co-founder of Play Social and a former film producer turned hospitality innovator, as she shares her exciting transition to the hospitality world. Discover the challenges of opening the Coyote Ugly bar and how it prepared her for success in Vegas. Jen emphasizes the importance of playful experiences at the Luxor, especially post-COVID, fostering community and connection. Learn about the innovative designs of Play Playground and their plans for expansion, making laughter and high-fives the new measure of success.

In this episode, Kate Gagliardi, Complex Executive Chef for the Asbury Collection, shares her unique journey from finance to culinary leadership and offers insights on what it takes to create a positive work environment.You'll learn about:Kate's Career Journey (00:42) - Hear about Kate's transition from finance to becoming an executive chef.Creating a Positive Work Culture (01:03) - Learn how Kate encourages her teams to be creative, bold, and take care of themselves.Differences Between Restaurant and Hotel Culinary Operations (03:19) - Discover the unique challenges and exciting aspects of running a culinary operation in a hotel setting.Work Culture in Kitchens (04:07) - Gain insights into the demanding work culture in kitchens and how it can be improved.Influential Mentors and Leadership Styles (05:18) - Learn about the mentors who shaped Kate's leadership style and her approach to managing her team.Menu Development and Team Collaboration (07:35) - Understand how Kate collaborates with her team on menu development and encourages creativity.Staffing Challenges in Hospitality (15:37) - Explore the staffing challenges in the hospitality industry, especially post-pandemic, and how to address them.Misconceptions About the Culinary Industry (17:18) - Correct common misconceptions about working in the culinary industry and highlight its rewarding aspects. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Josiah Mackenzie shares his thoughts and reflections on the 2024 NYU International Hospitality Industry Investment Conference, covering:The Importance of Capital in Hospitality (0:43) - why staying close to the world of owners and investors is crucial for operational success.Current State of the Lodging Economy (1:15) - an overview of the U.S. lodging and travel economy, including STR's downgraded outlook and the split impact on different chain scales.Geopolitical Risks and Recession Fears (2:07) - top concerns for CEOs and leaders in the industry, based on Ernst & Young's market research.Operational Innovation from Smaller Margins (3:01) - how pressure from owners and investors can lead to reimagining business and operating models.The Role of Technology and Gen AI (4:06) - how new technologies like Gen AI can help rethink operational models and improve margins.Expanding Hospitality Beyond Hotels (4:48) -  the potential of applying hospitality principles to other types of real estate and mixed-use developments.Building a Strong Customer Base (5:10) - the importance of providing a differentiated experience and cultivating loyal customers, supported by technology and first-party data.Opportunities in Group Business (6:13) - the emerging demand for group business, especially among small and medium enterprises, and how to cater to this segment. AI in Hospitality (8:09) - the various applications of AI in hospitality, from revenue management to personalized training, and the realistic expectations of its impact.Personal Performance Evaluation Using AI (11:10) - how AI can be used as a tool for personal and professional development, acting as a coach or advisor to improve effectiveness.Resources:How Hotel Brands Are Using First-Party Data to Drive Revenue & Build Stronger Relationships (Research from Sojern)How We Build Strong Brands - Chris Silcock, Hilton A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands