

Defining Hospitality
Dan Ryan
Welcome to Defining Hospitality, the podcast focused on highlighting the most influential figures in the hospitality industry. In each episode we provide 1 on 1, in depth interviews with experts in the industry to learn what hospitality means to them. We feature expert advice on working in the industry, behind the scenes looks at some of your favorite brands, and in depth explorations of unique hospitality projects.
Defining Hospitality is hosted by Founder and CEO of Agency 967, Dan Ryan. With over 30 years of experience in hospitality, Dan brings his expertise and passion to each episode as he delves into the latest trends and challenges facing the industry.
Episodes are released every week on Wednesday mornings.
To listen to episodes, visit https://www.defininghospitality.live/ or subscribe to Defining Hospitality wherever you get your podcasts.
Defining Hospitality is hosted by Founder and CEO of Agency 967, Dan Ryan. With over 30 years of experience in hospitality, Dan brings his expertise and passion to each episode as he delves into the latest trends and challenges facing the industry.
Episodes are released every week on Wednesday mornings.
To listen to episodes, visit https://www.defininghospitality.live/ or subscribe to Defining Hospitality wherever you get your podcasts.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 15, 2024 • 56min
Doorways to Branding Success - Bonnie Campagnuolo - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 177
🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ Today, host Dan Ryan sits down with Bonnie Campagnuolo, Brand Leader of Embassy Suites by Hilton. The discussion follows the intricacies of hospitality, brand strategy, and evolving customer needs. Bonnie shares her journey from advertising to hospitality, her insights on brand evolution, and the importance of creating a guest-centric experience. They explore Embassy Suites' recent design changes, the importance of model rooms, and integrating technology in hospitality.Takeaways: Embrace the need for brand evolution or revolution based on market demands and guest needs.Regularly gather and incorporate feedback from guests on room functionality and amenities.Ensure key stakeholders, including housekeeping and operational teams, have input in the design process.Conduct extensive research via surveys, focus groups, and in-room studies to understand guest behaviors and unmet needs. Ask guests how they use space and what features are most important to them.Allow owners flexibility in design, while also ensuring brand consistency.Experiment with new technologies to improve guest experience as well as operational efficiency.Be open to career moves that might seem non-linear but can provide valuable experiences and insights. Avoid limiting beliefs in yourself and your abilities.Quote of the Show:“Make decisions that leave doors open, not ones that close doors. Be open, work on different clients, learn different types of business.” - Bonnie CampagnuoloLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonnie-campagnuolo-7b31244/ Embassy Suites LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/embassy-suites/ Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/ Shout Outs:Chris Nassetta https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisnassetta/ Universal Studios https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us Walt Disney World https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/ 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/

Nov 6, 2024 • 55min
Purchasing with Purpose - Áine O’Connor - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 176
🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ Today Dan Ryan welcomes Áine O'Connor, President of the International Society of Hospitality Purchasers (ISHP) and Founder of AOC Purchasing LLC. Áine shares her extensive experience in the hospitality industry from working across the globe in project management, budgeting, and procurement. She delves into her journey to entrepreneurship, balancing work and family life, and the critical issue of human trafficking awareness within hospitality. This episode explores the importance of relationships, collaboration, and passion for quality in the built environment.Takeaways: Focus on building strong, respectful, and collaborative relationships with all project stakeholders including developers, designers, contractors, and vendors.Regularly check in with yourself to assess stress levels and ensure you aren’t taking on more than you can handle.Approach every project with a solution-oriented mindset, being open to others' input and working together to overcome challenges.Get involved in industry organizations for networking, skill development, and potential leadership opportunities.Stay open to learning new processes and understanding the rationales behind certain project decisions to improve your effectiveness.Understand that it is okay to admit when something is too much and take steps to delegate or adjust responsibilities accordingly.Support initiatives and training programs that address broader social issues, such as human trafficking, to make a positive impact within the industry and beyond.Quote of the Show: “I never don't want to work. I never don't want to be in this industry. I love it. I'm passionate about it, but it's a balance.” - Áine O’ConnorLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%C3%A1ine-o-connor-5507aa4/ Website: https://aocons.com/ ISHP: https://ishp.info/ Shout Outs:International Society of Hospitality Purchasers https://ishp.info/ The American Hotel & Lodging Association https://www.ahla.com/ Carl Long https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-long-pmi/ 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/

Oct 30, 2024 • 51min
Pioneering a Stand Alone Vision - Mary Alice Palmer - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 175
In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan meets with Mary Alice Palmer, the Global Creative Director and Founding Principal at ROAM Interior Design. The conversation focuses on the innovative decision by HKS to spin out ROAM as a standalone design firm. Mary Alice shares insights into her career, mentorship influences, and the strategic considerations behind the successful rebranding and growth of ROAM. The discussion also highlights how this unique approach brings new value to the firm and attracts top industry talent.Takeaways: Focus on developing a high-quality portfolio that showcases your team's abilities and success stories. A great portfolio can generate positive reactions and open new opportunities.Develop a comprehensive business case and clearly articulate the value of any proposed change. Use data and strategic insights to back up your vision.Encourage initiatives that push the boundaries of traditional business models. Be open to radical ideas that might initially seem counterintuitive.Work with external consultants or brand strategists to gain fresh perspectives and objective insights that can help make a compelling argument for change.Understand that markets and team dynamics evolve. Be flexible and willing to modify strategies as necessary to stay aligned with market demands and internal goals.Support your team's development through mentoring, training, and continuous learning opportunities. Empower senior-level employees and keep them engaged with challenging projects.Publicize your successes both internally and externally. Acknowledge the hard work and dedication of your team to boost morale and attract new talent.Quote of the Show: “I've been down many roads in my career. I'm attracted to things that keep me curious and keep me excited and keep me feeling like I'm on an adventure.” - Mary Alice PalmerLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-alice-palmer-48897462/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roaminteriordesign/ Website: https://www.roaminteriordesign.com/ Shout Outs:Baha Mar https://bahamar.com/ Marriott https://www.marriott.com/default.mi HKS https://www.hksinc.com/ Murphy Cramer https://www.mcdesign.com/ Simeone Deary https://simeonedeary.com/ WATG https://www.watg.com/ Ritz Carlton https://www.ritzcarlton.com/ Mandarin Oriental https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/ Six Senses https://www.sixsenses.com/en/ Accor https://all.accor.com/a/en.html Hilton https://www.hilton.com/en/ Waldorf Astoria https://thewaldorfus.com/ Dan Noble https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-noble-8a2989b/ Kirk Teske https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirkteske/ Revit https://www.autodesk.com/products/revit/architecture 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/

Oct 23, 2024 • 1h 7min
Hospitality Beyond Four Walls - Paul McElroy - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 174
Dan welcomes Paul McElroy, Executive Vice President of Design and Construction at Lucid, Highgate’s in-house design studio, onto today’s episode where they dive into the transformative power of sustainability within the hospitality industry. Paul emphasizes the critical role of small changes and conversations, the significance of detailed project management, and the impactful lessons learned from challenging construction projects. The conversation conveys how vulnerability and resilience shape professional approaches and industry-wide improvements. The duo also explores how pioneering figures and companies are integrating sustainable practices, stressing the necessity of these efforts to become standard operations due to regulatory and market pressures. Takeaways: Embedding sustainability into projects from the kickoff meeting ensures that objectives are clear and incorporated into the workflow from the beginning.Integrate sustainability metrics and waste management plans into RFP processes to ensure accountability and commitment from contractors and vendors from the start.Show up with authenticity and vulnerability. This approach breaks down barriers and builds stronger, more genuine relationships with peers and partners.Set clear, audacious goals and communicate the “why” behind initiatives. This helps to align and motivate teams around shared objectives.Work collaboratively with contractors and vendors, bringing them on the journey rather than dictating from above. Understanding their challenges and working together to solve them can result in more sustainable and feasible solutions.Recognize and utilize the power of collective effort. Mobilize your organization and partners to join in the sustainable mission, thereby amplifying the impact.Be open to changing course based on what you learn along the way. Healthy friction and iterative improvements can lead to significant advances in sustainability practices.Quote of the Show:“It's very important that a hotel exhibits extreme hospitality to their guests, but I think hospitality extends way beyond the four walls of a hotel.” - Paul McElroyLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-mcelroy-3387954a/ Website: https://www.luciddevelopmentgroup.com/ Website: https://www.highgate.com/ Shout Outs:So and So Bar https://www.soandsosbar.com/ MindClick https://www.mindclick.com/ Hilton Hawaiian Village https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/hnlhvhh-hilton-hawaiian-village-waikiki-beach-resort/ Alohi Lani https://www.alohilaniresort.com/ BDNY https://bdny.com/ Hyatt Regency San Francisco https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-regency/en-US/sfors-hyatt-regency-san-francisco Kara Swisher https://www.linkedin.com/in/kara-swisher-b7213/ US Green Building Council https://www.usgbc.org/ Hotel Marcel https://www.hotelmarcel.com/ 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/

Oct 16, 2024 • 54min
Small But Mighty Hospitality - Sonja Haviland/Haley Mistler - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 173
In this episode, Dan Ryan interviews Sonja Haviland and Haley Mistler, Co-Founders of Superette Studio. They discuss their six-year journey in the hospitality design industry, highlighting key projects such as the Napa Valley Lodge and The Lodge at Bodega Bay, the latter of which was awarded Condé Nast Traveler's Reader's Choice - Best Hotel in the World. The duo shares insights on entrepreneurship, their definition of hospitality as the art of making people feel like they belong, and the importance of creative networks. They also touch upon the significance of trust and communication in their partnership, showcasing their nimble and hands-on approach to design and project management. This episode provides valuable guidance for budding entrepreneurs in the design world, emphasizing the synergy between branding and interiors in creating welcoming experiences.Takeaways: Engage in spaces where you can have unexpected collisions with other professionals, such as creative hubs or co-working spaces.Consider working with a career or business coach to help navigate difficult conversations and improve teamwork.Perform a vibe check, financial check, and gut check before engaging with new clients. Remember that maintaining a comfortable and positive relationship with clients is crucial.When working on projects, think about the small details that enhance user experience, such as intuitive layout, placement of switches, and durability of materials.Continuously learn and embrace new roles and responsibilities within your business as it grows.Produce and showcase the type of work you want to attract; what you do now is what you will continue to bring in for work.Starting small can be advantageous. Focus on your strengths and expertise before scaling.Quote of the Show: “So much of being successful and being able to grow and learn and evolve is surrounding yourself with people who are in a similar position.” - Haley MistlerLinks:Sonja’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonja-haviland-8602091/ Haley’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haley-mistler-2387735/ Website: https://superettestudio.com/ Shout Outs:Napa Valley Lodge https://www.napavalleylodge.com/ The Langham https://www.langhamhotels.com/en/ Monterey Plaza Hotel https://montereyplazahotel.com/ The Lodge at Bodega Bay https://www.lodgeatbodegabay.com/ Lafayette Park Hotel https://www.lafayetteparkhotel.com/ Condé Nast https://www.condenast.com/ WeWork https://www.wework.com/ Lawrence McRae https://www.lawrencemcrae.com/ Jill Rosenwald https://www.jillrosenwald.com/ BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/ RISD https://www.risd.edu/ Brown University https://www.brown.edu/ Small Giants https://www.amazon.com/Small-Giants-Companies-Instead-10th-Anniversary/dp/014310960X/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=1333708168067507&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.QQYhvAjDoMxUtejBDi74ZgZCH5cCddPrse-p6MxQ-hqC5_axJ2H9nlq6hPjcja6LVUytkFP3aWaF-bBCfd7T3SVRifSgip5eh846NLy6cj8630nsW73gLX7LdBeMbyogFWBesgjGNJo5QgTAJ5rvSxK8Kn-8cCPfpJitzMe2HXs6Y5bgB6Ii3j6ZtrILYDNd4kHI3vLuFYNtUm6Z7BskXMpBHxjxxgf6SH2M3YjXYv0.S9dCyXXwVkxnVlvWE9EASQT8x8hp-YMYvwIdKr6-9Dc&dib_tag=se&hvadid=83356831320179&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=104857&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-83357101759371%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=24658_10677455&keywords=small+giants+book&msclkid=16538efc73151ef79412e9f124571198&qid=1728927559&sr=8-1 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/

Oct 9, 2024 • 50min
Crafting Unique Hospitality Experiences - Scott Williams - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 172
Today Scott Williams, the Chief Development and Brand Officer at Main Street Hospitality, joins host Dan Ryan to unpack the essence of hospitality through empathy, connection, and innovation. Drawing from his extensive background in media and branding, Scott offers valuable insights on creating genuine guest experiences and the parallels between theater and hospitality. The discussion also covers the significance of people-first approaches, continuous learning, and maintaining personal discipline. With anecdotes from influential leaders and successful brands, the conversation highlights the importance of independent hotels as innovation hubs, the evolving trends in experiential hospitality, and the power of community and authentic interactions.Takeaways: Ensure that all interactions with guests convey warmth, friendliness, and empathy. Train staff to handle stressful situations gracefully to enhance the guest experience.Encourage staff to make personal connections with guests and tailor their service to individual needs. Small gestures like stepping from behind the desk to hand over keys can make a significant difference.Implement continuous development programs for employees, such as monthly skills labs.Ensure that marketing and branding efforts authentically represent the values and culture of the business.Invest in creating memorable experiences that foster brand loyalty.Stay updated with new trends and practices in the industry, such as immersive experiences and sustainable practices.Promote a work environment where employees feel safe to express their needs and challenges.Quote of the Show: “Hospitality is sharing the best of yourself with one customer at a time; each and every interaction.” - Scott WilliamsLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottswilliams/ Website: https://www.scottswilliams.com/ Website: https://mainstreethospitalitygroup.com/ Shout Outs:Starwood https://www.starwoodcapital.com/ Morgan’s Hotels https://www.sbe.com/ Independent Lodging Conference https://ilcongress.com/ Horst Schulze https://horstschulze.com/ Red Lion Inn https://www.redlioninn.com/ La Mamounia https://mamounia.com/en/ Hilton https://www.hilton.com/en/ Marriott https://www.marriott.com/default.mi Welcome to the Stork Club https://www.amazon.com/Welcome-Stork-Club-Mearl-Allen/dp/0498023958 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/

Oct 2, 2024 • 54min
Bridging Cultures with Hospitality - Marion Emmanuelle Bullôt - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 171
In this episode, we explore the essence and impact of hospitality in various contexts. Dan interviews Marion Emmanuelle Bullôt, the Managing Partner of AvroKO Hospitality Group. The conversation dives into Marion's career journey, starting from her early days in France, her influential experience with Gordon Ramsay, to her current role where she oversees strategy and concept development at AvroKO. Marion provides insights into how hospitality can transform spaces, enhance business strategies, and create meaningful experiences. The episode also highlights AvroKO's global projects, the importance of understanding market constraints, and the evolving nature of hospitality in enhancing guest experiences and business success.Takeaways: When expanding or starting new ventures in different regions, understanding the local context and customer needs is crucial. Leaders should have a clear understanding of the financial realities of their business, such as the P&L of restaurants or the budget constraints for food and beverage in specific projects.Encourage and value diverse experiences within your teams to innovate and solve complex problems.Building trust with clients through transparent communication and demonstrating expertise can help in securing buy-in for ambitious projects. Focus on ensuring clients understand both the vision and the practical steps.Think about how every touchpoint, from design to customer interaction, contributes to the overall experience and brand perception.Be prepared to adapt and evolve with changing market conditions. Whether it's incorporating new technology or rethinking strategies post-pandemic, leaders must remain flexible and open to change.Effective F&B strategies can significantly contribute to the revenue of hotels and other establishments. Consider investing in high-quality F&B offerings and understand the unique value it can bring to your business.Quote of the Show:“I have lots of early childhood memories that tie into hospitality and I just love that it comes with me through my day-to-day, through my work, and through everything I do.” - Marion Emmanuelle BullôtLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marion-emmanuelle-bull%C3%B4t-4105363a/ Website: https://www.avroko.com/ Shout Outs:Gordon Ramsay https://www.gordonramsay.com/ Marco Pierre White https://www.marcopierrewhite.co/ Marriott https://www.marriott.com/default.mi Four Seasons https://www.fourseasons.com/ Michelin https://guide.michelin.com/en Hoxton Chicago https://thehoxton.com/chicago/ 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/

Sep 25, 2024 • 43min
Sustainable Design and Innovation - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 170
Today’s episode provides listeners access to a session from Hospitality Sustainable Design Collaborative that Dan Ryan recently got to speak during. The webinar emphasizes the importance of sustainability in the hospitality industry. Collaborating with Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and Highgate Hotels, the initiative aims to educate industry professionals on climate health, equity, and carbon footprint reduction. The session highlights the significant environmental impact of packaging and showcases how companies like Berman Falk are innovating by using recyclable materials, reducing waste, and lowering carbon emissions. The broader discussion includes the financial and operational impacts of climate change, the role of sustainable practices in mitigating these effects, and how industry players can contribute to long-term environmental and economic resilience.Takeaways: Focus on initiatives that make travelers feel cared for while incorporating sustainability into your operations. This shows your commitment to both hospitality and environmental stewardship.Partner with major brands and contribute to educational programs that train your staff on climate health and equity.Implement tools like MindClick to simplify sustainability assessment. Evaluate products based on their entire life cycle and use this intelligence to make more sustainable choices in design and purchasing.Recognize and support leaders within your organization and industry who champion sustainability, such as those leading efforts in major hotel chains. Share their successes and innovations to inspire others.Establish clear metrics to measure the impact of your sustainability programs. Track engagement and success rates from educational initiatives and incorporate these learnings into your strategic planning.Break down complex sustainability information into manageable insights for your team. Use simplified frameworks and tools to make sustainability a more approachable and executable component of your operations.Transition to more sustainable packaging options, such as honeycomb cardboard, to reduce waste and carbon emissions. Clearly communicate these changes to all stakeholders involved in production and logistics.Quote of the Show: “Every hotel provides an experience for our guests and the ability to not only tell a story through design but tell a story that has a purpose and intention with respect to addressing the challenges that we all face with climate change.” - JoAnna AbramsLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindclickinc/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannaabrams/ Website: https://www.mindclick.com/ Shout Outs:MindClick https://www.mindclick.com/ Marriott https://www.marriott.com/default.mi Hilton https://www.hilton.com/en/brands/hilton-hotels/ Hyatt https://www.hyatt.com/ Highgate https://www.highgate.com/ BermanFalk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ PI FineArt https://pifineart.com/ Moore & Giles https://mooreandgiles.com/ Conde Nast Traveler Magazine https://www.cntraveler.com/ Sonesta https://www.sonesta.com/ IHG https://www.ihg.com/hotels/us/en/reservation 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/

Sep 18, 2024 • 57min
Leadership in Design: Intern to Principal - Alessia Genova - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 169
In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan interviews Alessia Genova, a noted interior design expert in the hospitality industry. Alessia shares her inspiring journey from starting as an intern at Tihany Design to becoming the company's principal and managing partner. With over 15 years of experience, Alessia discusses her passion for hospitality design, the importance of relationships and reputation, and the challenges and triumphs she encountered when taking over the company. The conversation offers valuable insights into maintaining high-quality standards, navigating career transitions, and balancing innovation with tradition in the design industry. She is an inspiration to hospitality professionals everywhere, you don’t want to miss this episode!Takeaways: Identifying and communicating the mission behind what you do can energize and drive you and your team. In hospitality, for example, the goal might be to make people feel cared for during their journeys.Building strong, lasting relationships within your industry—whether with clients, colleagues, or vendors—can be a foundation for long-term success.Nurturing your team members and providing mentorship can foster a strong, supportive working environment. Encourage personal and professional growth through guidance and sharing knowledge.For firms with a rich legacy, it’s essential to balance the respect for past accomplishments with the drive to innovate and explore new paths.The COVID-19 pandemic was described as a non-linear challenge, indicating the importance of adaptability. Leaders must stay flexible and manage unforeseen changes effectively.Focus on the quality of work and craftsmanship, from design to execution. Detailed project planning and immaculate attention to detail can set you apart.Quote of the Show: “Eventually you grow and you understand that having an understanding of these spaces will help you also design them in a certain way.” - Alessia GenovaLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alessia-genova-a28b742a/ Website: https://tihanydesign.com/Shout Outs:The Breakers https://www.thebreakers.com/ Beverly Hills Hotel https://www.dorchestercollection.com/los-angeles/the-beverly-hills-hotel Hilton https://www.hilton.com/en/brands/hilton-hotels/ Heart of House https://www.heartofthehouse.com/ Amber Hotel https://www.hotelamber.com/ Mandarin Hong Kong https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/hong-kong/victoria-harbour Richard Serra https://gagosian.com/artists/richard-serra/ Le Cirque https://lecirque.com/ 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/

Sep 11, 2024 • 58min
Bringing Excitement to Every Space - Natalia Miyar - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 168
Today, host Dan Ryan speaks with Natalia Miyar, an experienced architect and designer with a global footprint and the Founder of Natalia Miyar Atelier. Natalia shares her journey from studying art history to establishing a successful design studio focusing on both high-end residential and hospitality projects. They discuss her design philosophy, the importance of making spaces comfortable and unique, and her transition into the hospitality sector, which includes projects in London and Mexico. Natalia also elaborates on her commitment to mentoring young talent and her aspirations for creating a lifestyle brand in the future. The conversation highlights the blend of practicality and creativity that is essential in design, and the significance of being open to new experiences and opportunities.Takeaways: Be open to unexpected paths and seize opportunities that may not have been part of the initial plan. This flexibility can lead to exciting new ventures and growth.Working with a business coach or mentor can provide valuable insights, accountability, and support. This kind of guidance is especially crucial for entrepreneurial growth and overcoming challenges.Diversity in your team can drive creativity and innovation.It's vital to merge creative vision with practical execution. Understanding the balance between artistic freedom and the responsibilities of design ensures projects are both beautiful and functional.Leaders should encourage a culture of continuous learning within their organizations. This includes structured mentoring and internship programs to foster growth and development.Foster an environment where team members feel comfortable expressing their ideas and creativity, even if it pushes the boundaries of the project’s original vision.Being adaptable and willing to change direction when presented with new opportunities or challenges is a valuable trait for leaders.Quote of the Show:“I think any entrepreneur will tell you the hardest thing is finding the right people to go on that journey with you.” - Natalia MiyarLinks:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliamiyar/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalia-miyar-971b0559/ Website: https://www.nataliamiyar.com/ Shout Outs:Olivia Vanderhagen https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-nathalie-johanna-van-der-hagen-9713b0233/ The 22 https://www.thetwentytwo.com/ Ceramica Suro https://www.instagram.com/ceramicasuro/?hl=en Oswald’s https://www.oswaldsclub.com/ Hartford Street https://www.5hertfordstreet.com/s/ Maison Estelle https://maisonestelle.com/ Aisli Westerdijk https://www.linkedin.com/in/aisling-westerdijk-53b4436/ 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/


