Defining Hospitality

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 Abrams

Links:

• 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/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPX
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1s
• Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419
• Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/

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 Genova

Links:

• 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/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPX
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1s
• Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419
• Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/

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 Miyar

Links:

• 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/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPX
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1s
• Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419
• Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/

In this episode, Dan sits down in person with Foreman Rogers, Principal at Blur Workshop, to discuss his career in hospitality design and the firm's recent milestone of celebrating their 10th anniversary! Foreman shares insights on the founding of Blur Workshop, the significance of blurring the lines between architecture and interiors, and the importance of empathy and listening in their design process. He also highlights the firm's collaborative culture, high retention rate, and the wide spectrum of projects they handle, from boutique hotels to large convention centers. Join us as we explore Foreman's reflections on the last decade, his excitement for the future, and the values that drive Blur Workshop's unique approach to design.

Takeaways: 

• Create a workplace culture that aligns with a larger mission, such as caring for people or creating meaningful experiences. This can elevate the sense of purpose and motivation among employees.
• Promote an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing ideas, asking questions, and providing feedback. Emphasize that there are no bad questions or ideas to foster innovation and collaboration.
• Develop active listening skills and emphasize their importance across all levels of the organization.
• Acknowledge the emotional aspects of work, especially in industries focused on hospitality and customer experience. Support your team in creating emotional connections through their work by understanding and empathizing with client and customer needs.
• Cultivate a humble work environment where egos are checked at the door. Ensure that the focus remains on collective success rather than individual accolades.
• While fostering a collaborative environment, ensure processes are in place to maintain efficiency and meet deadlines.

Quote of the Show: “The hospitality, it’s in our blood I think.” - Foreman Rogers

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/foreman-a-rogers-iii-56001b2a/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blurworkshop/ 
• Website: https://www.blurworkshop.com/ 

Shout Outs:

• Liz Neiswander https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-neiswander-36477112/ 
• Scott Morris https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-morris-27a555/ 
• Ryman Hospitality https://www.rymanhp.com/ 
• Marriott https://www.marriott.com/ 
• DC Convention Center https://eventsdc.com/venue/walter-e-washington-convention-center 
• Columbus Crew Soccer Stadium https://www.columbuscrew.com/stadium/ 

Ways to Tune In: 

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPX
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1s
• Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419
• Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/

In this episode, Dan Ryan interviews Amy Michaelson Kelly, a former litigator turned hotel developer and Principal of Hatteras Sky. Amy shares her path from practicing law to creating unique hospitality experiences in Asheville, North Carolina. She’s developed the Radical and Zelda Dearest hotels, both providing unique hotel experiences. Amy discusses the importance of community involvement, storytelling in hotel branding, and balancing compliance with creativity. She also talks about her firm's upcoming project, the Asher Adams Hotel in Salt Lake City, Utah. Throughout the conversation, Amy highlights the value of intentionality in independent hotels, the significance of making guests feel celebrated, and the influence of her legal background on her hospitality ventures.

Takeaways: 

• Storytelling can differentiate a business and create unique connections with clients, especially in the hospitality industry, where narratives can enhance the guest experience significantly.
• True hospitality goes beyond mere accommodation; it involves making people feel truly welcome and cared for, often through personal touches and attention to detail.
• Leaders should not be afraid to take risks and venture into creative territories.
• Successful leadership often involves balancing rigorous compliance and technical demands with creative freedom. This ensures both operational excellence and innovative guest experiences.
• Building and maintaining good relationships with local communities and stakeholders is crucial. Engaging with and listening to community members can lead to more sustainable and accepted development projects.
• Flexibility is essential in adapting to new market demands and trends, such as the shift from traditional office spaces to more dynamic living and working environments.
• Commit to continuous learning and personal growth. Leaders should seek opportunities to expand their knowledge and skills.

Quote of the Show: “I love to be underestimated. It’s my favorite thing.” - Amy Michaelson Kelly

Links:

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/hatterassky/status/1227625664775380992
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-michaelson-kelly-a547a717/ 
• Website: https://hatterassky.com/ 

Shout Outs:

• ILC CONFAB https://ilcongress.com/ 
• F Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald https://www.scottandzelda.com/scott-zelda/ 
• Marriott https://www.marriott.com/default.mi 
• Driftwood Hospitality https://www.driftwoodhospitality.com/ 
• Davidson Hospitality https://www.davidsonhospitality.com/ 

Ways to Tune In: 

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPX
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1s
• Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419
• Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/

Today, Dan finally gets to sit down and talk with Malcolm Berg, who is not only a designer, but an entrepreneur who founded Edge of Architecture. He is all about pushing the boundaries and innovating to the next degree. Malcolm provides his insights on hospitality and how important it is to bring empathy and human connection to the forefront of design and architecture. The conversation also delves into the significance of gratitude, the role of mentorship at EOA, and the enduring philosophy of reflecting values and unity in their projects. Listen along to hear Malcolm and Dan’s conversation!

Takeaways: 

• Cultivate empathy within your team and client relationships. Understanding and responding to people's needs and emotions is crucial for creating meaningful work and strong bonds.
• Strive beyond good enough. Aim for spectacular and aim to create experiences and designs that evoke strong, positive reactions.
• Hire people for their enthusiasm, work ethic, and potential rather than just their current skills or experience. Develop a culture of mentorship to nurture growth from within.
• Work with stakeholders, including clients and team members, who share similar values and vision. Avoid relationships that are purely transactional or financially driven.
• Emphasize continuous learning and innovation. Do not settle into a routine; constantly push the boundaries to stay ahead in a world that is rapidly changing.
• Develop a strong, cohesive concept as the foundation for all your design elements. This helps maintain a consistent narrative and creates a more immersive experience.

Quote of the Show:

“It’s how you behave in the trenches that kind of makes you who you are. Things are going to go sideways, shit happens. It’s how you fix it that counts.” - Malcolm Berg

Links:

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/eoagroup?lang=en
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malcolm-berg-75b46910/ 
• Website: https://eoagroup.com/ 

Shout Outs:

• IIDA https://iida.org/
• Gold Key https://www.goldkeyphr.com/ 
• Curio by Hilton https://www.hilton.com/en/brands/curio-collection/ 
• Andaz Miami https://www.hyatt.com/andaz/miaob-andaz-miami-beach
• Mario Andretti https://www.instagram.com/andrettimario/?hl=en 
• Travel by Design by Marriott https://traveler.marriott.com/travel-by-design/ 

Ways to Tune In: 

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPX
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1s
• Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419

In today’s episode, Dan sits down to talk with a fiery design duo who have overcome new business challenges and thrived in the interior design industry. They are the co-founders and current partners of Watts & Dray: Vanessa Watts and Erika Dray. The two provide insights into their journey from creative director and fashion designer into partners who built a company from scratch. Take a listen and hear their story, as well as some valuable insights!

Takeaways: 

• The importance of genuine human connection and attentiveness in hospitality can't be overstated. Leaders should foster an environment where team members feel genuinely cared for and where they, in turn, extend that care to clients and colleagues alike.
• Hospitality is not just for the elite but should be extended to everyone, regardless of their background or status. This inclusive approach can help create a more welcoming and supportive team culture.
• Starting and running a business often involves numerous setbacks. Leaders should be prepared to navigate these challenges with resilience and adaptability, learning from mistakes and constantly iterating on their approach.
• While passion and spontaneity are crucial, having a well-thought-out plan and understanding business dynamics like cash flow and client acquisition can significantly impact success.
• Allow room for wild and innovative ideas, and don’t be afraid to pursue unconventional projects. 
• Building a business with a partner involves clear communication, respect, and a shared vision.
• Don't wait for the perfect moment or perfect plan to start. Begin your entrepreneurial journey with the understanding that learning and adjustments are part of the process.

Quote of the Show:

• “At that point in my career, I had never designed anything on my own. It had always been through a studio, for studio clients, and no one had ever asked me to design anything on my own, but I have some pretty wild ideas about what I think the world should look like.” - Vanessa Watts

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-watts-nyc/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-dray-6356897/ 
• Website: https://www.watts-dray.com/ 

Shout Outs:

• 12:55 - Mike Suomi https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikesuomi/ https://suomidesignworks.com/ 
• 34:45 - Fallin’ and Flyin’ Jeff Bridges https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LTYyS8bxV78 
• 37:35 - The Luxor Hotel https://luxor.mgmresorts.com/en.html 
• 40:04 - The Cosmopolitan https://www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=search&utm_campaign=mgm_corporate_performance_brand_2024&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwqf20BhBwEiwAt7dtdQ6OeEWYeaqbIeqgrtKGGEJy-0y8zcmX8OQvbZP5OgUPFXtmzNndaxoC9bUQAvD_BwE 

Ways to Tune In: 

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPX
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1573596386?i=1000663163850
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1s
• Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419
• Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/

This week, Dan Ryan sits down to talk about the INDIEConFab, a conference he attended and emceed earlier this week. He recaps on the two days he spent there and provides insights on what he thought about it (spoiler: he loved it) and summarizes the different segments he got the opportunity to emcee for! Listen to hear about Dan’s experience at the INDIEConFab!

Takeaways: 

• Mentorship can be both formal and informal but should focus on genuine curiosity and openness.
• Mentors should be prepared to guide mentees even if it means encouraging them to explore opportunities outside the current organization.
• Beyond traditional metrics like growth and revenue, success includes the quality of relationships built, the impact made on others, and the experiences created.
• There is a shift from "outdoor leisure" to "experiential hospitality," indicating a broader scope of creating immersive and engaging customer experiences.
• Authenticity in development (not "faking the funk") leads to better financial performance and genuine neighborhood integration.

Quote of the Show:

• “I think in all of our careers, it was, growth, revenue, profit, whatever other KPIs you could think of that are these metrics of what makes a business successful. But I think we all came to this really cool realization that it's also about relationships.” - Dan Ryan

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedailydanryan/ 
• Website: https://www.ninesixseven.com/ 

Shout Outs:

• 0:33 - Independent Lodging Congress https://ilcongress.com/event/asheville/
• 1:01 - The Radical Hotel https://www.theradicalavl.com/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwnei0BhB-EiwAA2xuBj5YmupfziyOY6mzGki32JqPJedBpEc4pCtQ_dJ4oGEPJbHABkDHDRoCjUAQAvD_BwE 
• 1:06 - Mike Suomi https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikesuomi/
• 3:02 - Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins https://www.wrongwaycampground.com/ 
• 4:10 - Plēb Urban Winery https://www.pleburbanwinery.com/ 
• 6:43 - Radical Innovation Tour https://www.radicalinnovation.io/ 
• 7:03 - Briggette Harenda https://www.linkedin.com/in/brigetteharenda/
• 7:08 - Rob Blood https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-blood-13b53452/
• 7:13 - Jennifer Krapp https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkrapp247/ 
• 8:15 - Greg Smith https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-smith-6093455/
• 8:18 - Ralph Mahana https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralph-mahana-17984517/ 
• 8:34 - Lesly Anderson https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-anderson-596794a0/
• 10:00 - Kimberly McGlonn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-mcglonn-ph-d-4798b0134/ 
• 10:15 - Deiter Rams https://www.vitsoe.com/us/about/good-design
• 11:19 - Emily Isenberg https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyisenbergprojects/
• 11:36 - Shawn Chopra https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-chopra-bb3b19102/
• 11:38 - Carolyn Schneider https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-schneider-7aab928/
• 13:05 - Alexis Lanman https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexis-lanman-b0b39487/ 
• 13:07 - Daniel Del Olmo https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexis-lanman-b0b39487/ 
• 15:32 - Sheena Brittingham https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheena-brittingham-7744a912/
• 15:36 - David Better https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbetter/
• 15:39 - Chris Osaka https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisosaka/
• 15:51 - Laron Turley https://www.linkedin.com/in/laronturley/
• 18:24 - Andrew Benioff https://www.linkedin.com/in/llenrockgroupbenioff/ 
• 18:33 - Meg Gutowski https://www.linkedin.com/in/llenrockgroupbenioff/ 
• 18:34 - Shannon Barnett https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-barnett-033977160/

Ways to Tune In: 

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPX
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1s
• Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419
• Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@defininghospitality 

Our guest this week is someone who is committed to elevating communities and creating wealth through hospitality ownership and leadership. Please welcome to the show, Founder of Hospitality Hued, Ashli Johnson!

Ashli sits down with Host Dan Ryan to discuss the ways the hospitality industry can be more accommodating of Black and Brown professionals. Ashli shares her motivations for founding Hospitality Hued, the importance of early professional development, and how to instill a sense of ownership in employees.

Takeaways: 

• While hospitality is ultimately a business of service, it is rapidly evolving to better address DEI issues across employment, supplier diversity, and leadership. To remain impactful, those in the industry must actively engage in these conversations.
• Conferences and networking are a crucial part of success in the hospitality industry, yet many Black and Brown leaders find themselves “under conferenced”. To combat this, HUED was created to lower barriers to these opportunities for Black and Brown leaders.
• Leverage alumni networks to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical career development. Don't overlook the importance of having a strategic approach when pursuing career goals to avoid potential disadvantages and seize growth opportunities.
• To motivate teams to think like owners, consider actually giving them ownership stakes, as it fundamentally changes their understanding and investment in the business. Implementing an equity share model can drive engagement from general managers.
• In hospitality, it's crucial to understand how positive guest experiences impact the business's overall success and competitive position. Recognizing the connection between guest satisfaction and business metrics such as rates, market competition, and capital expenditures is essential for professional growth and effective management.
• Aspiring hotel or restaurant owners should carefully consider their financial and personal responsibilities before pursuing ownership. Instead of direct ownership, roles such as investor or franchisee have lower capital requirements and barriers to entry.
• Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who want to master the business, and ensure that your leadership is aware of your interests to help you move towards your desired career path.

Quote of the Show:

• “Your fortune is found in the follow up.” - Ashli Johnson

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsashlijohnson/ 
• Website: https://www.hospitalityhued.com/ 

Shout Outs:

• 2:12 - HD Vegas: https://hdexpo.hospitalitydesign.com/ 
• 2:47 - Howard University: https://howard.edu/ 
• 2:50 - Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership: https://business.howard.edu/hospitality-leadership 
• 44:52 - John Fareed: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnfareed/ 
• 45:06 - From Invisible to Icon: How to Become a Known Expert in Your Industry: https://a.co/d/03AZNsoL 
• 45:41 - Julien Saunders: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliensaunders/ 
• 45:42 - Kiersten Saunders
• 45:47 - Rich and Regular: https://richandregular.com/ 
• 46:36 - Thomas Penny III: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-penny-iii-1aa40915/ 
• 46:42 - Damon Lawrence: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hauspitality/overlay/about-this-profile/ 
• 46:45 - Jason Bass: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncbass/ 
• 47:01 - ILC: https://ilcongress.com/ 
• 47:15 - Kendra Plummer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendraplummer/ 
• 47:37 - Bashar Wali: https://www.linkedin.com/in/basharwali/ 
• 47:56 - Lauren A. K. Darnell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenadarnell/ 

Ways to Tune In: 

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPX
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1s
• Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419

Joining the show this week is a hospitality professional who creates distinct projects that make emotional connections with guests. Please welcome to the show, Senior Director of Design & Construction Services at Kempinski, Vibha Sawhney.

Vibha joins Host Dan Ryan to discuss how she creates luxury projects that meet the needs of owners. Vibha also shares the importance of collaborative empathy, the value of meticulous attention to detail, and explores Kempinski's unique approach to luxury.

Takeaways: 

• Hospitality involves providing the highest level of service where the guest is considered supreme. For an architect, design and architecture are tools to craft unforgettable and comfortable memories for guests, emphasizing their supreme importance.
• To gain hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of materials, immerse yourself in working alongside skilled tradespeople like carpenters and metal workers. Understanding how they work allows you to better utilize a material in planning. 
• The key to success is selecting the right partners who will give proper attention to your projects and act with empathy toward the end-users. It is essential to work collaboratively to achieve the best results and support the owner's vision.
• A successful property requires exceptional service across all locations and maintaining high standards in essential areas like breakfast and room comfort. Consideration must be given to space constraints, ensuring comfortable environments in smaller spaces.
• While many brands have a clear and defined aesthetic that should be designed for, your job is ultimately to work with an owner to tie their vision together. Successful collaboration blends both brand design and owner desires. 
• Hotels are ultimately an ecosystem that requires collaboration between various functions and backgrounds to function properly. Collaboration can only happen if empathetic understanding is found between employees. 

Quote of the Show:

• “We are really open to understanding what the owner and the owner's team wants to do in a project.” - Vibha Sawhney

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vibha-sawhney/ 
• Website: https://www.kempinski.com/en

Shout Outs:

• 1:43 - Kristen Conry: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conry/ 
• 1:45 - Hyatt: https://www.hyatt.com/ 
• 13:25 - Samuel Creations
• 20:22 - Marina Residences Dubai: https://www.kempinski.com/en/development/upcoming-openings/kempinski-marina-residences-dubai 
• 20:27 - International Design Associates: https://www.ida-global.com/ 
• 25:24 - Marriott: www.marriott.com 
• 25:25 - Hilton: https://www.hilton.com/ 
• 30:13 - Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul: https://www.kempinski.com/en/ciragan-palace 
• 31:05 - Kempinski Palace Engelberg Titlis Swiss Alps: https://www.kempinski.com/en/kempinski-palace-engelberg 

Ways to Tune In: 

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPX
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1s
• Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419