In this episode of Hospitality Daily, Josiah Mackenzie interviews Walter Isenberg, Founder and CEO of Sage Hospitality Group. The discussion centers on building a people-first culture within the hospitality industry. Walter shares how Sage Hospitality's purpose of "enriching lives one experience at a time" is implemented across all levels of the organization, from housekeepers to executives. Key themes include the importance of investing in culture, leadership, and creating an environment where associates feel seen, supported, and inspired. This episode is particularly valuable for hospitality leaders, operators, and investors looking to enhance their organizational culture and employee engagement.

Key Moments and Quotes

• [00:01:04] "Sage is a purpose-led organization, and our purpose is to enrich lives one experience at a time."
• [00:01:35] "We wouldn't be here if our housekeepers didn't get up every day to come in."
• [00:02:06] "We have to make sure that they have a great environment to work in, that they know that we care for them."
• [00:02:41] "We talk about this notion of service to others and really about enriching lives."

Actionable Advice for Listeners

• Start small: Even daily recognition builds long-term culture.
• Prioritize associate development: Drive retention and performance through continuous support and training.
• Embed culture in onboarding: Use cultural immersion programs to instill core values and purpose from the start.
• Recognize every role: Ensure that all team members, from housekeepers to executives, feel valued and essential to the organization's success.

About Sage Hospitality

• Mission: To enrich lives one experience at a time.
• Focus: Creating a supportive and inspiring work environment for all associates.
• Industry Impact: Known for its strong emphasis on culture and employee engagement within the hospitality industry.
• Leadership: Committed to investing in the development and well-being of its team members.

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Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands