Ashley Dela Cruz is an Operations Manager at W Hotels with years of experience in the hospitality industry. We sat down with Ashley to dive into what it takes to manage both luxury and standard hotel operations, the importance of communication, and how personalized service creates unforgettable guest experiences. From hosting high-profile clients like the Yankees to crafting bespoke cocktail menus, Ashley shares how operational excellence and creativity come together to elevate hospitality.

We also explore the intersection of marketing and operations, highlighting how behind-the-scenes magic drives guest satisfaction and brand loyalty. Whether you're in hospitality or looking for inspiration on creating exceptional customer experiences, this conversation is packed with insights and stories that show why Ashley is a leader in her field.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Caegan Moore is an Entertainment & Lifestyle Talk Show Producer, Field Producer, and Creator at WWL-TV. As the Senior Producer of Great Day Louisiana, Caegan brings years of experience in helping brands and entrepreneurs shine on television. We dive into strategies for connecting with audiences through TV, from crafting compelling stories to creating visually engaging segments that resonate with viewers.

We also discuss the importance of knowing your brand’s “why,” preparing professional visuals, and tailoring messages to fit different media platforms. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to elevate your marketing game or a business aiming to make an impact on TV, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to help you succeed.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Melissa Burbank is the founder of Sober Health Club and a marketing powerhouse. We sit down with Melissa to discuss how to build and maintain an engaged audience on social media, even before launching a product. She shares her insights on leveraging the “know, like, trust” cycle, the importance of organic engagement, and her proven strategy for waking up a cold audience. If you're looking to grow your community and make an impact, Melissa’s advice is essential listening.

We also dive into her actionable “Hook, Retain, Reward” content framework and explore the three ways to grow an audience: building, buying, and borrowing. From creating valuable content to using collaborations and ads effectively, Melissa provides a roadmap for marketers and business owners who want to create meaningful connections. Don’t miss this packed conversation filled with practical tips to boost your social media game!

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Ayesha Shanel is the creator of the House of Shanel, a private online space dedicated to empowering women to embrace their highest divine feminine energy. She joins us to share her insights on building a brand, monetizing authentically, and creating a lasting impact through aligned strategies. Ayesha's journey from growing her personal practice to developing an evergreen system for her brand is both inspiring and packed with actionable advice.

We discuss the importance of authenticity, building a connected community, and skipping outdated methods to focus on direct, meaningful engagement. Ayesha breaks down her process for turning followers into loyal customers, the role of gamification in audience engagement, and how automation can transform a brand. Tune in as we explore how to build a business that aligns with your values and creates lasting success.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Steve Tortorella is the Principal Architect at Studio Latofiume and brings a wealth of knowledge about the world of architecture and entrepreneurship. We dive into the role of an architect in guiding construction projects, ensuring public safety, and overseeing everything from project planning to collaboration with contractors. Steve sheds light on the unique challenges architects face, from managing project teams to creating instruction manuals that bring clients’ visions to life.

Our conversation also explores Steve’s journey from corporate architecture to launching his own firm, where he shares practical insights on pricing, client acquisition, and lessons learned along the way. For anyone interested in starting a business or understanding the architecture field, Steve’s advice and perspective are invaluable.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Greer Stewart, Marketing Manager at Renaissance Publishing, joins us to explore the unique advantages of print advertising in today’s digital landscape. We dive into why print ads have a higher recall rate than digital and how publications like New Orleans Magazine, Acadiana Profile, and Louisiana Life continue to thrive. Greer breaks down how tangible, lifestyle-focused magazines provide a memorable, long-lasting experience that resonates with readers in ways digital ads often don’t.

We also discuss the innovative ways Renaissance Publishing bridges print and digital worlds, offering local businesses diverse options, from traditional ads to social media campaigns and event sponsorships. If you're a business owner looking to reach New Orleans audiences effectively, this episode is packed with insights to help you make informed marketing decisions.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Casey Boshae is the founder of The Gentle Pit, an animal rescue-inspired brand dedicated to creating products that give back. We dive into her journey from corporate life to full-time entrepreneurship, learning how she turned a personal passion for animal rescue into a thriving business. Casey shares insights on overcoming self-doubt, finding purpose, and embracing the challenges of entrepreneurship while balancing self-discovery and business growth.

Casey’s story highlights the power of aligning your business with what you love, doing the groundwork through market research, and focusing on personal development to push through mental barriers. She also discusses the importance of mentors and resources for self-improvement. Join us as we explore how The Gentle Pit continues to make a positive impact, and find out how Casey helps other entrepreneurs navigate the ups and downs of building a brand.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Kristen Dufauchard, CEO and Founder of aKrewe NOLA Consulting, joins us to break down the power of networking. As the leader of an impact-driven marketing agency, Kristen shares practical strategies to overcome networking fears, build genuine connections, and leverage the "ask and offer" approach for mutually beneficial relationships. From icebreaker tips to mindset shifts, Kristen offers advice on how anyone can feel more at ease and confident in networking spaces.

Together, we dive into the importance of timely follow-ups, the art of personalizing conversations, and aKrewe’s quarterly events that foster connection, including pitch competitions and fun social activities like "Mingle Bingo." Kristen’s insights on practicing boldness and openness in networking can help you cultivate lasting connections that provide value for the long game.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Laila Bondi is the Executive Director of Global New Orleans, and she joins us to share her unique journey from public health to leading a nonprofit. We dive into her experience transitioning into leadership, the challenges of running a small nonprofit, and the importance of building strong community connections. Laila explains how collaboration and support from other leaders in the nonprofit space have been crucial to her success.

We also discuss the power of a strong team, listening as a key leadership skill, and how Global New Orleans fosters international collaboration through professional exchange programs. Don’t miss this insightful conversation on nonprofit leadership and the importance of community-driven impact.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Josh Densen is the CEO of Next Chapter and an expert in leadership development. We dive into the importance of leadership as a skill, how it can be cultivated, and why every member of a team can and should step into leadership roles. Josh also shares insights on the challenges organizations face when promoting employees into leadership positions and how to navigate these transitions effectively.

We also explore the role of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in leadership, the diversity of leadership styles, and why investing in leadership development can make a huge impact on an organization’s culture and performance. If you're interested in enhancing your leadership skills or understanding how to create better leaders in your business, this conversation is packed with valuable insights.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/