Podcast Episode Summary:

Guest: Jimmy Vetrano – Founder & CEO of 2626 Digital | Co-Owner of Sushi Hall Chicago

Location: Chicago, IL

Fun Fact: Jimmy launched his full-scale digital agency after leaving a high-stress political post and now runs both a growing agency and a top-rated sushi restaurant.

🔑 Greatest Learnings & Takeaways:

1. Make a Splash—Don’t Stay Still

“Most people don’t… make a splash. But YOU should.”

Jimmy's message is about standing out. Whether it's launching a new business, speaking up in a corporate environment, or delivering small acts of kindness—don’t just blend in. Be bold. Make waves.

2. Notice. Anticipate. Overdeliver.

“I notice what people need—even when they don’t say it—and I help them get there.”

This theme ran through his stories—from his leadership at Kraft Heinz to how he runs 2626 Digital. His secret weapon? Deep empathy, combined with technical know-how. That’s a rare (and powerful) combo.

3. Great Culture Starts With Great Humans

Whether it’s at Sushi Hall or 2626 Digital, Jimmy creates workplaces where people want to stay. Why? He values his team, listens, and leads with kindness. Chef Mitch and the Sushi Hall team are remembered more for how they make people feel than for the ingredients (though the sushi’s top-tier too!).

4. Do Your Part, Like the Hummingbird

“The hummingbird brought water to a forest fire—because doing something matters.”

Jimmy embodies this philosophy. He doesn’t wait for others to act. He contributes, uplifts, and helps—without expecting anything in return. That mindset not only drives business success but changes lives.

5. Relationships > Résumés

“The emotional hesitation is the real objection.”

Jimmy nailed it: people buy from who they trust. Whether selling sushi or social strategy, the emotional connection always wins. He gets to know clients, their pain points, their goals—and meets them where they are.

💬 Standout Quotes:

“I want to leave people better than I found them.”

“You can’t protect your team if you’re not in the room—so play the game, but don’t lose yourself.”

“You couldn’t do that.” — On respecting and recognizing frontline hospitality workers.

“I’ve always had an eye for opportunity—sometimes before others even see it.”

🧠 Business Takeaways for Listeners:

Leaders: Your integrity matters more than your title.

Marketers: Don't just chase metrics—create meaning.

Entrepreneurs: You don’t need the perfect name. You need the perfect effort.

Everyone: Helping someone—without needing anything back—is its own reward.

More about https://2626digital.com

More about https://sushihallchicago.com/

Connect with Jimmy on LinkedIn: (1) James Vetrano | LinkedIn

#180 Podcast Episode Summary

Episode Title: Work Hard. Care Even Harder. The John Harper Blueprint
Guest: John Harper, Co-Founder & President, Global Hotel Advisors
Host: Bart Berkey, Founder of Most People Don’t, LLC

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Bart reconnects with longtime friend and hospitality icon John Harper—a man whose leadership legacy stretches from early Hyatt days to key executive roles at The Ritz-Carlton and Marriott International, and now, as co-founder of Global Hotel Advisors.

The conversation dives into the heart of what makes a leader truly respected: humility, adaptability, emotional intelligence, and a relentless drive to serve others. John shares not only leadership tactics but life lessons—from his father's immigrant story to coaching soccer, mentoring teams, and making the leap from corporate to entrepreneurship with purpose.

1. Be the person who clears off someone else’s windshield.

   
   – A snowstorm story from the early Hyatt days becomes a defining example of unprompted kindness and servant leadership.

   
   

2. Work hard. Care harder.
   – John’s drive came from his father’s example: hustle paired with the ability to “turn it off” and be present with family. It's about intensity matched with balance.

   
   

3. Great leaders adapt to their team—not just expect the team to adapt to them.
   – Success comes from meeting people where they are and building trust, not commanding compliance.

   
   

4. Leadership is earned, not assigned.
   – Titles don’t make people follow you. Trust, protection, and empowerment do.

   
   

5. Operational excellence requires curiosity.
   – John’s secret to growing was listening deeply—even in meetings where his own role wasn’t central. Every detail, even chillers and boiler redundancy, became useful knowledge later.

   
   

6. Push for the piano.
   – A wild idea to put a pianist at the Reagan airport gate taught John the importance of creating moments of luxury—and of not giving up too soon on big ideas.

   
   

7. Sometimes, the boldest career move is the personal one.
   – Leaving Marriott wasn’t driven by dissatisfaction—it was about personal alignment, balance, and doing what he always dreamed of.

   
   

8. Service excellence starts with culture.
   – No matter the building, brand, or design, it’s the people who make the guest write the thank-you letter. Invest in them.

   
   

“Most people don’t take advantage of what’s happening around them. But if you stay curious, if you observe, you can grow faster than you ever imagined.”

More about https://globalhoteladvisors.com

Connect with John Harper here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-harper-8571804/Additional stories about PEOPLE THAT DO... https://mostpeopledont.com

Bart responds to a powerful question he hears all the time:

“How do we remember how we felt after the keynote, the workshop, the kickoff? How do we keep that energy alive after we go back to our day-to-day?”

🔑 Key Takeaways & Reminders:

Close Some Windows: Literally and figuratively. Simplify your focus. Stop trying to juggle everything all at once. Presence matters.

Find Your Water Bottle Word:

What’s a single word (or short phrase) that reminds you why you care so deeply? What inspires your hustle, your heart, your hard work? Write it down. Look at it. Carry it with you.

Your Phone Wallpaper = Your Why:

That beach scene? The photo of your dog? Your family? That image is your anchor. Let it ground you.

Breathe. Pat Yourself on the Back.

Stop stabbing yourself with self-doubt. Pause. Reflect. You’re doing better than you think.

Lead by Example:

Even if the board or leadership doesn’t “get” kindness, you do. Show it. Live it. Elevate others with it.

Recognition is a Strategy:

No formal program? Create one. Bart shares examples like the “Mountaineer Award” or “Incline Award” to celebrate acts of goodness. Use your existing standups or pre-shifts to highlight human moments.

The Ritz-Carlton Story:

Early in his Ritz-Carlton days, Bart let fear keep him silent when a housekeeper greeted him warmly. He reflects on that moment as a reminder to always show up authentically—even imperfectly. Better to say something than nothing.

Kind Over Right – In Action:

A real-life airport story reminds us: it’s not always easy to be kind when systems fail us. But it’s still worth striving for—especially when we’re stressed.

Keep the Momentum Going:

Don’t just leave the inspiration behind when you leave the session. Revisit your notes. Reflect on your feelings. Share the stories. Remember that you have the power to spread this ripple effect.

👊 Final Thought:

“You’re surrounded by people who want to do good. They’re thirsty to hear great things. Share it. Celebrate it. And don’t forget the feeling you have right now—because it matters to you.”

💬 “Keep doing what most people don’t.”

🎙️ Episode Summary:

In this emotionally resonant and energizing interview, Bart Berkey welcomes longtime friend and powerhouse hospitality leader Shelley Williams, who currently serves as VP of Sales for F1 Arcade. The episode unpacks her leadership journey, personal philosophy, and how her values align with her newest venture.

From her early dreams of diplomacy to teaching English abroad, Shelley shares how her path organically led her to hospitality—driven by a deep-rooted desire to serve and elevate others. With a remarkable resume and leadership credibility, Shelley talks about what fuels her: kindness, vision, drive, inclusion, and the joy of helping people win.

🔑 Major Takeaways:

1. The Power of Kind Leadership

Shelley leads with both vision and empathy—a rare combination.

She believes in doing the right thing for the right people at the right time, often putting others first.

Her drive is not about external recognition but internal fulfillment—“It’s selfish to help people because it makes me feel good.”

2. Winning Together Is the Goal

Shelley’s leadership style is based on inclusive success: “I want everyone to win.”

She emphasizes recognizing blind spots, supporting others from behind the scenes, and “bringing people under her wing.”

3. Deliberate Self-Improvement

Shelley wakes up each day trying to beat herself from the day before.

Her commitment to growth is rooted in honest self-reflection and personal alignment: “Are you really doing the right thing for your true self?”

4. F1 Arcade – More Than Just Fun

As VP of Sales, Shelley is spearheading F1 Arcade's expansion in the U.S.

It’s not just racing simulators—it's competitive socializing designed for multi-generational, inclusive team-building experiences.

F1 Arcade merges high-energy engagement with luxury hospitality (think champagne and caviar), creating safe spaces for connection in today’s fragmented, tech-saturated world.

5. Visionary Leadership in Action

Shelley absorbs insights through active listening and strategic thinking.

She doesn’t just toss out blue-sky ideas—she presents well-processed, researched visions that inspire trust and action.

6. Authenticity is the Ultimate Destination

Bart encourages Shelley (and listeners) to recognize when they're already “there”—living their purpose, adding value, and being aligned.

The conversation ends on a powerful note of affirmation and appreciation for Shelley’s strength, kindness, and impact.

🧡 Final Gems:

Most People Don’t… Think of others first – Shelley’s answer to Bart’s signature closing question.

Bart reminds us that you can be both strong and soft, visionary and empathetic, driven and kind—and that’s what makes Shelley Williams exceptional.

Plus Shelley is hiring to expand her team.

Reach out to her here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleylwilliams/

Learn more about F1 Arcade here:

https://f1arcade.com/us/

More about "Most People Don't":

https://mostpeopledont.com

Podcast Summary: Chef Duff Goldman – Just a Guy Doing What He Loves

Guest: Chef Duff Goldman, celebrity baker, entrepreneur, and TV personality
Host: Bart Berkey, Founder of Most People Don’t

Episode Theme:
"Most People Are Really Cool." Chef Duff shares his journey of authenticity, kindness, and creativity—proving that success comes not from chasing profits but from following one’s passions and treating people right.

Key Learnings & Takeaways:

1. Overcoming Anxiety and Self-Doubt

We are all wired for anxiety, a survival instinct from our ancestors. The key is recognizing it as normal rather than something to feel guilty about.

Many people live in a "cage of self-doubt," preventing them from reaching their full potential. Acceptance is the first step toward breaking free and creating great things.

2. Following Your Heart Is Simple, but Not Easy

Duff references Moana as an example of how following your heart is a basic yet challenging concept.

He emphasizes the importance of ignoring societal currents that try to dictate what we should do and instead embracing personal passions.

3. Shifting Life’s Focus: From Self to Others

Becoming a father changed Duff’s perspective—his daughter is now the center of his universe.

This shift makes life less self-centered and more fulfilling, driving him to work with purpose, not just for financial gain.

4. Kindness is Strength, Not Weakness

Duff believes most people are inherently good, despite society and media painting the world as dangerous.

He encourages choosing kindness, even in business, and notes that a culture of fear and transactional interactions have eroded true hospitality.

A standout moment: On Kids Baking Championship, he didn’t correct a child when he misidentified their cake design—he adjusted and reinforced their confidence instead.

5. Authenticity in Business & Leadership

Duff’s cake business was built on passion and creativity, starting as a way for musicians to support themselves.

He hired art students and creatives who helped elevate his cakes to a new level.

A key lesson: Let competent people do what they’re best at. He acknowledges that he wasn’t a great businessman initially but learned to delegate and trust others.

6. The Hospitality Industry Needs to Loosen Up

Duff critiques the fear-driven, robotic customer service culture in many industries, particularly travel and hospitality.

He urges companies to encourage genuine human interactions, as authenticity makes all the difference in customer experiences.

7. The Impact of Television on His Success

While Charm City Cakes was already well-known in Baltimore, TV was the game-changer for Duff’s global brand.

He learned that being on TV is a craft—and his biggest compliment is when people say he’s the same person in real life as on screen.

8. Future Plans & Business Growth

Duff is launching a new deli at the Atlanta Airport—a dream he’s had for years.

His cookbooks (Duff Bakes, Super Good Baking for Kids, and Super Good Cookies for Kids) focus on the science and fun of baking.

His band will be playing in Vegas at the International Baking Industry Expo.

Final Thought: Most People Are Really Cool

When asked to complete the sentence “Most people don’t __,” Duff flipped it:

**"Most people are really cool."**

He encourages looking for moments of goodness and supporting others through small acts of kindness—whether it's a simple smile, a few dollars for someone in need, or a moment of empathy.

More about Duff here: https://www.duff.com/

More about Most People Don't here: https://bartaberkey.com

#176 Podcast Summary

In this conversation, Bart Berkey interviews Joe Hummel, CEO of Twin Peaks Restaurants, discussing leadership, business growth, company culture, and the evolution of the restaurant industry. Recorded live from the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas.

Joe shares his journey from working in distribution to becoming an operator and later a franchisor. He highlights how he and his partners saw an opportunity in Twin Peaks, a brand with only 14 locations at the time, and transformed it into a rapidly expanding, publicly traded company.

They explore the DNA of Twin Peaks, which emphasizes a narrow and deep focus—meaning they stay true to a core identity rather than trying to appeal to everyone. The discussion also touches on:

• Twin Peaks’ guest experience—offering craveable, bold food and drinks in an immersive lodge setting.
• The importance of culture and empowerment—how listening to employees, particularly Twin Peaks Girls (TPGs), and franchisees drives innovation and retention.
• The evolution of the brand—why constant innovation and adapting to a new generation of customers are crucial to sustaining long-term success.

• Success comes from understanding the operations—whether it’s running a distribution network, a restaurant, or an office.
• If leaders aren’t close to their business, they lose touch with what makes it work.

• If leadership stops being the customer, the brand will fail.

• Every decision—from menu innovation to service standards—should be based on what a customer wants and expects.

• Twin Peaks evolved by maintaining core brand elements while innovating on experience (e.g., adding patios, larger bars, better TVs).

• Franchisees were given the freedom to test new ideas as long as they fit within the brand’s identity.
• Employees need ownership, accountability, and opportunities to grow.

• At Twin Peaks, team members start in entry-level roles and grow into leadership positions because of a culture that fosters development.
• Small details create exceptional customer experiences—from a perfectly timed drink order to the right TV station being on.

• Leaders at Twin Peaks notice everything—if a TV isn’t on, if a drink isn’t served right, or if the atmosphere isn’t perfect.
• Most businesses fail because they stop paying attention to the details and assume customers won’t notice.

• Twin Peaks thrives because they care—about details, customers, employees, and evolution.
• Twin Peaks constantly asks, what’s the next big thing?—from cocktail trends to guest experience.

Twin Peaks’ success isn’t accidental—it’s the result of strong leadership, attention to detail, innovation within brand values, and a relentless focus on customer experience. Joe Hummel’s leadership style of operating from the ground up, empowering his team, and always evolving is a model that any leader can apply to build a lasting, successful business.

Key Actionable Learnings

1. Be an Operator, Not Just a Leader

2. The Best Leaders Put Themselves in the Customer’s Shoes

3. Growth Requires Innovation, but Within Your DNA

4. Empower Your People, and They’ll Drive the Brand Forward

5. The Details Are the Difference Between Good and Great

6. “Most People Don’t Care… But That’s Why We Win”

7. “What’s Next?” – Stay Ahead of the Curve

Connect with Joe Hummel here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-hummel-44b875b/

Follow Twin Peaks Restaurants here:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/twin-peaks-restaurants/

Podcast Summary: Episode 175

In this special solo episode of "Most People Don’t... But YOU Do!", Bart opens up about his feeling of anxiousness, the negative impact of doomscrolling, and the importance of resetting the mind to focus on positivity and "good things."

Instead of having a guest, Bart felt compelled to share uplifting thoughts, hoping to remind listeners that despite life’s challenges, they are doing great and can continue to become even better.

• Avoid looking at your phone immediately upon waking. The news and social media can bring unnecessary stress.
• Take time to deliberate your day—set your mindset before external influences take over.

• Simple actions can shift your perspective and improve your mood.

• There’s uncertainty in the world—economic changes, workplace challenges, personal stressors—but maintaining focus is key.

• Focusing on others can help you get out of your own head.

• Simple acts—volunteering, buying a coffee for someone, or even holding a door open—can uplift both you and those around you.

• Many people face career changes and job loss, but losing a job does not define your worth.
• Remind those around you (and yourself) that you are remarkable, not redundant.

• Moments of awe remind us of the beauty and resilience in the world.

• Challenge: Stop, look up, and find your awe—something that makes you pause and appreciate life.

✅ You are doing great.
✅ Choose Happy.
✅ Stay focused and do what most people don’t.
✅ Pass on encouragement—someone else may need to hear it.

If you ever need to hear it again, reach out to Bart at [email protected] or 301-312-1600.

Join us, treat yourself, and others for warmth, fun, connectivity, and positivity on the INAUGURAL KINDNESS CRUISE - December 2025. https://protourcruises.com/kindness-cruise

Podcast Summary: Kasie Provencal

I met Kasie in Punta Cana. She showed me kindness. We traveled together out of the country and again, she showed me kindness. She literally almost "held my hand" to teach me the most efficient ways to travel during our journey. She "does" what "Most People Don't". There was no benefit to her being nice to me. There were not any expectations. She simply wanted to help make my experience better.

In this episode of Most People Don’t... But You Do, Bart Berkey interviews Kasie Provencal, owner of Pro Tour and Cruises, a travel company specializing in group travel experiences.

We discuss her journey into the travel industry, the power of creating lasting memories, the importance of removing blinders in life, and how kindness fuels her mission. They also introduce the upcoming Kindness Cruise, an initiative born from Kasie's passion for bringing people together in meaningful ways.

• She found her calling in travel after realizing the power of designing and facilitating unforgettable experiences.
• Memories last far longer than material possessions—investing in experiences fosters deeper connections and personal growth.

• Her career took off because she refused to let great ideas sit on the shelf.

• She recognized gaps in customer service in the travel industry and built her business by addressing those needs.
• She took the initiative to turn the Kindness Conference into a year-round effort, leading to the Kindness Cruise.

THE KINDNESS CRUISE

• The Kindness Cruise will be an eight-day experience on the brand-new Norwegian Aqua, sailing in December.
• It’s designed for people who want to recharge, immerse themselves in kindness-focused discussions, and connect with like-minded individuals.
• Activities include group dinners, guided workshops, and opportunities to reflect on and amplify kindness in life and business.

💡 Why It Matters: This is an opportunity for people to step away from their routines, find their “awe” moments, and return home with a renewed sense of purpose and connection.

📍 More Info: Visit Pro Tour and Cruises

http://www.protourcruises.com/

OR CLICK HERE to go directly to Kindness Cruise Information: https://traveljoy.com/bookings/hZbenaA6rg5wE2cyQT5TMwvk

If you’ve ever hesitated to take a bold step in life or business, let this be your reminder: Most people don’t… but you do.

Deborah Price – Giving What You Need, Elevating Others, and Figuring It Out

In this episode of Most People Don’t… But YOU Do, I sit down with Deborah Price, an entrepreneur, giver, and connector who has built multiple businesses, including Cozy Faux and Merch Madness Group. We dive into her journey from Cleveland to Los Angeles, where she transitioned from makeup artistry to running a company with 50 employees, all while mastering the art of "figuring things out."

Deborah shares powerful insights on the importance of giving what you need to receive, the value of confidence over credentials, and how thoughtful giving creates lasting impact. She also discusses her philanthropic efforts in the wake of the recent LA wildfires, where she has helped provide comfort through her Cozy Faux blankets.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on elevating others, making people feel seen, and embracing life's unexpected turns with resilience and generosity.

🔹 Key Takeaways:

• Confidence is key—say yes and figure it out along the way.
• Make people feel seen—a small compliment can have a huge impact.
• Give what you wish you had— kindness and generosity come full circle.
• Talk to people—everyone has a story, and connections create opportunities.
• Thoughtful gifts matter—it’s not about the item, but the feeling it inspires.
• 
  

🎧 Listen now and discover why most people don’t… but YOU do!

Support her and others here:

https://cozyfaux.com

https://merchmadnessgroup.com

Fundraiser for LA Fire Relief:

Fundraiser by Deborah Price : Support LA Fire Relief with Cozy Faux Comfort Relief FundMore podcasts here:

https://bartaberkey.com/podcast

Summary:

In this engaging and forward-thinking conversation, Bart Berkey sits down with Adam Mogelonsky, a hospitality consultant specializing in luxury hotels. Adam shares his deep knowledge on future trends, wellness, and how hotels must evolve to meet the demands of new generations. They discuss how hotels can offer more than just premium service—they must anticipate trends, integrate holistic wellness, and rethink traditional offerings to stay ahead of the curve.

Adam also reveals how demographic shifts, changing consumer expectations, and longevity science will reshape luxury hospitality. The conversation touches on everything from intermittent fasting and biohacking to regenerative tourism and how hotels can create "constellations of trends" rather than linear improvements.

1. All Organizations Must Think 5-10 Years Ahead

   • Most luxury hotels already know service and hospitality inside out. What they need is future-proofing—insights into trends that will shape guest preferences in the next decade.
   • Younger generations prioritize health, sustainability, and personalization, which will push hotels to evolve beyond traditional offerings like extravagant breakfasts and standard wellness amenities.

2. Wellness is More Than Just Yoga Mats & Filtered Water

   • True wellness experiences go beyond token gestures like yoga mats and infused water. They need scientific backing, innovation, and personalization.
   • Future wellness offerings may include biometric tracking, AI-driven fitness guidance, structured water, longevity-focused cuisine, and in-room recovery technology.

3. The Future is Experience-Driven & Science-Backed

   • Travelers are looking for transformative experiences, not just a place to stay. Hotels that integrate holistic health, regenerative tourism, and personalized well-being solutions will lead the industry.
   • A great example is Babylonstoren in South Africa, a resort that offers immersive culinary farming, regenerative wellness, and hands-on guest experiences—a model for the future of hospitality.

Adam challenges us to think critically: Are we designing hotels (and our own lives) for today, or for the future? The answer will determine which brands, experiences, and people thrive in the years ahead.

SPONSORSHIP:

Thank you to our sponsor: Wellevate Experiences

https:https://kellybishopwellevateexperience.com

The overall goal of Wellevate Experiences is to bring a sense of wellness and positive mental well-being to the events, hospitality, and travel industry and provide an understanding of the emotion and impact to Pick Positive and practice Self-Love.