Episode 38: David Arraya – Solo Episode 1: The Heart of Conscious Hospitality

Description:
In this special solo episode, David Arraya takes the mic to share the story behind Conscious Hospitality and the transformative journey that inspired its creation. David opens up about pivotal moments in his life and career, emphasizing how authenticity, empathy, and intention serve as the foundation for creating meaningful connections in the hospitality industry—and beyond.

He also dives into the podcast’s vision for the future, including plans for multilingual episodes and deeper explorations of Conscious Hospitality's core principles. Tune in to discover why hospitality is not just a service but a mindset that fosters thriving teams, stronger leadership, and deeper human connection.

Takeaways:

Join David on this heartfelt journey as he reflects on his mission to elevate the human side of hospitality and previews what’s to come on The Conscious Hospitality Podcast.

Listen now to uncover the limitless potential of Conscious Hospitality!

Episode 37: Redefining Leadership, Midlife, and Hospitality – A Conversation with Chip Conley

This week on The Conscious Hospitality Podcast, host David Arraya welcomes Chip Conley, an iconic entrepreneur, best-selling author, and thought leader who has transformed the worlds of hospitality, leadership, and aging.

Chip is the visionary founder of Joie de Vivre Hospitality, where he grew a single boutique hotel into the second-largest boutique hotel brand in the U.S. He later joined Airbnb as Head of Global Hospitality and Strategy, mentoring the company’s millennial founders while embodying the role of a “modern elder”—someone who combines wisdom with curiosity to create meaningful impact.

In 2018, Chip launched the Modern Elder Academy (MEA), the world’s first midlife wisdom school. With campuses in Baja California and Santa Fe, MEA empowers individuals to navigate midlife transitions, embrace personal reinvention, and cultivate a renewed sense of purpose.

In this episode, Chip shares:

✨ The philosophy behind the term “modern elder” and how it fosters intergenerational collaboration.
✨ His transformative experiences at Airbnb and lessons learned from mentoring emerging leaders.
✨ How the Modern Elder Academy is redefining midlife as a time for growth and resilience.
✨ Insights on turning the “midlife crisis” into a “midlife chrysalis” for personal and professional reinvention.
✨ The importance of wisdom, adaptability, and curiosity in today’s evolving hospitality and leadership landscapes.

Chip’s journey offers profound insights for hoteliers, entrepreneurs, and leaders across all industries. Whether you’re navigating midlife, building a brand, or leading a team, his wisdom will inspire you to embrace transformation and purpose.

Tune in now: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/conscioushospitality/episodes/Episode-37---Chip-Conley-e2ssf7q

Follow us for more conversations with visionaries transforming hospitality, leadership, and human connection:

⁠⁠@conscioushospitalityultd⁠⁠
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#HospitalityPodcast #Leadership #Airbnb #ModernElder #JoieDeVivre #MidlifeWisdom #PersonalDevelopment #PurposefulLiving #ConsciousHospitality #Transformation

Episode 36: Breaking Limits and Crafting Stories – A Conversation with Omar Boubess

This week on The Conscious Hospitality Podcast, host David Arraya welcomes Omar Boubess, Principal and Creative Director of Studio Circa, a leading agency specializing in storytelling, branding, and website design for boutique hotels and hospitality brands.

Omar shares his extraordinary journey, blending personal transformation and professional expertise to inspire hoteliers and hospitality leaders. From his roots in unstable social and political circumstances to redefining how brands connect with their audiences, Omar’s insights will challenge and motivate listeners to think differently about growth, resilience, and the power of storytelling.

🎧 In this transformative conversation, you’ll discover:
✨ How gratitude and appreciation shape personal and professional fulfillment.
✨ The impact of growing up in uncertain environments and moving to unknown places.
✨ Overcoming anxiety and panic attacks through self-discovery and resilience.
✨ Why depression and anxiety can stem from self-focus and how to push beyond limits to grow.
✨ Insights on breaking linguistic and mental barriers to unlock creativity and potential.
✨ The life-changing effects of the 75 Hard mental toughness program.
✨ Meditation techniques to categorize thoughts, regain control, and battle your lower self.
✨ How to break through the resistance of comfort and audit the inputs shaping your life.
✨ Why storytelling is essential for boutique hotels and how businesses can elevate their brand to drive direct bookings and guest loyalty.

Omar’s unique perspective merges creativity, mindfulness, and hospitality branding strategies, offering invaluable lessons for leaders and businesses aiming to stand out in today’s competitive market.

➡️ Listen to the episode now.

🌟 Follow us for more insights on hospitality innovation, leadership, and branding:
⁠⁠@conscioushospitalityultd⁠⁠
⁠⁠@darraya⁠⁠

#HospitalityPodcast #Branding #WebsiteDesign #Storytelling #DirectBookings #BoutiqueHotels #Resilience #Mindfulness #HospitalityLeadership #ConsciousHospitality

Episode 35: Pioneering Wellness and Longevity – A Conversation with Anna Bjurstam

This week on The Conscious Hospitality Podcast, host David Arraya welcomes Anna Bjurstam, a global leader and visionary in the wellness industry. With over 25 years of experience, Anna has revolutionized wellness in hospitality, guiding some of the world’s most iconic brands like Six Senses and Raison d’Etre.

Anna’s story is as multifaceted as her expertise. She holds a Master’s in Finance, a BioGeometry diploma, and is a practicing shaman with a passion for quantum physics and science. Her entrepreneurial journey includes co-owning and later selling Raison d’Etre, a wellness consultancy that has worked with over 200 spas in 70 countries. Today, she serves as the Wellness Pioneer and Strategic Advisor for Six Senses, shaping transformative guest experiences and spearheading initiatives in biohacking, wellness communities, and longevity.

🎧 In this episode, Anna shares:
✨ The power of breathing properly.

✨ Her life-changing near death experience.

✨ How her journey into wellness began and what inspired her passion for well-being.
✨ The evolution of wellness in hospitality and its growing importance in today’s world.
✨ Insights on integrating holistic wellness principles, from quantum physics to shamanic practices, into hospitality.
✨ The future of wellness, including groundbreaking work in biohacking, longevity, and wellness communities.
✨ Practical advice for leaders looking to embrace wellness as a cornerstone of guest and employee experiences.

Anna’s innovative approach to wellness and her ability to bridge science, spirituality, and entrepreneurship offer a masterclass in creating meaningful and impactful experiences.

Whether you’re in hospitality, wellness, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode will expand your perspective on what it means to truly thrive.

➡️ Tune in now

🌿 Follow us for more content:
⁠⁠@conscioushospitalityultd⁠⁠
⁠⁠@darraya

@annajbjurstam⁠⁠

#Wellness #Hospitality #Longevity #Biohacking #QuantumPhysics #ConsciousHospitality #Leadership #WellnessCommunities #Mindfulness #SixSenses

Episode 34: Visionary Leadership in Hospitality – A Conversation with David Barry

In this episode of The Conscious Hospitality Podcast, host David Arraya engages in an inspiring conversation with David Barry, President of Pursuit Collection—a global leader in luxury travel, hospitality, and iconic attractions.

With decades of experience and a proven track record in driving business growth, David Barry has transformed Pursuit into a powerhouse of unforgettable travel experiences. Under his leadership, Pursuit has doubled its revenue and EBITDA in just 48 months, while creating a strong entrepreneurial culture that unites teams across geographies and industries.

Pursuit’s innovative Refresh, Build, Buy strategy has fueled its expansion, featuring bucket-list destinations, distinctive lodges, and groundbreaking attractions like FlyOver in cities such as Vancouver, Reykjavik, Las Vegas, and soon Chicago. With over 3 million annual visitors, Pursuit sets the standard for experiential travel and elevated guest experiences.

In this episode, we explore:

David’s leadership philosophy emphasizes clarity, intentionality, and the transformative power of hospitality to create lasting connections between people and places.

Learn more about Pursuit Collection and their mission to inspire unforgettable memories:
Visit Pursuit Collection

🎧 Don’t miss this engaging episode filled with leadership insights and strategies for success.

Follow us for more content and inspiration:
⁠@conscioushospitalityultd⁠
⁠@darraya

#Leadership #HospitalityIndustry #TravelExperiences #LuxuryTravel #PursuitCollection #Podcast #InnovationInHospitality #ExperientialTravel

Episode 33: Embracing Life’s Transitions – A Conversation with Neil Lawrence

This week on The Conscious Hospitality Podcast, host David Arraya welcomes Neil Lawrence, a distinguished life coach based in London.

Neil specializes in helping individuals navigate life’s most challenging transitions, combining extensive expertise in education, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and transformational coaching.

Neil’s journey is one of resilience and growth. After overcoming PTSD and embracing mindfulness, he has dedicated his career to guiding others through self-awareness, compassion, and purposeful living.

With a Master’s in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy from the Tavistock Institute and accreditation as a Transformational Coach through the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC), Neil brings a unique blend of knowledge and personal experience to his practice.

In this inspiring conversation, David and Neil explore:

Neil’s work exemplifies the principles of Conscious Hospitality, emphasizing the importance of presence, intention, and care in creating meaningful connections and living with purpose. This episode is packed with insights for leaders and individuals alike, offering valuable lessons on navigating change with grace and self-awareness.

Learn more about Neil’s work:
⁠Visit Life Coach London

Enjoy this thought-provoking conversation, and remember to stay conscious, connected, and inspired.

Follow us for more content:
⁠⁠@conscioushospitalityultd⁠⁠
⁠⁠@darraya

Episode 32: Culinary Excellence and Mentorship – A Conversation with Scott Craig

This week on The Conscious Hospitality Podcast, host David Arraya welcomes Scott Craig, a Culinary Olympic Gold Medalist, WACS International Certified Master Chef, and renowned mentor in the culinary and hospitality industries. Scott’s story is one of resilience, mastery, and an unwavering commitment to elevating both his craft and the people around him—a philosophy that resonates deeply with the principles of Conscious Hospitality.

As Executive Chef at Cullasaja Club and co-founder of PlateCraft, Scott embodies leadership through service, mentoring countless culinary professionals and fostering a culture of excellence. His influence extends far beyond the kitchen, as captured in the documentary All Ships Rise. Produced by Club + Resort Chef, the film offers a powerful glimpse into Scott’s career, his love of competition, and his dedication to mentorship.

In this inspiring conversation, David and Scott dive into:

Scott’s journey is a perfect reflection of Conscious Hospitality, blending presence, intention, and care to create extraordinary experiences and elevate those around him. His story offers valuable lessons for leaders across all industries, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, connection, and leading with purpose.

Watch Scott’s documentary, All Ships Rise, to explore his story further:
All Ships Rise – Watch on YouTube

Learn more about Conscious Hospitality and how it’s transforming the hospitality industry:
Visit Conscious Hospitality Unlimited

Enjoy this thought-provoking conversation, and remember to stay conscious, connected, and inspired.

Follow us for more content:
⁠@conscioushospitalityultd⁠
⁠@darraya

Episode 31: Hospitality with Heart – A Conversation with Steve Palmer

This week on The Conscious Hospitality Podcast, host David Arraya sits down with an industry trailblazer whose story is as inspiring as his impact: Steve Palmer.

As the founder of The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, Steve has built an impressive collection of over 16 unique hospitality concepts across the Southeast, each embodying his deep commitment to service, quality, and intentionality.

But Steve’s influence goes far beyond building a hospitality empire. His journey is one of resilience, redemption, and profound purpose. As the co-founder of Ben’s Friends, a support network for hospitality professionals struggling with addiction, and author of the powerful memoir Say Grace: How the Restaurant Business Saved My Life, Steve is devoted to transforming the hospitality industry into a space of healing and connection.

In this heartfelt conversation, David and Steve explore:

Steve’s story is a testament to the power of vulnerability, presence, and intention in both life and leadership. Whether you’re in hospitality or simply passionate about leading with purpose, this episode offers insights that will leave you inspired and hopeful.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Enjoy this moving conversation and stay conscious, connected, and inspired.

Follow us for more content:@conscioushospitalityultd
@darraya

Episode 30: Freedom, Purpose, and Conscious Leadership with ⁠Glen Hicks⁠

In this landmark 30th episode of The Conscious Hospitality Podcast, host David Arraya has a profound conversation with Glen Hicks – Founder and CEO of ⁠TecZen⁠, ⁠Digital Independent Life⁠, and ⁠USTATION⁠.

Glen’s inspiring journey is a true testament to the principles of Conscious Hospitality: a life shaped by pivotal moments, highs and lows, including a heart attack, and a newfound and unwavering dedication to living with purpose and intention.

With over 30 years in business and technology and two decades championing Work From Anywhere (WFA) culture, Glen has transformed his unconventional path into one that empowers others to embrace freedom, individuality, and connection. His story reflects the heart of conscious leadership—facing challenges, seizing opportunities, and remaining committed to a life of meaning.

In this episode, David and Glen explore:

Glen’s story is exactly what Conscious Hospitality is all about—a life lived fully, shaped by intention, resilience, and the choice to make each moment meaningful. His journey reminds us that conscious leadership is not just about professional success but about the impact we have on the people and communities around us.

Enjoy this milestone conversation and join us on the path to intentional, values-driven leadership.

Follow us for more inspiration:⁠

@conscioushospitalityultd⁠⁠

@darraya

Episode 30: Freedom, Purpose, and Conscious Leadership with Glen Hicks

In this landmark 30th episode of The Conscious Hospitality Podcast, host David Arraya has a profound conversation with Glen Hicks – Founder and CEO of TecZen, Digital Independent Life, and USTATION.

Glen’s inspiring journey is a true testament to the principles of Conscious Hospitality: a life shaped by pivotal moments, highs and lows, including a heart attack, and a newfound and unwavering dedication to living with purpose and intention.

With over 30 years in business and technology and two decades championing Work From Anywhere (WFA) culture, Glen has transformed his unconventional path into one that empowers others to embrace freedom, individuality, and connection. His story reflects the heart of conscious leadership—facing challenges, seizing opportunities, and remaining committed to a life of meaning.

In this episode, David and Glen explore:

Glen’s story is exactly what Conscious Hospitality is all about—a life lived fully, shaped by intention, resilience, and the choice to make each moment meaningful. His journey reminds us that conscious leadership is not just about professional success but about the impact we have on the people and communities around us.

Enjoy this milestone conversation and join us on the path to intentional, values-driven leadership.

Follow us for more inspiration:@conscioushospitalityultd
@darraya