By Steve Turk
5
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The podcast currently has 146 episodes available.
Join host Steve Turk on the Hospitality Mentor Podcast as he interviews Executive Chef Rebecca Tillman of the Ritz Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara. Rebecca shares her journey from her humble beginnings scooping ice cream at Swenson's to her prestigious role in one of the world's top luxury hotels.
Learn about her experiences, the challenges she overcame, and the wisdom she gained from her mentors. This episode is packed with insights into what it takes to succeed in the dynamic world of hospitality.
00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast
00:35 Meet Executive Chef Rebecca Tillman
00:50 Rebecca's First Job in Hospitality
02:12 High School Years and Early Leadership
03:44 College and Culinary School Journey
08:53 First Job at Arizona Biltmore
15:25 Moving to North Carolina and the Biltmore Estate
23:50 Generations of Memories
24:02 Special Events and Honored Guests
24:28 Legacy and Challenges
25:35 Career Moves and New Opportunities
27:29 Leadership and Growth
32:20 Returning to Arizona
33:11 Joining Hilton and Corporate Travels
35:03 The Phoenician Experience
40:33 Transition to Ritz Carlton
47:51 Advice to Young Rebecca
49:53 Conclusion and Contact Information
In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk talks with Michael Friedman, the CEO of Simple Life Hospitality. They discuss Michael's career journey, which began with odd jobs in college and evolved into high-level roles in various hospitality and consulting firms. Michael shares insights on scaling businesses, emphasizing the importance of guest experience, and leveraging educational resources for professional growth. They also touch on Michael’s recent implementation of the Entrepreneur Operating System (EOS) at Simple Life and his vision for future expansion.
00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast
00:37 Meet Michael Friedman: CEO of Simple Life Hospitality
01:28 Michael's First Job in Hospitality
03:33 From Real Estate to Hospitality Consulting
05:20 The Evolution of Short-Term Rentals
09:03 Transition to Luxury Simplified
10:10 The Birth of Vacation Rental University
18:12 Experience with One Fine Stay
23:45 Refocusing Targeting for Success
24:06 Lessons from New York's Hospitality Scene
24:19 Creating Exceptional Guest Experiences
25:27 Selective Homeowner Partnerships
26:28 Transition to Simple Life Hospitality
28:38 Implementing EOS for Growth
32:42 Strategic Market Expansion
36:34 Advice for Aspiring Property Managers
43:27 The Importance of Hospitality Hooks
44:37 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk sits down with Steve Galbreath, the Chief Development Officer of Garfield Public Private LLC.
Steve discusses his journey from being an architect to a hospitality developer. He provides insights into the work Garfield Public Private LLC does in helping cities, airports, and universities develop convention centers and hotels.
The conversation also covers his first hospitality project in the Bahamas, the importance of good design, and how he navigated the transition from architecture to development. Steve shares his thoughts on working with city governments, the economic impact of hotel projects, and offers advice to young professionals about taking risks and enjoying their career journey. This episode is packed with valuable information for anyone interested in hospitality development, city planning, and architecture.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:46 Overview of Garfield Public Private LLC
02:28 Steve's First Job in Hospitality
04:12 Early Career and Transition to Architecture
06:09 Challenges and Lessons in Architecture
07:27 Journey into Hotel Projects
09:40 Career Growth and Opportunities
17:13 Joining Garfield and New Beginnings
24:35 Current Trends and Future Prospects
27:21 The Importance of Convention Hotels
30:30 Challenges in the Hospitality Industry
34:12 Designing for Comfort and Convenience
38:24 Exploring New Hospitality Trends
49:39 Advice for Aspiring Developers
54:41 Final Thoughts and Farewell
In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Fernando Rojas, partner of Agency BE. Fernando shares his unique journey from his early passion for banking in Ecuador to his flourishing career in the hospitality and events industry. He discusses his adventurous move to the UAE, the challenges of launching an event company in Miami, and his current project, the World Travel Expo (WTE Miami) 2024, highlighting how curiosity and risk-taking have driven his success. Listeners can expect insights on entrepreneurial perseverance, the evolution of Agency BE, and the importance of the WTE Miami show.
00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast
00:37 Meet Fernando Rojas: Partner of Agency BE
01:21 Current Projects: World Travel Expo 2024
02:53 Fernando's Journey: From Banking to Hospitality
07:29 Life in the UAE: Cultural Experiences and Challenges
13:47 Starting a New Life in Miami
15:24 The Birth of Agency BE
20:37 Challenges and Lessons in the Event Industry
23:44 The Turning Point: Winning the Fontainebleau Contract
24:38 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Curiosity
26:43 The Dynamic World of Event Management
30:17 The Evolution of Blooming Events
33:58 Launching the World Travel Expo
46:12 Advice to Young Entrepreneurs
50:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk sits down with Cesar Wurm, Vice President of Commercial, Premium Brands for IHG® Hotels & Resorts and an accomplished author. Cesar shares his unique journey from an overnight room service assistant in Sao Paulo to a key figure in the hospitality industry. Listeners will gain insights into Cesar's career progression, his struggles with addiction, and how he overcame them. The discussion also touches on the industry's challenges, resilience, and the importance of being true to oneself. Cesar’s story is both inspiring and educational, providing valuable lessons for both seasoned professionals and newcomers in hospitality.
00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast
00:35 Meet Cesar Wurm: Vice President of Commercial for IHG
01:14 Cesar's First Job in Hospitality
05:20 The Journey from Room Service to Sales
05:31 Transitioning to International Experience
09:52 Returning to Sheraton as Director of Sales
12:31 Joining Starwood Hotels
16:08 The Move to Trust Hospitality
19:11 Joining Intercontinental Hotels
26:51 Teaching and Giving Back to the Community
29:43 Aligning Personal and Professional Causes
30:18 Returning to IHG: A Career Move
33:10 Navigating New Roles and Responsibilities
35:03 Driving Business in the Hospitality Industry
38:00 Challenges and Opportunities in Hospitality
42:04 The Power of Addiction: A Personal Journey
54:37 Advice for the Next Generation
01:01:13 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Vittorio Assaf, founder of the Serafina Group. Vittorio shares his journey from Italian stockbroker to celebrated restaurateur, recounting his early beginnings in 1986 with an investment from Andy Warhol, to the founding of the Serafina restaurants, a venture he conceived while lost at sea with his partner.
The conversation dives into the challenges of maintaining quality amidst expansion, the impact of the pandemic on the industry, and Vittorio’s advice on handling stress and ensuring efficiency. Vittorio also shares exciting new ventures, including international expansions and innovations in retail food products.
The episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone passionate about the hospitality industry.
00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast
00:37 Meet Vittorio Assaf: Founder of Serafina Group
00:59 Vittorio's First Steps in Hospitality
03:04 From Stockbroker to Restaurateur
07:37 The Birth of Serafina
12:17 Navigating Early Challenges and Successes
22:16 Handling Restaurant Stress and Team Management
27:14 Expansion and the Second Location
35:45 The Hype of a Crazy Place
36:26 Expanding the Restaurant Empire
36:58 Maintaining Quality and Standards
38:02 Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs
39:51 Challenges in the Restaurant Industry
40:58 International Ventures and New Projects
44:02 Impact of the Pandemic on Business
46:11 Rising Costs and Economic Pressures
54:04 Technological Innovations in Restaurants
01:04:04 Final Thoughts and Advice
In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Scott Colebourne, the founder of PICKLESTARS. Scott shares his unconventional journey from growing up in rural New Zealand, where he developed a passion for tennis, to becoming the CEO of Cliff Drysdale Management and now venturing into pickleball consulting. He discusses his experiences and challenges in the hospitality and sports industries, the growth of pickleball, and the innovative services PICKLESTARS offers to hotels and resorts. Scott offers valuable insights into leadership, career development, and the importance of taking risks to explore new opportunities.
00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast
00:35 Meet Scott Colebourne : Founder of PICKLESTARS
01:33 Understanding Pickleball and Other Racket Sports
03:01 Scott's Early Journey in Racket Sports
04:44 From New Zealand to the USA: Scott's College and Backpacking Adventures
08:37 Building a Career in Tennis Coaching
10:53 Leadership and Growth at Cliff Drysdale Management
12:50 Expanding Horizons: From Vermont to Florida
16:12 Managing Multiple Resorts: Strategies and Challenges
16:35 The Importance of High Standards and Feedback
18:02 Career Progression and Family Support
18:46 Transition to Texas and New Responsibilities
19:54 Reaching the CEO Level: Reflections and Responsibilities
21:46 Entrepreneurial Journey and New Ventures
23:19 Launching PICKLESTARS: From Concept to Reality
25:29 Consulting for Pickleball in Hospitality
31:05 Advice for Aspiring Professionals
32:24 Conclusion and Contact Information
In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk welcomes back James Ferguson, the Corporate Director of Culture for the Wurzak Hotel Group, for his second appearance on the show.
They discuss James' inspiring journey in hospitality, from starting at the front desk to writing his book, 'The Confetti Culture Playbook,' and overcoming cancer. James shares insights into his unique role in shaping company culture, strategies for engaging employees, and the importance of celebrating positive actions.
They also talk about the challenges of opening a new hotel and effective recruitment practices. James offers valuable advice on creating a lasting impact in the hospitality industry through innovative cultural initiatives.
00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast
00:31 Welcoming Back James Ferguson
01:19 James Ferguson's Journey and Achievements
02:46 Role and Responsibilities of a Director of Culture
03:52 Building and Sustaining Company Culture
05:24 Innovative Recruitment and Retention Strategies
12:39 Opening a New Hotel Amidst Challenges
16:51 Daily Life and Responsibilities in the Role
28:17 Insights on Writing and Publishing a Book
33:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
in this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Eric D. Moeller, founder and CEO of Freewyld, a boutique hospitality brand specializing in design-forward cabins located in nature-rich destinations. Eric shares his unique journey from a construction and real estate background to discovering his passion for hospitality through Airbnb.
They discuss the founding of Freewyld, which aims to provide an immersive nature experience by helping travelers disconnect from technology. Eric talks about the company's initial success, plans for expansion, and the importance of surrounding oneself with growth-oriented individuals. The episode also delves into the nitty-gritty of balancing technology with hospitality services to create unforgettable guest experiences.
00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast
00:41 Meet Eric D. Moeller: Founder and CEO of Freewild
02:05 Eric's Journey: From Real Estate to Hospitality
04:40 Discovering Airbnb and the Short-Term Rental Business
10:20 Scaling the Business and Transitioning to Education
15:23 The Power of Masterminds and Networking
21:01 The Birth of Freewild: A Vision for Hospitality
26:10 Reflecting on Technology's Impact
28:28 The Free Wild Concept
30:01 Starting the Free Wild Journey
31:44 Building the First Property
36:24 Merging Hospitality and Short-Term Rentals
43:40 Future Growth and Vision
46:00 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
48:17 Conclusion and Contact Information
Join Steve Turk on this captivating episode of The Hospitality Mentor Podcast as he sits down with Vanessa James, CEO and founder of VJ Media, and the visionary behind Food, Wine and Fete. Vanessa shares her incredible journey from aspiring sports broadcaster to becoming a dynamic force in the media and events industry. Discover how she navigated her career, overcame challenges, and successfully built her own brand, all while staying true to her Caribbean roots. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a media enthusiast, or just love a good success story, this episode is packed with insights, tips, and inspiration.
Show Notes with Timestamps:[00:00:00] Introduction:
[00:01:00] Early Beginnings:
[00:03:00] Transition to Radio:
[00:08:00] Career Growth in Tallahassee:
[00:10:00] Move to Miami:
[00:13:00] Entrepreneurial Leap:
[00:19:00] Building a Brand:
[00:25:00] Event Production:
[00:30:00] Advice for Aspiring Professionals:
[00:40:00] Future Plans:
[00:43:00] Conclusion:
[00:45:00] Professional Sign-off:
[00:46:00] Sponsor Message:
Listeners can tune into The Hospitality Mentor Podcast on all major streaming platforms and YouTube. For more information, visit Vanessa James Media's website and follow her on social media platforms.
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