Join host Steve Turk on the Hospitality Mentor Podcast as he dives into the inspiring journey of Brett Friedman, founder of A21. Discover the stories behind Brett's rise in the hospitality industry, from humble beginnings as a pizza delivery guy to leading one of the largest culinary events agencies in the world. Learn essential tips on creating successful events, building a passionate team, and the importance of loving what you do. Plus, get a sneak peek into Brett's exciting upcoming projects including Pebble Beach Food & Wine and the LA Wine and Food Festival.

00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast

00:31 Special Announcement: Hospitality Unlocked Book

00:56 Introducing Brett Friedman

02:25 Brett's Early Career and First Job

03:41 Growing Up in Miami

05:06 Transition to Hospitality and Early Ventures

07:08 Working with Alonzo Mourning

10:19 Founding A21

12:56 Partnership with South Beach Wine & Food Festival

17:15 Post-COVID Transformation and Future Plans

19:39 The Importance of Control in Event Management

20:27 Building a Sustainable Company

21:31 Passion and Team Culture

24:37 Advice for Aspiring Event Leaders

25:01 Challenges and Rewards of Event Production

29:49 Upcoming Projects and Initiatives

34:55 Reflecting on Personal and Professional Growth

36:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Welcome to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast! In this episode, host Steve Turk interviews Ji Hye Kim, the chef-owner of Miss Kim Korean Restaurant in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Ji Hye shares her unconventional journey from being an economics and political science student at the University of Michigan to becoming a renowned Korean chef.

Starting as a server at a Japanese restaurant, Ji Hye recounts her transition into hospitality, becoming a cheesemonger at Zingerman's Delicatessen, and eventually opening Miss Kim. She discusses the challenges and successes she faced, including her innovative response to the pandemic and her plans for opening a new vegetarian restaurant, Little Kim.

Ji Hye also offers invaluable advice on pursuing one's passion in the hospitality industry. Don’t miss out on this inspiring and educational episode!

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:03 Ji Hye Kim's Early Career and Education

05:07 Transition to Hospitality

08:20 Starting at Zingerman's and Developing Skills

13:43 Path to Partnership and Food Cart Experience

21:54 Opening Miss Kim Restaurant

28:49 Navigating Challenges and Achievements

32:33 Future Plans and Advice

36:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Eli Pritykin, founder of Hudson Creative Studio, a leading company specializing in creating high-converting websites for hospitality companies.

Eli shares his incredible journey from working in the food industry and studying at Yeshiva University to becoming a successful tech entrepreneur. Discover his secrets to building flexible, powerful, and highly effective websites, complete with a unique software called HomeRunner, designed for vacation rental spaces.

Learn how Eli navigated the challenges of COVID-19, transitioned from employee to business owner, and continues to innovate in the world of hospitality web design. Don't miss out on his valuable insights into the importance of branding, client communication, and leveraging AI technology. If you're aspiring to start your own hospitality business or improve your online presence, this episode is packed with actionable advice just for you.

Check out Hudson Creative Studio for more information, and as always, stay hospitable!

00:00 Closing Remarks

00:04 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast

00:10 Meet Ellie Pritikin: Founder of Hudson Creative Studio

02:05 Ellie's Journey in the Hospitality Industry

03:28 From Rabbinical Studies to Technology

06:22 Early Career and Transition to Tech

09:13 Building a Career at Spears Group

13:17 The Birth of Hudson Creative Studio

18:14 Choosing the Perfect Name for the Business

19:01 Setting Up the Business Foundation

19:50 Working from Home: Challenges and Benefits

20:16 Building a Unique Brand Identity

21:05 Finding and Retaining Clients

21:39 Developing Proprietary Software

24:25 Launching HomeRunner: A New Milestone

30:06 Leveraging AI in Business Operations

36:21 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

In this exciting episode of The Hospitality Mentor Podcast, we sit down with Mary D’Argenis-Fernandez , President and Founder of MDA Hospitality Solutions. Mary shares her incredible journey from starting her hospitality career at Walt Disney World at 16 to now celebrating 10 years of success with her own company.

Discover her insights on hospitality training, her transformative experiences at top brands like Walt Disney, Loew's Miami Beach, Four Seasons, and Mandarin Oriental, and how she has helped elevate industry standards. Join us as we delve into the importance of training and staying passionate about what you do.

Perfect for hospitality professionals looking for inspiration and actionable tips to boost team satisfaction and operational excellence!

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:32 Mary's Journey Begins at Disney

03:18 Rising Through the Ranks at Disney

12:18 Transition to Loew's Miami Beach Hotel

15:49 Experience at Four Seasons Miami

17:52 Joining Mandarin Oriental Miami

22:36 Unexpected Job Offer

23:16 First Executive Role

24:13 Turning Around the Property

26:06 Promotion to Hotel Manager

28:16 Personal Tragedy and Career Shift

29:44 Business Development Consultant

31:47 Founding MDA Hospitality

33:55 Expanding Clientele and Projects

37:25 Current and Future Endeavors

44:51 Advice for Young Professionals

45:36 Conclusion and Contact Information

Join us in this inspiring episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast as we welcome Chef Angelo Sosa, the Executive Chef of Kembara, Tia Carmen, and Carmocha. Chef Angelo shares his remarkable journey from his first job at a retirement home in Middletown, Connecticut, to becoming a successful chef and restaurateur. Learn about his early influences, including his Tia Carmen, his diverse culinary experiences, and his powerful insights on mentorship, leadership, and maintaining passion in the hospitality industry. Don't miss out on Angelo's heartfelt stories and the valuable lessons he's gathered along the way.

00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast

00:27 Chef Angelo Sosa's First Job

02:49 Early Culinary Influences and Family Background

05:31 Culinary School and Early Career

08:12 Mentorship and Career Growth

11:40 Becoming an Executive Chef

13:05 Exploring Diverse Cuisines

15:41 Consulting for Top Restaurants

17:11 Television Fame and Top Chef

18:22 Top Chef's Unexpected Call

19:01 First Taste of Fame

19:51 Family and Success

20:41 Doors Opening and Non-Stop Travel

21:24 Life in the Fast Lane

23:31 A Major Life Change

24:05 New Beginnings in San Diego

25:14 Consulting and New Ventures

31:36 Mentorship and Giving Back

34:07 Focusing on the Present

35:02 Advice to Young Angelo

36:03 Conclusion and Gratitude

Check out Steve Turk's new book, Hospitality Unlocked: Advice, Strategies, and Insider Secrets from 75 of the World’s Top Hospitality Leaders, available now on Amazon: https://a.co/d/8JC16xJ.

In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Gerald Chin, Head of Culinary for the Mina Group. Starting his journey at Carvel Ice Cream on Long Island during high school, Chin shares his fascinating transition from a scooper to an executive chef. His career chronicles include stints at some of the most prestigious kitchens including Tavern on the Green, CIA (Culinary Institute of America), and working under the legendary chef Joel Robuchon. Gerald also touches upon his significant roles at various Michael Mina establishments, the challenges of transitioning to a corporate role, and his exciting new prospects within the Mina Group. Reflecting on his journey, Chin emphasizes the importance of passion, continuous learning, and the value of writing everything down. Join us to hear his inspiring story of resilience, growth, and the pursuit of culinary excellence.

00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast

00:32 Exciting News: Hospitality Unlocked Book Release

01:08 Meet Gerald Chin: Head of Culinary for the MENA Group

01:28 Gerald's First Job: Carvel Ice Cream

03:47 Vocational School and Culinary Beginnings

05:34 First Real Restaurant Job: The Weeping Willow

09:05 Tavern on the Green: A Culinary Bootcamp

14:08 Judson Grill and the Path to Culinary School

16:04 Culinary Institute of America: The Hogwarts of Culinary Schools

21:02 From Switzerland to Las Vegas: Joining Bradley Ogden

27:28 Achieving a Dream: Working at Robuchon

32:15 Exclusive Dining at MGM

33:32 Transition to Executive Chef

33:46 Opening an Italian Restaurant

35:37 Challenges and Realizations

36:09 Joining RM Seafood

38:09 The Opportunity with Darden Group

39:28 Cosmopolitan and Family Life

41:21 Joining the Mina Group

45:47 Corporate Chef Responsibilities

47:35 Balancing Travel and Family

49:30 Current Role and Future Plans

58:13 Advice for Aspiring Chefs

01:00:13 Conclusion and Gratitude

In this special episode of The Hospitality Mentor, I’m sharing a sneak peek of my new book, Hospitality Unlocked: Advice, Strategies, and Insider Secrets from 75 of the World’s Top Hospitality Leaders.

Join me as I read the preface, offering a glimpse into the stories, lessons, and strategies that shaped this book. Whether you’re just starting out in hospitality or looking for ways to lead and grow, this book is packed with insights to inspire and empower you.

Hospitality Unlocked is available now on Amazon in Kindle, paperback, and hardcover! Get your copy today: https://a.co/d/8JC16xJ

I’d love to hear your thoughts—connect with me on LinkedIn or visit thehospitalitymentor.com for more insights and resources!

In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Steve Palmer, founder of the Indigo Road Hospitality Group. Palmer shares his journey from washing dishes at 13 to becoming a successful entrepreneur and author. He discusses his passion for hospitality, the importance of culture in business, and his personal battle with addiction. Palmer also highlights the creation and impact of Ben's Friends, a support group for hospitality professionals struggling with addiction. This inspiring episode offers valuable insights into pursuing your dreams and building a purposeful career in the hospitality industry.

00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast

00:36 Meet Steve Palmer: Founder of Indigo Road Hospitality Group

01:01 Early Beginnings: From Dishwasher to Restaurant Enthusiast

03:56 Discovering a Passion for Service and Wine

06:38 Mentorship and Professional Growth

10:15 Transitioning to Leadership and Management

16:05 The Birth of Indigo Road Hospitality Group

29:22 The Grit of Entrepreneurship

30:09 Leadership as an Act of Service

33:19 Creating a Culture of Hospitality

39:52 Expanding into Boutique Hotels

46:29 The Birth of Ben's Friends

56:13 Reflections and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Winston Smith, General Manager of The Standard Spa, Miami Beach. Winston shares his incredible journey from starting in accounts payable to becoming GM, discussing his early career, transition from finance, and personal experiences that shaped his path. They explore the importance of teamwork, maintaining a positive work culture, and the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry. With personal anecdotes, Winston provides valuable insights into leadership and achieving long-term success in the hotel business.

00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast

00:37 Meet Winston Smith: General Manager of the Standard Spa, Miami Beach

01:00 Winston's First Job in Hospitality

02:13 Journey from Belize to Los Angeles

05:57 Transition to Miami Beach

07:38 Life at the Standard Spa, Miami Beach

13:29 Employee Engagement and Morale Building

14:34 Climbing the Ranks: From Chief Accountant to Director of Finance

20:02 Understanding Hotel Finances

22:45 Transitioning to General Manager

24:23 Embracing Leadership and Teamwork

26:08 Challenges and Achievements

33:19 Future Plans and Vision

36:13 Advice for Aspiring Professionals

37:35 Conclusion and Gratitude

In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Bill and Holly Bembenek, founders of the Temecula Wine Trolley and Wine Tours. They discuss their unique business venture, detailing its inception, the challenges faced, and the exciting growth they have experienced.

The Bembeneks share insights into their personal journeys within the hospitality industry, including Holly's passion for guest experiences and Bill's extensive background in gaming and resort management.

Their story emphasizes the importance of perseverance, the power of authentic customer service, and the value of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals. Tune in for an inspiring and informative discussion on building a successful hospitality business.

00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast

00:37 Meet Bill and Holly Bembenik

01:15 The Birth of Temecula Wine Trolley

03:45 Holly's Journey in Hospitality

05:37 Bill's Unexpected Path to Hospitality

07:42 Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship

10:48 Creating a Unique Wine Tour Experience

15:40 Launching the Business and Overcoming Challenges

26:54 Trolley Troubles: A Rocky Start

27:55 Handling the Unexpected

29:11 The Cost of a Trolley

30:21 Achieving Perfect Reviews

31:03 The Secret to Success

37:51 Expanding the Business

47:00 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

51:21 Conclusion and Gratitude