The Insightful Podcast

Welcome to Episode Two of The Insightful Podcast, where we explore the people and ideas shaping tourism, hospitality, and destination marketing. On today’s episode, I’m joined by Danielle Blubaugh, the Food & Beverage Manager at Hilton Orlando—a property known as one of the city’s premier destinations for business and leisure travelers alike.

Danielle is also a proud graduate of the University of Central Florida’s Hospitality Management program, and I had the honor of teaching her during her time there.

With years of experience in the food & beverage industry, a sharp eye for operational detail, and a passion for creating unforgettable guest experiences, she’s helping Hilton Orlando set the standard for hospitality in one of the world’s top tourism markets. We’ll dive into her career journey, her perspective on leadership in hospitality, and how food & beverage operations are evolving to meet today’s guest expectations.

Get ready for an insightful conversation.

In the debut episode of The Insightful Podcast, host Dr. Jeremy Fairley talks with Dr. Amanda “AJ” Templeton—educator, researcher, and tourism advocate—about driving change in hospitality. From launching a new hospitality minor at the University of Louisville to researching drive tourism, sustainability, and accessibility, AJ shares insights on bridging academia and industry, mentoring future leaders, and making destinations more inclusive. Whether you work in tourism or just love exploring new ideas in travel, this conversation offers fresh perspectives and practical inspiration for moving the industry forward.

Let's goooooo! Get ready for insights from the industry and an amazing group of guest speakers as we talk all things tourism!