The Hospitality Mentor

Today, you will learn the fantastic story of Ashish Verma’s career in hospitality. Ashish is the Senior Vice President of the Luxury Division for the Unbound Collection at Hyatt Hotels. He shares his inspiring journey in the hospitality industry, starting as a management trainee for Oberoi Hotels in India after a back injury altered his initial dreams of becoming a professional tennis player. Ashish's path in hospitality took him from India to various global destinations, including Paris and New York, working with renowned hotel brands such as Oberoi, Hyatt, and Dream Hotel Group. Throughout his career, Ashish has learned the importance of passion, commitment, and continuous improvement in achieving excellence. His story highlights significant moments, such as being promoted to general manager during Hurricane Katrina at the Windsor Court Hotel and spearheading the successful rebranding and positioning of the Chatwal New York. Connect with Ashish on LinkedIn Don’t forget to check out Good Morning Hospitality - Steve and Sarah’s live show every Wednesday morning! Connect with Steve on LinkedIn RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Radi Garov, the General Manager at Soho Beach House in Miami, joins Steve in this episode to talk about his inspiring journey in the hospitality industry. Starting as a banquet server after moving from Bulgaria to the U.S., Radi climbed the ladder through hard work, learning, and mentorship. He shares his experiences working in various positions and hotels, from his first job at C Trail Golf Resort to leading roles at FAENA and eventually Soho House. Radi talks about the unique challenges and learning opportunities at each step, including moving into luxury hospitality, mastering service standards, opening new restaurants, and adapting to the private membership model at Soho House. Don’t forget to check out Good Morning Hospitality - Steve and Sarah’s live show every Wednesday morning! Connect with Steve on LinkedIn RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to another office hours session! Before Steve dives into the Q&A, he shares his experiences from the ongoing challenge of visiting 50 hotels in 50 days, focusing on finding unique, accessible amenities in hotels. Steve then answers questions from listeners, addressing subjects like using technology to improve customer experiences, managing high guest turnover in vacation rentals, staff training for maintaining service standards, and the effectiveness of loyalty programs. He gives advice on creating innovative strategies for hotels to partner with local businesses, the financial benefits of sustainable energy, and the potential of social media for boosting visibility and bookings in the hospitality sector. Don’t forget to check out Good Morning Hospitality - Steve and Sarah’s live show every Wednesday morning! Connect with Steve on LinkedIn RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Steve is sitting down with Omri Shalev, the CTO and co-founder of Reeco. Reeco is a company aiming to simplify the hospitality industry's operational side. Omri shares his journey from falling in love with coding in Mexico City at 15, through his various roles in startups and big tech companies like Samsung and Microsoft, to co-founding Reeco. Reeco's mission is to streamline hospitality operations by integrating purchasing, invoice management, recipes, and inventory count into one platform, leading to significant time and cost savings for hotels. Throughout this episode, Omri provides insights into the entrepreneurial mindset, emphasizing the importance of consistency, adding value to the world, and the evolution of technology in the hospitality industry. Don’t forget to check out Good Morning Hospitality - Steve and Sarah’s live show every Wednesday morning! Connect with Steve on LinkedIn RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tune in to hear the most downloaded episode of The Hospitality Mentor podcast, an interview with Mary Rogers! She is now the Managing Director and Area General Manager for these hotels: Montage Healdsburg, Pendry San Diego, Pendry West Hollywood. Mary has had an incredible career in hospitality, from starting at the age of 13 working at a small bed and breakfast in Ireland to managing the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, one of the world's most luxurious hotels. Throughout this conversation, Mary talks about the different roles she has worked in hotels, the importance of building relationships, and what her advice is for young hoteliers. Don’t forget to check out Good Morning Hospitality - Steve and Sarah’s live show every Wednesday morning! Connect with Steve on LinkedIn RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gabriel Perez, COO of Lodging for the Indigo Road Hospitality Group, shares his extensive journey in the hospitality industry, beginning as a pool bar attendant in Venezuela. With experiences ranging from managing operations at the Intercontinental Hotel to navigating the challenges of condominium hotels and the impacts of the 2008 financial crisis, Gabriel provides valuable insights into the rewards and complexities of a career in hospitality. He emphasizes the importance of culture, giving back, and creating memorable guest experiences, even amid tribulations like the COVID-19 pandemic. Gabriel also discusses his current role with the Indigo Road Hospitality Group, detailing their focus on creating hospitable cultures and expanding their boutique hotel portfolio. Don’t forget to check out Good Morning Hospitality - Steve and Sarah’s live show every Wednesday morning! Connect with Steve on LinkedIn RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sami Kohen, Vice President of Food and Beverage for Princess Cruises, joins Steve this week to share his remarkable journey from working as a bellman in Istanbul to excelling in various roles across the hospitality and cruise industry. Sami dives into his entrepreneurial endeavors and challenges in Miami's restaurant scene, his transition from on-ship to shore-side roles, his achievements and lessons learned along the way, and his current responsibilities at Princess Cruises. Sami provides incredible insights into managing operations for a large cruise line, adapting to new challenges, and emphasizes the importance of education, versatility, and innovation in hospitality. Connect with Sami Kohen on LinkedIn Don’t forget to check out Good Morning Hospitality - Steve and Sarah’s live show every Wednesday morning! Connect with Steve on LinkedIn RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lance Sanson, Vice President of Campus Dining at John Knox Village, exploring his extensive career in hospitality. Starting as a busboy in Eugene, Oregon, Lance describes his early years, learning under notable figures, progressing through various roles including management positions in airport dining and eventually transitioning into senior living facility dining services. He outlines the evolution of his career, emphasizing the importance of being a sponge for knowledge, the power of innovation, and the significance of understanding generational dining preferences. You'll also hear about the ambitious culinary and service standards at John Knox Village, aiming to compete with top dining establishments in South Florida and beyond, highlighting John Knox Village's strategy for attracting and training staff to uphold these high standards. Don’t forget to check out Good Morning Hospitality - Steve and Sarah’s live show every Wednesday morning! Connect with Steve on LinkedIn RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dive into the exciting world of Airbnb in this podcast episode, where we uncover how Airbnb is changing the game in travel and leisure. We look into why Airbnb stands out, focusing on its new types of stays, high-end offerings, and how it uses artificial intelligence to tailor experiences just for you. The episode also highlights the huge interest in Airbnb rentals for the upcoming US solar eclipse, showing how Airbnb offers more unique places to stay than traditional hotels right where the eclipse can be best seen. Plus, we tackle the issue of places on Airbnb that cost way more than they should, identifying which spots have the highest prices and sharing smart ways to find better deals. Whether you're eager to see the solar eclipse or just want to make smart choices in popular travel spots, this podcast is packed with information to help you make the most of Airbnb. Listen in for insightful tips on booking the right place, using travel rewards to your advantage, and picking the best spots for an unforgettable trip. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we're excited to revisit Kirk Peterson's episode. Kirk is the President at Sightline Hospitality and his journey in the hospitality industry, starting from his very first job in food and beverage at a country club to becoming an influential figure in the industry, is fascinating. Kirk discusses the critical role mentors played in his career, the importance of relationships and hard work, and the pivotal transition from working in the investment world to leading operations in hotel management. He also outlines the evolution and strategic positioning of Sightline Hospitality as an expert in managing independent, boutique, and soft-branded hotels. Don’t forget to check out Good Morning Hospitality - Steve and Sarah’s live show every Wednesday morning! Connect with Steve on LinkedIn RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christopher Calabrese, the Vice President and General Manager of the JW Marriott Resort and Spa and Marriott Cancun, joins the Hospitality Mentor Podcast to share his career journey and insights about the hospitality industry. Christopher discusses his roots in hospitality, which began in his mother's kitchen, and his move to roles across the United States and eventually internationally. He talks about his experience navigating cultural differences, developing his own leadership style, and being part of the launch of Marriott's first all-inclusive project. Christopher offers evergreen advice to hospitality professionals and shares the importance of mentorship. Don’t forget to check out Good Morning Hospitality - Steve and Sarah’s live show every Wednesday morning! Connect with Steve on LinkedIn RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cole Boucher, the founder and president of Essential Hospitality, joins Steve today to share his journey in the hospitality industry. Cole's first job started in his family’s company, Boucher Brothers, on Miami beach at the age of 13, and since then he hasn’t stopped. He decided to leave college and start his business, Essential Hospitality, which caters more towards larger hotels, assisting in hospitality logistics and service. A partnership at the Fontainebleau led him to add a pool feature under his model, providing management, payroll, and essentially an all-in-one package for prospective hotels. After this, he ventured out to other properties, adding to his repertoire. The business model Cole follows is a personal, customer service-oriented model that prides itself on creating a great experience for customers. He also reveals an exciting partnership with and a Major Food Group. Tune in to hear Cole's inspiring hospitality story! Don’t forget to check out Good Morning Hospitality - Steve and Sarah’s live show every Wednesday morning! Connect with Steve on LinkedIn RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this office hours show, Steve is answering listener questions live from LinkedIn! Steve shares his process of becoming an entrepreneur in hospitality, gives advice for entrepreneurs wishing to enter the hospitality market, and shares strategies for selecting hotels when traveling. You'll also hear his advice for vendors on understanding each hotel's unique needs and highlights how AI can help in the business. Don’t forget to check out Good Morning Hospitality - Steve and Sarah’s live show every Wednesday morning! Connect with Steve on LinkedIn RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nico Foris, CEO of Guest Services Inc, joins Steve in this episode to chat about his journey in the hospitality industry. Starting as a dishwasher at 12 years old, he progressed through various industries, including working as CFO for the Washington Commanders before landing his current role at Guest Services Inc. He shares his insights about the value of hard work, relationship building, listening skills, and humility. Nico discusses the success of his company's recent ventures, such as the re-establishment of a resort in the Everglades National Park. Don’t forget to check out Good Morning Hospitality - Steve and Sarah’s live show every Wednesday morning! Connect with Steve on LinkedIn RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Steve is joined by Sarah Dandashy, a seasoned hospitality expert, best-selling author and travel personality. Sarah discusses her career evolution, starting as a hostess to becoming a renowned concierge at luxury hotels and eventually launching her own successful social media platform 'Ask a Concierge'. Sarah shares what she learned from being a concierge, how she began building her online presence, her invaluable advice about exploring different roles, the importance of staying engaged, and the potential to create one's own opportunities in the changing digital landscape. Don’t forget to check out Good Morning Hospitality - Steve and Sarah’s live show every Wednesday morning! Connect with Steve on LinkedIn Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn Buy Sarah's Book: Hospitality From Within RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, Steve shares his experience from a family trip to Washington, DC, praising the excellent services at the Intercontinental Hotel at The Wharf. Steve also answers several listener questions on topics such as the impact of climate change on travel choices, emerging accommodations for digital nomads, evolving trends in air travel, technology innovations in travel, culinary hotspots, and the impact that shows like White Lotus have on tourism. Connect with Steve on LinkedIn Check out Steve's new Wednesday morning live show - Good Morning Hospitality! RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we're revisiting an all-time favorite episode with Thatcher Brown, Chief Commercial Officer & Head of Joint Yacht Operations at Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD, Owner and Joint Operator of Four Seasons Yachts. Thatcher has extensive international hospitality and travel-related business experience from working in the U.S and Canada, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. He has held senior management positions in operations, brand strategy, marketing and product development with such international hospitality companies as Jumeirah Group, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, and Crystal Cruises. Throughout this conversation, Thatcher breaks down his career and the various impressive roles he has held. You will hear how hard work, relationship building, a willingness to learn, and seizing opportunities that came his way has contributed to his success. Connect with Steve on LinkedIn Check out Steve's new Wednesday morning live show - Good Morning Hospitality! RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy New Year! Today, Steve is excited to share his interview with Said Haykal, the General Manager of Faena Hotel Miami Beach & District. This interview was the most downloaded episode of 2023 for The Hospitality Mentor podcast. Said is an experienced operations leader with a ultra-successful career of working in the luxury hospitality industry. He has been involved in opening some of the most prestigious properties in the world, including two properties that achieved Forbes Five Star & AAA Five Diamond Status within the first year of opening. Throughout this conversation, Said talks about his experience previously working at Ritz Carlton, St. Regis, Como Hotels, Four Seasons and the progression of roles that led to his current position as General Manager at Faena Hotel, building resiliency, leading a team, and what he recommends to every hospitality professional. Connect with Steve on LinkedIn Check out Steve's new Wednesday morning live show - Good Morning Hospitality! RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, you will hear from Shawn Tarter - the founder of Realtime Reservation. Shawn describes how he went from working in the finance industry to hospitality, how he got the idea for Realtime Reservation the process of building the technology, why it's important to know about the tech that you represent, why hotels are late adopters to technology, his message to brands that are considering new technology, and so much more. Realtime Reservation has been the leading sponsor of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast and we're excited for you to learn more about how this incredible hospitality tech company came to be! Connect with Steve on LinkedIn Check out Steve's new Wednesday morning live show - Good Morning Hospitality! RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, you will hear Steve Turk's guest appearance on the Behind the Stays podcast with host Zach Busekrus. Zach is the Co-Founder of Sponstayneous, a platform like Scott's Cheap Flights but for Airbnbs. Each Sunday morning and Wednesday evening, Sponstayneous releases a carefully curated list of 150 of the best last-minute deals on Airbnb from Canada to the Caribbean and California to Maine. Throughout this episode on Behind the Stays, Zach asks Steve about what drew him to working in hospitality, how he worked his up through executive roles at top hotel brands, and the ins and outs of his career journey spanning over two decades in luxury hospitality. Check out the Behind the Stays podcast Connect with Zach Busekrus on LinkedIn Connect with Steve on LinkedIn Check out Steve's new Wednesday morning live show - Good Morning Hospitality! RealTime Reservation Offer This episode is brought to you by our podcast partners at RealTime Reservation. Their inventory management system is best in class for hotels and resorts to manage their non-room inventory. The web-based application allows for creative upselling of overnight and daytime visitors with add-ons and pre-planned packages. Hotel guests and non-guests can reserve cabanas, pool chairs, activities, amenities, excursions, events, day passes, and much more. To learn more check them out here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices