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In this exciting episode of The Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk sits down with Alexander Kandalaft, the General Manager of the Intercontinental Seattle Bellevue. Discover how this all-in-one platform, Lodgify, can help short-term rental hosts and hospitality operators stay organized. Alexander shares his journey in the hospitality industry, from his early days as a PBX operator at Boston University to managing luxury hotels in Singapore and the US. Learn about the unique offerings at the Intercontinental Seattle Bellevue, including their high-end culinary experiences and the innovative Saks Fifth Avenue personal shopping suite. Don't miss out on Alexander's insights on building trust with your team, navigating international hospitality landscapes, and staying ahead in the competitive world of luxury hotels. Make sure to check out this episodes sponsor Lodgify and for 20% off use code THM20 00:00 Introduction to Lodgify: The Ultimate Hospitality Management Tool 01:00 Welcome to The Hospitality Mentor Podcast 01:47 Alexander Kala's Journey in Hospitality 03:18 From Student to General Manager: Early Career Insights 05:30 Climbing the Ranks: From Stewarding to Management 09:23 International Moves and Leadership Lessons 13:09 Experiencing Singapore: Professional and Personal Growth 17:15 Navigating COVID-19: Challenges and Adaptations 20:52 Housekeeping Team's Return Post-COVID 21:51 Task Force Assignments in New York 23:53 Moving to Seattle Bellevue 25:24 Becoming a General Manager 30:03 Unique Offerings at the Bellevue Property 34:11 Balancing Hotel Guests and Residents 36:39 Intercontinental's Global Reputation 38:06 Excitement for the Upcoming Year 39:37 Advice for Aspiring Hoteliers

Join our host Steve Turk as we explore the dynamic and inspiring career journey of Deniz Dorbek, the founder of the Regulus Collective, in this episode of The Hospitality Mentor Podcast. Starting from her first job as a front desk agent in Istanbul, Deniz narrates her ascent through various roles in the hospitality industry across multiple countries. Deniz shares her insights on revenue management, the importance of mentorship, coping with global crises, and her exciting new venture in hospitality technology and lifestyle branding. Don't miss her incredible stories and invaluable advice for anyone in the luxury hospitality sector. Special thanks to our sponsor, Lodgify, for supporting this episode. Use code THM20 for a 20% discount on all Lodgify yearly and bi-yearly plans! 01:08 Welcome to The Hospitality Mentor Podcast 01:18 Meet Denise Dobe: Founder of The Regulus Collective 02:27 Denise's Journey Begins: From Istanbul to Edinburgh 05:21 Exploring Revenue Management and Global Opportunities 07:13 Challenges and Growth in Thailand and Dubai 18:18 Navigating Crisis and Leadership in Jordan 20:49 Homecoming: Leading in Istanbul 23:36 A Warm Welcome Back Home 24:11 Golden Era of Turkish Hospitality 24:46 Transition to London and Wyndham Hotels 25:50 Building a Commercial Engine from Scratch 28:00 Promotion to Vice President 28:46 Navigating the COVID-19 Crisis 34:35 Stepping into Operations with Hyatt 39:22 Becoming a CEO in Hospitality Tech 40:50 Founding Regulus and Future Plans 44:53 Advice to Young Professionals

Join us on an exciting episode of The Hospitality Mentor Podcast as host Steve Turk dives into the incredible journey of Francesco Balli, co-CEO of Grove Bay Hospitality Group. Discover the unique paths that led Francesco and his partner from being CPAs to successful restaurateurs, the challenges they overcame, and the wisdom they've gathered along the way. This episode is a must listen for anyone interested in the hospitality industry, as Francesco shares insights on building a business, the impact of AI, and the exciting future of their ventures. Special thanks to our sponsor Lodgify for making this episode possible. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation! 00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast 00:44 Sponsor Spotlight: Lodgify 01:38 Guest Introduction: Francesco Bali 02:08 Francesco's Early Career and First Job in Hospitality 02:28 The Journey from CPA to Hospitality 02:51 Family Influence and Entrepreneurial Spirit 04:34 The Leap from Ernst and Young to Areas USA 15:36 Navigating the Concession World 18:40 The Birth of Grove Bay Hospitality Group 24:27 Acquiring the Airport Restaurant 26:06 Winning the Coconut Grove Contract 28:01 Launching Glass and Vine 30:37 Partnering with Top Chef Jeremy Ford 33:11 Expanding with Stubborn Seed and Stiltsville Fish Bar 35:01 Venturing into Airport Concessions 41:10 Future Prospects and AI in Hospitality 42:57 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs

Join host Steve Turk in this exciting episode of The Hospitality Mentor Podcast as we sit down with Adam Sperling, the General Manager of the iconic Charles Hotel in Cambridge's Harvard Square. From starting as a front desk agent to leading one of the most admired independent hotels, Adam shares his incredible journey, the importance of mentorship, and the unique challenges and rewards of managing an independent hotel. Discover how Adam navigated various roles, adapted to different ownerships, and continuously innovated to stay ahead in the hospitality industry. Don't miss his valuable advice for aspiring hospitality professionals and the exciting future plans for Charles Hotel. Tune in to learn why independent hotels hold a special place in the industry and get inspired by Adam's passion for excellence in hospitality management! 00:00 Introduction to Lodgify: The Ultimate Hospitality Management Tool 01:05 Welcome to The Hospitality Mentor Podcast 01:16 Meet Adam Sperling: General Manager at The Charles Hotel 02:31 Adam's Journey: From Front Desk Agent to General Manager 04:27 The Knickerbocker Hotel and Early Career Lessons 05:43 Mentorship and Career Growth at The Omni Ambassador East 07:38 The DoubleTree Experience and the Warm Cookie Story 11:01 Leadership Lessons and the Path to General Manager 19:11 The Independent Hotel Spirit: Hotel Tria and Beyond 25:09 The Big Break That Wasn't 26:17 Strategic Career Moves 31:00 Staying Motivated for 17 Years 32:30 Adapting to Different Ownerships 37:05 A New Opportunity at the Charles Hotel 40:07 The Value of Independent Hotels 47:44 Advice to My Younger Self

Join Steve Turk on The Hospitality Mentor Podcast, where he delves into the career journey of Darragh McGillicuddy, founder of McGillicuddy Hospitality. Discover insights from Darragh's leadership roles in renowned organizations like Ritz-Carlton and Royal Caribbean, as well as his transition into the entrepreneurial world. Learn about the evolution of the hospitality industry, the importance of leadership development, and how Darragh's company is setting new standards in hospitality training. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for anyone passionate about hospitality management and leadership. 00:44 Sponsor Spotlight: Lodgify - The Ultimate Hospitality Management Tool 01:38 Guest Introduction: Dara McGill Cuddy of McGill Cuddy Hospitality 02:36 Dara's Early Days in Hospitality 04:16 Family Legacy: The Story of Bally Garry House 07:21 Hospitality Education: Shannon College of Hotel Management 09:28 Career Journey: From Ireland to Ritz Carlton 14:20 Ritz Carlton Experience: Culture and Empowerment 19:15 Transition to Cruise Industry: Joining Royal Caribbean 23:42 The Evolution of Cruise Ship Deployment 24:16 Royal Caribbean's Innovative Approach 25:14 Transitioning to Food and Beverage Management 26:23 Specialty Dining and Concept Development 29:36 Leadership and Succession Planning 33:12 Starting an Entrepreneurial Journey 35:21 Building a Global Hospitality Training Business 40:47 Future Plans and Industry Insights 43:14 Advice for Aspiring Hospitality Professionals

In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, Steve Turk welcomes Mark Reichle, CEO of Select Registry. They discuss the distinct qualities of Select Registry, including its focus on independently-owned inns, bed and breakfasts, and boutique hotels, all adhering to a high standard of quality assurance. Mark shares his journey from working for Ford Motor Company to running a successful bed and breakfast with his wife, and eventually becoming the CEO of Select Registry. The conversation covers the evolution and promotion of 'craft lodging,' the importance of unique guest experiences, and how Select Registry supports its members. Mark also touches on exciting future plans involving AI to improve customer journeys. Tune in for insights into the specialty lodging industry and tips for those looking to venture into this field. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:43 What is Select Registry? 03:42 Mark's Journey to Hospitality 07:15 Starting the Bed and Breakfast 13:39 Challenges and Successes 20:20 Working with Select Registry 24:40 Future of Select Registry 32:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk chats with Anand and Nina, owners of the Barn B&B in Walla Walla, Washington. They share their inspiring journey from their extensive careers in the hospitality industry to fulfilling their dream of creating a unique luxury B&B. The discussion covers their initial planning, challenges faced during construction, the impact of COVID-19, and the meticulous guest experience they provide. Listeners also hear about their loyalty program, personal touches, and advice for couples working together in business. Tune in for a heartwarming and informative episode that delves into the dedication and passion behind a distinguished hospitality venture. 00:00 Introduction to The Hospitality Mentor Podcast 00:42 Meet Anand and Nina of Barn B&B Walla Walla 01:17 The Journey to Walla Walla 02:21 Creating a Unique Bed and Breakfast Experience 03:20 Nina's Background in Hospitality 04:18 Anand's Extensive Career in Hospitality 10:00 Planning and Building the Dream B&B 15:37 Opening Day and Early Challenges 18:17 Navigating COVID-19 Challenges 19:18 Guest Experience and Unique Features 20:19 Warm Welcomes and Check-In Rituals 23:42 Loyalty Programs and Special Offers 28:32 Future Plans and Industry Trends 30:31 Advice for Aspiring Hoteliers 33:56 Marriage and Partnership Insights 34:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this special episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk reveals an exciting new project he's been working on for the past two years, BAYA. Previously envisioned as a glamping site, the project has evolved into a breathtaking landscape resort called BAYA, located in South Florida. Steve introduces his partner, Ben WolfF, and together they dive into the inspiration, development journey, and the unique features of BAYA. Expect tropical bungalows, an exotic fruit forest, wellness amenities, and a farm-to-table café. The duo discusses the $14 million build, their innovative marketing strategies, and their vision for making BAYA a one-of-a-kind destination. Tune in to learn about their collaborative efforts and what makes this project truly special. 00:00 Introduction and Special Announcement 00:56 Introducing the Vision for BAA Resort 02:30 Challenges and Realizations 04:49 Partnership Formation and Initial Steps 07:55 Project Development and Team Dynamics 11:29 Financial Overview and Projections 15:20 Reflecting on Past Challenges and Future Excitement 15:59 Creating a Unique Guest Experience 17:38 Marketing and Social Media Strategy 21:44 Building the Guest Journey 24:14 Exciting Amenities and Wellness Focus 27:07 Project Timeline and Future Plans 28:38 Personal Excitement and Vision 31:12 Conclusion and Call to Action

From Adventure Travel to Hotel Management: Amanda Arling's Journey in Hospitality In this episode of The Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Amanda Arling, the president of The Whalers Inn in Mystic, Connecticut. Amanda shares her unique career path from studying microbiology to working in adventure travel for the company Back Roads. She discusses how her love for travel and culture eventually led her to a management role in the hospitality industry. Amanda highlights the importance of relationship building, both in creating guest experiences and mentoring her team. She also shares insights into the challenges and successes of opening a fine dining, sustainable seafood restaurant during the pandemic. Listeners will get valuable tips on hospitality management, creating memorable guest experiences, and the importance of community engagement. 00:00 Introduction to The Hospitality Mentor Podcast 00:31 Meet Amanda Arling: President of The Whalers Inn 01:49 Amanda's Journey into Hospitality 02:33 From Adventure Travel to Boutique Hotel Management 07:00 Transitioning to The Whalers Inn 15:22 Building a Team and Mentoring Future Leaders 19:27 Creating Unique Guest Experiences 26:46 Challenges and Successes in the Restaurant Industry 30:34 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Hospitality Professionals 31:27 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Message

Join Steve Turk on the Hospitality Mentor Podcast as he delves into the inspiring story of BCB3 Hospitality, a dynamic partnership between Babak Bina, Andy Cartin, and Jamie Bissonnette. In this episode, they share their unique paths into the hospitality industry, the challenges and successes of opening four innovative restaurant concepts in Boston, and the passion and collaboration that fuel their ventures. From embracing Korean cuisine to creating a Basque culinary experience, discover how they navigated obstacles and earned critical acclaim, including a James Beard nomination and recognition from the New York Times. 00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast 00:31 Upcoming Hospitality Mentor Networking Event 01:03 Special Episode with the BCB Three Team 01:35 Meet Babak Bina: The Journey Begins 01:51 Meet Andy Carton: From Connecticut to Boston 02:36 Meet Jamie Binette: From Hartford to Boston 03:25 The Formation of BCB Three 06:22 Babak Bina's Early Days in Hospitality 10:27 Andy Carton's Path to Hospitality 12:56 Jamie Binette's Culinary Journey 17:37 Designing Unique Restaurant Experiences 20:38 The Birth of Somac: A Korean Restaurant Concept 23:09 Overcoming Early Failures and Pivoting 24:35 Embracing Asian and Spanish Culinary Influences 29:02 Opening Multiple Concepts Simultaneously 31:12 Reflections on Success and Future Plans 41:05 Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs 43:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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