Shows
The Evolved Man w/Steve Cutler89: SPECIAL EPISODE! Traumatic Brain Injuries, Hope and Healing. A round table discussion w/Dr Alina Fong, Ashley Iverson & Jen SalernoEVOLVE 89 is different than our normal episodes as we had Steve joined in a round table discussion about brain injury, brain health and how it plays into you overall health.
Why we are talking about a topic like this on the EVOLVE podcast? Steve says “I would say there are a few reasons.
First, as we discuss what a brain injury is many of you may recall a time where you experienced something that fits the definition. This episode can shed light on this topic and expand your understanding
Second, there are more than 5.3 million individuals in...2023-03-121h 08
The Room BlockTaking the Fear out of Team Building, with Matt MayWhat makes a team building session engaging, interactive, and fun for everyone? We know that "teamwork makes the dream work" but all too often, team building activities can cause hesitation, anxiety or feel like a waste of time. In this episode I am joined by Matt May, founder and CEO of Premier Team Building & Interactive Experiences™, who shares why effective team building is so beneficial, especially in today's remote-work world. Tune in to hear what led Matt into this unique line of work, learn some team building dos and dont’s, and discover why hiring a professional is your key to a...2022-07-0636 minThe Room BlockTaking the Fear out of Team Building, with Matt MayWhat makes a team building session engaging, interactive, and fun for everyone? We know that “teamwork makes the dream work” but all too often, team building activities can cause hesitation, anxiety or feel like a waste of time. In this episode I am joined by Matt May, founder and CEO of Premier Team Building & Interactive Experiences, who shares why effective team building is so beneficial, especially in today’s remote-work world. Tune in to hear what led Matt into this unique line of work, learn some team building dos and dont’s, and discover why hiring a professional is your key...2022-07-0636 minThe Room BlockAdding Your Single Coworkers to the Inclusivity Discussion, with Colleen BrzozowskiDo single employees get the short end of the stick when it comes to office policies and politics? In her second visit to The Room Block, Colleen Brzozowski joins me to share her experience as a single in the workplace and explains why it led her to develop and present a talk on the subject for the 2022 SITE Global Conference in Dublin, Ireland. Whatever age or stage of life you're at, being single creates some unique situations that should be considered in the workplace as well as in the world of business and incentive travel. As we continue to focus...2022-06-1539 minThe Room BlockAdding Your Single Coworkers to the Inclusivity Discussion, with Colleen BrzozowskiDo single employees get the short end of the stick when it comes to office policies and politics? In her second visit to The Room Block, Colleen Brzozowski joins me to share her experience as a single in the workplace and explains why it led her to develop and present a talk on the subject for the 2022 SITE Global Conference in Dublin, Ireland. Whatever age or stage of life you’re at, being single creates some unique situations that should be considered in the workplace as well as in the world of business and incentive travel. As we continue to...2022-06-1539 minThe Room BlockExploring Experiential Design, with Mallory GottWhat is experiential design and how can it help the events and hospitality industry? In this episode of The Room Block I am joined by Mallory Gott, Owner and Creative Director of G + A, An Experiential Design Firm which helps transform clients such as restaurants, bars, and other boutique hospitality event and brand experiences through their feelings-led 4D Framework. Mal explains how experiential design helps your customers develop an emotional connection to your brands and businesses, as well as uncover solutions to challenges big and small. If you haven’t yet considered what you want it to feel like for...2022-05-2551 minThe Room BlockExploring Experiential Design, with Mallory GottWhat is experiential design and how can it help the events and hospitality industry? In this episode of The Room Block I am joined by Mallory Gott, Owner and Creative Director of G + A, An Experiential Design Firm which helps transform clients such as restaurants, bars, and other boutique hospitality event and brand experiences through their feelings-led 4D Framework™. Mal explains how experiential design helps your customers develop an emotional connection to your brands and businesses, as well as uncover solutions to challenges big and small. If you haven’t yet considered what you want it to feel like for your...2022-05-2551 min
Events: demystified Podcast74: It's ok to change your mind and keep evolving ft Jen Salerno“Evolve into the complete person you were intended to be.” Oprah Winfrey
My next featured guest on the Events: demystified Podcast is someone that has been in the event industry for a minute or two, an amazing person you feel drawn to the moment you meet, my dear friend, #eventprof, and fellow event industry podcaster, Jen Salerno, CMP, DES. You're going to very much enjoy this honest conversation, Jen Salerno is a 20-year veteran of the hospitality & events industry.
Throughout her career, Jen has worked with and consulted for many of the biggest trade shows in th...2022-05-2431 minThe Room BlockIntroducing JTS Connect, with guest host Courtney StanleyIn this role-reversal episode of The Room Block I’ve invited Courtney Stanley of Courtney Stanley Consulting, LLC to help me officially launch and share exciting updates about my new venture, JTS Connect, LLC. Courtney takes the reins as guest host to interview me for the full story behind JTS Connect, as well as chat about how meaningful conversations can change the world and why being your own boss is so challenging yet so rewarding at the same time. Tune in to learn about what I’ve been up to, and how Courtney has been a guiding light as I co...2022-05-1135 minThe Room BlockIntroducing JTS Connect, with guest host Courtney StanleyIn this role-reversal episode of The Room Block I've invited Courtney Stanley of Courtney Stanley Consulting, LLC to help me officially launch and share exciting updates about my new venture, JTS Connect, LLC. Courtney takes the reins as guest host to interview me for the full story behind JTS Connect, as well as chat about how meaningful conversations can change the world and why being your own boss is so challenging yet so rewarding at the same time. Tune in to learn about what I've been up to, and how Courtney has been a guiding light as I continue down...2022-05-1135 minThe Room BlockUsing Data Insights to Enhance Your Impact, with Steve GabourelAre you using data in a way that drives maximum impact for your organization?
Most of us are aware that data is something to collect and analyze, and that it can guide us towards making the right decisions. To Steve Gabourel, Principal Investigator of SG Insights, however, data is a science and an art. After years of consulting for organizations that hold annual meetings he sees data as a way to communicate with and serve those who matter the most to your business – your community of employees, attendees, guests and members. After listening to this episode you’ll f...2022-04-2743 minThe Room BlockUsing Data Insights to Enhance Your Impact, with Steve GabourelAre you using data in a way that drives maximum impact for your organization?
Most of us are aware that data is something to collect and analyze, and that it can guide us towards making the right decisions. To Steve Gabourel, Principal Investigator of SG Insights, however, data is a science and an art. After years of consulting for organizations that hold annual meetings he sees data as a way to communicate with and serve those who matter the most to your business - your community of employees, attendees, guests and members. After listening to this episode you'll find that...2022-04-2743 minThe Room BlockGame-Changing Hospitality Through Gratitude, with Neil DeGuiaWhy is it important for a hotel general manager to practice gratitude? The recovery of our industry depends on it. Despite the many challenges that’ve plagued the hospitality industry over the last 2 years and into today, Neil DeGuia, Complex General Manager and Chief Enthusiast of the Hilton Garden Inn and Canopy by Hilton Chicago Central Loop greets each day with optimism, resilience, and confidence that he can guide his team through anything that comes their way. He can do this because he’s chosen to learn from and be thankful for every opportunity and challenge that he’s encoun...2022-04-1338 minThe Room BlockGame-Changing Hospitality Through Gratitude, with Neil DeGuiaWhy is it important for a hotel general manager to practice gratitude? The recovery of our industry depends on it. Despite the many challenges that've plagued the hospitality industry over the last 2 years and into today, Neil DeGuia, Complex General Manager and Chief Enthusiast of the Hilton Garden Inn and Canopy by Hilton Chicago Central Loop greets each day with optimism, resilience, and confidence that he can guide his team through anything that comes their way. He can do this because he's chosen to learn from and be thankful for every opportunity and challenge that he’s encountered. Supported by th...2022-04-1338 minThe Room BlockSpeaking Up to #StopAsianHate, with Jolene JangIn this episode of The Room Block I am joined by Jolene Jang, Asian Inclusivity Expert and #StopAsianHate advocate. Jolene gives us a glimpse into current Asian American concerns and explains how Asian American lives are being affected by hate – as well as why this matters to the hospitality and events industry. In this honest and raw conversation, Jolene Jang speaks up for the many who can’t, or won’t speak for themselves, for reasons that you will hear about in this episode. As hospitality workers, meeting and event organizers, and community builders who truly care about the experie...2022-03-3057 minThe Room BlockSpeaking Up to #StopAsianHate, with Jolene JangIn this episode of The Room Block I am joined by Jolene Jang, Asian Inclusivity Expert and #StopAsianHate advocate. Jolene gives us a glimpse into current Asian American concerns and explains how Asian American lives are being affected by hate - as well as why this matters to the hospitality and events industry. In this honest and raw conversation, Jolene Jang speaks up for the many who can’t, or won’t speak for themselves, for reasons that you will hear about in this episode. As hospitality workers, meeting and event organizers, and community builders who truly care about the exper...2022-03-3057 minThe Room BlockDemystifying Women in Event Production, with Anca TrifanMarch is Women’s History Month, which is a celebration of women’s contributions to history, culture and society. In this episode of The Room Block, I celebrate Anca Trifan, founder and CEO of Tree-fan Events, a woman-led boutique event planning and production agency. Anca is a podcast host, content creator and storyteller who builds lasting connections by unapologetically being herself - even if that means being a woman in a male-dominated field. Anca explains how she turned her dreams into reality and why she feels so strongly about being a cheerleader for every role that goes into making an event...2022-03-0246 minThe Room BlockDemystifying Women in Event Production, with Anca TrifanMarch is Women’s History Month, which is a celebration of women’s contributions to history, culture and society. In this episode of The Room Block, I celebrate Anca Trifan, founder and CEO of Tree-fan Events, a woman-led boutique event planning and production agency. Anca is a podcast host, content creator and storyteller who builds lasting connections by unapologetically being herself – even if that means being a woman in a male-dominated field. Anca explains how she turned her dreams into reality and why she feels so strongly about being a cheerleader for every role that goes into making an event a...2022-03-0246 minThe Room BlockEngineering Your Most Engaging Event, with Mark HerschbergWhat makes a live event worth your time and money to attend? Author, speaker and MIT instructor Mark Herschberg has been to his fair share of conferences and joins me in The Room Block to chat through the elements an in-person conference needs to provide the value attendees are looking for in today’s content-saturated, virtual world. From event design that drives networking to special touches above and beyond the usual swag, by the end of this episode you’ll walk away with some new tools for your next event, and maybe even your next must-read book or keynote spea...2022-02-1636 minThe Room BlockEngineering Your Most Engaging Event, with Mark HerschbergWhat makes a live event worth your time and money to attend? Author, speaker and MIT instructor Mark Herschberg has been to his fair share of conferences and joins me in The Room Block to chat through the elements an in-person conference needs to provide the value attendees are looking for in today's content-saturated, virtual world. From event design that drives networking to special touches above and beyond the usual swag, by the end of this episode you’ll walk away with some new tools for your next event, and maybe even your next must-read book or keynote speaker.
Mark Her...2022-02-1636 minThe Room BlockEntertaining Events & Impactful Experiences, with Jeff CivillicoHave you ever noticed how our past life experiences can end up contributing to our future in a significant way? Jeff Civillico is an event emcee & keynote speaker who joined me in The Room Block to share how performing juggling shows in his kitchen as a child led him to become a Las Vegas headliner, philanthropist, and corporate entertainer. In this episode, you will hear how Jeff’s early experiences, lessons, and struggles evolved into what are now his biggest strengths. Jeff’s ability to perform under pressure and engage an audience alongside a willingness to work really hard make...2022-02-0242 minThe Room BlockEntertaining Events & Impactful Experiences, with Jeff CivillicoHave you ever noticed how our past life experiences can end up contributing to our future in a significant way? Jeff Civillico is an event emcee & keynote speaker who joined me in The Room Block to share how performing juggling shows in his kitchen as a child led him to become a Las Vegas headliner, philanthropist, and corporate entertainer. In this episode, you will hear how Jeff’s early experiences, lessons, and struggles evolved into what are now his biggest strengths. Jeff's ability to perform under pressure and engage an audience alongside a willingness to work really hard make him to...2022-02-0242 minThe Room BlockHumanizing Virtual & Hybrid Events, with Hoyin CheungEvents are taking place in-person again, and many of us are more than ready to attend. But what about those of us who aren’t yet ready, or simply can’t attend in person? Fortunately and as event professionals know, there are numerous virtual event platforms to choose from, each with their own special features, or as my guest puts it, “superpowers.” Hoyin Cheung is the founder & CEO of Remo, an online interactive events platform whose superpower is the ability to transform the experience of connecting, communicating, and collaborating with people across the globe by “humanizing” online interactions. Hoyin joins me in...2022-01-1932 minThe Room BlockHumanizing Virtual & Hybrid Events, with Hoyin CheungEvents are taking place in-person again, and many of us are more than ready to attend. But what about those of us who aren’t yet ready, or simply can’t attend in person? Fortunately and as event professionals know, there are numerous virtual event platforms to choose from, each with their own special features, or as my guest puts it, “superpowers.” Hoyin Cheung is the founder & CEO of Remo, an online interactive events platform whose superpower is the ability to transform the experience of connecting, communicating, and collaborating with people across the globe by "humanizing" online interactions. Hoyin joins me in Th...2022-01-1932 minThe Room BlockServing Yourself & Unlocking Possibility, with Amanda ZahnerSometimes we get stuck in certain areas of our life because we can’t see other options. Amanda Zahner, a former event planner who is now Co-Founder and Chief Experience Officer of the Haus of {&} joins me in The Room Block to share her journey to recovery and how she changed her life by unlocking new doors. My conversation with Amanda is about possibility. The unknown options we have, the surprising ways we find the courage to explore them, overcoming our hidden demons (some of which run rampant in the events industry), and what happens when we choose to do...2022-01-0536 minThe Room BlockServing Yourself & Unlocking Possibility, with Amanda ZahnerSometimes we get stuck in certain areas of our life because we can't see other options. Amanda Zahner, a former event planner who is now Co-Founder and Chief Experience Officer of the Haus of {&}™ joins me in The Room Block to share her journey to recovery and how she changed her life by unlocking new doors. My conversation with Amanda is about possibility. The unknown options we have, the surprising ways we find the courage to explore them, overcoming our hidden demons (some of which run rampant in the events industry), and what happens when we choose to do what se...2022-01-0536 minThe Room BlockContinuing the Conversation: What’s Next for DEI, with Cherai Lewis and Tamara JonesThose who are actively having conversations in the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) space know that the work is ongoing. So, how can we move into 2022 with a continued sense of purpose that builds upon what’s been done so far? In this episode I am joined by Cherai Lewis of the Cherai Lewis Consulting Group and Tamara Jones, Senior Director, Association & Tradeshow Sales at Choose Chicago. Cherai and Tamara are both founding members of the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Greater Midwest Chapter’s IDE Task Force that was formed in 2020. Now, as we are moving into 2022 and it’s...2021-12-2248 minThe Room BlockContinuing the Conversation: What’s Next for DEI, with Cherai Lewis and Tamara JonesThose who are actively having conversations in the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) space know that the work is ongoing. So, how can we move into 2022 with a continued sense of purpose that builds upon what's been done so far? In this episode I am joined by Cherai Lewis of the Cherai Lewis Consulting Group and Tamara Jones, Senior Director, Association & Tradeshow Sales at Choose Chicago. Cherai and Tamara are both founding members of the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Greater Midwest Chapter's IDE Task Force that was formed in 2020. Now, as we are moving into 2022 and it’s 3rd ye...2021-12-2248 minThe Room BlockCatalyzing Connections at Your Next Conference, with Thom SingerWhen you want to increase engagement or foster connections at your company or event, where do you turn? Thom Singer, otherwise known as “The Conference Catalyst” is all about community, collaboration, and connection. As the host of several podcasts and a celebrated keynote speaker and event emcee, Thom has a passion for connection and a strong awareness of the power of meetings & events and all who make them happen. Join me in The Room Block to hear how networking led Thom to his dream career, why he values this industry as much as he does, and the value an emce...2021-12-0837 minThe Room BlockCatalyzing Connections at Your Next Conference, with Thom SingerWhen you want to increase engagement or foster connections at your company or event, where do you turn? Thom Singer, otherwise known as “The Conference Catalyst” is all about community, collaboration, and connection. As the host of several podcasts and a celebrated keynote speaker and event emcee, Thom has a passion for connection and a strong awareness of the power of meetings & events and all who make them happen. Join me in The Room Block to hear how networking led Thom to his dream career, why he values this industry as much as he does, and the value an emcee can...2021-12-0837 minThe Room BlockShowing Gratitude: A Guide to Holiday Tipping, with Nancy O’BrienIt’s safe to say that the world has changed quite a bit over the last 20 months and some of us may be a bit rusty when it comes to showing our appreciation for those who make our lives easier and provide quality, dependable service. No need to worry; today’s timely episode will help make your holidays a bit brighter so you can stress less. I am pleased to welcome Nancy O’Brien, Founder & CEO of The Magnetic Truth back to The Room Block to chat through her 2021 Guide to Holiday Tipping. Nancy advises how to express gratitude to tho...2021-11-2431 minThe Room BlockShowing Gratitude: A Guide to Holiday Tipping, with Nancy O’BrienIt’s safe to say that the world has changed quite a bit over the last 20 months and some of us may be a bit rusty when it comes to showing our appreciation for those who make our lives easier and provide quality, dependable service. No need to worry; today's timely episode will help make your holidays a bit brighter so you can stress less. I am pleased to welcome Nancy O’Brien, Founder & CEO of The Magnetic Truth back to The Room Block to chat through her 2021 Guide to Holiday Tipping. Nancy advises how to express gratitude to those we d...2021-11-2431 minThe Room BlockBetting on Yourself to Grow Your Career, with Deanna NwosuAfter more than 2 decades working in the hospitality and events industry, Deanna Nwosu chose to step out on her own during the pandemic. Today, she is Founder and Event Strategist at Deanna Camille, which assists organizations with all aspects of virtual and in-person events. What makes somebody take the uncertain step of becoming a solopreneur during such an uncertain time for the events industry? Deanna has the answers, and they all come down to a deep trust in, and knowledge of, yourself. If you're somebody who loves being challenged, takes immense pride in your work, and isn't afraid to bet o...2021-11-1737 minThe Room BlockBetting on Yourself to Grow Your Career, with Deanna NwosuAfter more than 2 decades working in the hospitality and events industry, Deanna Nwosu chose to step out on her own during the pandemic. Today, she is Founder and Event Strategist at Deanna Camille, which assists organizations with all aspects of virtual and in-person events. What makes somebody take the uncertain step of becoming a solopreneur during such an uncertain time for the events industry? Deanna has the answers, and they all come down to a deep trust in, and knowledge of, yourself. If you’re somebody who loves being challenged, takes immense pride in your work, and isn’t afrai...2021-11-1737 minThe Room BlockProducing Events While Having Endless Fun, with Will CurranMany people who work in the events industry may be prone to stress and burnout, but Will Curran is not one of them. As Founder and Chief Event Einstein of Endless Events, Will seems to have found the antidote: do what you love and what you're good at. Will loves the career and life that he’s designed so much that he almost makes it sound easy to produce in-person, virtual, and hybrid events for a portfolio of over 1,000 customers. While I know that's not the case, I have a feeling this episode will show you that there are truly en...2021-11-1037 minThe Room BlockProducing Events While Having Endless Fun, with Will CurranMany people who work in the events industry may be prone to stress and burnout, but Will Curran is not one of them. As Founder and Chief Event Einstein of Endless Events, Will seems to have found the antidote: do what you love and what you’re good at. Will loves the career and life that he’s designed so much that he almost makes it sound easy to produce in-person, virtual, and hybrid events for a portfolio of over 1,000 customers. While I know that’s not the case, I have a feeling this episode will show you that there...2021-11-1037 minThe Room BlockHolding Space for Events and Hospitality, with David KlimanThe events and hospitality industry is a leader when it comes to resilency and creativity. It's easy to see why, being made up of idea generators, people connectors, deep thinkers and solution seekers. My first guest of the new season embodies all of these things and as a result, has made a lasting impact on the strength of the industry. David Kliman, founder and president of The Kliman Group has been serving the industry in this capacity for almost 2 decades, but his legacy of holding space for hospitality and events extends beyond that. From hotelier and event planner to meeting f...2021-11-0336 minThe Room BlockHolding Space for Events and Hospitality, with David KlimanThe events and hospitality industry is a leader when it comes to resilency and creativity. It’s easy to see why, being made up of idea generators, people connectors, deep thinkers and solution seekers. My first guest of the new season embodies all of these things and as a result, has made a lasting impact on the strength of the industry. David Kliman, founder and president of The Kliman Group has been serving the industry in this capacity for almost 2 decades, but his legacy of holding space for hospitality and events extends beyond that. From hotelier and event planner to...2021-11-0336 min
The Room BlockRevamping Your To-Do List: More Want-Tos, Less Have-TosLife can so easily feel like an endless stream of tasks. We get so caught up in all of the things we have to or should do, that we ignore or feel guilty about the things we actually want to do. In this episode, I share what I learned by stepping away from my vast "have to-do" list, instead spending the summer checking off my "want to-dos." If you find it challenging to indulge in the things you really want to do over the things feel you have to, consider this episode a permission slip to revamp your to-do list...2021-10-2713 minThe Room BlockRevamping Your To-Do List: More Want-Tos, Less Have-TosLife can so easily feel like an endless stream of tasks. We get so caught up in all of the things we have to or should do, that we ignore or feel guilty about the things we actually want to do. In this episode, I share what I learned by stepping away from my vast “have to-do” list, instead spending the summer checking off my “want to-dos.” If you find it challenging to indulge in the things you really want to do over the things feel you have to, consider this episode a permission slip to revamp your to-do list. Yo...2021-10-2713 min
HospitalityMDConnecting the Dots between Events and the Rest of the Hospitality Industry with Jen SalernoWelcome back to another episode of HospitalityMD! This week we are featuring our wonderful friend, Jen Salerno. Jen is the host of The Room Block podcast and founder of JTS Connect where she provides live and virtual events with host, moderation and facilitation services!
Find The Room Block Podcast here: https://roomblockpodcast.com/
Connect with Jen on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtsalerno/
Here is the link for our award winning documentary "Follow Me and I Will Be Behind You" here: https://youtu.be/WievTSOmd8k
Stay up to date...2021-10-0655 min
The Wise Pineapple - Juicy TidbitsTWP - Juicy Tidbits with Jen SalernoOur Guest Star today is Jen Salerno is a 20-year veteran of the hospitality & events industry. Throughout her career, Jen has consulted many of the biggest trade shows in the country and specializes in strengthening the relationship between event planners and the hospitality community.
Today, she is the host of The Room Block, the podcast where hospitality and event professionals meet. Jen is passionate about solidifying the connections across our industry. She is also an emcee who can moderate your live or virtual events!
Jen's juicy tidbits of energy and inspiration are all about...2021-07-1323 minThe Room BlockDoing the Work: A Look Inside an IDE Task Force, with Yolanda Simmons-Battle, Jatare Barrett, and Alli ShebekAlmost a year into the development of the PCMA Greater Midwest Chapter's Inclusion, Diversity and Equity (IDE) Task Force I sit down with founding members, Yolanda Simmons-Battle, Jatare Barrett and Alli Shebek to talk about how and why it was formed, the type of programming it provides, its future goals and what they have learned. We also reflect on some of the other significant events and anniversaries that are important to discuss when exploring IDE efforts. Our history may be in the past, but it created the foundation that we stand on today and that foundation is in need of...2021-06-301h 11The Room BlockDoing the Work: A Look Inside an IDE Task Force, with Yolanda Simmons-Battle, Jatare Barrett, and Alli ShebekAlmost a year into the development of the PCMA Greater Midwest Chapter’s Inclusion, Diversity and Equity (IDE) Task Force I sit down with founding members, Yolanda Simmons-Battle, Jatare Barrett and Alli Shebek to talk about how and why it was formed, the type of programming it provides, its future goals and what they have learned. We also reflect on some of the other significant events and anniversaries that are important to discuss when exploring IDE efforts. Our history may be in the past, but it created the foundation that we stand on today and that foundation is in ne...2021-06-301h 11The Room BlockTeaching the Art of Hospitality, with Zana UsherCan the art of hospitality be taught? According to Zana Usher, Founder and CEO of Zana DeVine Hospitality, it can, as long as you have the heart for hospitality. Zana is a hospitality expert and coach who was born into the industry and now lives to serve those who serve in it. If you manage a restaurant, hotel, or a team within one, this episode will show you how investing in a hospitality coach can be just what you need to start a positive cycle of service, satisfaction and sales. If you are an employee, let Zana’s passion for peo...2021-06-2336 minThe Room BlockTeaching the Art of Hospitality, with Zana UsherCan the art of hospitality be taught? According to Zana Usher, Founder and CEO of Zana DeVine Hospitality, it can, as long as you have the heart for hospitality. Zana is a hospitality expert and coach who was born into the industry and now lives to serve those who serve in it. If you manage a restaurant, hotel, or a team within one, this episode will show you how investing in a hospitality coach can be just what you need to start a positive cycle of service, satisfaction and sales. If you are an employee, let Zana’s passion for...2021-06-2336 minThe Room BlockSelling the Future, with Mark McLaughlin and Sarah BeckerIt's challenging to be on the opening team of a new hotel under normal circumstances; even more so under our "new normal." Mark McLaughlin, Director of Business Development at the brand new Sable at Navy Pier Chicago, and Sarah Becker, Complex Director of Sales at the also brand-new Hilton Garden Inn and Canopy by Hilton Chicago Central Loop join me in The Room Block to chat about how their hotel sales journeys have led them to their exciting new roles as sales leaders starting from scratch. Listen in to learn about your new favorite hotel hangouts in Chicago, and to...2021-06-1658 minThe Room BlockSelling the Future, with Mark McLaughlin and Sarah BeckerIt’s challenging to be on the opening team of a new hotel under normal circumstances; even more so under our “new normal.” Mark McLaughlin, Director of Business Development at the brand new Sable at Navy Pier Chicago, and Sarah Becker, Complex Director of Sales at the also brand-new Hilton Garden Inn and Canopy by Hilton Chicago Central Loop join me in The Room Block to chat about how their hotel sales journeys have led them to their exciting new roles as sales leaders starting from scratch. Listen in to learn about your new favorite hotel hangouts in Chicago, and to...2021-06-1658 minThe Room BlockThe Struggle Is Real: Early EntrepreneurshipIt’s been so exciting getting back out into the world and seeing people live in person again, but it’s also prompted insecurities about the next step in my career and why I’m still not where I want to be! For those of you who are giving entrepreneurship a go or have ever thought about doing so, this episode may feel like a cautionary tale, or a guiding light. But no matter where you are on your journey, the most important thing to remember is to just…keep…going.
Referenced in episode:
HospitalityMD
Judi...2021-06-0914 minThe Room BlockThe Struggle Is Real: Early EntrepreneurshipIt’s been so exciting getting back out into the world and seeing people live in person again, but it’s also prompted insecurities about the next step in my career and why I’m still not where I want to be! For those of you who are giving entrepreneurship a go or have ever thought about doing so, this episode may feel like a cautionary tale, or a guiding light. But no matter where you are on your journey, the most important thing to remember is to just...keep...going.
Referenced in episode:
HospitalityMD
Judi Holler
This is The Courte...2021-06-0914 min
The Room BlockLeading Our Recovery by Learning Together, with Ashley Lawson and Manuel LaraDo you feel confident about the return to live events? Whether a hotelier, event planner, or event attendee, each of us carries some risk and responsibility as we begin to travel and meet in person once again. Join me for an exclusive first look at the successful conclusion of an actual live program, planned by Ashley Lawson, Vice President of Business Partnerships and co-owner of Achieve Incentives & Meetings, and hosted by Manuel Lara, Sales Manager at UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya. Ashley and Manuel walk us through the ins and outs and the highs and lows of planning and executing a li...2021-06-021h 09The Room BlockLeading Our Recovery by Learning Together, with Ashley Lawson and Manuel LaraDo you feel confident about the return to live events? Whether a hotelier, event planner, or event attendee, each of us carries some risk and responsibility as we begin to travel and meet in person once again. Join me for an exclusive first look at the successful conclusion of an actual live program, planned by Ashley Lawson, Vice President of Business Partnerships and co-owner of Achieve Incentives & Meetings, and hosted by Manuel Lara, Sales Manager at UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya. Ashley and Manuel walk us through the ins and outs and the highs and lows of planning and executing a...2021-06-021h 09The Room BlockEarning Guest Loyalty, with Robert ReitknechtWe all know that a superior experience is what drives customer loyalty. But what does that experience look like, and how is it implemented? Today I am joined in the Courtesy Block by customer loyalty expert Robert Reitknecht, who will walk us through some of the must-haves when designing your guest experience strategy. You may be surprised to learn that before you can start earning the loyalty of your customers, you must first earn the loyalty of somebody else.
About Robert Reitknecht: A veteran customer loyalty professional and guest experience expert for over two decades, Robert has provided service-focused...2021-05-2629 minThe Room BlockEarning Guest Loyalty, with Robert ReitknechtWe all know that a superior experience is what drives customer loyalty. But what does that experience look like, and how is it implemented? Today I am joined in the Courtesy Block by customer loyalty expert Robert Reitknecht, who will walk us through some of the must-haves when designing your guest experience strategy. You may be surprised to learn that before you can start earning the loyalty of your customers, you must first earn the loyalty of somebody else.
About Robert Reitknecht: A veteran customer loyalty professional and guest experience expert for over two decades, Robert has...2021-05-2629 minThe Room BlockStorytelling as a Sales Strategy, with Regitse Rosenvinge and Isabella OwenSo, what's your story? In this episode I am joined by Regitse Rosenvinge of Room22.Agency and Isabella Owen of Owen Consulting who share their hospitality stories and marketing solutions with us. Both women specialize in helping hotels find their unique stories, as well as teach them how to infuse their stories into marketing and daily operations in an effort to attract, and retain, customers. Whether a person, a place or an object, there's a story waiting to be told and an audience waiting to hear it. If you don't know it, or know how to tell it, this episode i...2021-05-1940 minThe Room BlockStorytelling as a Sales Strategy, with Regitse Rosenvinge and Isabella OwenSo, what’s your story? In this episode I am joined by Regitse Rosenvinge of Room22.Agency and Isabella Owen of Owen Consulting who share their hospitality stories and marketing solutions with us. Both women specialize in helping hotels find their unique stories, as well as teach them how to infuse their stories into marketing and daily operations in an effort to attract, and retain, customers. Whether a person, a place or an object, there’s a story waiting to be told and an audience waiting to hear it. If you don’t know it, or know how to tell it...2021-05-1940 minThe Room BlockConnecting With Your Customers: How Podcasts Can HelpWe're constantly inundated with a wide variety of information, and choices about where to consume it all. Do we really want more options, or to be responsible for creating yet more content? Perhaps the better question is, how important is it to form lasting connections and enhance engagement with guests, customers, attendees, or exhibitors? We already know we have too many choices, so how can we encourage them to choose our hotel, product, or event? In this episode, you'll hear some reasons why the very medium you are consuming right now can be a key contributor to this crucial choice.
...2021-05-1218 minThe Room BlockConnecting With Your Customers: How Podcasts Can HelpWe’re constantly inundated with a wide variety of information, and choices about where to consume it all. Do we really want more options, or to be responsible for creating yet more content? Perhaps the better question is, how important is it to form lasting connections and enhance engagement with guests, customers, attendees, or exhibitors? We already know we have too many choices, so how can we encourage them to choose our hotel, product, or event? In this episode, you’ll hear some reasons why the very medium you are consuming right now can be a key contributor to this...2021-05-1218 minThe Room BlockEvolving Events & Enacting Change, with Carrie Abernathy and Derrick JohnsonWe've had so many conversations about the opportunities for diversity, equality and inclusion that exist within our industry but how many of those have resulted in actionable takeaways? Carrie Abernathy and Derrick Johnson, events industry leaders and co-hosts of the virtual talk show, Events: From Black to White, are ready to enact change. They join me in The Room Block to discuss the required evolution of the events industry, specific ideas to get us there, and why now is the time. Are you ready to change the world? Whatever your position in this industry may be, every one of has...2021-05-0559 minThe Room BlockEvolving Events & Enacting Change, with Carrie Abernathy and Derrick JohnsonWe’ve had so many conversations about the opportunities for diversity, equality and inclusion that exist within our industry but how many of those have resulted in actionable takeaways? Carrie Abernathy and Derrick Johnson, events industry leaders and co-hosts of the virtual talk show, Events: From Black to White, are ready to enact change. They join me in The Room Block to discuss the required evolution of the events industry, specific ideas to get us there, and why now is the time. Are you ready to change the world? Whatever your position in this industry may be, every one of...2021-05-0559 minThe Room BlockEmpowering Growth in the Hospitality Industry, with Bob GrahamFor a hotel sales and event management software company to not only survive, but thrive over the past year, it has to have a pretty unique value proposition, as well as a visionary leader. Today in The Courtesy Block I am joined by Bob Graham, CEO of Event Temple, where we talk about his journey co-founding and growing Event Temple in a sea of more established hotel management systems, and why they stood out as a success story in 2020. Listen in to find out what attributes have made a difference for Event Temple as a company and Bob as a...2021-04-2839 minThe Room BlockEmpowering Growth in the Hospitality Industry, with Bob GrahamFor a hotel sales and event management software company to not only survive, but thrive over the past year, it has to have a pretty unique value proposition, as well as a visionary leader. Today in The Courtesy Block I am joined by Bob Graham, CEO of Event Temple, where we talk about his journey co-founding and growing Event Temple in a sea of more established hotel management systems, and why they stood out as a success story in 2020. Listen in to find out what attributes have made a difference for Event Temple as a company and Bob as...2021-04-2839 minThe Room BlockHaving It All By Not Doing It All, with Jessica Schoefernacker and Jen MantheiWhat does it take to handle two demanding jobs, especially when both jobs can require long hours, nights, weekends, and stress? There’s no way around it, being a working mother in the events and hospitality industry is tough. In this episode, I am joined by Jessica Schoefernacker, Director of Sales and Marketing from the Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile, and Jen Manthei, an independent meeting & event consultant - both mothers of young children. They weigh in on the good, the bad, the highs and lows, and what exactly it takes to be able to do it all. Spoiler alert - yo...2021-04-211h 01The Room BlockHaving It All By Not Doing It All, with Jessica Schoefernacker and Jen MantheiWhat does it take to handle two demanding jobs, especially when both jobs can require long hours, nights, weekends, and stress? There’s no way around it, being a working mother in the events and hospitality industry is tough. In this episode, I am joined by Jessica Schoefernacker, Director of Sales and Marketing from the Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile, and Jen Manthei, an independent meeting & event consultant – both mothers of young children. They weigh in on the good, the bad, the highs and lows, and what exactly it takes to be able to do it all. Spoiler alert – you can’t...2021-04-211h 01The Room BlockLosing My Path and Finding My FutureConventional wisdom tells us that forward momentum and continuous movement is a good thing - and it is, as long as you're on the right path. How can you be sure? A full year after the pandemic forced me to take a hiatus from working a traditional job within the events industry, I share my thoughts about what I've learned from this unexpected change of course in this week's episode of The Courtesy Block. Gain a new perspective on loss, learn what it actually means to live in harmony, and see what's possible when you try on something new for...2021-04-1417 minThe Room BlockLosing My Path and Finding My FutureConventional wisdom tells us that forward momentum and continuous movement is a good thing – and it is, as long as you’re on the right path. How can you be sure? A full year after the pandemic forced me to take a hiatus from working a traditional job within the events industry, I share my thoughts about what I’ve learned from this unexpected change of course in this week’s episode of The Courtesy Block. Gain a new perspective on loss, learn what it actually means to live in harmony, and see what’s possible when you try on somethi...2021-04-1417 minThe Room BlockBecoming ICONIC, with Calvin Stovall and John AvolaDo you or your company have what it takes to become, ICONIC? Join me for an engaging and fun conversation with Calvin Stovall, Chief Experience Officer and Iconicity Enthusiast for ICONIC Presentations, and John Avola, a digital marketing leader with 15 years of experience and currently Digital Marketing Principle at FedEx. After a 25-year career in hospitality, Calvin took what he learned about some of the stand-out brands he worked for and created a practical and systematic technique called The ICONIC Framework™ to help organizations achieve and maintain iconic status in the eyes of their customers. In addition to presenting The IC...2021-04-071h 05The Room BlockBecoming ICONIC, with Calvin Stovall and John AvolaDo you or your company have what it takes to become, ICONIC? Join me for an engaging and fun conversation with Calvin Stovall, Chief Experience Officer and Iconicity Enthusiast for ICONIC Presentations, and John Avola, a digital marketing leader with 15 years of experience and currently Digital Marketing Principle at FedEx. After a 25-year career in hospitality, Calvin took what he learned about some of the stand-out brands he worked for and created a practical and systematic technique called The ICONIC Framework to help organizations achieve and maintain iconic status in the eyes of their customers. In addition to presenting...2021-04-071h 05The Room BlockEnhancing Your Magnetism, with Nancy O’BrienDo you ever notice how some people seem to attract success? Chances are, they’ve been taught the rules of etiquette and business protocol, and have picked up the soft skills that allow them to seamlessly guide and influence others. In this episode, I am joined in the Courtesy Block by Nancy O’Brien, who after an award-winning career in hospitality and destination marketing founded The Magnetic Truth Advisory, where she is dedicated to teaching her clients the confidence-building skills that are necessary to achieve personal and professional goals. Nancy shares how her 25 years of working in sales and lead...2021-03-3150 minThe Room BlockEnhancing Your Magnetism, with Nancy O’BrienDo you ever notice how some people seem to attract success? Chances are, they’ve been taught the rules of etiquette and business protocol, and have picked up the soft skills that allow them to seamlessly guide and influence others. In this episode, I am joined in the Courtesy Block by Nancy O’Brien, who after an award-winning career in hospitality and destination marketing founded The Magnetic Truth Advisory, where she is dedicated to teaching her clients the confidence-building skills that are necessary to achieve personal and professional goals. Nancy shares how her 25 years of working in sales and leadership role...2021-03-3150 minThe Room BlockHealing the Heart of Hospitality, with Kyle Allison and Greg FregosoIt takes a lot of heart to work in the hospitality industry. Yet, this concept is not always embodied across all who work in it and as a result, something is bound to suffer; guest satisfaction, survey scores, even your employees. In this episode I am joined by co-founders and managing partners of HospitalityMD, Kyle Allison and Greg Fregoso. Kyle and Greg believe that whether you are working in the C-suite or the front office, "Hospitality is Everyone's Business." We explore their mission, what inspires, drives and rewards them, and how they use the power of storytelling to build empathetic...2021-03-241h 02The Room BlockHealing the Heart of Hospitality, with Kyle Allison and Greg FregosoIt takes a lot of heart to work in the hospitality industry. Yet, this concept is not always embodied across all who work in it and as a result, something is bound to suffer; guest satisfaction, survey scores, even your employees. In this episode I am joined by co-founders and managing partners of HospitalityMD, Kyle Allison and Greg Fregoso. Kyle and Greg believe that whether you are working in the C-suite or the front office, “Hospitality is Everyone’s Business.” We explore their mission, what inspires, drives and rewards them, and how they use the power of storytelling to build...2021-03-241h 02The Room BlockAchieve a Win-Win: Negotiate Your Way Through LifeNo matter what your day job may be, we all negotiate for a living. In this Courtesy Block episode, I review some basic negotiation skills as well as show you how to apply them to your personal life to ensure the spirit of partnership stays alive in all of your relationships - including the one you have with yourself. Learn why maintaining a win-win mindset is an effective strategy when dealing with those close to us and how negotiation skills can help guide you through difficult conversations.
This is The Courtesy Block, a chip off The Room Block podcast.2021-03-1718 minThe Room BlockAchieve a Win-Win: Negotiate Your Way Through LifeNo matter what your day job may be, we all negotiate for a living. In this Courtesy Block episode, I review some basic negotiation skills as well as show you how to apply them to your personal life to ensure the spirit of partnership stays alive in all of your relationships – including the one you have with yourself. Learn why maintaining a win-win mindset is an effective strategy when dealing with those close to us and how negotiation skills can help guide you through difficult conversations.
This is The Courtesy Block, a chip off The Room Block podc...2021-03-1718 minThe Room BlockSparking Connections Through Shared Experiences, with Liz Lathan and Nicole OsiboduThere is great power in experiencing significant moments with others. Liz Lathan and Nicole Osibodu of Haute Dokimazo understand this power and have harnessed it, packaged it, and regularly deliver it to companies who want to enhance the way they connect with each other, as well as their customers. By creating magical shared experiences that break down walls and stimulate conversation (even virtually!), Liz and Nicole show you how to build genuine connections that lead to profitable relationships. Their main requirement? It has to be fun.
Liz Lathan, CMP has devoted her career to engaging people face-to-face (and virtually) for c...2021-03-1053 minThe Room BlockSparking Connections Through Shared Experiences, with Liz Lathan and Nicole OsiboduThere is great power in experiencing significant moments with others. Liz Lathan and Nicole Osibodu of Haute Dokimazo understand this power and have harnessed it, packaged it, and regularly deliver it to companies who want to enhance the way they connect with each other, as well as their customers. By creating magical shared experiences that break down walls and stimulate conversation (even virtually!), Liz and Nicole show you how to build genuine connections that lead to profitable relationships. Their main requirement? It has to be fun.
Liz Lathan, CMP has devoted her career to engaging people face-to-face (a...2021-03-1053 minThe Room BlockReviving Customer Service with Nancy Friedman, the Telephone DoctorAre you making any critical mistakes in your daily interactions with others? Strong customer service and communication skills can earn you and your business loyal guests and clients, as well as respect. On the other hand, weak skills in this area can cost you everything. I am joined by Nancy Friedman, who is founder and chairman of Telephone Doctor Customer Service Training, diagnosing problems and prescribing solutions for companies of all types and sizes. In addition to offering a multitude of training programs, Nancy is also the author of 9 books covering communications, sales, and customer service. She has worked with...2021-03-0339 minThe Room BlockReviving Customer Service with Nancy Friedman, the Telephone DoctorAre you making any critical mistakes in your daily interactions with others? Strong customer service and communication skills can earn you and your business loyal guests and clients, as well as respect. On the other hand, weak skills in this area can cost you everything. I am joined by Nancy Friedman, who is founder and chairman of Telephone Doctor Customer Service Training, diagnosing problems and prescribing solutions for companies of all types and sizes. In addition to offering a multitude of training programs, Nancy is also the author of 9 books covering communications, sales, and customer service. She has worked...2021-03-0339 minThe Room BlockCreating Moments as Property Managers, with Wil Slickers and Adam KnightWhat do boutique hotels, big box convention hotels, resort properties and vacation rentals ALL have to do in order to thrive? Wil Slickers, host of Slick Talk: The Hospitality Podcast, and Adam Knight, host of The Proven Principles Podcast and Principal at Knowing Hospitality share their expertise on the world of property management, from a one-room vacation rental to a branded city center hotel. With a focus on strategic operations yet a heart for hospitality, Wil and Adam are creating content and companies dedicated to giving back to an industry that has given so much to them.
...2021-02-241h 03The Room BlockPracticing What I Preach (and Maybe Even What They Preach)In today's world, authenticity seems to be more valued than ever before. However, it's one thing to speak your truth and another to live it, especially when our private lives are becoming increasingly public. This Courtesy Block episode explores a few ways that I've discovered the additional responsibility, but also the reward, that comes with having your own platform, and speaking out.
This is The Courtesy Block, a chip off The Room Block podcast.2021-02-1716 minThe Room BlockBoss Up and Show Up to Level Up, with Judi Holler and Courtney StanleyWhat is stopping you from turning your dreams into reality? Whether you need tactical advice on how to set and achieve goals, or simply permission to honor your vision of who you are and what you want in the first place, Judi Holler and Courtney Stanley are here to help. As former meeting industry professionals, Judi and Courtney transformed their side-hustle into the main event and are showing others what it takes to do the same. Join me for a true power hour where Judi and Courtney offer ideas on how to inspire courage through action, alternative ways to...2021-02-101h 17The Room BlockIntroducing EventWell, with Rachael RiggsIn a recent article listing the top 30 most stressful jobs in the world, the events and hospitality industry had the honor of securing 4 different positions. Wouldn’t it be amazing if there was an organization dedicated to cultivating better mental health and wellbeing in events, and for the professionals who work within the industry? Lucky for us, help is on the way! Rachael Riggs returns to the The Room Block, not only to share what she has been up to in her position of WellBeing Leader at Maritz Global Events, but also as the first US Ambassador for EventWell, a UK...2021-02-0320 minThe Room BlockInspiring Passion Through Purpose, with Philippe Clarinval and Rob BrandenbergCan you or your company claim a purpose that inspires the people working with and for you? It takes a visionary leader to fuel this kind of passion, and a little Swiss hospitality doesn't hurt either. Philippe Clarinval and Rob Brandenberg are Hotel General Managers and friends who share the mentality required to infuse their teams with a dedication to service excellence, even during a pandemic. Listen in as Philippe and Rob chat about managing vs. leading, positivity vs. hope, and why it's so important to strike a balance between the transactional and the transformative.
Philippe Clarinval...2021-01-271h 09The Room Block#PCMACL: The Virtual Event we NeededCan a virtual event be transformative? If you attended PCMA Convening Leaders 2021, you might say so. In this Courtesy Block episode, I recap the highlights and my main takeaways from this year's event, including the importance of having a strong host or moderator. It may be one of the elements that helps take an engaged attendee to an event evangelist.
Learn more at conveningleaders.org.
This is The Courtesy Block, a chip off The Room Block podcast.2021-01-2017 minThe Room BlockCreating the Narrative, with Dan Sherman and Ryan BarthHow do you want to remember this critical time in our history? Business events industry veterans and co-hosts of the TRAVELING Podcast, Dan Sherman and Ryan Barth want to be part of the story. By being some of the voices that bring our industry's biggest issues and opportunities into the forefront, Dan and Ryan are helping to create a narrative - not just for the events industry, but for themselves as well. Listen in to find out how their friendship has been the backdrop to taking risks and setting trends, all in the name of moving our industry forward.2021-01-1351 minThe Room BlockEsports and the Events Industry, with Rebecca de FreitasWhat does esports have to do with the events industry? As it turns out, quite a bit. Mega event organizer and esports subject matter expert Rebecca De Freitas joins me to talk about how event organizers can power up their planning game by leveling up their esports XP. Rebecca shares how her love of video games combined with her events industry experience gives her a unique perspective on the strong potential of an esports-infused future. Find out how the esports culture caters to the next generation of meeting attendees, and what you can do now to start engaging with...2021-01-0634 minThe Room Block20/20 in 2020: The Room Block Recap2020 was a year for the history books, and I was lucky enough to have some of the very best teachers in the form of my incredible guests. So what did I learn? Join me as I count down the Top 10 lessons from this year's guests. Relive some of the quotes that best illustrate some ideas that are worth taking from 2020 into 2021. 2020-12-3020 minThe Room BlockExploring the DES Certification, with Amanda Duski and Kari MessengerThinking of getting certified as a Digital Event Strategist (DES)? Amanda Duski, CMP, DES, Associate Director, Conference Services at the Alzheimer's Association and Kari Messenger, CMP, DES, Senior Manager, Meetings at the Association Management Center lead us through their career journeys, pre-COVID to DES-certified. Join us for a candid conversation about the chain of events that led each of these women to seek out the DES certification, what to know about the course and test, and Amanda and Kari's thoughts on who should get DES-certified, and why.
To learn more about obtaining your DES certification, please visit...2020-12-1653 minThe Room BlockPaying It Forward, with Joann Chmura and Ephraim YarmakWhat's your next move when faced with a seemingly insurmountable challenge? Joann Chmura, Director of Client Services for Simpson Healthcare and Ephraim Yarmak, Founder of #1000Hires both believe that the answer is to help another in need. Join me as Joann and Ephraim share how what could have been their darkest hours were brightened by the actions they took helping and connecting with their communities. With an acute understanding of the pain and suffering that so many job seekers are facing right now, Joann and Ephraim empathize with and encourage listeners who may find themselves or their loved ones...2020-12-0252 minThe Room BlockA Profitable Partnership: Hotel Sales and Revenue Management, with Jeff Borman and Steve PierceThe sales and revenue management departments of a hotel are dependent on each other to achieve success, yet, the more they agree with each other the less successful the hotel will be. Jeff Borman, Founder & Chief of travelINNsights and Steve Pierce, Director of Sales & Marketing from the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, VA examine the delicate and at times misunderstood relationship between sales and revenue management, how they win or lose together (including at Fantasy Football) and what each department is up against as we move through the pandemic.
About Jeff Borman: With over 20 years of hospitality...2020-11-1853 minThe Room BlockPositive Change Through Diverse Leadership, with Shameka Jennings, Gus Martinez, and Anthony MolinoUnderstanding and embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is a necessity in our personal and professional lives. Join me for a conversation with three event-industry leaders who have taken an active role in DEI advocacy and education, as they share how they got involved, and more importantly, why. Discover why empathy is so key to having a productive conversation that can push us forward.
Shameka Jennings is the Director of Meetings & Partnership Development for the National Coalition of STD Directors, and is part of ASAE’s 2020-2022 Diversity Executive Leadership Program Class.
http://www.shamekajennings.com...2020-11-041h 03The Room BlockBuilding a Healthier Event, with Desi Whitney and John AyoAre you starting to plan, or thinking about traveling to a live event in the near future? Desi Whitney, SVP of Sourcing Operations & Industry Relations for HPN Global and co-founder of Emergency Concierge International and John Ayo, Chief Balancing Officer of Travel Balance share the life experiences that taught them how to prepare for the safest and healthiest outcome, as well as the passion behind their purpose.
Desi Whitney is a multi-faceted leader in the industry. She brings almost 20 years of experience to her current role as SVP of Sourcing Operations & Industry Relations for HPN Global. In...2020-10-2149 minThe Room BlockThe Value of Community, with Colleen Brzozowski and Rachael RiggsColleen Brzozowski, 2020 President of SITE Chicago and Rachael Riggs, 2020 President of the Greater Midwest Chapter of PCMA discuss the numerous challenges and unexpected rewards of being in a volunteer leadership role during a global pandemic. Their experiences with these organizations, both past and present, demonstrate the value of staying connected to and serving a community.
Colleen Brzozowski, CIS, is the 2020 President of SITE Chicago (Society for Incentive Travel Excellence - Chicago Chapter). She is a 25+ year veteran of the hospitality industry and spent the majority of her career in hotels/resorts. She had recently moved into national...2020-10-0753 minThe Room BlockGive and Receive to Succeed, with Pam Nutting and Rick NelsonThrough their stories, Pam Nutting, Director of Strategic Sourcing with Maritz Global Events and Rick Nelson, Sr. Director, Worldwide Accounts with Hilton illustrate various examples of how the support they give and receive perpetuates a cycle resulting in growth and success. We examine the relationships and strategies that are important today and will continue to be, as we move into our industry's recovery. 2020-09-2352 minThe Room BlockDesigning Your Direction, with Dahlia El Gazzar and Keri KellyHear from entrepreneurs Dahlia El Gazzar of the DAHLIA+Agency and Keri Kelly of SoulMining, Inc. as they discuss the introspection, honesty, and courage it takes to start living a more authentic life on your own terms. They share how a combination of marketable superpowers and the undying support of the events industry helped each of them take a life-changing leap of faith.
To reach Dahlia El Gazzar:
dahliaplus.comlinkedin.com/in/dahliaelgazzarinstagram.com/delgazzarfacebook.com/dahlia.elgazzar
To reach Keri Kelly:
kerikellyphotography.com linkedin.com/in/kerikellyinstagram.com/kerikellyphotographyfacebook.com/kerikellyphotography2020-09-0955 minThe Room BlockPursuing Harmony, with Richard Albrecht and Suzanne StigersTake a deep dive into the world of event accommodations with "work spouses" Richard Albrecht, Director of Client Relations and Suzanne Stigers, Sr. Hotel Industry Relations Manager, both from onPeak. They tell a tale of the inevitable changes that we encounter throughout our careers, personally and professionally, and the lasting bonds that form among team members who navigate both highs and lows together.
More information about Connect for Community can be found at connectforcommunity.org
roomblockpodcast.com2020-08-2656 minThe Room BlockGenerous Leadership, with Rose Horcher and Dan TraverRose Horcher, Vice President of Client Services with Choose Chicago, and Dan Traver, Business Development VP with Freeman share the traits that have earned them the trust and friendship of their clients. Join me for a heartwarming conversation with two individuals who exemplify the spirit of the events and hospitality industry and understand the power in staying positive.
www.roomblockpodcast.com2020-08-1959 minThe Room BlockA Manager’s Mindset, with Kevin Boland and Rick UenoTravel from coast to coast with me as I chat with Kevin Boland, Hotel Manager at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco, CA and Rick Ueno, General Manager of the W South Beach in Miami, FL. Kevin and Rick walk us through their careers from start to present, sharing what motivated them to get to where they are today, as well as potential obstacles they leaned how to overcome.
www.roomblockpodcast.com2020-08-121h 00The Room BlockWelcome to The Room BlockLearn about me, your host Jen Salerno, why The Room Block was created, and what you can expect by listening in. 2020-08-0605 minThe Room BlockWelcome to The Room BlockLearn about me, your host Jen Salerno, why The Room Block was created, and what you can expect by listening in. 2020-08-0605 min