Shows
Top FloorBalloon TransformerJanet Irizarry has spent 30+ years in the restaurant industry, from owning multiple eateries to teaching at the Culinary Institute of America. Now, she’s on a mission to help families reduce food waste through her innovative My Mindful Kitchen method. Susan and Janet talk about sustainability, smart shopping, and stress-free meal planning. What You'll Learn About: 🥬 Spring mix struggles! Susan confesses to an ongoing battle with Costco-sized salad greens—Janet delivers a reality check on what “value” really means. 🍴 From McDonald's to mindful meals. Janet shares her unexpected path from geology major to restaurant own...2025-02-2529 minTop FloorBalloon TransformerJanet Irizarry has spent 30+ years in the restaurant industry, from owning multiple eateries to teaching at the Culinary Institute of America. Now, she’s on a mission to help families reduce food waste through her innovative My Mindful Kitchen method. Susan and Janet talk about sustainability, smart shopping, and stress-free meal planning. What You'll Learn About: 🥬 Spring mix struggles! Susan confesses to an ongoing battle with Costco-sized salad greens—Janet delivers a reality check on what “value” really means. 🍴 From McDonald's to mindful meals. Janet shares her unexpected path from geology major to restaurant own...2025-02-2529 min
Top Floor155 | Royal Ride RegretsAdam Tuttle is a luxury hotel veteran and founder of Yipy, an app that helps hotels digitize their service standards so that nothing gets missed. After working with a multitude of hotels of all types, Adam realized that the burden of managing standards from multiple sources was too big, so he came up with a way to combine them in one spot. Susan and Adam talk about why luxury hotels are so expensive and what to do when confronted with royal vomit. What you'll learn about in this episode: Where Susan picks up trash What service...2024-09-0338 minTop Floor155 | Royal Ride RegretsAdam Tuttle is a luxury hotel veteran and founder of Yipy, an app that helps hotels digitize their service standards so that nothing gets missed. After working with a multitude of hotels of all types, Adam realized that the burden of managing standards from multiple sources was too big, so he came up with a way to combine them in one spot. Susan and Adam talk about why luxury hotels are so expensive and what to do when confronted with royal vomit. What you'll learn about in this episode: Where Susan picks up trash What service...2024-09-0338 min
Top FloorWedding Wing ManJennifer Barnwell is president of Curator Hotel and Resort Collection, a consortium of about 100 independent hotels across the US who have joined forces to create more buying power and give consumers one place to find independent lifestyle hotels. Curator's mission is to help independent hotels stay independent, and Jen has enough industry experience to lead the way. Susan and Jen talk about number crunching and bank fraud. What you'll learn about in this episode: What lifestyle hotels are How buying power helps independents When data helps and hurts the hotel business Where to look for experiences t...2024-07-3037 minTop FloorWedding Wing ManJennifer Barnwell is president of Curator Hotel and Resort Collection, a consortium of about 100 independent hotels across the US who have joined forces to create more buying power and give consumers one place to find independent lifestyle hotels. Curator's mission is to help independent hotels stay independent, and Jen has enough industry experience to lead the way. Susan and Jen talk about number crunching and bank fraud. What you'll learn about in this episode: What lifestyle hotels are How buying power helps independents When data helps and hurts the hotel business Where to look for experiences t...2024-07-3037 min
Top FloorSweethearts on the RunJohn Bianchi is founder of STR Search, a data analytics company that helps real estate investors determine which properties are best positioned for cash flow. With more than $75 million in deals and a (self-reported) 100% success rate, John is the short-term rental industry's expert on what makes a successful Airbnb business. Susan and John talk about hottubs, dining tables, and rental arbitrage. What you'll learn about in this episode: Who should clean your rental units How to juggle multiple business interests Why treehouses will never go out of style What to add to your STR to make...2024-07-2336 minTop FloorSweethearts on the RunJohn Bianchi is founder of STR Search, a data analytics company that helps real estate investors determine which properties are best positioned for cash flow. With more than $75 million in deals and a (self-reported) 100% success rate, John is the short-term rental industry's expert on what makes a successful Airbnb business. Susan and John talk about hottubs, dining tables, and rental arbitrage. What you'll learn about in this episode: Who should clean your rental units How to juggle multiple business interests Why treehouses will never go out of style What to add to your STR to make...2024-07-2336 min
Top FloorAisle Seat SwapSeema Jain is founder and president of Seva Global, a cultural competency training and consulting company. After using her own cultural competency to move major market share during the 2008 recession, Seema developed programs to enhance cultural competence across Marriott hotels. Susan and Seema talk about pickles and vegetarian food. What you'll learn about in this episode: How to think the breakfast buffet Why you might give up an aisle seat When to apologize for a cultural faux pas Who has recession-proof business for hotels What you're responsible for as an entrepreneur Rate, Review, & Follow on...2024-07-1631 minTop FloorAisle Seat SwapSeema Jain is founder and president of Seva Global, a cultural competency training and consulting company. After using her own cultural competency to move major market share during the 2008 recession, Seema developed programs to enhance cultural competence across Marriott hotels. Susan and Seema talk about pickles and vegetarian food. What you'll learn about in this episode: How to think the breakfast buffet Why you might give up an aisle seat When to apologize for a cultural faux pas Who has recession-proof business for hotels What you're responsible for as an entrepreneur Rate, Review, & Follow on...2024-07-1631 min
Top FloorBlack, Brown, and DownAshli Johnson is finally holding a conference for Black and Brown hospitality leaders, and the world will be better for it. An industry mainstay with experience across operations, real estate, consulting and academia, Ashli's latest project, Hued 2024, will connect and inspire hoteliers of color. Susan and Ashli talk about academia, intersectionality, and sugar babies. What you'll learn about in this episode: Where to start networking What conferences do for hotel careers How one front desk agent got a new car Which experiences make degrees more valuable Why Michael Phelps almost ended Ashli's career Rate, Review, & F...2024-07-0937 minTop FloorBlack, Brown, and DownAshli Johnson is finally holding a conference for Black and Brown hospitality leaders, and the world will be better for it. An industry mainstay with experience across operations, real estate, consulting and academia, Ashli's latest project, Hued 2024, will connect and inspire hoteliers of color. Susan and Ashli talk about academia, intersectionality, and sugar babies. What you'll learn about in this episode: Where to start networking What conferences do for hotel careers How one front desk agent got a new car Which experiences make degrees more valuable Why Michael Phelps almost ended Ashli's career Rate, Review, & F...2024-07-0937 min
Top FloorBikinis in DecemberBruce Jordan has been in the hotel business since age 12, and he's picked up so many tricks along the way that he put them into a book. The Hotel Revenue Bible is a hotelier's guide to under-the-radar ideas that will make your property more profitable. Susan and Bruce talk about gas leaks, upsales, and labor costs. What you'll learn about in this episode: How to save money on electricity and internet Where hotels go wrong with labor When to start upselling guests What the 49 cents rule is Why rewards matter Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple...2024-07-0222 minTop FloorBikinis in DecemberBruce Jordan has been in the hotel business since age 12, and he's picked up so many tricks along the way that he put them into a book. The Hotel Revenue Bible is a hotelier's guide to under-the-radar ideas that will make your property more profitable. Susan and Bruce talk about gas leaks, upsales, and labor costs. What you'll learn about in this episode: How to save money on electricity and internet Where hotels go wrong with labor When to start upselling guests What the 49 cents rule is Why rewards matter Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple...2024-07-0222 min
Top FloorChamber of CommerceAlex Alioto is co-founder and head of growth at whimStay, a last-minute booking platform for short-term rental stays, and Noel Russel is chief marketing officer at the company. Susan talks with them about how they see the importance of travel and where the industry is headed. What you'll learn about in this episode: Where to visit for under-the-radar wine country How consumers think about last-minute travel Why nomadism is more accepted now than ever When to listen to the voices in your head What Alex and Noel hope for from AI Rate, Review, & Follow on A...2024-06-2533 minTop FloorChamber of CommerceAlex Alioto is co-founder and head of growth at whimStay, a last-minute booking platform for short-term rental stays, and Noel Russel is chief marketing officer at the company. Susan talks with them about how they see the importance of travel and where the industry is headed. What you'll learn about in this episode: Where to visit for under-the-radar wine country How consumers think about last-minute travel Why nomadism is more accepted now than ever When to listen to the voices in your head What Alex and Noel hope for from AI Rate, Review, & Follow on A...2024-06-2533 min
Top FloorBook in the CloudCory Mortensen is a travel writer and explorer who has published three books, the most recent called Embracing Bewilderment. Cory spent two years traveling around the world and having adventures, from eating stew in a farmer's backyard to being held at gunpoint by an authoritarian military regime. Susan and Cory talk about how photography is sometimes rude and how traveling can calm your fears. What you'll learn about in this episode: How ancient aliens maybe did stuff When to pitch a tent in a new country Where you don't lose your common sense Why travel friendships...2024-06-1833 minTop FloorBook in the CloudCory Mortensen is a travel writer and explorer who has published three books, the most recent called Embracing Bewilderment. Cory spent two years traveling around the world and having adventures, from eating stew in a farmer's backyard to being held at gunpoint by an authoritarian military regime. Susan and Cory talk about how photography is sometimes rude and how traveling can calm your fears. What you'll learn about in this episode: How ancient aliens maybe did stuff When to pitch a tent in a new country Where you don't lose your common sense Why travel friendships...2024-06-1833 min
Top FloorToilet Paper MountainLudovic Siouffi is founder and CEO of Fox Fold, a company that makes toilet paper and facial tissue dispensers that lower costs and reduce waste. After many years in finance, Ludo joined forces with three co-founders to reinvent toilet paper. Susan and Ludo talk about creating a supply chain, leaning on a co-founder, and discovering a secret on the loading dock. What you'll learn about in this episode: When to contact your investors What is hard about folding tissue Why Ludo feels sorry for solo-preneurs How to keep your ideas safe from imitators Where to look...2024-06-1132 minTop FloorToilet Paper MountainLudovic Siouffi is founder and CEO of Fox Fold, a company that makes toilet paper and facial tissue dispensers that lower costs and reduce waste. After many years in finance, Ludo joined forces with three co-founders to reinvent toilet paper. Susan and Ludo talk about creating a supply chain, leaning on a co-founder, and discovering a secret on the loading dock. What you'll learn about in this episode: When to contact your investors What is hard about folding tissue Why Ludo feels sorry for solo-preneurs How to keep your ideas safe from imitators Where to look...2024-06-1132 min
Top FloorChris Green Spills AllChris Green is the author of The River Guide to Leadership and former President of Remington Hospitality. In his exit interview on Top Floor, he spills the beans about the hotel business, including dishing hte dirt on several hotel company CEOs. Susan and Chris talk about leadership, problem-solving, and lavender fields. What you'll learn about in this episode: How to write a book Who is the best hotel company CEO What to share in your exit interview When great financial returns are an art Why being direct is the kindest thing you can do Rate...2024-06-0436 minTop FloorChris Green Spills AllChris Green is the author of The River Guide to Leadership and former President of Remington Hospitality. In his exit interview on Top Floor, he spills the beans about the hotel business, including dishing hte dirt on several hotel company CEOs. Susan and Chris talk about leadership, problem-solving, and lavender fields. What you'll learn about in this episode: How to write a book Who is the best hotel company CEO What to share in your exit interview When great financial returns are an art Why being direct is the kindest thing you can do Rate...2024-06-0436 min
Top FloorSilverware Secret MessageRebecca Dean has had concurrent career paths in healthcare and hospitality, which positioned her perfectly to found Healthpitality. A virtual medical practice, Healthpitality exists to serve hospitality employees, especially restaurant workers, who traditionally struggle to access healthcare. Susan and Rebecca talk about rifles, co-pays, and the future of insurance. What you'll learn about in this episode: When to protest sidework Why you need an annual checkup How to keep staff members happy Who benefits from high-cost healthcare What legal restrictions govern medical practices Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "I love Top Floor!" If...2024-05-2822 minTop FloorSilverware Secret MessageRebecca Dean has had concurrent career paths in healthcare and hospitality, which positioned her perfectly to found Healthpitality. A virtual medical practice, Healthpitality exists to serve hospitality employees, especially restaurant workers, who traditionally struggle to access healthcare. Susan and Rebecca talk about rifles, co-pays, and the future of insurance. What you'll learn about in this episode: When to protest sidework Why you need an annual checkup How to keep staff members happy Who benefits from high-cost healthcare What legal restrictions govern medical practices Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "I love Top Floor!" If...2024-05-2822 min
Top FloorGay Wine WeekendGary Saperstein is a 30 year restaurant veteran and founder of Out in the Vineyard, a travel and event company that brings the LGBTQ+ and winemaker communities together in Califonia's Wine Country. For more than 16 years, Gary has put on Gay Wine Weekend, a three-day extravaganza that builds community and raises money for charities like Face to Face. Susan and Gary talk about how the gay community was made visible, starting with a twilight T-Dance. What you'll learn about in this episode: How to entertain non-drinkers in Sonoma Valley Why T-Dances hold a place of importance in...2024-05-2131 minTop FloorGay Wine WeekendGary Saperstein is a 30 year restaurant veteran and founder of Out in the Vineyard, a travel and event company that brings the LGBTQ+ and winemaker communities together in Califonia's Wine Country. For more than 16 years, Gary has put on Gay Wine Weekend, a three-day extravaganza that builds community and raises money for charities like Face to Face. Susan and Gary talk about how the gay community was made visible, starting with a twilight T-Dance. What you'll learn about in this episode: How to entertain non-drinkers in Sonoma Valley Why T-Dances hold a place of importance in...2024-05-2131 min
Top FloorSleepless in VancouverOliver Winter is founder and CEO of A&O Hostels, the largest privately-owned chain of hostels in Europe, with 40 properties in 25 cities. After a brush with "travel shame" during the pandemic, Oliver began to understand the threat that the climate crisis poses to the future of travel demand. As a result, he resolved to make A&O carbon neutral by 2025. Susan and Oliver talk about the carbon footprint of the lodging business. What you'll learn about in this episode: How marmalade impacts carbon footprint When the best time to start a business is What mistakes to...2024-05-1434 minTop FloorSleepless in VancouverOliver Winter is founder and CEO of A&O Hostels, the largest privately-owned chain of hostels in Europe, with 40 properties in 25 cities. After a brush with "travel shame" during the pandemic, Oliver began to understand the threat that the climate crisis poses to the future of travel demand. As a result, he resolved to make A&O carbon neutral by 2025. Susan and Oliver talk about the carbon footprint of the lodging business. What you'll learn about in this episode: How marmalade impacts carbon footprint When the best time to start a business is What mistakes to...2024-05-1434 min
Top FloorBoxed Bellman ExcretaScott Greenberg is a motivational speaker, former Edible Arrangements owner, and author of "Stop the Shift Show: Turn Your Struggling Hourly Workers into a Top-Performing Team." As the former owner of multiple Edible Arrangement stores, Scott has learned that approaching your hourly staff with a salaried mindset is a recipe for failure. Susan and Scott talk about what's still wrong with dining out and hard vs. soft needs. What you'll learn about in this episode: How to decide when to give someone a raise Who makes up the best audience for a speaker What bosses should...2024-05-0733 minTop FloorBoxed Bellman ExcretaScott Greenberg is a motivational speaker, former Edible Arrangements owner, and author of "Stop the Shift Show: Turn Your Struggling Hourly Workers into a Top-Performing Team." As the former owner of multiple Edible Arrangement stores, Scott has learned that approaching your hourly staff with a salaried mindset is a recipe for failure. Susan and Scott talk about what's still wrong with dining out and hard vs. soft needs. What you'll learn about in this episode: How to decide when to give someone a raise Who makes up the best audience for a speaker What bosses should...2024-05-0733 min
Top Floor$600,000 Trash CanDavid Lund is the Hotel Financial Coach, a thought leader and trainer on using finacial data to drive your business decisions and your career. A 30-year hotel vet, David has seen everything, a lot of which he shares in his book, The Prosperous Hotelier. Susan and David talk about railroads, scams, and Russians. What you'll learn about in this episode: Why it is so important to ask questions How to get better at understanding the P&L What railroads have to do with luxury hotels How much time to spend on your expense checkbook What GMs...2024-04-3030 minTop Floor$600,000 Trash CanDavid Lund is the Hotel Financial Coach, a thought leader and trainer on using finacial data to drive your business decisions and your career. A 30-year hotel vet, David has seen everything, a lot of which he shares in his book, The Prosperous Hotelier. Susan and David talk about railroads, scams, and Russians. What you'll learn about in this episode: Why it is so important to ask questions How to get better at understanding the P&L What railroads have to do with luxury hotels How much time to spend on your expense checkbook What GMs...2024-04-3030 min
Top FloorUnderstood the AssignmentFrom a haunted vacation rental to a casualty-free plane crash, the teams of the Hunter Hotel Investment Conference and Hunter Hotel Advisors brought their A-game stories to the mic for this trip to the Loading Dock. Experience the highs and lows of a life in hospitality when you listen to what just maybe our best collection of funny, crazy, and just-plain-weird stories yet! You will hear about: - Showering in the dark - A styrofoam wedding cake - The stolen and returned Mustang - Canceling the Hunter conference - Losing a...2024-04-231h 06Top FloorUnderstood the AssignmentFrom a haunted vacation rental to a casualty-free plane crash, the teams of the Hunter Hotel Investment Conference and Hunter Hotel Advisors brought their A-game stories to the mic for this trip to the Loading Dock. Experience the highs and lows of a life in hospitality when you listen to what just maybe our best collection of funny, crazy, and just-plain-weird stories yet! You will hear about: - Showering in the dark - A styrofoam wedding cake - The stolen and returned Mustang - Canceling the Hunter conference - Losing a...2024-04-231h 06
Top FloorGiant Pink EraserBrian Miller is CEO of Patrice & Associates, a hospitality staffing franchise company with 180+ locations in North America. As a staffing expert, Brian says that there are demographic forces at play that will continue to put pressure on the labor market. Susan and Brian talk about French fries, franchising, and first-time executives. What you'll learn about in this episode: How the aging workforce and low birth rates impact labor Unexpected types of franchises, including Patrice and Associates What a candidate should expect from a recruiter Why companies have no choice about becoming more felxible The...2024-04-1638 minTop FloorGiant Pink EraserBrian Miller is CEO of Patrice & Associates, a hospitality staffing franchise company with 180+ locations in North America. As a staffing expert, Brian says that there are demographic forces at play that will continue to put pressure on the labor market. Susan and Brian talk about French fries, franchising, and first-time executives. What you'll learn about in this episode: How the aging workforce and low birth rates impact labor Unexpected types of franchises, including Patrice and Associates What a candidate should expect from a recruiter Why companies have no choice about becoming more felxible The...2024-04-1638 min
Top FloorDon't Be a JackieGlenda Lee is a workforce development leader specializing in bringing young adults into hospitality. After a long hotel sales career, Glenda spent a few years in the classroom and learned all kinds of things about what early career candidates are looking for at work. Hint to hotels: Rethink your rules and regulations. Susan and Glenda talk about first-time professionals and obstacles to hotel career success.2024-04-0934 minTop FloorDon't Be a JackieGlenda Lee is a workforce development leader specializing in bringing young adults into hospitality. After a long hotel sales career, Glenda spent a few years in the classroom and learned all kinds of things about what early career candidates are looking for at work. Hint to hotels: Rethink your rules and regulations. Susan and Glenda talk about first-time professionals and obstacles to hotel career success.2024-04-0934 min
Top FloorStranded in the RainFrank Reeves is Chief Evangelist at SHR Group after having been co-founder and CEO of Avvio. At Avvio, Frank was doing AI in travel long before ChatGPT and digital key automations were even being discussed in the hotel industry. Susan and Frank talk about how hotel guests are like serial killers, how cancellations can be de-risked with data, and how three wet lads worked their way to a successful exit.2024-04-0236 minTop FloorStranded in the RainFrank Reeves is Chief Evangelist at SHR Group after having been co-founder and CEO of Avvio. At Avvio, Frank was doing AI in travel long before ChatGPT and digital key automations were even being discussed in the hotel industry. Susan and Frank talk about how hotel guests are like serial killers, how cancellations can be de-risked with data, and how three wet lads worked their way to a successful exit.2024-04-0236 min
Top FloorIce Storm RefundCalvin Stovall has been the vice president of a hotel brand, the CEO of a charitable foundation, and the founder of a speaking company, but the role he's most excited about is historian. With his book Hospitality Historiography well underway, Calvin is sharing the stories of African American hoteliers (listen for a cool one in this episode). Susan and Calvin talk about branding, soul music, and ice storms.2024-03-1237 minTop FloorIce Storm RefundCalvin Stovall has been the vice president of a hotel brand, the CEO of a charitable foundation, and the founder of a speaking company, but the role he's most excited about is historian. With his book Hospitality Historiography well underway, Calvin is sharing the stories of African American hoteliers (listen for a cool one in this episode). Susan and Calvin talk about branding, soul music, and ice storms.2024-03-1237 min
Top FloorGuard Dog NegotiationsMelissa Maher is a former hotelier and 20-year Expedia executive who is writing a new career chapter - founder of Pinnacle Enterprises Group. Melissa's company offers hospitality consulting and executive coaching, and she is launching a new leadership class that will share her best lessons in a group cohort format. Susan and Melissa talk about confidence, courage, and Las Vegas.2024-03-0534 minTop FloorGuard Dog NegotiationsMelissa Maher is a former hotelier and 20-year Expedia executive who is writing a new career chapter - founder of Pinnacle Enterprises Group. Melissa's company offers hospitality consulting and executive coaching, and she is launching a new leadership class that will share her best lessons in a group cohort format. Susan and Melissa talk about confidence, courage, and Las Vegas.2024-03-0534 min
Top FloorBoo-Boo SugarJason Brooks spent more than 20 years in the restaurant business, and he has packed two decades' worth of wisdom into "Every Leader Needs Followers," his book about restaurant leadership. Structured to meet restaurant managers where they are, Jason's book is a tactical must-read for the industry. Susan and Jason talk about secrets, success, and sharp knives.2024-02-2739 minTop FloorBoo-Boo SugarJason Brooks spent more than 20 years in the restaurant business, and he has packed two decades' worth of wisdom into "Every Leader Needs Followers," his book about restaurant leadership. Structured to meet restaurant managers where they are, Jason's book is a tactical must-read for the industry. Susan and Jason talk about secrets, success, and sharp knives.2024-02-2739 min
Top FloorStingray Elbow SuctionEdwin Schaerlaeckens had a long career in the corporate world before a hotel room door hanger changed his perspective. As the North American lead for Hotels for Trees, Edwin helps travelers turn their unused housekeeping into newly planted trees. Susan and Edwin talk about handball, the end of capitalism, and nature.2024-02-2023 minTop FloorStingray Elbow SuctionEdwin Schaerlaeckens had a long career in the corporate world before a hotel room door hanger changed his perspective. As the North American lead for Hotels for Trees, Edwin helps travelers turn their unused housekeeping into newly planted trees. Susan and Edwin talk about handball, the end of capitalism, and nature.2024-02-2023 min
Top FloorJob Interview SubterfugeMichael Goldrich has spent time working in politics, management consulting, and hospitality, but the through-line of his career is curiosity. Michael's book, "Too Many Hats, Too Little Time: Productivity Reimagined with AI Personas," describes how business leaders can create their own virtual advisors using AI. Susan and Michael talk about ethics, copyrights, and scams.2024-02-1336 minTop FloorJob Interview SubterfugeMichael Goldrich has spent time working in politics, management consulting, and hospitality, but the through-line of his career is curiosity. Michael's book, "Too Many Hats, Too Little Time: Productivity Reimagined with AI Personas," describes how business leaders can create their own virtual advisors using AI. Susan and Michael talk about ethics, copyrights, and scams.2024-02-1336 min
Top FloorJailhouse Ad CopyPeter Yesawich's long career in hospitality and travel marketing led him to healthcare, where he discovered that an infusion of hospitality could make a big difference for patients and providers. His book, co-authored with Stowe Shoemaker, details how the healthcare industry can make positive change. Susan and Peter talk about buying behavior, books, and best practices.2024-02-0637 minTop FloorJailhouse Ad CopyPeter Yesawich's long career in hospitality and travel marketing led him to healthcare, where he discovered that an infusion of hospitality could make a big difference for patients and providers. His book, co-authored with Stowe Shoemaker, details how the healthcare industry can make positive change. Susan and Peter talk about buying behavior, books, and best practices.2024-02-0637 min
Top FloorStand in the RoomMichèle Kline and Stephanie Leger bonded over WTF hotel moments in their work and travels, so it only made sense for them to come together to "walk the floors" as hospitality trainers and podcasters. Susan, Stephanie, and Michele talk about service, junk fees, and awkward lurking.2024-01-3032 minTop FloorStand in the RoomMichèle Kline and Stephanie Leger bonded over WTF hotel moments in their work and travels, so it only made sense for them to come together to "walk the floors" as hospitality trainers and podcasters. Susan, Stephanie, and Michele talk about service, junk fees, and awkward lurking.2024-01-3032 min
Top FloorDon't Tell MomStuart Greif did a metaphorical backflip into hospitality, spending 18 months living in a hotel while working as a management consultant. These days, Stuart is Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy, Innovation, and Operating Officer at Forbes Travel Guide. Susan and Stuart talk about going to summer camp, being an ally, and four-wheeling through the jungle.2024-01-2332 minTop FloorDon't Tell MomStuart Greif did a metaphorical backflip into hospitality, spending 18 months living in a hotel while working as a management consultant. These days, Stuart is Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy, Innovation, and Operating Officer at Forbes Travel Guide. Susan and Stuart talk about going to summer camp, being an ally, and four-wheeling through the jungle.2024-01-2332 min
Top FloorMore Sister ShenanigansCat Meek is back to help Susan recap last year and predict the future for 2024. Mostly, the sisters ask each other rapid-fire questions. If you have seven minutes to spare, we would love to have your feedback. Click the link below for a completely anonymous, five-question survey for Top Floor listeners! https://lnkd.in/g8ACtQz22024-01-1646 minTop FloorMore Sister ShenanigansCat Meek is back to help Susan recap last year and predict the future for 2024. Mostly, the sisters ask each other rapid-fire questions. If you have seven minutes to spare, we would love to have your feedback. Click the link below for a completely anonymous, five-question survey for Top Floor listeners! https://lnkd.in/g8ACtQz22024-01-1646 min
Top FloorNot a BabysitterKelsey Knoedler Perri can impersonate a princess or two, but writing is her one true love. As director of public relations for Road Scholar, Kelsey specializes in the mission of combining travel and education to provide experiences for older adults. Susan and Kelsey talk about the transformative power of travel and the power to transform travel for social good.2024-01-0928 minTop FloorNot a BabysitterKelsey Knoedler Perri can impersonate a princess or two, but writing is her one true love. As director of public relations for Road Scholar, Kelsey specializes in the mission of combining travel and education to provide experiences for older adults. Susan and Kelsey talk about the transformative power of travel and the power to transform travel for social good.2024-01-0928 min
Top FloorSam Walton's ButtonHaley Payne started "working" in hotels at age six, rolling silverware for her mom. After 14 years as a general manager, she flipped the script to become head of commercial at Pure Wellness. Susan and Haley talk about making a guestroom allergen free for better sleep.2024-01-0221 minTop FloorSam Walton's ButtonHaley Payne started "working" in hotels at age six, rolling silverware for her mom. After 14 years as a general manager, she flipped the script to become head of commercial at Pure Wellness. Susan and Haley talk about making a guestroom allergen free for better sleep.2024-01-0221 min
Top FloorCheese, Cheese or Cheese?Naureen Ahmed credits her international childhood with creating the desire for the kind of multicultural environment found in hospitality. After a 16-year career, Naureen took a belated gap year, during which she founded Inspiring Women in Hospitality. Susan and Naureen talk about visibility and shrinking chef pants.2023-12-2623 minTop FloorCheese, Cheese or Cheese?Naureen Ahmed credits her international childhood with creating the desire for the kind of multicultural environment found in hospitality. After a 16-year career, Naureen took a belated gap year, during which she founded Inspiring Women in Hospitality. Susan and Naureen talk about visibility and shrinking chef pants.2023-12-2623 min
Top FloorNever Check BagsScott LaMont is a landscape architect and CEO of EDSA. In spite of his terrible taste in college football teams, Scott has a way of explaining the concepts of design and planning that makes you want to learn more. Susan and Scott talk about dead zones and how to dress when you lose your luggage.2023-12-1931 minTop FloorNever Check BagsScott LaMont is a landscape architect and CEO of EDSA. In spite of his terrible taste in college football teams, Scott has a way of explaining the concepts of design and planning that makes you want to learn more. Susan and Scott talk about dead zones and how to dress when you lose your luggage.2023-12-1931 min
Top FloorGrief-Stricken AudienceTalking to Christine Trippi is like drinking seven Five Hour Energy shots and lighting a firecracker in your brain -- even reading her book, Yes is the Answer, makes you feel energized. As the Wise Pineapple, Christine helps hotel leaders build cultures where yes is always the answer. Susan and Christine talk about passion, purpose, and pineapples.2023-12-1238 minTop FloorGrief-Stricken AudienceTalking to Christine Trippi is like drinking seven Five Hour Energy shots and lighting a firecracker in your brain -- even reading her book, Yes is the Answer, makes you feel energized. As the Wise Pineapple, Christine helps hotel leaders build cultures where yes is always the answer. Susan and Christine talk about passion, purpose, and pineapples.2023-12-1238 min
Top FloorHigh Seas PiratesJohn Chernesky has spent his entire career in the cruise business, with jobs that have ranged from daytime entertainment to national sales. Having taken more than 25 cruises himself, John expertly addresses all of Susan's unfounded concerns about taking a cruise and explains why staying with one company for a long time can be a pleasure.2023-12-0531 minTop FloorHigh Seas PiratesJohn Chernesky has spent his entire career in the cruise business, with jobs that have ranged from daytime entertainment to national sales. Having taken more than 25 cruises himself, John expertly addresses all of Susan's unfounded concerns about taking a cruise and explains why staying with one company for a long time can be a pleasure.2023-12-0531 min
Top FloorWine Bottle AnxietySteve Palmer has had a hand in more restaurants than you've probably even visited, and he founded Indigo Road Hospitality Group in 2009. Steve is also known for Ben's Friends, a support group for food and beverage professionals. Susan and Steve talk about why businesses need to stop managing to the exception and where to put CBD drinks on your beverage menu.2023-11-2841 minTop FloorWine Bottle AnxietySteve Palmer has had a hand in more restaurants than you've probably even visited, and he founded Indigo Road Hospitality Group in 2009. Steve is also known for Ben's Friends, a support group for food and beverage professionals. Susan and Steve talk about why businesses need to stop managing to the exception and where to put CBD drinks on your beverage menu.2023-11-2841 min
Top FloorStuck in an ElevatorBonus questions? That's right. Susan Barry asks most guests a couple of bonus questions at the end of every recording, and this episode includes seven answers to the question, "Who would you want to be stuck on an elevator with and why?" Thanks to Brian Proctor, Jennifer Hill, Derrick Barker, Madi Rifkin, Jordan Locke, Nima Anvar, and Annie Sloan for playing along!2023-11-2113 minTop FloorStuck in an ElevatorBonus questions? That's right. Susan Barry asks most guests a couple of bonus questions at the end of every recording, and this episode includes seven answers to the question, "Who would you want to be stuck on an elevator with and why?" Thanks to Brian Proctor, Jennifer Hill, Derrick Barker, Madi Rifkin, Jordan Locke, Nima Anvar, and Annie Sloan for playing along!2023-11-2113 min
Top FloorThailand Pajama PartyAlexa West traveled full-time for more than a decade, creating the Solo Girls Travel Guides to help other women explore her favorite places. Alexa's latest book, The One-Way Ticket Plan, focuses on how to travel instead of where to travel. Susan and Alexa talk about finding free lodging, staying safe without freaking out, and working remotely around the world.2023-11-1435 minTop FloorThailand Pajama PartyAlexa West traveled full-time for more than a decade, creating the Solo Girls Travel Guides to help other women explore her favorite places. Alexa's latest book, The One-Way Ticket Plan, focuses on how to travel instead of where to travel. Susan and Alexa talk about finding free lodging, staying safe without freaking out, and working remotely around the world.2023-11-1435 min
Top FloorHotel Art HeistPhilip Welker is a historic preservationist in hotelier's clothing. His portfolio of boutique hotels is made up of properties that do as much to revitalize a community as they do to generate revenue. Susan and Philip talk about changing majors, finding partners, and stealing art.2023-11-0734 minTop FloorHotel Art HeistPhilip Welker is a historic preservationist in hotelier's clothing. His portfolio of boutique hotels is made up of properties that do as much to revitalize a community as they do to generate revenue. Susan and Philip talk about changing majors, finding partners, and stealing art.2023-11-0734 min
Top FloorNo 7 AM BreakfastsLeticia Proctor was tricked into her hotel career, and the industry has benefited enormously as a result. As Executive Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Revenue Management for Donohoe Hospitality Services, Leticia guides the company's topline revenue efforts while helping design and plan renovations and new construction. Susan and Leticia talk about what it's like to be the only Black woman in the room and how to position yourself for an above-property role.2023-10-3134 minTop FloorNo 7 AM BreakfastsLeticia Proctor was tricked into her hotel career, and the industry has benefited enormously as a result. As Executive Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Revenue Management for Donohoe Hospitality Services, Leticia guides the company's topline revenue efforts while helping design and plan renovations and new construction. Susan and Leticia talk about what it's like to be the only Black woman in the room and how to position yourself for an above-property role.2023-10-3134 min
Top FloorZero Party DataLike many startup founders, Stephanie Daniel used to be an investment banker. As CEO of Legends, she is investing in a zero-paty data future by creating a way for consumers to share their travel DNA with brands. Susan and Stephanie talk about pitching, privacy, and personalization.2023-10-2435 minTop FloorZero Party DataLike many startup founders, Stephanie Daniel used to be an investment banker. As CEO of Legends, she is investing in a zero-paty data future by creating a way for consumers to share their travel DNA with brands. Susan and Stephanie talk about pitching, privacy, and personalization.2023-10-2435 min
Top FloorDeath Cheating TireSarah Saffari was a fitness influencer before realizing she could put what she'd learned to better use as a consultant and agency founder. As CEO of InfluencerNexus, Sarah helps hospitality companies and other brands create powerful campaigns without fraudulent followers. Susan and Sarah talk about why marketing is like a bank account and how to swim out of a riptide.2023-10-1735 minTop FloorDeath Cheating TireSarah Saffari was a fitness influencer before realizing she could put what she'd learned to better use as a consultant and agency founder. As CEO of InfluencerNexus, Sarah helps hospitality companies and other brands create powerful campaigns without fraudulent followers. Susan and Sarah talk about why marketing is like a bank account and how to swim out of a riptide.2023-10-1735 min
Top FloorHeartbreak Love BoatAlex Sharpe has been a luxury travel executive for most of his career, but he has found renewed purpose in using travel for good. As President and CEO of Signature Travel Network, Alex created Travel Elevates, a foundation that funds important projects around the world and gives travelers unique experiences that elevate their memories. Susan and Alex talk about travel advisors, Hawaii, and bridge.2023-10-1040 minTop FloorHeartbreak Love BoatAlex Sharpe has been a luxury travel executive for most of his career, but he has found renewed purpose in using travel for good. As President and CEO of Signature Travel Network, Alex created Travel Elevates, a foundation that funds important projects around the world and gives travelers unique experiences that elevate their memories. Susan and Alex talk about travel advisors, Hawaii, and bridge.2023-10-1040 min
Top FloorDisappearing Green CardAnita Francois studied television production and archeology at university and used the money she earned to fund a pretty serious travel habit. Anita's deep knowledge of the often overlooked history of Black travelers and personal discovery of the Black travel movement on Instagram came together when she created the Black Travel Summit. Susan and Anita talk about pneumonia, heart attacks, and the Maniq of Thailand.2023-10-0329 minTop FloorDisappearing Green CardAnita Francois studied television production and archeology at university and used the money she earned to fund a pretty serious travel habit. Anita's deep knowledge of the often overlooked history of Black travelers and personal discovery of the Black travel movement on Instagram came together when she created the Black Travel Summit. Susan and Anita talk about pneumonia, heart attacks, and the Maniq of Thailand.2023-10-0329 min
Top FloorTrash Can FireTracy Prigmore is a real estate investor, hotelier, and educator of women who want to become hotel owners. As creator of She Has a Deal, Tracy is teaching women how to do hotel deals, introducing them to powerful industry networks, and searching for the capital it takes to make it happen. Susan and Tracy talk about the latest season of She Has a Deal and SHaDTalk.2023-09-2646 minTop FloorTrash Can FireTracy Prigmore is a real estate investor, hotelier, and educator of women who want to become hotel owners. As creator of She Has a Deal, Tracy is teaching women how to do hotel deals, introducing them to powerful industry networks, and searching for the capital it takes to make it happen. Susan and Tracy talk about the latest season of She Has a Deal and SHaDTalk.2023-09-2646 min
Top FloorHot Tub BanditsAnnie Sloan was a TV producer, writer, and director, then transitioned her creative skills to marketing and advertising for tech companies like Twitter and Facebook. Her side gig as a short-term rental host start with Craigslist but ultimately became The Host Co. Susan and Annie talk about fake reality, real opportunity, and surreal neighbor behavior.2023-09-1934 minTop FloorHot Tub BanditsAnnie Sloan was a TV producer, writer, and director, then transitioned her creative skills to marketing and advertising for tech companies like Twitter and Facebook. Her side gig as a short-term rental host start with Craigslist but ultimately became The Host Co. Susan and Annie talk about fake reality, real opportunity, and surreal neighbor behavior.2023-09-1934 min
Top FloorFront Desk RomanceNima Anvar is a former scientist, a past hotelier, and a current start-up founder. After a somewhat forced science education, Nima joined his wife's family business in Grenada and learned to manage a hotel on the job before pivoting to start GuestChat, his hotel chatbot. Susan and Nima talk about finding inner peace, searching for home, and being nice.2023-09-1230 minTop FloorFront Desk RomanceNima Anvar is a former scientist, a past hotelier, and a current start-up founder. After a somewhat forced science education, Nima joined his wife's family business in Grenada and learned to manage a hotel on the job before pivoting to start GuestChat, his hotel chatbot. Susan and Nima talk about finding inner peace, searching for home, and being nice.2023-09-1230 min
Orchard PeoplePerry Pears for Cider with Barry MastersonCider apples are a hot commodity these days. But what about perry pears? In this episode, Barry Masterson of Kertelreiter Cider, talks about perry and tells us how to make it and what pear varieties to use. Barry, who is from Ireland, lives with his German born wife, Ines, in the village of Schefflenz in North Baden, Germany. Also check out Grow Your Own Mini Fruit Garden: Planting and Tending Small Fruit Trees and Berries in Gardens and Containers by Christy Wilhelmi of Gardenerd.The host of the Orchard People radio show and podcast is Su...2022-01-2547 min
Engineering Calmer Agencies & Consulting Firms: Calm is the New KPIMaking "Enough" in Our Business with Rita BarryI think there are three different stages when it comes to your business and your personal finances: pre-enough, enough, and post-enough.And at each stage, you'll have different priorities, weigh different choices, and view your world in very different ways. These definitions are mine and I think everyone will probably interpret the idea of pre-enough, enough, or post-enough in their own terms—but here's how I tend to think about it. Pre-enough is that stage when you may have a decent business, but you haven't hit that level of revenue where you're covering yo...2021-01-1947 min
UnlearnDesigning our Work with Susan O’MalleySusan O’Malley is an expert at building high performance teams and culture. This is the passion that influenced her work at Google, as well as her current position of Senior Director at IDEO. She joins Barry O’Reilly on this week’s show to share her inspiring story.
Being Open to Following Your Heart
Few people approach new opportunities with the openness that Susan displays, Barry comments. She credits her mindset to a love of learning and the ‘harmonizer’ role she embodied as a middle child. It deepened when she joined Google in its early years. “I literally saw the product...2020-07-2249 minEngineering Calmer Agencies & Consulting Firms: Calm is the New KPIHow Your Pricing Choices Can Make You Happier With Marketing Analyst Rita BarryHow you choose to price your services and accept payments is one of those business design choices that we don’t always make conscious choices about. But it is a choice that can have a profound impact on your business and how it feels to run it. It just simplifies everything: from your team composition to how you work to even what project management software you use.We’ve been talking this month about the operational benefits of value-based pricing and upfront payments, taking a close look at how those choices can make your service busi...2020-02-2540 min