Shows
Top FloorLights Out, NewportChristine Malfair is a lifelong hotelier turned independent-hotel marketing fixer, with a career spanning cruise ships, GM roles, and 15 years building Malfair Marketing as an early "remote fractional CMO." She helps independent hotels cut through AI noise and get found by guests and machines without losing their minds. Susan and Christine talk about clarity, consistency, and competitive courage. • Employee use of ChatGPT and real risks to proprietary hotel data • Guardrails for AI use inside hotel teams without banning innovation • Remote hotel leadership before "remote" was normal • Building a marketing function when no department exists •...
2026-01-2737 minTop FloorLights Out, NewportChristine Malfair is a lifelong hotelier turned independent-hotel marketing fixer, with a career spanning cruise ships, GM roles, and 15 years building Malfair Marketing as an early "remote fractional CMO." She helps independent hotels cut through AI noise and get found by guests and machines without losing their minds. Susan and Christine talk about clarity, consistency, and competitive courage. • Employee use of ChatGPT and real risks to proprietary hotel data • Guardrails for AI use inside hotel teams without banning innovation • Remote hotel leadership before "remote" was normal • Building a marketing function when no department exists •...
2026-01-2737 min
Top FloorBridge & Tunnel WalkSteven Rubin is the CEO of Collared Martin Hospitality, the management company behind Faraway Hotels, with a career that's zigzagged from overnight manager at a 600-room Marriott in 1999 New York City to revenue strategy trailblazer and culture-first leader. He's helped open and grow iconic lifestyle hotels at Kimpton, led across operations, asset management, and hospitality tech, and now steers an independent, experience-obsessed brand expanding from Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard into Sag Harbor and Jackson Hole. Susan and Steve talk about muses, markets, and management—brand-building. What You'll Learn About: • How to think about the "best" path...
2025-12-3037 minTop FloorBridge & Tunnel WalkSteven Rubin is the CEO of Collared Martin Hospitality, the management company behind Faraway Hotels, with a career that's zigzagged from overnight manager at a 600-room Marriott in 1999 New York City to revenue strategy trailblazer and culture-first leader. He's helped open and grow iconic lifestyle hotels at Kimpton, led across operations, asset management, and hospitality tech, and now steers an independent, experience-obsessed brand expanding from Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard into Sag Harbor and Jackson Hole. Susan and Steve talk about muses, markets, and management—brand-building. What You'll Learn About: • How to think about the "best" path...
2025-12-3037 min
Top Floor4th Anniversary!Happy anniversary, Top Floor! Calvin Tilokee is the founder and creative director of RevPAR Media, blending 20+ years of revenue management and marketing with a sharp creative streak. Known for illuminating hospitality brands and roasting industry quirks with his beloved hotel-meme persona, @revparblems, Calvin bridges data, strategy, and humor. On this anniversary episode, he flips the script as guest host, guiding a lively tour through pandemic pivots, podcast production, and personal pet peeves. What You'll Learn About: • Where Susan found the nerve to launch a business without a cash cushion or safety net. • Calvi...
2025-09-1642 minTop Floor4th Anniversary!Happy anniversary, Top Floor! Calvin Tilokee is the founder and creative director of RevPAR Media, blending 20+ years of revenue management and marketing with a sharp creative streak. Known for illuminating hospitality brands and roasting industry quirks with his beloved hotel-meme persona, @revparblems, Calvin bridges data, strategy, and humor. On this anniversary episode, he flips the script as guest host, guiding a lively tour through pandemic pivots, podcast production, and personal pet peeves. What You'll Learn About: • Where Susan found the nerve to launch a business without a cash cushion or safety net. • Calvi...
2025-09-1642 min
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 owner to...
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 owner to...
2025-02-2529 min
Top Floor173 | Wartime MattressFabio Zaniboni is a visionary engineer with a career spanning automotive robotics, luxury yachting, and high-end hospitality. As a specialist in IoT solutions, Fabio combines innovation with sustainability to create unparalleled guest experiences in hotels worldwide with his company BubblyNet. Susan and Fabio talk about circadian lighting and sensor-driven HVAC for hospitality and guest well-being. What You'll Learn: How IoT can personalize guest stays, optimize HVAC, and even help you relax with customized lighting and fragrances. Why IoT can cut energy waste without compromising guest experiences—and the importance of communicating those green ef...
2025-01-0739 minTop Floor173 | Wartime MattressFabio Zaniboni is a visionary engineer with a career spanning automotive robotics, luxury yachting, and high-end hospitality. As a specialist in IoT solutions, Fabio combines innovation with sustainability to create unparalleled guest experiences in hotels worldwide with his company BubblyNet. Susan and Fabio talk about circadian lighting and sensor-driven HVAC for hospitality and guest well-being. What You'll Learn: How IoT can personalize guest stays, optimize HVAC, and even help you relax with customized lighting and fragrances. Why IoT can cut energy waste without compromising guest experiences—and the importance of communicating those green ef...
2025-01-0739 min
Top FloorPandemic Survivor CoupleGeetika Agrawal is a designer and entrepreneur with a career that spans architecture, digital product creation, and cultural preservation. Formerly of Disney Imagineering and MasterCard, she has reimagined travel through Vacation With An Artist (VAWAA), a platform that connects travelers with master artisans for immersive craft experiences. Susan and Geetika talk about bamboo bicycles, beekeeping, and adventure. Taking the Leap: Geetika shares how she transitioned from working for global brands like Disney Imagineering and MasterCard to launching her passion project, Vacation With An Artist (VAWAA). Design Thinking for Life: How Geetika's background in architecture shaped...
2024-12-3129 minTop FloorPandemic Survivor CoupleGeetika Agrawal is a designer and entrepreneur with a career that spans architecture, digital product creation, and cultural preservation. Formerly of Disney Imagineering and MasterCard, she has reimagined travel through Vacation With An Artist (VAWAA), a platform that connects travelers with master artisans for immersive craft experiences. Susan and Geetika talk about bamboo bicycles, beekeeping, and adventure. Taking the Leap: Geetika shares how she transitioned from working for global brands like Disney Imagineering and MasterCard to launching her passion project, Vacation With An Artist (VAWAA). Design Thinking for Life: How Geetika's background in architecture shaped...
2024-12-3129 min
Top FloorShower Not IncludedNiamh McAnally is an adventurer and author who has traveled the world as a hotelier and volunteer. With a career spanning from actor and director in Ireland to suba instructor on Key Largo, she's mastered the art of reinvention. In her book Following Sunshine, she chronicles her global volunteer journey, delivering insights on travel, resilience, and living boldly. Susan and Niamh talk about storytelling, sustainability, and self-discovery. From Broadway to Beaches: Niamh shares how her theatrical upbringing in Ireland shaped her journey, from acting and directing to scuba diving and luxury hotel management on the remote island...
2024-12-2433 minTop FloorShower Not IncludedNiamh McAnally is an adventurer and author who has traveled the world as a hotelier and volunteer. With a career spanning from actor and director in Ireland to suba instructor on Key Largo, she's mastered the art of reinvention. In her book Following Sunshine, she chronicles her global volunteer journey, delivering insights on travel, resilience, and living boldly. Susan and Niamh talk about storytelling, sustainability, and self-discovery. From Broadway to Beaches: Niamh shares how her theatrical upbringing in Ireland shaped her journey, from acting and directing to scuba diving and luxury hotel management on the remote island...
2024-12-2433 min
Top FloorVery Pricey PhotocopyPablo Torres is a seasoned hotelier with experience managing properties across Europe, from Spain to the UK. A revenue strategy expert, Pablo has trained hotel teams globally and collaborates with top industry software providers like Oaky. Susan and Pablo talk about creating customer-centric experiences, optimizing profit, and personalizing hospitality offerings. From Night Audit to Revenue Maven: Pablo shares his journey from starting in night audit to becoming a sought-after expert in revenue strategy. What is Ancillary Revenue?: Learn how hotels can transform overlooked offerings into profitable revenue streams and why they lag behind industries like...
2024-12-1730 minTop FloorVery Pricey PhotocopyPablo Torres is a seasoned hotelier with experience managing properties across Europe, from Spain to the UK. A revenue strategy expert, Pablo has trained hotel teams globally and collaborates with top industry software providers like Oaky. Susan and Pablo talk about creating customer-centric experiences, optimizing profit, and personalizing hospitality offerings. From Night Audit to Revenue Maven: Pablo shares his journey from starting in night audit to becoming a sought-after expert in revenue strategy. What is Ancillary Revenue?: Learn how hotels can transform overlooked offerings into profitable revenue streams and why they lag behind industries like...
2024-12-1730 min
Top FloorBreathtaking BeautyPeter Follows, founder of Carpedia, has spent over 30 years helping businesses turn strategies into actionable results. From working with industrial giants to hospitality leaders like Ritz-Carlton, Peter's expertise lies in optimizing operations and aligning teams for success. Susan and Peter talk about labor challenges in hospitality, the hidden power of implementation, and the potential of AI to transform the industry. Bridging the Strategy Gap: Peter reveals how Carpedia started by addressing the disconnect between strategy creation and implementation, ultimately carving a niche in operational consulting. The Ritz-Carlton Pivot: Learn how a serendipitous cold call led...
2024-12-1042 minTop FloorBreathtaking BeautyPeter Follows, founder of Carpedia, has spent over 30 years helping businesses turn strategies into actionable results. From working with industrial giants to hospitality leaders like Ritz-Carlton, Peter's expertise lies in optimizing operations and aligning teams for success. Susan and Peter talk about labor challenges in hospitality, the hidden power of implementation, and the potential of AI to transform the industry. Bridging the Strategy Gap: Peter reveals how Carpedia started by addressing the disconnect between strategy creation and implementation, ultimately carving a niche in operational consulting. The Ritz-Carlton Pivot: Learn how a serendipitous cold call led...
2024-12-1042 min
Top FloorCelery in the HoodiePaul Bishop is an award-winning designer and the founder of Bishop Design, renowned for crafting immersive hospitality and entertainment venues worldwide. He has collaborated with iconic brands like Atlantis and global chefs such as Massimo Bottura. Susan and Paul talk about blending creativity, culture, and commerce. Show Notes: From Manchester to Dubai: Discover how Paul's leap of faith to the Middle East turned a one-year plan into 28. The Art of Play: Get the inside scoop on Playground, Paul's award-winning venue that brings back the joy of childhood with adult-sized games, social interaction, and...
2024-12-0338 minTop FloorCelery in the HoodiePaul Bishop is an award-winning designer and the founder of Bishop Design, renowned for crafting immersive hospitality and entertainment venues worldwide. He has collaborated with iconic brands like Atlantis and global chefs such as Massimo Bottura. Susan and Paul talk about blending creativity, culture, and commerce. Show Notes: From Manchester to Dubai: Discover how Paul's leap of faith to the Middle East turned a one-year plan into 28. The Art of Play: Get the inside scoop on Playground, Paul's award-winning venue that brings back the joy of childhood with adult-sized games, social interaction, and...
2024-12-0338 min
Top FloorCompost, Compost, CompostAmy Wald is the founder of greenluxe, where she's on a mission to make sustainability a natural part of the hospitality industry. After years in sales and an eye-opening stint on cruise ships, she saw firsthand the environmental impact of tourism. Susan and Amy talk about eco-friendly practices for hotels that make great business sense. From Liquor Rep to Eco-Champion – Amy shares her unexpected career pivot from sales in Miami to advocating for sustainability after witnessing tourism's environmental toll. Breaking Down "Greenwashing" vs. "Greenhushing" – What these terms mean and why hotels are at risk if they...
2024-11-2636 minTop FloorCompost, Compost, CompostAmy Wald is the founder of greenluxe, where she's on a mission to make sustainability a natural part of the hospitality industry. After years in sales and an eye-opening stint on cruise ships, she saw firsthand the environmental impact of tourism. Susan and Amy talk about eco-friendly practices for hotels that make great business sense. From Liquor Rep to Eco-Champion – Amy shares her unexpected career pivot from sales in Miami to advocating for sustainability after witnessing tourism's environmental toll. Breaking Down "Greenwashing" vs. "Greenhushing" – What these terms mean and why hotels are at risk if they...
2024-11-2636 min
Top FloorLead YourselfMike Schugt is a hospitality industry leader who started his career at 15 as a dishwasher and rose through the ranks to become Vice President at Hilton. Now the President of Teneo Hospitality Group, Mike connects independent hotels with vital group business opportunities. Susan and Mike talk about self-leadership, the evolving expectations in group travel, and the unique challenges facing independent hotels. Navigating Change in Hospitality: From his early days in corporate to founding his own consulting firm, Mike shares how his pivot to consulting with Leading North was fueled by a passion for empowering independent hotels to...
2024-11-1936 minTop FloorLead YourselfMike Schugt is a hospitality industry leader who started his career at 15 as a dishwasher and rose through the ranks to become Vice President at Hilton. Now the President of Teneo Hospitality Group, Mike connects independent hotels with vital group business opportunities. Susan and Mike talk about self-leadership, the evolving expectations in group travel, and the unique challenges facing independent hotels. Navigating Change in Hospitality: From his early days in corporate to founding his own consulting firm, Mike shares how his pivot to consulting with Leading North was fueled by a passion for empowering independent hotels to...
2024-11-1936 min
Top FloorPurple Flower LuxuryFlorence Li is Vide President of International Sales and Marketing for Songtsam, a family-owned collection of luxury boutique hotels nestled in China's Tibetan and Yunnan regions. Growing up surrounded by hospitality, Florence honed her craft at Swiss Hotel Management School and later, by managing luxury properties with Six Senses and Taj Hotels. Susan and Florence talk about culturally rich tourism and the essence of Tibetan hospitality. Visa Tips for China: Florence demystifies the China tourist visa process and shares pro tips, including a transit visa option that lets travelers explore visa-free for up to six days...
2024-11-1223 minTop FloorPurple Flower LuxuryFlorence Li is Vide President of International Sales and Marketing for Songtsam, a family-owned collection of luxury boutique hotels nestled in China's Tibetan and Yunnan regions. Growing up surrounded by hospitality, Florence honed her craft at Swiss Hotel Management School and later, by managing luxury properties with Six Senses and Taj Hotels. Susan and Florence talk about culturally rich tourism and the essence of Tibetan hospitality. Visa Tips for China: Florence demystifies the China tourist visa process and shares pro tips, including a transit visa option that lets travelers explore visa-free for up to six days...
2024-11-1223 min
Top FloorOscar the GhostLaura Lee Blake is the president and CEO of AAHOA, the largest association for hotel owners in the U.S., representing nearly 20,000 members. With a background in law and extensive experience in industry advocacy, she returned to AAHOA in 2022 to champion issues like the LIONs Act. Susan and Laura Lee talk about advocacy, innovation, and Oscar the ghost. What you'll learn about in this episode: From Journalism to Hospitality: Laura Lee Blake shares her unique journey from aspiring journalist to law, then leading AAHOA, the U.S.'s largest hotel owners association. Breaking...
2024-11-0542 minTop FloorOscar the GhostLaura Lee Blake is the president and CEO of AAHOA, the largest association for hotel owners in the U.S., representing nearly 20,000 members. With a background in law and extensive experience in industry advocacy, she returned to AAHOA in 2022 to champion issues like the LIONs Act. Susan and Laura Lee talk about advocacy, innovation, and Oscar the ghost. What you'll learn about in this episode: From Journalism to Hospitality: Laura Lee Blake shares her unique journey from aspiring journalist to law, then leading AAHOA, the U.S.'s largest hotel owners association. Breaking...
2024-11-0542 min
Top FloorIce Bucket InvestigationAurora Dawn Benton is a sustainability consultant and author of Exponential Impact: Harnessing Human Potential to Drive Sustainability in Organizations. With a diverse career spanning tech, finance, education, and hospitality, Aurora is known for food waste reduction, data-driven sustainability, and workforce engagement strategies. Susan and Aurora talk about rolls, melons, and expensive trash. Episode Highlights: Changing the Hospitality Mindset: Aurora explains how sustainability in food and beverage goes beyond cost-cutting. By reimagining food services, event planners can transform dining from "calories between sessions" into meaningful experiences. Overcoming the BEO Nightmare: Banquet Event Orders...
2024-10-2942 minTop FloorIce Bucket InvestigationAurora Dawn Benton is a sustainability consultant and author of Exponential Impact: Harnessing Human Potential to Drive Sustainability in Organizations. With a diverse career spanning tech, finance, education, and hospitality, Aurora is known for food waste reduction, data-driven sustainability, and workforce engagement strategies. Susan and Aurora talk about rolls, melons, and expensive trash. Episode Highlights: Changing the Hospitality Mindset: Aurora explains how sustainability in food and beverage goes beyond cost-cutting. By reimagining food services, event planners can transform dining from "calories between sessions" into meaningful experiences. Overcoming the BEO Nightmare: Banquet Event Orders...
2024-10-2942 min
Top FloorMoney-Making MachineMichelle Pascoe is a Sydney-based expert in hospitality and customer service with over 30 years of experience. As the founder of her own consultancy and host of the Michelle Pascoe Hospitality Podcast, she helps businesses improve customer engagement and operational efficiency. Susan and Michelle talk about navigating the complexities of a multigenerational workforce. Can we still ask employees to smile? Michelle digs into employee morale and the changing expectations of customer-facing roles. A career-defining bad interview: Michelle recounts a shocking job interview that tested her values and ultimately led her to start her own business.
2024-10-2237 minTop FloorMoney-Making MachineMichelle Pascoe is a Sydney-based expert in hospitality and customer service with over 30 years of experience. As the founder of her own consultancy and host of the Michelle Pascoe Hospitality Podcast, she helps businesses improve customer engagement and operational efficiency. Susan and Michelle talk about navigating the complexities of a multigenerational workforce. Can we still ask employees to smile? Michelle digs into employee morale and the changing expectations of customer-facing roles. A career-defining bad interview: Michelle recounts a shocking job interview that tested her values and ultimately led her to start her own business.
2024-10-2237 min
Top FloorAirline Bankruptcy SurpriseJared Lerner, co-founder and CEO of Nappr, transformed his personal challenges with sleep and travel into a platform offering short-term hotel stays designed for rest. With a background in software engineering and startup culture, he pivoted Nappr from brick-and-mortar spaces to a tech-driven marketplace. Susan and Jared talk about sleep health, travel convenience, and company culture. What you'll hear about: Pivoting in Business: Jared discusses his experience pivoting Nappr from a brick-and-mortar concept to a marketplace model, focusing on what makes a pivot successful. Startup Culture: Jared shares insights from his time in New York startups...
2024-10-1531 minTop FloorAirline Bankruptcy SurpriseJared Lerner, co-founder and CEO of Nappr, transformed his personal challenges with sleep and travel into a platform offering short-term hotel stays designed for rest. With a background in software engineering and startup culture, he pivoted Nappr from brick-and-mortar spaces to a tech-driven marketplace. Susan and Jared talk about sleep health, travel convenience, and company culture. What you'll hear about: Pivoting in Business: Jared discusses his experience pivoting Nappr from a brick-and-mortar concept to a marketplace model, focusing on what makes a pivot successful. Startup Culture: Jared shares insights from his time in New York startups...
2024-10-1531 min
Top FloorSleeping on the TrainLiz Owens is the Senior Vice President and General Manager of Vacations by Rail, North America's leading provider of train vacations. With over 20 years of experience in marketing and brand growth, she has played a key role in expanding the company's reach and doubling its size. Liz and Susan discuss trains, travel tips, and the timeless appeal of rail vacations. What you can expect to hear: Are trains the new planes? Liz shares all things rail travel, from packing tips to navigating the onboard experience. No tiny shampoos here! Are luggage restrictions and security on trains...
2024-10-0833 minTop FloorSleeping on the TrainLiz Owens is the Senior Vice President and General Manager of Vacations by Rail, North America's leading provider of train vacations. With over 20 years of experience in marketing and brand growth, she has played a key role in expanding the company's reach and doubling its size. Liz and Susan discuss trains, travel tips, and the timeless appeal of rail vacations. What you can expect to hear: Are trains the new planes? Liz shares all things rail travel, from packing tips to navigating the onboard experience. No tiny shampoos here! Are luggage restrictions and security on trains...
2024-10-0833 min
Top Floor15-Day CareerGustavo Viescas is the president of Wyndham Hotels and Resorts for Latin America and the Caribbean. After more than two decades in finance, Gustavo's role has grown to encompass launching a new all-inclusive brand and leading 266 hotels. Susan and Gustavo talk about balancing financial acumen with leadership that emphasizes emotional intelligence. What soft skills Gustavo had to develop to become President. Why consistency between price and product is key to customer satisfaction. Why balancing short-term and long-term decisions is a critical challenge in leadership. How Gustavo and team launched the all-inclusive Wyndham Ultra brand during the pandemic. What...
2024-10-0127 minTop Floor15-Day CareerGustavo Viescas is the president of Wyndham Hotels and Resorts for Latin America and the Caribbean. After more than two decades in finance, Gustavo's role has grown to encompass launching a new all-inclusive brand and leading 266 hotels. Susan and Gustavo talk about balancing financial acumen with leadership that emphasizes emotional intelligence. What soft skills Gustavo had to develop to become President. Why consistency between price and product is key to customer satisfaction. Why balancing short-term and long-term decisions is a critical challenge in leadership. How Gustavo and team launched the all-inclusive Wyndham Ultra brand during the pandemic. What...
2024-10-0127 min
Top FloorBad Business BulletsStephen Galbreath is the Chief Development Officer and Head of Design and Construction at Garfield Public Private, specializing in the development of convention centers, hotels, and essential municipal buildings. Stephen helps cities and government entities build impactful infrastructure that drives economic growth and revitalizes communities. Susan and Stephen talk about the benefits of convention business and bullet-proof vests. What challenges arise when working with municipalities on hotel projects. When Steve transitioned from architecture to public-private partnership development. Where Garfield Public Private operates and the types of projects they specialize in. How the ownership structure of a convention center...
2024-09-2433 minTop FloorBad Business BulletsStephen Galbreath is the Chief Development Officer and Head of Design and Construction at Garfield Public Private, specializing in the development of convention centers, hotels, and essential municipal buildings. Stephen helps cities and government entities build impactful infrastructure that drives economic growth and revitalizes communities. Susan and Stephen talk about the benefits of convention business and bullet-proof vests. What challenges arise when working with municipalities on hotel projects. When Steve transitioned from architecture to public-private partnership development. Where Garfield Public Private operates and the types of projects they specialize in. How the ownership structure of a convention center...
2024-09-2433 min
Top FloorCauldron of LightKevin Fedarko is a magazine writer, adventurer, and author of A Walk in the Park: The True Story of a Spectacular Misadventure in the Grand Canyon. Kevin traversed the 800-mile distance of the Grand Canyon over a year and was surprised that he lived to write about it. Susan and Kevin talk about silence, light, and hubris. What you'll learn about in this episode: How to pack light Who helped Kevin avoid certain death Why the Grand Canyon is so difficult to hike What the transformational power of silence is What makes the Grand Canyon's landscapes...
2024-09-1748 minTop FloorCauldron of LightKevin Fedarko is a magazine writer, adventurer, and author of A Walk in the Park: The True Story of a Spectacular Misadventure in the Grand Canyon. Kevin traversed the 800-mile distance of the Grand Canyon over a year and was surprised that he lived to write about it. Susan and Kevin talk about silence, light, and hubris. What you'll learn about in this episode: How to pack light Who helped Kevin avoid certain death Why the Grand Canyon is so difficult to hike What the transformational power of silence is What makes the Grand Canyon's landscapes...
2024-09-1748 min
Top FloorBar Tab LarcenyTim Hentschel is the founder of HotelPlanner, which sought to digitize the analog process of booking group business in hotels. HotelPlanner has changed a lot since it launched, and Tim is now exploring other ways to digitize analog processes in the hotel industry. Susan and Tim talk about automating relationships, over-managing rate strategy, and innovating in a tech resistant industry. What you'll learn about in this episode: Why AI might not fully replace human agents in high-touch services. How the flexibility of gig work is gamified for customer service agents. How AI is being integrated into H...
2024-09-1032 minTop FloorBar Tab LarcenyTim Hentschel is the founder of HotelPlanner, which sought to digitize the analog process of booking group business in hotels. HotelPlanner has changed a lot since it launched, and Tim is now exploring other ways to digitize analog processes in the hotel industry. Susan and Tim talk about automating relationships, over-managing rate strategy, and innovating in a tech resistant industry. What you'll learn about in this episode: Why AI might not fully replace human agents in high-touch services. How the flexibility of gig work is gamified for customer service agents. How AI is being integrated into H...
2024-09-1032 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 FloorFootball Lost & FoundMindi Cooke is fashion executive turned reunitor of lost things. As SVP of Business Development at Reunitus, Mindi helps airlines, ski mountains, and hotels use software to match lost items with their owners. Susan and Mindi talk about stuffed animals, iPads, and Chanel. What you'll learn about in this episode: Where to label your suitcase. What percentage of lost luggage is found. How hotels outsource lost-and-found services. Which lost items are most important to return. Why Unclaimed Baggage pays for lost items in advance. Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "I love Top Floor!"...
2024-08-2728 minTop FloorFootball Lost & FoundMindi Cooke is fashion executive turned reunitor of lost things. As SVP of Business Development at Reunitus, Mindi helps airlines, ski mountains, and hotels use software to match lost items with their owners. Susan and Mindi talk about stuffed animals, iPads, and Chanel. What you'll learn about in this episode: Where to label your suitcase. What percentage of lost luggage is found. How hotels outsource lost-and-found services. Which lost items are most important to return. Why Unclaimed Baggage pays for lost items in advance. Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "I love Top Floor!"...
2024-08-2728 min
Top FloorOur Robot OverlordsMatt Casella is a former finance guy and restaurant automation entrepreneur who serves as President of Richtech Robotics. The company creates robots who cook, clean, and serve drinks, including their latest invention, Adam. Susan and Matt talk about automation, experience, and the perils of opening a restaurant. What you'll learn about in this episode: Who is Adam? When to ignore advice Why finance sometimes leads to food What recipe Matt is best at preparing How to improve upon past humanoid robots Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "I love Top Floor!" If that sounds...
2024-08-1937 minTop FloorOur Robot OverlordsMatt Casella is a former finance guy and restaurant automation entrepreneur who serves as President of Richtech Robotics. The company creates robots who cook, clean, and serve drinks, including their latest invention, Adam. Susan and Matt talk about automation, experience, and the perils of opening a restaurant. What you'll learn about in this episode: Who is Adam? When to ignore advice Why finance sometimes leads to food What recipe Matt is best at preparing How to improve upon past humanoid robots Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "I love Top Floor!" If that sounds...
2024-08-1937 min
Top FloorMissing Blanket of SnowAndrea Piana is committed to a sustainable, zero-waste economy, so it may come as a surprise to learn that he is CEO of a more than 400-year-old textile company, Piana Technology. Andrea has created a new bed that is made with non-woven fiber, is 100% recyclable, and is designed to give hotel guests a luxurious night's sleep. Susan and Andrea talk about thinking, innovating, and skiing. What you'll learn about in this episode: How non-woven fabrics and calming molecules help sleep How Andrea got interested in sustainability Why personal values can guide a company What a circular...
2024-08-1332 minTop FloorMissing Blanket of SnowAndrea Piana is committed to a sustainable, zero-waste economy, so it may come as a surprise to learn that he is CEO of a more than 400-year-old textile company, Piana Technology. Andrea has created a new bed that is made with non-woven fiber, is 100% recyclable, and is designed to give hotel guests a luxurious night's sleep. Susan and Andrea talk about thinking, innovating, and skiing. What you'll learn about in this episode: How non-woven fabrics and calming molecules help sleep How Andrea got interested in sustainability Why personal values can guide a company What a circular...
2024-08-1332 min
Top FloorRolls Royce ChauffeurAli Krupnik is founder of MyWellCo, a wellness events company. Ali is passionate about bringing wellness to corporate events without it having to be yoga. Susan and Ali talk about floating in a chair and fighting phone stress. What you'll learn about in this episode: How to lower stress When to bring your pillow Who hires MyWellCo for events What you can do for better sleep Why wellness is not the same thing as yoga Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "I love Top Floor!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and...
2024-08-0634 minTop FloorRolls Royce ChauffeurAli Krupnik is founder of MyWellCo, a wellness events company. Ali is passionate about bringing wellness to corporate events without it having to be yoga. Susan and Ali talk about floating in a chair and fighting phone stress. What you'll learn about in this episode: How to lower stress When to bring your pillow Who hires MyWellCo for events What you can do for better sleep Why wellness is not the same thing as yoga Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "I love Top Floor!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and...
2024-08-0634 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
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