Shows
Top FloorCreativity Through LineSusan Barry is a marketer, podcaster, consultant, speaker, bird influencer, and serial starter of delightfully unconventional side projects, all connected by a deep belief in the power of creativity. In this solo episode, she explores why hospitality may be optimizing itself out of its most human advantage and what that means for education, recruitment, and guest experience. *** What You'll Learn: *** • Why hospitality is still an apprenticeship business and the hidden cost of that reality • The growing disconnect between hospitality education and operational experience • Why "borrow a fortune and hope for the be...
2026-06-0214 minTop FloorCreativity Through LineSusan Barry is a marketer, podcaster, consultant, speaker, bird influencer, and serial starter of delightfully unconventional side projects, all connected by a deep belief in the power of creativity. In this solo episode, she explores why hospitality may be optimizing itself out of its most human advantage and what that means for education, recruitment, and guest experience. *** What You'll Learn: *** • Why hospitality is still an apprenticeship business and the hidden cost of that reality • The growing disconnect between hospitality education and operational experience • Why "borrow a fortune and hope for the be...
2026-06-0214 min
Top FloorSpring Pick-Up LinesThis is probably the weirdest episode yet. For seven minutes, Susan talks about not being a team player and why personal development is suspect. Then, she joins Calvin Tilokee for a joke-off of Spring-themed pick-up lines for hoteliers. Are you scratching your head in confusion? Good! *** Susan Barry on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/susandbarry/ Top Floor on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/top-floor-podcast Calvin Tilokee on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/calvintilokee/ UN 2026 World Inequality Report - Gender Inequality...
2026-03-3124 minTop FloorSpring Pick-Up LinesThis is probably the weirdest episode yet. For seven minutes, Susan talks about not being a team player and why personal development is suspect. Then, she joins Calvin Tilokee for a joke-off of Spring-themed pick-up lines for hoteliers. Are you scratching your head in confusion? Good! *** Susan Barry on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/susandbarry/ Top Floor on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/top-floor-podcast Calvin Tilokee on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/calvintilokee/ UN 2026 World Inequality Report - Gender Inequality...
2026-03-3124 min
Top FloorHotels Are PoliticalSusan Barry is the founder of Hive Marketing and the host of Top Floor, bringing hotel sales, marketing, and ownership-side perspectives to the mic. In this solo episode, she reintroduces herself to new listeners from Hotel Online and HFTP and zooms out on a timely industry controversy to ask a much bigger question about power, history, and responsibility in hospitality. This episode is short and sweet, much like Susan. How Susan went from English major to hotel exec to founder and podcaster Why "hotels should stay out of politics" is a myth How...
2026-02-1016 minTop FloorHotels Are PoliticalSusan Barry is the founder of Hive Marketing and the host of Top Floor, bringing hotel sales, marketing, and ownership-side perspectives to the mic. In this solo episode, she reintroduces herself to new listeners from Hotel Online and HFTP and zooms out on a timely industry controversy to ask a much bigger question about power, history, and responsibility in hospitality. This episode is short and sweet, much like Susan. How Susan went from English major to hotel exec to founder and podcaster Why "hotels should stay out of politics" is a myth How...
2026-02-1016 min
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 FloorFluff and FoldShelley Brown is a keynote speaker, artist, and former hospitality pro who has built a career by challenging the status quo with heart and humor. After decades navigating buttoned-up boardrooms and high-stakes sales, she ditched the script to help leaders embrace imperfection, foster belonging, and lead like actual humans. Susan and Shelley talk about legacy, leadership, and the Dead. What You'll Learn in This Episode: 🎤 The surprising first step to becoming a paid speaker 🪞 How self-awareness fuels stronger leadership 💥 The difference between being real and being unfiltered 💡 What "Rebel Leadership" actually looks like in prac...
2025-05-2025 minTop FloorFluff and FoldShelley Brown is a keynote speaker, artist, and former hospitality pro who has built a career by challenging the status quo with heart and humor. After decades navigating buttoned-up boardrooms and high-stakes sales, she ditched the script to help leaders embrace imperfection, foster belonging, and lead like actual humans. Susan and Shelley talk about legacy, leadership, and the Dead. What You'll Learn in This Episode: 🎤 The surprising first step to becoming a paid speaker 🪞 How self-awareness fuels stronger leadership 💥 The difference between being real and being unfiltered 💡 What "Rebel Leadership" actually looks like in prac...
2025-05-2025 min
Top FloorUnzipped and FlippedSarah Moss is the Chief of Staff at Hunter Hotel Advisors, where she's the operational glue behind both the firm and its booming hotel investment conference. A hospitality lifer, she started as a maitre d' and worked her way through college before joining Hunter full-time, pausing only briefly to crunch numbers at Coca-Cola. Susan and Sarah talk about growth, grit, and good data. 💡 Learn why saying "yes" to the jobs no one wants can be the ultimate power move in hospitality. 🏗️ Hear how Sarah Moss helped double the size of a major hotel investment conference—pandemic a...
2025-05-1322 minTop FloorUnzipped and FlippedSarah Moss is the Chief of Staff at Hunter Hotel Advisors, where she's the operational glue behind both the firm and its booming hotel investment conference. A hospitality lifer, she started as a maitre d' and worked her way through college before joining Hunter full-time, pausing only briefly to crunch numbers at Coca-Cola. Susan and Sarah talk about growth, grit, and good data. 💡 Learn why saying "yes" to the jobs no one wants can be the ultimate power move in hospitality. 🏗️ Hear how Sarah Moss helped double the size of a major hotel investment conference—pandemic a...
2025-05-1322 min
Top FloorSneaky Server BonusAdrian Balcan is the founder of Feed Check, a platform that helps hospitality businesses decode customer feedback and outshine the competition. With a brain wired for both economics and engineering, he started his company straight out of university, pivoting from tech reviews to the tasty world of hospitality insights. Susan and Adrian talk about fake reviews, feedback-fueled fixes, and futuristic formats. 🔍 What the signs are that a hotel review is fake. 📊 How reading competitors can sharpen your strategy. 🤖 Why your AI-generated review responses shouldn't sound like a robot on repeat. 📱 Where customer reviews will come from ne...
2025-04-2922 minTop FloorSneaky Server BonusAdrian Balcan is the founder of Feed Check, a platform that helps hospitality businesses decode customer feedback and outshine the competition. With a brain wired for both economics and engineering, he started his company straight out of university, pivoting from tech reviews to the tasty world of hospitality insights. Susan and Adrian talk about fake reviews, feedback-fueled fixes, and futuristic formats. 🔍 What the signs are that a hotel review is fake. 📊 How reading competitors can sharpen your strategy. 🤖 Why your AI-generated review responses shouldn't sound like a robot on repeat. 📱 Where customer reviews will come from ne...
2025-04-2922 min
Top FloorFixing the CurveMichael Blank is a hospitality veteran who's worked every angle of the hotel biz—from slinging room keys at the Willard in D.C. to steering multimillion-dollar acquisitions. Now the Principal of Woodmont Lodging, he owns and asset-manages properties across the U.S., with a soft spot for extended stay. Susan and Michael talk about counterintuitive takes on the hotel industry. What You'll Learn About: 🚮 Pick Up Club! Why picking up hallway trash speaks volumes 🏩 The extended stay segment decoded: housing shortage, high margins, and why the hype is justified 🪄 Why AI is not th...
2025-04-1533 minTop FloorFixing the CurveMichael Blank is a hospitality veteran who's worked every angle of the hotel biz—from slinging room keys at the Willard in D.C. to steering multimillion-dollar acquisitions. Now the Principal of Woodmont Lodging, he owns and asset-manages properties across the U.S., with a soft spot for extended stay. Susan and Michael talk about counterintuitive takes on the hotel industry. What You'll Learn About: 🚮 Pick Up Club! Why picking up hallway trash speaks volumes 🏩 The extended stay segment decoded: housing shortage, high margins, and why the hype is justified 🪄 Why AI is not th...
2025-04-1533 min
Top FloorHonest SushiMike Mumford is the General Manager of Brand g Vacations, a leading luxury travel company serving the LGBTQ+ community. After a long career in corporate finance and tech, Mike traded spreadsheets for sunsets, turning his passion for travel into a full-time gig. Susan and Mike talk about career pivots, curated group experiences, and the power of packing light. 🌏 Why cotton candy, corn on the cob, and a theme park mentor helped spark Mike's global travel bug 🌏 How a post-pandemic sabbatical turned into a bold leap out of corporate life and into the world of luxury LGBTQ+...
2025-04-0827 minTop FloorHonest SushiMike Mumford is the General Manager of Brand g Vacations, a leading luxury travel company serving the LGBTQ+ community. After a long career in corporate finance and tech, Mike traded spreadsheets for sunsets, turning his passion for travel into a full-time gig. Susan and Mike talk about career pivots, curated group experiences, and the power of packing light. 🌏 Why cotton candy, corn on the cob, and a theme park mentor helped spark Mike's global travel bug 🌏 How a post-pandemic sabbatical turned into a bold leap out of corporate life and into the world of luxury LGBTQ+...
2025-04-0827 min
Top FloorSquash MilkEpisode Summary: Steve Fortunato never planned to make hospitality his life's work—until he realized it was embedded in his DNA. After starting roomforty, an innovative catering company designed to deliver restaurant-quality experiences anywhere, he went on to open Fig House, a sought-after event venue. Steve's book, The Urgent Recovery of Hospitality [please bold and italicize the title], looks at relationships through the lens of hospitality and explores how generosity can restore civility. Susan and Steve talk about why modern service culture has become transactional, how to break free from the "customer is always wrong" trend, and wh...
2025-04-0143 minTop FloorSquash MilkEpisode Summary: Steve Fortunato never planned to make hospitality his life's work—until he realized it was embedded in his DNA. After starting roomforty, an innovative catering company designed to deliver restaurant-quality experiences anywhere, he went on to open Fig House, a sought-after event venue. Steve's book, The Urgent Recovery of Hospitality [please bold and italicize the title], looks at relationships through the lens of hospitality and explores how generosity can restore civility. Susan and Steve talk about why modern service culture has become transactional, how to break free from the "customer is always wrong" trend, and wh...
2025-04-0143 min
Top FloorHotel Room SaddleLan Elliott's career spans the highest levels of hotel real estate, from acquisitions at Starwood to asset management at IHG. Now, as the co-founder of Acacia Holdings, a champion for women in hospitality through Women in Hospitality Leadership Alliance, and a podcast host on It's Personal Stories, she's on a mission to create more opportunities in leadership and investment. Susan and Lan talk about career pivots, negotiation power moves, and the myth that there aren't enough women speakers in hospitality. What You'll Learn in This Episode: 🚀 How to land a speaking gig at a conference – and w...
2025-03-2535 minTop FloorHotel Room SaddleLan Elliott's career spans the highest levels of hotel real estate, from acquisitions at Starwood to asset management at IHG. Now, as the co-founder of Acacia Holdings, a champion for women in hospitality through Women in Hospitality Leadership Alliance, and a podcast host on It's Personal Stories, she's on a mission to create more opportunities in leadership and investment. Susan and Lan talk about career pivots, negotiation power moves, and the myth that there aren't enough women speakers in hospitality. What You'll Learn in This Episode: 🚀 How to land a speaking gig at a conference – and w...
2025-03-2535 min
Top FloorBathtub DisasterSloan Dean climbed the hospitality ranks from revenue management to the CEO of Remington Hospitality in 2020, steering the company through a global crisis while leading massive expansion. With a background in engineering and finance, he brings a strategic yet people-first approach to hotel management, emphasizing leadership, innovation, and the importance of knowing "a little about a lot." Susan and Sloan talk about prioritization, transformation, and why Gen Z isn't lazy. Episode Highlights: 🛁 The CEO's Real Job? It's not what you think—Sloan reveals the #1 skill that makes or breaks leadership. 🛁 Ditch the Multitasking Myth—Why...
2025-03-1844 minTop FloorBathtub DisasterSloan Dean climbed the hospitality ranks from revenue management to the CEO of Remington Hospitality in 2020, steering the company through a global crisis while leading massive expansion. With a background in engineering and finance, he brings a strategic yet people-first approach to hotel management, emphasizing leadership, innovation, and the importance of knowing "a little about a lot." Susan and Sloan talk about prioritization, transformation, and why Gen Z isn't lazy. Episode Highlights: 🛁 The CEO's Real Job? It's not what you think—Sloan reveals the #1 skill that makes or breaks leadership. 🛁 Ditch the Multitasking Myth—Why...
2025-03-1844 min
Top FloorWrong Kind of RallyBorn in Korea and adopted by Japanese American parents in Seattle, Shari Leid knows what it means to search for belonging. A former litigator who reinvented herself as a life coach and author, she set out on a life-changing journey to all 50 states, meeting 50 women along the way. Susan and Shari talk about fostering friendships, flipping perspectives, and fueling fearless connection. What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✈️ The unexpected way Shari's solo journey across America reshaped her view of belonging ✈️ Why she believes human connection will thrive despite AI and virtual work ✈️ The three types...
2025-03-1128 minTop FloorWrong Kind of RallyBorn in Korea and adopted by Japanese American parents in Seattle, Shari Leid knows what it means to search for belonging. A former litigator who reinvented herself as a life coach and author, she set out on a life-changing journey to all 50 states, meeting 50 women along the way. Susan and Shari talk about fostering friendships, flipping perspectives, and fueling fearless connection. What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✈️ The unexpected way Shari's solo journey across America reshaped her view of belonging ✈️ Why she believes human connection will thrive despite AI and virtual work ✈️ The three types...
2025-03-1128 min
Top FloorSmoky Light PoleWith 20 years in hospitality, Tommy Beyer has done it all—from parking cars to managing multimillion-dollar assets. After 16 years with Newport Hospitality, he co-founded a private REIT and launched B Hospitality Advisors, where he helps hotel owners maximize their investments. From finance to future trends to finding hidden revenue, Tommy knows how to make hotels work smarter, not harder. Susan and Tommy talk about why the brand explosion might be making things worse and how small revenue tweaks can mean big bucks. What You'll Learn About: 💰 Revenue vs. Cost-Cutting: Tommy settles the age-old debate—what's more im...
2025-03-0433 minTop FloorSmoky Light PoleWith 20 years in hospitality, Tommy Beyer has done it all—from parking cars to managing multimillion-dollar assets. After 16 years with Newport Hospitality, he co-founded a private REIT and launched B Hospitality Advisors, where he helps hotel owners maximize their investments. From finance to future trends to finding hidden revenue, Tommy knows how to make hotels work smarter, not harder. Susan and Tommy talk about why the brand explosion might be making things worse and how small revenue tweaks can mean big bucks. What You'll Learn About: 💰 Revenue vs. Cost-Cutting: Tommy settles the age-old debate—what's more im...
2025-03-0433 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 FloorBridal Suite SweetheartsJames Ferguson started his hospitality career at the front desk and worked his way up through operations and leadership roles. Now, as Director of Culture at Wurzak Hotel Group, he focuses on employee experience and engagement with the goal of making workplace culture his company's strongest asset. He's also the author of The Confetti Culture Playbook, a guide to building high-performing teams through recognition, reward, and real connection. Susan and James talk about cool titles and crazy weddings. What you'll learn about: 🎉 Confetti Cleanup 101: James shares the ultimate hack for dealing with post-wedding ballroom disasters. (Hin...
2025-02-1831 minTop FloorBridal Suite SweetheartsJames Ferguson started his hospitality career at the front desk and worked his way up through operations and leadership roles. Now, as Director of Culture at Wurzak Hotel Group, he focuses on employee experience and engagement with the goal of making workplace culture his company's strongest asset. He's also the author of The Confetti Culture Playbook, a guide to building high-performing teams through recognition, reward, and real connection. Susan and James talk about cool titles and crazy weddings. What you'll learn about: 🎉 Confetti Cleanup 101: James shares the ultimate hack for dealing with post-wedding ballroom disasters. (Hin...
2025-02-1831 min
Top FloorMurdered Murder MysteryRyan Fitzgerald started his career as a saxophonist, faking his way onto a cruise ship gig and eventually becoming a cruise director. He transitioned to corporate roles with Carnival and Princess Cruises, managing brand partnerships and global entertainment. Now, as Executive VP of Sea Production at RWS Global, Ryan combines innovation, immersion, and improvisation to deliver world-class experiences across 40+ ships. Susan and Ryan talk about music, mentorship, and maritime magic. What You'll Learn About: How Ryan talked his way into a cruise gig as a musician—without fully knowing how to play all the instruments—and...
2025-01-2837 minTop FloorMurdered Murder MysteryRyan Fitzgerald started his career as a saxophonist, faking his way onto a cruise ship gig and eventually becoming a cruise director. He transitioned to corporate roles with Carnival and Princess Cruises, managing brand partnerships and global entertainment. Now, as Executive VP of Sea Production at RWS Global, Ryan combines innovation, immersion, and improvisation to deliver world-class experiences across 40+ ships. Susan and Ryan talk about music, mentorship, and maritime magic. What You'll Learn About: How Ryan talked his way into a cruise gig as a musician—without fully knowing how to play all the instruments—and...
2025-01-2837 min
Top Floor$7,000 VacuumsMicajah Sturdivant is the third-generation leader of MMI Hospitality Group, a hospitality company managing hotels, restaurants, golf clubs, and more across the Southeast. With roots in the foundational days of Holiday Inn, Micajah champions innovation in the ever-changing lodging industry. Susan and Micajah talk about embracing soft brands, fostering "psychological income," and blending tradition with modern business acumen. What You'll Learn: How Micajah's grandfather partnered with the Holiday Inn founder to diversify Mississippi's economy and plant the seeds for MMI's thriving hospitality empire. Why fostering emotional well-being and trust among employees leads to...
2025-01-2142 minTop Floor$7,000 VacuumsMicajah Sturdivant is the third-generation leader of MMI Hospitality Group, a hospitality company managing hotels, restaurants, golf clubs, and more across the Southeast. With roots in the foundational days of Holiday Inn, Micajah champions innovation in the ever-changing lodging industry. Susan and Micajah talk about embracing soft brands, fostering "psychological income," and blending tradition with modern business acumen. What You'll Learn: How Micajah's grandfather partnered with the Holiday Inn founder to diversify Mississippi's economy and plant the seeds for MMI's thriving hospitality empire. Why fostering emotional well-being and trust among employees leads to...
2025-01-2142 min
Top FloorApron on a FenceMitch Prensky is a food and beverage development consultant with a storied career spanning fine dining, catering, and hotel restaurant concepting. After founding and running Supper, a celebrated farm-to-table restaurant in Philadelphia, Mitch shifted gears to consulting, bringing his expertise to projects with Zabar's, Hyatt, and boutique hotels across the country. As co-founder of COJHO F&B Development, Mitch focuses on creating dining concepts that balance artistic vision with operational execution. Susan and Mitch talk about farms, budgets, and alien abduction. What You'll Learn: How time, capital, and talent factor into a successful restaurant launch.
2025-01-1437 minTop FloorApron on a FenceMitch Prensky is a food and beverage development consultant with a storied career spanning fine dining, catering, and hotel restaurant concepting. After founding and running Supper, a celebrated farm-to-table restaurant in Philadelphia, Mitch shifted gears to consulting, bringing his expertise to projects with Zabar's, Hyatt, and boutique hotels across the country. As co-founder of COJHO F&B Development, Mitch focuses on creating dining concepts that balance artistic vision with operational execution. Susan and Mitch talk about farms, budgets, and alien abduction. What You'll Learn: How time, capital, and talent factor into a successful restaurant launch.
2025-01-1437 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
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