It's Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast

Ben's story is a reminder that longevity in one place can be just as powerful a career move as chasing the next opportunity. The depth of trust he has built at Noble - with partners, with his team, and through the cycles of the industry - did not happen by accident; it was the result of showing up fully, year after year. For those earlier in their careers: choose your environment wisely, invest in the people around you, and never stop asking how you can contribute more. In hospitality, relationships are the real currency, and the ones built on genuine trust compound over time.

Karen details her journey from French professor to CRO and CMO of a hospitality technology company including many of the leadership lessons she's learned along the way. Find out how adaptability is a consistent theme for her and why she seeks out team members who can thrive in ambiguity. Karen discusses wellness, balancing time, the benefits of living internationally, comfort in public speaking, and what aspects of her leadership have evolved the most over time, among other great lessons.

 Thomas shares some of the many leadership lessons he's learned from his nearly 30 years with Donohoe and his path from dishwasher to president. He discusses his purpose-driven leadership, why representation matters, his commitment to shaping the industry's future, and how AI can be a valuable tool for breaking down traditional barriers to career growth. Thomas talks about his public speaking journey, what he's optimistic about, what people don't know about him, and why adversity is a gift.

Robert’s career shows what happens when passion, self-knowledge, and service converge over time. He found his niche in hotel data and leaned into it fully - building tools that transformed how the industry benchmarks performance. His advice: follow what energizes you, surround yourself with people you can learn from, and show up for your network the way you hope they will show up for you. Do that consistently, and the rest tends to take care of itself.

Colin shares how his leadership has evolved over 12 years at IHG and the additional leadership skills he's developed through board service, his own curiosity, and lessons from his support system and mentors. He discusses using self awareness to overcome self doubt, his strategies for public speaking and building relationships, and the importance of feedback. Colin talks about wellness, something people don't know about him, and the important impact of knowing everything will turn out okay.

Clarity, Discipline, and Global Perspective in Technology LeadershipDuane Overgaard’s leadership journey is grounded in a powerful combination of operational depth and global systems expertise. His formative years at Hilton provided a foundation in how hotels operate and how commercial systems function in practice, while his experience at Sabre expanded his perspective on connectivity, distribution, and the broader travel ecosystem. Together, these experiences shaped an end-to-end understanding of how the industry works, positioning him to lead at DerbySoft.As Divisional CEO, Overgaard is known for a leadership style rooted in clarity, discipline, and trust. He believes direct communication is essential, particularly in global environments where ambiguity can slow execution, and he prioritizes aligning teams around what truly matters. His approach is grounded in listening to his team, customers, and the realities of the market, with a focus on translating ideas into practical, scalable solutions while maintaining humility and accountability.Notable Quotes• “Clarity is a leadership responsibility—be direct so teams can move faster.”• “Ideas are everywhere—execution is what actually matters.”• “I’ve never forgotten where I came from—treat people the right way.”• “Segmentation is gone—everything is visible in today’s market.”• “AI is only as strong as the content behind it.”Closing ReflectionOvergaard’s journey reflects leadership grounded in clarity, discipline, and trust. His experience demonstrates how operational depth and global perspective shape effective decision-making. By focusing on execution and alignment, he creates consistency across complex environments. His approach reinforces that leadership is built through experience, listening, and accountability.His story highlights the importance of combining experience with continuous learning. By staying focused on what matters and translating ideas into action, leaders can navigate complexity. He emphasizes respect, clarity, and practical thinking in every interaction. Through discipline and alignment, teams can move faster and perform better. Ultimately, his journey shows that effective leadership is both grounded and forward-looking.

 I recently sat down with Chris Hemmeter, Co Founder and Managing Director of Thayer Investment Partners, and one part of our conversation stood out because it applies to all of us, not just entrepreneurs.Chris pushed back on the idea that there is a perfect formula for success. Instead, he shared three qualities he consistently sees in high potential leaders:Integrity: A commitment to truth and accuracy, even when the facts are not as strong as you would like them to be. People can feel that honesty, and it builds the connection necessary to do something together.Persistence: This is not about long hours alone, but about tenacity and the willingness to take multiple at bats. If you do not get up and swing again, you will never figure it out.Progress: A relentless focus on moving forward. Every leader should be able to show what they have accomplished in the last 90 days. Momentum is the ultimate indicator of excellence.What struck me is how simple, and how difficult, these are to practice consistently. We also explored why focus can be a defining inflection point, how to avoid getting stuck, and what it really means to be comfortable in your own skin.If you are working toward something meaningful, I think you will find this conversation both practical and thought provoking. 

Adi’s career demonstrates that lasting success comes from deliberate choices, not shortcuts. He calls us to reinvent ourselves from within, advocate for our value with facts and preparation, and invest in relationships that deepen over time. His advice to seek honest mentors — people who tell you the truth and challenge your blind spots — is a reminder that growth requires honest counsel. Play the long game, because the compounding side of it is very hard to replicate.

Curiosity, Adaptability, and Leadership Across Hospitality’s Evolving LandscapeAndrew Rubinacci’s career reflects a journey shaped by curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace unexpected opportunities. Beginning in operations with a goal to become a general manager, he moved into revenue management after being identified for a new initiative, becoming the first revenue manager at IHG. His path expanded into distribution, digital, and e-commerce roles across major organizations, including Bristol, Maristar, and IHG, where he led early OTA negotiations and gained global experience in Europe.Across brand, ownership, management, and now technology at FLYR, Rubinacci emphasizes understanding the three core stakeholders in hospitality—brand, owner, and manager—each with competing priorities that shape decision-making. He highlights the contrast between large organizations requiring rigor and alignment, and smaller or integrated businesses that can move quickly. In technology and AI, he stresses staying current through networks, continuous learning, and adaptability, noting that innovation often comes from those able to move fast without legacy constraints. His perspective underscores that while technology is transforming the industry, success still depends on understanding fundamentals and navigating complexity.Notable Quotes• “You just work hard. Stay true to yourself.”• “Speed sometimes helps you win.”• “You should do revenue management.”• “You can't get too far behind because it's changing that rapidly.”• “Work your ass off in your twenties.”Closing ReflectionRubinacci’s journey reflects leadership grounded in adaptability, resilience, and continuous learning. He demonstrates how diverse experiences across operations, commercial strategy, and technology shape a broader perspective. By embracing change and staying curious, he navigates complexity with clarity. His approach highlights that success comes from understanding both people and systems.His story reinforces that careers are rarely linear and often shaped by unexpected opportunities. By working hard, staying curious, and building relationships, new paths emerge. He encourages future leaders to seek knowledge, create opportunities, and remain adaptable. As technology reshapes the industry, those who evolve will remain relevant. Ultimately, his journey shows that growth comes from action, curiosity, and a commitment to learning.

Leonard discusses his lifelong hospitality career journey, how mentors from his career have shaped his current leadership, and his mantras that guide him. He shares the importance of nurturing relationships, how his curiosity has influenced him, and how he has developed new skills while evolving many existing ones. Leonard talks about the future of hospitality as seen through the eyes of hospitality school education, one thing about him that would surprise everyone, and his advice to his younger self.

Harmeet’s insights reinforce that success is built through systems, support, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Her approach encourages leaders to empower others by providing structure and guidance rather than relying solely on motivation. She reminds us that respect and strong relationships are foundational to sustainable growth. Her perspective on learning highlights the importance of staying curious and adaptable in a changing world. Ultimately, her message is clear: with the right mindset and support, challenges can always be worked through and transformed into progress.

For decades, Jeff Weinstein told the stories of others. This time, it’s his story.A deeply personal conversation about leadership, integrity, fatherhood, and the perspective gained from raising a son with autism. A reminder that success is one thing, but who we become along the way matters far more.

Tina shares the pivotal moments behind her career route from college biology major to CFO and how she developed the skills and subject matter expertise to be successful. She talks about her board service on the Federal Reserve and a community bank, how and why she commits her voice to advocacy on behalf of the industry, and how she navigates a family business. Tina discusses building great teams, overcoming self doubt, and the principles that guide her daily journey.

Kaushik’s perspective reminds us that progress comes from curiosity and continuous learning. When we focus on building knowledge instead of fearing the unknown, opportunities expand. His advice encourages us to keep learning, keep asking questions, and keep saying Yes to growth.

Integration, Clarity, and Human-Centered Commercial LeadershipAndy Kauffman’s path into commercial leadership was rooted not in traditional sales or revenue management, but in digital performance marketing. Beginning with paid search and performance marketing at Marriott, he built broader product and marketing capabilities before returning to lead commercial performance for the US and Canada. His philosophy centers on integration—recognizing that while organizations may be structured vertically, the work gets done horizontally. He emphasizes aligning marketing, pricing, demand, and sales around measurable performance, ensuring every initiative ladders back to how the company defines success.Kauffman believes leadership evolves from individual expertise to connecting dots across teams and motivating large organizations. He champions a one-page business plan tied to clear KPIs and insists every team member see how their work contributes to company priorities. Through digital transformation and AI, he embraces experimentation, encouraging leaders to be users themselves and build teams that reflect the customer base they serve. Balancing owners, customers, members, and shareholders requires clarity around the flywheel of value creation, transparency in change, and a commitment to empowering people while remaining relentlessly focused on performance.Notable Quotes• “What got you here won’t get you there.”• “The work gets done horizontally.”• “You should be able to articulate your business plan on one page.”• “If you don’t evolve, you become less relevant.”• “I am a father first. No one puts “I wished I worked more” on their tombstone”Closing ReflectionKauffman’s journey reflects leadership grounded in clarity, accountability, and integration. He demonstrates that measurable performance and human-centered leadership are not at odds, but mutually reinforcing. By aligning teams around shared KPIs and empowering them with trust, he creates scalable impact. His approach illustrates that complexity can be navigated through discipline, transparency, and connection.His perspective reminds leaders that growth requires continual reinvention. By experimenting, embracing change, and remaining open to new technologies, he models adaptability at scale. He reinforces the importance of balancing performance with empathy and family with ambition. Through trust, clarity, and disciplined focus, large organizations can move as one. Ultimately, his story affirms that leadership at scale remains deeply personal and profoundly human.

Keith shares his career journey and how he’s learned to treat change as opportunity. He reflects on the relationships and sponsors who helped advance his career and how he now pays that forward. Keith also discusses his evolution as a leader, what he would tell his younger self, and how he adapts in the face of ever-changing industry leadership.  

Chef Franck emphasizes that personal and professional growth often begins with stepping into uncertainty and developing resilience along the way. Reflecting on pivotal moments in his life, he explains that growth consistently required him to adapt, confront discomfort, and remain determined even when challenges felt overwhelming. Whether navigating new environments, learning unfamiliar skills, or facing moments of doubt, resilience became the foundation that allowed him to continue moving forward and evolving.

Laura Smith’s career began far from a traditional sales path. After studying languages and starting as a teacher, she joined an airline, where early experience in a lost baggage call center shaped her belief in leading with empathy. She explains that empathy shapes trust and culture, and those two things shape performance. When asked in 2020 to lead the global sales organization at Hertz, she relied on people skills, reliability, and a strong team foundation to step into commercial leadership during extraordinary change, including bankruptcy and a complete reset of the business.Smith defines exceptional sales leadership as building an engine that hits the numbers every time, focused on daily behaviors, consistency, and culture as the performance multiplier. She emphasizes preparation, listening more than speaking, understanding the human in the room, knowing the decision maker, and conducting the meeting before and after the meeting. Through uncertainty, she believes in over communication, short-term priorities, celebrating wins, and reminding teams that they can do hard things. Moving from Ireland to the United States reinforced resilience, trust in opportunity, and the power of team.Notable Quotes•        “Leading with empathy shapes trust, it shapes culture.”•        “Sales at the end of the day is really solving problems.”•        “An exceptional sales leader builds an engine that hits the numbers every time.”•        “You cannot over communicate in scenarios of deep change and grave     uncertainty.”•        “Change is the most incredible mechanism for real growth.”

Liz emphasizes sustained career growth comes from consistently asking what comes next and seeking opportunities beyond defined roles. She explains the importance of expanding perspective by understanding how different functions connect, particularly financial and operational considerations, and encourages professionals at all levels to learn the broader business language. By intentionally exposing herself to unfamiliar areas, she was able to contribute in more meaningful ways and open new opportunities for growth.

Suzanne discusses how her transferable skills have aided her hospitality journey from restaurants to hotels to academia and podcasting and how she develops new skills with each role. She shares her strategies for achieving work life harmony, one thing people don't know about her, and what advice she'd give to her younger self. Suzanne talks about her leadership evolution, how the next generation sees leadership today, and her strategies for public speaking and how they've changed since her first big opportunity.

Calvin talks about his journey from hotel desk agent to keynote speaker to published author of Hidden Hospitality. He discusses the importance of sponsorship, the keys to how the hospitality industry can increase diversity at the leadership level, and his thoughts on public speaking. He shares what he wants his sons to learn from his recent experiences, why we should all bet on ourselves, and how his leadership is evolving through better listening and patience.

Michelle’s insights reinforce that personal success is built through curiosity, preparation, and intentional choices. Her advice encourages professionals to rely on data, communicate clearly, and focus on areas where they can create real impact. By advocating for yourself with confidence, building authentic relationships, and staying curious, you position yourself for sustained growth. Her message reminds us that doing work you love fuels excellence, resilience, and long-term fulfillment.

Myra shares how choosing and emulating strong role models shaped her leadership and why she puts so much effort into every single public speaking opportunity. She discusses the ways her self-awareness and self-confidence show up in her career decisions and how her leadership has evolved over time. Myra talks about board service, advice to her younger self, and what leadership traits she looks for in hiring and she thinks makes for great corporate leaders.

As her career advanced, Anne describes finding her voice through preparation and experience rather than position. Confidence, she notes, developed over time as she learned to trust data, ask questions, and take responsibility for outcomes. She speaks candidly about moments that required courage, including taking calculated risks and ultimately buying out partners to form Sequel Hotels and Resorts. Those decisions reinforced her belief that leadership demands ownership, conviction, and a willingness to stand alone when necessary. Resilience became a defining theme in her journey, strengthened through personal loss, reinvention, and navigating uncertainty. 

Nelson discusses balancing tradition with innovation in family businesses. He shares his leadership evolution, leaning into curiosity to challenge the status quo, and overcoming self-doubt. Nelson talks about self care and why he'd tell his younger self and others to enjoy each phase of life more.

Miriam describes a career shaped by mentorship and an unwavering commitment to service. A turning point came when a mentor immersed her in global luxury hotels, teaching her excellence through real-world experience. That exposure opened doors, built credibility, and reinforced the value of learning by doing. She emphasizes that mentorship is not only about guidance, but about access, trust, and being invited into opportunities that accelerate growth.

 Monika Moser shares a career shaped by hospitality, design, and founding her own consulting firm focused on helping organizations transform. She explains that transformation fails when leaders rely on strategy instead of changing everyday behaviors and culture. Monika highlights trust, courage, and consistency as essential leadership qualities, emphasizing that real change happens through presence, authenticity, and genuine human connection. 

Allison talks about her thoughts and strategies for "moms in hospitality," why mentorship is important to her, and the importance of actually asking rising leaders what they want. She discusses the life lessons she learned during her Semester at Sea in college and the many ways her upbringing continually shapes her leadership style. Allison shares what's one thing that might surprise you about her, what she'd tell her younger self, and why using her voice when she has a seat at the table is important.  

 Georgine discusses her transition into hospitality five years ago, how she instantly knew to build a team around her to help support her, and what changed her overall leadership mindset about work life harmony.  She shares how her leadership style has evolved into a collaborative approach and why diversity at all levels of the industry will make us stronger. She talks about taking risks, learning and moving on from setbacks, and why she'd tell her younger self not to "be a punk." 

Monique Lee, Group VP Sales,  at Wyndham Hotels, shares her career journey from unforgettable childhood hospitality experiences to leading roles. She emphasizes the impact of mentors and the importance of intentional, authentic leadership. Her story highlights resilience, balancing work-life challenges, and leveraging AI for success in today's dynamic sales environment.

 David Mililli's career began as a busboy but grew into leadership roles across hospitality and technology. His journey highlights the power of staying open-minded, surrounding yourself with people you trust, and having the humility to listen.  He reminds us that “if you keep your intelligence over your emotions, you’ll always be successful.” His story is a powerful example of how curiosity and courage can shape an extraordinary career. 

Nancy shares how the road to connection has become a recurring themein her leadership journey. She discusses the importance of listening,knowing your self worth, and trusting your gut. Nancy also sharesdetails about her personal board of directors, what she's learned fromworking internationally, and about her experiences with self doubt andadvocating for yourself and others.

Josiah shares how his public speaking journey started with a panel ata conference years ago. He discusses how his leadership has evolved,how he develops new skills with each role, and the biggest lessonshe's learned over the past few years. He talks about his curiosity,including what he was curious about as a child and the things he'smost curious about today, and his advice to his younger self. 

Roger describes how overcoming adversity made his companies stronger, and how rewarding others with the opportunity to lead provides continuity.  He also explains how preparation and hard work can turn calculated risks into success.  In addition to sharing how one builds a strong career, Roger discusses the benefits of becoming a hotel owner as soon as possible.

In this interview, Betsy O’Rourke, former Chief Commercial Officer at Xanterra Travel Collection, reflects on her lifelong journey in travel and hospitality—from crewing on boats in Malta to leading global brands. She discusses strategic leadership, resilience through crises, and mentoring future leaders. Betsy emphasizes curiosity, agility, and empathy as essential traits for growth in both business and personal development.

Brad shares how his leadership style has evolved over time, including what has gotten better and worse, and how he views team sports playing a role in developing leaders. He discusses what he's learned from board service, how he stays physically and mentally healthy, and why surrounding yourself with the best people, personally and professionally, is critical. Brad also shares some sayings that serve as his guiding stars and what he'd tell 18-year old Brad today.

Sarah shares why she trusts her instincts when it comes to evaluating risks and the impact her preparation and practice have on her public speaking. She discusses the importance of the outdoors and physical activity on her overall performance and why curiosity is important. She talks about how developing human connections can help you feel more at ease in any environment, how she tackles moments of self-doubt, and what she'd tell her younger self.

Rafat Ali shares his journey from engineer-turned-journalist to serial media entrepreneur, reflecting on the choices, setbacks, and grit behind building Skift. We explore the most admired leadership qualities, founder-led passion, and customer empathy. Don’t miss his parting advice on career compounding, travel, embracing contrarian views, and the power of “ask and you shall receive.”

Brian shares why investing time upfront is one of the keys to building high-performing teams.  He also explains how his The Power of Gratitude at Work program helps transform organizations – and why it’s easy to do.  Brian underscores the importance of public speaking and why loving what you do, saying Yes, and raising your hand for more opportunities are critical.

Baron shares how he approaches taking major risks, including moving to 5 countries on 3 continents, and the opportunities created by working in emerging markets, plus how those experiences enhanced his career in the U.S.  He also explains why one should not pursue a mentor simply because they occupy a role you aspire to as well as the two key qualities he looks for on his teams. 

Leora reveals opportunities to attract and retain the next generation, and she debunks myths about them. Leora also shares tips for developing one’s network into friendships and why doing great work is only Part A of what’s needed to succeed.  Plus, she discusses ageism in our industry and why young people should say Yes to opportunities.

One of hospitality’s most prolific, well-respected presenters, Jan shares his public speaking journey, including specific things to do before, during, and after your presentation to elevate your public speaking.  He also shares how raising your hand can help you to be “seen” by senior leaders, how he navigates tremendous ambiguity, and why acknowledging people’s humanity is critical.

Rod shares his journey from working in high school catering services to becoming President of HVS. He reflects on his growth as a public speaker and his preparation, his approach to leadership, and why he prioritizes and models wellness and self-care. As an openly gay, Latino senior executive, Rob highlights the critical role that workplace culture, inclusion, and representation play in shaping his leadership. 

Jacob shares how an early love of video games led to a career in technology and the hospitality industry. He discusses why trust is critical in leadership, reflects on his own leadership evolution and philosophies, and why anticipating and learning from challenges is more important than being perfect. Jacob also talks about cooking as a form of self care and why relationships matter in an industry that seems so large but is really so small.

From proving doubters wrong early on to leading with determination and kindness, Carolyne reminds us that “success doesn’t come easy, but small wins build confidence and influence.” She also shared candidly about overcoming imposter syndrome, the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, and why sometimes the best advice is simple: “You’ve got this.” Her story is a powerful example of resilience, authenticity, and leadership with heart.

Having worked in over 25 countries, Petra career has been built on taking risks and leaning into the resilience she’s built along the way.  In this interview, she explains the advantages of interim executive roles and shares the key factors that drove her success. In addition, she details the three things to keep in mind when advocating for oneself.

Dorothy Dowling interviews Brian Hicks, CEO of the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International. They discuss Brian's career journey, the importance of intentional career paths, effective team leadership, the significance of networking, and the evolving landscape of technology and innovation in the hospitality industry.“Understand your personal purpose—know where you add the most value—and invest deeply in relationships. Connections may open doors, but it’s the relationships you nurture that will shape your career.” – Brian Hicks, CEO, HSMA

Dorothy Dowling interviews Tedd Evers, Global Partner, Lead for Travel and Hospitality at AWS, discussing his career journey, leadership during crises, prioritization, and future innovations in hospitality. Tedd emphasizes curiosity, agile thinking, empathy, personal balance, and the critical role of data strategy in transforming the industry.

Dave shares the importance for both career and joy to collide.  An accomplished Executive Recruiter, he discusses the Top 2 Tips for negotiating an offer letter, which most people rarely do, and 3 Traits that make current candidates stand out, which differ from the past.  He also explains why everyone in hospitality has an obligation to make our industry the Employer of Choice, which it currently is not.