In this inspiring episode of Bed & Butter, we welcome Tiffany Yu, CEO and founder of Diversability, disability advocate, TEDx speaker, and author of The Anti-Ableist Manifesto. Tiffany shares her powerful disability origin story and how a childhood accident fueled her lifelong mission to build a more inclusive, accessible world. She breaks down the real impact of the disability tax, offers eye-opening insight into accessibility in hospitality, and explains how disability inclusion strengthens company culture and drives profitability. Tiffany also opens up about her career path—from Goldman Sachs to Bloomberg to becoming a full-time disability advocate—and the unexpected ways her TEDx talks have influenced healthcare and community change. This episode is packed with practical strategies for hospitality leaders, students, and major brands looking to create more inclusive workplaces and customer experiences. A must-listen for anyone committed to understanding how accessibility, representation, and thoughtful design can transform businesses and lives.

Welcome to Season Three of Bed & Butter, the hospitality industry podcast where purpose-driven leadership, real-world experience, and genuine heart take center stage. Hosted by Sean Riley, CEO of Maine Course Hospitality Group and hospitality veteran with 40+ years of experience, this series goes beyond hotel and restaurant operations to explore what truly fuels success: service, culture, and people. In partnership with Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) and its Communications & New Media Studies program, Bed & Butter brings you inspiring conversations that blend hospitality career insights, leadership lessons, entrepreneurship stories, tourism trends, and personal growth journeys from across the industry and beyond. This season, we're raising the bar with a powerhouse guest lineup—featuring culinary innovators, hospitality executives from Hilton and Marriott, top tourism leaders, entrepreneurs, and influential thought leaders, including a TED Talk speaker making waves in accessibility and empowerment. From luxury hotel strategy and brand innovation to brewery entrepreneurship, culture-building, and resilient leadership, these conversations offer a roadmap for both emerging hospitality professionals and seasoned industry leaders. Whether you're a hospitality student, hotel manager, culinary professional, tourism executive, or simply curious about hospitality business strategy, Bed & Butter gives you an authentic look inside the careers, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of service. Get ready to learn how to lead with heart, build a winning workplace culture, elevate guest experience, and unlock new pathways in one of the world’s most dynamic industries. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Subscribe, share, and join the community shaping the future of hospitality. Learn more at: www.smccME.edu/bedandbutter

Welcome to Season 3 of Bed and Butter, the hospitality podcast where passion meets profession—and where industry stories come alive. Hosted by seasoned hotel executive Sean Riley and produced in collaboration with students from Southern Maine Community College’s Communications & New Media Studies program, this season dives deeper than ever. From culinary and brewery innovators to hotel leaders, TED Talk speakers, social media influencers, and one of the country’s top tourism executives, we’re serving up powerful conversations from every corner of the hospitality world. Whether you're just entering the fast-paced world of hospitality or leading at the highest level, Season 3 offers a backstage pass to real-world insights, untold stories, and the hustle it takes to thrive. Tune in soon—available wherever you get your podcasts.

Welcome to Season 2 of Bed and Butter, the podcast that takes you into the heart of the hospitality industry. Dive into an engaging episode with Jill Gray, a dynamic sales leader based in the greater Boston area. Discover her unique strategies for building and maintaining relationships, even during challenging times like the pandemic. Jill shares her experiences of balancing a thriving career while being a young mother of twins, highlighting the importance of flexibility and support in the workplace. Her journey offers a glimpse into the varied responsibilities of a hotel salesperson, from collaborating with teams to turning down business for long-term gain. Join us for an inspiring conversation and gain insights into prospecting techniques, the significance of strong relationships, and pivotal moments that shaped her career. Whether you're a budding hospitality professional or looking to refine your expertise, this episode is packed with valuable lessons.

Welcome to Season 2 of Bed & Butter: The Hospitality Podcast, dedicated to inspiring and educating budding students and future leaders in the hospitality industry. In this episode, we are joined by the seasoned hotelier and podcast host, Brian Proctor, who shares his unique journey through the world of hospitality. Brian discusses the power of gratitude in driving personal and professional success, revealing lessons learned from his vast experience in the industry, including key roles at Four Seasons, Sheraton, and Starwood. He also shares his passion project, the 'Tuesday's Thank You' podcast, which stems from his commitment to expressing gratitude while people are still present to appreciate it. Listen in to discover how gratitude and taking opportunities can shape your career path, and find out what exciting projects Brian Proctor is working on next.

In this inspiring episode of Bed & Butter: THE Hospitality Podcast, we sit down with Carrie Nielsen, Senior Project Designer at Group One, JCJ Architecture Studio. Carrie shares her remarkable journey from sketching floor plans at summer camp to leading the design of stunning hotel interiors. Discover how her unique upbringing, personal influences, and creative vision have shaped her approach to hospitality design. She delves into the art of balancing functionality with aesthetics, navigating brand standards, and creating spaces that leave lasting impressions. Whether you’re an aspiring designer, hospitality professional, or curious creative, this episode offers valuable insights into the world of hotel design. Tune in to hear Carrie’s expert advice, leadership lessons, and personal stories, which fuel her passion for creating memorable spaces. Learn more about Carrie’s work at jcj.com.

Welcome to another episode of Bed & Butter: THE Hospitality Podcast, created in partnership with Southern Maine Community College and designed for students and aspiring industry leaders. In this episode, we welcome Jeanette Clark, the dynamic Chief Capital Investment Officer at Apple Hospitality REIT, one of the most respected publicly traded real estate investment trusts in the U.S. Jeanette provides a fresh perspective on the hotel business, diving into the complexities of capital expenditures (CapEx), the art of asset management, and how data can be transformed into compelling narratives. Join us as Jeanette shares her inspiring career journey—from her finance roots to leading CapEx for a portfolio of 224 hotels across 37 states. She also discusses balancing her professional and personal life, offering valuable insights into maintaining a thriving career as a dedicated volunteer and mom. Tune in to learn about Apple Hospitality REIT's core values of Hospitality, Resolve, Integrity, Excellence, and Teamwork and how they contribute to the company's success. Whether you're sharpening your skills or stepping into the world of hospitality for the first time, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration. Don't miss out—subscribe to Bed & Butter: THE Hospitality Podcast today and get ready to spread the knowledge, one episode at a time. Have a butterful day!

Welcome to Bed and Butter, THE Hospitality podcast designed for aspiring industry leaders and students. Hosted by Sean Riley and produced in collaboration with Southern Maine Community College, this series dives deep into the world of hospitality with expert insights, hands-on advice, and inspiring stories. In this episode, we hear from three dedicated hospitality students, each with unique experiences spanning culinary arts, hotel management, and event planning. Their journeys highlight the value of education, the importance of hands-on learning, and the dynamic opportunities available in this ever-evolving field. Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your career, their stories offer valuable lessons and motivation. Tune in and let’s spread the knowledge, one episode at a time!

Welcome to Season 2 of Bed & Butter, THE Hospitality Podcast crafted for aspiring students and industry innovators. In this episode, we dive into hospitality with Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara Cruises. With a remarkable 40-year career in travel, Dondra shares her journey from American Airlines to leading a renowned cruise line. Join us as Dondra offers invaluable insights on building a successful career, emphasizing the importance of humility, perseverance, and continuous learning. Whether you're a student or a professional in the hospitality sector, this episode provides actionable advice and inspiration. Discover the nuances of balancing professional and personal life, overcoming challenges, and leading with heart and vision. Don't miss this engaging conversation with a trailblazer who is redefining the future of travel.

In this episode of Bed and Butter, THE Hospitality Podcast, host Sean Riley sits down with Alex Chong, a Culinary Institute of America-trained chef turned successful entrepreneur and owner of Grand Cru Hospitality in Portland, Oregon. From his humble beginnings in Maine to running multiple food and beverage businesses across the country, Alex shares his journey and valuable insights into the hospitality industry. Along the way, he opens up about his path, including a wedding cake mishap that nearly ended his career—until it became a valuable lesson in handling adversity and staying calm under pressure. Learn about his path to entrepreneurship, the lessons learned through adversity, and how his experience in both culinary and business education shaped his career. Alex's story will surely inspire whether you're an aspiring chef or looking to dive into hospitality management. Don't miss this insightful conversation with one of the industry's brightest entrepreneurs. Tune in now!

Welcome to Season 2 of Bed & Butter: The Hospitality Podcast, crafted for budding students and aspiring industry leaders in partnership with Southern Maine Community College. In today's episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Jonathan Bogatay, a visionary in the hospitality industry with over 40 years of experience. Join us as we explore Jonathan's remarkable career path, from his early days as a bellhop to becoming the Maine Course Hospitality Group President. Learn about the invaluable lessons he's gathered, the challenges he's overcome, and the wisdom he's gained along the way. Jonathan shares insights into the business of hotels, the significance of mentorship, and the importance of dreaming big in this global industry. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just entering the hospitality world, Jonathan's story is sure to inspire and educate. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation that delves into the heart of hospitality, uncovering trends, strategies, and the essence of leadership in the industry.

Welcome back to "Bed and Butter," the hospitality podcast, as we kick off an exciting second season with your host, Sean Reilly. This season, we're diving into inspiring stories from industry leaders shaping the hospitality world. Join us as we hear from Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara Cruise Lines, a trailblazer breaking new ground in the cruise line business. Discover her insights on balancing a high-powered career with family life. Explore the journey of Alex Chong, an entrepreneur who transformed his passion for food and beverage into a thriving business across multiple locations, including Portland, Oregon. Delve into the art of hotel design with Carrie Nielsen, a leading expert at Group One, a JCJ Architectural studio, who shares her expertise in creating memorable hospitality experiences. Finally, get personal with Brian Proctor, the voice behind the hit podcast "Tuesday's Thanks," as he shares his unique perspective on gratitude in the industry. Don't miss out on these captivating stories. Subscribe to "Bed and Butter" for a season filled with insights and inspiration. Thank you for tuning in, and have a butterful day!

Welcome to the latest episode of Bed & Butter: THE Hospitality Podcast. Our host, Sean Riley, brings on Peter Twachtman, the charismatic CEO of Lark Hotels. Listen as Peter recounts his growth from being a busboy to heading one of America's rapidly expanding companies in the boutique hotel sector. Get a glimpse of Peter's people-centric leadership style and focus on core values. Peter talks about how Lark Hotels sets itself apart from other hotel management firms by ingeniously blending design, marketing, and finance to redefine the hospitality industry. Explore Peter's innovative hotel brands, including Blind Tiger, Bluebird, and AWOL, all operating under the Lark Hotels umbrella. These brands are reshaping the customer experience in the hospitality sector. This episode is a must-listen for those intrigued by the thriving boutique hotels sector, leadership insights in hospitality, and the significance of adhering to core values on the path to success. In the second part of our episode, we delve into a thought-provoking discussion on the value of maintaining a balanced professional and personal life. Gain insights into the unique advantage of being a small asset generalist and how this can fuel professional growth. Our guest stresses the importance of continuous learning and avoiding professional stagnation, regardless of the level of success one has achieved. With a wealth of knowledge to offer, this episode isn't just for young professionals seeking to drive their careers but is also beneficial for anyone seeking balance and growth in their professional journey.

Welcome to the latest episode of Bed and Butter: THE Hospitality Podcast. This week, we talk with brand enthusiast Whitney Knight, Director of Brand Management for Homewood Suites by Hilton, about the core branding elements in the hospitality industry. Learn how she deftly navigates guest experience, service culture, and underlying business models in one of the world's top hotel chains. From high-level partnership decisions to managing the pandemic's impacts, this episode paints a compelling picture of corporate resilience and alignment with brand vision. Tune in as we dive into specific strategies for maintaining brand relevance, including the revolutionary changes upcoming for Homewood Suites. Whitney offers valuable insights into striking a careful balance between owner interests and guest needs, ensuring constant brand consistency and excellence. Through the Homewood Suites experience lens, discover the depth of authenticity required to create outstanding hotel experiences that stand the test of time. This episode is a goldmine of advice for career advancement. Moreover, it explores the unique opportunities offered in the industry, emphasizing the importance of persistence, networking, and a proactive approach. Plus, get a glimpse of fascinating travel experiences and the cultural diversity in the industry. This conversation is not just a valuable resource for anyone looking to elevate their understanding of hospitality branding and career progression, but also a testament to the crucial role hospitality plays in our global landscape. Tune in to deepen your knowledge and find inspiration for your journey in the world of hospitality, and feel proud to be a part of an industry that impacts lives worldwide.

Welcome to the latest episode of Bed & Butter: THE Hospitality Podcast! Join your host, Sean Riley, as he delves into an insightful conversation with accomplished Maine Course Hospitality Group (MCHG) Hampton Inn General Manager Virginia Blair. In this episode, gain insight into Virginia's remarkable journey from part-time night auditor to general manager—an invaluable lesson for both students and professionals in the hospitality industry. The discussion offers lessons on professional growth, balancing work and personal life, and cultivating success as a process. Explore Virginia's unique philosophy of success and her insights on fostering a close-knit work environment through personal connections. As a member of Hampton's National Advisory Committee, Virginia also offers a glimpse into the latest trends in the hospitality industry. Whether you're just starting or an industry veteran, let Virginia's approach to success and the sector inspire you. In addition to these career insights, this episode takes a deep dive into the challenges of working in the fast-paced, high-pressure hospitality industry. Listen as the host and guests share their personal experiences, highlighting the psychological impact of such stressful environments and how the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges. Our podcast guests openly discuss their struggles, offering helpful advice on managing and mitigating workplace stress. Learn about various coping mechanisms while understanding the significance of team wellness and methods to create a workplace environment conducive to work-life balance. Tune in to this compelling episode, which serves as a timely reminder of the importance of self-care for leaders, students, and professionals.

In the latest episode of Bed and Butter, THE Hospitality Podcast, host Sean Riley invites Jamie Mulley, the Corporate Director of Operations for Maine Course Hospitality Group, to share her rich journey in the hospitality industry, paving a path from a server to a coveted leadership position. Mulley's insights form an invaluable guide for aspiring hospitality professionals. She discusses the industry's vitality of passion, perseverance, and people-focused principles. Sharing personal anecdotes, wise lessons, and best practices, she emphasizes the pivotal role of kindness, patience, and a willingness to learn from failures. While emphasizing individual growth, Mulley reflects on the joy of witnessing her children grow into independent individuals. She talks about the importance of continuous resetting and reinvention for personal growth and helping others. She provides actionable advice on setting clear goals, optimizing productivity, and fostering a respectful work environment. The conversation further steers towards the future of the hospitality industry, which envisages an increasing adoption of technology, an augmented focus on guest experiences, and the potential inclusion of AI. Mulley enlightens listeners on how to navigate these changes and opportunities in the industry. Signing off, she reinstates the concept of servant leadership and its significance in positively impacting lives, furnishing an inspiring message for all interested in pursuing the hospitality life. 

Welcome to another episode of Bed & Butter, your go-to podcast for all things hospitality. We have a riveting conversation with industry leader Matt McClelland. Matt spent over 26 years with the renowned Concord Hospitality Group and recently became Chief Operating Officer of OTO Development, part of The Johnson Group, an award-winning hotel development and hospitality management company. He tells his inspiring tale—from a front desk clerk in Des Moines to helming one of the most prestigious hospitality groups in America. In this episode, Matt highlights the importance of relationships and quality service in the food and beverage sector. He unveils his personal philosophy of success, interwoven with heartfelt anecdotes of his journey - exploring themes of passion, kindness, respect, and enjoyment of work. Delving into various aspects of leadership, the discussion sheds light on the power of empathy, consistency, and personal touch. Moreover, it emphasizes the role of effective organization, detailed planning, and a forward-thinking approach in maintaining a vibrant work environment. Through a candid dialogue on industry trends, Matt cautions about the risks of over-reliance on artificial intelligence. Fierce moments from his personal life, including battles with health issues and tragic loss, serve as a powerful testament to his resilience and gratitude. This episode is a must-listen for those seeking to excel in the hospitality sector and cultivate an empathetic leadership style. It is infused with invaluable insights and lessons from a highly successful, seasoned industry veteran. Tune in to learn, be inspired, and reshape your outlook for success.

Join us for another episode of Bed & Butter: THE Hospitality Podcast, where host Sean Riley sits down with Bo Byrne, a renowned chef and professor at Southern Maine Community College. Spotlighting the breadth of opportunities in the hospitality industry, Bo shares his fascinating journey from dishwasher to respected authority in the culinary world and the inspiration behind being an educator in his field. Byrne gives a glimpse into his progression in the kitchen, highlighting the importance of being multi-skilled and adaptable in the industry. He reflects on his early culinary influences and how these experiences prepared him for a successful career path that encompasses executive chef roles at esteemed restaurants and hotels, up to operating a popular Maine hot dog cart, TOP. We delve into Byrne's teaching approach at SMCC, focusing on how he motivates his students to foster a deep appreciation for food and cooking. His unique insights into the myriad possibilities in the hospitality industry are not only enlightening but also incredibly motivating for those thinking of stepping into the industry. Byrne further shares vital insights on the diverse elements involved in the restaurant business, encouraging his learners to investigate beyond cooking and into the entrepreneurship facet of this robust industry. Don't miss this captivating chat about the enriching journey of a culinary figure who continues to bestow his extensive knowledge and skills on the up-and-coming generation of culinary devotees. Tune in now to taste Bo's flavorful story!

In this episode, Bed & Butter host Sean Riley chats with Ginny Petrovek, the Chief Enthusiast of Canopy by Hilton in Portland, Maine. Ginny shares her journey from working summer jobs and internships to becoming the hotel's General Manager. She talks about her passion for Maine and how she built her career in her favorite state. Ginny explains how the Canopy ethos is that every associate is an enthusiast who shares their excitement for the industry. She also shares how being the Chief Enthusiast reminds her to show up as a cheerleader for her team. Ginny's journey started when she shadowed a General Manager at the Portland Harbor Hotel while she was in high school. She articulates the road of her experience that inspired her to pursue a career in hospitality and how she has been enjoying her journey ever since. If you are looking for inspiration to follow your dreams, Ginny's journey in this episode of Bed & Butter is for you! Bed and Butter is the Hospitality podcast where host Sean Riley, a seasoned hotel executive, shares over 40 years of industry wisdom. Produced in collaboration with Southern Maine Community College and Communications & New Media Studies program students, the program integrates national leaders discussing opportunities for culinary arts and hospitality students.

Welcome to Bed and Butter, the Hospitality podcast where host Sean Riley, a seasoned hotel executive, shares over 40 years of industry wisdom. In this episode, Sean and Jamie Mulley, Corporate Director of Operations, explore the podcast's purpose: inspiring budding hospitality professionals. Produced in collaboration with Southern Maine Community College and Communications & New Media Studies program students, the program integrates national leaders discussing opportunities for culinary arts and hospitality students. Sean reflects on his diverse career, starting from a 19-room motel to becoming CEO of Maine Course Hospitality Group. The duo emphasizes the podcast's target audience—students and industry newcomers—and teases the exciting lineup of future guests, ranging from senior executives to chefs and insiders with unique industry perspectives. The conversation touches on leadership principles, highlighting the importance of compassion and caring for associates. Sean shares personal and professional insights on success and the joy of positively impacting lives. The episode also sheds light on the role of fun in their corporate culture, emphasizing the significance of creating an enjoyable workplace. Sean leaves listeners with valuable advice: take care of your people, be compassionate, create an open environment, and prioritize networking. Join Bed and Butter for more engaging conversations and insights into the dynamic world of hospitality. Bed & Butter is a labor of love for everyone involved, made possible with the help of the talented students of SMCC's Communications and New Media Studies program. Subscribe now for a butterful day!