Episode 50: The Virtue of Hospitality with Steve Fortunato
In this milestone 50th episode of The Conscious Hospitality Podcast, host David Arraya sits down with Steve Fortunato, visionary founder of Hospitality Collaborative and author of The Urgent Recovery of Hospitality. This rich and vulnerable conversation takes listeners on a journey through Steve’s life—from childhood challenges to his emergence as a leader in redefining hospitality through the lens of virtue, human connection, and community.
Steve opens up about his early experiences with bullying and how those difficult moments shaped his deep desire to create spaces where people feel seen, celebrated, and valued. From his first job as a teenage busboy to becoming a multi-concept entrepreneur, Steve’s path was guided by curiosity, struggle, and ultimately, transformation.
Together, David and Steve explore how hospitality can transcend industry definitions to become a way of being—rooted in intention, presence, respect, and care. They unpack the idea of the "virtuous cycle," a model where the purpose of hospitality shifts from validation-seeking to intentional value creation. They also touch on leadership, the role of ADHD in entrepreneurship, and the power of self-awareness and gratitude in shaping culture.
Whether you're in the hospitality business or simply someone who wants to live and lead with more purpose, this episode is filled with soulful wisdom, honest reflections, and practical tools for embodying hospitality as a daily practice.
Key Takeaways:
Hospitality is a virtue that begins with intention and expands through generosity.
True connection is built not through validation, but through the creation of value for others.
Childhood experiences, including bullying, can serve as deep sources of empathy and drive.
Surfing, family, and faith have anchored Steve’s life and leadership philosophy.
Speaking positively and celebrating small wins can shift energy and relationships.
The journey of growth is never over—and leadership begins with self-leadership.
Keywords: hospitality, Steve Fortunato, human connection, entrepreneurship, personal growth, community, ADHD, leadership, virtue, intention, conscious business, hospitality industry, celebration, relationships, the virtuous cycle