In this episode of Take Care, we delve into the heart of the hospitality industry with a focus on how authentic care and critical thinking transform service. Our guest Sonny Kerstiens shares insights from over two decades in the industry, discussing the importance of questioning established norms, fostering open-mindedness, and ensuring personal and team growth. He emphasizes the need for scalable solutions in a rapidly growing company, the principles of continuous improvement, and the ...

In this episode of 'Take Care,' we delve into the essence of hospitality through the lens of empathy and authentic care. Joined industry leader Kate Reed, we explore how self-care translates to better team dynamics and exceptional guest experiences. The conversation touches on personal stories of vulnerability and resilience, the cultivation of empathy through life's unanticipated events, and practical approaches to maintaining empathy while setting personal boundaries. Highlighting too...

In this episode of 'Take Care - Unwritten Playbook of Hospitality Career Growth,' hosts explore career advancement in the hospitality industry with expert Ivo Wunderlich. The discussion highlights the importance of bridging gaps in traditional education, real-life scenarios, and skill stacking. Ivo shares insights from his experience in revenue management, emphasizing the significance of cultural understanding, teamwork, and communication in problem-solving. Additionally, the conv...

In this episode of the 'Take Care' podcast, we explore how authentic care within the hospitality industry creates meaningful connections and exceptional service. Industry leaders share insights on the importance of self-care for effective team management and guest satisfaction. Josh discusses quick learning through direct feedback, career growth examples, and the wide array of roles in the industry. This episode covers essential skills and traits like communication, leadership, resilience, an...

In this episode, Josh explores the evolution of the hospitality industry from ancient times to modern-day, emphasizing how hotels have continually adapted to meet the changing needs of travelers. It delves into the importance of creating spaces where guests feel safe, seen, and comfortable, using personal anecdotes to illustrate the advancements in hotel design and service. This episode highlights the significant role hospitality plays in providing care during times of distress and the essent...

In this episode Josh explores how genuine care can forge meaningful connections that revolutionize service. He discusses the ancient roots of hospitality, highlighting the mutual exchange of vulnerability between guest and host. Featuring insights from industry leaders and historical references like Homer's Odyssey, we examine the importance of empathy and authentic interactions in hospitality. Tune in to discover how caring for oneself and others enhances the guest experience and promotes pe...

In the inaugural episode of Take Care, Josh Ramsey explores the foundational principles of authentic hospitality. Josh shares his unconventional journey into hospitality, inspired by his upbringing rooted in service and a surprising connection to Conrad Hilton's vision. He recounts his early experiences at Hilton and the pivotal moment he realized the importance of fostering a caring and connected work environment. Josh also discusses how his personal values of care and "otherness" shap...

Ever wonder what it really takes to sell hotel rooms? Go beyond the booking with Mike Hoelscher, Area Director of Sales with Commonwealth Hotels, as he shares the secrets to success in this ever-evolving industry. From dialing for dollars to building lasting relationships, Mike reveals the human side of hotel sales and why empathy and curiosity are key to winning over clients. Tune in for insights on navigating the changing landscape of hospitality and discover how the best salespeople are mo...

In this episode of Unpacking the Hotel Business, Josh talks with Joe Cicora, National Business Development Leader at DLR Group, to explore the fascinating world of hospitality design.Joe shares insights into DLR Group's unique approach to crafting memorable hotel experiences, from their "muse-driven" design philosophy to their emphasis on storytelling and community connection. Josh and Joe also discuss the evolving needs of hotel guests and how DLR Group is adapting to create spaces that reso...

In this episode, Josh unpacks the hotel business from a historical perspective with Mark Young, Archivist Historian at the Conrad N. Hilton College at the University of Houston. Discover the origins of iconic brands, the impact of technological advancements, and the enduring spirit of hospitality that has spanned centuries.

Join Josh as he chats with Jen Kahl, Area Director of Sales with White Lodging. Jen is the dynamic sales leader behind the Whiskey Row Hotel Collection in Louisville and shares her non-traditional approach to sales, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence, building genuine relationships, and empowering her team to create unforgettable guest experiences.

In this episode of Unpacking the Hotel Business, Josh interviews Jemel Jones, Chief Operating Officer at Phoenix American Hospitality. Jemel shares his journey in the hospitality industry, starting as a valet and working up to COO. He discusses the different types of hotel ownership models and the benefits of the owner-operator model. Jemel also shares his insights on creating value for hotel investors, including focusing on the product, pricing, profitability, and market opportunities.

Join Josh for a fascinating conversation with Gurtej Medi, a seasoned hotel developer and investor. In this episode, Gurtej shares his journey from his early days in revenue management at Hilton to co-founding Witness Investment Group. Discover how a passion for architecture and a willingness to learn led Gurtej to a successful career in hotel development.Gurtej delves into the intricate world of hotel development, shedding light on the step-by-step process, from site selection and zoning to ...

Join Josh as he sits down with Nick Massad III, a second-generation hotelier and Senior Vice President at American Liberty Hospitality. Nick shares his family's remarkable journey in the hotel business, from his parents meeting at a Sheraton in the 70s to their eventual acquisition of the American Liberty management company. Discover the challenges and triumphs of growing a family business, the importance of balance and adaptability, and the unique dynamics of working with family.

Sagar Patel, Principal of Capital Strategy with The Witness Investment Group discusses his journey from pre-med to the hotel industry, how The Witness Group identifies high-potential properties, and generating attractive returns in the hospitality industry.

Hospitality veteran Grant Guinn shares his journey from working at Red Lion, to joining a large hotel brand and now, owning and operating his own hotel, the Tru by Hilton in Spokane Valley. Grant emphasizes the importance of being true to the brand's culture and investing in his team for a unique and successful hotel experience.