x

75% of people globally want unbiased news (Pew Research) but are concerned they're not getting that.

Get balanced coverage with Symby. See how stories are covered across diverse outlets and spot when one side covers a story the other skips.

PODCAST

Defining Hospitality

Welcome to Defining Hospitality, the podcast focused on highlighting the most influential figures in the hospitality industry. In each episode we provide 1 on 1, in depth interviews with experts in the industry to learn what hospitality means to them. We feature expert advice on working in the industry, behind the scenes looks at some of your favorite brands, and in depth explorations of unique hospitality projects. Defining Hospitality is hosted by Founder and CEO of Agency 967, Dan Ryan. With

arts design

All Episodes

75:15

Building Resilient Hotel Investment Models - Hugh...

Defining Hospitality ·

2026/01/07

How do you build a global hospitality business without losing the personal touch, resilience, or trust that defines great service?In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Hugh Taylor, CEO of Michels & Taylor, for an in-depth conversation on leadership, hospitality, and hotel investment. Hugh shares his journey from marketing roles at major hotel brands like Hilton to becoming one of the most respected voices in hotel asset management and advisory. They explore what true hospitality

en

69:44

Hospitality Starts With People - Thomas Healy -...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/12/31

On this special re-air episode of Defining Hospitality, we revisit an insightful conversation on people-first leadership, authentic culture, and the true meaning of hospitality with Thomas Healy, President and COO of Rockbridge Hospitality Management. With more than 30 years in the industry, Tom shares lessons shaped by his upbringing in a family-run New Jersey supper club and a career spanning independent and branded hotels.The conversation explores how leadership is rooted in empathy,

en

44:58

Leadership and Legacy in Hospitality - Marc Bromley -...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/12/24

On this special re-air episode of Defining Hospitality, we revisit a powerful conversation on people-centric leadership and the enduring value of culture with Marc Bromley, Regional Vice President and General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C. Drawing from decades in luxury hospitality, and lessons passed down from his father, legendary hotelier Stan Bromley, Marc shares why exceptional guest experiences always start with taking exceptional care of employees.The conversation

en

56:56

Quality and Trust in Vacation Rentals - Ashley Ching...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/12/17

How do you scale hospitality without losing quality, trust, or operational control? In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Ashley Ching, Founder & CEO of Inhaven, for a deep dive into the hidden limits of scale in hospitality and vacation rentals. They explore why service-based businesses often face diseconomies of scale, what leaders can learn from the rapid rise and fall of business, and how complexity, not competition, is often the true threat to growth. Ashley also shares how

en

65:38

Building Teams Rooted in Values and Vision - Anna...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/12/10

How do you build hospitality experiences, and lead teams, in a way that’s rooted in authenticity, multicultural awareness, and a clear sense of purpose?In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Anna Peretz, Director of Architecture, Design, and Construction at Sonesta International Hotels, to explore her journey from the USSR to Israel to the U.S., and how resilience, cultural diversity, and a passion for people shaped her approach to hospitality. Together, they unpack the balance between

en

49:14

Value Driven Growth in New Markets - Paul Sacco - PM...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/12/03

How do you decide where, and whether, to grow in a way that’s strategic, sustainable, and aligned with your organization’s values?In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Paul Sacco, Chief Growth and Development Officer at PM Hotel Group, to unpack the real thought process behind geographic expansion, from evaluating new markets to choosing the right partners. Paul reveals why his team rejects “growth for growth’s sake” and instead relies on a collaborative, intentional model that brings

en

57:53

The Future of Airport Design and Leadership - John...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/11/26

How do architects create airports that feel human, intuitive, and welcoming while juggling regulations, budgets, and countless stakeholders? In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with John Anthal, Principal and Aviation Sector Leader at Mancini Duffy, to unpack the hidden complexity of airport design, the evolving meaning of hospitality in aviation, and how leadership, technology, and culture shape the future of large-scale infrastructure.John pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to

en

70:05

Creating Connection Through Cuisine - Emmie Nostitz &...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/11/19

What happens when hospitality shifts from serving to empowering, when chefs become creators, not just cooks?In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Emmie Nostitz and Zach Knight, co-founders of Tivity, a platform redefining private dining by connecting clients with talented chefs for personalized in-home and venue experiences. Together, they explore how Tivity empowers chefs to run their own businesses, foster creativity, and bring hospitality back to its human roots.Emmie and Zach share

en

72:41

Branding the Human Experience - Matt Ferebee -...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/11/12

What happens when brand becomes more than a logo and turns into a decision-making framework for every part of hospitality?In this episode, Dan Ryan sits down with Matt Ferebee, co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of FerebeeLane, to explore how powerful brand strategy shapes luxury hospitality experiences from the inside out. Drawing on his work with properties like Blackberry Farm and global brands like The Ritz-Carlton, Matt shares how authentic care, storytelling, and culture-building

en

69:54

The Power of Community in Hospitality - Margot Stern...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/11/05

What does authentic, people-centered hospitality look like?In this episode, Dan Ryan talks with Margot Stern, hospitality entrepreneur and founder of Avenida Baja and The Hopewell, about her journey from global marketing at Mattel to building boutique hotels rooted in community and belonging. They explore how authenticity, storytelling, and resilience shape successful hospitality ventures and what it takes to raise capital, navigate local politics, and lead with empathy in a traditionally

en

43:54

Building Tomorrow’s Sustainable Hospitality - Jon...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/10/29

What does carbon-positive hospitality look like? In this episode, Dan Ryan talks with Jon Buerge, CEO of Urban Villages, about Populus, the world’s first carbon-positive hotel, and how sustainability is reshaping hospitality from the ground up. They explore how design, materials, and mindset can transform guest experiences, strengthen brand loyalty, and create long-term business value.Jon shares the story behind Populus and the vision driving Urban Villages’ sustainable developments. He

en

61:48

Building Restaurants That Feel Like Home - Yann de...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/10/22

Can structure and systems actually make hospitality feel more human?Yann de Rochefort, founder of Boqueria Restaurants, has spent the last 20 years redefining what modern hospitality feels like. From a single tapas bar in Manhattan to beloved locations across the U.S., Yann has built a restaurant brand rooted in warmth, culture, and design, all while keeping the experience consistent and deeply human. Yann shares how structure creates freedom, why culture matters more than any single

en

45:24

Designing for Memory: Storytelling in Interiors -...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/10/15

What makes hospitality design truly memorable?Today, Dan is joined by James Lee, Hospitality Managing Director and Design Principal at IA Interior Architects. James discusses the blurring lines between architecture and interior design in the context of hospitality, emphasizing the emotional impact of interior spaces. They explore the unique focus of IA on creating immersive and memorable experiences through design. James shares insights on the importance of understanding local culture for

en

54:09

Beyond Four Walls: Luxury Through Biophilic Design -...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/10/08

What happens when luxury design meets the wild?Award-winning designer, Graeme Labe, Managing Partner and Chief Design Officer at Luxury Frontiers, shares how he’s redefining hospitality by crafting experiences that connect people deeply to nature, while championing sustainability and community. Graeme shares his journey from traditional hospitality design to founding Luxury Frontiers, which focuses on creating unique, luxurious experiences in remote locations. The conversation covers topics

en

64:18

Leading Hotels Through Change - Scott Roby - Defining...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/10/01

What does it take to lead a hotel company through constant headwinds while still inspiring teams and delivering exceptional guest experiences?Today Dan interviews Scott Roby, President of Pacifica Hotels, to explore the state of the hospitality industry. They discuss the importance of focusing on controllable aspects of business, such as team and guest care, amid economic headwinds and legislative challenges in California. Scott shares insights on Pacifica's strategy of balancing ownership

en

54:32

Serving From the Heart: EQ Over IQ - Manish Puri -...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/09/24

Is EQ more important than IQ when it comes to hospitality?Today, Manish Puri, General Manager of the Regent Hotels and Resorts Bali, joins Dan to dive into key topics in the industry, such as sustainability, community, and leadership. They discuss the essence of hospitality, differentiating it from mere service, and delve into the concept of regenerative hospitality and sustainability. Manish shares insights from his career at prestigious hotel brands like Oberoi, Burj Al Arab, Six Senses,

en

63:41

Navigating the Messy Middle - Stephen Wendell -...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/09/17

What happens when a hotel developer moves from building Hampton Inns to creating lifestyle hotels with fire pits and Michelin-starred restaurants?Today’s guest is a returning guest, Stephen Wendell, Co-Founder and CEO of Mountain Shore Properties. They explore the shift from select-service properties to luxury and lifestyle hotels, examining the business dynamics and guest experiences that differentiate these segments. Steven shares insights on building independent lifestyle hotels, dealing

en

69:50

From Distress to Success: Hospitality Innovation -...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/09/10

“Design is subjective, but quality is objective.”Today, Spencer Levine, President of RAL Companies and Affiliates, joins Dan to dive into hospitality development. Spencer shares insights from his extensive career in architecture and landscape development. The conversation covers the importance of delivering tangible and thoughtful hospitality experiences, the significance of strategic partnerships, and the crucial role of creative problem-solving in the development process. Spencer also

en

54:51

Elevating Hospitality: Sustainable Engineering -...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/09/03

The secret to a hotel's success isn’t just great design; it's what guests don't see.Harzali Hashim, Complex Director of Engineering at Kyo-ya Hotels and Resorts in Honolulu, joins Dan to discuss sustainability engineering within the hospitality industry. They discuss Harzali's extensive 20-year career in hotel and resort engineering, focusing on the importance of maintenance, design, and sustainability in creating memorable guest experiences. They explore the operational challenges of

en

55:18

Building a Short-Term Rental Empire - Sebastián...

Defining Hospitality ·

2025/08/27

What does it take to manage 420 apartments and create a million memorable moments? On this episode, host Dan Ryan sits down with Sebastián Torres-Calderón, the CEO of Stay U-nique, an award-winning short-term rental company in Spain. Sebastián shares his journey from customer journey intern to CEO and reveals how implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) helped his company not only survive the chaos of COVID but quadruple in size. The conversation dives deep into how Stay

en

233 results

Similar Podcasts

Start The Breakthrough Full Audiobook Now, Thriller Fans!

thebookvoice.com

Get Hooked On The Life-Enhancing Full Audiobook Experience!

thebookvoice.com

西四五条

主播郑捕头

Podcast Patapoe

0d0a

On Mic Podcast

Jordan Rich