Real World Talks Podcast

As a surprise for the Holidays, we have another special episode. As our final episode to close out the semester, we had the pleasure of interviewing Cindy Haas, Vice President of Communications & Corporate Social Responsibility, Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits. With a live audience, Cindy shared her unconventional humble beginnings, career path, and why communication is so vital in a leadership role. She happily gave advice and explained what it means to be socially responsible. Cindy also touched based on the impact emotional intelligence has in a work environment and has no regrets! Enjoy and listen to this episode as we did! Happy Holidays to our listeners! We can't wait to record more episodes for you in the New Year!Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin & Nathalie St Remy Produced by: Nathalie St Remy

Happy Holidays to our Real-World Talks Family! As a surprise for the Holidays, we have a two-day special episode.  This is one of the featured episodes! This week we had the pleasure of interviewing another KYU representative, David Fuentes, General Manager of KYU Miami Restaurant. David shared insights on skillsets and advice that cannot be found in a textbook, lessons learned, and his career path. He smiled from ear to ear discussing the love he has for his job, his favorite meal, and his most memorable moment as a GM. Enjoy & Listen!   Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin & Nathalie St Remy Produced by: Nathalie St Remy

We are back and better than ever! This week we had the pleasure of interviewing  Raheem Sealey, Executive Chef of KYU Restaurant. Raheem is not only an Executive Chef at KYU but an entrepreneur! Raheem excitedly boasted about what he loved about his job, his favorite meal and how supportive KYU is in his business endeavor, the Drinking Pig. He also discussed the family atmosphere at KYU and his humble beginnings. He then shared his biggest failure and how being brave / putting one foot forward can combat fear.Enjoy & Listen !Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin & Nathalie St Remy Produced by: Nathalie St Remy

“It's not where you start, but where you finish that counts”! On Episode 42 of Real-World Talks, we had a former student and wonderful partner of the Chaplin school, Camila Garcia'14, Colleague Experience Director of Hyatt Regency Miami as our guest. Camilla spoke about not knowing what she wanted to do as a student and how her career path led her to her passion in human resources. She also provided “go to” advice for students and eagerly spoke about Hyatt, the importance of giving back, joining different organizations, and what she loves the most about her job! As always, we hope you enjoy this episode! Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin & Nathalie St Remy Produced by: Nathalie St Remy

On episode 41 of Real World Talks we had the pleasure of interviewing Benjamin Collins, Director of Human Resources at Boucher Brothers, the brand on the sand! He described his company in three words and debunked misconceptions about the human resources department, often compared to the principal's office. On this episode he goes in depth on what Boucher Brothers represents and why someone should choose a career with them. Benjamin also spoke about how he leads and motivates his team despite obstacles and guided us on important lessons in life. Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin & Nathalie St Remy Produced by: Nathalie St Remy

Mark Twain once said, “Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” On Episode 40 of Real World Talks, our guest Madison Weinstein, Sr. F&B Training Coordinator of Hershey Entertainment and Resorts loves her job! She ecstatically spoke about her fun work environment, her path to her current role, the ins and outs of what she does and her favorite learning/training style for new employees. On this episode, she also spoke about the importance of separating work from your personal like, as she said “your day off is your day off, everything else can wait!”  As always, we hope you enjoy this episode! Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin & Nathalie St Remy Produced by: Nathalie St Remy

You can do anything you set your mind to! On Episode 39 of Real-World Talks, we welcomed Carmen Scalise, Vice President of Talent & Strategy, Evolution Parking & Guest Services. Carmen shared her journey and the knowledge and skills needed to become a VP of Talent & Strategy. On this episode, Carmen also discussed what sets Evolution Parking & Guest Services apart from other companies in the industry, in addition to how she keeps herself and her team motivated. She also gives pointers on leadership styles and offers advice you can definitely resonate with. Listen in to gain great advice and learn more about Evolution Parking & Guest Services! Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin & Nathalie St Remy Produced by: Nathalie St Remy

Can you say woman power? On Episode 38 of Real World Talks, we welcomed Joy Rothschild, Chief Human Resources Officer of Omni Hotels & Resorts. On this episode, Joy led us on her career path and explained how her dislike for one sector of the industry led her to what she loves: human resources within hospitality. She shared the skills and characteristics it takes to be successful in the industry and how she deals with challenges as a leader. Joy was also very transparent on why the industry will never be the same and how we can successfully move forward. As a female leader, she understands the struggle to having a work-life balance. Listen in to hear her secret to enjoying life to the fullest and learn more about the opportunities Omni Hotels & Resorts has in store for you! Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin & Nathalie St Remy Produced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 37 of Real World Talks we welcomed Alan Lai, Director of Market Tests & Promo at Burger King Corporation, a part of Restaurants Brand International (RBI). On the episode, Lai explored his culture and career journey to RBI. For those working as a team member that want to move up the ladder, Lai provided great insight on how to take that first step. He also gave advice on how to have a successful career at RBI, shared what qualities and skills an ideal RBI employee has, tips on how to improve your self-confidence, and  his favorite meal to order at Burger King! Starring: Lourdes Torres & Katherine Martin  Produced by: Nathalie St Remy

We welcomed one of the best and most passionate people in the beverage industry for Episode 36 of Real World Talks, Mr. Richard Booth, Vice-President of Sales (East Coast) of Drake's Organic Spirits. Richard started off by telling us about his time at Southern Wine & Spirits and his steady growth from GM at SWS to now the VP at Drake's Organic Spirits. He ecstatically discussed the organic and kosher spirits that his company provides and why family, pivot & opportunity represent the silver lining in life.Richard also provided his perspective on why being a small fish in a big pond tends to be more beneficial in the industry. The information he shared was an eye opener! He told stories of one of his mentors, Mel Dick, and compared the beverage industry to the fashion industry. He closed out with solid advice about balance, the importance of making connections, and what to do if you are afraid of changing careers or taking a risky move to achieve your dreams. We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we enjoyed having him as a guest! Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St Remy Produced by: Nathalie St Remy

In honor of Women's Month, we have a wonderful leader and alumna of the Chaplin School, Charlomae Wathington, Director of Human Resources from Duffy's Sports Grill as our guest on Episode 35 of Real-World Talks. Charlomae dived right into her unconventional story of what led her to the human resources realm and shared guidance on where others should begin if they want to go down that career path.She also talked about how to become well-rounded in the field and why a positive attitude matters and could land you a job. In addition, Charlomae discussed never giving up, her favorite class as a student at FIU's Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, how COVID-19 affected Duffy's and what to order at Duffy's! You don't want to miss this episode!   Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St Remy Produced by: Nathalie St Remy

We missed the Real-World Talks family and we are back from our hiatus with a very special guest! On episode 34 of Real-World Talks, we have one of the first graduates of FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management and the Principal of the Litt Group, Jay Litt!Jay shares his humble beginnings as a bus boy at the Fontainebleau and how he got his foot in the door in the hospitality industry, in turn now having 49+ years of expertise. Learning the basics and obtaining experience from working in the field is something that Jay encourages.He also gives insights into how to get into the consulting field and mentions something that most people forget that you must walk before you run.  He also tells a very funny story of the first incoming Dean Tony Marshall that involves a pot, soup but, resulted in great advice & an amazing reaction from an audience.Jay is not only a part of the FIU Family, but a part of the Chaplin's Executive Advisory Board. Mr. Litt discussed the impact he (and the council members) has made at the school and the ins & outs of his role as a board member.In addition, he talked about his interesting experience in the Peace corps, transferable skills with the knowledge from your education, what he hopes to achieve in the upcoming years and what he looks forward to the most in the future!This episode was filled with great advice, honesty and wonderful energy—we hope you enjoy our first episode back as much as we did!Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St Remy Produced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 33 of ‘Real World Talks' the ladies of the Career Development Office spoke to Gisela Moreno, Human Resources Professional of Indian Creek Country Club. Gisela discussed her transition from working in Food & Beverage to a career in human resources. Not many people know where to start when they see a future in human resources, but Gisela does and she shares that with us! She also shares the things she does & learn to stay on top of her role, what impresses her when hiring, what she looks forward to this year and what she cannot live without!Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St Remy Produced by: Nathalie St Remy

Want tips to catch a recruiter's eye or how to create a strong social media brand? Keep reading!On Episode 32 of ‘Real World Talks' the ladies of the Career Development Office spoke to Jeff Hickman, Manager of Disney College & International Recruitment, The Walt Disney Company. We love Disney and so does Jeff! Jeff discussed the holidays, his career journey, the reasons why he works for such a dynamic & diverse team and his favorite characters. He also shared the best career advice, tips to catch a recruiter's eye, interview skills and how to create a strong social media brand. Jeff is very passionate about his role and it was a very informative episode! Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St Remy Produced by: Nathalie St Remy

Happy New Year! We are so happy to be back. We welcome Jason Witty, Regional Vice President of Operations (Southeast) of Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits to Episode 31 of Real World Talks with the ladies of Career. Jason talked about his journey of becoming the Regional Vice President of Operations, working at a young age and the importance of education. He shared biggest trends that's transforming the beverage industry, challenges he overcame and guidance to those who wants to go down a similar career path. Jason also spoke about his New Year resolutions, favorite spirits used to celebrate, his influences and a wonderful  motto that resonates & represents him!Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

“Don't let others tell you what you can't do and don't let the limitations of others limit your vision”! Chaplin School Alumna Ernisha Randolph, Founder of Sweet Butter Hospitality Group stopped by for Episode 30 of Real World Talks with the ladies of Career. She discussed her journey of how she overcame fear, doubt & tragedy and moved forward with Sweet Butter Hospitality Group.  It is a  successful company that develops brands and showcases hospitality through food, music & history with a touch Southern culture created by African Americans. She shared advice with those who want to become an entrepreneur, career mistakes and the importance of representation in the workplace. Ernisha also talked about why personality matters in this industry, the importance of networking, the exciting things her hospitality group is doing, inspirational individuals she hopes to meet and what she is looking forward to in the upcoming year! It was such a fun interview and we hope you enjoy it!Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On this week's episode of ‘Real World Talks' the ladies of the Career Development Office spoke to Amanda Bussey, Sales Recruiting Manager of E&J Gallo Winery and Ramsay Hyatt, Business Development Manager of Fine Wine & Spirits of E&J Gallo Winery. They discussed the attributes they look for in a candidate, different career paths within the beverage industry,  its future and personal obstacles they have conquered. The conversation then dives right into some fun questions about the holidays, popular wine within E& J Gallo and what they would do if they won the lotto! This episode is definitely for those who are interested in a career path in the beverage industry! Episode 29Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 28 of Real World Talks, FIU Alumnus-Jarvis Lawhorn, Owner of Jarvis Lawhorn Weddings & Events, LLC dropped by to talk about his growth in the events industry and his experiences. By talking about his experiences, he was able to share some helpful advice with our audience about the events world, especially during this time. Jarvis also mentioned what it was like working with some of the most well-known wedding/event planners like Chris Weinberg and how he takes great pleasure in achieving the clients “pictured ideal” events and mastering it into reality.  Jarvis also talked about dream weddings, diversity & equity within the industry and Thanksgiving!Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

Whether you want a career in events, are currently in the events industry or an individual who loves listening about the events world, this fun & informational episode is for YOU! Laurie Hartwell, Founder & CEO of The Bridal Society has almost 3 decades of experience in the wedding industry, teaching certification conferences and planning weddings across the country. She stopped by for Episode 27 of Real-World Talks to share her humble beginnings and to give advice to our event enthusiasts and current event planners . Laurie also shared funny stories that had powerful lessons she learned at the end and explained what sets her company apart from others with a similar concept. She offered helpful tips for events going over budget, dealing with difficult clients and three options for those who are planning an event during the pandemic! She dropped many gems during this episode, we hope you love it as much as we do!Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

Have you ever wondered how can I become a general manager of a hotel? Michael Hooper, General Manager of Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon stopped by for Episode 26 of Real World Talks to share  his journey and what led him to him to his current position. He raves about being one of the leaders of a Hilton Hotel in Miami as an African American man. He explained what his day to day looks like and the effects of the pandemic.  Michael also gave advice to our audience, revealed some powerful people who inspires him and talks travel & the importance of diversity.Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

Did you know that Rosewood Hotel Group consist of more than 40 hotels in about 19 countries? Misty Bennett,  Corporate Director of Talent and Culture, Rosewood Hotel Group stopped by for Episode 25 of Real World Talks to share exciting details of the luxury hotel group that not only includes a new hotel that is set to open in 2023 in Amsterdam , but their relief initiative. Misty also spoke about her journey to her current position, how to overcome challenges and gave advice to those wanting a career in human resources, especially during this crazy time. At the end we learned a bit more about Misty with a fun game!Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 24 of Real World Talks Savannah Smith, Manager of  Investments from Host Hotels & Resorts excitedly  stopped by to discuss women in leadership roles and what aspects of her job she loves the most. She shared her day to day responsibilities ,revealing that having a role in investments was never a thought for her in college and told us what lead her to her current role. Savannah talked to our audience about the industry, real estate, how the pandemic affected her and recommended  a book & some interesting tv shows to watch. Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 23 of Real World Talks, Nirva Boursiquot, Founder of Silk Roads passionately talked about the supply chain industry and entrepreneurship. She shared details of the correlation & importance of supply chains in the hospitality industry. Nirva also spoke about what her company does, the history behind the unique name & warned our audience of common mistakes. She revealed her thoughts on the movement of supporting minority business owners/ businesses, in addition to dropping some gems of tips especially for those who are current or future aspiring entrepreneurs.Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

Marla Oliu, Manager of Campus Recruitment, Caribbean & Latin America | Hilton stopped by for Episode 22 of Real World Talks to share her background and tips for alumni & students to stand out with employers in the virtual world. As a proud alumna herself she talked about her love for FIU and shared a story on how influential her favorite Chaplin School class was for her career. Eluding positivity, Marla told the ladies the type of leader she aspires to be and praised her mentor and colleagues within the Hilton family. She advised the audience what to look for in a potential mentor and to think about what type of leader they want to be. We learned of her love for animals, Disney and working-out. She even shared wonderful advice on home/ work life balance, great at home workout tips and more!Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 21 of Real World Talks, FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management legend Rocco Angelo, Associate Dean of Alumni & EM Statler Professor stopped by and shared his humble beginnings, career and gave encouragement to students & alumni. He not only discussed transferable skills that can help you within the industry, but his 46 years at FIU and travel. Rocco recently celebrated his 89th birthday  and talked about what makes him feel like his best self, after all these years. Rocco, an ecstatic hotelier also mentioned top leaders in the industry and answers some fun questions!Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 20 of Real World Talks Jonathan Rodriguez, Corporate Recruiter from Bacardi USA discusses with the ladies details of Bacardi' ideal candidate, his love for the company and raves about Bacardi's most trendiest liquors of 2020. He not only tells us what he foresees for the future of the beverage industry (in a couple of years), but he shared career advice for those who want to be in the beverage industry & his starting point.Jonathan was also very honest and shared an interesting story of a turning point in his life that made him who he is. He excitedly spoke about Bacardi's partnership with the school, what motivates him and answered some fun questions where we learned more about him!Guest: Jonathan Rodriguez, Corporate Recruiter, Bacardi USAStarring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 19 of Real World Talks, Wendy Kallergis, President & CEO of Greater Miami & The Beaches Hotel Association and Executive Advisory Board Member of FIU- Chaplin School of Hospitality stops by to discuss what the association is doing to assist the tourism industry and shared her background. Wendy not only gave advice to students who are hesitant about the industry, but to women looking to grow in their career and starting out. She openly shared her biggest failures and the love she has for the industry, her family & FIU- Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management. Wendy also reveals what no one knows about her and answered some fun questions!Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 18 of Real World Talks, Naomi M. Lampkin, Regional Talent Acquisition Manager of Human Resources, Enterprise Holdings shares her unconventional background & what lead her to "Hospitality".  Naomi also talks about how she was able to move up and grow in her career in 10 years compared to others, enterprise opportunities, why experience is important, having a competitive nature and ended playing a fun game with the ladies!Guest: Naomi M. Lampkin, Regional Talent Acquisition Manager of Human Resources, Enterprise HoldingsStarring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 17 of Real World Talks, Diann Newman, Vice Dean of FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management stops by and talks about women in the workforce, balance, sacrifices for a career and shares thoughts on diversity, BLM & what fulfills her after many years in the workforce. She motivates our audience and we also got a little personal with a fun game at the end!Guest: Diann Newman,Vice Dean of FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 16 of Real World Talks, Dr. Miranda Kitterlin, Associate Professor and Coca Cola Endowed Professor gets REAL and discusses diversity, leading the initiative to discuss & evoke implicit bias at the Chaplin School, her industry experience and more!!Guest:  Dr. Miranda Kitterlin, Associate Professor and Coca Cola Endowed Professor Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 15 of Real World Talks, Professor Christopher Christie from KW Property Management & Consulting talks "pandemic" & "recession" proof jobs, Residential Hospitality Course, the pros of condominium management and more!Guest:  Christopher Christie, Adjunct Professor & General Manager at  KW Property Management & ConsultingStarring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 14 of Real World Talks, Dr. Anna Etienne,Director of StartUP FIU Food stops by and get's REAL on minority leaders in the workforce, finding your right mentor, women empowerment and gives us key tips on becoming a successful entrepreneur! Anna also chimes in on Real World Hospitality Tea, where they discussed the controversy of not wearing mask and Aunt Jemima, Quaker Oats and other companies changing their name & brand. Guest:  Dr. Anna Etienne,Director, StartUP FIU FoodStarring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 13 of Real World Talks , the ladies have their segment of Real World Hospitality Tea where they discussed Hotels reinventing experiences by having only ONE guest, temperature sensors at LAX , Delta airports fighting COVID-19, Nascar news, Miami Lotto win & more!). They ended with an exciting/ fun game of trivia.Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 12 of Real World Talks , the ladies have their segment of Real World Hospitality Tea where they discussed the Supreme court ruling on L.G.B.T.Q. rights/ employees, Line-Waiting Company established by a 15 year old , the increase of Myrtle Beach Tourism, the No mask bagel chain controversy & cough, eBay employees charged, the importance of reviews & more!). They ended with an exciting/ fun game of trivia.Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 11 of Real World Talks , the ladies have their segment of Real World Hospitality Tea where they discussed Yelp supporting small black business owners, Stimulus checks going towards retail & clothing stores, Airbnbs' during this time, Onsite clinics & doctors residing in Egypt Hotels and more! They ended with an exciting/ fun game of trivia.Starring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 10 of Real World Talks, Rossy Ambe-Cohen, Director of Food & Beverage Programs stops by to discuss the wins & disappointments of her career, the importance of learning different languages, the best place to travel, favorite meals and shares tips on having a great work-life balance .They ended with an exciting/ fun game of trivia. Guest:  Rossy Ambe-Cohen, Director of Food & Beverage Programs, FIU- Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism ManagementStarring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On Episode 9 of Real World Talks, Yuli Sosa, Special Events Manager stops by to discuss how COVID-19 affected her ability to conduct events, her background, memorable moments, quarantine hobbies and Netflix.She also chimed in on Real World Hospitality Tea where the ladies gave their opinion on Disney (Florida) opening on July 15th and the Hard Rock holding drive thru movies & concerts! They ended with an exciting/ fun game of Pop-Culture trivia. Guest: Yuli Sosa, Special Events Manager, FIU- Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism ManagementStarring: Lourdes Torres, Katherine Martin and Nathalie St RemyProduced by: Nathalie St Remy

On this episode: The ladies discuss real world hospitality tea that includes bumper tables at restaurants, gym closures being protested, Walmart during the pandemic, destination trips and more!