Podcast appearances and mentions of chris cano

We discuss Trulieve's recent CFO quitting within two weeks of hire as well as all the latest reporting on the Rock Island, Illinois Green Thumb Industries (GTI) worker death with guests, Chris Cano of SunCoast NORML; Lezli Engelking of FOCUS, the Cannabis Health & Safety Org; Laura Raymond, the mother of Lorna McMurrey; Cate, a GTI worker who was assaulted on the job; and Danny Carson, who was a Trulieve co-worker of Lorna McMurrey. “As a former GTI worker.. Many others at the Rock Island facility had serious safety concerns that weren't addressed,” said Magen Townsend, Teamsters International Organizer. “Lack of air filtration, proper ventilation, and safety equipment were among our primary issues. GTI needs to be held accountable for refusing to acknowledge these serious concerns and putting workers at risk.” --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theyoungjurks/support

On this episode, I'm pleased to welcome Sean Folkson, Founder and CEO of Nightfood, to talk about how Sean's organization is pioneering new healthy choices for hotel guests. Nightfood is a range of sleep-friendly snacks that provide guests with a healthier alternative to satisfy their late-night cravings. Nightfood manufactures cookies, ice cream, chips and more to accommodate all kinds of customer tastes. To Sean, this is an important step in diversification for hotels. It's an opportunity for them to capitalize on wellness trends and cater to guests that want more than junk food options in the lobby store. As he sees it, it's part of a holistic approach to guest services that most hotels already engage in. Investing in the best mattresses, pillows, blackout curtains and white noise machines is all part of an attempt to give guests a better night's sleep. Nightfood is just one more outstanding step in that same direction. Sean Folkson | LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanfolkson/ Sean Folkson | Twitter - https://twitter.com/seanfolkson Nightfood | LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/nightfood-inc/ Nightfood | Website - https://nightfood.com/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeadersPodcast.com #Hospitality #Foodservice

In this episode, I recap some of my top takeaways from listening to Sam Altman talk about AI, ChatGPT, and the future of technology at the Stripe Sessions event in San Francisco. For more on AI:Read my guide: AI for Hotels: A Guide to Artificial Intelligence for Hospitality LeadersWatch me and Chris Cano discuss the implications for hospitality providersWhat did you think about this episode? Join the Hospitality Daily community on LinkedIn and share your thoughts. If you care about hospitality, check out the Masters of Moments podcast where Jake Wurzak interviews top leaders in hospitality. His conversations with Bashar Wali and Matt Marquis are a great place to start, but also check out his solo episodes such as how he underwrites investment deals and a deep dive into GP fees you know about. Music by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

On this episode, I'm joined by Joe Gray, Co-Founder of SalesHop.io and VP of Sales at Glacier Hospitality, to hear how he's using technology in conjunction with direct response marketing to reach new markets for his family's hotel group. Joe's parents got into the hotel business before Joe was 10 years old, and he's been a part of their sales and marketing team since college. After Covid-19, Joe struck out on his own to learn from career professionals in the marketing space. He founded SalesHop.io before returning to the family business, armed with an important new sales tool. Direct response marketing is a method of reaching out to potential customers that is designed to elicit an immediate response. Whether it's opening an email or clicking a social media link, this kind of marketing gets customers to engage with your organization right away. As technology, and especially AI, evolves in the hospitality industry, Joe encourages hospitality leaders to use their new digital tools to make their direct response marketing strategies more streamlined and efficient. Joe Gray - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-gray-10b245153/ SalesHop.io - https://www.linkedin.com/company/saleshop-io/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeadersPodcast.com #Hospitality #Foodservice

I'm excited to welcome Megan Thomas, Social Media Consultant and Owner of The Social Reserve, to the podcast to discuss the role of social media in hospitality. Megan got her start in the hospitality industry working at the front desk of a hotel before eventually working her way up to Assistant General Manager. When the Covid-19 pandemic brought hard times to the industry, Megan branched out on her own to find ways she could help hospitality navigate that tumultuous period. She quickly found success as a social media consultant and strategist and founded The Social Reserve. To Megan, social media is an opportunity for hospitality leaders to begin building a guest experience before the guest even gets to your property. You can engage in friendly dialogue, promote your latest attraction and respond to questions and concerns through a digital medium with a broad reach. It's an outstanding vessel for personalizing customer interactions and encouraging guest loyalty. Megan Thomas - https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganethomas/ The Social Reserve - https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesocialreserve/ The Social Reserve | Website - https://www.thesocialreserve.com/ The Social Reserve | Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thesocialreserve/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeadersPodcast.com #Hospitality #Foodservice

New technology has the potential to revolutionize the guest experience in the hospitality industry. Logan Nicholson, CEO and Founder of LocalEyes, is bringing the best of AI and process automation to hoteliers to help them improve guest satisfaction and increase revenue. Guests are most likely to enjoy a hotel stay when they have a convenient way of communicating their needs and when those needs are promptly met. In the past, a flood of guest communications often meant that hotel staff were overwhelmed and unable to respond to each guest in a timely manner. Logan's AI assistant, Marie, brings together SMS communication and software automation to streamline this process. Texting provides an easy way for guests to voice their concerns, and the AI software responds to what it can while notifying staff of needs that require a human touch. It's an outstanding tool for prioritizing problems that require an immediate response. When implemented well, AI solutions like Marie can leave every guest extremely satisfied with the level of service they receive without overwhelming hotel staff. Logan Nicholson - https://twitter.com/logs_nicholson LocalEyes - https://localeyes.guide Marie AI - https://localeyes.guide/marie/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upshıft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeadersPodcast.com #hospitality #Foodservice

On this episode, I'm joined by Troy Springer, President at Elevate Production Group, to hear how he's championing a return to live, in-person meetings and how his industry has evolved in a post-pandemic world. Event planners all over the world were forced to construct entirely new business models in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. The rise of virtual meetings meant that technology played a much bigger role in these events and industry leaders became comfortable forgoing in-person collaboration. Troy is at the forefront of bringing live meetings back but in a very different way. He doesn't want to abandon the technology that made virtual meetings possible but instead wants to use it to elevate the capabilities of in-person meetings. He also approaches his events with a new respect for efficiency and a desire to limit wasted time. These considerations often flew under the radar just a few years ago, but Troy is now leveraging them to curate outstanding in-person events. Elevate Production Group - https://elevateproductiongroup.com/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeadersPodcast.com #Hospitality #FoodService

On this episode, I'm joined by Randy McKay, President and CEO at the Carolina Theatre of Durham, to hear how he's using his organization's available resources to create unique experiences that his guests can't find anywhere else. Randy's passion for theater goes back to his childhood days of wanting to be an actor, a passion which eventually shifted to encompass the behind-the-scenes production elements of live shows and concerts. The Carolina Theatre of Durham is one of the most unique venues Randy has been a part of, owing to its rich local history and intimate size. Randy tries to capitalize on that uniqueness to provide a special guest experience to everyone who walks in the door. He can't just rely on the venue itself but instead goes above and beyond to provide memorable customer service to create an atmosphere that sticks with his guests, long after the show is over. It's an outstanding way to differentiate himself from his competitors. Randy McKay - https://www.linkedin.com/in/randybobstmckay/ Carolina Theatre of Durham - https://carolinatheatre.org/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeadersPodcast.com #Hospitality #FoodService

I'm pleased to welcome back Josiah Mackenzie, Publisher at HotelOperations.com, for his second appearance on the podcast, this time to discuss the role of AI in the future of hospitality. As Josiah sees it, hospitality is a human industry through and through, and the foundation of success will always be meaningful human relationships. That doesn't mean that technology won't play an important role in shaping those relationships, though. AI is an important pattern recognition and analytics tool. It has the capacity to automate monotonous tasks, freeing up associates to engage with guests in a more personal way. It can also provide important information to staff and allows them to cater to their guest on an individual level, providing personalized services and recommendations based on AI suggestions. It's an outstanding resource with the ability to enhance the human element of the hospitality industry, not replace it. Josiah Mackenzie - https://twitter.com/JosiahMackenzie HotelOperations.com - https://hoteloperations.com/ AI for Hotels | Article - https://hoteloperations.com/ai-hotels-hospitality/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeadersPodcast.com #Hospitality #Foodservice

On this episode, I'm joined by Tearlach Hutcheson, Vice President of Film at Studio Movie Grill, to hear how the film industry is continuing to bring people together in a post-pandemic world. Tearlach is passionate about good storytelling and about experiencing those stories together with others. His dedication to these values drew him into the film industry. He's been striving to cultivate an environment of shared narrative experiences for the better part of two decades. To him, movie theaters are special because they allow strangers to get together and bond over an engaging story told on film. In a post-Covid world, technology like VR offers filmmakers the chance to provide siloed, individual movie-watching experiences. Tearlach thinks these innovations miss the point of why people enjoy going to the movies. To him, industry innovation should be aimed at enhancing the welcoming, communal experience that theaters are known for, not creating more excuses for isolation and separation. Tearlach Hutcheson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tearlachhutcheson/ Studio Movie Grill - https://www.studiomoviegrill.com/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeadersPodcast.com #Hospitality #Foodservice

On this episode, I'm joined by Luis Rivera, General Manager at White Oak Music Hall, for an exploration of the ways that relationships between hospitality leaders at different organizations can help strengthen the industry as a whole. While Luis was initially in training to be an engineer, volunteering at a music festival allowed the industry to get its hooks in him, and he's been committed to creating memorable concert experiences ever since. His passion for the live music industry means he wants to see all concert venues thrive, not just his own. He and his team regularly attend shows at venues all around his native Houston, supporting their industry peers and creating a community where everyone is challenged to learn and grow. This network of relationships creates an environment of camaraderie, not enmity. It's an outstanding example of the way that competition in the hospitality industry can spur organizations on to greatness, rather than create division. White Oak Music Hall - https://www.whiteoakmusichall.com/ White Oak Music Hall | Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/whiteoakmh/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeadersPodcast.com #hospitality #Foodservice

On this episode, I'm joined by Todd Richardson, President at the Crosstown Redevelopment Cooperative, to hear how he's using his experience in both the arts and hospitality to cultivate a thriving, connected local community. Todd's background in the arts has given him a passion for both individual expression and human connectivity. To him, that's the purpose of both the arts and hospitality: to bring people together. The Crosstown Concourse is a manifestation of that passion, where arts and entertainment venues live side-by-side with healthcare facilities, restaurants, retail stores, offices and apartments, all in one complex. Todd calls it a vertical village because it functions as its own community where people of all kinds live and work together seamlessly. It's an outstanding example of how hospitality organizations can help to create meaningful human connections. Todd Richardson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-richardson-933137160/ Crosstown Redevelopment Cooperative - https://crosstownconcourse.com/ Crosstown Concourse Documentary - https://youtu.be/FoZ9OV54v2E Sears Crosstown in Memphis: From Catalogues to a Concourse - https://www.arcadiapublishing.com/Products/9781467147996 Crosstown Case Study - https://www.rudybruneraward.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/RBA-Pub2019_BOOK_FINALhq_CrosstownConcourse.pdf Crosstown Arts - https://crosstownarts.org/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeadersPodcast.com #hospitality #Foodservice

On this episode, I'm joined by Natalie Shirley, President and CEO at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, for a conversation about catering your leadership style to match your strengths. Natalie is a self-described fixer and she was hand-selected to help revitalize a museum that was struggling with financial stability and general workplace health. She revamped the budget and incorporated staff feedback and individual mentorship into the workplace culture to make the museum a place where employees actually wanted to work. Natalie knows her strengths and her leadership ability and so, despite the success she has found at the museum, she doesn't intend to stay long-term. She's self-aware enough to know that while she might have been the ideal person to fix a broken organization, there are others better suited to manage it during this newfound period of stability. To Shirley, knowing when to walk away is an essential part of leadership. Natalie Shirley - https://www.ou.edu/regents/members/natalie-shirley National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum - https://nationalcowboymuseum.org/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeadersPodcast.com #hospitality #Foodservice

Today's episode features a conversation between myself and Michael Sanders, Chief Operating Officer at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, about techniques for cultivating a motivated and dedicated team of employees. Michael has been working in museums for 20 years, and so he's not only an experienced hospitality leader in his own right but also has an outstanding knowledge of his industry niche. That experience has enabled him to understand what works and what doesn't when it comes to creating team buy-in. Michael's primary avenue for keeping his staff dedicated to their work is seeking out intentional feedback. That feedback doesn't just come through surveys or occasional team check-ins. Instead, Michael goes out of his way to seek out team members on the floor to learn the pain points of their role and how they think it could be improved. By turning that feedback into concrete action, Michael earns his team's trust and thus their buy-in. Michael Sanders- https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelsanders02/ Minneapolis Institute of Art- https://new.artsmia.org/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift- https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeadersPodcast.com. #hospitality #Foodservice

On today's episode, I'm joined by Josiah Mackenzie, Publisher at HotelOperations.com, for a conversation about the impact that the implementation of new technology has on the hospitality industry. Though he no longer lives on the operations side of hospitality, Josiah's early work was a crash course in everything the industry has to offer. Working for a small property in California, his role required him to check in guests, change bedsheets, make drinks and manage the business' social media. It was that experience that caused Josiah to shift to an operational advisory role, analyzing hotel operations and thinking about ways they could be made better. His current focus is hospitality's adoption of technology. The tech sphere is rapidly evolving and hotels have to be careful about how they implement this new tech in order to keep a competitive advantage. Adopting the right tools, in conjunction with the right people and processes, requires an outstanding knowledge of your own organization's strengths and weaknesses. HotelOperations.com - https://hoteloperations.com/ 2022 Hotel Technology Survey - https://hoteloperations.com/hotel-technology-survey Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeaderspodcast.com. #hospitality #Foodservice

On this episode, I'm joined by Julio Cabrera, Cantinero and Founder at Cafe La Trova. As a cantinero, Julio brings a unique perspective to the restaurant and bar scene. Whereas many bartenders view such a position as an entry point into hospitality, Julio, and cantineros like him, see the frontlines of food and drink service as their highest calling. As Julio puts it, to be a cantinero is a way of life. It's a melding of his devotion to the science of well-crafted cocktails, a commitment to an outstanding customer experience and an embrace of his Cuban roots. These come together in a vibrant atmosphere rich in great music, dance and food. For Julio, the cantinero movement is what hospitality is meant to be. To him, the service industry isn't about climbing the corporate ladder or looking for a bigger paycheck. It's about building a community with your coworkers and guests, enjoying a meal together and being the best at what you do. - Julio Cabrera - https://www.cafelatrova.com/about/ - Cafe La Trova - https://www.cafelatrova.com/ - Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ - Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ #hospitality #Foodservice If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeaderspodcast.com.

On this episode, I'm revisiting the entertainment venue Howl at the Moon, this time by way of a conversation with Derek Langford, Regional General Manager. Derek got his start at a small restaurant in his hometown of Kansas City. The transferable skills he learned there allowed him to work his way into the city's bar scene. It was here that he met the owners of Howl at the Moon, and it's this organization that has provided the bulk of Derek's two decades of hospitality work. Derek attributes the success of Howl at the Moon to its ability to differentiate itself from industry competitors. To accomplish this, Derek and his team decided that depth was better than breadth. Performing extraordinarily well in a particular niche was preferable to trying to appeal to everyone's tastes. This philosophy proved lucrative, and Derek continues to cater his approach to evolve with the needs of his very particular market. - Howl at the Moon - https://www.howlatthemoon.com/ - Howl at the Moon - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/howlatthemoon/ - Howl at the Moon - TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@_howlatthemoon?lang=en - Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ - Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ #hospitality #Foodservice If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeaderspodcast.com.

On this episode, I'm joined by Travis Talbot, Principal and Lead Strategist at Hospitality Arts, who offers some words of wisdom for aspiring leaders in the hospitality industry. Travis is about as experienced as a hospitality professional can get. He started in the industry as a child, working for his mom, washing dishes and sweeping floors. From there he found himself working in nearly every corner of the industry, from hotels and events to restaurants and bars. That robust background has taught Travis what it means to be a true hospitality leader. For him, company culture is a great litmus test for the quality of organizational leaders because a business's culture starts at the top. To Travis, that means implementing practical policies that define and build culture, rather than leaving it as an abstract concept. It's an outstanding philosophy, and Travis now teaches this perspective to organizations all around the country as an industry consultant. Travis Talbot - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tbonetalbot/?hl=en Travis Talbot - Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TboneTalbot/ Travis Talbot - Twitter - https://twitter.com/tbonetalbot Hospitality Arts - https://hospitalityarts.group/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ #hospitality #Foodservice If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeaderspodcast.com.

On today's episode, I'm joined by Elliott Broom, Chief Operating Officer at the Detroit Institute of Arts. After starting out as a bellman in a hotel, Elliott eventually worked his way into leadership roles in some of the most prestigious hotels in the country, including the Ritz Carlton and the Four Seasons. However, a desire to move closer to his hometown of Detroit prompted a switch out of the hotel business and into his current role at the Detroit Institute of Arts. Between his hotel background and his current position, Elliott is no stranger to the complicated logistics of the hospitality industry. In order to stay on top of complex systems, Elliott thinks it all starts with good team synergy. By building healthy relationships between leaders and their staff, as well as encouraging constant team feedback, Elliott has cultivated a culture where everyone is willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done When everyone's vision is aligned, complex logistics become manageable. Detroit Institute of Arts - https://dia.org/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ #hospitality #Foodservice If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeaderspodcast.com.

On today's episode, I'm joined by Karen Totaro, General Manager at Huntington Place - Detroit (ASM Global), for a conversation on how diversity strengthens hospitality organizations. Karen's foray into hospitality came in college, working at various arenas and stadiums. The excitement before a big event was almost tangible to her, and the thrill of hosting such an electric atmosphere drew her into the event industry where she's been ever since. Large events and conventions require a great team to be able to pull it all off, and Karen thinks that the team should embrace diversity to be successful. Different backgrounds and experiences bring in new perspectives and ideas, and having a diverse team means there's a better chance a client can mesh well with someone on staff, whatever their background. As Karen puts it, diversity is a superpower that elevates an organization to a new level of service. - Karen Totaro - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/totaro411/?hl=en - Huntington Palace - Detroit (AMS Global) - https://www.huntingtonplacedetroit.com/ - Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ - Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ #hospitality #Foodservice If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeaderspodcast.com.

On today's episode, I'm joined by Michael Shindler, President at Four Corners Advisors, Inc., to hear him expand on an article he published, entitled Five Words. The first phase of Michael's career revolved around his work as a commercial real estate lawyer, which eventually brought him into contact with Hyatt, where he became their General Counsel. A few moves to various resort and hotel roles led Michael to launch his own consulting firm, Four Corners. Michael has the legal background and the hospitality experience to be an outstanding authority on leadership within the industry, and the principles he outlines in Five Words apply to nearly all employer-employee relationships: Access, Authority, Accountability, Incentive and Motivation. To gain the trust of their team and bring their organization success, Michael encourages fellow hospitality leaders to internalize these words and implement them in meaningful company policies that encourage open communication between leadership and staff. Four Corners Advisors, Inc. - https://fourcornersadvisors.com/ Five Words - Article - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/five-words-michael-shindler/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ #hospitality #Foodservice If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-Star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeaderspodcast.com.

On today's episode, I'm joined by Alice Cheng, Founder and CEO of Culinary Agents, a fantastic resource for hospitality workers seeking new professional development opportunities. Like many in the industry, Alice began in hospitality at a young age, working in food service as one of her first jobs. While she eventually moved on from the industry to pursue a career at IBM, she continued to work alongside friends who were growing in their hospitality professions. What started as a side hustle, helping these friends perfect their resumes or connect with potential employers, allowed Alice to merge her knowledge of hospitality with her experience in tech startups in the form of Culinary Agents. Alice now works to bridge the gap between passion and work, helping hospitality workers find roles that they can be excited about. That energy and commitment are among the reasons Alice cares so much about the hospitality industry. As she sees it, this business has something for everyone. - Culinary Agents - https://culinaryagents.com/ - Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ - Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ #hospitality #Foodservice If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-Star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeaderspodcast.com.

Today's episode features a conversation between myself and Jeffrey Wise, CEO at Whitewater. Jeffrey grew up on the thrill of the outdoors, getting involved in biking, paddling and backpacking at a young age. Whitewater provided not only an opportunity to share his love of the outdoors with his guests but also to encourage the appreciation and protection of nature. Doing a job that he loves has taught Jeffrey some important lessons in regard to his work-life balance: - Work and life should not compete but harmonize with each other. - Work is a part of life and the two act together to create purpose. - An organization thrives because of its cohesion as a team, not because of any one individual. - Purpose can be found in daily work and in producing something meaningful. These principles can help fellow hospitality leaders integrate their work into a balanced, healthy approach to their professional and personal lives. - Jeffrey Wise - https://whitewater.org/leadership/ - Whitewater - https://whitewater.org/ - Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ - Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeaderspodcast.com. #hospitality #foodservice

On today's episode, I'm joined by Hector Pachon, General Manager at the Ramada Plaza Marco Polo Beach Resort. Hector has sought to learn from his leaders throughout his career. So when he finally moved into a management position himself, he had already honed some of the necessary leadership skills. One of the most important principles he learned was the value of keeping up staff morale. To accomplish this, Hector employs a tactic of compounding recognition, which includes several core foundational ideas: - Make praise and recognition a daily practice. - Engage in regular morale-boosting activities, not just periodic events. - Prove yourself as a knowledgeable and trustworthy leader by doing grunt work alongside your staff regularly. - Express continual gratitude for the work your staff accomplishes. By showing regular appreciation for his team, Hector is able to compound the motivation of his staff over time, producing an outstanding workforce dedicated to going above and beyond for the sake of their guests. - Ramada Plaza Marco Polo Beach Resort - https://www.marcopolobeachresort.com/ - Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ - Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeaderspodcast.com. #hospitality #foodservice

On today's episode, I'm joined by Dan Oppenheimer, President at Robinson Editions, to hear some of the ways that art has helped to shape the hospitality industry. Dan has been an artist and a craftsman for nearly half a century, working in stained glass, photography and sculptures. He started by producing signage for the hospitality and food service industry. Now his business focuses on creating a welcoming, homey aesthetic for hospitality businesses. To Dan, art and hospitality influence each other in several important ways: - Artists can be instrumental in making an organization feel hospitable. - Regional art can capture the local spirit and support the local community. - Evolving needs in hospitality can help elevate art techniques. - Both the art and hospitality industries prioritize training and development of future leaders and pioneers. The passion Dan has for his art mirrors the passion that so many hospitality leaders have for their work. In partnership, these two combine to create a guest experience that feels like a home away from home. Robinson Editions - https://www.robinsoneditions.com/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-Star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeaderspodcast.com. #hospitality #Foodservice

In today's conversation, I'm joined by Andrea Foster, Senior Vice President of Development at Marcus Hotels and Resorts and Advisory Board Member at EVPassport. Andrea is a hospitality veteran; she started her guest service journey working in her parents' ice-cream shop when she was just 11 years old. Her experience in the industry has allowed her to notice changing trends that are setting the hospitality world on a different course. To be successful, leaders in the industry have to adapt to this new landscape. Andrea proposes several ways to stay on course in these changing times: Embrace new technologies, like electric car charging stations. Learn to meet guests' needs in a way that doesn't overburden team members. Advocate for the internal development of associates. Create mentorship opportunities for your staff. Prioritize diversity and inclusion efforts. Provide diverse visibility in leadership. Maintain a willingness to learn new skills throughout your career. In an industry that can be brutally unpredictable, Andrea's words of wisdom offer an opportunity for leaders at all levels to stay on the front foot. Andrea Foster - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreakmfoster/ EVPassport - https://www.evpassport.com/ EVPassport - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/evpassport/ Marcus Hotels and Resorts - https://www.marcushotels.com/ Marcus Hotels and Resorts - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/marcus-hotels-&-resorts/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-Star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeaderspodcast.com.

Today I'm joined by Chuck Salem, CEO and Co-Owner at Unique Venues, to discuss the way culture impacts the identity of an organization, and how that identity manifests in hospitality. Even though he had always been drawn to hospitality, Chuck didn't initially pursue a career in the industry. He was on the path to being a university teacher when he was swept up in the event planning and guest services that his university engaged in during the offseason. Destiny had pulled him back into the hospitality industry and it wasn't long before he found his feet at Unique Venues as CEO and eventual Co-Owner. From the beginning of his time at Unique Venues, culture has been a foundational focus of Chuck's. He passionately believes in going above and beyond in the name of service, and he's always tried to weave that philosophy into the culture of his business. He underwent training in business culture to fully understand the natural inclinations of his organization and then worked with his leaders to create policies that fully embrace the kind of company they want to be. For Chuck and his team, hospitality isn't just their industry; it's their identity. Chuck Salem - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-salem-1182416/ Chuck Salem - Email - chuck@uniquevenues.com Unique Venues - https://www.uniquevenues.com/ Unique Venues - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-venues/ Chris Cano - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcano/ Upshift - https://www.linkedin.com/company/upsh%C4%B1ft/ If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeaderspodcast.com.

Keys to the Kingdom, is an anthology of 10 songs that spans the roots of American Rock ‘n' Roll, Blues, and Alternative Country. His songs rock with a sense of soulful urgency, powered by his visceral vocals and incendiary guitar work. Pre-production on the album was done by Steve Ferrone (Tom Petty, Average White Band) and long-time Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers guitarist Mike Campbell. The sessions were recorded over a period of five beautiful days in the High Mojave Desert at Dave Catching's Rancho De La Luna Studio in Joshua Tree, California. Kenneth (lead guitar and vocals) is joined by indie soul brothers Chris Cano on drums and Brandon Owens on bass. Keys to the Kingdom is pure modern Southern Rock' ‘n Roll with a side of Mojave Desert Mojo. It hits hard from the first track to the last. “I wrote these songs while living in Hollywood and Malibu over the last five years,” says Kenneth Brian. “They are heavily influenced by my experiences in Southern California.”

Keys to the Kingdom, is an anthology of 10 songs that spans the roots of American Rock ‘n' Roll, Blues, and Alternative Country. His songs rock with a sense of soulful urgency, powered by his visceral vocals and incendiary guitar work. Pre-production on the album was done by Steve Ferrone (Tom Petty, Average White Band) and long-time Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers guitarist Mike Campbell. The sessions were recorded over a period of five beautiful days in the High Mojave Desert at Dave Catching's Rancho De La Luna Studio in Joshua Tree, California. Kenneth (lead guitar and vocals) is joined by indie soul brothers Chris Cano on drums and Brandon Owens on bass. Keys to the Kingdom is pure modern Southern Rock' ‘n Roll with a side of Mojave Desert Mojo. It hits hard from the first track to the last. “I wrote these songs while living in Hollywood and Malibu over the last five years,” says Kenneth Brian. “They are heavily influenced by my experiences in Southern California.”

Keys to the Kingdom, is an anthology of 10 songs that spans the roots of American Rock ‘n' Roll, Blues, and Alternative Country. His songs rock with a sense of soulful urgency, powered by his visceral vocals and incendiary guitar work. Pre-production on the album was done by Steve Ferrone (Tom Petty, Average White Band) and long-time Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers guitarist Mike Campbell. The sessions were recorded over a period of five beautiful days in the High Mojave Desert at Dave Catching's Rancho De La Luna Studio in Joshua Tree, California. Kenneth (lead guitar and vocals) is joined by indie soul brothers Chris Cano on drums and Brandon Owens on bass. Keys to the Kingdom is pure modern Southern Rock' ‘n Roll with a side of Mojave Desert Mojo. It hits hard from the first track to the last. “I wrote these songs while living in Hollywood and Malibu over the last five years,” says Kenneth Brian. “They are heavily influenced by my experiences in Southern California.”

In this episode I invite 2 Veteran Leaders in our community to discuss all there is to know about the Veteran. Levi Rodgers, Top Real Estate Team in San Antonio & Chris Cano, Branch Manager of predominantly Veteran serviced mortgage lender, who is dedicated to educating as many as possible on the benefits that our veterans have earned for serving out great country.  Host :Mark JonesFounder of https://reviewmymortgage.com/Branch Manager Directions Home Loan La CanteraTop Producing Loan OfficerNMLS# 513437Get in Touch with Mark.https://lacanteraloans.com/loan-officer/the-mark-jones-team/Guest :Chris CanoBranch ManagerAligned MortgageNMLS# 879294Get in Touch with Chris.https://www.alignedmortgage.com/team/chris-cano/Guest :Levi Rodgers Team Leader Levi Rodgers GroupGet in Touch with Levi.https://www.levirodgersgroup.com/About Chris.Military City USA was introduced to Aligned Mortgage in 2016. The infectious vision of nurturing San Antonio's military community sprouted from Chris Cano. He was born and raised on the southeast side of San Antonio, Texas. Following his father's, a Vietnam Sailor, and brother's footsteps, Chris enlisted in the United States Navy in 2001 as a Nuclear Machinist Mate, graduating from Naval Nuclear Power Training Command as one of the top students.After 10 years in the Navy, Chris was divinely introduced to Tony Dias (now business partner), a prior service Marine, who inspired him to begin his journey in the mortgage industry. Chris turned his passion of serving in the Military into a passion of helping his fellow shipmates, active duty service members, and Veterans acquire property in the country they also helped defend. Leading teams in Hawaii and San Diego was the beginning of what sprouted Chris' vision of growth. After God called Chris' dad home in 2015, his purpose was geared towards expanding the business to his hometown where he can involve his family in helping him execute his mission.About Levi.Levi's Military Awards and Decorations: Bronze Star Medal (4), Legion of Merit (1), Purple Heart Medal (1), Meritorious Service Medal Combat Infantry Badge Master Parachutist Badge, Military Freefall Badge Sapper Tab, Special Forces Tab, plus many more awards and decorations.Levi's Professional Awards: 2021 San Antonio Business Journal No. 1 Team with Five or More Members, Rookie of the Year, 100 Percent Club Award, Platinum Club Award, Diamond Club, Pinnacle Club, and the Rising Star Award. San Antonio Business Journal Top 50 Realtors and is a RE/MAX Hall of Fame Member. #1 RE/MAX team in Texas 2020. #1 RE/MAX team in San Antonio, 2017-2020. Secretary of Defense 2019 Freedom Award Recipient. He is also a recent graduate of the Leadership San Antonio (LSA).This podcast is Powered By : ReviewMyMortgage.com“largest index of mortgage programs… Nationally.”Find out how to become a PRO Lender in your Area. https://reviewmymortgage.com/get-started/

On this episode of the Hospitality Leaders podcast, host Chris Cano is joined by Leah Fields-Nester, Assistant General Manager at Hyatt House Charlotte/Center City. A second-generation hotelier, Leah has worked in a few different cities but has spent her entire career with the same company, which is unusual in the hospitality industry. She started as a night auditor and worked her way up the ranks to her current position as AGM at Hyatt House in Charlotte. Leah has an infectious enthusiasm when it comes to guest satisfaction. She believes in doing whatever it takes to create memorable experiences for guests on the property. This can be as simple as a box of truffles and a hand-written note, letting them know her team is excited to have them. She reminds her team daily that if they see a way to create a tailored guest experience, they can do it or let her know and she will get it done. The vast majority of the property's reviews are four and five star. Her attention to detail is paying off. Resources: Leah Fields-Nester Hyatt House Chris Cano Upshift If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-Star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeaderspodcast.com.

On this episode of the Hospitality Leaders podcast, host Chris Cano welcomes Jelle Vandenbroucke, General Manager at JW Marriott Houston Downtown, to talk about his career path and his philosophy on leadership development of his managers and staff. Born in Belgium, Jelle took an early interest in cooking, and enrolled in culinary school at the age of 15. After graduation, he worked in several kitchens in the US, UK, Dubai, and France, all in a luxury setting. Always wanting to grow, he explored other areas, like banquet service and management, which led to his current GM position at JW Marriott. Jelle wants to see everyone that's working for him thrive and advance in their career. Leadership development can start very early in someone's career. If someone wants to work in accounting but they aren't quite experienced enough, he will put them in a position to work toward their leadership goal. He also believes in a work/life balance, something that hasn't always been embraced in the hospitality industry. He insists that his managers and staff take sufficient time off to be with their families and unwind. He says that balance makes them all better leaders. Resources: Jelle Vandenbroucke JW Marriott Chris Cano Upshift If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-Star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeadersPodcast.com.

On this episode of the Hospitality Leaders podcast, host Chris Cano welcomes Chef Scott Craig, Director of Culinary Operations, Myers Park Country Club in Charlotte, North Carolina. Chef Scott talks about his background, which didn't include culinary school. He caught the cooking bug while studying for a psychology degree in college at Virginia Tech, and he began his career as an apprentice at the Baltimore Country Club. Chef Scott has always seen value in culinary competitions, and he credits those challenges as being an integral part of his training and education. He recently won a gold medal at the Culinary Olympics, which he displays in his office to inspire young chefs coming into the industry. He thinks the culture of competition drives his team to be the best they can be. Building a supportive culture is important to Chef Scott. He believes in a culture of fostering growth and providing advancement opportunities to everyone. He and his team deliberately use the term “family,” because that is the kind of closeness they feel with each other. It is a culture of joy and optimism. He also talks about his involvement in the Southeast Emergency Response Network, which is an organization that feeds people during times of disaster or emergency. His goal is to grow the network throughout the Southeast United States. He enjoys photography, and he has some beautiful shots of his food on his Instagram page. Check it out. Resources: Chef Scott Craig chefscottcraig Myers Park Country Club Chris Cano Upshift If you enjoyed today's show, please leave a 5-Star review. For more information and links to all of the resources mentioned in today's episode, visit HospitalityLeaderspodcast.com.

Welcome to the Hospitality Leaders podcast with host Chris Cano. Each episode of the podcast will feature insightful conversations with leaders in the hospitality, event, and food service industries. Chris has spent more than 20 years in the hospitality industry, and almost every leader he has met has told him at some point that they “could write a book” on the bizarre encounters they've had with guests or team members. Those books never seem to materialize. Instead, books on the industry written by industry leaders focus on ways to improve customer service, build great places to work, or lead under pressure. The Hospitality Leaders podcast aims to focus on those topics in conversation form. The global pandemic had a devastating effect on the industry and, by proxy, adjacent industries. Leaders are facing the challenge of rebuilding the industry in areas such as customer service, financials, and handling labor. Stay in tune with the state of the industry today and into the future with the Hospitality Leaders podcast. Subscribe, and never miss an episode. The Hospitality Leaders podcast is powered by Upshift, connecting businesses with W2 employees in real time for both short-term shifts and Upshift to Hire positions. Resources: Chris Cano Upshift Upshift

Military service members make great sacrifices to defend their country. Having served alongside military personnel who risked their lives in the service of their country, Chris believes they not only deserve knowledge about their benefits but also be able to own property in the land they helped defend.   His advice to active-duty service members: “You don't need to flex. Stop trying to impress your friends who also live in the barracks. Impress people who actually are doing what you want to do and hang out with the ones who have proven systems.”   In today’s episode of the Expert(ish) Podcast, our guest, Chris Cano will talk about how he makes a positive impact on the lives of military members, especially young sailors. He will also discuss one of the benefits of the military service that is often overlooked, the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and how to utilize it effectively.   Chris Cano is an Ambassador of the VA Home Loan Benefit and Branch Manager of Aligned Mortgage. He is passionate about educating military members about their VA home loan benefits and has helped his fellow shipmates, active duty service members, and veterans acquire property in the country they helped defend.   Enjoy!   This episode is brought to you by Vouris –  We’re Vouris – we’ve developed a powerful framework that allows early-stage startup companies to build stronger sales teams and hit their revenue targets.  We call it the 5 Components of Sales Effectiveness: People Process Message Technology & Leadership  Let us tell you exactly what to focus on to dramatically improve your results. We help early-stage startups hit their revenue goals and you are only one click away from more revenue. https://hubs.ly/H0NK23j0   In This Episode 1:05 - Backstory of Chris Cano   5:26 - How the majority of service members planned to invest their retirement benefits   10:27 - How to spot a good mentor   12:57 - Chris's real estate properties   16:40 - Why the words you say matter   20:21 - The difference between difficult and easier-not-to   27:51 - The most common mistake service members make with their housing allowance   35:04 - How active duty members fail to fully utilize their housing allowance   43:09 - His piece of advice to active-duty service members   Favorite Quotes "No, you don't need to flex. You don't need to keep up with the Joneses. Do something that your 20-year later version of yourself will thank you for. I think if you talk to most military members who own real estate, you know, the one thing they will tell you is they wish they could've gone back and done it sooner." - Chris Cano   "You absolutely have to be careful with your words. Is what I'm saying accurate or am I just too hyped up right now? I just gotta be careful." - Chris Cano   "When it comes to education, there's so many different versions of the truth. And I don't think any real estate agents are really doing anything maliciously. I think there's just so much content out there. Truth always has to be established in any conversation" - Chris Cano   "I think a lot of people in our industry want the path of least resistance like anybody. And the moment you recognize the difference between hard and easier-not-to, it'll define what kind of character you have." - Chris Cano   "In all of the presentations and briefs that I've ever done and all the people that I've had the pleasure of meeting and hanging out with, I have never heard one good excuse to not use your VA home loan benefit." - Chris Cano   Engage with Chris Cano Aligned Mortgage Website    https://www.alignedmortgage.com   Connect with Expert(ish) Podcast Host JAY JOHNSON   Call (858) 925- 4536   Website LinkedIn Facebook Instagram      

John interviews Chris Cano, author of the books "If You Build It, They Will Stay" and "Chasing Happy." Chris is also a graduate of the John Maxwell leadership program. He has been an executive at the Hard Rock Hotels & Casino and the Ritz-Carlton. ChasingHappyatWork.comFor more info on the Fully Expressed podcast, host John Dembeck, sign up for John's newsletter or to financially contribute to the Seeds to Life ministry go to: SeedstoLife.org

Chris Cano, general manager, Columbus Marriott Northwest and author of the new book “If You Build It They Will Stay: Your Guide to Connecting Generations in the Workplace,” offers up tips, tactics and best practices for managers currently leading multigenerational workforces through the pandemic.

On today's episode, Lindsey Litton sharing part 2 of the interview with Chris Cano and Charlie Braden, at Aligned Mortgage, and this time we're discussing career opportunities that many military spouses may not know about. Contact Aligned Mortgage: https://www.alignedmortgage.com/ Listen on iTunes: https://tinyurl.com/MilHousingPodcast Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MItxgNkPGFs

On today's episode, Lindsey Litton is back to interview Chris Cano and Charlie Braden, at Aligned Mortgage about their experiences in mortgage and the new team initiative between Aligned Mortgage and MilHousing Network. Contact Aligned Mortgage: https://www.alignedmortgage.com/ Listen on iTunes: https://tinyurl.com/MilHousingPodcast Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EEXuYwhIsn4

The team got to speak with Aligned Mortgage Co-Founder Chris Cano. He talked about how he went from serving in the Navy to helping veterans get into homes by helping them understand and navigate the VA home loan process. Listen in for some great advice from him and the team at Tip of the Spear!

Today was FIRE! Our man, Chris Cano from Aligned Mortgage drops by the studio and straight blesses the Podcast! Literally!!!! Tune in for a completely fun and truth dropping show!

Our host, Jessica Vaughn, talks to Chris Cano, candidate for Florida State Representative District 62 http://canoforflorida.com/ https://www.facebook.com/CANOforFlorida/

Since their first album release in 2009, the Kenneth Brian Band’s modern Southern Rock and Americana infused style, timeless song-craft, layered with Kenneth’s gritty vocals and guitar prowess have helped earn them a loyal fan following and the respect of fellow musicians. The quartet’s musical styling and dynamic live performances also attracted the attention of some of their mentors like Lucinda Williams, Billy Gibbons and current bandmate Steve Ferrone of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Since 2013, they spent two years touring with multi-Grammy winner Lucinda Williams, who describes them as “somewhere between Lynyrd Skynyrd and Drive-By Trucker”, before joining ZZ Top in 2016 for several dates. Whether in intimate Honky Tonks or stately, sold-out theaters (with Lucinda), they continue to captivate audiences with resonating harmonies and a tight rhythm section.Their fourth studio album With Lions, released in May, includes 11 songs all written by Kenneth and pays tribute to their musical mentors as well as their musically rich Southern heritage. The single “You’re Not Mine” is an edgy anthem with heavy-hitting guitar solos and their signature harmonies. “Beautiful Storm” is an emotionally evocative track that showcases Kenneth’s spellbinding competency with a slide.Rock ‘n’ roll royalty Steve Ferrone (Drums, Tambourine, Shakers) and Scott Thurston (Keyboards, Piano) of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers don’t just lend their talents for the album but, Ferrone sits behind the drum kit when he’s not touring with Tom Petty. Travis and Steve met a couple of years ago at a gathering thrown by a mutual pal. Not long after, they needed a drummer for a Hollywood gig and Steve sat in with the band. He worked with the guys to hone their sound and helped them find the right players. And as they say, the rest is history.Handpicked by Steve, drummer Chris Cano plays with KBB when Ferrone is on the road with the Heartbreakers. Popular session bass guitarist and Disresputable Few member, Paul ILL, joined the band at Steve’s urging and perfectly rounded out the Kenneth Brian Band sound. “Those two were the perfect combination for what we do,” said Kenneth Brian. “Their influence has helped elevate our playing and just being around Steve is a master class on how to be a successful artist and a decent human being,” he continued. In true KBB form, the sound of the new album honors their distinctive blend of Southern Rock that is both progressive and rooted in tradition.While they both currently reside in Los Angeles, they hail from the South. Kenneth was born in Virginia but spent most of his formative years in Alabama before his family settled in a small town just north of Gainesville, Florida. Travis was born and raised in Charleston, West Virginia and spent summers with his dad in Nashville. From a very young age, they realized their passion for creating music and have pursued it with vigor. Travis started on the piano and Kenneth penned his first country song on an old guitar at the ripe age of 4.After moving to Nashville in 2001, founding members Kenneth Brian (Lead Vocals, Lead Guitar) and Travis Stephens (Harmony Vocals, Rhythm Guitar, Piano) met while playing the local scene and struck up a fast friendship, which led to a creative collaboration in 2009. Travis describes the camaraderie that comes from being part of this band. “We both understand the underlying spiritual groove that we are forever trying to stay dialed into for ourselves and our fans. And that comes before egos or opinions,” he said.With Lions, out May 19, 2017 on Robo Records, was recorded at Dave’s Room Studio in Hollywood, California. David Bianco (Bob Dylan, Lucinda Williams, Tom Petty) produced, mixed and engineered the album. It was mastered at legendary Capitol Studios in Hollywood, California by mastering engineer Kevin Bartley.Website: www.kennethbrianband.com