Relationship between the guest and the host, or the act or practice of being hospitable
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Proverbs 25:6-7 Luke 14:1, 7-14
Welcome to week three of our series, We Love This Place.Brian Becker
Celebrity chef Luke Mangan is an industry giant, but running some of the best restaurants in the country is not without its challenges. This week, BOSS editor Sally Patten sits down with the leading restaurateur to find out how he soared to the top of Australia’s hospitality scene. This podcast was sponsored by 5 in 5 with ANZ podcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sermon: The Hospitality of JesusPastor Zach LutzText: Luke 7:36-50
Get a blessing by hearing the latest teaching from one of the services at Faith and Truth Assembly!
What does it mean to practice true Kingdom hospitality? In this sermon, we're challenged to see the face of God in the stranger, the outsider, and those different from ourselves. Unlike worldly hospitality, which is conditional and comfortable, Kingdom hospitality calls us beyond our fears and prejudices to welcome with open hearts. Discover how Jesus' radical example of inclusion reshapes our lives, our church, and our city.
Mark Matson On The Way With Jesus
Your Faith Journey - Finding God Through Words, Song and Praise
Year C – 12th Sunday after Pentecost; Lectionary 22 – August 31, 2025 Pastor Megan Floyd Proverbs 25:6-7a Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16 Luke 14:1, 7-14 Grace and peace to you from God, our Creator, and from Jesus, our Savior, who invites us to share in the gift of a meal, for which we can never repay. Amen. *** It is remarkable to me how often the Holy Spirit swirls around us with opportunities to practice the radical love that Jesus invites us into… And there are a couple of exciting ones that I'll tell you about in a bit…. These opportunities were awesome when I first heard about them, but even more so after thinking about how they fit with our scripture today. The Spirit is feisty like that… I love it… but before I tell you about them… we need to talk about Jesus… and his lesson on table manners. Drawing from the old wisdom found in Proverbs, Jesus tells these Pharisees and leaders not to claim the most prestigious spot at the table, where you might have to lower yourself if someone higher in the social hierarchy arrives. But instead… choose the lowest spot, so that you might be honored when asked to move higher. “For all who exalt themselves will be humbled… and all who humble themselves will be exalted.” What Jesus leaves hanging in the air… is that if they intentionally choose the lowest spot… so that the host will honor them… choosing to humble themselves so that they may be exalted among others… then they have missed the point. …they have missed the point. The game of honor and shame… of social hierarchy and status… of being humbled or exalted before others… is not how the kingdom of God works. Jesus tells us to forego the shuffling around for status altogether and instead, invite those who cannot return the favor… to give to those who cannot give anything in return. Do not invite the elite of society to your dinner party. Instead, invite those whom our society pushes to the edges… the ones whom society would like to forget exist. Jesus' word for us today… is to step away from the cultural expectation of social climbing and quid pro quo… to stop jockeying for status and prestige… Share a meal with those with whom no one else would dare share a meal … those who have no food to offer you in return. This is what Jesus himself did… time and time again… revealing to us the values of God's kingdom. When you look upon those who have nothing to offer you… and recognize that in the eyes of God, you are equal… and you are both loved beyond measure… That is where God's blessing is revealed… that is how we glimpse the face of God in our neighbor. Not by lording our status or privilege over them… but by recognizing that we are siblings through Christ. And just as I am reminded today of the radical hospitality that Jesus calls us to extend… I also remember that we are the ones who have nothing to offer… and yet, Jesus invites us to such a meal… We are the ones… whom Jesus has invited to come and share the meal of bread and wine… a meal that comes with the promised presence of our God, and the full and great cloud of witnesses from all time. We are the ones whom Jesus has invited to receive this incredible gift… for which we cannot ever repay, and for which we are only worthy to receive because Jesus has declared us to be worthy. We dine on such a meal almost every time we gather for worship… …and so, our Savior, Jesus Christ, is calling us to do for others, as he did for us… as Jesus continues to do for us. Jesus is inviting us to live in a completely different world within our culture… inviting us to embrace the values and ideals of God's kingdom… inviting us to claim the blessing that is found by extending grace and hospitality to those whom others would just as soon forget. And to not only see ourselves as equal to them under God's eyes… But to connect with them in such a way that their suffering becomes our suffering, their hunger becomes our hunger… their pain becomes our pain… so that together, we might break the causes of oppression, poverty, and harm. Because when our neighbor is suffering… it's personal. It was counter-cultural then, and it is counter-cultural now… Jesus has been inviting us into something new, and something better… this whole time. Our text from Hebrews tells us to remember those in prison as if you were in prison… remember those being tortured as if you were being tortured. That's a level of connection that most of us would rather avoid… Yet, we are urged not to keep those in need at arm's length. They are our siblings in Christ, and God loves them as much as God loves us. This idea… completely topples the social hierarchy… and shreds the practice of jostling for the seat at the table that will earn you the most prestige. Invite those who cannot invite you in return… give to those who cannot repay your kindness. This kind of generosity… is the true source of God's blessing. Still, I confess… that it's easy to say… harder to do. However… we know that God's Holy Spirit is with us on our faith journey, and this week was no exception. So, this is what I wanted to share with you… These opportunities seem Spirit-inspired. The first is something that our pantry team has been working on… they have been blessed with an abundance… and have been looking for ways to bless others beyond the visitors to our pantries… with that abundance. After much due diligence, they have connected with a group called Homeless Angels in Lansing. Every Sunday night, all year long, they serve a dinner in a park in Lansing where anyone can come and eat. The meals are sponsored by various organizations, and volunteers help serve the food. Along with the meal, they often have donated hygiene products and bags with non-perishable foods that folks can take with them. This is where our pantry team comes in. Out of their abundance, they will provide food items for our high schoolers to pack into easy-to-carry bags on September 21st, which is our first high school youth group night. Then, on Sunday, Sept. 28th, Gretchen and I will deliver the bags and stay to help serve the meal. We want to start building a relationship with this group and the neighbors they serve. …and by the way, this is an open invitation. If you'd like to join us, please do! Our hope is that our new High School Youth Group will be able to come and serve with this group at some point in the future. The other opportunity came from a conversation I had with Randy… he and Jamie volunteer at the Mission in Lansing on the fourth Thursday of every month. I know some of you have joined them from time to time… but Randy was telling me that they have moved into their new location… and now have the capacity to serve 300 at mealtimes. …and together, we lamented that there was a need to serve 300 at mealtimes. But the increased capacity means an increase in the need for volunteers to help serve those meals. And so here again… is another opportunity to serve and share a meal with those who cannot repay… These are both opportunities to share life with those whom Jesus would have given preference to… to share in their humanity. Jesus consistently gravitated toward those who were on the edges… toward those who are so pushed down that they couldn't see the light. Jesus meets them in that space… and loves them… reminds them that they are beloved children of God… reminds them that they bear the image of God and they are worthy of God's love. Jesus meets them… just as Jesus meets all of us wherever we are… and loves us… and calls us all to share God's love… to share God's invitation. And…. to give preference to those who cannot return the favor. For in doing so… in letting our guard down and allowing ourselves to share in the full humanity of our neighbor, whom God loves… Jesus knows that we will be blessed. Not because we have a higher place than them or a better seat at the table… or because we can congratulate ourselves on being so generous… that's missing the point. We are blessed because when we look into their eyes, we glimpse the face of God. And the best news… The Holy Spirit will not stop showing up with opportunities for us to join in the work of bringing close God's Kingdom. It's an open invitation… so come to the party. Amen.
Pastor Bill WinekeLuke 14:7-14Humility and Hospitality
Ever wondered why your cookies spread too much or your cake sinks in the middle? Sally McKenney, the self-taught baking expert behind Sally's Baking Addiction, joins us to reveal the kitchen secrets that transformed her personal blog into a trusted baking empire with millions of weekly visitors.Sally's approach to recipe development is refreshingly honest – she shares both successes and failures, helping readers understand not just how to bake something, but why certain techniques and ingredients matter. What began as a creative outlet while working in finance has evolved into a community-building endeavor that connects bakers worldwide through meticulously tested recipes and clear, supportive guidance.Learn why room temperature ingredients create better structure, how to quickly bring cold eggs to room temperature, and why doubling cake recipes often leads to disaster. Her ingenious bread test for finding oven hot spots and freezer strategies for always-ready treats are practical solutions for home bakers at any skill level. As someone who's made dozens of Sally's recipes over the years (her monster cookies are a personal favorite!), I can attest that her detailed instructions truly build confidence in the kitchen.We also get a sneak peek at Sally's newest cookbook, which features 101 recipes spanning every major baking category – from cookies and cakes to savory options like a caramelized onion and fig galette. With approximately 70 brand-new recipes and step-by-step photos for every creation, the book promises to become a treasured kitchen companion for years to come. Whether you're an occasional baker or dedicated enthusiast, you'll find Sally's passion for teaching the science of baking both inspiring and immensely practical.Ready to transform your baking results? Subscribe now and follow @sallysbakeblog to discover why millions of home bakers trust Sally's expertise to guide their kitchen adventures!This episode is Sponsored by: Tiny Spoon Chef- Get $100 your customized in home personal chef service for $100 using this link! Support the show
Investor Fuel Real Estate Investing Mastermind - Audio Version
In this episode of the Real Estate Pro Show, host Erika interviews Leslie Sonnier, a pioneer in the short-term rental space. Leslie shares her journey from hospitality to real estate, emphasizing the importance of design and experience in attracting guests. She discusses the heart of hospitality as generosity, the common misconceptions about short-term rentals, and the significance of networking in the industry. Leslie also highlights innovative approaches to accessibility in rentals, aiming to create inclusive spaces for all guests. Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind: Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply Investor Machine Marketing Partnership: Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true ‘white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com Coaching with Mike Hambright: Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a “mini-mastermind” with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming “Retreat”, either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas “Big H Ranch”? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform! Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/ New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club —--------------------
It's no secret that iced beverages have taken the coffee shop world by storm in recent years. From single-origin cold brews and iced classics becoming year-round staples to TikTok sensations like matcha lattes and botanical infusions, the iced category has rapidly become a core part of how consumers experience coffee.In this episode we're asking what's been driving this surge in popularity, what flavour innovations are on the horizon, and could “cold” one day overtake “hot” on the global coffee stage?To find out we're speaking with Jake Leonti, Head of Coffee, Gregorys Coffee, Will Kenney, Commercial Director, 200 Degrees Coffee Roasters, and Peter Broom, Commercial Director for syrup manufacturer Novela.Credits music: "Summer" by Maddie King in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the showSign up for our newsletter to receive the latest coffee news at worldcoffeeportal.comSubscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear
Send us a textOn today's PoM podcast I sit down once again with Kevan Chandler and we are joined by his friend Tommy Shelton. Kevan and Tommy just released "The Hospitality of Need, How Depending on One Another Helps Us Heal and Grow Together."Too often, our needs are perceived—by ourselves and others—as either burdens to shamefully hide, or idols before which everything else must bow. The Hospitality of Need provides a biblical framework for readers to see their needs as opportunities for deeper, truer community and relationships.Through engaging real-life stories, Kevan Chandler and Tommy Shelton share what can happen when we invite others into our lives—hardships and all. Ultimately, this is a book about friendship . . . the kind that God has called us to live in . . . friendship that goes deep and flourishes, not in spite of our needs but actually through them.To learn more visit: https://www.amazon.com/Hospitality-Need-Depending-Another-Together/dp/0802436080Support The Show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/110664/subscribe Register for our 2025 Fall Men's Retreat: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/2025-mens-retreatRegister for our next session of Tribe: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/tribe-xviiBuild your own local Tribe with Tribe Builder: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/tribe-builderCheck out our newest sponsor Olive Knives. Their mission is "To craft unparalleled knives that redefine toughness, durability, and functionality." To learn more visit: https://oliveknives.com/ Use the discount code "POM10" to save 10% off your next order. Support the show
Who is it we are serving when we start or work in the coffee shop? If you listen to a lot of the way people talk today, you might think we expect customers to serve our needs more than we pursue meeting the needs of and serving our customers. Today on Shift Break we will be talking about the trend of backwards hospitality that has greatly diminished the hospitality experience across cafes and what we can do to bring our priorities back in line with what tru service and hospitality means. Here are some related episodes to explore: SHIFT BREAK! Why The Best Hospitality Starts With The Transactional! 532: Start with Hospitality 469: Unremarkable Hospitality and Cafe Terroir 430 : Embracing “Unreasonable Hospitality” w/ Will Guidara | Thank You NYC + The Welcome Conference 424: Developing Menu and Hospitality Guides APPLY NOW TO KEY HOLDER COACHING GROUPS! Are you a coffee shop owner looking to join a community of other owners to help bring perspective, insight, encouragement, and accountability in a well curated setting? Then you need to apply to join Key holder Coaching Groups! Applications are now open for fall 2025 Cohort: Click below to learn more: APPLY TO KEY HOLDER COACHING GROUPS HIRE KTTS CONSULTING AND COACHING! If you are a cafe owner and want to work one on one with me to bring your shop to its next level and help bring you joy and freedom in the process then email chris@keystothshop.com of book a free call now: https://calendly.com/chrisdeferio/30min Thank you to out sponsors! Everything you need for back of the house operations https://rattleware.qualitybystainless.com/ The best and most revered espresso machines on the planet: www.lamarzoccousa.com
In this episode, David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Elle Rustique, Founder and CEO of TipBrightly—a FinTech company revolutionizing tipping through easy, cashless, app-free technology. Inspired by her mother, a hotel housekeeper, Elle turned a personal story into a mission to create more equity, gratitude, and recognition for frontline hospitality workers.Elle shares her journey from education and entrepreneurship to launching TipBrightly in Silicon Valley, the challenges of breaking into hospitality tech without prior industry experience, and how cashless tipping is helping hotels improve employee morale, retention, and guest satisfaction. She also discusses the power of data, future trends in digital tipping, and offers advice for aspiring hospitality entrepreneurs.From heartfelt stories about how tipping changed employees' lives, to practical insights on navigating long sales cycles and industry adoption, this conversation is both inspiring and thought-provoking.What you'll learn in this episode:How a personal story inspired the creation of TipBrightlyChallenges of entering the hospitality tech space as a first-time founderThe role of tipping in boosting retention and recognition in hotelsTrends shaping the future of cashless tipping and guest engagementElle's advice for entrepreneurs looking to innovate in hospitalityWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vCHaugoSD-kThis episode is sponsored by TipBrightly: https://tipbrightly.com/ Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Elle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erustique/TipBrightly: https://tipbrightly.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/203Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.
Cory Hibbard, President of Graze Craze, reveals how his charcuterie-focused fast-casual brand achieved 14 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth while QSR giants struggle. Operating from small 500-1,000 sq ft locations, Graze Craze has scaled to nearly 100 units in under 5 years by focusing on corporate catering and premium boards that solve dining challenges for businesses and consumers seeking elevated food experiences with fast-casual convenience.#FastCasualNation #GrazeCraze #RestaurantFranchiseGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
This episode delves into the topic of neurodiversity within the hospitality industry, particularly focusing on ADHD. Michael, alongside guest Gareth, explores how recognizing and accommodating neurodiversity can lead to better business outcomes, improved staff retention, unleashed innovation, and enhanced employee wellbeing. Gareth shares his personal journey from growing up in a hospitality family to experiencing burnout as a hospitality manager, eventually leading to his ADHD diagnosis. He discusses the impact of this diagnosis on his career and personal life, and the steps he has taken to adapt his work environment to his needs. The conversation highlights the importance of creating a workplace culture that is open, understanding, and supportive of neurodiverse employees. Gareth also shares his vision for a neurodiversity-friendly hospitality industry and offers advice for both neurodiverse individuals and leaders in the sector.Connect with Gareth:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gareth-p-rees/https://www.instagram.com/adhospitalityd/https://adhospitalityd.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/attention-deficit-hospitality-disorder/posts/?feedView=allConnect with the podcastJoin the Hospitality Mavericks newsletterTune in via your favourite podcast platform - here More episodes for you to check out here This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Sometimes it seems that barely a week goes by where there isn't a high-profile hospitality business closing. Money correspondent Susan Edmunds spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.
Alcohol reforms are seen as a step in the right direction by a hospo industry voice. The Government's proposing to allow businesses a right of reply around licensing objections and is allowing wineries and breweries the ability to have both an off and on licence. Hospitality NZ's Head of Advocacy Sam MacKinnon told Mike Hosking there's a range of measures in these reforms, and they all support hospitality. He says they're pleased overall with the direction of travel. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What does it take to build a restaurant that’s more than just four walls—and create a training ground for the next generation of chefs? In this episode, chef Andy Ashby, owner of Brisbane’s celebrated C’est Bon, is in conversation with Tawnya Bahr, sharing his beginnings in New Zealand kitchens and his experiences working with some of Australia’s most influential chefs, including Scott Pickett and Nelly Robinson. Andy shares his journey of resilience, creativity, and leadership. In This Episode: The evolution of Andy’s career across New Zealand, Melbourne, Sydney, Hamilton Island, and now Brisbane. Andy’s apprenticeship program, “Practice What You Preach”, is changing how young chefs learn the realities of running a restaurant. Andy’s passion for supporting producers, collaborating with fellow chefs, and keeping “the fire burning” in hospitality. Big-picture thoughts on immigration, apprenticeships, and the future workforce of Australian kitchens. About Andy Ashby From fast-food beginnings in New Zealand to running one of Brisbane’s most dynamic dining destinations, Andy Ashby has built a career on people-first leadership, and he’s not done yet. In this episode, Andy talks about his apprenticeship program, “Practice What You Preach,” the realities of running restaurants during tough times, and why the fundamentals of cooking—and community—will always matter most. Follow Chef Andy Ashby @andy_anaru and C’est Bon Restaurant @cestbonrestaurantandlebonbar This episode is proudly presented in partnership with UNOX Australia, leaders in smart oven innovation for commercial and residential kitchens. Learn more at www.unox.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Martha heads to a leafy corner of New York City’s West Village for cappuccino and conversation with acclaimed chef-restaurateurs Jody Williams and Rita Sodi. Together, they reflect on their devotion to the handmade, the heirloom, and the hyper-local in their celebrated restaurants, bars, and shops. Their empire shows how craftsmanship, curiosity and “10,000 daily details” can transform a street into a community. Listen in to hear the secrets behind their success. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What does it really mean to run a tech-enabled hospitality business - and how do we do it without losing the human touch? In this episode, Heather sits down with Jessica Gillingham, founder of Abode Worldwide and author of Tech-Enabled Hospitality, to talk about how property managers can embrace technology to improve guest experiences, operations, and brand storytelling. This is a conversation about more than tools - it's about mindset. From scaling sustainably to building trust in a digital world, Jessica brings clarity and compassion to a topic that often feels overwhelming. Whether you're a single host or managing hundreds of properties, there's something here for you.
New Orleans isn't just about beignets and brass bands—it's a test case for how hotels handle unpredictable demand. I spoke with Ken Jacques, GM of Le Meridien New Orleans, which is operated by Stonebridge, about how he's planning for 2026 and what it really takes to run a hotel in a city built on events. Here's what stood out: Hotels can't just copy last year's budget — they're recalibrating daily Events like Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and UFC change everything for revenue planning Instinct plays as big a role as spreadsheets when forecasting demand International travel remains a wild card that could shake up results New Orleans is seeing its cleanest, safest stretch in decades—and that's great for business Ken pulls back the curtain on hotel strategy giving me new perspective on how leaders adapt in real time. Special thanks to Actabl: Actabl gives you the power profit. Visit them at Actabl.com. #NoVacancyNews #Hospitality
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 U-nique uses data and technology to create a frictionless guest experience, the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry, and the political headwinds facing the short-term rental market. Sebastián offers a unique perspective on the debate between prohibition and regulation and provides a powerful case for why collaboration between the private and public sectors is the key to solving housing inventory issues.Takeaways: Track key metrics (KPIs) across all departments, not just leadership, to identify and address recurring issues. Use data to drive improvements in guest experience, operations, and communication.Use frameworks such as the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to set clear goals, break them into manageable projects (“rocks”), and review progress regularly. Involve the entire team in the process for maximum impact.Don't be afraid to make mistakes, learn, and adapt. Regularly test new approaches, measure their impact, and iterate quickly. Use technology to streamline operations (e.g., remote locks, cleaning apps) and enhance the guest experience, but ensure it remains personal and responsive.Success takes time and consistent effort. Focus on long-term growth rather than immediate results.Empower every team member with ownership of projects and clear goals to drive company-wide improvement.Quote of the Show:“To take that time and make it something that they will remember forever, and get to do that every day, that's amazing.” - Sebastián Torres-CalderónLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebasti%C3%A1n-torres-calderon-serkovic-310044121/ Website: https://www.stay-u-nique.com/en/ Shout Outs:0:53 - World Travel Awards https://www.worldtravelawards.com/ 10:46 - EOS https://www.eosworldwide.com/ 12:02 - Airbnb https://www.airbnb.com/ 13:43 - Traction https://amzn.to/4fEGOTZ 13:43 - Gino Wickman https://www.ginowickman.com/ 14:53 - Mitcham Rentals https://www.mitchamgrouprentals.com/ 16:23 - Enrique Alcántara https://www.linkedin.com/in/enrique-alc%C3%A1ntara-b9623b/ 24:28 - What the Heck is EOS? https://amzn.to/4fGGXGC 40:49 - Sonder https://www.sonder.com/ 40:56 - Marriott https://www.marriott.com/default.mi
Send us a textIn this episode of The Wealth Vibe Show, hosted by Vinki Loomba, we sit down with Rav Singh, CCIM Co-Founder of Spur Equity and veteran commercial real estate broker specializing in hotel sales and syndications to talk about how hospitality and syndication create wealth at scale.From Rav's journey starting in gas stations and hotels to his insights on extended-stay trends, team structures, and creative exit strategies, this conversation reveals why hotels are a unique, dynamic asset class that investors often overlook.You'll learn:Why hotels are a powerful vehicle for syndication compared to multifamily or industrialHow the hospitality sector has evolved post-COVID and what trends to watchWhat type of investors are best suited for hotel syndicationsKey strategies to mitigate operational risk while maximizing rewardHow hotel syndications leverage tax benefits and creative exit strategiesThis episode is your reminder that wealth isn't one-size-fits-all; it's personal, powerful, and entirely within reach when you align your investments with the right opportunities.Timestamps:00:00 – Intro03:15 – Rav's journey from flipping to commercial real estate08:38 – First steps into hotel brokerage and syndication15:40 – Lifelong learning, mindset, and building community20:52 – Hospitality trends post-COVID and the rise of extended stay25:08 – Airbnb vs hotels: competition or complement?28:54 – Managing risk and partnering with proven operators32:06 – Creative exit strategies in hotel syndications39:51 – Understanding ADR, RevPAR, and market dynamics40:14 – Rav's golden nugget on learning + applying knowledge41:10 – Rapid fire questions44:23 – Closing + where to connect with RavConnect with Rav Singh:Website: https://spurequity.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravsinghccim/
In today's episode, we speak with Teodora Pitis, Owner of Sloane Coffee in Romania.Inspired by visits to London's bustling specialty scene, Teodora launched Sloane Coffee in 2016 with a vision to bring that spirit of craft and innovation to Romania's emerging café market. The business has since grown to a thriving wholesale roastery with two experiential tasting rooms in Bucharest.In this conversation, Teodora shares her ambition to elevate Romania's specialty coffee scene within the global coffee community and she reflects on the unique dynamics of this young market that has developed at a remarkable speed.Credits music: "Trip The Light" by Bluebelle in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective. Tune into the 5THWAVE Playlist on Spotify for more music from the showSign up for our newsletter to receive the latest coffee news at worldcoffeeportal.comSubscribe to 5THWAVE on Instagram @5thWaveCoffee and tell us what topics you'd like to hear
Central Otago hospitality precinct Ayrburn is forecast to be the most popular attraction in the region. Winton Land owns the property near Arrowtown, which already has 10 restaurants and bars, while a screen hub, retirement village, and other amenities are in the works. Owner Chris Meehan told Mike Hosking it was a risk to turn what was an empty paddock a few years ago into this venture. He says they're aiming to be the thing everyone goes to in Queenstown, so projections of one million people to visit this year is a good sign. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Like Pepsi in 1984, coffee is the "Choice of a New Generation"... but maybe not in the same way as we of older generations are comfortable with. The ways digital natives are consuming coffee today may be unique, but as with all coffee consumers before and after, they are seeking the identity, belonging, utility, and promises associated with coffee and the community it has always facilitated. The question we need to ask is how do we in the world f coffee shops acknowledge, welcome, include, adn understand these very important consumers? To help us explore this we are chatting with friend of the show and deep thinker extraordinaire, Kosta Kallivrousis! Kosta Kallivrousis has spent over 14 years working across the specialty-coffee supply chain. His unique combination of experience as a barista, licensed Q grader, and in strategic sales at both roasted and green coffee companies has given him a 360°-view of the specialty-coffee world. Kosta is passionate about building equitable sourcing relationships between coffee producers and buyers, challenging industry norms around taste and value, and advocating for greater connection and community in the coffee industry. Links: KOSTA ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/espresso_patronus/ Other Links: The barista mag piece Kosta wrote about cafe raves The death of a millennial brand with Euguene Healey Postmillennials desire era's and not fixed identities by Eugene Healey How Gen Z expects brands to interact with them by Ogilvy. Related episodes: 321 : Marketing and Moral Injury w/ Josh Tarlo of Kiss the Hippo 393 : The Tyranny of Taste w/ Kosta Kallivrousis SHIFT BREAK: Quality Still Matters Some Tips on Signature Drinks Menu Simplicity as Hospitality 274 : Crafting Specialty Drinks in your Shop w/ Matt Foster” 548: Cool Ideas For Customer Engagement Insights into the specialty coffee industry and its challenges. KEY HOLDER COACHING GROUPS! Are you a coffee shop owner looking to join a community of other owners to help bring perspective, insight, encouragement, and accountability in a well curated setting? Then you need to apply to join Key holder Coaching Groups! Applications are now open for fall 2025 Cohort: Click below to learn more: APPLY TO KEY HOLDER COACHING GROUPS KEYS TO THE SHOP ALSO OFFERS 1:1 CONSULTING AND COACHING! If you are a cafe owner and want to work one on one with me to bring your shop to its next level and help bring you joy and freedom in the process then email chris@keystothshop.com of book a free call now: https://calendly.com/chrisdeferio/30min SPONSORS Want a beautiful coffee shop? All your hard surface, stone, Tile and brick needs! www.arto.com Visit @artobrick The world loves plant based beverages and baristas love the Barista Series! www.pacificfoodservice.com
How can hospitality education keep pace with the evolving workforce, shrinking attention spans, and the rise of AI? In this #NoVacancyNews, I'm joined by Dr. Suzanne Bagnera and Dr. Peter Ricci. We're tackling one of the most pressing issues in our industry: attracting and preparing the next generation of hospitality leaders.
How Internal Employee Experience Drives Exceptional Customer Service Shep interviews Taylor Scott, Founder of Lead with Hospitality, LLC, and author of Give Hospitality. He talks about how living and working from a place of hospitality can transform both employee experiences and customer relationships. This episode of Amazing Business Radio with Shep Hyken answers the following questions and more: How does a positive company culture directly impact customer satisfaction? How does an employee's internal experience translate to a better customer experience? Why is it important for organizations to align their hiring practices with their core values? How can businesses differentiate between providing transactional service and building genuine customer relationships? How can leadership inspire employees to consistently deliver exceptional service to customers? Top Takeaways: True hospitality is about living and working with generosity. It is about giving kindness, compassion, encouragement, and making people feel important, whether they're customers or coworkers. A great customer experience always begins with a strong internal culture. When employees are happy and treated well, they are more likely to treat customers with respect and kindness. What happens behind the scenes of an organization shows up for the customer every time. A positive work environment leads to employees who want to stay, work hard, and care about the company's success. When a new employee joins a company, their first experiences matter just as much as a customer's first impression. Instead of overwhelming them with boring paperwork, give them a chance to experience the best parts of the brand right away. Imagine if, on your first day, you got to truly experience the brand and enjoy what makes it special, instead of just filling out paperwork. Meaningful onboarding makes new hires feel welcome and comfortable, and teaches them about the brand's values more effectively than any paperwork can. When there is alignment, employees feel like they belong, which inspires them to give their best for the customers. Finding employees who share the same values as your organization is the key to building a strong team. Lasting business success comes from building real relationships with customers and employees, not just completing quick transactions. Make every interaction, at every stage of the journey, an opportunity to connect and leave a lasting positive impression. Simple acts of recognition like calling someone by name, thanking them for their loyalty, or leaving a handwritten note can have a huge impact. These small gestures, which are often free or inexpensive, show customers that they are seen and valued, not just another number. Consistent positive experiences build trust. No matter where your customers interact with your brand, whether on an app, in person, or through customer service, the experience should feel consistent and reliable. Plus, Taylor talks about his new book, Give Hospitality, a story about how an uplifting, generous culture transforms both customers and employees. Tune in! Quote: "The essence of hospitality is the ability to make people feel welcome, comfortable, and important." About: Taylor Scott is an inspirational keynote speaker and organizational development consultant. He is a best-selling author, and his new book, Give Hospitality: A Hopeful Story of What Happens When We Live, Work, and Love from a Place of Generosity, is now available on Amazon. Shep Hyken is a customer service and experience expert, New York Times bestselling author, award-winning keynote speaker, and host of Amazing Business Radio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mostly French with Makenna HeldHost Brian Hogan Stewart is joined by his guest, Makenna Held, on the latest episode of Salt + Spine' now part of the Heritage Radio Network. McKenna shares her journey from a background in consulting to becoming a culinary educator after buying Julia Child's former summer home in France. She discusses her bold pivot into the world of food and explains her cooking philosophy, which focuses on improvisational and seasonal cooking rather than strict reliance on recipes. She also touches on her global culinary influences and the challenges of writing her first cookbook. 00:00 Makenna Held Introduction03:52 Early Life and Career Beginnings 06:07 The Pull Towards Food and Hospitality 07:58 The Julia Child House Adventure 12:14 Starting a New Life in France 15:45 Balancing History and Innovation 20:16 Courageous Cooking Philosophy 26:49 Global Influences and Cookbook Development 31:41 Salt Collection Obsession 32:27 First Cookbook Journey 33:14 Recipe Development Process 35:44 Balancing Perfection and Practicality 36:42 Personal Stories Behind Recipes 38:41 Cooking for Kids 41:01 Influences and Inspirations 46:37 Culinary Game 52:09 Conclusion This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saltandspine.substack.com/subscribe
"Our homes—no matter how imperfect—are the most likely location for changing the world around us."Leave a comment: https://incourage.me/?p=254002--This Labor Day, celebrate your faith, inspire your loved ones, and get equipped for your faith journey. Enjoy $25 off a $75 purchase plus FREE shipping sitewide with code LABORDAY. Some exclusions apply. Celebrate faith, inspire love, and save big this Labor Day at DaySpring.com.The (in)courage podcast is brought to you by DaySpring. For over 50 years, DaySpring has created quality cards, books, and gifts that help you live your faith. Find out more at DaySpring.com.Connect with (in)courage: Facebook & Instagram for daily encouragement, videos, and more! Website for the (in)courage library, to meet our contributors, and to access the archives. Email us at incourage@dayspring.com. Leave a podcast review on Apple!
Send us a textTune in to listen to the full podcast!Follow us @https://twitter.com/loombainvesthttps://www.instagram.com/loombainvesthttps://www.facebook.com/Loombainvesthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/vinkiloomba#realestate #realstateinvesting #multifamilyinvesting #passiveinvesting
In this episode, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili sit down with Jon Buerge, President of Urban Villages, to explore how sustainable development is reshaping hospitality. From his upbringing in Aspen and a deep-rooted love of nature to leading innovative, carbon-positive hotel projects like Populus, Jon shares how design, community, and environmental stewardship come together to create places where both people and the planet thrive.Listeners will hear Jon's perspective on:Why authentic, place-based experiences are more valuable than predictable, cookie-cutter stays.How the Populus hotels in Denver and Seattle are redefining sustainability through design, materials, and guest immersion.Why he believes profitability and doing the right thing for the planet must go hand in hand—and how Urban Villages is proving that model works.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/PcPWFXBcYLI Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Jon Buerge on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-buerge-95229118/Urban Villages: https://urban-villages.com/ For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/202Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.
Scott Kerr sits down with celebrated chef and global restaurateur Richard Sandoval, founder and executive chef of Richard Sandoval Hospitality, a company with over 60 locations across four continents specializing in contemporary Latin cuisine. Richard discusses switching from playing on the professional tennis circuit to enrolling in the Culinary Institute of America, what he learned about hospitality running his father's Mexico City restaurant, and how opening upscale Maya restaurant in New York City in 1997 became the seed of his global empire. He also talks about the rewards of introducing Latin cuisine in unexpected global regions and growing his licensing business with the leading luxury hotel brands. Plus: Richard Sandoval's mission to save the beesFeaturing: Richard Sandoval, Founder and Executive Chef at Richard Sandoval Hospitality (richardsandoval.com)Host: Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast: It's a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: scott@silvertoneconsulting.comListen and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend or a colleague!
In this episode, Brian is joined by Joanna Jagger, Founderand President of WORTH Association. Based in Vancouver, British Columbia WORTH Association is a network for Women of Recreation, Tourism & Hospitality. Their mission is to advance women in the industry and help move the dial forequality. WORTH invites women (and men!) from the industry to come together for networking, mentorship, educational and charitable events. Tune in to hear who Joanna Thanks for helping her along the way.
Voice Of GO(r)D is happy to present you a conversation with brother and sister Michael and Chasaty Rainer, proprietors of Booker's Dude Ranch, an event facility in the East Texas town of Henderson that is also doubling as an old school truck stop of sorts, part of the Truck Parking Club network of locations which offer an alternative to the ever declining quality and chaotic madness of America's large truck stop chains.Michael himself is a lifelong trucker that is still out there on the road, and is well clued in to the challenges facing drivers in 2025, and sister Chasaty is a nurse who takes a holistic approach to the health and wellness of the truckers that are her guests.If you happen to be passing through that area of the country, and want a quiet place to park, have some decent non-fast food slop, and maybe have a horse riding lesson while taking a reset, you should go check them out.You can find The Dude Ranch at their own website -https://www.bookersduderanch.com/And over on the Insta -https://www.instagram.com/bookersduderanch/And Facecrack -https://www.facebook.com/bookersduderanchIf you would like to hear more about the Truck Parking Club mission directly from its founder, have a listen here -As Always - questions, comments, suggestions, corrections and Hate Mail are welcomed and strongly encouraged - gordilocks@protonmail.comI'm writing a book on the fate of the North American Trucker in 2025, due to be published in March 2026. It's almost done! Stay tuned for news on editing progress.
What does it really take to get things done as a leader? In this conversation, Amy Yip—executive coach and two-time TEDx speaker—shares her insights on leading high-performing teams. She explains why purpose drives productivity, how communication expectations prevent breakdowns, and why conflict isn't something to avoid but a catalyst for innovation. Amy also highlights Google's research on psychological safety and why trust is the single biggest factor in team effectiveness. Hospitality leaders will walk away with practical lessons on creating cultures where people feel safe to contribute, stay aligned on vision, and ultimately get more done together.Also see: Leadership vs. Management: The Career-Defining Shift Amy Yip Learned at GoogleLearn more about Amy Yip's work here. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands
In this laughter-filled yet insightful episode of the Hospitality Hangout Podcast, we sit down with Nick Kenner, Founder & CEO of Just Salad, to explore bold ideas and expert strategies that are reshaping the hospitality and food service industry. Get ready for valuable hospitality insights as we discuss the evolving trends, the rise of emerging brands, and the keys to restaurant success in the competitive QSR landscape. From hospitality leadership to navigating industry challenges, Nick provides actionable takeaways that every operator, investor, and hospitality insider should know. This episode is packed with insider insights and real talk about the opportunities that lie ahead in the food industry. Whether you're a seasoned executive or just starting out, you'll come away inspired and informed about the latest hospitality strategies and trends.
Imagine working 16 hours a day… and paying yourself in quarters from a jukebox!That's how Bruce Dean's journey began.In this episode, Bruce, co-founder of Black Bear Diner, shares stories (and leadership lessons) I'll never forget:
In this episode of the Compassionate Leaders Circle Podcast, we continue our annual tradition of partnering with Dr. David Corsun, Director of the Fritz Knoebel School of Hospitality Management at the University of Denver, and his students Arianna Rojas-Ortega, Copey Fuller, Maite Montes Gonzalez, and Stephanie Vancleve. Together, they share how Fritz Knoebel stands apart from other hospitality schools — emphasizing not just business acumen, but also compassion, purpose, and people-centered leadership. The conversation dives into how students learn the whole HR process, from recruiting and hiring to onboarding staff, and how these experiences prepare them to lead with kindness and effectiveness in the hospitality industry. You'll hear firsthand how future leaders are blending practical skills with values-driven leadership to create workplaces where people can thrive. Learn more about Compassionate Leaders Circle — an organization dedicated to guiding leaders and organizations to build more compassionate workplaces and communities — at https://www.compassionateleaderscircle.com/
Offering hospitality is a "one another" instruction that shows up frequently in the teachings of Jesus and the life of the early church. It's more than hosting a dinner party, it's having an open heart to those being "added to our numbers" by the Lord.
How can churches take safety seriously without losing the heart of hospitality? In this episode of Practically Pastoring, Frank and Tim sit down with Jim Howard, Executive Director of Trinity Security Allies. With 38 years in law enforcement and years of experience training churches across the country, Jim explains why safety is a ministry — not just a security detail.From handling nervous visitors, to guns in church, to protecting kids' ministry, Jim helps pastors think through how to create a culture of safety that still feels like the gospel.
Most STR deals fail before they even start—95% don't pencil out. But the ones that work? They're powered by more than numbers.In this episode, we break down both sides of the equation: finding deals that actually perform and delivering hospitality that scales profit.• 10-point hospitality playbook• Why 95% of STR deals never make sense on paper• The creative edge investors need to make deals work• Why service ≠ hospitality (and why guests feel the difference)• How to balance ROI with guest delight and repeat bookings00:03:56 – Service vs. Hospitality00:06:11 – Setting Higher Financial Targets00:08:09 – Guest Experience at Every Stay00:15:12 – Building a Hospitality-Driven Team00:16:23 – Guest-Centric Business Model00:17:17 – Scaling Means Scaling Leadership00:20:27 – The Roots of Modern Hospitality00:22:52 – Designing Emotional Guest CheckpointsGet FREE Access to our Community and Weekly Trainings:http://group.strsecrets.com/
Season 3, Episode 12: In this episode of No Cap, Jack Stone and Alex Gornik sit down with Ben Brown, Co-President of Brookfield's Real Estate Group and Head of the Americas, to talk about the pivotal moments that shaped his career and the strategies behind some of Brookfield's biggest deals. From breaking into Brookfield during the financial crisis to leading $10B+ acquisitions like GGP and Forest City, Ben shares the lessons learned, the risks taken, and the culture that keeps Brookfield ahead in a shifting real estate market. He also opens up about where he sees opportunity today, from retail and housing to data centers and hospitality. TOPICS 00:10 – Introduction 01:39 – Early career and first steps in real estate 07:58 – Joining Brookfield during the financial crisis 12:30 – Why 2018 became a record year of deals 15:05 – Inside the GGP acquisition and retail strategy 25:00 – How Brookfield structures capital 29:33 – Forest City and investing in urban cores 36:57 – Shifts in apartments, logistics, and strategy 42:28 – Where Ben sees opportunity now 49:00 – Hospitality plays in the US, India, and Europe 53:42 – Brookfield's edge in capital markets 59:02 – Culture and teamwork at scale Shoutout to our sponsor, InvestNext. One platform to raise and manage capital for real estate investment. For more episodes of No Cap by CRE Daily visit: https://www.credaily.com/podcast/ Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NoCapCREDaily About No Cap Podcast Commercial real estate is a $20 trillion industry and a force that shapes America's economic fabric and culture. No Cap by CRE Daily is the commercial real estate podcast that gives you an unfiltered “No Cap” look into the industry's biggest trends and the money game behind them. Each week, co-hosts Jack Stone and Alex Gornik break down the latest headlines with some of the most influential and entertaining figures in commercial real estate. About CRE Daily CRE Daily is a digital media company covering the business of commercial real estate. Our mission is to empower professionals with the knowledge they need to make smarter decisions and do more business. We do this through our flagship newsletter (CRE Daily), which is read by 65,000+ investors, developers, brokers, and business leaders across the country. Our smart brevity format combined with need-to-know trends has made us one of the fastest-growing media brands in commercial real estate.
Today we are are continuing our conversation about the San Diego State University L Robert Payne School or Hospitality Masters Programs in Hospitality and Tourism Management and Meeting and Event Management program with four recent graduates along with Bollotta-fide's own Anthony Bollotta. They are alums from Cohort 5 in the Masters in Event Management program we have Renee Agsten (Ticketing and Operations Manager at DSP Shows) and Holly Gallacher (Meetings and Events Manager at Abbott) along with Cohort 11 in the Hospitality Tourism Management alums Hannah Grossman (Associate Brand Manager with Sonesta International Hotels) and Michael Garvin (Operational Excellence Manager for Marriott International/Ritz Carlton Maui, Kapalua). Find out what motivated them to enroll in the program, what they aspire to and how do they actively benefit now from their experiences.Submit ASK ANTHONY questions on the form at www.bollotta.com/podcastFollow @BollottaEntertainment on Instagram
Being loved by the Lord Jesus produces love in our hearts. Therefore Christians should I. Continue loving our brothers and sisters in Christ, v1. II. Love strangers, v2. III. Love the imprisoned and mistreated, v3.
Michael Bresler's remarkable career transition from the hospitality industry to the realm of AI operational excellence is all about leveraging his transferable skills across diverse fields. He shares insightful stories from his early days as a camp counselor and hotel room service to leading innovative AI projects as an independent solutions consultant. Topics include lessons on managing conflicts, understanding intrinsic rewards, embracing failures, and the importance of operational excellence with added insights into Michael's passion for both for-profit and nonprofit efficiencies.▬▬▬▬▬ Resources ▬▬▬▬▬Michael Bresler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelbresler/Broadheights: https://broadheights.com/Spirit To Serve: https://www.amazon.com/Spirit-Serve-Marriotts-Way/dp/1607968509Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cacklemedia/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cacklemediaX: https://x.com/CackleMediaLLCYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CackleMediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cacklemedia/Support the pod when signing up for Descript / SquadCast: https://get.descript.com/transferableskillSign up for our newsletter: https://shorturl.at/WDrfTWant to be a guest on the show?: https://shorturl.at/umZ2l▬▬▬▬▬ Timestamps ▬▬▬▬▬00:00 Introduction to Transferable Skills00:24 Meeting Michael Bresler00:51 Michael's Early Career03:25 Lessons from Hospitality10:47 Navigating Challenges in Room Service16:15 Teamwork and Support in Hospitality18:25 From Textbook Sales to Real Estate19:57 Career Shifts and Learning Experiences22:39 Building a Consulting Practice23:35 The Importance of Asking 'Why'27:48 Pursuing Passion and Efficiency32:56 Final Thoughts and Reflections
Building on the talk of AI in recent years, Agentic AI is an exciting area for retailers. But beyond talk, finding real-world examples and best practices can be tricky.Today we are here at eTail Boston, and I am excited to talk today about a company that is innovating in this space, not a traditional retailer, but an innovative aggregator using AI to standardize product data across multiple retailers. To talk about Furniture.com's approach to agentic AI and more, I'm joined by Dan Russotto, General Manager at Furniture.com. About Dan Russotto Over 30 years of extensive startup and Fortune 1000 experience related to running tech companies throughout the entire lifecycle. Focused on completing high quality projects, products, and business objectives. Detailed understanding of the Furniture, Real Estate, Hospitality, Software, High Tech, Consumer Business, eCommerce, and Telecommunications industries.He is currently the General Manager for Furniture.com, a privately backed business that's using AI, data and technology to evolve the way furniture shoppers discover new brands and products. Prior to Furniture.com, Dan was the VP Product for Apartments.com and the Homes.com (CoStar brands), aggregator marketplaces in the real estate industry. Before CoStar, Dan spent several years across multiple tech startups. Dan Russotto on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danrussotto/ Resources Furniture.com: https://www.furniture.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnow Don't Miss MAICON 2025, October 14-16 in Cleveland - the event bringing together the brights minds and leading voices in AI. Use Code AGILE150 for $150 off registration. Go here to register: https://bit.ly/agile150 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company