The Conscious Hospitality Podcast

Conscious Hospitality Unlimited

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Dive into the world of conscious hospitality through the lens of the world’s most renowned leaders and experts, who share their insights and pivotal moments that have led them to a more intentional life and leadership journey. We discuss all things hospitality, consciousness, team work, human connection, bonding and what it means to live a life of intention in today’s distracted world.

11/07/2025

Episode 67 - Jessica Arraya (Part 1)

Season Two of The Conscious Hospitality Podcast begins with its most heartfelt and personal conversation yet. Host David Arraya welcomes his wife and life partner, Jessica Arraya, for Part 1 of her inspiring journey — a story of love, resilience, and conscious living across continents. Jessica shares her path from a joyful, faith-rooted childhood in South Carolina to becoming the steady, grounding force behind a global hospitality family. Through honesty, warmth, and reflection, she opens up about motherhood, identity, marriage, and the deep inner work it takes to live consciously in a fast-moving world. This episode dives into what it means to lead with presence, raise children with intention, and build community wherever you are — from small-town America to the energy of New York City, the vibrancy of Miami, the complexity of Hong Kong, the sacred calm of Hawai‘i, and the beauty of Spain. Jessica speaks candidly about postpartum anxiety, faith and family rituals, navigating cultural transitions, and how she found strength in embracing her role as the “CEO” of the family — creating stability, connection, and emotional safety while adapting to constant change. At its heart, this is an episode about conscious partnership, emotional intelligence, and the power of gratitude and mindfulness in daily life. Jessica’s story reminds us that presence isn’t just about slowing down — it’s about showing up, moment by moment, with love and awareness. In this episode: How gratitude anchors families through seasons of change Childhood joy, faith, and the power of Sunday rituals Overcoming fear of change: lessons from switching schools and cultures Building emotional resilience and self-awareness through transition Falling in love across cultures — and choosing the extraordinary Motherhood as leadership: becoming the constant amid global movement Postpartum anxiety and the importance of community and support Finding joy through dance, silliness, and inner child connection The Aloha Spirit: giving birth to Luna in Hawai‘i and embracing island life Conscious marriage, parenting, and the beauty of shared purpose Keywords: conscious hospitality, conscious leadership, expat family life, emotional intelligence, mindfulness, global parenting, resilience, gratitude, motherhood journey, family rituals, love and faith, personal growth, cross-cultural relationships, conscious living, purpose-driven life, emotional wellbeing, hospitality leadership, spiritual growth, holistic family life, presence and awareness. 🎧 Listen now to Episode 67: Jessica Arraya — Choosing the Extraordinary (Part 1)📍 Hosted by David Arraya · Produced by Conscious Hospitality UnlimitedFollow @arrayaadventures for more on Jessica’s journey through conscious living, parenting abroad, and embracing life’s beautiful chaos.

1h 12m
08/04/2025

Episode 66 - Samy Samandjeu

🎙 Episode 66 — From Cameroon to Tech: Samy Sam’s Inspiring Journey Through Love, Leadership, and Innovation In this deeply moving episode of The Conscious Hospitality Podcast, host David Arraya sits down with tech entrepreneur Samy Sam (Samy Samandjeu) for a heartfelt conversation that bridges personal growth, leadership, innovation, and the healing power of love. From a small village in Cameroon to the fast-paced world of global tech entrepreneurship, Samy shares the remarkable story behind his rise—and the inner transformation that shaped him along the way. Together, David and Samy explore themes of conscious leadership, family legacy, resilience, and self-love. Samy opens up about his experience growing up with nine siblings, his pivotal move to boarding school, and how those early life challenges taught him the value of positivity, abundance, and emotional intelligence. Listeners will gain insight into: The spiritual and emotional tools Samy used to overcome setbacks—including failed businesses and moments of ego death. How his platform, Creatives App, is on a mission to empower creators and revolutionize the creator economy. The intersection of technology, human connection, and soulful entrepreneurship. Why "Love is the answer" isn’t just a mantra—but a practical leadership strategy for the next generation. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a parent, a creator, or a hospitality leader, this episode will remind you of your power to transform adversity into light, and how true leadership begins with inner alignment. Key Topics:Conscious Leadership, Tech Innovation, Creator Economy, Self-Mastery, Positive Mindset, Personal Transformation, Resilience, Family Support, Emotional Healing, Abundance, AI and Spirituality, Love in Business Chapters:00:00 Welcome to Samy’s Journey04:58 Childhood in Cameroon & Family Legacy13:56 Siblings, Support & "The Chosen One"19:36 Lessons from Boarding School26:51 Education as a Gateway to Expansion35:26 Internships & Entrepreneurial Sparks37:46 Building with Vision: From Ideas to Action42:07 Scaling Up & Ego Down: Real Lessons in Business48:51 Silence, Solitude & Rediscovery51:12 Launching Creatives App58:50 The Future of Work: AI & Consciousness01:05:42 Closing Reflections: Love as the Catalyst Soundbites to Remember:“You are the chosen one.”“Love is the answer.”“Life is good.” — 🔗 Listen to Episode 66 now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #ConsciousHospitality #IAmSamySam #Leadership #Innovation #SelfLove #TechEntrepreneur #AbundanceMindset #CreatorEconomy #HospitalityLeadership #PersonalGrowth #DavidArraya

1h 11m
07/28/2025

Episode 65 - James W McBride

James McBride is more than a hotelier—he’s a true icon in the world of luxury hospitality. With a career that spans over three decades and includes leadership roles at some of the most renowned properties on the planet, James brings charisma, creativity, and deep human insight to every conversation. In this special episode, we sit down for a heartfelt and candid exchange that covers everything from his early days at The Ritz-Carlton to his groundbreaking work at NIHI Sumba in Indonesia. Throughout the conversation, James shares: His childhood love for taking care of people—and how it became his life’s work Lessons in leadership and precision from his time in the military The critical role of details, vibrance, and nuance in crafting unforgettable guest experiences What it means to face tough conversations head-on—and why honesty is key to strong leadership Anecdotes from his colorful, globe-spanning career—including 14 years at Ritz-Carlton and executive leadership roles at YTL Hotels and The Carlyle, a Rosewood Hotel The NIHI Sumba story: how a remote eco-resort became a world leader in sustainable luxury—and was named the #1 hotel in the world by Travel + Leisure We also explore James’ visionary approach to hospitality—blending modern excellence with local tradition, and creating spaces that foster inner transformation, cultural connection, and true service from the heart. He speaks passionately about the NIHI Foundation, a nonprofit initiative that combats malaria, supports education, and improves quality of life for the Sumbanese people. His leadership model is rooted in empathy, resilience, and bold innovation—making him a beacon for the next generation of hoteliers. This is not just an episode about hotels. It’s about purpose-driven leadership, living with intention, and how the world’s most powerful experiences often come from the simplest human connections. 🎧 Listen now to The Conscious Hospitality Podcast—where human connection meets world-class leadership.

1h 13m
07/21/2025

Episode 64 - Benjamin Rogers

Episode 64 – The Power of Personal Narratives with Benjamin Rogers In this powerful episode, David Arraya sits down with Benjamin Rogers, Assistant Professor at Boston College, to explore the transformative role of personal narratives in leadership, wellbeing, and organizational behavior. Together, they dive into the Hero’s Journey framework and how our individual stories shape our sense of purpose, guide our personal transformation, and influence how we lead and connect with others. Drawing from his academic research, Benjamin shares how reflective storytelling can help individuals and teams find meaning at work, navigate transitions, and cultivate resilience. This conversation bridges the worlds of conscious hospitality, personal growth, and professional development, offering deep insights into how we can use storytelling to build more conscious, connected, and purpose-driven workplaces. 🔍 Keywords: Conscious Hospitality, Personal Narrative, Hero’s Journey, Leadership, Wellbeing, Meaning at Work, Transformation, Storytelling, Organizational Behavior, Academic Research In this episode, we explore: • Why personal narratives are key to discovering our purpose • How the Hero’s Journey applies to leadership and life • The intersection of storytelling and organizational culture • How to find meaning through reflection and social feedback • The role of community and allies in our growth journey • What makes work truly transformative and fulfilling Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, academic, or someone seeking deeper alignment between your personal story and your professional path, this episode will leave you inspired to own your narrative and live with intention. Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

1h 11m
07/14/2025

Episode 63 - Melissa Krueger

Episode 63: Redefining Luxury Travel, Leadership, and Parenthood with Melissa Krueger Welcome to another powerful episode of The Conscious Hospitality Podcast, where we explore the intersection of conscious leadership, luxury travel, and the human experience. In Episode 63, your host David Arraya sits down with Melissa Krueger, the dynamic CEO of Classic Vacations, for a heartfelt and insightful conversation on leadership in organizations, parenting, and the profound parallels between the two. With over two decades in the luxury travel and tourism industry, Melissa shares how her personal and professional journey has shaped her leadership philosophy—one rooted in gratitude, resilience, accountability, and mentorship. From her early family influences to her rise as a trailblazer in the travel sector, Melissa opens up about navigating challenges, building inclusive teams, and redefining what luxury means in today’s world. This episode dives into key themes such as: Redefining luxury travel in a post-pandemic world The transformative power of conscious leadership in hospitality How parenting and leadership mirror each other in accountability, trust, and empowerment The role of mentorship and how women in leadership can pave the way for future generations Balancing innovation with legacy in long-standing organizations The impact of tourism on local communities and how conscious travel can be a force for good Why gratitude, emotional intelligence, and clear communication are essential tools for modern leaders Building resilient teams through choice, empowerment, and open dialogue Creating a culture where employees feel seen, heard, and supported Melissa also shares her perspective on leading through change—what it takes to evolve a brand, maintain purpose-driven decision-making, and create workplaces that value both accountability and support. Whether you're a hospitality executive, a parent, a travel industry professional, or someone passionate about personal growth, this episode will leave you reflecting on the kind of leader—and human—you aspire to be. 🔑 Keywords: luxury travel, conscious leadership, hospitality leadership, parenting and leadership, resilience, tourism impact, women in leadership, mentorship, community engagement, emotional intelligence, personal growth, team empowerment, organizational culture, gratitude, travel industry innovation 🎧 Listen now to learn: How Melissa leads with both structure and soul Why the next generation of travel leaders must lead with intention How parallels between parenting and leadership create better leaders at home and at work What it takes to evolve while honoring the past Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with your team or someone navigating leadership in any capacity.

1h 7m
07/07/2025

Episode 62 - Carolyne Doyon

Episode 62 – Navigating Conscious Leadership with Carolyne Doyon, President & CEO of Club Med North America & the Caribbean In this inspiring episode of the Conscious Hospitality podcast, host David Arraya sits down with Carolyne Doyon, President and CEO of Club Med North America & the Caribbean, to explore the evolution of conscious leadership in hospitality. With over 25 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry, Carolyne shares her personal and professional journey—from her multicultural upbringing in Montreal to leading one of the most iconic all-inclusive hospitality brands in the world. Carolyne opens up about the defining moments that shaped her leadership style, the critical role of mentorship and team empowerment, and how gratitude, honest feedback, and resilience became her guiding principles. She also reflects on leading through the COVID-19 crisis, the importance of clear and compassionate communication, and the decisions that helped her team emerge stronger and more unified. This episode is a masterclass in conscious leadership, career development, and the power of authenticity in executive roles—particularly for women in leadership who are navigating both career ambition and personal growth. Carolyne shares valuable lessons on sustainability, team building, and the future vision of Club Med, where well-being, purpose, and innovation meet. Whether you're a seasoned leader or an emerging voice in the hospitality space, this conversation will leave you inspired to lead with intention and create organizations that truly flourish from the inside out. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform. Keywords: Conscious Leadership, Hospitality, Club Med, Women in Leadership, Career Journey, Sustainability in Hospitality, COVID-19 Leadership, Personal Growth, Team Empowerment, Feedback Culture, Mentorship, Executive Leadership, Work-Life Balance, Conscious Hospitality #ConsciousLeadership #WomenInHospitality #ClubMed #HospitalityIndustry #MentorshipMatters #DavidArraya #HospitalityLeadership #Sustainability #LeadershipInCrisis #ConsciousHospitality #TeamBuilding #WellBeingAtWork #PurposeDrivenLeadership

59 min
06/30/2025

Episode 61 - Sonal Uberoi

Episode 61 – Sonal Uberoi: Rethinking Wellness in Hospitality In this inspiring episode of the Conscious Hospitality Podcast, host David Arraya sits down with Sonal Uberoi, founder of Spa Balance Consulting and a global expert in wellness strategy, spa management, and sustainable business transformation. Sonal’s unique journey—from growing up in Kenya, pursuing a law degree, and working in high finance at Goldman Sachs to ultimately building a purpose-driven career in the wellness and hospitality space—is a powerful example of personal growth, intentional leadership, and redefining success on your own terms. Together, David and Sonal explore the evolution of the wellness industry, the increasing demand for holistic well-being in luxury hospitality, and the strategic role of wellness in driving business performance. Sonal shares lessons from her 15+ years of experience leading wellness integration in hotels and spas around the world, emphasizing the importance of authentic leadership, cultural alignment, and long-term vision. This episode is a must-listen for hotel general managers, wellness consultants, and leaders seeking to elevate their impact in the hospitality industry. You’ll also hear about Sonal’s acclaimed book The Wellness Asset, her ESSENCE model, and how she helps GMs build future-ready wellness businesses. Takeaways: Wellness is not a trend—it's a cultural shift reshaping the hospitality industry. Great wellness programs begin with clarity of purpose and emotional intelligence. Leaders must evolve their mindset to prioritize sustainable well-being over short-term ROI. The spa is not the whole story—wellness is a brand philosophy, not just a department. There is a leadership gap in the wellness space that presents a powerful opportunity. Sound Bites: “Wellness is here—and it’s here to stay.” “Get clear on your certainty of purpose.” “What is the impact you want to make?” Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Sonal Uberoi02:02 – Sonal's Early Life and Family Background06:00 – Education and Career Beginnings08:42 – Transition from Law to Finance14:25 – The Shift to Wellness and Spa Industry19:43 – Observations in the Spa and Wellness World25:58 – Establishing Spa Balance Consulting30:32 – Current Landscape of Wellness in Hospitality34:32 – Challenges in Wellness Leadership41:16 – The Future of Wellness in Hospitality47:06 – Working with Sonal: The Wellness Asset Academy48:40 – Key Tips for GMs to Enhance Wellness Programs54:14 – Sonal’s Vision for the Future of Wellness Keywords:wellness, hospitality, spa management, Sonal Uberoi, Spa Balance Consulting, wellness industry, leadership, sustainable business, The Wellness Asset, conscious hospitality, personal growth, wellness coaching

1h 2m
06/23/2025

Episode 60 - Eva Jungstein

Episode 60: From Burnout to Balance – A Transformative Journey with Eva Jungstein In this compelling episode of The Conscious Hospitality Podcast, host David Arraya is joined by Eva Jungstein, a certified health coach, and former executive leader. Together, they explore a deeply personal and timely conversation on burnout, leadership, mental health, personal growth, and women empowerment—through the lens of Eva’s remarkable journey. Born and raised in Bolivia, Eva pursued a high-powered career in PR and advertising, driven by ambition, cultural expectations, and the desire to prove her worth in competitive, high-performance environments. She lived and worked across global hubs including Buenos Aires, Barcelona, and Miami, ultimately landing a role at Edelman, one of the world’s leading communications firms. Yet despite outward success, Eva’s inner world was unraveling. In this episode, Eva vulnerably shares how chronic stress, perfectionism, and external validation led her down the path of burnout—and how this pivotal crisis became the catalyst for profound transformation and healing. She opens up about the turning point that gave her the courage to walk away from the traditional definition of success and instead build a more intentional life rooted in self-care, coaching, and conscious leadership. Listeners will gain deep insight into the invisible pressures women face in leadership, the emotional cost of constantly “proving oneself,” and the power of listening to your inner voice. Eva’s journey is a testament to the importance of redefining success through well-being, boundaries, and personal fulfillment—not just titles and achievements. Whether you are navigating a career transition, experiencing burnout, or simply seeking more balance, authenticity, and purpose, this conversation will inspire and empower you to reconnect with yourself and lead from within. Key themes and keywords explored in this episode include:Conscious Hospitality, Eva Jungstein, Burnout, Personal Growth, Women Empowerment, Career Transition, Mental Health, Leadership, Self-Care, and Coaching. Highlights & Takeaways: Burnout as a wake-up call for self-discoveryThe role of societal and cultural expectations in shaping ambitionWhy many women sacrifice well-being for success—and how to reclaim itLessons learned from toxic work environmentsRedefining identity after leaving a high-profile careerThe courage it takes to choose authenticity over achievementCoaching as a powerful tool for transformationCreating space for intentional living and sustainable leadershipMemorable Quotes: “I felt a sense of freedom when I left my job.”“Life is about finding balance and self-trust.”“Finding courage to pursue dreams is essential.” Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Intentional Living02:54 – Early Life and Ambition05:36 – Cultural Influences and Expectations07:57 – Defining Success and Self-Worth10:40 – Career Decisions and Culinary Aspirations13:08 – Transition to PR and Advertising16:03 – Life in Buenos Aires and Barcelona18:45 – Moving to Miami and New Opportunities21:39 – Career at Edelman and Lessons Learned24:02 – Burnout and Redefining Success32:27 – Navigating Toxic Work Environments35:05 – The Impact of Burnout39:12 – Recognizing the Signs of Burnout43:15 – Finding Freedom After Leaving a Job49:40 – Building a New Identity55:01 – The Journey to Self-Discovery57:32 – Empowering Women to Thrive01:02:38 – Listening to Your Inner Voice Be sure to subscribe and share if this episode resonates with your journey toward wellness, empowerment, and conscious leadership.

1h 4m

5

out of 5

3 Ratings

Dive into the world of conscious hospitality through the lens of the world’s most renowned leaders and experts, who share their insights and pivotal moments that have led them to a more intentional life and leadership journey. We discuss all things hospitality, consciousness, team work, human connection, bonding and what it means to live a life of intention in today’s distracted world.

Creator

Conscious Hospitality Unlimited
Years Active

2024 - 2025
Episodes

73
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Conscious Hospitality Unlimited
Show Website

The Conscious Hospitality Podcast