Lobby Talks

By Marriott Tulsa Hotel Southern Hills
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Weekly

Go beyond the lobby and step into the real world of hotels. From front desk hustle to behind-the-scenes hustle, Lobby Talks shares honest stories, industry insights, and the people who make hospitality happen. Whether you’re a hotel pro, event planner, or just curious about what goes into a great stay, this podcast is your insider pass. New episodes every other Thursday.

  1. How Hotels Can Make a Real Community Impact: YWCA Tulsa

    Jun 18

    How Hotels Can Make a Real Community Impact: YWCA Tulsa

    Great hotels serve guests. Exceptional hotels serve communities.   In this episode of Lobby Talks, we welcome Julie Davis, CEO of YWCA Tulsa, to discuss how hotels, event venues, and hospitality professionals can make a meaningful impact in their communities.   Following the YWCA Tulsa Pinnacle Awards hosted at Marriott Tulsa Southern Hills, our team wanted to learn more about the organization's work and the challenges facing our community. Julie shares insights into YWCA Tulsa's mission, Safe Move Tulsa, homelessness, health equity, immigration services, workforce development, and ways local businesses can get involved.   This conversation is especially valuable for: • Hotel operators and hospitality leaders • Event planners and venue managers • Community-focused businesses • Tulsa residents interested in local impact • Anyone passionate about service and leadership   Topics include community partnerships, inclusive workplaces, supporting vulnerable populations, repurposing hotel resources for good, and using hospitality spaces to create positive change.   Learn more or get involved at ywcatulsa.org.   Lobby Talks is a hospitality and events podcast produced from Marriott Tulsa Southern Hills and the Ruffin Event Center, featuring conversations with industry leaders, community organizations, and innovators shaping Tulsa and the hospitality industry.

    27 min
  2. Seeing Tulsa Through a Global Traveler's Eyes with Scott Eddy

    Jun 4

    Seeing Tulsa Through a Global Traveler's Eyes with Scott Eddy

    People don't travel for attractions alone. They travel for experiences, connections, and stories. In this episode of Lobby Talks, TV host, speaker, content creator, and global traveler Scott Eddy shares his perspective on what makes destinations stand out in a crowded travel landscape. Through the lens of his visit to Tulsa, we explore the difference between places people visit and places they remember. Scott discusses the role of storytelling in tourism, how creators help shape destination perception, and why authenticity, culture, and human connection are often more impactful than any landmark or attraction. Drawing from years of traveling the world and working within the travel and hospitality industry, he offers valuable insights into how destinations can create meaningful connections with visitors and stand out by embracing what makes them unique. If you're passionate about hospitality, travel, tourism, destination marketing, or creating memorable guest experiences, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Learn more about Scott Eddy and follow his travels at www.mrscotteddy.com or find him on virtually any social media platform.

    32 min
  3. Tulsa Voices: Creators Take the Mic

    May 21

    Tulsa Voices: Creators Take the Mic

    In this special Lobby Talks Podcast Content Lab session, Tulsa creators and local voices dive into conversations about food, travel, culture, live events, business, and the future of Tulsa. From hidden coffee spots and unforgettable concerts to spontaneous travel stories and emerging tech trends, this episode captures authentic perspectives from people shaping Tulsa’s creative community. We explore: • Tulsa food & beverage favorites • What makes events memorable • Experiencing culture beyond tourism • Travel styles and stories • Tech, hospitality, and business trends   If you love Tulsa, creativity, entrepreneurship, travel, or meaningful conversations, this episode is for you. Follow Lobby Talks for more creator conversations and Tulsa Voices.   #TulsaPodcast #LobbyTalks #TulsaVoices #Travel #Culture #Business #Tech #Hospitality #FoodCulture

    45 min
  4. We Let AI Plan Our Luncheon: Here's How It Turned Out

    May 7

    We Let AI Plan Our Luncheon: Here's How It Turned Out

    In this episode of Lobby Talks, we put artificial intelligence to the test by letting it plan our Q1 Employee Appreciation Luncheon. From the theme to the activities, we explored a variety of AI tools to see which ones delivered the best ideas and how well they translated into a real event.  While AI handled the planning, our associates made it happen. Tune in for behind-the-scenes insights on how the event came together, plus hear directly from our team as they share their thoughts on the experience. Could they tell AI was behind it? Did it feel any different? And most importantly, did it work? It’s a candid conversation about innovation, teamwork, and what happens when technology meets hospitality.

    17 min
  5. Why It Still Matters: Customs is Key — Crafting Bespoke Event Experiences Through Relationships

    Apr 23

    Why It Still Matters: Customs is Key — Crafting Bespoke Event Experiences Through Relationships

    Step inside the world of global events with Melanie Bradshaw—now Senior Vice President of Marketing Operations, Global at SeneGence International. In this episode of Lobby Talks, we revisit our conversation to explore what it really takes to plan and execute large-scale events that leave a lasting impact. From early-stage strategy to final execution, Melanie shares how SeneGence creates experiences that go beyond the typical conference—blending brand, community, and production at a high level. We talk about evolving attendee expectations, the role events play in driving growth, and what separates a good event from a truly memorable one. At the center of it all is the importance of fostering relationships—building meaningful connections between brands and audiences, strengthening partnerships behind the scenes, and creating a sense of community that extends well beyond the event itself. With another successful SeneGence event just wrapped, this episode is a timely look at the strategy, coordination, creativity—and relationship-building—behind it all. Perfect for anyone in hospitality, marketing, or events—or anyone curious about how major experiences come to life. The episode also highlights the heart behind SeneGence’s mission, including their work through the Make Sense Foundation, a charity dedicated to empowering women and children. Learn more at: https://makesensefoundation.org

    24 min
  6. How Tulsa Is Turning Meetings Into Major Deals

    Apr 9

    How Tulsa Is Turning Meetings Into Major Deals

    Tulsa is making headlines—and not just locally. We’re talking billions in new investment, global companies choosing Oklahoma, and a city quickly becoming the “Silicon Prairie.” In this episode of Lobby Talks, we sit down with Mike Neal, President & CEO of the Tulsa Regional Chamber, to unpack how Tulsa is turning meetings into major deals—and why business leaders from around the world are paying attention. From a record-breaking $7.3 billion in new capital investment through the Bridge to the Future 2030 initiative to major global wins like Google’s $9B expansion and international manufacturing facilities, this conversation reveals what’s really fueling Tulsa’s momentum. We also go beyond the numbers—diving into Tulsa’s competitive edge, its partnerships with Tribal Nations, and the cultural “cool factor” that’s putting the city on the national stage. Plus: Don’t miss our rapid-fire “Insider Tips from Mr. Tulsa” where Mike shares what truly blows away first-time visitors. If you're a meeting planner, business leader, or simply curious about where the future of business is heading—this episode is for you. 🔑 In This Episode: The strategy behind Tulsa’s $7.3B investment surge How global companies are choosing Northeast Oklahoma Why Tulsa is attracting top tech talent The role of culture, storytelling, and “cool factor” in economic growth Insider tips to elevate your next visit or event in Tulsa 📍 Learn more: Tulsa Regional Chamber → https://tulsachamber.com 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: If you’re enjoying Lobby Talks, make sure to subscribe on YouTube and your favorite podcast platform so you never miss a conversation shaping business, culture, and what’s next.

    40 min
  7. Meet The Global Team Powering Hospitality

    Mar 26

    Meet The Global Team Powering Hospitality

    In this special episode of Lobby Talks, we take you behind the scenes of the meetings and events you experience every day. At Marriott Tulsa Southern Hills & Ruffin Event Center, the team delivering your conferences, weddings, and corporate events comes from cultures and countries around the world. Different languages, traditions, and perspectives all working together to create exceptional hospitality. You’ll hear from hotel leaders and frontline associates as they share real moments where culture, connection, and service came together to shape a guest’s experience. For meeting planners, event professionals, and hospitality leaders, this episode highlights something often overlooked in the industry: the people and global perspectives that power great events. Next time you attend an event, remember—the experience is shaped by a team that represents the world behind your event. Want to be part of the team? Connect with Lee Taylor, Director of Human Resources @ Marriott Tulsa Hotel Southern Hills & Ruffin Event Center Direct line: 918-523-3503 Email: lee.taylor@tmsh.net LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-taylor-59001229/ Have a hospitality or event story to share? Connect with us on LinkedIn or follow along on social media.

    19 min
  8. Why People Stay: Training, Coaching, and Growing Hospitality Teams

    Mar 12

    Why People Stay: Training, Coaching, and Growing Hospitality Teams

    Hiring great people is only the beginning in hospitality. Keeping them and helping them grow is the real challenge. In this episode of Lobby Talks, Rachell talks with Nicki, who leads internal training efforts, and Tami, a leadership coach who partners with the team to support development and growth. They discuss how training and coaching work together to build stronger hospitality teams, help employees discover leadership potential, and create a culture where people want to stay. The conversation explores building confidence in new team members, helping employees grow beyond their current roles, coaching emerging leaders through challenges, and why investing in development can transform jobs into meaningful long term careers.   They also share powerful Turning Point moments when someone moves from simply doing the job to stepping fully into their potential. This episode was recorded with the teams at Marriott Tulsa Hotel Southern Hills and Ruffin Event Center. Want to learn more about coaching leaders and developing stronger teams? Connect with Tami Marie and book a strategy call. LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/tami-marie/ Website https://tamimariecoaching.com/

    35 min
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About

Go beyond the lobby and step into the real world of hotels. From front desk hustle to behind-the-scenes hustle, Lobby Talks shares honest stories, industry insights, and the people who make hospitality happen. Whether you’re a hotel pro, event planner, or just curious about what goes into a great stay, this podcast is your insider pass. New episodes every other Thursday.

Information

  • Creator
    By Marriott Tulsa Hotel Southern Hills
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    33
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © By Marriott Tulsa Hotel Southern Hills
  • Show Website
    Lobby Talks