The Hospitality Mentor

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Join me, Steve Turk, on the Hospitality Mentor podcast as we dive into the personal stories of some of the world's best Hospitality Professionals. We follow the journey of their ups, downs and wild turns and find out what it truly takes to make it in the amazing world of hospitality.

  1. OCT 7

    Discovering Craft Lodging: An Inside Look with Select Registry CEO Mark Reichle

    In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, Steve Turk welcomes Mark Reichle, CEO of Select Registry. They discuss the distinct qualities of Select Registry, including its focus on independently-owned inns, bed and breakfasts, and boutique hotels, all adhering to a high standard of quality assurance. Mark shares his journey from working for Ford Motor Company to running a successful bed and breakfast with his wife, and eventually becoming the CEO of Select Registry. The conversation covers the evolution and promotion of 'craft lodging,' the importance of unique guest experiences, and how Select Registry supports its members. Mark also touches on exciting future plans involving AI to improve customer journeys. Tune in for insights into the specialty lodging industry and tips for those looking to venture into this field. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:43 What is Select Registry? 03:42 Mark's Journey to Hospitality 07:15 Starting the Bed and Breakfast 13:39 Challenges and Successes 20:20 Working with Select Registry 24:40 Future of Select Registry 32:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    31 min

  2. JUL 4

    The Journey of Anand and Nina: Building a Dream B&B in Walla Walla

    In this episode of The Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk chats with Anand and Nina, owners of the Barn B&B in Walla Walla, Washington. They share their inspiring journey from their extensive careers in the hospitality industry to fulfilling their dream of creating a unique luxury B&B. The discussion covers their initial planning, challenges faced during construction, the impact of COVID-19, and the meticulous guest experience they provide. Listeners also hear about their loyalty program, personal touches, and advice for couples working together in business. Tune in for a heartwarming and informative episode that delves into the dedication and passion behind a distinguished hospitality venture. 00:00 Introduction to The Hospitality Mentor Podcast 00:42 Meet Anand and Nina of Barn B&B Walla Walla 01:17 The Journey to Walla Walla 02:21 Creating a Unique Bed and Breakfast Experience 03:20 Nina's Background in Hospitality 04:18 Anand's Extensive Career in Hospitality 10:00 Planning and Building the Dream B&B 15:37 Opening Day and Early Challenges 18:17 Navigating COVID-19 Challenges 19:18 Guest Experience and Unique Features 20:19 Warm Welcomes and Check-In Rituals 23:42 Loyalty Programs and Special Offers 28:32 Future Plans and Industry Trends 30:31 Advice for Aspiring Hoteliers 33:56 Marriage and Partnership Insights 34:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    37 min

  3. JUN 2

    Announcing BAYA: A Tropical Landscape Resort Experience in South Florida

    In this special episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk reveals an exciting new project he's been working on for the past two years, BAYA. Previously envisioned as a glamping site, the project has evolved into a breathtaking landscape resort called BAYA, located in South Florida. Steve introduces his partner, Ben WolfF, and together they dive into the inspiration, development journey, and the unique features of BAYA. Expect tropical bungalows, an exotic fruit forest, wellness amenities, and a farm-to-table café. The duo discusses the $14 million build, their innovative marketing strategies, and their vision for making BAYA a one-of-a-kind destination. Tune in to learn about their collaborative efforts and what makes this project truly special. 00:00 Introduction and Special Announcement 00:56 Introducing the Vision for BAA Resort 02:30 Challenges and Realizations 04:49 Partnership Formation and Initial Steps 07:55 Project Development and Team Dynamics 11:29 Financial Overview and Projections 15:20 Reflecting on Past Challenges and Future Excitement 15:59 Creating a Unique Guest Experience 17:38 Marketing and Social Media Strategy 21:44 Building the Guest Journey 24:14 Exciting Amenities and Wellness Focus 27:07 Project Timeline and Future Plans 28:38 Personal Excitement and Vision 31:12 Conclusion and Call to Action

    32 min

  4. MAY 23

    From Adventure Travel to Hotel Management: Amanda Arling's Journey in Hospitality

    From Adventure Travel to Hotel Management: Amanda Arling's Journey in Hospitality In this episode of The Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Amanda Arling, the president of The Whalers Inn in Mystic, Connecticut. Amanda shares her unique career path from studying microbiology to working in adventure travel for the company Back Roads. She discusses how her love for travel and culture eventually led her to a management role in the hospitality industry. Amanda highlights the importance of relationship building, both in creating guest experiences and mentoring her team. She also shares insights into the challenges and successes of opening a fine dining, sustainable seafood restaurant during the pandemic. Listeners will get valuable tips on hospitality management, creating memorable guest experiences, and the importance of community engagement. 00:00 Introduction to The Hospitality Mentor Podcast 00:31 Meet Amanda Arling: President of The Whalers Inn 01:49 Amanda's Journey into Hospitality 02:33 From Adventure Travel to Boutique Hotel Management 07:00 Transitioning to The Whalers Inn 15:22 Building a Team and Mentoring Future Leaders 19:27 Creating Unique Guest Experiences 26:46 Challenges and Successes in the Restaurant Industry 30:34 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Hospitality Professionals 31:27 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Message

    33 min

  5. APR 28

    Opening Multiple Award-Winning Restaurants: The Journey of BCB3 Hospitality

    Join Steve Turk on the Hospitality Mentor Podcast as he delves into the inspiring story of BCB3 Hospitality, a dynamic partnership between Babak Bina, Andy Cartin, and Jamie Bissonnette. In this episode, they share their unique paths into the hospitality industry, the challenges and successes of opening four innovative restaurant concepts in Boston, and the passion and collaboration that fuel their ventures. From embracing Korean cuisine to creating a Basque culinary experience, discover how they navigated obstacles and earned critical acclaim, including a James Beard nomination and recognition from the New York Times. 00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast 00:31 Upcoming Hospitality Mentor Networking Event 01:03 Special Episode with the BCB Three Team 01:35 Meet Babak Bina: The Journey Begins 01:51 Meet Andy Carton: From Connecticut to Boston 02:36 Meet Jamie Binette: From Hartford to Boston 03:25 The Formation of BCB Three 06:22 Babak Bina's Early Days in Hospitality 10:27 Andy Carton's Path to Hospitality 12:56 Jamie Binette's Culinary Journey 17:37 Designing Unique Restaurant Experiences 20:38 The Birth of Somac: A Korean Restaurant Concept 23:09 Overcoming Early Failures and Pivoting 24:35 Embracing Asian and Spanish Culinary Influences 29:02 Opening Multiple Concepts Simultaneously 31:12 Reflections on Success and Future Plans 41:05 Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs 43:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    45 min

  6. MAR 27

    Brett Friedman on Building A Global Events Empire

    Join host Steve Turk on the Hospitality Mentor Podcast as he dives into the inspiring journey of Brett Friedman, founder of A21. Discover the stories behind Brett's rise in the hospitality industry, from humble beginnings as a pizza delivery guy to leading one of the largest culinary events agencies in the world. Learn essential tips on creating successful events, building a passionate team, and the importance of loving what you do. Plus, get a sneak peek into Brett's exciting upcoming projects including Pebble Beach Food & Wine and the LA Wine and Food Festival. 00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast 00:31 Special Announcement: Hospitality Unlocked Book 00:56 Introducing Brett Friedman 02:25 Brett's Early Career and First Job 03:41 Growing Up in Miami 05:06 Transition to Hospitality and Early Ventures 07:08 Working with Alonzo Mourning 10:19 Founding A21 12:56 Partnership with South Beach Wine & Food Festival 17:15 Post-COVID Transformation and Future Plans 19:39 The Importance of Control in Event Management 20:27 Building a Sustainable Company 21:31 Passion and Team Culture 24:37 Advice for Aspiring Event Leaders 25:01 Challenges and Rewards of Event Production 29:49 Upcoming Projects and Initiatives 34:55 Reflecting on Personal and Professional Growth 36:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    39 min

  7. MAR 14

    The Unique Culinary Journey of Chef Ji Hye Kim

    Welcome to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast! In this episode, host Steve Turk interviews Ji Hye Kim, the chef-owner of Miss Kim Korean Restaurant in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Ji Hye shares her unconventional journey from being an economics and political science student at the University of Michigan to becoming a renowned Korean chef. Starting as a server at a Japanese restaurant, Ji Hye recounts her transition into hospitality, becoming a cheesemonger at Zingerman's Delicatessen, and eventually opening Miss Kim. She discusses the challenges and successes she faced, including her innovative response to the pandemic and her plans for opening a new vegetarian restaurant, Little Kim. Ji Hye also offers invaluable advice on pursuing one's passion in the hospitality industry. Don’t miss out on this inspiring and educational episode! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:03 Ji Hye Kim's Early Career and Education 05:07 Transition to Hospitality 08:20 Starting at Zingerman's and Developing Skills 13:43 Path to Partnership and Food Cart Experience 21:54 Opening Miss Kim Restaurant 28:49 Navigating Challenges and Achievements 32:33 Future Plans and Advice 36:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    39 min

  8. MAR 5

    Building a Leading Hospitality Web Design Agency with Eli Pritykin

    Welcome to another exciting episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Eli Pritykin, founder of Hudson Creative Studio, a leading company specializing in creating high-converting websites for hospitality companies. Eli shares his incredible journey from working in the food industry and studying at Yeshiva University to becoming a successful tech entrepreneur. Discover his secrets to building flexible, powerful, and highly effective websites, complete with a unique software called HomeRunner, designed for vacation rental spaces. Learn how Eli navigated the challenges of COVID-19, transitioned from employee to business owner, and continues to innovate in the world of hospitality web design. Don't miss out on his valuable insights into the importance of branding, client communication, and leveraging AI technology. If you're aspiring to start your own hospitality business or improve your online presence, this episode is packed with actionable advice just for you. Check out Hudson Creative Studio for more information, and as always, stay hospitable! 00:00 Closing Remarks 00:04 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast 00:10 Meet Ellie Pritikin: Founder of Hudson Creative Studio 02:05 Ellie's Journey in the Hospitality Industry 03:28 From Rabbinical Studies to Technology 06:22 Early Career and Transition to Tech 09:13 Building a Career at Spears Group 13:17 The Birth of Hudson Creative Studio 18:14 Choosing the Perfect Name for the Business 19:01 Setting Up the Business Foundation 19:50 Working from Home: Challenges and Benefits 20:16 Building a Unique Brand Identity 21:05 Finding and Retaining Clients 21:39 Developing Proprietary Software 24:25 Launching HomeRunner: A New Milestone 30:06 Leveraging AI in Business Operations 36:21 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

    39 min
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Join me, Steve Turk, on the Hospitality Mentor podcast as we dive into the personal stories of some of the world's best Hospitality Professionals. We follow the journey of their ups, downs and wild turns and find out what it truly takes to make it in the amazing world of hospitality.

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