Best Lan Elliott Podcasts (2025)

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Roger Hill, Co-Founder & Executive Chairman of The Gettys Group and Ridgeline Development Partners, interviewed by Lan Elliott 33:13

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23d ago33:13

33:13

Roger describes how overcoming adversity made his companies stronger, and how rewarding others with the opportunity to lead provides continuity. He also explains how preparation and hard work can turn calculated risks into success. In addition to sharing how one builds a strong career, Roger discusses the benefits of becoming a hotel owner as soon …

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Monique Lee, Group Vice President, Sales, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 34:22

9d ago34:22

34:22

Monique Lee, Group VP Sales, at Wyndham Hotels, shares her career journey from unforgettable childhood hospitality experiences to leading roles. She emphasizes the impact of mentors and the importance of intentional, authentic leadership. Her story highlights resilience, balancing work-life challenges, and leveraging AI for success in today's dynam…

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David Mililli, Founder & Host, Modern Hotelier Podcast, interviewed by David Kong 32:06

7d ago32:06

32:06

David Mililli's career began as a busboy but grew into leadership roles across hospitality and technology. His journey highlights the power of staying open-minded, surrounding yourself with people you trust, and having the humility to listen. He reminds us that “if you keep your intelligence over your emotions, you’ll always be successful.” His sto…

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Nancy Mendelson, Founder CEO, NEM Global LLC | Co-Founder, hertelier, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 30:37

16d ago30:37

30:37

Nancy shares how the road to connection has become a recurring theme in her leadership journey. She discusses the importance of listening, knowing your self worth, and trusting your gut. Nancy also shares details about her personal board of directors, what she's learned from working internationally, and about her experiences with self doubt and adv…

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Josiah Mackenzie, Head of Marketing, Actabl, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 32:29

12d ago32:29

32:29

Josiah shares how his public speaking journey started with a panel at a conference years ago. He discusses how his leadership has evolved, how he develops new skills with each role, and the biggest lessons he's learned over the past few years. He talks about his curiosity, including what he was curious about as a child and the things he's most curi…

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Betsy O'Rourke, Commercial Advisor, former Chief Commercial Officer, Xanterra Travel Collection interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 37:24

25d ago37:24

37:24

In this interview, Betsy O’Rourke, former Chief Commercial Officer at Xanterra Travel Collection, reflects on her lifelong journey in travel and hospitality—from crewing on boats in Malta to leading global brands. She discusses strategic leadership, resilience through crises, and mentoring future leaders. Betsy emphasizes curiosity, agility, and em…

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Brad Rahinsky, Chairman, Hotel Equities, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 31:11

1M ago31:11

31:11

Brad shares how his leadership style has evolved over time, including what has gotten better and worse, and how he views team sports playing a role in developing leaders. He discusses what he's learned from board service, how he stays physically and mentally healthy, and why surrounding yourself with the best people, personally and professionally, …

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Sarah Dandashy, Ask A Concierge, interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 31:41

1M ago31:41

31:41

Sarah shares why she trusts her instincts when it comes to evaluating risks and the impact her preparation and practice have on her public speaking. She discusses the importance of the outdoors and physical activity on her overall performance and why curiosity is important. She talks about how developing human connections can help you feel more at …

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Rafat Ali, CEO & Founder, Skift, interviewed by David Kong 29:04

2M ago29:04

29:04

Rafat Ali shares his journey from engineer-turned-journalist to serial media entrepreneur, reflecting on the choices, setbacks, and grit behind building Skift. We explore the most admired leadership qualities, founder-led passion, and customer empathy. Don’t miss his parting advice on career compounding, travel, embracing contrarian views, and the …

1
Brian Proctor, Founder, Leeds Hospitality Group, interviewed by Lan Elliott 35:00

2M ago35:00

35:00

Brian shares why investing time upfront is one of the keys to building high-performing teams. He also explains how his The Power of Gratitude at Work program helps transform organizations – and why it’s easy to do. Brian underscores the importance of public speaking and why loving what you do, saying Yes, and raising your hand for more opportunitie…

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Baron Ah Moo, Senior Vice President of Asset Management, IndoChina Kajima, interviewed by Lan Elliott 30:33

2M ago30:33

30:33

Baron shares how he approaches taking major risks, including moving to 5 countries on 3 continents, and the opportunities created by working in emerging markets, plus how those experiences enhanced his career in the U.S. He also explains why one should not pursue a mentor simply because they occupy a role you aspire to as well as the two key qualit…

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Leora Halpern Lanz, Associate Professor of the Practice, Boston University, School of Hospitality Administration 36:22

2M ago36:22

36:22

Leora reveals opportunities to attract and retain the next generation, and she debunks myths about them. Leora also shares tips for developing one’s network into friendships and why doing great work is only Part A of what’s needed to succeed. Plus, she discusses ageism in our industry and why young people should say Yes to opportunities.…

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Jan Freitag, National Director, Hospitality Analytics, CoStar Group, interviewed by Lan Elliott 35:04

3M ago35:04

35:04

One of hospitality’s most prolific, well-respected presenters, Jan shares his public speaking journey, including specific things to do before, during, and after your presentation to elevate your public speaking. He also shares how raising your hand can help you to be “seen” by senior leaders, how he navigates tremendous ambiguity, and why acknowled…

1
Rod Clough_ President_ HVS interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 30:40

3M ago30:40

30:40

Rod shares his journey from working in high school catering services to becoming President of HVS. He reflects on his growth as a public speaker and his preparation, his approach to leadership, and why he prioritizes and models wellness and self-care. As an openly gay, Latino senior executive, Rob highlights the critical role that workplace culture…

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Jacob Messina, CEO, Stayntouch, interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 26:43

3M ago26:43

26:43

Jacob shares how an early love of video games led to a career in technology and the hospitality industry. He discusses why trust is critical in leadership, reflects on his own leadership evolution and philosophies, and why anticipating and learning from challenges is more important than being perfect. Jacob also talks about cooking as a form of sel…

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Carolyne Doyon, President & CEO, Club Med N. America and Caribbean, interviewed by David Kong 27:20

4M ago27:20

27:20

From proving doubters wrong early on to leading with determination and kindness, Carolyne reminds us that “success doesn’t come easy, but small wins build confidence and influence.” She also shared candidly about overcoming imposter syndrome, the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, and why sometimes the best advice is simple: …

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Petra Deuter, Global Board Director & Interim CEO, interviewed by Lan Elliott 31:06

4M ago31:06

31:06

Having worked in over 25 countries, Petra career has been built on taking risks and leaning into the resilience she’s built along the way. In this interview, she explains the advantages of interim executive roles and shares the key factors that drove her success. In addition, she details the three things to keep in mind when advocating for oneself.…

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Brian Hicks, CEO HSMAI interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 36:09

3M ago36:09

36:09

Dorothy Dowling interviews Brian Hicks, CEO of the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International. They discuss Brian's career journey, the importance of intentional career paths, effective team leadership, the significance of networking, and the evolving landscape of technology and innovation in the hospitality industry. “Understand you…

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Tedd Evers, Global Partner Leader, Travel and Hospitality AWS interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 34:41

4M ago34:41

34:41

Dorothy Dowling interviews Tedd Evers, Global Partner, Lead for Travel and Hospitality at AWS, discussing his career journey, leadership during crises, prioritization, and future innovations in hospitality. Tedd emphasizes curiosity, agile thinking, empathy, personal balance, and the critical role of data strategy in transforming the industry.…

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David Mansbach, Managing Partner, Global Hospitality & Leisure, DHR Global interviewed by Lan Elliott 36:12

4M ago36:12

36:12

Dave shares the importance for both career and joy to collide. An accomplished Executive Recruiter, he discusses the Top 2 Tips for negotiating an offer letter, which most people rarely do, and 3 Traits that make current candidates stand out, which differ from the past. He also explains why everyone in hospitality has an obligation to make our indu…

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Heather Carnes, Director and Founder, Carnes Agency Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 31:02

5M ago31:02

31:02

Heather shares how she views taking risks as pushing boundaries and the quote that helps propel her every day in her personal and professional lives. She talks about how she leaned into compassion and adaptability as key leadership traits during the pandemic. She discusses how public speaking has built her confidence and that she overcomes self dou…

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John Paul Nichols, CEO & President, Club Quarters interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 41:18

6M ago41:18

41:18

In a conversation filled with wisdom and experiences, Dorothy Dowling sits down with John Paul Nichols, CEO of Club Quarters, on the hospitality podcast "It's Personal Stories." Nichols takes us through his career, revealing how a strategic blend of opportunistic decisions, international exposure, and cultural diversity has paved the way for his en…

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Lukasz Dabrowski, Senior Vice President, Global Supplier Relations, HRS Group interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 38:13

6M ago38:13

38:13

Lukasz shares insights on his extensive international career, leadership lessons, relationship building, and balancing professional and personal life through the Japanese concept of Ikigai.By David Kong

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Donte Johnson, Author, The Hospitality Impact Handbook, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 34:46

7M ago34:46

34:46

Donte discusses the importance of community on his leadership style and how social impact and business success can go hand in hand. He shares his strategies for overcoming self doubt, building great teams, overcoming challenges, and developing new skills. He also talks about why representation matters, his public speaking journey, and what drives h…

1
Peter Ricci, Director of Hospitality & Tourism Management, interviewed by David Kong 31:40

7M ago31:40

31:40

Dr. Peter Ricci encourages us to stay open-minded and embrace differences, rather than dismissing them simply because they challenge our preferences. He reminds us not to lose sight of who we are in the face of immediate challenges. In our conversation, we explore the best advice he’s ever received and how he equips his students to thrive in a rapi…

1
Craig Sullivan, Founder & President, [CLIC] Media interviewed by Lan Elliott 28:29

7M ago28:29

28:29

Craig shares his concerns about the industry's brain trust that will soon retire, and the importance of passing information to future generations. He also explains the importance of listening in building one’s network and how discretion is integral in doing deals. Finally, Craig shares the 3 Magic Words that go a long way in a successful career.…

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Liam Brown, Group President, US & Canada, Marriott International, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 32:38

7M ago32:38

32:38

Liam shares his journey from the dining car on the railway to 35 years with Marriott. He discusses the importance of reading, being curious, and preparing for public speaking. He talks about his leadership evolution, how he develops new skills, and what he looks for in building great teams, plus his involvement in associations and his advice to his…

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Dr. David Corsun, Director, Fritz Knoebel School of Hospitality Management, University of Denver 34:35

7M ago34:35

34:35

David shares his journey from working in NYC restaurants to owning a Manhattan jazz bar, and how that experience motivated him to create humane workplaces, which ultimately led to him leading the University of Denver’s hospitality program. David also explains the benefits of making deposits of “idiosyncrasy credits” in helping one distinguish thems…

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Roland Elter, CCO and MD S&M, Maritim Hotelgesellschaft mbH, interviewed by David Kong 25:03

8M ago25:03

25:03

In our conversation, Roland Elter shares powerful insights from his journey: ✨ "People are individuals—there’s no one-size-fits-all approach." ✨ "No vision = no success." People need to understand their purpose. We explore the value of building strong habits. For Roland, that means staying curious and actively engaging with others. He also reminds …

1
Ryan Mann, Partner at McKinsey & Company, interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 41:19

7M ago41:19

41:19

Dorothy Dowling interviews Ryan Mann from McKinsey & Company in the 'It's Personal Stories' podcast. Ryan shares his career journey, the pivotal role of COVID in his professional life, and the importance of asking the right questions in consulting. He discusses leadership in consulting, time management, nurturing talent, and future disruptions in t…

1
Daniel C. Peek, President, Americas, JLL Hotels & Hospitality, interviewed by Lan Elliott 31:25

8M ago31:25

31:25

Dan shares how perseverance and continuous learning have been instrumental in his career trajectory and why he looks for a positive attitude and the desire to be a part of a team when building high performing teams. Dan also describes the four elements needed to distinguish oneself, and explains why leaders should support team members leaving for a…

1
Scott Berman, Hospitality & Leisure Expert, interviewed by Lan Elliott 29:48

8M ago29:48

29:48

Scott discusses the trajectory of his incredible career journey, from 30 years at PwC to his current chapter. He shares his personal connection to Howard University’s Center for Hospitality Leadership and Marriott’s Arne Sorenson. Scott also explains his approach to networking, why saying Yes is so important, and what it takes to be successful as a…

1
Greg Schulze, Chief Commercial Officer, Expedia Group interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 35:40

8M ago35:40

35:40

Greg shares his career journey from industrial engineering to his pivotal roles at American Airlines and Expedia, emphasizing the importance of passion, adaptability, and mentorship. He discusses balancing innovation with operational excellence, staying current through continuous learning and personal growth, and fostering cross-disciplinary talent…

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Abhijit Patel, VP, Revenue Management & Commercial Strategy, Choice Hotels interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 37:49

8M ago37:49

37:49

In this episode of 'It's Personal Stories,' Dorothy Dowling interviews Abhijit Patel, VP of Revenue Management at Choice Hotels International, discussing his diverse career journey. Abbat shares his experience of emigrating from India to the U.S., starting in hospitality by washing dishes, and his trajectory through various industries, including Ge…

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Wendy Blissett, Senior Vice President, HREC Investment Advisors, interviewed by Lan Elliott 28:23

8M ago28:23

28:23

Wendy shares her incredible journey, rising to senior roles in hospitality brokerage. She explains how she’s overcoming her fear of public speaking, and why champions are critical to career success. She discusses how she built her extensive network and the tip she received from a champion for staying positive when things get hard.…

1
Matt Clyde, President & Chief Strategist, Ideas Collide, interviewed by David Kong 28:11

8M ago28:11

28:11

The birth of his daughter led Matt to rethink his purpose - ultimately inspiring him to launch Ideas Collide. In our conversation, he shares invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and the most important lesson he’s learned in life. We dive into his sources of inspiration for continuous innovation, his daily habits, and how he strives for work…

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Cesar Wurm, SVP, Member Strategy & Development, Associated Luxury Hotels International 31:48

9M ago31:48

31:48

Cesar shares why listening is such an important skill in life and in business, and he delves into the story behind his book: The Powers of Addiction: Finding Freedom in Acceptance and Recovery, He discusses how advocating for oneself can help others support your goals and explains how focusing on really understanding people allows him to optimize i…

1
Mehul Patel, Managing Partner, NewCrestImage, interviewed by David Kong 35:07

9M ago35:07

35:07

Mehul shares his inspiring immigrant journey, arriving in the U.S. at fourteen, learning English, and navigating a new culture. He recounts how, while still in high school, he purchased his first business—an early step that set him on the path to building the impressive portfolio of NewcrestImage. In our conversation, Mehul shares how he turns chal…

1
Mike Gamble, Chairman & CEO, SearchWide Global interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 37:22

8M ago37:22

37:22

In this engaging podcast episode, Mike Gamble, Chairman and CEO of SearchWide Global, delivers actionable insights for both candidates and companies. He outlines practical strategies for mapping career paths and acing interviews, while also sharing proven methods for retaining top talent and driving innovation in the competitive talent landscape. M…

1
William Ferguson, Founder & Chairman, Ferguson Partners, interviewed by David Kong 31:06

9M ago31:06

31:06

Bill shares how he differentiates Ferguson Partners by meeting his clients’ many needs and the founding of his nonprofit foundation - Centers of Excellence by scaling the Marriott Sorenson Howard University idea to 25 universities. We discuss the chapters of his new book ‘Living Beyond Your Dreams’ and he used the powerful and inspiring stories of …

1
Amy Vaxman, Vice President, Questex, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 28:27

9M ago28:27

28:27

Amy talks about the importance of public speaking and why everyone should develop this skill as early as possible in their careers. She discusses support systems, preparing for business travel, strategies for conference attendance, and building strong networks. Amy shares why it is important to celebrate and share your successes as an individual an…

1
Eric Jacobs, Global Growth Officer, Aimbridge Hospitality interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 32:19

9M ago32:19

32:19

Eric shares how his love of cooking set in motion a lifelong career in the hotel industry. He talks about realizing leadership at any early age, how his leadership has evolved over time, and why character is the driving factor in building great teams. Eric discusses why his engagement with non-profits is so important for him, the important ways his…

1
Rita J. Varga, CEO, RaizUp, Interviewed by Lan Elliott & Rachel Humphrey 31:03

9M ago31:03

31:03

Rita shares how her early exposure to travel, culture, and entrepreneurship led to a hospitality industry career spanning several different chapters. She talks about the importance of believing in self, owning your expertise, the impact of community, and why curiosity is a great motivator. Rita also encourages people to know you are enough and why …

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Sasha Day, President & CEO, Aramark Destinations interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 40:03

9M ago40:03

40:03

In this episode of 'It's Personal Stories,' Dorothy Dowling interviews Sasha Day, President and CEO of Aramark Destinations. Sasha shares her journey in her current role, discussing Aramark's diverse operations in national parks, conference centers, and attractions. She opens up about her non-linear career path that evolved through intentional and …

1
Anil Aggarwal CEO Milestone Inc interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 35:15

10M ago35:15

35:15

In this episode of 'It's Personal Stories,' Dorothy Dowling interviews Anil Agarwal, CEO of Milestone. Anil shares his journey into entrepreneurship, starting with his early days at the University of Georgia where he founded an entrepreneurship club. His interest grew through interactions with members of the Indus Entrepreneurs organization. This l…

1
Carl Winston, Founding Director, Payne School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at San Diego State University, interviewed by Lan Elliott 34:20

11M ago34:20

34:20

Carl, who works with aspiring hoteliers, explains the very simple thing people need to do to distinguish themselves (that most people aren’t willing to do). In this interview, he also discusses the ultimate tool for advancing professionally and how to avoid being that bad boss. Carl also unpacks the most widely misunderstood thing about mentorship.…

1
Dean Kate Walsh, Cornell University Nolan School of Hotel Administration, interviewed by David Kong 31:59

11M ago31:59

31:59

Dr. Walsh shares her amazing journey from CPA to corporate trainer to her current role. We discuss how challenges are often opportunities in disguise, and her research on leadership and career development as well as strategic human capital investment. She offers advice on coalescing diversity, overcoming imposter syndrome and self-empowerment. Don’…

1
Mark Keiser, President, Development, Viceroy Hotel Group, interviewed by Lan Elliott 30:50

11M ago30:50

30:50

Mark explains how his openness to trying different careers within hospitality and help from mentors helped him discover the area of the industry where he has thrived. He also shares the tool that allows him to deepen his connection with the many contacts he’s developed over the course of his career, and how listening to his team helps him build hig…

1
Kimberly Wilson, Senior Vice President, Global Sales, Preferred Hotels & Resorts interviewed by D_ Dowling 39:56

12M ago39:56

39:56

Join me on this learning journey with Kimberly Wilson, a brilliant sales leader at Preferred Hotels & Resorts, as we explore how fostering teamwork and mutual support—within teams and across departments—empowers sales leaders to better support customers, deliver on their needs, and drive meaningful customer success.…

1
Stacey Barber, VP of Travel, AAA National interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 39:45

12M ago39:45

39:45

Join me for an insightful interview with Stacey Barber, AAA National’s VP of Travel, as she shares valuable guidance on fostering stakeholder engagement, ensuring every voice is heard, and empowering collaborative decision-making. Don't miss this inspiring conversation!By David Kong