Every week, DEI Advisors brings you practical advice and insightful perspectives from hospitality industry leaders and other accomplished professionals with the goal to inspire future leaders and improve their career trajectories. Each interview highlights an advisor who shares inflection points of his/her career journey and lessons learned from overcoming challenges and taking risks. The interviews are full of useful tips on finding mentors and advocates, networking, continuous learning, overcoming "head trash" or ”imposter syndrome,” achieving work life harmony, and more.

Lisa shares how she earned her reputation as a "serial connector of people" in building her own relationships and expanding the networks of others.  She discusses how being an advocate for the industry with elected officials and engaging with industry trade associations has developed several of her leadership skills and also how she intentionally sought out to strengthen her public speaking skills. Finally, Lisa talks about her very personal approach to taking risks and her advice to her younger self which is also perhaps her only life's regret. Read Bio

Dr. Donte Vaughn shares how his company helps clients develop mechanisms to influence how leaders engage, interact, and make decisions, to realize their full potential. He explains the importance of treating DEIB as a fundamental business strategy, rather than an initiative, in order to be impactful and sustainable, and why he doesn’t believe in quotas. Finally, Donte describes 4 actions leaders can take to create a more inclusive workplace and the 3 key pillars women and underrepresented groups can implement to better prepare themselves for career advancement. Read Bio

Dorothy Dowling is a much-admired and accomplished leader in the hospitality industry. In this episode, she shares her career journey and some of the key factors that contributed to her success. We discuss the lessons she learned along the way. She talks about her personal mantra and the advice that she has given as a mentor. Dorothy also shares her experience as a public company trustee, and how she approaches her work as an entrepreneur of her own life. She shares how she finds strength and resilience in the face of adversity. You wouldn't want to miss her advice to her younger self. Read Bio

Shruti discusses the importance of self-care and the approach which works for her. She shares tips on advocating for yourself and for overcoming obstacles and tackling risks, both of which she views as opportunities. Shruti also talks about the role of your support system, how she relies on hers, and what makes each one unique and important. Lastly, Shruti shares her advice for her younger self and where she finds happiness at this stage of her life and career. Read Bio

Andrea shares how her commitment to service has led her to volunteering with industry associations and non-profits, which have also helped develop her leadership skills. She discusses how she tackles challenges, what characteristics she looks for in building her support system and when she leans into them for guidance, and how we can advocate for others and ourselves most effectively. Andrea also reveals her four preparation techniques which she uses to fine tune her public speaking skills. Read Bio

Davonne shares how she went from a front desk agent to being one of the youngest female hotel owners. She explains the elements she considered in building her unique personal brand. Davonne discusses how great female mentors and champions have helped her, and three major risks she took to get to where she is today. She also shares how being confident and authentic helps her advocate for herself, following the examples of other women she’s seen in the boardroom, who come prepared with the facts and are comfortable speaking up. Read Bio

In this interview, Mike reveals how venturing into unfamiliar territory helped him build a solid foundation, and his experience working with the Rowling family who acquired and transformed Omni Hotels & Resorts. We discuss the disappointments and setbacks in his career and the lessons he learned. Mike talks about his mentors and sponsors, and how embracing diversity, equity and inclusion has helped him and Aimbridge. Finally, Mike offers his advice to his younger self and advice on personal empowerment. Read Bio

John shares the factors that have helped him be successful, which include being a good communicator both verbally and in writing, raising his hand to help, and being willing to try new things.  He also discusses how, early in his career, he learned from the successful people around him to approach problem solving by asking positive questions.  In building his network, John believes developing a track record of being honest with the people you do business with, in terms of what you're going to deliver, really speaks volumes. Read Bio

Andrea shares how she handles those negative voices we all have in our heads and offers specific advice on creating inclusive workplaces.  When dealing with a challenge, she describes how she thinks through the problem and comes up with a plan – and a back-up plan.  She also explains how she’s successfully asked for a raise or promotion, and how she advocates for other women and underrepresented groups.  Andrea also offers a unique approach to networking and how to follow up in a genuine way. Read Bio

Seema shares how she took a hotel revenue management sales strategy and turned it next into a hotel brand career and now an entrepreneurial venture. She discusses her love of public speaking, prioritizing self care, and the important role seva (selfless service) plays in her life. Seema also talks about creating your personal brand and what advice she'd give her younger self, which is the same advice she currently imparts on her own children! Read Bio

Kevin discusses his transition from his long-time corporate career to association executive, how he identifies talent and builds teams around him, and the progress the hospitality industry is making towards becoming more diverse at all levels. He shares his insights on everything from leading during the pandemic to his strategies for trying to find his balance in his personal and professional lives.  He also discusses the role of mentors and champions and ways to keep growing your skillset to best position yourself for career advancement. Read Bio

Talene shares her path to leadership and why her lateral moves were not only necessary but also had the greatest impact on her trajectory, as well as how she adapts to leading a team she previously served alongside.  Talene also discusses how important it is to be uncomfortable, how she tackles risks and challenges, and why being able to laugh has helped her manage the stresses of career and home. Talene further shares the importance of public speaking skills and why the hospitality industry is the ideal industry to find mentors, advocates, and champions. Read Bio

Lan shares her career journey and the importance of mentors and champions. We discuss the "Imposter Syndrome" and tips on overcoming that negativity. Lan reveals her learnings from setbacks and disappointments, and how she broke through a field traditionally dominated by men. She also offers advice to her younger self, and to students she meets at Castell @College. Read Bio

Rachel shares her career journey and how she transitioned from a trial lawyer to becoming EVP, COO and Interim CEO at AAHOA. She discusses the mentors and champions in her life and how she built a vast network. She offers advice on public speaking, approach to challenges and work life balance. You won't want to miss Rachel's personal mantra and her advice to her younger self. Read Bio

Justin discusses what he looks for in building a great team, how he evaluates and overcomes obstacles, and the importance of building relationships which then develop your network.  He also shares how he strives to be present in both his career and with his family and why he'd tell his younger self to worry less about the future and maximize the present. Justin also talks about how his volunteerism with not-for-profit organizations and industry organizations has been invaluable for him and how he prepares for public speaking opportunities. Read Bio

Ted shares his vision of a connected world of distribution, his endeavors to help employees tie their daily work to company strategies, and how he builds inclusion and coalesces diversity in language, culture and business practices across the many different countries in which he operates. Finally, he offers advice to anyone who aspires to become a CEO. Read Bio

Allison shares the 4 questions that help her build teams, which has lead to happier, more productive team members. She explains why she avoids the jealousy, drama and comparisons that often swirl in corporate cultures, and how she handles negative thoughts. She also describes her technique for resolving a problematic issue (tip: ask the quiet person in the room), and the importance of developing your own, authentic style. Allison also explains how classic negotiation skills are key to advocating for yourself.

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Lynette shares how advocating for herself followed by her persistence led to her career in hospitality and the CEO role she holds today. She discusses mentors and champions who have and continue to provide her support and how she approaches public speaking. Lynette talks about overcoming obstacles and how organizational skills and designated time off help her manage to find work life balance. Lastly, Lynette shares some final advice and it's the same advice she gives her sons! Read Bio

Lisa discusses how she pivoted from a planned career as a doctor to a fulfilling career as a hospitality industry executive.  She shares how champions behind the scenes and a well-selected support system have helped her as she has progressed through her career. Lisa talks about how being present in whatever she is doing at the time helps her manage her day and how hope and optimism played a key role in her leadership during the pandemic. Lastly, she shares what she'd tell her younger self and why she encourages everyone to BYOC (bring your own chair) in an effort to advocate for yourself. Read Bio

Suzanne shares why and how she started the 2nd HVS office in the mid-80s, a time when it was rare for women to own businesses. She discusses how she handles contentious situations and how she has evolved her leadership style to match the person she’s working with. Suzanne also shares advice on how to advocate for yourself, why building and sustaining [business] relationships should be a priority, and the importance of finding balance in your life – because life goes quickly, but it’s also a marathon. Read Bio

Monika shares her career journey in a field traditionally dominated by men. She reveals her learnings from setbacks and her approach to challenges. We also have frank discussions as to why women and other underrepresented groups continue to face difficulties in landing executive leadership positions, and her advice on finding champions and on networking. She offers her perspectives on finding passion and her advice to her younger self. Read Bio

Tori talks about how the combination of being kind and compelling can take you far.  She also shares her strategies for developing relationships with decision-makers on both sides of an issue, which of her character traits she relied upon in helping her lead through the pandemic, and which public speaking opportunities she thrives in as well as how she prepares for them.  Tori also discusses how she overcomes self doubt and what she'd tell her younger self (and whether she's actually following her own advice now).

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H World Group Ltd. Is the 7th largest hotel group in the world with over 8,200 hotels in 17 countries, and is listed on NASDAQ. Miss Liu has been the architect of the group's transformation from a traditional hotel company to also being a leader in hospitality technology. In our interview, Ms. Liu shares her thoughts on formal education, how she broke into a field traditionally dominated by men, and her approach to challenges. She also provides advice on coaching and mentoring, networking and finding passion. Read Bio

Dorraine talks about her unexpected path into the hotel industry, why it's so important for women to advocate for themselves, and how she overcomes obstacles when faced with challenges.  She also discusses how she builds relationships and continues to learn and grow and why it's so important for her to be a mentor and champion for the next generation of women in hospitality. Dorraine also encourages everyone to ask for help when you need it and why she wishes she had had that advice earlier in her career.

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Terri shares her path to leadership and the role her family played in developing her character and career journey.  She talks about the importance of leading with kindness first, her strategies for developing relationships and support systems, and how her courage helped her lead during the pandemic.  Terri also shares how she can be impacted by her own negative self-talk and what she does to try to overcome that narrative to help her thrive in any situation she encounters. Read Bio

Abby discusses how authenticity and kindness together are where real power comes from.  She talks about how she was able to reopen the resort and quickly fill almost every open position by first establishing the key characteristics and values for certain roles and ensuring they had an inclusive list of qualified candidates.  When leading diverse teams, Abby advises leaders to start by building trust, which encourages interesting conversations and allows teams to embrace healthy conflict. Read Bio

Glenn shares his path from celebrity journalist to one of the industry's most recognizable faces as podcast host and public speaker.  He discusses how he builds relationships in an authentic way, why and how he overcame his fear of public speaking to make it his career, and how his daily podcast keeps him up to date on the industry.  Glenn also shares how he's built his personal brand, why he'd tell his younger self to stop worrying, and how he pivoted during the pandemic to forge a new path. Read Bio

Kevin shares his intellectual curiosity and efforts to develop skills that made him valuable to his companies helped advance his career.  He shares the stories of why he left Host, just as Chris Nassetta was becoming an important mentor to him, and how they reconnected when Chris joined Hilton.  Kevin describes how he approaches and embraces challenges.  He explains how seeking a mentor requires making an effort, the importance of finding a mentor that “clicks” with you, and the need to be a good mentee. Read Bio

Malaika shares how learning a lesson the “hard way” taught her to get support, buy in and alignment across the organization on her future projects, and how her mentors helped her understand the bigger picture at critical points in her career.  She discusses the importance of figuring out what you want to do early on and setting goals for yourself beyond annual goals.  She offers tips for creating an inclusive workplace and highlights the Hyatt DEI initiatives that are having the most significant impact. Read Bio

Tina shares her path from assistant at G6 to the c-suite 24 years later. She discusses the mentors and champions who supported, how she advocates for herself, and the strategies to approach her public speaking. Tina also shares the intentionality she uses in networking situations, why it's important to celebrate your successes, and how executive coaching has impacted her leadership style. Finally, as final advice, she encourages everyone to support each other and empower yourselves in the process. Read Bio

Mit shares how he led Noble Investment to spectacular success and how he faced challenges, setbacks and disappointments. He offers advice on coaching and mentoring and how he built the admirable culture at Noble. We discussed challenges that women and other underrepresented groups face and Mit offers advice on finding mentors, champions and advocates as well as how to feel confident in uncomfortable situations by being genuine. He also offers thoughts on finding passion and drive. Read Bio

Julienne shares her personal journey to the c-suite, with initial stops in the tech world and construction and real estate, then landing in the hospitality industry. She discusses how pros and cons lists help her evaluate and tackle risks, the time she empowered herself by improving her public speaking skills, and the impact that mentors and champions have had on her career. She offers tips on relationship building, the importance of attending conferences, and where to find resources to continue your personal growth. Finally, Julienne shares the 5 non-negotiable self-care strategies she honors every day. Read Bio

Lalia shares highlights of her Amazon Best Seller "Managing The Book on You" including the need to communicate who we have become, advocating for self, correcting first impressions, embracing our uniqueness, jumping to conclusions, the contagion of mediocrity, fear of failing, finding inspiration, and shifting from the public us to the private us. Lalia also comments on Carol Burnett's quote - "Only I can change my life. No one can do it for me." Read Bio

Rupesh shares his journey and his secret to his tremendous success on social media. We discuss how his parents as immigrants have shaped him and the evolution in thinking from generation to generation. Rupesh also offers advice on dealing with setbacks and challenges, building networks and finding inspiration and passion. Read Bio

Based on Michelle's recent research on DEI in the hospitality industry, these distinguished professors from hospitality programs discuss the importance of first creating an inclusive culture, so diverse hires can add value and thrive in their new companies.  They also discuss the need for individuals to establish a supportive network and become allies for others, and they encourage managers and leaders to remind themselves of the value of inclusion, because it is harder to run a diverse team - and to talk to their people. Read Bio

Based on Michelle Russen’s recent research on DEI in the hospitality industry, these distinguished professors from hospitality programs discuss the importance of first creating an inclusive culture, so diverse hires can add value and thrive in their new companies.  They also discuss the need for individuals to establish a supportive network and become allies for others, and they encourage managers and leaders to remind themselves of the value of inclusion, because it is harder to run a diverse team - and to talk to their people. Read Bio

The first woman appointed President of a major hotel brand, Stephanie shares her spectacular career journey at Marriott International, and how surrounding herself with diverse teams has been one of the keys to her success. She describes what she looks for in potential leaders, and how humor can be useful in defusing difficult situations. She encourages women and underrepresented groups to advocate for themselves, to be authentic, and not to be so tough on themselves when things don’t go well. Read Bio

Rob shares his career journey and offers learnings on how he overcame setbacks and challenges. We discuss the current inequity and lack of inclusion and diversity in our industry and how individuals can empower themselves to achieve their aspirations. Rob also offers advice on networking, finding mentors and advocates, and how he developed talent. Read Bio

Keith shares IHG's 10 year "Journey to Tomorrow" plan and strategies in implementing ESG and DEI initiatives globally. Keith offers advice on finding mentors/advocates, and how to overcome challenges in one's career progression. We also discussed Keith's transition from Bristol Hotels and how he distinguished himself, the factors contributing to his success and how he approaches challenges, setbacks and disappointments. Read Bio

Fran shares her journey in hospitality including the launch of TIEWN and BLLA, both now very impactful industry organizations.  She talks about the critical importance of public speaking skills, having a positive mindset to accomplish anything you set your mind to, and relying on the right people around you.  Fran also discusses overcoming obstacles and taking risks and why you should always bring forward the experiences you've had. Read Bio

Cindy shares how she became an entrepreneur, founding three hospitality companies focused on data analytics and co-authoring over 10 industry books on topics related to the digital space and data analytics. She discusses how advocates propelled her career forward, how she chooses the people who are part of her support system, and her approach to advocating for herself. Cindy also advises people to determine what their strengths are and play to them, and the importance of a development plan. 

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Mitch shares his personal journey to leadership and the many lessons learned. He discusses the impact his parents, both immigrants, have had on his life and how he has evolved into the parent and spouse he is today. He discusses the critical importance of having a personal brand, which enabled him to build deep relationships, and how those two combined helped him lead through the pandemic. Mitch also shares how Vision Hospitality Group has developed and lives its world class reputation for the best corporate culture.

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As the first woman to lead PYR’s hospitality design practice in Chicago, Amy shares her journey, and how leaning into discomfort and saying yes to opportunities has propelled her career. She shares the importance of networks and explains how different mentors can come in and out of your life. Amy also provides insights on managing diverse teams and creating an inclusive culture, and why vulnerability can be an asset. Read Bio

Krissy shares her journey into hospitality, culminating in the c-suite as well as public company board seats.  She talks about how to start and then grow the critical skill of public speaking and how she tackles taking risks. Krissy also discusses how she balances her career and her family and other aspects of her life, the role mentors and champions have played in her life and why she takes such pride in serving in those capacities for others, and why you should always do what you love. Read Bio

Pat shares his background and the contributing factors to his success at Choice Hotels International. He talks about his approach to challenges and advice to his younger self. Pat also touches on the inequity he sees with the lack of women and minorities in executive leadership positions and his advice to them to achieve their career aspirations. Read Bio