In this insightful episode of The Pineapple Perspective, host Troy Hooper sits down with hospitality veteran and author Steve Fortunato to explore the deeper meaning behind true hospitality. Steve shares a compelling personal journey that led to a major mindset shift in his 34-year career in the food and beverage industry.

From launching boutique catering brand Room Forty to opening event venues like The Fig House and writing The Urgent Recovery of Hospitality, Steve unpacks how hospitality should transcend the restaurant world and apply to all human relationships and industries. The conversation dives into themes of intentionality, service over self-promotion, and the universal need to feel valued. Steve discusses how reframing hospitality as a virtue rather than just an industry practice can spark more genuine relationships and sustainable business growth.

Topics Discussed in the Episode:

The true definition of hospitality as the intention to make others feel valued

Steve Fortunato’s personal and professional awakening after 29 years in the industry

The difference between virtuous and vicious cycles in business relationships

Why hospitality should be a foundational mindset across all industries, not just food and beverage

Key concepts and frameworks from Steve's book The Urgent Recovery of Hospitality

Connect with Steve Fortunato & Room Forty:

https://www.instagram.com/steve_fortunato

https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-fortunato-3b990516/

https://www.amazon.com/Urgent-Recovery-Hospitality-Rediscovering-Generosity/dp/1962341526

https://www.linkedin.com/company/roomfortycatering/

https://www.roomforty.com/

This show is sponsored by Pepper Lunch. Find a location near you!

Production and Administration work completed by Smart Podcast Solutions and Elevate Virtual Business Solutions.