In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Steve Palmer, founder of the Indigo Road Hospitality Group. Palmer shares his journey from washing dishes at 13 to becoming a successful entrepreneur and author. He discusses his passion for hospitality, the importance of culture in business, and his personal battle with addiction. Palmer also highlights the creation and impact of Ben's Friends, a support group for hospitality professionals struggling with addiction. This inspiring episode offers valuable insights into pursuing your dreams and building a purposeful career in the hospitality industry.

00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast

00:36 Meet Steve Palmer: Founder of Indigo Road Hospitality Group

01:01 Early Beginnings: From Dishwasher to Restaurant Enthusiast

03:56 Discovering a Passion for Service and Wine

06:38 Mentorship and Professional Growth

10:15 Transitioning to Leadership and Management

16:05 The Birth of Indigo Road Hospitality Group

29:22 The Grit of Entrepreneurship

30:09 Leadership as an Act of Service

33:19 Creating a Culture of Hospitality

39:52 Expanding into Boutique Hotels

46:29 The Birth of Ben's Friends

56:13 Reflections and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Winston Smith, General Manager of The Standard Spa, Miami Beach. Winston shares his incredible journey from starting in accounts payable to becoming GM, discussing his early career, transition from finance, and personal experiences that shaped his path. They explore the importance of teamwork, maintaining a positive work culture, and the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry. With personal anecdotes, Winston provides valuable insights into leadership and achieving long-term success in the hotel business.

00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast

00:37 Meet Winston Smith: General Manager of the Standard Spa, Miami Beach

01:00 Winston's First Job in Hospitality

02:13 Journey from Belize to Los Angeles

05:57 Transition to Miami Beach

07:38 Life at the Standard Spa, Miami Beach

13:29 Employee Engagement and Morale Building

14:34 Climbing the Ranks: From Chief Accountant to Director of Finance

20:02 Understanding Hotel Finances

22:45 Transitioning to General Manager

24:23 Embracing Leadership and Teamwork

26:08 Challenges and Achievements

33:19 Future Plans and Vision

36:13 Advice for Aspiring Professionals

37:35 Conclusion and Gratitude

In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Bill and Holly Bembenek, founders of the Temecula Wine Trolley and Wine Tours. They discuss their unique business venture, detailing its inception, the challenges faced, and the exciting growth they have experienced.

The Bembeneks share insights into their personal journeys within the hospitality industry, including Holly's passion for guest experiences and Bill's extensive background in gaming and resort management.

Their story emphasizes the importance of perseverance, the power of authentic customer service, and the value of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals. Tune in for an inspiring and informative discussion on building a successful hospitality business.

00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast

00:37 Meet Bill and Holly Bembenik

01:15 The Birth of Temecula Wine Trolley

03:45 Holly's Journey in Hospitality

05:37 Bill's Unexpected Path to Hospitality

07:42 Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship

10:48 Creating a Unique Wine Tour Experience

15:40 Launching the Business and Overcoming Challenges

26:54 Trolley Troubles: A Rocky Start

27:55 Handling the Unexpected

29:11 The Cost of a Trolley

30:21 Achieving Perfect Reviews

31:03 The Secret to Success

37:51 Expanding the Business

47:00 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

51:21 Conclusion and Gratitude