The Travel Leader

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Jan 2025

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About the show

The Travel Leader Podcast, released every two weeks, is dedicated to interviewing leaders in hospitality and tourism. Listeners will be able connect with their every day experiences, both successes and failures, and understand the leadership competencies that are shaping the future of our industry.

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42 recent

January 16, 202538 min

Breaking Barriers with Eunice Perez

Summary In this episode of the Travel Leader Podcast, Eunice Perez shares her inspiring journey in the hospitality industry, emphasizing the importance of helping others, resilience in the face of challenges, and the balance between leadership and empathy. She discusses her experiences as a single mother, the values that guide her leadership style, and her desire to empower others. Eunice reflects on her accomplishments, the self-doubt she has faced, and her vision for the future, which includes inspiring others through public speaking and mentorship. Highlights Eunice's passion lies in helping others succeed in the hospitality industry. Resilience is built through overcoming challenges and self-doubt. Leadership requires a balance of warmth and decisiveness. Motherhood has shaped Eunice's approach to work-life balance. Integrity and kindness are core values in Eunice's leadership style. Eunice aims to inspire and empower others, especially women and single mothers. Building trust with team members is essential for effective leadership. Eunice believes in leading by example and being hands-on. Self-doubt is a common experience, but support from others can help overcome it. Living in gratitude is a key part of Eunice's philosophy. Sound Bites "You have to stand tall and speak up." "I want to prove you wrong." "Title does not make us better than anybody." "I want to see people go further." "Live in gratitude all the time." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:59 The Red Thread of Hospitality 06:09 Resilience Through Challenges 08:53 Leadership Traits and Approachability 11:59 Balancing Leadership and Empathy 14:58 The Role of Motherhood in Leadership 17:52 Values and Integrity in Leadership 20:59 Inspiration and Motivation 24:05 Empowering Others 27:05 Pride in Accomplishments 29:49 Overcoming Self-Doubt 33:02 Key Leadership Skills 36:08 Vision for the Future https://www.linkedin.com/in/euniceperez9876/ ___________________________________________________________ The Travel Leader is brought to you by The Travel Leader Coach, a content and coaching platform founded by Executive Leadership Coach, Rachel Vandenberg. Learn more at www.thetravelleadercoach.com.

December 11, 202444 min

First Chair Mentality with Davonne Reaves

Summary In this episode of the Travel Leader Podcast, host Rachel Vandenberg interviews Davonne Reaves, founder and CEO of The Vonne Group. They discuss Davonne's journey in hospitality and hotel investment, the importance of branding, her leadership style, and the significance of building trust and integrity in business. She shares her experiences with imposter syndrome, her sources of inspiration, and the pressure of being a role model. She emphasizes the importance of setting high standards, being transparent, and the responsibility she feels to uplift others in her community. The conversation concludes with Davonne's vision for the future and her desire to create a nonprofit to help others achieve their goals. Highlights Personal branding has been important to her success Transparency and honesty are key leadership traits. Setting high standards is essential in business. Inspiration can come from personal experiences and community. Being a role model carries pressure but is rewarding. Pride in personal growth is important for self-esteem. It's okay to prioritize self-care and personal needs. Legacy and impact on future generations are vital goals. 00:00 Introduction and Inspiration 03:50 The Importance of Brand Identity 07:50 Leadership and How Davonne is Perceived 13:06 Standards and Accountability 18:32 Challenges and Triumphs in Male-Dominated Industries 21:01 The Responsibility of Having a Seat at the Table 23:20 Purpose-Driven Branding and Empowerment 24:50 Finding Inspiration and Motivation 32:36 Faith and Letting Go of Control 38:08 Prioritizing Yourself and Managing Stress 40:53 Creating a Vision for a Positive Legacy 42:47 Being Proud of Your Accomplishments https://www.linkedin.com/in/davonnereaves/ ___________________________________________________________ The Travel Leader is brought to you by The Travel Leader Coach, a content and coaching platform founded by Executive Leadership Coach, Rachel Vandenberg. Learn more at www.thetravelleadercoach.com.

November 7, 202453 min

Impactful Empathy with Morgan van Liew

Highlights Empathy is a crucial element in leadership. Leaders should model the behavior they wish to see. Understanding employee feelings can lead to better solutions. Diversity in perspectives enhances decision-making. Self-awareness is key to effective leadership. Navigating hard times can lead to personal growth. Summary In this episode of the Travel Leader Podcast, Rachel Vandenberg speaks with Morgan Van Liew, the National Director of Operations at LAZ Parking. They explore the importance of empathy in leadership, the value of self-awareness, and the significance of diversity in the workplace. Morgan shares personal stories that illustrate how leading with empathy can transform organizational culture and employee engagement. He emphasizes the need for leaders to understand the whole person, recognizing that personal and professional lives are interconnected. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating hard times, the pride in personal and professional achievements, and the vision for a more equitable future in the hospitality industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Connections 02:03 The Role of Empathy in Leadership 10:03 Leading with Empathy: A Case Study 18:02 Self-Awareness and Leadership Style 26:58 The Importance of Diversity and Learning 33:05 Navigating Hard Times in Leadership 39:55 Pride in Personal and Professional Achievements 45:55 Vision for the Future and Advocacy ________________________________________________ The Travel Leader is brought to you by The Travel Leader Coach, a content and coaching platform founded by Executive Leadership Coach, Rachel Vandenberg. Learn more at www.thetravelleadercoach.com.

October 15, 202449 min

Developing Leaders with Horace T. Brooks

Highlights Caring and listening are essential leadership qualities. Empowering others to grow is a leader's responsibility. Setting high standards is crucial for success. Inspiration comes from seeing others achieve their potential. Trusting your team fosters autonomy and growth. Listening goes beyond hearing; it's about understanding. Summary In this episode of the Travel Leader Podcast, Horace T. Brooks, the general manager of the Marriott Hotel in Key Largo, shares his journey in leadership within the hospitality industry. He emphasizes the importance of confidence, caring for team members, and the power of listening. Horace discusses how he empowers his staff, sets high standards, and inspires others to grow. He reflects on overcoming self-doubt and the significance of having a vision for the future of hospitality, encouraging young people to explore careers in this vibrant field. Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Confidence in Leadership 04:59 The Importance of Caring and Listening 11:53 Empowering Growth and Learning 17:50 Setting Standards and Accountability 25:00 Inspiration and Motivation in Leadership 32:01 The Power of Trust and Autonomy 37:54 Overcoming Self-Doubt 43:06 The Art of Listening 45:56 Vision for the Future of Hospitality ___________________________________________________________ The Travel Leader is brought to you by The Travel Leader Coach, a content and coaching platform founded by Executive Leadership Coach, Rachel Vandenberg. Learn more at www.thetravelleadercoach.com.

September 26, 202430 min

Virtuous Care with Susan Barry

Highlights A desire to challenge oneself can lead to new opportunities and career growth. A strong sense of justice and fairness can shape one's values and actions. Leading by example, good communication, and a genuine interest in people are effective leadership skills. Humor and empathy can create a positive and productive work environment. Gaining perspective and not taking things too seriously can lead to better decision-making. In this episode of the Travel Leader Podcast, host Rachel Vandenberg interviews Susan Barry, President of Hive Marketing and host of the Top Floor podcast. Susan shares her career journey, from working in restaurants and opening hotels to starting her own marketing business and podcast. She discusses her entrepreneurial spirit, drive for autonomy, and the curiosity that has fueled her career. Susan emphasizes the importance of empathy, humor, and authenticity in leadership and highlights her passion for helping female founders in the hospitality industry. The episode is filled with personal insights and leadership wisdom. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Inspiration for Starting a Podcast 02:37 The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Autonomy and the Desire for Control 05:23 A Strong Sense of Justice and Fairness: Guiding Values in Leadership 08:12 Leading by Example: Humor, Empathy, and Genuine Interest in People 10:35 Gaining Perspective and Not Taking Things Too Seriously 16:27 Exploring the Future of Hospitality on the Top Floor Podcast 19:57 Empowering Others: High Expectations and Good Communication 23:20 Leadership Skill: Humor, Empathy, and Genuine Interest in People 26:31 Vision and Ideas: Embracing Curiosity and Exploring New Possibilities 29:46 Final Thoughts and Shameless Self-Promotion __________________________________________________ The Travel Leader is brought to you by The Travel Leader Coach, a content and coaching platform founded by Executive Leadership Coach, Rachel Vandenberg. Learn more at www.thetravelleadercoach.com.

September 5, 202444 min

Spirited Evolution with Dina Niekamp

Highlights Gumption, which means spirited initiative and resourcefulness, has been the red thread throughout Dina's career and personal life. Listening to feedback, reflecting, and adapting are essential for personal and professional growth. Self-acceptance and the willingness to evolve are key to becoming a better leader. Empathy, humanity, and emotional intelligence are crucial leadership skills for connecting with and empowering others. Success as a leader involves lifting and growing the entire team, not just oneself. In this episode of the Travel Leader Podcast, Rachel Vandenberg interviews Dina Niekamp, Associate Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Branding at Miraval Resorts. They explore key themes in leadership, including the importance of "gumption" as a driving force in Dina's career, the significance of self-acceptance and non-judgment in personal and professional growth, and the evolving nature of leadership that embraces empathy and vulnerability. Dina shares her strategic approach to leadership, emphasizing the need for collaboration across departments and the value of including team members in the decision-making process to achieve shared goals. The conversation also highlights the balance between personal and professional life, the power of feedback, and the importance of lifting others as you grow. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Branding 09:54 Integrated Sales and Marketing Campaigns 17:22 Personal Life and Leadership 20:44 Being a Lefty and Personal Attributes 29:06 Empathy and Humanity in Leadership 36:03 Underestimating and Overestimating Oneself 41:58 Lifting and Growing the Team 44:25 Vision for Success 46:07 Closing Remarks and Gratitude ___________________________________________________ The Travel Leader is brought to you by The Travel Leader Coach, a content and coaching platform founded by Executive Leadership Coach, Rachel Vandenberg. Learn more at www.thetravelleadercoach.com.

August 21, 202451 min

Creating Opportunities with Rachel Humphrey

Highlights Taking risks can lead to unexpected and great rewards in both personal and professional life. Self-care is essential for being the best version of oneself and making a positive impact. Having high expectations of oneself and others can drive personal and professional growth. Sharing personal stories and leading by example can inspire and motivate others. Living in line with one's values is crucial for personal fulfillment and success. Empowering others and providing opportunities for them to succeed is a motivating factor for Rachel. Rachel Humphrey, founder of Women in Hospitality Leadership Alliance and interview host for DEI Advisors shares her career journey and reflects on the thread that weaves through her life, which is the willingness to take risks and the unexpected rewards that come with it. Rachel emphasizes the value of self-care and being true to one's values. She describes herself as a strategic thinker with high expectations of herself and others. Rachel inspires and motivates others through sharing her story and leading by example. She shares her motivation to empower others and provide opportunities for them to succeed. Rachel reflects on her proudest achievements, including raising her daughters. Her vision includes seeing more women in leadership positions in the hospitality industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Connection through Women in Hospitality Leadership Alliance 03:11 The Power of Taking Risks in Your Career 08:09 The Importance of Self-Care for Success 12:48 Setting High Expectations for Personal and Professional Growth 25:00 Living in Alignment with Your Values for Fulfillment and Success 26:50 Empowering Others and Providing Opportunities 28:12 The Importance of Sharing Insights and Being a Support System 30:53 Proud Moments: Raising Daughters and Self-Care 34:07 Overcoming Underestimation and Taking Risks 37:02 The Value of Feedback and Seeking Input 40:46 A Vision for Beach Life and Women in Leadership ___________________________________________________________ The Travel Leader is brought to you by The Travel Leader Coach, a content and coaching platform founded by Executive Leadership Coach, Rachel Vandenberg. Learn more at www.thetravelleadercoach.com.

August 5, 202443 min

Modeling Integrity with Lisa Garner

Highlights: Modeling the behavior as a leader to build customer connections and create exceptional experiences Transparency, trust, and accountability are essential in effective leadership. Self-awareness and reflection are crucial for personal and professional growth. Empowering others involves building trust, clear communication, delegation, and celebrating their accomplishments. Advocating for oneself and asking for what you want is important in career advancement. Summary: Join us for an inspiring journey with Lisa Garner, a trailblazing leader in the travel and hospitality industry! Lisa passionately shares her secrets to forging unforgettable customer connections, nurturing relationships, and empowering her teams to reach new heights. With a heart dedicated to service and a knack for being a true people person, Lisa delves into the core values of transparency, trust, and accountability that define her leadership style. She reveals how self-awareness and reflection have fueled her incredible personal and professional growth. Bursting with pride over the transformative impact she's had on her teams and the remarkable success she's achieved, Lisa envisions a future where she continues to make waves and uplift others in the industry. Get ready to be inspired and motivated by Lisa's dynamic vision and unwavering commitment to excellence! Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection 02:07 Being a People Person and Creating Great Experiences 04:22 Describing Lisa's Leadership Style 07:22 Balancing Toughness and Support as a Leader 09:27 Core Values and Integrity 11:16 The Role of Empathy in Leadership 13:44 Attitude and Lessons Learned 19:23 Recognizing Personal Values and Beliefs 22:27 Inspiration and Motivation to Make a Meaningful Impact 25:46 Empowering Others and Building Trust 28:08 Underestimating Oneself and Overcoming Fear 29:58 Leadership Skills and Relying on Relationships 34:17 Advocating for Yourself and Asking for What You Want 37:28 Leading with Connection and Building Diverse Teams 41:00 Gratitude and Contentment in Personal Accomplishments 43:03 Closing Remarks _____________________________________ The Travel Leader is brought to you by The Travel Leader Coach, a content and coaching platform founded by Executive Leadership Coach, Rachel Vandenberg. Learn more at www.thetravelleadercoach.com.

July 17, 202444 min

Attracting Fountains with Lan Elliot

Highlights Leaving things better off than when you arrived Lan's commitment to bringing more women and underrepresented groups to conference stages. The impact of seeing diverse faces in leadership roles. Practical advice for overcoming obstacles and fostering ambition. The importance of mentors and champions in career growth. Summary Lan Elliott, Principal and Co-Founder of Acacia Hospitality, discusses her career and the impact she wants to have in the travel industry. She has always wanted to make a difference and leave her corner of the world better than she found it. She has worked on transformative portfolio deals, expanded hotel brands, and built high-performing teams. Now, she is focused on advancing women in hospitality leadership and increasing diversity in hotel ownership. She believes in the importance of representation, showcasing different voices, and creating awareness. Lan describes herself as direct, honest, tough, fair, and caring. She values building relationships, being a fountain of inspiration, and having a growth mindset. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Collaboration 04:39 Advancing Women in Hospitality Leadership 10:31 Building Strong Relationships and Teams 16:59 Embracing Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles 24:27 Ambition and Women's Leadership 29:53 Finding the Right Mentors 32:23 Being a Fountain of Inspiration 37:38 Reading People and Growth Mindset 41:33 Dreaming Big and Promoting Diversity The Travel Leader is brought to you by The Travel Leader Coach, a content and coaching platform founded by Executive Leadership Coach, Rachel Vandenberg. Learn more at www.thetravelleadercoach.com.

July 2, 202446 min

Startup Mentality with Arun Upneja

Highlights: The attraction of the hospitality industry Modeling change and innovation The importance of psychological safety Creating a culture of feedback Trust, empathy and treating team members as human beings Open communication Summary In this conversation, Rachel Vandenberg interviews Arun Upneja, the Dean of the School of Hospitality Administration at Boston University. They discuss Upneja's career in the hospitality industry and his role as an educator. Upneja emphasizes the importance of constant innovation and change and discusses the need to embrace new technologies and adapt to changing customer expectations.Arun believes that leaders should have a startup mentality and be willing to break down walls and constraints to drive change and innovation. Arun also shares his approach to leadership, which focuses on treating people as human beings by fostering trust, respect, and open communication. He stresses the need for self-awareness and continuous learning in leadership development. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:23 The Impact of Education 06:10 Preparing Students for Change 09:39 Leadership Approach 16:02 Finding Meaning in Life and Work 23:57 Embracing Change and Innovation: Thinking Outside the Box 26:05 The Importance of Self-Awareness and Continuous Learning in Leadership 29:29 Having a Startup Mentality: Breaking Down Constraints 31:20 Empathy and Growth: Treating Employees with Humanity _________________________________________________ The Travel Leader is brought to you by The Travel Leader Coach, a content and coaching platform founded by Executive Leadership Coach, Rachel Vandenberg. Learn more at www.thetravelleadercoach.com.