Episodes

  • What the K-Wave Means for Hotel and Restaurant Design - Thomas Oh & Daphne Shin - Defining Hospitality

    What the K-Wave Means for Hotel and Restaurant Design - Thomas Oh & Daphne Shin - Defining Hospitality
    Apr 1 2026

    In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Thomas Oh, Co-Founder & General Manager of Perilla Korean American Steakhouse, and Daphne Shin, Founder & Principal Designer of the Ruimte, two passionate creators working at the intersection of culture, cuisine, and design. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, the episode delves into the unique approach Thomas and Daphne take to blend Korean cultural elements into their business ventures in Chicago.


    About the Guests:

    Thomas Oh is the co-founder and director of operations at Perilla Korean American Steakhouse. With a mission to introduce Korean culture through dining experiences, Thomas highlights the seamless integration of Korean and American culinary elements at Perilla.


    Daphne Shin is the founder and principal designer of the Ruimte, an interior design firm. Through her design work at L7 Hotel, Daphne strives to create environments where every guest, regardless of background, feels at home.


    Chapters:

    02:26 Defining Hospitality

    04:38 Building L7 Chicago

    06:33 Designing Perilla Steakhouse

    15:26 Korean DNA in the Hotel

    19:40 Reception in Chicago

    24:49 The K Wave Momentum

    27:28 Entrepreneur Lessons

    30:08 Teamwork Solves Problems

    30:43 Exhaust System Collaboration

    32:13 Sponsor Sustainability Note

    32:48 Immigrant Path to Hospitality

    34:56 Little Victories in Service

    38:17 Design vs Operations Reality

    42:15 Dream Projects and Timelessness

    46:35 Hotel and Restaurant Synergy

    49:43 How Lotte Found Them

    51:09 Luck Meets Hard Work

    53:27 Closing Thanks and Farewell


    Quote of the Show:

    "It's exciting for me and for the team here, for them to come into our space… We're not screaming this is Korean to them, but they're loving the design of this restaurant and the hotel." - Thomas Oh


    Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


    Links:

    • Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@defininghospitality?sub_confirmation=1
    • Substack: https://www.defininghospitality.live/
    • BERMANFALK: https://www.bermanfalk.com/
    • Thomas Oh LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-oh-b6164570/
    • Daphne Shin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphne-shin-1a223b44/
    • Daphne Shin Email: daphne@theruimte.com
    • Dan Ryan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedailydanryan/


    Tags:

    #hospitality #Koreancuisine #design #Kwave #defininghospitality #podcasting #ChicagoDining
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    55 mins
  • Curating Luxury Through Sound - Michelangelo L’Acqua - Defining Hospitality

    Curating Luxury Through Sound - Michelangelo L’Acqua - Defining Hospitality
    Mar 25 2026

    In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Michaelangelo L’Acqua, a global entertainment director and music/lifestyle branding expert, to discuss hospitality as “infrastructure” built through sound, motifs, and emotional arcs across dayparts. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this conversation dives into shifting luxury expectations, analog-era craft, and mentoring creatives within business-driven environments.


    Michelangelo shares how sound serves as the unseen architect in the world of hospitality, crafting emotional journeys for guests.


    About the Guest:

    Michaelangelo L'Acqua is a Global Entertainment Director and Founder of his creative strategy agency, L'Acqua Agenzia. With a legacy of working with iconic brands like Virgin Voyages and W Hotels, he brings decades of experience in music branding and luxury lifestyle curation. Known for pioneering concepts like the Sonic Identity Brand Bible, L'Acqua remains a leading voice in integrating sound as a critical component of the hospitality experience, continuously shaping the future of how spaces sound and resonate with their audience.


    Chapters:

    01:17 Whale Shark Memories

    02:51 What Hospitality Means

    03:52 Sonic Architect Idea

    05:09 Motifs and Brand Magic

    07:04 Building a Sonic Bible

    10:18 Sound Drives Revenue

    12:32 Mentors and Early Grind

    14:29 Tom Ford Breakthrough

    17:37 From Fashion to Hotels

    20:30 Analog Era Work Ethic

    23:04 Staying Relevant in Luxury

    27:27 Timeless Formulas and Flow

    30:57 Building Sonic Brand DNA

    33:04 Virgin Voyages Layer Cake

    36:59 W Hotel Reinvents Hospitality

    39:45 Finding Local Tastemakers

    41:29 Mentorship Over Ego

    44:44 Sound Beats Brick

    48:07 Next Decade Soundtrack

    50:49 Timeless Meets New

    53:30 Hall of Fame Tangent

    55:46 Wrap Up And Connect


    Quote of the Show:

    "I truly believe that there are moments I can really tap into unconscious feelings within somebody. And if I can do that… you're gonna walk away from that experience and say that was a great night. I don't know why, but it was just special." - Michelangelo L’Acqua


    Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


    Links:

    • Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@defininghospitality?sub_confirmation=1
    • Substack: https://www.defininghospitality.live/
    • BERMANFALK: https://www.bermanfalk.com/
    • Michelangelo L’Acqua LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelangelo-lacqua/
    • Starwood Hotels: https://www.starwoodhotels.com/
    • Dan Ryan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedailydanryan/


    Tags:

    #DefiningHospitality #HospitalityDesign #HotelDesign #GuestExperience #SonicArchitect #HotelInnovation
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    57 mins
  • Transforming Hospitality for Millennials - Saxton Sharad - Hideaway Inns & Revival Hotels - Episode # 243

    Transforming Hospitality for Millennials - Saxton Sharad - Hideaway Inns & Revival Hotels - Episode # 243
    Mar 18 2026

    In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Saxton Sharad to explore how hospitality and hotel design are evolving for today’s guest experience. Sponsored by BERMANFALK, this conversation dives into micro vacations, invisible hospitality, and how modern leadership is reshaping the way hotels connect with travelers.


    Saxton shares how Hideaway Inns is redefining hospitality by blending local authenticity, frictionless experiences, and thoughtful design to meet the expectations of millennials and Gen Z guests.


    About the Guest:

    Saxton Sharad is the Founder and CEO of Revival Hotels and Hideaway Inns, where he’s building a portfolio of design-forward boutique properties in destinations like Mount Sunapee, Mount Snow, and Lenox. He previously helped scale Graduate Hotels and has worked across major brands, but is now pioneering a high-margin “invisible hospitality” model that’s delivering additional operating profit across his properties.


    Chapters:

    01:15 Office Vibes And Intentionality

    03:03 Defining Hospitality

    05:58 Origins Of The Philosophy

    07:51 Unplugging And Micro Breaks

    09:18 Hideaway Inns Vision

    11:00 Millennial Travel Shift

    14:15 Building From Guest Research

    17:02 Authenticity And Giving Back

    25:59 Invisible Hospitality Platform

    30:30 Innkeeper Model Explained

    36:11 Owner Economics And Margins

    39:58 Lease Deal Sweeteners

    40:36 Scale And Tech Advantage

    44:35 Innkeeper Career Model

    46:53 Fixing Hospitality Turnover

    48:15 Design Led Growth Plan

    50:00 Fandom And Regional Focus

    56:21 Revival Management Focus

    58:41 Invisible Or Full Service

    01:01:35 Authenticity Through Local Art

    01:03:27 Berkshires Travel Pitch

    01:07:59 Wrap Up And Thanks


    Quote of the Show:

    “ I don't care how talented you are or how much money you have in your pocket, you cannot be good at everything. Step into what you're good at, find that strength, and live that strength.” - Saxton Sharad


    Building a hotel, brand, or guest experience? Reach out to Dan on LinkedIn or hit reply on the Substack to share what you’re working on.


    Links:

    • Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@defininghospitality?sub_confirmation=1
    • Substack: https://www.defininghospitality.live/
    • BERMANFALK: https://www.bermanfalk.com/
    • Saxton Sharad LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saxton-sharad-cha-6642a49/
    • Hideaway Inns: https://www.hideawayinns.com/
    • Dan Ryan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedailydanryan/


    Tags:

    #DefiningHospitality #HospitalityDesign #HotelDesign #GuestExperience #MillennialTravel #BoutiqueHotels #HotelInnovation
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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • Exploring Data-Driven Trends - Isaac Collazo - STR - Episode # 242

    Exploring Data-Driven Trends - Isaac Collazo - STR - Episode # 242
    Mar 11 2026
    How does data make the hospitality industry come alive?In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan welcomes Isaac Collazo, the Head of Analytics at STR and Co-Host of "Tell Me More, A Hospitality Data Podcast." They dive into the integral role data plays in the hospitality industry, from informing strategic decisions to influencing how businesses can adapt in changing economic climates.Takeaways:Utilizing data to enhance operational efficiency. Isaac emphasizes how storytelling through data offers valuable insights that can transform guest experiences and improve service delivery.Hospitality is fundamentally about service. By prioritizing the human connections and interactions, businesses can maintain exceptional service standards, no matter the external economic climate.Recession and inflation directly impact strategies and performance. Isaac discusses how staying informed on economic trends helps businesses anticipate and react to market changes effectively.The growing shift from uniformity to personal experiences. Lifestyle brands are emerging as leaders by catering to unique and individualized guest experiences, setting a new standard in the industry.Food and beverage services are essential revenue drivers. By investing in high-quality F&B experiences, hotels can enhance their appeal and drive overall profitability.The notable and optimistic turn in demand trends. Despite some economic uncertainties, the rising demand suggests a promising future for the hospitality sector.Generational preferences influence loyalty. As guest demographics evolve, hospitality businesses must adapt their strategies to cater to a diverse and changing clientele.Quote of the Show:“You want 'em to start with you and stay with you until they no longer travel.” - Isaac CollazoLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaaccollazo/ Company website: https://www.costar.com/products/str-benchmark Shout Outs:1:30 - Adrienne Scribner2:30 - Promise (Hotels) - https://www.promisebrandsuite.com/ 2:30 - Marriott - https://www.marriott.com/ 2:30 - IHG - https://www.ihg.com/ 2:50 - STR - https://www.costar.com/products/str-benchmark 3:10 - Jeff Higley / ALICE Conference - https://www.aliceconference.com/ 5:10 - LaQuinta Inns - https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/laquinta 21:20 - Marriott Bonvoy - https://www.marriott.com/loyalty.mi 23:10 - Kimpton Hotels - https://www.ihg.com/kimptonhotels/ 25:20 - W Hotels - https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/w-hotels/ 30:00 - Hyatt - https://www.hyatt.com/ 30:30 - Tulane University - https://www.tulane.edu/ 35:50 - Jose Andres / Think Food Group - https://www.thinkfoodgroup.com/ 35:50 - Bar Mar - https://www.thinkfoodgroup.com/bar-mar 36:10 - Death & Co (bar at Ramble Hotel Denver) - https://deathandcompany.com/ 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPXApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1sAmazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Hospitality's Soulful Essence Revealed - Stephanie Hopkins - B2 Design Co - Episode # 241

    Hospitality's Soulful Essence Revealed - Stephanie Hopkins - B2 Design Co - Episode # 241
    Mar 4 2026

    How do relationships shape the hospitality industry?


    In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan explores how relationships fundamentally shape the hospitality industry with guest Stephanie Hopkins. As an experienced interior designer and brand specialist, Hopkins shares insights into her extensive career and the essential role that relationships and strategic growth play in navigating the complexities of hospitality.


    Takeaways:

    • Relationships often transcend profession. Stephanie explains that once you get involved in hospitality, it's challenging to leave because it becomes ingrained in your soul.
    • Varied experiences can lead to a dynamic career path. Stephanie's journey from design to brand specialist and back highlights the diverse opportunities within the hospitality industry.
    • Relationships hold significant value. Throughout her career, Stephanie learned to leverage relationships and networks, which allowed her to effectively navigate complex brand environments and developer needs, saving valuable time and resources.
    • Brand development ties to long-term success. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of understanding and maintaining a brand's essence, going so far to say 'no' to potential changes that could dilute a brand’s core
    • Diversified portfolios show skill. B2 Design Co’s portfolio spans across multiple sectors like multifamily, senior living, student housing, and hospitality, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive by integrating hospitality concepts into various living environments.
    • Storytelling in design ensures a cohesive experience. Successful projects often have a well-grounded design narrative that is consistently implemented across all stages.


    Quote of the Show:

    “Being able to ascertain… is that going to compromise the essence of the brand? You have to get to that point and you may have to say no to some really powerful ownership groups.” - Stephanie Hopkins

    Links:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-hopkins-28445a71/
    • Stephanie’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steph_the_hop/
    • B2 Design Co’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b2design.co/
    • Company website: https://www.b2designco.com/


    Shout Outs:

    • 1:13 - Tony Chi - https://tonychi.com/
    • 1:14 - Marriott - https://www.marriott.com/
    • 1:15 - Moxie Brand - https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/moxy-hotels/
    • 1:16 - B2 Design Co - https://b2dc.com/
    • 17:10 - Hyatt - https://www.hyatt.com/
    • 21:20 - Marriott Bonvoy - https://www.marriott.com/loyalty.mi
    • 30:33 - Tulane University - https://www.tulane.edu/


    🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/


    Ways to Tune In:

    • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPX
    • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386
    • Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1s
    • Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419
    • Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/
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    56 mins
  • East Coast Design Expansion - Amy Margolis - BAMO Providence - Episode # 240

    East Coast Design Expansion - Amy Margolis - BAMO Providence - Episode # 240
    Feb 25 2026
    How do detailed preparations elevate hospitality experiences?In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan interviews Amy Margolis, an esteemed interior designer and studio director at Bamo in Providence, Rhode Island. Moving through her career journey from California to the East Coast, Amy shares her thoughts on being deeply rooted in anticipating guests' needs, curating environments that allow people to relax, and creating memorable experiences.Takeaways:Hospitality is an orchestrated experience. Amy illustrates hospitality with an anecdote about Joan Didion's meticulously planned dinner parties, emphasizing the importance of preparation to offer effortless and relaxing experiences for guests.A strategic global footprint enhances service delivery. The expansion of Bamo into different regions allows the firm to better serve clients across various time zones, fostering a diverse range of projects that adapt to regional demands.Understanding guest journeys influences design solutions. Drawing from her experience at Bergmeyer, Amy stresses the importance of tailoring design solutions to enhance unique guest experiences, which is crucial for success in hospitality design.Diverse career transitions enrich design perspectives. Amy's shift from hospitality design in San Francisco to commercial design in Boston provided her with a wealth of experience, enriching her current approach in the hospitality sector.Digital adaptation transforms collaborative practices. The shift to remote work during COVID-19, along with the adoption of tools like Revit, has introduced new ways of managing design and fostered improved team collaboration.Continuous learning fosters dynamic leadership. Amy emphasizes the value of staying open to new ideas and mentoring emerging talents, cultivating a resilient and innovative design practice.Quote of the Show:“Put yourself out there to say yes, to try new things… the biggest thing is to keep educating yourself.” - Amy MargolisLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-reynolds-margolis-ncidq-a625875/ Company website: https://bamo.com/ Shout Outs:1:23 - Brayton and Hughes - https://www.bhdstudios.com/ 1:24 - DLR Group - https://www.dlrgroup.com/1:25 - Wiseman Group - https://www.wisemangroup.com/ 1:26 - Duffy Design Group - https://www.duffydesigngroup.com/ 1:27 - Ann Bergmeyer - https://www.bergmeyer.com/1:28 - Bamo - https://www.bamo.com/ 2:42 - RISD (Rhode Island School of Design) - https://www.risd.edu/ 2:44 - Michael Booth 9:23 - Anne Wilkinson 12:04 - Brown University - https://www.brown.edu/ 19:48 - Ashley Venturini20:20 - Harvard (university) - https://www.harvard.edu/ 20:21 - Wentworth Institute of Technology - https://wit.edu/ 20:22 - MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) - https://www.mit.edu/ 20:23 - NESAD (New England School of Art & Design) - https://www.suffolk.edu/academics/colleges/new-england-school-of-art-design 20:24 - Suffolk University - https://www.suffolk.edu/ 21:00 - Backen & Gillam Architects - https://backengillamarchi.com/ 27:30 - Sergio Mercado (designer, Bamo New York)29:00 - Chatham Luxury Home Summit - https://luxuryhomedesignsummit.com/ 32:10 - NEWH - https://newh.org/ 32:11 - Brick and Wonder - https://brickandwonder.com/ 34:50 - Ocean House, Watch Hill (hotel) - https://www.oceanhouseri.com/ 34:51 - Bretton Woods / Mount Washington (resort) - https://www.brettonwoods.com/ 34:52 - Raffles Boston - https://www.raffles.com/boston/ 35:11 - Chatham Bars Inn - https://www.chathambarsinn.com/ 35:12 - Main Street Hospitality - https://www.mainstreethospitality.com/ 50:10 - Nicole Hollis - https://www.nicolehollis.com/ 50:11 - Howard Backen 53:42 - Glennon Doyle - https://glennondoyle.com/ 54:00 - Embarcadero One 54:01 - Mount Tam / Mount Tamalpais54:02 - Alcatraz 55:30 - Don Winslow - https://www.donwinslow.com/ 55:31 - Austin Butler (actor)🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPXApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1sAmazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/
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    56 mins
  • The Puzzle of Architecture - Andrew Ashey - AAmp Studio - Episode # 239

    The Puzzle of Architecture - Andrew Ashey - AAmp Studio - Episode # 239
    Feb 18 2026
    What does it mean to find joy and creativity in the constraints of adaptive reuse?In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Andrew Ashey, Founder and Principal of AAmp Studio, to discuss the expansive nature of hospitality design, the importance of engaging with diverse community elements, and the delightful challenges presented by adaptive reuse.Takeaways:Architecture is a collaborative puzzle. Andrew finds the challenge of collaboration a central aspect of his practice. Architecture involves working with clients, consultants, and contractors to bring visions to life within existing structures.Context and continuity are vital. Andrew discusses the significance of understanding and preserving the historical context of buildings, particularly in projects like the Municipal Grand in Savannah.Lifelong learning helps the practitioners and the community. Engaging with academic institutions and community organizations allows architects like Andrew to remain at the forefront of design innovation.Approach projects with enthusiasm and creativity. For Andrew, maintaining a balance between professional demands and creative fun is essential.Adaptive reuse champions sustainability. Andrew argues that adaptive reuse is among the most sustainable practices, breathing new life into spaces while preserving their integral stories.Expanding hospitality venues beyond private spaces. Andrew sees these spaces as extensions of the public realm, contributing to the vibrancy of a locality.Quote of the Show:“I find architecture and design to be one big puzzle. That’s what I love most about it.” - Andrew AsheyLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-ashey-a7a9245/ Company website: https://aampstudio.com/ Shout Outs:0:51 - University of Maine Augusta https://www.uma.edu/ 1:02 - Board of Architects https://www.boardofarchitects.org/ 1:19 - AAmp Studio https://aampstudio.com/ 1:35 - Dave and Jenna Kaplan / Death & Co https://www.deathandcompany.com/ 1:59 - NAWH (Newh - The Hospitality Network) https://newh.org/ 8:42 - Anne Marie Armstrong (AAmp Studio Partner)10:08 - AIA Maine https://www.aiamaine.org/ 11:35 - Maine Interior Design Association https://www.midame.org/ 24:13 - Municipal Grand (Savannah) https://municipalgrand.com/ 25:25 - 465 Congress Street, Portland, Maine (Hotel Project)43:45 - SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) https://www.scad.edu/ 48:32 - UNLV Hospitality https://www.unlv.edu/hospitality 51:07 - Deborah Berke / Deborah Berke Partners https://www.dberke.com/ 51:07 - Yale School of Architecture https://www.architecture.yale.edu/ 51:30 - Bridget Shim / Shim-Sutcliffe Architects https://www.shim-sutcliffe.com/ 53:36 - Paul Rudolph (Architect)53:43 - Hotel Marcel (New Haven) https://www.hotelmarcel.com/ 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPXApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1sAmazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/
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    1 min
  • The Value of Storytelling - Ian Sharpe - NextTrip - Episode # 238

    The Value of Storytelling - Ian Sharpe - NextTrip - Episode # 238
    Feb 11 2026
    How can travel channels inspire personal growth and global understanding?In this episode of Defining Hospitality, Dan Ryan sits down with Ian Sharpe, the Chief Operating Officer of Media at NextTrip, to explore the transformative power of hospitality and storytelling in the realm of global travel. With a vast experience spanning video games and visual media, Ian delves into the intricate tapestry of how cutting-edge technology, media, and human connection shape the way we experience the world.Takeaways:Hospitality is about turning strangers into friends. Ian Sharpe emphasizes this historical tradition as the core of Journey TV’s mission to celebrate diverse cultures and connect people globally.Journey TV transforms inspiration into itineraries. By drawing on video game industry techniques, the network integrates storytelling with travel booking for an enriched travel experience.Authenticity drives Journey TV's content. The network focuses on human stories, whether culinary or adventurous, to explore why people travel and engage deeply with viewers.Cultural richness is captured through storytelling. Programs like "Tide" and "Borderless Table" highlight local experiences, providing a comprehensive view of destinations.Technology enhances viewer engagement. Journey TV uses QR codes and AI-driven itineraries to turn inspiration into seamless travel planning.Travel fosters growth and connection. Journey TV promotes travel as a way to build understanding and friendship, supporting Dan’s vision of hospitality as a human bridge.Quote of the Show:“A storyteller is all about weaving with the imagination. If you can convert that to commerce, then the shareholders are all the happier.” - Ian SharpeLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianstuartsharpe/ Company website: https://nexttrip.com/ Shout Outs:1:10 - Journey TV https://www.journeytv.com/ 1:10 - Next Trip (NASDAQ: NTRP) https://www.nexttrip.com/ 13:50 - WTM (World Travel Market) https://www.wtm.com/ 13:50 - Trend Fest (at WTM)15:35 - Samsung Smart TV https://www.samsung.com/ 15:35 - LG TV https://www.lg.com/ 15:35 - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/ 17:00 - Brand USA https://www.visittheusa.com/ 17:15 - Fin Partners (PR Agency)17:40 - Aman Tourism Board17:55 - Iron Man (Endurance Race) https://www.ironman.com/ 20:50 - Tide (Journey TV Show)20:55 - Chef Ben and Chef Rachel (Below Deck)20:55 - Below Deck (Bravo) https://www.bravotv.com/below-deck 21:10 - Sea Cloud (Luxury Cruise) https://www.seacloud.com/ 25:10 - Borderless Table (Journey TV Show)25:15 - Paradise Kitchen (Journey TV Show)27:15 - Anthony Bourdain46:55 - Go USA Channels49:25 - Five Star Alliance https://www.fivestaralliance.com/ 🏨✨ Defining Hospitality is Sponsored by Berman Falk https://www.bermanfalk.com/ - Check out their impact page! 🌍🌱 https://www.bermanfalk.com/impact/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPXApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/defining-hospitality-podcast/id1573596386Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1sAmazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/
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    54 mins