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It's Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast

It's Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast

By: David Kong Dorothy Dowling Rachel Humphrey Lan Elliott
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 At It’s Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast, we believe that leadership is shaped as much by setbacks and self-doubt as by achievements and accolades. That’s why we go beyond titles and résumés to uncover the personal journeys of hospitality leaders—the moments of vulnerability, resilience, and courage that define true success.


Since 2022, our mission has been to empower the next generation of leaders by sharing unfiltered stories of growth from across the industry. With more than 250 interviews and counting, we’ve built a library of candid conversations that reveal not only strategies for professional advancement, but also lessons in authenticity, balance, and perseverance.

Recognized each year by the International Hospitality Institute as a top hospitality podcast, It’s Personal Stories continues to inspire dreamers and doers to push boundaries, embrace challenges, and pursue their goals with confidence. Learn more and watch the Interviews at www.ItsPersonalStories.com and Follow Us here on LinkedIn.© 2026 It's Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast Career Success Economics Management Management & Leadership Personal Development Personal Success
Episodes
  • Jeff Weinstein, Editor in Chief, Hotel Investment Today, interviewed by David Kong

    Jeff Weinstein, Editor in Chief, Hotel Investment Today, interviewed by David Kong
    Mar 25 2026

    For decades, Jeff Weinstein told the stories of others. This time, it’s his story.

    A deeply personal conversation about leadership, integrity, fatherhood, and the perspective gained from raising a son with autism. A reminder that success is one thing, but who we become along the way matters far more.
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    30 mins
  • Tina Patel, Chief Financial Officer, Promise Hotels, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey

    Tina Patel, Chief Financial Officer, Promise Hotels, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
    Mar 19 2026

    Tina shares the pivotal moments behind her career route from college biology major to CFO and how she developed the skills and subject matter expertise to be successful. She talks about her board service on the Federal Reserve and a community bank, how and why she commits her voice to advocacy on behalf of the industry, and how she navigates a family business. Tina discusses building great teams, overcoming self doubt, and the principles that guide her daily journey.
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    30 mins
  • Kaushik Vardharajan, Director, Real Estate Programs, Boston University, School of Hospitality Administration

    Kaushik Vardharajan, Director, Real Estate Programs, Boston University, School of Hospitality Administration
    Mar 16 2026

    Kaushik’s perspective reminds us that progress comes from curiosity and continuous learning. When we focus on building knowledge instead of fearing the unknown, opportunities expand. His advice encourages us to keep learning, keep asking questions, and keep saying Yes to growth.
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    35 mins
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