Episode 8: Peter Twachtman, CEO of Lark Hotels

Welcome to the latest episode of Bed & Butter: THE Hospitality Podcast. Our host, Sean Riley, brings on Peter Twachtman, the charismatic CEO of Lark Hotels. Listen as Peter recounts his growth from being a busboy to heading one of America’s rapidly expanding companies in the boutique hotel sector. Get a glimpse of Peter’s people-centric leadership style and focus on core values.

Peter talks about how Lark Hotels sets itself apart from other hotel management firms by ingeniously blending design, marketing, and finance to redefine the hospitality industry. Explore Peter’s innovative hotel brands, including Blind Tiger, Bluebird, and AWOL, all operating under the Lark Hotels umbrella. These brands are reshaping the customer experience in the hospitality sector. This episode is a must-listen for those intrigued by the thriving boutique hotels sector, leadership insights in hospitality, and the significance of adhering to core values on the path to success. In the second part of our episode, we delve into a thought-provoking discussion on the value of maintaining a balanced professional and personal life. With a wealth of knowledge to offer, this episode isn’t just for young professionals seeking to drive their careers but is also beneficial for anyone seeking balance and growth in their professional journey.

Episode 7: Whitney Knight, Director of Brand Management for Homewood Suites by Hilton

Welcome to the latest episode of Bed and Butter: THE Hospitality Podcast. This week, we talk with brand enthusiast Whitney Knight, Director of Brand Management for Homewood Suites by Hilton, about the core branding elements in the hospitality industry. Learn how she deftly navigates guest experience, service culture, and underlying business models in one of the world’s top hotel chains. From high-level partnership decisions to managing the pandemic’s impacts, this episode paints a compelling picture of corporate resilience and alignment with brand vision.

This episode is a goldmine of advice for career advancement. Moreover, it explores the unique opportunities offered in the industry, emphasizing the importance of persistence, networking, and a proactive approach. Plus, get a glimpse of fascinating travel experiences and the cultural diversity in the industry. This conversation is not just a valuable resource for anyone looking to elevate their understanding of hospitality branding and career progression, but also a testament to the crucial role hospitality plays in our global landscape. Tune in to deepen your knowledge and find inspiration for your journey in the world of hospitality, and feel proud to be a part of an industry that impacts lives worldwide.

Episode 6: Virginia Blair, Maine Course Hospitality Group Hampton Inn General Manager

Welcome to the latest episode of Bed & Butter: THE Hospitality Podcast! Join your host, Sean Riley, as he delves into an insightful conversation with accomplished Maine Course Hospitality Group (MCHG) Hampton Inn General Manager Virginia Blair. In this episode, gain insight into Virginia’s remarkable journey from part-time night auditor to general manager—an invaluable lesson for both students and professionals in the hospitality industry. The discussion offers lessons on professional growth, balancing work and personal life, and cultivating success as a process. Explore Virginia’s unique philosophy of success and her insights on fostering a close-knit work environment through personal connections. As a member of Hampton’s National Advisory Committee, Virginia also offers a glimpse into the latest trends in the hospitality industry. Whether you’re just starting or an industry veteran, let Virginia’s approach to success and the sector inspire you. In addition to these career insights, this episode takes a deep dive into the challenges of working in the fast-paced, high-pressure hospitality industry. Tune in to this compelling episode, which serves as a timely reminder of the importance of self-care for leaders, students, and professionals.

Episode 5: Jamie Mulley, Corporate Director of Operations of Maine Course Hospitality Group

In the latest episode of Bed and Butter, THE Hospitality Podcast, host Sean Riley invites Jamie Mulley, the Corporate Director of Operations for Maine Course Hospitality Group, to share her rich journey in the hospitality industry, paving a path from a server to a coveted leadership position. Mulley’s insights form an invaluable guide for aspiring hospitality professionals. She discusses the industry’s vitality of passion, perseverance, and people-focused principles. Sharing personal anecdotes, wise lessons, and best practices, she emphasizes the pivotal role of kindness, patience, and a willingness to learn from failures. The conversation further steers towards the future of the hospitality industry, which envisages an increasing adoption of technology, an augmented focus on guest experiences, and the potential inclusion of AI. Mulley enlightens listeners on how to navigate these changes and opportunities in the industry.

Episode 4: Matt McClelland, Chief Operating Officer of OTO Development

Welcome to another episode of Bed & Butter, your go-to podcast for all things hospitality. We have a riveting conversation with industry leader Matt McClelland. Matt spent over 26 years with the renowned Concord Hospitality Group and recently became Chief Operating Officer of OTO Development, part of The Johnson Group, an award-winning hotel development and hospitality management company. He tells his inspiring tale—from a front desk clerk in Des Moines to helming one of the most prestigious hospitality groups in America. In this episode, Matt highlights the importance of relationships and quality service in the food and beverage sector. He unveils his personal philosophy of success, interwoven with heartfelt anecdotes of his journey – exploring themes of passion, kindness, respect, and enjoyment of work. Delving into various aspects of leadership, the discussion sheds light on the power of empathy, consistency, and personal touch. Moreover, it emphasizes the role of effective organization, detailed planning, and a forward-thinking approach in maintaining a vibrant work environment.

Episode 3: Bo Byrne, Renowned Chef and Professor at Southern Maine Community College

Join us for another episode of Bed & Butter: THE Hospitality Podcast, where host Sean Riley sits down with Bo Byrne, a renowned chef and professor at Southern Maine Community College. Spotlighting the breadth of opportunities in the hospitality industry, Bo shares about his fascinating journey in the culinary world and the inspiration behind being an educator in his field. His unique insights into the myriad possibilities in the hospitality industry are not only enlightening but also incredibly motivating for those thinking of stepping into the industry. Bo also shares vital insights on the diverse elements involved in the restaurant business, encouraging his learners to investigate beyond cooking and into the entrepreneurship facet of this robust industry.

Episode 2: Ginny Petrovic, the Chief Enthusiast of Canopy by Hilton in Portland, Maine

In this episode, Bed & Butter host Sean Riley chats with Ginny Petrovic, the Chief Enthusiast of Canopy by Hilton in Portland, Maine. Ginny shares her journey from working summer jobs and internships to becoming the hotel’s General Manager. She talks about her passion for Maine and how she built her career in her favorite state. Ginny explains how the Canopy ethos is that every associate is an enthusiast who shares their excitement for the industry.

Episode 1: Introducing the Bed & Butter Podcast and Host Sean Riley

In this episode, Sean and Jamie Mulley, Corporate Director of Operations, explore the podcast’s purpose: inspiring budding hospitality professionals. Produced in collaboration with Southern Maine Community College and Communications & New Media Studies program students, the program integrates national leaders discussing opportunities for culinary arts and hospitality students. Sean reflects on his diverse career, starting from a 19-room motel to becoming CEO of Maine Course Hospitality Group. The duo emphasizes the podcast’s target audience—students and industry newcomers—and teases the exciting lineup of future guests, ranging from senior executives to chefs and insiders with unique industry perspectives.