In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk sits down with Steve Galbreath, the Chief Development Officer of Garfield Public Private LLC.

Steve discusses his journey from being an architect to a hospitality developer. He provides insights into the work Garfield Public Private LLC does in helping cities, airports, and universities develop convention centers and hotels.

The conversation also covers his first hospitality project in the Bahamas, the importance of good design, and how he navigated the transition from architecture to development. Steve shares his thoughts on working with city governments, the economic impact of hotel projects, and offers advice to young professionals about taking risks and enjoying their career journey. This episode is packed with valuable information for anyone interested in hospitality development, city planning, and architecture.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:46 Overview of Garfield Public Private LLC

02:28 Steve's First Job in Hospitality

04:12 Early Career and Transition to Architecture

06:09 Challenges and Lessons in Architecture

07:27 Journey into Hotel Projects

09:40 Career Growth and Opportunities

17:13 Joining Garfield and New Beginnings

24:35 Current Trends and Future Prospects

27:21 The Importance of Convention Hotels

30:30 Challenges in the Hospitality Industry

34:12 Designing for Comfort and Convenience

38:24 Exploring New Hospitality Trends

49:39 Advice for Aspiring Developers

54:41 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Fernando Rojas, partner of Agency BE. Fernando shares his unique journey from his early passion for banking in Ecuador to his flourishing career in the hospitality and events industry. He discusses his adventurous move to the UAE, the challenges of launching an event company in Miami, and his current project, the World Travel Expo (WTE Miami) 2024, highlighting how curiosity and risk-taking have driven his success. Listeners can expect insights on entrepreneurial perseverance, the evolution of Agency BE, and the importance of the WTE Miami show.

00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast

00:37 Meet Fernando Rojas: Partner of Agency BE

01:21 Current Projects: World Travel Expo 2024

02:53 Fernando's Journey: From Banking to Hospitality

07:29 Life in the UAE: Cultural Experiences and Challenges

13:47 Starting a New Life in Miami

15:24 The Birth of Agency BE

20:37 Challenges and Lessons in the Event Industry

23:44 The Turning Point: Winning the Fontainebleau Contract

24:38 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Curiosity

26:43 The Dynamic World of Event Management

30:17 The Evolution of Blooming Events

33:58 Launching the World Travel Expo

46:12 Advice to Young Entrepreneurs

50:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk sits down with Cesar Wurm, Vice President of Commercial, Premium Brands for IHG® Hotels & Resorts and an accomplished author. Cesar shares his unique journey from an overnight room service assistant in Sao Paulo to a key figure in the hospitality industry. Listeners will gain insights into Cesar's career progression, his struggles with addiction, and how he overcame them. The discussion also touches on the industry's challenges, resilience, and the importance of being true to oneself. Cesar’s story is both inspiring and educational, providing valuable lessons for both seasoned professionals and newcomers in hospitality.

00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast

00:35 Meet Cesar Wurm: Vice President of Commercial for IHG

01:14 Cesar's First Job in Hospitality

05:20 The Journey from Room Service to Sales

05:31 Transitioning to International Experience

09:52 Returning to Sheraton as Director of Sales

12:31 Joining Starwood Hotels

16:08 The Move to Trust Hospitality

19:11 Joining Intercontinental Hotels

26:51 Teaching and Giving Back to the Community

29:43 Aligning Personal and Professional Causes

30:18 Returning to IHG: A Career Move

33:10 Navigating New Roles and Responsibilities

35:03 Driving Business in the Hospitality Industry

38:00 Challenges and Opportunities in Hospitality

42:04 The Power of Addiction: A Personal Journey

54:37 Advice for the Next Generation

01:01:13 Final Thoughts and Contact Information