Best Fran León Podcasts (2024)

1
Jay Shah, Senior Advisor, Hersha Hotels & Resorts, interviewed by Lan Elliott 35:38

3d ago35:38

35:38

Jay describes the important distinction between managing and leading, and he shares his approach to taking risks. He also explains why the easiest approach to networking is thinking of it as developing friendships, and why hospitality is a great connector. He shares a quote that helps overcome self-doubt, and why slowing down for big decisions can …

1
Fran Brasseux, CEO, ICHRIE interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 34:42

7d ago34:42

34:42

Fran's career journey, emphasizing the importance of patience, perseverance, and personal empowerment. Fran shares her experiences transitioning from the hotel industry to association management and academia, highlighting the complexities and rewards of working within associations to make impactful changes.…

1
Jacqueline Gifford_ Editor-in-Chief_ Travel & Leisure Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 29:19

14d ago29:19

29:19

Jacqui discusses her love of books, how living and traveling internationally have impacted her leadership, and how she manages her heavy travel schedule. She shares her strategies for effective public speaking and which skill she thinks is important in any industry but also as a life skill. Jacqui also talks about the efforts behind increasing dive…

1
Chirag Shah, Executive Vice President, Federal and Political Affairs & Counsel, AHLA Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 32:30

20d ago32:30

32:30

Chirag discusses how he builds important relationships especially when election cycles change frequently those who hold leadership positions. He talks about lifelong leadership lessons he learned as both a high school attendee and an annual counselor at Boys State and other lessons from his professors and mentors. He also shares his advice on work …

1
Brian Leon, CEO of Choice Hotels Canada interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 35:26

15d ago35:26

35:26

Brian, a seasoned franchise business leader, has steered Choice Canada's franchise support and business development. Drawing on his family’s legacy in Canadian franchising, Brian's strategic decisions, have positioned him as an adept leader, dedicated to fostering the success of franchisees.By David Kong

1
Azim Saju, CEO, ARK Holdings Group, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 30:06

20d ago30:06

30:06

Azim discusses his path from employment lawyer to hotelier, the importance for him of his involvement with associations, and why he prefers to build his relationships over dinner. He shares why he'd tell his younger self to have fun, surround yourself with good people, and invest in yourself. Azim also shares why he takes risks and how his risks on…

1
Dawn Gallagher, Chief Commercial Officer, Crescent Hotels & Resorts interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 36:35

21d ago36:35

36:35

Dawn shares her career journey from front desk associate to Chief Commercial Officer at Crescent Hotels and Resorts. She reveals strategic career decisions, driven by a growth mindset, hard work and dedication to excellence.By David Kong

1
David Kong, Closing Keynote of HSMAIL Intercollegiate Global Conference 36:45

22d ago36:45

36:45

David uses his career journey to explain the three phases of leadership, progressing from an individual contributor to a team leader and ultimately evolving into a change-making visionary. He passionately discusses the inspiration behind establishing DEI Advisors and articulates his goals for the future. Additionally, David candidly reflects on one…

1
Lindsey Ueberroth_ President & CEO_ Preferred Hotels & Resorts_ interviewed by David Kong 27:28

24d ago27:28

27:28

Lindsey delves into the pivotal moments of her transformative journey at Preferred Hotels & Resorts, highlighting key lessons she's gleaned. She discusses the importance of integrating diverse perspectives, reflects on invaluable advice she's received, and outlines the qualities she prioritizes when interviewing executive candidates. Additionally, …

1
Michelle Jensen Session, Co-Founder, Aquarius Hospitality Solutions, Interviewed by David Kong 37:07

30d ago37:07

37:07

Michelle shares her career journey and the personal mantra that guides her. We discuss her general approach to challenges, taking risks, as well as imposter syndrome. She offers networking and communication tips. Finally, she shares her thoughts on personal empowerment.By David Kong

1
Miraj Patel_ President of Wayside Investment Group_ Interviewed by David Kong 27:41

1M ago27:41

27:41

Incoming AAHOA chairman Miraj Patel shares his career journey, his key learnings, and secrets to his success. We discuss his personal mantra and the best advice he received from his parents. He offers thoughts on effective communication, networking, and risk-taking. We also discuss leadership qualities that he admires the most.…

1
Julie Arrowsmith, President & CEO, G6 Hospitality, interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 29:20

1M ago29:20

29:20

Julie discusses her style of leadership, the biggest lesson she's learned over the past year, and how it will impact her moving forward. She shares her approach to public speaking, how she overcomes self doubts, and how staying fresh and learning the whole business helped her grow during her first 29 years at G6, eventually resulting in her current…

1
Joel Eisemann, Senior Advisor, Noble Investment Group, interviewed by Lan Elliott 42:30

1M ago42:30

42:30

A highly-respected senior leader, Joel has mentored many of the industry’s top leaders. In this interview, Joel shares what he learned from three pivotal roles in his career as well as how he maximized opportunities to learn from industry icons early on. Joel shares how he approaches challenges, the importance of maintaining relationships, and the …

1
Heena Patel, SVP of Rental Operations, Digital Marketing & Commerce, Travel & Leisure Interviewed by David Kong 32:40

2M ago32:40

32:40

Heena shares her career journey and the advice she has received from her mentors and advocates. We discuss her approach to challenges, how she built her extensive network, and the “Imposter Syndrome”. She offers advice on improving communication skills, taking risks, and personal empowerment. She also shares her thoughts on the most important leade…

1
Kristie Goshow, CCO KSL Resorts interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 38:37

2M ago38:37

38:37

Embark on an inspiring journey with Kristie Goshow, Chief Commercial Officer at KSL Resorts, as she shares anecdotes of those who believed in her, supported her, and fueled her passion for the industry. Kristie's personal story, filled with mentors and opportunities, resonates deeply, offering insights for both personal and professional growth.…

1
Traci Mercer, SVP & Head of Accommodations, Priceline interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 31:10

2M ago31:10

31:10

Traci shares her remarkable life and career journey, highlighting her transformative approach to tackling challenges with a positive mindset. Traci offers profound insights. Venturing into growth roles and relocating to Asia, she embraced diverse perspectives, enriching her cultural awareness. Traci advocates for discarding the notion of a rigid wo…

1
Courtney Act + Alexander Leon | Voice notes for life 53:00

2M ago53:00

53:00

When Courtney Act lobbed on the steps of Australia House in London, life was crazy. She had just won the UK reality TV juggernaut Celebrity Big Brother and made headlines for the calm and eloquent way she approached big issues like marriage equality and trans rights. Alex Leon, an Australian expat and LGBTQIA+ advocate, had booked her to appear tha…

1
Narelda Jacobs + Kween Kong | A crush from afar 52:00

2M ago52:00

52:00

For the longest time, they admired each other from a distance. Journalist Narelda Jacobs was transfixed by Ru Paul's Drag Race Star Kween Kong. And all the while, Kween quietly watched Narelda's advocacy work. When they finally connected, they didn't pause to sweat the small stuff. Narelda Jacobs and Kween Kong go deep on the art of drag, queer fri…

1
Katrina Gorry + Michelle Heyman | Football is just the start 54:00

2M ago54:00

54:00

In the intense world of professional football, fierce competition and relentless schedules often define relationships. But the bond between Matilda's players Katrina Gorry and Michelle Heyman stands as a testament to the enduring power of friendship. As they navigate the highs and lows of their careers, Gorry and Heyman have forged a connection tha…

1
Josh Thomas + Courtney Smith | Love, friendship and terrible acting 50:00

2M ago50:00

50:00

He was a successful young stand-up comedian starring in his own TV show. She was a divorced mother of two. Despite her terrible acting, a friendship sparked between the pair. In the years since, Josh Thomas and Courtney Smith have laughed their way through fame, heartbreak, a couple of diagnoses and at least one significant love story.…

1
Ita Buttrose + Bill Bowtell | A friendship forged through crisis 53:30

2M ago53:30

53:30

As Australia grappled with the unprecedented challenges of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, two unlikely people found each other. Bill Bowtell, a senior government health advisor, lent his expertise to the battle against the epidemic. At the same time, Ita Buttrose, a formidable force in the world of media, provided unwavering support and a platform for awar…

1
Danielle Laidley and Stuart Aubrey | Courage on both sides 45:00

2M ago45:00

45:00

In the hyper-masculine world of footy and politics, Danielle Laidley and Stuart Aubrey both harbored a secret. Danielle, a former footy champ, kept her gender dysphoria under wraps during her playing days. Stuart, who spent his twenties as a FIFO worker in the mines, kept his gay identity a secret. In a world where personal battles are often hidden…

1
INTRODUCING Yours Queerly 1:00

2M ago1:00

1:00

Fran Kelly interviews prominent Australians on their connection to the rainbow community, to each other, and to themselves. For every queer person, there was the one that came before them. The one that stood next to them. The one that inspired them. Or the one that changed them, forever. Join Fran Kelly as she sits down with two colourful guests to…

1
Eva Wassermann, Senior Managing Director, GEM Realty Capital, interviewed by Lan Elliott 33:20

2M ago33:20

33:20

Eva discusses how her mentors propelled her career forward, and she shares the source of her motivation. She describes how she develops her network and overcomes self-doubt as well as how she navigates the tightrope of being strong and kind at the same time. Eva also discusses what people can do to distinguish themselves, and how combining hard wor…

1
Steve Allmen, EVP Strategy and Partnerships, CAA National interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 37:53

3M ago37:53

37:53

Embark on a captivating career journey with this Steve Allmen, as he grew his career from early startup involvement in data provision and loyalty coalitions to becoming a seasoned loyalty expert and consultant. Steve shares his invaluable lessons from adversity and how his consulting practice positioned him for his executive role of strategic advis…

1
Greg Aden, Owner & Founder, Aden Leadership Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 32:12

3M ago32:12

32:12

Greg discusses the evolution of his leadership, including the many skills he needed to develop to become a servant leader. He shares how important communication is and why to be able to advocate successfully it takes two parties - the one communicating the message and the one available to truly hear it. Greg talks about self care and how parenting …

1
Flo Lugli, Founder & Principal, Navesink Advisory Group interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 30:21

3M ago30:21

30:21

Join Flo Lugli as she discusses her career journey, starting as a line employee at People Express Airlines and rising to the Presidency of Wizcom, eventually becoming EVP of Gallileo and Travelport. Explore her remarkable career in distribution and technology, where she served as a trailblazing role model for women in the field. Flo also reflects o…

1
Amanda Voss VP of Sales Bellagio interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 42:26

3M ago42:26

42:26

Join Amanda Voss on a 20+ year journey with MGM Resorts, from a reservation agent to VP of the iconic Bellagio Hotel Sales Team. Learn how MGM supports career growth. Discover her transformation from individual contributor to team leader, managing high-pressure situations, and empowering her team for success.…

1
Matt Fry, Former Senior VP, Development, Asia Pacific, Hilton, interviewed by Lan Elliott 38:46

3M ago38:46

38:46

Matt shares how advocating for himself eventually led to his role as Starwood’s SVP, Global Development and what he learned about leading diverse teams when he moved to Asia. He describes how to find mentors and how a mentor inspired him when he began leading teams. Matt explains how he develops lasting relationships despite being an introvert, and…

1
Mike Leven Interviewed by David Kong and Rachel Humphrey 31:14

3M ago31:14

31:14

Industry icon Mike Leven shares some of the challenges he faced in his illustrious career and how he overcame them. We talk about the important lessons he learned from his father and his bosses. He reveals his secret to building a successful franchise business. We discuss his mantra and his advice to students. He offers his advice on building a gre…

1
Steve Palmer, Founder, The Indigo Road Hospitality Group Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 29:54

3M ago29:54

29:54

Steve shares how communication and trust are the cornerstones to creating a corporate culture where people come first and can advocate for themselves. He discusses the importance of self-care and wellness and why he advocates for mental health and co-founded Ben's Friends. He talks about why passion and grit can take you far and how you tackle obst…

1
Stuart Greif, Executive VP, Forbes Travel Guide interviewed by David Kong 38:14

3M ago38:14

38:14

Stuart shares the pivotal moments that altered his career trajectory. He offers his ideas on improving diversity, equity and inclusion as well as allyship. We discuss his role as a strategic adviser and the best advice he has given and received. Stuart offers tips on improving one’s persuasion skills and building a culture of innovation and continu…

1
Winnie Ho, VP Digital and Technology Solutions, MGM in Macau, interviewed by David Kong 31:04

3M ago31:04

31:04

Winnie shares her story of rising in a field traditionally dominated by men. We discuss formal and informal mentorship, her focus on staff development, and how she overcame the “Imposter Syndrome”. She offers her thoughts on taking risks and advice to her younger self and self-empowerment.By David Kong

1
Lori Kiel, Chief Commercial Officer, Kessler Collection interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 35:15

4M ago35:15

35:15

Lori Kiel, a self-made leader in hospitality, embodies intentionality and accountability on her path to success. Her journey, marked by self-ownership and determination, has led her to excel as a commercial leader. Lori's commitment to learning and maintaining a growth mindset continues to fuel her growth while she passionately gives back to the in…

1
Karim Abouelnaga, Founder & CEO, PRACTICE Benefit Corp., interviewed by Lan Elliott 41:58

4M ago41:58

41:58

Karim shares his unique journey and the mindsets that set him apart. He discusses how self-reflection and introspection helped him turn around his business at a critical point. Karim discusses the backstory of his 2017 TED Talk, one of the 9 Most Inspiring TED Talks that year, and how he embraces imposter syndrome. He also explains how to find your…

1
Ross Bierkan, Founder & Principal, Wellfleet Equity, interviewed by Lan Elliott 30:36

4M ago30:36

30:36

Ross describes his journey to CEO of RLJ Lodging Trust and beyond. He discusses how he helped found and build a number of key hospitality companies, and how RLJ built and continues to maintain a diverse team. A voracious reader, Ross shares his favorite resources for continuing to grow his business knowledge, and what it takes to be successful in b…

1
Bart Berkey, TEDx Motivational Speaker, interviewed by David Kong 36:37

4M ago36:37

36:37

Bart shares highlights of his career journey transitioning from Global Executive at Ritz Carlton to starting his firm. We discuss his TEDx experience and how his show became the “top 15% Most Shared Podcasts in the world”. He shares the best advice he heard on his show and how he connects with the audience in public speaking. He offers advice on co…

1
Greg Juceam, President & CEO, Extended Stay America interviewed by David Kong 32:31

4M ago32:31

32:31

Greg shares the pivotal moments of his career trajectory and the key factors that contributed to his success. We discuss diversity and inclusion, and the best advice he received from his mentors. Greg offers advice on taking risks, rebounding from setbacks, and overcoming challenges. He sheds light on the lessons he learned, and his advice to his y…

1
Mario Hardy, Managing Director, MAP2 Ventures, interviewed by David Kong 32:01

4M ago32:01

32:01

Dr. Hardy shares his impressive career journey and highlights some factors contributing to his success. We delve into his approach to challenges and lessons learned from his failures. We discuss the importance of risk-taking and the important leadership traits in today’s highly competitive environment. He offers advice on work-life harmony, network…

1
Phil Hugh, Head of Lodging Development, Lifestyle and Luxury Brands, Sonesta Hotels & Resorts, Interviewed by Rachel Hunphrey 29:11

5M ago29:11

29:11

Phil shares how he adapts to corporate transitions and the new teams which form from those transitions, including how he develops and leads his own teams. He discusses managing business travel, including self care and connectivity with his team. Phil talks about how the relationships he has made throughout his hospitality career, from night auditor…

1
Lovell Casiero, SVP Commerical Strategies, PM Hotel Group interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 38:17

5M ago38:17

38:17

Lovell’s inspiring journey from an administrative role to Chief Commercial Officer at PM Hotel Group is remarkable. Her work ethic, guided by her parent’s advice, and the support of mentors have been pivotal. She advocates for not burning bridges and actively managing one’s career to achieve coveted roles.…

1
Jim McPartlin, Leadership Coach, All Good People Corp, interviewed by Lan Elliott 37:04

5M ago37:04

37:04

Jim shares his incredible journey from leading openings at his dream hotels, traveling to the greatest 5-star hotels in the world with Forbes Travel Guide, culminating with his current company, where he enables leaders and teams to better understand themselves and lead their teams using the Enneagram. Jim discusses how he developed his public speak…

1
Susie Grynol, President & CEO, Hotel Association of Canada interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 37:27

5M ago37:27

37:27

Susie Grynol, CEO of the Hotel Association of Canada, shares her remarkable career journey from parliamentary page to leadership. Her strategic planning, empathy, and purpose-driven approach define her leadership style. She played a pivotal role in uniting businesses during the pandemic, collaborating with the Canadian government to support and rev…

1
Kelly Kuhn, Non-Executive Director & Special Advisor interviewed by Dorothy Dowling 33:50

5M ago33:50

33:50

In an enlightening interview, Kelly Kuhn’s global executive journey in travel management is explored. She champions inclusive leadership, empowering leaders in Asia to develop their careers. Kelly’s legacy lies in her team’s success. Her guiding principle is asking questions, allowing her team to find answers. She serves as an independent director …

1
Aly El-Bassuni, Divisional President, Aimbridge Hospitality Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 28:02

5M ago28:02

28:02

Aly discusses why he insists on leading a corporate culture which includes self-care. He shares why he and his family have opted to move several times to support his career and how he evaluates those decisions along with tackling other risks and challenges. He talks about relationship building in a small industry and developing leadership skills, e…

1
DEI Advisors Thanksgiving Message 0:51

5M ago0:51

0:51

Thanksgiving is comprised of two words – “Thanks” and “Giving”. At DEI Advisors, we have so much to be thankful for. We are grateful for the opportunities our industry has given us, and the friendship and support we have received from you. We believe in a greater calling in being a leader – a responsibility to “give”. So many remarkable people have…

1
Thom Geshay, CEO & President, Davidson Hospitality Group, interviewed by Lan Elliott 31:58

5M ago31:58

31:58

Thom shares how mentors and his innate curiosity were instrumental in his rise from bellman to CEO of Davidson, and how learning to delegate and trust his team benefits everyone. He discusses how many decisions involve risk, the dangers of waiting until you gather 100% of the data, and the need to be supportive when your team takes calculated risks…

1
Matt Campbell, COO, My Place Hotels Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 29:12

5M ago29:12

29:12

Matt discusses his journey from general counsel to COO and the ways he continually develops the new skills he needs to transition roles. He shares why he's passionate about board and non-profit service and the leadership lessons he's learned from youth sports. Matt talks about what he looks for in hiring talented team members and how empathy has ev…

1
Sean Mahoney, EVP & Chief Financial Officer, RLJ Lodging Trust, interviewed by Lan Elliott 30:55

6M ago30:55

30:55

Sean discusses how his curiosity helped him to rise quickly. He explains the importance of including others along the way to build support for initiatives – and why hallway discussions are critical. Sean shares valuable advice on public speaking he learned from friends trained in broadcasting, and he explains why imposter syndrome gets more acute a…

1
Jenn Clark Fugolo, VP of Advancement, AHLA Foundation Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey 29:28

6M ago29:28

29:28

Jenn shares how her personal mantra of "love yourself, mix it up, and keep it moving" guides her journey through life. She also discusses the many ways that her support system is an integral, impactful part of her life and leadership. Jenn talks about why it is important for her to have a voice for others and also to make sure we advocate for ourse…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Fran León Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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