The Only Hospitality Podcast that Gives You:
Real Stories. Real Leaders. Real Lessons.

Personal Stories, Powerful Insights, Leadership that Inspires

It’s Personal Stories brings you behind the scenes of hospitality’s most inspiring leaders. With 300 candid interviews, from C-suite executives and educators to authors, founders, and innovators. The series uncovers the defining moments, unexpected detours, and breakthrough experiences that shaped their journeys. These are the stories you rarely hear but always remember.

Every conversation crackles with energy, honesty, and real-world wisdom. Guest advisors open up about the risks they took, the doubts they overcame, and the turning points that changed everything, offering insights you can immediately apply to your own career and life. Whether you're seeking direction, motivation, or a spark of courage, these stories will inspire you to aim higher and move forward with confidence.

Testimonials from Guest Advisors

Leslie Hale
Leslie Hale
Leslie Hale
"I love It's Personal Stories podcast because it permitted me to bring to light my own story in the journey. It's truly personal in that each of us has a unique journey through one of the myriad sectors of the industry."
Peter Ricci
"I'm grateful for the opportunity to join David and an impressive lineup of guests on this podcast, which honors the humanity of leaders, creates space for meaningful reflection, and inspires the next generation in hospitality."
Mark Hoplamazian
"What I appreciated most about being interviewed was the opportunity to reflect on my experiences and share lessons that can help others succeed."
Leslie Hale
"Sharing my story helped me be seen and understood as I entered the hospitality industry, giving my journey context and creating a launchpad for everything that followed."
Anna Blue
"This podcast matters because it delivers invaluable lessons in resilience and authentic leadership, proving that the most impactful stories are always personal."
Anthony Melchiorri
"It’s Personal Stories works because it reminds people that leadership starts with a life, not a resume. One honest conversation can do more good than a stack of playbooks."
Bashar Wali
"This podcast matters because we are in the business of making human connections every day, every stay. In today’s ever changing technology landscape, we can never lose sight that genuine hospitality from the heart is the greatest act of selfless giving."
Brian King
"It’s Personal Stories is a unique platform that provides practical advice through the stories and experiences of leaders who have and continue to shape the forever evolving lodging industry."
Dan Lesser
"It's Personal Stories is not just about recalling events; it’s about describing the profound experiences guests have encountered in their lifetimes, offering a wealth of knowledge and unexpected resonance. If you’re looking for deep, meaningful conversations that will genuinely expand your perspective, this is the one to subscribe to."
Dina Belon
"Sharing my story created a place for me to reflect and realize that perhaps I can motivate just one person, perhaps early in their career, and help them to glimpse into their future and show them what they are capable of achieving."
Dorraine Lallani
"What I appreciated most about being interviewed was David’s thoughtful approach and insight which he’s always brought to every interaction and conversation I’ve ever had with him."
Geoff Ballotti
"I recommend It’s Personal Stories because not only are they real, but they are inspiring. The stories show the human side of our industry, the challenges to overcome, and the constant quest for greatness."
Gilda Perez-Alvarado
"I never miss an episode of It’s Personal Stories. An invaluable resource to learn from the top industry executives."
Harry Javer
"Sharing my story helped me because it caused me to think about the many people that in big and small ways helped my career and reminds me that I need to make sure I pay that forward and try to make a positive impact on other people’s career paths."
John Murray
"I listen to It’s Personal Stories because it does not just feature executives sharing best practices or insights but it gives you the human values and experiences that shaped those insights. It’s backstory, not just best practices. Perspectives instead of platitudes."
Lou Zameryka
"Being interviewed on It's Personal Stories reminded me how powerful it is when we openly share our experiences to lift up others in our industry and beyond."
Mitch Patel
"This podcast matters because it reminds us that authentic stories and meaningful human connection remain at the heart of our industry"
Ryan Mann
"David brings almost two decades of CEO experience to the table in all his conversations but blends that with class, empathy & a sense of humility. David's superpower is his listening skills. We need more Davids in Hospitality & Leadership!"
Sloan Dean
"This podcast matters because it amplifies real stories that remind us why people and purpose are at the heart of hospitality. It creates a space for authentic conversations that inspire and connect leaders across the hospitality industry."
Zack Gharib

Leadership Insights From Hospitality's Most Respected Voices

Click below to discover lessons, experiences, and practical advice from the leaders we interview.