Resilience, Intention, and Leadership Built Through Grit

Lori Kiel’s extraordinary journey, from community college student and front desk agent to SVP of Revenue Management, Pyramid Global Hospitality, reflects a career built on grit, intention, and an unwavering belief in betting on oneself. She shares how early roles in reservations, convention services, sales, and revenue laid the foundation for her commercial expertise, ultimately inspiring her to propose integrating revenue, sales, and later marketing under one strategic umbrella. Her willingness to take risks, try new models, and learn from failure helped accelerate Kessler’s commercial evolution.

Lori speaks candidly about overcoming imposter syndrome, navigating adversity, and owning her non‑linear path. She emphasizes gratitude for an industry where anyone can rise, reminding listeners that where you start never defines where you finish. Her career champions shaped her courage, from leaders who pushed her thinking to visionaries who showed her what was possible even before she could see it. She also reflects on the discipline of intention, setting clear goals, doing the work, and aligning actions with desired outcomes.

Her reflections encourage professionals to take risks, stay curious, nurture networks, and embrace the privilege of lifting others as they rise.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• "There was a very well‑thought‑out intention behind everything I did."
• "Where you start is not always where you finish."
• "Nothing worth having comes easy."
• "If you’re willing to bet on yourself, you won’t lose."
• "Be concerned only with the things you can control."

Closing Reflection

Lori Kiel’s story reminds us that intention, resilience, and courage fuel extraordinary growth. Her message urges every professional to own their journey, take meaningful risks, and lead with gratitude, because empowered success begins within.