Bed & Butter: THE Hospitality Podcast

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.
Tune in as we dive into specific strategies for maintaining brand relevance, including the revolutionary changes upcoming for Homewood Suites. Whitney offers valuable insights into striking a careful balance between owner interests and guest needs, ensuring constant brand consistency and excellence. Through the Homewood Suites experience lens, discover the depth of authenticity required to create outstanding hotel experiences that stand the test of time.
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.

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. Listen as the host and guests share their personal experiences, highlighting the psychological impact of such stressful environments and how the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges.
Our podcast guests openly discuss their struggles, offering helpful advice on managing and mitigating workplace stress. Learn about various coping mechanisms while understanding the significance of team wellness and methods to create a workplace environment conducive to work-life balance.
Tune in to this compelling episode, which serves as a timely reminder of the importance of self-care for leaders, students, and professionals.

Jamie Mulley - Corporate Director of Operations at 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.
While emphasizing individual growth, Mulley reflects on the joy of witnessing her children grow into independent individuals. She talks about the importance of continuous resetting and reinvention for personal growth and helping others. She provides actionable advice on setting clear goals, optimizing productivity, and fostering a respectful work environment.
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.
Signing off, she reinstates the concept of servant leadership and its significance in positively impacting lives, furnishing an inspiring message for all interested in pursuing the hospitality life. 

Matt McClelland - OTO Development Chief Operating Officer

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.
Through a candid dialogue on industry trends, Matt cautions about the risks of over-reliance on artificial intelligence. Fierce moments from his personal life, including battles with health issues and tragic loss, serve as a powerful testament to his resilience and gratitude.
This episode is a must-listen for those seeking to excel in the hospitality sector and cultivate an empathetic leadership style. It is infused with invaluable insights and lessons from a highly successful, seasoned industry veteran. Tune in to learn, be inspired, and reshape your outlook for success.

Chef Bo Byrne - SMCC Professor and Culinary Entrepreneur

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 his fascinating journey from dishwasher to respected authority in the culinary world and the inspiration behind being an educator in his field.
Byrne gives a glimpse into his progression in the kitchen, highlighting the importance of being multi-skilled and adaptable in the industry. He reflects on his early culinary influences and how these experiences prepared him for a successful career path that encompasses executive chef roles at esteemed restaurants and hotels, up to operating a popular Maine hot dog cart, TOP.
We delve into Byrne's teaching approach at SMCC, focusing on how he motivates his students to foster a deep appreciation for food and cooking. 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. Byrne further 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.
Don't miss this captivating chat about the enriching journey of a culinary figure who continues to bestow his extensive knowledge and skills on the up-and-coming generation of culinary devotees. Tune in now to taste Bo's flavorful story!

Ginny Petrovek - Canopy Portland General Manager & Chief Enthusiast

In this episode, Bed & Butter host Sean Riley chats with Ginny Petrovek, 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. She also shares how being the Chief Enthusiast reminds her to show up as a cheerleader for her team. Ginny's journey started when she shadowed a General Manager at the Portland Harbor Hotel while she was in high school. She articulates the road of her experience that inspired her to pursue a career in hospitality and how she has been enjoying her journey ever since. If you are looking for inspiration to follow your dreams, Ginny's journey in this episode of Bed & Butter is for you!
Bed and Butter is the Hospitality podcast where host Sean Riley, a seasoned hotel executive, shares over 40 years of industry wisdom. 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.

Bed & Butter Host Sean Riley

Welcome to Bed and Butter, the Hospitality podcast where host Sean Riley, a seasoned hotel executive, shares over 40 years of industry wisdom. 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.
The conversation touches on leadership principles, highlighting the importance of compassion and caring for associates. Sean shares personal and professional insights on success and the joy of positively impacting lives. The episode also sheds light on the role of fun in their corporate culture, emphasizing the significance of creating an enjoyable workplace. Sean leaves listeners with valuable advice: take care of your people, be compassionate, create an open environment, and prioritize networking. Join Bed and Butter for more engaging conversations and insights into the dynamic world of hospitality. Bed & Butter is a labor of love for everyone involved, made possible with the help of the talented students of SMCC's Communications and New Media Studies program. Subscribe now for a butterful day!

Teaser

Welcome to Bed & Butter, the Hospitality podcast where host Sean Riley, a seasoned hotel executive, shares over 40 years of industry wisdom. 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.
Imagine entering the fast-paced hospitality world, where every interaction is a chance to create memorable experiences. In our upcoming podcast, join us as we unveil the untold stories, challenges, and triumphs of young professionals navigating the vibrant tapestry of the hospitality industry.
We'll feature top-notch leaders from hotel companies nationwide, chefs, restaurateurs, and aspiring young professionals. This podcast is your backstage pass to the real talk of hospitality hustle. Get ready to unlock the secrets to success in this dynamic field, available soon on your preferred podcast platform.