DEI ADVISORS RECENTLY launched ‘It’s Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast’, showcasing the professional journeys of hospitality leaders. The podcast features more than 200 interviews with executives, thought leaders, life coaches, professors and authors, offering insights on career development, leadership and personal well-being.
Founded in June 2022 by David Kong, former CEO of Best Western Hotels & Resorts, DEI Advisors is a non-profit that promotes equality for women and underrepresented groups. The principals—Kong, Lan Elliott, Rachel Humphrey, Dorothy Dowling, and Huilian Duan—have interviewed hundreds of hospitality leaders.
DEI Advisors said the podcast was created in response to listener feedback valuing stories of career triumphs, setbacks and strategies.
“This award-winning podcast reflects our belief that empowerment begins with authentic storytelling,” the company said. “By sharing these experiences, we aim to inspire individuals to dream big, pursue bold ambitions, and build the confidence to thrive in their careers.”
The interviews offer guidance on navigating workplace challenges, self-advocacy, work-life balance, networking, finding sponsors and mentors, overcoming negativity and fostering innovation. Personal Stories features industry leaders sharing insights to help listeners on their professional journeys.
“Since its launch, the podcast has received feedback from listeners who find the leaders' stories of triumphs and setbacks inspiring,” DEI Advisors said. “The practical insights on navigating challenges, finding mentors, sponsors and allies have been especially beneficial.”
Guests featured in the podcast include industry veterans like Miraj Patel, president of Wayside Investment Group and chairman of AAHOA; Rosanna Maietta, president and CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association; Zack Gharib, president of Red Roof; Mit Shah, founder and CEO of Noble Investment Group; Naureen Ahmed, founder of Inspiring Women in Hospitality; Amit Sripathi, chief development officer of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts; Sima Patel, CEO of Ridgemont Hospitality; Jay Shah, senior advisor at Hersha Hotels & Resorts; Chirag Shah, executive vice president of federal and political affairs at AHLA; Jyoti Sarolia, president and CEO of Ellis Hospitality Group; Anna Blue, president of the AHLA Foundation; and Amanda Hite, president of STR.
All interviews, past and future, are available at ItsPersonalStories.com and on major podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow It’s Personal Stories on LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube for updates and to join the community.
Last June, DEI Advisors completed more than 100 interviews, sharing diverse perspectives and practical advice from leaders like Anthony Capuano, president and CEO of Marriott International; Mark Hoplamazian, president and CEO of Hyatt Hotels Corp.; Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts; and Elie Maalouf, president and CEO of IHG Hotels & Resorts, among others.
