Welcome to Defining Hospitality, the podcast focused on highlighting the most influential figures in the hospitality industry. In each episode we provide 1 on 1, in depth interviews with experts in the industry to learn what hospitality means to them. We feature expert advice on working in the industry, behind the scenes looks at some of your favorite brands, and in depth explorations of unique hospitality projects. Defining Hospitality is hosted by Founder and CEO of Agency 967, Dan Ryan. W ...
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WP-Tonic is a podcast for WordPress professionals, Bootstrap SaaS startup entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to build a business online. We cover a large number of areas with our main show. We interview creative WordPress and startup entrepreneurs, plus online experts who share insights to help you build your online business. Jonathan Denwood and Kurt von Ahnen host and produce the WP-Tonic podcast, which is one of the longest-running WordPress podcasts. Each episode brings you valuable insig ...
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Preserving History, Designing the Future - Aimee Sanborn - Defining Hospitality - Episode #210
51:32
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51:32How is adaptive reuse shaping the hospitality industry? Aimee Sanborn, Senior Vice President of Architecture at Premier joins Dan to dive into adaptive reuse. Aimee shares her passion for preserving history and discusses the challenges and rewards of transforming historic buildings into vibrant, functional spaces. From the streets of downtown Dalla…
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971 - WP-Tonic Show: Does AI Mean The End of Developers Or Is It Just a New Powerful Development Tool?
57:46
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57:46Is AI the end of developers or just a new tool? Discover how AI is reshaping coding and what it means for the future of software development. In this thought-provoking video, we explore the impact of artificial intelligence on the world of software development. Is AI set to replace developers, or is it merely evolving the tools at their disposal? J…
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The Art of Feeling Known - Bruno Viterbo - Defining Hospitality - Episode #209
1:13:30
1:13:30
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1:13:30Ever wondered how a space can make you feel genuinely cared for? Bruno Viterbo, Vice President of Design at Irvine Company, shares his profound insights into 'the sense of being known' and how it transforms hospitality design at every scale. Bruno shares his extensive experience in the design and real estate industries, including insights from his …
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970 - WP-Tonic Show: We Discuss All Things Performance & WordPress
58:47
58:47
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58:47We Discuss All Things Performance & WordPress With Special Guest Remkus de Vries, Founder of Truer Than North & The Co-founder of Scanfully, plus the podcast "Within WordPress Podcast." In this video, we delve into the intricate relationship between performance and WordPress. Join us as we explore essential tips and strategies to optimize your Word…
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A Seat at Aggie's Table - Aggie Zamir - Defining Hospitality - Episode #208
57:57
57:57
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57:57“We love the one-off projects, but our real passion and what we're really looking for are ownership groups where we can do a project with them, forge a relationship, build that trust, and then we grow alongside them.” Joining Dan is Aggie Zamir, Vice President of National Hospitality and Gaming at Cumming Group. They discuss Aggie's insights into t…
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969 - WP-Tonic Show: Is The Rise of AI The End Of The Glory Days of WordPress Plugins or a New Exciting Dawn?
57:33
57:33
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57:33969 WP-Tonic Show: Is The Rise of AI The End Of The Glory Days of WordPress Plugins or a New Exciting Dawn? With Special Guest Chris Badgett, Joint Founder & CEO of LifterLMS Is AI the end of the glory days of WordPress plugins or a new, exciting dawn? Discover how AI is reshaping the future of WordPress tools today. In this video, we explore the e…
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968 - WP-Tonic Show: How AI Will Change How WordPress Developers Code in 2025
59:39
59:39
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59:39Discover how AI will revolutionize WordPress development in 2025. Get ahead of the curve with new coding techniques that blend human creativity and AI power With Special Guest Brian Messenlehner, Joint Founder & CEO of Apppresser https://apppresser.com/ In this insightful video, we explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on Wor…
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Crafting Generational Memories - Derek De Salvia - Defining Hospitality - Episode #207
48:01
48:01
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48:01“ It's a core tenant of who we are, and it's called put people first. We take care of our people.” Derek De Salvia, Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer at Hilton Grand Vacations, joins Dan today to dive into the world of vacation ownership. The discussion covers the personal and professional aspects of hospitality, the evolution and…
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#967- WP-Tonic This Month in WordPress & Tech Round Table Show For June, 2025
1:03:19
1:03:19
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1:03:19This Month's Special Guest Panelist Devin Walker | SVP, CIO | StellarWP WordPress and tech stories. Get the insights you need now. Discover the month's must-know WordPress and tech stories in our latest video! We explore key updates, fascinating innovations, and expert commentary that are vital for anyone involved in the digital realm. Our engaging…
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Sparking Change: Driving Hilton's Growth - Alissa Klees - Defining Hospitality - Episode #206
58:07
58:07
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58:07“We are a hospitality company first and foremost.” Joining Dan this week is Alissa Klees, the Brand Leader of Spark by Hilton, the trailblazing brand that earned Hilton recognition as one of Fast Company's 2024 Most Innovative Companies. Alissa delves into what hospitality means to her, encompassing both personal and professional interactions. She …
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966 WP-Tonic Show: How Does WordPress Rebuild Community Trust In 2025
55:56
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55:56966 WP-Tonic Show: How Does WordPress Rebuild Community Trust In 2025 How Does WordPress Rebuild Community Trust In 2025 WordPress Community Discover actionable strategies WordPress uses to rebuild community trust after challenges. Explore transparency initiatives and user-focused improvements. With Special Guest Marcus Burnette, The Founder of "Th…
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Sailing into Success - Chris Lenz - Defining Hospitality - Episode #205
1:09:39
1:09:39
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1:09:39It takes determination to dive into hospitality and come out with a boutique hotel that is successful, and that is what Chris Lenz, Founder and CEO of La Compania Hotels and Resorts. Chris shares his journey from opening 37 restaurants to creating extraordinary hotels in Panama. They explore his passion for hospitality, his uncompromising vision, a…
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965 WP-Tonic Show:How Is AI Going To Affect the WordPress Plugin Ecosystem In 2025
53:54
53:54
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53:54How Is AI Going To Affect the WordPress Plugin Ecosystem In 2025 Discover how AI will transform the plugin ecosystem in 2025. Get ahead of the curve with our expert predictions and prepare your business for the coming changes. In this insightful video, we explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the plugin ecosystem by 2025. …
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964 - WP-Tonic Show: Startups or Established Companies, Why Culture is Everything!
54:58
54:58
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54:58Why Culture is Everything! With Special Guest Brad Englert Brad" Book " Spheres of Influence" Best Buy, Caterpillar, Whirlpool, Bell South, Deutsche Bank and The University of Texas Brad Englert is the founder of Brad Englert Advisory and an author, advisor, and technologist. Brad worked for Accenture for 22 years, including 10 years as a partner. …
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Beyond the Bell Curve: Luxury and Hospitality - Eric Brey - Defining Hospitality - Episode #204
56:26
56:26
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56:26How can embracing the Japanese concept of omotenashi create better connections? Dr. Eric Brey, a Professor of Hospitality in the School of Management at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, joins Dan on the show today. Eric brings a wealth of experience from his time in the US Army to earning a PhD in hospitality administration and management. They d…
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#963- WP-Tonic This Month in WordPress & Tech Round Table Show For May, 2025
1:11:41
1:11:41
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1:11:41WordPress and tech stories. Get the insights you need now. Discover the month's must-know WordPress and tech stories in our latest video! We explore key updates, fascinating innovations, and expert commentary that are vital for anyone involved in the digital realm. Our engaging discussion keeps you informed and inspired as you navigate your tech jo…
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Charting New Courses - Carmen Vlasceanu - Defining Hospitality - Episode #203
44:05
44:05
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44:05How do you truly make people feel cared for? Dan welcomes Dr. Carmen Vlasceanu, an industry veteran with over 25 years of experience in the hotel, aviation, catering, and cruise industries. They discuss the essence of hospitality, Dr. Carmen's career journey from Romania to Carnival Cruises, and her current roles, including Founder and CEO of Globa…
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Creating Impact: Sustainability in Hospitality - Andrea Foster - Defining Hospitality - Episode #202
1:10:11
1:10:11
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1:10:11What is the balance between hospitality’s business efforts and sustainability efforts? That’s what Andrea Foster, EVP of Hospitality Development at MindClick, is here to talk about on the podcast. The conversation covers how sustainability initiatives can improve guest experiences and align with corporate values. Andrea discusses the importance of …
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962 WP-Tonic Show: How Will AI Affect WordPress Freelancers and Agencies In The Next 18 Months
57:12
57:12
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57:12How Will AI Affect WordPress Freelancers and Agencies In The Next 18 Months Explore the impact of AI on WordPress freelancers and agencies over the next 18 months. Learn how to adapt and thrive in a changing landscape. In this insightful video, we delve into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on WordPress freelancers and agencies …
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Revolutionizing Hospitality Education - Nicolas Graf - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 201
1:09:44
1:09:44
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1:09:44How is hospitality education evolving? Nicolas Graf, chaired professor and Associate Dean at New York University’s Jonathan M Tisch Center of Hospitality, joins Dan today to discuss the realm of hospitality education. Their discussion spans Nicolas's unique career path that started from being a high school dropout and chef apprentice in Switzerland…
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961 WP-Tonic Show:The Role of WordPress Professionals & Agencies Is Shifting In 2025
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55:00961 WP-Tonic Show:The Role of WordPress Professionals & Agencies Is Shifting In 2025 The Role of WordPress Professionals & Agencies Is Shifting In 2025 The role of WordPress professionals & agencies is shifting in 2025—learn the key trends shaping the future of web development. In 2025, the landscape for WordPress professionals and agencies is evol…
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960 WP-Tonic Show: Is Online Marketing Dead In The Age of Google AI?
54:37
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54:37With Special Guest Mike Stott of Automattic, the founder of the pro plugin "Social Gallery" , the plugin and theme shop "Epic Plugins", and Zero BS CRM, which was sold to Automattic in 2019. Is online marketing dead in the age of Google AI? Discover how to adapt and thrive in this new digital landscape today. In this insightful show, we delve into …
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Building The Dream: Dubai’s Hospitality Scene - Jensen Moonien - Defining Hospitality - Episode #200
43:46
43:46
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43:46There’s a lot that goes on pre-opening in hospitality, whether it be a hotel, a club, or a restaurant. That’s where Jensen Moonien comes in. He is the Founder and Managing Director of La Rencontre, a consulting firm specializing in the F&B space of hospitality. Jensen discusses the importance of hospitality, sharing enduring memories without expect…
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Investing in Hospitality - Nate Edgerly and Tom Donaldson - Defining Hospitality - Episode #199
1:15:00
1:15:00
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1:15:00Today’s episode pivots into restaurant investing. Joining Dan is two experts of hospitality financing and investments, Nate Edgerly and Tom Donaldson, the CEO and Chairman of Enzo Group Inc. The discussion goes into the motivations behind investing in hospitality, the critical role of strong management teams, and the unique challenges and opportuni…
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Behind the Smoke: Media in Hospitality - Shawn Walchef - Defining Hospitality - Episode #198
1:02:46
1:02:46
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1:02:46What role does media play in hospitality? This episode welcomes media expert and Owner of Cali BBQ, Shawn Walchef. Shawn discusses his journey from creating award-winning barbecue restaurants in San Diego to building a successful media platform. He shares insights on the importance of hospitality, storytelling, and the role of time in perfecting on…
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#959- WP-Tonic This Month in WordPress & Tech Round Table Show
1:16:47
1:16:47
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1:16:47WordPress and tech stories. Get the insights you need now. Discover the month's must-know WordPress and tech stories in our latest video! We explore key updates, fascinating innovations, and expert commentary that are vital for anyone involved in the digital realm. Our engaging discussion keeps you informed and inspired as you navigate your tech jo…
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958 WP-Tonic Show: We Discuss The Very Changing Face of SEO in 2025
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54:46We Discuss The Very Changing Face of SEO in 2025 Stay ahead of the game! Discover the crucial SEO trends for 2025 and learn how to adapt your strategy for success./Users/jonathandenwood/Desktop/Screenshot 1.png With Special Guest Jono AldersonScreenshot 1.png/Users/jonathandenwood/Desktop/Screenshot 1.png This video delves into the rapidly evolving…
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A Lifetime in Hospitality - Xavier Lividini - Defining Hospitality - Episode #197
48:57
48:57
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48:57Sometimes you find yourself born into a business. That’s exactly what landed Xavier Lividini, Managing Partner at Hospitality Advance International, in the hospitality industry as he comes from a family of hoteliers! Xavier shares insights from his extensive career in operations, marketing strategy, and hospitality management and development. The e…
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Beyond the Green: Hospitality & High-Performance - Scott Young - Defining Hospitality - Episode #196
54:51
54:51
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54:51“ Our hospitality starts with education, but it's also having a welcoming point of view.” Scott Young, Founder of SSWING, an innovative indoor golf training facility in New York City, and an expert golfer joins the podcast today to hash out the meaning of hospitality and dive into his business. They discuss the broader meaning of hospitality in var…
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957 WP-Tonic Show: Will AI Destroy Freelancers and WordPress Agencies
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56:57Will AI Destroy Freelancers and WordPress Agencies The rise of AI: Is it the end for WordPress freelancers and agencies? Uncover the truth behind the hype. Click to find out. In this thought-provoking video, we explore the potential impact of artificial intelligence on freelancers and WordPress agencies. As AI technology advances, many wonder wheth…
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956 WP-Tonic Show: Online Marketing Tactics That Can Work For Plugins & SaaS In 2025
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56:35Online Marketing Tactics That Can Work For SaaS In 2025 With Special Guest Lars Lofgren @LarsLofgren https://larslofgren.com/ Discover the most effective online marketing tactics for SaaS in 2025. Learn how to boost your growth and stay ahead of the competition. This insightful show explores the most effective online marketing tactics tailored spec…
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Cultivating Joy and Awe - Nathan St. Cyr- Defining Hospitality - Episode # 195
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59:54
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59:54What does it take to be the number one small hostile in North America? Today we welcome Nathan St. Cyr, Co-Founder of Malama Capital and Owner of Howzit Hostels, to tell us just that. Dan and Nathan dive into Nathan's journey within the hospitality industry, including his foundational experiences in sales, his profound motivation rooted in personal…
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Weaving the Future of Design - Mark Page - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 194
1:03:06
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1:03:06Mentorship is important in encouraging students to enter artistic and creative career paths. Mark Page, Vice President of Design at Mohawk Industries, touches on the importance of fostering connections with colleges and universities to inspire the youth of today to continue their creative paths. Mark also shares insights on the challenges and innov…
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