Hospitality on Air

Most business owners say they want more sales. What they actually want is predictable sales. And in hospitality right now? Predictability is basically a fantasy.Whitney sits down with Ryan Thomas, Director of Sales and Marketing at The Camby in Phoenix, to talk about what it really looks like to drive revenue when customers book at the last minute, ownership wants answers, and the market won’t sit still. Ryan shares his unconventional path into hospitality, how COVID reshaped buyer behavior for good, and why “just sell more rooms” is not a strategy.They dig into the tension between revenue management and marketing, the reality of leading in uncertainty, and what it takes to build trust with ownership groups when you don’t control the economy—or consumer confidence. There’s also a sharp conversation about emerging markets and why unique experiences aren’t fluff—they’re survival.If you run a business that depends on demand showing up consistently, this episode will feel very familiar.In This Episode, We Cover:Why last-minute buying behavior is forcing businesses to rethink forecasting and revenue strategyThe real relationship between sales and marketing—and why they can’t operate in silosHow to build credibility with ownership or stakeholders when results aren’t fully in your controlCreative positioning in saturated markets (without slashing prices)What hospitality can teach every business about adaptability and guest experienceThe market isn’t getting more predictable anytime soon. But your strategy can get sharper.If this episode gave you clarity (or at least made you feel less alone), subscribe, leave a review, and connect with Whitney. She’s here to help you build a brand that holds up—even when the market doesn’t.Ryan's LinkedInThe Camby HotelTrue Story PR LinkedInTrue Story PR InstagramTrue Story PR Website

Whitney Lee sits down with Kianna Pitegoff, Director of PR for the iconic Hotel Valley Ho and Mountain Shadows Resorts in Scottsdale, Arizona, for an inside look at the fast-paced world of hospitality public relations. Kianna opens up about her path into the industry and what it takes to manage PR for two distinctly different properties. From behind-the-scenes daily responsibilities to the critical role visibility plays in a competitive market, the conversation offers a candid glimpse into the strategy behind standout hotel brands. Kianna also shares exciting updates on Hotel Valley Ho’s ongoing renovations, the power of community-driven engagement, and how each property attracts its own unique audience. Kianna's LinkedInHotel Valley Ho

In this episode, Brian pulls back the curtain on what it really took to host the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills at his Sedona property — an opportunity most hospitality pros only dream of. He walks us through the whirlwind process of securing the deal through VRBO, from initial outreach to locking in the partnership, and shares how his team rallied to deliver a seamless, high-touch experience for the cast.Brian also reveals the intentional planning that went into shaping the Housewives’ “healing trip” to Sedona, from elevated amenities to thoughtful touches that showcased the destination’s restorative energy. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at collaboration, creativity, and capitalizing on a once-in-a-lifetime placement in pop culture.

Tim Heim opens up about the challenges he walked into when joining the team of a seasonal 55+ community and resort. Especially the overwhelmingly negative sentiment among residents. He shares how creating open lines of communication, like his “Talk with Tim” sessions, has helped residents feel heard and supported. Tim also digs into the cultural shift needed both internally with his team and across the community, outlining the strategies he’s using to rebuild trust, strengthen engagement, and move the organization forward.View Point RVFacebook

In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Scott Russell, partner at Dynamic Sales Solutions, to unpack one of the biggest shifts happening in sales and marketing today: the move from efficiency to true effectiveness through personalization.Scott breaks down why many brands are stuck chasing efficiency—more emails, more touchpoints, more automation—yet still struggle to convert. He explains how high-impact personalization cuts through the noise, builds trust faster, and ultimately leads to stronger, longer-lasting customer relationships. Drawing from years of sales leadership and client work, Scott shares real examples of what effective personalization looks like, where teams go wrong, and how to strike the perfect balance between scalable systems and human connection.LinkedInDynamic Sales Solutions

In this episode, we dive into an inspiring and refreshingly honest conversation with Susie Thimm, founder of Knife and Fork Media, who went from the structured world of banking to building a thriving PR agency in the fast-paced food and beverage space. Susie shares how her early career unexpectedly shaped her ability to sell, strategize, and lead—skills she now considers essential to success in PR.You’ll hear Susie’s strategies for setting boundaries, managing overwhelm, and knowing when to raise your rates—along with the mindset shifts required to do it with confidence. Her transparency about the highs, lows, and learning curves of entrepreneurship offers valuable insight for anyone building or leading a creative agency.Knife and Fork Media Susie Timm InstagramKnife and Fork InstagramKnife and Fork FacebookLinkedIn

In this episode, James Ferguson, Director of Culture for Worsak Hotels, takes us through his unconventional path from hotel operations to a people-first HR role designed to elevate workplace culture. He breaks down why genuine recognition, clear communication, and employee engagement aren’t just “nice to have,” but essential to building teams that thrive. James also dives into his book, The Confetti Culture Playbook, revealing how small moments of celebration can transform morale and make employees feel truly valued. Along the way, he shares candid insights on the challenges of culture work, the power of networking, and the ongoing learning that shapes great leaders.The Confetti Culture PlaybookJames Ferguson LinkedIn

In this episode, Whitney sits down with Lindsey Kirsh, the powerhouse behind Slayer PR, to unpack her bold leap from the corporate world to entrepreneurship. After years managing sixteen agencies simultaneously, Lindsey knew she wanted more control, more creativity, and more impact — so she built it herself.Lindsey shares the real story behind launching her own agency, including the lessons she carried over from corporate life, what surprised her most about going independent, and how she built a client roster that aligns with her values and strengths. Whether you're in PR, marketing, or dreaming about stepping out on your own, this episode is full of actionable insights and honest reflections.Slayer PRSlayer PR InstagramSlayer PR LinkedInLindsey Kirsh Instagram

Keywordshospitality, customer service, Bruce Craul, hospitality advantage, generational changes, technology in hospitality, personal connection, self-audit, business improvement, predictive indexSummaryIn this engaging conversation, Bruce Craul shares his extensive journey in the hospitality industry, emphasizing the importance of genuine hospitality in all business sectors. He discusses the generational shifts in workforce behavior, the impact of technology on personal connections, and the necessity of self-auditing for businesses to improve their hospitality practices. Bruce also highlights the significance of interpersonal skills and the need for businesses to adapt to changing customer expectations while maintaining a personal touch.TakeawaysBruce Craul has over 46 years of experience in the hospitality industry.The essence of hospitality is about creating genuine connections with customers.Generational changes are affecting interpersonal skills in the workforce.Technology can enhance but also hinder personal connections in hospitality.Self-auditing can help businesses identify areas for improvement in hospitality.The five senses play a crucial role in creating memorable customer experiences.Training for hospitality should focus on emotional connections, not just skills.Chick-fil-A exemplifies how personal connection can enhance customer loyalty.Businesses should look at their operations through the customer's eyes.The right personality traits are essential for effective hospitality training.Sound bites"You have to talk. You've got to talk. That's part of hospitality.""It's a heart to heart connection, hospitality is.""The connection thing is that important."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Bruce Craul03:14 Bruce's Journey in Hospitality08:49 The Essence of Hospitality14:39 Generational Changes in Hospitality19:51 The Impact of Technology on Hospitality24:40 The Importance of Personal Connection29:19 Self-Audit for Hospitality Improvement36:18 Conclusion and ResourcesLinks:Connect with Bruce Craul on LinkedInPre-Order The Hospitality Advantage

In this engaging conversation, Whitney Lee interviews Amelie Brouhardt, the VP of Marketing for North America and US Sales at Club Med. Amelie shares her journey with the brand, its evolution over the years, and how Club Med has adapted to changing travel trends. The discussion covers the unique offerings of Club Med, the importance of integrated marketing, and the brand's commitment to sustainability. Amelie also highlights the challenges of staying relevant in a competitive market and the significance of data-driven decision-making in marketing strategies.TakeawaysAmelie Brouhardt has a passion for travel and marketing.Club Med was founded in 1950 and pioneered the all-inclusive concept.The brand focuses on emotional customer experiences.Adapting to customer feedback is crucial for brand evolution.The recent campaign 'L'Esprit Libre' emphasizes happiness and reconnection.Integrated marketing is essential for a cohesive brand experience.Club Med offers a wide range of activities for families.Sustainability initiatives are a priority for Club Med.Research and data are vital for strategic decision-making.Staying relevant in a competitive market requires constant adaptation.-------------⁠Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn⁠⁠Connect with Whitney on Instagram⁠⁠True Story PR Website

In this conversation, Barnabas Correga, founder and CEO of The Great Experience, shares his journey from a tennis background to creating unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for clients. He discusses the evolution of his business, the importance of building relationships, and the shift in consumer preferences towards experiential travel. Barnabas highlights the significance of storytelling in marketing, the role of charity in their operations, and the lessons learned throughout his entrepreneurial journey.TakeawaysCreating unique moments and memories is essential for clients.Building a brand through impactful events can lead to success.The demand for experiential travel has increased post-COVID.Luxury is shifting from products to experiences.Strong partnerships are key to accessing unique opportunities.Client retention is crucial for business growth.Storytelling is vital in marketing experiential services.Charity involvement enhances brand reputation and community ties.Flexibility and adaptability are essential for entrepreneurs.Understanding client needs leads to tailored experiences.-------------⁠Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn⁠⁠Connect with Whitney on Instagram⁠⁠True Story PR Website

In this episode, Whitney Lee discusses the essential considerations for individuals thinking about buying a franchise. She emphasizes the importance of understanding franchise costs, operational support, marketing strategies, and the significance of a strong grand opening. Whitney shares insights from her experience, highlighting common pitfalls and offering advice on how to navigate the franchise landscape effectively.TakeawaysFranchising can be a lucrative opportunity if approached correctly.Understanding the full scope of costs involved in franchising is crucial.Negotiating fees and percentages is often possible, especially with newer franchises.Operational support and guidance during the build-out phase are vital for success.Marketing and advertising are essential for driving business to a franchise.Social media management requires expertise and should not be left to inexperienced individuals.A well-planned grand opening can significantly impact a franchise's success.Franchisees should clarify who manages online listings and reviews.Transparency in advertising costs and strategies is necessary for franchisees.Building a strong local presence through SEO and marketing is critical for franchise visibility.Sound Bites"If no one knows about it, you will die.""First impressions are huge, y'all.""Franchises can be a great opportunity to build wealth."-------------⁠Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn⁠⁠Connect with Whitney on Instagram⁠⁠True Story PR Website

Is your brand franchise-ready? Or maybe you're a franchisee wondering what it really takes to thrive. In this episode, Whitney Lee pulls back the curtain on the world of franchising—what works, what doesn’t, and what most people overlook.From setting expectations to building marketing systems that actually scale, Whitney dives into the mindset shifts and operational must-haves for franchise success. Whether you’re dreaming of expanding your concept or you're managing multiple locations already, this conversation is packed with real talk and actionable insights.-------------Connect with Whitney on LinkedInConnect with Whitney on InstagramTrue Story PR Website

💡Is PR really just about getting media coverage? Think again.Today, Whitney Lee sits down with Adriana Sol, founder of Wander PR, to break down the biggest misconceptions about public relations and what it really takes to build a successful agency.Adriana shares her journey into PR, the impact of COVID-19 on her business, and how she’s navigated the challenges of leadership in a constantly evolving industry. She and Whitney explore why PR isn’t a one-size-fits-all strategy, the importance of measuring success beyond financial metrics, and how self-reflection plays a key role in effective leadership.They also dive into: • The dynamics of client relationships and how to add real value • The unique challenges of PR as a non-systematic field • How remote work culture has shaped agency growth and leadership • The evolving role of PR professionals in today’s media landscapeIf you’re a PR professional, business owner, or someone navigating leadership, this episode is packed with insights on strategy, creativity, and building authentic connections.--------Wander PR on InstagramWander PR Website--------Whitney on LinkedInWhitney on InstagramTrue Story PR Website

Ever wonder why those picture-perfect ads don’t hit like they used to? Whitney Lee shares why authenticity is everything in 2025 — and how businesses are rethinking marketing, PR, and even their teams. From shorter planning cycles to the growing popularity of fractional CMOs, this episode is all about adapting to what really works now.-------Connect with Whitney on InstagramConnect with Whitney on LinkedInTrue Story PR on Instagram True Story PR Website

You’ve probably heard the term “fractional CMO” floating around—but what does it actually mean? In this episode, Whitney breaks down the growing trend of fractional roles in business, with a deep dive into the role of a fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).She’s covering it all: what a fractional CMO does, how they can level up your marketing, and why more businesses are ditching the traditional full-time hire for a more flexible, high-impact approach. Whitney also busts some common myths, shares when it’s the right time to bring one on board, and gives pro tips on finding the right fit.What You’ll Learn:⚡ What a fractional CMO actually does (and why it’s a game-changer)💰 How hiring one can save money and boost results🤯 The biggest misconceptions about fractional roles🚀 When your business is ready for a fractional CMO🔍 How to spot the right candidate for the jobIf your marketing needs strategic leadership—but not a full-time salary—this episode is a must-listen. Hit play and get the inside scoop on this fast-growing trend!----------Connect with Whitney on LinkedInConnect with Whitney on InstagramTrue Story PR Website

Should you hire in-house or bring in an agency?In this episode, Whitney breaks down one of the biggest questions business owners face when it comes to marketing. She walks through the pros and cons of both approaches—and how to know what’s right for your business.From the role agencies can play in strategy, to why communication (not just contracts) makes or breaks a partnership, Whitney keeps it real about what works, what doesn’t, and how to make smart decisions in a post-2020 world.You’ll hear about: • The key differences between in-house and agency support • How to assess what kind of marketing help you actually need • What to expect from a good agency partner • Why outsourcing can be a game-changer for growing businesses • The mindset shift every business owner needs to makeIf you’ve ever wondered how to structure your marketing team for real results—this one’s for you.---------Connect with Whitney on LinkedInConnect with Whitney on InstagramTrue Story Website

You’ve refreshed the website. You’ve posted to Instagram. You’ve sent the press release. And still… crickets. 😬If your marketing or PR efforts just aren’t hitting like they used to, this episode is for you. Whitney Lee gets real about what to do when your strategy feels stale and why even the most experienced pros hit that wall sometimes.Drawing from her own pivot from in-house hospitality marketing to running a thriving agency, Whitney shares practical ways to breathe life back into your brand. From hiring a consultant or fractional CMO to simply inviting a fresh set of eyes to the table, this convo is packed with ideas to help you shake things up and get results.------Connect with Whitney on LinkedInConnect with Whitney on InstagramConnect with True Story PR on InstagramTrue Story PR Website

Is your business truly ready for PR? In this episode, Whitney Lee breaks down the key factors that determine whether your PR efforts will thrive—or fall flat. She explores the importance of defining your brand identity, setting realistic expectations, and ensuring your business is prepared to make the most of media opportunities.Whitney also uncovers common reasons companies waste money on PR, from lacking newsworthy content to overlooking the customer journey. Plus, she shares why PR is a long-term game and why success requires openness to new ideas and strategic shifts.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ The biggest mistakes businesses make when investing in PR✅ Why a strong brand identity is crucial before launching PR efforts✅ How to tell if your company has newsworthy content✅ The role of operational readiness in PR success✅ Why PR isn’t just about media hits—it’s about long-term impact-----------Resources & Links:Connect with Whitney on InstagramConnect with Whitney on LinkedInTrue Story Website