From Adventure Travel to Hotel Management: Amanda Arling's Journey in Hospitality

In this episode of The Hospitality Mentor Podcast, host Steve Turk interviews Amanda Arling, the president of The Whalers Inn in Mystic, Connecticut. Amanda shares her unique career path from studying microbiology to working in adventure travel for the company Back Roads. She discusses how her love for travel and culture eventually led her to a management role in the hospitality industry. Amanda highlights the importance of relationship building, both in creating guest experiences and mentoring her team. She also shares insights into the challenges and successes of opening a fine dining, sustainable seafood restaurant during the pandemic. Listeners will get valuable tips on hospitality management, creating memorable guest experiences, and the importance of community engagement.

00:00 Introduction to The Hospitality Mentor Podcast

00:31 Meet Amanda Arling: President of The Whalers Inn

01:49 Amanda's Journey into Hospitality

02:33 From Adventure Travel to Boutique Hotel Management

07:00 Transitioning to The Whalers Inn

15:22 Building a Team and Mentoring Future Leaders

19:27 Creating Unique Guest Experiences

26:46 Challenges and Successes in the Restaurant Industry

30:34 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Hospitality Professionals

31:27 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Message

Join Steve Turk on the Hospitality Mentor Podcast as he delves into the inspiring story of BCB3 Hospitality, a dynamic partnership between Babak Bina, Andy Cartin, and Jamie Bissonnette. In this episode, they share their unique paths into the hospitality industry, the challenges and successes of opening four innovative restaurant concepts in Boston, and the passion and collaboration that fuel their ventures. From embracing Korean cuisine to creating a Basque culinary experience, discover how they navigated obstacles and earned critical acclaim, including a James Beard nomination and recognition from the New York Times.

00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast

00:31 Upcoming Hospitality Mentor Networking Event

01:03 Special Episode with the BCB Three Team

01:35 Meet Babak Bina: The Journey Begins

01:51 Meet Andy Carton: From Connecticut to Boston

02:36 Meet Jamie Binette: From Hartford to Boston

03:25 The Formation of BCB Three

06:22 Babak Bina's Early Days in Hospitality

10:27 Andy Carton's Path to Hospitality

12:56 Jamie Binette's Culinary Journey

17:37 Designing Unique Restaurant Experiences

20:38 The Birth of Somac: A Korean Restaurant Concept

23:09 Overcoming Early Failures and Pivoting

24:35 Embracing Asian and Spanish Culinary Influences

29:02 Opening Multiple Concepts Simultaneously

31:12 Reflections on Success and Future Plans

41:05 Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs

43:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join host Steve Turk on the Hospitality Mentor Podcast as he dives into the inspiring journey of Brett Friedman, founder of A21. Discover the stories behind Brett's rise in the hospitality industry, from humble beginnings as a pizza delivery guy to leading one of the largest culinary events agencies in the world. Learn essential tips on creating successful events, building a passionate team, and the importance of loving what you do. Plus, get a sneak peek into Brett's exciting upcoming projects including Pebble Beach Food & Wine and the LA Wine and Food Festival.

00:00 Introduction to the Hospitality Mentor Podcast

00:31 Special Announcement: Hospitality Unlocked Book

00:56 Introducing Brett Friedman

02:25 Brett's Early Career and First Job

03:41 Growing Up in Miami

05:06 Transition to Hospitality and Early Ventures

07:08 Working with Alonzo Mourning

10:19 Founding A21

12:56 Partnership with South Beach Wine & Food Festival

17:15 Post-COVID Transformation and Future Plans

19:39 The Importance of Control in Event Management

20:27 Building a Sustainable Company

21:31 Passion and Team Culture

24:37 Advice for Aspiring Event Leaders

25:01 Challenges and Rewards of Event Production

29:49 Upcoming Projects and Initiatives

34:55 Reflecting on Personal and Professional Growth

36:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts