In this episode of WISKing It All, Edelmira Delgado, F&B Director at the Perry Hotel, shares her journey in the hospitality industry, discussing her experiences from working in major hotel brands to boutique resorts.

She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, navigating cultural differences, and the dynamic nature of food and beverage operations.

Edelmira also highlights current trends in guest preferences, the significance of teamwork, and offers valuable advice for aspiring F&B professionals.

• Edelmira's journey in hospitality began with a desire for variety and interaction.
• Mentorship played a crucial role in shaping her career.
• Cultural differences significantly impact hospitality operations.
• A typical day for an F&B director is unpredictable and dynamic.
• Planning for events and menus starts months in advance.
• Maintaining profitability in menu items is essential.
• Guest preferences are shifting towards experiences and aesthetics.
• Team dynamics are vital for successful operations.
• The divide between luxury and standard dining is increasing.
• Asking questions is key to learning and growth in the industry.

00:00 "Passion for Travel and Hospitality" 03:52 "First Hotel Experience Insights" 09:26 Adapting to Cultural Change 11:30 "Holiday and Event Planning Prep" 14:13 "Managing Costs in Hospitality" 16:44 "Managing Price Changes in Hospitality" 20:36 Hotel Teamwork vs Restaurant Independence 24:48 "Viral Moments Change Lives" 26:06 Accountable Leadership Through Imperfection 29:42 "Teamwork is Family Bonded" 33:21 "Shifting Trends: Experience vs. Luxury" 36:40 LinkedIn, Hospitality, Food & Growth

In this engaging conversation, Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and marketing expert, shares his journey from nightlife to fine dining, emphasizing the importance of hospitality and the art of storytelling in marketing.

He discusses the five levers of restaurant success, the power of social media, and how to create memorable customer experiences through surprise and delight.

Josh also offers valuable advice for aspiring restaurateurs and explores the transformative role of AI in the restaurant industry.

• Josh Kopel is a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and marketing expert.
• Success in the restaurant industry often comes from learning from failures.
• Hospitality is about having a servant's heart and creating memorable experiences.
• Simplicity and elegance are key to making restaurant operations effective.
• Frequency of customer visits is crucial for restaurant success.
• Social media should be used to build relationships, not just broadcast offers.
• Surprise and delight can significantly enhance customer experiences.
• Understanding how your restaurant fits into customers' lives is essential.
• The restaurant industry has a low barrier to entry, but marketing is crucial for success.
• AI can be leveraged in various aspects of restaurant operations, including hiring and marketing.

00:00 "Mastering Dining: From Bar to Michelin" 03:59 "Servant's Heart in Service" 06:43 "Simplicity in Diverse Dining Ventures" 11:01 "Invite, Don't Bribe, Customers" 12:30 Upselling: Giving Customers More 18:10 Social Media for Sales Strategy 19:51 Boost Customer Visits for Free 22:09 "Entrepreneurial Mistakes and Self-Reflection" 25:17 Soap Operas' Multi-Story Strategy 28:52 People Over Product in Hospitality 32:10 Creating Memorable Experiences 35:09 Restaurant Business Entry Advice 40:17 AI-Driven Hiring Process 42:07 AI-Enhanced Menu Optimization 44:43 Embracing Value-Driven Engagement

In this episode of WISKing It All, host Angelo Esposito interviews Jeffrey Summers, founder of Summers Hospitality Group, who shares his extensive experience in the restaurant industry.

They discuss Jeffrey's journey from aspiring lawyer to hospitality expert, the importance of creating unique systems in business, and the distinction between service and hospitality. Jeffrey emphasizes the significance of leadership, consistency, and personal growth in running a successful restaurant.

He also provides insights into common mistakes made by restaurant leaders and offers advice for those looking to expand their business. The conversation touches on the future of hospitality, the role of technology, and the enduring importance of guest experience.

• The journey into hospitality often starts unexpectedly.
• Creating unique systems is essential for business success.
• All problems in a restaurant are leadership problems.
• Effective leadership requires continuous personal growth.
• Service is transactional; hospitality is emotional.
• Consistency across all aspects of the business is crucial.
• Taking guests along for the journey is vital for success.
• Mistakes in leadership often stem from a lack of strategic thinking.
• The future of hospitality will always revolve around human experience.
• Love for people is fundamental in the hospitality industry.

00:00 Early Legal Career Beginnings 06:08 "From Law to Restaurant Success" 08:18 Next Practices Over Best Practices 12:08 "Independent Business Growth Strategies" 14:23 Leadership and Continuous Improvement 16:42 "Work On, Not In, Business" 20:31 "Understanding Guests for Repeat Business" 25:06 Restaurant Modernization Missteps 27:50 Insights on Restaurant Operations 31:47 Passion for Continual Growth 33:42 Lifelong Learning and Growth 36:32 Consistency and Proven Experience Matter 40:34 "Focus on Personal Growth" 42:22 Streamlining Restaurant Operations 46:19 "Follow Jeffrey Summers' Insights"