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It's Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast

It's Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast

Written by: David Kong Dorothy Dowling Rachel Humphrey Lan Elliott
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At It’s Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast, we believe that leadership is shaped as much by setbacks and self-doubt as by achievements and accolades. That’s why we go beyond titles and résumés to uncover the personal journeys of hospitality leaders—the moments of vulnerability, resilience, and courage that define true success.


Since 2022, our mission has been to empower the next generation of leaders by sharing unfiltered stories of growth from across the industry. With more than 250 interviews and counting, we’ve built a library of candid conversations that reveal not only strategies for professional advancement, but also lessons in authenticity, balance, and perseverance.

Recognized each year by the International Hospitality Institute as a top hospitality podcast, It’s Personal Stories continues to inspire dreamers and doers to push boundaries, embrace challenges, and pursue their goals with confidence. Learn more and watch the Interviews at www.ItsPersonalStories.com and Follow Us here on LinkedIn.
© 2026 It's Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast
Careers Economics Management Management & Leadership Personal Success Self-Help Success
Episodes
  • Joanna Jagger, Founder & Executive Director, WORTH Association, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
    Oct 28 2026

    Joanna shares what motivated her to launch WORTH Association, the transferable skills from earlier in her career which show up daily today, and how she approaches risk taking. She discusses the confidence gap for women in public speaking, in self doubt, and in seeing what is possible long term and how we can help overcome this gap. Joanna talks about how she thinks people may view her in contrast to how she actually shows up and the north star which guides her.

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    29 mins
  • Tom Deighton_ Co-Founder & CEO_ TBD Companies_ Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
    Oct 15 2026

    Tom shares how much of his leadership is grounded in his lessons as a competitive athlete. He discusses betting on yourself, being intentional in developing leadership skills, and how curiosity leads to personal and career growth. Tom talks about evolving as a leader, being all in, both with his family and his new business, and the importance of mentors throughout his life.

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    30 mins
  • Steven Nicholas_ Managing Principal and Head of Asset Management_ Noble Investment Group_ interviewed by David Kong
    Oct 14 2026

    After nearly 30 years helping build a successful company, how does a leader want to be remembered?


    For Steven, the answer has surprisingly little to do with business accomplishments. In our latest It's Personal Stories interview, Steve reflects on what truly matters: family, friendships, and relationships that endure long after our careers. He also shares candid lessons about making difficult personnel decisions, welcoming opposing views, learning from mentors, and recognizing that understanding people is just as important as delivering results.


    What particularly resonated with me was the satisfaction Steve derives from former colleagues who continue to seek his advice years after working together. Perhaps the greatest measure of leadership isn't what we accomplish, but the lasting impact we have on others. Thank you, Steve, for sharing your wisdom and reminding us what truly matters.

    How would you like to be remembered?

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    30 mins
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