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It's Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast

It's Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast

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.© 2025 It's Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast Career Success Economics Management Management & Leadership Personal Development Personal Success
Episodes
  • Monique Lee, Group Vice President, Sales, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Interviewed by Dorothy Dowling

    Monique Lee, Group Vice President, Sales, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Interviewed by Dorothy Dowling
    Nov 23 2025

    Monique Lee, Group VP Sales, at Wyndham Hotels, shares her career journey from unforgettable childhood hospitality experiences to leading roles. She emphasizes the impact of mentors and the importance of intentional, authentic leadership. Her story highlights resilience, balancing work-life challenges, and leveraging AI for success in today's dynamic sales environment.
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    34 mins
  • David Mililli, Founder & Host, Modern Hotelier Podcast, interviewed by David Kong

    David Mililli, Founder & Host, Modern Hotelier Podcast, interviewed by David Kong
    Nov 20 2025

    David Mililli's career began as a busboy but grew into leadership roles across hospitality and technology. His journey highlights the power of staying open-minded, surrounding yourself with people you trust, and having the humility to listen. He reminds us that “if you keep your intelligence over your emotions, you’ll always be successful.” His story is a powerful example of how curiosity and courage can shape an extraordinary career.

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    32 mins
  • Nancy Mendelson, Founder CEO, NEM Global LLC | Co-Founder, hertelier, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey

    Nancy Mendelson, Founder CEO, NEM Global LLC | Co-Founder, hertelier, Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey
    Nov 18 2025

    Nancy shares how the road to connection has become a recurring theme
    in her leadership journey. She discusses the importance of listening,
    knowing your self worth, and trusting your gut. Nancy also shares
    details about her personal board of directors, what she's learned from
    working internationally, and about her experiences with self doubt and
    advocating for yourself and others.
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    31 mins
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