#156: How Culture & Creativity Influence Quixote's Menu | with Chef Jose Cepeda

What makes Chick-fil-A’s hospitality more than just good service?In this episode, we're joined by Nicholas Lawrence, Executive Director of People & Culture, Chick-fil-A Local Franchise - Indianapolis and the founder of Lawrence Leadership.Nick takes us behind the scenes of Chick-fil-A’s legendary hospitality culture—where “my pleasure” isn’t just a catchphrase, it’s a moral obligation. From his early days selling shirts and ties at Macy’s to leading people and culture at a top-performing franchise, Nick shares how leadership, emotional intelligence, and ownership are at the heart of every great customer experience.What You’ll Learn:How Chick-fil-A builds a customer-first culture that rivals the best in hospitalityWhy local ownership makes all the difference in maintaining brand excellenceLessons from retail and HR that translate directly into hotel leadershipWhy emotional intelligence is the competitive edge for any hospitality businessWhat “serving a higher purpose” really looks like in day-to-day operationsWhether you're leading a hotel team or running a restaurant, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways to elevate your guest experience.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/68j5jerfiG8 This episode is sponsored by Jonas Hospitality: https://www.jonashospitality.com/Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Nicholas on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-lawrence-shrm-cp-59b76289/Chick-fil-A Local Franchise: https://www.chick-fil-a.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/158Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode, David and Steve sit down with Davis Howatt-Lambert, VP of Marketing at Jonas Hospitality, to unpack how technology and human connection can co-exist in the future of hospitality. Davis shares his career journey from political science to hospitality tech, his love of golf and rock climbing, and how growing up in Edmonton shaped his leadership style.They explore Jonas Hospitality’s unique "buy and hold" model, the evolution of guest experience through personalization and data, and why CDPs (Customer Data Platforms) might soon outshine CRMs. From AI and automation to personalized spa itineraries and self-service kiosks, Davis breaks down how hotels can enhance efficiency without losing the soul of hospitality.Tune in to learn:The real difference between AI hype and AI value in hotelsHow Jonas Hospitality is creating a best-of-both-worlds platformWhy personalization isn't a luxury—it’s the new standardWhat hotels can do today to set better guest expectations tomorrowWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5x3NCfFP53QThis episode is sponsored by Jonas Hospitality: https://www.jonashospitality.com/Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Davis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davis-howatt-lambert-a13966a8/Jonas Hospitality: https://www.jonashospitality.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/157Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode, we sit down with Jose Cepeda, Executive Chef at Quixote in the LaFayette Hotel, San Diego. Jose shares how his culinary journey began in the kitchens of his grandmother and the streets of Mexico, selling rice pudding to support his family. He opens up about transforming personal hardship into artistic expression on every plate. From perfecting his grandmother’s flan to adding bold global flavours inspired by his travels, Jose reveals how he brings modern creativity to traditional Oaxacan roots. Plus, he talks about his signature dish—the wood-fired branzino—and why every meal is more than food… it’s a piece of his story.In this episode, we learn about:  • Jose’s family legacy and the powerful story behind his rice pudding • Why Quixote blends ancient Oaxacan vibes with modern flair • How he uses flavours from around the world to push culinary boundaries • And what dish he always orders when dining outWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/X5-lFqQfsmsJoin the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Quixote LaFayette Hotel San Diego: https://lafayettehotelsd.com/diningJose on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-cepeda-39495b200/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/156Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Slack, General Manager of the iconic LaFayette Hotel in San Diego. From humble beginnings picking golf balls at a driving range to leading a $31 million hotel transformation, Steve shares his journey through the hospitality industry.We dive into the rich history of the LaFayette Hotel—from its golden age hosting Hollywood legends to its modern revival. Steve Slack also opens up about building a strong community-focused culture, the importance of thoughtful hiring, and what it’s like creating a space where staff and guests alike feel a true sense of belonging.Plus, hear some fun behind-the-scenes stories—including a few celebrity encounters. Whether you’re in the hospitality industry or just love a good comeback story, this episode delivers inspiration and insight.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kg0yJe21P3EJoin the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:The LaFayette San Diego: https://lafayettehotelsd.com/Steve Slack on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steveaslack/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/155Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode of Hospitality Hot Topics, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili are joined by Gabriel Perez from Indigo Road to unpack April’s biggest shifts in hospitality.They dive into why boutique hotels are leading in RevPAR despite growing consumer caution, the booming popularity of camping and outdoor experiences, and how sports tourism is becoming a massive economic driver—from the NFL Draft to the upcoming World Cup.They also discuss the evolving tourism dynamics between the US and Canada, the rise of mobile bookings, and how hotels can adapt to trends such as glamping and experiential travel. Gabriel also shares exciting growth updates from Indigo Road, including historic revitalization projects and thoughtfully curated restaurant expansions in Florida. In this episode, you'll learn:Boutique hotels led RevPAR in 2024, uncertainty in 2025The Great Outdoor RevivalCanadians avoiding US travelSports TourismMobile Phones are primary booking toolLatest things happening at Indigo RoadWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rUq7MCV_tZM  This episode is sponsored by Indigo Road: https://www.theindigoroad.com/Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Indigo Road: https://www.theindigoroad.com/Gabriel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thehotelier/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/154Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode, we’re joined by Elizabeth Bakhash, co-owner of Three Ducks Hotel—a new 12-room boutique hotel in Westhampton that's redefining the luxury Hamptons experience. With a rich background in branding and real estate, Elizabeth shares how she’s building more than just a hotel—she’s curating a guest experience rooted in nature, local partnerships, and a little bit of whimsy (yes, the ducks have names!).We dive into:Why less is more when it comes to amenitiesThe inspiration behind Three Ducks' brand and playful personalityDesigning with intention—from "garden fresh interiors" to the flexible barn spaceHow her branding background shapes everything from the digital experience to the on-site detailsListen now and let us know your thoughts!Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/upcie85s7qsJoin the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-bakhash-42239529/Three Ducks Westhampton: https://www.threeduckswesthampton.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/153Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this special episode of The Modern Hotelier, David Millili and Steve Carran take you behind the scenes at BITAC’s Sales, Marketing & Revenue Management Summit at the Hotel Fairmont Grand Del Mar in San Diego, CA.This episode is packed with insights, laughs, and moments that define what makes BITAC unlike any other event in hospitality.Featuring exclusive interviews with:Lucy Eason (Plusgrade) – On the power of upselling tech and why BITAC’s intentionality makes it so specialRobert Marusi (Hotel del Coronado) – On being a disruptor and putting the customer firstNick Horgan (Amaze Insights) – On starting the BITAC sales and marketing summit and how to get 3x ROI from eventsJack Tadami (Vella AI) – On building genuine relationships that go beyond name tagsLynsey Kreitzer (GF Hotels & Resorts) – On personalization, pre-research, and what sets BITAC apart from massive trade shows Tune in to hear:Why relationships matter more than everHow technology is evolving hotel revenue strategiesWhat makes BITAC different from every other eventWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xAtehukK-FQJoin the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Jack Tadami on LinkedIn: Linkedinlinkedin.com/in/jack-tadami-1086b6aa/overlay/about-this-profileVella AI: https://www.vellaai.co/ Nick Horgan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-horgan/Amaze Insights: https://www.amazeinsights.com/Robert Marusi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-marusi-b6267739/Hotel del Coronado: https://www.hoteldel.com/Lucy Eason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucyeason/Plusgrade: https://www.plusgrade.com/Lynsey Kreitzer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynseykreitzer/GF Hotels & Resorts: https://www.gfhotels.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/152Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode, we sit down with powerhouse changemaker Anna Blue, whose journey from politics to hospitality is anything but ordinary. With roots in education policy, social impact, and gender equity, Anna brings a fresh and fearless perspective to an industry craving innovation and inclusivity.We talk about:Lessons from leading DEI, advocacy, and workforce transformation initiativesHow the hospitality industry can better attract and retain young talentWhy silence on issues like immigration and DEI is holding the industry backThe powerful story behind the Forward initiative and No Room for TraffickingWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nl3WHQ5tGYQJoin the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Anna on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-blue/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/151Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode, Steve and David sit down with Andrew Rubinacci, Chief Advisory Officer at FLYR, to unpack how AI and next-gen data systems are reshaping the hospitality industry. With a background spanning 35 years in commercial strategy, Andrew brings deep insight into why pulling reports for five hours a day is a thing of the past—and how hotels can now optimize rates, personalize experiences, and drive revenue in real time.We dive into:Why legacy systems hold hospitality backHow FLYR uses AI to optimize room pricing 24x a dayThe shift from tactical roles to strategic leadership in revenue managementWhat makes BITAC unique for real business-building conversationsThe future of AI-powered guest experiences and seamless upsellingIf you're in hospitality, tech, or just want to hear from someone who’s shaking up a traditional industry with bold ideas, this one’s for you.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MS7H5YKyP00This episode is sponsored by FLYR: https://flyr.com/hospitality/Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Andrew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewrubinacci/FLYR: https://flyr.com/hospitality/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/150Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode, we're joined by Heather Knutson, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Ascent360, live from her very first BITAC Conference! Heather shares her candid journey from googling “what is a CDP?” to leading one of the most advanced customer data platforms in hospitality.We dive into the real difference between a CRM and a CDP, how hotels can leverage guest data to deliver deeply personalised experiences, and why automation is the key to solving staffing shortages and boosting revenue. Heather also unpacks real-world strategies—from pre-arrival campaigns and spa upsells to retargeting wedding guests—that boutique and independent hotels can use to compete with the big players.If you’re in hospitality and want to understand your guests better, boost direct bookings, and build loyalty without relying on outdated point systems, this one’s for you.Key takeaways:What a CDP really is (and why it matters)Automation tips that free up your staffPersonalisation done right: segmentation, dynamic content & "golden records"How to drive direct bookings and outsmart the OTAsThe RFM score that could change how you treat your top guestsWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Azb5dawDu84Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Heather on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heathersharpknutson/Ascent360: https://ascent360.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/149Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.