Beyond the Meeting Room by ALHI

In this episode, we are joined by a long time ALHI friend, Doctor Romie Mushtaq, Chief Wellness Officer. With nearly twenty years of experience in neurology, integrative medicine, and mindfulness, Doctor Romie is a leading physician on a mission to transform the brain health of companies, leaders, and organizations.

In this episode, we are joined by Ryan Berg, Co-Founder and CEO of the Aruna Project.  The Aruna project is a premium athleisure company that creates sustainable life-long employment and freedom for survivors of human trafficking.  One hundred percent of the Aruna profits go back into the organization to empower these women.  Ryan and Mike have an informative discussion on how Ryan began the journey of his work and the significant impact he has on supporting forward, positive movement for trafficking survivors. 

We are joined by former US Army Green Beret and retired Lieutenant Colonel Scott Mann. In his impressive twenty-three year military career, he has learned rapport-building skills to help make better human connections.  Scott and Mike discuss how building relationships, active listening and storytelling have contributed to his successful leadership of teams in complex situations. 

This episode is brought to you by ALHI Member Prince Waikiki. Prince Waikiki is Waikiki’s only all ocean view four Diamond Hotel offering spacious guestrooms and suites with unprecedented views. Located within walking distance to the Hawaii Convention Center, Prince Waikiki also offers unlimited Wi-Fi, a convenient workspace and features more than 22-thousand square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting and event spaces.  Prince Waikiki is the premier destination for your next group program.

We are joined by multi award winning writer, actor and producer, Lori Hamilton.  Lori is also the Founder and President of Prosperity Productions, and has worked as a marketing strategist, researcher, and creative consultant for more than 20 years.   In this conversation, Lori and Mike take a deep dive into human connection and discuss the power of imperfection.   They conclude with a lesson in changing the way we navigate through communication and leadership as we work toward the future.   

In this episode we are joined by Dr. Michael Sorrell, the longest serving President of Paul Quinn College.  Dr Sorrell tells his story of transforming the college from a failing institution into one of the most successful black colleges in the country by leading with love.

In this episode, Mike leads a motivating discussion with Preet Chandi, a pioneer recognized as the ninth female to ski solo to the South Pole and the first woman of color to accomplish an independent expedition on the continent.

This episode features Chemmy Alcott, legendary British Skier and Four-Time Winter Olympian. Chemmy overcame a life-changing injury and inspires groups to realize anything is possible when you take risks. In her conversation with Mike they talk about how anyone can reframe their mindset and step outside of their comfort zone to achieve extraordinary goals. Alcott’s key takeaway and life motto is that is there’s no win or lose, only win or learn.

In this episode, we are joined by Deepa Purushothaman, who is a former senior executive at Deloitte, a corporate Inclusion Visionary, and Co-founder of Nformation.  As an Author, Speaker, Leader, and Executive Fellow at Harvard Business School, she challenges and redefines the status quo of leadership, success, and power by centering the needs and experiences of women of color.  Together, Mike and Deepa take a deep dive into self-care, becoming the leader you would like to be and the importance of showing up as your authentic self.   

Today’s episode is brought to you by InterContinental Miami, located at the crossroads of Miami’s Business and Arts districts. Known as the “Bayfront Icon,” the luxurious 34-story hotel provides breathtaking panoramic views and is currently undergoing a $36 million transformation, bringing reimagined luxury to vibrant and trendy Miami. The elegant and expansive city hotel offers 135,000 square feet of total meeting space, 653 luxury guest rooms, numerous dining outlets and full-service spa. Debuting soon, the hotel’s freshly updated guest rooms and suites are inspired by their surroundings – stunning Atlantic Ocean views in one direction, vibrant and iconic skyline panoramas in the other.

In today’s episode, we are joined by Jane Park, Founder and CEO of Tokki, a company on a mission to ignite joy through gifting. Jane is a nationally recognized expert in consumer brand building, social commerce, and entrepreneurship. Her conversation with Mike is uplifting and inspiring, touching on ways to “Escape into the Now” while strategically shifting your mindset to find who you’re meant to be. They discuss how connection is universal, resilience is a team sport and that ultimately, the ability to find meaning and purpose in life lies within each of us.

Today’s episode is brought to you by The Meritage Resort and Spa and Grand Reserve at the Meritage, a memorable escape at the gateway to wine country. Marked by two distinct stay experiences, this expansive and luxurious property in the heart of Napa offers 322 guest rooms and over 50,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. Among sprawling vineyards and rolling golden hills, experience unparalleled luxury and iconic views at this Four Diamond resort that perfectly embodies everything Napa.

Today, we are joined by Jim Sonefeld, an award-winning drummer and songwriter best known for his time with 90’s rock band Hootie and the Blowfish. In his recent memoir, “Swimming with the Blowfish”, Jim recounts the band’s exciting rise to fame, his own struggles with addiction, and his current passion for philanthropy. Mike and Jim discuss the role of spirituality in their lives, how to laugh through difficult times, and the importance of timing in navigating the changes of life. To connect with Jim Sonefeld or learn more about his memoir, visit jimsonefeld.com or follow him on Facebook or Twitter.  

Today, we are joined by Lisa Sun, Founder & CEO of GRAVITAS New York, a versatile fashion brand focused on empowering women to find their confidence. Launching from her speech at ALHI’s Leadership Summit, Lisa describes how to step out of your comfort zone and into your confidence with intentional daily rituals. She and Mike share the impactful ways their immigrant parents shaped who they are and the surprising ways to identify and harness your individual super powers.

Today’s episode is brought to you by PGA National Resort, where luxury is always the standard, and golf is never considered just a game. Anchored by six championship golf courses, this world-class destination boasts 370 newly designed guestrooms and over 40,000 square feet of meeting space. With a recent $100 million resort-wide renovation, this elegant Palm Beach icon embraces the best Florida has to offer by delivering an approachable but enviable lifestyle stay for guests and attendees alike.

In today’s episode, we are joined by Darcy Gaechter, the first and only woman to kayak the Amazon River from source to sea. She shared her inspiring story at our ALHI Executive Women in Leadership event and shares with Mike today the impactful ways to plan for and accomplish massive goals, why proving people wrong is her fiercest motivator, how to harness the courage to follow your passions and defy society’s expectations, and the next big adventure she is planning! To learn more about Darcy or book her as a potential speaker, visit our partners Leading Authorities at leadingauthorities.com and search by name.

Today, we are joined by Dr. Helena Boschi, a world-renowned applied neuroscience psychologist who combines scientific research with illustrative stories to provide practical tips to help us lead happy, healthy and productive lives. Launching from her speech at ALHI’s International Executive Exchange, she discusses the importance of sleep and how it detoxes our brain, how both routine and spontaneity are imperative to overall brain health and the best tips to battle anxiety and gain more happiness. To learn more about Dr. Helena Boschi or book her as a potential speaker, visit our partners Leading Authorities at leadingauthorities.com and search by name.

Today’s episode is brought to you by InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta, an iconic luxury lifestyle hotel in the heart of Atlanta’s most prestigious neighborhood. With 422 newly redesigned rooms and 31,000 square feet of event space, this iconic hotel exudes southern charm at every corner.

In today’s episode, we are joined by Neen James, a speaker, author, and Executive Strategist for luxury and legacy brands worldwide. Neen’s joyous and effervescent character will bring a smile to your face as she dives into the best ways to streamline your routine so you can pay attention to what matters most. She and Mike discuss why our attention spans truly aren’t dwindling, how luxury is a mindset and the best way to tap into it, as well as impactful ways to quiet the noise of life to allow for valuable recovery. To learn more about Neen James, head to neenjames.com.

Today’s episode is brought to you by InterContinental Miami, located at the crossroads of Miami’s Business and Arts districts. Known as the “Bayfront Icon,” the luxurious 34-story hotel sits on the shore of Biscayne Bay in the heart of downtown Miami, providing breathtaking panoramic city and water views for a unique mix of work and play. An elegant and expansive city hotel, the InterContinental Miami offers 135,000 square feet of total meeting space, 653 luxury guest rooms, numerous dining outlets and full-service spa. Bring your boardroom to Biscayne and meet mere minutes from the most exciting areas in Miami.

In today’s episode, we are joined by Mick Ebeling, Founder and CEO of Not Impossible Labs, a social tech incubator determined to improve the world one invention at a time. Mick believes that society’s biggest problems can be solved with fewer echo chambers and a little more elbow grease, and he reminds us that throughout history humans have consistently made the impossible possible. He says we all have the power to make an impact and by recognizing failure as a gateway to solutions, we can collectively solve the absurdities of humanity by breaking large-scale issues into manageable endeavors while maintaining a positive mindset. To learn more about Mick and the Not Impossible Labs mission, head to notimpossible.com.

In today’s unique and inspiring episode, we are joined by Faith Robles, a human trafficking survivor. Learn how she narrowly escaped her captor after spending four years without her freedom, what she’s doing now to continue inspiring and helping others, and what you can do to identify and help prevent trafficking. Along with Faith, we hear from Lori Cohen, CEO of ECPAT USA as well as Cherstyn Stockwell, Founding Board Member of Dahlia’s Hope. In this vulnerable and eye-opening conversation, Faith shares how she defines success, words of inspiration for those susceptible to trafficking and how starting her own nonprofit helps her maintain a caring and positive outlook on life.

Sebastian Terry is a best-selling author and founder of the “100 Things Movement.” Sebastian joined us at the ALHI Executive Exchange for an inspirational keynote on using goals as a vehicle for change and how to capitalize on the perspective that adversity can bring us. In today’s conversation, we discuss strategies for meaningful goal setting, how to process fear through action and how to ultimately craft a happier life by tapping into purpose and community.

In today’s episode, we are joined by Dr. Ivan Joseph, an award-winning coach, educator, and leader who has spent his career leading cultural transformation, helping people believe in themselves, and creating cohesive teams. Born in Guyana, South America, he arrived in Toronto at the age of five with only the clothes he was wearing. He is now Vice President, Student Affairs at Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.

In today's episode, we are joined by Poppy Jamie, the author of the critically acclaimed book, “Happy Not Perfect,” and a British entrepreneur. Poppy joined us last year at the ALHI Executive Women in Leadership and today’s conversation springboards from her keynote speech on life, manifestation, and perspective. Mike and Poppy delve into the value of vulnerability, how surrender can be the best tool in adjusting our perspective, and their overall amazement at the remarkable nature of human resiliency. Truly an uplifting and inspirational conversation, this episode will leave you with the wisdom to reflect on and adapt your mindset along with the humility to understand we’re not alone in the plights we face.

This episode is made possible by our partner Turtle Bay Resort, an oceanside resort located in Hawaii.

Embodying the very best of Oahu’s natural beauty, elevated experiences and rich culture, Turtle Bay is the only full-service resort on the iconic North Shore. The resort recently debuted a major transformation, reintroducing itself as an ultra-luxe oceanfront and solidifying its reputation as Hawaii's most experiential resort. Set on nearly 13-hundred oceanfront acres, the property features a 460-acre farm and five miles of pristine beaches.

In today's episode, we are joined by Chris Gardner, the author of the critically acclaimed book “Pursuit of Happyness”. Chris appeared at a recent ALHI event as the keynote speaker, and today’s conversation springboards from his speech on life, leadership, and happiness.

This episode is made possible by our partner Atlantis Paradise Island, a lush, oceanside resort located in The Bahamas.

The resort features five distinct properties including the newly renovated Royal and is home the largest open-air marine habitat in the world. The Atlantis Blue Project Foundation, the resort’s nonprofit, 501 (c)3 organization, is dedicated to saving sea species and their habitats throughout The Bahamas and surrounding Caribbean. Atlantis, Paradise Island offers travelers a destination of immersive programming, connecting guests to the rich environment, history, art, people, cuisine and festivities of The Bahamas.

DeDe shares lessons learned over a 25-year military career and how we can harness our humanness, get comfortable in setting boundaries and perfect our own work life balance to become the very best versions of ourselves.

This episode is brought to you by The Estate Yountville. Located in the renowned Napa Valley wine region and nestled in the charming town of Yountville, The Estate is a vibrant and lush oasis. The property is truly a village-within-a-village, settled on an alluring 22-acre property. The Estate has redesigned the Wine Country experience. The property is comprised of two luxury hotels with decidedly different personalities – the sinfully good and oh-so-social Hotel Villagio and its sophisticated counterpart, Vintage House, a chic and tranquil sanctuary. Offering curated signature experiences, coupled with stunning event spaces indoors and out, any group, whether corporate or social, is sure to have a most memorable stay at The Estate Yountville.

In this episode, Rob Adams, President & CEO of Bishop-McCann and Mike Dominguez, President & CEO of ALHI, have a frank conversation on lleadership, strengthening  core values in uncertain times and how best to navigate a dynamic and ever-changing workforce.

In today’s episode, we are joined by Lori Cohen, CEO of ECPAT-USA, the leading anti-child trafficking organization in the United States. In this poignant discussion, Lori shares how pervasive human trafficking really is, key signs to watch for in day-to-day life, and how you can make an impact to stop this horrific crime. 

This episode is made possible by our partners at Biltmore Coral Gables.

Recently renovated, graced with effortless beauty and sophistication, the Biltmore Hotel is a National Historic Landmark located in the exclusive Coral Gables area with close proximity to Miami Beach and Downtown Miami. The 271-room resort includes 174 suites and features spectacular Mediterranean architecture with classic Italian, Moorish, and Spanish influences spread over 150 acres of tropical landscape. The hotel offers a restored Donald Ross 18-hole, 71-par championship golf course; tennis courts; the largest hotel pool on the East Coast of the United States with private cabanas; a European spa; and a renowned fitness center. The Biltmore is one of South Florida’s ideal sites for leisure and business travel, high-level corporate briefings & public policy conferences, and is an extraordinary wedding destination.

This episode of Beyond the Meeting Room is sponsored by Atlantis Paradise Island. 

On this episode of Beyond the Meeting Room, we meet Mike James, President of Individual Solutions and President of NFP Life Solutions. The duo sits down and discusses promoting positive change through safe and thoughtful conversations through education, along with wellness and how the pandemic has affected those around us and how to connect with each other.

In today's episode, we are joined by Judi Holler, author of Fear is my Homeboy, and an inspirational keynote speaker. Judi and Mike discuss how to harness momentum to combat fear, find comfort without control, re-tool your imagination, and ultimately find self-love through grace.

This episode is sponsored by Portola Hotel and Spa in Monterey, California.

As Monterey’s first and only U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Certified Hotel, Portola Hotel and Spa offers meeting and event planners the opportunity to create sustainable and eco-friendly meetings. Portola Hotel and Spa is located steps from Fisherman’s Wharf in the heart of downtown Monterey, featuring 17 meeting rooms with more than 30-thousand square feet of meeting space. The newly renovated Monterey Conference Center is adjacent to Portola, making this unique venue the largest event space of its kind on the Central Coast of California.

Tune in to Beyond the Meeting Room with ALHI President & CEO Michael Dominguez as he sits down with Faisal Sublaban Senior Vice President at Internova Travel Group. These two hotel gurus go into detail about the current state of our industry and how to stay positive through it all. 

Tune in to the latest episode of Beyond the Meeting Room where ALHI President & CEO Michael Dominguez sits down with Lonnie Mayne of Red Shoes Living to discuss humanizing business, showing grace as a leader and how to put your best foot forward in the toughest of times.

Mike sits down with motivational speaker, #1 New York Times bestselling author and the star of the MTV show, The Buried Life, Ben Nemtin. Listen in as they talk about everything ranging from Ben playing basketball with President Obama, to creating your bucket list, connection, quality of life, and increasing your happiness on a personal and professional level. 

On this episode of Beyond the Meeting Room, we are joined by Major General Ondra Berry, the most senior uniformed Nevada National guard officer. In this dynamic conversation, the duo discusses leadership, honing your emotional intelligence and best ways to motivate a team.

Wonder what it takes to create a omnichannel event? Mike sits down with Sarah Soliman, a former broadcast television producer and current hybrid meeting producer and owner of Soliman Productions. The duo talks through a variety of topics from the changing landscape, to planning an omnichannel meeting. 

Two friends who are not afraid to challenge one another and debate is what you will find on today’s episode, when Mike sits down with long-time colleague, executive coach and business consultant Dr. Lalia Rach. The pair discuss how to navigate as a leader during challenging times, recognizing bias and “genuine ideas with uncommon sense.”

Tune in as Mike chats with President and COO of Delos, Peter Scialla. Mike and Peter discuss the importance of wellness of the mind and body during a pandemic, along with different points of health, wellness, and personal experiences as avid travelers. Peter comes from a well distinguished background on WallStreet at GoldmanSachs before leaving to join Delos. Delos is committed to enhancing health and well-being in the spaces where we live, work, sleep and play through standards, programs and solutions designed to promote wellness, stress resilience, performance, restfulness and joy.