Good Leadership, Part Six of Series

Artists are Leaders

Cheyenne Chavez

In my last interview, I mentioned that I would be posting about Cheyenne Chavez's art. She is such an amazing person, and definitely wise beyond her years. I love chatting with artists!! They are all inspiring, and all artists are leaders, in my opinion.

All artists are leaders, because artists have their own perspectives and views, and are self contained in their energy and flow. They do not need others to tell them what to think or what perspectives to have. Artists are truly creative and live from their core. If they do not, they fall out of what is truly authentic and meaningful for them! Artists understand on a deep level, what it is to be unique and to be creative; and our society, in general, is really not that attuned with the artist's journey.

Cheyenne and I chatted briefly about the book "The War of Art", by Steven Pressfield. For anyone who has not read his book, or listened to "The War of Art " Mini Course Series, it is a must for anyone who is an artist, poet, writer. (https://soundcloud.com/user-30055175). He speaks to the fact that "anyone who is not an artist, thinks it is ethereal, anyone who is an artist knows it is a war." Cheyenne and I laughed a bit about this, as it is true, true, true!!

Cheyenne and I also chatted a bit about a quote I read from Marianne Williamson: "What we're going through socially, politically, and economically is so huge that only artists and poets can adequately convey it. The news media can report the news but for the most part now seems incapable of deciphering its meaning." Cheyenne and I know on a deep level what Marianne Williamson was saying, and it is indeed very insightful, as well as motivating for many artists and poets to be living and sharing their gifts, now more than ever!

#artistsareleaders

#thewarofart

#stevenpressfield

#mariannewilliamson

#cheyennechavez

Following is my interview with Cheyenne, gifted artist and leader. Hope you enjoy her art, as well as this interview.

Me: So, let's chat about the amazing art you did for The Saguaro Palm Springs. Paul is such an amazing person, and a true inspiration to any GM, for any company. He understands art, and he understands how creativity and beauty are values just as important as any other values. I believe all artists are leaders. What is your definition of a good leader?

Cheyenne: Good leaders inspire one another. And yes, Paul is an amazing person, and it is very rare for someone in the 'corporate' world, to want to add some art to their surroundings, just for the upliftment and beauty of it. I have a good friend that works at the Saguaro, and Paul talked to her about it. I then spoke with him, and he showed me around. For the corridor, I wanted to do something bright, and I also wanted to do something 3D. I have a very near and dear friend who lives in Hawaii, and she sent me a postcard that said 'the sun will keep shining'. I wanted to incorporate this idea as well, that the sun will keep shining no matter where we are at. Dark times/ happy times. The art I did, reflects this.

My takeaway:

All the art Cheyenne did at the Saguaro is amazing! The piece she is talking about is stellar! This is how art can convey deeper meanings, wisdom, and significance. An artist like Cheyenne, who is so wise, grounded, as well as gifted; can convey deep ideas and reflections through her art, for multitudes to appreciate.

#goodleadersinspire

#saguaropalmsprings

#3Dart

#thesunwillkeepshining

Me: How did you do the 3D one? As that one, is quite intriguing, and special! Your techniques and the way you use light is truly impressive.

Cheyenne: I really focused on the effect of the outline, and filled in with the brickwork. I made a dark background, and it worked really well.

My takeaway:

The addition of this, to the other murals in the corridor, is so complementary and just fits perfectly with the entire vibe! Obviously,a lot of heart and passion went into all of the art.

#3Dart

#muralart

Me: Do you think most artists are introverts?

Cheyenne: Yes, artists do need a lot of time alone. I do not go out that much. My fiancee is the opposite of me and much more outgoing, and when we do go out, I am more observing, and more in the corner/background. Artists are definitely a different breed of people. I don't allow a lot of people to take my time. I choose who I want to give my energy to. I appreciate my alone time, to recharge.

My takeaway:

Artists are generally introverts. They enjoy the "being" of life, and really get their best ideas, creative insights, when they are alone. Or when they are in nature. Some get their best ideas, while driving, or in the shower. An artist's life and journey is really tied to one's own soul, and artists understand this – they can see another's soul in one's art.

#introverts

#artistsareintroverts

#soulart

Me: You mention that fact that artists are a different "breed." Do you think that is why only artists can truly recognize, respect and admire another artist, and the true artist journey?

Cheyenne: We live in a world where people don't inspire each other, they just want to be on top of each other, like it is a race to the finish line. It is a very ugly feeling every day, and It is very superficial. Artists live in a realm that is more down to earth, open, and spirited. Probably why most artists are introverted, and they learn to not take things too personal. I do not take things personal, and I have developed thick skin.

My takeaway:

From my own experience, the way many talk about artists, and treat artists, it is quite appalling. It can be quite abusive, and can be soul crushing. Thankfully, artists recognize other artists, so there is a very deep and profound respect and appreciation there. As Cheyenne says, eventually artists do have to develop thick skin, just to be able to be themselves in a world that wants them to be someone else.

#thickskin

#artistjourney

#artistsinspire

Me: So any current/ future projects you are excited about sharing?

Cheyenne: Well, within the next two years, I hope to open my own art studio. I also want to learn more about welding and glass blowing. I am doing another mural at the Palm Desert Mall, which I am excited about, which will be a statuesque girl with cracks in her, and light will break through her. In February there is an art show, sponsored by Flat Back Art Supply Co, and I will have two paintings there.

My takeaway:

Very excited for Cheyenne, for all that she has planned. Someone like Cheyenne, who is always growing, evolving, learning; is someone many can learn from. When she was telling me about the statuesque girl with the cracks, where light will come through, it reminded me of the Japanese art form, "kintsugi" in which breaks and repairs are treated as part of the object's history. Broken ceramics/ pottery are mended by artists, with a lacquer resin mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. The repairs are totally visual, and become part of the history, and make the piece even more beautiful, and even more worth displaying. From my own experience, the more "broken" a person, the more opportunity there is for light to shine. Some of the most beautiful people I know, have been the most "broken", and have been able to journey through the darkness to the light. They shine, and are uniquely radiant. I am sure Cheyenne's statuesque girl will be amazing, and a gift to all who will be able to see it.

My final takeaway:

I want to thank Cheyenne so much for this interview, as well as sharing her art that she did for Saguaro Palm Springs. As anyone who is reading this can see, Cheyenne is truly inspiring, as well as gifted and filled with deep wisdom. To check out more about Cheyenne and what she is up to, check out her Instagram :https://www.instagram.com/_cheychaveztattoo/

Good Leadership, Part Five of Series

My next interview of this series, is with Tom Kabbash; Designer, Entrepreneur, Visionary, and Leader. Hope you enjoy, as much as I did!

Me: This is a real treat, and I am so glad we are doing this interview. As you know, I think you are a truly exceptional leader, and you are an example of how good leaders are there for others and inspire people to be the best they can be. This is something you have done for me, like no other person in my life. So, thank you for that Tom.

Me: So, what is your definition of a good leader?

Tom: Good question..... I think a lot of this is about context. Initially, when I think of a leader, I think of people who 'report' to someone, in a corporate setting. There is a 'head' of a group and this person leads people. I don't see myself in that vain. I don't have a company where I am employing people. So, I do not fit this mold. And then, I think what else is a leader, and I think everyone is a leader in their life- whether in a community, family, sports, hobbies, etc... Everyone gets to be a leader somewhere.

My takeaway:

Great points Tom makes and so true- " everyone gets to be a leader in their life."

#everyoneisaleader

#leadership

Me: So I know you follow Simon Sinek's work, and I was listening to his podcast and the interview he did with his sister.

https://simonsinek.com/discover/episode-16-moving-forward-with-my-sister-sara/

This interview reminded me of you a bit. You understand on a deep level, like Simon does, the power of being there for another person. You have shown up for me repeatedly in many of my darkest moments. You were fully present for me, when I was going through my trademark infringement case with my Eyes Cream Shades, you were fully present for me after my dad's passing, and you showed up for me after a car accident coming to help me. You were present for me, after a fire that had devastated my life, and you were present for me many other times, and I remember all of them. The gift of having a person in one's life who shows up during the tough times, and not just the good ones, is the mark of a true leader in my opinion. One never really knows, how many lives they truly touch, unless they are told. I reflect on some of the advise you have given me through the years, which possibly at the time, you may have thought I was not deeply listening, but I was. You have been such an instrumental person in my life, and one of the most inspiring people on my journey. So with regards to Simon Sinek's work- what do you think inspires you about him?

Tom: If anything, it is the ‘Johnny Bravo' story – a fighter pilot goes into an intense situation laying down ground fire to protect ground troops illustrating the type of fearless leader that puts himself at the ultimate risk in order to save others. When I was a kid, in a very limited way, I had the experience of helping someone else and I learned early on, that I felt good by doing so. Simon Sinek's video "Leaders Eat Last," I watched no less than nine or ten times. In his video, he talks about the chemistry in the brain and the chemicals which can become addictive, and can be prevalent in a capitalist culture. Leaders put others before themselves, and I, like many probably, grapple with this concept, as it is a challenging one. How can I be of service to others? How can I get my needs met, and meet the needs of others? With the company I am building, I am manufacturing eyewear domestically, which as you know well, is uncommon. My product is going to be made of plant based sustainably sourced materials. So the concept of putting others first, within the context of my eyewear company- my ego can get attached to the outcome, while I also want to provide beautiful frames for men and women to enjoy and feel good about wearing.

My takeaway:

I agree with Tom, in that the concept of being of service to others, while also getting needs met is a challenging one for many. This is why I am asking my next question......

#needs

#leaderseatlast

#simonsinek

Me: So, some are good at being of service to others, and they can get a bit out of balance in understanding they have needs too. Thoughts on this?

Tom: I do think if it comes from a healthy place, and not an insecurity – it is natural, and there is no need to think about maintaining balance. Sometimes giving can be 'people pleasing' and this is driven by our own insecurity and our own personal issues. We can give and care for others, while taking inventory of our own wellbeing. Within a company, a leader needs to know how to balance the books, or else they can not take care of all the employees, and end up bankrupt. This idea can be the same for myself and managing my own wellbeing.

My takeaway:

Terrific insights!! Definitely worth a listen to Simon's "Leaders Eat Last". Also great points that Tom makes on how being of service needs to come from a healthy place- "we can give and care for others, while taking inventory of our own wellbeing." Taking inventory and self awareness is always good.

#takinginventory

#healthygiving

#balanceneeds

#simonsinek

#leaderseatlast

#selfawareness

Me: You, like myself, have a deep spiritual side. Do you think there is a spiritual component to leadership? In my interviews thus far, no one has mentioned God or the spiritual aspect(s) of leadership.

Tom: Yes, I do believe there is a spiritual aspect to leadership. What is spirit.... breathe of life. For me personally, being spiritually fit requires maintenance. Being in a good place spiritually for me is when I am coming from a very positive place, looking for solutions, seeing the greatness in others and being outside myself, outside of looking to have my own needs met. In turn, when I can come from a spiritual place my own needs always get handled. This is often an idealized state or way of being that I strive for. I have found a few ways to recharge and this most definitely takes me out and away from the 'corporate rat race’. Connecting with nature, meditation, outdoor activity and music are some of the ways that help me come from a healthier more spiritually fit place. Connection to other people can also provide me with a spiritual boost. Connection with people or nature. I can get caught up in the game of business and be driven solely by the opportunities of capitalism, money and the successes defined by these pursuits. The struggle is real, haha! With regards to multi-national corporations, if there is a spiritual aspect present in the leadership I would imagine the results could be positive. These large corporations can provide massive levels of assistance, help and product for developing nations, while they also can really be seen as monsters with one thing in mind, profits at all costs. Again, spirituality to me is more defined by nature and life, when a leader not only considers but prioritizes the impacts on our planet, the environment and the wellbeing for our people, and looks at the larger more holistic picture, I can only imagine what the results can be because I am not sure this really exists in our world right now. Many of the corporate problems may even be rooted in the larger issues of spirituality. In our capitalistic society, corporations want to gain more and more for themselves, more for the bankers and the wealthy. Those who look for their own gain, end up betraying others. So spirituality can also come from a moral place, and conscience- what is right versus what is wrong morally. I like to support B-Corporations, the idea of B-Corporations, the corporate by-laws as I understand them, benefit the employees and the environment as a priority over the shareholders where C-Corporations prioritize the shareholders over everything else. I can get tied up between the joy of creating new products for people to love while also having an anger towards our capitalistic system that has generated massive wealth for many. The 'more, more' for ourselves culture is highly addictive. Listening to Simon Sinek's video on 'Leaders Eat Last' , helps me understand this on another level.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gUL76lV7gk

My takeaway:

I agree with Tom, there is indeed a spiritual aspect to leadership. As Tom shares- spirit is breathe of life. Tom inspires, and he is one of the most spiritually based leaders that I know. I also agree with Tom about our capitalistic society, and large corporate greed. I know many creatives, entrepreneurs, minority owned businesses, small businesses, that reflect upon this, and are frustrated by systems that are not based upon spiritual principles.

#spiritualprinciples

#spiritualityinbusiness

#corporategreed

#equality

#spiritualmaintenance

#spiritualfitness

Me: So, this brings me to the question of nature and leadership, and how they relate to one another. I love nature, and I know you do too. Do you think there is any correlation to leadership, nature, and creativity?

Tom: What is better than being in nature? I remember growing up in LA, and I would go down to Orange County to surf, so I was going south on the 405, and all the traffic was going north. I remember reflecting upon how I am going into the ocean, at the end of my drive, and these people are all sitting in traffic to go into a room with florescent lights. This has had a profound affect on me and I feel very fortunate to have been able to have this perspective. Even when someone lives in a city, they can experience nature. They can see weeds come through the sidewalk, breathe the fresh air, look at the blue sky/ clouds, .... I think what is important is to have some consistent interaction with nature. To enjoy beauty and nature is part of leadership, and part of being a healthy human. So even walking instead of driving or taking a bus, one can get this connection. As you know, I have been fortunate to have surfed all over the world. Whether I am alone on the Oregon coast, or in South Africa, it is really hard to describe how wonderful I feel. It is such a great feeling, and it changes who I am when I come back home. I value things differently, and many of the decisions I make are different. My perspectives on things are better.

My takeaway:

Totally agree, and what Tom shares is deep wisdom- "to enjoy beauty and nature is part of leadership and part of being a healthy human". California is one of the most beautiful states, and whether it is driving down the coast, being by the ocean in San Diego; appreciating art in Laguna; walking the boardwalk in Newport Beach; surfing great waves, as Tom does - those who love California know the vital importance of nature. Home is where the heart is, and many have their hearts in this beautiful state. I totally get on a very deep level Tom's description of his driving down to OC to surf. I agree with what Tom says about perspectives on things are better, when we are able to spend time in nature. My best ideas and perspectives I have gotten while being in nature. To Tom's point, for those who live in a city, they can also experience nature. I was telling Tom about my last interview with Paul Patino, who is the GM of the popular Palm Springs Saguaro Hotel. Paul understands this concept of nature, creativity, and leadership, and put this into action at his hotel. In his employee hallway to the cafeteria, he hired a local tattoo artist to do a beautiful mural on the walls. I will post photos and a bit about the artist, in another blog. It was very inspiring to me, to see a leader of an organization, make this a priority. Rare indeed in the corporate world. This is very special, and totally in line with what Tom shares so eloquently.

#art

#creativityinleadership

#beauty

#natureandleadership

Me: There is a great quote from Henry David Thoreau, who is one of my favorites. He wrote Walden, and he says "You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment. Fools stand on their island of opportunities and look toward another land." Thoughts on this, as I know you are a surfer, and also creative, and an entrepreneur; so I though you would appreciate this question, on many levels...

Tom: That is an awesome quote. I actually have some of Thoreau's quotes at the bottom of my website.

Me: Wow! That is incredible – I love Thoreau!! I will check out those quotes, and put them here to share with others. There is deep wisdom in Thoreau's words. Here are the one's Tom has on his website: “I think that I cannot preserve my health and spirits, unless I spend four hours a day at least – and it is commonly more than that – sauntering through the woods and over the hills and fields, absolutely free from all worldly engagements." – Henry David Thoreau. “I have met with but one or two persons in the course of my life who have understood the art of Walking, that is, of taking walks – who had a genius, so to speak, for sauntering.” – Henry David Thoreau.

Tom: Yes, so I never heard the quote you mentioned, and it is really good. There is a lot in there. There is always a goal to be in the moment, and this is a lifelong process. The island of opportunity and looking to the other island, means we never really get anywhere unless we really commit. For me, I did not want to be 'pigeon holed' as 'the eyewear designer', but then decided to double down on eyewear. Sometimes things are right there in our face, and we do not see it- this is when the island of opportunities is looking at the other islands. The name of my eyewear collection - Saunt, comes from the word sauntering. The art of walking. Being present in the moment, and the world we live in along side nature. The process of sauntering- meandering. This is what emerged and it works. The balance and blend of connecting and being with nature, and the experience of being alive.

My takeaway:

Having built a successful niche sunglass brand, from the ground up, I know what it takes to build a niche in the eyewear arena. There are always riches in niches, and while some are "monetary" riches, others are riches that can not be "measured" in terms of dollars and cents. And then there are riches in niches that bring forth the fruits of both- the measurable and the immeasurable. The monetary, and the invaluable. Tom will no doubt make this a success in all aspects, as he has the experience, wisdom, creativity, inspiration, spiritual foundation as well as talent, heart, and class. I am so excited for Tom's new endeavor, as I know what a blessing his vision truly is.

#sauntering

#saunte

#nichesunglass

#richesinniches

Me: So what about passion and the importance of passion in leadership and being creative ?

Tom: I do not think it is just creatives who need to feel passionate about what they are doing- I think it is everyone. We can all draw passion from different things. I myself, need a bigger vision, for what I am up to. After I closed Pleasure Ground Eyewear, I had quite a hard time professionally. I was going through the motions to make a living, and something sparked in me two years ago. The spectrum of experiences has been a process. I wish I had bounced back sooner, with the closure and completion that I needed, as to what had happened. I had a lot of disempowering stories I was telling myself based upon closing the company. To put it simply, we didn’t generate enough sales and interest to keep the doors open and I was sitting in failure, disillusioned to try again. So this next venture, Saunt Eyewear, has been a different experience. I have energy, passion, and also fear but I do not feel pressure. Passion comes from a goal being bigger than self, and also comes from a challenge. I am able to saunter in the context of my business. I am excited that I am able to make sustainably sourced frames, which are stronger than nylon. I do not have the same financial liability since there are no mold costs. I am manufacturing myself domestically so minimums are quite a bit less. So less pressure, all the way around, as you know. Also, nature and conservation is very important to me, so I have the drive, and will do it in a sauntering way and let the brand and product progress organically.

My takeaway:

I love what Tom has shared! During and also after my trademark infringement case, I had a very hard time as well. Like Tom, the spectrum of experiences was a process for me, and I wished I had bounced back sooner too. On some level, I did not get the actual "closure" that I wanted, and was extremely disappointed as to how trademark laws really work, but I did go through the process and I did learn a lot. I think with entrepreneurs especially, those who work diligently at creating and building a brand, when it does not "work out" how they had planned or foreseen, there is a period of time that they need to process things, until they can get that passion and inspiration back for something else. Whether it takes a year, or many years, what is important is that they do get it back. I am glad that something sparked in Tom to ignite him into another passion project, as usually the next one is way better than the prior one , as the lessons learned are invaluable. No one can teach heart, passion, inspiration, vision, from a book or in a class.. For those who are blessed enough to embrace the process of discovery, growth, and knowledge; they come out on the other end wiser, and are able to help others who may have gone through something similar. There is a shared empathy and compassion. Many entrepreneurs go though this, and I am glad Tom is brave and vulnerable enough to share his journey. Ultimately, we all want to be whole healthy individuals, and that is something that exceptional leaders like Tom understand fully.

Me: So as you speak about Saunte, and how you will "do it in a sauntering way" – I think of the documentary "Down to Earth" with Zac Efron, where they did a segment in Sardinia Italy on the Blue Zones, and the gentleman they featured, Francesco Paba, sauntered daily. It was really cool, and quite intriguing!!

Tom: Yes, I did see it. It was with Darin Olien too. Great stuff!

My takeaway:

For anyone who has Netflix. check out Zac Efron's "Down to Earth." Be sure to watch the segment in Sardinia, with Francesco Paba who "saunters."

Me: So last question, any good podcasts you listen to?

Tom: Rich Roll, and also Finding Mastery Podcast.

My takeaway:

Here are the links to Tom's recommended podcasts:

Rich Roll: https://www.richroll.com/

Finding Master Podcast: https://findingmastery.net/tianna-bartoletta/

My final takeaways:

I want to thank Tom so much for taking the time to do this interview. I believe like Tom, we are all born leaders, and we all have something unique to contribute. Unfortunately, many do not have someone who sees them for who they really are- their innate gifts, talents, etc... Tom has always been able to see and honor my sensitivity, creativity, passions, and spirituality. So, in essence I think a great leader is one who helps inspire and build others. Ralph Waldo Emerson has said that "our chief want is someone who will inspire us to be what we know we could be." Tom does this for me, and I know for many others who are blessed to know him.

Good Leadership, Part Four of Series

With Paul Patino

My fourth interview of this series is with Paul Patino who is Hotel General Manager at Saguaro Hotel in Palm Springs. Hope you enjoy...

Me: So what is your definition of a good leader?

Paul: For me, it is someone who puts others first. They lead by example. Leaders do not just tell others how to do something, but physically show them. The best mentors I have had, perform what they instructed me to do.

My takeaway:

I love Paul's definition, and believe that good leaders lead by example. My definition of a good leader is someone who guides, empowers, and inspires others to live their greatest potential. Paul is one of these individuals who empowers, as well as inspires others.

#leadersempower

#leadersinspire

#leadbyexample

Me: So did you have some good mentors early on?

Paul: Yes, indeed, and hindsight is 20/20. Every time I moved, the purpose was to expand my growth. Every time I went somewhere, someone with the experience was there to teach me. There is really no way to know the impact one has on someone, whether it is for a small moment, a conversation, etc... We do not know how big our impact is on others. It is important how I treat others, and it is important that I affect others in a positive way. It is the total butterfly effect. A good leader, is a good mentor. They do no get upset or throw negativity on someone they are trying to mentor. Good leaders focus on the strengths needed to have a strong foundation built. Similar to a house. if the individuals within a team build a strong foundation, they can then all expand and build upon this; whether F&B, Rooms, etc... all our departments work together and are intertwined.

My takeaway:

We never know the effect we have on others. Whether a kind word of support, encouragement, some advice given from life experience, etc... we never know the reach we have with our words, and deeds with another. Paul is a real example, of someone who knows on a deep level that the impact someone has one on one with another, is truly significant and meaningful. Paul is someone who is definitely expansive in his energy, and is not only extremely self aware, but also keenly aware of others.

#selfawareness

#butterflyeffect

Me: So do you listen to any leadership podcasts? Read any leadership books? Attend leadership seminars?

Paul: I am pretty detached from social media, as I am more focused on one on one interactions with those who get it. This is one of the reasons I was so excited when you told me you were doing this. I am very excited for your platform and what you are doing.

My takeaway:

I am very detached from social media as well. I do not think this is a "bad" thing. Like Paul, I am very focused on one on one interactions, rather than social/group engagements. Many of us love the one on one, and social media is not as important to people like us, as it may be for others. To each his/her own. We are all unique, and value and enjoy things that light us up.

#oneonone

#toeachtheirown

Me: Do you think there are a lot of good leaders out there? Company leaders? Cultural leaders? Organizational Leaders?

Paul: No, not really. Unfortunately, many of those in positions of leadership go through the motions.

My takeaway:

I agree with Paul. Many in "leaderships" positions, are going through the motions, and are not fully embracing what it means to be a leader, and most importantly a good leader. Paul is an example of an excellent leader, and there are some like Paul, who are within the hospitality arena, as well as within other industries and arenas. The good leaders like Paul, are leading, inspiring, and empowering others; so hopefully there are many more good leaders finding their stride, and embracing their impact that they have on those around them. I believe we are all "born" leaders. The more one can be fully present with another – share their gifts, talents, uniqueness, perspectives, life lessons and experiences with others; the more people will be comfortable being fully themselves. Good leaders do indeed help build other leaders.

#buildothers

#empowerothers

#inspireothers

Me: You show an extremely high degree of empathy. You are one of the few people, who have asked these last six/seven months through this "shut down" – how am I doing? You know I work alone for the most part, and even on our call last week, you asked me again, how am I doing? And I could really feel like you cared, and were indeed interested in how I am doing. Your empathy is quite rare, in an industry that is all about "hospitality;" where it should indeed be the norm. Have you always been such a compassionate person?

Paul: Well, thanks for that. Yes, I believe I always have been. My grandmom used to say "that an angel kissed me on the forehead." So yes, kinda early on, I had this empathy and compassion for others.

My takeaway:

I have mentioned a lot, that our childhoods hold many keys. Who we were as children, are real indicators of who we really are, at our core. Unfortunately, there is much "programming" that happens by parents, teachers, peers, culture – telling others who they need to be, how they need to act, how they need to think, etc... I was very sensitive, kind, compassionate very early on as well, as a little girl. I was mostly criticized for these traits, unfortunately, and now that I am older, I know these are my greatest assets. I love what Paul's grandmom said about Paul, and I agree with her – "an angel has indeed kissed him on the forehead."

#angelkisses

#compassion

#sensitivity

#kindness

Me: So, empathy and compassion are surely the "buzz" words these days... you clearly have a high level of both. I know your team is blessed to have you as their GM. You and I have been speaking since this "shut" down began, six/seven months ago. The words that have come up regularly since then, (but first couple months especially) from those within the hospitality industry, trying to navigate daily with protocols, slim staff, lower than usual occupancies, etc... – "weird;" "bizarre" times. How have you been able to keep your staff engaged, while having to navigate through these times with them? More meetings?

Paul: Well, with a very limited staff, every day we all evolve and learn – in real time. We have learned to work with less, and still do more. I have been fortunate to keep my team engaged, and they know I also care a lot. There is definitely more communication, but less meetings. I am having face to face conversations all day long with all departments. I value all relationships. I oversee 88 employees, and 50 different vendors. We want to keep them employed and how I deal with them all is important. We show each other respect, and whether I speak with someone for five minutes, or longer than that... having heart and compassion is at the forefront. Everyday is an opportunity to build a relationship with someone, or strengthen one. We are understanding that this "new normal"/"unknown" will be for a while now, and we understand we need to be strong and work as a team for this long haul. I have seen all the individuals on my team, step up to the plate, and have a positive demeanor,; and that means the world to me. As a team, we have grown together, and this is unifying us.

My takeaway:

With so many in the hospitality industry struggling on many levels, Paul is a terrific example of how he has been able to guide his team, and use the times we are in to grow, and develop his team. True leaders, and great ones, in my opinion, are able to go through "crisis" and find some silver linings. These times we are in, have made many stronger, especially emotionally and mentally. Also, relationships and teams have indeed grown stronger. All in leadership positions, can learn a lot from Paul.... he walks his talk.

#growtogether

#teambuilding

#unifyingteams

#strongertogether

Me: So people that really know me, know I am an artist at my core, and I have "a thing" for artists, and other creatives. I know you like to feature local artists at your hotel, and I was quite intrigued by the works and art of Nobel Truong. What can you tell me about his art, and how you incorporate his art within your hotel? Like those Cacti of his, I found so enchanting......

http://www.10corsocomo.com/2020/02/nobel-truong-cacti/

Paul: Yes, those neon cacti. .. We have those in our renovated rooms, and the material it is made of – lights up with the sunlight. We have his art in our books and menus in the rooms. When we do collaborations, they are specific for the hotel. Before all this shut down, we partnered a lot with artists in CA and NY. Most recently, we have been doing a collaboration with a local tattoo artist. We have a hallway that goes into the cafeteria. It is a brick wall, that kinda looks like a prison. Only the employees see it. But we wanted to make it nicer, so this amazing tattoo artist, Shyanne, is doing a mural on the wall.

My takeaway:

This is so cool! I love artists! I wish there was more appreciation in our society, for those who are artists, and those who have innate creative talents and gifts. The sense of community, culture, and art, Paul has been able to blend, is definitely worth noting. Beauty, creativity, talent are no doubt some of the "invaluables" of life.

#artists

#creatives

#artasinspiration

Me: So how did this employee hallway come about? I think this is fascinating. I am a big believer in having beauty, nature, etc... within our environments, whether at home or at work. I am so intrigued how you wanted to make beautiful the space where no guests would even see.... just to create some art and beauty, for your employees and for their upliftment, and appreciation.

Paul: Well, I was speaking with one of our pool bartenders, and she said that she knew a great tattoo artist – this is a friend of hers. I then reached out to her.

My takeaway:

Paul is a prime example of a great leader – always looking to add talent to his team, and what he is creating within his work and environment.

#addingtalent

#teambeauty

Me: So, it is clear to me, you empower, and inspire others. Your example of this is profound to me. As we have chatted about a lot, we never know how we can touch others, affect others, inspire others, etc... You do walk your talk in your clear and deep understanding of the butterfly effect.

Paul: Well thank you. At the end of the day, I believe it is not how high I climb, I want to help others climb higher. Once I reach a mountain top, I want to enjoy the ride with others, and also reach down and help another climb even higher than I can climb.

My takeaway:

Paul = exceptional individual and leader!

#exceptionalleader

#exceptionalleadership

I want to thank Paul so much for his time, insights, perspectives, as well as amazing and warm personality. He is a light and an inspiration to many! I know he inspires and empowers me, each time we chat.