Music and Life - "Every Life Has a Soundtrack"

One of my favorite Brett Eldredge songs is "Wanna Be That Song" (link below), and one of the verses in his lyrics is "every life has a soundtrack."

I do believe this to be true!

As I mentioned in my previous post, I listen regularly to Ed Mylett and one of his interviews this month was with Brett Eldredge; so of course, I was super eager to listen. (link below)

Ed talks about life as an art form, and makes the point that all of us are artists. There is a creative process to life, "as we go deeper into who we are, what we stand for, and what we believe."

Brett shares a lot about pressures, flow state, and being a "recovering perfectionist." He shares about his structure and routines of putting on his "armor" in the morning, setting intentions, journaling, going on hikes, as well as limiting phone time. Not too many talk about the limiting of phone time, as it relates to their "routines," and I am a huge advocate for limiting phone time, as well as computer time. He goes on to emphasize the importance of getting out of one's head and into one's life, and just "being."

#wannabethatsong

#everylifeisasoundtrack

#lifeasanartform

#creativeprocess

#justbeing

#justbe

#bretteldredge

#edmylett

Some of the other topics Brett and Ed chat about:

• Not Taking Yourself Too Seriously

• The Importance of Connection

• The Importance of Reaching Out to Help and for Help

• Patterns That Are Installed in Childhood

• The Importance of Boundaries

• Being There for Yourself

• When Did You lose Your Sense of Wonder?

• Don't Pay Attention to the "Wrong" Things

Check out "Wanna Be That Song":

Brett Eldredge - Wanna Be That Song (Official Audio) - YouTube

Check out another favorite of mine, "Holy Water":

Brett Eldredge - Holy Water (Official Music Video) - YouTube

Check out Ed's full interview with Brett Eldredge:

BRETT ELDREDGE has IMPOSTOR syndrome? | How does a COUNTRY SUPER STAR work on his mental health? - YouTube

#bretteldredge

#edmylett

#showupforyourself

#awareness

#discovery

#becoming

#becurious

#resilience

Wellness for Real, Part Five of Series

With Kathy Anton Galietti, Director of Hospitality at Coeur d' Alene Casino Resort and Hotel

My fifth interview in my "Wellness for Real" series, is with Kathy Anton Galietti, Director of Hospitality at Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort and Hotel. It was such a joy to share ideas, perspectives, as well as practical tools we can implement into our lives, as we embrace "wellness for real." Hope you enjoy!

Me: Do you have your own definition of "wellness" that you can share?

Kathy: What a perfect opening question. I live my life, and look at my life as a series of decisions. Whatever I am presented with, I have one of two choices. There is no dancing in the middle. My priorities are very defined and with my faith, I hold family first, my productivity at home and work, then growth in my career. After I left Marriott in 2008, I redefined myself. I realigned my life and priorities. All I do focuses on my family’s security and well-being and my career compliments this. Most of my decisions are based upon my priorities, and my decisions are based upon being responsible and decisive. Being decisive, is what "wellness" is. I believe the key component to wellness is realizing that at every turn in life, there is a choice. We can learn from "wrong " choices and accumulate our best choices for us. This is growth and this ultimately makes for the best choices for the people around us, and in front of us. As far as physical wellness, I have exercised since high school, and am always aware of what I eat and when I eat.

My takeaway:

So profound. Choices. We all have choices. This is a wonderful perspective, and not one we hear of too often, when speaking on the topic of wellness- thanks Kathy!

#wellnessforreal #choices

Me: So tell me a bit about the experience of leaving your "big" job and position at Marriott. That seems like it was quite a "defining" moment for you.

Kathy: Well, back in October of 2008, I experienced a huge job loss, and as I look back, it was "tragic" for me. I made a lot of money so I had to "readjust" on many levels after I was laid off. At that time, I was the breadwinner and I had two little boys. Looking back, Mondays were indeed the hardest, given I had nowhere to be so I doubted my value. I was with this organization for 15 years and worked at least 60 hours a week. I loved my job and I was good at it. As I look back now at my career and where I spent my time, I did miss a lot of experiences with my youngest son. My husband worked from home so he was with the kids more than I was. I did a lot of busy work to try to wrap my head around my situation. I sure did a lot of crossword puzzles during this time. It was indeed a struggle, but I was sure with 100% conviction, that I would come out of it well.

My takeaway:

From my own experience, it seems like those "forced" forks in the road, can somehow provide us with a "pivot" in our perspectives, thoughts, actions, and future decisions, that may lead to a "better" overall life. Tough to have this perspective while going through the "muck" of life, but there is indeed something positive awaiting, as we navigate, and move through to the other side of it. Kathy is one strong and amazing woman!

#innerstrength

#resilience #faith

Me: So it is clear to me, that you love working at the Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort Hotel. How did this come about?

Kathy: During this time of "transition" one of my best friend's (from Spokane) father had passed. My high school friends went to the funeral, and after the service went out and through that interaction, I was contacted to see if I was interested in relocating back to Washington State and apply for the role of Hospitality Director. I did and was offered my position in May 2012. Prior to this, I was doing some consulting for Hilton Grand Vacations where I was given the opportunity to work with eight of their key properties. The experience was awesome and through that journey, I learned so much.

My takeaway:

Good for Kathy! So thrilled she landed in a place where she is fully happy and fulfilled. We all deserve to be happy , fulfilled, and inspired. I am also thrilled that she works with such amazing people at Coeur d'Alene.

#workplacewellness

Me: So I know that you now work at an amazing place, with terrific people. How have these past few weeks been for you, through this 'closure" due to Corona Virus?

Kathy: What has been so inspiring is given we are owned and managed by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe and during the closure, the Tribe paid all of the employees the entire time we were closed along with our medical benefits. We closed on March 20th at noon, five days before the Idaho Governor’s order to Stay Home. They kept us “whole” for over 5 weeks. The Casino is the economical driving force for the Tribe so the money the Casino earns, fuels the Tribe’s social service programs, veterans programs, early learning programs – essentially the tribe’s overall sustainability. We’re valuable to this region in the form of jobs, charitable donations, and we’ve donated over 33 million towards education.

My takeaway:

I could tell the leadership at Coeur d'Alene is spectacular. From my own experience, and listening to others' stories/experiences, while observing other companies and corporate cultures , it is clear that the "health" of any organization always trickles down. If the people in leadership are "healthy" in their perspectives, and how they treat those who work for them, then their employees will all be happier, and in turn, healthier overall. The ability to thrive at work, seems to correlate with how well workers are treated in their own workplace environment. Conversely, if the people in leadership are "unhealthy" in their perspectives, and how they treat those who work for them, then their employees will be frustrated, unhappy, and not thrive, for the most part.

#workplacewellness

#healthy leadership

Me: With so many in the Spa/ Hospitality industry now at home, what types of things are you implementing into your hourly/daily/weekly routine, if anything? What do your "typical" days/weeks look like?

Kathy: Every Tuesday our executive team meets with consideration to social distancing and we talk. I do have the opportunity to go into work a couple times a week. It was nice to get caught up and nice to plan for a new normal when we open back up. For any of us that went to the workplace during the closure and worked, the employee was compensated additionally for helping during the closure. With more time at home, I am cleaning and nesting. I cleaned out my china cabinet and it just sparkles! My youngest had just went off to college and most recently had to move out of his dorm because of the COVID-19 virus so he moved back home. My oldest works at Albertsons, spending up to 60 hours per week working to keep the shelves stocked. I believe our grocery workers are all hero’s. He is a senior at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington and intends to go to law school or into medicine. My husband is working out of our house so we are enjoying a lot of family time. Prior to the pandemic, I was enjoying my Barre exercise class at 6 am, 4 times a week but now I am doing some virtually online which is really hard to stay motivated but twice a week is better than none. I have to say, I really am enjoying this time at home to spend with family; puttering and nesting; and cleaning and organizing.

My takeaway:

It is quite wonderful that as Kathy still goes in to work some days each week, she is still also embracing her extra time at home. It is my opinion, that those who enjoy their life outside of work, and have hobbies and things that bring them joy, are overall "healthier" individuals.

#balance

#priorities

#findyourjoy

Me: So I notice from all your emails to me, (not just some, but all) , your kindness and hospitality come through your words. There is an elegant, genuine, and sweet energy behind your words, which someone like myself can feel. Whether you buy a product from me or not, you are so professional and sincere in your communications, it is clear to me that you are always present with what you are doing. Even during this interview, I can tell you are very present. In times when most are "multi-tasking" and not being truly present with what they are doing in the "now" – how do you stay present?

Kathy: I am always engaged in what I am doing or I couldn’t do it well. I stay present because I choose to be present. My priority is always the person in front of me, whether on the phone, with me physically, or as you referenced, by way of email correspondence. I know that someone would not "come" to me, if they did not "need" me, and I know that people need to be heard and feel valued. I choose to be responsive and I put myself in check if I am ever in a "bad" mood. So my ability to be present, just boils down to choice. My choices that I make are centered and conscious. I am very thoughtful, and know that there is good in everything and good in everybody – I choose to believe that.

My takeaway:

Kathy's keen ability to make choices from a very centered and conscious place is inspiring. Being able to truly be and stay present with another, is a "gift", and very few, in my option, are able to live moment to moment like this. Words are powerful, and even more powerful is the energy behind the words. We are living in a 24/7 "communication" society where many rely on email and text. In a time where most seem to be "short,” "abrupt,” somewhat "rude,” or even "robotic" in their communication "styles" in emailing and texting, it is quite refreshing to communicate with those like Kathy who are conscious of the words and energy that they are putting out to another human being.

#choices

#presence

#consciouscommunication #energy

Me: So let's talk about all your amazing experiences. I believe that we all bring our own life experience, as well as energy, perspectives, and consciousness to all we do. You have a BS is Sociology, with an emphasis on criminal justice. I have a BA in social psychology and attended law school for a year, where I attained law review status. How do you think you bring some of this experience to all you do at the Resort/Casino, and in addition, how do you think we can all contribute more of who we are, as whole and integrated human beings, into all we do?

Kathy: With my education, I intended to work with juvenile delinquents. In my Spring quarter I had to go to a group home which was a place where kids go before they are reintroduced back into society after a situation with the law. I had experienced what it was like to be with these kids and it was very tough on me emotionally. I was crying to my dad about some of this, and I remember him saying to me that I really can't do this kind of work, saying "you are not made for this". Years later when my husband took a job in Hawaii, I learned about hospitality. When we were living on Maui, I worked four years as the executive assistant to the GM where I learned so much about Hospitality leadership. When we moved off the island, and back to California, I started with Marriott where I learned so much through their training initiatives. I still use my strengths and still impact people in a positive way. I believe in the vital importance of human capital. In my position, I work late and my door is never shut- it is always open. As a leader I am available to those that depend on me physically and mentally. The human capital is key to any successful business. I believe when we take care of the employees, they take care of the business. Through this pandemic, the Tribe is the epidomy of this mantra given the care they have shown to close to 1000 employees during this closure. I am so honored to work for the Coeur d’ Alene Tribe.

My takeaway:

I have noticed through most of my life experiences, that those who have gone to school and have a degree in sociology or social psychology have a unique interest not only in people but also in culture. Kathy continues to use her talents, gifts, and leadership to impact and inspire others. It really does not matter the form or "title" of what we do, as it is really the "content" and "thread" that holds it all together.

#contentoverform

#corporateculture

#leadership

#human capital

I want to thank Kathy so much for this interview, and her time- it was truly a joy!

To learn more about Coeur d’Alene Casio Resort and Hotel in Worley, Idaho, please check out: https://www.cdacasino.com/hotel/

Be sure to also check out their Spa- Spa Ssakwa'q'n at https://www.cdacasino.com/spa/

Exceptional Retail Store Manager/Buyer

Featured Spotlight - Tobie Palmer (Retail Store Manager/Buyer at Glenwood Hot Springs)

This will be my third interview for my blog, and I must say, this interview series has been one of the most fascinating experiences for me. Speaking with those in the Resort/Boutique Hotel/Hospitality industry, as to how they approach their work; and how they are able to remain present, heart centered, and excel in their positions, has been a true joy and extremely refreshing!

As mentioned previously, I want to shine a light on those who are effective, heart centered, and service oriented, as they bring their unique perspectives to their work. In the times we are in, some in the hospitality industry can feel "pressured" and possibly "overworked," but more so than not, most are super happy in their positions, and have excelled within the brands they work for. Not only that, they are appreciated and valued by their employers.

What is it about them as individuals? And what does it also say about the companies they work for that encourage, and appreciate this kind of talent?

My third interview is with Tobie Palmer (Tobie manages up to 10 employees during the busy season, and overseas the merchandising, marketing, etc...)

Me: How long have you been working for the Shops at Glenwood Hot Springs?

Tobie: July will be my three year anniversary. (At the time of our interview, they were still recovering a bit from a massive construction project that was done with the two bridges affecting the main thoroughfare in both directions which took 3 months.)

My take away:

When a property, in general, is dealing with any kind of construction/ renovations,etc... everyone on every level is affected in some way or another. Rising strong in Tobie's department, having the resilience to get back on track with numbers and dollars, is just an example of what good leaders do. They go through "challenges" and are super resilient, and that resilience is spread throughout and among all team members.

#resilience

#rising strong

Me: What is your favorite part of your job?

Tobie: The merchandising. I love to work with the displays making sure they look nice. Having an artistic eye, definitely helps.

My take away:

Tobie's expertise in graphic design, photography, visual arts - adds an invaluable aspect to her position that is obvious. Her creative talents complement her position at Glenwood Hot Springs. Those who head retail areas within properties such as Glenwood, know that their retail area is a profit center, so the space does need to make money and show profitability. Being able to blend her creative insights when working with displays, color palettes, merchandising, point of purchase materials, etc... is definitely an asset. Her creativity, as well as her ability to think "outside the box," also serves her in coming up with impressive solutions to any "challenges" that may arise - whether with guests or with her team.

#creativity at work

#right brained insights & ideas

Me: What two words best describe 2018 for you?

Tobie: Growth and Recovery

My take away:

These two words to me, reveal a true leader. Dealing with the construction that went on, and being able to recover so gracefully is impressive. The deep growth with her team, as well as getting back on track with numbers, are all indicative of the kind of leader Tobie is.

#growth

#recovery

#grow with the flow

Me: Do you consider yourself an "introvert" or "extrovert?”

Tobie: Introvert

My take away:

As we spoke about the "label" of being an "introvert" - it seems like many who love to be around people and love to connect with others, also love to be alone and spend time away from people. When Tobie is not at work, she enjoys quiet time and does not go out of her way to be in crowds. She is super content to be at home with her family and dogs. I started to think that these "labels" are often misunderstood by many, and though they are used so much in the hospitality industry in general, I am not sure they are needed.

#love

#connection

#solitude

Me: How do you stay so effective in your role as Retail Supervisor?

Tobie: I have a great team! We all "click" really well, and we like to have fun at work. I make sure when I am doing my hiring and interviewing, that I look at an individual's personality, to ensure they are a good fit with our team that is already in place. I have the ability to be extremely patient and empathetic, and this is definitely an asset when working with my team. I am also very organized, and I do not get too stressed.

My take away:

Not surprised at this - since all great leaders know it is ultimately all about the team, and it is imperative, all team members work well together. There is a certain synergy that exists among wonderful teams. Being patient and having empathy are two traits all great leaders seem to have.

#all about the team

#better together

#synergy

#patience

#empathy

Me: Do you feel valued at work?

Tobie: Yes, definitely. We have wonderful leadership here, and the employees are treated with fairness and kindness. Employees feel very appreciated!

My take away:

All great companies value their employees!

Me: Do you have hobbies away from work that you enjoy?

Tobie: I love to work out. During the week, I do yoga and spin, and I also run and swim. On weekends, I make sure I do something outdoors with my son. We mountain bike, rock climb, and even when traveling for work, I try and find a local place to rock climb, stand up paddle, etc... to keep a similar routine to what I have at home. When I take time to recharge and take care of me, this makes me a better manager, wife, and mom.

My take away:

Working out and recharging, whether at home, or while traveling is a great way to stay centered and nurture oneself.

#self nurture

#recharge

Another amazing interview, and I am very grateful that Tobie took the time to chat with me!

# gratitude

For more information on Glenwood Hot Springs visit

https://www.hotspringspool.com/about