Intro: An introduction to the series

Published 01.04.2025 - Michael A. Di Palma

I’ve worked in hospitality for a long time. Across countries, concepts, and cultures—and the thing that always sticks with me is this:

Great hospitality doesn’t just happen. It’s built. Thoughtfully. Patiently. With people at the heart of it.

We’ve all felt how much the industry has changed since Brexit and the “Shutdown”.  

The magic we used to take for granted—the warm welcomes, the quick laughs, the quiet professionalism—has been tested. First by survival. Then by constant financial pressure. And now, with tough trading conditions around the corner this April, we’re heading into another hard stretch.

If we want to get through it—and build something that lasts—we can’t rely on old ways of working or short-term fixes. We have to evolve.

That means:

  • Less reacting  

  • More thinking ahead  

  • Less burnout  

  • More care

  • Less pressure to fix  

  • More space to lead

This series speaks to what I believe makes hospitality sustainable—both for the people who work in it and the guests who come through the door.

Each post looks at one key idea:  

  1. Proactive thinking  

  2. People-first culture  

  3. The power of care  

  4. Human leadership  

  5. Growing future leaders  

  6. The legacy we leave behind

All told through the lens of what I’ve seen, done, failed at, learned, and still believe deeply

Hospitality done right has the power to last—because it’s built on people, not just product.

If you're in the industry—on the floor, behind the scenes, or leading from the top—I hope you’ll follow along.  

And I’d love to hear your stories, too.

Let’s build something that lasts.