Hospitality with Purpose

To wrap up the 4th season of Hospitable, Nick & Dean welcome a very special guest to the HwP Studio - JWU Providence Campus President, Marie Bernadro-Souza. Marie has been a JWU staple for the past 36 years and she sat down to talk all things JWU, here career path, and some awesome words of advice reflecting on a long and fruitful career. Turns out, saying "yes" and challenging yourself can result in a pretty incredible career path and lots of stories to tell! The guys thank Marie for taking the time out of her busy schedule to sit for a...

On this special episode of Hospitable, Dean reconnects with his High School buddy, also Dean, to catch up on the last 40 years of their lives. Dean (as in "Guest Dean") offers some incredible insights on being a corporate chef for Marriott and details some of the very cool things he is doing on property down in Louisiana. Chef Donnell hit's all the highlights of the mentality needed to run a kitchen to work / life balance in the food and beverage industry. This is a great listen for anyone interested in how food operations work on a large scale and...

As the academic year begins to wrap up, Dean surprises Nick with a long time friend - Saki from Hope St. Pizza - as this week's guest. In addition to sharing a ton of history and culture, the boys breakdown some nuances of Greek cooking and philosophy, share stories about restaurant ownership, and take a walk down memory lane. There is so much the Saki is doing right from the way he treats employees and customers to his work ethic that is the driving force behind a Providence institution, this fun conversation has it all! If you're in the...

Ever wonder what it's like to build out your own event facility? We've got you covered on Hospitable with Nick & Dean! In this episode Hugo Adames stops by the studio and explains the process he went through to launch the Event Factory - a totally unique event venue right here in our own backyard. Hugo has a fascinating background from club scene origins, to the performing arts, to now running one of the coolest event facilities around! As much as this is a walk down memory lane, this episode is really a masterclass in seeing opportunities and jumping on...

Data Expert and Mobile Technology Guru Evan Saunders stopped by the HwP Studios to talk about his journey into the field of data, how it represents a massive new frontier in the tourism and hospitality field, and some insights into how students can prepare themselves for a career in data. This is a wide ranging conversation about Evan's career in the field of events, travel, luxury electric scooters, and ultimately data that is filled with take-aways and learning moments about how mobile location data can revolutionize decision making in our industry...Not to mention Evan gives us the true...

Local legend and Bonafide hospitality guru Rick Simone stopped by the HwP Studios for a chat with Nick and Dean. From his early days as a JWU Hospitality Management Graduate to learning by doing out in the field, there isn't anything that Rick hasn't experienced during his career. A cornerstone of the community here in Providence, Rick shares his journey throughout the industry, the evolving landscape of hospitality and events, and then answers 20 wild questions from Dean! This is a really fun and informative episode from a true master of PVD Hospitality. Be sure to listen to this and...

Professional Bartender and Bitters Guru Josh Warrener Zoomed into the HwP studios for this very fun episode. Josh is a cocktail maker and recipe designer in Los Angelos and can be found regularly behind the bar mixing his own concoctions along with the classics. Josh chats with Nick and Dean about the world of Bitters and how this drink ingredient is having a moment on the scene. Anything from classics to grapefruit, bitters are making mixed drinks special! Be sure to check out all of the HwP and Hospitable episodes wherever you download your podcasts!

Alex Highsmith, General Manager and co-owner of Spirited Away and Brand Representative for Pentire Zoomed into the HwP studios for an awesome conversation about the Sprit Free Movement. Alex shared with us her journey to becoming a managing partner of America's first spirit free bottle shop, her path toward repping premium NA options like Pentire, and her takes on spirit free's place in the current F&B landscape. This was a fun episode that covered a TON of ground...as well as a killer spirit free martini recipe! Check out more from Alex by following @SpiritedAway.co and @ahigh4...

Chef Thom Webb stopped by the HwP studios with some incredible food for the team. Thom is an accomplished chef who recently launched a line of allergen free meals that taste great and avoid all of the major allergy ingredients. Thom walked us through his career as well as the very personal inspiration for launching his line of foods. While still in it's start up phase, if you have a food allergy or sensitivity, you NEED to seek out these meals. Give Thom as follow on is YouTube channel and be sure to download all the episodes of Hospitable...

In the very special episode of Hospitable, JWU's very own Marita Hurn drops into the HwP Studio to chat all things social media. This episode is a wild ride with Nick in the driver seat, guest co-host Ron Blum, and Lavin on the production. Marita walks us through her strategy and approach to content development, how the pandemic launched her into this creative field, and some of the ways that we should be thinking about personal brand and it's extension into social media. This convo is so wide ranging that we're for sure going to have her back for...

Comedian and local "legend" Charlie Hall and his partner in crime, Doreen! Collins stopped by the HwP studios to talk show biz with the boys. Charlie has had a long career in entertainment and shares the fun and interesting story about how he and Doreen became partners and created the show Aging Disgracefully as a hilarious way to look at their very own journey's in aging. This episode covers a lot of ground from restaurant reviews, to the club scene of days past, to insights on how to create a successful show and bring it to life in front...

In part 2 of this deep dive into the field of Tourism, Bryan Lavin adds another title to his responsibilities for this show as not only the producer and guest, but also the co-host on this Episode! After Dean and Lav rock a 2-sip review of a very cool cold brew coffee, they get down to brass tacks and dive right into the economics and ecosystems of tourism. This is a wide-ranging episode where we learn about the field of tourism, nerd out on coffee, and get to know Lavin a little better with 20 questions at the end of the...

On this week's episode of Hospitable, the show's "Executive Producer", Sound Guy, and resident voice of reason adds another credential to his resume...Guest!! Based on Listener feedback, Nick and Dean decided to tap into the man behind the scenes to learn a bit more about the field of Tourism! In part 1 of a two part series, Bryan Lavin flips his role a bit and talks about his origin story in the field of Tourism. As a discpline, this field is essentially the glue that holds all of the hospitality businesses together to create a cohesive experience for the...

JWU Faculty Member Lou Pullano stops by the HwP Studios for a chat with Nick and Dean about his career trajectory, how he got into teaching and higher education, and weighs in on all the amazing opportunities the JWU students have as they begin to explore their careers. Lou has a great story highlighting how finding your passion is the first step toward success...from there it's understanding how to leverage that passion into a remarkable career!  Thanks for stopping by Coach...and stick around with the episode for a surprise winner of Foodie Fight!

COHM Alumni Michaela Ruffino of Landmark Educational Tours and Carolina Villela of Envoy Boston stopped by the HWP studios for a in-depth chat about what they have been up to since graduating from the COHM. Michaela founded and launched an awesome travel company despite a pandemic and Carolina found her way back to Hospitality and is now leading the sales and marketing efforts for one of the coolest hotels in Boston. Despite going in different directions both Michaela and Carolina discuss the importance of mentorship, exploration, and understanding of the complex industry we can hospitality. It was great catching...

Director of Academic Programs for JWU's College of Professional Studies, Michael O'Malley, joines Nick and Dean in studio to share his origin story and highlight some of the goings on in online education. Michael is THE definition of the non-linear career path that is often connected to Hospitality professions. Joining the restaurant industry on a whim, Michael shares his journey that took him around the world as part of the restaurant industry and how those experiences have prepared him for his current role and for his future plans. This episode highlights the need for students to be open to...

Please, welcome to the show....CARSON KRESSLEY!!  Carson joins the Hospitable podcast live from Las Vegas, NV and talks all things hospitality. Literally, the human form of Hospitable, Carson shares with Nick and Dean how he got into show business, some of the fabulous adventures he has been on, and how the original Queer Eye for the Straight Guy was a groundbreaking moment for television and his career. Now, featured on RuPaul's Drag Race Carson is doing a little bit of everything from starring in shows to judging food on TV. He brings incredible perspective to the podcast and l...

Resident food safety expert and newly minted Grandma, Patty Bowman, stopped by for a chat with Dean and fill-in Co-Host Lavin about food safety. Patty dropped so much knowledge in her first visit we had to bring her back to talk about food safety issues in commercial situations highlighted by recent transgressions by Boars Head Meats and Chipotle. Patty also reviewed some common food safety issues around the home and kindly let Dean and Lav know all the things they were doing wrong when it comes to food management. She is the definition of a scholar of practice and...

Jason Evans drops into the studio for part 3 of a 4 part series walking through his origin story, current roles as Dean of the College of Food Innovation & Technology (CFIT) and what the future could have in store. This episode is full of great leadership lessons and insights into what it means to be in charge. In addition to some great take-aways Dean literally falls out of his chair, Nick brings it with an epic soliloquy about what it means to be a Chef, and Lavin takes everyone to school during Foodie Fight! Be sure to listen to the first 2...

Nick and Dean are joined in studio by colleague, fellow Professor, and resident guru on the Hotel Industry, Katie Davin. Katie shares her experiences getting into the hotel business and then transitioning to Academia. In this rapid fire episode the crew chats about terminal degrees, advancements in the hotel industry, and the management structure of many of the larger hotels. The show wraps up with a spirited round of "who the HELL are you" where Katie is put to the test to answer the age old question, Vans or Hey Dudes? For this, and all the other episodes and...

Nick, Dean, and show producer Bryan Lavin revisit Season 3 of Hospitable by recapping episodes and sharing their favorite moments. This episode explores the world of coffee, how much of a snob Lavin is, and ends with a spirited game of Foodie Fight....who will win, Lav or Mistretta? What was your favorite episode of Season 3? Drop us a note a NickandDeanPodcast@gmail.com or hit the show on IG @NickandDeanPodcast

Chef Ken is the leader of JWU's dining services and spearheaded a dining hall revolution over the summer on the Providence Campus. Nick & Dean kick off the season getting to know the man behind the plan focused on improving the dining experience for students across campus. In addition to getting the scoop on how the improvements went from idea to reality, the boys discuss proper usage of the term "Chef" and JWU's commitment to leveling up the food and beverage options for students...after all, food not only feeds the stomach, but it feeds the soul. Chef Ken may...

Guy Hanuka, owner of Navad Bakers dropped into the studio to tell the story of his journey to owning one of the best bakeries in Rhode Island. In addition to bringing along babka that literally left Nick, Dean, and Bryan speechless, Guy shares his passion for baking along with an incredible entrepreneurial story that aligns the right place, at the right time, combined with an incredible amount of skill and desire. As the boys wrap up season 3, the show closes with a great game of Foodie Fight and a little preview of the summer plans for Nick and Dean...

Nick and Dean welcome back Matt Samel, PhD to talk private clubs and the impact that this industry segment has on the students here at JWU. Private Clubs are like no other segment in the Hospitality Industry and Matt is the resident expert on the topic here at JWU. In addition to talking business, Dean reviews some listener feedback and almost immediately puts the commentary into action, and we answer the long-awaited question when Matt is a guest...will his parking be validated?  

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In this week's episode Dean is flying solo for a second interview with Prof. Brian Warrener, the Director of the Center for Beverage Innovation here at JWU. Don't worry though, Producer Bryan Lavin stepped into the co-host chair to keep things flowing and Dean on track. Brian recaps some of the trending happenings in the beverage industry, recaps the experience from two major industry conferences, and looks into the crystal ball for some future insights in the world of Beverage. In keeping with tradition the boys sample some product and give their honest feedback of Guiness 0. 

Jason Evans, Dean of the College of Food Innovation & Technology drops by the studio for another conversation with Nick & Dean. This episode is centered around getting to know Jason, his journey, and some incredible insights on what it means to be a leader. Executive Producer Bryan Lavin and Nick cut out a bit early due to a prior engagement and miss a poignant conversation about the importance of father figures and how hard it is to say goodbye to a loved one. They also spend some time recapping the 50th anniversary gala for CFIT and have a great "who...

Restaunteur Jim Harris joins Nick and Dean all the way from the West Coast to talk about the restaurant industry, opening an establishment, and how to make it in the industry. Jim found his way through the industry starting at the bottom at one of RI's most iconic restaurants, the Red Rooster. Through a series of smart decisions, lessons learned, and things breaking the right way Jim is now managing a small restaurant empire here in the Ocean State from gorgeous California. The guys reminisce about the importance of Chef Norman Leclere, break down the complexities of partnerships in...

The IT Guru, Prof. Ron Blum, joins the guys in studio to talk about trends that are emerging in the F&B IT segment. JWU is hosting the first ever Technology Symposium on Feb. 21st highlighting some of the latest and greatest impacts of technology on the Food & Beverage industry - this episode serves as a preview highlighting topics and guests...and there are already plans in the works for a post-symposium breakdown of information. Not only that, but we get to know Ron's background a bit more, reflect on the importance of the team atmosphere here at JWU...

In this wide-ranging conversation, Nick and Dean learn from resident cannabis expert Dr. Bud! The cannabis industry carries several stigmas and misconceptions and Dr. Bud helps to dispel many of them. This conversation ranged from religious beliefs, to social injustice, to moss paint and so much more. JWU is a pioneer in cannabis entrepreneurship and as a founder member Dr. Bud offers incredible insights from the industry perspective. This episode ends with a wild game of Foodie Fight!  

Michael Sabitoni, Professor and Department Chair for Food and Beverage studies, is back in the studio chatting with the guys about all things Beverage. Spirit free is a movement that is here to stay and Michael brings us all up to speed on the latest industry statistics, current trends, and insights into the future of the beverage industry...plus, Nick and Dean pepper him with some great questions to get to know the man behind the data!

On this episode of HwP, Lavin sits down with the Owner and Founder of Sated Ventures, Karolina Guilcapi for an awesome conversation on the travel industry. As a proud JWU alumni, Karolina has applied her training at the COHM to an adventurous career in the travel industry. Join us as we talk travel trends, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and what it's like to build a boutique custom tour operator during a global pandemic! For more information on Sated Ventures, visit www.satedventures.com and be sure to follow them on Instagram, Facebook, or Tik Tok!

Bella Noche, the Long Island Mermaid, joins Nick and Dean for an awesome and entertaining conversation about inclusivity in hospitality. Bella brings an awesome perspective to the table regarding drag brunches, drag story times, and what it is like to be a performer in the industry. The boys get educated on terminology surrounding drag performers and discuss how the hospitality industry truly is a welcoming and inclusive place for all, thanks in part to professionals like Bella! Stick around the Foodie Fight at the end of the episode where things get a little wild. Become a Guppie and give...

This week the boys welcome food safety expert Patricia Bowman to the studio. Patty is a Professor at Johnson & Wales University and some might call her the Overlord of Food Safety! Patty breaks down the standards we all should be using for food safety both at home and in the industry, gives us her top "red flags" when going out to eat, and drives home the point that safe handling of food has to be the number 1 priority in any dining establishment. Stick around for 20 questions with Patty and a special Coffee "TEDtalk" with the show's Producer, Bryan Lavin...

Nick and Dean welcome John "The Pizza King" Sapienza to the studio for a fun and authentic conversation about the Pizza Business. John is a former restauranter who owned and operated The Pizza King in crime free South Lawrence, MA for over 30 years. John walks us through his journey in the owning a restaurant, the challenges of taking over a family business, and let's us know just how many pizzas he's made and sold over the years...you guessed it, it's A LOT! This is a really fun conversation about food, community, and running your own business!  For more s...

This week Nick and Dean reach across the aisle of JWU and welcome the Dean of the College of Food Innovation and Technology Jason Evans to the show. Jason walks us through his background and discusses the truly comprehensive experience that students immerse themselves in with a degree from JWU. Of course, his knowledge is put to the test in Foodie Fight and the crew acknowledges the 50th Anniversary of Culinary Arts Education here at the University! ...and don't forget, let us know what you think of the new intro & outro music, @NickandDeanPodcast on instagram. 

Brian Warrener, Director for the Center of Beverage Innovation and Education joined the boys in studio to talk about this new initiative from Johnson & Wales University. In a fun, free flowing conversation Nick, Dean, and Brian cover their pathways to becoming educators and industry experts, trends happening in the Beverage world, how the CBIE can support students, and so much more! They also sample a fun, new NA beer and end with a round of Foodie Fight! Hit up the hosts with comments and ideas at NickandDeanPodcast on IG!

Nick and Dean are back in the studio to kick-off season 3 of Hospitable! This episode is a free flowing conversation hitting the highlights of trends in the industry, the COVID recovery, what's here to stay, and what isn't. The episode ends with a Hosp or Not segment from a situation over the summer. To weigh in on Hosp or Not or suggest a suture topic of discussion, email Nick & Dean at nickanddeanhospitable@gmail.com or follow on IG @nickanddeanpodcast

Season 2, Episode 6! Nick and Dean welcome Dr. Magnus Thorsson, founding member of the Cannabis Entrepreneurship program here at JWU. This free-flowing primer conversation talks about how Magnus got involved with Cannabis, the academic field in terms of Cannabis Industry development, and how JWU's program is leading the field in preparing students to dive into this competitive industry with the knowledge of both the business side and the agricultural side. There is a clear path in this new and growing field for Hospitality operators to develop cannabis related experiences which Dr. Thorsson believes to be an important future area of...

Nick and Dean are back in the studio with Private Club Management expert Matthew Samel, PhD. Mat is a professor here at the College of Hospitality Management at JWU and is the faculty advisor for the student chapter of the Club Management Association of America (CMAA). Mat drops some serious knowledge about a sub-set of hospitality that not many people know about...but once they do, they are hooked! This episode ends with a double dose of Foodie Fight AND Hosp or Not. It's a great conversation for anyone considering a career in Hospitality and a fun look at...

On this episode of HwP LIVE we'll listen in to the recent panel hosted NSMH Student Club here at the COHM on bringing DE&I practices to the forefront of the hospitality business. This panel feature some incredible perspectives from COHM Alumni and industry experts Pearl Farquharson '12, Nicole Lau '12, Serena Sheffer '17, Thara Alleyne, Maferly Reyes '15, and Jackie Dacany. This panel was moderated by two current COHM students and leaders within the NSMH Club, Hannah Bernard and Melody Huang '24. Thank you to all of the panelists for sharing some incredible perspective and a huge shout...