From Corporate Rigidness to Entrepreneurial Freedom / Nora Slotz @ Level up with Hakim #29

Unlocking Future-Ready Leadership with Michael Cohen @LEVEL up with Hakim #32

UNLOCKING FUTURE-READY LEADERSHIP WITH MICHAEL COHEN: THE POWER OF NO-MAN EXECUTIVE AND AI Managing Partner @ GAIN • ✈️ Nomad Executive™️ • Travel and Hospitality, Innovation Growth Advisor • Top 100 Social Media and Digital Thought Leaders in Global Hospitality• Lecturer @ NYU In this episode, Michael Cohen, a seasoned expert in travel, hospitality, and AI, shares transformative insights on adopting a no-man executive lifestyle, the future of remote leadership, and how AI is reshaping industries. His proven strategies center on agility, trust, and smart technology integration—key elements for staying competitive. TIME-STAMPED HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 - Introduction to Michael Cohen and his unique perspective on borderless leadership 02:06 - The evolution of remote work culture post-COVID and its implications 05:32 - Building a lifestyle of leadership: working from anywhere and traveling intelligently 09:00 - The key to business growth: identifying root problems and developing tailored 'medicines' 12:17 - Gain’s mission: connecting strategic growth advisors across industries 15:53 - How success varies depending on company lifecycle and strategic needs 18:23 - The importance of scaling operational success through automation and replication 22:11 - Differentiating trends from hype in hospitality innovation 24:43 - The real-world impact of immersive training and AI in the industry 27:23 - Hesitation in hospitality innovation and the risks of falling behind 30:15 - Leveraging AI effectively: focusing on human intelligence and strategic integration 36:21 - Unlocking human potential: using AI to enhance creativity, decision-making, and guest experience 41:22 - The enduring importance of trust, relationships, and positive energy in leadership 44:24 - Common mistakes in go-to-market strategies and how to avoid them 47:46 - The power of amplification as a core growth principle 48:50 - What does "Level Up" really mean for Michael: focus, choices, and deliberate action 50:41 - The importance of sharing honest conversations in challenging industries 51:38 - Closing thoughts: embracing change, technology, and maintaining human connection RESOURCES & LINKS: * Borderless: A Nomad Executive Playbook [https://amazon.com/] — Michael Cohen’s upcoming book exploring remote leadership and borderless work strategies * Gain — Growth Advisors [https://gainadvisors.com/] — Strategic consultancy for travel, hospitality, and tech industries * Modern Hotelier Podcast [https://themhton.com/] — Michael Cohen’s endorsement and industry insights Connect with Michael https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcohen-growth-advisor-travel-and-hospitality-tech/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcohen-growth-advisor-travel-and-hospitality-tech/] Listen to Level up with Hakim on spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/65D40dyTOSM2nNaa9GfBUa?si=fcdf3604691a4ecf [https://open.spotify.com/show/65D40dyTOSM2nNaa9GfBUa?si=fcdf3604691a4ecf]

Revenue Strategies Unveiled with Founder of AAYA Group,Vlatka Barcan @ Level up with Hakim #31

Unlocking Revenue and Profitability in Hospitality I dive into the world of hotel revenue management with Vlatka, a seasoned consultant with over 20 years of experience. Discover why focusing solely on occupancy and rates is a mistake, and learn how shifting your mindset toward profitability can transform your hotel's future. Vlatka shares her journey and practical strategies for boosting performance, managing distribution channels, and leveraging AI for smarter revenue tactics. This episode is essential for hotel owners and operators eager to challenge outdated paradigms and embrace innovation for lasting success. [EPISODE CHAPTERS] 0:00 - The hospitality revenue shift: what many still misunderstand 4:35 - Vlatka’s journey into revenue management from operational roots 10:00 - Common mistakes hotels make: reverse pricing, OTA dependence, and cost miscalculations 15:20 - How independent hotels can boost first-month performance 20:40 - The role of data, AI, and automation in future-proofing revenue strategies 26:00 - Aligning sales, marketing, and operations for commercial success 33:10 - Building trust internally and externally for better revenue results 38:00 - The future of AI in revenue management: opportunities and risks 44:00 - Distribution strategies in a complex, multi-channel environment 49:00 - Why boutique, independent hotels hold a unique advantage in 2026-27 53:00 - What does leveling up really mean for hotel leader? Connect with Vlatka Barcan [https://www.linkedin.com/in/vlatka-barcan/]https://www.linkedin.com/in/vlatka-barcan/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/vlatka-barcan/] Listen to Level up with Hakim on spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/6B4x4SMxAQVvgQuapV8KdN?si=kFhmCOuwS26veV7jZ48IhQ [https://open.spotify.com/episode/6B4x4SMxAQVvgQuapV8KdN?si=kFhmCOuwS26veV7jZ48IhQ] Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/level-up-with-hakim/id1872491718 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/level-up-with-hakim/id1872491718] Amazon music https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8864be9e-558a-4632-94b2-6b121a5d7ebf/level-up-with-hakim [https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8864be9e-558a-4632-94b2-6b121a5d7ebf/level-up-with-hakim]

"The Power of Travel Coaching: Insights from Sahara" @LEVEL UP with Hakim #30

REDEFINING TRAVEL: A NEW PATH FOR WELLNESS AND PERSONAL GROWTH In this inspiring episode, Sahara Rose DeVora shares her journey to creating a global travel coaching network focused on transformation, healing, and emotional well-being through travel. Learn how travel can be a tool for deeper human connection, personal growth, and industry innovation—especially in a world increasingly concerned with mental health. Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Sahara Rose DeVora and her journey into travel and wellness 01:17 - The deep meaning behind travel as a tool for transformation 02:45 - How personal stories shape travel as a healing modality 04:00 - Sahara’s journey from family travel to cultural exploration and personal growth 06:36 - The pivotal backpacking trip that ignited Sahara’s passion for travel 08:11 - Lessons about people and humanity learned through extensive travel 10:07 - Favorite destinations and why Thailand holds a special place in Sahara's heart 12:13 - Defining the Travel Coach Network — beyond traditional travel roles 14:42 - How Sahara created a meaningful certification for travel coaches via the ICF 16:18 - Addressing mental health and the emotional power of travel in corporate wellness 18:29 - The role of travel in combating burnout and promoting emotional well-being 21:05 - Building standards in travel coaching and industry implications 23:26 - The future of travel in an AI-driven world and the irreplaceable human element 25:45 - Expanding travel coaching to serve wider demographics and emotional needs 28:27 - How travel brands can embed meaning and emotion into their offerings 30:44 - The power of emotion-first travel and connecting deeply with audiences 32:29 - Sahara’s long-term vision for the Travel Coach Network and industry evolution 34:12 - Places still on Sahara’s bucket list and future travel plans 35:26 - What “leveling up” means in the context of wellness, travel, and personal growth Resources & Links: * International Coach Federation (ICF) [https://coachfederation.org/] * Travel Coach Network [https://travelcoachnetwork.com/] (hypothetical link for reference) * Black Tomato [https://blacktomato.com/] – A travel company embracing emotional and experiential travel * Forbes on emotions and travel [https://www.forbes.com/] – article on emotion-first travel (search for specifics) Connect with Sahara Rose DeVora: * Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahararosedevora]https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahara-rose-de-vore-4b8bb394/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahara-rose-de-vore-4b8bb394/]

From Corporate Rigidness to Entrepreneurial Freedom / Nora Slotz @ Level up with Hakim #29

HOW TO TRANSFORM COMPLEXITY INTO CLARITY AND EMPOWER WOMEN LEADERS This episode explores the importance of clarity in leadership, navigating corporate versus entrepreneurial mindsets, and building impactful networks for women in business. Nora Stolz shares insights from her diverse career, emphasizing strategic thinking, ownership, and community-building. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - The challenge of translating strategy into execution 02:19 - Asking questions early to clarify objectives and reduce trust erosion 04:47 - How international upbringing influences leadership approach 07:00 - Long-term strategy: vision, goals, and breaking down into actionable steps 08:46 - Personal and business goal setting with visualization and reflection exercises 11:07 - Lessons from career in finance giants and tech giants on execution and discipline 12:48 - Navigating humility and ownership in corporate and startup environments 14:25 - The story behind the Female Forum and its mission to support women leaders 15:45 - Building partnerships that create mutual value without commercializing emotions About the Show* What does it really take to level up your career, business, and life today? I ask the people actually doing it. Level Up with Hakim dives into the real stories, strategies, and mindset shifts behind growth in business, hospitality, travel, and beyond. 💬 If an episode helped you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. ⭐ Leave a review—your feedback helps us bring on more powerful voices and keep raising the bar. Connect with Nora https://www.linkedin.com/in/norastolz/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/norastolz/] Linkedin Listen to Level up with Hakim on spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ZEwMToQzskVv4EsYoZbNh?si=kriaiNOoSb6-KaMVXuBTLA [https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ZEwMToQzskVv4EsYoZbNh?si=kriaiNOoSb6-KaMVXuBTLA] Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/level-up-with-hakim/id1872491718 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/level-up-with-hakim/id1872491718] Amazon music https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8864be9e-558a-4632-94b2-6b121a5d7ebf/level-up-with-hakim [https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8864be9e-558a-4632-94b2-6b121a5d7ebf/level-up-with-hakim]

Level up with Hakim #28 AI, Marketing and Content Creation with Tarek Raslan

Summary In this conversation, Tarek Reslan shares his journey from a computer science graduate who disliked coding to becoming a content lead in marketing. He discusses the challenges and fears he faced while transitioning to a new career, the importance of continuous learning, and the impact of AI on marketing. Tarek emphasizes the need for curiosity and experimentation in both startups and corporate environments, and he offers insights on how to overcome mindset blocks and adapt to new challenges. Chapters 00:00 From Coding to Content Creation: A Bold Shift 05:14 Navigating the Marketing Landscape: Tools and Strategies 10:52 The Impact of AI on Marketing and Content Creation 16:39 Learning and Growth: Startups vs Corporates 22:06 Overcoming Challenges: Mindset and Adaptation 27:34 Final Thoughts: Curiosity and Continuous Learning 28:46 Untitled design.mp4 About the Show* What does it really take to level up your career, business, and life today? I ask the people actually doing it. Level Up with Hakim dives into the real stories, strategies, and mindset shifts behind growth in business, hospitality, travel, and beyond. 💬 If an episode helped you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. ⭐ Leave a review—your feedback helps us bring on more powerful voices and keep raising the bar. Connect with Tarek https://www.linkedin.com/in/tarek-reslan/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tarek-reslan/] Linkedin Listen to Level up with Hakim on spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/6B4x4SMxAQVvgQuapV8KdN?si=kFhmCOuwS26veV7jZ48IhQ [https://open.spotify.com/episode/6B4x4SMxAQVvgQuapV8KdN?si=kFhmCOuwS26veV7jZ48IhQ] Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/level-up-with-hakim/id1872491718 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/level-up-with-hakim/id1872491718] Amazon music https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8864be9e-558a-4632-94b2-6b121a5d7ebf/level-up-with-hakim [https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8864be9e-558a-4632-94b2-6b121a5d7ebf/level-up-with-hakim]