Greg DeShields Podcast

by Greg DeShields

Season 3

Building Brands & Changing Lives with Dave Girgenti

Award-winning creative leader and brand strategist joins host for an inspiring conversation about creativity, branding, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and the evolving role of AI in marketing. With more than 25 years of experience across advertising, gaming, hospitality, and nonprofit innovation, Dave shares the story behind founding Hero Network and Wish Upon a Hero - one of the first social helping and crowdfunding platforms in the United States. From leading award-winning campaigns and raising millions for charitable causes to discussing the future of artificial intelligence in the creative industry, Dave offers valuable insights into leadership, storytelling, innovation, and purpose-driven business. In this episode, listeners will discover: How creativity shaped Dave’s career journey The inspiration behind Wish Upon a Hero Lessons learned from entrepreneurship and failure How AI is transforming branding and advertising The importance of community, storytelling, and human connection This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, marketers, creatives, business leaders, and anyone passionate about innovation and personal growth.

S3 · E4

May 23, 2026

46:35

Cultural Humility & Global Travel Stories with LaWana Boone |

In this episode of Something to Say, I sit down with the incredible LaWana Boone, a global travel professional, cultural humility consultant, and international flight attendant with over 30 years of experience exploring the world. LaWana shares her powerful journey through aviation, storytelling, and education - revealing how travel can transform perspectives, deepen cultural understanding, and inspire meaningful human connections. From her early childhood road trips that sparked her passion for travel to overcoming setbacks like failing flight attendant training, her story is one of resilience, growth, and purpose. We dive into the importance of cultural humility, inclusive leadership, and what it truly means to connect across cultures with empathy and intention. LaWana also sheds light on the realities of being a flight attendant, breaking common misconceptions and highlighting the critical role of safety, adaptability, and emotional intelligence in the aviation industry. Throughout our conversation, we explore: How global travel shapes personal and professional growth Lessons from studying abroad in Ghana and beyond The power of resilience in overcoming life’s challenges Why cultural awareness is essential in today’s interconnected world Insights into the tourism and aviation industry LaWana’s passion for bridging cultural gaps through storytelling and education is both inspiring and thought-provoking. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in travel, diversity & inclusion, leadership, and global experiences. 🎧 Tune in and discover how to travel with intention, reflect deeply, and connect authentically.

S3 · E3

Apr 26, 2026

42:22

Finding Home & Purpose: Real Estate, Resilience & Life Lessons with Naomi Kurzyna

This episode: Finding Home & Purpose: Real Estate, Resilience & Life Lessons. In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Naomi J. Kurzyna of Compass, one of Philadelphia’s most trusted real estate professionals, to explore the profound connection between finding your home and discovering your purpose. Naomi shares her remarkable journey, shaped by global experiences living across the U.S. and Europe, and how her background in hospitality, sales, and marketing continues to influence her client-first approach to real estate. From navigating complex housing markets to delivering five-star service, she offers valuable insights into buying, selling, relocating, and building trust in today’s competitive environment. But this conversation goes far beyond real estate. Together, we explore deeply personal themes of resilience, overcoming life’s toughest challenges, the power of meaningful relationships, and how gratitude and perspective can transform your life. Naomi also opens up about her courageous battle with cancer, the lessons she has learned about listening, and why kindness and empathy are essential—not only in business, but in life. Whether you’re exploring homeownership, transitioning into a new chapter, or simply seeking inspiration to pursue your passion, this episode is filled with heartfelt wisdom and practical insight you won’t want to miss.

S3 · E2

Apr 12, 2026

54:03

Paul Blakely on Irish Craft Beer & Philadelphia Collaboration | Something to Say Podcast

In this episode of Something to Say, host Greg DeShields sits down with branding expert, creative director, and 3x agency founder Paul Blakely to explore a powerful international collaboration between Ireland and Philadelphia’s craft brewing communities. With over 20 years of experience across Europe and the United States, Paul shares insights on brand strategy, entrepreneurship, and the evolving hospitality industry. The conversation dives into the Philadelphia–Ireland Brewery Collaboration Initiative, highlighting how Irish craft beer is making its way to American shores and what this means for local businesses, cultural exchange, and global brand development. From actionable business strategies to the importance of human connection in hospitality, this episode offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs, marketers, and craft beer enthusiasts alike. Key topics include: Irish craft beer expansion into the U.S. market Branding and marketing strategies for local businesses The future of hospitality and customer experience Philadelphia’s growing craft beer scene International collaboration and cultural exchange If you’re interested in business growth, branding, or the global craft beer industry, this episode delivers practical insights you can apply immediately. https://legendelphia.com/ https://stndaprt.com/ Email Paul: hello@stndaprt.com Hello@paulblakely.com

S3 · E1

Mar 23, 2026

43:03

Season 2

Lead with Presence, Not Position | Victor Simmons on Leadership & Book Launch

Join me on Something to Say as I welcome back Victor Simmons, "new" author of "The Presence-Driven Leader". Victor shares his journey from his family’s Alabama roots to leading on the global stage of hospitality, showing how authentic leadership comes from presence, not position. We explore his three-pillar leadership framework: coaching, influence, and conviction, plus insights on motivating teams, building trust, DEI, and leveraging AI in the workplace. 📖 Book Launch: March 2026 Victor’s The Presence-Driven Leader is available wherever books are sold, with autographed copies available directly from him. Lead with presence, not your title, and make a real impact in your workplace and community. 🎧 Subscribe and listen to get actionable leadership strategies and timeless wisdom from Victor’s journey.

S2 · E16

Mar 9, 2026

38:01

Finding Balance, Purpose & True Hospitality: Fitz Spencer on Something to Say Podcast

Join us as we interview the owner of Honkytonk Wine Library in Devon, England. Fitz is an entrepreneur, mentor, and business leader with over two decades of experience in hospitality and entrepreneurship. From his beginnings as a chef across the UK and Europe to building community-focused bars and leading ethical income ventures with Zinzino, Fitz shares his journey of resilience, faith, and purposeful success. We dive deep into hospitality, entrepreneurship, leadership, and the lessons he’s learned from failure, family, and life’s toughest moments. Discover insights on: Building income and life with purpose True hospitality and challenging common industry misconceptions Navigating entrepreneurship without losing yourself The evolving role of technology in hospitality Lessons from life, faith, and personal growth Whether you’re passionate about hospitality, entrepreneurship, or personal development, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories to guide your journey. Listen, learn, and find your own path to balance, purpose, and long-term success.

S2 · E14

Jan 24, 2026

48:50

Harnessing the Power of AI Responsibly - A Conversation with Ary Aranguiz

In this episode of Something to Say, we sit down with Ary Aranguiz, founder of Future-Ready AI Group, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way we work, learn, and build businesses. With over 25 years in education, learning, and development - including roles at Google Fiber, Morgan Stanley, and NYU - Ary brings a wealth of experience in making AI practical, accessible, and human-centered.We dive into some of today’s most pressing questions: 💡 How can AI empower professionals instead of replacing them? 📚 What role will AI play in transforming education and workforce training? 🌍 How can businesses and individuals use AI responsibly? Join us as we uncover actionable insights and real-world strategies to navigate the future with confidence.

S2 · E11

Nov 10, 2025

42:29

Championing Autism-Friendly Travel with Becky Large | Building Inclusive Communities

In this episode of Something To Say, I sit down with Becky Large, founder and executive director of Champion Autism Network and Autism Travel Club - organizations that have transformed Surfside Beach, South Carolina, into the world’s first autism-friendly travel destination. Becky shares her inspiring journey as an advocate, social entrepreneur, and autism mom whose work has trained thousands, created hundreds of sensory-friendly events, and built national partnerships to make travel more inclusive. Featured in the Emmy-nominated docuseries “Traveling the Spectrum,” Becky opens up about her personal challenges, lessons from her heart surgery, and how her mission continues to drive awareness, accessibility, and community connection.Join me as we explore how autism inclusion goes beyond advocacy - it’s a movement that empowers families, transforms hospitality, and fuels economic growth. 🎧 Tune in and be inspired to see how travel can truly be for everyone.

S2 · E10

Oct 25, 2025

37:49

Hospitality, Education & Belonging with Anne Turpin

In this episode of Something to Say Podcast, I sit down with Anne Turpin, Clinical Assistant Professor of Hospitality at The Ohio State University, who brings nearly two decades of experience from Marriott and Starwood into the classroom. Anne shares her journey from leading hotel operations to shaping the next generation of hospitality leaders through teaching, global programs, and her forthcoming textbook, Introduction to Hospitality and Tourism Management: A Contemporary Approach. We explore the evolving landscape of hospitality, the importance of cultural competence, leadership lessons, sustainability, belonging, and the role of AI in shaping the industry’s future. Anne’s story is a powerful reminder of resilience, innovation, and purpose in both education and hospitality. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that blends industry insight with academic wisdom—perfect for hospitality professionals, students, and leaders seeking meaningful impact.

S2 · E9

Oct 13, 2025

32:02

Davonne Reaves: Turning Career Failure Into a Hotel Ownership Empire

Welcome to Something to Say Podcast, Season Two! Host Greg DeShields sits down with Davonne Reaves, Founder of The Vonne Group and Chief Hospitality Strategist. Davonne is a renowned travel trailblazer, award-winning consultant, and asset manager who previously managed $1 billion in hotel assets. Davonne is leading a powerful movement to increase diversity in the lodging industry. She uses her signature "Roadmap to Hotel Ownership" to teach thousands how to become successful hotel investors and owners. In this episode, Davonne shares: 🔑 The story of her biggest career "failure" at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, and how that devastating moment was actually the catalyst that launched her into entrepreneurship and a successful national mission. 🍍 Why the pineapple is the premier symbol of hospitality, and what drives her work. 💡 Which historical figures (from Coretta Scott King and Malcolm X to the hotel titans, Hilton and Marriott) she would invite to a relaxed, seafood, and soul food dinner to pick their brains. Davonne Reaves is a proven leader, trusted advisor, and dedicated alumna of Georgia State University. Her commitment to sustainable strategies and her journey of turning setbacks into a successful mission are truly inspiring. Don't miss this conversation on overcoming obstacles and capitalizing on opportunities in the hotel industry!

S2 · E8

Sep 29, 2025

43:34

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