Greg DeShields Podcast

Greg DeShields Podcast

by Greg DeShields

Philosophy Places & Travel

Season 1

Skål Philadelphia 70th Anniversary with June Seminario, Intercontinental Hotel Group

Let's toast to Connecting Tourism Globally since 1954! Join me in welcoming June Seminario, the Director of Field Operations Support for the Americas at InterContinental Hotels, as she shares her thoughts on a momentous occasion - the 70th anniversary of Skål Philadelphia. This prestigious professional organization has brought travel and tourism leaders together for seven decades, fostering global friendships and promoting tourism initiatives. As we celebrate this significant milestone, let's reflect on the impact of Skål Philadelphia on the industry and appreciate the invaluable connections and opportunities it has provided to all its members. https://skalphiladelphia.com/events

Is Travel Ever Neutral? How Place Reveals America’s Untold Stories

Is travel ever truly neutral? In this powerful episode of Hidden 250, host Karin Aaron sits down with Shaun Lain, historian, orator, and President of College Campus Tours, to explore how place-based travel shapes what we remember, what we believe, and whose stories get told in America.As the nation approaches the America 250 commemoration, this conversation challenges traditional narratives by asking hard questions about history, education, and identity. From college campuses as living classrooms to the ways untold stories are preserved - or erased - through travel, Shaun Lain shares decades of experience helping students engage with history beyond textbooks. Together, they unpack why travel is never neutral, how suppressed histories still shape the present, and why seeing, touching, and experiencing a place can transform understanding, self-esteem, and purpose - especially for young people navigating their future. This episode invites listeners to rethink how America’s story is told, who is included, and how truth emerges when we move through history with intention.

Workforce Development, AI & Social Impact: A Conversation with Kristin Mayo

In this compelling episode of Something to Say, we sit down with Kristin Mayo, the founder and executive director of Community Nexus, a dynamic leader bridging community development, education, and technology. We dive deep into her personal journey, the roots of her passion for inclusive workforce solutions, and her bold leadership approach. Kristin shares how her childhood, family influences, and early career missteps shaped her vision for Community Nexus—a growing grassroots movement—and the driving force behind the upcoming 2025 Workforce Development Conference, taking place June 27th at Marist University. We also explore the rising demand for AI training, what’s “Beyond the Hype,” and why this conference isn’t just an event—it’s a call to action. Whether you're a business owner, community advocate, or just curious about how tech and social equity intersect, this episode offers both inspiration and practical insight. 🎧 Tune in now and learn how you can be part of the movement for real, sustainable workforce change.

Elevating Voices Through Storytelling

Greg DeShields is Executive Director of Greg DeShields Consulting LLC, and the host of the podcast Something to Say with Greg DeShields. Launched in April 2024, Something to Say amplifies the voices of diverse personalities making a meaningful impact. With a focus on passion, perseverance, and resilience, the podcast explores how overcoming adversity can lead to transformation and success. As he gears up for Season Two, launching in April 2025, Greg joins us to share insights on his journey, exciting upcoming guests, and the power of storytelling to inspire change.

The 4th Annual Storyteller Award Celebration: A Night with Sharon and Friends

Discover the incredible journey of a woman who transformed Philadelphia into a premier film destination, elevating the local film office to national prominence. Sharon shares her personal and professional triumphs and challenges from her early days as a boutique owner and costume designer to her influential role in establishing Pennsylvania's Film Production Tax Credit Program. Join us as we celebrate Sharon’s legacy, including her upcoming recognition with The 4th Annual Philadelphia Storyteller Award. Please Register for The 4th Annual Storyteller Award Celebration: A Night with Sharon and Friends. Don’t miss this insightful and inspiring conversation highlighting the resilience, passion, and vision of one of Philadelphia’s most influential figures.

The Podcast Introduction

Host Gregory DeShields, a well-known professional in the tourism and hospitality industry, hails from Philadelphia and is deeply passionate about his work. His dedication to nurturing the next generation of hospitality leaders is truly inspiring. With his extensive experience working across various industries, including academia, non-profit, corporate, and government sectors, he brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to his role.

Celebrating MenzFit's 17th Anniversary - Who Wore It Best? with Rhonda Willingham

Join host Greg DeShields in this special episode of Something to Say as we celebrate Men's Fit's 17th anniversary fashion event on June 5th at the Philadelphia Zoo. Our guest is Rhonda Willingham, founder of Men's Fit, a nonprofit supporting black and brown men with job prep and professional attire. Learn about the upcoming fashion show and Rhonda's inspiring work. Get tickets: givebutter.com Event: June 5th Location: Philadelphia Zoo Subscribe for more inspiring episodes!

Bridging Divides with Rachel Covello: Inclusive Tourism and the Future

Welcome to a special episode of Something to Say podcast! I'm your host, Greg DeShields, and today we have an insightful conversation with Rachel Covello, an influential LGBTQ+ content creator and travel blogger. Rachel is known for her dedication to building bridges across divides with empathy, her extensive background in sales, marketing, non-profit leadership, and her work as the publisher of Outcoast.com. In this episode, Rachel shares her journey, highlights her contributions to LGBTQ+ tourism, and discusses her role in organizing Florida's first LGBTQ+ tourism convention, the Florida Outcoast Convention (FLOCC). We'll delve into her experiences, insights into the tourism industry, and the importance of creating inclusive spaces. Join us as we explore Rachel's impactful work and her vision for a more connected and understanding future. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation that covers everything from Rachel's personal icebreakers to her thoughts on the most significant trends in tourism today. Whether you're interested in travel, diversity, or simply hearing from an inspiring leader, this episode has something for everyone! Stay updated with our latest episodes!

Inspiring Journeys in Hospitality: Insights from NABHOOD Leaders Andy Ingraham and Shawn Murray

Welcome to a special Something to Say episode hosted by Greg DeShields. Today, we are honored to feature Andy Ingraham, President, Founder, and CEO of the National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators, and Developers (NABHOOD), and Shawn Murray, Assistant Professor of Tourism and Hospitality Management at Montgomery County Community College. Listen in as they share their incredible journeys, insights into the hotel industry, and the upcoming NABHOOD conference to increase African-American participation in hospitality. Join us for an enlightening conversation about passion, diversity, and building generational wealth in the African-American community.

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