From Pakistan to Dubai: A Journey of Hospitality and Resilience

In the world of hospitality, stories of resilience and determination often take center stage. In this episode of unhospitality, we dive deep into the remarkable journey of Mohammad Haider, who took a wild path to becoming a senior leader in luxury hospitality in Dubai. Join us as we explore the unique experiences that shaped his career and his insights on the industry.

Mohammad Haider's story begins in Pakistan, although he never lived there. Growing up in Saudi Arabia, he was exposed to a diverse culture. His father, a professor, inspired him to embrace new opportunities. When his family moved to Gainesville, Florida, Mohammad faced the challenges of being an expat, which compelled him to stay laser focused on growth and making his way in the world. He was determined to pursue the American dream, which set the foundation for his future.

Initially drawn towards a career in sports medicine, Mohammad's interest shifted when he met with a guidance counselor at school. "What else can I do?" he asked, leading to a discovery of the hospitality industry. The idea of working in hotels and airlines intrigued him, and he decided to pursue a degree in hospitality management at the Rosen College of Hospitality in Orlando, Florida.

Mohammad's journey is further enriched by his immigrant mentality. He described it as a mindset of resilience and determination, stemming from his family's sacrifices. "You come to a country with nothing; it has to work or you go back to nothing," he explained. This drive to succeed and build a better future for himself and his family is a common thread among many immigrants, showcasing their hard work and dedication.

Mohammad Haider's journey from a young boy in Saudi Arabia to a prominent figure in luxury hospitality in Dubai is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the willingness to embrace change. His story brought me to tears, and emphasizes the importance of heart, mentorship, community, and the immigrant experience in shaping one’s career.

And he’s looking for his next opportunity to lead a team. I’ve seen the leader behind the resume. Any organization that understands performance, culture, and accountability should move fast. There aren’t a lot of Mohammad Haide’s in the world. He’s open to the conversation. The question is who’s ready to have it?

Growing up in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, my world was small. Major trips were few and far between. But everything changed in college when a chance to study abroad in London popped up. I was terrified, broke, and unsure. Yet, I signed up, and it turned out to be a life-changing experience!

I learned that the world is so much bigger than what we know. My perspective shifted completely. Traveling opened my mind to different cultures and ideas. I realized that we often live in our own silos, thinking we know everything, but there's so much we don’t even know that we don’t know.

Send to someone who needs to hear this!

Are you ready to redefine your path in hospitality?

In our latest episode, we dive deep with Ashelyn Roberts Wilson, who shares her journey from a fresh-faced 21-year-old to a seasoned professional in event planning.

Discover how building genuine relationships can transform your career and lead to unforgettable experiences!

You don’t need all the answers to start; just enough light for the next step.

Every big journey begins with a single step.

What step are you taking today towards your goals? Let us know below!

#CareerAdvice #Hospitality #EventPlanning #Podcast #Unhospitality #WomenInLeadership #Inspiration #Networking

In this episode, Dee Torrealba shares her journey through some of the most iconic brands and destinations in FL and the Caribbean.

I really admire Dee’s guiding philosophy that hospitality isn’t just about rooms and rates—it's about the connections we make along the way.

From old friends we meet at kickoffs to clients who become family, those bonds are what define us.

And here’s the kicker: when you focus on being authentic and caring, business naturally follows—no need for gimmicks or fake smiles.

Maybe it’s time we all remember that behind every deal, there’s a person.

I also love the Dee pushes back on the slow creep of work-life balance becoming work-life imbalance.

In fact, she shares an interesting story from the Netherlands, where they’ve mastered the art of boundaries. A guy working for a US company made it clear: after 5 PM, he’s OFF the clock! ⏰

Let’s keep talking about the importance of respecting personal time.

Are you setting boundaries in your work life?

How do YOU nurture real connections in your work? Share your thoughts!

In this episode, Alexandra Corso, a seasoned event planner with over 20 years in Miami, shares her untold stories, strategic insights, and the human side of managing high-stakes events. Discover how trust, handling crises, and genuine relationships shape a resilient career in hospitality.

Listen in as Alexandra shares her journey from dietetics and wellness to event planning, building client trust through transparency and integrity, and lessons learned from big clients like Facebook, Disney, and Norwegian Cruise Line

✈️ What if hospitality was more than just a job? What if your career could change lives?

In this episode, Rosalinda shares the secrets behind creating memorable moments for guests.

We also discuss how artists like Bad Bunny are reshaping tourism and hospitality in Puerto Rico and beyond.

What’s your favorite travel memory that made you feel connected to a place? Let us know!

#TourismImpact #Community #TravelMemories #Connect #Podcast #HumanConnection #Inspiration #Heartfelt #Storytelling #Engage

In this episode of unhospitality, Jeremy talks with Courtney Coleman, Sports and Entertainment Salesperson extraordinaire.

Courtney took an unconventional path into the industry, but quickly found that hospitality offers diverse career paths beyond traditional roles - and can be a perfect home for those shunning the monotony of a 9-5 job.

Courtney has made a career of building lasting connections, both within her hotel and with some Hollywood A-Listers, as she became the “go-to” gal for the stars. She hits us with several personal anecdotes and experiences that highlight the importance of relationships and adaptability.

And listen in to a harrowing story about the time when the lead singer of Creed got himself into a pickle and was desperate for someone to “take him higher.”

From Holland to London, hospitality is a journey full of surprises!

✨ In our latest episode, we share stories of cultural differences and the lessons learned while working in international hospitality.

📣 What’s the most surprising cultural difference you’ve encountered? We’d love to hear your experiences!

#Unhospitality #CulturalDifferences #Travel #Hospitality #Podcast #GlobalStories

Behind the glimmering facades and glamorous events lies a wealth of untold stories that reveal the true essence of hospitality. In this episode, host Jeremy dives deep into the experiences of Semrin Wadwa, a passionate hotelier from London, as she recounts her unique journey through the world of hospitality.

Semrin's journey into the hospitality industry started with her love for connecting with people. She initially pursued a degree in international business management, unsure of which path to take. However, the allure of hotels drew her in, leading her to seize an opportunity with Starwood in London. Her story highlights the importance of following one's passion, even when it diverges from the paths of friends and peers.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Semrin's experience is her cultural background, which blends Dutch, Indian, and Persian influences. This diverse heritage provided her with a unique perspective on the hospitality industry. As she navigated her career, Semrin faced cultural challenges, particularly when transitioning from a more direct communication style in Holland to the subtler nuances of British culture. This experience became a valuable learning opportunity, shaping her approach to leadership.

Throughout her career, Samrin encountered various leaders at Starwood who left a lasting impact on her. She fondly recalls Kip Horton, a leader who emphasized gratitude and recognition. His approach to leadership taught her the importance of empowering others and not making them feel like favors were being granted. This lesson, which resonated with her for two decades, underscores the significance of humility and empathy in effective leadership.

All of this, and a few wild stories from behind the curtain!

You can find Semrin at 8th-floor.com.

Enjoy and tune in next week for another episode of unhospitality!