DEI Advisors Podcast David Kong, Dorothy Dowling, Rachel Humphrey, Lan Elliott

Jay describes the important distinction between managing and leading, and he shares his approach to taking risks.  He also explains why the easiest approach to networking is thinking of it as developing friendships, and why hospitality is a great connector.  He shares a quote that helps overcome self-doubt, and why slowing down for big decisions can be advantageous.

Fran's career journey, emphasizing the importance of patience, perseverance, and personal empowerment. Fran shares her experiences transitioning from the hotel industry to association management and academia, highlighting the complexities and rewards of working within associations to make impactful changes. 

Jacqui discusses her love of books, how living and traveling internationally have impacted her leadership, and how she manages her heavy travel schedule. She shares her strategies for effective public speaking and which skill she thinks is important in any industry but also as a life skill. Jacqui also talks about the efforts behind increasing diversity in the travel industry and also what she would tell her younger self.

Chirag discusses how he builds important relationships especially when election cycles change frequently those who hold leadership positions. He talks about lifelong leadership lessons he learned as both a high school attendee and an annual counselor at Boys State and other lessons from his professors and mentors. He also shares his advice on work life harmony, public speaking, and how he hires and develops great teams.

Brian, a seasoned franchise business leader, has steered Choice Canada's franchise support and business development. Drawing on his family’s legacy in Canadian franchising, Brian's strategic decisions, have positioned him as an adept leader, dedicated to fostering the success of franchisees.

Azim discusses his path from employment lawyer to hotelier, the importance for him of his involvement with associations, and why he prefers to build his relationships over dinner. He shares why he'd tell his younger self to have fun, surround yourself with good people, and invest in yourself. Azim also shares why he takes risks and how his risks on his people and his business have enriched him.