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Events Unfolding in Nashville: Exploring the City's Dynamic Scene

Experienced the premiere of Women in Restaurant Leadership (WiRL) conference recently in Nashville, TN. Disregarding professional level or gender, I'm sharing some notable insights from this enlightening gathering.

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Attended the premiere Women in Restaurant Leadership (WiRL) gathering in Nashville, TN last week....
Attended the premiere Women in Restaurant Leadership (WiRL) gathering in Nashville, TN last week. Regardless of one's gender or career progression, the following insights were gleaned from the conference.

Events Unfolding in Nashville: Exploring the City's Dynamic Scene

I ain't no 'feminazi,' but I never felt compelled to label myself as a feminist, and I reckon it's 'cause I spent my life surrounded by strong females who treated me just like one of the boys. My mama, owning a successful event planning business (and if you've ever been to a Branded event, you know that makes sense), my aunt running a thriving medical practice, and my great aunt at the helm of NJ NOW... yep, I was raised by a powerhouse of women. Even New Jersey's governor was a lady. I was the Valedictorian, my senior class was female-led, and my dad and brother taught me to stand tall and talk loud. The brothers I grew up with treated us like royalty, too. Hell, I even got to lead the boys' club in kindergarten.

Now, I've worked with women all my life. Started off at a non-profit run by ladies, then moved on to two more places under inspiring female leaders. I'm currently a business partner with two fellas who've supported me like a sister. Balancing work and life ain't always a walk in the park, but I've managed.

My life ain't all sunshine and rainbows though. I've faced my fair share of sexism, especially when I first started in the hospitality industry. It was a boys' club, and I was just breaking in. But after last week's Women in Restaurant Leadership (WiRL) conference, I'm ready to take on whatever comes my way. I was there as both an attendee and a board member, and it was a definite game-changer.

This event, put together by Danny Klein of WTWH media, brought over 250 women in restaurants and hospitality together. Here are some things I took away:

  1. Mom Guilt vs Non-Mom Guilt: We all got things we worry about, whether it's being a mom or not. Guilt is inevitable, but remember, our friends and colleagues might not worry half as much as we do.
  2. Save Yo' Self: Non-parents should take care of themselves too, just like smokers got their smoke breaks back in the day.
  3. Lead by Example: Sharing inspiring stories is crucial. Leading by example and being transparent about our struggles helps inspire others.
  4. Let Your Voice Heard: If you see inappropriate or discriminatory behavior, speak up. Silence only perpetuates the problem.

So that's it from me. Happy Women's Month to all the ladies (and the lads who support us), and remember, a feminist is someone who believes in equal opportunities for all. And I'm proud to be one. 😊

Insights

The hospitality industry is transforming, with an increasing focus on innovation and efficiency, enhancing the guest experience, and fostering cultural intelligence in the workplace. These trends are also relevant to the broader discussions in the Women in Restaurant Leadership (WiRL) conference.

As technology plays a more significant role in streamlining operations and personalizing guest engagement[1], it's essential for women leaders to be at the forefront of these changes to bring a unique perspective and drive meaningful solutions for the industry's future. Practical strategies to implement cultural intelligence initiatives alongside operational priorities may help foster inclusive and supportive environments where all individuals can thrive[5].

[1] https://restaurantdata.com/rd-at-the-restaurant-leadership-conference-2/[5] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/4-strategies-fostering-cultural-intelligence-workforce-catherine-allen/

  1. In the ever-evolving hospitality industry, women leaders are playing a pivotal role in driving innovation, efficiency, and cultural intelligence, transforming the guest experience.
  2. To meet the growing relevance of technology in streamlining operations and personalizing guest engagement, it's crucial for women leaders to pioneer change and bring fresh, insightful perspectives to the table.
  3. Cultivating an inclusive and supportive environment for all individuals within the hospitality industry is essential for long-term success, and practical strategies to implement cultural intelligence initiatives can help facilitate this change.
  4. The importance of sharing inspiring stories and leading by example was emphasized at the Women in Restaurant Leadership conference, as it helps empower and inspire others in the industry.
  5. Balancing work and life can be challenging, but prioritizing self-care and addressing challenges head-on, such as speaking up against discriminatory behavior, is essential for professional growth in the hospitality industry.
  6. Education and self-development in the field of leadership, career development, and personal growth can help women thrive in the hospitality industry and attain positions of influence and power.
  7. Aside from career endeavors, the fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, home-and-garden, sports, and American football industries all offer opportunities for women to showcase their leadership abilities and make strides towards equal opportunities.

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