Hospitality Through Organization

Jody Maberry Show Episode 349 Hospitality Through Organization

“There’s good and bad to being a really nice guy, I guess. The good outweighs the bad, but sometimes when you’re nice to everybody, some people can take advantage of it.”

Teddy Cheek, a marketing wizard from The Escape Game, is back to turn the tables and ask me three questions. The things he asked really got me thinking on some of the unexpected aspects of my life and career.

The first question Teddy asked me was about hospitality. He asked where I’ve experienced the best, most unexpected hospitality in the last three months. It took me back to recent campus visits with my daughter, a high school senior. George Fox University and Washington State University stood out. At George Fox, the personalized touch was incredible, making my daughter feel special. Meanwhile, Washington State impressed me with the sheer organization of their events. It highlighted how overlooked elements like organization are, in fact, significant factors in hospitality.

Next, we talked about something surprising from my time as a park ranger. It’s a dream job, filled with outdoor adventures, but it’s also thick with bureaucracy. I had to manage a lot of red tape being a law enforcement ranger, which might surprise those who envision a park ranger’s life as all about communing with nature.

Finally, Teddy’s third question was a personal one, asking why I am perceived as such a nice guy. Reflecting on that, I credit my Midwestern roots and upbringing. I’ve found that being nice more often leads to good days, although occasionally it can open the door for others to take advantage.

These questions highlighted how pivotal unexpected hospitality, realities within careers, and the impact of kindness are.