Throughout the year, we connected with hundreds of veterans and emerging leaders in the hospitality industry. Among the most-read 2024 interviews, we heard the perspectives of hoteliers, a brand leader, and restaurateurs, who remain nimble and ambitious as the hospitality industry evolves.
Richard Born, Ira Drukier, and Sean MacPherson
Photo by Christine Keeley
Two years ago, hoteliers Richard Born, Ira Drukier, and Sean MacPherson—who were featured on the cover of HD’s 2024 People Issue—unveiled their luxe interpretation of the Hotel Chelsea with 158 guestrooms and suites that pay respect to the heritage 1884 building. The trio is also responsible for helping reshape the Downtown New York hotel scene with properties like the Maritime, the Bowery, the Jane, the Ludlow, and the Marlton. Read the full interview, where they detail how they came to work together and what they’ve built.
John Cohlan
Photo courtesy of Margaritaville
With the help of Margaritaville Holidays CEO John Cohlan, the 1977 Jimmy Buffett song “Margaritaville” has transformed into a hospitality empire centered on a laidback lifestyle. The paradise-fueled brand, which touts an enthusiastic following, has ventured into restaurants, resorts, residential communities, and cruises—a network of leisure outposts where authenticity reigns. Read the full interview, where Cohlan describes his leadership approach and vision.
Nathalie Hudson and Linden Pride
Creating a sense of community is key for restaurateurs Nathalie Hudson and Linden Pride. The husband-and-wife team is behind New York fixture Dante, which has since opened a second location in Manhattan as well as a Beverly Hills outpost. The couple delves into how they’ve learned to work together while propelling their mission forward. Read the full interview.
