EVERYONE has SOMETHING

Seek to Understand Without Judgement...

Today you are receiving permission to either let "that something" go or at least share it outwardly.  From the outside, others might look perfectly fine.  They may look happy and content.  Sometimes, however, what you see is not really HOW THEY ARE.  Everyone has SOMETHING. 

The past several KEYNOTE messages that I did from stage involved a very POWERFUL EXERCISE.  I ask the audience to turn to their seatmate and simply looking them in the eyes and say three words; "YOU'RE DOING GREAT." 

Tears flow, hugs are given, and pressure is relieved.  Life is hard.  Things are busy.  We are doing our BEST and just once in a while we need to hear these words as a reminder.

Everyone has SOMETHING.

I learned that one of the attendees from yesterday was in a horrible car crash on the way to the event.  She did not want to miss the engagement and forced herself, despite her pain, to attend.  You would never know this unless you are connected to her on Facebook.  Her strength and perseverance were unwavering.  No wonder she shed a tear during this exercise.  I am so proud of you M.S.!

Everyone has SOMETHING.

Today's podcast guest kept his SOMETHING a secret from others for the majority of his life.  He was living two lives until he found the courage to HONOR HIMSELF and seek help.

Surely, he has no worries. Just look at Cesar Wurm. He has a loving family, the appearance of an international model, the stride of a professional athlete, and the perceived confidence of a rockstar. He is a senior leader within an incredible hospitality company. He is a published author. He exudes confidence. However, 10 years ago, his "inside story" was much different.  

 
Today's podcast guest is now not only helping to create service and sales excellence for Premium hotels within the IHG Brand (Crowne Plaza, VOCO, EVEN, HOTEL INDIGO), but also aiding those that are facing addiction problems.

In this podcast episode, recorded live from the Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport and Expo Center during the Greatness Conference, the host interviews Cesar Wurm, Vice President of Commercial for Premium Brands at IHG and author of 'The Powers of Addiction: Finding Freedom and Acceptance in Recovery.'

Cesar shares his inspiring life story, from a challenging childhood in Brazil where he lost his mother and dealt with his father's alcoholism, to his rebellious teen years involving early alcohol use, and his eventual journey towards sobriety. Facing his addiction profoundly changed Cesar’s life, enhancing his leadership skills and aligning his values with his role at IHG.

Cesar emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, empathy, and understanding that addiction is not a fault but something one can overcome with support. The conversation also explores how these personal growth experiences have enriched his career and deepened his connection with family and colleagues.

My major learnings:

  1. You are not alone 2. It is not your fault 3. You can get better

Use your resources, admit that you need help, and "DO" SOMETHING.  Cesar uses the term, "HONOR YOURSELF" by getting better.  This then flows to everyone else in your life.  You are wanted, needed, and loved.  Text me and I'll tell you again tomorrow... 301-312-1600.

 
More about Cesar Wurm:

As the VP of Commercial, Premium Brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts in the US, Cesar Wurm combines his deep expertise in sales and marketing with a passion for personal growth and community involvement. With a background that includes leadership roles at IHG, Starwood, Trust Hospitality, and Hotel Equities, Cesar has a rich history in the hospitality industry. Outside of work, Cesar cherishes time with his family, his wife Laura and daughter Gabby, and enjoys Formula One racing. He is deeply committed to supporting addiction recovery, reflecting his own journey to sobriety.

This commitment is showcased in his book, "The Powers of Addiction: Finding Freedom in Acceptance and Recovery," which shares his personal story and offers hope to others. 

Cesar's professional and personal contributions have been recognized widely, earning him spots on the Marquis Who’s Who 2023 and the Empower Role Model List- 2022 Top 100 Executives. He holds degrees from Washington State University and Cesar Ritz College, Switzerland, and is actively involved in various boards including IHG’s Americas Regional DE&I and HOPE Atlanta. Through his life's work and book, Cesar aspires to inspire and assist others on their recovery journey, promoting a message of resilience, acceptance, and empowerment.

Connect with him here: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/cesar-wurm-5aa855b/⁠
Find his book here: ⁠https://a.co/d/dQHicIZ⁠
More about IHG here: ⁠https://www.ihg.com/hotels/us/en/reservation⁠

Most People Don't | Resources

Learn additional key take-aways by listening to more of Bart Berkey's conversations with successful leaders on his weekly podcast.

⁠⁠www.mostpeopledont.com⁠⁠

Any KEYNOTE SPEAKING OR LEADERSHIP TRAINING REQUESTS can be directed to [email protected]