Podcast · Arts & Books

Hospitality Design Talks

by Rachel Larraine Crawford · English · Arts & Books

Hospitality Design Talks is a podcast for owner operators, restaurant owners, retreat hosts, and conscious entrepreneurs in the hospitality world who know that great design is only the beginning. Hosted by Rachel Larraine Crawford, an award winning holistic interior designer and founder of Tiger Ve

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 31 min
Latest: 17 Feb 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

17 Feb 2026 · 42 min

034: Integrating Art Into Your Brand Story w/ Lindsey Lyons

In this episode of Hospitality Design Talks, host Rachel Larraine Crawford sits down with abstract artist Lindsey Lyons to explore how art can become a living part of a hospitality experience—not an afterthought. Lindsey shares her path from early “perfect” art-making to process-driven abstraction shaped by California’s rugged coastlines, volcanic landscapes, and a fascination with deep time. Her work is tactile and intentional—often built with sand, found materials, and embedded remnants that carry subtle histories—inviting guests into a sensory pause in a world dominated by screens.…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

E33 · 10 Feb 2026 · 57 min
033: Building a Brand Guests Remember w/ Amy Morris of The Morris Project
Today on Hospitality Design Talks , host Rachel Larraine Crawford sits down with Amy Morris of The Morris Project to talk about the real reason most hospitality brands struggle: it’s not a marketing problem — it’s a clarity problem. Amy shares how she helps founders define who they are in one to two sentences (and why every decision — interiors, hiring, menus, and guest touch points — should flow from that). You’ll hear Amy’s approach to building a brand with the whole team (not just the owner), why consistency is what makes something feel elevated (not price), and the small, often-forgotten…
E32 · 3 Feb 2026 · 31 min
032: Can Lighting Make Guests Stay Longer and Spend More w/ Martin Epstein of Tazz Lighting
Lighting is doing far more than helping guests see — it’s shaping how long they stay, how comfortable they feel, and how much they spend. In this episode of Hospitality Design Talks, host Rachel Larraine Crawford sits down with Martin Epstein, founder of Tazz Lighting, to unpack how intentional, layered lighting quietly drives guest behavior, brand perception, and business performance. With decades of hands-on experience — from electrical contracting to large-scale hospitality projects — Martin shares why lighting should be treated as a strategic system , not an afterthought. Together, they…
E31 · 27 Jan 2026 · 39 min
031: Is Your Space Blocking Your Next Level — Feng Shui w/ Amanda Sophia
In this episode of Hospitality Design Talks , host Rachel Larraine Crawford sits down with her longtime teacher and mentor, Amanda Sophia, for a conversation that blends feng shui, seasonal wisdom, and conscious business—with a special focus on the “in-between” season we’re in right now (that liminal space between the Year of the Snake and the incoming Fire Horse). Together, Rachel and Amanda explore how your space—whether it’s your home, studio, restaurant, spa, or retreat property—acts as a living mirror for your energy, your patterns, and your next level. This is a grounded, soulful…
E30 · 20 Jan 2026 · 45 min
030: Building Brand Universes + Collaboration-Driven Hospitality with Lindsay Wynn
In this guest episode of Hospitality Design Talks, host Rachel Larraine Crawford sits down with Lindsay Wynn—a San Diego + New York–based creative who’s spent nearly two decades weaving together hospitality, fine art, photography, and brand experience. Lindsay shares how her path (from waiting tables → opening restaurants → working with Jean-Georges → fashion/beauty/alcohol campaigns → building integrated brand activations) shaped the way she approaches hospitality today: not as a “one-and-done” meal, but as a through-line in the human experience, from the moment someone arrives to how they…
E29 · 12 Jan 2026 · 55 min
029: Finding the Right Space: Location, Leases, and the Details That Make It Work w/ Owen Curry
Today I’m joined by Owen Curry of Cushman & Wakefield—and y’all, this is the real estate episode I’ve been waiting to record. If you’re an owner-operator with a big vision (restaurant, café, wellness studio, boutique concept) and you’re trying to land the right space—especially in a coastal market—this conversation will save you so much time, money, and stress. Owen breaks down what’s actually happening in North County coastal commercial real estate (Carlsbad through Del Mar), why “vacancy” isn’t always what it looks like, and what you need to understand before you fall in love with a space.…
E28 · 8 Jan 2026 · 15 min
028: Holistic Hospitality Trends For 2026 That Your Guests Will Actually Feel
In this solo episode, holistic interior designer and Tiger Veil founder Rachel Larraine Crawford breaks down the holistic hospitality trends that actually matter for 2026. Instead of chasing another photo moment, Rachel invites owner operators to think about their space as a living system that impacts guest experience, staff wellbeing, and the bottom line. She walks through emerging bio based materials, regenerative sustainability practices, and wellness focused design moves that you can bring into your restaurant, bar, cafe, hotel, or spa, even if you are working with an existing footprint.…
E27 · 31 Dec 2025 · 19 min
027: How To Build A Restaurant People Are Obsessed With Being In Not Just Eating At
In the final episode of our Aura Gardens series, I’m joined again by co-owner R.J. Fernandez as we zoom all the way into what Aura feels like from the moment you walk in. We’re talking playlist, glassware, filtered water, lighting, greenery, textures, and the tiny design decisions that create that “vibrant but deeply cozy” energy guests keep describing. R.J. shares how hospitality is the true product (food + beverage are simply the vehicle), why every detail has to answer the question “Will this make the customer feel something?”, and how Aura is intentionally designed to hold…
E26 · 18 Dec 2025 · 25 min
026: You Lose The Restaurant Then The Universe Hands You A Keys To A New One
Hospitality Design Talks — Aura Garden Series (Part 3) with co-owner R.J. Fernandes In part three of the Aura Garden series, Rachel sits down with R.J. Fernandez for the hard chapter : when the “planned rebirth” of the family restaurant doesn’t happen, the building sells (December 2023), and R.J. has to grieve what he poured his life into. From there, we follow the pivot—through unemployment, a more grounded season of decision-making, and into an unlikely little 1,800 sq ft former taco spot in a strip center that’s quietly becoming a health-and-wellness hub in North County San Diego. This…
E25 · 9 Dec 2025 · 15 min
025: When Your Restaurant Stops Working And You Do Not Want To Admit It
In part two of the Aura Gardens series, Rachel continues her conversation with co owner RJ Fernandez and picks up right where the story left off. If part one was about legacy, family, and the deep roots of a third generation steakhouse, this chapter is about what happens when that legacy starts to feel out of step with the times. RJ opens up about the slow slide into stagnation at the Murrieta restaurant, the pressure to keep prices low while costs climbed, and what it felt like to watch newer, flashier concepts pull focus while they were still trying to do everything old school and word of…
E24 · 5 Dec 2025 · 40 min
024: The Steakhouse Kid Who Shows You What Real Hospitality Looks Like
In this first episode of the Aura Gardens series, Rachel sits down with co owner RJ Fernandez to trace the roots of his hospitality story all the way back to a family steakhouse in Chino and Temecula. RJ was literally raised in a restaurant doing homework in booths, falling asleep on stacks of bread in the kitchen, and watching guests become extended family. Along the way, his family walked through profound loss and still chose to keep the doors open and the community fed. This is not just a restaurant story. It is a story about how hospitality holds people through birthdays, funerals, first…
E23 · 26 Nov 2025 · 12 min
023: Interior Designer Is a Business Strategy, Not a Luxury
In this episode of Hospitality Design Talks , designer and host Rachel Larraine Crawford breaks down why hiring an interior designer isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s a core business strategy for hospitality owners. From saving time and avoiding costly mistakes, to translating your brand into a sensory guest experience, Rachel shares the top reasons bringing a designer onto your team can directly impact your revenue, reviews, and repeat guests. She also pulls back the curtain on one of her recent projects, Aura Gardens, where she designed the brand and the space from the inside out, down to custom…
E22 · 11 Nov 2025 · 28 min
022: Behind the Veil - Refreshing a Legacy Brazilian Steakhouse (on a Real Budget)
This week, I’m taking you behind the veil of a real-time project: a 3,000-sq-ft, family-run Brazilian steakhouse in San Diego’s Gaslamp. After smoke and water damage from last year’s fire, the owners asked us to refresh on a very tight budget—without losing legacy. We’re building a nature-forward concept inspired by butterfly wings, jungle softness, and river ripples to attract a younger, social-sharing guest while honoring the founder’s story. You’ll hear how we’re sequencing high-impact moves (starting with “crystal cave” restrooms), reusing what we can (table bases, lighting locations),…
E21 · 9 Oct 2025 · 52 min
021: Story-First Hospitality: Alex Ott on Curating Connection, Not Just Space
Hospitality isn’t just about food and service — it’s about the feeling you create, the stories you tell, and the communities you bring together. In this episode of Hospitality Design Talks , I’m joined by the brilliant and soulful Alex Ott, founder of Chrome City and the force behind The Blank Table . Alex shares her unexpected journey from bottle service in Chicago to building a boutique creative agency that serves some of the most impactful hospitality brands. Her work goes beyond branding — it’s about creating immersive experiences that leave guests feeling seen , connected , and inspired…
E20 · 26 Mar 2025 · 35 min
020 - Designing for Experience: Food Service, User Flow & Holistic Consulting with Ryan Mikita
Designing for Experience: Food Service, User Flow & Holistic Consulting with Ryan Mikita Food service design is more than just kitchens—it’s about user experience, efficiency, and innovation. In this episode, I’m joined by Ryan Mikita, principal and partner at Ricca Design Studios, to explore the intersection of hospitality, kitchen design, and holistic consulting. Ryan shares his unexpected journey from aspiring actor to leading food service design consultant, offering insights into how thoughtful planning, collaboration, and industry trends are shaping the future of hospitality spaces. We…
E19 · 19 Mar 2025 · 14 min
019: Spring Equinox Energy Detox: Mercury & Venus Retrograde Edition
Spring Equinox Energy Detox: Mercury & Venus Retrograde Edition Spring is a season of renewal, a time to clear out the old and welcome in fresh energy. But with Mercury and Venus in retrograde, things might feel a little off—communication may be misaligned, decision-making could feel clouded, and relationships, both personal and professional, might be under review. In this episode, I’m sharing ten powerful spring cleaning rituals designed to help you reset your space, realign your energy, and make the most of this potent time. Whether you’re looking to declutter your physical environment,…
E18 · 15 Mar 2025 · 35 min
018: Manifesting Wellness: Intentional Design, Energy & Movement with Tonia
Manifesting Wellness: Intentional Design, Energy & Movement with Tonia What does it take to create a space that truly supports transformation and well-being? In this episode, I sit down with Tonia to talk about the power of intentional environments, the energy behind movement, and the role of community in building a wellness-centered business. Tonia shares her journey from corporate life to the wellness world and how she manifested her new Pilates studio by trusting the process—even when the next steps weren’t clear. She brings a unique perspective to movement and energy, blending Pilates…
E17 · 26 Feb 2025 · 12 min
017- From DIY to VIP: Interior Design Services Tailored for Your Business
Episode 17: Transform Your Space – Interior Design Services for Small Business Owners Welcome to Episode 17 of the Holistic Hospitality Design Podcast ! In this episode, we’re diving into accessible and transformative interior design services tailored for owner-operated small businesses like cafés, restaurants, bars, studios, boutique hotels and wellness centers. As a professional interior designer, I understand that creating a beautiful and functional space is key to fostering community and supporting your business's success. That’s why I’ve designed a range of services to make professional…
E16 · 17 Dec 2024 · 57 min
016 - Brian at Fox Point Farms
In this episode of the Holistic Hospitality Design Podcast, Rachel Crawford interviews Brian Grover from Fox Point Farms. They discuss Brian's journey from structural engineering to urban design, the founding of Fox Point Farms, and the importance of place making in creating community-focused spaces. The conversation delves into the sustainable practices at Fox Point Farms, including the integration of a brewery and farm-to-table restaurant, and the innovative approaches to waste management and regenerative agriculture. In this conversation, Rachel Crawford discusses the innovative skincare…
E16 · 25 Nov 2024 · 11 min
015 - 5 Hidden Costs of Not Hiring an Interior Designer
In this episode of Holistic Hospitality , host Rachel Larraine Crawford uncovers the five hidden costs of skipping an interior designer for your hospitality project. From wasted time and costly mistakes to missed branding opportunities and budget mismanagement, Rachel highlights how professional design services can save you money, stress, and setbacks. She also dives into the critical role designers play in creating compliant, functional spaces that elevate guest experiences. Tune in for insights and inspiration to ensure your hospitality project becomes a memorable, profitable success. Are…
E15 · 24 Sep 2024 · 45 min
14: Mindset, Money, and Mastery: The Path to Hospitality Success with Daryl Schwartz CEO of Good + Bar
Daryl Schwartz, founder of Goodbar, shares his journey of creating non-alcoholic bars and the importance of shifting the mindset around money. He emphasizes the value of investments in people and platforms, rather than viewing them as expenses. Daryl discusses the success of Goodbar's event business and the plans for their brick and mortar locations. He highlights the importance of functionality and programming in creating a unique experience for customers. Daryl also reflects on the challenges of leadership and the need to delegate and find the right people. Daryl Schwartz discusses his…
E13 · 30 Aug 2024 · 27 min
13: Navigating Virgo Season: Reevaluating and Reorganizing
In this conversation, Rachel and Giulia discuss Virgo season and the eclipse in Pisces. They explore the qualities of Virgo, such as problem-solving, organization, and efficiency. They emphasize the importance of reevaluating and reorganizing during this time, both in personal and business aspects. They also discuss the spiritual aspect of Virgo season and the need to connect with one's soul. The conversation touches on the upcoming eclipse and the energy it brings, encouraging listeners to follow their intuition and be open to change. Overall, the conversation provides insights and guidance…
E12 · 18 Jul 2024 · 37 min
012: Harnessing Leo's Fire: Passion, Authenticity, and Astrological Retrogrades
In this episode, Rachel and astrologer Julia discuss the energy of Leo season and the significance of the retrogrades happening during this time. They explore the themes of passion, authenticity, and self-expression that are associated with Leo. They also discuss the retrogrades of Saturn, Neptune, and Pluto, and how they are influencing our spiritual beliefs and personal growth. Julia provides insights on how to navigate these retrogrades and use them as an opportunity for reflection and reevaluation. Overall, this episode offers guidance on embracing the energy of Leo season and making the…
E11 · 3 Jul 2024 · 10 min
011: Why Contract Grade Furniture is Key to Your Hospitality Business Success
In this episode, Rachel discusses the importance of choosing contract grade furniture for commercial spaces in the hospitality industry. She highlights the differences between contract grade and residential furniture, emphasizing the compliance and safety standards that contract grade furniture must meet. Rachel also emphasizes the durability of contract grade furniture and the cost savings it offers in the long run. She provides resources for finding contract grade furniture and materials and encourages working with an interior designer for access to custom solutions and trade-only…
E10 · 26 Jun 2024 · 12 min
010: Tips to Organize Your Hospitality Design Ideas with Pinterest
In this episode, Rachel discusses how to organize hospitality design ideas using Pinterest. She explains the benefits of creating a Pinterest business account and optimizing your profile. Rachel provides step-by-step instructions on creating a project and organizing it into sections. She suggests sections such as ideal customer, brand features, overall mood and vibe, etc... Rachel also shares tips on pinning high-quality images, pinning from the original source, collaborating with team members, and using the comments and notes section in Pinterest. She concludes by mentioning her interior…
E1 · 25 Jun 2024 · 15 min
001: Embracing Conscious Spaces: Unveiling the Why Behind Our Podcast
I’m excited to kick off the Holistic Hospitality Design Podcast with an overview of who this podcast is for and why I decided to create it. I also share with you a little of my personal story so you can understand where I’m coming from and get to know who I am as a designer. I can’t wait to go on this new journey with you to create elevated and mindful spaces for your clients and customers. Please let me know what questions you have for me and how I can best support you with this podcast! Connect with Rachel Larraine Website: Tigerveil.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachellarraine…
E9 · 21 Jun 2024 · 10 min
009 - Harnessing Capricorn's Full Moon Energy: Rituals for Entrepreneurial Success
Summary In this episode, Rachel discusses astrology and using the cosmic forecast in businesses. She focuses on cancer season, the summer solstice, and a double full moon in Capricorn. Cancer season is a time for nourishment and self-care, while the summer solstice is a potent portal for reflection. The full moon in Capricorn highlights success and responsibilities, providing an opportunity to let go of old beliefs and redefine what success means. Rachel suggests journaling prompts and rituals to work with this energy. She also emphasizes the importance of reevaluating systems and structures…
E8 · 5 Jun 2024 · 33 min
008 - Harmonizing with Jupiter in Gemini: A Sound Ritual for Inner Exploration w/ Ianne Celeste Rivera
🎙️ Guest: Ianne Celeste Rivera, Embodiment Composer 🌌 Cosmic Focus: Jupiter in Gemini 🌟 Episode Highlights: Join us as we journey into the cosmic wonders of Jupiter in Gemini with our guest, Ianne Celeste Rivera. Ianne shares her unique approach to sound healing and embodiment, drawing from 14 years of scientific research and 7 years in the healing arts. Dive into a transformative sound ritual designed to help you align with the energy of Jupiter in Gemini, unlocking doors to curiosity, exploration, and growth. Discover how embracing the energy of Jupiter in Gemini can support your journey…
E7 · 30 May 2024 · 49 min
007 - Jupiter in Gemini: Unleashing Potential in Your Hospitality Business w/ Astrologer Giulia Martello
In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with astrologer Giulia Martello, an Italian artist and astrologer to delve into the exciting energy shift as Jupiter enters Gemini. This transit promises to open up possibilities in the most intriguing ways, bringing fresh opportunities and dynamic changes. Join us as we explore what this year has in store for you under Jupiter's influence in Gemini. Connect with Giulia: www.apartastrology.com Instagram.com/ap.art.as Giulia Martello, Italian Artist and Astrologer Who is Giulia? Giulia is an Italian artist and astrologer who explores the…
E6 · 26 Apr 2024 · 13 min
006: Trend Report: The Rise of Spirit-Free Offerings
In our first Trend Report episode, I’m talking about one of my favorite recent trends: spirit-free offerings. I’m seeing this more and more in the hospitality space, so I’m giving you a quick overview of the biggest benefits of serving these non-alcoholic beverages. If you’re considering adding mocktails as an option for your patrons, this episode will give you several good reasons to start incorporating them now! Connect with Rachel Larraine Website: https://designcoven.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachellarraine Interior Design Services: https://www.tigerveil.com/ Want more…

About Hospitality Design Talks

Hospitality Design Talks is a English arts & books podcast from Rachel Larraine Crawford. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Rachel Larraine Crawford
Language: English
Category: Arts & Books
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 31 min
Latest episode: 17 Feb 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1738241909

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