umber talks
Welcome to umber talks- where the doors to real estate possibilities are wide open. We are Kristen Denis and Shaun Denis, and we are thrilled to embark on this exciting journey with you. Whether you're a seasoned investor, a first-time homebuyer, a professional in real estate or a curious mind eager to explore the nuances of the real estate market, our podcast is designed with you in mind. We're here to demystify the complexities, share expert insights, and guide you through the ever-evolving landscape of real estate.
umber talks
Restaurateur Stephen Beckta: Hospitality, Leadership & Life Lessons
In this episode of Umber Talks, host Shaun Denis sits down with Stephen Beckta, one of Canada’s most celebrated restaurateurs and the founder of the Beckta Restaurant Group, which includes Ottawa staples- Beckta Dining & Wine, Play Food & Wine, and Gezellig.
From navigating the fine dining world of New York City under legends like Daniel Boulud, he brings a rare blend of humility, heart, and high standards to everything he does.
This episode is more than a deep dive into the restaurant industry—it’s a conversation about what it means to lead with purpose, the difference between service and hospitality, and how to build meaningful relationships in any business, including real estate.
Key Takeaways:
- Service vs. Hospitality – Why making someone feel seen and cared for matters more than just doing the job well.
- People-First Leadership – How Stephen built a team culture centered around generosity, respect, and belonging.
- Learning from the Best in The Business – Lessons from working alongside hospitality giants in NYC.
- Real Estate Parallels – How hospitality principles translate to real estate: trust, empathy, and long-term relationships.
Whether you're in real estate, hospitality, leadership, or simply love a great story about building something with heart, this episode will leave you inspired to raise your standard—and bring others with you.