Why Hospitality Workers Must Fill Their Own Cup First with Mike Messeroff

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, Zeke sits down with Mike Messeroff—a 30-year veteran of the hospitality industry, coach, and founder of the Carpe Diem Collective. Mike’s journey has taken him from JetBlue’s corporate offices to bartending across the globe, through deep personal lows, and into a life of coaching leaders toward purpose and wellbeing.

They discuss Mike's journey from corporate success to personal fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of self-hospitality, mindfulness, and community support in the hospitality industry. Mike shares insights on the challenges faced by service workers, the significance of meditation, and the power of positive thinking. The conversation culminates in a guided meditation session, encouraging listeners to prioritize their mental well-being and personal growth.

Mike opens up about:

• His decision to leave a secure corporate career for a more adventurous path in the Caribbean, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond
• The wake-up call of hitting rock bottom while living what seemed like a “dream life” in Breckenridge
• How mindfulness and meditation transformed his mental health and career trajectory
• Why burnout is rampant in hospitality—and how “self-hospitality” can change the culture
• The practices he teaches leaders: meditation, gratitude, and filling your own cup first
• Building the Carpe Diem Collective, a purpose-driven community where hospitality leaders can exhale, connect, and realign with joy

Mike also guides listeners through a short meditation during the episode, offering a practical tool you can use anytime you need to reset.

If you’re in hospitality or simply in need of a reminder to slow down, breathe, and reclaim your purpose—this conversation is for you.

🔗 Explore Mike’s free masterclass at self-hospitality.com

Connect with Zeke Freeman:
Instagram: @zekefreeman_rootarchitecture and @rootarchitecture
YouTube: @rootarchitecture
Facebook: @RootArchitectureandDevelopment
LinkedIn: Zeke Freeman
X/Twitter: @zfreemanroot

Ready to get started with your hospitality project?
https://root-ad.com/

Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.

Follow, Rate & Review:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.