Interview: The Hotel Daddy, Mr. Blake Danner Artwork

My Secrets to Stamina

Deemed the 'Radical Mentor', listen in as Cindy shares her secrets to stamina in business and life. Cindy travels the globe 50 out of 52 weeks per year and loves the smell of jet fuel each day! She is a business owner, restaurateur, motivational speaker, a wife & mother. Cindy’s goal is to provide her listeners with positive ways to increase their productivity, provide inspiration + motivation, while sharing some funny stories along the way. She welcomes guests from so many different industries and walks of life to give you a full spectrum perspective on living your best life. Cindy will bring energy to each episode, giving you the spark you need to get through life looking at the glass spilling over.

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My Secrets to Stamina

Interview: The Hotel Daddy, Mr. Blake Danner

April 23, 2026 • Cindy Novotny

0:00 | 37:22

Welcome back - we're so excited to have you here!

During this episode I sit down with a my dear friend, Blake Danner who is an inspiring operations and sales professional and a crafter of iconic brands.

His leadership has been instrumental in creating award-winning contemporary brands in the lifestyle hospitality space. Over his 25+ year career, he has worked with some of the world’s leading lifestyle visionaries, leaving a significant mark on the industry.

Blake is currently the Chief Operating Officer of aka Hotels and aka Hotel Residences. Previously, he served as Chief Operating Officer at Proper Hotels. Blake was the founding COO of The Sydell Group. He was instrumental in creating four new hotel brands: NoMad, The Line, Freehand, and Saguaro. While at Sydell, he oversaw the company's tremendous growth, opening eleven hotels in seven years. Fast Company named Sydell “one of the world’s top 10 innovative companies in style.”

Blake spent eleven years working under the guidance of the legendary Ian Schrager, of Studio 54 fame, at Ian Schrager Hotels/Morgan’s Hotel Group early in his career.

As the Host of The Hotel Daddy Podcast, Blake enjoys sharing candid conversations that reveal how the best in the business became the leaders they are today.

Blake and his husband, Nelson, reside in New York City and Miami.

Can't wait for you to tune in to this dynamic conversation and make sure to follow Blake's podcast, The Hotel Daddy as well! Cheers!

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Email at cindynovotny@masterconnection.com