We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Stephen Hetherington. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Stephen below.

Stephen, appreciate you joining us today. What do you think it takes to be successful?

Success, in my view, is a blend of passion, dedication, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. At The Carolina Experience, there have been many moments where we could have swayed from our vision and opted for the easier route. Balancing the vision with the P&L is a delicate act, but we’ve persevered to stay true to our vision. This commitment has not only strengthened our brand but also deepened our connection with our guests, clients and partners. It’s a testament to the fact that staying true to one’s vision, even in the face of challenges, can lead to long-term success and fulfillment.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Stephen Hetherington, the CEO of The Carolina Experience. Our mission is to offer experience-driven stays in distinctive locations. Unlike the conventional flag hotels or the inconsistent quality of some independent Airbnbs and motels, we pride ourselves on building and curating unique spaces in vibrant towns. For us, the charm of Main Street and the surrounding environment serve as our hotel’s primary amenities. The community embodies our spirit, and our vision of hospitality is deeply rooted in anticipating our guests’ needs. We believe in a seamless experience where everything you might require has already been thought of, eliminating the need to ask. Our commitment is to ensure that every guest feels at home, immersed in the local culture, and truly experiences the essence of the Carolina spirit.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

Managing a team is a continuous learning journey for me. While sharing our vision is the starting point, the real work is in the daily interactions. I strive to keep communication open, genuinely listen to my team’s insights, and most importantly, express my gratitude. Their hard work and dedication are the backbone of our success, and I’m always looking for ways to show my appreciation.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

Growing up with dyslexia, reading was always a challenge for me. However, the advent of platforms like Audible transformed my learning experience. Now, whether I’m driving or traveling, I seize the opportunity to immerse myself in podcasts and audiobooks. A few that have profoundly influenced my thinking include “Who Moved My Cheese” by Spencer Johnson, “The Tipping Point” by Malcolm Gladwell, and “Deep Work” by Cal Newport. A lesser-known gem that I believe everyone should explore is “Beyond Belief” by John Grinnell. These works have not only enriched my perspective but also shaped my approach to leadership and entrepreneurship.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.thecarolinaexperience.com
• Instagram: @thecarolinaexperience
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecarolinaexperience1/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-hetherington-7ba54656/
• Youtube: @thecarolinaexperience