We were lucky to catch up with Anthony Valeriano recently and have shared our conversation below.
Anthony, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
My optimism comes from never seeing the value in negativity. I believe that expecting the worst or assuming disappointment limits our experiences and potential. When people say things like ‘it didn’t disappoint,’ it’s as if they were prepared for failure — I prefer to approach situations with a mindset that embraces possibility and positivity. I find that optimism opens doors, fuels creativity, and makes life more fulfilling. For me, it’s about choosing to focus on what can go right, rather than what might go wrong.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I have always loved storytelling and the magic of experience. My career began at Walt Disney Imagineering, where I learned how to bring stories to life in ways that captivate and delight. Disney taught me the power of attention to detail, the importance of creating emotional connections, and how the smallest moments can make the biggest impact. This foundation in crafting memorable experiences has stayed with me throughout my journey.
Since my time at Disney, I’ve immersed myself in every facet of the experience industry—from design and marketing to content creation, sales, advertising and PR—engaging deeply in each step of the creative and development process. My work has taken me all around the world, offering a unique perspective on leadership and underscoring the importance of quality in the global tourism economy.
Now, my role with RED Hospitality & Leisure allows me to blend these passions by designing and executing luxury adventures — officially curating the magic of experience.
Our approach centers around creating meaningful moments — those small, thoughtful touches that elevate great service into something truly unforgettable. By blending local culture with exceptional cuisine and highlighting the natural beauty of the islands, we are constantly iterating to enhance the guest experience, crafting moments that evoke joy and connection, and ensuring everyone leaves with a story worth telling.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Curiosity has always been my driving force. It pushes me to explore new ideas, ask questions, and constantly seek out better ways to create and connect. For those early in their journey, I’d say: never stop learning. Be open to new experiences, challenge yourself to step outside your comfort zone, and view every situation as an opportunity to gain insight and potentially improve.
Optimism has been equally essential in navigating the ups and downs of the industry. Believing in the potential of every situation — even when things don’t go as planned — has allowed me to stay motivated and focused. My advice is to cultivate a mindset that embraces possibilities rather than limitations. Trust that every challenge can be transformed into a stepping stone for growth, regardless of the outcome.
Happiness is the energy that fuels everything I do. It’s about finding joy in the process, celebrating every moment, and ensuring the journey is as rewarding as the destination. For anyone starting out, remember that passion is contagious. Find what makes you happy and share that enthusiasm with others — it will inspire those around you and create a positive ripple effect. I had a mentor at Disney who taught me a valuable lesson about happiness: instead of watching the performers in the parades or even the children enjoying the show, he would watch the parents — specifically, the joy on their faces as they facilitated that magical experience for their family. That’s the kind of happiness I strive to create.
By nurturing curiosity, optimism, and happiness, you’ll not only improve your craft but also enjoy the ride.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
A book that has played a significant role in my development is Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara. It resonated deeply with me because it reinforces the idea that true hospitality goes beyond just providing a service — it’s about creating memorable experiences that exceed all expectations. You may not remember the exact taste of a meal or the words of a server, but you will always remember how it made you feel.
One of the most impactful lessons from the book is the power of going the extra mile, not because it’s required, but because it creates magic. I learned that the smallest, most thoughtful gestures can have the greatest impact, turning an ordinary moment into something extraordinary. This idea has shaped the way I approach my work, always looking for opportunities to add those unexpected touches that delight and surprise.
Another key lesson from the book is the value of humility in leadership. Guidara’s journey emphasizes the importance of understanding every role within an organization, not just from a management perspective but by being willing to get your hands dirty and experience it firsthand. This approach fosters a culture of respect and empathy, where every team member feels valued for their contribution. It taught me that great leadership isn’t about being above others, but about lifting everyone up to create something remarkable together.
Image Credits
Island Dream Productions
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