#128: From Corporate Sales to Hospitality Empire with Dawn Cornett
From Cybersecurity Sales to a Life of Purpose: Dawn Cornett’s Hospitality Journey
Ready to break free from the 9-to-5 grind? In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Dawn Cornett—a former corporate sales professional turned short-term rental and boutique hotel mogul. Her story is a shining example of what’s possible when you lead with intention, align with your values, and surround yourself with the right people.
From managing a cozy lake house to owning a portfolio of boutique hotels and retreat centers, Dawn has redefined success on her own terms. Her approach combines strategic investing, values-based hiring, and an unwavering commitment to personal and spiritual growth.
Why Dawn’s Story Resonates Many dream of leaving the security of a traditional job for something more fulfilling—but few actually make the leap. Dawn did. Her journey isn’t just about real estate; it’s about creating a life she genuinely loves. And in this episode, she shares how you can do it too.
[00:01] A short introduction about our guest Dawn Cornett and how she got into the short term rental world
[03:31] How Dawn expanded from a single lake house to boutique hotels and retreat centers while staying connected to family
[04:46] Dawn emphasizes investing with intention, choosing locations based on personal connections, lifestyle, and long-term vision
[06:03] Dawn shares how she navigates uncertainty in her journey
[06:57] What made Dawn choose to transition in asset classes from single family homes into boutique hotels
[08:29] Dawn shares her journey in expanding her boutique hotel portfolio and her transition into managing and investing in boutique hotels
[10:25] The challenges and differences Dawn encountered when transitioning from managing single-family homes to managing boutique hotels
[11:36] Dawn shares her approach to finding and retaining loyal cleaning staff for her boutique hotels and the importance of values-based hiring and building a family-like team culture
[15:33] What has been one of the biggest challenges Dawn navigated throughout her journey, and how did she deal with that challenge
[16:46] Dawn shares an experience of struggling to separate from a challenging client who managed six properties
[18:27] Dawn shares the personal and professional decision to separate from her W2 job
[20:54] Dawn offers advice to those considering co-hosting boutique hotels or larger retreat centers
[22:03] The importance of being intentional about what excites you and pursuing personal and spiritual growth
[23:37] Dawn shares her daily routine, which includes meditation, gratitude practice, and self-care
[26:45] Dawn’s next piece of advice for someone starting out in the boutique hotel world
[37:35] How Dawn vets her potential partners
[30:11] The lightning round
- “If you want to go fast, do it alone. If you want to go far, do it with others. Take secret shortcuts from people who have done it before.”
- “We’re going to be in flow better if we do things that get us excited.”
- “You absolutely have to vet your partners like you’re marrying them.”
Connect with Dawn
- YouTube: @HospitalityHustle
- Instagram: @dawnofagreatday
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