In this episode of Bed & Butter, host Sean Riley sits down with Danielle Diersing, Senior Manager of Product Experience & Prototypes at Hilton, to explore how thoughtful design, innovation, and operator insight shape the modern hotel guest experience.

Recognized as a 30 Under 30 hospitality leader, Diersing shares her career journey into Hilton’s corporate ecosystem and offers an inside look at how Hilton designs and refreshes its focused-service and all-suite brands, including Hampton, Hilton Garden Inn, Homewood Suites, Home2 Suites, Embassy Suites, and Tru. From in-room furniture and amenities to lobby flow, breakfast layouts, sustainability initiatives, and cost-effective brand standards, Diersing explains how guest experience decisions are tested, refined, and implemented at scale.

The conversation also dives into leadership development, mentorship, and career pathways in hospitality, including Hilton’s internship, management development, and early-talent programs. Diersing offers practical advice for students and emerging professionals on asking questions, building relationships, and finding the right organizational culture.

This episode is a must-listen for students, hospitality professionals, designers, and future leaders interested in hotel design, brand standards, guest experience strategy, sustainability, and corporate hospitality careers.