Forget the tired “mentor-as-guide” cliché. A mentor isn’t there to hand you a GPS to success. They’re the one who tosses you a torch, grins, and says, “It’s dark out there. Let’s light it up.” Real mentorship isn’t cozy or comfortable. It’s transformative. A great mentor doesn’t pat you on the back; they light a fire under it. And a great mentee doesn’t just sit cross-legged waiting for wisdom. They show up with questions, hunger, and the guts to challenge the status quo.

At its best, mentorship is a dual rebellion: against stagnation, against ego, against playing small. It’s the audacity to say, “We’re not doing average.” The mentor gets to stretch beyond their own ceiling by lifting someone else. The mentee gets a front-row seat to what’s possible, not just what’s polite. Together, it’s not just a passing of knowledge, it’s a passing of power, perspective, and permission.

Radical Tips for Mentors

• Don’t polish—provoke. You’re not here to make someone shinier; you’re here to make them stronger. Ask the uncomfortable questions. Challenge the lazy narratives.
• Share the scar, not just the success. Wisdom without vulnerability is just a resume. Let them see where you bled so they don’t glamorize the battlefield.
• Leave room for rebellion. If your mentee never pushes back, you’re mentoring a puppet, not a person. Invite their fire,  it means they’re waking up.

Radical Tips for Mentees

• Stop worshiping. Start working. Your mentor is not a guru on a pedestal. They’re a flawed human with hard-won insight. Respect them but don’t idolize them.
• Ask scary questions. If your curiosity isn’t making you sweat a little, you’re playing it too safe. The best growth comes from awkward, uncertain territory.
• Outgrow them. Yep, that’s the goal. A real mentor wants you to eclipse them. Don’t play small to keep the relationship comfortable.

In the end, mentorship is less like a classroom and more like a forge. If it doesn’t heat you up, reshape you, and burn away what no longer serves,  you’re doing it wrong. So grab the torch, swing the hammer, and build something wild.

Content above provided by Michele Kline, Kline Hospitality and NHLA member

We interviewed Chris Breed, VP Resort Operations, Soleil Management.  Chris has been a member for several years, a past chairman of the board, and an avid and supportive mentor.

Why do you put so much time and effort into mentor programs?  

It is my belief that as a leader in the industry I have a responsibility to help those beginning their careers and those looking for guidance.  While there is an abundance of books and other education avenues for those interested, sometimes you just need to talk or discuss a very specific topic. Having a person to speak to 1×1 is a great way to not feel alone as you navigate your career. I am lucky to have been able to stay in contact with many of those I have mentored.

What do you think is one of the most valuable benefits of participating either as a mentor or mentee?

Mentee:             

• You get practical experience with someone that either you chose or was chosen by their experience. You can really be honest with a struggle, or a decision that you may be working through.

Mentor:              

• I was fortunate to have great people surround me during my career that offered me guidance. I always knew I had someone to reach out to. It feels good to be that person for someone. I always feel good about helping others with areas that I may have experience in.

Thank you, Michele and Chris, for your inspiring views and for providing insights for a meaningful and productive experience.