Closing TRSA’s Annual Conference & CEO Summit in Napa Valley, restaurateur and Master Sommelier Alpana Singh delivered an inspiring message on leadership, resilience and the evolving meaning of the American dream.
Singh described the dream not as a destination, but as a daily practice that is “messy, nonlinear and occasionally terrifying,” and is shaped by persistence and risk-taking. Drawing on her journey from a family of immigrants to becoming one of the world’s few Master Sommeliers, she emphasized that success rarely follows a straight path.
She shared lessons from early entrepreneurship and career setbacks, including launching a restaurant that initially struggled. Her advice: focus on “the next right thing” and keep moving forward.
For the linen, uniform and facility services industry leaders in attendance, Singh highlighted the realities of modern leadership – balancing business demands with personal responsibilities and the challenges of avoiding burnout. She pushed back on the idea that burnout stems from working too hard, noting instead it often comes from work that no longer inspires.
Singh encouraged executives to prioritize their energy and well-being, embrace mentorship and delegate to develop their teams. She also urged attendees to lean into their personal “terroir” as the French call it, or a sense of place, meaning the unique experiences and backgrounds that set them apart, as a competitive advantage.
Her closing message: leadership is deeply personal. “The American dream was never a destination,” Singh said. “It’s a daily decision to show up, build something and keep going, especially when it’s hard.”
Singh also led a VIP Wine Tasting for a select group of Annual Conference & CEO Summit attendees after her closing keynote address.
Sign Up For Our Newsletter
Receive the latest updates on the linen, uniform and facility services industry from TRSA delivered straight to your inbox.
