Watch My Story
Meet Dustin Portillo: The Hospitality Showman!
Every interaction is a moment on stage — and your team is either earning standing ovations or losing the room.
That’s where I come in.
I’m Dustin Portillo, and I help hospitality and QSR teams break out of autopilot and show up with purpose, energy, and authenticity. Through keynotes, workshops, and culture coaching, I help teams learn to turn everyday service into unforgettable experiences.
Why performance? Because I’ve lived it.
At 19, I ran away with the circus — literally — becoming one of the youngest Boss Clowns in Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus’s 147-year history and performed in over 3,500 shows for 35 million people.
Then I stepped into the role of Ronald McDonald, representing one of the world’s most iconic brands at events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Later, I helped lead culture and community relations at one of the top McDonald’s franchises in the U.S. — driving team engagement and loyalty from the inside out.
From the spotlight to the front lines, I’ve learned this: great service isn’t a transaction — it’s a performance.
And when your team shows up with intention and heart, guests feel it. They remember it. And they come back for more.
What I stand for!
Hospitality is a Performance.
Every shift is showtime. Every guest is the audience. Every moment is a chance to make someone’s day.
People First, Always.
Customers feel it when your team’s on fire—in the best way. Take care of your people, and the magic follows.
Fun Isn’t Fluff. It’s Fuel.
Fun isn’t the break from work—it’s what makes work matter. When people are lit up, they lead better, serve deeper, and stay longer.
Your Culture Is Your Brand.
Logos don’t build loyalty—people do. Culture isn’t on the wall, it’s in how your team shows up when no one’s watching.
Energy Is Contagious. Make Yours Count.
Attitude spreads. Choose joy. Choose purpose. Choose to be the thermostat, not the thermometer.
Everyone’s a Leader. Titles Don’t Set the Tone—People Do.
You don’t need a name tag that says “Manager” to make a difference. Real influence shows up in action, not status.
When Fun Leads, Greatness Follows.
I’ve lived it in the circus ring, in the red shoes, and in the boardroom. When people are connected, playful, and purpose-driven, great things happen—onstage and off.
Top 5 Reasons to Hire
Dustin Portillo
He Turns Service Into a Showstopper
A fresh, exciting lens on guest experience that turns everyday service into unforgettable moments. Dustin helps hospitality pros tap into the power of presence, performance, and purpose — so every guest feels like the star of the show.
He’s Been Center Ring and Center Stage
Real techniques from the spotlight that translate directly to guest connection. Dustin’s performance background isn’t just entertaining — it’s a masterclass in attention, energy, and emotional impact that your team can apply the moment they step back on the floor.
He Gets the Frontline Because He’s Been There
Dustin speaks their language — because he’s walked in their shoes. From late-night shifts to high-stakes service, he knows what it takes to thrive under pressure. That lived experience helps him connect deeply with frontline teams and deliver insights that actually resonate and stick.
He Delivers Action, Not Just Inspiration
Motivation is great — but implementation is better. Dustin’s sessions are packed with tangible takeaways your team can use right away to elevate service, shift mindset, and build a stronger, more connected culture from the inside out.
He Makes Culture Fun Again
Culture shouldn’t be a buzzword— it should drive results. Dustin infuses energy, humor, and heart into every session, turning culture-building into something your people actually want to be part of. Expect laughter, aha moments, and a spark that lasts long after he leaves the stage.
Bring the Show to Your Team!
Bringing Dustin's Magic to Your event!
Ready to energize your organization with an unforgettable experience? Let’s create a moment that gets a standing ovation from your team and your guests.
Connect with Dustin for unforgettable events filled with inspiration, humor, and transformation! Reach out to bring his unique energy and expertise to your audience.
