The Power of Perseverance: 10 Principles to Transform Challenges into Triumphs
Edition: 1
Copyright: 2025
Pages: 166
Edition: 1
Copyright: 2025
Pages: 170
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In today’s fast-moving, tech-driven world, employers aren’t just hiring for talent—they’re investing in character. Vision, resilience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence are no longer optional—they’re essential. Yet most students and young professionals graduate with little guidance on how to develop these critical soft skills.
That’s where The Power of Perseverance comes in. Part personal journey, part practical playbook, this transformative guide equips emerging leaders with the tools to define their identity, own their growth, and lead with purpose—no matter the industry.
Drawing on his extraordinary life as an immigrant, global executive, and award-winning NYU professor, Dr. Richie Karaburun (affectionately known as Dr. K) shares 10 proven principles shaped by decades of lived experience. His lessons are real, relatable, and immediately applicable.
Inside, you’ll discover:
● Actionable strategies to master resilience, self-awareness, and adaptability
● A new mindset to pursue goals with confidence, not fear
● Tools to build a personal brand and become a standout communicator
● A mentorship experience you can carry with you—anytime, anywhere.
Whether you’re graduating, pivoting, or striving to break through in a competitive field, The Power of Perseverance will help you take ownership of your career, overcome setbacks, and turn challenges into stepping stones.
This is more than a book. It’s your launchpad.
Dr. Richie Karaburun is a celebrated educator, entrepreneur, and mentor at NYU’s School of Professional Studies. As Director of the Hospitality Innovation Hub Incubator, he empowers the next generation of industry changemakers. With this book, Dr. K brings his sought-after guidance beyond the classroom—into your hands.
Dr. Recep “Richie” Karaburun—known to his students as “Dr. K”—is a Clinical Associate Professor at the NYU School of Professional Studies, Jonathan M. Tisch Center for Hospitality and Tourism. With over 20 years of global leadership experience in the travel and hospitality industry, Dr. Karaburun brings real-world insight into every classroom and keynote stage he steps onto.
He holds a Doctorate in Professional Studies, concentration in Marketing, from Pace University’s Lubin School of Business, an MBA from Chapman University, and a BBA in International Relations from Uludag University in Turkiye.
At NYU, Dr. K teaches courses on hospitality innovation, strategic brand management, destination branding, hospitality trends, and business fundamentals. He has received multiple teaching awards, including the NYU SPS Excellence in Teaching Awards and, most recently, the NYU Distinguished Teaching Award—one of the university’s highest faculty honors.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Karaburun is the Director of the Tisch Center’s Innovation Hub Incubator, where he mentors the next generation of hospitality entrepreneurs and changemakers. His career has included leadership roles at Roomer, RADIUS, GTA North America, and American Tours International—driving strategy, growth, and innovation across global markets.
His research explores topics such as service culture, social media influence, hotel distribution, and digital customer experience. His insights have been featured in The New York Times, The Atlantic, Skift, Reuters, Hotel News Now, PhocusWire, and more. He’s also a regular contributor to
hospitality media and an invited speaker at conferences around the world, from CES in Las Vegas to HVS/ANAROCK in India.
In 2023, Dr. Karaburun was named one of the Top 30 Most Influential Educators in Global Hospitality by the International Hospitality Institute.
Whether he's guiding students, mentoring startups, or writing about grit and growth, Dr. K is passionate about helping others realize their potential—and persevere.
"Whether you're a student nervous to raise your hand, an entrepreneur pitching a bold idea, or simply someone facing a daunting new challenge, this is the guide to help you build the muscle of resilience. This book is for anyone ready to make boldness a habit." Angie Kamath, Harvey J. Stedman Dean of the School of Professional Studies, New York University
"With its clear emphasis on personal branding, growth mindset, and strategic goal setting, this book offers a roadmap for defining who you are, where you're going, and evolving along the way. A must-read for college students and young professionals alike." Tariq Farid, Founder Edible Brands®, CEO @ BroadPeak Capital
"Young professionals who read this book are in for a treat and a whole raft full of lessons that come straight from the author's varied experiences as a rising star in the hospitality business and an educator." -Kurt Ekert, CEO & President of Sabre Corporation
"The corporate world demands agility and authenticity in leadership. With its clear emphasis on personal branding, growth mindset, and strategic goal setting, The Power of Perseverance offers a roadmap for long-term professional success." Christopher Auteberry, Global Director, Commercial Learning and Development, Hyatt Hotels Corporation
"The Power of Perseverance challenges young professionals to own their development by aligning ambition with action. By blending the transformative power of personal branding, a growth-oriented mindset, and structured goal setting, the author offers a framework that is as motivational as it is immediately actionable." Nicolas Graf, Ph.D., Jonathan M. Tisch Chaired Professor, Associate Dean, Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality, New York University
“Organizations need leaders who are both visionary and resilient, and Richie Karaburun’s book delivers on the skills required to meet that demand. The Power of Perseverance inspires new and emerging leaders to lead with intention, navigate uncertainty with confidence, and build a leadership identity rooted in purpose.” –Dave Pavelko, Global Travel and Local Partnerships, Google
“As the first female president and CEO of a Royal Caribbean cruise brand, I wish I’d been able to read Richie Karaburun’s The Power of Persistence when I was starting my career journey. Richie is truly a force of nature who understands not only what it's like to want to succeed but also how to overcome the inevitable obstacles that get in the way.” Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, Author of Making Waves: A Woman’s Rise to the Top Using Smarts, Heart, and Courage
"When you have Dr. K in your corner, you can accomplish anything! The lessons in this book capture not only the rigor it takes to grow a career, but the joy that makes the journey worthwhile. A must-read for every optimist just starting out in the world." Aaron Miller, Head of National Partnerships at Tulsa Community Foundation
“Soft skills are the global language that young professionals need to thrive in today’s world. As a business strategy professor who teaches college students and executives pursuing mid-career development, I see Richie’s The Power of Perseverance as an indispensable guide for those seeking personal branding and professional development strategies in a constantly shifting landscape.” Jérôme Barthélemy, Strategy Professor, ESSEC Business School, Paris, France
“With 9 CEO roles and 10 CEO hires as a board director, I’ve seen firsthand that the best leaders never stop refining their skills. Richie Karaburun’s The Power of Perseverance is exactly the kind of practical approach that is needed to fast-track the next generation of leaders.” David Falter, Executive Coach for C-Suite Leaders
“Dr. Karaburun is an unforgettable mentor whose guidance continues to shape my professional journey. As his hospitality student, I was encouraged to engage deeply with the industry and build confidence through creative, real-world learning. His passion remains a lasting source of motivation as I pursue my own path.” –Maya Gloria Kwok, Event Coordinator, Tantawon Bloom, Inc.
"In a world where emerging professionals are increasingly expected to navigate rapid change, uncertainty, and the pressure to 'figure it all out,' the need for adaptable, self-aware professionals has never been greater. Rooted in real-world experience and actionable insight, Dr. Karaburun delivers more than motivation—he provides a framework for resilience, growth, and purpose. It's a timely, thoughtful guide for building a life and career with intention." Rachel Carpenter, DPS, Vice President for Student Affairs / Dean of Students, University of Evansville ·
"My experience in global tourism has shown me that long-term success comes from a willingness to persevere through uncertainty and change. This book has the power to inspire a new generation of tourism leaders and drive positive change.” –Natalia Bayona, Executive Director of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Richie and seeing firsthand how powerfully he embodies the principles in this book, both as a first-hand operator in companies in the travel industry and in his role as director of the HI Hub Incubator, which he willed into existence. He doesn’t just teach perseverance, he lives it! Young professionals couldn’t ask for a better mentor.” George Roukas, President, GAIPAN
“I’ve known Richie Karaburun since our early days as young professionals in Los Angeles. Richie’s career spans executive roles with some of the most powerful travel brands, and his impact as a professor and mentor is equally profound. The Power of Perseverance captures the drive, resilience, and brilliance that define Dr. K as a true innovator, educator, and inspiration.” Grant Guinn, Owner/Managing Partner, GL8 Hospitality, LLC
“My personal mantra has always been that relationships are the currency of life. Nobody demonstrates the practical truth of this idea more than my industry colleague Richie Karaburun. I am delighted he has made social capital and professional growth key strategies in his new book, which should be must-reading for young professionals." –Dorothy Dowling, Managing Director, Horwath LLC
“Dr. Richie Karaburun, known affectionately as Dr. K, is a mentor I deeply respect and someone from whom I’ve learned a great deal. In The Power of Perseverance, Dr. K distills the guidance and inspiration that make him such a beloved and respected educator into a powerful resource for anyone navigating the challenges of building a meaningful, purpose-driven career.” Ed Salvato, Faculty, NYU School of Professional Studies Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality
“Anyone aspiring to work in an international or any setting with diversity of any kind needs to develop the kind of skills and mindset explored in this book. If you think they’re easy to develop, think again. Fortunately, you’ve got the best teacher and mentor in the business in my colleague Richie Karaburun.” Brecht Putman, Senior Associations Manager North America, VISITFLANDERS
“We all need to create our personal ‘toolkit’ to navigate the challenges of career and life. With engaging stories and actionable principles, The Power of Perseverance equips young professionals with powerful insights on building resilience and crafting a standout personal brand.” Peggy Bianco, Global Strategic Alliances, Amadeus Hospitality
"The soft skills my Dr. Richie Karaburun explores in this useful and highly readable book are the universal language for working in today’s world and are required in every industry I know of. The author’s own life offers lessons just as powerful as the advice and strategies he delivers in abundance." Fatma Durmaz Yilbirlik, Vice Chairwoman of Board of Directors, Durmazlar Holding, Bursa, Türkiye
“Karaburun's unique perspective as a distinguished hospitality management professor brings both credibility and practical wisdom to essential topics like networking, public speaking, goal setting, and personal branding. This book provides readers with a portable ‘mentor’ who will inspire continuous learning and resilience throughout their professional journey.” Dr. Bri Newland, Associate Dean, College of Business, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
In today’s fast-moving, tech-driven world, employers aren’t just hiring for talent—they’re investing in character. Vision, resilience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence are no longer optional—they’re essential. Yet most students and young professionals graduate with little guidance on how to develop these critical soft skills.
That’s where The Power of Perseverance comes in. Part personal journey, part practical playbook, this transformative guide equips emerging leaders with the tools to define their identity, own their growth, and lead with purpose—no matter the industry.
Drawing on his extraordinary life as an immigrant, global executive, and award-winning NYU professor, Dr. Richie Karaburun (affectionately known as Dr. K) shares 10 proven principles shaped by decades of lived experience. His lessons are real, relatable, and immediately applicable.
Inside, you’ll discover:
● Actionable strategies to master resilience, self-awareness, and adaptability
● A new mindset to pursue goals with confidence, not fear
● Tools to build a personal brand and become a standout communicator
● A mentorship experience you can carry with you—anytime, anywhere.
Whether you’re graduating, pivoting, or striving to break through in a competitive field, The Power of Perseverance will help you take ownership of your career, overcome setbacks, and turn challenges into stepping stones.
This is more than a book. It’s your launchpad.
Dr. Richie Karaburun is a celebrated educator, entrepreneur, and mentor at NYU’s School of Professional Studies. As Director of the Hospitality Innovation Hub Incubator, he empowers the next generation of industry changemakers. With this book, Dr. K brings his sought-after guidance beyond the classroom—into your hands.
Dr. Recep “Richie” Karaburun—known to his students as “Dr. K”—is a Clinical Associate Professor at the NYU School of Professional Studies, Jonathan M. Tisch Center for Hospitality and Tourism. With over 20 years of global leadership experience in the travel and hospitality industry, Dr. Karaburun brings real-world insight into every classroom and keynote stage he steps onto.
He holds a Doctorate in Professional Studies, concentration in Marketing, from Pace University’s Lubin School of Business, an MBA from Chapman University, and a BBA in International Relations from Uludag University in Turkiye.
At NYU, Dr. K teaches courses on hospitality innovation, strategic brand management, destination branding, hospitality trends, and business fundamentals. He has received multiple teaching awards, including the NYU SPS Excellence in Teaching Awards and, most recently, the NYU Distinguished Teaching Award—one of the university’s highest faculty honors.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Karaburun is the Director of the Tisch Center’s Innovation Hub Incubator, where he mentors the next generation of hospitality entrepreneurs and changemakers. His career has included leadership roles at Roomer, RADIUS, GTA North America, and American Tours International—driving strategy, growth, and innovation across global markets.
His research explores topics such as service culture, social media influence, hotel distribution, and digital customer experience. His insights have been featured in The New York Times, The Atlantic, Skift, Reuters, Hotel News Now, PhocusWire, and more. He’s also a regular contributor to
hospitality media and an invited speaker at conferences around the world, from CES in Las Vegas to HVS/ANAROCK in India.
In 2023, Dr. Karaburun was named one of the Top 30 Most Influential Educators in Global Hospitality by the International Hospitality Institute.
Whether he's guiding students, mentoring startups, or writing about grit and growth, Dr. K is passionate about helping others realize their potential—and persevere.
"Whether you're a student nervous to raise your hand, an entrepreneur pitching a bold idea, or simply someone facing a daunting new challenge, this is the guide to help you build the muscle of resilience. This book is for anyone ready to make boldness a habit." Angie Kamath, Harvey J. Stedman Dean of the School of Professional Studies, New York University
"With its clear emphasis on personal branding, growth mindset, and strategic goal setting, this book offers a roadmap for defining who you are, where you're going, and evolving along the way. A must-read for college students and young professionals alike." Tariq Farid, Founder Edible Brands®, CEO @ BroadPeak Capital
"Young professionals who read this book are in for a treat and a whole raft full of lessons that come straight from the author's varied experiences as a rising star in the hospitality business and an educator." -Kurt Ekert, CEO & President of Sabre Corporation
"The corporate world demands agility and authenticity in leadership. With its clear emphasis on personal branding, growth mindset, and strategic goal setting, The Power of Perseverance offers a roadmap for long-term professional success." Christopher Auteberry, Global Director, Commercial Learning and Development, Hyatt Hotels Corporation
"The Power of Perseverance challenges young professionals to own their development by aligning ambition with action. By blending the transformative power of personal branding, a growth-oriented mindset, and structured goal setting, the author offers a framework that is as motivational as it is immediately actionable." Nicolas Graf, Ph.D., Jonathan M. Tisch Chaired Professor, Associate Dean, Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality, New York University
“Organizations need leaders who are both visionary and resilient, and Richie Karaburun’s book delivers on the skills required to meet that demand. The Power of Perseverance inspires new and emerging leaders to lead with intention, navigate uncertainty with confidence, and build a leadership identity rooted in purpose.” –Dave Pavelko, Global Travel and Local Partnerships, Google
“As the first female president and CEO of a Royal Caribbean cruise brand, I wish I’d been able to read Richie Karaburun’s The Power of Persistence when I was starting my career journey. Richie is truly a force of nature who understands not only what it's like to want to succeed but also how to overcome the inevitable obstacles that get in the way.” Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, Author of Making Waves: A Woman’s Rise to the Top Using Smarts, Heart, and Courage
"When you have Dr. K in your corner, you can accomplish anything! The lessons in this book capture not only the rigor it takes to grow a career, but the joy that makes the journey worthwhile. A must-read for every optimist just starting out in the world." Aaron Miller, Head of National Partnerships at Tulsa Community Foundation
“Soft skills are the global language that young professionals need to thrive in today’s world. As a business strategy professor who teaches college students and executives pursuing mid-career development, I see Richie’s The Power of Perseverance as an indispensable guide for those seeking personal branding and professional development strategies in a constantly shifting landscape.” Jérôme Barthélemy, Strategy Professor, ESSEC Business School, Paris, France
“With 9 CEO roles and 10 CEO hires as a board director, I’ve seen firsthand that the best leaders never stop refining their skills. Richie Karaburun’s The Power of Perseverance is exactly the kind of practical approach that is needed to fast-track the next generation of leaders.” David Falter, Executive Coach for C-Suite Leaders
“Dr. Karaburun is an unforgettable mentor whose guidance continues to shape my professional journey. As his hospitality student, I was encouraged to engage deeply with the industry and build confidence through creative, real-world learning. His passion remains a lasting source of motivation as I pursue my own path.” –Maya Gloria Kwok, Event Coordinator, Tantawon Bloom, Inc.
"In a world where emerging professionals are increasingly expected to navigate rapid change, uncertainty, and the pressure to 'figure it all out,' the need for adaptable, self-aware professionals has never been greater. Rooted in real-world experience and actionable insight, Dr. Karaburun delivers more than motivation—he provides a framework for resilience, growth, and purpose. It's a timely, thoughtful guide for building a life and career with intention." Rachel Carpenter, DPS, Vice President for Student Affairs / Dean of Students, University of Evansville ·
"My experience in global tourism has shown me that long-term success comes from a willingness to persevere through uncertainty and change. This book has the power to inspire a new generation of tourism leaders and drive positive change.” –Natalia Bayona, Executive Director of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Richie and seeing firsthand how powerfully he embodies the principles in this book, both as a first-hand operator in companies in the travel industry and in his role as director of the HI Hub Incubator, which he willed into existence. He doesn’t just teach perseverance, he lives it! Young professionals couldn’t ask for a better mentor.” George Roukas, President, GAIPAN
“I’ve known Richie Karaburun since our early days as young professionals in Los Angeles. Richie’s career spans executive roles with some of the most powerful travel brands, and his impact as a professor and mentor is equally profound. The Power of Perseverance captures the drive, resilience, and brilliance that define Dr. K as a true innovator, educator, and inspiration.” Grant Guinn, Owner/Managing Partner, GL8 Hospitality, LLC
“My personal mantra has always been that relationships are the currency of life. Nobody demonstrates the practical truth of this idea more than my industry colleague Richie Karaburun. I am delighted he has made social capital and professional growth key strategies in his new book, which should be must-reading for young professionals." –Dorothy Dowling, Managing Director, Horwath LLC
“Dr. Richie Karaburun, known affectionately as Dr. K, is a mentor I deeply respect and someone from whom I’ve learned a great deal. In The Power of Perseverance, Dr. K distills the guidance and inspiration that make him such a beloved and respected educator into a powerful resource for anyone navigating the challenges of building a meaningful, purpose-driven career.” Ed Salvato, Faculty, NYU School of Professional Studies Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality
“Anyone aspiring to work in an international or any setting with diversity of any kind needs to develop the kind of skills and mindset explored in this book. If you think they’re easy to develop, think again. Fortunately, you’ve got the best teacher and mentor in the business in my colleague Richie Karaburun.” Brecht Putman, Senior Associations Manager North America, VISITFLANDERS
“We all need to create our personal ‘toolkit’ to navigate the challenges of career and life. With engaging stories and actionable principles, The Power of Perseverance equips young professionals with powerful insights on building resilience and crafting a standout personal brand.” Peggy Bianco, Global Strategic Alliances, Amadeus Hospitality
"The soft skills my Dr. Richie Karaburun explores in this useful and highly readable book are the universal language for working in today’s world and are required in every industry I know of. The author’s own life offers lessons just as powerful as the advice and strategies he delivers in abundance." Fatma Durmaz Yilbirlik, Vice Chairwoman of Board of Directors, Durmazlar Holding, Bursa, Türkiye
“Karaburun's unique perspective as a distinguished hospitality management professor brings both credibility and practical wisdom to essential topics like networking, public speaking, goal setting, and personal branding. This book provides readers with a portable ‘mentor’ who will inspire continuous learning and resilience throughout their professional journey.” Dr. Bri Newland, Associate Dean, College of Business, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs