NewsWUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Local & State)August 20, 2026Hillsborough
Author Matt Lettelleir publishes book on hospitality and civic leadership
Local government manager and author Matt Lettelleir has released a new book, 'The Open Door,' which provides a philosophy for business owners and city leaders to improve community engagement and customer experiences. The book outlines five pillars of hospitality, including 'Radical Welcome' and 'Stewardship of Place,' to help organizations foster personal connections in an increasingly automated world.
Read the full story at WUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Local & State)Why It Matters
The book offers a framework for local business owners and city planners to potentially change how they manage public spaces and customer interactions in St. Petersburg.
Key Facts
- Matt Lettelleir authored 'The Open Door: A Philosophy of Welcome for Leaders, Cities and Everyone Who Opens a Door'.
- The book outlines five pillars: Radical Welcome, Generosity Beyond Expectation, Personal Connection, Community Creation, and Stewardship of Place.
- The author previously served as President and CEO of The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce.
- The author served as Advocacy Manager and VP of Advocacy for the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce from 2017 to 2022.
- A book launch event is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 25, from 5-7 p.m. at Book + Bottle, located at 17 6th Street N.
- The book is available for purchase at Tombolo Books and Amazon.
Who's Mentioned
organizationGreater Brandon Chamber of Commerce“Former employer of Matt Lettelleir.”locationBook + Bottle“Venue for the book launch event.”organizationSt. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce“Former employer of Matt Lettelleir.”other17“Street address number for the event.”personMatt Lettelleir“Author of 'The Open Door' and Local Government and Public Policy Manager for Orl”organizationTheodore Foley Press“Publisher of the book.”locationSt. Petersburg“Hometown of the author and focus of the book's civic examples.”