We recently had the chance to connect with Michael Beseda and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Michael, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? Who are you learning from right now?
Just joined a new band, with members that are more technically proficient than I am. It’s been awesome working with them and pushing myself musically but also being able to see the success of a project coming together and being able to breathe life into a shared vision and someday be able to put that vision on display for others. We all have something to say and through the arts I believe we each can have our own way of saying it – you just have to figure out what your voice is. Not sure that I have found mine though music but the journey sure has been interesting.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Michael Beseda, I am one of two partners at Castaways Cove, the worlds highest tiki bar. The idea came from conversations with my partner about the desire for escapism – especially during long snowy winters in the mountains of Breckenridge, CO. We are attempting to put out the ultimate escape with great food, amazing drinks and an enviornment that is anything but typical.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
This may be more than a moment – but after finishing school I spent a year with an Americorps NCCC program doing service work in the south eastern United States. Spending time working and helping communities across multiple states in a variety of capacities really provided perspective on many of our similarities and differences while reenforcing the concept that just a little bit of help can go a really long way to improving situations and circumstances.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that I was not good enough. Luckily, through the help and guidance of my parents, I realized I didn’t have to be good enough for anybody else and just be the best that I am capable of being.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes and no. I am a multifaceted individual and you get whatever version is necessary in a time and place. I am an outdoor adventurer that feels equally at home in a suit and tie. I’m a miscreant that you can take to your parents house for dinner. I’m a business owner who feels a sense of responsibility towards his staff, his guests and the community at large. Doesnt mean you won’t find me playing hooky. You can get all of that, some of that or none of it. They are all the real me, they just don’t always fit neatly together.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When have you had to bet the company?
Oh man – Covid. We had just opened four months prior to being closed for six. Didn’t know we were betting it at the time but there we were. I think we stand by the old Warren Miller quote “if you don’t do it this year, you will be one year older when you do.” I think we still stand by that.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.castawaysbreck.com
- Instagram: castaways_breck
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CastawaysBreck/
