The life journey that’s delivered Karl Hoagland to Marin County as founder and chairman of Larkspur Hotels & Restaurants couldn’t have been predicted—not even by Hoagland himself. He grew up in Alton, Illinois, a rust belt town along the banks of the Mississippi River. Taking his father’s advice to either “go to law school or work for Goldman Sachs” to heart, a degree with honors from Brown University led to an analyst’s position at the firm on Wall Street.
A visit to the Bay Area was all it took for a coastal relocation, and his expertise working with international hospitality companies eventually led him to innovative hotelier Bill Kimpton. In 1996, Hoagland founded Larkspur Hospitality Development & Management Company, combining the needs of business travelers with “genuine hospitality” to create and build innovative hotels. Today, the company has 23 hotels and three separate brands (all-suite Larkspur Landing, three-star Larkspur Hotels, and premium Larkspur Collection), with the newest property located in Mill Valley.
What did you do professionally before founding Larkspur Hotels & Restaurants?
I had an eight-year investment banking career focusing on capital and strategic transactions for hospitality companies, and mergers and acquisitions at Goldman Sachs and Montgomery Securities.
What got you interested in the hospitality industry?
My investment banking clients, especially Bill Kimpton. Before becoming an investment banker, I was very interested in the paper and forest product industry.
Are you an early bird or a night owl?
A night owl. Things get calmer for me at the end of a day. My head is more clear, I have more energy, and I like the quiet time deep in the night. I often run at night and do some of my best thinking then.
Describe your favorite pair of shoes.
They’re Adidas racing flats. The shoes are fast—faster than I am—therefore they’re fun to wear and kick around in, but I’d be afraid to race in them.
If your spouse could change one thing about you, what would it be?
I’d be good at plumbing and related household fixes.
Of all the things you’ve done in your life, of what are you most proud?
Starting Larkspur Hotels and watching as amazing people here have brought those dreams to reality.
What big challenge have you taken on recently?
Bringing the company through this economic downturn and emerging on the other side even stronger and positioned for growth and success.
What compliment did you recently receive that you really savored?
Someone said I was a good marketer…but they were teasing me.
What do you miss most about your college days?
Playing soccer.
What television show from the past would you like to see back on television?
“Twin Peaks” was set in the Northwest, and the “unseen” energy that drove the characters and the plot was interesting.
What would you like to be doing five years from now?
Having fun being present and living a totally genuine, integrated life that balances family, work, friends and my passions.
What’s one guilty pleasure you enjoy too much to give up?
Pilsner beer after runs and great Sauvignon Blanc with soft cheese. I especially like Cowgirl Creamery Mt. Tam.
What’s something you should throw away, but can’t?
I feel emotional connections to my old running shoes.
What’s the most interesting country you’ve ever been to and why?
England. So much of what could make America a better place is in that country and culture. Our roots there aren’t so bad.
When was the last time you pushed yourself to your physical limits?
I feel that way at the end of any ultra-marathon—like the Rucky Chucky Roundabout (50k), Way Too Cool (50k) and the Miwok 100k. Most recently at the Western States 100 in June.
Window or aisle seating?
Window. I love the view of the world from the air.
If you could have a conversation with anyone from history, who would it be and what would you want to talk about?
President Obama. I love his vision and capacity to change the world for the better, but I think he could use some good advice these days.
