Ep 1. Diamond Resorts International

The third season of the hit reality tv show "Undercover Boss" brings in the first episode named "Diamond Resorts International". The episode showcases the journey of Stephen J. Cloobeck - the CEO of a hospitality company, Diamond Resorts International, as he disguises as a regular employee of the company to venture into the day-to-day operations of the business.

Stephen Cloobeck's primary objective with going undercover is to figure out the untold stories and experiences of the company's employees to better understand the various challenges they face on a daily basis. This 45-minute episode provides a compelling insight into the working environment of Diamond Resorts International and how the company functioned on a day-to-day basis.

As the CEO stepped out of his luxurious office and dressed in a company standard uniform, he ventured out into different roles within the company. Stephen started by working as a bellman, where he was surprised to witness the physical demands and high level of customer service that the role demanded. He then moved onto shadowing a sales representative, where he learned the ropes of marketing the company's holiday packages, amenities, and the importance of customer satisfaction in the hospitality industry.

Next, Stephen worked with the front desk receptionist, where he realized the potential difficulties in managing customer complaints and the challenges of maintaining positive relationships with customers. The CEO then went on to work with a cleaning staff member, where he observed the tasks of working under time constraints, following proper cleanliness standards, and how the job had a significant impact on the company's reputation.

Throughout the episode, Stephen Cloobeck addresses various issues that he observed while working in different roles. He acknowledged some common issues such as providing better tools and equipment for workers, improving working conditions, and being more interactive with staff to hear their opinions and suggestions. He also identified new solutions, such as rewards programs for the most successful sales team members, and implementing a 'standardized welcome' at all properties to improve guest satisfaction.

We also see emotional moments between the CEO and employees as the company's values and philosophy align with their personal values. For instance, Stephen bonds with Claudine, an employee who works two jobs to support her family, and in doing so, reminds the CEO the importance of taking real-life experiences into account when running a business. The episode also shows how some of the company's workers go above and beyond in their jobs, and through the CEO's guidance, advance in their professional lives.

The episode ends with Stephen Cloobeck revealing his identity to the employees whose lives he touched and evaluating his findings from his episode-long undercover experience. The CEO then concludes with a testament to the strength and importance of a company's most important asset - the employees.

"Undercover Boss" Season 3 Episode 1 - Diamond Resorts International gives a fascinating insight into the world of hospitality while simultaneously, showcasing the life-changing moments that employees experience while working at Diamond Resorts International. Stephen Cloobeck's decision to go undercover shows the powerful impact of leadership from the perspective of the employee, creating a connection between the employees and the CEO while also demonstrating the importance of the human element behind a successful business.