How did Howard Wein's experience in managing billions of dollars in revenue influence his approach to designing Barclay Prime?

Howard Wein's story reflects the themes discussed in the book 'Contagious: Why Things Catch On' in several ways. Firstly, his success with Starwood Hotels and their W brand demonstrates the power of creating a product or service that resonates with consumers, which is a key theme in the book. Secondly, his decision to downsize and create a new luxury boutique steakhouse, Barclay Prime, shows the importance of innovation and finding a unique market niche, another major theme in the book. Finally, his extensive experience in the hospitality industry and his ability to generate significant revenue highlight the role of expertise and effective management in making a product or service 'catch on'.

Entrepreneurs trying to replicate Howard Wein's success might face several obstacles. Firstly, they may lack the extensive hospitality experience and the specific skill set that Wein has. To overcome this, they could gain experience in the industry and seek relevant education. Secondly, they might not have the same network and reputation that Wein has built over the years. Building a strong network and reputation requires time, patience, and consistent high-quality work. Lastly, they may face financial constraints. To overcome this, they could seek investors or take out business loans.