Marketing Episodes

In this episode, Oscar Serrano, Senior Vice President of Distribution, Sales & Marketing at UMusic Hospitality, shares how Universal Music Group—the world’s largest entertainment company—is bringing its emotional power into travel through UMusic Hotels. Born from a joint venture between Universal Music Group and UMusic Hospitality & Lifestyle, this brand turns superfans into guests by blending live entertainment, creativity, and community. From the first property in Madrid, Spain, to upcoming...

In this conversation hosted by Nancy Mendelson, hospitality marketing veteran Victoria Feldman de Falco, principal and co-founder of Redpoint, shares how consistent communication — even in challenging times — can drive long-term success for hospitality businesses. With more than four decades of experience shaping stories for hotels, destinations, and cruise lines, Vickie has been recognized as one of HSMAI’s Top 25 Extraordinary Minds and received the organization’s Winthrop W. Grice Award for ...

In this conversation hosted by Nancy Mendelson, hospitality marketing veteran Victoria Feldman de Falco, principal and co-founder of Redpoint, shares how marketing, PR, and operations teams can work together to drive topline growth in hospitality. Drawing from more than four decades of experience leading bold, award-winning campaigns, Vickie explains why communications shouldn’t operate in silos — and how general managers play a crucial role in aligning strategy across the business. You’ll hear...

Episode Overview In this episode, we’re joined by Leora Halpern Lanz: author, hospitality marketing expert, and professor at Boston University’s School of Hospitality, with her new book, Developing Your Marketing Mindset. Drawing from decades of experience in hotels, tourism, and education, Leora explains why every hospitality professional, not just marketers, needs to adopt a marketing mindset. She shares lessons on critical and strategic thinking, the role of branding in enhancing the guest...

Ryan Bukstein has spent his career shaping people-driven brands, from his early work at Ace Hotel to leading marketing at Vacation, and now as a consultant. In this conversation, he shares how collaboration, contrarian thinking, and a love of Japan are coming together in his latest project: a curated travel experience with the founders of clean beauty brand Dam Dam. More episodes with Ryan: Ace Hotel’s Early Days: Punk Spirit and Hospitality Innovation The Art of Turning Curiosity into Brand E...

Independent hospitality is quickly growing in popularity, but discovery remains a big challenge for both travelers and operators. In this conversation, Brett McManus, owner of Après Inn in Killington, Vermont, and founder of Inndependent Stays, explains how he’s addressing this gap. We discuss the costs of relying on OTAs, the power of people-first storytelling, and how AI-driven matching could reshape how travelers discover independent hospitality experiences. Learn more about Inndependent Sta...

In this episode, our guest experience correspondent, Danica Smith, speaks with Hector Hughes, co-founder of Unplugged, who shares how they have achieved the remarkable with 100% direct bookings and nearly full occupancy year-round -- all without relying on OTAs. Hector discusses Unplugged's unique approach to organic growth, the creative use of social media, and how building a movement rather than just a brand has driven their success. Hospitality leaders will gain fresh insights into how embrac...

In this episode, Ryan Bukstein shares the behind-the-scenes process of how brands like Ace Hotel and Vacation were built, showing how curiosity, experimentation, and unexpected collaborations drove their groundbreaking approaches. Ryan reveals how Ace Hotel thrived by challenging industry norms, embracing cultural programming, and forging authentic partnerships, like its notable collaboration with Converse. He illustrates how these same principles allowed Vacation to redefine sunscreen as a play...

In this episode, Walter Isenberg , co-founder and CEO of Sage Hospitality Group , shares the story behind the story: how Sage Studio brings hospitality to life. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here . You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free . Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conv...

Josiah Mackenzie shares what he's learned about influence in hospitality and beyond. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Da...

In this episode, Leigh Silkunas, Founder and CEO of 1AX Consulting, breaks down what it means for hotels to be culturally relevant—and why it’s easier (and more powerful) than you think. From tapping into real-time trends to leveraging cultural moments like Taylor Swift’s record-breaking tour or the rise of ‘set jetting,’ Leigh shares how hotels can stay top-of-mind by aligning with what’s happening in the world. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can se...

In this episode, Chris Bowling, Head of Digital and Consumer Marketing at BWH Hotels Great Britain, shares insights on the importance of direct bookings, the role of OTAs, and the impact of AI on the hospitality industry. Read Chris' newsletter, The Hotel Hype. This episode is brought to you with support from Shiji Group, the global hospitality technology leader that helps hotels streamline operations and transform guest experiences. Recognized by their clients for their best-in-class solution...

Learn how to earn media coverage that accelerates your career and builds your company from three of hospitality's top media professionals. In this replay of a special LinkedIn Live collaboration between Hospitality Daily and hertelier, you'll discover proven strategies for crafting compelling stories, landing meaningful coverage, and maximizing media opportunities. Our Expert Panel Emily Kanders Goldfischer: Founder & Editor-in-Chief of hertelier, former VP of PR at Loews Hotels Nancy Men...

In this episode, Christine Morairty, VP of Brand + Marketing at Palisades Hospitality Group, shares her formula for merging global strategies with hyperlocal execution, ensuring every initiative resonates at the property level. Listen now to learn: The role of education in modern marketing and how to simplify complex marketing concepts for different audiences. The necessity of both immediate tactics and long-term brand building in marketing. How to balance bold brand building with tactical m...

In this episode, we dive into the powerful impact of AI on the hospitality industry and how it’s reshaping everything from guest interactions to digital marketing. We're learning from Adam Wallace, CEO of Spherical, who has more than 15 years of experience leading hospitality marketing innovation. Together, we explore practical strategies for hoteliers to stay ahead in an AI-driven world without losing the human touch that defines great hospitality. In this episode, we cover: AI’s Expanding ...

In this special sponsored masterclass, Juanjo Rodriguez, founder of The Hotels Network, shares insights on how hotels can drive more direct bookings and stand out in today's competitive landscape. (Watch here on YouTube if you prefer.) In this, we cover: 00:00 - An introduction to Juanjo Rodriguez 01:19 - Challenges and opportunities in the hotel industry today 04:47 - How e-commerce is different in hospitality 05:51 - Growing direct business: how The Hotels Network helps hotels ...

In this episode, hotel investor and Hospiamo founder Adam Zembruski shares his insights on the systemic barriers that hold hoteliers back and the practical steps needed to foster a more creative and collaborative culture in hotels. Listeners will learn: The reasons why collaboration is often an afterthought for hotel owners and how to change that mindset (01:37) The importance of encouraging creativity among hotel employees (05:32) A real-world example of successful collaboration in...

In this episode, Casey Barks, Vice President of Marketing at Staypineapple Hotels, shares his insights on how Staypineapple has digitized and streamlined its influencer management process. Listeners will learn: The tools and metrics Staypineapple uses to evaluate an influencer's true monetary value (03:52) Their innovative approach to influencer contracts, ensuring accountability and protecting the hotel's interests (06:50) Why influencer marketing is set to become even more significant in t...

In this episode, Ernest Lee, Chief Commercial Officer at citizenM, shares how partnerships and collaborations are crucial for creating unique experiences and engaging the people you want to reach. Listeners will learn: Why collaborations and partnerships are important for citizenM (01:13) How partnerships provide a shortcut to reaching target audiences and leveraging resources efficiently. (01:33) The impact of events and partnerships on creating the vibe you want and attracting like-minded ...

In this episode, Helen Smith and Eugenio Pirri, joint CEOs of Dorchester Collection, share their unique approach to balancing the individuality of legendary properties with building a cohesive family of brands. The concept of the "Golden Thread": Learn how Dorchester Collection maintains the unique identities of its properties while creating a unified brand experience. Guest-centric approach: Discover the importance of putting the guest at the center of everything they do and how it shapes the...

Bob Gilbert is the President and CEO of HSMAI, the largest hospitality sales and marketing professional society in the world. In this episode, we explore the evolution of the hospitality industry and the pivotal role of HSMAI in shaping the careers of professionals in this field. Listeners will learn about: HSMAI's Mission: The core objectives of the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International and how it has remained a cornerstone for industry professionals. Adapting to C...

With extensive experience in strategic and creative marketing, Maurice Ajanaku specializes in crafting compelling brand narratives and executing innovative strategies that resonate. In this episode, we explore the essence of what makes a strong brand and how it transcends beyond mere logos to encompass every aspect of your hospitality business. What You'll Learn: The True Meaning of Branding: Discover why branding is more than just a logo and how it represents the personality and values of you...

Don Barnett is the Director of Sales and Marketing at LondonHouse Chicago. In this episode, we discuss how to effectively collaborate with influencers to grow your hospitality business. Listeners will learn: The Value of Influencers in Hospitality: Discover why influencers can be a powerful asset for your hospitality business and how they can impact your growth and reputation. Micro vs. Macro Influencers: Understand the difference between micro and local influencers versus national or interna...

Oliver Hospitality is a Nashville-based hotel and restaurant management company founded in 2009 on the idea that old and new properties could be reworked into engaging and thoughtful spaces. In this episode, Ethan Orley, the Managing Partner of Oliver Hospitality, talks about how an emphasis on the creative and communications elements of hospitality creates a powerful guest experience that I want you to learn from. What did you think about this episode? Join the Hospitality Daily community on L...