Episodes

How do you create a remarkable experience for guests with technology? Join me in learning from Hanna Schiller, VP of Product at Ireckonu, about the complexities of hospitality technology and the importance of integration in delivering exceptional service. We dive into the challenges of siloed systems and how Ireckonu's middleware solution addresses these issues, while Hanna shares her journey and invaluable insights from her experience working with industry nonprofit HTNG. We also discuss the ...

Could "user disengagement" be a key to elevating your guest experience through technology? Join me as I explore this idea with Matt Welle, the CEO of Mews, a hospitality technology company. We also talk about the implications of technology on hiring, examples of hospitality companies that have implemented technology well, how to shop for technology, and what most excites him about the future. Follow Matt on LinkedIn Learn more about Mews Join the conversation on today's episode on the H...

Parijat Gupta leads online reputation and social media management for Coast Hotels, and in this episode, you'll hear about how a role earlier in her career helped shape how she views communicating with people digitally today. I want you to hear this because we're heading into some of the biggest technology tradeshows in the hospitality industry over the next few weeks, and as we do that I encourage you to think about people and the guest experience first. Follow Parijat Gupta on LinkedIn Join ...

What if the key to standing out in a world increasingly dominated by technology and AI is to embrace - and share - our unique stories? Join us in learning from executive coach Andy Ellwood about the importance of knowing and owning your story to create connections and make a lasting impact. Follow Andy on LinkedIn Follow Andy on YouTube Follow Andy on Instagram Visit Andy's website Join the conversation on today's episode on the Hospitality Daily LinkedIn page. Hospitality Daily isn't just a...

Could offsites unleash the power of your team - and your hospitality business? Our conversation with executive coach Andy Elwood will leave you with practical insights and fresh inspiration. Andy shares advice on preparation, including pre-event surveys that ensure all voices are heard equally. He also introduces the "Artifact Dinner"– a powerful activity that fosters deep connections among team members by sharing personal stories through small objects. Discover the secrets to creating unforge...

Ever wondered how to create a high-performing culture that rewards excellence and drives success? Join me in a fascinating conversation with Loretta Macke, Senior Vice President of Sales at Remington Hospitality, as we uncover the secrets to building a performance culture through incentive programs and events like their Pinnacle Incentive Trip. Loretta shares the incredible impact these experiences have had on their organization, inspiring and motivating staff all year long. We also discuss le...

Could having a great mentor could propel your hospitality career? In today's episode, we had the pleasure of learning from none other than the person known across the hospitality industry as The Hospitality Mentor, Steve Turk. You'll learn why mentorship matters in hospitality and how it can make a world of difference for those eager to grow in their careers. We'll also explore what it means to mentor others and the importance of self-awareness for leaders in the hospitality industry. Join ...

Could engaging the millions of people often overlooked by employers help address the talent shortages in hospitality? Join us as we chat with Jeff Korzenik, Chief Economist at Fifth Third Bank, about the potential of second-chance hiring as a solution to this pressing issue. We discuss the importance of not overlooking individuals with felony and misdemeanor records, and how business leaders can find success in selecting and supporting these individuals, ultimately leading to thriving business...

In this episode, Zach Demuth, Global Head of Hotels Research in JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group, shares what's going on in the world of luxury travel and hospitality. Our discussion begins with an in-depth look at the rise of worldwide wealth, changing consumer spending habits, and the increasing demand for unique experiences, all contributing to the current market opportunities for luxury investments. Zach explains how capital from other sectors is moving into hospitality and creating unique ...

This episode is sponsored by MDO and their new report, Data-driven Strategies to Move Beyond Rooms Revenue. Are you making the most of your business's revenue sources? All of them? Jason Freed, Hospitality Data Evangelist at MDO, and Billy Copelan, Director of Revenue Management at Sea Island Resorts, share their insights on unlocking the full potential of total revenue optimization. From Jason's background as a former journalist to Billy's passion for data and revenue management, their experie...

Discover the power of personal development and how it can transform your career in the hospitality industry, as we chat with hotel owner and leadership coach, Rachel Vandenburg. Learn from Rachel's own journey of self-discovery, as she shares the challenges she faced managing people and the turning point that led her to hire a coach. Uncover the keys to self-reflection, understanding your strengths and weaknesses, and applying that knowledge to your leadership style. Level up as a hospitality ...

Growing up in a hospitality family business shaped hotel owner Rachel Vandenburg's approach to leadership and customer experience. Inspired by her parent's visionary thinking, Rachel shares what it's like to push the boundaries in the hospitality industry, from opening a Dutch pancake restaurant to building an eight-lane boutique bowling lounge. Listen in as we discuss the crucial role of community in hospitality. Discover how Rachel emphasizes the importance of creating gathering spaces and fo...

Deanna Vollmer is the Director of Events and Customer Experience at Questex and shares what she’s learned along her journey so far. We discussed: Deanna's career path (2:25) Discovering the hospitality industry (2:41) First job in meeting planning (4:17) Importance of understanding customer needs in events (6:50) Staying inspired and up-to-date on industry trends (9:22) Incorporating theatrics and unique elements (11:46) Importance of networking and conversations (12:38) ...

In this episode, Josiah shares insights and takeaways from the 2023 NYU Hospitality Industry Investment Conference. Join the conversation on today's episode on the Hospitality Daily LinkedIn page. Hospitality Daily isn't just a podcast! Every morning - Tuesday through Friday - I summarize the stories you need to know as a hospitality professional in a short email. Read today's issue and subscribe here. Run a hotel? Then check out my website HotelOperations.com. Every Sunday evening, I send ...

Ever wondered what it's like to invest in hotels? Get ready for an eye-opening discussion with Jake Wurzak, founder and CEO of DoveHill Capital Management - a firm with more than $1.5 Billion in assets under management - as we explore the fascinating world of hospitality investment. Join us as we dive into the unique advantages of investing in this asset class, the process of creating a new hotel from the ground up, and the importance of design, creativity, and food and beverage in the hospital...

Are you ready to uncover the trends shaping the hospitality industry? Join us as we chat with David Eisen, the editor-in-chief of Hotels Magazine, and explore the strength of segments like extended stay and hoteliers' strategies to break even in a post-pandemic world. We're diving into the upcoming 2023 NYU International Hospitality Industry Investment Conference, discussing working with the media to gain coverage, as well as macroeconomic issues such as inflation and the role of private equit...

Get ready to unlock the power of storytelling in hospitality as we chat with Regitse Rosenvinge, a brand storyteller and communication consultant for hotels and hospitality brands. We discuss how a compelling narrative can connect your business to your consumers in a more meaningful way and explore the importance of storytelling in the digital age. Join us as we dive into various channels for sharing your story, from websites to podcasts and social media. Find out how to tap into the history a...

Ready to shake up your understanding of the hospitality beverage and food world? Join me as I sit down with Richard Garcia, the Senior Vice President of Remington Hospitality, to uncover the secret ingredients behind their innovative beverage and food program. Discover why classic cocktails are still stealing the spotlight, and prepare to raise a glass to Richard's prediction for the next big cocktail trend - which he unveils in this episode. But that's not all - we also dive deep into the wor...

Could hospitality be an effective way to steward capital for positive impact? Join us as we chat with Michael Hraba, partner at Waterford Hotels and Inns, who shares his experience in bringing iconic hotel projects in California to life. We explore the idea of hospitality as not only a rewarding career path but also a means to transform communities, promote sustainability, and create jobs. Discover how capital can be used to enhance the world around us as Michael discusses the role of wealth in...

As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, we want to share a heartfelt conversation with the inspiring Michael Hraba, Partner at Waterford Hotels and Inns and an experienced hospitality leader. Michael emphasizes the importance of giving your team perspective and supporting their mental well-being in the workplace. He shares how focusing on positive experiences and interactions in hospitality can alleviate anxieties and insecurities that come with dealing with demanding customers. Joi...

Could prioritizing mental health and wellness could actually make you a better leader and create a thriving work environment? Our guest today, Matt Welle, CEO of Mews, a hospitality technology company, shares his personal journey with mental health and the innovative wellness initiatives he's implemented at his global organization. Listen in as we discuss the importance of resilience in high-pressure environments, and how acknowledging mental health needs can lead to personal growth and succes...

I recently had the honor of speaking with Christopher Randall, a US Marine Corps veteran, police officer, and now the Director of Community Impact at the 21C Museum Hotel in St. Louis. Today on Memorial Day, it's essential to recognize not only those who have lost their lives serving in the armed forces but also the invaluable skills and experiences that veterans like Christopher bring to the table when transitioning to civilian life. In this insightful conversation, Christopher shares his advi...

Ever find yourself inspired by the incredible things happening in the hospitality world but unsure if you can achieve the same in your own business? We've got just the person to talk you through this today - Craig Poole, President of Reading Hospitality and three-time Hilton Connie Award winner. Join us as he shares his wisdom on driving change in the industry and empowering the people around you to achieve success. Craig's insights on leadership, doing the right thing, and stepping outside you...

Craig Poole is the President of Reading Hospitality, which owns and operates the DoubleTree Hotel in Reading, Pennsylvania. He's a three-time Hilton Connie Award winner and was recognized as General Manager of the Year by the American Hotel and Lodging Association. In today's episode, we discuss "second chance hiring," leading people, and cultivating a strong culture within your organization. Watch the documentary: Lead me and I'll follow you Join the conversation on today's episode on the Hosp...