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What does it take to transform real estate development into something more than just bricks and mortar—into places with soul, story, and unforgettable experiences?
Today’s guest, Zach Rapaport, is on a mission to answer that question. As the founder of Meerkat Development, he’s redefining what it means to build hospitality and lifestyle-driven spaces from the ground up. His journey started in construction — literally digging foundations — and evolved into leading development projects for some of the most compelling hospitality brands today, including Joe & The Juice, Selina, and Lifehouse. From scaling global F&B concepts to crafting boutique hotels that blend place and purpose, Zach has been at the forefront of experience-first hospitality development. In this episode, Zach pulls back the curtain on:
Why most developments feel soulless — and how he’s changing that.What it takes to design hospitality concepts that aren’t just trendy, but timelessThe 75/25 rule of brand consistency — how much a space should adapt to its location vs. maintain its DNAThe untapped opportunity in storytelling-driven development (and why it’s a competitive advantage)Lessons from scaling Joe & The Juice across the U.S., building lifestyle hotels at Selina, and leading development for LifehouseIf you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build experiences, not just properties — or how the future of hospitality is being shaped by people who think like creatives but execute like developers — this one’s for you.
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What does it take to walk away from one of the coolest marketing jobs on the planet—at a company so many would kill to work for—to go sleep in the dirt and build an outdoor hospitality brand from scratch?
Today’s guest, Sam Degenhard, did exactly that. After a decade at Red Bull, where he helped shape the world of action sports marketing, Sam traded corporate prestige for the unpredictable wilds of entrepreneurship. He founded Campfire Ranch, a next-gen hospitality brand designed for adventure-seekers who crave nature but don’t want to deal with the headaches of traditional camping.
In this episode, Sam takes us inside his journey from Red Bull to the backcountry, revealing:
What Red Bull gets right about branding and experiential marketing—and how he’s applying those lessons to hospitalityWhy most campgrounds and outdoor stays are fundamentally broken—and how Campfire Ranch is fixing themHow building a brand as an op-co, while letting others own the real estate, allows for faster, more sustainable growthWhy today's outdoor traveler demands more than just a campsite, and how Campfire Ranch is redefining the experienceIf you’ve ever dreamed of turning your passion into a business, building a hospitality brand with soul, or simply want to know what’s next in outdoor travel, this one’s for you.
[email protected]://www.linkedin.com/in/samdegenhard/www.CampfireRanch.cohttps://www.instagram.com/campfire_ranchBehind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at journey.com/alliance.
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Loyalty programs should feel rewarding, but most hotel programs feel like a frustrating game of hoops to jump through. In this solo episode, Zach breaks down why traditional hotel loyalty is failing and what needs to change.
Here’s the problem: Most hotel loyalty programs are built for the brand, not the traveler. Only 18% of consumers feel they get real value from these programs, and 75% of points go unused because of complicated redemption rules and blackout dates. Instead of fostering genuine loyalty, these programs often leave guests feeling unrecognized and unmotivated to return.
So, what should loyalty actually look like? It should be experiential, personalized, and rewarding beyond just free nights.
The best programs create a real emotional connection — think about why people engage with Starbucks Rewards daily but forget about their hotel points for years. Guests want perks that matter to them, whether it’s a personalized welcome gift, a guaranteed late checkout, or a local experience they’d never find on their own.
This is where Journey comes in. We’re reimagining hotel loyalty to be about meaningful rewards, engagement-based perks, and a seamless way for independent properties to offer the same level of recognition as big brands — without the corporate bureaucracy. Imagine redeeming points for a private beach dinner, an exclusive spa treatment, or a behind-the-scenes hotel tour — experiences that make travel unforgettable.
Loyalty shouldn’t be a gimmick. It should be a thank you. And we’re building a program that does just that.
How do YOU think we should reimagine loyalty here at Journey? Send me an email at [email protected] and let us know!
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at journey.com/alliance.
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Steve Turk returns to the podcast, this time with a brand-new title—author.
In this episode, live from the IMN STR Forum in Miami, Steve shares the journey behind Hospitality Unlocked, a book packed with insights from 75 of the industry's top leaders. We dive into his inspiration (hint: Tim Ferriss was a big influence), the art of guest experience, and the surprising lessons he uncovered while compiling wisdom from hospitality’s best.
But that’s not all—Steve also reflects on his own career, from pool boy to hotel executive, and reveals what it really takes to climb the ranks in luxury hospitality. Plus, we unpack some of the biggest trends shaping the industry, including the rise of solo travel, the future of family-friendly experiences, and why wellness travelers are spending more than ever.
If you're thinking about building your own hospitality brand — or just want an inside look at the minds shaping the future of hotels—this episode is a must-listen.
Tune in to hear:
Why Steve believes patience, self-advocacy, and adaptability are the keys to successThe biggest takeaways from interviewing 75 hospitality iconsWhy family travel and solo wellness retreats are the next big opportunitiesHow Hospitality Unlocked is giving the next generation a roadmap to successBuy Hospitality UnlockedConnect with Steve Turk on LinkedInListen to Steve's Podcast
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at journey.com/alliance.
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If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a hotel, this episode is for you.
Edwin Kramer, a global luxury hospitality expert with three decades of experience at brands like EDITION, Nobu, and Four Seasons, joins us to discuss the evolving definition of luxury, the art of hospitality, and why more people should own hotels.
Known for his mantra “Life is short—own a hotel,” Edwin now helps entrepreneurs and investors develop, launch, and scale boutique hospitality ventures through his consultancy, Kramer Hospitality.
In this episode, we explore:- Why hospitality is attracting more entrepreneurs than ever- The future of luxury: experience-driven, personalized, and community-focused- Lessons from working with Ian Schrager, Marriott, and Nobu- The biggest mistakes first-time hotel owners make- Where the market is ripe for disruption—from boutique concepts to membership-driven hospitality- Why the best hotels feel like a return, not just a stay
Edwin also shares insider strategies for securing investment, spotting the next great hotel opportunity, and avoiding costly pitfalls when developing a hospitality brand. Whether you’re building a micro-resort, reimagining a historic inn, or simply passionate about the art of world-class hospitality, this episode is packed with game-changing insights from a true industry master.
Connect with Edwin on LinkedIn
Learn more about Kramer Hospitality
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What happens when you pour your heart and soul into reviving a historic inn, transform it into the #1 Bed & Breakfast in America, and then decide to walk away? In this episode, Marco DiDomizio, co-owner of the Candleberry Inn, shares his incredible journey — from leaving a succesful corporate careers in New York City to restoring a hidden gem on Cape Cod into a TripAdvisor and Travel + Leisure award-winning destination.
Marco takes us behind the scenes of how he and his partner, Angelo, spotted potential in an underperforming property, strategically elevated every guest touchpoint, and mastered the art of personalized hospitality—leading to record-breaking rates, loyal repeat guests, and international recognition.
We also dive deep into:- How to spot an asset with untapped potential in hospitality- The key upgrades that drive real revenue growth- Why small details — like knowing the bartender’s name — matter more than ever- The psychological shift from innkeeper to seller and why timing the exit is crucial- Marco’s next chapter: Helping future innkeepers find, buy, and scale their dream properties
If you're thinking about investing in boutique hotels, reimagining historic properties, or simply love the magic of high-touch hospitality, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and real-world lessons from someone who built—and exited—a legendary inn at the peak of its success.
Connect with Marco on LinkedIn
Learn more about Inn AdvisorsDiscover Candleberry Inn
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at journey.com/alliance.
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What does it take to scale a thriving hospitality business from scratch—and do it at lightning speed? Today, we sit down with Patryk Swietek, founder of The Co-Host Company, a rising star in the short-term rental space who’s proving that the smartest way to grow isn’t always from the ground up—it’s by acquiring, optimizing, and redefining what great hospitality looks like.
Patryk’s journey is anything but ordinary. From shoveling snow in Chicago as a kid to building a gaming server business at 14, he was wired for entrepreneurship. But after working under industry titans at AvantStay, navigating layoffs during COVID, and hitting rock bottom, he made a decision: No more playing by someone else’s rules.
Now, he’s leading The Co-Host Company, managing over 100 high-end properties, and proving that with the right strategy, short-term rentals aren’t just a side hustle — they’re a serious, scalable business. We’ll dive into how he leveraged acquisitions to scale quickly, his philosophy on storytelling through hospitality, and why the best listings aren’t just booked—they’re designed to sell an experience.
Plus, we’ll talk about the future of STRs, why most Airbnb ‘gurus’ have disappeared, and what it really takes to stand out in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at journey.com/alliance.
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Some people enter hospitality by accident. Others are born into it—raised at tables where the meal was just the beginning of the experience.
For Bobby Quintal, hospitality isn’t just a career — it’s a lifelong passion shaped by growing up in New Orleans, one of the most culturally rich and culinary-driven cities in the world.
From his early days working in restaurants to leading development for Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group, one of the most highly regarded restaurant groups in the world, Bobby has spent his career crafting memorable spaces that blend food, design, and storytelling.
Now, as a partner at Sandstone Hospitality, Bobby is helping redefine boutique hotels—breathing new life into historic properties like The Columns, building brand-new destinations like Hotel Henrietta, and weaving F&B-forward hospitality into every project.
In this episode, we dive into:
How growing up in New Orleans shaped Bobby’s view on hospitalityLessons from working with Danny Meyer & Union Square Hospitality Group and how legendary brands like Shake Shack built an empire by prioritizing emotion over transactions.Reinventing The Columns Hotel—how Bobby and his team transformed a fading New Orleans institution into a must-visit experience The delicate art of new builds vs. historic renovations—why the best designers listen to the story a space already wants to tell instead of forcing a narrative onto it.How Sandstone weaves F&B into every projectThe role of subtle branding in hospitality —why a small oyster bar named "Fives" has an unexpected connection to a historic tobacco magnate, and how a pink espresso machine at Hotel Henrietta tells its own story.Why smaller cities with soul are the next frontier for experiential hotels.And so much moreConnect with Bobby
Learn more about Sandstone
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at journey.com/alliance.
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Imagine owning so many homes around the world that you lose track of them—so instead of letting them sit empty, you hire someone to manage them, curate them, and quietly offer them to an elite circle of travelers who can afford $20,000-a-night stays.
If that’s the world you live in, you might hire Wolf Worster lives in.
As the founder of Sirreti, a private network shaping the ultra-luxury villa and private residence industry, Wolf works with high-net-worth individuals, property managers, and travel advisors to create the most exclusive stays on the planet — homes so private and so pristine, they don’t even appear on public listings.
One of his clients? Michael Dell, the billionaire founder of Dell Computers. That’s the level we’re talking about here.
But what makes a property truly ultra-luxury? And how has high-end travel changed as younger billionaires step onto the scene, throwing traditional expectations out the window?
In this episode, we explore:
The secret world of ultra-high-net-worth travel — where money is almost meaningless, but privacy and exclusivity are everything.Why younger billionaires travel differently — from tech founders to heirs of generational wealth, how their spending habits and preferences are reshaping luxury hospitality.How Sirreti is redefining luxury standards — and why even the wealthiest travelers don’t just want high thread-count sheets; they want a story, an experience, and a seamless booking process.The hidden flaws in ultra-luxury hospitality — from outdated tech to service inconsistencies, and why the highest-end stays still struggle with guest experience.The role of travel advisors in this elite world — why they’re more important than ever, and why smart operators are shifting away from OTAs and direct bookings to focus on this lucrative channel.The rise and fall of luxury markets — why Ibiza and St. Barts are struggling while other under-the-radar destinations are thriving.Why there’s still no “Ritz-Carlton” of private stays — and what it would take to build a recognizable ultra-luxury brand in the vacation rental industry.Connect with WolfExplore Sirreti
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at journey.com/alliance.
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Meet Ian Joseph — real estate investor turned hospitality entrepreneur — who is on a mission to bring a new kind of micro-resort experience to life.
What started as a simple desire to buy a vacation home led him to Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, a historic spa town with deep hospitality roots.
Now, Ian is in the early stages of launching Branch, an experiential micro-resort designed to blend striking architecture, immersive nature experiences, and strong community connections.
Branch hasn’t broken ground yet, but Ian is deep in the trenches — securing financing, finalizing design plans, and laying the foundation for what he hopes will be the first of many unique stays. Inspired by brands like Live Oak Lake, he’s determined to build a hospitality concept that goes beyond beautiful accommodations and taps into the story, history, and culture of its location.
In this episode, we dive into:
Why Ian chose Berkeley Springs, West Virginia and what makes it a hidden gem ready for a hospitality revival.The rise of micro-resorts and why entrepreneurs without traditional hotel backgrounds are leading the way.How Ian is designing Branch to integrate with the local community — partnering with restaurants, chefs, and wellness providers instead of competing with them with onsite offerings.How he’s designing unexpected, locally inspired experiences for guests — like moonshine tastings, fruit wine flights, and hyper-local food collaborations.What he’s learned about raising capital for a hospitality development — including securing debt financing and finding the right equity partners.His long-term vision for Branch and why he believes the best hospitality brands will be built around story-driven destinations.And so much moreFollow Branch on Instagram
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.
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Meet John Rutledge, founder of Oxford Capital Group and creator of the Godfrey Hotels—an innovative collection of boutique properties that blend upscale luxury with a social, lifestyle-driven experience. With a unique vantage point in both the world of branded chain hotels and independent boutique properties, John’s insights are invaluable for understanding today’s rapidly changing hospitality landscape.
In this episode, John discusses:
The modern luxury traveler: How today’s travelers are moving beyond materialism to prioritize meaningful experiences, deeper connections, and a balanced lifestyle.The rise of boutique hotels: Why smaller, independent properties are thriving alongside global hotel chains, and how John manages both worlds, creating powerful, in-house hotel brands while working with big-name affiliations like Hilton and Marriott.The Godfrey journey: From acquiring a distressed property to creating a luxury lifestyle brand that resonates with today’s social, experience-driven traveler.Balancing chains and independence: How John navigates the complexities of managing both branded hotels and independent brands, offering a rare perspective on the strengths and challenges of each.OTAs and direct bookings: How the shift toward direct bookings is reshaping the hospitality industry, providing independent hotels with more control over their guest relationships and profitability.The future of luxury: John shares his predictions for the next decade, including the continued growth of experiential travel, lifestyle hotels, and the rise of "bleisure" travel.John’s dual experience of owning and operating both chain-affiliated and independent properties makes this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of hospitality, boutique hotel branding, and entrepreneurial success. His rare perspective provides a roadmap for navigating the evolving demands of today’s luxury travelers and shaping the next wave of hotel innovation.Learn more about Oxford CapitalDiscover The GodfreyConnect with John Rutledge
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.
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Meet Morgan Brown, the force behind new portfolio additions at Inspirato, the premier luxury travel membership that unlocks access to some of the world’s most exclusive homes, hotels, and experiences.
Inspirato isn’t just about five-star stays—it’s about curating seamless, high-touch, high-design travel for discerning members who expect the extraordinary. But what exactly do today’s luxury travelers want? And how is the concept of loyalty evolving in an era of shifting preferences?
In this episode, we explore:
Who the modern luxury traveler really is—and how their desires are changingThe future of travel memberships and why exclusivity matters more than everHow Inspirato curates its portfolio of 400+ properties—what makes the cut, and what doesn’tWhy business travelers are choosing boutique stays over traditional hotelsHot takes on where luxury hospitality is headed next—from personalization to the rise of “bleisure” travelMorgan offers rare insights into the minds of today’s high-net-worth traveler, revealing what they crave, what keeps them loyal, and where the industry is headed next. If you’re fascinated by the future of curated travel experiences, this episode is a must-listen.
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.
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Meet Brian Linton—entrepreneur, brand builder, and now a rising force in boutique hospitality. From founding the sustainable apparel company United by Blue to transforming rundown motels into sought-after boutique stays, Brian has mastered the art of brand storytelling and customer experience.
His hospitality journey started unexpectedly in 2020 when he and his wife purchased a neglected roadside motel in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains. What began as a pandemic side project became The Rex, a high-design boutique retreat that quickly gained a cult following. From there, Brian expanded into new ventures—including Ferncrest, a glamping brand that’s pioneering a fresh approach to hospitality franchising.
In this episode, we dive into:
How Brian went from selling jewelry out of his car to building a $20M apparel brandThe unexpected pivot that led him from fashion to hospitalityWhy boutique motels and glamping are booming—and how social media plays a massive roleThe business of experience-driven stays: balancing high design with low-touch operationsThe future of Ferncrest and why he believes the glamping space is ripe for franchisingLessons from scaling a brand in multiple industries—what works, what doesn’t, and what he’d do differentlyBrian is redefining what it means to build a hospitality brand in the modern era—where content, community, and commerce intersect. If you’re fascinated by the future of boutique hotels, unique stays, and experiential travel, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.
Follow Brian on Instagram
Connect with Brian on LinkedInLearn more about Ferncrest
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.
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Sean Breuner and Reuben Doetsch saw an opportunity to transform the short-term rental space long before the industry exploded. In 2017, they set out to build AvantStay, a brand that blends the best of boutique hospitality with the freedom of private homes.
Their approach is anything but casual. Every property is meticulously designed, every experience carefully curated. While others rushed into the space during the pandemic, Sean and Reuben were already scaling with precision, setting a new standard for high-end vacation rentals.
In this episode, we explore:
Why most vacation rental brands fail to scale—and how AvantStay cracked the codeThe secrets to making a vacation rental feel like a five-star hotelHow they built a brand guests actively seek out—not just one that fills OTA listingsWhat today’s luxury traveler really wants—and why it’s more than just a beautiful homeWhy competitors pouring millions into the space are still struggling to gain tractionThe future of hospitality: personalization, premium experiences, and the next big shiftSean and Reuben are building more than just a portfolio of stunning homes—they’re redefining what hospitality looks like in the short-term rental space. If you’re interested in the future of luxury travel, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.
Learn more about AvantStay
Connect with Sean and Reuben on LinkedIn.
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.
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Meet Dan Flannery, a hospitality leader with an extraordinary career, has spent decades redefining luxury travel. From his early days at Marriott to helping launch the Edition brand with Ian Schrager, and now leading operations at Loews Hotels, Dan’s journey is a masterclass in blending vision with execution.
Guided by a belief that true luxury lies in refinement and authenticity, Dan’s approach to hospitality is both rooted in tradition and forward-thinking. His story is one of passion, precision, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
In this episode, Zach sits down with Dan to explore his remarkable career and gain a deeper understanding of the trends shaping luxury hospitality today.
Tune in to hear how...
Dan collaborated with Ian Schrager to launch Edition, crafting a luxury lifestyle brand rooted in creativity and obsessive attention to detail.The definition of modern luxury is evolving, with today’s travelers seeking unexpected, authentic, and deeply personal experiences.Lowe’s Hotels is carving its niche by focusing on destination-driven properties that combine immersive experiences with group events.Independent hoteliers can differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape by building brands with a singular, uncompromising vision.Thoughtful design, from the quality of a room’s olive oil to the flow of a restaurant space, plays a pivotal role in creating unforgettable guest experiences.Dan’s story is a powerful reminder that great hospitality starts with visionaries who aren’t afraid to push boundaries. Whether you’re dreaming of opening a single boutique property or building a brand that scales globally, this conversation offers invaluable lessons from one of the industry’s brightest minds.
Connect with Dan on LinkedIn
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.
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Meet Frances Kiradjian, founder and CEO of the Boutique Luxury Lodging Association (BLLA) and a leading voice and force in the independent boutique hotel space.
Fran’s journey began in the corporate travel world, managing massive accounts like Disney and Toyota. But it was her bold decision to champion the boutique hotel sector—long before it was trendy—that cemented her legacy. Since founding BLLA in 2009, Fran has built a thriving community for independent hoteliers and other hospitality entrepreneurs.
In this episode, we uncover:
How Fran’s career has been built on bold ideas: From her groundbreaking work in travel technology to the inception of BLLA.The rise of boutique hotels: Why travelers crave unique, high-touch experiences and how boutique properties deliver where big chains fall short.Her passion for innovation. We discuss Fran’s favorite stories from interviewing industry legends, including Sir Richard Branson, and how these encounters shaped her vision for the future of hospitality.Hot takes on the next decade of boutique travel experiences: From Gen Z hoteliers to truly immersive guest experiences, Fran breaks down the trends shaping the industry’s future.Alright friends, without further ado, get ready to meet Fran.
Connect with Fran
Learn more about BLLLA
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Rachel Alday, co-founder of Abode Luxury Rentals, has been quietly redefining what it means to deliver high-end hospitality in the heart of the mountains. With a background in marketing and her husband Rob’s roots in real estate, the duo created a company that marries meticulous service with a deep love for ski-town culture.
Abode’s journey began humbly in Park City, but today it spans over 200 elite properties in three coveted destinations: Park City, Jackson Hole, and Sun Valley. Guided by the belief that true luxury is about connection and authenticity, Rachel has built a brand that thrives on personal touches and an unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction.
In this episode, Rachel takes us behind the scenes of her luxury rental empire and shares how Abode has earned its reputation as a trusted name in vacation rentals.
Learn more about Abode Luxury Rentals
Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn
This episode is brought to you by IMN! The countdown is on for the premier Short Term Rental Forum hosted by IMN—the industry leader with over 30 years of experience! Join me on January 15-16 at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort where I'll be speaking at the forum, and you’ll have the chance to network with 400+ top investors, operators, property managers, lenders, and tech providers in the Short Term Rental space. It’s the must-attend event of the year to elevate your business strategy and connect with the industry's best. Don’t miss out – you can use code BTS for an extra 15% off the final tickets. Register now at events.imn.org/str25 – I’ll see you in Miami!
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.
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Meet Steve Lassman, Vice President of Villas of Distinction—a luxury villa company that’s been curating remarkable vacation homes since the 1980s.
Steve’s story runs three generations deep in the travel industry, and he’s worn just about every hat you can imagine—from airline sales to hotel operations—before finding his calling in the world of private villa experiences.
In this episode, Steve reveals why Villas of Distinction is all about quality over quantity, and how they’ve nurtured enduring partnerships with top travel advisors around the world.
Their approach to vetting every villa (from hot water pressure checks to wine glass counts) is anything but casual, ensuring that each stay meets their lofty “five-star” criteria. And when things get tough—like after a major hurricane—they’ve proven they’ll put the guest experience above everything else.
Tune in to hear:
How a legacy family business and decades of travel shaped Steve’s hospitality mindsetWhy a curated portfolio of villas (not 30,000 listings) guarantees the best guest experienceReal-life stories of turning “fixer-upper” villas back into five-star stunnersThe magic of working with a travel advisor—and why it won’t cost you extraPredictions on the next big trends in luxury villa travel (hint: it’s all about experiences)From private island getaways to truffle hunts in Tuscany, Steve’s passion for personalized service is palpable. If you’ve ever dreamed of a tailor-made stay that blends home comforts with high-end indulgence, this conversation is for you.
Connect with SteveExplore Villas of Distinction
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.
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Meet Ari Smith, co-founder of Balanced Farm, a visionary micro-resort in Vermont that blends sustainable luxury with the power of AI.
Ari’s journey began in tech entrepreneurship, where he sold a company to a Microsoft subsidiary and learned hard lessons about innovation, scale, and adaptability. But it was meeting his wife, Hillary (co-founder of Folly Collection), that inspired him to fuse his tech-savvy background with hospitality. Today, on 540 acres of pristine land, Ari and Hillary are reimagining what it means to offer a truly bespoke travel experience.
From personalized amenities crafted through intelligent data to off-the-grid energy solutions, Balanced Farm is more than a boutique stay—it’s a living lab pushing the boundaries of comfort, connectivity, and creativity. In this conversation, we explore:
Ari’s early tech ventures and what selling to Microsoft taught him about growthThe role of AI in delivering hyper-personalized guest experiencesWhy blending nature, design, and cutting-edge innovation is key to future-forward hospitalityHow hands-on experimentation, from hydroponics to hidden IoT sensors, shapes their visionWhat happens when entrepreneurial grit meets the timeless desire for meaningful escapesIf you’re curious about the next frontier of hospitality—where authenticity meets ingenuity—this episode is for you.
Connect with Ari
Discover Balance Farm
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.
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Meet Valerie Gangas, a hospitality visionary who’s redefining the guest experience by blending soulful intention, authentic service, and meticulous design.
Raised in a family of restaurateurs, Valerie learned the art of hospitality from childhood—serving customers as a four-year-old “pickle girl” in her father’s Chicago eateries. But her journey would be anything but conventional.
Driven by both a love for warm, communal spaces and a deep fascination with spiritual connection, Valerie spent years exploring the nexus of comfort, belonging, and transcendence—managing her family’s restaurants, studying comparative religion, and working intimately with organizations like the David Lynch Foundation and Oprah Winfrey’s team.
Today, Valerie channels these experiences into Juniper Home, a boutique property management company that curates beautifully designed, minimalist vacation rentals. Every room reflects her core philosophy: that true hospitality is far more than a business—it’s an opportunity to spark meaningful encounters.
From ensuring the perfect lighting to orchestrating heartfelt surprises for guests celebrating milestones, Valerie and her team pay attention to every detail, forging environments where visitors find rest, connection, and even a hint of the divine.
In this conversation, we explore:
How Valerie’s early years behind the line in family restaurants shaped her “guests-first” mindset.Why her deep dive into spirituality—and working with everyone from medical students to media moguls—translates seamlessly into elevated hospitality.The intentional design principles behind Juniper Home’s success, focusing on how simplicity, serenity, and authenticity create transformative travel experiences.The importance of hiring and inspiring a team who embody genuine care, ensuring that guests always feel seen, heard, and understood.How merging the disciplines of real estate, design, and soulful service sets the stage for a new era of boutique travel—one where guests do more than just “get away.” They reconnect, recharge, and remember what truly matters.Discover Juniper Home
Connect with Valerie
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.
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