Episodes
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In this episode of The Modern Hotelier, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Tate Hackert, founder and president of ZayZoon, to discuss earned wage access and financial empowerment in the hospitality industry. Hackert shares his entrepreneurial journey from small-town beginnings to revolutionizing employee pay access, along with insights on business growth and workplace benefits.
Key Topics:
How did ZayZoon transform from a manual loan service into a comprehensive fintech platform? What new features are planned in ZayZoon's rewards and recognition tools? How can earned wage access benefit both employees and employers in the hospitality industry? How does ZayZoon's integration with payroll providers work?Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tate-hackert/ZayZoon: https://www.zayzoon.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/110
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... -
How is Springboard addressing the housing affordability crisis for hospitality workers in expensive markets?
Join hosts David Millili and Steve Carran as they sit down with Benjamin Rafter, President and CEO of Springboard Hospitality, for an insightful discussion about the intersection of technology and hospitality. With a unique background spanning from tech startups to hotel management, Rafter shares his journey from selling a company to Amazon to leading a portfolio of 47 independent hotels across 14 states.
Learn about his innovative approach to hospitality, including why he puts his personal cell phone number in every hotel room, his strategies for tackling staffing challenges in high-cost markets, and his candid thoughts on technology adoption in the hotel industry.
Key Topics:
How did a tech executive end up running a hotel company? What makes an ideal property for Springboard's portfolio? Which hotel technologies are actually delivering value? Why is technology adoption so slow in hospitality?Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
Ben Rafter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-rafter-623a702/
Springboard Hospitality: https://www.springboardhospitality.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/109
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... -
Missing episodes?
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Independent hotels are the creative spark for the Hospitality Industry. So, what's the current state of the Independent Hospitality sector?
In this episode, David and Steve head to the Independent Lodging Congress in Sausalito, CA to talk about the latest insights and challenges happening in the Independent hotel space. On this episode, we hear from Brigette Harenda the President of B&Co., Romal Jayswal, Co-founder & CEO at StayNow, Jacqueline Nunley, Travel and Hospitality Advisor at Salesforce, and Ryan Foat, Dream Facilitator at THREE SIXTY.
Key Topics:
How is Milwaukee's hospitality scene evolving beyond being "Chicago's shadow"? Why are some hoteliers hesitant to embrace new technology? How can hotels maintain service quality while adopting new technology? What will define luxury hospitality in 2025?The Modern Hotelier is the official podcast of the Independent Lodging Congress
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
Brigette Harenda on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brigetteharenda/
B&Co.: https://bcobranding.com/Romal Jayswal on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rj411/
StayNow: https://staynow.com/Jacqueline Nunley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquelinesnunley/
Salesforce: https://www.salesforce.com/Ryan Foat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanfoat/
THREE SIXTY: https://threesixtymke.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/108
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... -
In this episode, hosts David and Steve speak with Judy Chen from Hyatt Hotels Corporation, who shares her expertise on topics ranging from disaster response in the hotel industry to labor retention strategies and major sporting events' impact on hospitality markets.
Key Topics:
The hospitality industry's response to Hurricane Milton, highlighting how smaller hotel groups offered discounted rates to those in needChef Jose Andres' new venture into the hotel business with Hotel Bazaar in Washington DC's GeorgetownThe latest rankings of top business destinations worldwideAAA's new five-diamond hotel awards featuring properties in San Francisco, Miami Beach, and ChicagoKey insights from the Lodging Conference in Phoenix about employee retention in the hotel industryAtlanta's selection as the 2028 Super Bowl host city and its implications for the hospitality sectorThe show brings together industry experts for engaging discussions about current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the hospitality world, offering both analysis and personal insights from those working in the field.
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
Hurricane Milton- Hotels offering discounted rates
Jose Andres is launching a luxury hotel brand
Top Business Destinations
AAA Awards Five Diamond Status To Chicago, Miami and San Francisco Hotels
Retaining Hoteliers
Super Bowl is coming back to Atlanta in 2028For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/107
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil -
What valuable insights does she offer for hoteliers looking to enhance their guest experience and brand presence?
On this special episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Mandy Murry, CEO of Hospitality Concierge. From her early days as a teenage travel agent in Salt Lake City to running the VIP torch relay program for the 2002 Olympics, Murry shares her fascinating journey in hospitality. Now a sought-after consultant for independent and boutique hotels, she discusses the emerging 'Resortcore' trend, the importance of authentic guest experiences, and how independent hotels can leverage technology and storytelling to stay competitive. Murry also offers valuable insights on community engagement, social media strategy, and her predictions for the future of independent hospitality in 2025. Whether you're a hotelier or industry professional, this episode delivers practical tips for elevating your property's guest experience and brand presence.
Key Topics:
What exactly is Hospitality Concierge and what services do you provide? How should hotels leverage their website and video content? What is "Resortcore" and how can independent hotels embrace it? Will truly independent hotels continue to exist as larger brands acquire them? How important is dropping "old school" thinking in modern hospitality?
Sponsor spot:This episode is sponsored by Mandy Murry & Hospitality Concierge: https://mandymurry.com/
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
Mandy Murry: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allmandy/Hospitality Concierge: https://mandymurry.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/106
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil -
In today's episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Eric Lutz, CEO of Olive. A California native who started his career as an overnight front desk agent, Lutz shares his journey from hospitality operations to founding a hotel technology company. The conversation explores how Olive's personalization platform is helping hotels improve their digital presence and direct booking experience, while discussing broader industry trends including AI adoption, labor challenges, and the future of independent hotels. Lutz offers valuable insights on balancing operational efficiency with guest experience and shares his vision for hospitality technology in 2025. The discussion culminates with his passionate take on why hospitality remains an exciting and growing industry, despite current challenges.
How has Olive improved hotels' direct business and revenue? What does Olive's platform do for hotels? Why are hoteliers hesitant to adopt new technology? What role does AI play in improving guest service? The prediction for the independent hotel sector in 2025?
Key Topics:Sponsor spot:
This episode is sponsored by Olive.
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
Eric Lutz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-lutz-%F0%9F%AB%92-4871b067/Olive: https://www.tryolive.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/105
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil -
Want to know how a former touring musician is disrupting the way hotels book live entertainment?
In today's episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Mir Hwang, CEO of GigFinesse - a groundbreaking platform revolutionizing how hotels book live entertainment. Hwang shares his fascinating journey from touring session drummer to tech entrepreneur, including his bold decision to forgo med school and convince his Google-employed cousin to join his venture - much to their traditional Asian American parents' initial dismay.
The conversation explores how GigFinesse is transforming the hospitality industry by streamlining the complex process of booking live entertainment. Handling over 1,500 shows monthly nationwide, the platform connects venues with talent while eliminating unnecessary middlemen and manual processes. Hwang offers valuable insights into the evolving hospitality landscape, where hotels are increasingly becoming cultural hubs rather than just places to check in and out.
Key Segments:
Mir's multicultural upbringing and its influence on his entrepreneurial spiritThe dramatic pivot during COVID-19 that tested GigFinesse's resilienceHow convincing his Google-employed cousin to join the startup led to seven missed calls from momInside look at the changing landscape of hotel entertainmentThe future trends shaping independent hotels in 2025
Sponsor spot:This episode is sponsored by GigFinesse
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
Mir Hwang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mir-hwang-6511a2177/GigFinesse: https://www.gigfinesse.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/104
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil -
Independent hotels are the creative spark for the Hospitality Industry. So, what's the current state of the Independent Hospitality sector?
In this episode, David and Steve head to the Independent Lodging Congress in Sausalito, CA to talk about the latest insights and challenges happening in the Independent hotel space. On this episode, we hear from Dan Jacobs, the Chef/Owner, of award-winning restaurants, Dandan & EsterEv, in Milwaukee, Gaurav (GB) Sharma, Founder of MOSAIC, Audrey Yates, the VP of Hotel Partnerships at Stash Hotel Rewards, and Brian Polster the Creative Director at THREE SIXTY.
Key Topics:
What is the company's role in the hospitality industryHow does ILC compare to other industry eventsWhat makes ILC unique in terms of networking and atmosphereHow are businesses preparing for upcoming industry changesThe Industry InnovationThe Modern Hotelier is the official podcast of the Independent Lodging Congress
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
Dan Jacobs: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-jacobs-ba774327b/
Gaurav Sharma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbnewyork/Audrey Yates: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrey-yates-0b5331b4/
Brian Polster: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianpolster/EsterEv | Milwaukee Private Dining Restaurant: https://chefdanjacobs.com/
MOSAIC: https://mosaicinabox.com/
Stash Hotel Rewards: https://www.stashrewards.com/
THREE SIXTY: https://threesixtymke.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/103
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... -
Independent hotels are the creative spark for the Hospitality Industry. So, what's the current state of the Independent Hospitality sector?
In this episode, David and Steve head to the Independent Lodging Congress in Sausalito, CA to talk about the latest insights and challenges happening in the Independent hotel space. On this episode we hear from Andrew Benioff, the Founder and Chairman of ILC, Peter Heinemann, Co-founder and Managing Director of Passport Resorts, and Lindsey Ueberroth, the CEO of Preferred Hotels & Resorts.Key Topics:
How Independents are leading the way in creativityWhy this is the Golden Age of HospitalityWhat big brands buying up independents means for Independent hospitality as a wholeThe challenges and opportunities facing the independent hotel space currentlySponsor spot:
The Modern Hotelier is the official podcast of the Independent Lodging Congress
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
Andrew Benioff: https://www.linkedin.com/in/llenrockgroupbenioff/Peter Heinemann: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-heinemann-9662035/
Lindsey Ueberroth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindseyueberroth/
ILC | Independent Lodging Congress: https://ilcongress.com/
Passport Resorts: https://passportresorts.com/
Preferred Hotels & Resorts: https://preferredhotels.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/102Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... -
If you are using Online Travel Agencies, you are probably missing out on some of your revenue. In this episode, find out how Janet Ferrer recovered $1 Million from Expedia.
Hospitality Holdings founder and President, Janet Ferrer, is an industry leader in progressive and innovative thinking. As both an on-property leader and Corporate Director of Finance her 27 years in Hospitality lends great insight to her Online Travel Agency Revenue Recovery audit systems and optimization of financial systems within the OTA platforms. Continually looking for ways to be the most progressive OTA Revenue Recovery Service, Janet assembled a team of highly skilled individuals who complete the vision of Hospitality Holdings commitment to continual evolution, financial acumen with state-of-the-art data integration.
In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran dive into the remarkable journey of Janet Ferrer, founder and CEO of Hospitality Holdings. With over 27 years in the hospitality industry, Janet shares stories of her rise from a newspaper girl in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, to a general manager and corporate director of finance. The discussion spans her career progression, the creation of H2OTA Revenue Recovery, and the entrepreneurial challenges she faced, such as credit card merchant limits and maximizing revenue through effective OTA management.
In this episode, we delve into:
Janet's unexpected entry into the hospitality industryThe inception and growth of Hospitality HoldingsTips for hotels to increase revenue and manage OTA relationshipsChallenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship in the hospitality tech spaceThoughts on AI and maintaining the human touch in hospitalityJoin the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaSponsor spot:
This episode is sponsored by Hospitality Holdings: https://hospitalityholdings.org/
Links:
Hospitality Holdings: https://hospitalityholdings.org/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janet-marie-f-b53bb157/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/101
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... -
What does it take to lead the culinary team at one of America’s largest indoor waterpark resorts and how do you balance tradition and innovation in an ever-evolving culinary landscape?
Join hosts David Millili and Steve Carran, as they dive into the culinary world of Kalahari Resorts with Chef Nick Shaw. Discover the journey from a small-town upbringing to leading the culinary experiences at one of America's largest indoor waterpark resorts.
Chef Nick shares insights on kitchen safety, culinary trends, and the importance of continuous learning in the fast-paced hospitality industry. From exploring diverse cuisines to embracing dietary trends, this episode offers a tantalizing glimpse into the world of resort dining. Whether you're a food enthusiast, aspiring chef, or hospitality professional, you'll find valuable takeaways on creating memorable dining experiences and balancing tradition with innovation. Tune in for a flavorful discussion that bridges the gap between hospitality and culinary arts at Kalahari Resorts.
In this episode, you will learn about:
The culinary focus and offerings at Kalahari ResortsWhat are the Kitchen safety strategies and prioritiesThe technology and automation in the kitchenWhat is the relationship between hospitality and culinary teams in resortsKalahari Resorts' recent renovations and dining optionsThe importance of passion and adaptability in the culinary professionJoin the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-shaw-1b061157/
Kalahari Resorts: https://www.kalahariresorts.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/100
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... -
Have you ever wondered what happens to the barely-used soap bars and tiny shampoo bottles left behind in hotel rooms?
In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran engage with Shawn Seipler, CEO of Clean the World, to explore how his organization is making a significant impact on global sustainability and hygiene through the hospitality industry. Shawn shares his journey from tech sales to pioneering a social enterprise that recycles soap and plastics, providing essential hygiene products to those in need.
Listeners will gain insights into Clean the World's innovative approaches and the broader implications for hospitality businesses aiming to meet UN Sustainability Goals.
In this episode, you will learn about:
Clean the World's mission to recycle hotel soap and plastic to save lives and protect the environmentThe impact of single-use plastics in hotels and sustainable alternativesThe importance of proper sanitation practices in hotels, especially regarding refillable dispensersHow Clean the World helps hotels track and report their sustainability efforts aligned with UN Sustainable Development GoalsTrends in hotel sustainability and social responsibility initiativesThe profound social impact of Clean the World's work in developing countriesShawn offers valuable insights for hoteliers looking to implement more sustainable practices and emphasizes the importance of both environmental and social sustainability in the hospitality industry. This episode provides an inspiring look at how one company is making a significant difference in global health and environmental protection through partnerships with hotels worldwide.
This episode is sponsored by Clean the World. For more information Contact - Clean the World.
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnseipler/Clean the World: https://cleantheworldglobal.org/
Contact - Clean the World
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/99
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... -
Join hosts David Millili and Steve Carran as they welcome Michelle Potorski, VP and General Manager of Duracell Professional. The discussion dives into Michelle's career journey, including her early days with Duracell and her return to the company after stints at Gillette, Proctor & Gamble, and CVS Health. The main focus is on the role of batteries in the hospitality industry, specifically the innovations Duracell's Procell brand is making to improve operational efficiency and guest satisfaction.
Michelle highlights the importance of proactive battery management in reducing guest complaints and operational disruptions. The episode also introduces Procell Insight, a real-time monitoring system for battery-operated devices in hotels.
In this episode, you'll learn (key points/topics covered):
Discover the hidden impact of battery-powered devices on hotel operations and guest satisfactionLearn about ProCell Insight, an innovative solution for real-time monitoring of battery life and other consumables in hotelsHow smart battery management can prevent negative guest experiences and improve operational efficiencyUnderstand the future of hospitality technology, focusing on connectivity, personalization, and sustainabilityMichelle shares fascinating insights from her career in the consumer goods and professional battery sectors, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of technology and guest experience in the modern hospitality landscape.
Sponsor spot:This episode is sponsored by Procell: https://www.procell.com/en-us/
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellepotorski/Procell: https://www.procell.com/en-us/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/98
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... -
Join hosts Steve Carran and David Millili for the latest episode of The Modern Hotelier featuring special guest Bruce Jordan, the Managing Partner of Hotel Guest Management. This monthly show dives deep into the hottest topics in the hospitality industry.
In this September edition of Hospitality Hot Topics, our expert panel discusses:
The recent acquisition of Motel 6 by OYO Hotels and its implications for the industryRecord-breaking global GDP contributions from the travel and tourism sectorThe wave of housekeeping strikes across major U.S. cities and their potential impactEmployee burnout in the hospitality sector and the need for better trainingThe World's 50 Top Hotels list and surprising international rankingsJason Kelce's new role as a "fanbassador" for MarriottTune in for insightful analysis, industry trends, and engaging discussions that keep you up to date with the ever-evolving world of hospitality. Whether you're a seasoned hotelier or simply passionate about the industry, "Modern Hotelier Hospitality's Most Engaged" offers valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of hospitality.
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
OYO buys Motel 6 for $525M
Travel Industry to Set New Record for Global GDP Contribution
Housekeepers Strike
Worker Burnout
The World's 50 Best Hotels
Jason Kelce is a Fanbassador for Marriott
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/97
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... -
How is Relay's technology improving cross-departmental communication in hotels?
In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Derek Pando, Director of Product Marketing at Relay. They discuss Relay's innovative communication devices and how they're revolutionizing operations in the hospitality industry.
Derek shares insights from Relay's first-ever hospitality report, highlighting trends in personalized guest experiences and safety investments. He explains how Relay's technology is improving cross-departmental communication, enhancing safety measures, and breaking down language barriers in hotels.
The conversation covers how Relay's tools impact hiring and retention in a challenging labor market, with real-world examples of how their technology has empowered employees and improved efficiency. Derek also discusses Relay's exciting new hardware launch and their plans for future industry reports.
Derek's background starting a lawnmowing business as a teenagerHis early career at Zoom when it was a true startupDerek's work at RelayHow Relay's products improve guest experience and team efficiencyRelay's usefulness for guest safety (passing out, physical violence) and allowing hoteliers to respond quicklyRelay's impact bridging language barriersLeveraging Relay's location tracking power to make hospitality teams more efficient
In this episode, you'll learn (key points/topics covered):Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
Director of Product Marketing at Relay https://relaypro.com/author/derek-pando/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekpando
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/96
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... -
How has David Barry's journey from a ski instructor to President of Pursuit Collection shaped his approach to leadership in the hospitality industry?
In this engaging episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with David Barry, President of Pursuit Collection. Barry shares his unique journey from ski instructor to hospitality leader, offering valuable insights into creating exceptional guest experiences, fostering a strong company culture, and navigating challenges in the hospitality industry. The conversation covers a range of topics, from sustainable practices to innovative approaches in destination management, providing listeners with a comprehensive look at modern hospitality leadership.
In this episode, you'll learn:
The importance of authenticity in creating unique guest experiencesHow do hospitality businesses handle natural disasters and manage crises, as exemplified by the Jasper wildfires?Advice for young professionals entering the hospitality fieldThe role of technology and innovation in shaping the future of hospitalityThe significance of honoring local cultures and environments in hospitality offerings
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-barry-3501901/
Pursuit Collection: https://www.pursuitcollection.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/95
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... -
Curious about the intersection of luxury and wilderness? Ever wondered how a 37,000-acre ranch became a world-renowned resort?
In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran have an engaging conversation with Steve Hurst, the Managing Director at The Resort at Paws Up. They discuss Steve's career journey from his early days as a barista to managing luxury hotels and resorts, with a special focus on the unique guest experience at Paws Up. The resort, set on a 37,000-acre ranch in Montana, combines luxury with adventure, offering activities like fly fishing, horseback riding, and mountain biking. They delve into the resort's personalized service, culinary excellence, and the importance of genuine, authentic experiences. Steve also shares insights on the importance of adaptability, the value of time, and the resort's mission to provide an extraordinary experience for guests. The episode concludes with valuable advice for those looking to pursue a career in hospitality.
This episode explores:
The evolution of Paws Up from a family ranch to an award-winning luxury resortHow Paws Up creates personalized experiences through extensive pre-arrival planningThe resort's innovative approach to dining, offering up to 10 different restaurant experiences nightlyHow outdoor activities help families and couples reconnect in meaningful waysPaws Up's success in garnering industry accolades and recognitionJoin the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenhurst/
The Resort at Paws Up: https://www.pawsup.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/94
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... -
Ever wondered what it would be like to turn your childhood treehouse dreams into a thriving resort business?
Join hosts David Millili and Steve Carran as they sit down with Amanda Jensen, CEO and co-founder of Sanctuary Treehouse Resort, the world's largest treehouse resort. In this captivating episode, Amanda shares the inspiring journey of how a simple treehouse for her children blossomed into an innovative and immersive hospitality experience.
The origin story of Sanctuary Treehouse Resort and how it grew from a family project to a world-renowned destinationUnique interactive features of the treehouses, including slides, secret ladders, and drink chutesInsights into sustainable building practices and preserving the natural environmentHow the resort balances luxury amenities with a playful, childhood-inspired atmosphereThe impact of the business on family life and creating a legacyPartnerships with local attractions and the creation of the "Sanctuary Perk Card" for guests
In this episode, you'll discover:Tune in to discover how Amanda and her family are redefining experiential travel, one treehouse at a time!
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-jensen-a6b358236/
Sanctuary Treehouse Resort: https://www.treehouseresort.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/93
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... -
In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Kyle Hughey, CEO of Charlestowne Hotels, to discuss the independent hotel management landscape and Hughey's journey in the hospitality industry.
In this episode, you'll learn:
The appeal and challenges of managing independent hotelsCharlestowne Hotels' approach to creating unique guest experiencesIndustry challenges, including staffing and recruitmentThe impact of hotel brand consolidation on independent operatorsAdaptive reuse projects in the Charlestowne Hotels portfolioFuture outlook for the hospitality industry in 2025-2026Hughey shares insights on the importance of continuous learning, the value of creating tailored experiences for each property, and the advantages of remaining an independent management company in an era of increasing consolidation. He also discusses how Charlestowne Hotels approaches adaptive reuse projects and the importance of storytelling in creating memorable guest experiences.
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-hughey-969350168/
Charlestowne Hotels: https://www.charlestownehotels.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/92
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... -
How would your travel experience change if you knew exactly how welcoming a hotel is to your furry friends?
In this episode of The Modern Hotelier, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran interview Guise Bule, the founder of Ranked by Roch and the Roch Society. Guise shares his journey from cybersecurity to creating the first dog-friendly certification and ranking process for the hotel industry. Driven by personal frustrations with misleading "pet-friendly" claims, Guise explains how Ranked by Roch uses a data-driven approach to evaluate hotels on their dog-friendly policies, amenities, and services.
In this episode, you'll discover:
The inspiration behind Ranked by RochHow hotels are ranked and certified as dog-friendlyIssues with current pet-friendly hotel awards and listingsTrends in dog-friendly hospitality across different countriesThe importance of transparency in pet policies for travelersGuise also critiques major travel platforms' pet-friendly awards and discusses the growing importance of catering to dog owners in the hospitality industry. This episode offers valuable insights for hoteliers, dog owners, and anyone interested in the evolving landscape of pet-friendly travel.
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guisebule/
Ranked by Roch: https://rochdog.com/en
The Roch Society: https://rochsociety.com/
The English Breakfast Society: https://www.englishbreakfastsociety.com/
English Breakfast Handbook: https://www.amazon.com/English-Breakfast-Handbook-Guide-Traditional/dp/1984168711
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/91
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil... - Show more
