Episódios
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ποΈ Welcome to The Social Hotelier Show with Sam-Erik Ruttmann – named one of the Top 20 Hotel Podcasts globally by FeedSpot!
π In this exclusive conversation, Sam-Erik interviews Marc Dardenne, CEO of Modon Hospitality, on the evolving role of hospitality education, leadership transformation, and why rethinking hotel design, branding, and talent engagement is urgent in today’s changing world.
π‘ Marc reflects on his return to Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne as a guest lecturer — 43 years after graduating — and what he learned from engaging directly with the next generation of hospitality leaders.
π What You’ll Discover:
β¨ The future of hospitality leadership
β¨ Why modern students need mentors more than manuals
β¨ 24-hour check-ins, tech-driven guest journeys & facial recognition
β¨ Why “Heart of House” design matters as much as the lobby
β¨ The truth about SOPs, flexibility & employee expectations
β¨ How to build hospitality brands from culture, not just checklists
π§ About Marc Dardenne:
π CEO, Modon Hospitality – Abu Dhabi
π¨ Former COO at Accor Luxe Europe, Group COO Jumeirah, CEO Emaar Hospitality Group and Armani Hotels and Resorts
π Guest Lecturer at EHL (Lausanne)
πΌ Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-dardenne -
Future of Food Tourism: 4 Bold Scenarios
Welcome to The Social Hotelier Show with Sam-Erik Ruttmann! In this episode, we explore the ¨future of food tourism¨ with renowned futurist Dr. Ian Yeoman. From lab-grown delicacies to regenerative dining experiences and dystopian luxury, we dive into four bold scenarios that redefine how we eat, travel, and experience culture.
π¨π³ What does the future hold for chefs and hoteliers?
π± Can regenerative cuisine become the new luxury?
π Are you ready to dine in Dr. Spock’s restaurant or sip wine from the last wine bottle on Earth?
ππ»Proud to share that The Social Hotelier, hosted by Sam-Erik Ruttmann, has been named one of the Top 20 Hotel Podcasts of 2025 — a recognition of our commitment to insightful conversations in global hospitality.
https://podcast.feedspot.com/hotel_podcasts/ -
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In this eye-opening episode of The Social Hotelier Show, Sam-Erik Ruttmann reconnects with Niels Steeman—once a high-flying tourism executive in Asia, now a wellness coach on a mission to redefine success. Discover how a near-death experience underwater triggered a radical transformation, shedding over 40 kilos, quitting alcohol, and redefining what it means to truly thrive.
π‘ Niels shares his powerful journey from burnout to balance, exposing the blind spots in high-performance industries like hospitality and tourism.
ππ»Discover now why giving back is life's missiom
He dives deep into the myths of dieting, the illusion of wellness in hotels, and why executives often ignore their health until it’s too late.
π₯ Whether you're a hotelier, entrepreneur, or executive seeking clarity, this conversation will shift your mindset on health, leadership, and personal transformation.
π Subscribe for more thought-provoking conversations that challenge the status quo in hospitality and leadership.π§ Available also on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more.π Get Niels’s book “Thrive” and support children’s wellness education in Ranong.
https://a.co/d/cME3y2D
Niels Steeman; email [email protected]
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β What Are The BIG Changes Happening In Hotel Industry NOW
In this episode of the Social Hotelier podcast, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann speaks with Rocco Bova, a seasoned hotelier and founder of the Summit Mexicano de la Hospitalidad. Rocco shares his journey in the hospitality industry, his love for Mexico, and the cultural richness he has experienced.
They discuss the importance of hospitality education, the evolving role of technology in the industry, and how guest preferences have changed post-pandemic.
Rocco emphasizes the need for a balance between technology and human interaction in hospitality. Sam-Erik Ruttmann and Rocco Bova delve into the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry,
β focusing on the balance between technology and the human touch,
β The challenges of recruitment,
β The significance of personal branding and
β Emerging trends such as the rise of boutique hotels.
β They discuss the impact of technology on staffing and guest interactions,
β The shortcomings of current recruitment processes, and
β The importance of authenticity in personal branding for professionals entering the industry.
This is more than a podcast. It’s a wake-up call. If you're in hospitality, you can’t afford to miss it. Buckle up for a no-nonsense, passionate discussion packed with hard truths, future trends, and personal revelations. -
π± In this powerful episode of The Social Hotelier, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann sits down with Portia Hart, founder of Blue Apple Beach—a regenerative hospitality concept in Cartagena, Colombia.
From crushing glass bottles into usable sand to empowering local communities through sustainable supply chains, Portia proves that luxury can lead with purpose. Get inspired by her journey from Monaco to the Caribbean and learn how she built one of the world’s most impactful eco-hotels.
π§ Tune in for: β¨ How Blue Apple became B Corp certified
β¨ Circular economy practices in hospitality
β¨ The mission behind the Green Apple Foundation
β¨ Creating zero-waste operations and sustainable supply chains
β¨ Shifting traveler mindsets with values-based hospitality
β¨ Blending high-end travel with community empowerment
π€ About the Host – Sam-Erik Ruttmann
Sam-Erik is a global hotel advisor, podcast host, and hospitality veteran helping hoteliers grow through innovation, sustainability, and storytelling.
π Website: https://b8bhospitality.com
π Podcast Site: https://the-social-hotelier-show.blubrry.net
π§ Contact: [email protected]
β Support the channel: https://buymeacoffee.com/samerik
π± Connect with The Social Hotelier
π Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesocialhotelier
πΈ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesocialhotelier/
πΌ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-erik/
π‘ Who Is This EPISODE For?
π Hoteliers & hospitality entrepreneurs
π Sustainability-driven investors & eco-conscious travelers
π Travel trendsetters, ESG leaders & digital marketers
π Boutique hotel owners looking to make an impact
π Spread the Love
π£ Share this podcast with your friends & hospitality network
π Like, comment, and subscribe to stay in the loop
π Tap the bell icon so you never miss a future episode!
π Important Information
β οΈ Disclaimer: All content is for informational purposes only. We are not responsible for any loss or damage resulting from its use. Always conduct your own research and due diligence.
© Copyright Notice: All materials are owned by The Social Hotelier. You may share or embed video links with full credit to the channel.
How Blue Apple Beach Redefines Eco-Luxury & Regenerative Hospitality
π§ Related Hashtags
#RegenerativeHospitality #EcoHotels #SustainableTourism #LuxuryWithPurpose #HotelLeadership #BlueAppleBeach #PortiaHart #BcorpCertified #HospitalityTrends #TheSocialHotelier #TravelPodcast #HospitalityExperts #EthicalTravel #CartagenaHotels #HospitalityForChange
© The Social Hotelier -
Why Your First Impression Could Make or Break Guest Experience
In this episode of The Social Hotelier Show, Sam-Erik Ruttmann welcomes renowned keynote speaker and author Sylvie Di Giusto.
Together, they explore the psychology of first and lasting impressions in hospitality
and how unconscious biases shape guest experiences.
Sylvie breaks down her signature "ABCD-E" framework—Appearance, Behavior, Communication, Digital Footprint, and Environment—offering practical tools for hospitality leaders to influence perception and build trust from the first moment.
The conversation also dives into the often-overlooked impact of a leader’s digital presence and how virtual interactions can elevate—or damage—credibility. Whether you're a hotel executive, manager, or aspiring leader, this episode offers actionable insights on how to become more intentional, authentic, and effective in your role . Subscribe, listen, and learn how micro-choices can create macro impact in guest experience.
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Maximize Your Digital Ads ROI Proven Strategies for Lasting Success
Proven Strategies for Hotels, Restaurants, and Businesses to Succeed in Google Ads, Meta, and Beyond
Many businesses are burning through their digital advertising budgets without a clear strategy. As John Horn, CEO of @Stubgroup , reveals, success in digital marketing requires a thoughtful approach, patience, and strategic oversight. In this post, we’ll explore actionable steps to improve your advertising results while ensuring you stay compliant and avoid costly mistakes. -
From Boardroom to Global Impact: How One Family Foundation is Changing Lives
In this inspiring episode, Sam-Erik Ruttmann welcomes Morgan DeNicola, Executive Director of the DeNicola Family Foundation.
Discover how this dynamic leader transitioned from marketing in her family's business empire to championing global health, cultural diplomacy, and humanitarian recognition. Morgan shares powerful insights on creating sustainable impact through empathy, trust-building, and listening — proving that caring is more than just an emotion; it's an action.
Learn how the foundation's initiatives, from mobile medical vans in Malawi to cultural exchange programs with Russia and Iraq, foster positive change worldwide.
Morgan also reveals how their latest *Bright Star Award* program empowers young changemakers in schools, nurturing future leaders with compassion at the forefront.
Caring is an action, not just an emotion.
If you're seeking inspiration on how to make a meaningful difference — whether through charity, cultural diplomacy, or community involvement — this episode will leave you motivated and ready to take action.
π§ Tune in now and discover how Morgan’s approach to philanthropy can transform the way you think about impact, compassion, and change. -
How to Maximize Hotel Profitability in a Changing Market.
In this episode of the Social Hôtelier podcast, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann speaks with Michael Grove, CEO of HotStats, about the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry. They discuss the importance of financial intelligence, the need for hoteliers to look beyond traditional metrics like RevPAR, and the balance between automation and personalized service in hotels.
Michael Grove shares insights from his extensive experience in hotel operations and finance, emphasizing the significance of total revenue management and the challenges faced by hoteliers in today's market.
In this conversation, Michael Grove discusses the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry, focusing on the integration of technology, innovative restaurant concepts, and the impact of AI on marketing strategies. He highlights the growth of hospitality in the Middle East, particularly in Dubai and Saudi Arabia, and explores emerging markets like India and Vietnam. The conversation also touches on the current state of the US hospitality market and the potential disruptors that could reshape the industry. Finally, Grove shares valuable career advice for aspiring hoteliers, emphasizing the importance of finding a role that aligns with one's personality.
Takeaways
Michael Grove emphasizes the importance of financial intelligence in hospitality.
The hospitality industry is facing unprecedented challenges and political uncertainties.
Profitability is a key concern for hoteliers as revenue growth slows.
Total revenue per available room is a crucial metric for revenue management.
Hotels need to focus on total revenue management rather than isolated metrics.
Automation can help streamline operations and improve guest experiences. -
AI & Service Transformation Unforgettable Hospitality Experiences
In this episode of the Social Hotelier podcast, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann interviews Johann Diaz, an expert in service transformation and customer experience.
They discuss the importance of redefining strategies to meet evolving customer needs, the role of AI in enhancing service delivery, and the shift towards servitization in business models.
Johann emphasizes the significance of understanding customer sentiment, the core principles of exceptional service, and the risks and opportunities associated with AI adoption.
The conversation also explores future trends in AI, particularly the rise of agentic AI, and how organizations can prepare to remain competitive in a rapidly changing landscape. -
Redefining Hospitality: From Sustainability to Regeneration
A Deep Dive into Sustainable Tourism, Policy Challenges, and the Double-edged Sword of Social Media
In this episode of the Social Hotelier podcast, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann engages with Chalana Perera, the founder of Retrace Hospitality, to discuss the critical shift from sustainable to regenerative tourism.
Chalana emphasizes the importance of proactive measures in tourism to address climate change and over-tourism, particularly in Sri Lanka.
The conversation explores the challenges faced by governments and businesses in implementing effective tourism policies, the role of social media in promoting responsible travel, and the need for evolving hospitality education to prepare future leaders.
Chalana shares insights on her current projects aimed at creating regenerative tourism experiences and the influence of colonial practices on the industry. The episode concludes with advice for aspiring professionals in the hospitality sector. -
The Hidden Profit Killers in Restaurants—And How to Fix Them
In this episode, Sam Erik Ruttmann interviews Geordy Murphy, a visionary restaurateur and owner of Cypress Hospitality Group. Geordy shares his journey from managing restaurants to developing innovative software solutions for the hospitality industry with FOBESoft.
The conversation covers key themes such as the importance of budgeting, leadership lessons learned from culinary icons like Wolfgang Puck, the impact of technology on the restaurant industry, and the challenges faced during the pandemic.
Geordy emphasizes the need for restaurateurs to understand their financials and adapt to the evolving landscape of hospitality. -
In this engaging conversation, with Abdul Baaghil, Co – Founder / principal Harvest Cotton Tale, Abdul speaks about his experience working for luxury hotel brands, like Ritz Carlton, Cambell Gray Hotel. Abdulshares his journey from corporate management to independently developing hotels rooted in authenticity and cultural identity. Together, we explore how the evolving landscape of luxury and lifestyle hotels is grappling with maintaining genuine experiences amidst large-scale acquisitions by global chains like Accor and Marriott. Abdul highlights the critical need for integrity, immersive guest experiences, and transformative leadership to preserve the soul of hospitality brands.
Listen in to gain insider perspectives on the current and future state of the hospitality industry, the role of human capital, and strategies to maintain brand authenticity.
Key Takeaways:
The Shift from Corporate to Independent: Abdul shares his decision to leave large hospitality chains to create hotels that emphasize local culture, creativity, and unique experiences.
Challenges of Large-Scale Acquisitions: With global brands like Accor and Marriott acquiring independent luxury and lifestyle hotels, there are concerns about losing the original character and vision of these properties.
The Importance of Authenticity: True luxury today is less about material offerings and more about delivering emotionally engaging, culturally immersive, and transformative guest experiences.
Culture as a Competitive Advantage: Abdul emphasizes that a strong, well-defined company culture, led by general managers who embody and infuse it, is key to maintaining guest trust and loyalty.
Strategies for Direct Bookings: To reduce dependency on OTAs, Abdul advocates for brands to build trust through honesty, consistent quality, and personalized service, enhancing direct booking channels. -
π₯ Get ready for an interesting conversation with Jayanth N Kolla, Founder& Partner of Convergence Catalyst, Expert on AI, Machine Learning.
This is our annual episode discussing the rapid evolution of AI and its profound impact on the travel and tourism industry.
We explore how social media influences travel trends, the rise of Generative AI Travel Content creation, and the changing landscape of influencers.
The conversation also delves into the emergence of theme-based travel experiences
AI for Trip Planning, the Future of Tourism Technology, and AI Assistants in Travel, from Artificial Intelligence to Intelligent Assistants
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Furthermore, the conversation covers strategies destinations can adopt to remain appealing in an AI-driven world. Finally, they touch on the future of travel planning with AI agents that can automate and optimize the booking process for Authentic Travel Content and Niche Travel Experiences.
Here are some Sound Bites from our conversation:
AI is rapidly evolving and will significantly impact travel.
Social media is changing how people choose travel destinations.
Generative AI allows for the creation of travel content without physical travel.
The influencer landscape is shifting due to the rise of AI-generated content.
Theme-based travel is becoming more popular among tourists.
Destinations should focus on unique experiences to attract diverse travelers.
AI agents will automate travel planning, making it more efficient.
π Don’t miss out on this game-changing episode.
In Substack, there is the latest blog summarizing my conversation with Jayanth N Kolla and the link to the video podcast
Here is the Link to a Free Subscription
https://samerik.substack.com/subscribe
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The Wellness Industry Exposed: What Most Hotels Get Wrong.
Join Sam-Erik Ruttmann on The Social Hotelier Podcast as he dives into wellness and hospitality innovation with Celine Vadam of WeThink. Explore how wellness-centric hotel designs, technology-driven spa treatments, and inclusive experiences are reshaping the wellness industry. Discover actionable insights on collaborating with architects, using localized spa products, and making wellness retreats accessible for everyone."
Our conversation tackles critical topics such as Wellness consultancy best practices, designing wellness spaces with authenticity and inclusivity, enhancing collaboration between consultants and designers, and leveraging technology to make wellness accessible to broader audiences.
Celine highlights the importance of strong concepts before design execution to avoid cookie-cutter solutions and discusses the role of personalized, locally inspired offerings in creating impactful guest experiences.
Key Takeaways:
Prioritize Concept Development: Establish a clear vision and feasibility study for wellness projects before engaging designers.
Innovate with Technology: Incorporate well-tech solutions, such as sensory pods and compression therapy, to provide impactful, cost-effective wellness experiences.
Foster Inclusivity: Design spaces welcoming to diverse demographics, from all ages to varying fitness levels.
Leverage Local Elements: Use locally sourced materials and scents to create memorable, unique offerings.
Avoid Overlooking Details: Ensure wellness spaces, like saunas, meet high standards of functionality and comfort.
This episode provides actionable insights for hoteliers, wellness professionals, and innovators eager to redefine the wellness experience. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking conversations! Send us your questions by emailing Celine Vadam, inkedin.com/in/celine-vadam or Sam-Erik Ruttmann, email, [email protected] Add in the subject line: Wellness Question -
The Art of Hospitality: Designing Spaces That Inspire and Connect
Have you ever walked into a space and felt instantly at ease—as if it were designed just for you? Or perhaps the opposite, where a space seemed to push you away, leaving you feeling out of place? The spaces we inhabit hold incredible power, shaping our emotions, connections, and even our sense of belonging. Today, we’re diving deep into this idea with Ryan Anderson, the Vice President of Global Research and Planning at MillerKnoll, in a cozy fireside chat that promises to challenge the way you think about hospitality and design.
Ryan brings over 30 years of expertise in creating environments that don’t just look good but feel right—spaces that foster connection and comfort while leaving a lasting impression. So, grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s explore the art and science of designing spaces that inspire and connect.
Hospitality Beyond Aesthetics
With over 30 years of experience in furniture and textiles, Ryan brought incredible insights to our conversation. He shared that hospitality isn’t just about beautiful spaces and creating meaningful experiences. “Every space has a purpose,” he said, pointing out how the design of a hotel lobby or a café can transform how guests and staff connect. “Hospitality is a place-based phenomenon,” he added, emphasizing that great design can elevate both personal experiences and business outcomes.
Introduction of the concept of loving strangers
Ryan introduced the concept of “philoxenia”—the ancient Greek term for loving strangers. “Hospitality starts with making others feel safe and cared for,” he said. For instance, he shared how a simple gesture, like personalizing room amenities for a guest’s preferences, can create moments of genuine connection.
Takeaways
The design of spaces significantly impacts our emotions and relationships.
Cultural experiences shape our understanding of hospitality.
Great hospitality is about sincere care for others.
Place attachment is formed through our experiences in spaces.
Design can either foster or hinder a sense of belonging.
Sensory experiences play a crucial role in comfort.
Sustainability in design promotes well-being for people and the planet.
Technology should enhance, not replace, human connections.
Inclusion is essential for creating positive first impressions.
Employees should be treated as valued customers in hospitality.
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Discover How to Grow Your Business Through Podcasting
Welcome to this episode of The Social Hotelier Podcast! Today, we are honored to host Noémi Beres, co-owner of Podcast Connections, an agency renowned for helping entrepreneurs amplify their voices through strategic podcast interviews.
With over 11 years of experience in content creation and online marketing, Noémi has mastered the art of storytelling and business growth.
Starting her entrepreneurial journey in 2007, she pivoted to launch Podcast Connections in 2020, creating a global network of clients and thought leaders. Passionate about engaging and valuable content, Noémi's innovative approach and European flair set her agency apart in the podcasting world.
Five Podcast Tips from Noémi Beres
1. Preparation is Key: Always prepare your topics and talking points thoroughly before the interview.
2. Be Present: Engage fully with the host by grounding yourself and focusing on the conversation.
3. Respect the Host's Time: Avoid treating the podcast as a pure advertisement; share stories and knowledge instead.
4. Invest in Basics: Use a quality microphone, proper lighting, and soundproofing to enhance audio quality.
5. Promote and Build Relationships: Promote your podcast appearances and nurture the connections you form during the process.
There are many more tips in this episode so stay until the end. -
What Makes a TRULY Successful Marketing Strategy?
In this episode of the Social Hotelier Podcast, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann speaks with Eric Dingler, a digital nomad and marketing expert, about the intersection of travel and marketing strategies.
He runs successfully a location-independent business.
Eric shares insights from his family's journey as they travel the world while managing a marketing agency.
The conversation explores how the digital nomad lifestyle has reshaped Erik's understanding of marketing, emphasizing the importance of simplicity in marketing strategies and the need for businesses to adapt to changing consumer behaviors. Marketing is simpler than many make it out to be.
Eric also discusses the evolution of web design and businesses' need to gather customer information for effective advocacy marketing. In this conversation, Eric Dingler shares insights on effective marketing strategies for engaging customers, particularly in digital nomadism.
He discusses the importance of specialized landing pages, understanding customer needs, and innovative engagement tactics, such as the unique Yahtzee experience at a restaurant in Buenos Aires.
Erik Dingler has been traveling full-time with his family for over three years. The digital nomad lifestyle has become routine for Erik and his family.
Eric also delves into the challenges and benefits of raising a family while living a digital nomad lifestyle, emphasizing adaptability and the use of technology to maintain connections. He highlights emerging trends in the digital nomad community, particularly the increasing number of families embracing this lifestyle and the impact of remote work policies post-COVID.
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How the Blue Zones Lifestyle Can Help You Live Longer
Welcome to the first episode of the Mini Series about Wellness – with Celine Vadam, Founder of WE (I) Think and Blue Zones Expert.
In this episode of The Social Hotelier Show, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann engages with wellness expert Celine Vadam, to explore the transformative world of wellness in hospitality.
Celine shares her extensive travels and experiences in developing hotel wellness concepts, including the innovative Blue Zones retreats that focus on lifestyle principles from regions known for longevity.
The conversation delves into
Blue Zones are areas where people live the longest due to lifestyle choices.
The Blue Zones retreats focus on lifestyle coaching rather than lectures.
The importance of self-discovery during retreats
Participants often return to multiple retreats, fostering community.
Wellness retreats today are fragmented and lack coherence.
Partnerships can enhance wellness offerings but must be relevant to the market.
Certification can add credibility to wellness concepts but should not be a marketing gimmick.
Wellness is about the overall guest experience, not just spa services.
Local culture and community play a vital role in wellness retreats.
Lifestyle changes take time and require support from peers.
The alignment of wellness offerings with modern traveler needs,
The role of partnerships and certifications in enhancing credibility and effectiveness in wellness concepts.
Post any questions you may have about Wellness to Email. [email protected] Write in the Subject line: WELLNESS QUESTION.
We will answer the questions and give you a shout-out during one of the episodes. -
Top Sustainability Expert Shares Secrets to Redefining Success
In this episode of the Social Hotelier Show, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann engages with Vanessa Thompson, a leader in sustainable finance and innovation. They discuss Vanessa's journey from Silicon Valley to her current role at the Sustainability Experts, emphasizing the importance of sustainability as a catalyst for innovation and growth.
The conversation explores the role of nature in hospitality, the balance between community needs and global development, and companies' responsibilities in reversing environmental damage.
Vanessa shares insights on sustainable luxury, the impact of regulation, and the need for consumers to support innovative businesses.
The episode concludes with a look at emerging trends in hospitality and the importance of prioritizing sustainability in business practices. - Mostrar mais
