The Hospitality Industry is always growing, changing, and innovating! This is the podcast that will bring you the top news and topics from industry experts in different fields of hospitality. Join us live every Monday morning on our social channels! This is the industry's morning brew!
On this episode of Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk break down the latest moves and disruptions in travel and hospitality. They start with Capital One Travel's decision to open its platform to Discover cardholders in a bid to challenge Chase and American Express on points, perks, and travel spend. Then they discuss iconic hotelier Ian Schrager's partnership with Highgate to expand the Public Hotels brand and what this says about lifestyle hospitality growth. The conversation shifts to ongoing operational stress in travel: American Airlines is taking a bigger hit from a looming government shutdown, and Expedia Group announced job cuts as part of its restructuring. Sarah and Steve close the show with this week's Unhinged Story! A dramatic Embassy Suites ceiling collapse caught on TikTok in Oklahoma, underscoring that in travel, sometimes the headlines are as wild as the industry news. Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
We're sharing a preview of a new podcast from Skift called Skift Take Sessions. Skift Take Sessions is a weekly, journalist-led podcast built from the most important conversations shaping the global travel industry. Each episode features candid interviews with CEOs and senior leaders across airlines, hotels, and travel platforms, recorded live at Skift events and expanded with context around why the conversation matters now and what we learned. Hosted by Wil Slickers, the show brings listeners inside executive-level thinking from leaders at companies like Hilton, Expedia Group, Airbnb, JetBlue, and more. New episodes drop every week. Listen and follow Skift Take Sessions: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/skift-take-sessions/id1871511773 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4oKApv7z0I65VpySjh9rqP?si=2e8f1e3e83e8459d Skift.com: https://skift.com/skift-travel-podcasts/
On this morning's Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast, Wil Slickers is joined by Michael Goldin and Jamie Lane for a quick-hit look at the stories shaping travel and hospitality to start the week. The team covers WeatherPromise's latest funding round, the massive winter storm disrupting U.S. flights, and what it could mean for short-term rental demand, and Airbnb's newest services push with ready-to-heat meals from celebrity chefs. They also touch on Mews' recent momentum and wrap the episode by digging into a favorite Skift Megatrend and why it matters right now. This episode is brought to you by Guesty! Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
Mews just raised $300 million in a Series D, valuing the company at $2.5 billion — one of the largest hotel tech raises ever. But this conversation isn't about hype. In this GMH exclusive, Wil Slickers sits down for a third time with Richard Valtr, Founder of Mews, to unpack what this funding actually unlocks and why Richard believes much of hospitality technology has been built on the wrong assumptions for decades. They dig into why hotels still struggle with data ownership, how PMS platforms became gatekeepers instead of enablers, and why AI will only work if the industry fixes its foundations first. Richard also explains why RevPAR may be the industry's “original sin,” why guest experience should be a measurable output, and why fully autonomous hotels are the wrong goal. This is a wide-ranging, philosophical, and practical conversation about: • What Mews' $300M raise really changes • Why hotel tech copied the wrong SaaS playbook • Data standards, open APIs, and industry gatekeeping • AI agents, automation, and what should (and shouldn't) be automated • Why hospitality is more human than ever, even in an AI world Extra Links Related or Mentioned in This Episode: My first episode with Richard in 2021 My second episode with Richard in 2023 Skift Article around the $300M fund raise Connect with Airline Weekly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airline-weekly/ X: https://x.com/Airline_Weekly/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/airlineweekly/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the airline and travel industries.
On this episode of GMH Hotels with Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk, as they break down four major developments shaping where lodging and travel are headed in 2026. They start with Outsite's new private-equity backing, a big vote of confidence in social extended stays and flexible work-travel lifestyles. Then they explore Google's latest push into AI-powered travel planning and how big tech continues to encroach on discovery and booking channels. From luxury pipeline news, they look at The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts' third hotel addition since its IPO, signaling strength in high-end hospitality. Finally, they discuss the Sphere Entertainment Co. National Harbor's impact on meetings, events, and destination demand. And of course, it wouldn't be GMH without this week's Unhinged Story: a Delta Air Lines passenger who literally plugged in a curling iron mid-flight and proceeded to style her hair section by section. Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
On this episode of Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast, Wil Slickers, Brandreth Canaley, Michael Goldin, and Jamie Lane unpack the idea that the thrill is gone for Airbnb and short-term rentals, a growing conversation about innovation, product fatigue, and where the sector goes from here. Then they look at Hilton's latest strategic move with the launch of Apartment Collection by Hilton, its 26th brand targeting furnished apartment-style stays, a direct challenge to the traditional STR category through a major hospitality player. The team also dives into the Kasa acquisition of Mint House and what that signals about consolidation and operational scale in urban rental-style lodging. Finally, they break down Airbnb's efforts to build a hotel-focused team. A more direct sign that the company is trying to compete more directly with OTAs and traditional lodging channels. This episode is brought to you by Guesty! Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
Kasa has acquired Mint House at a moment when much of the urban apart-hotel sector has collapsed. In this GMH special, Wil Slickers sits down with Kasa Founder and CEO Roman Pedan to break down how the deal came together, why Mint House chose Kasa, and what this acquisition signals about the future of urban short-term rentals and apart-hotels. With Sonder now gone and capital having pulled back from the category, Roman explains how Kasa survived the shakeout, what it did differently, and whether consolidation is just getting started. They also discuss how Kasa plans to use the Mint House brand, what this means for property owners, and whether more acquisitions could be coming in 2026. This conversation offers a clear look at one of the last scaled players standing in urban lodging and what comes next for the sector. Read more about this news here! Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
On today's GMH Hotels, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk cover the latest shifts shaping travel and hospitality in early 2026. They break down continued weakness in overseas travel to the U.S., the Sun Country Airlines–Allegiant airline merger, Google's move toward agentic AI checkout, and Marriott International's expanding loyalty strategy tied to global cricket events. The episode wraps with this week's Unhinged Headline! A bizarre story involving a fake flight attendant on a Batik Air flight that proves travel is never boring. Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
In this GMH Special, Wil Slickers sits down with Skift Founding Editor Dennis Schaal to unpack one of the most surprising travel tech stories of the year: Kayak's CEO quietly attempted to take the company private. They walk through what actually happened, why the move was explored, and what it reveals about the pressure facing travel platforms in a world being reshaped by AI, Google, and shifting distribution economics. The conversation explores how Kayak fits inside Booking Holdings, what a privatization attempt says about metasearch's future, and why some of the biggest names in travel tech are questioning whether public markets still make sense. For hotels, OTAs, and anyone watching how trips are discovered and booked, this episode breaks down what this story really signals about where power and profit are moving in travel. Read the full article here: https://skift.com/2026/01/09/kayak-ceo-tried-to-take-the-company-private-scoop/ Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
On this episode of Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast, Wil Slickers, Michael Goldin, Brandreth Canaley, and Jamie Lane dig into three stories shaping travel and lodging as 2026 gets underway. They start with how credit card rewards are now rivaling traditional airline and hotel loyalty programs, reshaping how travelers earn, redeem, and choose where to stay. The team discusses a major development in travel tech following reports that KAYAK's CEO attempted to take the company private. Wil is going to host a short GMH special with Dennis Schaal to dive deeper into that story for anyone who wants the full backstory. They close with a look at former President Trump's proposal to ban large investors from buying homes and what that could mean for housing supply, short-term rentals, and the broader hospitality market. Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
On January 7th, GMH Hotels returns with one of the show's annual traditions
Welcome back to Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast, and the first episode of 2026! Wil Slickers, Michael Goldin, Brandreth Canaley, and Jamie Lane kick off the year by sharing their predictions for what lies ahead across travel and hospitality. From demand and pricing to distribution, technology, and guest behavior, the crew lays out the trends they believe will define 2026, along with the risks and opportunities operators should be watching closely. This annual predictions episode sets the baseline for the year, giving listeners a roadmap of what to track, challenge, and revisit as the industry evolves.
On the final GMH Hotels episode of 2025, Sarah Dandashy is joined by Katie Cline to break down the forces closing out the year in hospitality and travel. They explore the “ugly new math” pressuring hotel margins, a wave of airline CEO changes signaling deeper industry shifts, and how luxury travel is being redefined beyond passports and borders. The episode also looks at New York City's newly approved casino and Spain's crackdown on unlicensed Airbnb listings. A fitting year-end wrap as Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast returns January 5th, 2026. This episode is brought to you by Amazon! To learn more, go to advertising.amazon.com Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
On this episode of Good Morning Hospitality, Wil Slickers, Michael Goldin, Brandreth Canaley, and Jamie Lane revisit the predictions they made at the beginning of 2025 to see how the year actually played out. With a full year of data, headlines, and hindsight behind them, the crew breaks down what they got right, where they missed the mark, and which trends caught them completely off guard. From demand patterns and distribution shifts to tech, labor, and guest behavior, this annual GMH tradition offers an honest and entertaining look back at the assumptions that shaped the year, and the lessons worth carrying into what comes next. This episode is brought to you by Amazon! To learn more, go to advertising.amazon.com Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
On this episode of GMH Hotels, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk bring back one of the show's favorite traditions: the annual predictions review. At the start of the year, they each made bold calls about the trends, challenges, and opportunities that would shape hotels and travel in 2025. Now, with December here, they're revisiting every forecast to see what actually happened, what completely surprised them, and what they never saw coming. From loyalty and labor to tech, guest behavior, and industry performance, this episode is a fun, honest, and insightful look at how the year unfolded — and how well their early instincts held up. Perfect way to close out 2025 and set the stage for what's next!
On today's Good Morning Hospitality, Wil Slickers, Jamie Lane, Brandreth Canaley, and Michael Goldin dig into the trends shaping the start of the week across travel and lodging. Jamie brings fresh World Cup host-city data with early demand and pricing signals, along with his top takeaways from the DARM conference. The team then looks at the slowdown in travel startup funding and how tighter capital is influencing innovation, competition, and the types of companies most likely to break through in the months ahead. They close by unpacking a new article on how U.S. lodging has shifted away from serving the middle-class traveler. This episode is brought to you by Amazon! To learn more, go to advertising.amazon.com Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
On this episode of GMH Hotels, Wil Slickers and Steve Turk cover a busy week in travel! Expedia Group taps former Google AI leader Xavier (Xavi) Amatriain as its first Chief AI and Data Officer, TSA introduces a new $45 fee for travelers without a Real ID or passport, hotel loyalty programs undergo a major reinvention, and Marriott International expands into branded residences with its Ambar Orlando partnership. The episode wraps with an outrageous travel story you won't want to miss! This episode is brought to you by Amazon! To learn more, go to advertising.amazon.com Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
On this episode of Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast, Wil Slickers, Jamie Lane, Brandreth Canaley, and Michael Goldin dive into some of the biggest moves in short-term rentals and travel. First, they unpack the recent deal where Evolve acquired 1,000 owner contracts from Casago, a bold consolidation that could reshape supply and operator models. Then they explore why Luxury Escapes is doubling down on brick-and-mortar travel experiences, betting that traditional hospitality's strengths give it an edge as travel behavior evolves. The discussion expands with insights from industry trends in vacation rentals, including lessons from the recent Phocuswright Conference on where rentals are headed next. Jamie also drops a new “Stat of the Week” that underlines shifts in demand and booking behavior. From consolidation to experiential travel and evolving guest expectations, this episode maps where hospitality — hotels and rentals alike — is going next. This episode is brought to you by Amazon! To learn more, go to advertising.amazon.com Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
On this episode of GMH Hotels, Wil Slickers and Sarah Dandashy are joined by guest-host Dennis Schaal, Founding Editor at Skift, for an exclusive 10-minute segment on the newly announced deal: Capital One's planned acquisition of Hopper. They'll dive into the implications for hotel tech, travel finance, and how key engineering and hotel talent will shift with the deal. Then, Sarah and Wil break down two other major developments reshaping hospitality: First, the partnership between Apple and Delta Air Lines to extend bag-tracking and item-location services across travel, offering new guest-experience opportunities. Next, they explore how citizenM hotels CEO is positioning the brand after securing a $685 million loan post-sale by Marriott International, signaling what's next for one of the fastest-growing lifestyle hotel players. Tune in for a mix of tech, finance, and brand strategy signals that suggest hospitality is entering a new phase of consolidation, guest empowerment, and capital repositioning. Presented by Lodgify Follow the Hosts: Sarah Dandashy – LinkedIn Wil Slickers - LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
On today's Good Morning Hospitality, Wil Slickers, Jamie Lane, Brandreth Canaley, and Michael Goldin break down Google's latest step into agentic travel planning. This system can build, price, and coordinate full itineraries, yet insists it has "no intention" of becoming an OTA. The crew explores what this means for hotels, short-term rentals, platforms, and anyone competing for consumer discovery and booking flows. Jamie also unveils brand-new data tracking World Cup demand across short-term rentals, including early signals on ADRs, booking pace, and which cities are heating up faster than expected. As the biggest travel event of 2026 approaches, the team looks at how STR markets are shifting in real time and what operators should be preparing for now. Plus, quick shoutouts to two recent fundraises from BoomPop and Localbird before diving into the week's biggest trends shaping hospitality and travel. Presented by Lodgify Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
On this episode of GMH, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk break down a lineup of stories shaping the hotel and travel landscape.
Today on Good Morning Hospitality, Brandreth Canaley, Michael Goldin, and Jamie Lane break down the latest earnings results from Airbnb and Expedia Group. A quarter defined by discounting, flexible payment options, and a surge in “reserve now, pay later” bookings. They examine how these strategies helped drive strong performance for both platforms and raise the big question hanging over the industry: Is this level of demand sustainable once the promotional fuel burns off? Presented by Lodgify Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
This week on GMH Hotels, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk explore four stories that capture the shifting landscape of hospitality and travel. They begin with Accor's newest luxury soft brand, created to attract independent hotel owners seeking the reach of a global chain while maintaining local character. Next, they look at how hotels are turning to AI tools and smaller-plate strategies to cut food waste and reduce emissions — proving that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand. Sarah and Steve then dive into Expedia Group's growing B2B momentum as its consumer business steadies, a strategic pivot that's redefining how hotels leverage partnerships and distribution. Finally, they discuss how ongoing air travel disruptions are driving a surge in rail and bus bookings, reshaping traveler habits, and opening new opportunities for hotels near secondary markets and transport hubs. From brand expansion and AI innovation to distribution power plays and multimodal demand, this episode covers the full scope of where hospitality is headed next. Presented by Lodgify Follow the Hosts: Sarah Dandashy – LinkedIn Steve Turk – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
On this episode of Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast, Wil Slickers, Michael Goldin, and Brandreth Canaley are joined by Skift Senior Hospitality Reporter Sean O'Neill to unpack the breaking story of Marriott Bonvoy ending its licensing agreement with Sonder Inc. after the company defaulted on the deal. The partnership had been a much-needed lifeline for Sonder, allowing its apartment-style properties to be listed across Marriott's booking channels. But with the agreement now terminated, and Sonder's own website currently showing zero available listings, the situation is raising questions about the company's operations, liquidity, and future as a public brand. Marriott has said it's assisting guests with existing bookings made through its platforms, while those who booked via third parties should contact their providers directly. As this story continues to develop, Sean shares what's known so far, and the GMH crew digs into what this could signal for Marriott's extended-stay ambitions, Sonder's next move (if any at all), and how confidence in hotel–tech partnerships may shift in the days/weeks ahead. Presented by Lodgify Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Wil Slickers – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
This week on GMH Hotels, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk are joined by Skift Airlines Reporter, Meghna Maharishi, to kick off the show with updates on how the government shutdown has impacted the airline industry and what ripple effects it's had on Marriott's business performance. After Meghna's segment, Sarah and Steve dive into Marriott International's 2026 outlook, unpacking the company's plans for new credit card partnerships, expected gains from the World Cup, and continued strength in the luxury segment. They also discuss the latest corporate layoffs at American Airlines and explore how hotels and travel companies are turning to soil carbon credits as part of their sustainability strategies. From shutdowns and staffing to carbon markets and brand growth, this episode offers a grounded look at the forces shaping hospitality right now. Presented by Lodgify Follow the Hosts: Sarah Dandashy – LinkedIn Steve Turk – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
This week on Good Morning Hospitality, Brandreth Canaley, Jamie Lane, and Michael Goldin unpack three big stories shaping travel. Has Airbnb hit its ceiling as growth slows and regulations tighten? Why are luxury all-inclusives becoming the go-to for high-end travelers? And how is Vrbo's new “Loved by Guests” program using trust and transparency to win over travelers? From platforms to guest experience, the GMH crew breaks down what these shifts reveal about where hospitality is headed next. Presented by Lodgify Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
In this episode of GMH Hotels, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk tackle the latest strategic moves re-shaping travel and hospitality. We start with how Death & Co. is disrupting hotel design by introducing a bar-first hotel brand that fuses nightlife and stay experiences. Next, we examine why airlines are moving to premium, with JetBlue announcing a domestic first-class cabin in 2026 and what that signals for hospitality brands in guest segmentation and experience. Then, we dive into how Mews is acquiring an AI firm to simplify hotel data usage and streamline operations. We also review how IHG Hotels & Resorts is expanding its soft brand strategy amid its strongest-ever pipeline, and what it means when Accor confirms a potential IPO for its lifestyle division Ennismore. Presented by Lodgify Follow the Hosts: Sarah Dandashy – LinkedIn Steve Turk – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
This morning on Good Morning Hospitality, Michael Goldin, Brandreth Canaley, and Jamie Lane explore three major forces reshaping travel and hospitality. First, they examine how the rise of agentic AI could transform OTAs into passive order-takers. Next, they dive into the new social-features rollout on Airbnb Experiences that aim to deepen guest-to-guest connection and engagement. Finally, with the U.S. federal hiring freeze entering day 27 of the shutdown, Jamie brings data and insight on how this continues to ripple through airports, national parks, and hotel-adjacent services. Presented by Lodgify Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
On this week's episode of GMH Hotels, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk unpack five major developments reshaping the hospitality and travel ecosystem. First, the luxury-hotelier Mandarin Oriental Oriental is being taken private in a deal valued at $4.2 billion. Then they examine the ripple effects of a major Amazon Web Services (AWS) outage that disrupted travel operators and highlighted infrastructure fragility. Waymo enters the business-travel arena with its new “Waymo for Business” robotaxi program aimed at corporate clients. They also dive into the cheeky marketing strategy of Ryanair—from tanks to TikTok—and how travel brands are waging attention wars. Finally, they explore how host cities for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ - Canada, Mexico and the United States are raising hotel taxes ahead of 2026 and what that pressure motion looks like for hotel operators. Sarah and Steve provide a full-spectrum briefing on what hotel leaders need to watch right now and how to stay ahead of the curve! Presented by Lodgify Follow the Hosts: Katie Cline – LinkedIn Steve Turk – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
Michael Goldin, Brandreth Canaley, and Wil Slickers celebrate five years of Good Morning Hospitality by diving into this week's biggest industry stories — from American Express Travel's record bookings and Capital One's new 5x points on short-term rentals, to United Airlines cutting 4% of management roles due to AI, and Airbnb launching a political organization in Arizona. Presented by Lodgify Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Wil Slickers – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
Join Steve Turk and guest-host Katie Cline as they dive into this week's biggest stories in the world of travel. They'll unpack the latest hotel loyalty rankings and what they mean for loyalty programs, a brewing squatter scare for short-term rental hosts in France, and evolving rules for travel to Europe. Then, they'll explore Delta Air Lines' strategic push toward affluent travelers via their American Express partnership and finally, how hotels are reimagining resorts as coral restoration labs in the face of climate stress on reefs. Presented by Lodgify Follow the Hosts: Katie Cline – LinkedIn Steve Turk – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
This week on Good Morning Hospitality, Michael Goldin, Brandy Canaley, and Jamie Lane put OpenAI's integrations with Expedia and Booking.com to the test — planning full trips through ChatGPT. The crew compares notes on how the AI handled flights, hotels, and recommendations, and where it still falls short of replacing the human touch in travel planning. Then, they unpack how AI is transforming operations on the back end too, with a look at the $12 million funding round fueling a new generation of AI-powered property management systems. Finally, Delta's CEO shared that they don't see many flight delays due to the government shutdown, but as we enter Q4 and the shutdown continues, this could all change very quickly. From booking bots to flight delays, it's an episode that bridges tech innovation with real-world travel realities. Presented by Lodgify Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
This week on GMH Hotels, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk cover a packed lineup shaping the global hotel landscape. Hilton unveils its 25th brand, Outset Collection, aimed at boutique conversions, while Numa introduces a premium lodging brand redefining urban stays across Europe. They also discuss softer-than-expected U.S. RevPAR, rising sick calls among air traffic controllers, and a growing trend known as “Longevity Travel” — where wellness meets wanderlust. From operations and brand strategy to the future of health-focused hospitality, Sarah and Steve unpack what these shifts mean for hoteliers, investors, and travelers heading into 2026. Follow the Hosts: Steve Turk – LinkedIn Sarah Dandashy – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
In this episode of GMH, Michael Goldin, Brandreth Canaley, and Jamie Lane break down the biggest currents rippling through travel right now. First, they dig into Airbnb's Host Summit and its proposed shift to business profiles for property managers. Then, they pivot to Expedia Group's evolving role and what the new Comet–Expedia partnership may mean for distribution and competition. Finally, with a government shutdown in progress, the trio assess how it ripples through air travel, national parks, staffing, and traveler behavior. Together, they'll parse risks, opportunities, and what leaders in lodging, distribution, and destinations need to watch next. Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk explore how travel and hospitality are adapting to shifting demands. From Marriott International's new outdoor-focused soft brand to Viking's warning about cruise fuels, the conversation spans sustainability, policy challenges like a possible U.S. government shutdown, Eurostar's push for fairness against airlines, and Booking.com's move into attractions. The episode unpacks what these shifts mean for hotels navigating an evolving travel landscape! Follow the Hosts: Steve Turk – LinkedIn Sarah Dandashy – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week on Good Morning Hospitality, Michael Goldin, Brandreth Canaley, and Jamie Lane sit down with Tim Rosolio, VP of Partner Success at Vrbo, to unpack how Expedia Group's new distribution strategy is reshaping opportunities for vacation rental operators. From expanded visibility across Expedia platforms to the rollout of One Key, Merchant of Record, and new AI-driven features, the conversation explores what hosts and managers can expect as Vrbo integrates deeper into Expedia's ecosystem. We also cover how urban markets may benefit, what loyalty means for vacation rentals, and whether guest-uploaded photos and review summaries will help—or hurt—operators. This episode is brought to you by Guesty! Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this episode of GMH Hotels, Sarah Dandashy is joined by guest-host Katie Cline to unpack a pivotal week in travel and hospitality. Spirit Airlines prepares to furlough 1,800 flight attendants, raising questions about service, labor relations, and the ripple effects across the travel sector. Agoda faces growing backlash over its job cuts and controversial employee clauses, highlighting tensions between cost control and workplace trust. IHG Hotels & Resorts introduces Ruby Hotels to the U.S. market with a focus on compact urban properties, a move that could reshape competition in city centers. The conversation also examines Booking Holdings (NASDAQ: BKNG) AI strategy and investor unease, drawing comparisons to the dot-com era, alongside Expedia Group's acknowledgement of sluggish U.S. demand. Together, these stories reveal the pressures and opportunities that are shaping the next chapter for hotels and the broader travel industry. Follow the Hosts: Katie Cline – LinkedIn Sarah Dandashy – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Michael Goldin, Jamie Lane, and Wil Slickers unpack the biggest takeaways from Skift Global Forum and Vrbo's Connect conference while Brandreth Canaley is away preparing for her move to Boston. Jamie shares his perspective as a speaker at Vrbo's event, where Expedia Group announced major distribution expansion, stricter listing standards, and new host tools. The conversation also touches on Airbnb's tech overhaul and how these shifts are shaping competition, guest expectations, and host opportunities. Next week, Tim Rosolio, VP of Vacation Rental Partner Success, joins the show for a deeper dive into the changes happening at Vrbo.This episode is brought to you by Guesty! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Join Sarah Dandashy and Katie Cline as they discuss what's happening at Skift Global Forum and the greater travel industry! Please forgive any audio issues, as we had some wifi signal issues during this broadcast. Follow the Hosts: Katie Cline – LinkedIn Sarah Dandashy – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On today's episode of Good Morning Hospitality, Michael Goldin, Brandreth Canaley, and Jamie Lane recap the big themes from GuestyVal, from oversupply pressures and the call for greater standardization to whether unreasonable hospitality at scale is truly achievable (we believe it is). In the second half of the show, Jamie takes us through the two-year anniversary of New York's short-term rental ban and the lessons it continues to offer. We also revisit our earlier discussion on Bad Bunny's San Juan residency, this time with data on its tourism impact and a look at whether other cities could sustain a similar cultural draw. And don't forget, Skift Global Forum kicks off tomorrow in New York and runs through September 18th. If you're not attending in person, you can still catch the livestream with a Skift Pro subscription at Skift.com. This episode is brought to you by Guesty! Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week on GMH Hotels, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk break down the latest shifts shaping travel. U.S. visa rules are tightening, creating longer waits and higher costs for applicants. YOTEL names a new CEO from Marriott International as it eyes bold growth. Accor makes a high-stakes entry into Las Vegas with Treasure Island Hotel & Casino, potentially its largest property worldwide. JetBlue rolls out a new platform to cut emissions and boost fuel efficiency. And OTAs ramp up marketing spend to $5 billion in Q2, betting big on social media and AI. From regulations and leadership changes to sustainability moves and digital strategy, we unpack how these forces are reshaping travel's future! Follow the Hosts: Steve Turk – LinkedIn Sarah Dandashy – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this week's Good Morning Hospitality, Michael Goldin and Brandreth Canaley dive into three stories reshaping the hospitality landscape. Oman's $7 million investment in UnderTheDoormat Group highlights how government support is fueling the growth of alternative accommodations. The team then unpacks the cautionary tales of Selina and Sonder Inc., two once-hyped disruptors whose struggles show the dangers of chasing scale without sustainable fundamentals. This topic is based on a great article and video by Rafat Ali, which was published not too long ago. Finally, Michael and Brandy discuss the trend of hotels and Airbnb turning their focus toward locals — whether through day-use packages, work-from-hotel offers, or community-focused stays — and what this shift means for the industry's future. This episode is brought to you by Guesty! Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On GMH Hotels this week, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk start with Copenhagen's CopenPay program that rewards visitors for traveling sustainably and is quickly becoming a model for more than 100 other cities worldwide. They then turn to a new J.D. Power report showing declining guest satisfaction at third-party managed hotels, with frustrations growing over food quality, cleanliness, and upkeep. In the luxury space, India-based TBO.COM Tek is acquiring Classic Vacations in a $125 million deal that combines tech-driven distribution with the reach of U.S. luxury travel advisors. Finally, new U.S. visa rules requiring most applicants to attend in-person interviews are set to impact students, business travelers, and international visitors as processing times lengthen. Follow the Hosts: Steve Turk – LinkedIn Sarah Dandashy – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this Labor Day episode of GMH STR Crew, Jamie Lane and Michael Goldin break down Airbnb's major shift requiring PMS-connected hosts to adopt the host-only fee structure, explaining what it means for professional managers and individual hosts. They unpack how Airbnb's “total price” display strategy impacts conversion, why this aligns with its push into hotels, and what changes hosts need to make now to avoid losing revenue. The crew also dives into TikTok's new partnership with Booking.com, exploring how social platforms are becoming powerful travel booking engines and why influencers may be the next generation of travel agents. This episode is brought to you by Guesty! Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week on GMH Hotels, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk unpack some of the biggest moves in travel and hospitality. Hyatt expands its loyalty program into lifestyle perks, while Hilton reimagines its 106-year-old flagship brand for a new generation of guests. In Las Vegas, a closed Strip hotel is auctioning off iconic memorabilia, raising questions about preservation and reinvention in hospitality. The crew also covers Ryanair's return to major OTAs, Hertz's furry new “Gold Squad” delighting airport travelers, and the controversy swirling around Southwest Airlines's new plus-size seating policy. With industry shake-ups across airlines, hotels, and guest experiences, this episode takes a closer look at where loyalty, design, and customer connection are heading next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week on Good Morning Hospitality, Michael Goldin, Brandreth Canaley and Jamie Lane dive into the latest shifts shaping short-term rentals and travel. Vrbo's new guest cancellation policy aims to increase flexibility and bookings but raises concerns from hosts about risk and revenue stability. Tripadvisor faces investor pressure to spin off Viator, signaling how tours and experiences are becoming central to the travel ecosystem. Meanwhile, Casago doubles down on its franchise model, taking over hundreds of former Vacasa properties to push a localized, service-driven approach. Join us as we break down what these moves mean for hosts, managers, and the future of the STR industry. This episode is brought to you by Guesty! Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this week's episode, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk unpack Soho House & Co's $2.7B move to go private and what it means for the future of luxury lifestyle clubs, plus the risks of influencers relying on ChatGPT for visa advice after one viral travel mishap. They also explore TikTok's push into travel commerce with its new affiliate program for hotels, raising questions about whether social content can truly drive bookings. On the travel side, Spirit Airlines' uncertain future looms large as experts warn its collapse could send fares soaring, while Google Flights adds AI-powered “Flight Deals” that may challenge OTAs, and AAA forecasts record Labor Day travel across air, road, and rail. Follow the Hosts: Steve Turk – LinkedIn Sarah Dandashy – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This Monday, the GMH Short-Term Rental Crew, with Michael Goldin, Brandreth Canaley, and Jamie Lane dive into the latest moves shaping the STR and travel landscape. Airbnb rolls out its new “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option, signaling a shift toward more flexible booking terms that could boost conversions for longer stays. BNPL trends are expanding across airlines, hotels, and cruises, raising questions about guest spending habits and potential adoption in vacation rentals. Expedia Group makes a strategic design hire with Rachel Been as SVP, underscoring the power of user experience in driving loyalty. Sonder faces a leadership shake-up with the departure of CFO Michael Hughes, while Vrbo's WeatherPromise program offers automatic payouts for rain-affected stays—no claims required—hinting at new ways to protect and reassure travelers. The hosts unpack what these changes mean for operators, platforms, and guests, and explore how innovation, design, and traveler trust are becoming critical in the competition for bookings. This episode is brought to you by Guesty! Follow the Hosts: Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week on Good Morning Hospitality, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk dive into the latest trends shaping hotels and travel. They explore how a luxury property running entirely on renewable energy could set a new standard for eco-conscious hospitality, Hyatt's sharpened focus on luxury and asset-light growth, and the mounting challenges — and creative fixes — for declining hotel loyalty program value. On the travel side, the hosts look at Seabourn Cruise Line's launch of high-end Arctic and Antarctic expedition cruises and practical strategies for passengers to secure extra space on flights without paying full business class prices. From sustainability to loyalty innovation to premium experiences, this episode covers the moves shaping the industry's next chapter. Follow the Hosts: Steve Turk – LinkedIn Sarah Dandashy – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We're diving into a busy week across the OTA landscape. Booking.com just launched its first U.S. credit card in partnership with Visa and Imprint, and we unpack what this means for direct bookings, loyalty, and whether it can really compete with the big travel cards already in your wallet. We also break down Expedia Group's Q2 earnings, where strong B2B ad performance and international travel lifted their guidance, but Vrbo's continued silence raises some questions. Then we shift to Airbnb's latest financials since rolling out their new services bundle — early check-in, luggage storage, and more — and talk through what kind of platform Airbnb is becoming. Plus, we share our predictions on who Airbnb might acquire next and why as they gear up to deploy their warchest of cash. This episode is brought to you by Guesty! You can join us at GuestyVal in Mexico City by getting your ticket here: https://lnkd.in/gWnfp-Re Follow the Hosts: Wil Slickers – LinkedIn Brandy Canaley – LinkedIn Jamie Lane – LinkedIn Michael Goldin – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week on Good Morning Hospitality Hotels, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk break down Marriott Hotels's flat Q2 performance and a dip in U.S. hotel occupancy, plus they spotlight new inclusive hiring initiatives where hotels are employing individuals with intellectual disabilities. On the travel side, they unpack TSA's potential rollback of the 3.4-ounce liquid rule, Delta Air Lines's refusal to use AI for customer targeting, and a controversial U.S. visa bond proposal. Tune in for this insightful episode exploring how the hospitality industry is evolving operationally, socially, and technologically. Follow the Hosts: Steve Turk – LinkedIn Sarah Dandashy – LinkedIn Connect with Skift: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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