Hospitality Daily Podcast

In this episode, Craig Poole, a three-time Hilton Connie Award winner and AHLA's General Manager of the Year, shares why it's time to go back to the basics of hospitality. Craig shares why leadership, presence, knowing your people, and engaging directly with guests still matter more than ever. Drawing on decades of experience, he offers practical reminders for hotel leaders seeking to build stronger teams, deliver better guest experiences, and build more resilient businesses.See more with Craig: Listen: People are the point of impact: How to create new beginnings and empower through leadershipListen: Transforming lives through hospitality: What inspired me to do moreListen: Be the change you want to see: My advice for hospitality leadersWatch: Follow Me and I Will Be Behind YouFollow Craig on LinkedIn A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Agnelo Fernandes, CEO of Cote Hospitality, shares his take on what will matter most for hospitality leaders in the year ahead. As technology and AI continue to accelerate, Agnelo argues that people and culture—not platforms or tools—will ultimately define the winners in the industry. He explores why the guest journey is becoming more complex, why labor challenges are structural rather than temporary, and why even the best technology fails without the right teams behind it. For hospitality executives navigating rapid change, this conversation offers an expert perspective on leadership, culture, and building long-term competitive advantage. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this short update, Josiah shares how Hospitality Daily is evolving in the year ahead. Ask your question here on LinkedInA few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this short episode, Craig Poole reflects on what Christmas reveals about leadership in hospitality and why this season is often when culture matters most.You may also enjoy these from Craig: When Places Are Broken, Hospitality Can Lead With HopeWhy Hospitality Creates Hope A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Craig Poole reflects on why hospitality is uniquely positioned to create hope—especially in broken or forgotten places. Drawing on his experience turning around marginalized properties and communities, Craig explains why hope isn't something leaders can wish for but must actively build through selfless decisions and risk-taking. The conversation explores hospitality as a giving profession—and how hope emerges when leaders invest in people others overlook.  A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Josiah Mackenzie speaks with Craig Poole, a three-time Hilton Connie Award winner and AHLA's General Manager of the Year, about hospitality's unique ability to heal broken places. Craig shares how he approaches struggling hotels and communities by changing perception first—restoring dignity, self-esteem, and hope long before financial results follow. Drawing on real-world turnarounds, he explains why investing in people and engaging the surrounding community can transform not just a business, but an entire environment. See more with Craig: Listen: People are the point of impact: How to create new beginnings and empower through leadershipListen: Transforming lives through hospitality: What inspired me to do moreListen: Be the change you want to see: My advice for hospitality leadersWatch: Follow Me and I Will Be Behind YouFollow Craig on LinkedIn A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Rob Blood, Founder and Chairman of Lark, returns for a one-year check-in following Lark's blockbuster deal with Life House. Rob reflects on what it actually takes to scale a hospitality company after the announcement—working through integration challenges, repairing trust, and intentionally building culture under pressure. The conversation explores how values are operationalized at scale, why storytelling and culture anchor identity, and what to look for in leaders when complexity increases. You may also enjoy:Billion-Dollar Boutique Blockbuster: The Story Behind Lark Hotels' Joint Venture with Life HouseHow We Created An Award-Winning Boutique Hotel Management and Development Company - Meg Kennedy & Rob Blood, Lark HotelsRoad Trips & Revelations: Fresh Ideas for Hospitality - Meg Kennedy & Rob Blood, Lark Hotels A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Josiah Mackenzie reconnects with Lynn Bruni-Perkins, Chief Marketing Officer of the San Francisco Travel Association, to talk about where San Francisco is right now and where it's headed. Lynn shares how storytelling and hospitality play a central role in shaping a city's future, from rebuilding civic pride to driving visitors to powering the economy. The conversation explores SF Travel's “Believe in San Francisco” messaging platform, the importance of residents as ambassadors, and why welcoming people—especially in moments of change—matters more than ever for cities and the hospitality professionals who serve them.Watch "Believe in the City" on YouTubeSee the "Heart of the City" neighborhood series A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Josiah Mackenzie is joined by Danica Smith, guest experience correspondent for Hospitality Daily and founder of MorningStar GX, to discuss whether hoteliers should start “vibe coding” with AI. Danica shares why she decided to experiment with building software herself, what surprised her most along the way, and how AI is removing long-standing technical barriers across hospitality roles. Together, they unpack where this creates real opportunity for operators, leaders, and advisors—and what still matters deeply as technology accelerates. For hospitality professionals curious about AI but unsure where to start, this conversation offers a practical perspective.Resources:SheAI v0 by VercelGitHub A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Josiah Mackenzie speaks with Mark Fancourt, cofounder and principal at TRAVHOTECH, and a former senior leader across global hospitality brands and technology companies. Their conversation moves beyond the typical AI talking points in our industry to examine the less-discussed implications for hospitality — from the workforce and robotics to shifting consumer demand and long-term industry sustainability. Mark offers a perspective shaped by decades of operational leadership and hands-on experimentation with emerging technologies.  A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this sponsor bonus episode, Agnelo Fernandes, CEO of Cote Hospitality, shares how he and his team use ProfitSword by Actabl to manage hotel performance each day. He explains how real-time visibility into revenue, labor, and other costs enables better game-time decisions to drive profitability.You may also enjoy:What Our "52 Games a Year" Mindset Reveals About Leading Performance in Hospitality - Agnelo Fernandes, Cote Hospitality"If We're Not Using Technology, We're Done": A CEO's Wake-Up Call for Hospitality - Agnelo Fernandes, Cote HospitalityYour Reporting Is Killing Profitability (Here's How to Fix It) - Lindsey Goedeker, ActablUnlocking the Big Wins in Hotel Profitability Today - Steven Moore, ActablThe People Side of Data: How We Spend Less Time on Reports, More Time with Guests (And Still Thrive) - Shozib Khan, Spire Hospitality A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Agnelo Fernandes, CEO of Cote Hospitality, shares how recent conversations during a trip to Northern California sharpened his perspective on the pace of technological change—and what it means for hospitality leaders. He explains why technology, and increasingly AI, is no longer just about efficiency, but a critical enabler of personalization, empowered teams, and delivering on the promise of hospitality. Agnelo also outlines the financial and operational pressures forcing the industry to rethink labor, data, and decision-making. For leaders navigating rising expectations and tighter margins, this conversation offers a clear-eyed view of what's becoming non-negotiable. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Agnelo Fernandes, CEO of Cote Hospitality, shares how he thinks about leading performance in a challenging operating environment. As demand flattens and costs continue to rise, Agnelo explains why labor is unlikely to return to "normal" anytime soon, how simplicity and adaptability have become competitive advantages, and why strong brands are built in moments. He introduces his “52 Games a Year” mindset, reframing performance as a season of wins and losses that requires constant adjustment rather than rigid plans. This episode offers hospitality leaders a practical, people-first perspective on driving sustainable performance without losing what makes hospitality work. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Agnelo Fernandes, CEO of Cote Hospitality, takes us inside the thinking behind the company's GUIDE mentorship program—designed to develop leaders from within while improving retention and strengthening culture. Agnelo explains why mentorship works best as a two-way relationship, how personal branding fits into leadership development, and why human connection—not hierarchy—is the foundation of meaningful growth. He also shares the tangible business outcomes Cote is seeing, from stronger retention to deeper engagement and a growing pipeline of future leaders. This conversation offers a practical, values-driven look at how mentorship can become a strategic advantage in hospitality. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Josiah Mackenzie sits down with Agnelo Fernandes, CEO of Cote Hospitality, to explore the career journey and leadership philosophy behind one of hospitality's most human-centered executives. Agnelo reflects on his unconventional path from finance into hospitality, the micro-moments that shaped his belief in empathy and servant leadership, and why fulfillment—not titles or compensation—has kept him committed to the industry. The conversation also dives into practical lessons from his rise to CEO, including leading from any seat, slowing down to listen, and solving problems with conviction. This episode is a thoughtful reminder of why hospitality matters—and what it takes to lead with both discipline and soul. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Craig Poole reflects on how a lifetime in hospitality built the resilience and mindset he's relied on while fighting cancer. He shares lessons drawn from decades of leadership — gratitude, selflessness, adaptability, and compassion — and explains why hospitality uniquely prepares people to face life's hardest challenges. Craig also revisits his philosophy of leadership, community, and being “behind” the people you lead, and how that philosophy has taken on deeper meaning through illness. This is a thoughtful conversation about strength, service, and what hospitality teaches us far beyond our careers.Resources: Listen: People are the point of impact: How to create new beginnings and empower through leadershipListen: Transforming lives through hospitality: What inspired me to do moreListen: Be the change you want to see: My advice for hospitality leadersWatch: Follow Me and I Will Be Behind YouFollow Craig on LinkedIn A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Hospitality Daily host Josiah Mackenzie joins a roundtable of the top podcasters in hospitality for an unfiltered look at the stories that defined 2025 and what leaders can anticipate for the year ahead. Moderated by Katie Cline, host of Suite Success, the discussion brings together Zach Busekrus (Behind the Stays), David Millili and Steve Carran (The Modern Hotelier), and Glenn Haussman (No Vacancy) to unpack the realities behind luxury's continued rise, loyalty's identity crisis, AI hype versus impact, trade show fatigue, and how operators protected profitability in a challenging year. Drawing on hundreds of conversations each has had across the industry, this episode offers a grounded, experience-driven perspective on where hospitality stands today and the forces likely to shape 2026. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, we're learning from Craig Stanghetta, Founder and Creative Director of Ste Marie, about why the most successful hospitality concepts are designed around emotion rather than just aesthetics. Drawing on his background in theatre, Craig shares how story, risk, and a balance of comfort and wonder shape spaces guests actually return to. He also shares what emotional design looks like in an increasingly AI-driven world and why human connection remains hospitality's most durable advantage. Want more? Listen to Craig's interview on Hospitality DesignCheck out Craig's work on Instagram or the Ste Marie website A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this special bonus episode, we break down Actabl's Q3 2025 Hotel Labor Benchmarking Data and explore what it means for hotel operators planning for 2026. Sarah McCay Tams, Head of Research and Editorial for HotelData.com, walks through the major trends shaping wages, overtime, headcount, and productivity across U.S. hotels. She's joined by experienced operators Shanell Marinuzzi and Peter Kilbourne, who share practical insights on staffing models, forecasting accuracy, cross-training, and using overtime strategically. Listeners will come away with a clearer understanding of how top-performing hotels protected margins in 2025 -- and what to do now to better align labor with real-time demand in the year ahead.Resources:See the charts: Q3 2025 Hotel Labor Benchmarking DataRead: How Hotels Used Labor Efficiency to Protect Margins in 2025Read: The Future of Hotel Labor Management: A Smarter, People-First Approach to ProfitabilityRequest a call with Actabl to learn about how they can help you right-size labor A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, we're learning from Daniel Lauber, founder of CERVO Mountain Resort, in a conversation with our innovation correspondent Matthias Huettebraeuker about reimagining what hospitality can be today. Daniel shares how CERVO evolved from a modern hunting lodge concept into a holistic “way of living” rooted in community, culture, and connection. He explains why mindfulness and enjoying life can naturally coexist, what authenticity really means beyond alpine clichés, and how design, rituals, and programming can create meaningful spaces for guests, staff, and locals. For hospitality leaders, this episode offers a deeply thoughtful look at innovation, guest expectations, and the human side of building a resort that feels alive. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this conversation, our guest experience correspondent, Danica Smith, interviews Matthew Bell, Managing Director at Mollie's, and former Chief Hotel Operations Officer at citizenM, about why so many digital initiatives continue to underperform. Matt explains how misaligned goals, over-engineered projects, and a lack of clear value metrics often hold hotels back, and why a more incremental, guest-led approach delivers better results. He also shares why personal devices, identity, and authentication will shape the next wave of guest experience innovation. Hospitality leaders will come away with a clearer framework for evaluating their tech stack and focusing on what actually delivers results. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this solo Thanksgiving episode, Hospitality Daily founder and publisher Josiah Mackenzie reflects on the bright spots he saw across the hospitality industry this year—from operators protecting profit amid headwinds to a renewed respect for on-property teams and the smart use of technology to drive results. He highlights the leadership, culture, and operational fundamentals that carried the industry through a challenging period. Josiah also shares the personal gratitude he feels for the collaborators, contributors, and listeners who helped shape the show and his own learning this year.  A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this conversation, our guest experience correspondent, Danica Smith, speaks with Matthew Bell, Managing Director at Mollie's, and former Chief Hotel Operations Officer at citizenM, about what it really takes to scale a hospitality brand without losing its soul and energy. Matt explains the “starfish principle” behind great organizational design, showing how cross-functional, self-contained teams stay closer to the guest experience and make better decisions at speed. He also shares how clarity of vision and the right strategic frameworks create autonomy for creative, ambitious teams.  A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

Matthew Bell, Managing Director at Mollie's, shares the foundational ideas that shape his approach to building modern hospitality brands in this conversation with our guest experience correspondent, Danica Smith -- from applying critical thinking and experimentation to empowering frontline teams through an inverted-pyramid culture. Drawing on formative experiences and a decade leading operations at citizenM, he explains how assumptions are tested, how failure becomes learning, and why clarity of product and guest-centric design matter most when scaling. Bell also offers a first look at the evolution of Mollie's as it expands from roadside motels into urban, design-led hotels and diners, revealing the principles he believes will define high-performing hospitality in the years ahead.  A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, we're learning from Jannes Sörensen, founder of Kepler Hotel Group and the Kepler International Hospitality Academy, in a conversation hosted by our innovation correspondent Matthias Huettebraeuker.  A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this solo episode, Josiah shares why 2025 became the “Year of the Operator,” drawing on newly released hotel performance data and trends seen across the industry. He breaks down how top operators protected profitability despite softer-than-expected top-line performance and why operational excellence is emerging as the defining advantage heading into 2026. Josiah also explores the broader “virtuous cycle” that great operators create—connecting teams, guests, and financial performance—and invites leaders across hospitality to share the operational strategies and data stories shaping their work today.Read: Q3 2025 Hotel Profitability Report from HotelData.com by ActablListen: How Hotels Are Protecting Profit in 2025 (Despite a 15% Revenue Miss) - Lindsey Goedeker & Sarah McCay Tams, Actabl A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Ryan Magnon, Chief Operating Officer at Ithaka Hospitality Partners, shares how his team is reimagining food halls as vibrant “third places” that bring communities together. He explains why chef-driven concepts, flexible gathering spaces, and thoughtful experience design are fueling the rise of modern food halls, and what they reveal about how people want to connect today. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Ryan Magnon, Chief Operating Officer at Ithaka Hospitality Partners, explains why strong operations are defining hospitality performance today. Drawing on experience shaped by quality management at Capella, operational leadership at Chick-fil-A, and his early career as a U.S. Air Force officer, Ryan outlines what great operators do differently: study their business as intentionally as they run it, develop their people with purpose, and commit to constant improvement.He also breaks down the metrics, dashboards, and “listening posts” that reveal what's really happening inside an operation — and why understanding the guest journey is essential to staying competitive.Read the research:Q3 2025 Hotel Results: The Profit Story Behind the Numbers (Actabl)Q3 2025: How Hotels Pivoted to Protect Profitability (HotelData.com) A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

Ryan Magnon, now Chief Operating Officer at Ithaka Hospitality Partners, draws on nearly 14 years at Chick-fil-A to explain what hotels can learn from one of the country's most consistently high-performing service brands. In this conversation, he breaks down the cultural foundations Chick-fil-A refuses to compromise on, from aligning teams around purpose to maintaining uncompromising standards of excellence. Ryan also shares how intentional performance study, leadership clarity, and high-support/high-expectation environments translate directly into stronger hotel operations. Hospitality leaders will come away with practical ideas for elevating culture, inspiring teams, and driving excellence without burnout.Also see:Chick-fil-A's Drive-Thru Training Secret: Making 60 Seconds Count - Ryan MagnonHow Baseball Taught a Future Hotel COO Time Management and Hospitality - Ryan MagnonHow We Bring Independent Ideas to Life in Hospitality - Ryan Magnon & Scott Rohm, Ithaka Hospitality Partners A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

Ryan Magnon, Chief Operating Officer at Ithaka Hospitality Partners, returns to explore the early experiences that shaped his approach to leadership today. In this episode, he reflects on his formative years as a young Air Force officer and the lesson that defined his career: learning to rely on the expertise of the seasoned leaders who led him. Ryan explains how humility, trust, and listening became the foundation of his leadership style. Hospitality leaders will hear how these principles continue to guide how he builds teams and drives excellence across a modern hotel organization. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

Ryan Magnon, Chief Operating Officer at Ithaka Hospitality Partners, shares how his early experience as a bat boy for the Atlanta Braves shaped his approach to hospitality and time management. He explains how serving players taught him the fundamentals of anticipating needs, managing time with intention, and developing habits of personal excellence long before he entered the hotel business. This episode explores how those lessons still inform his leadership today and why they matter for anyone operating in hospitality.  A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this final episode of our series with Chet Pipkin, founder of Belkin and an investor and advisor shaping innovation in education, sustainability, and hospitality, we zoom out to explore the major forces he believes will define the future. Chet reflects on how he recognized the rise of personal computing in the 1980s and shares the “next big waves” he's watching now, including AI, energy, wellness, and the transformation of education.We discuss how these shifts could influence how people live, learn, and engage with the world—and what that means for hospitality leaders seeking to create meaningful experiences in a rapidly changing environment. For anyone interested in understanding the broader context shaping guest expectations and opportunities ahead, this conversation offers a valuable perspective. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

Chet Pipkin built Belkin into a billion-dollar global company, and today, he's applying those same leadership principles in hospitality through Desolation Hotel in Lake Tahoe. In this conversation, he shares how his leadership philosophy has evolved and why empowering people at every level is essential to organizational health. At the end, Chet also reveals what he sees as the biggest risk leaders face as their organizations grow—and how to overcome it. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

Chet Pipkin, founder of Belkin and Desolation Hotel, shares how he's bringing decades of experience building one of the world's largest consumer technology companies into the hospitality industry. From EV charging to booking systems and even something as simple as checking out a bike, Chet explains how he designs every touchpoint with technology to feel effortless.In this episode, he breaks down his philosophy of removing friction, solving real problems, and keeping people—both guests and team members—at the center of the experience.If you've ever struggled to make your technology truly work for you, this episode offers a clear, practical framework for simplifying systems and elevating service. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

When Chet Pipkin moved from founding Belkin to creating Desolation Hotel, he brought with him a deep curiosity about how people experience the world—and a lifelong habit of solving problems through design.In this episode, Chet shares how he and his team built Desolation Hotel to create what he calls “aha moments”—those small surprises that make a guest's stay effortless and memorable. From EV chargers and Dyson hair dryers to stocked kitchenettes and heated floors, every detail is intentional. But what matters most isn't the amenities themselves—it's the way Chet thinks about hospitality: removing friction, anticipating needs, and empowering guests to have the experience they want.If you care about designing thoughtful guest experiences, leading with authenticity, and learning how product thinking can elevate hospitality, this conversation offers powerful insight into what true care looks like in practice. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

Chet Pipkin, founder of Belkin and now Desolation Hotel, shares how he's applying decades of experience in innovation and leadership to reimagine what a hospitality business can be. After growing Belkin into a global technology brand, Chet turned his attention to creating meaningful, sustainable experiences in Lake Tahoe—guided by a one-page business plan rooted in simplicity, clarity, and purpose.In this conversation, he explains the five principles behind Desolation Hotel, how focusing first on people leads to exceptional guest experiences, and why profitability and positive impact don't have to be at odds. Listeners will gain insight into how clarity of intent can transform both business performance and community contribution in hospitality today.Also see:Why I'm Building Hotels as "Immersive Portals" - Chet Pipkin, Desolation HotelReconnecting With What Feeds the Soul - Chet Pipkin, Desolation Hotel A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

What makes someone who's reached the highest levels of entrepreneurship and corporate leadership step into the world of hospitality? In this episode, Chet Pipkin—founder of Belkin and now Desolation Hotel—shares the experiences that shaped his vision of hotels as an "immersive portal." A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

Today we're kicking off a new series with Chet Pipkin, founder of Belkin, who's now building Desolation Hotel — a hospitality brand rooted in nature, balance, and meaning.In this episode, we get into why he's doing this work. You'll hear how time in nature grounds him, what “feeding the soul” means in a world of constant connection, and how that personal motivation is shaping the hospitality he's now creating in the Lake Tahoe area. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Jannes Sörensen, founder of Kepler Hotel Group and the Kepler International Hospitality Academy, shares reflections on leadership and inspiration with our innovation correspondent Matthias Huettebraeuker. Drawing from his experience leading executive teams at the highest levels of hospitality, he reveals why the higher you rise in hospitality, the lonelier it can become, and why true leadership starts with how you lead yourself. Jannes explains the importance of cultivating your own sources of inspiration and building teams that don't depend solely on their leader for motivation. Listeners will come away with a more sustainable approach to leadership -- one that nurtures both individual well-being and organizational strength. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this special bonus episode, we share a recent Actabl webinar where Head of Editorial Sarah McCay Tams and Senior Vice President Lindsey Goedeker unpack the real story behind 2025 hotel performance. >> Access the slides with data from this presentation here

In this episode, Jannes Sörensen, founder of Kepler Hotel Group and the Kepler International Hospitality Academy, joins our innovation correspondent Matthias Huettebraeuker to explore how hotels can design experiences that really meet guests' needs. Drawing from his background leading award-winning luxury properties such as The Beaumont in London, Jannes challenges the industry's habit of thinking “solutions before problems.” He shares how re-centering on fundamental human needs—from rest and attention to connection and understanding—creates more meaningful, memorable stays.  A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this conversation, Jannes Sörensen, founder of Kepler Hotel Group and the Kepler International Hospitality Academy, shares a contrarian view of hospitality in an age of abundance with our innovation correspondent Matthias Huettebraeuker. Drawing on two decades leading some of the world's finest hotels, Jannes shares why fulfillment for many often comes not from comfort, but from challenge, purpose, and intentional living.Together, they discuss how luxury hospitality can evolve beyond pampering and abundance to help guests sustain meaningful routines, pursue well-being, and reconnect with what really matters. For hospitality leaders, this episode offers a thought-provoking look at how difficulty may become the next true differentiator in a world where “more” is no longer enough. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Jannes Sörensen—founder of Kepler Hotel Group and the Kepler International Hospitality Academy, and former General Manager of London's award-winning Beaumont Hotel—joins our innovation correspondent Matthias Huettebraeuker to discuss what it really takes to lead consistent excellence in hospitality.Building on yesterday's conversation about service, Jannes explains why structure, systems, and culture—not endless SOPs—are the foundations that allow great hotels to deliver truly remarkable guest experiences. He shares lessons from his time leading The Beaumont on balancing discipline with creativity, developing leadership at every level, and creating a culture where consistent excellence becomes second nature. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, we're learning from Jannes Sörensen, founder of Kepler Hotel Group and the Kepler International Hospitality Academy, in a conversation hosted by our innovation correspondent Matthias Huettebraeuker. After years leading some of the world's best hotels, Jannes shares why differentiation and success in hospitality today comes not from design or amenities, but from the emotional experience we create for guests.He explains how hospitality education and leadership must evolve to drive competitive advantage in a world where service, empathy, and emotional intelligence matter. You'll hear why luxury can no longer be defined by the size of a lobby or number of pillows, and how great hotels win by making people feel something. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

What does it take to build a global career in travel and hospitality — one that spans brands at the top of our industry?In this conversation, our career correspondent, and hertelier founder Emily Goldfischer, sits down with Carolyn Turnbull, the CEO of Nammos Hotels & Resorts, whose journey has taken her from Aman to Tourism Western Australia and beyond. Carolyn shares what she's learned about leadership, trust, and building culture through change — lessons gained from decades working alongside some of hospitality's most visionary people.You'll hear how she's shaping Nammos's global expansion, what it means to lead in the fast-growing ultra-luxury segment, and how relationships and focus have guided her every step of the way.Want more? Read on hertelier: From Country Girl to CEO: Carolyn Turnbull on Why Nammos Is Hospitality's Next Big Luxury Brand A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Eugene Leonard, General Manager of Hotel Café Royal in London, shares with our guest experience correspondent, Danica Smith (founder of MorningStar GX), how a 160-year-old landmark stays relevant to today's luxury traveler. He explains his “zeitgeist” approach to guest experience, updating classic service touchpoints (yes, even shoe-shine) to match what modern, younger luxury guests actually use. Eugene also explains why arrival is the defining moment at Hotel Café Royal, how he builds a guest-first culture across front and back of house, and what it takes to compete in London's ultra-competitive five-star market.  A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Eugene Leonard, General Manager of Hotel Café Royal in London, shares with our guest experience correspondent, Danica Smith (founder of MorningStar GX), his perspective on how technology is changing hospitality now in real ways. From managing 90 disconnected systems to creating one unified guest experience, Eugene explains how better integration and AI tools can help hoteliers make faster, better decisions -- without losing the human touch that is the bedrock of great service.He also explores how personalization starts with listening, and how his team turns small, intentional moments into powerful guest insights. For anyone curious about where hotel tech is headed (and how to keep it authentically human) this conversation offers a grounded, forward-looking view from one of luxury hospitality's most credible voices. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, you'll hear an excerpt of Josiah Mackenzie's conversation with Sloan Dean on the Not Done podcast, where he talks about the state of hospitality technology from his perspective as head of marketing at Actabl: what's working, what's not, and what leaders can do right now to drive change.They explore why tech adoption in hotels has often lagged, how poor rollouts can backfire, and what it takes to align innovation with the realities of operations and profitability. Josiah shares his personal motivation for working in hotel technology -- empowering the people who power hospitality -- and outlines where he sees opportunity today: in digitization, better processes, and technology that actually saves time and improves profit margins.Want more? Listen to Josiah's full conversation with Sloan on Not Done hereLearn more about Actabl here, and their Digital Night Audit technology here.More related episodes:The Magic Wand Question: Building Digital Night Audit (and Hotel Tech That Matters) - Brian Blanda & Stephen German, ActablMore conversations about hospitality technology with Actabl's teamMore conversations with Sloan Dean A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Abigail Tan, CEO of St Giles Hotel Group, joins our correspondent and hertelier founder Emily Goldfisher to share the story behind Hotels with Heart, a program using hospitality to provide housing, training, and new opportunities for people experiencing homelessness. Started during the pandemic, the initiative has grown into a full-fledged Hospitality Academy that equips participants with skills, confidence, and pathways to employment. Abigail's vision shows how hotels can go beyond business to become platforms for community and compassion.Also see:Offering Hope Through Hospitality: How We Worked with St. Giles Hotels to Create Opportunities for our Community - Greg Früchtenicht, Saira HospitalityHerstory: Abigail Tan on Leading St Giles and Building Hotels with Heart A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, St Giles Hotel Group CEO Abigail Tan shares how her approach to leadership has evolved from self-discovery to creating a culture people can feel. Speaking with our career correspondent and hertelier founder Emily Goldfisher, Abigail reflects on the values that guide her decisions, the lessons she's learned as both a CEO and mother, and why authentic leadership and organizational behavior matter more than ever in hospitality.She discusses how she's built a loyal team—many with decades of tenure—by leading with empathy, clarity, and purpose, and how redefining risk as “adventure learning” continues to shape her growth. Listeners will take away actionable insights on building strong cultures and leading with humanity in an evolving industry.Also see:Offering Hope Through Hospitality: How We Worked with St. Giles Hotels to Create Opportunities for our Community - Greg Früchtenicht, Saira HospitalityHerstory: Abigail Tan on Leading St Giles and Building Hotels with Heart A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Gregory Day, President of Hospitality for Mani Brothers Real Estate Group and Managing Director of the Malibu Beach Inn, shares how hospitality can play a powerful role in rebuilding a community after crisis.Following two devastating wildfires and months of road closures that cut local business revenue by up to 90%, Gregory has become a leading advocate for why hospitality matters — not only for travelers, but for the people and small businesses who depend on it. He discusses Malibu's path to recovery, the importance of local collaboration, and how hotels can help re-energize entire communities through connection, care, and leadership.This episode offers a hopeful look at how hospitality leaders can help communities recover — and thrive — in the face of disruption. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands