No Vacancy with Glenn Haussman

Extended stay dominates today's #hospitality development pipeline—and I spoke with Bruce Ford, SVP at Lodging Econometrics, on No Vacancy Live to break it down. Here's what we covered:

The latest Hotel Business Hot Topics session, “Optimize and Automate Your Procurement to Fuel ROI,” in partnership with Entegra, explored how hotel operators are balancing rising costs, supply chain volatility and guest expectations, while using technology and strategic partnerships to strengthen operations. Moderated by Glenn Haussman, founder/host, No Vacancy Live podcast, the panel included Lisa Carlson, SVP, operations, Remington Hospitality; Lars Schrader, VP, operational strategies, Atrium Hospitality; Jennifer Viccellio, senior director, procurement services – account initiatives and development, Choice Hotels; and Jeffrey Simmons, VP, supply management, hospitality, Entegra/Sodexo.   Enjoy this bonus show!

Not every career starts with the corner office — Mike Neubecker shares with #NoVacancyNews his story from hourly front desk clerk at MGM Grand back in 1993 to President & COO of MGM Grand, New York-New York, and Excalibur. That's three of the most iconic #MGMResorts properties on the Las Vegas Strip! In our conversation, Mike shared insights on:

I spoke with Suraj Bhakta, CEO & Chief Legal Officer of NewGen Advisory, for #NoVacancyNews about what's really happening in today's hotel market. Suraj broke down why #PIPs have become one of the biggest roadblocks in #hospitality deals—lenders reluctant to fund them, costs rising, and brands sometimes using them as leverage in negotiations. We also covered:

Thrilled to join Dr. Suzanne Bagnera on No Vacancy Live as we caught up with our longtime friend Leora Lanz, author of Developing Your Marketing Mindset: Real World Lessons from Hospitality. Leora has spent more than a decade teaching at Boston University, blending consulting expertise with case studies to prepare the next generation of #hospitality leaders. She reminded us why every business needs a marketing mindset—and why adopting a #hospitalitymindset is just as important. Some takeaways that stood out:

No guest, just unadulterated Glenn, Craig, Dave and Suzanne joins from the road... literally!

This story is living what I have been preaching: Keep humanity in hospitality.  At Saint John's Resort outside Detroit, they're all in on this concept; and a whole lot more.   Kevin Doyle, COO of the Pulte Charitable Family Foundation, and longtime friend of the show Chris Green, President of Humanitarian Hotels share their story, and it blew me away. This isn't just another #luxuryresort. Here's what makes it different: 100% of hotel profits go to charity. Every wedding, golf outing, or stay directly supports local communities, global causes, and provides jobs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In just the last two years, they've given more than $6 million to nonprofits in Detroit alone—and millions more worldwide. It's living proof that hospitality can be a force for good. One striking moment: even a simple lunch choice has impact, with proceeds feeding families in need around the globe. Guests aren't just enjoying an event or a stay—they're creating meaningful change. How do you think hotels (or any business) can build more purpose into their model while still delivering world-class experiences? Special thanks to our advertiser:

On the latest No Vacancy podcast, Anthony Melchiorri and I had a great conversation with Blair Wills, CEO of StepStone Hospitality, and Michael Broadhurst, COO of StepStone Hospitality. StepStone has grown from a single property in 2007 to a 30-hotel portfolio today—and they're at that critical inflection point where management companies have to decide if they're going to stay lean or scale up. We dug into some big topics:

Glenn is at a bar on Macinac Island at the Inn at Stonecliffe with longtime friend of the show Chris Green He's now President at Humanitarian Hotels which that company owns. Craig and Producer Dave are probably ealoous, but we're all having some cocktails and laughs to kick off the weekend!

Not many CEOs start their careers bartending at 18 — but that's exactly how Bill Hornbuckle, CEO of MGM Resorts International, got his start. In this incredible #NoVacancyNews conversation, Bill shares how he went from bussing tables at the Jockey Club to leading one of the biggest names in hospitality. We talked about: •    

I just had a fantastic conversation with Emily Wright, VP & Global Brand Leader at Hyatt, along with my buddy Anthony Melchiorri. Emily's been with Hyatt for nearly 20 years, and the passion she brings to the role is clear. We covered a lot of ground, but here's what really stood out to me: Hyatt has grown from 4 core brands to a wide-reaching portfolio—and they're still expanding. The launch of Hyatt Studios and Hyatt Select is about filling real gaps in the market, especially in secondary and tertiary cities. World of Hyatt loyalty is exploding—58 million members strong and growing. Guests have zero tolerance for inconsistency anymore. Convenience and reliability aren't perks—they're table stakes. What I loved most was hearing how Hyatt balances deliberate, thoughtful growth while keeping guest experience at the center. Do you think Hyatt's careful growth strategy gives them an advantage—or is the race to scale moving too fast for anyone to stay methodical?   Special thanks to our advertiser:

What's really happening in the global hotel pipeline? Glenn Haussman sits down with Bruce Ford, SVP at Lodging Econometrics, to break down the numbers, trends, and transformations shaping hospitality development worldwide. From luxury's evolution into intimate, multi-gen-friendly resorts to the rise of dual-brand properties and strategic conversions, this episode delivers insights that matter to owners, developers, and hospitality pros alike. Special thanks to our advertiser:

New Orleans isn't just about beignets and brass bands—it's a test case for how hotels handle unpredictable demand. I spoke with Ken Jacques, GM of Le Meridien New Orleans, which is operated by Stonebridge, about how he's planning for 2026 and what it really takes to run a hotel in a city built on events. Here's what stood out: Hotels can't just copy last year's budget — they're recalibrating daily Events like Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and UFC change everything for revenue planning Instinct plays as big a role as spreadsheets when forecasting demand International travel remains a wild card that could shake up results New Orleans is seeing its cleanest, safest stretch in decades—and that's great for business Ken pulls back the curtain on hotel strategy giving me new perspective on how leaders adapt in real time. Special thanks to Actabl: Actabl gives you the power profit. Visit them at Actabl.com. #NoVacancyNews #Hospitality

What's shaping the future of hotel development beyond the U.S.? In this hashtag#NoVacancyNews, Bruce Ford of Lodging Econometrics and I break down the latest pipeline data across EMEA—and what it means for owners, operators, and investors.

How can hospitality education keep pace with the evolving workforce, shrinking attention spans, and the rise of AI? In this #NoVacancyNews, I'm joined by Dr. Suzanne Bagnera and Dr. Peter Ricci. We're tackling one of the most pressing issues in our industry: attracting and preparing the next generation of hospitality leaders.

From Aspen in the 1970s to Maui today, CoralTree Hospitality has been shaping the residential resort and vacation rental space long before it was trendy. In this #NoVacancyNews, Glenn and Anthony sit down with Mike Cuthbertson, Managing Director of the CoralTree Residence Collection, to talk about: How CoralTree blends hospitality standards with vacation rental flexibility The unique challenges of managing hundreds of individual owners (and their opinions) Creative strategies to get homeowners to invest in upgrades The tech innovations transforming revenue management and guest experience Why consistency of experience matters more than identical rooms The relationships that keep guests coming back for generations If you've ever wondered what it takes to profitably operate luxury vacation rentals while keeping owners happy and guests coming back, this one's packed with insights. Special thanks to Actabl for powering this episode. Visit HotelData.com for benchmarking insights to boost your 2025–2026 performance.

The Peabody Memphis is more than a luxury hotel — it's a living piece of history. From its famous duck march to welcoming presidents and celebrities, this property continues to set the standard for Southern hospitality. In this episode, I talk with Doug Browne, President of The Peabody Memphis, about what it takes to run a century-old icon while keeping it fresh and profitable.

Asia Pacific is driving nearly half of the world's hotel construction — but the trends look very different when you separate China from the rest of the region. I'm joined by Bruce Ford, SVP at Lodging Econometrics, to break down the numbers and explain what they mean for the hospitality business.

Boutique hotels are more than just design statements — they're lifestyle-driven businesses that can transform communities and create powerful guest loyalty. In this episode of #NoVacancyNews, Stephen Wendell, CEO of Mountain Shore Properties, talks about what makes #boutiquehotel projects work — and how his company approaches development in unique markets.

Timeshare isn't what it used to be — and that's exactly the point. In this episode of No Vacancy Live, I'm joined by co-host Anthony Melchiorri and Jason Gamel, President & CEO of ARDA, for a fast-moving and surprisingly eye-opening discussion on the state of vacation ownership.

In this episode of No Vacancy Live, Anthony Melchiorri and I sit down with Charlie Lopez, VP & Managing Director of ETC Hotels, the group behind the iconic Casa del Mar and Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica. Together, we explore what true luxury means in today's hospitality climate — and why it's more relaxed, more local, and more personalized than ever.

The luxury travel market isn't slowing down — it's evolving. At Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas, I sat down with Misty Belles, VP of Global Public Relations at Virtuoso, to uncover what's really happening in high-end travel and how hotels can adapt to meet shifting guest expectations.

On this episode of Friday Night Audit, we welcome back the incredible Matt Hostetler, CDO at Red Roof to join us for some laughs, drinks and more. Watch at your own risk!!

The extended stay category just got its first-ever national ad campaigns — and Choice Hotels is leading the way. In this episode of hashtag#NoVacancyNews, I speak with Matt McElhare, VP & Segment Lead for Extended Stay at Choice Hotels International, about why now was the moment to go big on marketing, how the campaigns are shifting guest perception, and what it all means for owners and guests alike.

Ben Rafter, President & CEO of Springboard Hospitality, doesn't pull punches. In this #NoVacancyNews, we get into the real conversations hoteliers should be having — not just about technology, but also leadership, workforce strategy, and making the numbers work. We cover a ton of ground, including: • Why getting your financials out on time is a non-negotiable • How to use AI where it matters — think labor, not gimmicks • What “table stakes” really means for hospitality leaders • Building a culture of innovation without losing the human touch • Rethinking recruitment: why hospitality must sell itself harder to Gen Z • Why mid-sized operators must become tech-fluent to stay competitive • Balancing startup speed with scaled operations Ben shares how Springboard's merger with Hotel Equities gives them the scale to grow — without losing their edge.

A&O Hostels CEO Oliver Winter shares how he built one of Europe's largest hostel brands—and why it's resonating with Gen Z, solo travelers, and digital nomads. From one property in Berlin to 42 locations across Europe, A&O Hostels has become a leader in affordable, sustainable hospitality. In this episode of No Vacancy News, Glenn Haussman and Dr. Suzanne Bagnera talk with Oliver about:  ✅ Why solo travel is booming—especially among women ✅ How A&O achieves an 80% lower CO₂ footprint than competitors  ✅ Converting vacant office buildings into profitable hostels ✅ Building social spaces, work zones, and safety features Gen Z travelers expect ✅ Lessons from growing up in East Berlin and building with freedom in mind 

In this episode of No Vacancy News, Glenn Haussman heads to IHG's Design Center in Atlanta to explore the evolution of Candlewood Suites, Atwell Suites, and Staybridge Suites with IHG brand leaders Karen Gilbride and Justin Alexander.

Edward Mady has led some of the most iconic hotels in the world. Now, he's turning decades of experience into a leadership blueprint that blends purpose, accountability, and human connection. In this #NoVacancyNews, Glenn and Anthony chat with the longtime GM of The Beverly Hills Hotel and author of Honing the Human Edge to talk about what it takes to build high-performing teams and lasting cultures in hospitality—and beyond. 

The data is in—and it's not just about pipeline volume, it's about what the numbers really mean. In this #NoVacancyNews, Glenn Haussman sits down with Bruce Ford, SVP at Lodging Econometrics. They're breaking down the latest U.S. #hotelconstruction pipeline data and uncovering the trends shaping where and how hotels will renovate and build next.

Loyalty matters—but only if it's worth something to the traveler. In this episode of#NoVacancyNews, Glenn Haussman sits down with Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Travel Editor at U.S. News & World Report, to reveal he just-released rankings of the best hotel rewards programs for 2025–2026.

Friday Night Audit champion Kate Burda rejoins to go toe to tow with Glenn, Craig and Producer Dave. Join us for soem happy hour fun and laughs as we kick off the weekend!

From awkward dress codes to overstuffed agendas, meetings needed a reset — and Hilton listened. On this episode of#NoVacancyNews, Glenn Haussman and Anthony Melchiorri talk with Kelly Knowlen, VP of Sales Engagement & Special Events at Hilton, about how her team is rewriting the rules of modern events based on feedback from 10,000+ attendees.

With new labor mandates, interest rate pressure, and legal complexity at an all-time high, hotel development is no longer a game of instinct — it's about precision. In this episode of #NoVacancyNews, Glenn Haussman and Anthony Melchiorri talk with Guy Maisnik, Vice Chair of the Global Hospitality Group at Jeffer Mangels Butler & Mitchell, about what today's hotel owners need to understand to stay profitable in a shifting marketplace.

Midscale doesn't mean middle of the road — and IHG Hotels & Resorts is proving that with two rising stars: Avid Hotels and Garner. In this special hashtag#NoVacancyNews tour, Glenn Haussman visits hashtag#IHG Hotels & Resorts' Design Center in Atlanta with Karen Gilbride, VP of Brands for avid, Garner, and Atwell Suites. They walk through real model rooms, explore growth strategies and hashtag#HotelDevelopment, and reveal why these brands are resonating with both travelers and owners.

It's not about thread count—it's about people. On #NoVacancyNews, Glenn Haussman and Anthony Melchiorri chat with hospitality consultant and author Kate Buhler, whose career has taken her from the world's most iconic hotels to coaching today's front-line staff and executives.

What happens when you merge the top two players in hotel tablet tech? According to Kevin Bidner, CEO of hashtag#HCN, it's a hospitality tech revolution. In this hashtag#NoVacancyNews, Glenn Haussman catches up with Kevin to discuss a game-changing shift for four-star hotels and beyond. Here's what you'll discover: • Why HCN's acquisition of Crave marks a major turning point in the in-room technology landscape • How guestroom tablets are finally becoming cost-effective—even profitable—for four-star hotels • The innovative model turning tablets into revenue generators via advertising, ticketing, and stakeholder partnerships • A first look at the concierge AI platform that provides personalized city itineraries, restaurant bookings, and more—right from the guestroom and into your pocket • How HCN is bringing back a sense of personal service once reserved for five-star stays, now powered by scalable technology • Why Bidner believes this is “the biggest thing in the travel industry ever”—and what it means for hotel operators and profitability

Forget everything you thought you knew about hotel tech. On #NoVacancyNews, Glenn and Anthony chat with Bright Hotel Group CEO Deniz Dorbek Kocak about how her team is rewriting the rules of hospitality through integrated technology, curated design, and authentic guest connection.

What happens when you merge the top two players in hotel tablet tech? According to Kevin Bidner, CEO of #HCN, it's a hospitality tech revolution. In this #NoVacancyNews, Glenn Haussman catches up with Kevin to discuss a game-changing shift for four-star hotels and beyond. Here's what you'll discover: • Why HCN's acquisition of Crave marks a major turning point in the in-room technology landscape • How guestroom tablets are finally becoming cost-effective—even profitable—for four-star hotels • The innovative model turning tablets into revenue generators via advertising, ticketing, and stakeholder partnerships • A first look at the concierge AI platform that provides personalized city itineraries, restaurant bookings, and more—right from the guestroom and into your pocket • How HCN is bringing back a sense of personal service once reserved for five-star stays, now powered by scalable technology • Why Bidner believes this is “the biggest thing in the travel industry ever”—and what it means for hotel operators and profitability

Peter Ricci is Hospitality & Tourism Management Director @ Florida Atlantic University. We assume that since the humidity is clouding his judgement, he's joing Glenn, Craig and Producers Dave and Suzanne for some laughs and cocktails to kick off the weekend.

In this episode of hashtag#NoVacancyNews, Glenn Haussman and Anthony Melchiorri talk with Jimmy Taylor, VP Operations at IHG Hotels & Resorts, about what really drives long-term success in hospitality leadership. • Why being truly hashtag#authentic beats trying to fit a corporate script — and how that builds loyalty • How hiring “thoroughbreds” but managing them like donkeys damages culture and retention • The six A's that shape Jimmy's leadership style: accessible, accountable, approachable, attitude, authentic, adaptable • Why empathy and fairness matter more than micromanagement — especially in today's labor market • Insights on balancing owner expectations, brand standards, and team empowerment • Stories that reveal why people across the industry describe Jimmy in one word: honorable Special thanks to our advertiser: Actabl gives you the power to profit, visit them at Actabl.com.

Recorded during HITEC, #NoVacancyNews had the privilege of chatting with Michael Schubach Shubach from Rosen Hotels & Resorts to explore how #hoteltechnology, people-first thinking, and bold ideas could reshape the hospitality industry. ✨ Key highlights from our conversation: • Why Rosen is exploring a 4-day workweek with 5-day workweek pay as a real benefit of AI-driven productivity • How sharing automation gains with employees—rather than only owners—can build unmatched loyalty • Tackling class divides in hospitality by returning more time (instead of promising remote work that frontline staff can't access) • Using technology to remove workplace monotony and open paths for growth, not just cost-cutting • What it means to truly care for your people beyond the usual perks and policies It's not just about doing things differently—it's about rethinking why we do them at all.

✨ In this episode of hashtag#NoVacancyNews, Glenn Haussman and Anthony Melchiorri speak with Loay Nour, VP of Brand and Marketing at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, about how a heritage brand keeps its edge by making every stay truly special.

Happy Holiday! Enjoy this best of episode from February.  

Recorded live during HITEC last month, Glenn Haussman and hashtag#NoVacancyNews talks with Deborah Stuempfig and Amy Jones from Omni Hotels & Resorts about what it really took to rebuild their entire hashtag#hospitalitytech stack—and why it's transforming how they do business.

Recorded on the bustling HITEC show floor, hashtag#NoVacancyNews caught up with Jeff Borman of Ashford Inc. (and No Show, A Travel Industry Podcast) to unpack how AI in hashtag#hospitalitytech is moving from hype to practical strategy. Here's what you'll hear: ✅ Why this year's conversations finally feel actionable, not just theoretical ✅ How hotel commercial leaders are using AI today to improve operations and guest connections ✅ The challenges of data ownership, privacy, and working across brands vs. independents ✅ Why Jeff left HITEC with a real to-do list instead of just big ideas Big thanks to Uniguest for supporting this conversation! Learn more about how they connect the guest journey to your branding at uniguest.com.

We're back in our pre-recorded format! In this episode of hashtag#NoVacancy, I'm joined by Seth Bolt and Tori Bolt, founders of Bolt Farm Treehouse, who've created one of the most compelling hashtag#hospitality concepts in the country—where hashtag#guestexperience, design, and mission-driven leadership all come together in a powerful way. Doctor Prodcuer Suzanne cohosts. Special thanks to our advertiser: Actabl – Gives You the Power to Profit. Visit them at Actabl.com

At #NoVacancyNews we caught up with Amit Aghara, CTO of Fintech, to get a closer look at how they're transforming invoice management for hoteliers — and it's not just about #alcohol anymore. We broke down how Fintech streamlines the complex world of payments, regulations, and vendor management — all via automation and smart tech.