Tech Without Borders by DojoLIVE!

¿De qué manera un ecosistema abierto demuestra que la hospitalidad del futuro se construye en comunidad y no solo con un proveedor?En este episodio de dojo.live, conversamos con Fabricio Titiro, Director de Partnerships a nivel mundial en Oracle Hospitality, sobre cómo la hospitalidad del futuro se está construyendo desde un enfoque colaborativo y conectado. Fabricio analiza las tendencias tecnológicas emergentes para América Latina—desde la migración a la nube hasta el uso estratégico de la inteligencia artificial—y cómo estas están redefiniendo la eficiencia operativa, la personalización y la rentabilidad hotelera.También exploramos el rol de los marketplaces de aplicaciones y las integraciones abiertas (como OHIP) como aceleradores de innovación accesible, además de casos reales en los que la colaboración entre hoteles, proveedores y socios tecnológicos ha dado lugar a mejoras concretas en métricas como el ADR, la retención y el upselling. Este episodio es una hoja de ruta clara y práctica para quienes buscan avanzar hacia un modelo hotelero más ágil, abierto y alineado con los hábitos del viajero actual.Acerca de Fabricio TitiroFabricio Titiro es un reconocido experto en la industria de la tecnología aplicada a la hospitalidad, con 30 años de experiencia dedicados a la innovación tecnológica y la transformación digital del sector. Actualmente se desempeña como Director de Partnerships a nivel mundial en Oracle Hospitality, donde lidera un equipo de expertos e impulsa iniciativas estratégicas para ayudar a hoteles y proveedores de tecnología a adoptar ecosistemas conectados, marketplaces y plataformas de integración. A lo largo de su carrera, y con una sólida experiencia global, Fabricio ha asesorado a numerosas empresas en la mejora de la experiencia del huésped y la optimización de resultados a través de la tecnología. Su visión combina un profundo conocimiento de las tendencias internacionales con un enfoque práctico y orientado a la excelencia operativa. Originario de Argentina, reside actualmente en Madrid, España, y ha residido también en Irlanda y el Reino Unido.

What stood out on the HITEC 2025 show floor? What trends will shape hospitality's next wave of innovation? And what does it mean for your hotel? In this episode of dojo.live, we're joined by Katie Moro, Vice President of Data Partnerships at Amadeus Hospitality, for a post-HITEC 2025 debrief that goes beyond the booth to explore what's truly shaping the future of hotel tech. From AI-driven commercial alignment to traveler personalization trends, Katie unpacks the technologies and insights that stood out across the show floor and what they actually mean for hotel operators right now.Joined by Shridhar Padmanabhan, Encora's VP of Travel and Hospitality, this conversation also dives into how hospitality leaders can move from innovation fatigue to smart, scalable adoption. Whether it's making sense of rising guest expectations, turning market-level data into action, or filtering the noise around AI, Katie and Shridhar bring a grounded yet forward-looking lens to what hotels should prioritize next.About Katie MoroKatie Moro is a veteran of the hospitality industry and a pioneer in hospitality demand data. She joined TravelClick (now an Amadeus company) in 2011 and is responsible for the global expansion of Demand360©, the hospitality industry's only and most comprehensive forward-looking data tool designed to help hotels maximize their revenue.Previously, Katie led a major accounts sales team at Rubicon, a provider of competitive market intelligence to the travel and hospitality industry and held sales roles at Morgans Hotel Group and Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company.Katie was named by Hotel Management Magazine as one of 2018's Influential Women in Hospitality. In 2020, Katie joined the board of the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI). Katie holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from The University of Georgia.About Shridhar PadmanabhanShridhar Padmanabhan is VP of Travel & Hospitality @ Encora Inc. He is known for his empathetic leadership style and ability to build strong, trust-based partnerships with clients and stakeholders. With a deep background in sales and business development across the Travel & Hospitality sector, he brings a strategic mindset to solving complex challenges at scale. His focus on collaboration and innovation helps organizations drive meaningful transformation and measurable results.

How can hotels modernize revenue strategies with AI—without losing sight of human insight or control?In this episode of dojo.live, we're joined by Mark Lewis-Brown, President, and Estella Hale, Vice President of Commercial Strategy at Zucchetti North America, for a timely conversation on the evolution of revenue management in hospitality. Recorded live at HITEC 2025, this episode explores how automation and machine learning are transforming the way hotels approach pricing, forecasting, and distribution—from smarter demand modeling powered by flight search data to strategies for maintaining brand control across OTAs, GDS, and direct channels. With the North American launch of Lybra Assistant as a backdrop, Mark and Estella discuss the growing need for forward-looking insights and the importance of finding the right balance between technology and human decision-making in driving profitable outcomes.About Mark Lewis-BrownMark Lewis-Brown is an industry veteran with more than 35 years of experience. At Zucchetti North America, Mark is responsible for overseeing and implementing the commercial and strategic aspects of Zucchetti's expansion into the North American market. Mark is also involved in key decision-making regarding Zucchetti's global strategies and in the positioning of the North American branch within the larger organization.Mark began his hospitality career as an owner and operator of boutique properties across the U.S. Over the past 24 years, he has held leadership roles at several top hotel technology companies. His combined experience on both the hotel and vendor sides gives him a rare, well-rounded perspective on the industry—past and present—making him an ideal leader for Zucchetti North America.About Estella HaleEstella Hale brings over two decades of highly specialized expertise in the hospitality industry, the majority in strategic leadership roles for hotel technology companies. As the Vice President of Commercial Strategy for Zucchetti North America's Hospitality Division, Estella plays a pivotal role in strengthening the company's position as a leading provider of innovative solutions for the hospitality sector. Her leadership has been instrumental in shaping the company's vision for bringing new technology solutions to the North American market.Prior to joining Zucchetti North America, Estella served as the Chief Commercial Officer at HotelIQ, where she crafted the company's strategic vision and oversaw commercial operations. Previously, she led strategic sessions at Deloitte's Greenhouse® and held executive leadership positions at other prominent hospitality technology firms, including SHR, iHotelier and Whiteboard Labs.Estella's passion for guiding innovative technology companies stems from being part of the founding team of distribution start-ups and a master's degree in technology commercialization from Texas McCombs School of Business. Her career showcases a consistent drive to innovate and optimize commercial strategies within the hotel tech landscape, and her numerous successes have positioned her a prominent leader in the hospitality industry.

How can AI and smarter payments help hospitality procurement teams reduce friction, cut costs, and unlock strategic value?In this episode of dojo.live, we sit down with Phil Beck, General Manager of Payments, and David Schloss, General Manager of Payments at BirchStreet Systems, to explore how AI and digital transformation are reshaping procurement in hospitality. Often overlooked in the guest-facing tech conversation, procurement and payment systems are ripe for innovation—especially as hotels face growing complexity in payments, fraud risk, and supplier networks.Phil and David break down where AI is already making an impact, how smarter workflows are streamlining operations from invoice to reconciliation, and why procurement technology can drive broader business goals—from cost control to ESG compliance to guest satisfaction. They also share what BirchStreet is showcasing at HITEC 2025, the evolving role of ecosystem partnerships, and the future trends the industry isn't paying enough attention to—yet.About Phil BeckPhil Beck has been at the forefront of payments and technology for more than twenty-five years, serving in senior executive roles at Capital One, SAP, Ariba and FreeMarkets. He has launched and scaled multiple payments platforms serving as Head of Treasury Management for Capital One, as SVP and GM for SAP's payments and business network and multiple card, real-time settlement, dynamic discounting and working capital finance solutions across the US, EMEA and APJ. He has been a mainstage speaker at Money2020, AFP and PYMNTS.com and is regularly sought out by innovative payments companies to develop next-generation solutions to solve B2B use cases around the world.Beck has also served as a board advisor for Series A-C companies in the payments space, including most recently at Trovata.io, Transactis (acquired by MasterCard) and Apparent Financing (an SAP.io company), and as a non-profit board member and advisor across Western PA.About David SchlossDavid Schloss comes to BirchStreet with more than 20 years of SaaS experience. He is an accomplished leader with a proven track record of leading and transforming revenue teams to achieve accelerated growth. His teams pride themselves on collaboration, transparency, execution, and having a customer-centric mindset.Previously David worked at ADP, Convergys, Oracle, and most recently Vice President and General Manager of North American Sales at Certinia, delivering over 60% revenue growth.

How can hotels harness AI to enhance guest experiences—without breaking what's working behind the scenes?In this episode of dojo.live, we sit down with Frank Trampert, Senior Vice President and Global Managing Director of Community Sales at Sabre Hospitality Solutions, to explore how hotels can adopt artificial intelligence in ways that elevate—not disrupt—the human core of hospitality. With automation accelerating across booking engines, inboxes, voice, and social channels, Frank discusses how AI is shifting from hype to everyday utility.The conversation dives into SynXis Concierge.AI, Sabre's latest innovation in guest engagement, and how it blends personalization with automation to deliver timely, relevant interactions without sacrificing control. Frank also shares how the move to the cloud has opened the door to faster innovation, and why now is the moment for hotels to rethink how their tech stack can support flexibility, integration, and growth. If you're wondering how to future-proof your operations while keeping guest service at the center, this episode is full of candid insights and forward-thinking perspective.About Frank TrampertFrank Trampert is Senior Vice President, Global Managing Director of Community Sales for Sabre Hospitality Solutions. Within his role, Frank is responsible for leading global sales, customer engagement, account management, and marketing for all of Sabre Hospitality Solutions' community partners worldwide.Frank has well over two decades of experience within the hospitality industry, having held a variety of roles of increasing responsibility across multiple hoteliers worldwide. Most recently, he served as managing director and chief commercial officer, EMEA and APAC, at Sabre. Prior to that, Frank held the roles of CEO and chief operating officer at Tune Hotels Group. He also held senior roles at Wyndham Hotels and Resorts and Brand Karma. Additionally, Frank spent 13 years at Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, where he ultimately held the role of EVP, revenue generation for APAC.

How can a fully connected, cloud-based tech stack unlock better guest experiences and smarter hotel operations?In this episode of dojo.live, we sit down with Tanya Pratt, Global Vice President of OPERA Cloud Strategy and Product Management at Oracle Hospitality. Recorded live at HITEC 2025, this conversation unpacks what the next generation of hospitality technology really looks like when cloud-native platforms and connected ecosystems come together.Tanya shares insight into the recently announced expansion with Omni Hotels & Resorts, exploring how a unified approach across OPERA Cloud PMS, Simphony Cloud, and Central unlocks operational agility, real-time insights, and better guest personalization. She also speaks to the importance of openness and ecosystem enablement in an increasingly complex tech environment—and why seamless integrations are no longer a nice-to-have, but a strategic imperative.Whether you're navigating modernization or thinking about what's next in hospitality tech, Tanya offers timely, practical advice for getting the most out of your digital transformation journey.Tanya Pratt is Global Vice President of OPERA Cloud Strategy and Product Management at Oracle Hospitality. A seasoned hotelier, Tanya spent over 20 years at Fairmont Hotels and Resorts in various leadership positions in Hotel Operations, Revenue Management, Distribution and Loyalty. Immediately prior to joining Oracle, Tanya was Senior Vice President of Global Business Technologies for Accor Hotels Luxury Brands division, responsible for digital transformation, innovation and management of global programs and solutions. Her passion and focus at Oracle Hospitality is on driving value to our industry through increased levels of engagement with customers and delivering hospitality solution that enable and enhance strategic business priorities.

How can AI and data-driven insights help hotels meet rising traveler expectations—without overwhelming their teams?In this episode of dojo.live, we sit down with Katie Moro, Vice President of Data Partnerships at Amadeus Hospitality, live from the HITEC 2025 show floor. The conversation explores how AI is reshaping hotel operations through tools like Demand360 and MeetingBroker, enabling everything from smarter forecasting to automated RFP handling. Katie also unpacks key findings from the Amadeus “Travel Dreams” report, offering a window into what today's travelers really want—and what they're willing to pay for. Together, we connect the dots between evolving guest expectations and scalable personalization, highlighting what still stands in the way and how hotels can close that gap. If you're navigating the intersection of innovation and operations, this episode is one you won't want to miss.Katie Moro is a veteran of the hospitality industry and a pioneer in hospitality demand data. She joined TravelClick (now an Amadeus company) in 2011 and is responsible for the global expansion of Demand360©, the hospitality industry's only and most comprehensive forward-looking data tool designed to help hotels maximize their revenue.Previously, Katie led a major accounts sales team at Rubicon, a provider of competitive market intelligence to the travel and hospitality industry and held sales roles at Morgans Hotel Group and Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company.Katie was named by Hotel Management Magazine as one of 2018's Influential Women in Hospitality. In 2020, Katie joined the board of the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI). Katie holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from The University of Georgia.Want to see what's shaping traveler expectations in 2025 and beyond? Explore the latest insights in Amadeus' Travel Dreams report.About Katie MoroAdditional Resources

¿Cómo pueden los DMOs (Destination Marketing Organizations) y los hoteles convertirse en aliados estratégicos a través del uso inteligente de tecnología y datos?Bianca Porto Barga es una profesional con más de 20 años de experiencia en la industria de la hospitalidad y tecnología. Actualmente, es Gerente Senior de Ventas en Amadeus Hospitality, donde lidera estrategias para destinos, agencias, aerolíneas y aeropuertos, ayudando a optimizar la comercialización y distribución en el sector turístico para el Oeste de Estados Unidos y México. A lo largo de su trayectoria, ha trabajado con OMDs y compañías como Accor, Morgans y Sabre, desarrollando soluciones basadas en datos y tecnología para mejorar el rendimiento y la visibilidad de sus clientes en el mercado global.

In this episode of dojo.live, we sit down with Jill Wilder, President of Aptech, to explore how hotels can modernize their financial operations—without overwhelming teams or abandoning the tools they know best. As guest-facing innovation takes center stage, Jill makes a strong case for why budgeting, forecasting, and financial clarity deserve just as much attention behind the scenes.The conversation spotlights TVNG, Aptech's newly launched budgeting and forecasting tool, built with an intuitive, non-Excel interface that still integrates seamlessly with Excel. Jill shares how this hybrid approach is helping teams transition into smarter, more structured workflows while reducing friction and data chaos. From embedding rationale into forecasts to imagining how AI might eventually support financial decision-making, Jill emphasizes the power of connected systems—and why forecasting, accounting, and business intelligence should never be siloed.If you've ever wrestled with Excel overload or struggled to connect strategy to numbers, this conversation is for you.About Jill WilderJill Wilder is the President of Aptech, a leading provider of enterprise accounting, business intelligence, and budgeting and forecasting solutions for the hospitality industry. She has worked in the hospitality industry for more than 40 years, 38 of which have been with Aptech. Wilder manages all day-to-day development functions, as well as the financial, administrative and customer support teams. She, as well as the Aptech team, is known for her high attention to detail and the priority she places on customer relationships. During her tenure, Wilder created Aptech's customer support department and doubled its size, and she helped create the company's training certifications and implementation programs.Prior to joining Aptech, Wilder was on the accounting team at the Longue Vue Club where she supervised financial reporting for the Pittsburgh-based country club. Wilder is active with Hotel Financial and Technology Professionals' (HFTP) Pittsburgh Chapter, where she has been instrumental in helping build its membership development and program departments. Wilder has a B.S. in Business Administration with a concentration in Management and Accounting from Robert Morris College and resides in the Pittsburgh area.

In this episode of dojo.live, we welcome Marty Williams, Senior Vice President of Business Development at Chargeback Gurus. This conversation dives into the evolving chargeback landscape—and why hospitality brands need more than just reactive fraud tools to stay ahead. Marty explains how rising guest expectations around flexibility, refunds, and alternative payments are driving increased chargeback risks, and how data-driven prevention strategies can help mitigate losses before they occur. From root-cause analysis to smarter integrations across the guest journey, Marty offers a practical look at how hoteliers and travel operators can better balance frictionless experiences with financial protection. He also shares key trends shaping the next 12–18 months in payments and fraud, and how Chargeback Gurus is helping the industry respond with agility and impact.

How can hotels unlock the full potential of ancillary revenue through smarter guest journey orchestration?In this episode of dojo.live, we welcome Shawn Tarter, Founder and CEO of RealTime Reservation, for a practical conversation on optimizing the guest journey through unified ancillary service management. As travelers demand more personalized, seamless experiences—from spa and cabana bookings to parking and dining—Shawn shares key trends emerging from real booking data and how hospitality tech must evolve to meet rising expectations.We explore how RealTime Reservation is helping hotels connect the dots across departments, channels, and touchpoints, and why booking behavior (mobile, kiosk, in-room, pre-arrival) is shaping the future of guest experience design. Shawn also highlights new partnerships launching at HITEC and where he sees the next wave of innovation for driving ancillary revenue and loyalty in a competitive market.About Shawn TarterShawn Tarter is the Founder and CEO of RealTime Reservation, a leading provider of real-time ancillary revenue software for the hospitality and travel industry. Based in New York, RealTime Reservation streamlines hotel operations while enhancing the guest experience, creating efficiencies that drive client satisfaction, loyalty, and additional revenue streams. The company serves all major global hotel brands, such as The Ritz Carlton, St. Regis, Four Seasons, and Baha Mar among others.Shawn's journey into hospitality technology began with a personal experience as a hotel guest. With a background in finance software and a passion for automation, he set out to develop a seamless, user-friendly solution for hotels. Under his leadership, RealTime Reservation continues to revolutionize the hospitality industry, helping hotels increase revenue, and optimize their operations, all while delivering an exceptional guest experience.

What does it really take to future-proof your hotel tech stack—and where does access control fit in?In this HITEC 2025 episode of dojo.live, we're joined by Nicolas Aznar, President, Americas at Vingcard, for a forward-looking discussion on access innovation, tech integration, and the evolving role of security in the guest experience. From the debut of Vingcard's latest solutions to the strategic importance of platforms like Vostio and VConnect, Nicolas explains how today's hoteliers can streamline staff operations, enhance guest privacy, and support sustainability goals—without adding friction. He also shares what mobile key adoption through tools like Google Wallet signals for the future of digital access, and how Vingcard's new leadership role within ASSA ABLOY Hospitality is shaping a unified, software-first approach to smart hospitality. If you're asking how to build a scalable, secure foundation for tomorrow, this episode is for you.About Nicolás AznarBased in Richardson, Texas, Nicolas Aznar oversees all Vingcard operations throughout the Americas and takes a leading role in ensuring continued business growth throughout the region. Aznar possesses decades of expertise in both the hospitality and IT industries, and leverages his unique knowledge to spur greater market innovation in meeting the latest customer technology needs. Aznar is fluent in English, Portuguese and Spanish, and holds a degree in anthropology from the University of Buenos Aires.

What does true personalization in hospitality look like—and how can tech help hotels deliver it at scale, without sacrificing the human touch?In this episode of dojo.live, we sit down with Michael Coscetta, President of Mews, for a forward-looking conversation on how the hospitality industry is rethinking the guest experience from check-in to check-out. Michael shares why personalization is more than just a buzzword—and what it really takes to make it actionable at scale. From evolving front desk interactions to smarter data usage and the ethical complexities of guest intelligence, this conversation explores how hotels can build more intuitive, seamless, and human-centric journeys powered by technology. Michael also spotlights emerging trends that deserve more attention and shares what's new at the Mews HITEC booth that could help hoteliers future-proof their operations.About Michael CoscettaMichael Coscetta joined Mews as President in July 2024, overseeing the company's global go-to-market efforts. Michael brings extensive growth experience to the business, including from his previous role as Chief Revenue Officer at Paxos, a global blockchain infrastructure company. There, he oversaw sales, partnerships, business development, customer success, operations, international expansion, and trading functions across the business.Michael has also held roles at Compass (NYSE: COMP) where he was responsible for sales, development and growth, scaling annual revenue to $2b and preparing the company for IPO, and Square, now Block (NYSE: SQ), where he helped the company grow from a $3b new IPO to a $50b global business.Outside of his day-to-day, Michael is an advisor to payments tech startup MagicCube, data startup Enigma, and is both an advisory partner at H-L Ventures/CityRock and an advisor to Garden City Funds. He holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honors) degree in Economics from Harvard University and lives in Miami, Florida.

How can Agentic AI and a modern consulting mindset make hospitality tech strategy repeatable, contextual, and client-specific?In this episode of dojo.live, we sit down with David Chestler, President, and Daniel Johnson, Strategic Advisor – EMEA, of ProVision Partners to challenge outdated consulting models and explore the future of strategic enablement in hospitality tech. With decades of leadership experience and a front-row seat to hospitality's digital transformation, David and Daniel share how Agentic AI is reshaping the consulting playbook—enabling faster, more contextual, and repeatable engagements that move beyond gut feel and guesswork. From busting industry myths to differentiating collaboration from coordination, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how consultants, vendors, and hoteliers can uncover blind spots, benchmark more intelligently, and accelerate innovation. David and Daniel also unpack the concept of serialized consulting—where 70% of the work is standardized, and 30% is tailored for true personalization.About David ChestlerDavid Chestler is recognized as an icon of the global hospitality and travel industry, having forged a successful career in hotel technology that spans over three decades. He currently serves as President of ProVision Partners International, Inc, a hotel and travel consultancy and marketing firm that he co-founded in 2019. Since beginning his career in hospitality in 1989 with Utell International, Chestler has held leadership roles with some of the industry's most prominent organizations, where he consistently delivered global scale and growth by developing high performance teams focused on complex technology solutions.About Daniel JohnsonA veteran of the travel technology sector, Daniel Johnson brings over two decades of experience in cybersecurity, data protection and strategic consulting to his role as Strategic Advisor – EMEA at ProVision Partners. As co-founder of VENZA, a leading provider of data protection and regulatory compliance solutions for the hospitality industry, Johnson played a pivotal role in shaping the company's vision and growth.While serving as the company's CEO, he led the organization's strategic direction, including oversight of sales, marketing and product development teams. Under his leadership, the company experienced significant growth, including the addition of an office in the Netherlands in 2018, further expanding the enterprise's global footprint.At ProVision Partners, Johnson advises clients on business growth opportunities, strategic initiatives, cybersecurity strategies and digital innovation, helping organizations stay competitive and secure in an increasingly complex global marketplace.

What should a complete, ROI-driven consulting engagement look like in today's hospitality tech landscape?In this episode of dojo.live, we're joined by Gregg Hopkins, President of Get Hoppy Consulting. This conversation takes a hard look at the traditional consulting model in hospitality—and why it often fails to deliver lasting value. Gregg shares how his Attaché Technology Consulting Services approach addresses the full lifecycle of tech engagement, from selection to adoption to long-term ROI. He outlines where most support gaps emerge post-purchase, how vendors and hoteliers can avoid costly missteps, and what a modern consulting partnership should actually look like. With HITEC on the horizon, Gregg also offers practical tips for getting the most out of industry events, vetting the right partners, and navigating major shifts in tech—from AI to evolving guest expectations—with confidence and clarity.About Gregg HopkinsGet Hoppy Consulting has championed operational efficiency and profitability in the hospitality sector for over eight years. Under the leadership of President Gregg Hopkins, the firm empowers clients with innovative technology solutions and exceptional customer relationship strategies that drive market leadership and long-term success. At the helm of Get Hoppy, Gregg has pioneered new business development strategies and strategic marketing initiatives, fostering strong partnerships that fuel growth within the travel and hospitality technology landscape. The company's hands-on approach consistently delivers practical, enduring results—setting the stage for clients to thrive.Additional ResourcesFor deeper insight into why traditional hospitality tech consulting often falls short—and what a modern, full-lifecycle approach should look like—read Gregg Hopkins' LinkedIn article, Hospitality Technology Consulting: It's Time for a New Approach.

Is SaaS overload creating more pain than progress—and what can project management do to bring the industry back into balance?In this episode of dojo.live, we welcome Custódio Barreiros, Founder & CEO of EIP MGT (Everything is Possible Management Company). With deep roots in hotel operations and a sharp eye for tech strategy, Custódio brings a refreshingly grounded perspective to the conversation around project management in hospitality. As SaaS solutions continue to multiply, he asks an important question: are we truly solving problems—or just shifting them? Drawing from hands-on experience, Custódio unpacks why thoughtful implementation, realistic timelines, and human-centered planning still matter. From evaluating existing tools more effectively to aligning hotelier needs with vendor support, this episode offers practical advice for industry leaders who want to move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose.About Custódio BarreirosCustódio Barreiros is a distinguished professional in the hospitality and travel technology sector, currently serving as Founder and CEO at EIP MGT GmbH. He has held pivotal roles with various key industry partners, focusing on operational and business development initiatives across global regions, further establishing his reputation as a strategic thought leader who integrates hospitality technology to enhance the human touch within the industry.His strength lies in bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology, operational excellence, and exceptional guest experiences, making him a vital asset to any organization aiming to thrive in today's dynamic markets.Custódio has a keen interest in continually learning and expanding his diverse skillset, gathered across various trades. His background spans multiple areas of business management, beyond just hospitality and travel.

How can tech vendors, hoteliers, and consultants turn industry conferences into real results—before, during, and after the event?In this episode of dojo.live, we're joined by Ira Vouk, hospitality tech consultant, author, and founder of Hospitality 2.0 Consulting. With HITEC on the horizon, Ira shares practical strategies for turning conferences into real business results—for tech vendors, hoteliers, and consultants alike. From pre-show preparation to post-event follow-through, this conversation covers what it really takes to build traction at industry events. Ira unpacks common missteps (and how to avoid them), offers tips for making the most of the show floor—whether you have a booth or not—and explains how support systems like HTNG, strategic partnerships, and honest conversations can help move innovation from pitch to practice. Whether you're walking the expo for the first time or refining your approach after years of attending, this episode offers a smart, actionable blueprint for making events like HITEC actually matter.About Ira VoukIra Vouk is the author of top industry publications “Hotel Tech 101” and “Hospitality 2.0”, a hospitality consultant and tech innovator who brings two decades of practical industry experience, predominantly championing the role of revenue management and the use of data and technology to provide hospitality companies with insight to lead their business strategy better.She is also an HTNG/AHLA T100 member, a public speaker and educator on revenue and profit optimization, distribution and hospitality tech and currently teaches Hospitality Technology at Payne School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at SDSU.Ira is also a contributing writer for various hospitality publications and platforms and a guest lecturer at various universities worldwide.Additional ResourcesDive deeper into Ira Vouk's insights on hospitality technology, revenue strategy, and innovation by viewing her latest publications.

User adoption isn't the finish line. What vendors and hoteliers need to stop doing—and start doing—to create true business value and solve real problems.In this episode of dojo.live, we sit down with Melissa Jurkoic, Chief Operations Officer at Benson Consulting, Inc., for a candid conversation about why user adoption is no longer enough—and how both vendors and hoteliers are falling short when it comes to unlocking true business value from their technology investments.Melissa unpacks the growing disconnect between what tech vendors sell and what hotels actually use, exploring how AI is accelerating innovation but also widening the implementation gap. Through real-world examples and her A.I.M. framework (Align, Inspire, Mobilize), she offers actionable insights on change management, enablement, and what both sides need to stop doing—and start doing—to solve real problems and drive lasting impact.Whether you're a vendor struggling with client churn or a hotelier overwhelmed by half-used tools, this episode offers practical, no-fluff strategies for getting more from your tech stack and building a culture that supports meaningful transformation.About Melissa JurkoicMelissa Jurkoic is the Chief Operating Officer at Benson Consulting, where she helps organizations maximize the value of their technology investments by bridging the gap between implementation and operational success. With over 25 years of experience, she specializes in empowering teams with the knowledge and strategies needed to drive measurable results. Leveraging Benson Consulting's User Adoption Maturity Model™ and collaborating with vendors and buyers to develop a proficiency index aligned with their unique workflows, Melissa helps businesses achieve sustainable technology adoption. A respected thought leader, she shares insights through industry discussions and speaking engagements, empowering organizations to navigate tech-enabled business transformation with confidence.Additional ResourcesLooking to go deeper on how strategic alignment drives successful tech adoption? Check out this expert article by Benson Consulting CEO Candice Benson on empowering CIOs to lead change with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

How does early-stage positioning help hospitality tech vendors stand out, scale faster, and stop guessing? And what can you do when your messaging sounds just like everyone else's?In this episode of dojo.live, we welcome Jacki Brown, strategic product marketing leader and founder of Jacki Brown Marketing. This conversation dives deep into the power of early-stage positioning—and why product marketing should never be an afterthought for hospitality tech vendors.Jacki breaks down the common misconceptions around marketing in the B2B hospitality space and explains what's really behind the industry's “sea of sameness.” She shares a practical 3-part research framework—market, competitors, and buyers—that helps companies define what truly makes them different and valuable. From confronting the fear of narrowing focus to knowing when (and how) to bring in product marketing, Jacki offers candid advice and actionable steps for vendors at any stage of growth.Plus: where product marketing should live, how to build the muscle without a full team, and what trends are reshaping messaging in 2025 and beyond.About Jacki BrownJacki Brown is the Founder and CEO of Jacki Brown Marketing, LLC, a consultancy that helps hospitality and travel technology companies navigate growth by identifying and crafting their positioning and messaging, then scaling that across digital channels and into lead-generating marketing campaigns.With nearly two decades of experience in marketing, Jacki honed her skills working with renowned brands such as Amadeus Hospitality, Demandware (now Salesforce Commerce Cloud), Shark Vacuums, and Nexxus Haircare, where she shaped global marketing strategies that significantly impacted pipeline growth and sales. She lives in Portsmouth, NH with her husband and two young children.

How do visibility, support, and self-advocacy shape stronger leaders, smarter strategies, and better business outcomes?In this episode of dojo.live, we're joined by Rachel Lehman, Director of Innovation & Integration at Hyatt and Chairwoman of Women@Hyatt, for a candid conversation about women's leadership in hospitality. From the power of mentorship to the persistent gaps in executive representation, Rachel explores why women remain underrepresented in roles like operations, finance, and tech—despite making up the majority of the industry's workforce.She shares how visibility, sponsorship, and authenticity can shape stronger leaders and smarter strategies, and why so-called “soft skills” are actually key business advantages. This episode also highlights how employee resource groups and a culture of real support can help women stop playing the game—and start shaping it.Rachel Lehman​ is the Director of Innovation & Integration at Hyatt and Chairwoman of Women@Hyatt, where she has led the resource group's growth from 250 to over 500 members and championed data-driven programming to deliver the support women need most. During her time with Women@Hyatt, she's led initiatives that build both confidence and community—from self-defense sessions to workshops that tackle tough conversations head-on. She's also mentored women at all career stages, driven by a passion for helping them lead with authenticity—and navigate around the pitfalls she's seen too many encounter.About Rachel Lehman

¿Cómo pueden los hoteles independientes aumentar sus ingresos sin sacrificar ocupación?En este episodio de dojo.live, Alfredo Rodríguez Flores, Regional Sales Manager en SiteMinder, comparte cómo los hoteles independientes pueden aumentar sus ingresos sin sacrificar ocupación. Hablamos de la evolución del channel management, el impacto de los errores comunes en la distribución y cómo un RMS ligero puede ayudar a optimizar tarifas de forma sencilla y efectiva. También exploramos tendencias en canales de reserva en México y consejos prácticos para hoteleros que buscan crecer con tecnología accesible.Acerca de Alfredo RodríguezImpulsado por el poder innovador de la tecnología digital, Alfredo Rodríguez Flores ha construido una carrera enfocada en fomentar el crecimiento y la innovación dentro de marcas líderes, siendo testigo del impacto de soluciones eficientes que empoderan al usuario.Desde que se unió a SiteMinder—la plataforma líder mundial en distribución hotelera y gestión de ingresos—en 2021, tras desempeñar roles clave en las empresas de tecnología hotelera Easy-Rez y OYO, Alfredo ha liderado la rápida expansión de SiteMinder en México y en la región de América Latina. Su profundo conocimiento de las particularidades y dinámicas de cada mercado se ha convertido en un recurso invaluable para los hoteleros locales que buscan competir con éxito en un entorno de huéspedes en constante cambio.¿Cómo pueden los hoteles independientes aumentar sus ingresos sin sacrificar ocupación?En este episodio de dojo.live, Alfredo Rodríguez Flores, Regional Sales Manager en SiteMinder, comparte cómo los hoteles independientes pueden aumentar sus ingresos sin sacrificar ocupación. Hablamos de la evolución del channel management, el impacto de los errores comunes en la distribución y cómo un RMS ligero puede ayudar a optimizar tarifas de forma sencilla y efectiva. También exploramos tendencias en canales de reserva en México y consejos prácticos para hoteleros que buscan crecer con tecnología accesible.Impulsado por el poder innovador de la tecnología digital, Alfredo Rodríguez Flores ha construido una carrera enfocada en fomentar el crecimiento y la innovación dentro de marcas líderes, siendo testigo del impacto de soluciones eficientes que empoderan al usuario.Desde que se unió a SiteMinder—la plataforma líder mundial en distribución hotelera y gestión de ingresos—en 2021, tras desempeñar roles clave en las empresas de tecnología hotelera Easy-Rez y OYO, Alfredo ha liderado la rápida expansión de SiteMinder en México y en la región de América Latina. Su profundo conocimiento de las particularidades y dinámicas de cada mercado se ha convertido en un recurso invaluable para los hoteleros locales que buscan competir con éxito en un entorno de huéspedes en constante cambio.¿Quieres conocer más sobre las tendencias que están transformando la industria hotelera? Revisa estos estudios esenciales de SiteMinder: Hotel Booking Trends y Changing Traveller Report. ¡Te sorprenderán los insights!Recursos adicionales¿Quieres conocer más sobre las tendencias que están transformando la industria hotelera? Revisa estos estudios esenciales de SiteMinder: Hotel Booking Trends y Changing Traveller Report. ¡Te sorprenderán los insights!

Why are instant rewards—not points— becoming the new loyalty currency for driving direct hotel bookings?In this episode of dojo.live, we explore how modern loyalty strategies are reshaping the hotel booking experience with Ellis Connolly, Chief Revenue Officer at Laasie. Ellis breaks down why the shift from traditional points programs to instant, personalized rewards is unlocking new levels of direct conversion and guest retention. From real-world success stories to low-lift implementation tips, discover how loyalty can become one of your most powerful tools for driving revenue, building first-party data, and turning casual bookers into lifelong guests.About Ellis ConnollyWidely recognized as a visionary hospitality and travel technology leader, Ellis Connolly is the Chief Revenue Officer of Laasie. He is a passionate evangelist of disruptive innovation, and has held senior executive roles within some of the most world's most successful SaaS technology companies.With customer-centric engagement, creativity and curiosity at his core, he brings industry connections and deep domain expertise that few else hold. Based outside of Los Angeles, Ellis is a sought-after speaker, advisor, author and influencer.

How can harnessing data—the ‘new oil'—fuel better bookings, pricing, and operational excellence in hospitality?In this episode of dojo.live, we dive into the power of data-driven hospitality with Binu Mathews, CEO of IDS Next. Binu unpacks why unified data layers are essential to modern hotel operations—fueling everything from smarter pricing and upselling to more impactful AI adoption and direct booking success. Discover how a platform-first approach can unlock operational excellence, improve guest loyalty, and drive long-term business value in a rapidly evolving landscape.Binu, the Director and Chief Executive Officer of IDS Next, stands as the driving force behind the company's remarkable success. With a career spanning over three decades, Binu has showcased unparalleled expertise, particularly in steering IDS Next to prominence in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia Pacific, positioning IDS as Asia's largest hospitality technology enterprise solutions provider.As a seasoned executive, Binu has held leadership positions across industries such as manufacturing, hospitality, and information technology. Before resuming the role of CEO at IDS Next, he served as the President and COO, earning a reputation as a “Change Agent” for driving process changes toward global excellence and innovation. Binu is also part of HTNG T100 – Global technology leaders shaping the next generation of hotels.Binu lives with his family in Bangalore, India, when not traveling around the globe and inspiring the IDS Team and partners to excel at what they do!Read Binu's Top 10 CRS Technology Trends Revolutionising Hospitality in 2025 on Hospitality Net. Read the article and see what's next for your hotel tech stack!Read Binu's Envisioning 2025 in travel and hospitality. Read the Article.About BinuWant to go deeper?

How can embedding the booking engine and reintroducing voice finally tip the scales for direct bookings?In this episode of dojo.live, we welcome back Josh Graham, Head of Marketing Development for North America at Cloudbeds. This conversation explores the future of direct bookings and digital storefront innovation, with a spotlight on Cloudbeds' embedded booking engine and their AI concierge solution, Engage. From voice-assisted reservations to the power of Google Tag Manager, Josh unpacks how simplifying the guest's path to purchase—and enabling end-to-end journey tracking without data gaps—is helping hotels dramatically improve conversion and loyalty, while also optimizing marketing performance and user experience more effectively.After 10 years in hotel operations at branded and independent hotels in Washington, D.C., Josh Graham transitioned to technology at TravelClick. Over 13 years, he held a number of senior sales, marketing, and go-to-market roles, working with CRS, Business Intelligence, and e-commerce/digital marketing. In his final role, he served as Regional VP for their guest management/CRM product.Following TravelClick's acquisition by Amadeus in 2018, Josh joined Revenue Analytics in 2020 to help launch their RMS solution, N2Pricing. After roles at Salesforce in their Travel and Hospitality unit and FLYR for Hospitality, Josh found his home at Cloudbeds. As Head of Market Development for North America, he drives market awareness and introduces Cloudbeds to new hotelier segments.About Josh

As business and bleisure travel rise, how can extended stay brands capture more direct bookings?In this episode of dojo.live, we explore how business travel is evolving and what that means for the future of extended stay. J.R. Dembiec, Brand President at Reside, shares his journey in hospitality and unpacks how Reside is redefining the space through innovation, flexibility, and partnerships like their recent alignment with Wyndham. We dive into the shifting behaviors of corporate travelers, the rise of “bleisure,” and what travel managers really want in a post-pandemic world. JR also breaks down how Reside's 3Sixty platform addresses booking complexities and personalization at scale, why ADR doesn't tell the whole story, and where tech like AI and automation are truly making an impact. Whether you're a hotelier, housing provider, or travel buyer, this episode is full of insights you can act on today.J.R. Dembiec joined Reside in 2018 and now serves as Brand President. With over 30 years of legal and business experience, he drives strategic growth through partnerships across the hospitality and travel sectors. He also oversees legal functions including governance, compliance, M&A, and risk management.Prior to Reside, J.R. led BridgeStreet Global Hospitality as Managing Director, overseeing operations across the Americas. He has also held senior roles at Realogy, Cendant, and Century 21, and began his career with Borg-Warner Protective Services. He holds a B.S. from James Madison University and a J.D. from Seton Hall University, and is admitted to practice in New Jersey and Washington, D.C.About J.R. Dembiec

The Power Behind the Page: How Booking Engines Are Shaping the Future of Hotel RevenueMay 6th, 2025, 10:00 am PT / Category: InterviewsFrom GenAI to GDS, how can hotels use technology to control their storefront, optimize distribution, and boost direct bookings?In this episode of dojo.live, we explore the future of hotel booking with Mark Lewis-Brown, CEO & President of Zucchetti North America. Mark shares how AI, smarter customization, and seamless channel management are helping hotels take control of their digital storefronts. From dynamic booking engines to simplified distribution, learn what it takes to stand out, drive direct bookings, and deliver a consistent guest experience across every touchpoint.Mark Lewis-Brown is an industry veteran with more than 35 years of experience. At Zucchetti North America, Mark is responsible for overseeing and implementing the commercial and strategic aspects of Zucchetti's expansion into the North American market. Mark is also involved in key decision-making regarding Zucchetti's global strategies and in the positioning of the North American branch within the larger organization.Mark began his hospitality career as an owner and operator of boutique properties across the U.S. Over the past 24 years, he has held leadership roles at several top hotel technology companies. His combined experience on both the hotel and vendor sides gives him a rare, well-rounded perspective on the industry—past and present—making him an ideal leader for Zucchetti North America.

What do short-term rental owners need to know about direct booking and how is it shaping the future of travel tech?Eric Goldreyer is an established 25+ year leader in travel and hospitality. He is the CEO and owner of Savvy (previously bnbfinder) – the book direct marketplace for professionally run vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, inns, and boutique hotels – without service fees.Previously, Eric co-founded TurnKey Vacation Rentals, which became North America's second largest property management company, acquired by Vacasa in 2021. In 1995, he founded Bedandbreakfast.com, growing it into the world's largest online B&B directory, acquired by HomeAway (now VRBO) in 2010.

What does it take to deliver guest-obsessed hospitality in a digital-first world? In this episode of dojo.live, we explore the future of hospitality with Eric Lutz, CEO and Co-Founder of olive. Eric shares what it truly means to be guest-obsessed in today's digital-first world. From actionable insights to smart automation, we unpack how AI is transforming the guest journey, increasing direct bookings, and building lasting loyalty. You'll also hear about Eric's path from hotelier to tech founder—and why putting guests first starts with smarter, more intuitive technology.Eric Lutz is the CEO and Co-Founder of olive, the industry's first AI-powered Booking Engine redefining the hotel booking experience. He began his career as a Night Auditor in Beverly Hills and most recently led the hotel division at a Los Angeles-based private equity firm. Frustrated by the limitations of current hotel tech, Eric founded olive to bring modern design, intelligence, and personalization to the digital guest journey. Today, olive powers industry-leading direct channel performance for leading independent hotels. A former hotelier with deep operational roots, Eric brings a guest-first lens and bold product vision to an industry long overdue for reinvention.

The direct booking equation: How do personalization and loyalty combine to maximize hotel profitability?Phelim Pekaar is the founder and CEO of P3 Hotel Software, a leading provider of online booking engines and guest-facing technology solutions for the hospitality industry. Since founding P3 in 2000, Phelim has grown the company into a global enterprise employing over 40 people and serving hotels worldwide. With extensive experience in software development and project management, he brings a hands-on leadership approach focused on innovation and delivering high-end solutions.Under his guidance, P3 has built its reputation on providing value for money while helping clients maximize their online revenues through strong, lasting partnerships. His passion for continuous learning and innovation drives the company's ongoing success in the digital hospitality space.

What does the next generation of business booking engines look like, and how are they solving for speed, spend, and personalization in Asia's travel market?Varun Sarda brings over a decade of experience in the travel industry, having navigated its many highs and lows. From co-founding an OTA and staying profitable through turbulent times, to launching India's first free flight cancellation platform and one of the country's most advanced holiday booking engines, his journey has been driven by a passion for innovation.Today, as Co-Founder of Velocity.travel, Varun is focused on reimagining business travel—building intelligent, personalized booking solutions designed for speed, scale, and the unique needs of the Asian enterprise market.Curious how Velocity.travel is reshaping the future of business travel? Read more about their recent $10M funding round and vision for intelligent booking.

¿Qué estrategias implementa tu hotel para aumentar los ingresos y mejorar la experiencia del huésped?Areli Moran se unió a Sabre Hospitality en 2017 y actualmente lidera el equipo de ventas para América Latina y el Caribe como Head of Sales. Con una pasión por desarrollar y mantener relaciones sólidas basadas en la confianza, Areli supervisa las operaciones de ventas en múltiples ubicaciones geográficas, diseñando estrategias efectivas para alcanzar los objetivos establecidos.Con más de 20 años de experiencia en la industria del Turismo, Areli ha desempeñado diversos roles en áreas como Call Center, Distribución, Operación, Comercio Electrónico, Time Share y Ventas Internacionales. Su trayectoria profesional está respaldada por una maestría en Mercadotecnia de la prestigiosa EGADE Business School del Tecnológico de Monterrey.

Is the all-in-one vs. hub-and-spoke debate holding hospitality back? Exploring a new way forward for PMS technology.After 10 years in hotel operations at branded and independent hotels in Washington, D.C., Josh Graham transitioned to technology at TravelClick. Over 13 years, he held a number of senior sales, marketing, and go-to-market roles, working with CRS, Business Intelligence, and e-commerce/digital marketing. In his final role, he served as Regional VP for their guest management/CRM product.Following TravelClick's acquisition by Amadeus in 2018, Josh joined Revenue Analytics in 2020 to help launch their RMS solution, N2Pricing. After roles at Salesforce in their Travel and Hospitality unit and FLYR for Hospitality, Josh found his home at Cloudbeds. As Head of Market Development for North America, he drives market awareness and introduces Cloudbeds to new hotelier segments.

How can holiday parks and hotels learn from each other's operational strategies to boost efficiency, guest satisfaction, and revenue performance?Siggi Schrot is the Vice President of Sales for the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region at RMS. With extensive experience in hospitality software and a passion for the industry, he collaborates closely with partners across EMEA to drive adoption of the RMS platform and expand its markets presence.

How can hospitality businesses bridge the 'Aspiration-Reality Gap' to unlock Revenue per Available Guest (RevPAG) and drive profitability beyond room revenue?Terrie O'Hanlon serves as Chief Marketing Officer and is responsible for strategies and programs to support global revenue growth, brand awareness and market leadership for Agilysys. Terrie is a technology marketing veteran having served as Chief Marketing Officer for publicly traded, venture backed and privately held companies in both established and emerging markets across a variety of sectors including enterprise SaaS applications, supply chain, financial ecommerce, retail, healthcare, payments, business intelligence and cybersecurity.

While the PMS is the heart of your tech, it works even better when connected to the rest of the ecosystem, enabling experiences with data.Jeff Bzdawka, a C-Suite Executive with 30+ years in hospitality technology, excels in innovation, team scaling, and organizational transformation. His leadership roles include President of Hapi, CEO at Knowland, SVP at Hyatt Hotels, and COO of TravelClick, with board positions at Evention and BirchStreet Systems. Additionally, Jeff is currently on AHLA's HTNG T100 Leadership Team and was recently inducted into HFTP's International Technology Hall of Fame.Having experienced both the brand side and the technology side of the industry, Jeff shares in this dojo.live episode how he's seen PMS systems evolve, how we can better leverage PMS data to create memorable guest experiences, and why he believes data is both the differentiator and the enabler in hospitality.

How can the right PMS technology reduce training time, improve efficiency, and ease hotel operations?Charlie Green was a founding member of the leadership team at SkyTouch Technology. He recently celebrated his 35th year in hospitality with 25 of those in the hotel technology arena. He is focused on understanding the needs and challenges that hotel operators experience and bringing innovative solutions to the market.Check out the SkyTouch Technology Blog for industry trends and practical tips to help hoteliers grow and sustain their operations.

¿Cómo puede la tecnología transformar la experiencia del huésped y convertirla en el motor del éxito para los hoteles?Irving es un experto en tecnología con más de 12 años de experiencia en el desarrollo de sistemas turísticos. Egresado de Ingeniería en Telemática por la Universidad del Caribe, ha dedicado su carrera a transformar la industria hotelera a través de soluciones innovadoras y eficientes. Bajo su dirección tecnológica, Zavia ERP se ha consolidado como un referente en el mercado hotelero en México, ofreciendo soluciones en la nube que hoy son utilizadas por hoteles en destinos clave como Cancún, Tulum, Playa del Carmen y otras regiones de México y América Latina.

¿Cómo puede la tecnología transformar la experiencia del huésped y convertirla en el motor del éxito para los hoteles?Con Irving Sulub, CTO @ Zavia ERP

How will AI and data-driven strategies shape the future of revenue management in hospitality?Alex Barros is a seasoned expert in revenue management and hospitality technology, with a strong focus on AI-driven decision-making and sustainable profitability. Alex has been working in travel tech playing a key role in shaping innovative solutions that help hotels maximize profits and revenue while enhancing guest experiences. With years of experience in the industry, Alex is passionate about leveraging data, automation, guest experience and predictive analytics to drive smarter pricing and distribution strategies. Alex works with BEONx, Hotelverse and Be Safe.

How can analyzing data at different levels - comp set, country, or class - help revenue managers uncover the full story behind hotel numbers and drive collaboration across departments?Claudia Alvarado is a leading data analytics expert in the hospitality industry, with nearly a decade of experience driving business growth through data-driven insights at STR. As a Senior Analytics Manager for the Financial Performance team, Claudia leverages her expertise in statistical analysis, data visualization and forecasting to inform strategic decisions. A frequent speaker at industry conferences and university lectures, Claudia is also a prolific researcher and author with numerous research projects and publications to her name.

From late check-outs to daytime cabanas - how can hotels turn every touchpoint into a revenue opportunity?Matt Benn is a seasoned expert in digital marketing and hospitality retailing, with a strong background in media and advertising. He has helped numerous hotels optimize their digital strategies to attract more guests, increase conversions, and drive direct bookings. His expertise now centers on innovative retailing approaches that enhance the booking journey, creating seamless experiences that maximize revenue and guest engagement.

How can Causal AI help hotels optimize pricing and promotions?Nikhil ShahHead of Data Science / LinkedInNikhil is a mathematician, AI researcher, and entrepreneur who heads Data Science at Cloudbeds. He studied Mathematics at Cambridge and Computational Optimization for his doctorate at Imperial College, spinning out Hotel Cloud (hospitality tech for revenue management) and S-Cube (energy tech for optimizing high-stakes drilling decisions). He has numerous published papers and two granted U.S. patents through the successful commercialization of his algorithms.Josh GrahamHead of Market Development / LinkedInAfter 10 years in hotel operations at branded and independent hotels in Washington, D.C., Josh transitioned to technology at TravelClick. Over 13 years, he held a number of senior sales, marketing, and go-to-market roles, working with CRS, Business Intelligence, and e-commerce/digital marketing. In his final role, he served as Regional VP for their guest management/CRM product.Following TravelClick's acquisition by Amadeus in 2018, Josh joined Revenue Analytics in 2020 to help launch their RMS solution, N2Pricing. After roles at Salesforce in their Travel and Hospitality unit and FLYR for Hospitality, Josh found his home at Cloudbeds. As Head of Market Development for North America, he drives market awareness and introduces Cloudbeds to new hotelier segments.

The core principles of Revenue Management haven't changed, but the needs of modern Revenue Management teams certainly have. How does our technology need to evolve in order to keep up and adequately support them?Tess McGoldrick is the Senior Vice President for the Travel & Hospitality vertical at Revenue Analytics. In this role, she leads cross-functional teams to develop high-impact products that provide revenue growth for her customers. Having started her career at Revenue Analytics, Tess developed an expertise in Revenue Management from the best in the business.Tess' experience includes ensuring client satisfaction is achieved with all product implementations, from business process improvements to forecast predictions to actionable pricing recommendations. She drives the vision for the following products: N2Pricing (Hospitality), FareVantage (Passenger Rail), and SeniorPricing (Senior Assisted Living), as well as the implementation & ongoing customer success for these customers. Prior to joining Revenue Analytics, Tess graduated from the Goizueta Business School at Emory University with a BBA concentration in Strategy & Management Consulting and Accounting.

How can hotels shift from reactive RFP management to proactive revenue capture with automation and instant booking?As a hospitality veteran with more than three decades of experience in hotel operations, sales and revenue management, Kristi White has a pulse on the needs of the meetings and events business. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role as Vice President of Reporting, Data and Analytics at Groups360, including expertise in hotel sales, marketing, revenue management and electronic distribution. White has advised hundreds of hotels around the world on their business strategy, improving hotel performance and overall profitability.As a recognized guru in her field, she is a published expert in Hospitality and a frequent speaker on group sales, revenue management, and distribution at industry conferences and hospitality schools. She was a founding member of the Board of Directors for the HSMAI Revenue Management Special Interest Group. Currently, she serves on the HSMAI Sales Advisory Board.

How is AI-powered data engagement, driven by GPT and LLMs, transforming revenue management from a technical skill into a universal language?A seasoned business and technology visionary, Alan Young is the VP, Hospitality Strategy for Infor. He is recognized for his provocative insight into how emerging technology impacts industries and how leaders can better connect with their customers and employees for sustained growth. Alan also sits on several hotel and travel technology advisory boards and is known for his ability to turn difficult concepts into easy-to-understand ideas that drive meaningful outcomes and actions.He is a respected thought-leader, battle-tested consultant, mentor, and sought-after keynote speaker on the topics of business strategy, growth, transformation, and innovation. Alan focuses on increasing business awareness and believes that everything hinges on the power of communication and effective storytelling.

How is RMS innovation redefining guest experiences, ancillary revenue, and AI-driven decision-making?Olga Tolle-Rodrigues leads global partnership development for IDeaS. She has a track record of serving organizations and deploying technologies and initiatives internationally through global alliances and channels. She is passionate about delivering business growth through a superior customer and partner experience and adoption as well as financial management and analysis that supports decision-making in fast-paced and innovative environments.Download IDeaS “5 Predictions That Will Shape Hospitality in 2025” Whitepaper Here.

In this "Behind the Booth at GBTA 2024" segment, travel industry expert Todd Arthur, Senior Vice President, North America Agency, Americas Delivery and Global Corporate Solutions at Sabre Corporation, discusses: The basics of New Distribution Capability (NDC) and its revolutionary impact on content distribution in the airline industry, enabling more personalized and efficient travel options. Sabre's leadership in the NDC journey, with over 20 airlines already NDC-enabled and plans to expand to 35 airlines by the end of 2024. This enablement enhances booking experiences and servicing, which is crucial in corporate travel where ticket changes are frequent. The significance of partnerships, such as Sabre's collaboration with Google, to leverage AI and machine learning. This collaboration aims to transform the travel ecosystem by using data more effectively to improve user experiences and operational efficiencies.

In this dojo.live episode, hospitality experts Scott Pusillo, Josh Graham, and Shridhar Padmanabhan help hospitality organizations adapt for the future with the latest solutions, actionable advice, and inspirational stories from The Hospitality Show 2024, discussing: Defining and driving ‘impact' and ‘innovation' in hospitality Game-changing tech trends and innovations shaping the industry Predictions for the future of hospitality technology Building stability and resilience in hospitality organizations VP & Head of Sales & Account Management – North America @ Sabre Corporation Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottpusillo/Company LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/showcase/sabre-hospitality/Company URL: www.sabrehospitality.com/ Scott Pusillo, CRME, spent more than 18 years in the hospitality industry, including senior leadership roles in revenue management, distribution, and sales with leading global hotel brands. Scott currently leads the North America sales & account management teams at Sabre Hospitality. He lends his industry experience to help deliver the next generation of hospitality technology solutions to a hotelier community excited to step into the next decade of revenue and distribution. Head of Market Development, North America @ Cloubeds Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grahamjosh/Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cloudbeds/Company URL: https://www.cloudbeds.com/ After taking a gamble on a hotel job (literally, it was at a casino), Josh Graham spent 10 years in hotel operations at branded and independent hotels in Washington, DC, before transitioning to hospitality technology at TravelClick. Over 13 years, he held a number of senior sales, marketing, and go-to-market roles, working with CRS, Business Intelligence, and e-commerce/digital marketing. In his final role, he served as Regional VP for their guest management/CRM product. Following TravelClick's acquisition by Amadeus in 2018, Josh joined Revenue Analytics in 2020 to help launch their RMS solution, N2Pricing. After roles at Salesforce in their Travel and Hospitality unit, and FLYR for Hospitality, Josh found his home at Cloudbeds. As Head of Market Development for North America, he drives market awareness and introduces Cloudbeds to new hotelier segments. When not on the road, Josh lives in the DC suburbs and clings to the notion that he is still punk AF while always having antacids and ibuprofen handy to offset spicy food and working out. He enjoys live music and attempts to stay relevant by taking his kids to concerts, despite occasionally questionable musical choices. SME in Travel @ Encora Inc. [LinkedIn] Shridhar is known for his empathetic approach and close partnerships with clients and stakeholders, effectively solving complex problems at scale. His strong background in sales and business development within the Travel & Hospitality sector enables him to drive innovation and achieve strategic outcomes. This extensive experience also makes him an excellent co-host, capable of asking solid questions and fostering engaging discussions. Scott PusilloJosh GrahamShridhar Padmanabhan

Callum McPherson reveals how AI is ushering in the next generation of hotel guidebooks, providing tailored and localized experiences. Callum is the founder and CEO of Obvlo, an AI platform used by hotel and travel brands like Virgin Hotels to produce, maintain and personalize local area content for any destination on Earth. An avid traveller, following university Callum spent 4 months driving overland from Scotland to South Africa before crewing a yacht across the Atlantic. This passion took him into hotels, initially working as the night manager for what was at the time the 3rd highest-rated luxury hotel on TripAdvisor in Europe. The last decade has seen Callum following another passion into the technology world, first in fintech using bank data for credit risk and identity and now applying data to personalisation and travel. Travel is one of the last major sectors of the economy to be disrupted by data in the way that finance and banking has been.

With the rising desire for authentic cultural experiences, how is technology evolving to enrich both travel and artisan livelihoods? Rana Saad is an entrepreneur and innovator connecting cultures through technology. Rana Saad is the founder of Tuzmo – a startup that helps travelers and tourists find authentic, local artisans. He is a former Presidential Innovation Fellow at the White House. Prior to that, in his role as the North America Digital Innovation Lead at Accenture, he helped some of the largest corporations and organizations innovate like startups and at startup speed. Previously he founded a global technology services company spanning four countries, that exited with a listing on the Copenhagen Stock Exchange. He advises many early stage companies and has built digital innovation labs and programs at multiple organizations.

How Bodhi has pioneered a new business category that manages all aspects of technology in common areas, guest rooms, and residences. Will Gilbert, originally from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, began his career in the tech industry at the age of 14, starting as a network engineer for an internet provider. Although he left college before completing his computer engineering degree, he leveraged his IT skills to become the co-founder and partner of several companies, employing more than 100 professionals in three different countries. Fast forward 25 years, he and his Co-Founders are focused on their software company, Bodhi. Drawing from their two decades in custom hardware and control system integration, Bodhi offers a much-needed manufacturer-independent approach across various sectors, notably hospitality. As a pilot with two jet type ratings, a member of the Airplane Owner and Pilots Association, and vice-chair of the City of Fort Lauderdale Aviation Advisory Board, he is deeply passionate about the aviation industry and frequently flies with friends and colleagues. Additionally, Will is a golf fanatic and loves to travel.