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This week on the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, Heather reconnects with long-time friend and returning guest, Lorraine Woodward, the unstoppable force behind Becoming rentABLE. Lorraine has been championing accessibility in the short-term rental industry for years, and this time, she's back with big news - an exciting new partnership with Expedia Group through their Open World Accelerator Program. Together, Heather and Lorraine dive into what accessibility really means today (spoiler alert: it's not just ramps and wide doors), and how simple, low-cost features like under-counter lighting, secondary locks, and hard surface driveways can dramatically open your property to a broader guest base - including families with children, seniors, people recovering from surgery, and neurodivergent travelers. Lorraine also shares her personal journey, building an inclusive rental to meet her family's needs, and the lightbulb moment that sparked the idea for a global platform. Her story is as inspiring as it is actionable. This is a must-listen if you've ever thought, "Accessibility isn't for my market." Think again - Lorraine shows us why accessible design is not only the right thing to do, it's really good business. Revolutionize Your Employee Onboarding with THRIVE Essentials: Faster Training, Stronger Teams, Better Results! Discover how THRIVE Essentials accelerates onboarding for new property management staff, boosting performance and reducing turnover. >> THRIVE Essentials Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS612
To achieve long-term success in tumultuous businesses like media and entertainment, following formulas and data won't get you there. Barry Diller, the current Chairman and Senior Executive of both IAC and Expedia Group, has built a decades-long career in TV, film, and digital media by going with his instincts and betting on what he views as good ideas with limitless potential. He shares what he's learned about navigating the larger-than-life personalities in Hollywood, developing talent over time, and taking advantage of luck when it comes your way. Diller is the author of the new memoir, Who Knew.
This week on GMH EU, special guest host Boris Pavlov, Co-Founder of Flataway, joins Sarah Nan DuPre and Leo Walton to unpack Airbnb's Summer Release—from in-stay services and revamped experiences to its push toward becoming a full-fledged lifestyle app. Plus, we dive into Expedia Group's clever new AI feature that turns Instagram travel reels into bookable trips. A must-listen episode blending industry insight with sharp perspective. ---- Good Morning Hospitality is part of the Hospitality.FM Multi-Media Network and is a Hospitality.FM Original The hospitality industry is constantly growing, changing, and innovating! This podcast brings you the top news and topics from industry experts across different hospitality fields. Good Morning Hospitality publishes three thirty-minute weekly episodes: every Monday and Wednesday at 7 a.m. PST / 10 a.m. EST and every Tuesday at 8 a.m. CET for our European and UK-focused content. Make sure to tune in during our live show on our LinkedIn page or YouTube every week and join the conversation live! Explore everything Good Morning Hospitality has to offer: • Well & Good Morning Coffee: Enjoy our signature roast—order here! • Retreats: Join us at one of our exclusive retreats—learn more and register your interest here! • Episodes & More: Find all episodes and additional info at GoodMorningHospitality.com Thank you to all of the Hospitality.FM Partners that help make this show possible. If you have any press you want to be covered during the show, email us at goodmorning@hospitality.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fresh off his exclusive interview with Airbnb CFO Ellie Mertz, Jamie Lane joins Wil Slickers, Michael Goldin, and Brandreth Canaley to unpack Airbnb's pivot toward services, experiences, and a more social platform future. We dive into what this means for hosts and operators—and how Expedia Group's latest moves in AI, advertising, and B2B at Explore 2025 signal a broader battle for the future of trip planning. Plus, a quick shoutout to Moving Mountains and Robin Craigen on their exciting new chapter with StayTerra! ---- Good Morning Hospitality is part of the Hospitality.FM Multi-Media Network and is a Hospitality.FM Original The hospitality industry is constantly growing, changing, and innovating! This podcast brings you the top news and topics from industry experts across different hospitality fields. Good Morning Hospitality publishes three thirty-minute weekly episodes: every Monday and Wednesday at 7 a.m. PST / 10 a.m. EST and every Tuesday at 8 a.m. CET for our European and UK-focused content. Make sure to tune in during our live show on our LinkedIn page or YouTube every week and join the conversation live! Explore everything Good Morning Hospitality has to offer: • Well & Good Morning Coffee: Enjoy our signature roast—order here! • Retreats: Join us at one of our exclusive retreats—learn more and register your interest here! • Episodes & More: Find all episodes and additional info at GoodMorningHospitality.com Thank you to all of the Hospitality.FM Partners that help make this show possible. If you have any press you want to be covered during the show, email us at goodmorning@hospitality.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Expedia Group is expanding its B2B business to include new offerings like flights, rental cars, and travel insurance, aiming to become a comprehensive platform for travel partners. Airbnb is enhancing its app by using user profiles to deliver personalized experiences based on travel preferences and companions, with CEO Brian Chesky envisioning profiles as central to its ecosystem. Meanwhile, optimism surrounds Abu Dhabi's upcoming Disneyland project, backed by developer Miral, as theme park attendance on Yas Island rose by 20% in 2024 despite past failures in the UAE's theme park sector. User Profiles Power Airbnb's Push Into Experiences and Services Expedia's B2B Push Grows: Adds Flights, Rental Cars, Travel Insurance UAE Theme Parks Often Fail. Can Disneyland Abu Dhabi Succeed? Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
In this episode, host Andy Storch sits down with Fabio Sacoman, Vice President of Learning and Development at Expedia Group. Fabio's journey into the world of learning and talent development is anything but typical—starting as a chemical engineer in Brazil, working at General Electric, and then spending 18 years building a successful consultancy before making the leap to lead L&D at a global powerhouse like Expedia.Together, Andy and Fabio dive deep into what it takes to build a thriving learning culture across a global organization, the importance of leadership development, and why authentic, people-first leadership is at the core of cultural transformation. Fabio also unpacks his approach to aligning L&D with business strategy, balancing formal and informal learning, and designing programs that resonate across diverse cultures and regions.Whether you're managing talent development for a multinational company or looking to uplevel your own approach to learning and leadership, this conversation is jam-packed with insights, stories, and practical advice. Tune in as we explore what it really means to grow people—and businesses—through passion, clarity, and a focus on real impact.In this episode, Fabio uncovers:How a career that began as a chemical engineer in Brazil informed his systematic, process-minded approach to learning—and why passion has always been the through-line guiding his journey.The pivotal decision to leave his own thriving consultancy after 18 successful years to take on the global L&D leadership challenge at Expedia—with all the mindset shifts and opportunities that entailed.The real secrets to effective facilitation and learning design: why it's not about the instructor's expertise, but about driving audience impact, changing mindsets, and shifting behaviors that last beyond the session.Strategies for building a genuine learning culture—including the importance of involving everyone (from top leaders to every employee), and embedding learning into daily actions, rituals, and company processes beyond isolated programs.Fabio's leadership philosophy, grounded in leader accountability, clarity, and authenticity—and why leaders teaching other leaders and sharing human conversations are at the heart of sustainable impact.Practical, creative approaches to talent mobility and career development, nurturing opportunities for growth, and ensuring that every person owns their career journey—regardless of titles or promotions.Fabio also shares his point of view on today's biggest challenges—like the rapid rise of AI and the evolving role of L&D as a vital part of the business (not just HR). He sheds light on how Expedia is experimenting with AI in learning and day-to-day work, plus how these innovations are transforming onboarding and ongoing development.This conversation, recorded for the Talent Development Hot Seat Podcast, is jam-packed with actionable insights—from the nuts and bolts of global program design to leadership accountability, learning measurement, and the nuances of fostering true culture change. Fabio's story is a masterclass in strategic L&D for high-impact, high-growth environments.Tune in for practical takeaways, fresh frameworks, and inspiration on how learning and leadership can drive results, empower talent, and knit together organizations with purpose—no matter how complex or far-flung they may be.Connect with Andy Storch here:WebsiteLinkedInJoin us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!Connect with Fabio Sacoman here:
This episode breaks down Airbnb's updated Off-Platform Policy and what it means for short-term rental hosts and managers, from stricter fee transparency to new guest communication rules. We also explore Expedia Group's Q1 2025 performance, its bold AI strategy, and how it's navigating demand shifts with a focus on international B2B expansion.Are you new and want to start your own hospitality business?Join our Facebook groupFollow Boostly and join the discussion:YouTube LinkedInFacebookWant to know more about us? Visit our websiteStay informed and ahead of the curve with the latest insights and analysis.
Expedia Group is experiencing weaker travel demand to the U.S., reporting a 7% decline in inbound travel and lowering its full-year growth expectations due to softening bookings and revenue. Choice Hotels also cut its revenue outlook, though it saw a 7% rise in revenue per available room from its budget brands, benefiting from factors like strong employment and low gas prices. Meanwhile, Sphere Entertainment plans to expand by developing smaller, more cost-effective versions of its large-scale Sphere venues, aiming for broader market deployment with better investment returns. Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
In this special GMH EU x STR mashup, Leo Walton and Wil Slickers team up live from Denver during the STR Hospitality Summit to tackle some of the most pressing cross-Atlantic hospitality topics. From Airbnb's evolving stance on quality and guest expectations to Expedia Group's layoffs and the growing impact of AI on operational efficiency, the duo dives into how booking patterns, guest behavior, and short-term rental value are shifting in both Europe and the U.S. They unpack what it means to hold your rate, build meaningful guest experiences, and the opportunity of being the destination—not just the accommodation. Plus, they touch on the recent acquisition of Finca Mallorca by Holidu, the future of distribution beyond OTAs, and why this summer could make or break the M&A scene in STR. Tune in for candid insights, conference energy, and a few good laughs. ---- Good Morning Hospitality is part of the Hospitality.FM Multi-Media Network and is a Hospitality.FM Original The hospitality industry is constantly growing, changing, and innovating! This podcast brings you the top news and topics from industry experts across different hospitality fields. Good Morning Hospitality publishes three thirty-minute weekly episodes: every Monday and Wednesday at 7 a.m. PST / 10 a.m. EST and every Tuesday at 8 a.m. CET for our European and UK-focused content. Make sure to tune in during our live show on our LinkedIn page or YouTube every week and join the conversation live! Explore everything Good Morning Hospitality has to offer: • Well & Good Morning Coffee: Enjoy our signature roast—order here! • Retreats: Join us at one of our exclusive retreats—learn more and register your interest here! • Episodes & More: Find all episodes and additional info at GoodMorningHospitality.com Thank you to all of the Hospitality.FM Partners that help make this show possible. If you have any press you want to be covered during the show, email us at goodmorning@hospitality.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of Good Morning Hospitality, Wil Slickers, Brandreth Canaley, Michael Goldin, and Jamie Lane break down Airbnb's Q1 2025 results, highlighting slowing growth in the U.S. and a surge in international markets. The team covers the shift in nights and experiences booked, record-high ADRs, and what CEO Brian Chesky means when he says Airbnb is nearing the "end of the beginning." We also unpack the key takeaways from Booking Holdings (NASDAQ: BKNG) and Expedia Group's Q1 earnings—what their results say about the state of online travel, how each platform is investing in AI, and where they're pulling back. Plus, we explore the macro trends driving travel this summer and why all three OTAs are bracing for softer U.S. demand. This one's packed with insights for operators, investors, and tech vendors across travel and hospitality. ---- Good Morning Hospitality is part of the Hospitality.FM Multi-Media Network and is a Hospitality.FM Original The hospitality industry is constantly growing, changing, and innovating! This podcast brings you the top news and topics from industry experts across different hospitality fields. Good Morning Hospitality publishes three thirty-minute weekly episodes: every Monday and Wednesday at 7 a.m. PST / 10 a.m. EST and every Tuesday at 8 a.m. CET for our European and UK-focused content. Make sure to tune in during our live show on our LinkedIn page or YouTube every week and join the conversation live! Explore everything Good Morning Hospitality has to offer: • Well & Good Morning Coffee: Enjoy our signature roast—order here! • Retreats: Join us at one of our exclusive retreats—learn more and register your interest here! • Episodes & More: Find all episodes and additional info at GoodMorningHospitality.com Thank you to all of the Hospitality.FM Partners that help make this show possible. If you have any press you want to be covered during the show, email us at goodmorning@hospitality.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Send us a textLinking the Travel Industry is a business travel podcast where we review the top travel industry stories that are posted on LinkedIn by LinkedIn members. We curate the top posts and discuss with them with travel industry veterans in a live session with audience members. You can join the live recording session by visiting BusinessTravel360.comYour Hosts are Riaan van Schoor, Ann Cederhall and Aash ShravahStories covered on this session include -A deal agreed last year between Ryanair and Expedia Group to have their content distributed via the group's range of portals went live this week.Sabre Corporation and CellPoint Digital, a payment provider, sign an agreement to "Strengthen (the) Airline Payments Ecosystem".Daniel Boyle gives us a summary of the impact to the aerospace industry of the latest developments in US trade policies.Revolut receives approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate their prepayment services across all of India.American Airlines will offer free in-flight WiFi to their frequent flyers, starting in 2026.Ryanair suggest it might consider the Chinese COMAC C919 jet as a replacement for Boeing 737's.United Airlines reports record Q1 2025 revenue of $13.2b whilst also reducing domestic flight capacity by 4%.LATAM Airlines announce their latest GDS distribution fee model, also adding surcharges for some NDC fares.You can subscribe to this podcast by searching 'BusinessTravel360' on your favorite podcast player or visiting BusinessTravel360.comThis podcast was created, edited and distributed by BusinessTravel360. Be sure to sign up for regular updates at BusinessTravel360.com - Enjoy!Support the show
We discuss Expedia Group's restructuring efforts to strengthen its business and focus on long-term growth, following recent layoffs. This move aligns with broader industry trends as Booking Holdings also adjusts its operations. We also cover the tourism boom in Asia, with Thailand reaffirming its commitment to a 3.5 billion baht subsidy for domestic tourism, despite challenges like competition and concerns over Chinese arrivals. Meanwhile, Hong Kong hotels are fully booked for May Day Golden Week, and Macao expects a 15.7% increase in tourism compared to last year.Are you new and want to start your own hospitality business?Join our Facebook groupFollow Boostly and join the discussion:YouTube LinkedInFacebookWant to know more about us? Visit our websiteStay informed and ahead of the curve with the latest insights and analysis.
Marriott International plans to acquire CitizenM to expand its select-service and lifestyle hotel portfolio, expecting the deal to boost its 2025 net room growth and generate $30 million in annual fees. Expedia Group is laying off about 3% of its workforce, mainly in the product, technology, and finance teams, as part of a broader restructuring effort that began with its marketing team in March. Meanwhile, a rare atmospheric event triggered a major power outage across Spain and Portugal, severely disrupting travel and prompting emergency measures. Marriott to Buy CitizenM for $355 Million Expedia Restructures Product and Tech Teams, Will Lay Off 3% of Workforce Blackouts Across Spain and Portugal Hit Travel Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
Expedia Group is making it harder for entry-level One Key loyalty members to earn rewards on Vrbo bookings, a change aimed at reducing costs for the company. Meanwhile, international adventure travelers are increasingly avoiding the U.S. due to perceptions of unwelcoming entry policies and lingering concerns about tariffs. Lastly, although Booking Holdings reported a drop in greenhouse gas emissions for 2024, it is abandoning a key sustainability goal. Expedia Makes It Harder for One Key Members to Earn Vrbo Rewards Why Adventure Travelers Are Saying ‘No' to the U.S. Green Label Target Scrapped, Extreme Weather Risks – Takeaways from Booking Holdings' Climate Report Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.
On today's episode of Good Morning Hospitality, Wil Slickers, Michael Goldin, and Brandreth Canaley break down three of the biggest headlines in travel and hospitality this week. Vacasa's special committee officially rejected Davidson Kempner Capital Management's improved acquisition bid of $5.75 per share, calling it “not reasonably likely” to result in a superior proposal compared to the current Casago-led offer. With the shareholder vote looming, this move may bring an end to the takeover drama. Expedia Group is also making waves with a renewed focus on its B2B travel tech strategy. In a recent Q&A on Skift, company leadership highlighted their efforts to simplify the messaging around their B2B offerings and strengthen relationships with partners like banks, loyalty programs, and large-scale travel distributors. And over at Airbnb, the platform is doubling down on its policies around off-platform bookings and fee transparency. A new policy update reinforces that all required fees must be disclosed at the time of booking and that moving guests off the platform is a serious violation. From M&A tension to evolving tech strategies and policy updates, this episode dives into the forces shaping the guest and operator experience in 2025. ---- Good Morning Hospitality is part of the Hospitality.FM Multi-Media Network and is a Hospitality.FM Original The hospitality industry is constantly growing, changing, and innovating! This podcast brings you the top news and topics from industry experts across different hospitality fields. Good Morning Hospitality publishes three thirty-minute weekly episodes: every Monday and Wednesday at 7 a.m. PST / 10 a.m. EST and every Tuesday at 8 a.m. CET for our European and UK-focused content. Make sure to tune in during our live show on our LinkedIn page or YouTube every week and join the conversation live! Explore everything Good Morning Hospitality has to offer: • Well & Good Morning Coffee: Enjoy our signature roast—order here! • Retreats: Join us at one of our exclusive retreats—learn more and register your interest here! • Episodes & More: Find all episodes and additional info at GoodMorningHospitality.com Thank you to all of the Hospitality.FM Partners that help make this show possible. If you have any press you want to be covered during the show, email us at goodmorning@hospitality.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On today's episode of Good Morning Hospitality, Wil Slickers, Michael Goldin, and Brandreth Canaley break down three of the biggest headlines in travel and hospitality this week. Vacasa's special committee officially rejected Davidson Kempner Capital Management's improved acquisition bid of $5.75 per share, calling it “not reasonably likely” to result in a superior proposal compared to the current Casago-led offer. With the shareholder vote looming, this move may bring an end to the takeover drama. Expedia Group is also making waves with a renewed focus on its B2B travel tech strategy. In a recent Q&A on Skift, company leadership highlighted their efforts to simplify the messaging around their B2B offerings and strengthen relationships with partners like banks, loyalty programs, and large-scale travel distributors. And over at Airbnb, the platform is doubling down on its policies around off-platform bookings and fee transparency. A new policy update reinforces that all required fees must be disclosed at the time of booking and that moving guests off the platform is a serious violation. From M&A tension to evolving tech strategies and policy updates, this episode dives into the forces shaping the guest and operator experience in 2025. ---- Good Morning Hospitality is part of the Hospitality.FM Multi-Media Network and is a Hospitality.FM Original The hospitality industry is constantly growing, changing, and innovating! This podcast brings you the top news and topics from industry experts across different hospitality fields. Good Morning Hospitality publishes three thirty-minute weekly episodes: every Monday and Wednesday at 7 a.m. PST / 10 a.m. EST and every Tuesday at 8 a.m. CET for our European and UK-focused content. Make sure to tune in during our live show on our LinkedIn page or YouTube every week and join the conversation live! Explore everything Good Morning Hospitality has to offer: • Well & Good Morning Coffee: Enjoy our signature roast—order here! • Retreats: Join us at one of our exclusive retreats—learn more and register your interest here! • Episodes & More: Find all episodes and additional info at GoodMorningHospitality.com Thank you to all of the Hospitality.FM Partners that help make this show possible. If you have any press you want to be covered during the show, email us at goodmorning@hospitality.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today on Good Morning Hospitality, Michael Goldin, Brandreth Canaley, and Wil Slickers break down the latest headlines shaping travel and hospitality. Morningstar slashes growth projections for online travel firms—what does this signal for Expedia Group, Airbnb, and Booking.com as summer nears? We also look at SuiteOp's $3M raise to bring AI tools to short-term rental operators. Is AI still a hot spot for investment, or a rare bright spot in a cooling market? Finally, we dive into PhocusWire's latest funding analysis, which shows fewer deals and a clear investor shift toward profitability. It's a must-listen for anyone tracking the future of travel tech, investment, and operations. ---- Good Morning Hospitality is part of the Hospitality.FM Multi-Media Network and is a Hospitality.FM Original The hospitality industry is constantly growing, changing, and innovating! This podcast brings you the top news and topics from industry experts across different hospitality fields. Good Morning Hospitality publishes three thirty-minute weekly episodes: every Monday and Wednesday at 7 a.m. PST / 10 a.m. EST and every Tuesday at 8 a.m. CET for our European and UK-focused content. Make sure to tune in during our live show on our LinkedIn page or YouTube every week and join the conversation live! Explore everything Good Morning Hospitality has to offer: • Well & Good Morning Coffee: Enjoy our signature roast—order here! • Retreats: Join us at one of our exclusive retreats—learn more and register your interest here! • Episodes & More: Find all episodes and additional info at GoodMorningHospitality.com Thank you to all of the Hospitality.FM Partners that help make this show possible. If you have any press you want to be covered during the show, email us at goodmorning@hospitality.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today on Good Morning Hospitality, Michael Goldin, Brandreth Canaley, and Wil Slickers break down the latest headlines shaping travel and hospitality. Morningstar slashes growth projections for online travel firms—what does this signal for Expedia Group, Airbnb, and Booking.com as summer nears? We also look at SuiteOp's $3M raise to bring AI tools to short-term rental operators. Is AI still a hot spot for investment, or a rare bright spot in a cooling market? Finally, we dive into PhocusWire's latest funding analysis, which shows fewer deals and a clear investor shift toward profitability. It's a must-listen for anyone tracking the future of travel tech, investment, and operations. ---- Good Morning Hospitality is part of the Hospitality.FM Multi-Media Network and is a Hospitality.FM Original The hospitality industry is constantly growing, changing, and innovating! This podcast brings you the top news and topics from industry experts across different hospitality fields. Good Morning Hospitality publishes three thirty-minute weekly episodes: every Monday and Wednesday at 7 a.m. PST / 10 a.m. EST and every Tuesday at 8 a.m. CET for our European and UK-focused content. Make sure to tune in during our live show on our LinkedIn page or YouTube every week and join the conversation live! Explore everything Good Morning Hospitality has to offer: • Well & Good Morning Coffee: Enjoy our signature roast—order here! • Retreats: Join us at one of our exclusive retreats—learn more and register your interest here! • Episodes & More: Find all episodes and additional info at GoodMorningHospitality.com Thank you to all of the Hospitality.FM Partners that help make this show possible. If you have any press you want to be covered during the show, email us at goodmorning@hospitality.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week on GMH Hotel, Sarah Dandashy, Steve Turk, and guest-host, Adam Bussell, unpack how new tariffs could delay hotel projects and drive up development costs across the U.S. They also explore how staffing levels in the hotel industry remain below pre-pandemic levels, despite a projected bump in jobs and compensation. In travel, the team spotlights Virgin Voyages' booming success with its adults-only cruises and breaks down Expedia Group's thoughtful approach to integrating AI tools like ChatGPT into their booking experience. Tune in for the latest insights and hospitality headlines! ---- Good Morning Hospitality is part of the Hospitality.FM Multi-Media Network and is a Hospitality.FM Original The hospitality industry is constantly growing, changing, and innovating! This podcast brings you the top news and topics from industry experts across different hospitality fields. Good Morning Hospitality publishes three thirty-minute weekly episodes: every Monday and Wednesday at 7 a.m. PST / 10 a.m. EST and every Tuesday at 8 a.m. CET for our European and UK-focused content. Make sure to tune in during our live show on our LinkedIn page or YouTube every week and join the conversation live! Explore everything Good Morning Hospitality has to offer: • Well & Good Morning Coffee: Enjoy our signature roast—order here! • Retreats: Join us at one of our exclusive retreats—learn more and register your interest here! • Episodes & More: Find all episodes and additional info at GoodMorningHospitality.com Thank you to all of the Hospitality.FM Partners that help make this show possible. If you have any press you want to be covered during the show, email us at goodmorning@hospitality.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week on GMH Hotel, Sarah Dandashy, Steve Turk, and guest-host, Adam Bussell, unpack how new tariffs could delay hotel projects and drive up development costs across the U.S. They also explore how staffing levels in the hotel industry remain below pre-pandemic levels, despite a projected bump in jobs and compensation. In travel, the team spotlights Virgin Voyages' booming success with its adults-only cruises and breaks down Expedia Group's thoughtful approach to integrating AI tools like ChatGPT into their booking experience. Tune in for the latest insights and hospitality headlines! ---- Good Morning Hospitality is part of the Hospitality.FM Multi-Media Network and is a Hospitality.FM Original The hospitality industry is constantly growing, changing, and innovating! This podcast brings you the top news and topics from industry experts across different hospitality fields. Good Morning Hospitality publishes three thirty-minute weekly episodes: every Monday and Wednesday at 7 a.m. PST / 10 a.m. EST and every Tuesday at 8 a.m. CET for our European and UK-focused content. Make sure to tune in during our live show on our LinkedIn page or YouTube every week and join the conversation live! Explore everything Good Morning Hospitality has to offer: • Well & Good Morning Coffee: Enjoy our signature roast—order here! • Retreats: Join us at one of our exclusive retreats—learn more and register your interest here! • Episodes & More: Find all episodes and additional info at GoodMorningHospitality.com Thank you to all of the Hospitality.FM Partners that help make this show possible. If you have any press you want to be covered during the show, email us at goodmorning@hospitality.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Send us a textLinking the Travel Industry is a business travel podcast where we review the top travel industry stories that are posted on LinkedIn by LinkedIn members. We curate the top posts and discuss with them with travel industry veterans in a live session with audience members. You can join the live recording session by visiting BusinessTravel360.comYour Hosts are Riaan van Schoor, Ann Cederhall and Aash ShravahStories covered on this session include -Guy Fisher's post about his almost 2 hour hold with an unnamed airline to complete a simple change to his booking creates plenty of discussion.The French government's much talked about increases in taxes on flights took effect this week.Expedia Group makes a round of job cuts.Snowfall (now Junction) enters into liquidation with debts of £10.5m.The American Express Global Business Travel / CWT deal receives approval from the UK's Competition and Markets Authority.Jay Shabat provides a graph comparing Q4 2024 operating margins amongst major airlines, highlighting by how much International Airlines Group (IAG) outperformed both Air France-KLM and Lufthansa.American Express announces the acquisition of payment and expense tech provider Center (getcenter.com).Shortly after Pieter Elbers reveals that he wishes IndiGo (InterGlobe Aviation Ltd) could fly to Amsterdam, they announce two new long haul routes: Manchester and Amsterdam. They will start serving these destinations in July with a Boeing Dreamliner wet leased from Norse Atlantic Airways.Extra StoriesSpace News!You can subscribe to this podcast by searching 'BusinessTravel360' on your favorite podcast player or visiting BusinessTravel360.comThis podcast was created, edited and distributed by BusinessTravel360. Be sure to sign up for regular updates at BusinessTravel360.com - Enjoy!Support the show
Expedia Group shakes up its marketing strategy by hiring a former Booking.com executive, signaling a new era of brand-driven travel campaigns. Meanwhile, the rise of AI-powered travel booking assistants challenges the future of metasearch platforms like Kayak and Trivago. Will AI replace traditional search, or can these platforms evolve? Tune in as we break down the latest travel industry shifts and what they mean for travelers and businesses alike.Are you new and want to start your own hospitality business?Join our Facebook groupFollow Boostly and join the discussion:YouTube LinkedInFacebookWant to know more about us? Visit our websiteStay informed and ahead of the curve with the latest insights and analysis.
Send us a textLinking the Travel Industry is a business travel podcast where we review the top travel industry stories that are posted on LinkedIn by LinkedIn members. We curate the top posts and discuss with them with travel industry veterans in a live session with audience members. You can join the live recording session by visiting BusinessTravel360.comYour Hosts are Riaan van Schoor, Ann Cederhall and Aash ShravahStories covered on this session include -"No more tiers" - easyJet tries to lure some of the unhappy British Airways frequent flyer customers with discounts on their own corporate loyalty program.The Flight Centre Travel Group increased their underlying profit by 7% in 2024, boosted with a 2% increase in corporate travel transaction values. American Express Global Business Travel also reported a 10% overall increase in total transaction value in Q4 2024, resulting in a solid financial performance from the TMC.... whilst it seems different in the UK, for some. A report released by The Advantage Travel Partnership and Travelogix suggests the average TMC transaction value declined for a 3rd year in a row, being 6.8% lower in 2024. Qantas also reported on record earnings, posting a 11.2% profit jump for 2024.Qatar Airways receives approval for their desired 25% stake in Virgin Australia.The Expedia Group reaches an agreement with Southwest Airlines, making them the first major OTA to offer the airline's content.The South African domestic airline Airlink increases their alignment with Qatar Airways and can now be paid for in Avios.The Australian OTA Webjet.com.au agrees to pay AUD 9m fine and court costs relating to alleged misleading online sales practices and fee disclosures.Etihad might become the first Gulf carrier to go public in 17 years. It is currently seeking an investor to aid it's IPO ambitions. flydubai posts record profits of $674m for 2024.You can subscribe to this podcast by searching 'BusinessTravel360' on your favorite podcast player or visiting BusinessTravel360.comThis podcast was created, edited and distributed by BusinessTravel360. Be sure to sign up for regular updates at BusinessTravel360.com - Enjoy!Support the show
In this episode of Good Morning Hospitality, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk kick things off with a significant funding update—Mews has secured $75 million to fuel its global expansion. Then, we dive into the latest hotel industry shake-ups. Marriott Bonvoy leads in loyalty programs, but Hilton Honors is closing the gap fast—could Hilton take the top spot by 2026? Plus, Thailand's ultra-luxury villas inspired by The White Lotus are redefining high-end travel with $10,000-per-night experiences. On the travel side, Southwest Airlines joins Expedia Group's platform, U.S. hotels are capitalizing on rising cruise demand, and Amazon's Alexas' latest AI upgrade is set to transform travel planning. Join us for expert insights, real-time industry recaps, and a hospitality quote to wrap up the show. Let's dive in! ---- Good Morning Hospitality is part of the Hospitality.FM Multi-Media Network and is a Hospitality.FM Original The hospitality industry is constantly growing, changing, and innovating! This podcast brings you the top news and topics from industry experts across different hospitality fields. Good Morning Hospitality publishes three thirty-minute weekly episodes: every Monday and Wednesday at 7 a.m. PST / 10 a.m. EST and every Tuesday at 8 a.m. CET for our European and UK-focused content. Make sure to tune in during our live show on our LinkedIn page or YouTube every week and join the conversation live! Explore everything Good Morning Hospitality has to offer: • Well & Good Morning Coffee: Enjoy our signature roast—order here! • Retreats: Join us at one of our exclusive retreats—learn more and register your interest here! • Episodes & More: Find all episodes and additional info at GoodMorningHospitality.com Thank you to all of the Hospitality.FM Partners that help make this show possible. If you have any press you want to be covered during the show, email us at goodmorning@hospitality.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Expedia Group has laid off hundreds of marketing staff globally—mostly those in content creation—in advance of a reorganization, marking its second round of layoffs following a previous cut of about 1,500 workers. Airbnb is distancing itself from co-founder Joe Gebbia's controversial personal views, emphasizing that his opinions do not represent the company or its nonprofit work, despite his past leadership role. Meanwhile, Walt Disney World has seen an increase in weather-related shutdowns over the past decade, with hurricane closures escalating from four between 2000 and 2016 to at least 12 since 2016, resulting in significant daily financial losses. Expedia Laid Off Hundreds of Marketers Ahead of Reorg Airbnb Distances Itself From Co-Founder Joe Gebbia's 'Personal Views' Disney World Closures Due to Hurricanes Are Becoming More Frequent Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews (https://www.youtube.com/@SkiftNews) and never miss an update from the travel industry.
Mumbai hotels saw record-breaking room rates and occupancy levels, thanks to Coldplay's sold-out concerts. Meanwhile, Expedia Group announces another round of layoffs, raising questions about the future of online travel agencies. In India, luxury hotel brands are expanding rapidly, with Hilton and Radisson making bold moves in new markets. Plus, Air India's latest strategy aims to position the country as a major global travel hub. Tune in as we break down the biggest travel and hospitality headlines and what they mean for the short-term rental industry.Are you new and want to start your own hospitality business?Join our Facebook groupFollow Boostly and join the discussion:YouTube LinkedInFacebookWant to know more about us? Visit our websiteStay informed and ahead of the curve with the latest insights and analysis.
As hotel brands and OTAs compete for traveler loyalty, the industry is seeing major shifts in how rewards and distribution work. Expedia Group's One Key continues to expand, but questions remain about its impact on property managers and STR operators. Meanwhile, Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton, and Hyatt are bringing short-term rentals and outdoor hospitality brands into their loyalty programs, signaling a new era of hotel-affiliated inventory. Wil Slickers, Michael Goldin, and Brandreth Canaley break down the latest developments, what they mean for independent operators, and how the balance of power in hospitality distribution is evolving. And don't miss the breaking news from our sponsors at Fido, who continue to showcase their incredible growth! To learn more, go to getfido.com and tell them the crew from GMH sent you! ---- Good Morning Hospitality is part of the Hospitality.FM Multi-Media Network and is a Hospitality.FM Original The hospitality industry is constantly growing, changing, and innovating! This podcast brings you the top news and topics from industry experts across different hospitality fields. Good Morning Hospitality publishes three thirty-minute weekly episodes: every Monday and Wednesday at 7 a.m. PST / 10 a.m. EST and every Tuesday at 8 a.m. CET for our European and UK-focused content. Make sure to tune in during our live show on our LinkedIn page or YouTube every week and join the conversation live! Explore everything Good Morning Hospitality has to offer: • Well & Good Morning Coffee: Enjoy our signature roast—order here! • Retreats: Join us at one of our exclusive retreats—learn more and register your interest here! • Episodes & More: Find all episodes and additional info at GoodMorningHospitality.com Thank you to all of the Hospitality.FM Partners that help make this show possible. If you have any press you want to be covered during the show, email us at goodmorning@hospitality.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Send us a message!In this episode of Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals, we sit down with Tim Rosolio, Vice President of Vacation Rental Partnerships at Expedia Group, to discuss VRBO's vision for 2025 and beyond.Tim shares insights on VRBO's evolving strategy, including how the platform has transformed since its transition from HomeAway, its commitment to professional property managers, and its focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences. He also provides an inside look at VRBO's marketing direction, technology advancements, and key initiatives that will shape the future of the vacation rental industry.We explore how VRBO is leveraging its One Key loyalty program, improving traveler targeting, and refining its platform to drive better results for property managers. Plus, Tim gives a candid take on the OTA landscape, regulatory challenges, and the evolving role of trust and safety in the industry.For anyone looking to stay ahead in the short-term rental space, this episode is packed with valuable insights from one of the industry's top leaders.Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ The evolution from HomeAway to VRBO and what it means for property managers2️⃣ How VRBO is enhancing technology to create a seamless experience for partners and travelers3️⃣ The impact of One Key and how it's shaping guest loyalty4️⃣ VRBO's marketing strategy for 2025 and adapting to the changing digital landscape5️⃣ Trust, safety, and guest verification: How VRBO ensures quality stays6️⃣ What's next for VRBO's promotions suite and marketplace design7️⃣ How VRBO is engaging in advocacy efforts and regulatory discussions to support the industryConnect with Tim Rosolio: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-rosolio-434b2a98/Learn more about VRBO's One Key program: https://partner.expediagroup.com/en-us/solutions/distribute-your-inventory/one-key-travel-rewards Ready to take your operations to the next level? Visit https://tnsinc.com/podcasts-alex-and-annie/ to learn more.Get $50 credit and $0 onboarding fee when you sign up for Beyond, the leading dynamic pricing tool for vacation rentals: http://beyondpricing.info/alexandannie#vacationrentals #shorttermrentals #vrbo
Expedia Group reported strong fourth-quarter growth, with CEO Ariane Gorin highlighting AI partnerships and potential expansions while CFO Scott Schenkel emphasized merger opportunities. Hilton CEO Chris Nassetta expressed optimism about a corporate travel rebound post-election and China's travel recovery, citing policy clarity and visa-free zones as key drivers. Meanwhile, Booking Holdings CEO Glenn Fogel noted that while travelers support sustainability, they are unwilling to pay extra for green trips, urging governments to implement policies that promote eco-friendly travel choices. Expedia Is Open to AI Partnerships and M&A We Now Know What Hilton Paid for NoMad Hotels: Just $56 Million Will Travelers Pay More for Green Trips? That's Not What Booking Holdings' CEO Is Seeing Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews (https://www.youtube.com/@SkiftNews) and never miss an update from the travel industry.
Redefining Success as a Parent and Leader About Our Guest: Brian is the founder of SIZE, an advisory group of former c-suite executives supporting over 60 late-stage technology and consumer companies. SIZE partners closely with CEOs and executives, diving deep into their businesses to drive growth, navigate uncertainty, and achieve successful exits. Previously, Brian was Vice President of Global Marketing at Expedia Group, overseeing marketing for the $5.4 billion hotel group. Before that, he held marketing leadership roles at DreamWorks Animation, managing retail P&Ls, brand strategies for major franchises like Shrek and How to Train Your Dragon, and over 100 omni-channel campaigns. Brian sits on four boards, advises 20+ companies (including unicorn Gopuff), and is a scout investor for Canaan Partners. He earned a Master's in Finance from the London School of Economics and a BA from Indiana University. Thanks for watching! Takeaways: Brian Schwartz created a New Year's countdown for kids with Madagascar characters and has lived in multiple countries, building a career in global marketing. Remote work has allowed him to spend more time with his daughter, nurturing a strong bond as a girl dad. Traveling is a lifelong passion for him and his wife, and they believe in exposing their children to different cultures through travel. The decision to start a family was grounded in financial readiness and stability, influenced by his entrepreneurial parents. He values raising children close in age, fostering companionship, and reflects on the challenges and joys of parenting, emphasizing self-reflection and balance. Brian questions traditional education's ROI, while prioritizing opportunities and happiness over financial success for his children. Managing family dynamics requires a supportive partner, financial planning, and maintaining personal hobbies and interests. Parenting evolves over time, bringing joys and challenges, with children's activities increasingly shaping family schedules. Advice for new parents includes seeking help, balancing work and family, and defining success through fulfillment, not just finances.
Welcome to Season 10 of The Sports Career Podcast! In this week's episode, we're thrilled to have Liseli Sitali, Director of Football & Music Partnerships at Expedia Group and Founder of In Her Corner Tune in as we explore: Essential skills for thriving in Sports Partnerships. The power of data and storytelling in enhancing a sports partnership. Liseli's inspiring journey from university graduate to a career in sports. Real advancements in diversity and inclusion within the sports industry. Liseli how the 1995 Men's Rugby World Cup can influence positive change globally If you're passionate about building a career in the sports industry, this episode is a must-listen! Connect with the Host, Ed Bowers here: Connect with Ed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edbowers101/ Follow Ed on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edbowers101/
Ikigai Summit 2024 - Ikigai Stories: Katherine Cheng, Seattle Mariners. Courage | Resilience | Inquiry Katherine Cheng's life and career are a testament to the power of core values in shaping one's path. Raised by a resilient single mother who was a Chinese immigrant and cancer researcher, Katherine learned early the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. This upbringing, combined with the influence of figures like Phil Donahue, instilled in her a deep commitment to courage, resilience, and inquiry. Her mother's journey, from a championship runner in Taiwan to a math genius in the U.S., demonstrated the value of continuous learning and the ability to overcome challenges, further solidifying these values. Katherine's emphasis on connection and community is also a significant part of her story, influenced by her family's open-door policy and her work with the U.S. Surgeon General's office. Katherine's career path, while seemingly non-linear, is unified by these core principles. From government to high-tech PR, and roles at Starbucks, Microsoft, Expedia Group, and now the Seattle Mariners, her choices were driven by a desire to stay true to her values and a commitment to authenticity. She emphasizes the importance of taking calculated risks, learning from meaningful relationships, and embracing servant leadership. Katherine's insights on balancing courage and inquiry highlight the value of continuous learning and diverse perspectives. Three Key Takeaways 1) Resilience is a Learned Strength: Adversity can forge resilience, as seen in Katherine's life, and the experiences of her mother. 2) Values Guide Decisions: Core values like courage, resilience, and inquiry can be a compass in both personal and professional life. 3) Meaningful Connections Matter: Community and human connection are powerful tools against isolation and loneliness, as well as drivers of personal and professional growth. Three Steps to Take Action 1) Reflect on Your Values: Identify your core values and assess how they guide your decisions. Consider how your upbringing has shaped them. 2) Embrace Discomfort: Challenge yourself by taking calculated risks and being open to new perspectives. Difficult situations can lead to growth. 3) Build Your Community: Seek out and cultivate meaningful relationships for support and guidance. Help to create welcoming spaces for diverse connections. www.ikigaistories.com
In this episode of the Hiring Excellence Podcast, John Vlastelica, CEO of Recruiting Toolbox, sits down with Danielle Monaghan, SVP of Global Talent Acquisition at Expedia Group, to discuss rebuilding a culture of recruiting in a large, mature organization. Danielle shares her experiences and strategies for aligning hiring practices, engaging hiring managers, and establishing clear hiring principles. She also explores the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the hiring process and offers practical advice for creating a recruitment culture that drives long-term success.
Ever wondered how to boost your Vrbo bookings? This week, Sam chats with Travis Gibbon, a savvy Vrbo host in the Hilton Head market, who shares insider tips on maximizing your listing's potential ahead of peak booking season. Travis dives into flexible cancelation policies, adjusting minimum night stays, and setting competitive rates. He also explains how to use tools like Escapia for dynamic pricing to ensure you are booked and busy in the new year. Whether you're a seasoned Vrbo host or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical advice to elevate your hosting game!Powering Travel is produced by Expedia Group in association with Quill.
This week on Good Morning Hospitality, we unpack the latest trends and shakeups in the industry. Venture capital inflow is heating up in travel tech, signaling continued investor confidence in innovation within the space. Meanwhile, mergers and acquisitions are on the rise as companies look to scale and dominate niche markets. Plus, Expedia Group and Hopper have called a truce, moving past their contentious history to forge a new partnership—what does this mean for the industry at large? Join us as we break down these stories and their implications for hospitality and travel. — Good Morning Hospitality is part of the Hospitality.FM podcast network and a Hospitality.FM Original. If you like this podcast, then you'll also love Behind The Stays with Zach Busekrus, which comes out every Tuesday & Friday, wherever you get your podcasts! This show is structured to cover industry news in travel and hospitality and is recorded live every Monday morning at 7 a.m. PST/10 a.m. EST. So make sure you tune in during our live show on our social media channels or YouTube and join the conversation live! Thank you to all of the Hospitality.FM Partners that help make this show possible, and if you have any press you want covered during the show, fill out this form! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Expedia's annual Unpack™ outlook is here, using data-driven insights to uncover upcoming travel trends for 2025. Samantha Lopez is joined by Amanda Maltos, an industry leader and communications expert from Expedia Group, to dive into the data gathered from more than 25,000 travelers in this year's Unpack™ Report. Some key findings include travelers adding Detour Destinations to their trips, Set-Jetting and the continued influence of media on travelers, the pull of mother nature when planning trips and much more. And of course, what this all means for you and your business! Powering Travel is produced by Expedia Group in association with Quill.
With entrepreneurship on the rise, vacation rental hosts and savvy travel advisors are seizing opportunities to grow and make a positive impact in the industry. In this episode, Vrbo host Michelle Ruber and travel advisor Rebecca Smiley, share their insights on growing their businesses with Expedia Group. Michelle talks about how Vrbo's platform empowers hosts to provide personalized and trusted travel experiences. Rebecca details her journey into entrepreneurship, how she leverages social media, community connections, and Expedia Travel TAAP.Powering Travel is produced by Expedia Group in association with Quill.
In this episode of Good Morning Hospitality, Wil Slickers, Jamie Lane, Brandreth Canaley, and Michael Goldin dive into the latest earnings calls and strategic shifts of top hospitality brands. Airbnb's new Co-Host Initiative, designed as an alternative to "traditional" property management, takes center stage as the hosts discuss its implications for property owners and the broader short-term rental market. They also explore Expedia Group's Q3 performance, including adding over 1 million new urban listings to Vrbo, shedding light on how it plans to rival Airbnb. Finally, the group reviews Vacasa's recent earnings call and strategic focus. Tune in to see how these hospitality giants navigate growth and competition in today's dynamic market. — Good Morning Hospitality is part of the Hospitality.FM podcast network and a Hospitality.FM Original. If you like this podcast, then you'll also love Behind The Stays with Zach Busekrus, which comes out every Tuesday & Friday, wherever you get your podcasts! This show is structured to cover industry news in travel and hospitality and is recorded live every Monday morning at 7 a.m. PST/10 a.m. EST. So make sure you tune in during our live show on our social media channels or YouTube and join the conversation live! Thank you to all of the Hospitality.FM Partners that help make this show possible, and if you have any press you want covered during the show, fill out this form! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
How can destinations reinvent themselves to attract travelers year-round? In this episode, Samantha Lopez is joined by two key figures in French tourism, Sophie Mandrillon from Atout France and Loic Chovelon from Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, to explore how their organizations are reshaping tourism in the off season. They discuss their partnership with Expedia Group, they focus on sustainable tourism initiatives and the strategies they use to combat seasonality, particularly in the beautiful Côte d'Azur region.Powering Travel is produced by Expedia Group in association with Quill.
WHO WOULD YOU RATHER BE/VOTE FOR?Home Depot co-founder, GOP donor Bernie Marcus dead at 95. Berne endorsed Trump in November… 2023 and said two years ago that “Nobody works, nobody gives a damn. Just give it to me. Send me money. I don't want to work — I'm too lazy, I'm too fat, I'm too stupid. We used to have free speech here. We don't have it. The woke people have taken over the world. You know, I imagine today they can't attack me. I'm 93. Who gives a crap about Bernie Marcus?” WHO WOULD YOU RATHER BE?Lead “Independent” Director Gregor BrennemanCEO Ed Decker already on boardDoesn't have to sit on any committees (all other independent directors sit on at least two)$380,000 in pay last year to meet 11 times; one of two directors who didn't even give to charity as part of the board's matching charitable contribution programHas an actual voice that matters (14%); CEO has 25%Director Gerard Arpey$315,000 despite low pressure (only 3% influence)No leadership rules: sits on Nominating Committee with four other directors and FInance Committee with 5 other directorsDoesn't even have a “Real” job: says he has been a partner in Emerald Creek Group, a private equity firm since 2012. Prior to his retirement in 2011, he served as CEO of AMR CorporationEmerald Creeks's website is a picture of an orange grove. In the “news” section of the website the last listed event was from November 29, 2011: Arpey Joins Emerald Creek GroupMeta Permits Its A.I. Models to Be Used for U.S. Military Purposes.Meta will allow U.S. government agencies and contractors working on national security to use its artificial intelligence models for military purposes.Meta said that it would make its A.I. models, called Llama, available to federal agencies and that it was working with defense contractors such as Lockheed Martin and Booz Allen as well as defense-focused tech companies including Palantir and Anduril.Meta's move is an exception to its “acceptable use policy,” which forbade the use of the company's A.I. software for “military, warfare, nuclear industries,” among other purposes.WHO WOULD YOU RATHER BE?Meta Platforms Emperor Mark Zuckerberg72% influence; 61% voting powerWorld's 4th richest person: ~$200BBlah blah blahMeta director John Arnold1% influenceMember on only one committee (Audit & Risk) with 4 other membersNo other directorships; only have a BAreceived an $8M bonus from Enron just before the company filed for bankruptcy; the largest cash bonus ever distributed by the company. Known as "king of natural gas”You work at a place named after you (Arnold Ventures) and you're still just the co-founder and co-chairYour board appointment was announced on Valentine's DayPay will be roughly $500,000 annually. He also received two initial equity grants worth $1.4M In 2007, Arnold became the youngest billionaire in the U.SBoeing Union Approves New Contract, Ending Costly StrikeLeaders of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers district in Seattle said 59% of members who cast ballots agreed to approve the company's fourth formal offer and the third put to a vote.The new contract will raise wages more than 43 percent cumulatively over the next four years, an improvement over the two previous offers. The first proposal would have raised wages just over 27 percent.The deal also includes a $12,000 ratification bonus, which is four times as much as the bonus in the initial offer, and productivity bonuses.However, Boeing refused to meet strikers' demand to restore a company pension plan that was frozen nearly a decade ago.Bank of America analysts estimated last month that Boeing was losing about $50 million a day during the now-ended strikeWHO WOULD YOU RATHER BE?Current CEO Kelly Ortberg, who inherited a messOr former CEO David Calhoun, who got to step down when he felt like it and got $98M in total summary compensation since 2020Kroger Finalizes $1.37 Billion Opioid Crisis SettlementUnder the agreement, which wasn't an admission of wrong doing or liability by Kroger, the company agreed to pay about $1.2 billion over 11 years and around $177 million over a six-year period, each in equal installments. WHO WOULD YOU RATHER BE?CEO and Chair Rodney McMullen since 2014$94M pay since 2019; ; holds $350M in Kroger stockPay ration 502:1; median associate for 2023 was $31,302; received $600k in dividend payments in 202492% shareholder supportNora A. Aufreiter, chair of the Public Responsibilities Committee that met a whopping 3 times last year; served on our Public Responsibilities Committee for nine years, the last four as chairDirector Emeritus of McKinsey & Company; retired in 2014 after more than 27 years with McKinsey$321,000 last year; holds $3M in Kroger stock98% support from shareholders; 99% last year2% board influence despite having served for a decadeElon Musk and X are epicenter of US election misinformationFalse or misleading claims by billionaire Elon Musk about the U.S. election have amassed 2 billion views on social media platform X this year, according to a report by non-profit group Center for Countering Digital Hate.The platform is also playing a central role in enabling the spread of false information about the critical battleground states that will likely determine the outcome of the presidential raceWHO WOULD YOU RATHER BE?Someone who drives a TeslaOr someone who drives literally anything else, including the vehicle from this headline: Guy makes “dodgy e-bike” from 130 used vapes to make point about e-wasteSouthwest Airlines names Rakesh Gangwal as board chair following Gary Kelly's retirementThe airline brought in the co-founder of India's largest carrier Indigo to its board in July despite criticism from Elliott Investment Management at the time.Gangwal bought Southwest shares worth more than $100 million last month before the airline settled its boardroom feud with Elliott in a deal that allowed CEO Bob Jordan to retain his job by making bigger board-level concessions.Co-founder IndiGo Airlines, former CEO and Chair at US Airways Group; served on the boards of CarMax, Office Depot, OfficeMax and PetSmartWHO WOULD YOU RATHER BE?Rakesh Gangwal Former Southwest CEO and Chair Gary Kelly who remains on the board at Chairman EmeritusNow longest-tenured independent director Douglas BrooksNo leadership roles; owns over $2M in stock; made $305K for board service last year(iii) while serving on the Board, free travel on Southwest Airlines for the Director, the Director's spouse, and the Director's children, as well as 50 one-way flight passes annually that may be used for free travel on Southwest Airlines on an unrestricted basis, and an additional 50 one-way flight passes annually for use by qualified charitable and 501(c)(3) organizations;(iv) subsequent to Board servicea lifetime privilege of 50 one-way flight passes annually that may be used for free travel on Southwest Airlines on an unrestricted basis;lifetime free travel on Southwest Airlines for the Director and the Director's spouseif the Director is deceased, free travel on Southwest Airlines for the Director's spouse for the lifetime of the spouse$75,000 cash when he retiresBarry Diller calls timing of The Washington Post's non-endorsement a ‘blunder'To Barry Diller, a friend of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the decision for The Washington Post not to endorse a candidate in tomorrow's presidential election was “absolutely principled” — and poorly timed, he said MondayWhich Barry Diller directorship would you vote for?Expedia Group (27%)Chair and Senior Executive $7MMore influence than CEO Peter KernNearly $2B in equity; about 49% in voting powerThe Coca-Cola Company (8%)$12M in shares; $300k annual pay; 3 board committeesMGM Resorts (9%)One committee no leadership; no board pay; IAC owns 20% of MGM equity ($2.3B)IAC (65%)Chair and Senior Executive $3M43% voting power; $650M equityLet's end in Omaha, where the small Nebraska district may decide our next president: Warren Buffett skipped endorsing a presidential candidate this election as many CEOs retreat from politics. WHO WOULD YOU RATHER BE?America's cuddly rich man Warren Buffett, 93 years old and currently 7th richest in world at ~$140B, who doesn't even have to take a stand.Or nepo babies Howard Buffett and Susan Buffett, who sit on the Berkshire board and will be inevitably looked at as failures when the company loses its luster after daddy dies.Or non-Berkshire director and nepo baby Peter Buffett who, after dropping out of Stanford University, used the proceeds of his inheritance from his grandfather to pursue a career in music
In this episode, we dive into the latest travel tech and loyalty program shake-ups. The Points Guy (John Sutton, Brian Kelly) is challenging Airbnb with a new loyalty program for home rentals, or at least that's how Bloomberg phrased things in the Journey announcement article. The program aims to bring more value and flexibility to frequent travelers. Meanwhile, Expedia Group is expanding its loyalty reach by integrating with Microsoft Bing. This will make it easier for users to earn rewards as they book travel directly from search. Finally, we explore ChatGPT's new role as a search engine, which could potentially revolutionize how travelers discover and plan trips. Tune in for insights on how these shifts could reshape travel loyalty and booking habits. Michael Goldin, Brandreth Canaley, Wil Slickers, and an honorable mention to Zach Busekrus! Articles Mentioned: Bloomberg: Journey Launches Loyalty - Linked Article Skift: Expedia & Microsoft Bing Partnership - Linked Article Skift: ChatGPT to become a Travel Search Engine? - Linked Article — Good Morning Hospitality is part of the Hospitality.FM podcast network and a Hospitality.FM Original. If you like this podcast, then you'll also love Behind The Stays with Zach Busekrus, which comes out every Tuesday & Friday, wherever you get your podcasts! This show is structured to cover industry news in travel and hospitality and is recorded live every Monday morning at 7 a.m. PST/10 a.m. EST. So make sure you tune in during our live show on our social media channels or YouTube and join the conversation live! Thank you to all of the Hospitality.FM Partners that help make this show possible, and if you have any press you want covered during the show, fill out this form! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Send us a textLinking the Travel Industry is a business travel podcast where we review the top travel industry stories that are posted on LinkedIn by LinkedIn members. We curate the top posts and discuss with them with travel industry veterans in a live session with audience members. You can join the live recording session by visiting BusinessTravel360.comYour Hosts are Riaan van Schoor, Ann Cederhall and Aash ShravahStories covered on this session include -The World Travel & Tourism Council is projecting that total global business travel spending will reach $1.5 trillion this year.British Airways has been forced to cancel hundreds of long-haul flights over the coming months due to delays in the delivery of engines from Rolls-Royce.Virgin Australia reports an earnings increase of 18% and a profit margin of almost 10%.In a very strange and sudden move, IATA advises agents in South Africa carrier fare calculations will be in USD. Amadeus reverses this a few days later.A new high-speed rail service will start between Barcelona and Toulouse in 2025.Talma Travel Solutions adds UK based Blue Cube Travel Ltd to their portfolio. Uber might be interested in buying Expedia Group.Extra StoriesYou can subscribe to this podcast by searching 'BusinessTravel360' on Google Podcast, Apple Podcast, iHeart, Pandora, Spotify, Alexa or your favorite podcast player.This podcast was created, edited and distributed by BusinessTravel360. Be sure to sign up for regular updates at BusinessTravel360.com - Enjoy!Support the show
The cost of travel is on the rise, and so are our customers' expectations. So how can travel providers keep up? Expedia Group's head of B2B Lodging Marketing, Brandon Ehrhardt, joins the podcast to share insights from our latest research on traveler behavior. Compared to travelers booking on other platforms, Expedia Group travelers are shown to spend 21% more on properties and stay 11% longer than other guests, creating significant revenue opportunities for hotels. We discuss how initiatives like the VIP Access program are key to success, and how you can use revenue insights to create better experiences for travelers. Powering Travel is produced by Expedia Group in association with Quill.
This week, we imagine the possibility of Uber buying Expedia Group, based on a report by the Financial Times this week that the ride-hailing company has considered a bid for the online travel giant. It would be notable in part because Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi was Expedia Group's CEO from 2005 to 2017 and remains on the company's board. In the second segment, we enjoy highlights from the "60 Minutes" profile of former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, and a separate appearance by University of Washington historian and author Margaret O'Mara on an episode of the podcast "60 Minutes: A Second Look" about the rise of Silicon Valley in the early 1980s. And finally, we talk about our new Geekwire project, Microsoft @ 50, and get a window into what's next in AI from Peter Lee, the Microsoft Research president. He shares the top three technical challenges and opportunities on his mind when it comes to the future of artificial intelligence. This is bonus content from an interview for the first story in the series, published this week, tracing the evolution of AI inside Microsoft. With GeekWire co-founders Todd Bishop and John Cook.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As fraud becomes more sophisticated, it's crucial for travel businesses to stay one step ahead. In this episode of Powering Travel, Samantha Lopez is joined by Amit Ghosh, Head of Fraud and Risk Portfolio at Expedia Group, to discuss increasing threats in the travel industry. Amit shares his insights on the growing challenges posed by AI advancements and phishing attacks, emphasizing the importance of staying vigilant throughout the customer journey. He also highlights how Expedia's innovative fraud detection tools are helping safeguard travelers and businesses to ensure a seamless and secure experience.Powering Travel is produced by Expedia Group in association with Quill.
In today's episode, we explore how Your.Rentals is revolutionizing property management with its €1.7M investment and simplified tools for short-term rental managers. We also discuss Expedia Group's latest strategies under CEO Ariane Gorin, focusing on Vrbo's expansion, the new One Key loyalty program, and AI-powered trip planning tools. Stay ahead of industry trends and learn how these updates could impact your short-term rental business! Are you new and want to start your own hospitality business? Join our Facebook group Follow Boostly and join the discussion: YouTube LinkedIn Facebook Want to know more about us? Visit our website Stay informed and ahead of the curve with the latest insights and analysis.
As vacation rentals rise in popularity, it's more important than ever to ensure your listing stands out. Angela Page, Director of Account Management for Vacation Rentals at Expedia Group and a Vrbo host herself, shares her tips for optimizing your property listing to attract the right guests and provide a great experience. Some of her advice includes how the right settings can help you avoid costly cancellations, how to keep your listing's rules and amenities up to date, why the order of photos in your listing matters, and why you might want to ditch the cleaning fee altogether. She also shares how hosting with Vrbo can help you manage your bookings in a streamlined and professional manner, creating the best guest experience possible, no matter the circumstances. Powering Travel is produced by Expedia Group in association with Quill.
In this episode of the STR Daily Podcast, we explore the latest shift in the vacation rental market towards direct bookings and how property managers can capitalize on this trend for greater profits and guest relationships. We also dive into Expedia Group's expansion of its Travel Shops feature, connecting travelers with curated recommendations from media brands and influencers. Tune in to stay ahead in the evolving world of travel and hospitality! Are you new and want to start your own hospitality business? Join our Facebook group Follow Boostly and join the discussion: YouTube LinkedIn Facebook Want to know more about us? Visit our website Stay informed and ahead of the curve with the latest insights and analysis.
In today's episode of the STR Daily Podcast, we delve into the pressing questions facing the online travel industry ahead of the Skift Global Forum. Is the thrill of online travel fading amid fierce competition among giants like Airbnb, Booking Holdings, and Expedia Group? We discuss what's at stake and what industry leaders are saying. Plus, we explore the four-year partnership between Sabre and Google, focusing on their challenges and successes in implementing AI technology to revolutionize travel. From data management to ethical considerations, get insights into how AI is shaping the future of travel. Tune in to stay ahead in this ever-evolving industry! Are you new and want to start your own hospitality business? Join our Facebook group Follow Boostly and join the discussion: YouTube LinkedIn Facebook Want to know more about us? Visit our website Stay informed and ahead of the curve with the latest insights and analysis.
Everyone deserves to feel safe and welcome while traveling. However, Expedia Group's latest research reveals that Black, Latino, LGBTQIA+ travelers, and those with disabilities still face significant barriers that hinder their travel experiences. Lawrence Phillips, CEO of Green Book Global, shares how his platform empowers Black travelers with authentic reviews and resources, helping them navigate the world with confidence. Joining the conversation, Heather Ansley, Chief Policy Officer at Paralyzed Veterans of America, highlights the challenges disabled travelers encounter and the advocacy efforts aimed at ensuring safe and dignified travel experiences. Together, they offer inspiring insights and actionable strategies to break down barriers and create a more inclusive travel industry for all.Read the full report here: Journeys for All: An Expedia Group Study on Inclusion in TravelPowering Travel is produced by Expedia Group in association with Quill.