Podcasts about guest experience

Andrew Katz, Chief Marketing Officer at Athletic Brewing Company, joins The Hospitality Hangout to share his expertise on the booming non-alcoholic beer market and its impact on the hospitality industry. Discover how Athletic Brewing has grown into a leading brand by reshaping drinking culture and innovating within the beverage segment. Katz dives into brand growth strategies, evolving consumer preferences around wellness and socializing, and the important role of hospitality partnerships in scaling a modern beverage brand. This episode offers valuable hospitality insider insights for restaurant operators, hospitality executives, and anyone interested in hospitality leadership and restaurant growth strategies. Tune in to learn how industry trends are shaping the future of alcohol alternatives in the restaurant and hospitality business. Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Jen and Frank as they delve into the rich history and timeless, nostalgic magic of Disney with returning guest Barry Jacobson. From lifeguard stories at the Polynesian to insights on creating immersive guest experiences, Barry shares his lifelong passion and expertise in transforming customer and employee engagement. barryjacobsonconsulting.com to learn more about Barry! 00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction 02:59 - Barry's Early Days at Disney 05:43 - Lifeguard Training and Experiences 08:54 -Memorable Stories from the Polynesian Resort 11:58 - Theming and Guest Experience at the Polynesian 14:36 - Character Interactions and Special Events 17:58 - Nostalgia and the Balance of IPs 20:49 - Debunking Myths and Personal Memories 34:21 - Meeting Icons: Personal Stories with Celebrities 38:03 - Leadership Lessons from Disney's Greats 41:13 - Creating Complete Experiences at Disney 47:45 - The Magic of Attention to Detail 53:19 - Nostalgia and the Disney Experience 01:00:27 -The Journey of Storytelling and Legacy 01:07:54 - Outro Video If you love deep-dive Disney conversations, LIKE this video and SUBSCRIBE so you never miss a Theme Park Thursday! *** Learn more about our Dillo's Discord Universe here: / dillos-discord-150502505 ***

In this episode of The Hospitality Hangout, we welcome Aris Yeager, better known as the European Kid, to discuss his viral food comedy journey and insights into the hospitality industry. Aris shares how a college joke transformed into a viral persona captivating millions across social media, blending humor with commentary on American dining etiquette and culture. Dive into the hospitality business side of creator culture as Aris explains launching Storytime, a platform forging partnerships between restaurants and creators. This episode offers insider insights on restaurant growth strategies, tipping culture, influencer marketing, and emerging hospitality trends. We also explore differences between European and American food culture, viral restaurant skits, and the evolving role of creators in hospitality leadership and brand collaboration. Whether you're a restaurant operator or hospitality executive, this conversation is packed with valuable perspectives on the intersection of social media and the restaurant industry. Join us for a wide-ranging discussion that combines humor with savvy hospitality insider insights, perfect for anyone interested in the restaurant industry podcast and hospitality media landscape. Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if the most powerful Marvel moment was not a ride at all?This week, Stephen takes us inside The Infinity Stone Ritual, a Marvel merchantainment experience where guests step into Wong's secret archive, witness the return of the Infinity Stones, and may even be chosen as a new guardian of the universe. Joined by the Queen of Disneyland, Kim Millspaugh (@disney.sme), we explore how story, interactivity, and collectible moments come together to create an experience that is as repeatable as it is magical.Plus, we play a brand-new game, Marvel Letter Flip, where we take classic Marvel movie titles and twist them one letter at a time to create hilariously alternate universes.From hidden rituals to one-of-a-kind merchandise, this episode is a deep dive into what makes Disney themed entertainment endlessly inventive and why sometimes the story is the souvenir.Don't forget to check us out on Instagram!

In this episode of The Hospitality Hangout, Noah Chaimberg, Hot Sauce Expert and Founder of Heatonist, shares his unique insights on transforming hot sauce from a niche condiment into a dynamic cultural phenomenon within the hospitality business. Noah discusses how his approach to hospitality brand building blends retail and media, emphasizing the power of storytelling to drive restaurant growth strategies. He highlights the importance of collaborations, heat levels, and community engagement as pillars of success in the hospitality industry. Listeners will gain valuable hospitality insider insights on scaling a category-defining business while maintaining authenticity to the spice culture and hospitality leadership principles. Whether you're a hospitality executive, restaurant operator, or hospitality industry professional, this episode offers inspiring lessons on growing brands and innovating in the restaurant industry. Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Your dashboard tells you what happened.It doesn't tell you why.If revenue is slipping, labor is climbing, or regulars are quietly disappearing, your KPIs are showing symptoms, not causes.In this episode, we break down The Human Audit, a simple 15-minute monthly system for bar owners to reduce staff turnover, improve guest experience, and protect profit by asking five direct questions.You'll learn:Why KPIs are lagging indicatorsThe five questions to ask your team every monthHow to spot turnover risk earlyHow to catch guest experience leaks before they cost youHow to fix culture issues before they hit your numbersIf something feels off in your bar, this is how you figure out why.

What if your short-term rental could outperform the entire market it's in, before your first guest even checks in?In this episode, I sit down with Heather Martini and Emily King, of Data Led Designs, to talk about what it really takes to build a profitable short-term rental in today's competitive landscape. Heather brings her business intelligence background and Airbnb Superhost experience, while Emily blends luxury marketing expertise with hands-on hosting success. Together, they're helping investors make smarter, data-driven decisions.We unpack how to choose the right market, how to select amenities that actually produce ROI, and how to design a guest experience that commands higher nightly rates and better reviews.Emily also shares the real numbers behind her Cary, North Carolina STR—and they are wildly impressive.Find It Quickly:00:30 - Meet Heather and Emily01:52 - Heather's Journey and the Birth of Data Led Designs03:54 - Emily's Background and Role in Data Led Designs05:14 - The Importance of Guest Experience in Short-Term Rentals05:58 - Market Insight Reports: Customization and Client Collaboration10:00 - Maximizing Investment in Short-Term Rentals11:42 - Amenity Strategy: Quick Wins vs. Premium Positioning20:01 - Navigating Established vs. Up-and-Coming Markets23:38 - Navigating Local Regulations for Short-Term Rentals24:56 - Handling Uninvestable Areas26:22 - Market Insight Report for Cary, North Carolina27:54 - Renovation and Amenity Strategy32:19 - Guest Experience and Hospitality38:32 - Impressive Occupancy and Revenue NumbersMentioned in this EpisodeCohosting with Ali: brandandmarket.co/cohosting-servicesConnect with Data Led DesignsWebsite: dataleddesigns.comReports: dataleddesigns.com/airbnb-market-research | Use the code "brandandmarket10" for 10% off any report.Instagram: instagram.com/dataleddesigns_strInstagram: instagram.com/bramble.cary

In this episode of Skip the Queue, Andy Povey is joined by Ray Hole of Ray Hole Architects for a wide-ranging and thought-provoking conversation about strategy, storytelling and the true economics of experience design. Key Topics Discussed The “Camelot” collaboration model in attraction development Experience economy vs. pure economics Primacy and recency effects in guest psychology Designing the departure experience Turning operational cost into experiential value Storytelling through architecture Instagrammable design and generational behaviour Empathy in ticketing and security Integrating accommodation into attraction strategy Converting capex into revenue-generating experiences   Show References:   Ray Hole, Managing Director of Ray Hole Architects https://www.rayhole-architects.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ray-hole-a6b7396/   Skip the Queue is brought to you by Merac. We provide attractions with the tools and expertise to create world-class digital interactions. Very simply, we're here to rehumanise commerce. Your host is Andy Povey.   Credits: Written by Emily Burrows (Plaster) Edited by Steve Folland Produced by Emily Burrows and Sami Entwistle (Plaster) Download The Visitor Attractions Website Survey Report - https://www.merac.co.uk/download-the-visitor-attractions-survey We have launched our brand-new playbook: ‘The Retail Ready Guide to Going Beyond the Gift Shop' — your go-to resource for building a successful e-commerce strategy that connects with your audience and drives sustainable growth. Download your FREE copy here

Mike Kurtz, Founder of Mike's Hot Honey, shares invaluable hospitality insider insights on building a successful hospitality business from the ground up. Discover how strategic restaurant partnerships and collaborations fueled the rapid growth of Mike's Hot Honey, making it one of the fastest-growing food brands nationwide. Mike dives deep into hospitality trends shaping brand expansion from restaurant menus to grocery store shelves through effective CPG strategies. Listeners will learn key restaurant growth strategies and what it takes to stay authentic amid intensifying competition. Mike also discusses menu innovation, flavor experimentation, and how hospitality executives and restaurant operators can create lasting brand trust while scaling their businesses without losing their unique identity. Tune in for a wealth of knowledge from a hospitality industry leader that offers practical advice for anyone involved in the restaurant industry podcast landscape, hospitality media, or looking to elevate their hospitality leadership skills. Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us a message!In this episode, Alex & Annie sit down with Krista Goodrich and Kymberlee Nguyen, the duo behind Salty Dog Vacations, to talk about what it really takes to build a vacation rental company that guests remember and a team that is proud to be part of it.They share how Salty Dog grew from early investing decisions in Daytona Beach into a full-scale operation, and how their approach to branding goes beyond design choices. It shows up in the details, the guest experience, and the way they protect their people.The conversation also expands into Krista's work in local advocacy and zoning, their broader mission to help more women build wealth through real estate, and how their community has grown through retreats and education.Episode Chapters:08:20 – How local rules, zoning, and community involvement shape what it takes to operate responsibly15:07 – Building a brand guests remember: personality, pet-friendly touches, and guest joy19:37 – Krista's “Boss Lady Investor” work, and why real estate education needs to feel accessible25:00 – How retreats and community experiences can become part of a bigger platform, not just a side project33:32 – What it looks like to build a company culture where your team feels protected and respected35:44 – The moment they fired an owner, and why that decision mattered for the business long term40:25 – Why consistency matters more than “cute ideas,” especially once you are scalingIf you're trying to build a stronger guest experience and a business that holds up as you grow, this one's worth a listen.Connect with Kym & Krista:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krista-goodrich-2823198/ Podcast: https://www.thebossladyinvestor.com/ Website: https://mysaltydogvacation.com/ ✨ Exclusive Offer to Alex & Annie Listeners:Streamline your short-term rental operations with Hostfully.Mention the Alex & Annie Podcast when you sign up and get free onboarding ($1000 value).

Danielle Parra, Chief Brand Officer of McAlister's Deli, joins the Hospitality Hangout to share her expert insights on building and scaling a renowned hospitality brand. With over 500 locations and a billion-dollar presence in the hospitality industry, McAlister's continues to lead with innovative strategies in fast casual dining. From pioneering data-driven loyalty programs to creative menu innovations like pickle-powered limited-time offers, Danielle reveals how guest-centered hospitality drives sustainable restaurant growth. This episode also explores catering strategies, beverage and mocktail trends, franchisee economics, and how authentic hospitality leadership remains a key factor in success. Tune in for insider hospitality trends, restaurant growth strategies, and much more! Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why are guests leaving earlier than you think they should?Your pricing's solid, the drinks are good, the team's doing their job and still, tabs are closing after two rounds.Most operators assume it's a marketing issue or a menu problem, but a lot of the time it's the room itself working against you.Lighting that's too bright, music that's just a little too loud, or a space that's slightly uncomfortable can quietly shave minutes off dwell time.In this episode, we break down how to measure those invisible factors and make simple adjustments that actually show up in your sales.If you think your bar is “fine” but your numbers say otherwise, this episode is for you.

⭐ This is a featured encore of one of our most downloaded STR Investing episodes. Originally released on June 6th 2024, this episode continues to inspire investors to think bigger and execute smarter.In this episode of the STR Investing Podcast, co-host Taylor Jones welcomes Tyann Marcink, the "Queen of Guest Experience," to share how she transformed a $55,000 drug house into a $1.5 million short-term rental success story.Tyann walks through: • How she identified hidden potential others overlooked • The renovation strategy that unlocked massive value • The guest experience upgrades that drive revenue • Lessons learned from turning a distressed property into a high-performing assetThis episode proves that creative vision, execution, and guest-focused design can completely change the trajectory of a deal.If you're serious about scaling your short-term rental portfolio, this is one to study.__Episode Sponsored By:STR SearchSTR Search is the industry leading property finder service. They've helped investors acquire over 215 profitable STRs across the US. If you'd like the data professionals to help you find your next STR, reach out to STRsearch.com

In this episode of Skip the Queue, Andy Povey is joined by Mark Lofthouse, Creative Director and Business & Client Strategy Manager at RWS Global, a global entertainment company delivering experiences across attractions, live events and destination design.Mark shares his journey into the attractions industry, from starting out in haunted attractions as a teenager to leading creative strategy on IP-led experiences around the world. Andy and Mark talks about how brands and attractions can create meaningful emotional connections, why guest-first design is critical to commercial success, and how IP partnerships can help venues reach new audiences when done thoughtfully. The conversation also looks ahead to the future of immersive experiences, personalisation, and what regional and family attractions can learn from projects that are thriving today.Key Topics Discussed:Emotional connection as the core of great attractionsHow IP and brands can attract new audiencesWhy guest-first design matters more than visualsWhat makes IP partnerships succeed or failLessons for regional and family attractionsThe future of immersive and personalised experiences Show References: Download The Visitor Attractions Website Survey Report - https://www.merac.co.uk/download-the-visitor-attractions-survey Mark Lofthouse, Senior Manager, Business & Client Strategy at RWS Globalhttps://www.rwsglobal.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/markloftcd/ Skip the Queue is brought to you by Merac. We provide attractions with the tools and expertise to create world-class digital interactions. Very simply, we're here to rehumanise commerce. Your host is Andy Povey. Credits:Written by Emily Burrows (Plaster)Edited by Steve FollandProduced by Emily Burrows and Sami Entwistle (Plaster) We have launched our brand-new playbook: ‘The Retail Ready Guide to Going Beyond the Gift Shop' — your go-to resource for building a successful e-commerce strategy that connects with your audience and drives sustainable growth. Download your FREE copy here

In this episode of Hospitality Hangout, hospitality industry leaders Jason Morgan (CEO of The Original ChopShop), Kelly Gray (SVP of Hot Head Burritos), Lawrence Brown (Chief Development Officer of Rita's Italian Ice), and Yann de Rochefort (CEO of Boqueria) come together to share their expertise on building iconic food brands. Dive into essential hospitality trends, restaurant growth strategies, and hospitality insider insights that are shaping the modern hospitality business. Episode Credits:Sponsored by: Restaurant Finance & Development ConferenceProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ari Weinzweig, co-founder of Zingerman's Delicatessen, shares invaluable hospitality insider insights and leadership lessons from building one of the most respected brands in the hospitality business. As a pioneering restaurant CEO, Ari discusses how vision and community-building in the hospitality industry have driven their long-lasting success, all while staying true to core values rather than chasing fleeting hospitality trends. Episode Credits:Sponsored by: Restaurant Finance & Development ConferenceProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Richard Schneider, COO and Chief Development Officer of Areas USA, on Hospitality Hangout as he shares insider insights into scaling one of the largest airport and travel plaza hospitality operators in the country. From his early start in restaurants at six years old to leading innovation in airport dining, Richard discusses why hospitality will always trump technology and how emerging brands are transforming food service across airports and highways nationwide. In this episode, explore hospitality trends and bold ideas that drive memorable guest experiences in the restaurant industry. Richard also reflects on leadership strategies, acquisitions, and the growth of local concepts in travel hospitality, offering valuable perspectives for anyone in the hospitality industry or interested in the future of food service and airport dining. Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTV for BusinessProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

DAMIONMLK Day:Incoming Walmart CEO John Furner:Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy reminds us blahblahblah. During our annual MLK Day Celebration, we reflected on blahblahblah. We care for people. Blahblahblah We strive to be honest, fair, and courageous. And we put others first in the work we do to help people live better.When we lead with care, show respect and do what's right, we honor Dr. King's legacy through action and continue building a Walmart that reflects our purpose and values.Walmart: $27,408,854, the fiscal 2025 annual total compensation of our median associate was $29,469, and the ratio of these amounts was 930:1.By 11:14 AM: He has earned $29,469 (the median worker's entire year of labor).Total Earnings by MLK Day: ~$1,425,000That $1.4 million is equivalent to the lifetime earnings of 48 median Walmart associates (assuming each works for one year at $29,469)As of January 20, 2026, the combined net worth of the Walton family has reached a historic $513.4 billion, according to the latest Bloomberg and Forbes data.As of January 2026, the Walton family collectively receives approximately $3.4 billion per year in dividends from Walmart.Per Day: The family earns roughly $9.27 million every day just by owning the stock.Per Hour: They earn about $386,000 per hour, 24 hours a day.King was literally campaigning for a living wage in Memphis when he was shot by the FBI. your move, walmart CEO John Furner WHO DO YOU BLAME?WestJet reverses cramped seating layout after viral videos show passengers' knees pressed against seats.In the reconfigured layout, which rolled out in late October on select Boeing 737s, space between rows was reduced to 28 inches to accommodate an extra row of seats. WestJet also made economy class seats non-reclinable, offering passengers the option to pay extra for adjustable seats.In a news statement, the company said it will reverse what it called the "densified seating" by removing the additional row of seats.WHO DO YOU BLAME?Samantha (Sam) Taylor was appointed WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Experience Officer March 2025. Sam joined Sunwing in March 2020 as Chief Marketing Officer. Sam's portfolio is accountable for critical touch points in the guest journey and includes leading all Marketing, Guest Experience and Contact Centres for WestJet and Sunwing Vacations. MMStakeholders!Customers: WestJet's rollout of the reconfigured seats has sparked widespread outrage among travelers and even crew members.Employees: Reuters reported that pilots and flight attendants have raised concerns over the new configuration's comfort and safety, specifically whether passengers could safely evacuate the plane in an emergency due to the confined seating.Journalists: Reuters reported that pilots and flight attendants have raised concerns over the new configuration's comfort and safety, specifically whether passengers could safely evacuate the plane in an emergency due to the confined seating.Labor Unions: Alia Hussain, president of the union local representing WestJet cabin personnel, said: "It created a hostile working environment for us as cabin personnel."Onex Corporation, WestJet's publicly traded ownersWhich is really founder and board Chair Gerry Schwartz (annual Chair fee of $1 million), who maintains 100% control of the Multiple Voting Shares (MVS) of Onex Corporation, which effectively grants him 60% of the total voting power in the company.This control allows him to elect 60% of the members of Onex's Board of Directors. While he also personally holds a significant portion of the Subordinate Voting Shares (SVS)—roughly 11.3% as of late 2024—the primary mechanism of his control is the MVS class.All stupid U.S. dual class dictatorships who do not do this!!The "Sunset" Provision: In May 2023, Onex shareholders approved a plan to implement a "sunset" on these special voting rights. Under this agreement, Schwartz's multiple voting rights are scheduled to expire three years after the effective date of the amendment (roughly May 2026).Current Status: As we are currently in early 2026, Schwartz remains the controlling shareholder. Upon the "Event of Change" later this year, the Multiple Voting Shares will convert into Subordinate Voting Shares, and he will lose his absolute control, shifting the company toward a more traditional governance structure.Matt Damon says Netflix wants to make action movies differently to account for shorter attention spansHow the art of filmmaking is being subvertedThe "Say What You Do" Rule: Writers are frequently being told to eliminate subtext. In traditional filmmaking, if a character is sad, you show them staring at a cold cup of coffee. Now, streamers often request that the character explicitly say, "I'm just so sad right now," or have another character ask, "Why are you so sad?"The Reason: If you are looking at your phone during a silent, emotional shot, you miss the story. If the character says it out loud, you can follow the plot without looking at the screen.Heightened Audio Cues: If you've noticed that modern movies have very aggressive sound design—sudden loud bangs, dramatic musical stings, or high-pitched notification-like sounds—it's often intentional.The "Audio Hook": These sounds act like a "ping" to pull your eyes back from your phone to the TV. It's a literal alarm clock for your attention.The "First 10 Minutes" Mandate: In the past, a movie could have a "slow burn" opening (think 2001: A Space Odyssey). Today, Netflix and other streamers use data that shows exactly when a user hits the "Back" button.The Note: Writers are told that a "major event" (an explosion, a death, or a massive hook) must happen within the first 2 to 5 minutes. If the "inciting incident" happens at the 20-minute mark, the data shows they will lose 30% of the audience to TikTok.Centered Framing: Cinematographers are increasingly being told to keep the "important" action in the center of the frame.The Reason: This makes the content easier to view on a mobile device if the user decides to switch from the TV to their phone, or if they are watching a cropped "clip" of the movie on social media later.Increased "Recapping": Have you noticed characters summarizing what just happened more often?The "TikTok Brain" Fix: Because people are multitasking, they often lose the thread of the plot. Streamers now encourage dialogue like, "So, let me get this straight, we have to get the key from the vault before the guard returns in five minutes?" It's a recap for someone who tuned out for the last three minutes.WHO DO YOU BLAME?Netflix: Ted Sarandos & Greg Peters (Co-CEOs of Netflix), Reed Hastings, Jay HoagDrug CEOs (re: The Algorithm): Passive Viewing: Data shows that up to 94% of people use a phone while watching TV.TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew: TikTok is widely considered the pioneer of the "Short-Form Video" era. Its algorithm is specifically designed to provide "intermittent reinforcement" (like a slot machine), which studies suggest can reduce the ability to focus on long-term tasks.Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg: Zuckerberg pivoted Facebook and Instagram (Reels) to aggressively compete with TikTok. Critics argue this transition turned a platform for connection into one of "passive scrolling" that further erodes focus.YouTube CEO Neal Mohan: Under his leadership, YouTube Shorts was launched to capture the short-attention-span market. Even YouTube co-founder Steve Chen has recently warned that these short videos are "shrinking kids' attention spans."Smartphones: Former Apple CEO Steve Jobs MMStanford: The "Father of Persuasive Tech": B.J. FoggStanford's Persuasive Technology Lab, run by B.J. Fogg, taught many of the founders and early employees of Instagram and Facebook.The "Fogg Behavior Model" taught engineers how to use "triggers" and "rewards" to change human behavior through software. He provided the scientific framework that allowed tech companies to treat the human brain like hardware that could be "hacked" for maximum engagement.Trump calls NYSE Dallas expansion plans 'unbelievably bad' for New York: Trump says move poses 'big test' for newly inaugurated Mayor Zohran Mamdani. WHICH HYPOCRISY DO YOU BLAME?The Free Market BullshitTrump and Texas leaders have long championed the freedom of businesses to flee blue-state regulations. However, now that a prestigious icon like the NYSE is actually expanding to Dallas, Trump has pivoted to calling it "unbelievably bad" for New York.The Anti-Woke /Anti-ESG scaremongeringTexas frames itself as a "Sanctuary from Socialism," yet the Texas Stock Exchange (TXSE) is being used to bypass ESG transparency. While railing against woke mandates, these leaders are creating their own ideological silos—demanding a protected market where management isn't held accountable by shareholders for social or environmental impacts.Texas AG Ken Paxton described BlackRock, State Street, and Vanguard as an "investment cartel" that was "illegally controlling national energy markets" and "squeezing more money out of hardworking Americans."Paxton sent a formal warning to Larry Fink and other CEOs, stating that their "radical environmental policies" and "race-based quotas" (DEI) would face severe enforcement actions if they prioritized "politics over consumers."Lead by example: Trump quits NYC and Musk's Dexit to Y'all StreetThroughout his 2024 campaign, Trump consistently compared New York unfavorably to states like Florida and Texas: as an example, he pointed to the lack of state income tax in Florida as a reason why "everyone is leaving New York." Elon Musk's Dexit from Delaware/California is sold as a strike for freedom, yet his empire is built on nearly $40 billion in government subsidies and contracts. He moved to Texas to escape over-regulation (re: his pay package and people being mad about nooses in his factories) while simultaneously heading the most over-regulatory body ever: Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).Leader name calling and scaremongeringTrump's pre-bromance attacks on New York's new mayor, Zohran Mamdani (communist lunatic" and a "Marxist"). Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson (UPenn, Harvard, Princeton): "un-American socialist impulse" and explicitly marketed Dallas as a "sanctuary from socialism" for businesses looking to Dexit New York. The Elite vs. Common Man NonsenseDespite bullshit Y'all Street populist framing, the Texas Stock Exchange is backed by the world's most powerful financial titans. There is no common man victory here; it is the CEO class moving the financial capital to a jurisdiction with fewer labor protections and less oversight.The Big Four Anchor InvestorsBlackRock: (managing ~$14 trillion), despite being the primary target of "anti-woke" and anti-ESG rhetoric from the same politicians who support the TXSE.Citadel Securities: Led by Ken Griffin, this firm executes roughly 1 in 4 of all stock trades in the U.S. Left Chicago for Miami.J.P. Morgan Chase: Jamie Dimon. Joined in 2025 during a $90 million funding round and holds an observer seat on the board.Charles Schwab: handles over 50% of U.S. retail stock orders.MATTWalmart International CEO Kath McLay to step down - WHO DO YOU BLAME?Half exiting CEO Doug McMillonMcLay was under McMillon her entire tenure at WalMart, raised to CEO of the international divisionClearly a protege - passed over for the new CEO?Incoming CEO John FurnerThe white guy who became CEO is such an interesting new story, but Furner started as a sales clerk and has been with the WALTONS a long time through Sam's Club as CEO, another Walton jointFurner/McMillon/Walton family named David Guggina CEO of Walmart US (passing McLay), Chris Nicholas replace McLay, Seth Dallaire was made chief growth officer… rounding out an all male promotion cycle of new execs - no women in major positionsMaybe McLay read the tea leaves - women got chief legal and chief of people, like everywhere else, but leave the big jobs to the swinging dicks.The compensation and management development committee, who according to the company charter, ir responsible to “periodically review and recommend to the full Board succession planning practices for the Company's CEO and other executive officers.”Carla Harris (chair) - black woman with “multicultural” in her job description at Morgan Stanley who apparently didn't apply “multiculturalism” to Walmart executive search?Marissa Mayer - yes, THAT Marissa Mayer, who is on the board of Starbucks with Brian Niccol and AT&T where Randall Stephenson was CEOBrian Niccol - CEO of Starbucks, with no conflict by having Marissa Mayer on the same boardRandall Stephenson - ex CEO of AT&T, with no conflict of interest by having Marissa Mayer on the board. Also on the board - Tom Horton, ex CEO of American Airlines who was… CFO of AT&T under StephensonShishir Mehrotra - who worked at Google via YouTube when… Marissa Mayer worked there (she was in search/maps)Kath McLay, who just couldn't cut it at Walmart anymoreAn SEC official has said (implied) you don't HAVE to vote your proxies as an investor - WHO DO YOU BLAME?Brian Daly, who gave a speech titled (Re)Empowering Fiduciaries in Proxy Voting on Jan 8 in which he argued that not voting doesn't necessarily violate fiduciary dutyGamblers: “Not voting makes sense in many situations. Look, for example, at quantitative and systematic managers, who often operate models that merely seek exposures to identified sources of alpha.”Index investors: “But it may be appropriate for these categories of investment advisers (and the Boards that exercise oversight over this function) to consider whether taking positions on fundamental corporate matters, or on precatory proposals, is consistent with their investment mandates.”Hedging himself: “So, there is no stock answer to the “Must I vote?” question... Instead, it is important that advisers and clients have a fair amount of latitude to decide what works in their individual cases.”Threatening using proxy advisors: “And if we are raising issues for consideration, I will also mention, because the President did, that there is real concern out there that habitual adherence to a proxy consultant's recommendations could pull an adviser into a Section 13(d) group.”Investors, because no matter what Brian Daly suggests, investors almost never vote against management and neither do proxy advisors, so what the fuck are we talking about?Cost, because Daly points out, “And in assessing proposed votes, investment advisers might utilize the Fiduciary Interpretation's concept of a “reasonable inquiry into the client's objectives.” If an investment adviser routinely follows a proxy advisor's stock recommendations without a tailored engagement or independent analysis, is this “reasonable inquiry?” Maybe, but it is certainly worth thinking about. And, to go back to the first question, if the voting process is so burdensome that it requires extensive external resources, why is the adviser voting at all?”John Chevedden, along with Jim McRitchie, without whom we have maybe half the shareholder rights as SP500 companies, and who the no-action data is now showing is disproportionately getting responses for exclusion from the SEC (as if to double down on the idea that we can ignore those commie socialists entirely, but we want to tell you explicitly you're totally legally cool and there's no threat if you exclude Chevedden). Chevedden might be the reason investors were voting at all - maybe now they won't have to?

John Dillon, CEO of La Madeleine, joins Hospitality Hangout to share his expert strategies on reviving a 42-year-old legacy brand by blending tradition with modern hospitality trends. Drawing on his journey through major restaurant chains like Blockbuster, Pizza Hut, and Denny's, John reveals how clarity, simplification, and execution drive sustainable growth in the restaurant industry.In this insightful episode, John discusses the power of third place thinking — creating welcoming spaces that encourage guests to linger — and how La Madeleine balances grab-and-go convenience with a hospitable atmosphere. He dives into how leveraging technology, social media trends, and thoughtful design innovation enhances guest experiences without losing the brand's unique charm.Tune in to hear insider insights on hospitality innovation, emerging food service trends, and bold ideas shaping today's café culture, all from one of the industry's leading CEOs. Whether you're a foodie, restaurateur, or hospitality professional, this episode offers valuable perspectives on evolving legacy brands in a competitive market. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Boxoffice podcast, co-hosts Daniel Loria, Rebecca Pahle, and Chad Kennerk cover the latest industry news and preview Sony's 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple. Then in the feature segment, Daniel speaks with Dine-In Cinema Summit founders Amy and Matt Mader of Venue Valet to preview this year's show happening February 2-6 in Austin, TX. Give us your feedback on our podcast by accessing this survey: https://forms.gle/CcuvaXCEpgPLQ6d18 What to Listen For00:00 Intro01:07 Weekend Box Office: Primate Overperforms02:41 Repertory Cinema & Theatrical Experiences06:18 Remembering Colleen Barstow08:27 Industry Leadership Updates10:34 ICTA North America Cinema Awards12:09 Blue Ribbon Awards Relaunch14:11 Box Office Outlook & Horror Trends16:22 28 Years Later Franchise Discussion21:46 Dine-In Cinema Summit Interview Begins23:18 Evolution of the Dine-In Cinema Summit26:41 Hospitality & Guest Experience in Cinemas29:44 “Let's Adapt” Programming & Diversification33:06 Alternative Content & FEC Strategies37:58 Food, Beverage & Kitchen Operations39:12 Battle of the Brands Cook-Off41:36 Operations, Pricing & Data Insights45:02 Summit Sponsors & Industry Support48:21 Why the Summit Matters Before CinemaCon50:37 Registration Details & Final Takeaways51:18 Closing Remarks & Subscribe CTA

Nate Fowler, CEO of Long John Silver's, joins Hospitality Hangout live from RFDC in Las Vegas to share insider insights on revitalizing a 56-year-old restaurant brand while maintaining its core identity. This episode dives deep into hospitality trends, focusing on how technology, loyalty programs, and strategic partnerships drive growth and innovation in the restaurant industry.Nate discusses his unique approach to leadership shaped by his background in banking and finance, exploring unit economics and franchise growth during a pivotal turnaround. Listeners will learn about the brand's investment in technology, including a new mobile app, and creative marketing tactics like the chicken-focused logo stunt that reignited customer interest.The conversation also covers franchisee economics, procurement strategy, and the significance of partnerships with companies like Foodbuy for improving cost structures and attracting new franchisees. Packed with valuable hospitality industry insights, this episode is a must-listen for food service professionals, emerging restaurant brands, and anyone interested in the future of hospitality innovation. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alex Dunn, CEO of Swig, shares insider insights on how Swig pioneered and scaled the dirty soda category from its Utah roots to a thriving national franchise. Explore key hospitality trends in the beverage and restaurant industry as Alex discusses personalization, premium fountain beverages favored by Gen Z, and how innovation drives brand authenticity and growth at scale. From franchising strategy to staying competitive amid major beverage players entering the space, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for food service professionals and hospitality insiders aiming to build bold, category-defining brands. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Change remains the only constant in hospitality, but today's accelerated pace brings unprecedented opportunities to innovate and differentiate your brand. Technology and AI are enabling streamlined operations and personalized guest experiences that drive loyalty and revenue.Consumer behavior shifts like mindful drinking trends, for example, present deep challenges but can also open new revenue streams for savvy operators who know how to pivot. In this Keynote from Cornell's Nolan School of Hotel Administration, we'll explore successful adaptation strategies that can strengthen your business model and broaden your appeal.Join industry leader Peter Karpinski from Pyramid Global Hospitality and Cornell Senior Lecturer and industry veteran Douglass Miller as they discuss how to survive and thrive in this rebounding market as well as what it takes to gain competitive advantage. They'll also share storytelling techniques for reaching today's experience-hungry consumers.Check out Doug's Beer Essentials Cornell Certificate Program herePyramid Global Hospitality  Follow eCornell on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and X.

Featuring top hospitality leaders from Groucho's Deli, Long John Silver's, Tiki Taco, Cowboy Chicken, Crazy Pita, and Beans & Brews Coffee House, including Mehdi Zarhloul, Brittany Mercer, Eric Knott, Deric Rosenbaum, Doug Willmarth, and Tim Newton, this episode dives deep into the latest hospitality trends and technology shaping the food service industry. Recorded live at FS/TEC from Amazon Business Studios, Hospitality Hangout brings you insider insights on growth strategies, brand building, and innovating within the hospitality industry.Our guests share valuable perspectives on scaling both legacy and emerging brands while maintaining strong culture and operational excellence. The conversation covers key topics such as franchising, modernizing technology stacks, leadership best practices, digital marketing, and disciplined management needed to thrive in today's competitive food service landscape.Join us for an engaging discussion that captures the energy of FS/TEC and offers actionable advice for entrepreneurs, founders, and hospitality professionals focused on long-term growth, innovation, and staying ahead in the evolving hospitality industry. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kaleb Harrell, CEO and co-founder of Hawkers Asian Street Food, joins Hospitality Hangout to share hospitality insider insights on building an authentic restaurant brand rooted in Asian street food culture. Discover how understanding true hawker culture and hands-on hospitality leadership shaped Hawkers' unique growth strategy and helped the brand stay genuine without feeling like a traditional chain.In this episode, Kaleb dives into early challenges of bootstrapping, balancing multiple ventures, and system-building, giving listeners an inside look at entrepreneurial strategies in the food industry. He also discusses disciplined investment decisions and partnership dynamics, offering valuable lessons for hospitality entrepreneurs navigating growth while preserving culture.Tune in for an engaging conversation that explores emerging hospitality trends, leadership in the food service industry, and the business strategies behind one of the fastest-growing authentic food brands. This episode is packed with insider stories and lessons any entrepreneur or hospitality insider won't want to miss! Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Recorded live at SocialWest 2025 in Calgary, this special episode of the Marketing News Canada podcast features a conversation with Joshua Counsil, Co-Founder of Good Robot Brewing and guest host Meredith McKeough.Joshua shares candid lessons from building a multi-dimensional hospitality and beverage business spanning beer, non-alcoholic drinks, events, and co-packing for major retailers like Costco. The conversation explores why guest experience is one of the most powerful marketing tools available, how storytelling influences customers, employees, and even lenders, and why scrappy, generous marketing often outperforms big-budget campaigns.From navigating PR crises to designing small moments that create outsized word-of-mouth, this episode is packed with practical insights for marketers, founders, and brand leaders looking to build trust, loyalty, and long-term growth.

Mark Politzer, CEO of Norms Restaurants and a prominent figure among hospitality insiders, shares his extraordinary journey in the food service industry on Hospitality Hangout. From starting as a dishwasher to leading a beloved Southern California diner, Mark talks about the hospitality strategies and leadership principles that sustain Norms' 76-year legacy. Featuring insights on maintaining a multi-generational workforce and fostering long-term loyalty, this episode explores how industry trends shape consistency and culture in established hospitality brands. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Shannon gets fired up about one of the biggest mistakes retreat leaders make: discounting their retreats. While a discount might feel like an easy way to fill a few spots, the long-term damage is real - it devalues your experience, trains your audience to wait for price drops, signals desperation, and hurts the entire retreat industry. Shannon breaks down exactly why discounting is harmful, what it communicates to potential guests, and better alternatives like early-bird bonuses, pay-in-full perks, and smart payment options. She also unpacks the real reason retreat leaders discount - fear - and how to address it in a healthier, business-savvy way. If you're ready to protect your profit, elevate your positioning, and stop shrinking your worth, this episode is a must-listen. Key Takeaways Retreats are transformational live experiences - not products to be marked down like retail. Discounting immediately lowers perceived value and conditions your audience to never pay full price again. It signals desperation and damages not just your brand, but the entire retreat industry. Live experiences require emotional labor, planning, expertise, and responsibility - none of which should be discounted. Instead of discounting, offer early-bird bonuses, pay-in-full perks, and extended payment plans. The real reason people discount is fear - not strategy. If enrollment is low, you need better messaging, positioning, urgency, and audience warming… not cheaper prices.   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Get your legal docs for retreats Join Shannon in Denver at the Retreat Industry Forum  Join our LinkedIn Group Apply to be a guest on our show   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify --------- TIMESTAMPS The Problem with Discounting Retreats (00:00:50) Shannon expresses frustration about retreat leaders discounting their retreats and outlines why this is harmful. Why Discounting Retreats is Harmful (00:01:12) Explains how discounting devalues retreats, signals desperation, and attracts difficult guests. Negative Impact on Guest Experience and Industry (00:03:42) Discusses how discounting attracts ungrateful guests and lowers perceived value across the retreat industry. Discounting Hurts Your Margins and Business (00:06:02) Details how discounts cut into profits, making it harder to sustain a retreat business. Retreats as Premium, Transformational Experiences (00:07:16) Emphasizes that retreats are not products but containers for transformation, requiring significant energy and expertise. Alternatives to Discounting: Bonuses and Perks (00:08:14) Suggests offering early bird bonuses, pay-in-full perks, and extended payment plans instead of discounts. Why Retreat Leaders Discount: The Role of Fear (00:10:22) Explores the real reasons behind discounting, such as fear of failure and low signups. Building Confidence and Enrollment Without Discounts (00:11:30) Encourages improving messaging, marketing, and mindset instead of lowering prices. Final Advice and Invitation to Community (00:12:39) Urges listeners to stop discounting, value their work, and join the Retreat Industry Forum for support. Podcast Closing and Resources (00:13:39) Shannon thanks listeners, encourages sharing, and offers free resources for retreat leaders.

André Vener shares the inspiring hospitality story behind DogHaus—from a late-night idea to a nationally recognized food brand. Discover industry trends in food service and hospitality strategies as André discusses the importance of food quality, guest experience, and how entertainment blends seamlessly with hospitality. This episode explores key investment and scaling strategies to grow a brand without losing its original soul. André also shares his experiences working with celebrity partners like Jake Paul and highlights why relationships and trust are just as crucial as business strategy in the hospitality industry. Perfect for entrepreneurs and hospitality professional's eager for insider insights and emerging brand success stories. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kelli Valade, CEO of Denny's and a leading hospitality insider, shares her purpose-driven leadership approach, and the powerful role hospitality plays beyond the dining room. In this special No Kid Hungry miniseries episode, explore how Denny's commitment to fighting childhood hunger through a 15-year partnership and signing the CEO Pledge highlights impactful hospitality trends. Kelli dives into building culture at a legacy brand, staying relevant across generations, and leading with empathy in the food service industry. Discover insider insights into how hospitality strategies can serve communities and develop future leaders in this inspiring conversation. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, host KJ sits down with John Choate, co-founder of Apogee Travel, to discuss how the travel industry hides value, the illusion of price comparison, and how Apogee is disrupting the online travel agency model by turning every hotel booking into a charitable donation. Discover the truth behind loyalty programs, the commoditization of hotels, and how transparency and social good can reshape an entire industry. Four Key Takeaways: The Illusion of Comparison Shopping [00:41]John explains how consumers believe they are comparison shopping for hotels, but in reality, prices are controlled and nearly identical across platforms. The Birth of Apogee’s Value Model [06:55]The story of how a charity hotel stay and a conversation with Steve Wynn inspired the idea of using hotel profits for social good. Exposing Loyalty Program Devaluation [24:15]John breaks down how hotel loyalty programs manipulate point values, creating “value blindness” for consumers. How Apogee Travel Disrupts the Industry [32:05]Apogee’s unique model: every booking generates a donation to a charity of the traveler’s choice, at no extra cost, while still earning brand rewards points. Quote of the Show (34:20):"Most people think charity is emotional. In our model, it's structural. Travel's the largest overlooked fundraising engine in the world. We just plugged it in." – John Choate Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome. Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval Ways to connect with John Choate: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnchoate/ Company Website: https://apogeetravel.com How to get more Disruption/Interruption: Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlD?si=22332d4cd4ef4e41See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

That's The Ticket! brings you the stories behind the action happening at Gas South District in Duluth, GA. On this episode, host Stan Hall is joined by Marcia Powell, Director of Guest Experience at Gas South District. Marcia pays a huge role in shaping the experience of every guest who visits the Gas South District […]

Jennifer Dodd, CEO of Main Squeeze Juice, shares her journey and insights into building an emerging brand within the food industry. Dive deep into hospitality trends around wellness-driven concepts, cold-pressed juice, and gut health, and discover how this innovative approach transforms food service experiences.Jennifer breaks down what sets Main Squeeze apart—from fresh, unpasteurized juice with a six-day shelf life to catering to fitness enthusiasts and GLP-1 users. She reveals the importance of educating customers on raw versus pasteurized juice and how plant-based options continue to expand in the growing wellness market.This episode also explores business strategies including leadership, franchise growth, and non-traditional expansion, giving listeners insider insights into the hospitality and food industry. Tune in for a compelling discussion on building a wellness-driven brand amid evolving industry trends. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I break down a problem I see all the time in our industry: identity drift. When your purpose, priorities, and daily practices stop lining up, the entire business starts to wobble. I walk through the identity compass and show how it helps you get centered again so you can make decisions that actually move the restaurant forward. If you feel pulled in a hundred directions or unsure why your growth has stalled, this conversation will help you refocus on what matters and clear out the noise holding you back.  TakeawaysYour purpose isn't a tagline. It's a compass for every decision.Priorities reveal your real beliefs; budgets and calendars are your true mission statements.What you invest in is what you believe.The real mission statements are lived through repetition.Burnout isn't caused by effort, it's caused by confusion.Alignment gives your effort direction.Start by writing your restaurant's one line purpose.Audit your spending to match your purpose.Add a branch head question for pre-shift lineups.Eliminate one tactic that isn't serving your compass.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Full Comp and AI Toolkit01:55 Understanding Identity Drift in Restaurants05:45 The Identity Compass: Purpose, Priority, and Practice07:34 Practical Steps for Realignment and ImprovementIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

Amy Hom, COO of Barcelona Wine Bar and a recognized hospitality insider, shares her leadership journey and insights into navigating hospitality trends through talent development and brand expansion. From early experiences at major food service brands to shaping the culture at Barcelona Wine Bar and its new concept Corsica Wine Bar, Amy outlines how investing in people drives success. She discusses mentorship, emerging leaders, and strategic hospitality strategies that foster long-lasting careers and strong talent pipelines. Tune in for a deep dive into industry trends and insider insights on scaling multi-unit operations while preserving brand identity, delivering valuable lessons for hospitality entrepreneurs and food industry professionals alike. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Would you be interested in dining at a restaurant where your phone is locked away? One restaurant who has adapted this policy is Punk Royale in London and we spoke to Katherine Bont, Head of Guest Experience at The Punk Royale Group.

Today's attractions need to do more than look amazing — they need to feel, sound, and even smell unforgettable. In this episode, we explore how to go beyond the visual and bring audio, scent and motion to the forefront of the guest experience.  Paul Marden is joined by Liam Findlay, Theme Park and Museum Scenting Consultant from AromaPrime Themed Scents; David Wakefield Director and Co-founder of On the Sly; and Matt Clarkson, Creative Director of Simworx. Show References:Liam R. Findlay – Theme Park & Museum Scenting Consultant, AromaPrime Themed ScentsWhy smell is a form of mind control, with Liam Findlayhttps://aromaprime.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liam-r-findlay/David Wakefield – Director & Co-founder, ON THE SLYhttp://www.onthesly.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/davidonthesly/Matt Clarkson – Creative Director, Simworxhttp://www.simworx.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-clarkson-a42a95124/ Skip the Queue is brought to you by Crowd Convert. We provide attractions with the tools and expertise to create world-class digital interactions. Very simply, we're here to rehumanise commerce. Your host is Paul Marden.If you like what you hear, you can subscribe on iTunes, Spotify, and all the usual channels by searching Skip the Queue or visit our website SkiptheQueue.fm.If you've enjoyed this podcast, please leave us a five star review, it really helps others find us. And remember to follow us on LinkedIn.  We have launched our brand-new playbook: ‘The Retail Ready Guide to Going Beyond the Gift Shop' — your go-to resource for building a successful e-commerce strategy that connects with your audience and drives sustainable growth. Download your FREE copy here

Suzie Tsai, CEO of Bonchon Chicken, joins Hospitality Insiders to share captivating insights into one of the most iconic Korean fried chicken brands shaping hospitality trends worldwide. Dive into the science behind perfect twice-fried chicken, explore Bonchon's explosive growth through word-of-mouth, and learn about bold hospitality strategies driving their global expansion. Suzie also discusses innovative flavor development, the impact of K-culture on younger diners, and why kimchi might be the new natural wonder for health-conscious food lovers. This episode blends industry insights, business strategy, and memorable moments, making it essential listening for anyone passionate about the food service and hospitality industry. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

You can have a packed dining room and still be bleeding money, and most owners don't realize it until it hurts. The real problem isn't that you're not busy, it's that you're guessing which hours actually pay the bills instead of looking at what the numbers are quietly trying to tell you. In this episode, I walk you through a simple 5-minute daily habit that shows you exactly which shifts are truly profitable and which ones are just keeping the lights on. You'll see how to spot your strongest dayparts, where labor is quietly eating your margins, and where small adjustments in hours, staffing, or promos could pay off big. By the end, you won't just feel busy, you'll know, in black and white, when your restaurant actually makes money. What You'll Learn

AI isn't the threat — it's the opportunity most hosts are ignoring.In this episode, we walk through how top operators are using AI and automation to scale smarter, simplify operations, and outpace the competition.• How AI is transforming pricing, operations, and marketing• The biggest mistake hosts make when “trying” automation• Tools that save hours per week without losing the human touch• Why your business model must evolve in 2025• The new advantage: data-driven decision-makingGet the full AI Automation Playbook at strsecrets.com/ai00:00:18 – Why AI Is the Next Big Shift in STR 00:02:12 – What Hosts Get Wrong About Automation 00:05:09 – The Tools Replacing Busywork in STR Operations 00:08:47 – How AI Enhances the Guest Experience 00:11:38 – Dynamic Pricing and Predictive Data in Action 00:15:22 – Building Systems That Learn While You Scale 00:19:10 – How to Combine AI With a Human Team 00:23:38 – Avoiding the “Set It and Forget It” Trap 00:27:41 – The STR Playbook for 2025 and Beyond 00:30:52 – Final Take: Use AI Before It Uses You Get FREE Access to our Community and Weekly Trainings:https://group.strsecrets.com/

AI isn't the threat — it's the opportunity most hosts are ignoring.In this episode, we walk through how top operators are using AI and automation to scale smarter, simplify operations, and outpace the competition.• How AI is transforming pricing, operations, and marketing• The biggest mistake hosts make when “trying” automation• Tools that save hours per week without losing the human touch• Why your business model must evolve in 2025• The new advantage: data-driven decision-makingGet the full AI Automation Playbook at strsecrets.com/ai00:00:18 – Why AI Is the Next Big Shift in STR 00:02:12 – What Hosts Get Wrong About Automation 00:05:09 – The Tools Replacing Busywork in STR Operations 00:08:47 – How AI Enhances the Guest Experience 00:11:38 – Dynamic Pricing and Predictive Data in Action 00:15:22 – Building Systems That Learn While You Scale 00:19:10 – How to Combine AI With a Human Team 00:23:38 – Avoiding the “Set It and Forget It” Trap 00:27:41 – The STR Playbook for 2025 and Beyond 00:30:52 – Final Take: Use AI Before It Uses You Get FREE Access to our Community and Weekly Trainings:https://group.strsecrets.com/

Scott Lawton, Co-Founder and Chairman of BarTaco, joins to share his unique journey from busboy to a leader in the food industry. In this episode, Scott offers insider insights on hospitality strategies, the importance of brand culture, and scaling a lifestyle-focused restaurant business. He reflects on industry trends that have shaped his approach, including his time at Tribeca Grill and the founding of Barcelona Wine Bar. Scott also discusses the sale and revival of BarTaco, highlighting key lessons learned and opportunities for growth in the hospitality landscape. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with practical wisdom and a deep dive into hospitality business growth and culture. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Debbie Stroud, President and CEO of Whataburger, shares her unique hospitality leadership journey, guiding one of America's most iconic brands into a future driven by hospitality strategies and a people-first culture. In this episode, we explore Whataburger's 75-year legacy, insider insights into balancing growth with authenticity, and emerging hospitality trends that inspire innovation and team motivation. Discover how listening and care are at the heart of Whataburger's success and what it takes to lead with pride in today's dynamic food service industry. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jim Bitticks, President and COO of Dave's Hot Chicken, shares insider insights on building a billion-dollar hospitality brand. From a humble $900 East Hollywood pop-up to one of the fastest-growing food industry sensations, Jim reveals leadership strategies, hospitality culture, and growth secrets vital for scaling with integrity. Dive into hospitality trends and the power of viral moments that have propelled Dave's Hot Chicken to phenomenal success. Whether you're interested in hospitality investment, emerging brands, or innovative food service approaches, this episode offers expert strategies and inspiring stories for entrepreneurs and industry professionals alike. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us a message!As hospitality companies race to scale, many face a difficult trade-off: grow fast or stay personal. But Zzzing, a leading hospitality brand based in Malta, is proving you can do both.In this episode, we're joined by Sab Mulligan, Head of Teams at Zzzing, to explore how they've scaled rapidly by using AI not to replace the human touch, but to protect and enhance it.Through a thoughtful blend of technology, team culture, and brand consistency, Zzzing is setting a new benchmark for what modern hospitality can look like.We cover:1️⃣ How Zzzing scaled from 40 to nearly 500 properties without compromising guest experience2️⃣ How Boom allows their team to grow fast without worrying about the tech stack3️⃣ Why they embraced AI as a teammate (not a replacement) for human hospitality4️⃣ How they use AI to automate routine tasks and free up teams for more meaningful guest interactions5️⃣ How they maintain consistency across properties while delivering personalized, local experiences6️⃣ How they balance rapid operational growth with a deep commitment to guest careWhether you manage a small portfolio or lead a growing hospitality brand, this episode offers actionable insights into scaling with intention and staying human in an AI-driven world.Connect with Sab:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinamulligan/ Website: https://www.zzzing.com/ Get 20% off any yearly or bi-yearly Lodgify plan, plus free personalized onboarding (a $3,000 value).

Too many bar and restaurant owners rely on gut feel to judge staff performance and profit.A packed house doesn't mean you're making money and a friendly server doesn't always mean a top performer.In this episode, Geoffrey Toffetti reveals how data, not guesswork, uncovers hidden revenue leaks, lazy service habits, and quiet performance killers.You'll learn how top hospitality brands are using AI, psychology, and POS metrics to spot gaps, train smarter, and increase revenue without more hours or more guests.If you've ever asked, “Why are we busy but still broke?” This is your wake-up call.What You'll Learn

Rose Tipka's presentation at the JRE Summit, autumn 2025.

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I dive into strategies for boosting restaurant profitability without raising prices. I explain why it's so important to see restaurants as providers of time slots rather than just food and beverage, and how that shift impacts service. I share why the first 20 minutes of the guest experience matter most, plus the tactics I use to improve pacing, satisfaction, and table turns.Takeaways:Most restaurant marketing fails because it's built on guesswork.Awareness doesn't pay the rent, behavior does.If it doesn't move a booking, a purchase or return visit, then it's just noise.We want to align with behavior, not alter it.Triggers turn offers into rituals.The fastest money you can make is in the list you already own.Stop chasing strangers while your regulars gather dust.Create experiences that use desire that already exists.If it wouldn't move you, it probably won't move them.Your marketing must move the needle in your business.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Success01:21 Reframing Restaurant Profitability02:51 Understanding Time as Inventory05:45 Optimizing Service for ProfitabilityIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

In this episode of the Real Estate Pros podcast, host Q Edmonds interviews Chad Hart, a property management expert specializing in short-term rentals. Chad shares insights into the importance of professional management, the challenges of scaling a business, and the impact of technology and AI on the real estate industry. He emphasizes the significance of building relationships and managing customer reviews effectively to enhance business growth.   Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind:  Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply   Investor Machine Marketing Partnership:  Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true ‘white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com   Coaching with Mike Hambright:  Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike   Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a “mini-mastermind” with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming “Retreat”, either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas “Big H Ranch”? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat   Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform!  Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/   New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club   —--------------------

Send us a message!Flexible cancellation policies are no longer optional in today's vacation rental market. Guests expect them, OTAs prioritize them, and competitors are already adapting. But for property managers, relaxed policies often feel like a direct threat to revenue and owner trust.In this episode, we talk with Sasha Lawler, CEO and Founder of Roam, about how her company is eliminating that trade-off. Roam's embedded insurance model allows managers to offer flexible bookings that attract more guests while ensuring income is protected even if cancellations occur.Sasha shares her 15+ year journey in hospitality and vacation rental tech, the conversations with property managers that inspired Roam, and why now is the moment for the industry to catch up with hotels and airlines in offering flexibility.We discuss:1️⃣ Why strict cancellation policies create tension between managers, owners, and guests2️⃣ How Roam's model differs from traditional travel insurance3️⃣ The tech behind embedding refundable and non-refundable rate options into booking sites4️⃣ Why smaller operators are leveraging Roam to stabilize revenue and win new owners5️⃣ How turning cancellations into a strength can improve guest trust and long-term brand growthIf cancellations have ever kept you up at night, this episode will show you how flexibility can protect (not jeopardize) your revenue.Connect with Sasha:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sasha-lawler-a4b33677/ Website: https://goroam.io/ ✨ Exclusive Offer to Alex & Annie Listeners:Get free onboarding when you partner with Xplorie! Valid through November 30, 2025.