Podcasts about travel industry

In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Ayesha Molino, Chief Operating Officer of MGM Resorts International, to explore the evolving landscape of hospitality, entertainment, and large-scale resort operations in Las Vegas.Ayesha shares her unconventional path from law and government into hospitality leadership, and how her experience in policy shaped her approach to decision-making at one of the world's largest resort companies. The conversation dives into MGM's guest-centric operating model, the transformation of Las Vegas into an entertainment-driven destination, and how AI, data, and loyalty partnerships like Marriott Bonvoy are reshaping the future of travel.In This Episode, You'll Learn About: How growing up in San Diego and Washington, DC shaped her leadership mindset  The transformation of Las Vegas into an entertainment-first global destination  Why modernizing legacy systems and moving to the cloud is critical for innovation  How the MGM–Marriott Bonvoy partnership is reshaping loyalty in travel and gaming  Traits of successful hospitality leaders in today's data-driven environmentWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/eW8xZA-XK9U Links:Ayesha on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayesha-molino-a7581a84MGM Resorts International: https://www.mgmresorts.com/en.htmlFor full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/285Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

What is the “post-booking black hole” in hospitality, and how can hotels eliminate it to transform the guest experience using AI, destination intelligence, and modern engagement tools? In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Michael Gahan, CEO of Tongo, for a deep dive into how hotels can transform the guest journey by stepping into the “post-booking black hole.”Michael shares his unconventional path from small-town California, professional MMA fighting, and wine tour entrepreneurship to building a hospitality tech company focused on redefining guest engagement through destination intelligence and AI-powered concierge experiences.The conversation explores: How early guest conversations shape travel decisions and hotel revenue  Why most hotels miss the critical pre-arrival planning window  What makes Tongo's approach different from typical “AI concierge” tools  How personalized, scalable concierge experiences are now possible  The operational challenges and opportunities inside modern hotel organizations Michael also discusses lessons from his MMA career, the importance of guest-centric thinking, and why the future of hospitality depends on owning the conversation before guests even arrive.This episode is sponsored by Tongo: https://letstongo.com/Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xYXa6iH6qfELinks:Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-gahan/Tongo: https://letstongo.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/284Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

Africa Melane speaks to Iga Motylska about the rise of youth travel and how a new generation, influenced by social media, affordability and experiences like Contiki-style trips, is reshaping how and where South Africans explore. Early Breakfast with Africa Melane is 702’s and CapeTalk’s early morning talk show. Experienced broadcaster Africa Melane brings you the early morning news, sports, business, and interviews politicians and analysts to help make sense of the world. He also enjoys chatting to guests in the lifestyle sphere and the Arts. All the interviews are podcasted for you to catch-up and listen. Thank you for listening to this podcast from Early Breakfast with Africa Melane For more about the show click https://buff.ly/XHry7eQ and find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/XJ10LBU Listen live on weekdays between 04:00 and 06:00 (SA Time) to the Early Breakfast with Africa Melane broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3N Subscribe to the 702 and CapeTalk daily and weekly newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tony Moclair is joined by Dean Long, CEO Australian Travel Industry Association, to discuss Australia's newly crowned top travel destination. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special highlight episode of The Modern Hotelier, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran take a look back at the first half of the year, revisiting standout moments from over 40 conversations with leading voices in hospitality.Across these curated clips, hoteliers, developers, and industry leaders share what it really takes to succeed in today's rapidly evolving hospitality landscape—from building authentic guest experiences and strong team cultures to rethinking branding, revenue strategy, and the future of hotel development.Guests explore key themes including the importance of curiosity, staying authentic in design and operations, empowering teams as the true “secret sauce” of hospitality, and how technology, data, and shifting traveler expectations are reshaping the industry.Featuring insights from leaders across boutique hotels, global brands, luxury operators, and innovative developers, this episode offers a powerful snapshot of where hospitality is headed—and what continues to stay timeless: people, purpose, and experience.In this episode, you'll learn: Why genuine success in hospitality starts with a simple but powerful principle: truly liking and prioritizing people  How curiosity, alignment, and shared goals across teams create stronger hotel cultures and better performance  Why authenticity—not checklists or trends—is the foundation of memorable hotel experiences and strong brands  The key strategies for legacy properties to evolve with changing guest expectations without losing their identity  How mindset, attitude, and culture directly impact long-term success in hospitality organizations  Why experience-led pricing strategies can sometimes outperform short-term revenue maximization Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Cb1YFk2a_SkLinks:Ron on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-pohl-8214205/WorldHotels and International Operations for BWH Hotels: https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US.htmlAlpha on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alpha-midiaou-barry-42a6b014/Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown Little Italy: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sandy-courtyard-san-diego-downtown-little-italy/overview/Bradley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradley-steward-7b829a23/Caravan Outpost: https://caravanoutpostojai.com/Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-harmon-2184851/Auberge Resorts: https://auberge.com/aka on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aka/posts/?feedView=allaka: https://www.stayaka.com/Kristie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristiegoshowLoews Hotels & Co.: https://www.loewshotels.com/Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriskanderson/Cornell University: https://www.cornell.edu/Dr. Sharmin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharmindharas/Hotel ZAZZ: https://www.hotelzazz.com/Bashar on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/basharwali/Intersection Development: https://intersectiondev.com/Atari Hotels: https://invest.atarihotels.com/Roman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roman-pedan/Kasa: https://kasa.com/Dondra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dondra-ritzenthaler-a09158406/Azamara Cruises: https://www.azamara.com/homeCarmen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-a-581b02183/Ashburton Hospitality: https://www.ashburtonhospitality.com/Tom on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-luersen-20839113/Coral Tree Hospitality: https://www.coraltreehospitality.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/283Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

A single AI-powered flight search just exposed a massive economic blind spot for the entire travel industry, new research reveals that treating women as one travel segment is quietly costing brands serious revenue, and Expedia's new chief AI officer just laid out the company's boldest bet yet. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why AI-powered travel search is breaking a system built on the assumption that humans eventually give up, how brands still running generic women's campaigns are leaving their highest-value customers completely unreached, and why Expedia's answer to AI disruption is to become the infrastructure everyone else depends on. Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IG AI Impact on Travel Search Costs Women Travelers Are Not a Segment. Treating Them as One Is a Strategic Mistake. Expedia's New Chief AI Officer on What the Company Is Really Building 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.

What should hoteliers be doing right now to stay ahead of these rapid changes? In this episode, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili are joined by Tom Luersen, President of CoralTree Hospitality, for a fast-paced breakdown of the biggest hospitality and travel industry developments from May.The conversation dives into major shifts in the tech and distribution landscape, including new partnerships like Uber with Expedia and Mews, Airbnb expanding into hotels and car rentals, and the rise of TikTok as a hotel booking channel. The panel explores what these changes mean for hotels, direct bookings, and the future of distribution strategy.In this episode, you'll discover: What growing tech consolidation means for hotels, pricing power, and direct bookings  Why the collapse of Spirit Airlines signals deeper trends in airline consolidation and pricing pressure  How rising travel costs are influencing consumer behavior—but not stopping summer travel plans  Why experience-driven travel continues to dominate consumer priorities across generationsThis episode is a must-listen for hospitality leaders looking to understand where travel, technology, and consumer behavior are heading next—and how to stay ahead in an increasingly connected and competitive landscape.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/c9CqYWcsMRQLinks:Consumer Tech Partners with Travel & HospitalitySpirit Airlines Ceases OperationsAmericans are Cutting Costs, but Not Their Travel PlansHotel Execs Prepare for AI to Change the Booking Journey What is New at CoralTreeFor full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/282Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

Jackie Friedman, president of Nexion Travel Group and president of the Family Bonds Foundation, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the foundation's mission to provide grants to people in the travel industry, their families and their communities during financial hardship. Friedman also discusses the grant schedule and how travel advisors and suppliers can donate or nominate someone for help. For more information, visit www.familybondsfoundation.com.  All our Insider Travel Report video interviews are archived and available on our Youtube channel  (youtube.com/insidertravelreport), and as podcasts with the same title on: Spotify, Pandora, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Listen Notes, Podchaser, TuneIn + Alexa, Podbean,  iHeartRadio,  Google, Amazon Music/Audible, Deezer, Podcast Addict, and iTunes Apple Podcasts, which supports Overcast, Pocket Cast, Castro and Castbox. 

How are luxury hotels currently underutilizing guest data, and what opportunities are they missing? In this episode, Steve Carran and David Millili sit down with Josh and Dana Ellis, co-founders of Abra, to explore how AI-powered personalization is transforming the guest experience in hospitality.From luxury hotels in New York City and Maui to building one of hospitality's most exciting AI startups, Josh and Dana share the story behind Abra and why they believe personalization is the future of guest loyalty. Dana brings firsthand experience from iconic luxury properties including Four Seasons, Peninsula Hotels, and Relais & Châteaux, while Josh combines expertise in AI, consulting, and mindfulness to help hotels unlock the power of guest data.The conversation dives deep into:How hotels can deliver true personalized service at scaleWhy guest data is still one of hospitality's biggest challengesHow team members—from housekeepers to bartenders—play a critical role in personalizationWhy AI should empower hospitality teams, not replace human connectionThe importance of creating memorable experiences that drive lifelong guest loyaltyJosh and Dana also share behind-the-scenes insights into building Abra inside a live hotel operation, preparing for the HITEC E20X startup pitch competition, and how hotels can create “hospitality magic” through better data and smarter technology.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7UfjHnd4LwQThis episode is sponsored by Abra HospitalityLinks:Dana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danasjaffe/Josh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-ellis1126/Abra Hospitality: https://abrahospitality.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/281Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with 2026 NYU SPS Incubator winner and founder of Clairdoc, Bakhtawer Baloch, for a wide-ranging conversation on entrepreneurship, resilience, and building scalable AI solutions in complex industries.From her early entrepreneurial spark selling stickers as a child in Pakistan to studying and building companies in New York, Bakhtawer shares how her journey across consulting, tech, and startups led her to identify a major inefficiency in healthcare billing: insurance claim denials. That insight became the foundation of Clairdoc, an AI-driven platform aimed at reducing administrative friction and improving revenue outcomes for clinics.In this episode, you'll learn about: How Bakhtawer Baloch went from selling stickers as a child in Pakistan to building a tech startup in New York  The inspiration behind Clairdoc and the problem it solves in healthcare billing and insurance claim denials  Winning the 2026 NYU SPS Incubator and how mentorship shaped her pitch and growth strategy  Why she transitioned from service-based businesses to scalable AI product development  What's next for Clairdoc as it expands across healthcare systems and specialtiesWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/luuWSO8DfJ8Links:Bakhtawer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bakhtawerbaloch/ Clairdoc: https://www.clairdoc.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/280Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode, David and Steve sit down with Carmen Almos, Founder & CEO of Ashburton Hospitality, for a powerful conversation about resilience, entrepreneurship, and the evolving world of hotel ownership and asset management.Carmen shares her remarkable journey—from growing up in South Africa and moving to Tennessee as a teenager, to discovering her passion for hospitality through her family's motel business. She opens up about lessons learned from navigating cultural transitions, surviving the 2008 financial crisis, and finding her way from finance and law aspirations into hotel ownership and asset management.The conversation dives into:What hotel asset managers actually do—and why ownership is one of hospitality's most influential seatsWhy should hotels use creative strategies to drive revenue and improve guest experiences? The growing tension between hotel owners, operators, and brandsHow AI's impact on hotel operations and the future of hospitalityPlus, Carmen shares stories about her family's American dream, her father's motel turnaround strategy, and why she believes self-advocacy is essential for success.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/iDOFWvqSQvYLinks:Carmen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-a-581b02183/Ashburton Hospitality: https://www.ashburtonhospitality.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/279Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

Sahara Rose De Vore, founder and CEO of The Travel Coach Network, a global education and certification business that helps coaches and travellers use travel as a tool for personal growth, wellbeing, and meaningful life change.Through the world's first International Coach Federation certified travel coach program and a global network of specialists, Sahara guides people to set clear intentions for their travel and turn those experiences into real transformation in life, work, and mindset.Now, Sahara's journey from solo travel across 84 countries to creating an entirely new category in the travel industry demonstrates what's possible when passion meets purpose and long term vision.And while preparing for major global growth and learning how to step out of doing everything herself, she's helping reshape how the world thinks about travel, not as escape, but as a catalyst for lasting change.Here's where to find more:Website: https://thetravelcoachnetwork.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sahararosethetravelcoachInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetravelcoachnetworkLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahara-rose-de-vore-4b8bb394Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaharaRoseTheTravelCoachFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theTravelCoachNetworkYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thetravelcoachnetworkPodcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0tMQigo09IyNbiGt54pYo9________________________________________________Welcome to The Unforget Yourself Show where we use the power of woo and the proof of science to help you identify your blind spots, and get over your own bullshit so that you can do the fucking thing you ACTUALLY want to do!We're Mark and Katie, the founders of Unforget Yourself and the creators of the Unforget Yourself System and on this podcast, we're here to share REAL conversations about what goes on inside the heart and minds of those brave and crazy enough to start their own business. From the accidental entrepreneur to the laser-focused CEO, we find out how they got to where they are today, not by hearing the go-to story of their success, but talking about how we all have our own BS to deal with and it's through facing ourselves that we find a way to do the fucking thing.Along the way, we hope to show you that YOU are the most important asset in your business (and your life - duh!). Being a business owner is tough! With vulnerability and humor, we get to the real story behind their success and show you that you're not alone._____________________Find all our links to all the things like the socials, how to work with us and how to apply to be on the podcast here:https://linktr.ee/unforgetyourself

How does someone go from taking their very first flight after college to becoming the CEO of a world-renowned cruise brand?In this episode, David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara Cruises and recent recipient of the prestigious 2026 CLIA Hall of Fame Cruise Industry Award. From growing up in a small Texas town to becoming one of the most influential leaders in the cruise industry, Dondra shares her inspiring journey, leadership lessons, and passion for hospitality.The conversation starts with a fun lightning round where Dondra reveals her love for football, scuba diving, and even a bucket-list dream of swimming with sharks in Australia. Then, the discussion dives deeper into her career path—from becoming a flight attendant after her very first plane ride to rising through sales and marketing leadership roles before ultimately leading Azamara Cruises.Dondra shares insights into the power of teamwork, why travel advisors are vital to the cruise experience, and what drew her out of retirement to take the helm at Azamara. She also explains how Azamara's boutique-style cruise experience differs from mega ships, offering destination immersion, longer stays, and authentic cultural experiences around the world.The episode also explores evolving travel trends, the future of cruising, and Dondra's advice for aspiring leaders—especially women—on embracing bravery over perfection and surrounding yourself with people who elevate your strengths.In this episode, you'll learn: How Dondra's small-town upbringing shaped her leadership style  The value of teamwork and lifelong learning  What makes Azamara Cruises different from larger cruise lines  Why authenticity and culture are at the heart of memorable guest experiences A fun, insightful conversation filled with leadership wisdom, travel inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look into the world of luxury cruising.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TvkEzc3cbdMLinks:Dondra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dondra-ritzenthaler-a09158406/Azamara Cruises: https://www.azamara.com/homeFor full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/278Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this special collaborative episode of The Modern Hotelier, recorded at the Hunter Conference with Josiah McKenzie of Hospitality Daily, we share a compelling conversation with Azim Saju, CEO of ARK Holdings.Azim discusses his multi-faceted role in hospitality—from hotel ownership and third-party management to development, acquisitions, and renovations—and unpacks how culture, financial literacy, and technology are reshaping modern hotel operations.In this episode, you'll learn: How ARK Holdings operates across management, acquisitions, development, and renovations  Why increasing financial literacy among frontline staff (including housekeepers and breakfast attendants) directly impacts hotel performance and valuation  How teaching team members, the “life cycle of a hotel” improves both business outcomes and personal financial well-being  The critical role of forecasting and labor modeling in driving profitability and long-term asset value  How culture and growth reinforce each other as a competitive advantage at ARK This episode highlights a powerful shift in hospitality: moving from pure cost optimization toward education, empowerment, and long-term value creation.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qrF6xn9XJIALinks:Azim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azimsaju/ ARK Holdings: http://arkhospitality.com/ Josiah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahmackenzie/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/277Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Roman Pedan, the founder and CEO of Kasa, to discuss the future of hospitality, the role of AI in hotel operations, and how technology is reshaping the guest experience.Roman shares his journey from immigrating to the United States from Ukraine to studying at the University of Pennsylvania and Stanford University, before building one of the hospitality industry's most innovative tech-enabled brands. He dives into the inspiration behind Kasa, lessons learned from private equity at KKR and Walton Street Capital, and why he believes hospitality operators need tighter integration between technology and operations.The conversation explores:How AI is transforming hospitality operations and guest communicationThe future of apartment hotels and flexible real estateWhy traditional hotel tech stacks are brokenThe importance of balancing automation with human hospitalityKasa's acquisition of Mint House and the company's rapid growthIf you're interested in hospitality innovation, hotel operations, real estate, or the future of travel technology, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/n-j4XSvUyLALinks:Roman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roman-pedan/Kasa: https://kasa.com/ For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/276Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

A quick look at some events happening in the travel market and a lesson I learned through experience this past month.

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Find us on social media: Facebook & InstagramEmail us: hello@thetinlounge.com Discussion:The Travel Industry Is Training Clients to Price Shop — And Doesn’t Realize ItA New Study Decodes the Mindset of ‘Indulgent Explorers’ As heard on Excess Baggage:Rare Hantavirus Outbreak Kills Three Aboard Oceanwide Expeditions ShipTTC Tour Brands Expands Australia and New Zealand Portfolio Amid Strong DemandWindstar Cruises and Approach Guides Introduce Co-Branded Marketing ToolsJamaica's Most Anticipated Resort Openings Are Almost HereNCLH downgrades financial outlook and will cut expensesRoyal Caribbean Group Sees Record Cruise DemandAirlines Roll Out Rescue Fares, Hiring Pushes Following Spirit Airlines ShutdownSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Maura Zambarano, President of Mattress Concierge, for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about entrepreneurship, resilience, and the evolving role of sleep in hospitality.From a lightning-round icebreaker revealing Maura's calm-inducing superpower to a deeply personal story of unexpectedly taking over a company after tragedy, this episode explores how life experience, adaptability, and customer obsession can shape leadership in powerful ways.Maura shares her unconventional journey—from studying economics at Colorado State after a last-minute major switch, to grassroots sales launching a sauce business out of a converted Airstream, to building a career in senior living and ultimately stepping into the hospitality world through Mattress Concierge. She also dives into what makes boutique hospitality unique and why sleep has become one of the most overlooked yet critical components of the guest experience.The conversation highlights how boutique hotels are redefining comfort, why mattresses are a strategic investment rather than just a cost, and how personalization and wellness trends are shaping the future of hotel stays.In this episode you'll discover: How Maura Zambarano unexpectedly became President of Mattress Concierge and rebuilt a company from the ground up  Why sleep is one of the most undervalued drivers of guest satisfaction in hospitality  What boutique hotels are getting right (and wrong) about the guest experience  The future of personalized sleep experiences in hotels, from pillow menus to wellness-focused rooms  Why durability and design matter more than ever when selecting hotel mattresses Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2OX8QmpMmIw This episode is sponsored by Mattress Concierge: https://www.mattressconcierge.com/Links:Maura on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maura-zambarano-95403911/Mattress Concierge: https://www.mattressconcierge.com/ For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/275Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

Find us on social media: Facebook & InstagramEmail us: hello@thetinlounge.com Discussion:Travel Industry’s Biggest Marketing Mistake Isn’t Strategy, It’s SeparationThese Are the Trends Driving Luxury Travel According to Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group As heard on Excess Baggage:Tauck Expands 2027 Domestic Travel Collection with New National Park ToursAmaWaterways Christens Second Colombia Cruise ShipOrient Express introduces its first sailing yachtUber adds hotel bookings with Expedia partnershipASTA to Host Live Celebration for Global Travel Advisor DayTraveler Spending Reaches All-Time HighRoyal Caribbean Group Confirms Order with Meyer Turku for Icon 6 and 7ASTA Touts Recovering $20,000 in Late Hotel Commissions for AdvisorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Chas Scarantino, CEO of RoomPriceGenie, to explore how modern revenue management is transforming the independent hotel space. From his early career in logistics and HVAC sales to leading global SaaS companies, Chas shares the experiences that shaped his leadership style and his passion for hospitality tech.The conversation dives deep into the evolution of revenue management, the growing role of AI, and how independent hotels are now leveraging automation and data-driven pricing strategies once reserved for large chains. Chas also breaks down real-world pricing mistakes hoteliers make—and how smarter systems are helping them unlock significant revenue growth.In this episode you'll learn: How Chas Scarantino's background in logistics and global tech shaped his approach to leadership in hospitality SaaS  Why face-to-face sales experience still matters in a highly digital, AI-driven world  The biggest lessons from building and scaling startups across health tech, product analytics, and hospitality  How RoomPriceGenie's Revenue Intelligence is helping hotels make faster, smarter pricing decisions in real timeWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fVQqGYwMBO0 This episode is sponsored by Room Price Genie: https://roompricegenie.com/Links:Chas on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chas-scarantino-31a5673/Room Price Genie: https://roompricegenie.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/274Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

A viral online campaign tied to the collapse of Spirit Airlines says it has generated millions in pledges as supporters push an effort to relaunch the airline. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter 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 The Modern Hotelier: Hospitality Hot Topics, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili are joined by Jennifer Olson, the Director of Commercial National Accounts, SERVPRO Team Zubricki, for a wide-ranging conversation on the biggest trends shaping hospitality today.They dive into the growing concern around hospitality as a long-term career path for younger generations and discuss what the industry can do to attract and retain new talent. The conversation then shifts to the airline industry, unpacking the attempted American–United merger and what it signals about competition, consumer impact, and the future of air travel.The trio also explores shifting travel behaviors, including the rise in domestic travel driven by geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty, and what that means for hotels needing to elevate guest experience. From there, they break down the growing popularity of glamping and how major hotel brands are entering the outdoor hospitality space.A timely, insightful episode packed with real-world hospitality trends, industry strategy, and behind-the-scenes stories you won't want to miss.In this episode, you'll discover: Why hospitality is struggling to attract younger talent—and what the industry can do to change that  What the attempted American–United airline merger reveals about competition and the future of air travel  How rising costs, geopolitical tensions, and uncertainty are reshaping travel habits and driving more domestic trips  How SERVPRO supports hotels in restoring operations quickly after catastrophic events Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6S0HRgof9_8Links:Jennifer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-olson-a74651a0/SERVPRO: https://www.servpro.com/ For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/273Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode, host David Millili brings listeners inside Indie Cultivate Boston, hosted in partnership with ILC. David sits down with leading vendors and innovators including Airbnb, Watermelon Ghost, Direct Booker, Stash Rewards, Cloudbeds, Directful, and Canary Technologies. Across these conversations, a clear theme emerges: the independent hotel space is at a turning point driven by AI, evolving guest expectations, and the ongoing battle for direct bookings versus OTAs.Guests discuss how AI is reshaping discoverability, guest engagement, and operations, while also raising critical questions about visibility in AI-driven search. From loyalty programs and retention platforms to booking infrastructure and guest experience tools, each guest shares how they're helping independent hotels compete, differentiate, and thrive.You'll hear perspectives on: How AI is changing hotel discovery and booking behavior  The future of direct bookings and OTA dependency  Experiential stays and evolving guest expectations  Why independent hotels have a unique opportunity in the AI era Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wZUi1eIuS5ALinkedIn Links:Audrey Yates - VP of Hotel Partnerships, Stash RewardsAdam Harris - CEO, CloudbedsTim Kinsella - Global Sales - Strategy, Canary TechnologiesRon Sandel - Director of Hotels, AirbnbGeorgie Downie - Co-Founder & CEO, Watermelon GhostLindsay Wenger - VP of Sales, DirectfulSanjay Vakil - Co-Founder & CEO, Direct BookerMeg Gutowski - ILCFor full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/272Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

30 Apr 2026. The Fed kept rates on hold and Jay Powell confirmed he's staying on as Governor. Economist Jeanne Walter and Keith Fitz-Gerald break down what it means for the region. Plus Euromonitor on a very different Gulf travel market ahead. Dubai Tourism's Hoor Al Khaja on whether the hospitality sector is seeing the first green shoots of recovery. RAKBank CEO Raheel Ahmed on record profits and careful provisioning. And BlackRock's Ehsan Khoman on what it would take to call a turning point for the regional economy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, host David Millili sits down with Richard Aday, CEO and Co-founder of ThinkReservations, for an insightful conversation on entrepreneurship, technology, and the evolving hospitality landscape.Richard shares his journey from building websites as a child in a tech-savvy family, to studying electrical and computer engineering, working at Amazon, and ultimately founding ThinkReservations  after a chance encounter with a boutique hotel in Puerto Rico sparked a bold idea. He also reflects on growing up in a Cuban-American family in South Florida, the influence of a strong work ethic, and how his passion for travel and guest experience shaped his career in hospitality tech.The conversation explores how ThinkReservations is redefining property management systems by prioritizing guest experience, simplicity, and customer support. Richard discusses the company's evolution from a bootstrapped startup to a full hospitality platform, now including booking engines, channel management, marketing websites, payments, and accounting solutions.In this episode, you'll learn about:  How independent hoteliers can compete with OTAs and increase direct bookings  The role of AI and automation in guest engagement  What defines high-performing modern hoteliers today  The biggest friction points in the guest journey and how technology is removing them This is a must-listen episode for hoteliers, hospitality tech leaders, and anyone interested in how innovation is reshaping the guest experience and the future of independent hospitality.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qTgezcv7DbU Links:Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-aday-59182452/ ThinkReservations: https://www.thinkreservations.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/271Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this special episode, host David Millili takes listeners inside Indie Cultivate Boston in partnership with ILC, capturing candid conversations with some of the most forward-thinking leaders in hospitality.Across the discussions, a common theme emerges while AI and automation are transforming back-of-house operations, the future of hospitality remains deeply human—rooted in creativity, storytelling, and meaningful guest connection. Leaders also reflect on the importance of independence in hotel development, the value of intimate industry gatherings like ILC, and how new models are reshaping ownership, management, and guest experience.In this episode, you'll learn: How leading hotel operators are thinking about AI—not as a replacement for people, but as a tool to automate and augment hospitality operations while keeping guest experience human-first  Why independent hotels continue to thrive through creativity, storytelling, and strong emotional connection with guests  How technology platforms like integrated PMS systems and “hospitality operating systems” are helping smaller hotel brands scale more efficiently  What “Powered by Kasa” and similar models mean for hoteliers looking to build brands faster without losing creative control  The emerging balance between technology-driven efficiency and analog, human-centered hospitality experiencesWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/A6U4jtjfbpg LinkedIn Links:Roman Pedan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roman-pedan-594897325/Steven Rubin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenmrubin/Jen Parks: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferfigariparks/Jason August: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaugust/Brian Meyer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-meyer-b004832b6/John Flannigan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-flannigan-73550a1/Jen Barnwell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-barnwell-a8689ba/Matt Schwartz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewaschwartz/Andrew Benioff: https://www.linkedin.com/in/llenrockgroupbenioff/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/270Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-..Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode, David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Shane O'Flaherty, Global Director of Travel, Transportation, and Hospitality at Microsoft, for a deep dive into the future of hospitality.Shane shares his fascinating journey—from growing up in a rodeo and circus environment to shaping global hospitality standards and now leading innovation at one of the world's biggest tech companies. Along the way, he unpacks powerful lessons on networking, reinvention, and the evolving role of technology in travel.The conversation explores how AI is transforming the hospitality industry—from a “tool” to a true “partner”—and what that means for hotel operators, staff, and guest experiences. Shane breaks down why AI is even bigger than the internet, how personalization can be done right, and why empowering employees with better technology is the key to unlocking exceptional service.You'll also hear insights on: The future of AI and “agentic” workflows in hospitality  Why personalization still falls short—and how to fix it  The role of data, digital twins, and predictive maintenance in hotels  How independent hotels and big brands can compete in an AI-driven world  Real-world examples of next-level guest experiencesWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yDJYBuefp4o Links:Shane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-o-flaherty/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/269Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode of the Crazy Wisdom Podcast, host Stewart Alsop sits down with Mauro Schilman, CTO and Co-founder of Tuki, the distribution standard for the AI agent era in travel, for a wide-ranging conversation that moves from the joys of international travel and the beauty of mathematics to the fast-evolving world of AI and large language models. Mauro shares his background as a math Olympiad competitor and later a coach, his time training coding models at the AI company Cohere, and his thoughts on how frontier models are progressing — or plateauing — at the foundational level while innovation accelerates at the application layer. The two also get into the mechanics of agentic AI, MCP and agent-to-agent protocols, hierarchical memory systems, red-green test-driven development as a powerful coding workflow, and the philosophical murkiness of open-source AI. They wrap up discussing Tuki Travel's mission to build AI-ready infrastructure for the travel industry, connecting hotels, suppliers, and online travel agencies to prepare for the coming wave of agentic commerce. You can learn more about Tuki Travel and reach out to the team at tukiclub.com.Timestamps00:00 - Stewart welcomes Mauro Schilman, CTO and Co-founder of Tuki Travel, who shares how traveling since age 15 through high school exchanges opened his mind to cultural similarities and differences.05:00 - Mauro explains Math Olympiad coaching culture and mentorship, noting LLMs now solve competition-level problems while Terence Tao explores AI assisting frontier unsolved mathematics.10:00 - Discussion turns to ChatGPT revealing Mauro's birthdate unprompted, exposing opaque application layers, preference tuning, and system prompts hidden within closed models.15:00 - Mauro argues true open source AI requires full training data, annotation protocols, and alignment processes, not just model weights, while scaling laws appear to be slowing.20:00 - Hierarchical memory models replace flat vector databases, using three-level retrieval systems improving context accuracy as knowledge management becomes AI's core challenge.25:00 - Mauro describes travel's fragmented infrastructure of aggregators, bed banks, and intermediaries, explaining Tuki builds agent-ready unification protocols for AI commerce.30:00 - MCP versus API debate clarifies natural language capability descriptions help agents consume services, while agent-to-agent communication embeds negotiating agents inside supplier systems.35:00 - Hallucinations and consumer trust block agentic payments, industries must build mistake-resilience into bookings before autonomous agent transactions become viable.40:00 - Mauro reveals red-green test-driven development methodology where agents write failing tests first then implementations, creating Oracle verification loops dramatically improving code quality.45:00 - Blockchain's potential for transparent distributed AI training discussed, distinguishing democratization from decentralization while stable coins and regulatory momentum build toward agentic commerce infrastructure.Key Insights1. Travel broadens perspective by revealing both universal human similarities and deep cultural differences. Mauro Schilman began traveling at fifteen through math olympiad competitions and found that people across the world share fundamental traits while also being shaped in profoundly different ways by their cultures. This tension between sameness and difference is what makes travel meaningful.2. Mathematics transitions from structured problem-solving in olympiads to genuine uncertainty in graduate school and research. Olympiad problems are carefully designed with elegant solutions meant to encourage creative thinking, but once a mathematician enters academia, the answers are unknown and the work becomes navigating that uncertainty.3. AI is now assisting mathematicians at the frontier, not just solving olympiad-level problems. Terence Tao, one of the greatest living mathematicians, has written publicly about how AI tools can help tackle unsolved problems, though the role of AI remains assistive rather than independent at the research level.4. Large language models are not truly transparent even when described as open source. Releasing model weights alone does not reveal the training data, annotation protocols, alignment tuning, or system prompts that shape model behavior. Real openness would require access to the entire pipeline.5. Memory and retrieval remain core unsolved challenges in AI systems. Researchers are moving from flat vector database approaches toward hierarchical memory structures with roughly three layers, which improves retrieval accuracy and reduces how much context gets consumed with each search.6. The travel industry is structurally unprepared for AI agents. A hidden web of bed banks, aggregators, and aggregators of aggregators sits between hotels and consumers, each taking a fee. Tuki Travel is building infrastructure to unify this distribution layer and make it consumable by AI agents through protocols like MCP and emerging agent-to-agent communication standards.7. Test-driven development using a red-green approach significantly improves AI-generated code quality. By asking the model to write failing tests before writing any implementation, developers create a verification oracle that guides the model toward correct solutions and avoids the bias of writing tests that simply confirm existing flawed code.

What if hotels could turn every delivery into a revenue stream instead of a cost? What if the “last mile” wasn't a problem—but the biggest untapped opportunity in hospitality? In this episode, host David Millili sits down with entrepreneur and innovator Robert DeDomenico to explore a bold vision for the future of hospitality logistics and last-mile delivery.Robert shares the origin story behind CargoFish, a concept aimed at transforming how hotels manage food and goods delivery by turning it into a utility-like infrastructure—removing friction, reducing costs, and challenging dominant delivery platforms. Drawing parallels to bridges replacing ferries, he explains why he believes the current last-mile system is inefficient, expensive, and overdue for disruption.Throughout the conversation, Robert walks through his unconventional journey—from growing up in New Jersey and serving as a nuclear submarine reactor operator in the U.S. Navy, to working in energy and business systems, and ultimately developing his startup idea after years of technical problem-solving and research.The episode also covers: His persistence through early entrepreneurial setbacks, including Shark Tank auditions  How CargoFish aims to integrate with hotels to increase revenue and improve guest experience  Why hotels may be uniquely positioned to compete with platforms like DoorDash and Uber Eats  The broader vision of turning delivery infrastructure into a scalable utility model for hospitalityWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1GSSmv5qwN0 Links:Robert on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-dedomenico-0874b122/CargoFish LLC: https://www.cargofish.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/267Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode of The Modern Hotelier, host David Millili sits down with Hospitality Creators Summit co-founders Anna Blue and Anthony Melchiorri to unpack one of the most exciting new movements in the industry.They dive into the mission behind the Hospitality Creators Summit, an invite-only (but free) event designed to bring together creators, storytellers, and community builders across hospitality. From the growing importance of content creators in B2B spaces to the massive gap between traditional industry players and modern digital voices, this conversation explores why creators are no longer optional—they're essential.Anna and Anthony share why the summit focuses on real, practical value: helping creators grow their platforms, increase engagement, monetize content, and build meaningful partnerships. They also tackle bigger themes like collaboration over competition, the power of community, and why the future of hospitality belongs to those willing to create, share, and show up authentically.Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring creator, this episode highlights a major shift happening in hospitality—and why you don't want to be left behind.Key Topics: The rise of B2B content creators in hospitality  Why traditional marketing is no longer enough  The vision behind the Hospitality Creators Summit  Bridging the gap between generations and technology  Collaboration vs. competition in the creator economy  How creators can grow, monetize, and stand out Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YoYVR6gUP8oLinks:Anna on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-blue/Anthony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonymelchiorri/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/266Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

Join Steve Carran and David Millili on this month's episode of The Modern Hotelier: Hospitality Hot Topics as we break down the biggest happenings in March for the hospitality industry. This episode features a candid conversation with Bashar Wali, CEO, founder, and one of the world's top social media influencers, as he shares insights from his global travels and perspectives on hospitality trends, hotel design, and industry challenges.Topics covered in this episode include:Government Shutdown & Airport SecurityHilton adds Yotel as First in Select by HiltonDesign Focused HotelsGood-Bye to the Goodtime HotelSize Does MatterBashar also shares his thoughts on creating hotels that inspire, deliver authentic experiences, and stand out in an increasingly copy-paste industry. Whether you're a hotelier, traveler, or hospitality enthusiast, this episode is packed with actionable insights and lively discussion.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LASK2yVHBU0 Links:Bashar on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/basharwali/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/265Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Dr. Sharmin Dharas, Chief Experience Officer at Hotel ZAZZ and Chief Storyteller at HERstory Hospitality.Sharmin's journey is anything but traditional. From growing up in a 13-room Route 66 motor lodge to becoming a physician, entrepreneur, author, and boutique hotel visionary, she shares how her diverse background shaped one of the most unique hospitality concepts in the country.The conversation dives into the creation of Hotel ZAZZ, a colorful and rebellious boutique motor lodge in Albuquerque that blends wellness, storytelling, and experiential design—including a hidden speakeasy unlocked by tapping the famous Golden Banana. Sharmin also shares how authenticity, creativity, and community partnerships helped the property gain global attention, including recognition from Forbes as one of the must-see hotels in the world.Along the way, the discussion explores entrepreneurship, Route 66 tourism, scaling independent hospitality brands, and Sharmin's mission to empower more women to become hotel owners through HERstory Hospitality.In this episode, you'll learn: How Sharmin transitioned from medicine to boutique hotel ownership  Why authenticity is the secret to creating viral, Instagram-worthy hospitality experiences  How Route 66 tourism brings international travelers to boutique properties  The importance of community collaboration and hyper-local experiences Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/SjlSwSoSD-M Links:Dr. Sharmin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharmindharas/Hotel ZAZZ: https://www.hotelzazz.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/264Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

Send us Fan MailLinking 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 podcast episode include:KAYAK CEO Steve Hafner exits his role after 22 years.Amadeus announce the closure of their self-service API portal.Due to the supply chain crisis in Pratt & Whitney engines, it has become more profitable to dismantle modern aircraft for parts than to operate them.Wizz Air was in the news with two big developments: They launched Wizz Link, using Dohop technology to empower customers to book more self-transfer journeys within a single booking flow.After a very successful trial, they will roll out Wizz Class to their entire fleet. The unions for American Airlines flight attendants and pilots say they've lost faith in management's ability to steady the airline after another year of weak profits and poor on-time performance, and they want CEO Robert Isom out. AirAsia is on track to launch their Kuala Lumpur - London route via Bahrain later this year.Sabre, PayPal and Mindtrip, Inc. team up to work on an agentic AI travel shopping workflow solution.Extra StoriesYou 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

Guest BioBryan Lewis is the founder and CEO of Tenon Tours, a boutique travel company specializing in custom-crafted vacations across Europe. With over two decades of experience in the travel industry, Bryan has turned a college-era passion for organizing trips into a thriving business dedicated to creating immersive, flexible, and deeply personal travel experiences. Under his leadership, Tenon Tours has grown to offer journeys in 18 European countries, acquired the adventure-focused Lemonrock Motorcycle Tours, and earned repeated recognition on the Inc. 5000 list of America's Fastest-Growing Private Companies. Based in the Greater Boston area, Bryan is a motorcycle enthusiast, father of five, and a firm believer that purposeful travel can transform lives—and legacies.Show SummaryIn this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Bryan about how Tenon Tours has redefined the way people explore Europe—one custom itinerary at a time. Bryan reflects on his early days promoting spring break trips and how those experiences sparked a career dedicated to empowering travelers through choice, personalization, and authentic cultural connections.The conversation dives into the rise of bespoke travel and how Tenon Tours balances structure and freedom to create meaningful journeys. From hybrid group/solo experiences to the emotional impact of travel, Bryan shares how understanding the unique motivations of each traveler is at the heart of Tenon's approach—and why adventure, at any stage of life, starts with a willingness to explore. Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

How can hotels, especially independent and boutique properties, build effective marketing strategies that drive bookings, maximize revenue, and stand out in a competitive market? In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Jody Merl, Founder and President of Innovative Travel Marketing, to dive into her incredible journey from aspiring actress to hospitality marketing powerhouse.Jody shares insights from her decades of experience working with luxury hotels, launching campaigns for JetBlue and iconic properties like the Paramount Hotel, and building long-term client relationships that have stood the test of time. She also reveals what separates successful hotel marketing campaigns from those that fall flat and offers actionable advice for hotel operators and marketing professionals.In this episode, you'll discover: The story behind launching JetBlue with a $2M radio campaign funded entirely through trade  How to fill gaps in hotel marketing and maximize underutilized inventory  What are the key strategies for aligning marketing campaigns with long-term business goals  The importance of integrated, multi-channel campaigns across digital, print, and PR  Why is the landscape of hospitality marketing evolving from traditional advertising to targeted digital campaigns Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/I6vpIq8JcBs Links:Jody on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymerl/Innovative Travel Marketing: https://www.innovativetravelmarketing.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/263Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

Uber's move to acquire Blacklane signals a deeper push into premium travel, as Air Canada faces leadership fallout after a crisis response misstep and the travel industry confronts an outdated advocacy playbook in Washington. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why Uber is buying trust instead of building it, how leadership decisions during crisis moments can reshape executive timelines, and why travel's influence in Washington may not match its economic weight. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGUber to Buy Blacklane in Push to Accelerate Premium ServicesAir Canada CEO to Retire Amid Backlash to LaGuardia Crash ResponseThe U.S. Travel Industry's Advocacy Infrastructure Is Obsolete 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.

As AI makes it easier than ever to reach a global audience, is it also making it easier to fail on a global scale?Agility requires more than just speed; it requires situational awareness. For global brands, this means having the cultural intelligence to understand the nuances of local markets and adapt your strategy in a way that builds trust, not erodes it.Today, we're going to talk about a critical paradox facing modern marketers: as technology and AI make global expansion seem easier than ever, the risk of cultural missteps and brand damage has never been higher. We'll explore why cultural intelligence is becoming the most vital, and perhaps most overlooked, asset for building brand value, and how getting it right is the key to unlocking sustainable growth in a world that is both interconnected and deeply, culturally distinct.To help me discuss this topic, I'd like to welcome, Katherine Melchior Ray, UC Berkeley, co-author of the new book, Brand Global, Adapt Local: How to Build Brand Value Across Cultures About Katherine Melchior Ray Katherine Melchior Ray lectures on international marketing and leadership at UC Berkeley Haas School of Business, CA. With twenty-five-years spent building the world's best consumer branding across continents, she brings expertise from her time as a senior executive at Nike, Nordstrom, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Hyatt, Shiseido and Babbel. She has guest lectured at Stanford, Wharton, Brown and Portland State University.She has been interviewed and featured on CBS 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and numerous media internationally. She also has been profiled in The Wall Street Journal in an article entitled, "Hyatt Executive Has a Spare Evening Gown in Her Bag," and was voted one of the "Most Compelling Women in the Travel Industry" by Premier Traveler magazine. She can be heard on various podcasts and blogs related to global marketing and leadership, culture and diversity, women's empowerment, and the future of work. Katherine Melchior Ray on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinemelchiorray/ Resources Get a copy of Katherine and Nataly's book: Brand Global, Adapt Local: How to Build Brand Value Across Cultures: ⁠https://amzn.to/481wUJm The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://aglbrnd.co/r/2868abd8085a9703 Drive your customers to new horizons at the premier retail event of the year for Retail and Brand marketers. Learn more at CRMC 2026, June 1-3. https://aglbrnd.co/r/d15ec37a537c0d74 Enjoyed the show? Tell us more at and give us a rating so others can find the show at: https://ratethispodcast.com/agileConnect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As AI makes it easier than ever to reach a global audience, is it also making it easier to fail on a global scale? Agility requires more than just speed; it requires situational awareness. For global brands, this means having the cultural intelligence to understand the nuances of local markets and adapt your strategy in a way that builds trust, not erodes it. Today, we're going to talk about a critical paradox facing modern marketers: as technology and AI make global expansion seem easier than ever, the risk of cultural missteps and brand damage has never been higher. We'll explore why cultural intelligence is becoming the most vital, and perhaps most overlooked, asset for building brand value, and how getting it right is the key to unlocking sustainable growth in a world that is both interconnected and deeply, culturally distinct. To help me discuss this topic, I'd like to welcome, Katherine Melchior Ray, UC Berkeley, co-author of the new book, Brand Global, Adapt Local: How to Build Brand Value Across Cultures About Katherine Melchior Ray Katherine Melchior Ray lectures on international marketing and leadership at UC Berkeley Haas School of Business, CA. With twenty-five-years spent building the world's best consumer branding across continents, she brings expertise from her time as a senior executive at Nike, Nordstrom, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Hyatt, Shiseido and Babbel. She has guest lectured at Stanford, Wharton, Brown and Portland State University.She has been interviewed and featured on CBS 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and numerous media internationally. She also has been profiled in The Wall Street Journal in an article entitled, "Hyatt Executive Has a Spare Evening Gown in Her Bag," and was voted one of the "Most Compelling Women in the Travel Industry" by Premier Traveler magazine. She can be heard on various podcasts and blogs related to global marketing and leadership, culture and diversity, women's empowerment, and the future of work. Katherine Melchior Ray on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinemelchiorray/ Resources Get a copy of Katherine and Nataly's book: Brand Global, Adapt Local: How to Build Brand Value Across Cultures: ⁠https://amzn.to/481wUJm The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://aglbrnd.co/r/2868abd8085a9703 Drive your customers to new horizons at the premier retail event of the year for Retail and Brand marketers. Learn more at CRMC 2026, June 1-3. https://aglbrnd.co/r/d15ec37a537c0d74 Enjoyed the show? Tell us more at and give us a rating so others can find the show at: https://ratethispodcast.com/agileConnect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

In this special episode, recorded live at the Hunter Conference in Atlanta, host David Millili sits down with Peter Wenzell, CEO of Wenzell and Fisher Hospitality Group. Peter shares his journey into hospitality, inspired by his father's work in airport concessions, and how that early exposure to travel and hotels shaped his career path.The conversation dives into one of the hospitality industry's biggest challenges today—staffing. Peter explains how Wenzell and Fisher's hotel task force services help hotels quickly fill operational gaps, from unexpected staff resignations to temporary leave coverage, ensuring properties continue running smoothly.They also discuss the evolving workforce landscape, why hotels must get creative with employee retention and incentives, and how the industry can compete with employers offering higher wages. Peter shares his perspective on the growing role of technology and AI in hospitality, emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with the human connection that defines great hospitality.In this episode, you'll learn more about: How Peter Wenzell got his start in the hospitality industry  What hotel task force services are and how they solve staffing gaps  The biggest staffing challenges hotels are facing today Strategies hoteliers can use to retain and motivate employees Why networking and industry events like the Hunter Conference matter in hospitalityWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ltHaV05Elo8 Links:Peter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-wenzell-b11b9414b/Wenzell & Fisher Hospitality Group: https://www.wenzellfisherhg.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/262Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

With gas prices spiking, airfare following suit, and nightmarish security delays embroil many American airports, Adam, Joanna, and Zach ponder whether the travel industry, and the hospitality properties that depend on it, will be in for a very rough summer. Given that this is the time of year when many folks make those summer plans, will all those issues, plus general inflation and fears of a recession, combine to keep Americans home this summer? Please remember to subscribe to, rate, and review The VinePair Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your episodes, and send any questions, comments, critiques, or suggestions to podcast@vinepair.com. Thanks for listening, and cheers!Zach is reading: Who Is George Clooney's New Non-Alcoholic Beer Even For?Joanna is reading: From Ants to Escargots, Has the Stunt Cocktail Ingredient Gone Too Far?Adam is reading: How Michter's Celebration Sour Mash Became an American Whiskey UnicornInstagram: @adamteeter, @jcsciarrino, @zgeballe, @vinepair Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Millili sits down with Brian Popelmayer of Lockton Companies at the Hunter Conference in Atlanta to discuss one of the biggest challenges facing the hospitality industry today: rising hotel insurance costs.In this episode, Brian shares insights from more than 23 years in the insurance industry, including how the hotel insurance marketplace has evolved, why liability insurance costs are rising, and what hotel owners and management companies must do to protect their balance sheets.Brian also breaks down emerging risks in hospitality such as human trafficking, sexual misconduct liability, environmental exposures, mold, and Legionella claims, and explains how hoteliers can secure the right coverage in an increasingly complex insurance market.If you're a hotel owner, operator, asset manager, or hospitality professional, this episode will give you a clear look at the risks shaping the industry and practical strategies to manage insurance costs while protecting your business.In this episode, we cover:• How Brian Popelmayer got into the hospitality insurance industry• Why hotel insurance costs have risen from 1.2% to nearly 2% of operating revenue• How hotel owners can secure better insurance coverage• The positive trends in the property insurance marketWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/DUIM79T4FuY Links:Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianpopelmayer/Lockton: https://www.global.lockton.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/261Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

Recorded live at the 2026 Hunter Conference in Atlanta, this special episode of The Modern Hotelier: Hospitality's Most Engaged Podcast brings together key voices from the Hunter team to unpack what's really happening behind the scenes in today's hotel investment market.In this episode, Host David Millili sits down with Mayank Patel, Sophia Pittaluga, and Kami Burnette to discuss the forces shaping hotel deals right now—from economic uncertainty and rising operating costs to shifting buyer expectations and the growing demand for luxury and lifestyle properties.The conversation explores the biggest disconnects between buyers and sellers, how macroeconomic factors and local market dynamics are influencing investment decisions, and why financing and renovation costs are playing a critical role in today's negotiations. The group also looks ahead to what the hotel investment landscape could look like by the next Hunter Conference, including the potential impact of AI on underwriting, asset management, and deal-making.Plus, they share why the Hunter Conference remains one of the industry's most important events—bringing together everyone from regional developers to Wall Street investors to spark conversations and close deals.In this episode, you'll learn: What hotel owners and investors may be overlooking in the current market  The biggest buyer vs. seller disconnects affecting transactions today  Why financing and renovation costs are shaping deal negotiations  How AI could transform hotel investment and operations  Why lifestyle and luxury properties are attracting more attention from investorsWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/2q_byG5bf60Links:Mayank PatelSVP, Hunter Hotel AdvisorsMayank on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayank-patel-2b15206/?skipRedirect=true Sophia PittalugaSVP, Hunter Hotel AdvisorsSophia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiapittaluga/?skipRedirect=true Kami BurnetteSVP, Hunter Hotel AdvisorsKami on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamiburnette/?skipRedirect=true Hunter Advisors: https://hunteradvisors.co/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/260Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

Ever wondered how hotels set the “perfect” price, why AI is changing the game, and what the future of travel really looks like?In this episode of The Modern Hotelier, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Chris Anderson, Professor at Cornell University and former Director of the Cornell Center for Hospitality Research, to unpack the evolving world of hotel revenue management, pricing strategy, and guest analytics.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The evolution of revenue management and pricing in hotels over the last few decadesHow AI is transforming demand forecasting, guest intent analysis, and revenue optimizationStrategies for independent hotels to compete with big brandsWhat are the predictions for travel, luxury hospitality, and pricing trends in 2026 and beyond? Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Pksb5lJZfKI Links:Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriskanderson/Cornell University: https://www.cornell.edu/ For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/259Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this episode, Join David Millili and Steve Carran for another engaging episode of The Modern Hotelier, the most engaged podcast in hospitality. Today, we sit down with Kristie Goshow, CCO of Loews Hotels & Co., to explore her journey in travel, hospitality, and leadership.We dive into Kristie's early experiences in travel and aviation, lessons learned from Virgin Atlantic and Scandinavian Airlines, and her insights on building successful teams, cultivating hotel culture, and innovating in the luxury and independent hotel markets.Kristie also discusses the role of AI in hospitality, balancing technology with human connection, and the future of personalized guest experiences. She offers advice for aspiring leaders in the industry and shares her thoughts on women in hospitality and how to navigate a path to the C-suite.In this episode, we cover:How growing up connected to Holland and traveling with her father shaped her passion for the travel industry.Strategies for maintaining authentic culture and leadership within a hotel organizationThe role of AI in hospitality and how it can enhance human connectionHow great leaders build others and foster success in the industry.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GiasMp_g5XQLinks:Kristie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristiegoshowLoews Hotels & Co.: https://www.loewshotels.com/ For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/258Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

Send 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 podcast episode include:In a world first, Frankfurt airport deploys bluetooth audio technology which can broadcast gate announcements straight to a user's headset, earbuds or hearing aids.SAS - Scandinavian Airlines returns to Dubai for the first time in 15 years.The European consumer right's group euroconsumers celebrate a Belgian court's ruling against Ryanair - Europe's Favourite Airline which orders the airline to "stop multiple misleading pricing practices and restore transparency".Qantas is selling it's entire 33% stake in ジェットスター (Jetstar Japan).A post by Lee Sprung about how he experienced flying British Airways vs Virgin Atlantic draws a lot of attention.Scott Kirby's post about United Airlines final cutover from mainframe to cloud computing is the most engaged one of the week.Extra StoriesYou 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 Hospitality Hot Topics, Steve Carran, David Millili, and Jon Bumhoffer break down the latest trends and insights from February in the hospitality industry. From rising midscale hotel rates to the booming luxury market, they explore what's shaping travel in 2026 and beyond.  What we cover in this episode:Why the $150 midscale hotel room is disappearing and what travelers are paying nowHow inflation, rising operating costs, and labor expenses are changing hotel pricingThe shift towards AI-driven personalization and dynamic hotel packagesOpportunities for Airbnb hosts during the World Cup and the changing landscape of long-term staysTips for getting better hotel rates: price matching, direct bookings, and leveraging technologyWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0pidWSZCogFor full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/257Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

What does the future of hospitality look like in an AI-driven world? Join David Millili at ITB Berlin for a deep dive into the future of hospitality technology with Darko Bosancic, Senior Vice President of Travel & Hospitality at Sirma. In this episode, we explore how hotels can move beyond fragmented tech stacks, leverage AI agents, and build connected ecosystems that enhance operations, guest experiences, and data security.In this episode, you'll learn about:How AI agents are transforming hotel operations and guest communicationsStrategies for integrating multiple hotel technology systems without disruptionWays to scale tech platforms globally while maintaining data security and complianceHow Sirma acts as an “embedded technology partner” to accelerate innovationWhat autonomous AI agents could mean for the future of hotel management Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2DVQYIqP9Ok Links:Darko on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darkobosancic/Sirma: https://sirma.com/Sirma.AI Enterprise: https://sirma.ai/ For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/256Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

Find us on social media: Facebook & InstagramEmail us: hello@thetinlounge.com Discussion:Does Travel Insurance Cover Weather Delays and Civil Unrest? Expert Tips for Stranded TravelersWhen Disruption Hits: Defining the Travel Advisor’s RoleTravel advisors in action during the Mexico crisisKnow your responsibilities with Mexico-bound clientsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's Next for the Hospitality Industry?Join David Millili and Steve Carran as they sit down with Rosanna Maietta, CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), to discuss the state of the hospitality industry, labor challenges, AI in hotels, and the incredible ways hotels give back to their communities.In this episode, you'll learn about:The hospitality trends for 2026 and guest spending forecastsHow the industry is addressing labor shortages and workforce developmentThe role of AI and technology in enhancing hotel operations without losing the human touchInspiring stories of hotels supporting their local communitiesWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/v9M5gyx9fi0Links:Rosanna on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosanna-maietta-669a9151/AHLA: https://www.ahla.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanhotelassociation/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hotelassociationYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAHLAFor full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/255Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageConnect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.