GAIN Momentum - Lessons from Leaders in Hospitality, Travel, Food Service, & Technology

In this episode, we interview Carlos Lugo, Technology Executive and a GAIN Strategic Advisor.  He is also a seasoned Digital Transformation and IT executive with over 20 years of experience leading global technology initiatives across hospitality, healthcare, and academia. Known for his strategic mindset and people-first leadership, he drives operational efficiency, digital innovation, and scalable IT solutions while mentoring teams and fostering organizational growth.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, we interview Kevin Li, lead of Guest Communication Products and Kevin Lowry, head of Strategic Partnerships of Canary Technologies.  Canary Technologies is a hospitality tech company that modernizes hotel operations with its award-winning AI-powered Guest Management Platform, helping thousands of hotels streamline operations, boost revenue, and elevate the guest experience from booking through checkout.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, we interview Justin Draplin, founder and CEO of Fortified Solar.   Fortified Solar is a South Carolina–based manufacturer of building-integrated photovoltaic steel solar roofing and structures that deliver renewable energy with durable protection and flexible financing for residential, commercial, and industrial projects. They also offer solar-integrated parking solutions such as steel solar carports and residential solar parking structures that generate clean power, provide EV charging options, and enhance site utility and resilience. ************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, we interview Rachelle Peterson, Founder of Rebound & Rise and Chief Executive Office of LOQIA. Rachell is also a fellow GAIN Advisor and Event Specialist.  LOQIA Group is a London-based independent consultancy specializing in the intersection of media, hospitality, and travel. The firm focuses on strategic growth and creating new revenue streams for B2B and Direct to Enterprise (D2E) markets.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, we interview Kartik Goyal, Business Development Manager at Simplotel. Simplotel offers integrated solutions like high-converting booking engines, customized websites, digital marketing, and reservation management, empowering hotels to compete with Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com by owning their guest relationships and data.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, we interview Dan Assor, Event Director/General Manager of NoVacancy London Expo. NoVacancy London is a major new B2B expo for the UK hotel and accommodation industry, taking place at ExCeL London on February 25-26, 2026, connecting operators with technology providers, designers, and suppliers to explore innovations in guest experience, operations, revenue, and sustainability, building on the success of its Australian counterpart.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, Neil Foster, travel and hospitality advisor at Growth Advisors International Network.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, Angel Ferrufino, Co-founder and CEO of CRQLAR. Crqlar is an AI-powered hotel management platform that turns guest data into actionable insights, delivering personalized arrival lists and seamless operational tools for hoteliers.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, Luka Berger, the CEO and Founder of Flexkeeping. Flexkeeping is a hospitality operations platform that streamlines housekeeping, maintenance, collaboration, automation, and quality control for hotels. ************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, we interview Rik van Leeuwen, the Head of Data Solutions and Customer Success at ireckonu. Ireckonu is a Dutch SaaS company revolutionizing the hospitality industry by providing a unified platform that integrates, cleans, and centralizes guest data. Their offerings include a powerful Middleware system and the IKnowU Customer Data Platform (CDP), designed to streamline hotel operations and enhance guest experiences. ************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, we interview Dado Ljumanovic, the Director of Digital Customer Experience at Sircle Collection. With leadership spanning retail, coworking, F&B and club-member services, he shapes how modern hotel brands deliver differentiated value and direct guest engagement. Sircle Collection is a dynamic hospitality group that reimagines the hotel experience by blending modern luxury with local culture.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, we interview Ricky Daniels and Steve Porter, co-founders of Trybe. Trybe is a cloud-based bookings and operations platform that helps hotels seamlessly manage spa, wellness, and leisure facilities—from guest scheduling and payments to memberships and inventory—while integrating effortlessly with your existing hotel systems to elevate the guest experience.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, we interview Brendon Granger, ​the founder of Technology 4 Hotels, leveraging over 35 years in hospitality to help hoteliers enhance guest experiences through intuitive, user-friendly technology solutions. As a speaker, mentor, and host of the "5 Star Conversations" podcast, he champions the thoughtful integration of innovation and human touch in modern hotel operations.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In our book series, Adam Mogelonsky and Neil Foster dig into Edward Slingerland’s “Drunk” (2023) and its implications for hospitality, especially in light of changing societal forces where people are consuming less alcohol for various reasons.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, we interview two fellow GAIN Advisers: Silvio Reale, the Chief Sales Officer at Trustech Group, leading the Asia Pacific region, and Brendon Granger, the Chief Experience Officer at Technology 4 Hotels, leveraging over 30 years of hospitality and technology expertise to help hotels enhance guest experiences through innovative tech solutions.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, we interview Aleksandra Kotle, the General Manager of Crockfords Las Vegas (part of LXR Hotels & Resorts at Resorts World Las Vegas), a seasoned hospitality executive with over 21 years of experience delivering personalized, high-luxury guest experiences. Crockfords Las Vegas, an LXR Hotels & Resorts property at Resorts World Las Vegas, is an ultra-luxury ‘resort within a resort’, offering exclusive upper-floor accommodations, bespoke service, elegant design, and sweeping views of the Strip or valley.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, we interview Mike Hirschler, Chief Growth Officer at Staypineapple Hotels Inc., where he spearheads brand development, partnerships, and guest experience innovation. With a background in strategic hotel growth and a passion for service culture, his posts highlight personalized hospitality and leadership in boutique brand positioning.  Staypineapple is a boutique hotel brand that blends bold design with operational efficiency and guest-centric service. Positioned in major cities in the US, the brand focuses on delivering a consistent, high-value experience through signature amenities like its “Naked Experience” bedding, seamless tech integrations, and a playful, lifestyle-oriented brand voice. Its model appeals to modern travelers while maintaining strong brand differentiation in competitive metro markets.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, we interview Andrew Barnard, General Manager of BodyHoliday in St. Lucia, overseeing operations at one of the world’s premier all-inclusive wellness resorts devoted to holistic health and rejuvenation. SunSwept Resorts is a family‑run luxury hospitality group dedicated to creating transformative Caribbean vacations centered on wellness, connection, and relaxation. With two award-winning properties in St. Lucia, BodyHoliday and StolenTime, the brand integrates luxury with purpose, offering guests immersive experiences that focus on health, rejuvenation, and meaningful time away.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, we interview Francesco Sforza, guest experience and product development at Radisson Hotel Group. His recent work employs multi-objective modeling to balance ecological protection with economic efficiency in timber harvesting.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************  The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/  Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd., focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4

In this episode, we interview Ben Wolff, co-founder and developer of Onera, a luxury treehouse resort in Texas Hill Country, and founder of Oasi, an experiential hospitality firm managing a $65 million portfolio of landscape resorts and boutique hotels. He previously scaled Blink Hospitality from 8 to 200 short-term rental units in under two years and is a McKinsey and NYU Stern alumnus.  ************* LINKS & RESOURCES ************* The GAIN Momentum Podcast: focusing on timeless lessons to scale a business in hospitality, travel, and technology-centered around four key questions posed to all guests and hosted by Adam Mogelonsky.  For more information about GAIN, head to: https://gainadvisors.com/Adam Mogelonsky is a GAIN Advisor and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting Ltd. (https://www.hotelmogel.com/), focusing on strategy advisory for hotel owners, hotel technology analysis, process innovation, marketing support and finding ways for hotels to profit from the wellness economy.  Listen to the GAIN Momentum Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gain-momentum/id1690033572?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jfIWt1D92EzgB32yX2fP4