The Modern Hotelier

David Millili & Steve Carran sit down with Steve Slack, General Manager of the iconic Lafayette Hotel & Club in San Diego, for a deep dive into hospitality leadership, community-driven hotels, and what it takes to run a Michelin-recognized property.In this episode, Steve Slack shares his journey from growing up in Oceanside, California, to leading one of the most talked-about boutique hotels in the country. From early days in golf operations to becoming a hotel general manager, Steve breaks down the mindset, hustle, and attention to detail required to succeed in modern hospitality.We also explore the historic renovation and relaunch of the Lafayette Hotel, the unique ownership model behind CH Projects, and how food, beverage, and community engagement drive the hotel’s success. Steve opens up about earning a Michelin Key, traveling to Paris for the award ceremony, and how the Lafayette has reclaimed its place as a cultural landmark in San Diego.Plus, we take you behind the scenes of the Lafayette’s legendary holiday transformation, including the viral hanging Christmas trees, in-house decorating process, and why guests and locals alike keep coming back.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why community-driven hotels outperform traditional modelsHow CH Projects operates 20+ restaurants and boutique hotelsThe role of food & beverage in creating unforgettable guest experiencesHow the Lafayette Hotel became a San Diego destination againWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Sa3tbaOzSF8Links:Steve Slack on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steveaslack/The Lafayette Hotel & Club: https://lafayettehotelsd.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/241Follow 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 2025 Year-End Recap, hosts David Millili, Steve Carran, and Jon Bumhoffer reflect on a massive year for The Modern Hotelier, filmed on location at the Lafayette Hotel & Club in San Diego, California.From nearly doubling episode output and becoming hospitality’s most engaged podcast, to launching Modern Hotelier Media, producing high-impact hotel experience tours, and covering major hospitality events and trade shows across the U.S., this episode breaks down the milestones that defined 2025.Topics Covered: Favorite moments from the yearBehind-the-scenes stories from major hospitality conferencesLessons learned building a media company in hospitalityWhat excites them most about 2026, including international expansion If you’re a hotel owner, operator, hospitality professional, or hotel tech brand, this episode offers insight into where hospitality media is heading—and how storytelling, video, and community engagement are shaping the future of the industry.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/j_zOdOB1kFIFor full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/240Follow 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.

Steve Carran and David Millili join a special holiday roundtable led by Katie Cline (Suite Success), alongside Glenn Hausmann (No Vacancy), Josiah Mackenzie (Hospitality Daily), and Zach Busekrus (Behind the Stays), to unpack the biggest hospitality moments of 2025 and what’s likely coming in 2026.From the long-awaited Waldorf Astoria New York revival and the acceleration of “ultra-luxury,” to loyalty disruption, trade show fatigue, boutique brands being gobbled up by the majors, and the industry’s messy (but inevitable) race to adopt AI—this conversation is packed with sharp takes, real operator perspective, and plenty of friendly debate.They wrap with 2026 predictions, including the growing divide between luxury and everyone else, the next evolution of loyalty (beyond points), authentic content backlash against the “AI buffet,” workforce shifts driven by automation, and what’s next for branded short-term rentals and experience-led travel.In this episode, we cover:2025’s biggest headline: the Waldorf Astoria New York restoration and what it signals for luxuryWhy points can feel more like “bribery” than true loyaltyAI in hospitality: confusion, hype, and the gap between “buzzwords” vs real resultsHow AI should support staff (reduce stress, protect service) rather than replace peopleTravel behaviour shifts: more local trips, road trips, and value-driven getaways (without giving up travel)Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aT3HtYbHDNYLinks:Katie Cline on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecline13/Host of Suite Success: https://www.suitesuccesspodcast.com/ Josiah Mackenzie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahmackenzie/Host, Hospitality Daily: https://podcast.hospitalitydaily.com/p/start-here/ Glenn Hausmann on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glennhaussman/Host, No Vacancy: https://novacancynews.com/ Zach Busekrus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacharybusekrus/Host, Behind the Stays: https://www.journey.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/239Follow 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 it really take for a boutique hotel to stand out in the crowded world of social media? In this episode, host David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Dino Jevric, Social Media Marketing Manager at Arlo Hotels, to explore how hotels can thrive in today’s digital world.From Dino’s early days in social media to running creative campaigns for Arlo Hotels, we dive deep into strategies that connect travelers with authentic experiences. Discover how Arlo leverages culture, personality, and behind-the-scenes content to redefine boutique hotel marketing—and why authenticity is more important than ever in social media.In this episode, you’ll learn:How Arlo Hotels builds engaging campaigns without relying solely on promotionsThe balance between polished visuals and authentic, “run-and-gun” contentTips for hotels struggling with social media: leaning into culture and personalityHow Arlo’s social media creates connection before guests even step on propertyWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FvaCNK7_vYc Links:Dino on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dino-jevric/Arlo Hotels: https://arlohotels.com/Arlo on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arlohotels/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/238Follow 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, Steve Carran and David Millili is joined by Luis Segredo, CEO of Hapi, to discuss the biggest hospitality news and trends from November. They dive into the recent dissolution of the Marriott–Sonder partnership, exploring why integrations and siloed technology can make or break hotel collaborations.Steve and Luis also examine the rise of direct bookings, the impact of loyalty programs, and how travelers are navigating Black Friday and Travel Tuesday deals. They share insights on how hotel brands are adapting to changing customer expectations, leveraging technology to create seamless experiences, and preparing for the future of hospitality.Topics covered in this episode:Marriott & Sonder partnership dissolves: lessons learned from failed integrations and siloed tech.Why hotel brands are leading in U.S. travel searches.Thanksgiving travel trends: record-breaking numbers, road vs. air travel, and insights from personal experiences.How hotels can innovate faster with harmonized data across multiple property management systems.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/IeKEY3anr54Links:Luis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luissegredo/Hapi: https://www.stayhapi.com/ Mariott Terminates Sonder AgreementBrands lead US Travel searchesThanksgiving TravelBlack Friday or Travel Tuesday dealsTell us more about the findings of The Future of Hotel Data ReportWhat is new at Hapi?For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/237Follow 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 The Modern Hotelier as they sit down with Brittney Jones, Chief Development Officer at Brittain Resorts & Hotels, to explore her inspiring journey from working on-property at a hotel to becoming a C-level executive.In this episode, Brittney shares insights on:The career lessons that shaped her path in hospitalityHow curiosity, humility, and adaptability have fueled her successThe intricacies of hotel development, acquisitions, and third-party managementStrategies for aligning owners and operators for long-term successEmerging trends in leisure and experiential hospitality, from condo hotels to upscale RV resortsAdvice for aspiring hospitality executives looking to grow in the industryBrittney also opens up about her personal journey, the values instilled growing up in South Carolina, and the small wins that have made a big impact throughout her career.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pNG3z7i_RLgLinks:Brittney on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittney-s-jones/Brittain Resorts & Hotels: https://www.brittainresorts.com/ For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/236Follow 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.

How can video content and influencer partnerships actually drive bookings and engagement? In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Eileen Santiago, social media strategist at The Modern Hotelier, to explore how hotels can elevate their digital presence, drive engagement, and boost bookings through social media.Topics Covered:Why video content is king for showcasing hotelsHow to use influencer collaborations effectivelyChoosing the right influencers for your hotel (location, niche, engagement, reach, aesthetics)Leveraging giveaways to create buzz and attract guestsCreative video hooks to stop scrollers in their tracksTips for working with micro and nano influencers on a budgetIf you’re a hotelier, marketer, or anyone in hospitality looking to stand out on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, this episode is packed with practical, actionable insights.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rS88tQw9VAYLinks:Eileen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eileen-santiago-76a8115/topVue Marketing: https://topvuemarketing.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/235Follow 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 Sarah Jarnicki, the Creator of BrandClave, the AI-powered platform redefining how hotel brands are created, validated, and brought to life.Sarah shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Cincinnati to working in global commodities, traveling the world, and ultimately building a revolutionary system that predicts traveler desires before they hit trend reports.We cover everything from:How AI, emotional design, and Web3 will reshape hotels by 2030Why traditional hotel branding is “broken” — and how BrandClave fixes itHow Sarah built a 7-day process that delivers fully investor-ready hotel brandsThe rise of identity tourism, digital hotels, and immersive Web3 hospitalityWhy Middle Eastern cities like Dubai & Saudi Arabia are leading hospitality innovationHow local culture, wellness, and technology will define the next decade of travelSarah also reveals her bold initiative to build the world’s first Web3 hotel, co-created with 100 influential women across hospitality, crypto, finance, and design. If you're a hotel developer, hospitality leader, futurist, or just curious about where travel is heading — this is a must-watch.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/g7Lv21KxWjwLinks:Sarah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahjarnicki/BrandClave Hotels: https://brandclavehotels.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/234Follow 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 as they sit down with Steven Marais, Vice President of Rooms at Noble House Resorts, to discuss how AI-driven technology is revolutionizing the guest experience and easing staff challenges at high-end resorts like the Argonaut in San Francisco. In this episode, we cover:The front desk challenges at luxury resorts, including high phone call volume and guest service expectations.Why traditional AI solutions failed to meet authentic guest interaction standards.How Steven discovered EHVA through The Modern Hotelier podcast and why it stood out from other automation tools.Integration of EHVA with existing hotel systems like Actabl and Core Park, and the importance of technology partnerships.Implementation process and staff adoption of EHVA, making it easier to maintain Forbes-level service standardsWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/m4ncSX5P6v0Links:Steven on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smaraisnoblehouse/Noble House Hotels & Resorts: https://www.noblehousehotels.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/233Follow 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 us on this episode of The Modern Hotelier as we go live from the Hospitality Show in Denver, Colorado! We sit down with Tim Hansen, VP of Sales for hotels, resorts, and cruise ships at Agilysys, to explore how modern technology is transforming the hospitality industry.Tim shares his journey from a California upbringing and college basketball dreams to leading a sales team that’s revolutionizing hotel operations. We dive into how Agilysys’ integrated software solutions are helping hotels, resorts, and cruise lines understand their guests like never before—turning data into personalized experiences, improving operations, and driving revenue.In this episode, we cover:How integrated software is revolutionizing hotels, resorts, and cruise operations.The importance of knowing guest intent and creating personalized experiences.Leveraging data to improve service, staff efficiency, and revenue.How modern software is driving repeat visits, guest satisfaction, and operational insightsWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jQcdKVgc-TgLinks:Tim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-hansen-6489095b/Agilysys: https://www.agilysys.com/en/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/232Follow 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, we’re live from the trade show floor at The Hospitality Show in Denver, Colorado! Steve and David are joined by Gabriella Forss, Hospitality Engagement Leader of North America for SALTO Systems — one of the leading providers of electronic access control in hotels around the world.Gabriella shares her journey from Cornell’s Hotel School to over eight years with SALTO, and explains how the company is helping hotels modernize access control while keeping the guest experience seamless. She breaks down how SALTO’s connected ecosystem reaches far beyond guestroom locks — spanning back-of-house access, lockers, padlocks, parking gates, and more, all within one scalable platform.We dive into major topics shaping the future of hotel technology:Mobile keys & how SALTO balances frictionless access with high-level encryptionIntegrations with PMS, POS, and guest apps to create a cohesive hotel tech ecosystemThe expansion into facial recognition and smart energy solutionsSALTO’s commitment to sustainability, carbon neutrality, and eco-friendly credentialWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Kr1_Javur7YLinks:Gabriella on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriellaforss/SALTO Systems: https://saltosystems.com/en/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/231Follow 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 Randy Haveson, Founder & President of Worth@Work, to explore how personal empowerment and team culture can transform the hospitality industry.Randy shares his journey from psychology and counseling to speaking, coaching, and consulting in hospitality. Discover how his unique approach—focusing on staff energy, self-esteem, and communication—helps hotels improve morale, reduce turnover, and deliver exceptional guest experiences.What you'll learn in this episode:The philosophy behind Worth@Work and empowering hotel staffHow to create a positive workplace culture that increases guest satisfactionHow Randy uses personalized programs and follow-ups to create lasting changeThe importance of listening to your “best friend voice” over the “bully voice”Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Jpsa495idYULinks:Randy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-haveson/ WORTH@WORK: https://worthatwork.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/230Follow 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 Steve Carran chat with Will Gilbert, Co-Founder of Bodhi, live from the trade show floor at The Hospitality Show in Denver, Colorado.Will shares the original “aha moment” behind creating Bodhi — a platform born from 25+ years of systems integration and a real-world need for hotels and mixed-use properties to manage smart devices under one pane of glass. What began as one-off software has evolved into a global solution trusted by integrators, manufacturers, resorts, and hotels worldwide.In this episode, we cover:How a single high-end property inspired the creation of BodhiWhy being manufacturer agnostic is Bodhi’s biggest competitive advantageThe tech behind predicting and preventing guest experience issuesHow BodhiGPT, GuestGPT, and their AI Super-Agent enhance operations and 5-star reviewsExpansion into the multifamily & residential marketFrom AI-powered automation to quarter-million data messages per second, Bodhi is transforming how properties manage systems, respond to guest needs, and create unforgettable stays.Whether you're running luxury hotels, select-service properties, or multifamily communities — this episode is packed with insight into the future of smart operations.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NeThDs6pbbsLinks:Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-gilbert-0348586/Bodhi: https://www.gobodhi.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/229Follow 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.

How do you keep hotel laundry running when every minute counts? In today’s episode, Steve Carran sits down on the trade show floor with Zach Yaeger, Business Development Manager at LaundryLux — a company making major waves in the hotel laundry and commercial laundry space.Zach shares how he went from college intern to spending 12+ years growing with LaundryLux, why their European-engineered Electrolux equipment is changing the game for hotels, and the biggest challenges they solve for hoteliers — especially fast lead times, reliability, and utility savings.What you’ll learn in this episode: How LaundryLux stands out from other laundry companiesWhy technology and efficiency are becoming critical in hotel laundry roomsHow fast lead times and stocked equipment protect hotels from downtimeThe future of laundry in hospitality and growing demand nationwideWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/WxkMXOo7Y2wLinks:Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-yaeger-77ab9499/LaundryLux: https://laundrylux.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/228Follow 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, we’re coming to you live from the bustling show floor of The Hospitality Show in Denver, Colorado, inside the WorldVue booth. Steve Carran sits down with four of WorldVue’s top leaders to uncover how the company has evolved into one of the most trusted hotel technology partners in the world — and where guest experience technology is headed next. Tune in for real talk on global rollout, partnership criteria, AI & IoT personalization, and making hotel tech “invisible” for better stays.What you’ll hear in this episodeThe WorldVue origin story and growth mindset How WorldVue evaluates partners and technologyBalancing global consistency with local execution and guest expectationsDeep dive on Compass — extending the guest experience beyond the room using AI & IoT Practical examples of guest personalization and why “people first” still winsWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/gLK3KQZSGBELinks:WorldVue: https://www.worldvue.com/ Robert Grosz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-g-9806552/ Chris Guthery: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisguthery/ Scott Jamison: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-jamison-yyz28/ Mark Schaps: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mschaps/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/227Follow 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, we’re live on the trade show floor at The Hospitality Show in Denver, Colorado, sitting down with Wendy Zapach, Chief Revenue Officer at Optii. We dive into the major shifts happening in hotel technology, why mergers and acquisitions are shaking up the industry, and what hoteliers should be demanding from their tech partners moving forward.Key Topics Discussed:Why consolidation in hotel tech is creating innovation gapsHow tech mergers affect operators, guest experience & trustWhat hoteliers should ask when a tech partner changes ownershipHow to tell real AI solutions from AI “fluff”Why bigger tech ecosystems don’t always mean better outcomesWendy shares insider insights on predictive intelligence, machine learning, open APIs, data transparency, and how hotel teams can protect guest experience while modernizing operations.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/BRH7_W6sVZsLinks:Wendy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyzapach/Optii: https://www.optiisolutions.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/226Follow 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 happens when a lifelong hotelier challenges the traditional franchise model — and discovers a better way to grow brands, revenue, and guest loyalty? In today's episode, David and Steve sit down with Fredrick Schoener, Brand Director at Silverstone Inns and a lifetime hotelier known for his innovative approach to the hotel business, franchise models, and revenue growth.Fredrick shares his incredible journey in hospitality — from front desk to owner, to brand director — and reveals why he believes membership-based hotel branding models will redefine the future of hospitality.Today, you'll learn about:How hotel owners can make money, even in tough marketsWhy most properties rely more on OTAs than they admitHow Gen Z will transform hotel ownership and brandingWhy thick franchise contracts hurt owners — and what to do insteadThe mindset needed to grow from entry-level employee to brand leaderWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/y7li-1ysP6gLinks:Fredrick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredrick-schoener-cha-a5153517/SilverStone Inns: https://www.silverstoneinns.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/225Follow 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, Steve and David sit down with Tiffany Donato, Chief Investment Officer at Marcus Hotels & Resorts, for a candid deep dive into hotel investments, portfolio strategy, and the art of turning underused spaces into revenue and memorable experiences.Tiffany shares lessons from Hyatt and beyond, why Marcus pairs long-term thinking with entrepreneurial experiments (think igloos, mocktails, and ski hills), and how co-investing, recapitalizations, and smart PIPs shape their expansion outside the Midwest. Plus: texting over email, AI for call handling, and why serving locals is a growth strategy.You’ll learn:The Marcus blueprint for expansion beyond the MidwestHow to underwrite labour, rate, and demand honestly (and still win)Practical activations that drive revenueWhy co-investing and long-term thinking beat quarter-to-quarter pressureSimple tech moves that delight guests and reduce frictionWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zYPYxG0AZJALinks:Tiffany on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-leadbetter-donato-46b1027/ Marcus Hotels Management | Hotels, Resorts & Restaurants: https://www.marcushotels.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/224Follow 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 today's episode, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili sit down with Fredrik Sjoberg, the visionary CEO and founder of Maison — an AI-driven platform revolutionizing how hotels interact with guests and manage their digital presence. Fredrik's story is extraordinary — from acting on national TV and earning a Ph.D. at Harvard to leading hotel chains and founding two hotel tech companies. He shares how his diverse background shaped his leadership style, why AI will redefine hospitality forever, and how Maison helps hotels tackle labor shortages, improve upsells, and become “agent-ready” in the AI era.What You’ll Learn:How AI is transforming the hospitality and travel industryWhy traditional SEO is dead (and how hotels should adapt)How conversational booking and AI agents will replace websitesThe importance of structured hotel data for discovery and direct bookingsThis episode is sponsored by Maison: https://www.maison.cx/Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/D1KdWNEIC78Links:Fredrik on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredrik-sjoberg-6851174/Maison: https://www.maison.cx/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/223Follow 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 a world-class coffee program can transform a boutique hotel’s guest experience and boost revenue? In this episode, hosts David M. and Steve Carran sit down with Gage Johnston, Marketing Manager at Dalla Corte, to explore the art and science of coffee in hospitality. Gage shares his incredible journey in the coffee industry—from barista roles in California to launching his own startup, leading coffee programs for 300+ baristas, and now shaping B2B coffee solutions with Dalla Corte.Discover insights on:How coffee programs elevate guest experiences in boutique and independent hotelsCommon mistakes hotels make when implementing coffee programsThe role of automation and technology in modern coffee operationsTrends to watch in 2026, including hyper-personalization and premium experiencesTips for designing convenient, innovative, and guest-focused coffee programsIf you’re in hospitality, hotel management, or F&B, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to create memorable guest experiences and boost on-premises revenue.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nxS-CPw7a7YLinks:Gage on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gage-johnston-b59086229/Dalla Corte: https://dallacorte.com/usa/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/222Follow 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.