The Modern Hotelier

In this episode, David and Steve sit down in person with global traveler and hospitality expert Scott Eddy at the Independent Hotel Show in Miami.Scott shares why he believes independent hotels have a major edge over big brands, the growing importance of wellness and quiet luxury, and why storytelling and showcasing the destination and people are key to standing out. From behind-the-scenes F&B experiences to his personal travel habits, Scott offers real insights for hoteliers looking to connect with both locals and travelers.We also dive into:Why people make a stay truly memorableThe changing culture and energy of South FloridaScott’s top travel tips (including the #1 airplane hygiene hack)Hospitality trends that will shape the future of independent hotels Whether you’re in the hotel business or just love travel, this conversation will inspire you to think differently about hospitality, community, and creating unforgettable guest experiences.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jxbsHgnN9YE Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Website: https://www.mrscotteddy.com/LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrscotteddy/Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/mrscotteddy/X: https://x.com/mrscotteddyFor full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/212Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect 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 Trent Freeman, Vice President of Operations at Valencia Hotel Group. With over 25 years of experience in hospitality and leadership roles at Four Seasons, Omni, and Peabody Hotels & Resorts, Trent brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for creating authentic guest experiences.He shares how his career journey—from starting at the front desk to leading operations across Valencia’s boutique luxury properties—shaped his leadership style and perspective on culture, community, and authenticity in hospitality.We dive into:How early career lessons shaped his leadership approachThe power of Valencia’s Culture Club and weekly Book Club for leadership developmentInsights on creating hotels that are true hubs for their communitiesValencia’s annual Helps Week initiative and how philanthropy impacts employee engagement and guest experiencesWhy authenticity goes beyond thread count and décor—and how hotels can genuinely connect with their communitiesWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/k4rX0u19344 Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Trent on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-freeman-21ab7278 Valencia Hotel Group: https://www.valenciahotelgroup.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/211Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect 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 for a fast-paced and insightful conversation with Steven Kinsley, President of Kinsley Meetings. From his beginnings as a Ski Bum in Vail to leading a nationally recognized meetings and events company, Steve shares stories, lessons, and perspectives shaped by decades in hospitality and association event planning.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:Fun lightning-round questions: golf skills, favorite emoji, good wine, and time travel to 1947.Growing up in Boulder & California, discovering community, and how early experiences shaped his career.Launching Kinsley Meetings and focusing on associations after the 2008 downturn.Leadership philosophy: supporting teams, fostering independence, and building long-term relationships.How meetings and events have evolved post-pandemic—objectives, engagement, personalization, and networking.This episode blends personal storytelling, career insights, and industry thought leadership—perfect for hoteliers, event planners, and anyone curious about the future of hospitality and meetings.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MXPK3XYsvm4 Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Steven Kinsley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/skinsley/Kinsley Meetings: https://www.kinsleymeetings.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/210Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect 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 sit down with Chef Ken Butler, Executive Chef at Hotel Polaris, to explore the art of hospitality, the evolution of food and beverage trends, and the behind-the-scenes dedication that makes guest experiences unforgettable. From rooftop sushi to locally sourced Colorado flavors, Chef Ken shares his insights on how culinary innovation and health-conscious choices are shaping the future of dining.Topics covered in this episode:The rise of health-conscious dining: cutting seed oils & prioritizing natural ingredientsHotel Polaris’ six diverse food & beverage outlets (from rooftop Aviator Bar to Pamela’s Americana restaurant)Creative dishes blending sushi, steak, and fresh seafoodCulinary connections to the Air Force Academy and community engagementThe “Polaris Pour” program: bourbon, tequila, wine, gin, and more signature tasting eventsWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kDmybYEqVSA Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Ken on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-butler-687939a0/Hotel Polaris | A Colorado Springs Hotel: https://www.thehotelpolaris.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/209Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect 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 sit down with Nick Nations, Director of Rooms at Hotel Polaris, to explore how genuine care, communication, and technology combine to create unforgettable guest experiences. Nick shares his philosophy on hospitality, why personality and compassion matter more than processes, and how his team leverages both tech and heart-first service to delight guests.Whether you’re in hospitality leadership or simply love great service stories, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.Topics We Cover:Why genuine personality and compassion matter more than experience when hiring.Balancing technology with personalized, human-centered hospitality.How daily team stand-ups and feedback loops improve consistency and service recovery.Turning guest interactions into long-term memories and even PR opportunities.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/gFtpadQlH0U Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Nick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-nations-78699534/ Hotel Polaris | A Colorado Springs Hotel: https://www.thehotelpolaris.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/208Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect 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 sit down with Kevin Barosso, Director of Sales and Marketing at Hotel Polaris, to explore how the property is redefining the balance between business and leisure travel in Colorado Springs. From versatile dining and meeting spaces to unique leisure amenities, Kevin shares how the hotel is creating experiences that attract both professionals and families. He also dives into the evolving role of artificial intelligence in hotel marketing and what that means for the future of hospitality.What you’ll hear in this episode:How Hotel Polaris blends business and leisure travel for a “bleisure” experienceWhat makes Hotel Polaris’s meeting and event spaces unique compared to other propertiesHow the hotel accommodates multiple groups without overlap or disruptionThe importance of personalized service and tailoring each group’s event experienceHow artificial intelligence is shaping hotel marketing, SEO, and guest engagementWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/upZAtrw37Ro Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-barosso-b370051/CoralTree Hospitality: https://www.coraltreehospitality.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/207Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect 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 sit down with Curtis Bova, General Manager of Hotel Polaris in Colorado Springs, located right outside the U.S. Air Force Academy. Curtis shares the inspiring journey behind the hotel’s creation, its deep-rooted connection to the Academy, and how it has become a true neighbor within the local community.From its mid-century modern design inspired by the Academy to the service philosophy built on integrity, service, and excellence, Hotel Polaris stands as a one-of-a-kind property. Curtis reflects on the challenges, history, and vision that brought this project to life after decades in the making.What you’ll hear in this episode:The special connection between Hotel Polaris and the U.S. Air Force Academy.How 9/11 shaped the vision for the hotel and visitor center.The hotel’s design philosophy rooted in mid-century modern architecture.Behind-the-scenes stories of a project nearly two decades in the making.How Hotel Polaris is building a reputation for excellence and modern luxury.This conversation is a deep dive into hospitality, community, and vision—showing what it means to create not just a hotel, but an experience that embodies pride, service, and connection.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/mwKrQlkkPpE Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:GM Curtis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-bova-3bb1828/CoralTree Hospitality: https://www.coraltreehospitality.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/206Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect 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: Hospitality Hot Topics with Steve Carran and David Millili are joined by hospitality strategist Mandy Murry to break down the biggest trends and stories shaping the industry in August 2025. From evolving travel trends and the rise of AI trip planning to Soho House going private, Booking.com launching a credit card, and Airbnb’s fee hikes, the team explores how these shifts are impacting hoteliers, guests, and the future of travel.They also discuss the growing demand for local, immersive experiences, the resurgence of hotel lobby bars and speakeasies, and what multi-generational travel and micro-cations mean for operators. Mandy shares updates on her work at Hospitality Concierge and offers insights on where the industry is headed next.Here’s what we cover:AI trip planning, OTAs gaining influence, micro-cations, and multi-generational travelVacation rentals outperforming hotels + major service fee hikes for property managersWhat it means for loyalty, perks, and competition with airlinesWhy “secret bars” are having a big moment in 2025Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/e51kECyLHkU Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Mandy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allmandy/Mandy's website: https://mandymurry.com/ Related Links: U.S. Traveler Trends in 2025SOHO House to Go Private in $2.7 Billion Deal Led by MCR HotelsBooking.com Launches Credit CardVacation Rentals outperform hotelsAirbnb raises service fee for Property Managers from 15.5% to 3%Forbes: Inside the Worlds Best Secret Hotel BarsWhat is New With Hospitality Concierge?For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/205Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect 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 and David Millili sit down with Michael Weiss, co-founder and co-CEO of Trailborn, a brand redefining outdoor hospitality.Michael shares his journey from Goldman Sachs to Airbnb and Compass, to ultimately launching Trailborn—boutique, design-forward hotels in outdoor destinations like national parks, wine country, and coastal getaways. Listeners will hear how Mike and his partner identified a white space in the market, why outdoor hospitality is booming post-COVID, and how Trailborn is bridging the gap between camping and traditional luxury hotels.We also dive into:The challenges and opportunities in outdoor hospitality today.How Trailborn balances local authenticity with brand consistency.The company’s partnership with Marriott and what it unlocks for growth.Lessons Mike has carried from startups like Airbnb and Compass into building Trailborn.The importance of finding the right business partner and aligning on vision.If you’re curious about innovation in hospitality, the rise of outdoor travel, or how design and experience shape modern brands, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/t5PWuCYNvQ0 Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikedweiss/Trailborn: https://www.trailborn.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/204Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect 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 Elle Rustique, Founder and CEO of TipBrightly—a FinTech company revolutionizing tipping through easy, cashless, app-free technology. Inspired by her mother, a hotel housekeeper, Elle turned a personal story into a mission to create more equity, gratitude, and recognition for frontline hospitality workers.Elle shares her journey from education and entrepreneurship to launching TipBrightly in Silicon Valley, the challenges of breaking into hospitality tech without prior industry experience, and how cashless tipping is helping hotels improve employee morale, retention, and guest satisfaction. She also discusses the power of data, future trends in digital tipping, and offers advice for aspiring hospitality entrepreneurs.From heartfelt stories about how tipping changed employees’ lives, to practical insights on navigating long sales cycles and industry adoption, this conversation is both inspiring and thought-provoking.What you’ll learn in this episode:How a personal story inspired the creation of TipBrightlyChallenges of entering the hospitality tech space as a first-time founderThe role of tipping in boosting retention and recognition in hotelsTrends shaping the future of cashless tipping and guest engagementElle’s advice for entrepreneurs looking to innovate in hospitalityWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vCHaugoSD-kThis episode is sponsored by TipBrightly: https://tipbrightly.com/ Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Elle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erustique/TipBrightly: https://tipbrightly.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/203Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect 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 and David Millili sit down with Jon Buerge, President of Urban Villages, to explore how sustainable development is reshaping hospitality. From his upbringing in Aspen and a deep-rooted love of nature to leading innovative, carbon-positive hotel projects like Populus, Jon shares how design, community, and environmental stewardship come together to create places where both people and the planet thrive.Listeners will hear Jon’s perspective on:Why authentic, place-based experiences are more valuable than predictable, cookie-cutter stays.How the Populus hotels in Denver and Seattle are redefining sustainability through design, materials, and guest immersion.Why he believes profitability and doing the right thing for the planet must go hand in hand—and how Urban Villages is proving that model works.Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/PcPWFXBcYLI Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Jon Buerge on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-buerge-95229118/Urban Villages: https://urban-villages.com/ For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/202Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect 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 Eoin Heavey, CEO and founder of Maitre, a modern operating system built specifically for independent hotels. With a unique background spanning both technology and hospitality, Eoin shares his journey—from growing up in Dublin and playing competitive tennis at UC Berkeley to working in consulting, hedge funds, and venture capital—before launching businesses that eventually led him into the world of hotels.He discusses the inspiration behind Maitre and how it helps hotels streamline operations, improve team communication, and deliver exceptional guest service—all without the burden of legacy systems.In this episode, you’ll learn about:Building a hospitality tech platform from the ground upThe future of hotel operations and staffing challengesHow better integrations and cloud-based tools reshape the hotel tech stackEntrepreneurial lessons from Green Park to MaitreWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/RWtP3l7TrKkThis episode is sponsored by: https://www.maitrehotel.com/ Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Eoin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eoinheavey/Maitre LLC: https://maitrehotel.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/201Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

This week’s episode, David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Stacy Warner, Executive Vice President at Eat.Drink.Sleep., the boutique hospitality group known for concept-driven hotels, restaurants, and bars that blend standout design with unforgettable guest experiences. Stacy shares her journey from a small town in Massachusetts to shaping some of California’s most creative hospitality projects, including the iconic Tower 23 Hotel. She talks about her People First philosophy, why she believes independent hotels offer the best growth opportunities, and how Eat.Drink.Sleep. balances design ambition with operational excellence through their in-house creative studio.From navigating unique project challenges (like renovating a hotel on Catalina Island) to leading teams in an era of shifting workplace expectations, Stacy offers candid insights into what it takes to create spaces where both guests and employees thrive.You’ll also hear her take on:The difference between “boutique” and “independent” hotelsHow guest expectations are evolving (and how they’re not)Why investing in communication tech is shaping the future of hospitalityTips for retaining top talent in a competitive marketWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OWqEJJwAglI Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Stacy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-warner-4369406/Eat.Drink.Sleep (EDS) Hospitality Group: https://eatdrinkandsleep.net/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/200Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect 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, David and Steve talk with Mark Keiser, President of Development at Viceroy Hotels & Resorts, about his journey from a suburban upbringing and a year abroad in France to leading the brand’s global growth. Mark shares early career lessons—including taking on a GM role with zero hotel experience—the evolution of luxury lifestyle hospitality, and Viceroy’s approach to creating authentic local experiences, from tequila tastings in Mexico to beekeeping in Portugal. They also explore emerging markets, branded residences, and how Viceroy balances profitability with memorable guest connections.With over 25 years in hospitality, Mark has led the growth of iconic hotel brands and now drives Viceroy’s global expansion. He shares his journey, lessons learned, and the brand’s vision for redefining luxury travel.Topics include:How a high school trip to Puerto Rico and a year abroad in France inspired a career in hospitalityLessons from stepping into his first GM role with no prior operations experienceWhat makes a property “Viceroy-worthy” and how the brand blends luxury with authentic local cultureThe role of unique guest experiences—like beekeeping in Portugal—in building emotional connectionsCareer advice for aspiring hospitality leaders, including the value of mentorship and taking early risksWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dRWZdK5tcOg Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-keiser-a4a5152/Viceroy Hotels and Resorts: https://www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/199Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

In this Hospitality Hot Topics edition of The Modern Hotelier, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili are joined by Ryan Rivett, President & CEO of My Place Hotels, to unpack July’s biggest hospitality trends.From the TSA finally ditching the shoe-removal rule, to the rise of micro-cations and adventure travel, to the luxury sleep experience movement, the trio explores how these shifts are shaping guest expectations and industry strategies. Ryan also gives an insider look at My Place Hotels’ rapid growth, their tech-forward approach to guest loyalty, and how they’re adapting to evolving travel patterns.If you want a fast-paced, insightful conversation about what’s next in hospitality—plus a few laughs—this episode delivers.Topics Covered:TSA’s new airport security policy and its impact on travel moodWhy short, frequent “microcations” are here to stayAdventure travel’s lasting post-pandemic appealThe luxury sleep trend and wellness-focused staysHow My Place Hotels is leveraging tech, loyalty, and service to scaleWatch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Nu9eqGeZvN0 Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Ryan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-rivett-09984311Ryan on X: https://x.com/RyanJRivett My Place Hotels: https://www.myplacehotels.com/ For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/198Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.