Has luxury hospitality design lost its soul? In this explosive episode of The Social Hotelier Podcast, Sam-Erik Ruttmann sits down with Javier Rodriguez, Chief Creative Officer at Experiential Hospitality, to uncover why the industry is stuck chasing Instagram aesthetics instead of creating authentic guest experiences. Javier reveals how regenerative tourism and sustainable hotels can transform the future of luxury hospitality—and why most brands are failing at true hospitality innovation. From hotel architecture that embraces nature to eco-friendly resorts that regenerate ecosystems, this conversation is a blueprint for the future of hospitality. 🔥 What you’ll learn: Why aesthetics aren’t enough—how to design unforgettable hospitality experiences. The real difference between sustainability in hospitality and regeneration. How to future-proof hotel development for a world that changes overnight. Why chasing certifications might distract from real impact. The radical shift from SOPs to SOEs (Standard Operating Experiences).
In this episode, I speak with Maiju Koskela, interior architect and spatial designer with @studiopuistoarchitects Studio Puisto Architect,s about the profound impact of design on human emotions and experiences. We explore how elements like light, shadow, and materials shape the atmosphere of spaces, and how these factors influence human behavior and consciousness. Maiju shares her journey into spatial design, her design philosophy, and the importance of collaboration with architects. The discussion highlights the evolving nature of spatial design and the timeless elements that continue to resonate with human emotions. Here are a few Takeaways from the interesting conversation - Maiju emphasizes the importance of emotional experience in design. - Light, shadow, and materials are key elements in shaping space. - Design should communicate emotions without words. - The interaction of people with space is crucial for its vitality. - Materials can evoke feelings and tell stories in design. - Collaboration with architects is essential for maintaining emotional essence. - Sensory calm in spaces is increasingly important in modern design. - Timeless elements like natural light and organic materials resonate deeply with people. - Designing for emotion involves creating intuitive environments. - Spaces can influence human behavior and consciousness.
In this conversation, Vladislav Valicek discusses the future of hospitality, emphasizing the importance of storytelling over technology. He explores how cultural immersion and the hero's journey shape guest experiences, the need for nurturing organizational culture, and the role of AI in enhancing hospitality. Valicek advocates for breaking down silos within organizations, Human touch is the essence of hospitality creating micro-moments for guests, and embracing change to prepare for the future of hospitality. He highlights the significance of human touch and connection in delivering meaningful experiences.
Mind Hacking for Hoteliers: The Psychology of Exceptional Guest Service In this episode of The Social Hotelier Show, Sam-Erik Ruttmann sits down with Blair Dunkley, cognitive alignment expert and author of Ultimate Mind Hacking and The Phobia Freedom Formula. Together, they explore how hoteliers can rewire their thinking, manage stress, and connect more authentically with guests and teams — even in the most demanding moments. From decoding digital body language to dealing with angry guests and supporting mental health in hospitality, Blair shares practical “mind models” that help professionals stay calm, aligned, and effective. Whether you’re a general manager or front-desk associate, this episode will reshape how you think, lead, and serve. 👉 Listen, learn, and lead with empathy. 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe to The Social Hotelier Show for more conversations that elevate hospitality leadership. 🔔 Don’t forget to turn on notifications to never miss an episode. Want to be a guest on The Social Hotelier? Send Sam-Erik Ruttmann a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/samerik
The Hotel Industry Is Getting It Wrong, Geoffrey Toffetti Reveals What Really Drives Profit What if the secret to hotel success wasn’t found in flashy marketing or expensive renovations, but in the people at your front desk? In this powerful conversation, Sam-Erik Ruttmann speaks with Geoffrey Toffetti, CEO of Frontline Performance Group (FPG), whose journey from valet to visionary redefines what leadership and resilience look like in hospitality. Geoffrey shares raw insights on: ✅ Leading through crisis, and turning a 90% revenue loss into a cultural victory. ✅ Empowering frontline staff to double hotel revenue. ✅ Balancing hospitality, humanity, and technology without losing the soul of service. ✅ Building the next generation of humble, authentic leaders. 🎯 Whether you lead a boutique hotel or a global brand, this episode will challenge how you see your team, your technology, and your purpose. 👉 Liste now and discover how to turn your people into your greatest profit engine.
In this episode of The Social Hotelier Podcast, Sam-Erik Ruttmann sits down with Pablo Torres, founder of Torres Hospitality Consulting and a driving force behind the Global Revenue Forum Madrid, to explore the next frontier of hotel profitability. Discover how hotels can unlock total revenue by looking beyond room sales — tapping into F&B innovation, upselling culture, AI-powered decision making, and zero-waste sustainability. Pablo shares practical strategies from working with hundreds of hotels in 30+ countries, revealing how leadership mindset, guest-centric culture, and technology can transform your bottom line. Key takeaways: ✅ Why most hotels still overlook 50% of their revenue potential ✅ How to turn “order takers” into “profit makers” in F&B ✅ How AI can amplify — not replace — human intuition in revenue management ✅ Why sustainability is no longer just ethical but financially smart ✅ The rise of dynamic pricing across every hotel department If you’re a GM, hotel owner, or revenue leader, this episode will help you move from firefighting to strategic innovation — and future-proof your hospitality business.
Building with Purpose: Portia Hart’s Vision for Sustainable Hospitality in the Caribbean What happens when hospitality becomes a force for good? 🌿 #HospitalityInnovation #ConsciousLeadership In this inspiring episode of The Social Hotelier Show, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann sits down with visionary hotelier Portia Hart, founder of Blue Apple Beach, The Green Apple Foundation, and Nuestra Cartagena. Together, they explore how conscious leadership, community empowerment, and cultural authenticity can redefine the future of luxury hospitality. Discover how Portia is transforming Colombia’s Caribbean coast through sustainable design, social impact, and a bold reimagining of what it means to “build with purpose. ” 👉 Learn how purpose and profit can coexist. 👉 Hear real stories from behind the scenes of ethical hotel development. 👉 Subscribe for more conversations on conscious leadership and hospitality innovation.
The AI Revolution in Hotel Marketing: Why Storytelling Beats Ad Spend Can independent hotels truly compete with global brands in today’s AI-driven world? In this episode of The Social Hotelier Show, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann speaks with marketing strategist Sarah Stahl (@MarketMoversLLC), the creative mind behind a boutique resort that achieved an extraordinary 93% direct booking rate — without OTAs or massive ad budgets. Sarah shares the strategies that turned chaos into clarity, transforming a six-unit start-up into a 21-unit success story. 💡 You’ll learn: • How AI is reshaping hotel discovery and visibility • Why storytelling beats ad spend • How to build PR credibility that AI (and guests) trust • The power of inclusivity in hospitality marketing • How to blend data, emotion, and storytelling for real results 🎙 Hosted by Sam-Erik Ruttmann — global hotelier, conscious leader, and creator of The Social Hotelier Show.
He Beat Cancer And Built A Healing Retreat!How Barry Shimelfarb turned a life-changing diagnosis into a playbook for human-centered hospitality. In this episode, Barry Shimelfarb shares his transformative journey from a high-pressure career in Silicon Valley to creating healing retreats in Carmel by the Sea after facing advanced cancer. He discusses the power of resilience, the importance of community, and how personal experiences shape hospitality. Barry emphasizes the significance of creating moments of perfection for guests and the role of technology in enhancing human connection. He also reflects on the legacy he wishes to leave and the emerging trends in the hospitality industry. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when the mics are still warm but the pressure is off, welcome to Off The Mic. 🎙️ It’s the companion show where I sit down with my guests after the main conversation, in a relaxed atmosphere, to explore the lighter side of life. From personal stories to quirky rituals, and those fun, unexpected questions—you’ll meet the person behind the professional. Join me for the OFF THE MIC CONVERSATION WITH BARRY SHIMELFARB AND MANY MORE. LINK TO OFF THE MIC: https://premiumpodcast.show/afterthemicunscriptedchat LINKS TO BARRY’S PARTNERS IN CARMEL https://www.saltysoulsanctuary.com/ https://www.moja.yoga/ https://www.refuge.com/ https://www.earthboundfarm.com/farm-stand/ https://www.maddogsandenglishmen.com/ https://www.montereytouringvehicles.com/ https://www.caracciolicellars.com/home/ https://www.scheidvineyards.com/Wines https://auberginecarmel.com/ https://www.casanovacarmel.com/ https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=571 LINKS TO BARRY’S WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA Website https://www.carmelretreats.com/
Regenerative Hotels: The Future of Hospitality Forget “sustainable” — the next wave of hospitality is regenerative. Architect Francesco Allaix joins Sam-Erik Ruttmann to discuss how regenerative hotels restore landscapes, empower local communities, and create more meaningful guest experiences. From rewilding valleys in Cyprus to Nordic timber architecture, you’ll hear how hotels can become engines of healing and resilience — for both people and planet. 🌿 What makes regenerative design different from sustainability? 🌿 How hotels can embrace community and culture 🌿 Why regenerative resorts attract tomorrow’s travelers Subscribe for more insights from global hospitality leaders shaping the future. 😅 If you’ve ever wondered what happens when the mics are still warm but the pressure is off—welcome to Off The Mic. 🎙️ It’s the companion show where I sit down with my guests after the main conversation, in a relaxed atmosphere, to explore the lighter side of life. From personal stories to quirky rituals, and those fun, unexpected questions—you’ll meet the person behind the professional. https://premiumpodcast.show/afterthemicunscriptedchat
Step inside the world of Armani Hotels Dubai & Milan, where Giorgio Armani’s vision of fashion and lifestyle hospitality came to life. In this exclusive interview, Marc Dardenne, the hotelier who worked directly with Armani, reveals behind-the-scenes stories about creating the world’s first Armani-branded hotels. From designing luxury guest experiences without a front desk to Armani’s obsession with detail (yes, even the soap color!), this episode uncovers what it takes to bring a fashion icon’s DNA into the world of hotels. 💬 You’ll learn: How Giorgio Armani redefined luxury hotel design The challenges of blending fashion with hospitality operations Stories from the opening of Armani Hotel Dubai in Burj Khalifa Why Armani’s philosophy of simplicity, elegance, and humility still inspires hoteliers today ✨ Whether you’re passionate about luxury travel, hotel design, or fashion-led hospitality, this episode offers rare insights from the man who built it with Armani himself. OFF THE MIC 🌟Unscripted: If you enjoyed this conversation, wait until you hear what happens Off The Mic – After the interview ends, the mic stays on. Hear candid, unfiltered conversations with Marc Dardenne, sharing anecdotes and revealing personal stories about Giorgio Armani, only available in the OFF THE MIC SHOW. Hit that bell icon, because the best insights often happen Off The Mic." Subscribe for exclusive access to OFF THE MIC, which is the audience-supported companion show https://premiumpodcast.show/afterthemicunscriptedchat
🚀 Dubai’s hospitality market is one of the fastest-growing and most competitive in the world. In this episode of The Social Hotelier Show, I sit down with Paul Williams, Founder & CEO of Spearhead Creativity, to uncover the secrets behind building powerful brands in the GCC. With over 20 years of experience shaping iconic names like Accor, Cartier, Millennium Hotels & Dubai Tourism, Paul shares:✅ How global brands can adapt to Dubai’s unique culture✅ The role of AI and storytelling in future branding✅ Why the mid-market segment is the biggest opportunity today✅ Lessons on personal branding and legacy in the Middle East Off the Mic If you’d like to go even deeper, beyond the projects and into the personalities, don’t miss Off the Mic, our companion show where guests reveal lighter moments and the person behind the professional. The link is in the description. Join us there. https://premiumpodcast.show/afterthemicunscriptedchat
Why Storytelling is essential in both filmmaking and hospitality. In this episode, I have a conversation with award-winning filmmaker Jaze Bordeaux about the art of storytelling in hospitality. Bordeaux shares his journey from finance to filmmaking, emphasizing the importance of crafting compelling narratives that resonate emotionally with audiences. He discusses how hoteliers can create authentic guest experiences by anchoring their brand stories in emotional truths and relatable experiences. The conversation explores the balance between authenticity and commercial polish, the significance of casting the right people in hospitality, and the importance of audience response over industry recognition. Bordeaux concludes with advice for hoteliers to commit to their unique stories, ensuring they connect with their guests on a deeper level. This how Jaze feels about hotels: …And I feel like with hotels, it's incredible because it's a space where there's so many people coming through, there's so many stories that are being told. Every hotel, even if it's a franchise hotel, has something slightly distinct about it. …And I feel as though if you can literally make that a character, like part of the crew, the, you know, the cast of employees that are there, it's really easy, for example, for people to remember and talk about it. Here we are on this podcast.
Why Hospitality Skills Are Essential Beyond Hotels: Insights from Monika Moser In this enlightening episode, we delve into the transformative power of hospitality skills beyond the hotel industry with Monika Moser, a seasoned expert in both hospitality and design. Discover how Monika's unique career journey—from leading global hotel operations to pioneering luxury design, demonstrates the universal value of hospitality skills. Learn why industries like automotive and education are increasingly seeking the expertise of hospitality professionals to enhance client satisfaction and operational efficiency. Tune in to explore how the principles of service, emotional intelligence, and teamwork can revolutionize any field.
🎙️ Welcome to The Social Hotelier Show with Sam-Erik Ruttmann – named one of the Top 20 Hotel Podcasts globally by FeedSpot! 🌟 In this exclusive conversation, Sam-Erik interviews Marc Dardenne, CEO of Modon Hospitality, on the evolving role of hospitality education, leadership transformation, and why rethinking hotel design, branding, and talent engagement is urgent in today’s changing world. 💡 Marc reflects on his return to Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne as a guest lecturer — 43 years after graduating — and what he learned from engaging directly with the next generation of hospitality leaders. 🔍 What You’ll Discover: ✨ The future of hospitality leadership ✨ Why modern students need mentors more than manuals ✨ 24-hour check-ins, tech-driven guest journeys & facial recognition ✨ Why “Heart of House” design matters as much as the lobby ✨ The truth about SOPs, flexibility & employee expectations ✨ How to build hospitality brands from culture, not just checklists 🧠 About Marc Dardenne: 👔 CEO, Modon Hospitality – Abu Dhabi 🏨 Former COO at Accor Luxe Europe, Group COO Jumeirah, CEO Emaar Hospitality Group and Armani Hotels and Resorts 📚 Guest Lecturer at EHL (Lausanne) 💼 Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-dardenne
Future of Food Tourism: 4 Bold Scenarios Welcome to The Social Hotelier Show with Sam-Erik Ruttmann! In this episode, we explore the ¨future of food tourism¨ with renowned futurist Dr. Ian Yeoman. From lab-grown delicacies to regenerative dining experiences and dystopian luxury, we dive into four bold scenarios that redefine how we eat, travel, and experience culture. 👨🍳 What does the future hold for chefs and hoteliers? 🌱 Can regenerative cuisine become the new luxury? 🚀 Are you ready to dine in Dr. Spock’s restaurant or sip wine from the last wine bottle on Earth? 🙏🏻Proud to share that The Social Hotelier, hosted by Sam-Erik Ruttmann, has been named one of the Top 20 Hotel Podcasts of 2025 — a recognition of our commitment to insightful conversations in global hospitality. https://podcast.feedspot.com/hotel_podcasts/
In this eye-opening episode of The Social Hotelier Show, Sam-Erik Ruttmann reconnects with Niels Steeman—once a high-flying tourism executive in Asia, now a wellness coach on a mission to redefine success. Discover how a near-death experience underwater triggered a radical transformation, shedding over 40 kilos, quitting alcohol, and redefining what it means to truly thrive. 💡 Niels shares his powerful journey from burnout to balance, exposing the blind spots in high-performance industries like hospitality and tourism. 🙏🏻Discover now why giving back is life's missiom He dives deep into the myths of dieting, the illusion of wellness in hotels, and why executives often ignore their health until it’s too late. 👥 Whether you're a hotelier, entrepreneur, or executive seeking clarity, this conversation will shift your mindset on health, leadership, and personal transformation. 👉 Subscribe for more thought-provoking conversations that challenge the status quo in hospitality and leadership.🎧 Available also on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more.📘 Get Niels’s book “Thrive” and support children’s wellness education in Ranong. https://a.co/d/cME3y2D Niels Steeman; email niels@thriveapproach.asia
✅ What Are The BIG Changes Happening In Hotel Industry NOW In this episode of the Social Hotelier podcast, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann speaks with Rocco Bova, a seasoned hotelier and founder of the Summit Mexicano de la Hospitalidad. Rocco shares his journey in the hospitality industry, his love for Mexico, and the cultural richness he has experienced. They discuss the importance of hospitality education, the evolving role of technology in the industry, and how guest preferences have changed post-pandemic. Rocco emphasizes the need for a balance between technology and human interaction in hospitality. Sam-Erik Ruttmann and Rocco Bova delve into the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry, ✅ focusing on the balance between technology and the human touch, ✅ The challenges of recruitment, ✅ The significance of personal branding and ✅ Emerging trends such as the rise of boutique hotels. ✅ They discuss the impact of technology on staffing and guest interactions, ✅ The shortcomings of current recruitment processes, and ✅ The importance of authenticity in personal branding for professionals entering the industry. This is more than a podcast. It’s a wake-up call. If you're in hospitality, you can’t afford to miss it. Buckle up for a no-nonsense, passionate discussion packed with hard truths, future trends, and personal revelations.
🌱 In this powerful episode of The Social Hotelier, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann sits down with Portia Hart, founder of Blue Apple Beach—a regenerative hospitality concept in Cartagena, Colombia. From crushing glass bottles into usable sand to empowering local communities through sustainable supply chains, Portia proves that luxury can lead with purpose. Get inspired by her journey from Monaco to the Caribbean and learn how she built one of the world’s most impactful eco-hotels. 🎧 Tune in for: ✨ How Blue Apple became B Corp certified ✨ Circular economy practices in hospitality ✨ The mission behind the Green Apple Foundation ✨ Creating zero-waste operations and sustainable supply chains ✨ Shifting traveler mindsets with values-based hospitality ✨ Blending high-end travel with community empowerment 👤 About the Host – Sam-Erik Ruttmann Sam-Erik is a global hotel advisor, podcast host, and hospitality veteran helping hoteliers grow through innovation, sustainability, and storytelling. 🌐 Website: https://b8bhospitality.com 🌐 Podcast Site: https://the-social-hotelier-show.blubrry.net 📧 Contact: samerik.ruttmann@b8bhospitality.com ☕ Support the channel: https://buymeacoffee.com/samerik 📱 Connect with The Social Hotelier 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesocialhotelier 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesocialhotelier/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-erik/ 💡 Who Is This EPISODE For? 📌 Hoteliers & hospitality entrepreneurs 📌 Sustainability-driven investors & eco-conscious travelers 📌 Travel trendsetters, ESG leaders & digital marketers 📌 Boutique hotel owners looking to make an impact 💖 Spread the Love 📣 Share this podcast with your friends & hospitality network 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe to stay in the loop 🔔 Tap the bell icon so you never miss a future episode! 📜 Important Information ⚠️ Disclaimer: All content is for informational purposes only. We are not responsible for any loss or damage resulting from its use. Always conduct your own research and due diligence. © Copyright Notice: All materials are owned by The Social Hotelier. You may share or embed video links with full credit to the channel. How Blue Apple Beach Redefines Eco-Luxury & Regenerative Hospitality 🧠 Related Hashtags #RegenerativeHospitality #EcoHotels #SustainableTourism #LuxuryWithPurpose #HotelLeadership #BlueAppleBeach #PortiaHart #BcorpCertified #HospitalityTrends #TheSocialHotelier #TravelPodcast #HospitalityExperts #EthicalTravel #CartagenaHotels #HospitalityForChange © The Social Hotelier
Why Your First Impression Could Make or Break Guest Experience In this episode of The Social Hotelier Show, Sam-Erik Ruttmann welcomes renowned keynote speaker and author Sylvie Di Giusto. Together, they explore the psychology of first and lasting impressions in hospitality and how unconscious biases shape guest experiences. Sylvie breaks down her signature "ABCD-E" framework—Appearance, Behavior, Communication, Digital Footprint, and Environment—offering practical tools for hospitality leaders to influence perception and build trust from the first moment. The conversation also dives into the often-overlooked impact of a leader’s digital presence and how virtual interactions can elevate—or damage—credibility. Whether you're a hotel executive, manager, or aspiring leader, this episode offers actionable insights on how to become more intentional, authentic, and effective in your role . Subscribe, listen, and learn how micro-choices can create macro impact in guest experience.