"No Vacancy Live from HITEC: Featuring Podcast Pioneers Glenn Haussman and Anthony Melchiorri" In this episode, podcast veterans Anthony Melchiorri and Glenn Haussman discuss their experiences and insights from attending HITEC events over the years. They reminisce about the evolution of these events and share their personal highlights, including th…

Today we discuss the current state of the hospitality industry, including challenges and opportunities in the market. Ryan Bosch, Principal of Arriba Capital, Glenn and Anthony discuss impact of interest rates on hotel deals, the evolving lending landscape, and insights into the booming extended stay sector. Discover strategies for securing financi…

In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Jason Craparo, CEO of Hovr, a technology company revolutionizing guest engagement in the hospitality industry. Jason shares his fascinating journey from dishwasher to successful entrepreneur, including his experiences as a Sonic Drive-In franchisee and his time at Babson College. T…

In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran interview Benjamin Powers, founder and CEO of Visiting Media. Benjamin shares his entrepreneurial journey, from starting businesses as a child to founding a company that revolutionizes hotel sales through immersive technology. He discusses how Visiting Media's software empowers hospitality profe…

Dive into the world of immersive experiences and the future of themed entertainment with this episode. Join myself and Suzanne Bagnera, PhD, CHA as we sit down with Ryan A. Harmon, President and Chief Creative Officer of Zeitgeist Design & Production, to discuss the evolution and innovation in theme parks, hotels, and more. Discover the trends, sto…

In this episode, Steve and David are joined by guest host Mercedes Blanco from The Hotels Network. They discuss various trending topics in the hospitality industry for July, including the rumor of Hyatt acquiring Standard Hotels, an extensive computer outage affecting multiple industries including hospitality and travel, the rise of 'bleisure' (bus…

Today we’re seeing how one amazing couple – Karie Brittano and Julian Brittano -- is bringing their dream project to life, with a little help from Choice Hotels International's John Lancaster. This episode covers: Supporting Owners Access and Representation (SOAR) Program: Transitioning from the Emerging Markets Program to a new initiative focused …

We’re delving deep into the root challenges of employee engagement and retention in the hospitality industry. Our guest, Szilvia Olah, Employee Experience Designer from The Strengths Company, joins us from Dubai. Key Highlights: Common Complaints: Discussion on the prevalent issues of low employee engagement and high turnover rates in hospitality. …

In this episode, Steve Carran speaks with CEO Rodrigo Jimenez about the recent acquisition of SHR by the UK-based Access Company. Jimenez shares the excitement and opportunities brought by this merger, highlighting Access Company's diverse portfolio and their focus on the hospitality sector. He also touches on the positive buzz at the high tech tra…

Today we have Rick Colangelo, EVP of Pivot Hotels, part of Davidson Hospitality Group. Topics discussed include: Guest Experience: The significance of delivering exceptional guest experiences in hotels and resorts. The Pivot Vibe: Introduction of the “Pivot Vibe” concept, focusing on guest journey, music, lighting, scents, and design. Experience Ec…

Today we delve into the latest developments at Coury Holdings and their exciting new ventures. Paul Coury special guest shares insights on their innovative approach to hospitality and strategic growth. Key Points Covered: • Overview of Coury Holdings: o Coury Holdings’ history and evolution over 38 years. o Transition from developer and asset manag…

Join us for an insightful conversation with Rodrigo Perez Garofalo, founder of Zerf Tech, live from a hospitality tech conference. In this episode, Rodrigo explores how Zerf Tech is revolutionizing hotel operations by serving as an external IT department and optimizing direct booking channels. He also introduces an AI-powered search tool designed t…

Join your host Glenn as he takes you on an exciting tour of the Virgin Hotel Las Vegas with special guest Cliff Atkinson, the President of Virgin Hotel Las Vegas. In this episode, you will explore the remarkable changes and improvements made to the property. Walk along with Glenn and Cliff to learn about: • The integration of various elements to cr…

In this episode, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili sit down with Scott Buelter, founder of Ascent360, at the HSMAI Strategy Conference. Scott shares insights on how hotels and resorts can use customer data platforms to create more effective, personalized marketing campaigns. Key topics covered: The importance of integrating data from multiple sy…

Join us as we dive into the world of casino resort design with two industry experts! Discover Winstar, an incredible casino resort project in Thackerville, Oklahoma, led by the Chickasaw Nation and designed by HBG. We interview Rob Juergan, Principal and Architectural Designer at HBG Design and Ray Mabry, Principal and Dallas Office Leader Project …

Elizabeth Mullins is COO of Flâneur Hospitality is a seasoned hotelier with a passion for luxury hospitality. She shares her journey from the Ritz-Carlton to leading a new boutique hotel in NYC. Discover what sets her hotel apart and her unique approach to creating unforgettable guest experiences at the Fifth Avenue Hotel. • Dive into the world of …

Today, we are joined by Tristan Gadsby and Alberto Santana from Alliants. We are discussing their backgrounds, experiences in the hospitality industry, and insights into guest experience technology. Recorded live at Truist Field in Charlotte, North Carolina during a VIP event, the conversations offer a blend of personal anecdotes and professional e…

In this episode, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili interview Aditya Thyagarajan and Fareed Ahmad, co-founders of HotelKey, at the HITEC conference. The conversation delves into the origins of HotelKey, its cloud-based property management system, and the company's vision for the future of hospitality technology. The founders share insights on ove…

Nezar Akeel is Founder & CEO of MAXPRO Fitness and shares insights around the importance of in-room workout options for travelers. It's so easy, even i coiuld do it! Plus, MAXPRO has partnered with Shaquille O'Neill too so this is legit.By No Vacancy News

Today's episode features hosts Steve Carran and David Millili interviewing Jill Wilder, the newly appointed President of Aptech Computer Systems, at the HITEC conference. Jill shares insights from her 38-year career at Aptech, discusses the company's evolution in hospitality technology, and highlights their latest innovations in hotel accounting an…

In this episode, we sit down with Theresa Ellsworth from Sertifi. Theresa shares insights into her background growing up in Yonkers, New York, her passion for hospitality, and her journey from college to a 14-year stint at Springer Miller. The conversation delves into how Sertifi accelerates revenue for hotels through digital authorization processe…

Anna Blue(President of the AHLA Foundation, Lisa Cain(Co-founder and Managing Partner, Hospitality Internships), and Timothy Flohr(Co-founder and Managing Partner, Hospitality Internships) from the AHLA foundation are here to talk about getting young people into the industry and ways that Hospitality Internships can help open the door for the next …

In this episode, recorded at the HITEC trade show floor, Steve interviews Rich O'Brien from Xpodigital and Michael Parissee from HSMS about digital investments in hotels and event spaces, focusing on how large-format LED displays and digital signage are transforming guest experiences and revenue opportunities. In this episode, you'll learn: The evo…

Peter Shaindlin, COO of Halekulani Corporation, discusses the importance of providing an iconic experience for guests and how luxury hospitality has evolved over time. In this interview you’ll hear: Halekulani is a 107-year-old hotel with a rich history and tradition of hospitality. Luxury hospitality is about more than just the physical amenities;…

In this episode, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili interview Jon Schniepp, SVP of Marketing at Relay. Jon discusses his background, Relay's journey into the hospitality industry, and how their smart radio technology is revolutionizing hotel operations and staff communication. The conversation covers emerging trends in hospitality communication, …

In this episode, join hosts Steve Carran and David Millili at HITEC 2024 in Charlotte as they interview a diverse lineup of hospitality industry leaders and innovators. From established executives to emerging startups, guests share insights on the latest hotel technologies, industry trends, and their experiences at the conference. The episode concl…

Today, we're diving into the dynamic world of hotel branding with Dean Winter from Swire Hotels. They're reimagining luxury with their East Hotel Miami, embracing a fresh "alt luxury" approach. Here's what's changing and why it matters: Evolution of East Hotels: Originally targeting corporate travelers, Swire Hotels recognized a shift in customer d…

Jay Leonard, Complex GM of Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort Area Disney Springs, shares how he runs this complex at Walt Disney World, what challenges being near such an attraction brings, hurricanes, community involvement, and Jay's dedication to guest experience. Stay tuned for more insights and interviews on hospitality's leading show! 🎙️…

In this monthly "Hospitality Hot Topics" segment, David and Steve dive into the most pressing issues and exciting developments in hospitality. From the booming wellness sector to music tourism's impact on hotel bookings, they explore how these trends are transforming the guest experience and affecting business strategies. They also tackle important…

Anthony and Glenn shoot the breeze today!By No Vacancy News

Charles Oswald, CEO of Aperture Hotels, talks about how they are bringing focus and depth to the complex and crowded field of hotel management. What was have they been able to stand out and what is their main focus through the rest of 2024?By No Vacancy News

Shannon McCallum, Vice President of Operations with Resorts World Las Vegas shares what it's like running the trio of hotels -- Las Vegas Hilton, Conrad Hotels & Resorts Las Vegas, and Crockfords -- at the casino resort. Plus, how the property continually evolves, the sharp rise of conventions, and a bit on leadership too.…

Paul Rantilla is a senior executive with over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He currently serves as the Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer for Hospitality Ancillaries at Plusgrade. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated expertise in hospitality management, market expansion, sales strategies, and marketing leade…

Ashish Verma, Senior Vice President, Luxury Division, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt talks about how he under his leadership The Chatwal is now recognized among the top luxury boutique hotels, voted #1 of the 20 Best Hotels in New York City by Condé Nast Traveler in 2022 as well as one of the Best City Hotels in the Continental U.S. by Travel + Le…

Joelle Park, SVP & Chief Marketing Officer at BWH Hotels shares the company's strategy of leveraging its mothership brand through it’s "Life's a Trip" campaign to promote all its brands. Plus, how AI affects advertising, staying authentic and why travel influencers actually matter.By No Vacancy News

The remarkable journey of Sonesta, including its entrepreneurial spirit, growth strategies, and invaluable insights for aspiring hoteliers. In today’s episode, we dive into the world of hospitality with our special guest, Elizabeth Harlow, the Chief Brand Officer at Sonesta. Join hosts Steve Carran, and David Millili as they uncover Elizabeth’s fas…

Ben Weinberg and Mike Weiss, Founders of Trailborn, are talking about how they have created unique hotel experiences in the great American outdoors. Each Trailborn hotel puts guests at the heart of the country’s most extraordinary outdoor destinations – from national parks to coastal cliffs, and snow-capped mountains to sun-soaked beaches. Trailbor…

Last week at SonestaCon24 we had the chance to hear from Sonesta’s CBO Elizabeth Harlow and CMO Chris Trick about how the company will define itself to the consumer. We discuss giving their customers access to things you can’t buy with a relationship with Rolling Stone magazine, its rewards program and how they’re leveraging micro influencers.…

Providing next-level experiences is more important than ever in the Hospitality Industry. In this episode, we focus on experiential hospitality and unique stays with Ben Wolff. Ben is co-founder and developer of Onera, a luxury treehouse resort in Texas Hill Country. His experiential hospitality firm Oasi develops and manages a portfolio of landsca…

Sloan Dean is CEO of Remington Hospitality and is focused on smart growth. For them that means going all in on places such as Caribbean and Latin America. Today, we learn more about their strategy and much more about the financial state of the hotel business.By No Vacancy News

Sonesta Hotels is hosting its first ever brand conference after a few years of furious growth and creating a company trajectory. Here in Las Vegas we speak with CEO John Murray and Keith Pierce, EVP, Development and Franchise, to hear how it all came together and what’s next.By No Vacancy News

Hospitality Hot Topics - May 2024 Join hosts Steve Carran and David Millili as they discuss the latest hospitality industry news and trends from May 2024. This month's hot topics include: The top U.S. markets for new hotel construction pipelines, including surprising leaders Dallas and the Inland Empire region of California Rising prices for luxury…

What does it take to be a multi-unit GM at the #1 airport restaurant in the US? Jason Dix oversees both One Flew South locations at Atlanta Airport and will share his view on airport restaurant food trends.By No Vacancy News

Ever walked into a Starbucks and immediately thought “this looks like every other Starbucks?” Probably not. But, the painstaking effort organizations go to to maintain brand standards is manual and phenomenal. Huibin Yu is the founder of Fohlio. Fohlio is building a better path to digitize the process of product data management, specification, proc…

We're at the Marriott New York JFK Airport with GM Mark Irgang taking a look at the next-generation airport hotel, brought to us by Chartwell Hospitality.By No Vacancy News

Tatiana Sheveleva, Partner & Co-Founder of Chapi Chapo Design joins to talk about what it takes to found a design firm in recent times and why her and her team have been able to get some of the most prestigious brands in the world to work with them.By No Vacancy News

It's just a year away!! REAL ID is coming to an airport near you May 7, 2025. Is your license compliant? How do you know if it is, and what can you do about it? Simone Davis is the Director of REAL ID at TSA and shares what we all need to know.By No Vacancy News

Amaury Piedra assumed the role of managing director in August 2020, where he leads Central Florida’s largest all-suite convention hotel located in the heart of the nation’s number one convention and tourist destination. Piedra is a bilingual veteran of the hospitality industry with 25 years of sales and operations experience leading Four Diamond li…

Diana Geseking is the General Counsel for Restaurant Technologies, where she advises the senior leadership on a wide array of legal issues. She oversees various legal functions across the business and brings diversified experience in contract negotiation, business transactions, corporate governance, intellectual property, risk mitigation, complianc…

In this episode, David and Steve give their thoughts on some of the most notable trends and topics during the month of April in the Hospitality Industry. They cover: International Hospitality Institute Awards Hilton Acquiring Sydell Group Blackstone Pouncing on Hotel Real Estate State of the Union - April Summer Demand for US Hotels Tropicana Las V…