Hospitality Daily Podcast Fixing Independent Hospitality's Discovery Problem with Storytelling & AI - Brett McManus, Inndependent Stays
Sep 6, 2025
Brett McManus, owner of Après Inn and founder of Inndependent Stays, delves into the discovery challenges in independent hospitality. He shares insights on the high costs of online travel agencies and the importance of authentic storytelling in connecting travelers with unique experiences. The discussion highlights how AI could revolutionize travel recommendations and enhance personal connections between guests and owners. Through innovative platforms like 'Independence Days', McManus aims to reshape the visibility of independent stays, fostering engagement and community.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
OTAs Hide Independent Hotels
- OTAs commoditize independent hotels and extract large commissions that squeeze owner-operators' margins.
- This creates a discovery problem where unique independent stays are hidden despite rising consumer interest.
Renovation Story Converted Big-Chain Guests
- Brett describes how social media followers discovered Après Inn after watching their renovation story.
- Many followers admitted they were 'Hilton people' until seeing the authentic renovation content and then booked a stay.
Build A Direct-Connect Marketplace
- Build a specialized marketplace that focuses only on independent, non-franchised properties and connect travelers directly to owners.
- Avoid taking bookings on the platform and instead drive direct bookings to save hotels commission and simplify service.