In this episode, Maria Loleyt, CEO of Plurana, shares her insights into what makes luxury hotels exceptional based on interviews with dozens of hotel leaders and analysis of over 1.2 million guest reviews. She explains how hotels can go beyond merely providing clean and beautiful spaces to creating emotional connections that delight sophisticated travelers.What You’ll Learn:How luxury hotels create emotional connections with guests through personalization and cultural integration.Why both exclusive access and simple joys are critical to exceptional hospitality.The rise of the sophisticated traveler and how their expectations are reshaping the industry.How cultural elements and storytelling within hotels can elevate the guest experience.Practical examples of how hotels are integrating art, history, and local culture into their offerings.The role of technology in creating immersive, culturally rich experiences for hotel guests.How focusing on small, thoughtful touches can differentiate a hotel and build guest loyalty.Download the report: Beyond the Suite - Cultural and Market Trends in European 5-Star HotelsSend Josiah a text Sign up for the Mint Pillow newsletter and start receiving the independent hotel industry’s freshest newsletter today. Take my State of Hotel Industry Survey now to get insights on challenges, priorities, and opportunities in hospitality today.A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Teddy Albertson shares how blending creativity with practicality can transform spaces, revitalize cities, and create unique, memorable experiences that drive foot traffic and engagement.What you’ll learn by listening:How art and immersive experiences can revitalize urban areas and hospitality spaces.The unique collaboration between Teddy and artist Mike Bennett to create public joy in Portland.Why "attainable joy" is a key factor in creating inclusive, repeatable experiences.The importance of meeting people where they are with accessible and family-friendly activities.Lessons hospitality leaders can apply to create one-of-a-kind guest experiences.Resources:Mike Bennett ArtFollow Mike on Instagram at @MikeBennettArtLearn more about Wonderwood SpringsWatch a video about WonderwoodSend Josiah a text Sign up for the Mint Pillow newsletter and start receiving the independent hotel industry’s freshest newsletter today. Take my State of Hotel Industry Survey now to get insights on challenges, priorities, and opportunities in hospitality today.A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Eric Jafari, founder of AENDRE Group, shares how stepping out of your comfort zone and immersing yourself in new experiences can spark ideas that transform the way that you provide hospitality.We talk about:How blending ancient traditions with modern design can drive innovation in hospitality.The importance of immersing yourself in different cultures to challenge and expand your reality.The idea of merging different traditions and experiences, such as Scandinavian saunas and cold immersion with music and breathwork.The potential of creating natural, immersive experiences within urban settings.In this conversation, Eric and I also talk about Apple, Da Vinci, Elon Musk, Othership, Onsens (Japanese hot spring), Aman and Six Senses,Send Josiah a text Sign up for the Mint Pillow newsletter and start receiving the independent hotel industry’s freshest newsletter today. Take my State of Hotel Industry Survey now to get insights on challenges, priorities, and opportunities in hospitality today.A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Eric Jafari, founder of AENDRE Group, shares insights into the evolution of hospitality innovation and how it can shape the future of the industry.You'll learn about:The origins of the lifestyle hotel movement in the 1980s.How Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager transformed the Executive Hotel in New York.The role of status and self-worth in the success of lifestyle hotels.The shift in priorities from status to self-actualization among Gen Z and millennials.The importance of wellness in modern hospitality.How hotels can create meaningful experiences and build a sense of community.The impact of social media on the perception of status and self-worth.The significance of understanding your target consumer in the hospitality industry.Send Josiah a text Sign up for the Mint Pillow newsletter and start receiving the independent hotel industry’s freshest newsletter today. Take my State of Hotel Industry Survey now to get insights on challenges, priorities, and opportunities in hospitality today.A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Eric Jafari, founder of AENDRE Group, shares the story of an eye-opening experience that redefined his understanding of wellness and innovation in the hospitality industry.You'll learn about:The historic role of alcohol as a "social lubricant" and its impact on social interactions.How the Gen Z consumer's reduced alcohol consumption is influencing new social experiences.The concept of wellness resorts and how they can offer more than just relaxation.Eric's personal experience at a wellness concept in Toronto that combined elements of a beach club with traditional wellness activities.The potential for creating hospitality experiences that leave guests feeling healthier and more connected.In this episode, Eric mentions:Stealing Fire (book)Burning Man (festival)Othership (wellness concept)Barry's Bootcamp (gym)Send Josiah a text Sign up for the Mint Pillow newsletter and start receiving the independent hotel industry’s freshest newsletter today. Take my State of Hotel Industry Survey now to get insights on challenges, priorities, and opportunities in hospitality today.A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Eric Jafari, founder of AENDRE Group, shares his journey from a stable career in real estate investment to redefining hospitality through innovative concepts. You'll learn:Why predictability stifles innovation in the hospitality industry.How culture shapes risk-taking and the importance of embracing trial and error.The disconnect between traditional hotel investments and consumer preferences.Insights into the creation and success of the Locke hotel concept.The evolving definition of wellness in the context of modern hospitality.In this conversation, Eric and I also talk about Claus Sendlinger at Design Hotels, Future Labs, the Independent Lodging Congress, SoulCycle, and Barry's Bootcamp.Send Josiah a text Sign up for the Mint Pillow newsletter and start receiving the independent hotel industry’s freshest newsletter today. Take my State of Hotel Industry Survey now to get insights on challenges, priorities, and opportunities in hospitality today.A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Adele Gutman, the former head of sales, marketing, and revenue at The Library Hotel Collection, shares her journey of driving guest satisfaction to the top of the charts through team empowerment and operational excellence - and the impact that had on demand and revenue.You may also enjoy these with Adele:Stop Fighting Fires: Building a Culture of Problem Solvers in Your Hotel (podcast)Watch Us Build an AI Bot to Answer Hotel Reviews (YouTube)Send Josiah a text Sign up for the Mint Pillow newsletter and start receiving the independent hotel industry’s freshest newsletter today. Take my State of Hotel Industry Survey now to get insights on challenges, priorities, and opportunities in hospitality today.A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Adele Gutman shares insights on effectively responding to hotel guest feedback to prevent future issues and improve guest satisfaction and team morale.Watch Us Build an AI Bot to Answer Hotel Reviews (YouTube)Send Josiah a text Sign up for the Mint Pillow newsletter and start receiving the independent hotel industry’s freshest newsletter today. Take my State of Hotel Industry Survey now to get insights on challenges, priorities, and opportunities in hospitality today.A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Ken Barber, founder of Wildhaven, shares his journey of building a thriving nature-based hospitality brand that helps guests slow down, reconnect, and escape the chaos of daily life.Listen now to learn:How Wildhaven has evolved from its early days to a thriving hospitality brand with locations in Sonoma and Yosemite.The importance of blending comfort with the beauty of the outdoors.Insights into product development and creating amenities that cater to guests' needs.The significance of providing clean and well-maintained communal spaces.The role of nature in enhancing the guest experience and promoting relaxation.The unique considerations of providing hospitality to families and groups.The market opportunity and durability of the glamping industry.The benefits of working in the glamping industry and the unique work-life balance it offers.Future plans for Wildhaven, including expansion and new amenities.See my review of Wildhaven on YouTubeSend Josiah a text Sign up for the Mint Pillow newsletter and start receiving the independent hotel industry’s freshest newsletter today. Take my State of Hotel Industry Survey now to get insights on challenges, priorities, and opportunities in hospitality today.A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, Mark Fancourt, founder and principal of TRAVHOTECH, shares insights into the evolving landscape of hospitality technology, drawing from his extensive experience leading technology for both hospitality companies and solution providers. Chapters:Takeaways from ILHA & How Mark Learns About Tech and Innovation (01:40)Why Work in Hospitality? (05:47)Why Luxury Hospitality Is Critical to Watch (08:06)What’s Exciting in Hotel Technology Today? (10:59)Hotel-Specific vs. Big Tech Solutions (16:16)CRM vs. PMS: Key Differences and Opportunities (18:37)Build vs. Buy: The Technology Decision for Hotels (23:45)The One Technology Hotels Can’t Buy Today (24:40)Lessons from Past Tech Cycles for the AI Boom (25:58)The Potential of AI-Powered Voice Technology (27:56)How Technology Bridges Language Barriers in Travel (30:36)The Mindset Shift Required to Benefit from Technology (33:49)How to Sell Technology Internally and Secure Approvals (36:09)Technology as a Competitive Advantage in Hospitality (38:42)Flywheels and Exponential Outcomes in Hotel Technology (42:01)Do You Need New Technology or Better Education? (42:37)Building Long-Term Relationships with Technology Providers (45:41)Case Study: Technology Excellence at Peninsula Hotels (48:50)What the Hospitality Industry Can Learn from Other Industries (52:49)Read Mark's article: Where does hotel PMS software sit in the new hospitality technology stack?If you liked this, you may also enjoy: Creative but Practical Uses for AI Today in Hotel Sales, Marketing, and Revenue Management (Takeaways From HSMAI's Latest Event) - Lou ZamerykaSend Josiah a text Sign up for the Mint Pillow newsletter and start receiving the independent hotel industry’s freshest newsletter today. Take my State of Hotel Industry Survey now to get insights on challenges, priorities, and opportunities in hospitality today.A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands