In this solo episode, I share my thoughts on the recent SausalitoCongress from the Independent Lodging Congress and my top takeaways from that event.Also see:How We Produce The Best Events in Hospitality - Meg Gutowski, The Independent Lodging CongressRoad Trips & Revelations: Fresh Ideas for Hospitality - Meg Kennedy & Rob Blood, Lark HotelsBe a VOICE, not an ECHO! (Bashar Wali article)Indie Lodging Congress Confab Palm Springs 2024 RecapHospitality Daily LinkedIn page This episode is brought to you with support from Shiji Group, the global hospitality technology leader that helps hotels streamline operations and transform guest experiences. Recognized by their clients for their best-in-class solutions and exceptional service and support, Shiji Group is trusted by leading brands worldwide to activate technology faster, increase operational efficiency, and drive better business results.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, Jessie Fischer, Founder & CEO of GuestOS and Member of the Board of Yosemite Tourism, shares invaluable lessons about blending hospitality, community, and the outdoors to create unforgettable guest experiences.We cover:Jessie's storyHow to create deeper connections with guestsWhy nature-based experiences are more relevant than everHow engaging with your local community can elevate your businessThe importance of understanding and participating in the broader tourism ecosystemThe unique challenges and benefits of providing hospitality in remote locationsThe role of technology in modern hospitality and the importance of balancing it with natureTips for first-time visitors to Yosemite National ParkJessie's recommendations: "These spots are fantastic if it’s your first visit to Yosemite."Glacier PointLower Yosemite FallsTunnel ViewBridalveil FallsTuolumne Meadows Tenaya Lake This episode is brought to you with support from Shiji Group, the global hospitality technology leader that helps hotels streamline operations and transform guest experiences. Recognized by their clients for their best-in-class solutions and exceptional service and support, Shiji Group is trusted by leading brands worldwide to activate technology faster, increase operational efficiency, and drive better business results.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

This episode is brought to you with support from Hireology. Check out our free masterclass: How To Hire Great People, Faster.In this episode, Meg Kennedy and Rob Blood, founders of Lark Hotels, share their insights on creativity in hospitality and their recent experiences during a road trip in Northern California.Listen to learn: How Meg and Rob approach research and draw inspiration for their hospitality services.Extended stay hospitality and its potential rebranding opportunities.Insights from their stays at various hotels and resorts in Northern California.The importance of family-friendly accommodations and the specific needs of traveling families.The creative process behind developing their hotel brands, including Bluebird and Blind Tiger.The value of partnerships and local connections in enhancing guest experiences.The idea of using resort passes as an amenity rather than competition.The significance of access as a form of luxury in the hospitality industry.Mentions:Independent Lodging Congress (00:40)Dawn Ranch (03:09)AWOL (a Lark brand) (03:54)Bluebird (a Lark brand) (05:39)Calistoga Motor Lodge (07:11)Stanley Ranch (Auberge Resorts Collection) (08:02)ResortPass (08:30)Blind Tiger (a Lark brand)Ryan Miller (lead singer of Guster)Listen to our previous episodes with Meg & Rob:How We Created An Award-Winning Boutique Hotel Management and Development CompanyIn This episode is brought to you with support from Shiji Group, the global hospitality technology leader that helps hotels streamline operations and transform guest experiences. Recognized by their clients for their best-in-class solutions and exceptional service and support, Shiji Group is trusted by leading brands worldwide to activate technology faster, increase operational efficiency, and drive better business results.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

This episode is brought to you with support from Hireology. Check out our free masterclass: How To Hire Great People, Faster.In this episode, Jyoti Chopra, the Chief People, Inclusion, and Sustainability Officer at MGM Resorts International, shares how AI and technology are transforming HR and learning and development at MGM Resorts.In this, we cover:How MGM Resorts is leveraging technology to propel careers forward.Learning from top innovators like Microsoft, IBM, and Workday.Real-world examples of AI-driven tools, such as micro-courses and digital assistants.The impact of technology and data on HR transformation.Future plans for AI-powered HR support at MGM Resorts.The importance of staying ahead with technology in the hospitality industry.Jyoti's sources of inspiration today.Mentions:IBM WatsonWorkday Rising conferenceIf you liked this, you may also like these other episodes:AI & Hotel Tech Bets For Our People-First Approach - Dina Belon, Staypineapple HotelsWhere The Real AI Revolution Is Happening Now in Hospitality - Stuart Greif, Forbes Travel GuideThe Next Frontier: Innovation at the Edges of Hospitality - Jason Himber, MINA GroupInnovation Starts Here: Removing Barriers in the Hospitality Industry - Adam Zembruski This episode is brought to you with support from Shiji Group, the global hospitality technology leader that helps hotels streamline operations and transform guest experiences. Recognized by their clients for their best-in-class solutions and exceptional service and support, Shiji Group is trusted by leading brands worldwide to activate technology faster, increase operational efficiency, and drive better business results.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

This episode is brought to you with support from Hireology. Check out our free masterclass: How To Hire Great People, Faster.In this episode, Kevin Osterhaus, President of Global Lifestyle Brands at Hilton, shares his journey and insights on integrating lifestyle hotels into one of the world's largest hotel companies.In this, you'll learn:The reasons behind Kevin's move from Graduate Hotels to Hilton.The growing trend of big hotel companies acquiring lifestyle brands.Strategies for maintaining momentum while leveraging the resources of a global leader.The importance of scale in the hospitality industry.How Hilton will double the size of its lifestyle portfolio in the next three years.The role of independent brands and the benefits of Hilton's commercial "machine."Innovation within a larger corporate context.The significance of having a founder mentality in driving creativity and problem-solving.The importance of attracting and retaining top talent in the hospitality industry.If you liked this, you'll also like these other episodes:Investing in Education: The Graduate Academy Program - Kevin OsterhausWorking With The LeBron James Family Foundation and Saira Hospitality to Empower Communities - Kevin OsterhausHow We Build Strong Brands - Chris Silcock, Hilton This episode is brought to you with support from Shiji Group, the global hospitality technology leader that helps hotels streamline operations and transform guest experiences. Recognized by their clients for their best-in-class solutions and exceptional service and support, Shiji Group is trusted by leading brands worldwide to activate technology faster, increase operational efficiency, and drive better business results.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

This episode is brought to you with support from Hireology. Check out our free masterclass: How To Hire Great People, Faster.In this episode, Jason Himber, CEO of MINA Group, shares why a lack of strong, developed leaders is compounding staffing challenges in the hospitality industry and reveals his unique strategies to build a pipeline of empowered, adaptable leaders essential for driving success.Listeners will learn:Why traditional approaches to leadership aren't working in hospitality.Strategies to create a culture of honest feedback.The importance of launching hands-on development programs.How to measure leadership development within an organization.The significance of being honest with employees about their performance.The benefits of creating "micro-cultures" within different locations.The mindset required to lead and create a culture of leadership.The concept of an "excellence team" and its impact on leadership development. This episode is brought to you with support from Shiji Group, the global hospitality technology leader that helps hotels streamline operations and transform guest experiences. Recognized by their clients for their best-in-class solutions and exceptional service and support, Shiji Group is trusted by leading brands worldwide to activate technology faster, increase operational efficiency, and drive better business results.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

Jason Himber, CEO of MINA Group, shares his journey leading a hospitality empire founded by celebrity chef Michael Mina. He reveals how a strategic pause in expansion allowed for stronger foundations and long-term success. The discussion dives into balancing operational efficiency with creativity while adapting to workforce changes post-pandemic. Himber emphasizes the importance of letting employees learn from failure and fostering an environment of trust and collaboration to cultivate innovation.

This episode is brought to you with support from Hireology. Check out our free masterclass: How To Hire Great People, Faster.In this episode, Jason Himber, CEO of MINA Group, shares his insights on how hospitality is pushing boundaries and blending with retail, entertainment, and even office spaces.Listeners will learn:How the line between food and beverage and other industries is becoming blurred (00:25)How F&B is being infused into retail experiences, entertainment concepts, and office buildings (01:35)How hotels are going through a renaissance in their focus on food and beverage (02:38)Ways hotels could better utilize their often underutilized kitchens to keep more consumers on premise (02:49)How food and beverage is still at the center of everything we do, even as new frontiers like AI emerge (03:29)How innovations in the food and beverage industry are driven by experience, not just tech and automation (03:50)Mentions:LVMH (01:46)Uber Eats (03:04)DoorDash (03:04) This episode is brought to you with support from Shiji Group, the global hospitality technology leader that helps hotels streamline operations and transform guest experiences. Recognized by their clients for their best-in-class solutions and exceptional service and support, Shiji Group is trusted by leading brands worldwide to activate technology faster, increase operational efficiency, and drive better business results.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, Jason Himber, CEO of MINA Group, shares his unconventional journey from working with fast-food franchises to leading a fine dining empire, offering insights on leadership, overcoming challenges, and succeeding in the hospitality industry.Listeners will learn:The three things that made Jason "hooked" on hospitalityWhy hospitality levels the playing field of opportunityThe story of turning around KFCThe importance of building alignment and relevancy Why being overprepared is crucial for successThe value of being fearlessStrategies for overcoming imposter syndrome This episode is brought to you with support from Shiji Group, the global hospitality technology leader that helps hotels streamline operations and transform guest experiences. Recognized by their clients for their best-in-class solutions and exceptional service and support, Shiji Group is trusted by leading brands worldwide to activate technology faster, increase operational efficiency, and drive better business results.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, Leanne Harwood, SVP and Managing Director of Luxury and Lifestyle Brands in the Americas for IHG, shares her fascinating career journey from bartending at a ski resort to leading six iconic hotel brands across the Americas.Listeners will learn:The pivotal moments that shaped Leanne's career, including her first expat role in Vietnam (02:45) and transitioning from hotel operations to corporate leadership (07:56)Practical tips for adapting to new cultures and environments when moving for work (04:38)The importance of mentorship in building confidence and navigating unfamiliar settings (09:42)Strategies for staying calm and composed under pressure (13:19)Mentions:Vietnam (02:56)Saigon (03:17)Australia (03:06)Georgia, USA (07:18)Europe (10:22)New Zealand (10:43)Karin Sheppard, Managing Director for Europe at IHG (10:11)Listen to more episodes with Leanne: Scent, Spice, and Service: The Sensory World of Six SensesInside IHG’s People Programs: Creating Leaders in HospitalityThe Secret to Profit and Guest Satisfaction? Clarity in Leadership This episode is brought to you with support from Shiji Group, the global hospitality technology leader that helps hotels streamline operations and transform guest experiences. Recognized by their clients for their best-in-class solutions and exceptional service and support, Shiji Group is trusted by leading brands worldwide to activate technology faster, increase operational efficiency, and drive better business results.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