Hospitality Daily Podcast

In this episode, Matthias Huettebraeuker interviews Hans Meyer, the co-founder and managing director of Zoku, about what he is observing in the market 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

Discover the secrets behind successful hospitality innovation with insights from Hans Meyer, co-founder of Zoku. Learn how essential research and guest feedback can transform experiences. Explore innovative strategies inspired by other industries, and see the importance of adaptability and prototyping. Embrace a growth mindset for continuous learning and innovation, and find out how sharing insights can elevate your team. This discussion is packed with actionable tips for anyone in the hospitality sector!

Hans Meyer, co-founder and managing director of Zoku, shares his visionary approach to the future of hospitality. He delves into the unique hybrid model that blends home, office, and hotel experiences, specifically crafted for modern travelers. Meyer emphasizes the importance of fostering human connections and community among guests. Additionally, he discusses how innovative design and technology cater to evolving traveler needs, revolutionizing hotel spaces into multifunctional environments that adapt to a post-COVID-19 world.

Discover the revolutionary journey of citizenM, a hotel brand that reshaped hospitality by focusing on guest needs instead of industry trends. Hans Meyer shares insights on innovating from scratch and creating a unique experience for modern travelers. The conversation underscores the importance of a people-centric design approach, advocating for collaboration in the industry to enhance guest satisfaction. This fresh perspective invites listeners to rethink their understanding of hospitality and embrace what truly resonates with customers.

David Jackson, President & CEO of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce, discusses the pivotal role of hospitality in community resilience, especially after hurricanes. He highlights how local hotels became lifelines during crises, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among businesses. Jackson shares inspiring stories of how community engagement and storytelling can transform lives and bolster tourism. He also advocates for prioritizing employee well-being while serving those in need, showcasing the profound impact of united efforts in the hospitality sector.

Exciting news as the show celebrates being recognized as the top hospitality podcast for 2025! The host expresses gratitude for the supportive community and invites listeners to contribute their thoughts and suggestions. Upcoming changes, including new co-hosts, promise to add fresh perspectives. It's a call to action for everyone in the hospitality industry to engage and collaborate, making this a pivotal moment for listeners to get involved.

Frits van Paasschen discusses the transformative role of AI in hospitality. He highlights how technology can personalize guest experiences and strengthen customer relationships. The conversation also addresses the need for collaboration between industry leaders and tech experts, especially with the rise of generative AI. Emphasizing the importance of maintaining human connections, he promotes a culture of teamwork and continuous learning in the industry, urging listeners to engage and share insights.

Frits van Paasschen, the former CEO of Starwood Hotels & Resorts and author of The Disruptor's Feast, shares profound insights on hospitality leadership. He emphasizes the importance of following long-term trends over fleeting headlines. Frits discusses the industry's potential for social impact and environmental responsibility, highlighting how travel can bridge cultural gaps. He also dives into the significance of adaptability, innovation in guest experiences, and fostering growth and collaboration among teams in navigating industry challenges.

Frits van Paasschen, former CEO of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, discusses his journey in transforming company culture. He tackles the challenges of fostering teamwork and collaboration, particularly during times of crisis like the 2009 financial downturn. Frits emphasizes the critical importance of trust and transparency, revealing how these elements can drive innovation and organizational success. He also shares effective strategies for enhancing communication and strengthening team morale, making a compelling case for cultural evolution in hospitality.

Frits van Paasschen, former CEO of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, reflects on his transformative career in hospitality. He discusses the delicate balance between anecdotal evidence and data in leadership, emphasizing the power of engagement. Personal stories from his childhood highlight how authentic hospitality shapes leadership styles. Frits advocates for mentorship and the corporate responsibility of nurturing future leaders through diverse experiences, merging innovation with emotional intelligence to drive growth and social equity.