Hospitality Daily Podcast

With extensive experience in strategic and creative marketing, Maurice Ajanaku specializes in crafting compelling brand narratives and executing innovative strategies that resonate. In this episode, we explore the essence of what makes a strong brand and how it transcends beyond mere logos to encompass every aspect of your hospitality business. What You'll Learn:The True Meaning of Branding: Discover why branding is more than just a logo and how it represents the personality and values of your business.Creating Emotional Connections: Learn how to make your brand resonate on a personal level and foster emotional connections with customers.The Power of Human Touch: Understand the importance of humanizing your product and the way you communicate with your audience.Case Study Insights: Gain knowledge from the "Citizens of the Bowery" campaign and how citizenM successfully integrated into a local community by highlighting its residents.Service Culture in Hospitality: Maurice discusses the significance of service culture and how it's essential for a memorable guest experience.Listening vs. Interviewing: Learn the subtle art of listening to your customers and employees to understand and improve your brand experience. 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

Dina Belon is President at Staypineapple Hotels. In this episode, she shares her insights and experiences on how Staypineapple is updating and improving its technology to empower its teams and enhance guest experiences.You will learn about:The Importance of Technology in Guest Services: Discover why Staypineapple is committed to a tech-forward approach behind the scenes while maintaining personal guest interactions.Selecting the Right Tech Stack: Understand the rigorous selection process Staypineapple used to choose their new PMS (Mews), CRM (Thynk), and housekeeping optimization tool (Optii).Guest-Centric Approach: Learn how Staypineapple places the guest at the center of their operations and how their technology choices reflect this philosophy.Implementation Strategies: Gain insights into the challenges and best practices of implementing new technology systems across multiple hotel properties.Feedback and Adaptation: Hear how Staypineapple values frontline team feedback in their tech implementation and the importance of adapting based on real-world usage.No time to listen? Get the top insights and practical takeaways here by email.Whether you're a hospitality professional, tech enthusiast, or just curious about the intersection of service and technology, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge on how to upgrade and implement new systems in a guest-centric business successfully.  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

Ashish Verma is Senior Vice President of the Luxury Division at the Unbound Collection by Hyatt. In this episode, you'll hear the practical steps his team takes to ensure each guest receives a personalized and exceptional experience.Listeners will learn about:The importance of a tailored guest experience in luxury hospitality.The role of a Guest Experiences Manager (GEM) in coordinating and synchronizing the efforts of various departments.The meticulous process of guest arrival, from personalized handwritten notes to the careful selection of amenities.Strategies for gathering guest information pre-arrival without being obtrusive, using email and phone calls with emotional intelligence.The significance of internal coordination and communication among team members in providing seamless service.No time to listen? Get the top insights and practical takeaways here by email.Tune in to discover how The Chatwal, voted the #1 hotel in New York City by Condé Nast Traveler, sets the standard for luxury stays and how you can apply these principles to elevate your own hospitality services. 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

Ashish Verma is Senior Vice President of the Luxury Division at the Unbound Collection by Hyatt. In this episode, he shares what truly defines luxury in the hospitality industry.Listeners will learn:The Essence of Luxury: Understand the importance of creating exceptional and personalized experiences for guests that go beyond the conventional definitions.Rejecting Mediocrity: Hear the significance of not settling for mediocrity, both professionally and personally, and the potential we have to achieve excellence.The Power of Preparation and Care: Gain insights into the meticulous planning and genuine care that go into crafting a luxury experience.Inspiring Excellence in Teams: Learn about Ashish's leadership philosophy, which drives him to enable and inspire his team to deliver their best. This philosophy aligns with Hyatt Hotels' credo of caring for people so they can be their best.Tune in to this inspiring episode to reconnect with the passion that drives the hospitality industry and to understand how luxury can be a transformative force for both guests and service providers. Whether you're in the hospitality business or simply a connoisseur of exceptional experiences, this conversation will leave you with a fresh perspective on luxury and the pursuit of excellence. 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

Ashish Verma is Senior Vice President of the Luxury Division at the Unbound Collection by Hyatt. In this episode, you will gain valuable knowledge from Ashish's extensive experience in the hospitality industry, learning about the key influences and lessons that have shaped his successful career.Listeners will discover:The importance of cultural roots in hospitality and how Indian traditions have influenced Ashish's approach to guest service.The significance of attention to detail and focus on quality he learned from his early days at Oberoi Hotels.The transition from working in India to international experiences in Europe and the United States, and how these diverse cultural exposures have enriched his leadership style.The blend of quality, people-centric leadership, and results-driven strategies that Ashish has embraced throughout his career.Insights into the transition from operational roles to corporate leadership and the skills required to excel at higher levels of management.The role of culture in creating an environment where team members from diverse backgrounds can excel and feel a sense of belonging and purpose.Strategies for hiring, integrating, and consistently engaging with team members to reinforce a culture of excellence and integrity.Tune in to this episode of Hospitality Daily to learn from a seasoned leader about building a career in hospitality, leading with a focus on quality, and fostering a culture that drives success.  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 week's episode of San Francisco Sundays, we're talking with Dina Belon, President at Staypineapple Hotels, whose property here is a TripAdvisor Traveler's Choice award winner for San Francisco. Listen to hear the story of how they began working with this property, improved it, and used the hotel to welcome people to our beautiful city. 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

Dina Belon is President at Staypineapple Hotels. In this episode, she shares her perspective on the importance of being an active participant in the hospitality industry and how it can advance your business and the sector as a whole.Listeners will learn about:The significance of engaging with the broader hospitality industry and the benefits it brings to individual businesses.The unique approach of Staypineapple Hotels to the boutique hotel model and how it contrasts with branded hotels.Dina's personal mission to propel the hospitality industry forward and her strategies for doing so.An overview of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) and the resources it offers, especially for independent and boutique hotel owners.The AHLA Foundation's initiatives, including the ForWard Conference in Chicago, aimed at mentoring and educating women leaders in hospitality.Staypineapple's impressive diversity statistics and the culture that fosters inclusivity and opportunity for all employees.The newly formed Independent and Boutique Hotel Committee at AHLA and how it seeks to amplify the voice of independent operators within the industry.Whether you're a hospitality professional looking to expand your network, a boutique hotel owner seeking resources and support, or someone passionate about diversity and inclusion in the workplace, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.  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, we're joined by Anthony Melchiorri, host of the new show "Hotel All-Stars." Anthony shares his knowledge of hiring in the hospitality industry, the essential qualities for success, and effective leadership in today's hotel landscape.Listeners will learn:Anthony's insights on the magic of working in hospitality and what it takes to succeed in this dynamic field.The importance of emotional intelligence and a service-oriented mindset in hospitality roles.Strategies for hiring managers to identify candidates with the right traits for hospitality success.The impact of training and culture on employee performance and satisfaction.The significance of flexibility and adaptability in the hospitality industry, especially in the context of the current job market.Real-life examples of how to handle mistakes in the workplace and use them as learning opportunities.The role of actions in defining and shaping organizational culture within the hospitality sector.Whether you're a seasoned professional or considering a career in hospitality, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways that will help you reach your goals and delight others in the process.Learn more about AnthonyLearn more about Anthony's book, Show UpFollow Anthony on LinkedInFollow Anthony on YouTubeListen to Anthony's podcast with Glenn Haussman, No VacancyListen to my other episodes with Anthony: Show UpWhat It Will Take To Win Today: Advice for Hotel Owners, Brands, and Management Companies 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, Jen Murphy, a travel writer for publications such as the Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, Travel and Leisure, and Condé Nast Traveler (among other publications), shares what she's seeing and excited about in hospitality today.Listeners will learn about:The rise of specialized retreats, such as hiking and wellness-focused getaways, and how properties like Sensei Lanai and Palazzo Fiuggi are innovating in this space.The shift towards purposeful travel post-pandemic, with travelers seeking trips that cater to specific needs, whether it's for relaxation, cultural enrichment, or personal health.The diversification of wellness travel, including retreats for women going through menopause and those focused on sexual health.The importance of understanding guests' intentions and personalizing their experience to make their stay truly hospitable.Real-life examples of exceptional hospitality that go beyond grand gestures, highlighting the impact of personal touches and thoughtful surprises on guest satisfaction.This engaging conversation that will inspire you to rethink the way you approach hospitality and create memorable experiences for your guests. Whether you're a hospitality professional or simply passionate about travel, this episode is packed with valuable insights and heartwarming stories that showcase the power of a personal touch. 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

Don Barnett is the Director of Sales and Marketing at LondonHouse Chicago.  In this episode, we discuss how to effectively collaborate with influencers to grow your hospitality business.Listeners will learn:The Value of Influencers in Hospitality: Discover why influencers can be a powerful asset for your hospitality business and how they can impact your growth and reputation.Micro vs. Macro Influencers: Understand the difference between micro and local influencers versus national or international ones - and which can give you the best return on investment.Real-life Success Stories: Hear about successful partnerships and how they can lead to immediate results, such as a significant increase in reservations.Platform-Specific Strategies: Find out why Instagram is the go-to platform for hotels and the challenges and opportunities presented by other platforms like TikTok.Vetting Process for Influencers: Learn the criteria for selecting the right influencers for your brand, including the "eye test" and tools to assess engagement rates.Effective Collaboration Tips: Gain insights into the most productive ways to work with influencers, including setting clear deliverables and using trade-outs wisely.Content Creation Opportunities: Explore how to obtain high-quality user-generated content and professional photography or videography through strategic collaborations.Whether you're looking to increase your visibility, enhance your brand, or drive direct bookings, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in the hospitality industry. 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