What if a hotel could do more than offer a comfortable stay? What if it could become a force for positive change—for its guests, its employees, and the planet? In this episode, we're learning from with Ken and Pam Cruse, co-founders of Soul Community Planet (SCP) Hotels, a groundbreaking hospitality brand dedicated to transforming the industry.Drawing from their extensive backgrounds in hotel investment and marketing, Ken and Pam share how SCP is redefining hospitality with a purpose-driven approach that blends wellness, sustainability, and community impact. You'll hear how they’re pioneering the concept of "regenerative hospitality," focusing on building hotels that not only serve their guests but also strengthen the surrounding communities and preserve the planet.From innovative retrofitting strategies to eco-friendly amenities and partnerships with local artisans, Ken and Pam dive into the unique elements that make SCP Hotels an industry standout. They also discuss the importance of creating authentic guest experiences that encourage connection, mindfulness, and well-being—all while making a lasting impact on both people and the planet.Whether you're a hospitality leader looking to innovate, a business professional interested in sustainability, or simply curious about the future of conscious travel, this episode offers insights and inspiration on how values-based hospitality can change the way we travel.This episode covers:SCP’s purpose-driven mission and the principles behind their “holistic hospitality” approach.How regenerative hospitality goes beyond sustainability to actively benefit guests, employees, and communities.SCP’s innovative retrofitting strategies and their impact on both guest experience and environmental sustainability.How SCP’s unique values and operating model build loyalty, drive positive guest experiences, and create long-term community partnerships.Resources:Soul Community Planet Hotels – Learn more about SCP’s mission, locations, and offerings.Connect with Ken and Pam Cruse on LinkedIn to follow their journey and insights onSend Josiah a text Take the Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality survey now to understand how others use AI and the opportunities for you and your hospitality business.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

Natalie Clafton shares a question after listening to Leanne Harwood's career story. What do you think?Send Josiah a textA 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 sit down with Lily Ackerman, founder and director of Ackerman Design Studios, to explore the transformative power of art in hospitality. With a background spanning luxury automobiles to fine art curation, Lily shares her unique insights on how design and art create memorable, joy-filled guest experiences. From personal influences and pivotal career moments to her innovative collaborations with emerging and established artists, Lily dives deep into the role of art as a tool for storytelling and connection in hospitality today.Join us as we uncover how art can go beyond decoration to evoke emotion, build narratives, and strengthen relationships between guests and hospitality providers. Whether you're a hotelier, designer, or art enthusiast, this episode offers practical insights and inspiration on how to use art and design to craft spaces that truly resonate.In This Episode, You'll Learn:The Emotional Power of Art in Hospitality: Why art is more than an aesthetic choice and how it can forge lasting emotional connections with guests.Lily's Unique Path from Hospitality to Art: How Lily's family background in hospitality and her early career working with luxury brands like Ferrari shaped her approach to art and design.Storytelling Through Art: Discover how curated art can serve as a powerful storytelling tool, adding depth and personality to guest spaces.The Art of Curating for Connection: Insights on finding and selecting artists whose work aligns with a brand's values and the guest experience it aims to deliver.Practical Tips for Hospitality Leaders: How to begin incorporating art into your own spaces, from identifying the right pieces to creating a cohesive guest journey that feels both inspiring and authentic.Supporting Emerging Artists: Why working with up-and-coming artists can bring fresh perspectives and help build a unique brand identity that stands out.Links & Resources:Follow Ackerman Studios on Instagram for the latest projects and updates: @ackermanstudiosSend Josiah a text Take the Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality survey now to understand how others use AI and the opportunities for you and your hospitality business.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 explore a largely overlooked segment in the hospitality industry: kids, teens, and families. While many hotels focus on adult experiences, there’s a growing opportunity to cater meaningfully to younger guests. Joining us today are Saar Shai and Alicia Zur-Szpiro, founders of Wanderland, the world’s first consultancy specializing in kids' and teens' guest experiences within the hospitality sector. With backgrounds in game design, toy innovation, and children’s publishing, Saar and Alicia bring a fresh perspective on designing engaging, imaginative, and memorable experiences that attract and retain families.In this episode, we cover:Why Kids & Teens Matter: Saar and Alicia share insights into how younger guests influence family travel decisions, revealing stats and stories about the significant impact kids and teens have on trip planning, from hotel choices to brand loyalty.From Yo-Yos to Loyalty: A small gesture can make a big impression! Hear Alicia’s story of how a simple yo-yo gift became the highlight of a family trip, showcasing the power of small, thoughtful touches in creating loyalty among young guests.The Business Case for Kid-Friendly Hospitality: Discover why catering to young guests goes beyond amenities. From revenue potential to brand partnerships with kids' industries, there are strategic advantages for hotels willing to invest in family-friendly experiences.Designing for Different Ages: Not all kids are the same! The episode explores the nuances of catering to various age groups, including infants, kids, tweens, and teens, and why a tailored approach matters.Translating Game Design Principles to Hospitality: With backgrounds in game design, Saar and Alicia discuss how principles like creating anticipation, surprise, and continuity can be adapted to hospitality to engage young guests at every touchpoint.Long-Term Loyalty Starts Young: Building a positive brand connection with kids and teens can foster lifelong loyalty. Learn how hotels can create lasting memories for the whole familSend Josiah a text Take the Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality survey now to understand how others use AI and the opportunities for you and your hospitality business.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 special episode, we explore the transformative role of hospitality in bridging divides, fostering empathy, and building community across cultural and political lines. Listen for insights from recent conversations with hospitality leaders across the US and around the world who believe in hospitality’s ability to bring people together despite differences.In this episode, you'll hear from:Ashli Johnson, Founder of Hospitality Hued: Ashli discusses how hospitality, when centered around serving others, can be a force for unity in both personal and professional spheres.Sarah Eustis, CEO of Main Street Hospitality: Sarah describes her hotel’s open-door policy that invites people from all walks of life, fostering inclusivity and meaningful dialogue.Jason Himber, CEO of MINA Group: Jason emphasizes how sharing a meal can break down barriers, facilitating open, relaxed conversations even in challenging circumstances.Christopher Hunsberger, COO of Appellation: Christopher reflects on the importance of diversity in hospitality, both within teams and among guests, as a way to build empathy and understanding.Charlie MacGregor, Founder of The Social Hub: Charlie speaks about creating safe spaces where people can express diverse perspectives and connect without fear of judgment.Kara Bartelt, GM of The Hoxton in Los Angeles: Kara discusses her hotel’s proactive involvement in the local community, helping to revitalize downtown Los Angeles through engagement and advocacy.Christopher Randall, Director of Community Impact at 21c Museum Hotel in St. Louis: Christopher shares how his hotel supports community empowerment through inclusivity and access to resources.Harsha L’Aqua, Founder of Saira Hospitality: Harsha reflects on her philanthropic journey inspired by Mother Teresa, discussing Saira's approach to combining hospitality with meaningful social impact.Send Josiah a text Take the Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality survey now to understand how others use AI and the opportunities for you and your hospitality business.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

Today, we’re revisiting a conversation with a guest who has profoundly impacted me and, I believe, represents the true potential of hospitality. Craig Poole, a three-time Hilton Connie Award winner and the American Hotel and Lodging Association’s General Manager of the Year, has set an incredible example at the DoubleTree in Reading, Pennsylvania. His hotel excels financially and has redefined what it means to be a community cornerstone.Craig’s story offers a powerful reminder of how hospitality can drive transformation—not only for guests but for employees and entire neighborhoods and cities. His work shows us that when we genuinely care for people, we inspire loyalty, change lives, and create long-lasting impacts on communities. Craig hires locally, often bringing in people who others might overlook, including those with past challenges. His approach to “second chance hiring” and deep community engagement has turned his hotel into a place of opportunity and pride for the city.Listen in to hear how Craig has created a culture of selflessness, where “loving people where they’re at” goes hand-in-hand with business success. His vision is about more than just a hotel; it's about creating a place where people feel a part of, valued and supported. His words remind us that hospitality is about more than beds and meals—it’s about hearts and lives. Craig’s journey shows us that when we lead with purpose and stand behind our people, we create waves of positive change that ripple far beyond the walls of our businesses.Also see: Follow Me and I Will Be Behind You (Craig's documentary)Send Josiah a text Take the Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality survey now to understand how others use AI and the opportunities for you and your hospitality business.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 today’s episode, we’re joined by Jyoti Chopra, Chief People, Inclusion, and Sustainability Officer at MGM Resorts International, whose inspiring career journey has taken her from the iconic United Nations headquarters in New York to the vibrant world of Las Vegas hospitality. Jyoti’s path is anything but typical—starting as a journalism student surrounded by international diplomats, she eventually found her way into the hospitality industry, where she now leads MGM’s initiatives in human resources, inclusion, and environmental sustainability.Whether you’re a hospitality professional or simply someone interested in the stories that define our industry, Jyoti’s journey offers profound lessons on the human side of hospitality, leadership, and the power of connecting with people from all walks of life.Listen to how Jyoti's unique background shapes her work at MGM Resorts and inspires her mission to make every moment count.Send Josiah a text Take the Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality survey now to understand how others use AI and the opportunities for you and your hospitality business.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

What does it take to create a hotel restaurant that becomes a local culinary hotspot that guests can’t wait to experience—and locals can’t stop recommending? In this episode, we dive deep into the art and strategy behind creating unforgettable hotel dining experiences with the experts at Allday, a Milwaukee-based collective of hospitality innovators.Our returning guest, Brigette Harenda, founder of B&Co., is joined by a powerhouse team: Chef Dan Jacobs, Top Chef finalist and co-owner of Milwaukee favorites DanDan and EsterEv; Brian Polster, Owner and Creative Director of Three Sixty; Ryan Foat, Project Director at Three Sixty; and Jeffrey Raddatz, Vice President at B&Co. Together, they reveal the secrets behind crafting dining spaces that attract loyal guests, build community, and amplify a hotel’s brand.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:The Power of Collaboration: How Allday brings together culinary, design, and branding expertise to deliver a seamless guest experience.Creating a Story-Driven Space: Why a strong narrative is essential for building a memorable dining environment that resonates with guests.Designing for Both Locals and Travelers: How to make your hotel’s restaurant feel like an authentic part of the neighborhood, drawing in locals while creating a unique experience for out-of-towners.The Allday Approach to F&B: Practical steps for planning, branding, and designing a cohesive dining space, from market research to operational flow.What Makes a Culinary Hotspot Last: Insights into building spaces that attract guests and resonate with the community over time.Whether you’re a developer planning a new build, a hotel manager looking to revamp your F&B program, or an aspiring hospitality entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you create a dining destination that guests can’t stop talking about.Send Josiah a text Take the Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality survey now to understand how others use AI and the opportunities for you and your hospitality business.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, Sarah Eustis, Founder and CEO of Main Street Hospitality Group, shares her story and vision for hotels that serve as community anchors.Listeners will learn:How Sarah built a company that balances creative innovation with operational excellence.Insights into hotel ownership structures and building lasting partnerships.The importance of aligning objectives and values in hospitality projects.Sarah's career journey from fashion to hospitality leadership.The concept of "dynamic stability" and how it guides her leadership approach.Strategies for responsible growth and maintaining brand integrity.The opportunity for creating places that enable meaningful connections.Mentions:Main Street HospitalityRed Lion InnIndependent Lodging CongressPinnacleFulcrum HospitalityRalph LaurenGap IncLimited BrandsThe Creative Priority by Jerry HirshbergCanoe Place InnHotel DownstreetSend Josiah a text Take the Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality survey now to understand how others use AI and the opportunities for you and your hospitality business.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, Joli Barfield, Cluster Director of Learning at Montage International, shares her insights on managing burnout in the hospitality industry and maintaining personal well-being.Listeners will learn:The prevalence of burnout in the hospitality industry and its impact on career decisions.Strategies for maintaining mental and physical health in a demanding work environment.The importance of disconnecting from technology and finding personal ways to recharge.Habits that can enhance performance.The role of meditation and stillness in managing stress.Creative ways to find inspiration and stay motivated.The significance of understanding the history and story of the places where you work.Liked this? Listen to our other episode with Joli: Behind the Scenes of Montage’s World-Class Training ProgramsSend Josiah a text Take the Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality survey now to understand how others use AI and the opportunities for you and your hospitality business.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