Hospitality Daily Podcast - podcast cover

Hospitality Daily Podcast

Josiah Mackenziepodcast.hospitalitydaily.com

Stay informed and inspired to delight people and grow your business with daily conversations with interesting people doing interesting things. Hosted by Josiah Mackenzie.

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Episodes

Beyond Efficiency: How AI Can Help Hospitality Thrive in 2025 - Lou Zameryka

In this episode, Lou Zameryka shares his take on the State of the Hotel Industry research discussed yesterday . Article referenced: The AI Revolution in Hospitality: Transforming the Hotel Industry through Innovation and Employee Empowerment You may also enjoy this from Lou: Creative but Practical Uses for AI Today in Hotel Sales, Marketing, and Revenue Management (Takeaways From HSMAI's Latest Event) A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here . You can send me a messag...

Jan 07, 202514 min

The State of the Hotel Industry: 5 Things To Know for 2025 - Josiah Mackenzie

In this episode, Josiah Mackenzie shares key insights about the state of the hotel industry for 2025, based on a comprehensive survey conducted on this topic. View the research charts here on HotelOperations.com 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 ...

Jan 06, 202514 min

Collaborating with Auberge & An Emmy-Nominated Director to Create ThroughLine, Our Immersive Dining Experience - Katina and Kyle Connaughton, SingleThread

In this episode, Katina and Kyle Connaughton, the visionary founders of SingleThread , share the story behind ThroughLine , an innovative dining experience blending storytelling, film, and exquisite cuisine. Learn how their collaborations with artisans, farmers, and partners such as Auberge Resorts, Audi, and OpenTable bring deeper connections to food and its origins while inspiring sustainability and community. If you liked this, you may also like these other episodes with Kyle and Katina: A Ho...

Jan 05, 202529 min

America's Chief AI Officer for Travel Shares Advice for 2025 - Janette Roush, Brand USA

Take our Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality survey In this episode, Janette Roush , the SVP of Innovation and Chief AI Officer at Brand USA, shares her insights on embracing AI in the workplace and how it can drive innovation in the tourism industry. Watch this conversation on YouTube Mentions: Brand USA & AI (including framework for use) Listen to Janette Live From Travel Week: Leadership Alignment with Generative AI Conor Grennan , Chief AI Architect at the Stern School of Business Eth...

Jan 04, 202546 min

What AI Might Bring Hotels in 2025 - Martin Soler

In this episode, Martin Soler , a former hotel general manager turned marketing strategist, shares insights on how AI is reshaping hotel operations and how it can be used to streamline work, improve communication, and stay competitive in 2025 and beyond. (01:33) The two "camps" of AI adoption (02:36) The importance of experimenting with AI (03:14) Specificity in AI applications (03:34) Josiah's experience with ChatGPT (04:08) Martin's use of AI in daily work (05:12) Benefits of dictating to AI (...

Jan 03, 202516 min

Rethinking Hospitality: Bold Moves for 2025 and Beyond - Matthias Huettebraeuker

In this episode, Matthias Huettebraeuker , an independent hospitality strategist with experience at citizenM and Design Hotels, shares how we can break free from outdated thinking, embrace innovation, and create hotels and hospitality businesses that people love. (01:27) The shift in the hospitality industry 20 years ago (02:09) Importance of community (03:13) The need to rethink and innovate (03:42) Knowing your "why" (05:08) Developing a niche and "personality" (06:06) Bold hospitality (08:46)...

Jan 02, 202532 min

The Opportunity for Hospitality in 2025 (Personally and Professionally) - Josiah Mackenzie

Listen to Hospitality Daily founder and host Josiah Mackenzie share what he sees as the opportunity for hospitality ahead. Links: Simon Sinek: Start with Why The Power of Hospitality to Bring Us Together How Napa Valley's Tourism Strategy Can Boost Your Hospitality Business - Linsey Gallagher, Visit Napa Valley A Chef's View on Food, Community, and Renewal - Tyler Florence Engineering Training & Mentorship at The Hoxton, Downtown LA Why The Hotel Industry is at a Pivotal Moment - Zach Demuth...

Jan 01, 202511 min

2024 Highlights & Learnings + Why I'm Excited for 2025 - Josiah Mackenzie

Listen to Hospitality Daily founder and host Josiah Mackenzie share highlights and lessons learned in 2024, plus what he's excited by for 2025. Highlights : (1:37) Chip Conley (3:56) Kristie Goshow at KSL (5:04) Inn at Newport Ranch (6:11) Palisades Hospitality (7:22) Katina and Kyle Connaughton at SingleThread (9:39) Bashar Wali (episode one and two ) (10:40) Dina Belon & Staypineapple (13:06) Horst Schulze (15:07) Nancy Mendelson + Emily Kanders Goldfischer (hertelier) collaboration (16:44...

Dec 31, 202432 min

Why The Hotel Industry is at a Pivotal Moment - Zach Demuth, JLL

In this episode, Zach Demuth , the Global Head of Hotels Research at JLL, shares why the hospitality industry is at a pivotal juncture and what it means for you. See insights and research from JLL here 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 Hospitalit...

Dec 30, 202418 min

Empowering People and Elevating Hospitality Careers - Guillaume Benezech

In this episode, Guillaume Benezech , Senior Director of Global Brand Management and Marketing for The Ritz-Carlton and Ritz-Carlton Reserve, shares his observations and insights on the state of hospitality work and the importance of emotional skills, empowerment, and career development. Listen to our other episodes: What I've Learned Building a Career in Luxury Hotel Leadership The Evolution of Luxury Hospitality From Comfort to Connection A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Dail...

Dec 29, 202413 min

The Evolution of Luxury Hospitality From Comfort to Connection - Guillaume Benezech

In this episode, Guillaume Benezech , Senior Director of Global Brand Management and Marketing for The Ritz-Carlton and Ritz-Carlton Reserve, shares his insights into the evolution of luxury hospitality and the importance of emotional connections, sustainability, and innovation. Listen to our other episode: What I've Learned Building a Career in Luxury Hotel Leadership A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here . You can send me a message here with questions, comments, ...

Dec 28, 202430 min

What I've Learned Building a Career in Luxury Hotel Leadership - Guillaume Benezech

In this episode, Guillaume Benezech , Senior Director of Global Brand Management and Marketing for The Ritz-Carlton and Ritz-Carlton Reserve, shares his journey in luxury hospitality, career transitions, and the mentorship experiences that shaped his leadership style. 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 ...

Dec 27, 202414 min

Cinematic Design: Crafting Immersive Hospitality Experiences - Mary Alice Palmer

Mary Alice Palmer is the Global Creative Director and Founding Partner of ROAM Interior Design , and in this episode, shares insights on the power of design in providing hospitality and how she approaches creating memorable and emotional guest experiences. Listeners will learn: Mary Alice's definition of the essence of hospitality and what it means to create a warm, welcoming environment. How her background in set design and luxury leather goods influences her work in hospitality design. The pro...

Dec 26, 202433 min

My Christmas Morning Tradition (A Lesson in Hospitality Leadership) - Bill Walshe

In this replay from an earlier conversation, Bill Walshe , a global hospitality leader and the former CEO of The Viceroy Hotel Group, shares a tradition he developed that we all can learn from. Listen to my earlier episodes with Bill: What Guests Are Looking For In Luxury and Hospitality Today How "Prideology" Helped Me Inspire My Teams as CEO Creating A Culture of Belonging To Enable Consistent Individuality A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here . You can send me ...

Dec 25, 20245 min

The Hospitality of Generosity - Bill Walshe

In this replay from an earlier conversation, Bill Walshe , a global hospitality leader and the former CEO of The Viceroy Hotel Group, shares thoughts about the power of generosity in hospitality. Listen to my earlier episodes with Bill: What Guests Are Looking For In Luxury and Hospitality Today How "Prideology" Helped Me Inspire My Teams as CEO Creating A Culture of Belonging To Enable Consistent Individuality A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here . You can send m...

Dec 24, 20246 min

What It’s Like Providing Hospitality During the Holidays - Maria Navarro

In this episode, Maria Navarro shares a message for all of us to keep in mind this holiday season. Listen to our past episodes with Maria: We are all family this holiday season How hospitality changes you (the story behind my viral article) 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, subs...

Dec 23, 20246 min

Lessons from a Better Christmas Tree - Christian de Boer

In this replay from an earlier conversation, Christian de Boer shares what he did differently around the holiday that inspired guests and team members alike. Listen to our past episodes with Christian: This Is What Being Radically Guest-Focused Looks Like Does TripAdvisor Still Matter for Hotels in 2024? (Reputation Management Masterclass) Sustainable Hospitality: Real Steps, Real Impact A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here . You can send me a message here with qu...

Dec 23, 20246 min

Listening to Win: How Guest Feedback Built an Award-Winning Hospitality Brand - Nathan St Cyr, Howzit Hostels

In this episode, Nathan St Cyr , co-founder of Howzit Hostels , shares how focusing on guest connections and rethinking traditional models can create extraordinary experiences and scalable success. Listen to learn: How Nathan transitioned from a successful sales leader in hospitality to co-founding Howzit Hostels. The importance of questioning traditional hospitality models and listening intently to guests. The impact of Nathan's childhood travel experiences on his approach to hospitality. The s...

Dec 22, 202442 min

An Early Look at People, Tech, and Hotel Profitability Trends for 2025 - David Arraya

Take the State of the Hotel Industry Survey now In this episode, David Arraya , the Founder of Conscious Hospitality Unlimited , host of the Conscious Hospitality Podcast , and a former hotel general manager, shares insights from the State of the Hotel Industry Survey and discusses the challenges and opportunities facing hoteliers today. Listeners will learn: The biggest day-to-day challenges for hotel owners and operators, including revenue generation and profitability. The leadership implicati...

Dec 21, 202413 min

Billion-Dollar Boutique Blockbuster: The Story Behind Lark Hotels’ Joint Venture with Life House - Rob Blood

In this episode, Rob Blood , founder of Lark Hotels and now chairman of the combined company with Life House, shares insights into their recent joint venture and the future of independent hospitality. Read the announcement Listen to previous episodes with Rob: How We Created An Award-Winning Boutique Hotel Management and Development Company - Meg Kennedy & Rob Blood, Lark Hotels Intro to Lifestyle Hotel Development and Management - Meg Kennedy & Rob Blood, Lark Hotels Road Trips & Re...

Dec 20, 202428 min

From Micro Feedback to Macro Impact: The Future of Guest Experience - Danica Smith

In this episode, Danica Smith , Founder of MorningStar GX , shares her insights on the evolving role of technology in enhancing guest experiences in the hospitality industry. Listen now to learn about: The future of online hotel guest reviews and their relevance in a highly personalized booking journey. The impact of influencers on online reputation and guest feedback. The concept of "micro feedback" and its importance in guest interactions. The balance between guest intelligence gathering and g...

Dec 20, 202412 min

Guest Experience Tech: What I Learned Building, Selling, and Using It - Danica Smith

In this episode, Danica Smith , Founder of MorningStar GX , shares her insights on using technology to enhance guest experience in the hospitality industry. Listen now to learn: The importance of focusing on guest satisfaction as the ultimate goal of implementing new technology. The significance of simplicity and clarity in technology adoption and project goals. The value of beta testing and ensuring the basics of guest experience are covered before implementing advanced tech solutions. The impo...

Dec 19, 202413 min

Beyond Buzzwords: The Truth about Guest Experience - Danica Smith

In this episode, Danica Smith , Founder of MorningStar GX , shares her insights on the enduring power of focusing on guest experience in the hospitality industry. Listen now to learn: The true meaning of "guest experience" and why it matters. Common hesitations and obstacles hotel companies face in improving guest experience. The impact of digitalizing the guest journey and the importance of on-property experiences. The role of guest feedback and online reputation in shaping guest expectations. ...

Dec 18, 202431 min

The Human Side of Hotel Tech: A GM's Perspective - Justin Rodriguez, Shashi Hotel

In this episode, Justin Rodriguez , General Manager at the Shashi Hotel , shares insights on how technology is transforming the hospitality experience at their hotel in the heart of Silicon Valley. Listen to learn: How Shashi Group is using technology to create a customizable room experience for guests. The impact of technology on the hotel's staff and operations. The benefits and challenges of implementing new tech in a hospitality setting. How the hotel uses guest data to enhance service and i...

Dec 17, 202431 min

Beyond Beautiful: How Luxury Hotels Create Emotional Connections - Maria Loleyt

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 e...

Dec 16, 202446 min

What Hotels Can Learn from Portland's Immersive Art Experiences - Teddy Albertson

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...

Dec 15, 202445 min

Get Out and Experience New Things - Eric Jafari, AENDRE Group

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 a...

Dec 14, 20249 min

The Evolution of Motivations in Hospitality: Lessons from the 1980s to Today - Eric Jafari, AENDRE Group

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 w...

Dec 13, 202416 min

Beyond Bars and Clubs: The Night I Saw the Future of Social Spaces - Eric Jafari, AENDRE Group

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 experi...

Dec 12, 202414 min

Breaking Free from Holiday Inn: Why I Stopped Playing It Safe to Redefine Hospitality - Eric Jafari, AENDRE Group

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 de...

Dec 11, 202412 min
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