Grab your favorite drink and join the barely tolerable duo of Glenn Haussman and Craig Sullivan for the 150th episode of Friday Night Audit! This podcast, which somehow made it this far, is like hanging out at a bar after a hotel conference—if that bar had a low cover charge and no dress code. In this very 'special' episode, Bruce Ford, CJ Arlotta, Producer Dave, Dr. Producer Suzanne and more join for the usual mix of questionable humor, half-baked industry insights, and the kind of banter that ...
Sep 07, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 4Ep. 150
Ignore vegans at your peril!!! Today we discuss the vegan cuisine trend in the hospitality industry. Meredith Marin, CEO of Vegan Hospitality, shares insights on how hotels can boost profitability and enhance sustainability by offering plant-based menu options. Learn about the importance of menu engineering, overcoming guest hesitations, and creating a seamless dining experience for all guests. Key Points: The rise of vegan cuisine as a profitable and sustainable trend in hospitality. How Resort...
Sep 06, 2024•30 min•Season 8Ep. 897
It’s RFP (Request for Proposal) season! Cesar Wurm , VP of Commercial and Premium Brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts joins us to explore crucial topics you need to know to maximize success with group business. Main Points: Understanding RFP Season: What it is, why it matters, and how it impacts the hospitality industry. Market Projections: Cesar discusses the anticipated 2-3% growth in the coming year and the factors influencing these projections. Customer Sentiment: How the general sentiment in...
Sep 03, 2024•33 min•Season 8Ep. 896
We're getting ready for an end of summer blast here on FNA and we're joined by Alex Coury, CEO and Founder at Coury Consulting, who's better at impersonating celebrities than Glenn is impersonating a podcaster.
Aug 31, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Season 4Ep. 149
The ultimate guide to extended stay with Glenn McFarland, VP at Choice Hotels’ Extended Stay brand, and co-host Matt McElhare, VP and Segment Lead at Choice Hotels International. We’re digging into the unique opportunities within the extended stay segment, sharing valuable lessons from industry pioneer the late Jack DeBoer, and discussing how to achieve success in this growing market. Whether you're a seasoned hotel investor or new to the space, this episode offers essential advice on maximizing...
Aug 29, 2024•32 min
It’s back to school week here for me as I’ve got two kids off to college. So I spoke with Rachael Hood, Senior Editor of Travel at US News & World Report, who just named the 20 Best College Town Hotels to see what it takes to be a top college town in 2024. With a focus on location, traveler reviews, and real customer experiences, Rachael shares what makes these hotels stand out. Key discussion points include: Top College Town Hotels: Highlighting the best hotels near major universities, incl...
Aug 29, 2024•6 min
Wayne Tabor may be a hotelier, but we love he's also on a competition BBQ team in his home town of Memphis. Grab a drink and join us for some happy hour laughs and BBQ techniques and tipos.
Aug 24, 2024•56 min•Season 4Ep. 147
Shane Green, Founder and President of SGEi, talks about how to inspire people and companies to move beyond the mundane and out of status quo to exceed the expectations of their employees and customers. What are ways that organizations can attract the right talent, retain that talent, and wow the customer?
Aug 24, 2024•41 min•Season 8Ep. 895
I caught up with Dina Belon, President of Staypineapple Hotels Inc. during the Southern Lodging Summit, where she shared insights on optimizing hospitality operations through implementing cutting-edge technology and personalized guest experiences. Key highlights include: Optimizing Tech Stacks: Insights into Staypineapple’s recent tech stack overhaul and the challenges of integration. Personalized Guest Experiences: How Staypineapple uses data to create hyper-personalized services, enhancing gue...
Aug 23, 2024•5 min
Discover the secrets behind the success of LivAway Suites, an innovative upscale economy extended stay hotel. In this episode, COO Kevin Dailey and I explore the brand's unique approach to guest experience, technology integration, and property design. Learn how LivAway Suites is redefining the extended stay market with its focus on essential amenities, efficient operations, and strategic expansion plans. From check-in kiosks to smart parcel lockers, this episode reveals the cutting-edge features...
Aug 23, 2024•25 min•Season 8Ep. 894
We discuss current trends and challenges in the hospitality industry with Mitch Patel, CEO of Vision Hospitality Group, focusing on the rise of extended stay hotels, innovative development strategies, and the importance of creating memorable guest experiences. Mitch shares his expertise on: Extended Stay Success: Why extended stay properties have become a "darling" of the industry, and how Vision Hospitality has leveraged this trend. Development Challenges: Navigating construction cost volatilit...
Aug 17, 2024•30 min•Season 8Ep. 893
Scott Stevens, of HREC, and Glenn Bisping, Director of Franchise Services at Extended Stay America (ESA) on why major hotel brands are entering the extended stay segment, how the market has evolved, and why it's attracting investors. Discover the benefits of partnering with brokers for hotel investments, how to navigate current lending challenges, and what to watch out for when investing in extended stay properties. Please visit our sponsor, HREC at www.HREC.com and learn more about ESLA at ESLA...
Aug 14, 2024•28 min
Glenn and Chirag Shah, American Hotel & Lodging Association's EVP, Federal and Political Affairs & Counsel, at LendingCon - Hospitality Investors Conference to explore the intersection of politics and the hospitality industry, especially with an election just around the corner. Episode Highlights: Election Impact: Discussing the potential effects of the upcoming election on the hospitality industry and why it’s considered the most crucial election yet. Political Climate: Insight into the...
Aug 14, 2024•3 min
Today we discuss the current state of the hospitality industry, including challenges and opportunities in the market. Ryan Bosch, Principal of Arriba Capital, Glenn and Anthony discuss impact of interest rates on hotel deals, the evolving lending landscape, and insights into the booming extended stay sector. Discover strategies for securing financing, common pitfalls to avoid, and expert advice on navigating the complex world of hotel investment.
Aug 14, 2024•37 min
Glenn talks with Congressman Darren Soto during LendingCon about the significant infrastructure investments in Central Florida and its impact on the economy and tourism industry. Episode Highlights: Infrastructure Investment: Insight into the $3.5 billion expansion of I-4, aimed at alleviating the worst traffic in the nation and boosting Central Florida’s growth. Airport Expansion: $300 million investment in Orlando International Airport to enhance travel for both tourists and locals, strengthen...
Aug 09, 2024•3 min
Congressman Aaron Bean and Glenn chat at at LendingCon in Orlando, Florida, discussing the latest issues and innovations in hospitality development. Episode Highlights: Event Overview: Reporting from LendingCon at the Rosen Center Hotel with 800 hospitality industry leaders. Human Interaction: Emphasizing the importance of personal connections in leadership and exceptional guest experiences. Access to Capital: Strategies to help hoteliers obtain capital, including changes to the Small Business A...
Aug 09, 2024•5 min
Discover the essential strategies for optimizing revenue in extended stay hotels! In this episode of ESLA’s Experts & Icons, Ewa Kemper, VP Revenue Management at Dellisart and cohost Doug Artusio, ESLA’s Founder, share essential tips for revenue management and the importance of finding the right balance between extended stay and transient guests. Maximize profitability without compromising the unique operational model of extended stay properties. Thanks to Dellisart for sponsoring this show!...
Aug 08, 2024•30 min•Season 1Ep. 7
Tonight on the Friday Night Audit Happy Hour Extravaganza, we’re immersing ourselves in the future of hospitality experiences. Glenn, Craig Sullivan and Doctor Producer Suzanne Bagnera, PhD, CHA are focused on the secret TipTech lab – or is that Batcave? We drink, laugh and discuss their cutting-edge technology and unique approaches to enhancing hospitality experiences. Here’s what we covered: Special Guests: Gray Devio (CEO, UNW Inc. - TIPtech Art's Parent Company), David Galluzzo (COO, UNW Inc...
Aug 04, 2024•56 min•Season 4Ep. 145
Dive into the world of immersive experiences and the future of themed entertainment with this episode. Join myself and Suzanne Bagnera, PhD, CHA as we sit down with Ryan A. Harmon, President and Chief Creative Officer of Zeitgeist Design & Production (OFFICIAL), to discuss the evolution and innovation in theme parks, hotels, and more. Discover the trends, stories, and creative processes that make experiences unforgettable. Key Highlights: • Creative Leadership: Insights from Ryan Harmon on l...
Aug 03, 2024•49 min•Season 8Ep. 891
Today we’re seeing how one amazing couple – Karie Brittano and Julian Brittano -- is bringing their dream project to life, with a little help from Choice Hotels International's John Lancaster. This episode covers: Supporting Owners Access and Representation (SOAR) Program: Transitioning from the Emerging Markets Program to a new initiative focused on providing education and opportunities for aspiring hotel owners, particularly from underrepresented groups. Educational Initiatives: Insights into ...
Aug 01, 2024•43 min•Season 8Ep. 890
We’re delving deep into the root challenges of employee engagement and retention in the hospitality industry. Our guest, Szilvia Olah, Employee Experience Designer from The Strengths Company, joins us from Dubai. Key Highlights: Common Complaints: Discussion on the prevalent issues of low employee engagement and high turnover rates in hospitality. Root Causes vs. Symptoms: Identifying the difference between addressing the root causes of disengagement versus merely treating the symptoms. The Role...
Jul 30, 2024•41 min•Season 8Ep. 889
Join us for a special episode as we celebrate the incredible career of one of the most respected figures in the hospitality industry. Phil shares his journey, from his early days as a bellman to becoming a key player in the industry, and reflects on the evolution of hospitality over the past 41 years. Key Points: Career Beginnings: Phil’s start as a bellman and front desk agent, and his early career experiences. Industry Evolution: Changes in technology and guest services, from manual check-ins ...
Jul 27, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 4Ep. 144
Today we have Rick Colangelo, EVP of Pivot Hotels, part of Davidson Hospitality Group. Topics discussed include: Guest Experience: The significance of delivering exceptional guest experiences in hotels and resorts. The Pivot Vibe: Introduction of the “Pivot Vibe” concept, focusing on guest journey, music, lighting, scents, and design. Experience Economy: The shift towards an experience-driven economy and its impact on hospitality Consistency in Service: The importance of consistent service and g...
Jul 27, 2024•42 min•Season 8Ep. 887
Today we delve into the latest developments at Coury Holdings and their exciting new ventures. Paul Coury special guest shares insights on their innovative approach to hospitality and strategic growth. Key Points Covered: • Overview of Coury Holdings: o Coury Holdings’ history and evolution over 38 years. o Transition from developer and asset manager to hotel consulting and development. o Success story: First hotel developed in the late 90s, still owned today. • Launch of Concert Hospitality: o ...
Jul 25, 2024•30 min•Season 8Ep. 888
Join Glenn as he takes you on an exciting tour of the Virgin Hotel Las Vegas with special guest Cliff Atkinson, the President of Virgin Hotel Las Vegas. In this episode, you will explore the remarkable changes and improvements made to the property. Walk along with Glenn and Cliff to learn about: • The integration of various elements to create a cohesive and vibrant resort experience. • The reimagined center bar, which serves as the property's energy hub. • The unique offerings at Nobu, one o f t...
Jul 24, 2024•27 min•Season 8Ep. 886
Join us as we dive into the world of casino resort design with two industry experts! Discover Winstar, an incredible casino resort project in Thackerville, Oklahoma, led by the Chickasaw Nation and designed by HBG. We interview Rob Juergan, Principal and Architectural Designer at HBG Design and Ray Mabry, Principal and Dallas Office Leader Project Highlights: • 6,500-seat performance venue: Lucas Oil Live • 304-room hotel • Cascades: A large outdoor pool area • World-class music venue hosting ro...
Jul 21, 2024•40 min•Season 8Ep. 885
Glenn and Craig welcome back Amy Montgomery for her yearly appearance. Grab a drink and have a lugh along with us!
Jul 20, 2024•58 min•Season 4Ep. 143
Elizabeth Mullins is COO of Flâneur Hospitality is a seasoned hotelier with a passion for luxury hospitality. She shares her journey from the Ritz-Carlton to leading a new boutique hotel in NYC. Discover what sets her hotel apart and her unique approach to creating unforgettable guest experiences at the Fifth Avenue Hotel. • Dive into the world of luxury hospitality with Elizabeth as she talks about her journey from the Ritz-Carlton to running a new boutique hotel in NYC. 🏨✨ • 🌟 Discover what ...
Jul 20, 2024•34 min•Season 8Ep. 884
Nezar Akeel is Founder & CEO of MAXPRO Fitness and shares insights around the importance of in-room workout options for travelers. It's so easy, even i coiuld do it! Plus, MAXPRO has partnered with Shaquille O'Neill too so this is legit.
Jul 16, 2024•36 min•Season 8Ep. 883
We're back after a holiday break broadcasting live from Red Tail at Resorts World Las Vegas. The resort's CMO Ronn Nicolli joins s we dicuss NBA Summer League, how sports and live music has taken over the city, and Glenn attempts to be funny.
Jul 13, 2024•49 min•Season 4Ep. 142
