In this special, unscripted episode of Travel Talk , Edward R. Leos—Publisher of The Hotel Guide—steps away from the script and speaks from the heart. Recorded on his 55th birthday, this episode is a raw and honest reflection on a 33-year journey through entrepreneurship, leadership, faith, and resilience. From taking a low-paying opportunity that changed the course of his life… to building a publication from the ground up… to facing moments of doubt, financial pressure, and personal struggle… T...
Apr 23, 2026•16 min
In this episode of Travel Talk , Janine Pezarro joins Edward R. Leos for a conversation that cuts directly into one of the most overlooked drivers in luxury hospitality today: environment as a strategic advantage. As luxury and boutique hotels face increasing pressure from design convergence and experience parity, the real differentiator is no longer what guests see—it’s what they feel . Janine brings a global leadership perspective to this shift, unpacking how environment—physical, cultural, an...
Apr 16, 2026•16 min
Luxury today is no longer defined by where you go — but how it makes you feel. In this episode of Travel Talk , Edward R. Leos sits down with Evelyn Ginossi , Founder of Marine & Vine , to explore how luxury is evolving beyond hotels into ritual, sensory experience, and emotional connection . Marine & Vine is not just a product — it’s a reflection of a lifestyle inspired by the beaches of Southern California and the elegance of the South of France , designed to transform everyday routine...
Apr 09, 2026•16 min
Luxury travel has never looked better—but beneath the surface, something critical is changing. In this episode of Travel Talk , Edward Leos breaks down the shift redefining luxury hospitality—and why many hotels risk becoming interchangeable despite rising investment, design innovation, and service excellence. This conversation explores: The rise of luxury saturation and design convergence Why experience parity is creating sameness across brands The emerging “emotional gap” in hospitality What l...
Apr 01, 2026•6 min
Luxury hospitality is changing — and the brands that lead with experience, wellness, and purpose are setting the pace. In this episode of Travel Talk , Edward R. Leos interviews George Vlachopoulos , Area General Manager of Six Senses La Sagesse , about the future of luxury travel, guest experience, and leadership in modern hospitality. This conversation dives into the key trends shaping the next era of high-end travel, including wellness hospitality, sustainability, immersive guest experience, ...
Mar 26, 2026•17 min
Luxury hospitality is evolving — and the leaders shaping its future are thinking globally.In this episode of Travel Talk, we sit down with Narawadee Bualert, CEO of the iconic lebua Hotels & Resorts, to explore what it truly takes to lead a globally recognized luxury hospitality brand in today’s rapidly shifting travel landscape.From Bangkok to the world stage, lebua has built a reputation for innovation, elevated guest experiences, and bold leadership. In this powerful conversation, we go i...
Feb 26, 2026•17 min
In this episode of Travel Talk , host Edward R. Leos sits down with Lucy Shulman , Director of Sales & Marketing for the upcoming Kimpton Ashbel New York – Park Avenue , to explore the strategy, vision, and leadership behind one of NYC’s most anticipated hotel openings. From pre-opening marketing and sales positioning to guest experience design and luxury traveler expectations, this conversation provides valuable insight into how modern boutique hotels are being built for the future. Whether...
Feb 19, 2026•13 min
In this episode of Travel Talk , host Edward R. Leos , CEO & Publisher of The Hotel Guide, sits down with Deniz Dorbek , Founder of Regulus Collective, a global investment and advisory platform focused on lifestyle and luxury hospitality innovation. Together, they explore how the hospitality industry is evolving beyond traditional models — and why technology, wellness, and integrated lifestyle experiences are becoming essential to future success. From global hotel investment strategies to em...
Feb 12, 2026•20 min
Luxury travel isn’t about discounts—it’s about trust, relationships, and exceptional experiences .In this episode of Travel Talk, Edward R. Leos, CEO and Publisher of The Hotel Guide, shares a major announcement: The Hotel Guide’s new luxury booking partnership aligned with Boutique Travel Advisors. Edward explains why the traditional luxury booking model is broken, how curated travel restores value for guests and hotels, and how travelers can now book exceptional hotels worldwide with greater c...
Feb 04, 2026•5 min
In this episode of Travel Talk , we sit down with Scott Eddy , global travel entrepreneur and founder of Mr. Scott Eddy , to discuss the evolving travel media landscape, the creator economy, and how brands can build authentic, revenue-driving partnerships. We cover: • The future of travel media • Personal branding strategies that work • Influencers vs. creators — what’s the difference? • How hotels and destinations should approach partnerships • Why storytelling is still the most powerful market...
Jan 15, 2026•21 min
Luxury travel is changing — and the rules are no longer what they used to be. In this episode of Travel Talk, Edward Leos and Roxann Leos dive into the evolution of modern luxury travel, uncovering what today’s travelers truly value and where the industry is headed next. From experience-driven travel to the growing importance of authenticity, storytelling, and emotional connection, this conversation goes beyond destinations and into the mindset shaping high-end travel today. Whether you’re a lux...
Jan 08, 2026•18 min
Luxury travel is evolving — and the brands shaping the future are built on purpose, cultural integrity, and authentic connection.In this episode, we sit down with Semra Hunter, Founder of SAHARAÏ, to explore how conscious, culturally rooted travel is redefining what luxury truly means. Semra shares her journey of building a globally recognized travel brand while staying deeply connected to heritage, intention, and impact.🎙️ In this conversation, we discuss:• The new definition of luxury in toda...
Dec 18, 2025•17 min
Join us for an inspiring episode of Travel Talk as we sit down with Allie Evangelista, President of Hard Rock Casino Bristol , to explore her remarkable journey from humble beginnings in Brazil to leading one of Virginia’s most exciting hospitality and entertainment destinations. In this interview, Allie shares how her passion for hospitality began with a life-changing internship at Walt Disney World and evolved into a thriving career that took her across seven states and into the world of gamin...
Dec 15, 2025•15 min
Get ready for a high-energy conversation with Tim Morrow , the forward-thinking CEO of the San Antonio Zoo —one of the fastest-growing and most innovative zoological destinations in the United States. In this episode of Travel Talk with Edward Leos , we explore how the Zoo is redefining wildlife conservation , elevating family travel experiences , and creating unforgettable eco-tourism adventures in the heart of Texas. Tim shares insider stories, bold ideas, and the Zoo’s mission to protect spec...
Dec 03, 2025•16 min
In this episode, host Edward Leos sits down with Laura Penney , CEO of the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel , for an inspiring and eye-opening conversation about leadership, culture, community, and the remarkable evolution of one of the Pacific Northwest’s most unique destinations. Laura shares: ✨ The story of opening the resort’s doors in 1993 ✨ How tribal values & heritage shape every aspect of the property ✨ What makes the Coeur d’Alene experience truly unforgettable ✨ The power of peopl...
Nov 20, 2025•14 min
From bellman to VP of Marketing — Andrew Ladd’s journey is a masterclass in passion, perseverance, and people-first leadership. In this inspiring episode of Travel Talk , host Edward Leos , publisher of The Hotel Guide , sits down with Andrew Ladd , VP of Marketing for Noble House Hotels & Resorts , to explore how one of hospitality’s most respected brands continues to redefine luxury and authenticity across its properties. ✨ Listen in as Andrew shares: His incredible rise through the ranks ...
Nov 13, 2025•16 min
What if every destination could make the planet better—one guest at a time? 🌎 In this episode of Travel Talk , host Edward Leos sits down with Christine Kane , CEO of Audubon International , to explore how sustainability, hospitality, and leadership are reshaping the travel experience. Christine shares powerful insights into: How hotels, resorts, and golf destinations are embracing green certification What it really means to run an eco-conscious business How travelers can make smarter, more sus...
Nov 06, 2025•16 min
Discover how The Hotel Guide selects its Publishers’ Picks —now expanded to 15 categories —and what’s new in our 2025 Awards Edition (publishing November 25, 2025 ). Hosts Edward Leos and Roxann Leos take you behind the scenes of the hospitality industry: how winners stand out, which hotels, resorts, destinations, and experiences rise to the top, and what trends will shape 2026 . Why watch: The exact criteria that separate award-winning hotels from the pack New Awards categories + what they mean...
Oct 30, 2025•16 min
What if travel could change the world — and you along with it?In this moving episode of Travel Talk, host Edward Leos sits down with Adam Asher, the visionary behind Rugged Compass and the Humanitarian News Feed, to explore how adventure, faith, and compassion intersect to create purpose-driven journeys. 🌍✨Adam shares powerful stories from the road — moments that reveal the heart of humanity and remind us that true travel isn’t just about where you go, but how you give back.Whether you’re a tra...
Oct 28, 2025•18 min
🎯 What defines true boutique luxury—and how do independent hotels stay authentic in a world of big brands? In this episode of The Travel Talk Podcast , host Edward Leos , CEO of The Hotel Guide , sits down with Frances Kiradjian , visionary Founder of the Boutique & Luxury Lodging Association (BLLA) , to explore the movement redefining hospitality around individuality, creativity, and soul. From intimate design to heartfelt service, Frances shares the philosophy behind boutique hospitality—...
Oct 16, 2025•18 min
What if technology could make travel more personal, seamless, and inspiring? In this episode of Travel Talk Podcast , host Edward Leos , CEO of The Hotel Guide , chats with Annie Pezza , Founder & CEO of Pinerary , the innovative platform transforming how travelers plan, connect, and share their journeys. From intelligent itinerary design to curated storytelling, Annie shares how Pinerary bridges the gap between tech and human experience—empowering travelers to explore the world with confide...
Oct 09, 2025•14 min
In this episode of Travel Talk Podcast , host Edward Leos , CEO of The Hotel Guide , sits down with Viktor Meier, CEO of Glice , the pioneering company behind sustainable ice rinks that don’t require water or energy. From transforming sports and leisure to reimagining eco-tourism experiences, Viktor shares how Glice is proving that sustainability and fun can go hand-in-hand—and what this means for destinations, hoteliers, and communities worldwide. 🎟️ Discover how innovation, impact, and imagin...
Oct 02, 2025•14 min
What happens when conservation, storytelling, and hospitality come together? In this episode of The Travel Talk Podcast , host Edward Leos, CEO of The Hotel Guide , sits down with Neil Jacobs of Wild Origins to explore how nature, culture, and purpose-driven tourism are reshaping the travel experience. From eco-luxury to authentic conservation efforts, this episode uncovers how destinations can create deeper meaning, foster sustainability, and inspire travelers to connect with the world in power...
Sep 30, 2025•20 min
In this inspiring episode of Travel Talk , Edward Leos sits down with Carolyn Ray , CEO of JourneyWoman , the world’s original solo travel resource for women. Carolyn shares how she’s empowering women over 50 to explore the world with confidence, community, and curiosity. From breaking barriers in solo travel to reshaping how women see themselves as adventurers, Carolyn opens up about: ✔️ The rise of solo female travel and why it’s booming ✔️ Building a trusted global community for women travele...
Sep 20, 2025•17 min
How is technology reshaping the way we connect, travel, and share experiences? In this episode of The Travel Talk Podcast , host Edward Leos , CEO of The Hotel Guide , sits down with Elías Barbosa , CEO of TROBBU , to explore how innovation and community-driven tech are transforming hospitality and tourism. From creating digital tools that strengthen traveler connections to helping brands scale with purpose, Elías shares insights on what it takes to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape...
Sep 11, 2025•13 min
What happens when wellness, community, and travel converge? In this episode of The Travel Talk Podcast , host Edward Leos , CEO of The Hotel Guide , sits down with Melissa Perlman , founder of Amansala Resorts in Tulum, to explore the rise of eco-chic wellness retreats and how authentic connection transforms the guest experience. From beachfront yoga to mindful dining, Melissa shares the story behind Amansala’s unique philosophy and why today’s travelers are craving more than just a getaway—they...
Sep 04, 2025•15 min
Welcome to the 100th episode of the Travel Talk Podcast — a milestone moment for The Hotel Guide and host Edward Leos. To mark the occasion, we’re flipping the script: Edward’s wife and associate publisher, Roxann Leos, takes over the mic to interview him about his personal journey through travel, hospitality, and storytelling.For more than 32 years, Edward has been at the center of travel publishing, hospitality marketing, and destination storytelling. In this celebratory episode, he reflects o...
Aug 28, 2025•18 min
In this episode of The Travel Talk Podcast , Edward Leos sits down with Wan Eikmal Khalil, Vice President of the Americas for Tourism Malaysia , to dive into one of Asia’s most diverse and exciting destinations. From world-class cities to pristine islands, culinary adventures to cultural treasures — Malaysia is a country where every journey tells a story. 🌏 You’ll hear about: ✔️ Malaysia’s unique blend of culture, nature, and modern luxury ✔️ Why it’s becoming a must-visit destination for trave...
Aug 21, 2025•15 min
In this episode of The Travel Talk Podcast , host Edward Leos , CEO of The Hotel Guide , sits down with Mark Reichle , CEO of Select Registry , to explore the future of independent inns, boutique hotels, and bed & breakfasts. From guest loyalty to brand trust, Mark reveals what sets Select Registry properties apart and how they’re redefining the art of personalized hospitality in an era dominated by big brands. 🎟️ Discover why discerning travelers are seeking stays with soul, character, and...
Aug 14, 2025•16 min
What does it take to launch an iconic new resort—and how do you create a destination that blends bold luxury with local soul? In this episode of The Travel Talk Podcast , host Edward Leos, CEO of The Hotel Guide , sits down with hospitality powerhouse Karie Hall , General Manager of the all-new Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe , to explore leadership, design, and what truly defines a world-class guest experience. From opening strategy to building a culture of excellence, Karie shares her vision for a...
Aug 07, 2025•16 min
