David Millili seemingly does it all as CEO of LodgIQ, GAIN Chairman of the Board and Host of the Modern Hotelier Podcast. Sadly, it all comes to end tonight as he stoops to the lowest level possible by joining Glenn, Craig and Dave for some cocktails and laughs on Friday Night Audit.Av No Vacancy News

How are client experiences curated across different industries? How can the brand experience and market positioning be effectively reflected? What are the key ingredients for a successful client experience? Jochen De Peuter, from EHL Advisory services, is here to answer these questions and more for a jam packed show.…

Last week at The Lodging Conference, Kevin F. Dailey, COO of LivAway Suites, and I discussed the rapid growth of this new extended stay brand 🏨 aginst the context of LivAway Suites, developed by West77 Partners. They're planning nationwide expansion. Plus, the sold-out success of their first hotel in Salt Lake City to the strategic expansion across…

Lisa Lombardo, MPA is President at ARK, where she’s passionate about creating a thriving, people-first culture in hospitality. Lisa shares how focusing on team happiness and growth not only improves relationships but also enhances business performance. 💡 People-First Leadership: How ARK focuses on people for better relationships, reputation, and re…

At The Lodging Conference, Ryan Bosch of Arriba Capital and I discussed the latest trends in hotel development and how it’s affected by interest rates, market shifts, and hospitality industry development strategies. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just curious about the future of hotel construction, this conversation offers key insights on wh…

One thing every hotel wants to do is create a positive, memorable experience for their guests. Every hotel has its unique challenges to accomplish this goal. Ashley Ewing Parrott, Principal at AEP Hospitality Consulting & The Saturday Crowd, has helped hotels accomplish just that and she is here to share some of her tips.…

During The Lodging Conference, I finally spoke with legendary hotelier Bakulesh "BUGGSI" Patel to discuss how shifting markets are creating new hospitality industry opportunities. Buggsi shares his investment strategies and offers advice on finding under-the-radar hotel deals that can generate significant returns. 🔥 Buggsi Patel’s investment strate…

Continued coverage from The Lodging Conference 2024 where I chatted Joseph Bojanowski, President of PM Hotel Group. We discuss key strategies hoteliers are usong to combat rising costs and labor shortages by leveraging technology to enhance guest experiences and improve the bottom line. Learn how the PM team are navigating industry challenges with …

More from The Lodging Conference 2024. Rob Smith, the newly appointed CEO of Stonebridge Companies, shares his thoughts on state of the hotel business, his vision for Stonebridge, how he plans to lead the company, and the challenges and opportunities facing the hospitality industry today. Key Points: • Rob Smith discusses his first 90 days as CEO o…

At The Lodging Conference I spoke with Sloan Dean, CEO of Remington Hospitality to discuss key hospitality trends. We talk labor costs, AI’s impact on the workforce, and the future of foreign travel in the US. Key Takeaways: 2024 Outlook: Interest rates are falling, and wage inflation is cooling, providing relief for hotel operations. Labor Costs: …

During The Lodging Conference, Glenn Haussman speaks with Rob Leven, Chief Investment Officer and Principal at TPG Hotels, to discuss the evolving hotel economy post-COVID and where real opportunity is uncovered. From shifting travel trends to capital investment strategies, Rob shares expert insights on how TPG Hotels & Resorts is navigating the ne…

We’re diving deep into extended stay hotel profitability with International Hospitality Technology Hall of Famer Cindy Estis Green, the Co-founder and CEO of Kalibri Labs. We’re joined by cohost Doug Artusio, Founder of the Extended Stay Lodging Association, to explore how data-driven insights are reshaping the extended stay market. In this episode…

The President of Staypineapple Hotels Dina Belon, and Pineapple loving Dr. Producer Suzanne join Glenn and Craig for pineapple inspired cocktails and bad jokes that cut to the core. See, like that one.Av No Vacancy News

Join Glenn as he visits the legendary Mohegan Sun, a property he's been visiting since it opened in 1996. Jesse Sturges, Director of Strategic Marketing at Mohegan Sun shares evolving marketing and operations strategies at one of the most iconic casino resorts in the country. Main Takeaways: • The evolution of Mohegan Sun since 1996 and how it cont…

In the latest Hotel Business Hot Topics session, “Smart Technology: Solutions for Higher Profitability and GS Scores,” in partnership with Procell InSite, Glenn Haussman, founder/host, No Vacancy Live podcast, joins a panel of industry leaders to discuss how the right technology can improve hospitality operations, help the bottom line and improve g…

Tom Groebe is a hotelier, content creator and rising superstar. Glenn and Craig ask why he would come on Friday Night Audit. Grab a drink and join us for some happy hour laughsto kick off the weekend.Av No Vacancy News

Are interest rate cuts about to shake up the hotel industry? Our latest podcast dives deep into this hot topic with Anthony and Glenn! 📉 Here’s a taste of what we discussed: Will a half-percent rate cut really change the game for hotels? How are rate cuts greasing the wheels for hotel deals and lending opportunities? As we approach 2025, why are ri…

In this episode of No Vacancy Live, Glenn has a phenomenal guest— Monika Nessbach - NCIDQ, RID, MBA, IIDA from DESIGNBAR. Together, they discuss the evolving world of hotel design, including experiential spaces, biophilia, and how social media is reshaping how guests interact with hospitality environments. Tune in as Monika shares her insights on: …

Interim CEO of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA), Kevin Carey shares the latest legislative updates impacting the hospitality industry, including upcoming per diem rate increases and some insane and controversial potential legislation in New York City. Key discussion points include: Per Diem Rate Increases: Effective October 2024, l…

Join Glenn and Craig for a “hilarious” and laid-back episode of Friday Night Audit, our Happy Hour Comedy Podcast! This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Michael Koch from the Michael Koch Group, a first-time guest who brings a wealth of experience and a great sense of humor. Grab your favorite drink and get ready for some real-time networking, funny…

Designer Paul Bishop shares his expertise on creating unforgettable hospitality experiences. From his work in Dubai's iconic developments to his latest projects, Paul discusses the power of design in shaping memorable guest journeys. Discover how he blends creativity, functionality, and storytelling to craft unique and captivating spaces. Learn abo…

Join us in this insightful episode as we dive into the fascinating journey of Paul Novak, a seasoned hotel industry veteran with over 54 years of experience. Paul shares his story, from his early days in hotel development to his involvement with the extended stay segment, including his experiences with iconic brands like Marriott, Residence Inn, an…

Jeff Thomas is VP of Marketing at My Place Hotels. We chatted about the unique marketing strategies required for extended-stay hotels. Recorded during the My Place Hotels Annual Conference, this episode covers: • How My Place leverages its brand website and OTAs to attract long-term guests. • The importance of storytelling in creating an emotional …

Ryan Rivett, is not just a CEO but the driving force behind My Place Hotels. We discuss discuss the incredible growth and vision of the brand. From the company's 6th convention to the introduction of "My Place 3.0" and the future of the conversion brand Trend, Ryan talks about the company's unique approach to blazing new trails, how they are empowe…

Irene Roberts, VP of Loyalty at My Place Hotels of America, and I are kicking off the My Place 2024 Conference in Tucson. We discuss the significance of guest loyalty in the hospitality industry, particularly in the economy sector. Irene shares how My Place Hotels’ loyalty program, Stay Rewarded, enhances the guest experience by offering immediate …

Mike Stengel is back and he brings the new GM for the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center to talk about all the amazing things happening with this project.Av No Vacancy News

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,…

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 creati…

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 discuss…

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.Av No Vacancy News

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 ac…

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 wha…

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.Av No Vacancy News

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?…

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 overha…

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 amenit…

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 b…

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, …

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 o…

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 financi…

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 Fl…

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 l…

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. M…

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 ho…

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 …

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 …

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. …

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 …

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 Ec…

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 manag…