No Vacancy Live!

In this bonus episode I chat with Bruce Ford, SVP at Lodging Econometrics, about the latest global pipeline numbers. We’re exploring hotel development trends across various regions, including Europe, the Middle East, India, China, and here in the USA. From Romania's emerging market to Israel's active pipeline and the evolving landscape of hotel conversions in Europe and new builds in the Middle East, Bruce provides a comprehensive overview of the current state and future prospects of the global hotel industry. Key Points: • Romania's Growth 🌍: Discussing the significant pipeline growth in Romania, including both resort areas and Bucharest. • Full-Service Projects in Europe 🏨: Insights into new full-service hotel projects across Europe, with notable mentions of Israel's booming pipeline. • Conversion Market Trends 🔄: Exploring the increase in hotel conversions in Europe and how it's becoming a significant trend. • Challenges and Opportunities 🚧: Addressing the complexities of hotel development in diverse regions and the shift towards more third-party management companies. • Middle East Developments 🌟: Highlighting the ambitious hotel projects in the Middle East and the phased approach to building new neighborhoods and city sections. • India's Tourism Boom: Discussing the rapid growth in India's hotel market, with over 600 projects in the pipeline and major global brands entering the market. • China's Unique Market: Insights into China's hotel development, including the challenges during the pandemic and the current state of over 500,000 rooms under construction. • Expanding Asian Markets 🌏: Highlighting the record pipeline outside of China in Asia, with notable developments in Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. • Mexico's Hospitality Resilience: Exploring Mexico's strong hospitality market during the pandemic and new developments, including the Tulum Airport and train line boosting tourism and hotel investments. • Southern California's Renaissance 🏨: Insights into the rebranding and development boom in Southern California, particularly Palm Springs. • Impact of Population Shifts 📊: Analysis of how population movements are influencing hotel investments and developments. • Trends in Hotel Conversions 🔄: The rising trend of hotel conversions in various regions to meet new market demands. • 2025 Outlook and Predictions 🔮: Expectations for new construction, deals, renovations, and rebrandings in 2025.

Chris Green is back to talk about what he's been up to in retirement, how he's been staying connected to the industry, what he feels 2025 will bring, and more! This is an episode you have to see.

I chatted with Sarah Dinger, EVP of Franchise Operations at My Place Hotels of America during The Hospitality Show! We reveal the secrets behind My Place’s empowering work culture, employee retention strategies, and how the brand fosters lasting relationships within their growing team. Thanks to Entegra -- unmatched purchasing, unlimited performance. Explore more at EntegraPS.com Main Takeaways: Retaining Top Talent in Hospitality: Discover how My Place encourages employees to take ownership and stay committed long-term. The Importance of “Why”: Sarah explains how showing employees the purpose behind their roles leads to stronger emotional engagement. Building Strong Partnerships: Learn how My Place uses supplier and partner relationships to navigate supply chain challenges. Celebrating Growth and Consistency: Sarah reflects on My Place’s growth to 115+ locations and the loyalty of team members who’ve been there since the beginning. Conference Highlights: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the recently held My Place annual conference, showcasing the brand's strength and future vision. Make sure to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more industry insights every week! 💡 Subscribe for more insights on hospitality and hotel trends! Text HOTEL to 66866 for our newsletter hashtag#HospitalityPodcast hashtag#MyPlaceHotels hashtag#EmployeeEngagement hashtag#HospitalityLeadership hashtag#TeamCulture hashtag#FranchiseSuccess hashtag#podcast

Anna Blue is President of the American Hotel & Lodging Foundation where she's a change agent of good. However, she's appraently prone to poor decision making once she realizes what she's done by joining Glenn, Craig and Producer Dave for this week's Friday Night Audit.

Big show today as we have Brad LeBlanc, Chief Development Officer and Amy Hulbert, VP, Boutique and Upscale Brands of BWH Hotels. We're talking soft brand development and more!

In this episode, Matt McElhare, VP of Extended Stay at Choice Hotels International Hotels, shares exciting insights on the rapid growth of the extended stay segment. From reaching the milestone of 500 extended stay hotels to discussing the brand’s innovative strategies, Matt highlights the future of this booming hospitality sector. 🔑 Key Highlights: 500th Extended Stay Opening: How Choice Hotels has scaled from 100 to 500 extended stay properties since 2018. Growth Driven by Woodspring Suites: Insights into the acquisition of Woodspring and its role in driving rapid expansion. Four Extended Stay Brands: Everhome Suites, Woodspring Suites, MainStay Suburban, and Suburban — each with a unique market strategy. Reinventing Suburban & MainStay Brands: How Choice Hotels is revitalizing these brands with new strategies like the "kitchen in a box" and "lobby in a box" models. Everhome's Market Opportunity: A look into Everhome’s focus on the high-potential midscale segment of extended stay hotels. Extended Stay Conversions: Choice Hotels’ approach to converting select service hotels into extended stay properties for quicker market entry and increased profitability. Impact of Interest Rates & Financing: Matt shares insights on how interest rate cuts and proven product performance are helping developers secure financing and grow in the extended stay space. The Future of Extended Stay: With 400 more hotels in the pipeline, Choice Hotels plans to continue its aggressive expansion strategy. 🎧 Listen to the full conversation to learn why extended stay is the hottest segment in hospitality today! 📌 Subscribe for more expert insights into hospitality trends and real estate development. Text Hotel to 66866 to get our newsletter.

Monty Bennett, Founder and CEO of Ashford Inc, joins us to talk about what his expectations are for the last 6 weeks of 2024 as holiday season approaches. 2025 is fast approaching and with a lot of uncertainty behind us following the election, what is the outlook for current operating hotels as well as the transaction markets?

Today I am chatting with Ankit Panchal from Macrotech, he’s a seasoned hotelier who’s managed multiple properties. We’re focused on how Macrotech is pushing innovation in the hotel industry with advanced AI-driven solutions, from keyless entry systems to efficient front desk operations. • AI-Driven Innovation: Learn how Macrotech’s AI solutions are enhancing the guest experience and operational efficiency. • Sustainable Smart Locks: Discover the keyless lock system with QR code functionality, saving $700+ monthly on key replacements and reducing plastic waste. • Live Monitoring for Hoteliers: Macrotech’s smart locks and Wi-Fi solutions provide real-time access for property managers, enhancing security and guest satisfaction. • Plug & Play Wi-Fi: Streamlined installation and live connectivity tracking make Wi-Fi management seamless. • ID Scanners with OCR: Speed up check-in with optical character recognition, eliminating tedious manual data entry. • AI-Enhanced Phone System: Handle guest requests and FAQs with virtual agents, freeing staff to focus on personal guest interactions. • Interactive Check-in Kiosks: Offer self-check-in options while still connecting guests to live support for a smooth, friction-free experience. Dive into the ways Macrotech is reshaping the hospitality landscape and the exciting potential AI holds for the future of hotels. 🌍✨

We’re on the tradeshow floor of The Hospitality Show where I interview Jennifer Barnwell, President of Curator Hotels. Discover how Curator is revolutionizing the independent hotel space by empowering boutique and independent hotels to compete with larger brands and OTAs. Jennifer shares insights on Curator’s journey, industry challenges, and the exciting future of independent hotels. Thanks to Entegra -- unmatched purchasing, unlimited performance. Explore more at EntegraPS.com In this episode: The Power of Curator:Marketing Advantage:Four-Year Journey:Future of Independent Hotels:Inspiring Entrepreneurial Spirit: 💡 Subscribe for more insights on hospitality and hotel trends! Text HOTEL to 66866 for our newsletter #CuratorHotels #IndependentHotels #HospitalityIndustry #HotelMarketing #BoutiqueHotels #HospitalityShow #JenniferBarnwell #GlennHaussman #HotelManagement

Michael Koch, Co-Founder and CEO of The Michael Koch Group, joins to talk about how his company is changing the real estate landscape through cutting-edge physical and digital experiences. They've created spaces such as Apple Stores and Ritz-Carltons.

Leanne Harwood, SVP and Managing Director of Luxury and Lifestyle for IHG is here to talk about all things L&L including the current state of the portfolio, future outlook, and how she got in the position she has, leading this amazing collection of hotels. We mostly focus on the new uber luxury Regent Santa Monica.

We’re at San Antonio's Riverwalk where I’m chatting with Brian Venable from HBO about HBO's pivotal role in hotel entertainment. Who doesn’t remember blinking neon HBO signs beckoning travelers to stay in an air cooled room and watch a movie? From classic cable to modern streaming, discover how HBO and Max are reshaping the in-room experience for hotel guests. We’re looking into the latest hospitality trends and how Max is making it easier for travelers to access top-notch content right in their rooms. Whether you're a hotelier or a fan of HBO’s iconic shows, this conversation offers insights into the future of in-room entertainment! In this episode, we cover: House of DragonsWhite Lotus Don’t miss these insights on creating memorable guest experiences and making high-quality content accessible! #HBO #MaxStreaming #HospitalityTech #InRoomEntertainment #HotelTrends #GlennHaussman #StreamingServices

Unlock the secrets of local SEO and more for extended stay for hotels! We’re joined by Gordon Liametz, founder and CEO of Digital Escape, who breaks down actionable steps to make your hotel stand out in local searches. Whether you’re managing an independent property or a branded hotel, this conversation reveals how small changes can drive big visibility. Tune in and learn how to position your extended stay property as a top choice in your area! In this episode, you’ll learn: • Local SEO Basics – What is local SEO, and why it matters more than you might think. • Google Algorithms Explained – Discover the 5 algorithms impacting your hotel’s visibility. • The Power of Local Searches – 46% of mobile searches are local intent-based, not brand-focused. • 20-Step Self-Audit Checklist – Start improving visibility with Gordon’s proven checklist. • Google Business Listing Essentials – Tips to maximize your hotel’s Google Business profile. • Star Ratings & Photos – Why accurate ratings and quality images can transform booking rates. • Effective Use of Keywords – How to use keywords, geo-marking, and latitude/longitude for a boost. • Video and Photography Tips – Balance authenticity and professionalism to attract guests. • Seasonal Tips for Visibility – Update your listing images and hero photos for the best impact. Get insider insights to improve your online presence and outshine competitors in local search results! Today’s episode is sponsored by ESLA’s inaugural regional event, taking place Wed. Dec 4 at the Crowne Plaza Ravinia in Atlanta. Learn more at ESLA.org. Also, sposnored by Dellisart Hospitality (www.dellisart.com), the leader in the third-party management of Extended Stay hotels. #HotelSEO #LocalSEO #HospitalityMarketing #DigitalEscape #HotelVisibility #HotelMarketing #SEOExperts

In a recent study hospitality was shown to have the highest rates of addiction across any industry. Cesar Wurm is back to share his struggle with addiction and how he has overcome them. He is aiming to help other people struggling with his book "The Powers of Addiction: Finding Freedom in Recovery"

🎙 I’m at The Hospitality Show floor with special guest Scott Strickland, Chief Commercial Officer of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts! They discuss Wyndham’s cutting-edge technology, aimed at improving guest experiences and boosting franchisee profits. From AI-driven interactions to new loyalty rewards, Scott reveals how Wyndham is setting a new standard for hotel technology and customer connection. Thanks to Entegra -- unmatched purchasing, unlimited performance. Explore more at EntegraPS.com 🔑 Main Highlights: AI-Powered Guest Experience: Discover how Wyndham Connect lets guests request upgrades, early check-ins, and answers to FAQs – all through AI! Franchisee Profit Boost: Wyndham’s AI tools are generating additional revenue with early and late check-in options, with over 50% of hotels earning $1,500+ monthly. Customizable Experiences: Learn how AI-driven technology creates personalized stays based on guest preferences, from room temperature to lighting. Loyalty Program Evolution: Scott shares exciting upgrades to Wyndham's award-winning loyalty program, offering points for stays at dream locations worldwide. Streamlined Purchasing for Franchisees: Wyndham’s upcoming portal will offer franchisees cost savings on essentials like mattresses and linens, driving down operational costs. Don't miss out on these insights that could transform your view on hotel technology and guest service! Watch, subscribe, and stay updated with our latest hospitality trends! Text HOTEL to 66866🔔 #WyndhamHotels #HospitalityTech #GuestExperience #HotelIndustry #HotelTrends #AIinHospitality #LoyaltyProgram #WyndhamConnect #NoVacancy

Ian McClure CEO, Gulf Development in Dallas, Texas oversees and directs a group of affiliated real estate development and management companies with assets in fourteen states employing approximately 450 associates. He’s now betting big on extended stay, sharing his journey from retail and multifamily development into hospitality. He shares the story of developing a 30-property portfolio with Wyndham's new Echo Suites brand. In fact, he recently opened the first one! Get an inside look into why Ian believes extended stay hotels are the future of hospitality, his strategic partnership with Wyndham, and how the operating model is transforming the industry. Key Takeaways: Plus · Location strategy · Site selection criteria: · interest rates and how that effects long-term confidence · and Advice for investors This episode is brought to you by EchoSuites from Wyndham. Learn more about Wyndham Echo Suites here: https://development.wyndhamhotels.com/brand/echo-suites-extended-stay-by-wyndham/ Also, thanks to our sponsor sponsored by Dellisart Hospitality (www.dellisart.com), the leader in the third-party management of Extended Stay hotels. #HospitalityIndustry #ExtendedStayHotels #WyndhamEchoSuites #HotelDevelopment #RealEstateInvesting #HotelOperations #FutureOfHospitality #PodcastInterview

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.

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 the U.S., this conversation offers invaluable insights for investors, developers, and hospitality pros alike! Key discussion points: The incredible growth of Live Away Suites with 12 hotels open or under construction 🏗️ The success of their first hotel in West Jordan, Salt Lake City 🏙️ What makes LivAway Suites different from traditional corporate hotels 🏢 Expansion plans: From Salt Lake City to Richland, Washington, Smyrna, Georgia, and beyond 🌍 The strategic focus on extended stay properties with fast stabilization ⚡ Franchising plans and how West 77 is behind building a national brand 🏆 Key demand drivers: military bases, hospitals, infrastructure projects, and more 🏥 How LivAway Suites is leveraging demand from infrastructure projects like the Chips Act 🛠️

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 returns 🔥 Culture in Practice: Why it’s important to define, program, and measure company culture 📊 Growth in 2024: Expanding the team, portfolio, and leadership at ARK Hospitality 🏨 Career Development: Exposing employees to new roles and career paths within the industry 🌟 Success Stories: From property-level roles to C-suite positions – the amazing career trajectories in hospitality 🚀 ARK Hospitality Academy: A unique program that trains employees in leadership and operations Discover how to build a positive workplace culture and unlock growth in the hospitality industry. Thank you to our sponsor, Unifocus – streamline your hotel operations and empower your team at unifocus.com.