No Vacancy Live and No Vacancy News
Your home for No Vacancy Live with Glenn Haussman and Anthony Melchiorri as well as Friday Night Audit and more! Each show features incredible hospitality leaders that educate and empower listeners.
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970: Hyatt’s Growth Strategy Explained: Emily Wright
09/02/2025
970: Hyatt’s Growth Strategy Explained: Emily Wright
I just had a fantastic conversation with Emily Wright, VP & Global Brand Leader at Hyatt, along with my buddy Anthony Melchiorri. Emily’s been with Hyatt for nearly 20 years, and the passion she brings to the role is clear. We covered a lot of ground, but here’s what really stood out to me: Hyatt has grown from 4 core brands to a wide-reaching portfolio—and they’re still expanding. The launch of Hyatt Studios and Hyatt Select is about filling real gaps in the market, especially in secondary and tertiary cities. World of Hyatt loyalty is exploding—58 million members strong and growing. Guests have zero tolerance for inconsistency anymore. Convenience and reliability aren’t perks—they’re table stakes. What I loved most was hearing how Hyatt balances deliberate, thoughtful growth while keeping guest experience at the center. Do you think Hyatt’s careful growth strategy gives them an advantage—or is the race to scale moving too fast for anyone to stay methodical? Special thanks to our advertiser: 👉 Actabl gives you the power to profit. Visit Actabl.com to explore tools that drive performance and benchmarking insights for budget season and beyond.
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Global Hotel Development: Luxury, Conversions & What’s Next with Bruce Ford
09/02/2025
Global Hotel Development: Luxury, Conversions & What’s Next with Bruce Ford
What’s really happening in the global hotel pipeline? Glenn Haussman sits down with Bruce Ford, SVP at Lodging Econometrics, to break down the numbers, trends, and transformations shaping hospitality development worldwide. From luxury’s evolution into intimate, multi-gen-friendly resorts to the rise of dual-brand properties and strategic conversions, this episode delivers insights that matter to owners, developers, and hospitality pros alike. Special thanks to our advertiser: 👉 Actabl gives you the power to profit. Visit to explore tools that drive performance and benchmarking insights for budget season and beyond. 🔍 #novacancynews #hospitalitydevelopment 🔑 Key Highlights: 📈 430,000+ rooms expected to open globally in 2025—what that means for the industry 🏨 Luxury redefined: smaller footprints, integrated villas, and private residences 🧩 Membership models and branded residential offerings gaining traction 🏗️ Upper Upscale and Upscale growth across continents, with dual-brand formats thriving 🔄 Conversions surge as aging inventory hits critical renovation cycles 🌍 Top global markets for new construction—China, Dallas, Orlando, and more 🎡 Disney’s expansion and Epic Universe’s ripple effect on Orlando’s hotel scene
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Inside Le Meridien: Budgets, Big Events & the Real Story of New Orleans Hospitality
08/27/2025
Inside Le Meridien: Budgets, Big Events & the Real Story of New Orleans Hospitality
New Orleans isn’t just about beignets and brass bands—it’s a test case for how hotels handle unpredictable demand. I spoke with Ken Jacques, GM of Le Meridien New Orleans, which is operated by Stonebridge, about how he’s planning for 2026 and what it really takes to run a hotel in a city built on events. Here’s what stood out: Hotels can’t just copy last year’s budget — they’re recalibrating daily Events like Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and UFC change everything for revenue planning Instinct plays as big a role as spreadsheets when forecasting demand International travel remains a wild card that could shake up results New Orleans is seeing its cleanest, safest stretch in decades—and that’s great for business Ken pulls back the curtain on hotel strategy giving me new perspective on how leaders adapt in real time. Special thanks to Actabl: Actabl gives you the power profit. Visit them at . #NoVacancyNews #Hospitality
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Hotel Development Boom: Europe, Middle East & Africa
08/27/2025
Hotel Development Boom: Europe, Middle East & Africa
What’s shaping the future of hotel development beyond the U.S.? In this , of and I break down the latest pipeline data across EMEA—and what it means for owners, operators, and investors. 🔑 Key insights: Why conversions are becoming the biggest story in Europe after a decade of limited activity How unique land and building lease structures shape hotel development in cities like London and Monaco The latest Middle East mega-projects, from Riyadh to Cairo, and the realities behind ambitious tourism ministry targets Emerging opportunities in markets you might not expect—plus which regions are poised to outperform the U.S. in operating performance How global brands are reshaping portfolios with apartments, extended stay, and upscale prototypes Special thanks to our advertiser — Actabl gives you the power to profit. Visit them at
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969: Hospitality Education, AI & the Future of Talent
08/26/2025
969: Hospitality Education, AI & the Future of Talent
How can hospitality education keep pace with the evolving workforce, shrinking attention spans, and the rise of AI? In this #NoVacancyNews, I’m joined by Dr. Suzanne Bagnera and Dr. Peter Ricci. We’re tackling one of the most pressing issues in our industry: attracting and preparing the next generation of hospitality leaders. 🔑 What we cover: Why enrollment in hospitality programs is dropping—and what that means for the industry How AI is reshaping hospitality education and operations (and how students are learning to use it) The permanent shift toward online learning and flexible work experience requirements Why hospitality careers go far beyond hotels & restaurants—think cruise lines, casinos, finance, and even marine biology The critical role of soft skills like communication and storytelling in today’s data-driven world Special thanks to Actabl for supporting this conversation. Actabl gives you the power to profit. Visit them at . 👉 Join us for insights that challenge assumptions, spotlight opportunities, and show why hospitality is still one of the most rewarding career paths.
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968: Inside CoralTree’s Long Game in Luxury Vacation Rentals
08/21/2025
968: Inside CoralTree’s Long Game in Luxury Vacation Rentals
From Aspen in the 1970s to Maui today, CoralTree Hospitality has been shaping the residential resort and vacation rental space long before it was trendy. In this #NoVacancyNews, Glenn and Anthony sit down with Mike Cuthbertson, Managing Director of the CoralTree Residence Collection, to talk about: How CoralTree blends hospitality standards with vacation rental flexibility The unique challenges of managing hundreds of individual owners (and their opinions) Creative strategies to get homeowners to invest in upgrades The tech innovations transforming revenue management and guest experience Why consistency of experience matters more than identical rooms The relationships that keep guests coming back for generations If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to profitably operate luxury vacation rentals while keeping owners happy and guests coming back, this one’s packed with insights. Special thanks to Actabl for powering this episode. Visit for benchmarking insights to boost your 2025–2026 performance.
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Inside The Peabody Memphis | Doug Browne on History, Renovation & Hospitality’s Future
08/20/2025
Inside The Peabody Memphis | Doug Browne on History, Renovation & Hospitality’s Future
The Peabody Memphis is more than a luxury hotel — it’s a living piece of history. From its famous duck march to welcoming presidents and celebrities, this property continues to set the standard for Southern hospitality. In this episode, I talk with Doug Browne, President of The Peabody Memphis, about what it takes to run a century-old icon while keeping it fresh and profitable. 💡 What you’ll learn: How a 25-year rolling capital plan preserves the hotel for future generations The behind-the-scenes story of a $30 million renovation Why a small change to the lobby bar delivered outsized financial results Renovating challenges in a 100-year-old building (with some surprising discoveries!) Doug’s advice for the next generation: play the long game in hospitality 🎯 Special thanks to our sponsor: Actabl gives you the power to profit — visit 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of hotels.
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Asia Pacific Hotel Construction Boom | Bruce Ford, Lodging Econometrics
08/19/2025
Asia Pacific Hotel Construction Boom | Bruce Ford, Lodging Econometrics
Asia Pacific is driving nearly half of the world’s hotel construction — but the trends look very different when you separate China from the rest of the region. I’m joined by Bruce Ford, SVP at Lodging Econometrics, to break down the numbers and explain what they mean for the hospitality business. 💡 What you’ll learn in this episode: Why China is finally seeing a wave of upscale and boutique hotels The scale of new projects in India, Vietnam, and Thailand How pandemic-delayed projects are now entering the market The rise of conversions in Asia Pacific for the first time Why the assumption that “new construction is dead” is completely wrong 🎯 Special thanks to our sponsor: Actabl gives you the power to profit — visit 🔔 Subscribe for more insights into hotel development, investment, and operations.
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967: Boutique Hotel Strategies with Stephen Wendell of Mountain Shore Properties
08/19/2025
967: Boutique Hotel Strategies with Stephen Wendell of Mountain Shore Properties
Boutique hotels are more than just design statements — they’re lifestyle-driven businesses that can transform communities and create powerful guest loyalty. In this episode of #NoVacancyNews, Stephen Wendell, CEO of Mountain Shore Properties, talks about what makes #boutiquehotel projects work — and how his company approaches development in unique markets. 📌 Key takeaways: • How boutique hotels stand out in today’s competitive hospitality landscape • The role of authenticity and local storytelling in attracting guests • Why flexibility in operations is critical for independent properties • Lessons from building in both urban and resort destinations • How Mountain Shore balances financial returns with a memorable guest experience 🎯 Special thanks to my advertiser: Actabl gives you the power to profit — visit
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966: Why Timeshare is Winning Over Today’s Travelers
08/14/2025
966: Why Timeshare is Winning Over Today’s Travelers
Timeshare isn’t what it used to be — and that’s exactly the point. In this episode of No Vacancy Live, I’m joined by co-host Anthony Melchiorri and Jason Gamel, President & CEO of ARDA, for a fast-moving and surprisingly eye-opening discussion on the state of vacation ownership. 🏖️ Whether you’re a hotelier, investor, or curious traveler, you’ll want to hear this: • How the reputation of timeshare has dramatically shifted — and why guests are embracing it again • The rise of branded vacation ownership: Hilton, Marriott, Wyndham, and beyond • Why prepaid ownership leads to more on-site spend and more stable revenue • How tech, loyalty programs, and demand for unique experiences are reshaping the product • Why Gen Z and millennials now make up over half of all new timeshare buyers • The hidden opportunities for hoteliers to collaborate with nearby timeshare resorts • Plus: surprising facts about international growth, maintenance fees, and what’s next for independent properties 👀 Want guaranteed occupancy, predictable revenue, and happy returning guests? This episode might make you rethink how timeshare fits into the hospitality ecosystem. 🔊 Special thanks to our sponsor: Actabl gives you the power to profit. Visit them at #NoVacancyNews #HospitalityLeadership
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965: Inside California’s Coolest Coastal Hotels
08/12/2025
965: Inside California’s Coolest Coastal Hotels
In this episode of No Vacancy Live, Anthony Melchiorri and I sit down with Charlie Lopez, VP & Managing Director of ETC Hotels, the group behind the iconic Casa del Mar and Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica. Together, we explore what true luxury means in today’s hospitality climate — and why it’s more relaxed, more local, and more personalized than ever. 🌴 Here’s what you’ll get from this high-level conversation: • Why "California cool" is redefining global luxury standards • How major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 LA Olympics are shaping Santa Monica's future • The shift from stuffy opulence to laid-back, personalized service (and why guests expect both access and autonomy) • The power of hyper-local partnerships to enrich guest experiences • Why daily team standups are a non-negotiable in luxury operations • How ETC is thriving without a big brand flag — and why it’s freeing • Mentorship, staff training, and how to “raise people in this business” • What makes the concierge (and guest relations) your hotel's ultimate power duo 💡 Bonus: Why today’s top hoteliers are teaching staff how to think, not just follow SOPs. 🔊 Special thanks to our sponsor: Actabl gives you the power to profit. Visit them at #NoVacancyNews #LuxuryHospitality
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Luxury Travel Trends You Need to Know — Virtuoso’s Misty Belles
08/11/2025
Luxury Travel Trends You Need to Know — Virtuoso’s Misty Belles
The luxury travel market isn’t slowing down — it’s evolving. At Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas, I sat down with Misty Belles, VP of Global Public Relations at Virtuoso, to uncover what’s really happening in high-end travel and how hotels can adapt to meet shifting guest expectations. 📌 Key takeaways: • Virtuoso’s latest research shows 12% year-over-year growth in luxury travel for the first half of 2025 • Solo female travel is on the rise — led by women 65+ who are exploring on their own and going off the beaten path • Guests are embracing shoulder season travel with double-digit booking increases in fall • Domestic travel remains strong, keeping rates stable even amid economic uncertainty • Personal connections between advisors and hotels still drive the most memorable experiences — with tech enhancing, not replacing, the human touch • Why discounting is rarely the answer when the goal is to preserve brand value Luxury travelers are proving to be less impacted by broader economic swings — and hotels that deliver on service and experience are well-positioned to capture this market. 🎯 Special thanks to my advertiser: Actabl gives you the power to profit — visit #NoVacancyNews #LuxuryTravel
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FNA 184: The Matt Attack
08/09/2025
FNA 184: The Matt Attack
On this episode of Friday Night Audit, we welcome back the incredible Matt Hostetler, CDO at Red Roof to join us for some laughs, drinks and more. Watch at your own risk!!
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Hotel Development Heats Up Across the Americas — Here's Where There's Growth
08/07/2025
Hotel Development Heats Up Across the Americas — Here's Where There's Growth
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964: Myrtle Beach’s Hotel Boom — and the Locals Who Used to Be Tourists
08/07/2025
964: Myrtle Beach’s Hotel Boom — and the Locals Who Used to Be Tourists
📍 Myrtle Beach has more golf courses than you can count — but the real story is how former tourists are becoming full-time residents, and how hoteliers are adapting. On this #NoVacancyNews, I speak with Patrick Norton, CMO of Brittain Resorts & Hotels, about how they’re navigating market shifts, driving demand, and building loyalty in one of the country’s fastest growing cities. Here’s what you’ll take away: • Why #MyrtleBeach’s growth is a blessing and a challenge • How Brittain is investing in renovations and F&B to attract locals and tourists alike • What “drawbridge tourists” are — and why they matter • Creative ways to compete without dropping rates • Why email is still the king of marketing • How micro-influencers and #GenZ staff are changing the game 🎧 Bonus: Patrick shares how a simple contest for “Vacation for Life” helped generate millions in new contacts and fans. Thanks to Actabl — Actabl gives you the power to profit. Visit them at .
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How Choice Hotels Is Making Extended Stay History
08/06/2025
How Choice Hotels Is Making Extended Stay History
The extended stay category just got its first-ever national ad campaigns — and Choice Hotels is leading the way. In this episode of , I speak with , VP & Segment Lead for Extended Stay at , about why now was the moment to go big on marketing, how the campaigns are shifting guest perception, and what it all means for owners and guests alike. 📌 What you’ll learn: • Why Choice launched the first-ever national ad campaigns in the space • The emotional insights behind “Stay in the Rhythm” for Everhome and MainStay Suites • How “The WoodSpring Way” focuses on general managers as the heartbeat of the brand • WoodSpring’s results: Over 250 open properties and 4 straight J.D. Power wins • Why guests want routine, not escape — and how extended stay delivers that • How Choice’s multi-brand strategy gives owners flexibility across economy and midscale · Plus, give Matt a little love as he has a new baby at home!!! Yay Matt and family! This isn’t just branding — it’s a shift in how the industry thinks about loyalty, consistency, and guest connection in long-term . 🎯 Special thanks to my advertiser: gives you the power to profit — visit
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963: Springboard’s Ben Rafter on Building Smarter, Faster, and More Human Hotels
08/05/2025
963: Springboard’s Ben Rafter on Building Smarter, Faster, and More Human Hotels
Ben Rafter, President & CEO of Springboard Hospitality, doesn’t pull punches. In this #NoVacancyNews, we get into the real conversations hoteliers should be having — not just about technology, but also leadership, workforce strategy, and making the numbers work. We cover a ton of ground, including: • Why getting your financials out on time is a non-negotiable • How to use AI where it matters — think labor, not gimmicks • What “table stakes” really means for hospitality leaders • Building a culture of innovation without losing the human touch • Rethinking recruitment: why hospitality must sell itself harder to Gen Z • Why mid-sized operators must become tech-fluent to stay competitive • Balancing startup speed with scaled operations Ben shares how Springboard’s merger with Hotel Equities gives them the scale to grow — without losing their edge. 💡 Thanks to my advertiser: Actabl gives you the power to profit. Visit them at
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962: How A&O Hostels is Redefining Budget Travel for Gen Z and Solo Adventurers
07/31/2025
962: How A&O Hostels is Redefining Budget Travel for Gen Z and Solo Adventurers
A&O Hostels CEO Oliver Winter shares how he built one of Europe’s largest hostel brands—and why it’s resonating with Gen Z, solo travelers, and digital nomads. From one property in Berlin to 42 locations across Europe, A&O Hostels has become a leader in affordable, sustainable hospitality. In this episode of No Vacancy News, Glenn Haussman and Dr. Suzanne Bagnera talk with Oliver about: ✅ Why solo travel is booming—especially among women ✅ How A&O achieves an 80% lower CO₂ footprint than competitors ✅ Converting vacant office buildings into profitable hostels ✅ Building social spaces, work zones, and safety features Gen Z travelers expect ✅ Lessons from growing up in East Berlin and building with freedom in mind 🔗 Special thanks to our sponsor: Actabl gives you the power to profit — visit Actabl.com #NoVacancyNews #HostelTravel #BudgetTravel #HotelDevelopment #Actabl
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IHG is Reimagining the Suite Experience — And We Got the Inside Tour
07/30/2025
IHG is Reimagining the Suite Experience — And We Got the Inside Tour
In this episode of No Vacancy News, Glenn Haussman heads to IHG’s Design Center in Atlanta to explore the evolution of Candlewood Suites, Atwell Suites, and Staybridge Suites with IHG brand leaders Karen Gilbride and Justin Alexander. 🔍 What’s inside: The $19B+ suite segment opportunity—and why IHG is doubling down How “Smart Studios” reduce room size while maximizing functionality Flexible layouts that help developers fit more keys per floor Design features tailored for modern travelers, from wet bars to Zoom-ready spaces Growth update: 6 Atwell Suites open, 50+ in the pipeline Plus: Candlewood’s new Costa Coffee program & Staybridge’s evolution for dual-use guests This behind-the-scenes tour breaks down how IHG is making suites smarter, more efficient, and more attractive to both guests and developers. 📣 Special thanks to our sponsor: Actabl gives you the power to profit — visit Actabl.com 👇 Watch the full walkthrough and subscribe for more hospitality insights! #NoVacancyNews #IHG #HotelDesign #ExtendedStay #HospitalityInnovation
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961: Honing the Human Edge: Hotel Leadership Lessons from Top Hotelier
07/29/2025
961: Honing the Human Edge: Hotel Leadership Lessons from Top Hotelier
Edward Mady has led some of the most iconic hotels in the world. Now, he’s turning decades of experience into a leadership blueprint that blends purpose, accountability, and human connection. In this #NoVacancyNews, Glenn and Anthony chat with the longtime GM of The Beverly Hills Hotel and author of Honing the Human Edge to talk about what it takes to build high-performing teams and lasting cultures in hospitality—and beyond. 📌 Key takeaways: • How to build team culture by creating a sense of shared responsibility • Why personal setbacks can fuel leadership clarity • The role of pressure and purpose in developing emotional resilience • A formula for guest satisfaction that puts people first—and delivers results • Lessons from leading legendary properties like The Bel-Air, Ritz-Carlton, and Fairmont Edward’s leadership style is direct, intentional, and deeply human. This episode offers a sharp perspective on how to lead with focus and build teams that thrive. Special thanks to our sponsor: Actabl gives you the power to profit — visit Actabl.com
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960: Decoding the Hotel Pipeline: Trends Every Owner Should Know
07/28/2025
960: Decoding the Hotel Pipeline: Trends Every Owner Should Know
The data is in—and it’s not just about pipeline volume, it’s about what the numbers really mean. In this #NoVacancyNews, Glenn Haussman sits down with Bruce Ford, SVP at Lodging Econometrics. They’re breaking down the latest U.S. #hotelconstruction pipeline data and uncovering the trends shaping where and how hotels will renovate and build next. 📊 Highlights include: • Why older hotels from 2005–2009 are driving a surge in conversions and renovations • Which markets (Dallas, Nashville, Atlanta) are still leading #HotelDevelopment and why • How upper midscale and extended stay are winning the development game • Why lenders want brand certainty—and how that’s reshaping who gets funded • The crucial role of CapEx planning in franchise negotiations and ownership decisions • A sneak peek at 2027–2028 forecasts and what it’ll take to kickstart new construction And yes, Vegas gets a mention (spoiler: don’t expect that new Hard Rock by New Year’s 2027). Special thanks to our sponsor: Actabl gives you the power to profit — visit Actabl.com
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U.S. News Names Best Hotel Rewards Program for 2025. We Find Out Why
07/27/2025
U.S. News Names Best Hotel Rewards Program for 2025. We Find Out Why
Loyalty matters—but only if it’s worth something to the traveler. In this episode of, Glenn Haussman sits down with , Senior Travel Editor at , to reveal he just-released rankings of the best hotel rewards programs for 2025–2026. 💳 Here’s what you’ll learn: Why 's Choice Privileges earned the top spot — and how guests can snag free nights in just 9 stays Which brands are offering perks sooner (some at just 10 nights, vs. 25+ elsewhere) What makes 's World of Hyatt a standout for both luxury and value-focused travelers Why continues to dominate airline loyalty — 11 years and counting How travelers are shifting toward right-now rewards vs. long-term status chasing As loyalty programs evolve, smart hoteliers—and smart travelers—are recalibrating what real value looks like. Special thanks to our sponsor: gives you the power to profit — visit Visit
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FNA 183: The Burda's Back
07/26/2025
FNA 183: The Burda's Back
Friday Night Audit champion Kate Burda rejoins to go toe to tow with Glenn, Craig and Producer Dave. Join us for soem happy hour fun and laughs as we kick off the weekend!
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959: Reimagining Meetings: Hilton on Gen Z, Quiet Zones & No More “Lifestyle Chic”
07/26/2025
959: Reimagining Meetings: Hilton on Gen Z, Quiet Zones & No More “Lifestyle Chic”
From awkward dress codes to overstuffed agendas, meetings needed a reset — and Hilton listened. On this episode of, Glenn Haussman and Anthony Melchiorri talk with , VP of Sales Engagement & Special Events at , about how her team is rewriting the rules of modern events based on feedback from 10,000+ attendees. 📋 What you’ll take away: • Why isn’t “fragile”—they’re just honest about what makes a good event • Why dropped general sessions and added etiquette training (yes, really) • How showing menus in advance and designing "networking menus" (no spinach!) is changing the game • The shift from breakout rooms to “learning labs” like pizza-making and putting greens • A sneak peek at what’s coming to the newly restored Waldorf Astoria NYC 💡 If you plan meetings, attend them, or just hate guessing what “resort casual” actually means, this one’s worth your time. Special thanks to our sponsor: gives you the power to profit — visit
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958: What Hotel Investors Are Getting Wrong — And How to Build Smarter in 2025
07/24/2025
958: What Hotel Investors Are Getting Wrong — And How to Build Smarter in 2025
With new labor mandates, interest rate pressure, and legal complexity at an all-time high, hotel development is no longer a game of instinct — it’s about precision. In this episode of #NoVacancyNews, Glenn Haussman and Anthony Melchiorri talk with Guy Maisnik, Vice Chair of the Global Hospitality Group at Jeffer Mangels Butler & Mitchell, about what today’s hotel owners need to understand to stay profitable in a shifting marketplace. 📌 Key insights include: Why operators must stress-test financials with wage hikes reaching $30/hour by 2028 How asset managers and ownership alignment can make or break a property The legal implications of America’s evolving hospitality labor laws Where foreign capital is flowing — and why EB-5 is back in a big way What asset types (hello, airport hotels and extended stay) are winning in uncertain times And the #1 question new investors should ask — but usually don’t Whether you're building your first hotel or restructuring your fifth, this is a masterclass in what separates smart deals from costly missteps. Special thanks to our sponsor: Actabl gives you the power to profit — visit
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Inside Avid & Garner: Why IHG’s Newest Midscale Brands Are Gaining Major Momentum
07/24/2025
Inside Avid & Garner: Why IHG’s Newest Midscale Brands Are Gaining Major Momentum
Midscale doesn’t mean middle of the road — and is proving that with two rising stars: and Garner. In this special tour, Glenn Haussman visits Hotels & Resorts' Design Center in Atlanta with , VP of Brands for avid, Garner, and . They walk through real model rooms, explore growth strategies and , and reveal why these brands are resonating with both travelers and owners. 💡 Key takeaways: Avid’s “basics done exceptionally well” approach—and how it’s outperforming the market with RevPAR growth double the industry average Garner’s flexible conversion model that lets owners invest only where needed, without compromising guest experience How IHG’s design and support make it easier to move fast—whether you’re building new or repositioning an asset Why consistency, comfort, and clean design are winning with guests across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico This is brand development with purpose—and performance to match.
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957: Why Service in Hotels Still Wins
07/17/2025
957: Why Service in Hotels Still Wins
It’s not about thread count—it’s about people. On #NoVacancyNews, Glenn Haussman and Anthony Melchiorri chat with hospitality consultant and author Kate Buhler, whose career has taken her from the world’s most iconic hotels to coaching today’s front-line staff and executives. 🔍 Topics that matter: Why today’s luxury service challenge is more about managers than guests The real impact of tech and AI—and why guests still crave a human touch Why and how elegant upselling can feel like #hospitality, not a hustle The problem with staffing algorithms and how they’re killing team culture How top-performing hotels are balancing profitability with purpose Smart strategies for building confident, emotionally connected staff 💬 Plus: Hilarious war stories, heartfelt moments, and hard truths about what’s working—and what’s not—on hotel floors today. Special thanks to our advertiser: Actabl gives you the power profit — visit
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Financial Wins Behind the Bar: Hospitality Masterclass with Fintech
07/15/2025
Financial Wins Behind the Bar: Hospitality Masterclass with Fintech
What happens when you merge the top two players in hotel tablet tech? According to , CEO of , it’s a hospitality tech revolution. In this , Glenn Haussman catches up with Kevin to discuss a game-changing shift for four-star hotels and beyond. Here’s what you’ll discover: • Why HCN’s acquisition of Crave marks a major turning point in the in-room technology landscape • How guestroom tablets are finally becoming cost-effective—even profitable—for four-star hotels • The innovative model turning tablets into revenue generators via advertising, ticketing, and stakeholder partnerships • A first look at the concierge AI platform that provides personalized city itineraries, restaurant bookings, and more—right from the guestroom and into your pocket • How HCN is bringing back a sense of personal service once reserved for five-star stays, now powered by scalable technology • Why Bidner believes this is “the biggest thing in the travel industry ever”—and what it means for hotel operators and profitability
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956: The Bright Blueprint: Reimagining Hotels with Tech-Infused Soul
07/15/2025
956: The Bright Blueprint: Reimagining Hotels with Tech-Infused Soul
Forget everything you thought you knew about hotel tech. On #NoVacancyNews, Glenn and Anthony chat with Bright Hotel Group CEO Deniz Dorbek Kocak about how her team is rewriting the rules of hospitality through integrated technology, curated design, and authentic guest connection. 💡 What you’ll hear about: The Bright Group’s evolution from tech firm to hotel operator—and why that shift matters How self-check-in kiosks and lean teams improve margins without compromising guest service Why tech should feel invisible yet powerful — especially for Gen Z and Millennial travelers Personalization that actually works: blending anticipation with simplicity and authenticity Building a hotel brand that speaks to neighborhood culture, not just corporate standards Breaking the 250-room barrier: can large hotels still offer true customization? ✨ Special thanks to our sponsor Actabl – Actabl gives you the power to profit. Visit to learn more.
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How HCN Is Revolutionizing Hotel In-Room Tech and Personalization
07/14/2025
How HCN Is Revolutionizing Hotel In-Room Tech and Personalization
What happens when you merge the top two players in hotel tablet tech? According to , CEO of , it’s a hospitality tech revolution. In this , Glenn Haussman catches up with Kevin to discuss a game-changing shift for four-star hotels and beyond. Here’s what you’ll discover: • Why HCN’s acquisition of Crave marks a major turning point in the in-room technology landscape • How guestroom tablets are finally becoming cost-effective—even profitable—for four-star hotels • The innovative model turning tablets into revenue generators via advertising, ticketing, and stakeholder partnerships • A first look at the concierge AI platform that provides personalized city itineraries, restaurant bookings, and more—right from the guestroom and into your pocket • How HCN is bringing back a sense of personal service once reserved for five-star stays, now powered by scalable technology • Why Bidner believes this is “the biggest thing in the travel industry ever”—and what it means for hotel operators and profitability
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