Teague Talks Podcast

This week, Teague chats with Al Patel, President of Baywood Hotels, for an inside look at managing a vast portfolio of 125 properties, with over 10 new hotels under construction and an additional 20 projects in the pipeline. From growing up in the business to leading one of the biggest hotel management companies today, Al shares what Baywood is currently focused on, the details behind the newly-developed Moxy Miami Wynwood, and his outlook on the industry going into 2025.

With the election right around the corner, Teague sits down with AHLA's Kevin Carey and Chirag Shah to discuss what we know so far about how the presidential race may shape the future of the hospitality industry. From economic policy shifts to critical workforce decisions, they dive into the potential implications on the horizon and what they could mean for hospitality leaders, real estate, and travel alike. Tune in to learn how to navigate the polls and ensure your voice is heard. 

This week, Teague sits down with Rob Blood, Founder of Lark Hotels, for a candid conversation about the evolving boutique and independent hotel space. Recently awarded seven Michelin Keys within his portfolio, Rob shares how he began as an innkeeper in his mid-20s, what motivated him to purchase his first property in Kennebunkport, and how he transformed a nine-room inn into a profitable business that manages over 30 design-focused properties today.

This week, Teague chats with Lindsey Ueberroth, Chief Executive Officer of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. Lindsey leads the world's largest independent hotel brand, which represents more than 600 distinctive hotels spanning 80 countries. With rapid growth in the boutique and independent space, Lindsey shares her insights on hotels de-flagging, travel trends, and the benefits of being independent while still receiving brand support. 

Teague travels to Athens, GA, where college football is in full swing, to sit down with James Whitley, COO and Co-Founder of Landmark Properties, the leader in student housing. From flipping houses as a college student to building Landmark into an industry powerhouse, James shares the inspiration behind his recent venture into the hotel space, including his purchase of the iconic Old Edwards Inn and the transformation of an abandoned denim factory into his first independent boutique hotel, Rivet House.

Teague sits down with Rob Smith, newly appointed President & CEO of Stonebridge Companies, to discuss his journey in overseas operations, his time at Aimbridge, and the lessons learned from industry icon Navin Dimond. Rob also shares insights into Stonebridge's future growth plans following the recent acquisition of Real Hospitality Group, along with his macro view on the industry and interest rates.

Teague is joined by Jin Lee, CEO of ARA US Hospitality Trust, a Singapore-based REIT focused on select-service hotels across the U.S. Jin shares the unique story behind the company's formation, discusses the challenges of managing a Singapore-based REIT while operating in the U.S., and outlines how their investment strategy has evolved over the years.

Teague sits down with Steve Palmer, Founder & Chief Vision Officer of Indigo Road Hospitality Group, at the newly opened Rivet House in Athens, GA. Known for his remarkable success in the restaurant business, Steve talks about his transition into hotel management and the journey that led him there. Behind the scenes of his incredible career, Steve opens up about his personal battle with addiction and how he's now giving back to others in the industry who have faced similar challenges.

With a recent NYC hotel bill taking over headlines, Teague sits down with AHLA’s Kevin Carey for a quick update on the details behind the proposed legislation. Tune in to learn how this could trickle down and affect other markets.

Teague is joined by Chan Patel, Chairman and CEO of the largest community bank in the U.S. focused on hospitality. From migrating to the States and purchasing his first hotel in 1976, Chan shares the incredible story behind what led him to raise $2 million and open the State Bank of Texas. The two discuss Chan's unique approach to lending, the recipe behind running a successful bank, and how he has seen the industry evolve over the years.