In this episode, the team reflects on an exceptional year for the Modern Hotelier podcast, which gained recognition as a top hospitality podcast and more than doubled its follower base across LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.

The hosts reminisce about attending key industry events like HITEC, ILC in Sausalito, and the Hospitality Show, sharing their favorite moments and interviews. They also discuss the biggest lessons learned over the year and express gratitude to their guests, sponsors, and followers, teasing exciting announcements for 2025.

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas from the Modern Hotelier team!

Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More Media

Links:

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/126

Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...

Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil...

Welcome to The Modern Hotelier, where hospitality meets innovation!

In this episode, Steve Carran and David Millili sit down with Alissa Partee, Chief People Officer at Restaurant Technologies. Alissa brings over 15 years of HR expertise, sharing her journey from small-town Minnesota to leading people-first initiatives at an award-winning company. Discover how flexibility, empowerment, and a passion for hospitality drive success in an ever-changing industry.

Key Topics Covered:

• How Alissa’s upbringing and career shaped her passion for taking care of people?
• The impact of three- and four-day workweeks on employee satisfaction and customer service.
• The importance of seeking and acting on feedback from frontline employees.
• Breaking down and measuring key factors to build a strong company culture.
• How can the industry embrace flexibility and innovation to improve worker satisfaction?

Tune in to this insightful conversation to learn how intentionality and adaptability create a thriving workplace culture!

Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More Media

Links:
Alissa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alissapartee/
Restaurant Technologies: https://www.rti-inc.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/125

Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...

Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil...

How is technology transforming the guest experience in hospitality today? 

In today's episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with visionary entrepreneur and founder of Mews, Richard Valtr. Dive into an inspiring conversation about transforming the guest experience, leveraging technology, and reimagining what it means to create memorable stays in the modern era. From Richard’s early days in hospitality to the bold innovations propelling Mews into industry leadership, this episode is packed with insights for hoteliers and tech enthusiasts alike. 

Learn how Mews is reshaping hospitality with AI, loyalty systems, and space-time monetization, and hear Richard’s thoughts on balancing human-first service with groundbreaking tech. Plus, Richard shares personal anecdotes, his favorite historical lessons, and his ambitious vision for the industry's future.

Key Topics:

• How Richard's upbringing in Prague and diverse educational background shaped his innovative perspective on hospitality. 
• The importance of aligning innovation with a deep understanding of human needs in hospitality. 
• The shift from heads-in-beds to a full 24-hour guest experience. 
• How AI is revolutionizing guest interactions, operational efficiency, and hotel productivity. 
• The importance of understanding guest journeys and preferences. 
• Predictions for the integration of AI in guest services and operations. 

Tune in for an engaging mix of hospitality trends, actionable takeaways, and Richard's passion for redefining what hotels can achieve. Whether you're a hospitality pro or just curious about what’s next, this episode is one you won’t want to miss!

Sponsor spot:

This episode is sponsored by Mews: https://www.mews.com/en

Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More Media

Links:
Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-valtr-79541410/

Mews: https://www.mews.com/en

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/124

Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...

Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil...

In this episode, hosts David Mililli, Steve Carran, and guest host Jacqueline Nunley discuss key hospitality industry trends and events from November. They explore the growing popularity of dark tourism and skillcations expected by 2025, Spirit Airlines filing for bankruptcy, and record-setting Thanksgiving travel numbers.

Additionally, they delve into the emerging trend of Travel Tuesday and the new Cleveland Browns hotel project, reflecting on how these developments shape the future of travel and hospitality.

In this episode, you'll learn (key points/topics covered):

• Dark Tourism and Skillcation
• Spirit Airline files Bankruptcy
• Thanksgiving Travel
• Travel Tuesday
• Cleveland Brown's Opening Hotel

Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More Media

Links:
Website: https://jtsnunley.com/
Jacqueline on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquelinesnunley

Jacqueline's Bio: https://sha.cornell.edu/people/jacqueline-nunley/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/123

Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...

Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil...

What can a 440-year-old company teach us about sustainable innovation in the modern world? 

In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Andrea Piana, CEO of Piana Technology, to explore the fascinating journey of a 440-year-old company at the forefront of sustainable innovation. Discover how Piana's groundbreaking Renovo Mattress is reshaping the hospitality industry with its 100% recyclable design and advanced sleep technology.

Andrea shares insights on the legacy of his family’s Italian textile business, the cultural shift to the U.S., and his vision for a zero-waste future. From his journey as a two-time world kickboxing champion to leading sustainability efforts in bedding, Andrea provides a unique perspective on merging tradition with innovation.

Key Topics:

• What inspired the development of the Renovo Mattress as an innovative and sustainable sleeping solution? 
• How are circular economy principles applied in mattress manufacturing?
• Why are emerging technologies in sleep science and mattress design important for improving sleep quality? 
• The environmental impact of traditional mattress production and disposal.

Tune in for a deep dive into the role of circular design in combating ecological challenges and learn how the hospitality industry can lead the way in environmental responsibility—all while ensuring the ultimate guest experience.

Sponsor spot:

This episode is sponsored by Piana Technology: https://www.piana.tech/

Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More Media

Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-piana-9b617912/

Piana Technology: https://www.piana.tech/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/122

Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...

Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil...

In a world where traditional hotel experiences are becoming obsolete, how can the hospitality industry transform from merely providing a place to stay into a platform for genuine human connection and personal transformation? 

In this episode, Steve Carran speaks with Bashar Wali and Eric Jafari as they challenge the status quo of hotel innovation. Moving far beyond traditional wellness concepts, they explore how the next generation is redefining hospitality through community, belonging, and transformative experiences.

Key Topics include:

• The death of conventional hotel models
• How Gen Z and Millennials are reimagining wellness as a social, communal experience
• Why hotels must shift from transactional services to creating genuine human connections
• Lessons from innovative retail concepts like Erewhon and Goop
• The critical importance of making guests feel they truly belong

Drawing from personal experiences and industry insights, Wali and Jafari argue that the future of hotels isn't about amenities, but about creating tribes, cultivating culture, and helping guests feel they matter in an increasingly disconnected world.

Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More Media

Links:
Bashar Wali on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/basharwali/

Practice Hospitality: https://www.practicehospitality.com/

Eric Jafari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericjafari/?originalSubdomain=uk

AENDRE Limited: https://www.aendregroup.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/121

Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...

Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil...

In this episode, Steve and David speak with Brad Steward from Caravan Outpost and JC Curleigh, CEO of Pelican Products, as they share their insights on building momentum through impactful moments in their respective industries. Brad Steward discusses his transition from the action sports business to hospitality, highlighting the creation and unique selling points of Caravan Outpost. He emphasizes the importance of consumer marketing and creating genuine experiences. 

Following Brad, JC Curleigh elaborates on Pelican Products' mission to protect and equip for critical missions, unveiling exciting new products that will extend Pelican's reach. He provides advice on leadership and the importance of patience, asking the right questions, and not taking oneself too seriously.

This engaging discussion offers valuable lessons for any aspiring entrepreneur or business leader.

Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More Media

Links:
James 'JC' Curleigh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-jc-curleigh-41698739/

Pelican Products, Inc.: https://www.pelican.com/

Bradley Steward on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradley-steward-7b829a23/

Caravan Outpost: https://caravanoutpostojai.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/120

Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...

Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil...

 In this episode, David and Steve interview Jeff Kessinger, Vice President of Sales at Jonas Hospitality, who shares his journey from being a night auditor to becoming a 20-year veteran in hotel technology sales. 

Jeff dives into pressing industry challenges like labor shortages, technology overload, and fragmented systems, while exploring solutions to enhance guest experiences and loyalty. He sheds light on the future of direct bookings, the evolving expectations of travelers, and how an integrated tech stack can empower hoteliers to stay ahead.

Key Topics Covered:

• The evolution of hotel technology and its impact on the hospitality industry
• How to Overcome Challenges Such as Labor Shortages and Operational Inefficiencies?
• What are the pros and cons of using all-in-one tech solutions for hotel operations? 
• The role of unified platforms in enhancing the guest journey

Sponsor spot:
This episode is sponsored by Jonas Hospitality: https://jonashospitality.com/

Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More Media

Links:
Jeff on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkessinger/
Jonas Hospitality: https://jonashospitality.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/119

Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...

Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil...

This episode features an engaging conversation with Katherine Grass, CEO of Optii. Discover how technology, AI, and data-driven solutions are revolutionizing hotel operations, improving efficiency, and enhancing the guest experience.
 
Katherine discusses her journey into hospitality technology and how AI is transforming hotel operations, particularly through Optii's innovative approach to housekeeping and maintenance. She highlights the importance of user-friendly technology, the ongoing labor challenges, and the integration with other tech tools to enhance operational efficiency.

Key Topics Covered:

• What is the role of AI and predictive technology in optimizing housekeeping and operational efficiency? 
• How Optii differs from traditional task management tools?
• What are the labor challenges facing the hospitality industry?
• The importance of open APIs for seamless tech integration. 

Sponsor spot:
This episode is sponsored by Optii: https://www.optiisolutions.com/

Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More Media

Links:
Katherine on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinegrass/
Optii: https://www.optiisolutions.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/118

Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...

Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil...

In this episode, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili sit down with Joonas Ahola, founder of Meeting Package. Having started his entrepreneurial journey at age 16 with an event agency, Ahola discusses how his frustration with the RFP process led him to create Meeting Package, a comprehensive CRS platform for groups, meetings, and events sales.

He shares insights on the differences between European and US markets in hospitality tech adoption, current challenges facing hoteliers in managing group sales, and Meeting Package's ambitious plans to reach 50,000 properties by 2027. The conversation explores how the platform is leveraging AI and partnerships to revolutionize the fragmented world of hotel group bookings and events management.

In this episode, you'll discover about:

• How Meeting Package serves as a centralized platform for managing group bookings, meetings, and events across all sales channels - from direct to indirect, online to offline 
• What are the two major challenges hotels face today? 
• What are the Future Innovations from Meeting Package? 

Sponsor spot:
This episode is sponsored by Meeting Package: https://meetingpackage.com/

Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More Media

Links:
Joonas Ahola on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joonasahola/?originalSubdomain=fi
Meeting Package: https://meetingpackage.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/117

Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...

Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil...