In this episode, David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Elle Rustique, Founder and CEO of TipBrightly—a FinTech company revolutionizing tipping through easy, cashless, app-free technology. Inspired by her mother, a hotel housekeeper, Elle turned a personal story into a mission to create more equity, gratitude, and recognition for frontline hospitality workers.

Elle shares her journey from education and entrepreneurship to launching TipBrightly in Silicon Valley, the challenges of breaking into hospitality tech without prior industry experience, and how cashless tipping is helping hotels improve employee morale, retention, and guest satisfaction. She also discusses the power of data, future trends in digital tipping, and offers advice for aspiring hospitality entrepreneurs.

From heartfelt stories about how tipping changed employees’ lives, to practical insights on navigating long sales cycles and industry adoption, this conversation is both inspiring and thought-provoking.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• How a personal story inspired the creation of TipBrightly
• Challenges of entering the hospitality tech space as a first-time founder
• The role of tipping in boosting retention and recognition in hotels
• Trends shaping the future of cashless tipping and guest engagement
• Elle’s advice for entrepreneurs looking to innovate in hospitality

Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vCHaugoSD-k

This episode is sponsored by TipBrightly: https://tipbrightly.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:
Elle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erustique/
TipBrightly: https://tipbrightly.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/203

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 Jon Buerge, President of Urban Villages, to explore how sustainable development is reshaping hospitality. From his upbringing in Aspen and a deep-rooted love of nature to leading innovative, carbon-positive hotel projects like Populus, Jon shares how design, community, and environmental stewardship come together to create places where both people and the planet thrive.

Listeners will hear Jon’s perspective on:

• Why authentic, place-based experiences are more valuable than predictable, cookie-cutter stays.
• How the Populus hotels in Denver and Seattle are redefining sustainability through design, materials, and guest immersion.
• Why he believes profitability and doing the right thing for the planet must go hand in hand—and how Urban Villages is proving that model works.

Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/PcPWFXBcYLI
 

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:
Jon Buerge on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-buerge-95229118/
Urban Villages: https://urban-villages.com/ 

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/202

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 Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Eoin Heavey, CEO and founder of Maitre, a modern operating system built specifically for independent hotels. With a unique background spanning both technology and hospitality, Eoin shares his journey—from growing up in Dublin and playing competitive tennis at UC Berkeley to working in consulting, hedge funds, and venture capital—before launching businesses that eventually led him into the world of hotels.

He discusses the inspiration behind Maitre and how it helps hotels streamline operations, improve team communication, and deliver exceptional guest service—all without the burden of legacy systems.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:

• Building a hospitality tech platform from the ground up
• The future of hotel operations and staffing challenges
• How better integrations and cloud-based tools reshape the hotel tech stack
• Entrepreneurial lessons from Green Park to Maitre

Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/RWtP3l7TrKk

This episode is sponsored by: https://www.maitrehotel.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:
Eoin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eoinheavey/

Maitre LLC: https://maitrehotel.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/201

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 week’s episode, David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Stacy Warner, Executive Vice President at Eat.Drink.Sleep., the boutique hospitality group known for concept-driven hotels, restaurants, and bars that blend standout design with unforgettable guest experiences. 

Stacy shares her journey from a small town in Massachusetts to shaping some of California’s most creative hospitality projects, including the iconic Tower 23 Hotel. She talks about her People First philosophy, why she believes independent hotels offer the best growth opportunities, and how Eat.Drink.Sleep. balances design ambition with operational excellence through their in-house creative studio.

From navigating unique project challenges (like renovating a hotel on Catalina Island) to leading teams in an era of shifting workplace expectations, Stacy offers candid insights into what it takes to create spaces where both guests and employees thrive.

You’ll also hear her take on:

• The difference between “boutique” and “independent” hotels
• How guest expectations are evolving (and how they’re not)
• Why investing in communication tech is shaping the future of hospitality
• Tips for retaining top talent in a competitive market

Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OWqEJJwAglI
 

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:
Stacy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-warner-4369406/

Eat.Drink.Sleep (EDS) Hospitality Group: https://eatdrinkandsleep.net/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/200

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 today’s episode, David and Steve talk with Mark Keiser, President of Development at Viceroy Hotels & Resorts, about his journey from a suburban upbringing and a year abroad in France to leading the brand’s global growth. Mark shares early career lessons—including taking on a GM role with zero hotel experience—the evolution of luxury lifestyle hospitality, and Viceroy’s approach to creating authentic local experiences, from tequila tastings in Mexico to beekeeping in Portugal. They also explore emerging markets, branded residences, and how Viceroy balances profitability with memorable guest connections.

With over 25 years in hospitality, Mark has led the growth of iconic hotel brands and now drives Viceroy’s global expansion. He shares his journey, lessons learned, and the brand’s vision for redefining luxury travel.

Topics include:

• How a high school trip to Puerto Rico and a year abroad in France inspired a career in hospitality
• Lessons from stepping into his first GM role with no prior operations experience
• What makes a property “Viceroy-worthy” and how the brand blends luxury with authentic local culture
• The role of unique guest experiences—like beekeeping in Portugal—in building emotional connections
• Career advice for aspiring hospitality leaders, including the value of mentorship and taking early risks

Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dRWZdK5tcOg
 

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:
Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-keiser-a4a5152/
Viceroy Hotels and Resorts: https://www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/199

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 Hospitality Hot Topics edition of The Modern Hotelier, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili are joined by Ryan Rivett, President & CEO of My Place Hotels, to unpack July’s biggest hospitality trends.

From the TSA finally ditching the shoe-removal rule, to the rise of micro-cations and adventure travel, to the luxury sleep experience movement, the trio explores how these shifts are shaping guest expectations and industry strategies. Ryan also gives an insider look at My Place Hotels’ rapid growth, their tech-forward approach to guest loyalty, and how they’re adapting to evolving travel patterns.

If you want a fast-paced, insightful conversation about what’s next in hospitality—plus a few laughs—this episode delivers.

Topics Covered:

• TSA’s new airport security policy and its impact on travel mood
• Why short, frequent “microcations” are here to stay
• Adventure travel’s lasting post-pandemic appeal
• The luxury sleep trend and wellness-focused stays
• How My Place Hotels is leveraging tech, loyalty, and service to scale

Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Nu9eqGeZvN0
 

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:
Ryan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-rivett-09984311
Ryan on X: https://x.com/RyanJRivett
My Place Hotels: https://www.myplacehotels.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/198

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.

On today’s episode, David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Michael Hirschler, Chief Growth Officer at Staypineapple, live from Staypineapple Chicago. Michael shares how the brand is redefining boutique hospitality through a combination of 'friend-style' service, a bold brand identity, and guest-focused innovation.

They dive deep into Staypineapple’s growth strategy—from owner-operator beginnings to expanding through licensing and management—and how their flexible, cost-effective model provides a compelling alternative to legacy hotel brands. Michael also unpacks their cutting-edge tech stack, the role of AI in enhancing (not replacing) hospitality, and why true guest service still starts with emotionally intelligent people.

Topics covered include:

• What makes Staypineapple’s brand and service model unique
• Why personalization and emotional intelligence drive guest experience
• Reducing friction between guests and staff through smarter tech
• How to maintain strong service culture across properties

Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/A-WLXWkThTE
 

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:
Staypineapple: https://www.staypineapple.com/
Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhirschler/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/197

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.

Today's episode, David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Chef David Fingerman, Corporate Executive Chef at Staypineapple, live from The Atwood in Chicago. From delightful afternoon treats to Chicago’s gritty, authentic food and dive bar culture, Chef David shares what makes Staypineapple’s F&B program pop, and why hospitality is more personal when the staff has a hand in the experience.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:

• The signature 3PM pick-me-up featuring pineapple-shaped cookies and fresh coffee.
• How Staypineapple’s path water bottles and lobby water bars keep guests hydrated without the waste.
• Why drinks at The Atwood are more meaningful—with staff-named creations that fuel pride and performance.
• Why Chicago’s soul is found in its cash-only neighborhood bars, not the flashy cocktail lounges.

Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/aencrVr7krM
 

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:
Staypineapple: https://www.staypineapple.com/
Atwood Chicago: atwoodchicago.com
David Fingerman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-fingerman-21763a76/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/196

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 happens when playful luxury meets bold hospitality? 

In this insight-packed episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Beth Anne King, Regional Director of Operations Staypineapple, to explore the playful luxury and deeply personalized service that define the brand. From high-end bedding that encourages you to sleep naked to surprise-and-delight moments that leave a lasting impression, Beth Anne shares the philosophy, backstories, and operational secrets behind Staypineapple’s unique guest experience.

What You'll Hear in This Episode:

• How European-style double duvets, plush towels, and terry robes create a luxury sleep you won't forget.
• Why Staypineapple blends cheeky branding with upscale service, and how it resonates with both the young and young-at-heart.
• The philosophy of welcoming guests like you would a friend into your home, starting with a drink at check-in.
• How Surprise and Delight is at the heart of everything Staypineapple does.
• Why every team member is empowered to say yes, no matter the department, and how that changes the game for service culture.

Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/W8wCpH3pk6k
 

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:
Staypineapple: https://www.staypineapple.com/
Beth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-anne-king-0a639ab/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/195

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.

Today's episode, we sit down with Daniel McGarry, the Regional Director of Revenue Management of Stonebridge, and an HSMAI Rising Leader. From mowing lawns in Lancaster to managing revenue strategy across historic Marriott tribute properties, Daniel shares his unique journey through hospitality — and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

We dive into:

• The evolution of revenue management — from gut instinct to AI-powered strategy
• How to separate signal from noise in a data-saturated world
• The future of profit-focused hospitality and the rise of commercial services
• Why storytelling might be the most underrated skill in revenue strategy
• What it really takes to align sales, marketing, and revenue around a shared goal

Whether you're a hospitality pro or just curious about how data and experience collide in modern hotels, this conversation is packed with insight, laughs, and a whole lot of value.

Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qN31gPuxpws
 

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:
Daniel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcgarry-2baa958a/
Stonebridge Companies: https://www.sbcos.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/194

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.