In this podcast episode, we welcome Al Patel, Founder and CEO of Baywood Hotels. Al has transformed a single family motel to a powerhouse portfolio of hotels across the nation. He manages more than 100 properties under major global brands. His discussion with Ricky includes:

Evolution of the hotel industry since the 90’s

Customizing hotel designs to guest needs

How COVID-19 has changed the hotel industry

Future challenges and opportunities within the industry

In this podcast episode, we welcome Kevin Davis, Americas CEO of JLL Hotels & Hospitality. Kevin has over 20 years of hospitality and capital markets experience. Since joining JLL in 2013, he has been involved in more than $20 billion of hotel debt and equity financings. His discussion with Ricky includes:

Key insights on how the hospitality industry and capital markets intersect and influence each other.

Advice for individuals and companies looking to secure financing for their hospitality projects significant challenges and opportunities for the hospitality industry.

Emerging trends and innovations in the hospitality industry.

In this podcast episode, we welcome Jon Stanner, President & CEO of Summit Hotel Properties. Jon’s career has predominantly been within public companies which gives him unique insight into the publicly-traded side of hospitality. Jon oversees $3 billion assets, with a total of 15,035 guestrooms located in 24 states. This discussion includes:

Advice for hotel owners on operational efficiency, guest satisfaction, and leadership within the industry

Effectively balancing investor expectations while delivering exceptional guest experiences

Investments in technology

Maintaining and enhancing reputation

In this podcast episode, we welcome Greg Friedman, Managing Principal and Chief Executive Officer of Peachtree Group. Greg has more than 24 years of hospitality experience with an emphasis on deal-structuring and financing and has led Peachtree group in more than $8.7 billion in hotel acquisitions, investments, and development since co-founding the company in 2007. This discussion includes:

Tips for balancing risk and return

Leveraging flexibility for sustainability during economic disruptions

Why location and brand matters in driving premium demand and ROI

How to remain successful in uncertain times

The first episode of Akerman’s Titans of Hospitality podcast features Mehul Patel, CEO of NewcrestImage. Mehul oversees a $1B+ hotel portfolio. In this episode he shares his helpful tips for acquiring portfolio hotels and discusses a variety of topics with Ricky including, innovation in the hotel industry, important steps in hotel acquisition, aspects of hotel financing, how your legal team can impact your acquisition strategy, and the importance of industry relationships.