The Modern Hotelier

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...

Eric Szymanski is an award winning American hospitality industry professional with extensive sales & marketing leadership experience including Hilton, Marriott, Starwood and Disney. Eric has demonstrated success in leading high-performing sales teams through planning, implementing and monitoring actionable sales and marketing plans at hotels and resorts of all sizes, including city-center, convention district, airport and attractions areas. He has a proven track record of success at all levels through the achievement of both individual and team goals for several 1st tier, globally recognized brands. Throughout his career, Eric has created authentic, world-class experiences while volunteering at all levels in several meetings industry associations. As the co-author for Sell More Stress Less: 52 Tips to Become A Mindful Sales Professional Eric believes that sales does not have to stress people out, in fact when done authentically can inspire both the sales person and prospect.

In today's episode, David and Steve sit down with Eric Szymanski. They discuss the importance of data and business intelligence in driving successful commercial strategies for hotels. So, get ready to engage with a multifaceted leader who understands that the key to success in hospitality is as much about the human touch as it is about the data.

In this episode, you'll learn about:

• Why is business intelligence and data-driven strategies important for hotels?
• What is the significance of mindfulness and stress management in the hospitality industry?
• The connections between sales, marketing, and overall hotel success
• The Commercial Strategy and Industry Future

This episode is sponsored by Independent Lodging Congress: https://ilcongress.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:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericszymanski/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/63

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...

Nikheel Advani is the COO and co-founder of Grace Bay Resorts and oversees overall operations, branding, sales, and marketing of resort development. He joined Grace Bay Club in August 2004 as the Managing Director, serving as the top operational executive in its expansion and renovation as it evolved from a $15 million, 22-room boutique hotel to a full-service luxury resort boasting 82 suites and residences, now valued at over $200 million. Most recently, he was responsible for the successful opening of the $100 million Veranda Resort & Residences in February 2010.

In this episode, David and Steve are joined by their guest Nikheel Advani, the co-founder, COO, and principal of Grace Bay Resorts in Turks and Caicos. Nikheel shares his inspiring journey from working odd jobs as a teenager to becoming a leader in the luxury hospitality space. He provides valuable perspectives on attracting and retaining talent, creating exceptional guest experiences, the importance of continued education, and trends like wellness travel and multi-generational trips. With wisdom from his decades of experience, Nikheel offers practical advice for young hoteliers looking to climb the ranks and thrive in this dynamic industry.

In this episode, you'll learn about:

• Global experience in hotel management
• The role technology plays in enhancing guest experiences at luxury resorts like Grace Bay
• Contributions to Turks and Caicos
• The importance of hands-on experience

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:
Nikheel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikheel-advani-53184640/

Grace Bay Resorts: https://gracebayresorts.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/62

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, the hosts, Steve Carran and David Millili, along with producer Jon Bumhoffer, bring a new segment called "Hospitality Hot Takes" where they analyze and provide their thoughts on the major stories that happened over the past month. They provide insights from both an independent hotel perspective as well as a branded chain viewpoint. It's a conversational yet informative podcast that keeps listeners up-to-date on hospitality industry news through the lens of experienced professionals providing their "hot takes" and analysis on the major developments each month.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Graduate Hotels Acquired, Job Growth, and More
• Analyzing the Headlines Shaping Hospitality
• Major Moves and Trends in Hospitality

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/61

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 does it take to lead the culinary team at one of America’s largest indoor waterpark resorts and how do you balance tradition and innovation in an ever-evolving culinary landscape?

Join hosts David Millili and Steve Carran, as they dive into the culinary world of Kalahari Resorts with Chef Nick Shaw. Discover the journey from a small-town upbringing to leading the culinary experiences at one of America's largest indoor waterpark resorts.

Chef Nick shares insights on kitchen safety, culinary trends, and the importance of continuous learning in the fast-paced hospitality industry. From exploring diverse cuisines to embracing dietary trends, this episode offers a tantalizing glimpse into the world of resort dining. Whether you're a food enthusiast, aspiring chef, or hospitality professional, you'll find valuable takeaways on creating memorable dining experiences and balancing tradition with innovation. Tune in for a flavorful discussion that bridges the gap between hospitality and culinary arts at Kalahari Resorts.

In this episode, you will learn about:

• The culinary focus and offerings at Kalahari Resorts
• What are the Kitchen safety strategies and priorities
• The technology and automation in the kitchen
• What is the relationship between hospitality and culinary teams in resorts
• Kalahari Resorts' recent renovations and dining options
• The importance of passion and adaptability in the culinary profession

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/nicholas-shaw-1b061157/
Kalahari Resorts: https://www.kalahariresorts.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/100
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...