What happens when a lifelong hotelier challenges the traditional franchise model — and discovers a better way to grow brands, revenue, and guest loyalty?
In today's episode, David and Steve sit down with Fredrick Schoener, Brand Director at Silverstone Inns and a lifetime hotelier known for his innovative approach to the hotel business, franchise models, and revenue growth.
Fredrick shares his incredible journey in hospitality — from front desk to owner, to brand director — and reveals why he believes membership-based hotel branding models will redefine the future of hospitality.
Today, you'll learn about:
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/y7li-1ysP6g
Links:
Fredrick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredrick-schoener-cha-a5153517/
SilverStone Inns: https://www.silverstoneinns.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/225
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
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 sit down with Tiffany Donato, Chief Investment Officer at Marcus Hotels & Resorts, for a candid deep dive into hotel investments, portfolio strategy, and the art of turning underused spaces into revenue and memorable experiences.
Tiffany shares lessons from Hyatt and beyond, why Marcus pairs long-term thinking with entrepreneurial experiments (think igloos, mocktails, and ski hills), and how co-investing, recapitalizations, and smart PIPs shape their expansion outside the Midwest. Plus: texting over email, AI for call handling, and why serving locals is a growth strategy.
You’ll learn:
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zYPYxG0AZJA
Links:
Tiffany on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-leadbetter-donato-46b1027/
Marcus Hotels Management | Hotels, Resorts & Restaurants: https://www.marcushotels.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/224
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
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, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili sit down with Fredrik Sjoberg, the visionary CEO and founder of Maison — an AI-driven platform revolutionizing how hotels interact with guests and manage their digital presence.
Fredrik's story is extraordinary — from acting on national TV and earning a Ph.D. at Harvard to leading hotel chains and founding two hotel tech companies. He shares how his diverse background shaped his leadership style, why AI will redefine hospitality forever, and how Maison helps hotels tackle labor shortages, improve upsells, and become “agent-ready” in the AI era.
What You’ll Learn:
This episode is sponsored by Maison: https://www.maison.cx/
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/D1KdWNEIC78
Links:
Fredrik on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredrik-sjoberg-6851174/
Maison: https://www.maison.cx/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/223
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.
Ever wondered how a world-class coffee program can transform a boutique hotel’s guest experience and boost revenue?
In this episode, hosts David M. and Steve Carran sit down with Gage Johnston, Marketing Manager at Dalla Corte, to explore the art and science of coffee in hospitality.
Gage shares his incredible journey in the coffee industry—from barista roles in California to launching his own startup, leading coffee programs for 300+ baristas, and now shaping B2B coffee solutions with Dalla Corte.
Discover insights on:
If you’re in hospitality, hotel management, or F&B, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to create memorable guest experiences and boost on-premises revenue.
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nxS-CPw7a7Y
Links:
Gage on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gage-johnston-b59086229/
Dalla Corte: https://dallacorte.com/usa/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/222
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
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, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili sit down with Will Gilbert, Co-Founder of Bodhi, at the company’s Training and Testing Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Bodhi is transforming hospitality technology with a manufacturer-agnostic platform that unifies every system in a hotel—from door locks and lighting to PMS, POS, and housekeeping—into one seamless interface.
Will shares how Bodhi is solving one of the biggest challenges in the industry: fragmented hotel technology. Discover how their platform ensures 100% guest satisfaction through real-time system monitoring, predictive maintenance, and their suite of AI tools — including GuestGPT, Super Agent, and BodhiGPT — that proactively enhance both guest experience and hotel operations.
From building a state-of-the-art testing lab to expanding into multifamily, office, and healthcare sectors, Will gives us an inside look at Bodhi’s mission to redefine the way spaces connect and communicate.
Tune in to learn:
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/85Tti4IPHA8
Links:
Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-gilbert-0348586/
Bodhi: https://www.gobodhi.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/221
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
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 Zack Gharib, the President of Red Roof, to explore leadership, innovation, and the future of hospitality.
Zack shares his incredible journey — from growing up in Lebanon and discovering his passion for hotels, to leading one of America’s most recognized hospitality brands. Learn how Red Roof is embracing AI-driven technology, enhancing the guest experience, and building a culture of genuine relationships and real results.
Discover what it takes to thrive in hotel management, lead through change, and balance guest satisfaction with franchisee success. Zack also opens up about his leadership lessons from Mr. Marriott, his transition from Marriott and La Quinta to Red Roof, and why relationships and culture remain at the heart of hospitality.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/V8hnpGv2IIA
Links:
Zack on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zack-gharib/
Red Roof: https://www.redroof.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/220
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
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 of Hospitality Hot Topics, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili are joined by the legendary Anthony Melchiorri to break down what’s been happening in the hospitality world throughout September.
From ongoing labor shortages and AI’s role in hotel operations, to the impact of the government shutdown on travel, visa challenges for international tourism, and skyrocketing holiday travel costs, the trio dives deep into the realities—and opportunities—facing hoteliers today.
Anthony shares his trademark candid takes on industry trends, training, and technology, plus some entertaining insights on everything from Delta’s YouTube partnership to the origin of resort fees (hint: he had something to do with it!).
Topics Covered:
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4_xZWfZz36A
Links:
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/219
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
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 of The Modern Hotelier, we sit down with Robert Grosz, President & COO of WorldVue, a nearly 50-year leader in hospitality technology solutions. Bob shares his journey from the Midwest to the forefront of real estate and tech, and how culture, quick decision-making, and loyalty have shaped his leadership style.
We dive into:
Robert's insights highlight not only where hospitality tech is today, but also where it’s headed. This is a fun, thoughtful conversation packed with leadership lessons, industry trends, and a few Neil Diamond references.
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/14OVBJ8FHro
This episode is sponsored by WorldVue — https://www.worldvue.com/
Links:
Robert on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-g-9806552/
WorldVue: https://www.worldvue.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/218
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.
How can independent hotels win in today’s digital landscape with creators, podcasts, and emerging platforms?
In this episode of The Modern Hotelier Podcast, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili sit down with hospitality leaders Hillary Folkvord (Hotelier & Entrepreneur, Sacajawea Hotel), Melissa Benhaim (Founder of Benhaim Public Relations), Jennifer Glatt (M.A., Boutique & Independent Hotel Journalist & Storyteller), and Karla Cobreiro (Chief Credibility Officer, Cobreiro Comms) to uncover the strategies driving authentic storytelling, social media success, and hotel brand growth.
From building trust through authentic, personality-driven storytelling to leveraging influencers and content creators, this panel explores how independent hotels can stand out in a competitive market.
You’ll learn:
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2bbOc5hZu-Q
Links:
Panelists
Melissa Benhaim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-benhaim-90263734/
Karla Cobreiro on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karla-cobreiro/
Hillary Folkvord on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hillary-folkvord-b777b313/
Jennifer Glatt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-glatt/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/217
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.
We’re live from the Independent Hotel Show in Miami, Florida, joined by Munir Maluf, CEO & Founder of MP Parking.
In this episode, we dive into the future of hotel valet parking and how the Smart Valet Podium is transforming the guest arrival experience.
Munir shares his insights on:
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YzScq585I50
Links:
Munir on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/munir-maluf-0a6a1913/
Miami Parking Inc: https://www.parkmp.com/
Le VALET: https://www.levalets.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/216
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
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, we sit down with Jaimey Bembry, CEO & Founder of Bhlen, to explore how hotels can transform the guest experience by replacing outdated paper lists and brochures with digital guest guides.
Discover how Bhlen helps hotels and hospitality brands:
From digitizing local restaurant guides to creating experience-as-a-service platforms, Bhlen is changing how travelers discover cities, attractions, and hidden gems—directly from their phones.
If you’re a hotelier, destination manager, or travel industry professional, this episode will give you actionable insights on the future of guest engagement and why the next generation of hospitality is digital-first.
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2pI52saL24w
Links:
Jaimey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimey-bembry-9950245/
Website: www.bhlen.com
Email: info@bhlen.com
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/215
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
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, recorded live at the Independent Hotel Show in Miami, hosts Steve and David sit down with Gage Johnston from Dalla Corte, a Milan-based manufacturer of premium espresso machines and grinders.
Gage shares how Dalla Corte is helping boutique and independent hotels elevate their coffee programs with innovative automation, Italian design, and practical solutions for low-staff environments. From the Icon Espresso Machine that simplifies latte art and recipe consistency, to strategies for reducing "coffee leakage" when guests leave for Starbucks across the street, this conversation dives deep into the future of coffee in hospitality.
You’ll hear about:
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/P8GUWgGpTII
Links:
Gage on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gage-johnston-b59086229/
Dalla Corte: https://dallacorte.com/usa/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/214
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...
Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
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, we sit down at the Independent Hotel Show in Miami with Venkatesh Sakamuri, CEO of Stayflexi, and Krishna Talasila, CIO & Co-Founder of Stayflexi, to explore how they’re transforming hospitality technology.
Venkatesh introduces Stayflexi IQ, their new AI-powered data intelligence and revenue management platform designed to help independent hotels compete with big brands. He shares insights on the future of AI in hospitality, the importance of demand and competitor intelligence, and why an all-in-one PMS platform enhances the guest journey.
Krishna dives into lessons learned from expanding in India, how Stayflexi scaled to over 3,500 properties worldwide, and why they’re now doubling down in the U.S. market. He also explains how Stayflexi IQ can integrate seamlessly with existing hotel systems, giving hoteliers actionable insights without a complete tech overhaul.
If you’re a hotelier, hospitality professional, or simply interested in the future of hotel tech, AI, and revenue management, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QlAMhqhEi3s
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:
Venkat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/venkatsakamuri/
Krishna on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sasank-stayflexi/
Stayflexi: https://business.stayflexi.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/213
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 sit down in person with global traveler and hospitality expert Scott Eddy at the Independent Hotel Show in Miami.
Scott shares why he believes independent hotels have a major edge over big brands, the growing importance of wellness and quiet luxury, and why storytelling and showcasing the destination and people are key to standing out. From behind-the-scenes F&B experiences to his personal travel habits, Scott offers real insights for hoteliers looking to connect with both locals and travelers.
We also dive into:
Whether you’re in the hotel business or just love travel, this conversation will inspire you to think differently about hospitality, community, and creating unforgettable guest experiences.
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jxbsHgnN9YE
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://www.mrscotteddy.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrscotteddy/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrscotteddy/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/212
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 Trent Freeman, Vice President of Operations at Valencia Hotel Group. With over 25 years of experience in hospitality and leadership roles at Four Seasons, Omni, and Peabody Hotels & Resorts, Trent brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for creating authentic guest experiences.
He shares how his career journey—from starting at the front desk to leading operations across Valencia’s boutique luxury properties—shaped his leadership style and perspective on culture, community, and authenticity in hospitality.
We dive into:
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/k4rX0u19344
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:
Trent on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-freeman-21ab7278
Valencia Hotel Group: https://www.valenciahotelgroup.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/211
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 for a fast-paced and insightful conversation with Steven Kinsley, President of Kinsley Meetings. From his beginnings as a Ski Bum in Vail to leading a nationally recognized meetings and events company, Steve shares stories, lessons, and perspectives shaped by decades in hospitality and association event planning.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
This episode blends personal storytelling, career insights, and industry thought leadership—perfect for hoteliers, event planners, and anyone curious about the future of hospitality and meetings.
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MXPK3XYsvm4
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:
Steven Kinsley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/skinsley/
Kinsley Meetings: https://www.kinsleymeetings.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/210
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, we sit down with Chef Ken Butler, Executive Chef at Hotel Polaris, to explore the art of hospitality, the evolution of food and beverage trends, and the behind-the-scenes dedication that makes guest experiences unforgettable. From rooftop sushi to locally sourced Colorado flavors, Chef Ken shares his insights on how culinary innovation and health-conscious choices are shaping the future of dining.
Topics covered in this episode:
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kDmybYEqVSA
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:
Ken on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-butler-687939a0/
Hotel Polaris | A Colorado Springs Hotel: https://www.thehotelpolaris.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/209
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, we sit down with Nick Nations, Director of Rooms at Hotel Polaris, to explore how genuine care, communication, and technology combine to create unforgettable guest experiences. Nick shares his philosophy on hospitality, why personality and compassion matter more than processes, and how his team leverages both tech and heart-first service to delight guests.
Whether you’re in hospitality leadership or simply love great service stories, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
Topics We Cover:
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/gFtpadQlH0U
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:
Nick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-nations-78699534/
Hotel Polaris | A Colorado Springs Hotel: https://www.thehotelpolaris.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/208
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, we sit down with Kevin Barosso, Director of Sales and Marketing at Hotel Polaris, to explore how the property is redefining the balance between business and leisure travel in Colorado Springs. From versatile dining and meeting spaces to unique leisure amenities, Kevin shares how the hotel is creating experiences that attract both professionals and families. He also dives into the evolving role of artificial intelligence in hotel marketing and what that means for the future of hospitality.
What you’ll hear in this episode:
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/upZAtrw37Ro
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:
Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-barosso-b370051/
CoralTree Hospitality: https://www.coraltreehospitality.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/207
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, we sit down with Curtis Bova, General Manager of Hotel Polaris in Colorado Springs, located right outside the U.S. Air Force Academy. Curtis shares the inspiring journey behind the hotel’s creation, its deep-rooted connection to the Academy, and how it has become a true neighbor within the local community.
From its mid-century modern design inspired by the Academy to the service philosophy built on integrity, service, and excellence, Hotel Polaris stands as a one-of-a-kind property. Curtis reflects on the challenges, history, and vision that brought this project to life after decades in the making.
What you’ll hear in this episode:
This conversation is a deep dive into hospitality, community, and vision—showing what it means to create not just a hotel, but an experience that embodies pride, service, and connection.
Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/mwKrQlkkPpE
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:
GM Curtis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-bova-3bb1828/
CoralTree Hospitality: https://www.coraltreehospitality.com/
For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/206
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.
