Join us for a captivating conversation with Clark Hanrattie, Partner at HEI Hotels & Resorts, as we explore how creative thinking, bold investments, and a deep understanding of hotel operations are reshaping the hospitality industry.

🔑 Key Highlights:

The Liberty Hotel Story: Transforming a Boston jail into a luxury hotel and setting the tone for innovative hospitality.

The Renaissance Times Square: Reinventing a legendary property into a modern marvel with unmatched views and brand-defining upgrades.

Inside the Deal-Making Process: Discover the bold moves and sharp negotiations that led to landmark acquisitions.

A Unicorn in the Industry: What makes certain professionals stand out in hospitality.

HEI’s Evolution: From private equity to a leading third-party operator, learn about the strategic shifts that defined HEI’s success.

Maximizing Iconic Locations: How to leverage Times Square's magic for year-round revenue, especially during events like New Year’s Eve.

Expanding Through Relationships: The company's growth from 38 hotels 12 years ago to 110 hotels today, achieving $2.6 billion in annual revenue. 

Private Equity and Investment Expertise: In-depth understanding of private equity structures and real estate investment dynamics enables alignment with institutional investors.

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#HospitalityInnovation #HotelInvestments #LuxuryHotels #HospitalityLeadership #TimesSquare #CreativeHospitality #HotelIndustry #NewYearsEveHotels #BusinessStrategy #hotels #hotelnews 

Santiago Leon, COO and Managing Partner of Spearhead Hospitality, is here to define what is a "Hospitality Underdog" and why Spearhead Hospitality prides itself on taking on projects no one else wants.

David Lund, the Hotel Financial Coach, talks about how he's helping some of the largest companies with their financial literacy. How can people improve in one of the most important parts of the industry and how is the financial field evolving within the industry?

🎲 Step inside the newly transformed Rio Las Vegas! I’m going behind the scenes with Patrick Miller, President & CEO of Rio Las Vegas, to explore the exciting upgrades and vibrant energy that are redefining this iconic property. =] 🔑

 In this episode, we cover:

• Rio’s rich history as the original locals’ hangout and its unique all-suites concept.

• Dreamscape’s vision for reviving the property with redesigned rooms, upgraded casino floors, and exciting new amenities.

• A sneak peek into the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) festivities, including live music, pop-up bars, and Western lifestyle showcases. 

• 💡 The philosophy behind making the Rio an accessible, fun destination for locals and visitors alike.

• 🎰 How Rio Las Vegas is modernizing its casino floor with the latest games and a guest-first approach. We found Chief Gaming Officer Kevin Sweet and he joins too!

• 🍴 The vision behind Rio’s revamped dining experiences, including approachable, high-quality options like the new food hall concept.

• 🎭🎤 From Penn & Teller celebrating 50 years to the whimsical "WOW" show and the Comedy Cellar, explore the diverse performances at Rio. 

• 🏢✨250,000 square feet of versatile event space, hosting everything from poker tournaments to corporate events.

• 🔮 Hear insights on how Rio plans to innovate while maintaining its legacy. 

• Chris Kuroda’s (Phish’s light show creator) mesmerizing year-long light installation that turns the building into a work of art.

 • The addition of local-friendly loyalty programs offering faster rewards compared to the Strip.

🌟 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more exclusive content from the world of hospitality and travel! 

🎧 Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the vibrant updates and the future of the Rio! 

Lloyd Mathiesen, chairman of the Chicken Ranch Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians, joins to talk about the opening of he Chicken Ranch Casino Resort. Earlier this year, Chairman Mathiesen spearheaded the efforts in the Chicken Ranch Rancheria v. California lawsuit, which resulted in the Department of the Interior approving secretarial procedures for the Chicken Ranch Rancheria Me-Wuk Indians of California. This lawsuit has long standing implications and Chairman Lloyd will explain it.

On this special episode we’re honoring the memory of world class hotelier Harris Rosen, who passed away yesterday at age 85. He joined us a few times on No Vacancy, but my first interview with him was back in 2017 when we were audio only. It was episode #43 for those wanting to  hear the entire show that does not include Mr. Rosen. 

I chose this show because it focuses on his history, success and philanthropy.  He may be the most renowned figure in the Orlando hospitality industry who has significantly shaped that market’s hotel landscape.

We discuss his incredible career, starting with his instrumental role in developing Walt Disney World's Contemporary Resort and Polynesian Village Resort. Discover how his innovative ideas and relentless focus on operational efficiency contributed to the success of these iconic properties.

He shares his experiences from working at Disney to becoming an independent hotelier in 1974. Learn about the challenges he faced, the strategies he employed, and the remarkable growth of Rosen Hotels on International Drive. Harris also reveals some of his unique contributions, such as the "chirping" telephones at the Polynesian Village Resort and the creation of Disney's central reservation office.

Rosen also shares heartwarming stories of kindness, the growth of his hotel portfolio, and his decision to focus solely on the Orlando area. He also discusses the development of the Shingle Creek Resort, his dream resort property, and future expansion plans.

Harris also opens up about his dedication to his associates, treating them like family and offering comprehensive healthcare, free college tuition, and more. Learn about his philanthropic efforts through the Rosen Foundation, which has transformed underserved communities by providing free preschool and college education.

Don't miss this captivating conversation filled with insights and anecdotes from one of the most influential figures in the hospitality industry. May this amazing man rest in peace. 

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#NoVacancyPodcast #HarrisRosen #GlennHausman #OrlandoHotels #HospitalityIndustry #DisneyHotels #PolynesianVillageResort #ContemporaryResort #HotelDevelopment #RosenHotels #InternationalDrive #Hotelier #HospitalityInsights #Travel #HotelManagement #HospitalityInnovation #ExclusiveInterview

In 2012 sisters Stephanie and Lisa Karvellas embarked on building a private event business at their family's property. Since its inception, Cedar Lakes Estate has grown into the premier wedding and retreat venue on the East Coast, known for its exceptional hospitality and culinary program, as well as its spectacular, bucolic setting. Lisa joins us to talk about what it takes to run the award winning property.

In this bonus episode I chat with Bruce Ford, SVP at Lodging Econometrics, about the latest global pipeline numbers. We’re exploring hotel development trends across various regions, including Europe, the Middle East, India, China, and here in the USA. From Romania's emerging market to Israel's active pipeline and the evolving landscape of hotel conversions in Europe and new builds in the Middle East, Bruce provides a comprehensive overview of the current state and future prospects of the global hotel industry. Key Points: • Romania's Growth 🌍: Discussing the significant pipeline growth in Romania, including both resort areas and Bucharest. • Full-Service Projects in Europe 🏨: Insights into new full-service hotel projects across Europe, with notable mentions of Israel's booming pipeline. • Conversion Market Trends 🔄: Exploring the increase in hotel conversions in Europe and how it's becoming a significant trend. • Challenges and Opportunities 🚧: Addressing the complexities of hotel development in diverse regions and the shift towards more third-party management companies. • Middle East Developments 🌟: Highlighting the ambitious hotel projects in the Middle East and the phased approach to building new neighborhoods and city sections. • India's Tourism Boom: Discussing the rapid growth in India's hotel market, with over 600 projects in the pipeline and major global brands entering the market. • China's Unique Market: Insights into China's hotel development, including the challenges during the pandemic and the current state of over 500,000 rooms under construction. • Expanding Asian Markets 🌏: Highlighting the record pipeline outside of China in Asia, with notable developments in Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. • Mexico's Hospitality Resilience: Exploring Mexico's strong hospitality market during the pandemic and new developments, including the Tulum Airport and train line boosting tourism and hotel investments. • Southern California's Renaissance 🏨: Insights into the rebranding and development boom in Southern California, particularly Palm Springs. • Impact of Population Shifts 📊: Analysis of how population movements are influencing hotel investments and developments. • Trends in Hotel Conversions 🔄: The rising trend of hotel conversions in various regions to meet new market demands. • 2025 Outlook and Predictions 🔮: Expectations for new construction, deals, renovations, and rebrandings in 2025.

Chris Green is back to talk about what he's been up to in retirement, how he's been staying connected to the industry, what he feels 2025 will bring, and more! This is an episode you have to see.

Big show today as we have Brad LeBlanc, Chief Development Officer and Amy Hulbert, VP, Boutique and Upscale Brands of BWH Hotels. We're talking soft brand development and more!