The Modern Hotelier

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 progr...

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...

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,...

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...

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:

• Why “culture eats strategy for breakfast” and how karaoke helped build strong...

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 & Storyte...

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:

•  Why the valet experience is the first impression of a hotel
•  How MP Parking bridges the gap between hotel culture and valet service
•  ...

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:

•  Eliminate paper lists with eco-friendly digital solutions
•  Deliver personalized, hyper-local experiences for guests
•  Boost revenue by promoting on-site restaura...

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 Espress...

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 futur...

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 person...

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...

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:

• Fun lightni...

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 co...

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 ...

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 artificia...

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 integrit...

In this episode of The Modern Hotelier: Hospitality Hot Topics with Steve Carran and David Millili are joined by hospitality strategist Mandy Murry to break down the biggest trends and stories shaping the industry in August 2025. From evolving travel trends and the rise of AI trip planning to Soho House going private, Booking.com launching a credit card, and Airbnb’s fee hikes, the team explores how these shifts are impact...

In this episode, hosts Steve Carran and David Millili sit down with Michael Weiss, co-founder and co-CEO of Trailborn, a brand redefining outdoor hospitality.

Michael shares his journey from Goldman Sachs to Airbnb and Compass, to ultimately launching Trailborn—boutique, design-forward hotels in outdoor destinations like national parks, wine country, and coastal getaways. Listeners will hear how Mike and his partner identif...