Episode 036
The Boutique Hotel Expert on Why it’s Easier Than You Think to Own a Hotel
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline is joined by Blake Dailey, a boutique hotel investor and former military officer who scaled his business from a single short-term rental to six hotels and six short-term rentals located in multiple states.
Blake shares his journey of transitioning from the military to full-time real estate investing, the strategies he used to grow his portfolio, and his insights on the importance of relentless learning and taking action.
He also discusses the key pillars of boutique hotel investing: the deal, marketing, and operations.
Blake recounts the benefits of seller financing, the importance of unique amenities, and the value of creating memorable guest experiences.
Katie and Blake dive deep into the essentials of successful boutique hotel operations and the benefits of leveraging creative financing strategies.
Whether you're an aspiring investor or an industry professional, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you achieve your own suite success in the hospitality industry.
Episode 035
From Branding to Bar Design: Four Seasons’ VP of F&B on Why Life’s Too Short to Have a Bad Meal
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline welcomes Michael Doneff, Vice President of Global Food and Beverage Concept and Brand Development for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. From his Midwestern roots in Minnesota to overseeing Michelin-starred restaurants in France, Michael shares the unexpected journey that shaped his taste—and his career.
You’ll hear why simplicity trumps spectacle, what the most overlooked item on a room service menu might be, and how to know when a chef (or bartender) really knows their stuff.
Michael also challenges the outdated notion that a hotel bar or a hotel restaurant is just an amenity. When done right, these are sought-after, destination-worthy venues that just happen to be located within a hotel—crafted with care, driven by storytelling, and infused with a genuine sense of place.
Whether you’re dreaming up your next concept or just craving a better cocktail, this conversation serves up inspiration, flavor, and a reminder that the best hospitality should always be delicious.
Episode 034
Hygge Over Hustle: Why This CPA Walked Away From the White House (Literally)
In this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline chats with Kerri Gibson— former CPA and corporate tech executive turned boutique hotelier, chalet host, and founder of Experiences Hygge. What started as a sabbatical to recover from burnout quickly turned into a passion for hospitality, renovation, and creating warm, welcoming spaces rooted in intention. Kerri shares how her journey from the boardroom to the boutique motel wasn’t a straight line—but it was a fulfilling one. Tune in to hear how she:
Leveraged her accounting background to build a profitable hospitality business
Navigated burnout and reclaimed joy through creative work
Moved from the U.S. to Quebec for love (and learned French along the way!)
Blends Scandinavian-inspired design and French Canadian culture in her properties
Discovered the unexpected magic of slower travel, seasonal rhythm, and thoughtful hosting
Kerri also elaborates on how she built a successful direct booking strategy with a 70% direct booking rate and offers practical advice on constructing a tech stack for business efficiency. Whether you’re dreaming of your own pivot or just love a good reinvention story, this episode is filled with actionable takeaways and will leave you inspired to chase your “life 2.0”.
Episode 033
Exclusive First Look: Virtuoso's Summer 2025 Travel Trends
Summer travel is heating up—and we’ve got the data to prove it. In this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline welcomes Misty Belles, Vice President of Global Public Relations at Virtuoso, the world’s leading luxury and experiential travel network. Dubbed the Wander Woman of Travel, Misty shares an exclusive first look at Virtuoso’s top travel trends for Summer 2025—just in time for Memorial Day weekend. Tune in to hear about:
Why travelers are skipping the usual capital cities for secondary and off-the-beaten-path destinations
The surprising spike in demand for places like the UK countryside, Montenegro, and Turkey
How climate concerns and overtourism are quietly influencing travel behavior
Why booking windows are longer—and what that says about traveler confidence
Whether luxury travel is immune to economic uncertainty and tariffs
Plus, Misty and Katie nerd out on data (in the best way), reflect on post-pandemic growth, and explore what it really means to travel well in today’s world.
Episode 032
The Untold Story of Travel’s Biggest Disruptor: The Points Guy
In this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline sits down for a candid conversation with Brian Kelly, known to millions as “The Points Guy”. The trailblazing founder of the world’s most influential travel and points platform pulls back the curtain on how the idea for a points travel agency evolved into a personal blog — and ultimately grew into a global media empire with a fiercely loyal global following.
Brian shares how he transformed a passion for travel and loyalty programs into a brand that redefined how people think about points — turning everyday spending into unforgettable adventures. He opens up about the early hustle, building trust through transparency, and why authenticity has always been his North Star.
From mastering personal branding to disrupting the travel space, Brian’s journey is equal parts hustle and heart. He also reveals behind-the-scenes stories about penning his first book, How to Win at Travel, and what made becoming a New York Times bestseller so deeply fulfilling. Whether you’re a marketer, entrepreneur, points junkie, or travel enthusiast, this conversation is packed with insights on turning niche knowledge into massive impact, and doing it on your own terms.
Episode 031
How a Bad Vacation Selfie and a Pawned Engagement Ring Took Flytographer from Side Hustle to Eight-Figures
In this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline sits down with Nicole Smith, the visionary founder of Flytographer — the world’s first global vacation photography platform. What started as a creative side hustle after a weekend in Paris with her best friend has grown into an eight-figure, profitable business that spans over 350 destinations and has helped over 100,000 travelers capture meaningful moments across the globe.
Nicole shares how she went from working full-time at Microsoft with no entrepreneurial background to launching Flytographer in 2013 with 18 photographers in 18 cities. She has since grown the brand and the company, which has put more than $30 million into the pockets of local creatives worldwide. She opens up about trusting the whisper of an idea, overcoming imposter syndrome, and why your next best business idea might just be hiding in plain sight.
Whether you’re a founder, creative, or travel enthusiast, Nicole’s story is full of heart, hustle, and takeaways that will inspire you to follow that spark — no matter your age or experience.
Episode 030
The Story Behind the Story: What You Didn’t Know About Marriott’s Starwood Acquisition—and the Company’s Surprising Rebirth
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline sits down with one of the most influential communications leaders in hospitality and beyond: KC Kavanagh. Currently serving as the Chief Communications Officer for Visa, KC has also held top communications roles at companies like AT&T, Bacardi, and, of course, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. Throughout her 18 year tenure with the hotel company, she helped shape the narrative and cultural cachet of brands like W Hotels, Westin, and St. Regis, just to name a few. From boardroom chaos to brand-building brilliance, KC shares behind-the-scenes stories few have ever heard: the fierce rivalry that began with a comment about a backpack; the power plays that led to Marriott’s blockbuster acquisition; and the inside scoop on the unexpected resurgence of the Starwood brand. This conversation is a love letter to bold moves, creative risk-taking, and the art of reinvention. Whether you’re in hospitality, communications, or just obsessed with brand storytelling, let this be your permission slip to think big, trust your instincts, and embrace the comeback.
Episode 029
How This ‘Accidental’ Hotelier Rebuilt the Rainforest - and Was Voted #1 in the World
On this Earth Day-inspired episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline welcomes Leo Ghitis, the visionary owner of Nayara Resorts. Leo is an entrepreneur who’s redefining what it means to run luxury eco-lodges with purpose. He personifies blending a deep love of nature with his mission-driven mindset, resulting in an unwavering commitment to transformative hospitality. His properties have earned global recognition, including the title of #1 Hotel in the World by Travel + Leisure, but Leo believes the most meaningful accolades aren’t about thread counts or poolside views—they’re about reforestation, regenerative travel, and making a positive impact on local communities. From building a wildlife sanctuary for rebellious sloths (yes, really!) to developing a housing community for his team, Leo is proof that hospitality can be both profitable and sustainable.
Episode 028
The Branding Test That Built a Billion-Dollar Hotel Empire
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline is joined by Chris Holdren, a visionary marketing leader whose career has shaped some of the world’s most iconic hospitality and entertainment brands. Most recently, Chris served as EVP Chief Marketing Officer and later Co-President of Caesars Digital, where he helped lead the brand’s foray into the digital gaming world.
Katie and Chris first met during their time at Starwood Hotels & Resorts, where Chris spent 15 years leading digital innovation, loyalty programs, partnerships, and brand strategy during one of the most transformative eras in hospitality. Prior to that, he was with Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Online, helping pioneer the intersection of entertainment and technology.
In this candid conversation, Chris shares how his grandfather’s small motel business sparked a lifelong passion for hospitality, how Starwood’s global culture and spirit of innovation inspired him to stay for more than a decade, and what it was like to help launch game-changing initiatives like Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG), collaborations with Apple and mobile keyless entry. From his early days in digital strategy to navigating major brand integrations and launching Caesars Sportsbook, Chris offers insights on leading through change, building loyalty in a crowded market, and the lasting impact of working with purpose-driven people.
Episode 027
No Money, No Problem: How This Designer Turned $0 Into a $3M Real Estate Empire
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline interviews Madi Johnson, a design-driven short-term rental investor known for transforming historic homes in upstate New York into impeccable guest-centric retreats. She’s also the co-founder of The Short-Term Rental Book Club, a community for hospitality entrepreneurs to learn, connect, and grow in the ever-evolving short-term rental industry. Madi shares her strategies to find, finance and design unique properties that outperform the competition. Together with her team, they have built a real estate portfolio exceeding $3 million, primarily with little to none of her own money invested in the deal. Madi’s story is an inspiration for anyone who loves design and wants to get started in short-term rentals, emphasizing the importance of taking calculated risks, focusing on guest experience, and building a strong community.
Episode 026
The Power of Saying Yes: How Moving to Bali Changed Everything for this Hotel Exec
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline chats with Christine Morairty, Vice President of Brand and Marketing at Palisades Hospitality Group. Together, they explore the ever-evolving world of hospitality, branding, and intuitive service. Christine shares her journey from New York to Bali and now, to San Francisco, revealing how a single conversation shifted her entire perspective. She unpacks the power of adaptability—whether in business or personal growth—and explains why the best brands let the market guide their evolution. Christine highlights the importance of mastering the basics before chasing grand concepts, why hotel-quality sleep trumps flashy amenities, and how identifying market gaps can become your biggest advantage. She also shares the boutique hotel brands she keeps an eye on, the balance between feeling at home and feeling transported, and gives a sneak peek into her personal real estate investments in Idaho.
Episode 025
Frits van Paasschen: The CEO Who Transformed Hospitality - And What’s Coming Next
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline welcomes Frits van Paasschen, the former CEO of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. Frits takes us through his fascinating career journey—from his early days as a consultant at Boston Consulting Group and McKinsey, to leadership roles at powerhouse brands like Nike and Disney, and ultimately steering Fortune 500 giants like Coors and Starwood. He shares insights from his best-selling book, The Disruptors' Feast, unpacks what visionaries like Danny Meyer and Arianna Huffington have in common, and explains why being an "information omnivore" is a game-changer (and why you should be one too). His passion for creativity, innovation, and collaboration is both inspiring and actionable. Tune in for a masterclass in leadership, adaptability, and the future of hospitality from one of the industry’s most forward-thinking minds.
Episode 024
The Art of the Deal: Why Playing Hard to Get is the Ultimate Power Move in Real Estate
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline interviews Jonathan Greene, a luxury real estate agent, investor, and the host of the podcast Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing. Jonathan shares his unique journey from learning about real estate as a child through his father (an attorney and investor) to his own diverse career experiences as an attorney, gallerist, museum curator, and educator. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of approaching real estate as a long game, the benefits of time blocking for achieving time freedom, and the critical role of detailed documentation and transparency in successful transactions. He also outlines potential future trends in real estate, such as choice renting and diverse investment strategies, as well as providing essential tips on selecting the right real estate agent. Throughout the conversation, Jonathan's pragmatic and mindful approach to life and business stands out, offering valuable insights for aspiring, novice and seasoned investors alike.
Episode 023
The Death of the Expense Account: Journalist Pavia Rosati on the Evolution of Travel Media
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline sits down with Pavia Rosati, founder and CEO of the award-winning travel platform, Fathom. Together they explore Pavia's fascinating career in journalism, discussing the evolution of media, the importance of personalized content, and the true essence of hospitality.
Discover Pavia's favorite travel experiences, her approach to crafting meaningful content, and her thoughts on the balance of modern digital media. She also shares the behind the scenes process of co-authoring two books: Travel Anywhere (and Avoid Being a Tourist) and Travel North America (and Avoid Being a Tourist).
Don't miss this insightful conversation filled with industry wisdom, personal anecdotes, and valuable takeaways for both media enthusiasts and hospitality professionals.
Episode 022
Steve Turk Unveils Lessons from 150+ Hospitality Executives to Transform Your Business Forever
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline chats with hospitality entrepreneur, Steve Turk. With a career spanning decades in the hospitality industry, Steve has worked at every level, from leading teams at luxury hotels to building his own companies, including Turk Hospitality Ventures and Tangy Management.
Discover Steve's insights into the industry he loves, his strategies for success, and how he leverages technology to enhance guest experiences. As the author of Hospitality Unlocked and the host of the Hospitality Mentor podcast, Steve is no stranger to sharing his learnings. Plus, hear about Steve's passion project, Biscayne Coffee, and his vision for the future of hospitality.
Episode 021
The AI Expert on How Artificial Intelligence Will Revolutionize Travel and Hospitality
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline sits down with Tahnee Perry, an AI expert specializing in the travel industry. After leading marketing for top travel brands, she launched A25, a consultancy focused on helping businesses in the industry harness the power of AI.
Tahnee cuts through the hype to explore AI’s real impact—how it can boost productivity, enhance content, and create a competitive edge in hospitality. She demystifies generative AI, breaks down its most practical applications, and tackles big questions, like whether AI is a threat to jobs or the key to unlocking new opportunities. From streamlining operations to enhancing guest experiences, Tahnee shares how this technology isn’t just the future—it’s already here.
Tune in to discover how artificial intelligence is reshaping travel and hospitality—and why embracing it now is essential to staying ahead.
Episode 020
Skip the Selfie Wall: Tatianna Taylor-Tait on Why Scroll-Stopping Design is Good for Business
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline welcomes Tatianna Taylor-Tait, an award-winning designer and short-term rental specialist. Tatianna shares her inspiring journey of transforming personal tragedies into a thriving interior design career. She discusses her approach to creating hospitality-inspired homes, the importance of functionality, and the value of design in boosting rental income. The episode also delves into emerging design trends for 2025, the impact of small yet significant details in creating memorable guest experiences, and the benefits of upselling additional services. Tatianna highlights her current project—a luxury resort development in Atlanta—and offers practical advice for both budding and seasoned short-term rental hosts. Finally, as the co-founder of Level Up Your Listing, Tatianna shares what inspired her and Natalie Palmer to create the summit, and what they have in store for this year’s event.
Episode 019
An Insider’s Guide to the World’s Most Luxurious Hotels: Oetker Collection’s Simon Neggers on Building a Legacy of Excellence
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline interviews Simon Neggers, Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Communications at Oetker Collection. With an impressive background in luxury hospitality, Simon takes us through his inspiring career journey, from working as a butler at the iconic St. Regis New York to now leading sales and marketing for one of the world’s most prestigious hotel companies. Simon shares his unique perspective on the evolving landscape of luxury hospitality, reflecting on his experiences with renowned brands, and offering insights into the high-profile acquisition of Starwood by Marriott. He also delves into the nuances of hospitality across cities like London, New York, and Paris, all places he’s called home. And yes, Simon reveals what it’s really like to be a butler at one of New York’s hottest hotels. Tune in for a conversation about mentorship, the importance of community within luxury hotels, and the key ingredients that make a hotel truly timeless.
Episode 018
Defying Logic and Creating Hospitality Magic with Author & TEDx Superstar, Rory Sutherland
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline sits down with Rory Sutherland—Vice Chairman of Ogilvy UK, TEDx sensation, and bestselling author—to uncover the hidden psychology behind guest satisfaction and loyalty. As one of the world’s foremost experts in behavioral science, Rory reveals the surprising factors that shape a guest’s perception, from the outsized impact of first impressions to the small, unexpected moments that leave a lasting mark. He dives into why repeat business is the ultimate measure of success, the crucial role of trivial signaling in customer loyalty, and the difference between transactional and relational capitalism—all with his signature wit and wisdom. Whether you’re in hotels, short-term rentals, or simply obsessed with the art of great hospitality, this episode will change the way you think about creating unforgettable guest experiences.
Episode 017
Airbnb Secrets Only Superhosts Know: Natalie Palmer Reveals Her Hosting Playbook
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline is joined by Natalie Palmer, the host of “No Vacancy, the Podcast”, and the co-founder of the Level Up Your Listing Summit. Natalie shares her accidental journey into Airbnb hosting, evolving into managing 10 properties today while being named an Airbnb Superhost more than 26 times. She offers insights into navigating the highly competitive short-term rental market, the importance of optimizing listings, and what it means to be a stay at home mom while building her empire. They also discuss how she and her co-founder created and launched the Level Up Your Listing Summit, as well as its digital component, the Long Weekend Society, both aimed at supporting female entrepreneurs. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the evolving landscape of Airbnb hosting and the future of short-term rentals. (For those who wish to attend, use code SUITESUCCESS for 10% off tickets to Level Up Your Listing Summit.)
Episode 016
800 Interviews and Counting: How Hospitality Daily Redefines Entrepreneurship and Storytelling
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline dives into the incredible journey of Josiah Mackenzie, the mastermind behind Hospitality Daily. Josiah shares his unique journey into the industry, starting with formative travel experiences and evolving through roles at tech companies that served global hotels. They discuss the transformative power of hospitality, the impact of social media and AI on the industry, and practical tips for staying relevant in a digital age. Josiah emphasizes the importance of authentic connections, storytelling, and leveraging new technologies to enhance guest experiences. If you're interested in the future of hospitality and the role of innovation in creating unforgettable stays, this episode is for you.
Episode 015
Finding Joy After Trauma: Dawn McCoy's Journey of Resilience and Advocacy
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline welcomes Dawn McCoy, a television host, writer, and founder of Loving Way Foundation. Dawn shares her remarkable journey from aspiring country singer and Barbara Streisand's personal shopper to becoming a travel and lifestyle TV host on NBC. She opens up about the deeply personal reason she created Loving Way Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to ending child abuse through advocacy and support. Dawn also reflects on the challenges and triumphs of raising her son, Waylon, who survived a traumatic brain injury at just six weeks old, and how these experiences shaped her mission to help others find joy after trauma. Additionally, she discusses the impact of the fires in Los Angeles, a city she’s called home for 25 years. This heartfelt conversation explores the importance of community, kindness, and the transformative power of travel and hospitality. Tune in to be inspired by Dawn’s unwavering resilience and her commitment to making a difference.
Episode 014
Designing Success: Hospitality Design Secrets from Global Marriott VP, Aliya Khan
In this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline sits down with Aliya Khan, the Vice President of Global Design Strategies at Marriott International. Aliya shares her journey from originally wanting to be an architect to becoming a leading figure in hospitality design. She discusses the importance of lighting, quality linens, and practical fabrics, amongst many other design trends, in creating memorable hotel experiences. They dive into the design narratives that make each Marriott brand unique and emphasize the significance of making guests feel at home. Aliya's insights and inspiring stories make this episode a must for anyone interested in hospitality and design.
Episode 013
The 5 Trends That Will Define 2025, According to The Future Laboratory
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline welcomes Chris Sanderson, co-founder of The Future Laboratory—a global leader in trend forecasting, consumer insights, and brand strategy. Chris shares insights from FutureFive 2025, a trend briefing that identifies five key trends shaping the future of business and consumer behavior: artificial intelligence, future spaces, gaming, longevity, and sustainability.
They explore how AI is empowering industries, why urban spaces and hospitality need to adapt to changing societal needs, and the growing cultural significance of gaming as a form of self-expression. Chris also dives into the transformative potential of wellness trends, such as longevity and health optimization, and the critical role of sustainability in ensuring long-term business success.
Throughout the episode, Chris provides actionable advice for hospitality leaders to leverage these trends, from creating high-emotional-impact guest experiences to adopting AI for better personalization. Tune in for an exciting and thought-provoking discussion about what 2025 has in store for the hospitality industry and beyond.
Episode 012
13 Resolutions That Will Change Your Life in 2025, Inspired by the World’s Brightest Minds in Hospitality
On this New Year-inspired episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline shares her 13 Resolutions for 2025, each inspired by the wisdom of her incredible podcast guests. Whether you're seeking clarity, motivation, or just a little nudge to dream bigger, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you make 2025 your sweetest year yet.
Here’s what you can expect:
-Stop comparing yourself to others: Wisdom from Crystal Vinisse Thomas on embracing your unique path.
-Own your niche: John Peyton shares the value of doubling down on your superpower.
-Have a vision: Anjali Mehra talks about defining who you want to be and to whom.
-Take action: Holly Rubenstein reminds us to be proactive in creating the life we want.
-Invest wisely: Trey Sarten on focusing resources where they matter most.
-Set big goals: Pam and Chris Daniele share the power of dreaming big.
-Plan core memory trips: Tom Marchant inspires meaningful travel with loved ones.
-Be generous with your time: Giuseppe DeMartino on putting loved ones first.
-Redefine failure: Wil Slickers reframes setbacks as starting points.
-Never let defeat win: Gray Malin on finding inspiration in the lowest moments.
-Embrace Your ‘Mise en Place’: Justine McCleery on creating a foundation of organization.
Plus, the final 2 resolutions come from a sneak peek at two upcoming episodes in 2025.
Episode 011
The Art of Preparation: GM Justine McCleery on How ‘Mise en Place’ Drives The Dominick’s Success
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline sits down with Justine McCleery, the General Manager of The Dominick Hotel—New York's only independent hotel awarded the prestigious five-diamond rating from AAA. Justine takes us on an inspiring journey through her career, from studying culinary arts to rising through various roles in hospitality before leading one of the city’s top luxury hotels.
They discuss the unique opportunities in the hospitality industry, the critical role of employee engagement, and how technology and AI are reshaping the guest experience. Justine also shares how her approach to leadership emphasizes community and neighborhood involvement, highlighting The Dominick’s impactful partnership with the charity God’s Love We Deliver. Tune in for an insightful conversation about how passion, preparation, and a commitment to excellence drive success in luxury hospitality.
Episode 010
Hospitality Positive: Former Chief Brand Officer of Leela Palaces on Why Hospitality Is a Calling, Not a Career
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline chats with Anjali Mehra, a trailblazer in the hospitality industry whose career spans continents, cultures, and some of the world’s most celebrated hotel brands. From her early days in aviation to becoming a branding and communications expert, Anjali shares how her global journey shaped her unique perspective on what makes hospitality truly unforgettable.
Tune in as Anjali dives into the evolving role of sustainability, the power of personalized guest experiences, and how AI can complement—but never replace—the human touch in hospitality. She also reveals why genuine care and heartfelt dedication remain the bedrock of exceptional service, and how these values drive guest loyalty and brand success.
Episode 009
The Secrets Behind the St. Regis Rome: GM Giuseppe De Martino on Legacy, Leadership, and Luxury
On this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline welcomes Giuseppe De Martino, General Manager of the iconic St. Regis Rome. Giuseppe shares how his deep-rooted passion for hospitality has shaped the hotel's global reputation, guiding it through a transformative full-scale restoration and navigating the challenges of a global pandemic. Gain insights into his unique management style, which seamlessly blends the rich traditions of luxury hospitality with modern innovations.
Giuseppe also discusses the art of crafting unforgettable experiences that resonate with both guests and locals. Through captivating personal stories from his international career, he reveals the power of authenticity in fostering a thriving and memorable hotel environment.
Episode 008
How to Build an Empire, According to ‘Mr. Hospitality’ aka Wil Slickers
On this episode of Suite Success, host, Katie Cline sits down with the remarkable Will Slickers, better known as “Mr. Hospitality”. Wil recounts his inspiring journey from working at a hotel front desk to becoming the host of Slick Talk, a leading hospitality podcast. Now part of Hospitality.FM, the podcast network which he founded, Wil has grown the platform into a go-to resource for hospitality professionals worldwide. As the CEO of Hospitality.FM and co-host of Good Morning Hospitality, Wil shares insights on managing multiple roles, balancing innovation with tradition, and the importance of storytelling in the industry.
In addition to his media ventures, Wil is the co-founder of Recreation Vacation Rentals. He emphasizes the critical role of personalization in hospitality, blending cutting-edge technology with thoughtful human touches to elevate guest experiences. Throughout the episode, Wil shares valuable lessons learned from his diverse career, offering actionable insights for hospitality professionals and enthusiasts alike. This episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice—making it a must-listen for anyone looking to excel in the world of hospitality.
Episode 007
How Two Photographers Turned Rentals into Revenue—and Gained 500K Followers While Doing It
On this episode of Suite Success, join host, Katie Cline, as she speaks with Pam and Chris Daniele, the married photography duo captivating nearly 500k followers on Instagram through @dirtandglass and @heypamcakes. Based in Southern Vermont, Pam and Chris are renowned for their architectural photography, with a special focus on short-term rentals. Their work has earned accolades from Travel + Leisure and even graced the cover of Yankee Magazine.
In this engaging episode, Pam and Chris share the story of how they met, their journey to building a thriving photography business, and their creative process. You'll hear their thoughts on weaving local charm into hospitality, tips for crafting unforgettable guest experiences, and the evolving future of short-term rentals. Plus, discover how their love for travel and design inspired them to launch the Cabinpedia—a curated guide to stunning stays—and why they’re currently channeling their creativity into building cabins, just for fun. Don’t miss this inspiring and down-to-earth conversation!
Episode 006
The Road to Anywhere: Trey Sarten on Communications, Crises and Crafting Iconic Brand Stories
In this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline welcomes Trey Sarten, Chief Communications Officer at Anywhere Real Estate, for an inspiring conversation about the art of communication and storytelling. Trey reflects on his remarkable career, from shaping global brand communications at Starwood Hotels & Resorts to leading the ambitious rebranding of Realogy to Anywhere.
Trey explains his approach to corporate communications, revealing the power of authenticity in branding and the strategies behind crafting compelling narratives. He also shares stories from his transformative year-long sabbatical, traveling the world with his partner and capturing their adventures on social media. Whether discussing the nuances of hospitality, managing global crises, or unpacking current real estate trends, Trey’s insights offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to elevate their brand or navigate the complexities of modern communications.
Episode 005
Gray Malin, Unfiltered: The World Renowned Photographer’s Inspiring Journey from Flea Markets to Fame
Join host Katie Cline as she chats with internationally renowned fine art photographer, Gray Malin, on this episode of Suite Success. Discover how Gray's passion for photography blossomed in high school, grew through grassroots efforts at a flea market, and evolved into capturing iconic aerial shots and whimsical imagery in sensational destinations worldwide. From launching celebrated partnerships with brands like Veuve Clicquot and Disney to creating captivating imagery for hotels like Parker Palm Springs and Four Seasons Hawaii, Gray sheds light on his creative process and brand ethos. He gives the behind the scenes scoop on his first short-term rental and the heartwarming inspiration for his newest book, DOGS. Tune in to listen to Gray's fascinating journey, his philosophy on making art inclusive, and how he has managed to infuse hospitality into the world of art.
Episode 004
Beyond the Red Carpet: the UK’s #1 Travel Podcaster on Storytelling, Celebrity Influence and the Art of Hospitality
In this episode of Suite Success, Katie Cline interviews Holly Rubenstein, the host of the UK's number one travel podcast: The Travel Diaries. Holly shares her journey from covering red carpet events to becoming a top travel journalist, her experiences interviewing high-profile travelers, and her insights into the hospitality industry. The conversation covers Holly's early career, the serendipitous start of her podcast, and her reflections on storytelling and what makes a great hotel. Holly also offers valuable advice for short-term rental owners on enhancing guest experience, while sharing personal anecdotes about her travels with her young daughter. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about travel, journalism, and the art of storytelling.
Episode 003
From Consultant to CEO: The Ultimate Guide to Leadership, Branding, and Innovation with John Peyton, CEO of Dine Brands
In this episode of Suite Success, join host Katie Cline as she interviews John Peyton, the CEO of Dine Brands. Explore John’s impressive journey from consulting to leading iconic companies. John shares invaluable lessons on recognizing and leveraging unique skills, the power of branding, and fostering innovation within cross-functional teams. Learn how he used consumer insights to shape beloved brands at Starwood Hotels & Resorts, and discover the secrets behind successful marketing strategies, including viral campaigns. Hear personal anecdotes about the essence of true hospitality and gain tips on public speaking and overcoming introversion to achieve professional growth. This episode is packed with leadership insights, brand-building strategies, and the transformative role of AI in modern business.
Episode 002
From Imposter Syndrome to Industry Leader: How Hyatt’s Crystal Vinisse Thomas Redefines Hospitality
In this episode of Suite Success, host Katie Cline sits down with Crystal Vinisse Thomas, Vice President and Global Brand Leader for Hyatt's luxury and lifestyle brands. Crystal shares her inspiring career journey from Cornell’s hotel school to key roles at Starwood and Apple, which eventually led her to Hyatt. Throughout the conversation, Crystal discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, the cultural adjustments of living abroad, and her insights into brand building and consumer-driven strategies. They explore the significant impact of authenticity in hospitality and how Crystal empowers her team to achieve “NBDB- never been done before” experiences. Join them for an engaging discussion on the future of hospitality and the essential role of community and cross-cultural understanding in both personal and professional growth.
Episode 001
Why You’re Doing Travel All Wrong—Black Tomato's Tom Marchant Reveals What Really Matters
Join host Katie Cline in this enlightening episode as she chats with Tom Marchant, the visionary co-founder of Black Tomato, a pioneering luxury tour operator. Discover Tom's insights into crafting bespoke travel experiences that prioritize human connection and inclusivity, tailored for discerning clients yet accessible to curious adventurers. Learn about Black Tomato's innovative concepts like 'Take Me on a Story' and 'See You in the Moment' that offer transformative journeys across cultures. Tom shares personal anecdotes, including remarkable stays in Puglia and Morocco, critiques of superficial hospitality, and applauding brands that excel. Explore how personal and family experiences shaped Tom's approach to hospitality and how thoughtful travel can enrich perspectives in a revitalized post-COVID world.
Episode 000
Trailer: Unlocking Hospitality’s Secrets - A Sneak Peek into Suite Success
Ready for a glimpse behind the front desk? In this teaser for Suite Success: Masters of Hospitality, host Katie Cline gives you a taste of what's ahead. Curious about how top hotels and hospitality brands cultivate loyal guests and unforgettable experiences? Katie is here to bring you insider access to the leaders who make it happen. Each episode promises not just stories of success but real strategies you can apply to your own ventures. Whether you’re fine-tuning a current business or dreaming about entering the industry, Katie will guide you through the essential tips and tricks that fuel the world’s best hospitality brands. Get excited for a podcast full of actionable insights designed to help you achieve your own ‘suite’ success!