Today's episode features hosts Steve Carran and David Millili interviewing Jill Wilder, the newly appointed President of Aptech Computer Systems, at the HITEC conference. Jill shares insights from her 38-year career at Aptech, discusses the company's evolution in hospitality technology, and highlights their latest innovations in hotel accounting and business intelligence solutions.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The resurgence of HITEC post-COVID and industry networking
• What are Aptech's core products
• The importance of customer support and long-term client relationships
• Industry trends in integration and collaboration between technology providers
• Challenges in the hospitality industry, including labor issues
• The role of accounting systems as the "furnace of the house" in hotel operations

This episode provides valuable insights into the current state of hospitality technology, focusing on financial management solutions and the importance of customer-centric approaches in the industry.

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:
Jill Wilder on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillewilder/
Aptech: https://www.aptech-inc.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/79
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 Theresa Ellsworth from Sertifi. Theresa shares insights into her background growing up in Yonkers, New York, her passion for hospitality, and her journey from college to a 14-year stint at Springer Miller.

The conversation delves into how Sertifi accelerates revenue for hotels through digital authorization processes, securing revenue by reducing chargebacks, and using advanced AI-driven fraud prevention tools. Additionally, Sertifi's new features, such as ACH transaction fee reductions and Opera OHIP integration, are highlighted.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Sertifi's digital authorization process for credit card transactions
• Accelerating revenue through digitized sales processes and deposit collection
• Fraud prevention using advanced AI tools
• Benefits of digital signatures and real-time deposit collection
• Reducing transaction fees through e-commerce merchant IDs and ACH payments
• The importance of secure handling of guest credit card information
• How technology is simplifying daily operations for hotel staff

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:
Theresa Ellsworth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresaellsworth/
Sertifi: https://corp.sertifi.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/78

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, recorded at the HITEC trade show floor, Steve interviews Rich O'Brien from Xpodigital and Michael Parissee from HSMS about digital investments in hotels and event spaces, focusing on how large-format LED displays and digital signage are transforming guest experiences and revenue opportunities.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The evolution of digital signage in hotels and event spaces
• How will large-format LED walls impact guest experience
• The challenges in implementing and maintaining digital signage
• ROI considerations for hotels investing in digital displays
• Using digital signage to promote hotel amenities and increase sales
• The importance of content management and best practices
• What are the future trends in hospitality technology and digital displays

The episode covers how these digital investments are enhancing attendee experiences, creating new revenue streams, and transforming the aesthetics of hotel and event spaces. The experts also share insights on overcoming implementation challenges and maximizing the return on investment for these technologies.

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:
Rich O'Brien on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-o-brien-54817b19/

Xpodigital: https://www.xpodigital.com/

Michael Parisse on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelparisse/
HSMS: www.mphsms.com

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/77

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 Steve Carran and David Millili interview Jon Schniepp, SVP of Marketing at Relay. Jon discusses his background, Relay's journey into the hospitality industry, and how their smart radio technology is revolutionizing hotel operations and staff communication.

The conversation covers emerging trends in hospitality communication, staff safety solutions, and the innovative use of AI in overcoming language barriers.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Relay's evolution from a family product to a hospitality-focused solution
• Current trends in hospitality communication and their impact on guest experience
• Staffing challenges in the hotel industry and how Relay addresses them
• The importance of simplicity in implementing advanced technologies like AI
• How Relay is helping hotels improve operational efficiency and staff communication
• Future developments and growth plans for Relay

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/jonschniepp/

Relay: https://relaypro.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/76

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, join hosts Steve Carran and David Millili at HITEC 2024 in Charlotte as they interview a diverse lineup of hospitality industry leaders and innovators. From established executives to emerging startups, guests share insights on the latest hotel technologies, industry trends, and their experiences at the conference.

The episode concludes with a lively discussion on whether anyone will hit a home run at the event’s batting competition.

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

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/75

Follow on LinkedIn:
Jasmine Seliga - Founder & CEO Affixify
Chris Green - Former President of Remington Hotel
Ashley NeQuent - Application Consultant, Springer-Miller Systems
Zach Fullen - Enterprise Sales, Visiting Media
Daniel Montellano - Shift4
Anthony & Noe
Susan Springsteen - H20 Connected
Adam Tuttle - Yipy
Raymond Martz - Co-President & CFO at Pebblebrook Hotel Trust
Al Lagunas - Co-Founder & CEO, Levee
Michael Cohen - Managing Partner, GAIN

Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil...

In this monthly "Hospitality Hot Topics" segment, David and Steve dive into the most pressing issues and exciting developments in hospitality. From the booming wellness sector to music tourism's impact on hotel bookings, they explore how these trends are transforming the guest experience and affecting business strategies.

They also tackle important industry challenges, such as ongoing staffing shortages, and discuss potential solutions. With a mix of data-driven analysis and personal insights, they offer valuable perspectives for both seasoned hoteliers and newcomers to the field.

Whether you're interested in luxury experiences, technology integration, marketing stunts, or industry events like HITEC, The Modern Hotelier keeps you informed and prepared to navigate the ever-evolving hospitality landscape. Tune in for expert commentary, practical advice, and engaging conversations that will help you stay ahead in the dynamic world of modern 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

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/74

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...

Paul Rantilla is a senior executive with over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He currently serves as the Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer for Hospitality Ancillaries at Plusgrade. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated expertise in hospitality management, market expansion, sales strategies, and marketing leadership.

Prior to joining Plusgrade, Rantilla held key positions at prominent companies in the hospitality technology space. He was the Chief Commercial Officer at Birchstreet Systems, where he oversaw sales, marketing, and global brand relationships. Additionally, he served as the Executive Vice President of Global Sales at Amadeus Hospitality. With his extensive background and strategic vision, Rantilla plays a crucial role in shaping the future of ancillary revenue solutions in the global hospitality sector at Plusgrade.

In this episode, Steve and David sit down with Paul Rantilla, and they dive deep into the transformative power of Plusgrade, a comprehensive data-driven upselling platform designed to enhance guest experiences and drive revenue growth. From innovative bidding strategies for room upgrades to leveraging AI for pricing and data analysis, Plusgrade is reshaping how hotels engage with their guests.

Listen in as we explore how Plusgrade is working with top brands like Amtrak, Royal Caribbean, and Emirates, and discover the significant shift towards combining marketing and revenue management to engage guests in a more personalized way.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• PlusGrade's approach to securing upgrades for accommodations and transportation
• The importance of engaging guests at the right time and through the right channels to offer upgrades and ancillary services
• Best practices for hotels to leverage revenue management tools and marketing strategies to drive ancillary revenue
• The role of AI in pricing, data analysis, and enhancing guest experiences in the hospitality industry
• Personal anecdotes and insights from Paul's experiences in the hospitality industry

Don't miss this episode packed with insights, humor, and valuable tips for modern hoteliers looking to boost their revenue and enhance guest satisfaction!

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

Sponsor spot

Plusgrade: https://www.plusgrade.com/

Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-rantilla-033219/

Plusgrade: https://www.plusgrade.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/73

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...

The remarkable journey of Sonesta, including its entrepreneurial spirit, growth strategies, and invaluable insights for aspiring hoteliers.

In today’s episode, we dive into the world of hospitality with our special guest, Elizabeth Harlow, the Chief Brand Officer at Sonesta. Join hosts Steve Carran, and David Millili as they uncover Elizabeth’s fascinating journey—from skiing in the Swiss Alps to shaping luxury hospitality brands with her wealth of experience from Leading Hotels of the World and Starwood. We explore the entrepreneurial spirit at Sonesta, their exponential growth, and the success of their partnership with Grubhub. Elizabeth also shares invaluable advice for young professionals in the industry, discusses the pivotal role of sustainability, and highlights how independent hotels can set themselves apart through intentional design and unique guest experiences. Whether you’re an industry veteran or a budding hotelier, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and strategies you won’t want to miss. So, let’s get started!

In this episode, you'll learn (key points/topics covered):

• How Elizabeth approaches brand strategy, marketing, and shaping the guest experience, drawing from her decades of experience working with iconic luxury hotel brands.
• The importance of truly understanding one's core customer, brand positioning, and differentiation in order to drive successful marketing campaigns.
• Finding the right balance between the "art and science" of marketing through creative concepts backed by data-driven strategies.
• Elizabeth advice for younger professionals looking to get into hospitality marketing, emphasizing networking, strategic career moves, and marrying their passions.
• The sustainability trends and low-hanging opportunities for hotels to reduce waste and environmental impact.
• Tips for independent hotels to effectively market their brands and craft a differentiated guest 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:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-harlow-1345997/

Sonesta Hotels: https://www.sonesta.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/72

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...