Interesting interviews with innkeepers and lodging experts, aimed to improve the challenging life of the independent innkeeper and lodging professional.
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Technology continues to reshape hospitality, but the personal connections that make guests feel genuinely welcomed and cared for remain just as important. In this episode, Lucy Lewand, a hospitality consultant with Happy Hospitality Solutions, draws on more than 40 years in hospitality to explore the human side of the guest experience. She shares ways to create meaningful interactions throughout…
Finding the right financing can make the difference between growing your business and missing new opportunities. Michael Oppel, Vice President and Loan Officer at Stone Bank, discusses government-guaranteed loan programs for independent lodging businesses, including SBA and USDA financing. He explains which options are best suited for acquisitions, renovations, expansions, and new…
Building a successful lodging business requires more than great operations. It also requires a clear vision, authentic branding, and a long-term strategy. Monique Greenwood, owner of the Akwaaba Bed & Breakfast Inns, shares lessons from more than 30 years in the lodging industry, including branding, authenticity, digital marketing, and building a lasting business. We are very thankful to Monique…
As travelers shift from traditional search to AI powered discovery, innkeepers need new ways to stay visible. In this episode, Mike Lannen, Founder and AI Whisperer of Eternity, discusses how guest search behavior is changing and why GEO is becoming more important alongside SEO. He shares practical ways properties can optimize their websites for AI search, answer guest questions more clearly,…
For innkeepers juggling endless tasks, AI can be a practical tool for bringing more clarity, organization, and efficiency to the day. Liz Hamilton, founder of Maia Internet Consulting, discusses how independent lodging operators can use AI to streamline operations, sharpen their thinking, and save time. She shares practical ideas for writing better prompts , using AI as a thinking partner,…
In a crowded market, strong visuals can make all the difference when it comes to capturing attention and turning interest into bookings. Cody Harmon, owner and founder of Scratch Media discusses the value of high-quality photography and video for independent lodging properties. Visual storytelling showcases not only properties, but also the surrounding experiences that make a stay memorable. It…
As AI transforms how travelers discover their next stay, innkeepers need new strategies to stay visible and competitive. In this episode, Kenny Ridgell, Founder of Ridge Media, discusses his upcoming ALP Unlocked 2026 presentation, titled The Zero Click Era: How AI Is Rewriting Travel Discovery (and What to Do About It ). Kenny shares actionable tips for how innkeepers can best attract guests…
The ALP annual conference has a new name and a new format focused on hands-on learning for ALP members, non-members and aspiring innkeepers. Welcome all to ALP Unlocked. Sarah Gazi, CEO of ALP, discusses ALP Unlocked 2026, taking place March 2 to 5 in Cleveland, Ohio, the rock and roll capital of the world. This year's conference will provide tactical and practical insights to help innkeepers grow…
For many innkeepers, managing day-to-day operations can be overwhelming, but the right technology can make all the difference. Gideon Stanley, CEO and Founder of GraceSoft, discusses how his company's cloud-based tools help streamline property management for hotels, B&Bs, motels, resorts, and more. He also highlights GraceSoft's new CRM solution, which brings powerful tools like two-way messaging,…
Even the smallest touches can make a big impact when it comes to guest satisfaction. Based on their 2025 ALP Conference presentation, Peter MacLaren — owner and operator of West Hill House B&B in Warren, Vermont — and Rachel Paley — general manager at Saratoga Arms Hotel in Saratoga Springs, New York — share simple, high-impact ways innkeepers can go above and beyond for their guests. We are very…
