FACEBOOK ADS Secrets to BOOST Direct Bookings in 2025! TSHS – 106

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In this episode of the Social Hôtelier podcast, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann welcomes Carol Kabaale, a meta-certified ad strategist specializing in hotel Facebook ads. They discuss the importance of purpose-driven advertising, the evolution of online marketing in hospitality, and how independent hotels can leverage data-driven strategies to attract direct bookings. Carol shares insights on building relationships with guests through email marketing, creating personalized experiences, and highlighting local culture to stand out in a saturated market. The conversation also covers effective retargeting strategies for past guests and ways to communicate exclusive experiences to foster loyalty. In this conversation, Carol Kabaale discusses innovative strategies for independent hotels to enhance guest engagement, measure ROI on advertising, and leverage storytelling to build brand identity.

She emphasizes the importance of nurturing leads through targeted campaigns, the challenges independent hotels face in a competitive market, and the role of automation in hospitality.

Additionally, she highlights the need for a dynamic online presence and the emerging trends in hospitality marketing that hoteliers should embrace.

Thumbnail Carol Kabaale

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Is Your Wealth Aligned with Your Life’s Purpose? Revelations by an expert. TSHS – 105

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Is Your Wealth Aligned with Your Life’s Purpose? Revelations by an expert.

In this episode of the Social Hôtelier podcast, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann speaks with Mukesh Bajaj, founder of NextZen Accounting, about achieving financial freedom while living a fulfilled life. Mukesh shares his journey, the development of his Seven Steps Fulfillment System, and how he helps individuals and business owners align their financial goals with their values.

The conversation explores misconceptions about financial freedom, the role of emotional resilience, and the challenges of implementing the seven steps. Mukesh emphasizes serving others and creating win-win relationships in personal and professional contexts.

Dominika Kustocz Lee

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Nature meets Luxury : The Untold Secrets of Sustainable Hospitality. TSHS-104

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Nature meets Luxury: The Untold Secrets of Sustainable Hospitality. 

In this episode of the Social Hotelier Podcast, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann speaks with Jesus Barrilla CEO of Experiential Hospitality, about the evolution of eco-conscious travel and the importance of sustainability in the hospitality industry.

Barrilla shares his journey into outdoor hospitality, emphasizing the need for meaningful connections with nature and local communities.

He discusses the definition of success in outdoor hospitality, the role of sustainability, and how to balance luxury with environmental stewardship. The conversation also touches on the challenges of scaling a hospitality brand, the importance of integrating local culture, and the future of ecotourism.

The Untold Secrets Of Sustainable Hospitalitye

Why Are Global Hotel Investors Choosing Nature Over Cities? TSHS – 103

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Why Are Global Hotel Investors Choosing Nature Over Cities?

In this episode of the Social Hotelier podcast, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann speaks with Tea Ros, a leading international hotel consulting professional. They discuss Tea’s extensive career in hospitality, the impact of COVID-19 on investment trends, and the growing interest in resort locations over urban properties.

🔥 Here are some takeaways from our conversation:

  • Hospitality is an amazing industry with many opportunities.
  • Post-COVID, there’s a significant shift towards resort investments.
  • Understanding local markets is crucial for success in hospitality.
  • Northern Europe is becoming increasingly attractive for tourism.
  • Branding in hospitality has become complex due to acquisitions.
  • Young professionals should embrace their unique career paths.
  • Networking and relationships are key in the hospitality industry.
  • Flexibility and adaptability are essential in a changing market.
  • She also offers valuable advice for young professionals looking to build a career in hospitality, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the journey and learning from every experience.

Tea Ros

 

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Ross Brand’s Top 3 Social Media Secrets for 2025. TSHS-102

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Ross Brand’s Top 3 Social Media Secrets for 2025

In this conversation, I discuss with Ross Brand the evolving landscape of live streaming and video content creation, focusing on platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube, and Substack. We explore the potential of vertical videos on LinkedIn, the importance of YouTube for audience engagement, and how Substack can be leveraged for content distribution.

The discussion emphasizes the need for experimentation and strategic thinking in digital marketing. I

In this conversation, we delve into the features and benefits of Substack and Riverside FM, two platforms that enhance content creation and community engagement. We discuss the learning curve associated with Substack, its potential for monetization, and the importance of regular communication with audiences. The conversation also highlights Riverside FM’s unique features, such as its teleprompter and editing capabilities, making it a valuable tool for podcasters and live streamers. Ross shares his experiences and insights on both platforms, encouraging others to explore their potential.

Rodd Brand

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Transforming Hospitality: AI, Automation, and the Art of Golf. TSHS – 101

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Transforming Hospitality: AI, Automation, and the Art of Golf

In this episode, Sam-Erik Ruttmann interviews Sami Hero, Founder & CEO Growth Fusion Advisors.

 Sami shared his insights on data-driven decision making, the role of AI in hospitality, and the significance of automation. The conversation also touches on the connection between golf and business, as well as trends in the hospitality industry that hoteliers should be aware of.

⏰Join us as we delve into:

  • Digital transformation requires critical thinking about specific needs.
  • Automation can significantly reduce manual work in hospitality.
  • Data-driven decision making is essential for growth.
  • Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) should be limited to a few important metrics.
  • Tracking customer experience in real-time can improve service.
  • AI tools can enhance marketing and customer engagement in hospitality.
  • Golf teaches continuous improvement, similar to business practices.

🔥 Here some soundbites from our conversation:

  • “I’m passionate about helping organizations navigate digital transformation.”
  • “Every company is a little bit of chaos to a degree.”
  • “The generation is super passionate about the things they want to do.”

Sami Her

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Insider Secrets of the KOREAN LUXURY Market Revealed! TSHS-100

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In my recent conversation with Dominika Kustosz-Lee, CEO of DKL & Company, we explored some truly fascinating aspects of Korea’s luxury scene, hospitality, and her own life journey. Dominika shared how brands in Korea go beyond the usual, creating immersive luxury experiences that feel both playful and perfectly on-brand. It’s incredible to hear how they cater to a market as dynamic and trend-focused as Korea, where customers expect new and exciting experiences around every corner.

 

We also discussed how hospitality could learn from retail in Korea—like using local art and personalized touches that bring spaces to life and tell a story. Dominika’s personal stories from her 16 years in Korea resonated with me. She offered insight into how Korea’s seamless blend of digital and physical retail, combined with its rich cultural scene, makes it a unique trendsetter on the global luxury stage. It was such an inspiring conversation, and I learned so much from her perspective.

Dominika Kustocz Leef1

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Innovative Podcasting Ideas for Hoteliers. TSHS-0099

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Sheryl Plouffe, co-founder of ICONMAKER® Joint Venture, discusses the power of video podcasting for hoteliers to elevate their brand, attract global guests, and position themselves as leaders in the hospitality industry. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling, showcasing local culture, and creating high-trust relationships through podcasting. Sheryl suggests various podcasting ideas for hoteliers, such as local recommendations, famous guests, historic stories, and employee spotlights. She also highlights the benefits of strategic alliances and the potential for private podcasts for guests. Sheryl believes that personal branding can be beneficial for professionals in any field, but it ultimately depends on the individual’s comfort level and desire to build a personal brand.

Sheryl Plouffe https://www.sherylplouffe.com/

She encourages hoteliers to think outside the box and find innovative ways to engage with guests and stand out in a competitive market.

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Bloom Bar’s Hidden Secret to Success in the USA. TSHS-0098

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In this conversation, Kofi Maafo, co-founder of Bloom Bar in Accra, Ghana, shares the inspiring journey of establishing a successful hospitality business that caters to the middle class.

They identified a gap in the market for affordable yet high-end experiences

He discusses the challenges faced, the cultural impact of their approach, and how they revolutionized the perception of bar ownership in Ghana. Kofi emphasizes the importance of authenticity, quality, and music in creating a unique atmosphere and the lessons learned for aspiring entrepreneurs in the hospitality industry.

 

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How to Boost Direct Bookings Without Relying On Third Parties. TSHS-0097

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In this episode, Sam-Erik Ruttmann interviews Philippa Gamse, a renowned digital strategist, about digital marketing strategies and analytics for independent hotels. They discuss Philippa’s career in digital strategy and analytics, the importance of engaging directly with guests online, the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in the hospitality industry, and the challenges of using third-party booking engines.

“Artificial intelligence (AI) can help generate ideas and draft copy, but it should not replace the human touch in communication.”

Philippa emphasizes the need for personalized and authentic communication with guests, the value of qualitative analytics in understanding customer needs, and the limitations of AI in generating creative ideas.

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