Why Your First Impression Could Make or Break Guest Experience TSHS – 121

Why Your First Impression Could Make or Break Guest Experience

In this episode of The Social Hotelier Show, Sam-Erik Ruttmann welcomes renowned keynote speaker and author Sylvie Di Giusto.

Together, they explore the psychology of first and lasting impressions in hospitalitySylvie digiusto

and how unconscious biases shape guest experiences.

Sylvie breaks down her signature “ABCD-E” framework—Appearance, Behavior, Communication, Digital Footprint, and Environment—offering practical tools for hospitality leaders to influence perception and build trust from the first moment.

The conversation also dives into the often-overlooked impact of a leader’s digital presence and how virtual interactions can elevate—or damage—credibility. Whether you’re a hotel executive, manager, or aspiring leader, this episode offers actionable insights on how to become more intentional, authentic, and effective in your role . Subscribe, listen, and learn how micro-choices can create macro impact in guest experience.

 

What Makes a SUCCESSFUL Digital Ads Campaign in 2025. TSHS – 120

Maximize Your Digital Ads ROI Proven Strategies for Lasting Success

Proven Strategies for Hotels, Restaurants, and Businesses to Succeed in Google Ads, Meta, and Beyond

Many businesses are burning through their digital advertising budgets without a clear strategy. As John Horn, CEO of  @Stubgroup  , reveals, success in digital marketing requires a thoughtful approach, patience, and strategic oversight. In this post, we’ll explore actionable steps to improve your advertising results while ensuring you stay compliant and avoid costly mistakes.

John horn01

The Hidden Profit Killers in Restaurants—And How to Fix Them. TSHS – 115

The Hidden Profit Killers in Restaurants—And How to Fix Them

In this episode, Sam Erik Ruttmann interviews Geordy Murphy, a visionary restaurateur and owner of Cypress Hospitality Group. Geordy shares his journey from managing restaurants to developing innovative software solutions for the hospitality industry with FOBESoft.

The conversation covers key themes such as the importance of budgeting, leadership lessons learned from culinary icons like Wolfgang Puck, the impact of technology on the restaurant industry, and the challenges faced during the pandemic.

Geordy emphasizes the need for restaurateurs to understand their financials and adapt to the evolving landscape of hospitality.

From Chef To Tech Innovator

AI Expert Exposes Shocking Truth About Video Generation! TSHS – 113

🔥 Get ready for an interesting conversation with Jayanth N Kolla, Founder& Partner of Convergence  Catalyst, Expert on AI, Machine Learning.

This is our annual episode discussing the rapid evolution of AI and its profound impact on the travel and tourism industry.

  • We explore how social media influences travel trends, the rise of Generative AI Travel Content creation, and the changing landscape of influencers.

  • The conversation also delves into the emergence of theme-based travel experiences

  • AI for Trip Planning, the Future of Tourism Technology, and AI Assistants in Travel, from Artificial Intelligence to Intelligent Assistants

    .

Furthermore, the conversation covers strategies destinations can adopt to remain appealing in an AI-driven world. Finally, they touch on the future of travel planning with AI agents that can automate and optimize the booking process for Authentic Travel Content and  Niche Travel Experiences.

Here are some Sound Bites from our conversation:

  • AI is rapidly evolving and will significantly impact travel.

 

  • Social media is changing how people choose travel destinations.

 

  • Generative AI allows for the creation of travel content without physical travel.

 

  • The influencer landscape is shifting due to the rise of AI-generated content.

 

  • Theme-based travel is becoming more popular among tourists.

 

  • Destinations should focus on unique experiences to attract diverse travelers.

 

  • AI agents will automate travel planning, making it more efficient.

Jayanth N Kolla

 

🔔 Don’t miss out on this game-changing episode.

In Substack, there is the latest blog summarizing my conversation with Jayanth N Kolla and the link to the video podcast

Here is the Link to a Free Subscription

https://samerik.substack.com/subscribe

 

 

The Art of Hospitality: Designing Spaces That Inspire and Connect. TSHS – 111

The Art of Hospitality: Designing Spaces That Inspire and Connect

Have you ever walked into a space and felt instantly at ease—as if it were designed just for you? Or perhaps the opposite, where a space seemed to push you away, leaving you feeling out of place? The spaces we inhabit hold incredible power, shaping our emotions, connections, and even our sense of belonging. Today, we’re diving deep into this idea with Ryan Anderson, the Vice President of Global Research and Planning at MillerKnoll, in a cozy fireside chat that promises to challenge the way you think about hospitality and design.

Ryan brings over 30 years of expertise in creating environments that don’t just look good but feel right—spaces that foster connection and comfort while leaving a lasting impression. So, grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s explore the art and science of designing spaces that inspire and connect.

Hospitality Beyond Aesthetics

With over 30 years of experience in furniture and textiles, Ryan brought incredible insights to our conversation. He shared that hospitality isn’t just about beautiful spaces and creating meaningful experiences. “Every space has a purpose,” he said, pointing out how the design of a hotel lobby or a café can transform how guests and staff connect. “Hospitality is a place-based phenomenon,” he added, emphasizing that great design can elevate both personal experiences and business outcomes.

Introduction of the concept of loving strangers

Ryan introduced the concept of “philoxenia”—the ancient Greek term for loving strangers. “Hospitality starts with making others feel safe and cared for,” he said. For instance, he shared how a simple gesture, like personalizing room amenities for a guest’s preferences, can create moments of genuine connection.

Takeaways

  • The design of spaces significantly impacts our emotions and relationships.
  • Cultural experiences shape our understanding of hospitality.
  • Great hospitality is about sincere care for others.
  • Place attachment is formed through our experiences in spaces.
  • Design can either foster or hinder a sense of belonging.
  • Sensory experiences play a crucial role in comfort.
  • Sustainability in design promotes well-being for people and the planet.
  • Technology should enhance, not replace, human connections.
  • Inclusion is essential for creating positive first impressions.
  • Employees should be treated as valued customers in hospitality.

 

Secrets Behind Memorable Design

Discover How to Grow Your Business Through Podcasting. TSHS – 110

Discover How to Grow Your Business Through Podcasting

Welcome to this episode of The Social Hotelier Podcast! Today, we are honored to host Noémi Beres, co-owner of Podcast Connections, an agency renowned for helping entrepreneurs amplify their voices through strategic podcast interviews.

With over 11 years of experience in content creation and online marketing, Noémi has mastered the art of storytelling and business growth.

Starting her entrepreneurial journey in 2007, she pivoted to launch Podcast Connections in 2020, creating a global network of clients and thought leaders. Passionate about engaging and valuable content, Noémi’s innovative approach and European flair set her agency apart in the podcasting world.

Five Podcast Tips from Noémi Beres

1. Preparation is Key: Always prepare your topics and talking points thoroughly before the interview.

2. Be Present: Engage fully with the host by grounding yourself and focusing on the conversation.

3. Respect the Host’s Time: Avoid treating the podcast as a pure advertisement; share stories and knowledge instead.

4. Invest in Basics: Use a quality microphone, proper lighting, and soundproofing to enhance audio quality.

5. Promote and Build Relationships: Promote your podcast appearances and nurture the connections you form during the process.

There are many more tips in this episode so stay until the end.

Amplify Your Business With Podcast

Top Sustainability Expert Shares Secrets to Redefining Success. TSHS-107

Top Sustainability Expert Shares Secrets to Redefining Success

In this episode of the Social Hotelier Show, host Sam-Erik Ruttmann engages with Vanessa Thompson, a leader in sustainable finance and innovation. They discuss Vanessa’s journey from Silicon Valley to her current role at the Sustainability Experts, emphasizing the importance of sustainability as a catalyst for innovation and growth.

The conversation explores the role of nature in hospitality, the balance between community needs and global development, and companies’ responsibilities in reversing environmental damage.

Vanessa shares insights on sustainable luxury, the impact of regulation, and the need for consumers to support innovative businesses.

The episode concludes with a look at emerging trends in hospitality and the importance of prioritizing sustainability in business practices.

Vanessa Thompson

Innovative Podcasting Ideas for Hoteliers. TSHS-0099

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.

Bridging Finance, Hospitality, and Podcasting. TSHS-079

Bridging Finance, Hospitality, and Podcasting, discussion with Jelani Millard, founder of The Wapechi Collection.

In this episode, Sam-Erik Ruttmann interviews Jelani Millard, a professional risk analyst, podcaster, and hospitality enthusiast. We discuss Jelani Millard’s background, travel experiences, involvement in hospitality, and the Wepachi Collection. We also touch on Jelani’s vision for the hospitality industry and the unique experiences offered by the Wepachi Collection. The conversation delves into the world of travel, hospitality, and personal growth, exploring the business side of travel, the true hustle and craft of travelers, the impact of travel on individuals, and the importance of patience. It also covers the formation of a charitable foundation, the goals and aspirations of the guests, and trends in the hospitality industry.

The Roller Coaster Ride: What aspiring Entrepreneurs need to prepare for – Chris Nader. TSHS-0064

The Roller Coaster Ride: What aspiring Entrepreneurs need to prepare for – Chris Nader. TSHS-0064

Chris Nader, CO-founder, of ENVI lodges talks about his background growing up in a family of hoteliers and his early exposure to the hospitality industry working at his family’s beach club at a young age. He later got a hospitality MBA from EHL, and worked with various hotel brands before deciding during the pandemic in 2020 to launch his own sustainable hospitality company focused on luxury eco-lodges.

He co-founded ENVI Lodges intending to create a global brand of lodges immersed in nature that provide unique guest experiences while operating responsibly towards local communities and the environment.

Chris discusses the key attributes entrepreneurs need – the courage to take risks and be disciplined to see things through.

He talks about the fundraising process, investing partners they targeted like high net worth individuals and family offices, and differences of raising funds in Europe vs the Middle East. Chris elaborates on ENVI Lodge’s brand vision centered around community and distinguishes it from safari resorts.

He shares perspectives on technology’s role at the lodges to enhance the guest experience while allowing people to disconnect.

The interview concludes with Chris emphasizing the importance of supporting and collaborating with local communities wherever ENVI Lodges launches.

Chris Nader can be contacted on Linkedin and Instagram, @envilodges and @hotel_trotter. When you contact Chris Nader please add #thesocialhotelier

Enjoyed our discussion. Feel free to Buy me a Coffee right here.https://www.buymeacoffee.com/samerik ☕️