Frictionless Innkeeper Podcast

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, update third party profiles, and track how often they appear in AI driven results. We are very thankful to Mike for sharing his insights with us. You can learn more about Eternity at eternitymarketing.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

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, organizing tasks and meetings, and finding quick wins that make everything easier. We are very thankful to Liz for sharing her insights with us. You can learn more about Maia Internet Consulting at maiainternetconsulting.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.  

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 can also serve as a concierge, giving potential guests a visual preview of their stay. We are very thankful to Cody for sharing his insights. You can learn more at scratchmedia.co. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

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 searching for their properties in today's AI-driven world. We are very thankful to Kenny for sharing his insights. You can learn more at ridgemediallc.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

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 and sustain their businesses. She also discusses the ALP Academy, a year-round education platform that extends learning beyond the event itself. We are very thankful to Sarah for sharing her insights with us. You can learn more about the ALP Unlocked 2026 at ALP Lodging. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.  

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, loyalty tracking, email marketing, and guest profiles into one system connected to the PMS. We are very thankful to Gideon for sharing his insights. You can learn more at gracesoft.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.  

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 thankful to Peter and Rachel for sharing their insights with us. You can learn more about West Hill House B&B at westhillbb.com and Saratoga Arms Hotel at saratogaarms.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Online reviews can make or break a guest's decision to book, and how you manage them matters more than ever. Marco DiDomizio, Broker and Consultant with Inn Advisors, and Dan Clark, owner of the Inn of the Turquoise Bear, share how innkeepers can turn reviews into a powerful marketing tool to build their brands and increase bookings. Drawing from their 2025 ALP Conference presentation, they offer smart tips on earning better reviews, managing negative feedback, and focusing on the platforms that matter most. We are very thankful to Marco and Dan for sharing their insights with us. You can learn more about Inn Advisors at innadvisors.com and the Inn of the Turquoise Bear at turquoisebear.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

What technologies should innkeepers be paying attention to in the years ahead? From automation to personalization, the right tools can make a major difference in day-to-day operations and guest satisfaction. Jim Leitch, owner of Hospitality Proz, discusses the top technologies shaping the future of independent lodging. Based on his presentation at the ALP 2025 conference, Jim shares insights into the tools and trends that can help innkeepers improve efficiency and deliver better guest experiences. We are very thankful to Jim for sharing his insights with us. You can learn more about Hospitality Proz at the company's LinkedIn page at www.linkedin.com/company/hospitality-proz. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.  

The Midwest Association of Independent Inns (MWInns) and the Michigan Bed & Breakfast Association (MBBA) have officially merged. Kerri Thiel (Retiring Executive Director), Mikki Suchomel (Incoming Executive Director), and Randy Bangs (Board VP and Marketing Chair) discuss how this strategic move expands resources, strengthens advocacy, and creates new opportunities for regional growth. We also highlight their first joint event, InnSight 2025, taking place October 26 to 28 in Holland, MI. We are very thankful to Kerri, Randy, and Mikki for sharing their insights with us. You can learn more about the MWInns at mwinns.com. You can also register to attend the conference at mwinns.com/mwinns-conference-trade-show. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Pricing is one of the most powerful tools innkeepers have, but getting it right is both an art and a science. Scot Fuller-Beatty, Founder of The Bold Collaboration, discusses how to master revenue management through smart pricing strategies and well-timed promotions. Scot also offers practical advice for crafting promotions that increase occupancy and drive profitability.  We are very thankful to Scot  for sharing his insights with us. You can learn more about The Bold Collaboration at theboldcollaboration.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Taxes might not be the most exciting part of running a property, but smart tax planning can be a game changer.  In this episode, Tyler Otto, Owner and President of Specialized Accounting, provides often overlooked "tactical and practical" tax tips. We also had fun talking about tax planning and uncovering real-world tips you can apply right away. We are very thankful to Tyler for sharing his insights with us. You can learn more about Specialized Accounting at specializedat.com.   Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

For many innkeepers, work-life balance can feel out of reach. Long hours, endless to-do lists, and the pressure of wearing all the hats takes a toll on both business performance and personal wellbeing. That's why simplifying operations isn't just good business – it's essential to building a more fulfilling life. In this episode, Rebecca Gallagher, Founder of hozperity, discusses how she helps independent lodging owners streamline operations, improve profitability, and reclaim their time. We are very thankful to Rebecca for sharing her insights with us. You can learn more about hozperity at hozperity.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

The quiet luxury trend that took off in 2024, where travelers sought more meaningful and authentic experiences, is shifting in 2025. This year, guests are choosing family-owned lodging for the warmth, connection, and comfort it offers. Family-owned, independent properties are in a perfect position to meet this demand by creating stays that feel like home. In this episode, Mandy Murry, founder of Hospitality Concierge, discusses how small stays can deliver these high-touch experiences. She also shares her "Undercover Boss"-style approach to consulting and the other trends she's seeing across the industry. We're grateful to Mandy for sharing her insights with us. You can learn more about Hospitality Concierge at thehospitalityconcierge.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

For independent lodging operators, direct bookings are the ultimate goal. Yet, many struggle with optimizing their online presence to achieve this. Tarun Goyal, Founder & CEO of Simplotel, discusses how their Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions are helping over 3,000 hotels worldwide improve their booking processes and maximize direct reservations.  Now expanding into North America, Simplotel offers independent properties a better way to increase margins, reduce OTA reliance, and enhance the guest booking experience. We are very thankful to Tarun for sharing his insights with us. You can learn more about Simplotel at simplotel.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.  

Many owners dream of selling their properties for maximum value down the line. While operational efficiency is key, one critical aspect is often overlooked -- marketing. Chris Kelly, a seasoned consultant at White Stone Brokers, shares invaluable insights on why regularly auditing and optimizing marketing strategies is essential. Not only can this boost your revenue, but it can also significantly enhance your property's overall market value. We are very thankful to Chris for sharing his insights with us. You can learn more about White Stone Brokers at whitestonebrokers.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

What do the Kentucky Derby, hand-crafted bourbon, southern charm, a vibrant culture of arts, cuisine, and independent lodging all have in common?   Louisville, Kentucky -- the host city of the 2025 ALP Conference & Marketplace taking place March 24–27.  Sarah Gazi, ALP CEO, provides a preview of what to expect at this year's conference, which will host 50 educational sessions and lots of southern-themed networking and fun. We are very thankful to Sarah for sharing her insights with us. You can learn more about the 2025 ALP Conference & Marketplace at alplodging.org/conference-marketplace. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Centralized online marketing tools are increasingly essential for independent lodging professionals, allowing innkeepers to focus more on their daily operations. Data Bing consolidates all marketing efforts and provides robust insights to make better decisions that drive more bookings. Matt Cooke, CEO of Data Bing, shares how this solution can optimize your online marketing.  We are very thankful to Matt for sharing his insights with us. You can learn more about Data Bing at databingsolutions.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Data breaches and cyberattacks are growing challenges for the independent lodging sector, highlighting the need for property owners to safeguard their data.  The right payment processing solutions can help innkeepers save money, streamline operations, and protect sensitive information. Wynn Salisch, Founder of Casablanca Payments, shares insights on payment processing and cyber hygiene. We are very thankful to Wynn for sharing his insights with us. You can learn more about Casablanca Payments at mpiprocessing.com/wynn-salisch-casablanca-payments.   Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.  

As the newly rebranded Midwest Association of Independent Inns (MWInns) continues to expand in the region and provide marketing value for its members, the organization is about to kick off its annual conference. Taking place December 3rd to 5th in Cedar Falls, Iowa, the Midwest Association of Independent Inns Conference & Trade Show will gather industry experts, vendor partners, and other innkeepers to explore issues, challenges, and opportunities to enhance the guest experience. We are very thankful to Kerri Thiel, Executive Director of MWInns; and Randy Bangs, who is the Board VP Marketing Chair of MWInns, for sharing their insights about the conference with us.  You can learn more about the MWInns at mwinns.com. You can also register to attend the conference at mwinns-conference-trade-show.   Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.    

In 2004, when Julie McAferty and her husband Blayne purchased a 1920s-era home in Seattle, WA they did not anticipate the obstacles that they would encounter. From facing cease-and-desist orders to navigating changes in local laws, their perseverance and advocacy for the lodging industry were key to their triumphs. Overcoming these obstacles early on, helped them master a strategic approach to running their business. As urban lodging owners, it soon became apparent that providing guests with personalized recommendations to local attractions was essential for creating memorable guest experiences. Their story serves as an inspiring example of how perseverance, local expertise, and advocacy can drive success in the ever-changing world of hospitality. You can learn more about the Greenlake Guest House at greenlakeguesthouse.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

The challenges of independent lodging professionals can be overwhelming. Sometimes innkeepers need to be reminded to simplify their approach and connect more effectively with guests in order to grow. Jan Smith, owner of Maple Cove Bed & Breakfast and the August House, shares how she has transformed her business by improving the experience of her guests, streamlining operations, and building stronger relationships with local businesses. We are very thankful to Jan for sharing her insights with us. You can learn more about the Maple Cove Bed & Breakfast and the August House at maplecovebandb.com.

In today's uncertain world, the need for lodging insurance has become more critical for property owners.  Though, lodging insurance is not always black and white. There are many often-unknown liabilities to consider. Thankfully, Mitch Pies of the Mitchell J. Pies Insurance Agency, which is part of Leavitt Recreation & Hospitality, can provide the right insurance policy to protect your property and business.  We are very thankful to Mitch for sharing his insights with us.  You can learn more about the Mitchell J. Pies Insurance Agency at lodgeandinninsurance.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Whether you just bought a property or are looking to sell one, innkeepers should always focus on enhancing the value of their properties. Enhancing value is a critical component of any business strategy for independent lodging owners – and it is a continual process, as highlighted by Marilyn Bushnell and Chuck Anderson of Marilyn Bushnell & Associates. We are very thankful to Marilyn and Chuck for sharing their insights with us. You can learn more about Marilyn Bushnell & Associates at inns.forsale. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

ThinkReservations, led by CEO Richard Aday, acquired Acorn Marketing in April 2024, and proceeded to launch its latest major offering, ThinkWeb, soon thereafter. Making a major acquisition and launching a new product around the same time required strong leadership to help ensure its success. Richard discusses the Acorn acquisition, ThinkWeb launch, and the challenges of leading the combined teams toward his vision of the future. We are very thankful to Richard for sharing his insights with us. You can learn more about ThinkReservations at thinkreservations.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

For state independent lodging associations to thrive, there's a need to be nimble and continually provide value to their members. The Wisconsin Bed & Breakfast Association recently rebranded itself as the Midwest Association of Independent Inns (MWInns) to expand its market to 13 Midwest states. MWInns also focuses more on marketing the region and offering property listings for travelers to book their stays. We are very thankful to Kerri Thiel, Executive Director of MWInns; and Randy Bangs, who is the Board VP Marketing Chair of MWInns, for sharing their insights with us.  You can learn more about the Midwest Association of Independent Inns at mwinns.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Providing high-quality bedding and linens is a critical part of elevating the guest experience to ensure a dream-worthy stay. With a storied history in U.S.-based manufacturing since 1889, American Blossom Linens, a brand of bedding made by Thomaston Mills, is a pioneer in providing American-made bedding and linens for independent lodging. We are very thankful to Janet for sharing her insights with us. You can learn more about American Blossom Linens at americanblossomlinens.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Often overlooked, having a professionally designed interior can make your property truly stand out, reflect your brand and maximize the guest experience. Starting out as a designer of home furnishings, James Kuester of Küster Design, transitioned his business to focus on interior design for the independent lodging sector. His firm's focus is on interior branding in a way that enhances how guests interact with all aspects of a property.  We are very thankful to James Kuester for sharing their insights with us. You can learn more about Küster Design at kusterdesign.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.  

When it comes to elevating the guest experience, serving high-quality coffee can really make a difference. When Ann Brownell and Jeff Raybourn purchased the Cozy Cup Coffee Company in 2023, they had a vision of expanding their small batch roasted coffee beyond the walls of their coffee shop and into the innkeeping arena. They now have a customized innkeepers package that allows any property to provide the highest quality coffee. We are very thankful to Ann and Jeff for sharing their insights with us. You can learn more about the Cozy Cup Coffee Company at cozycupcoffee.com.   Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.      

A number of years ago, aerospace engineer Craig Steele's frustration over a malfunctioning hotel shower head led him on a journey to design a better version of a device typically taken for granted. This quest led Craig to bootstrap Samson Shower Systems, which offers high pressure, water-saving shower heads that are made from quality, aerospace-grade materials and expected to outlast most products on the market. His offering can provide great value to lodging properties and his story should resonate with independent lodging professionals who will likely relate to his high level of commitment and persistence. We are very thankful to Craig for sharing his insights with us. You can learn more about Samson Shower Systems at samsonshower.com.   Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

From hosting expanded educational events, enhancing partnerships, advancing regional efforts to increasing membership and launching a new website, it's been a busy first year for Sarah Gazi in her role as the CEO of the Association of Lodging Professionals (ALP). The must-attend 2024 ALP Conference & Marketplace is also around the corner on March 2nd to 6th in Orlando, Florida. In addition to the main conference, this year's event will offer educational opportunities for new property owners, as well as culinary training in an on-site professional kitchen. We are very thankful to Sarah and Erik for sharing their insights with us. You can learn more about ALP at alplodging.org. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has officially made its way into the hospitality industry with TakeUp, a recent start-up that offers a dynamic pricing platform which leverages the power of AI and machine learning to optimize room rates and increase revenue. Patty Sung, Founder and CEO at TakeUp; and Chris McPherson, Founder & CTO at TakeUp, tell us about their offering, explain how they leverage AI to help lodging professionals, and make an excellent case for why their approach is the way of the future.   We are very thankful to Patty and Chris for sharing their insights with us. You can learn more about TakeUp at takeup.ai. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Google Business Profile helps lodging professionals manage their business information across Google products like Search and Maps.  In addition to ensuring that potential guests can find information about their property and eventually book, lodging owners can use their account to review traffic metrics, gather customer insights, as well as view and respond to Google Reviews. Annie Buck, Education and Local Marketing Manager at Acorn Marketing, breaks down everything lodging businesses need to know about leveraging Google Business Profile to maximize their bookings. We are very thankful to Annie for sharing her insights with us. You can learn more about Acorn Marketing at acorn-is.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Independent lodging properties are ideal destinations for weddings and those that offer wedding services, regardless of size and complexity, can attest that they are an excellent source of revenue.  There is a range of options for a property to consider when deciding to offer on-site wedding services. Lela Pohlmann is a Wedding Coordinator for Hermann Hill Weddings, which offers a full range of wedding services at Hermann Hill, a luxury boutique hotel in Hermann, Missouri.  Hermann Hill hosted more than 130 weddings in 2022, and Lela's experience provides great insights on how lodging professionals might start or expand wedding offerings at their property. We are thankful to Lela for sharing her insights with us. You can learn more about Hermann Hill Weddings at hermannmoweddings.com.   Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

State and regional independent lodging associations play a vital role in promoting properties in their areas, as well as ensuring quality lodging standards and providing educational opportunities for members.  As former innkeepers who had successes in owning two properties, Donna and Byron Cain became Co-Executive Directors at the Michigan Bed and Breakfast Association (MBBA) about two years ago. They discuss the role of the MBBA, the importance of communicating with members, and the MBBA Annual Conference 2023 being held in Grand Rapids at the end of this month, from October 30-31. We are very thankful to Donna and Byron for sharing their insights with us. You can learn more about the MBBA at laketolake.com.   Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, lodging professionals often needed to find creative ways to incent guests to stay at their properties. Some owners and managers did so by developing new on-property experiences for their guests which they had never offered in the past.  Doug Bagnasco and Jim DeBlasi, the co-owners of the Devonfield Inn, were among that group of astute lodging professionals who focused their energies on developing a wide-range of on-site guest experiences, by leveraging the strengths of what their property has to offer and partnering with local businesses to bring unique services and activities to their Inn. Most of these offerings became so popular that they live on today as essential ways of providing unique guest experiences. We are very thankful to Doug and Jim for sharing their insights with us. You can learn more about the Devonfield Inn at devonfield.com.   Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Marty and Carmel Etzel bought the Flag House Inn in Annapolis, Maryland, in 2017, with no prior experience or even informal knowledge of running a lodging business. In less than five years, they were able to more than double their bookings and sell the property for twice the amount they paid for it. Marty discusses their journey, how they were able to accomplish this feat, and how he now parlays his experiences to help other lodging professionals as a consultant for Acorn Marketing. We are very thankful to Marty for sharing his insights. You can learn more about Acorn Marketing at acorn-is.com.   Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Nothing quite entices guests to book better than high-end, professional photos of your property. Rather than relying on your mobile device for taking amateur photos, there can be a significant return to your investment if you hire a professional.  Tom Krueger is a professional commercial photographer who is focused on the independent lodging niche, and has deep expertise in making any property shine online.  We are very thankful to Tom for sharing his insights with us. You can learn more about Tom's professional photographer services at tomkrueger.net.   Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

The Association of Lodging Professionals (ALP) has undergone some significant changes recently, including bringing on Sarah Gazi as its new CEO, taking over for the former Interim CEO, E. Scot Fuller-Beatty. Sarah has been in association management for more than 20 years and she envisions shaping a new direction for ALP through listening to its members and partners.  The organization has already been expanding its membership, with a stronger focus around community and collaboration. We spoke with Sarah, Scot, and Conference & Events Planner Erik Spence about the future of ALP, as well as the upcoming, can't-miss 2023 ALP Conference & Marketplace in Phoenix, Arizona, February 25th to March 1st. We are very thankful to Sarah, Scot and Erik for sharing their insights with us. You can learn more about ALP at alplodging.org. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Unbeknownst to many independent lodging professionals, Google Travel is playing a significant role in impacting booking by diverting potential guests from the Google Search into its online travel marketplace. Lisa Kolb, Owner and Co-Founder of Acorn Marketing, discusses everything property owners need to be aware of about Google Travel for maximizing their bookings. Acorn Marketing offers a comprehensive strategy for helping property owners to re-think traditional SEO and create new revenue opportunities with Google Travel. We are very thankful to Lisa for sharing her insights with us. You can learn more about Acorn Marketing at acorn-is.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Often the most significant business challenges can lead to true transformation. This was the case for Rita Sleys, owner and operator of the Rosemont Inn Bed & Breakfast, who found her business at a crossroads.  In 2019, she sought out help from Randy Bangs, owner of Get Heads in Beds, which led to a renovation of her property, an update to the property's website -- and a complete re-focus on her approach to business. As a result, the property is thriving and has more than doubled its revenue. We are very thankful to Rita for sharing her insights with us. You can learn more about the Rosemont Inn Bed & Breakfast at rosemontinnbb.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Working with a travel influencer may seem like something only larger hotel brands can afford. In reality, independent lodging properties can also leverage travel influencers to increase visibility for their area and bookings for their property. Valerie Stimac, a travel blogger and founder of Valerie & Valise, works with a variety of clients and offers an incredibly insightful perspective on how lodging professionals might best engage with travel influencers to benefit their property. We are very thankful to Valerie for sharing her insights with us. You can learn more about Valerie & Valise at velisemag.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Enhancing direct and online bookings is paramount for any hospitality provider. Success often comes down to taking advantage of modern, digital marketing strategies.  For nearly 14 years, Q4Launch has helped property owners leverage multiple channels for driving additional revenue. Service offerings include marketing strategy development, web design, content development, search engine optimization (SEO), social media, paid ads, email marketing, lead generation, and revenue management. We are very thankful to Ben Ollic and Kyle Collins for sharing their insights with us. You can learn more about Q4Launch at q4launch.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, the digital concierge that helps your guests live like locals. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

It is estimated that there are more than 10 million vegans in the United States. For Michele Salisbury, Owner & Chef of Salisbury House at Bethany Beach, this presents an opportunity for differentiation – as her property offers three-course gourmet vegan breakfasts for guests. Michele discusses her new vegan-only bed and breakfast, and how other lodging professionals can better accommodate their guests who are vegan. We are very thankful to Michele for sharing her insights with us. You can learn more about the Salisbury House at Bethany Beach at bethanybeachbb.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, a mobile app that lodging professionals provide to their guests so they can recommend unique local places to eat, play and shop during their stay, allow guests to order their offerings, and communicate with guests through text messaging. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

In a very unusual twist in the Frictionless Innkeeper podcast series, this special episode flips things around where the spotlight is being shown on Steve Short, Founder and CEO of the Frictionless Guest App. Samantha Irwin, owner of Kaizen Business Coaching and Consulting, interviews Steve about the Frictionless Guest App origin story, Steve's love for B&Bs and why the guest experience is always paramount.   We are very thankful to Samantha for hosting this podcast. You can learn more about Kaizen Business Coaching and Consulting at kaizen.zone, and the Frictionless Guest App at frictionlessguest.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, a mobile app that lodging professionals provide to their guests so they can recommend unique local places to eat, play and shop during their stay, allow guests to order their offerings, and communicate with guests through text messaging. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

In the lodging arena, an often overlooked and important aspect to enhancing a property's overall aesthetic is outdoor lighting.  Mike Glaeser, Field Support Consultant at Outdoor Lighting Perspectives, works with many properties to develop customized outdoor lighting solutions that can transform any location. Outdoor Lighting Perspectives is the number one low-voltage outdoor lighting provider in the United States.  We are very thankful to Mike for sharing his insights with us.  You can learn more about Outdoor Lighting Perspectives at outdoorlights.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, a mobile app that lodging professionals provide to their guests so they can recommend unique local places to eat, play and shop during their stay, allow guests to order their offerings, and communicate with guests through text messaging. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

The B&B Team provides real estate brokerage and consulting services in the lodging arena, and has its finger on the pulse of where the industry is headed. Eben Viens, the Owner of The B&B Team, works with a wide range of property owners and prospective innkeepers, and sees many younger buyers entering the market. Taking a page from boutique hotels, these property owners are challenging the status quo by selling experiences and creating memories – all great ideas to implement at any property. We are very thankful to Eben for sharing his insights with us. You can learn more about The B&B Team at bbteam.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, a mobile app that lodging professionals provide to their guests so they can recommend unique local places to eat, play and shop during their stay, allow guests to order their offerings, and communicate with guests through text messaging. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

Supporting the entire guest journey, rezStream offers a wide-range of critical operational and marketing tools for lodging providers – from reservation software to booking engines, websites, and digital marketing. The company partners with its lodging customers to develop customized plans, as well as offers à la carte solutions. rezStream's property management software and marketing services position properties for long-term growth both in revenue and how they operate their business. We are very thankful to Christian Holmsen and Jeff Hebrink for sharing their insights with us. You can learn more about rezStream at rezstream.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, a mobile app that lodging professionals provide to their guests so they can recommend unique local places to eat, play and shop during their stay, allow guests to order their offerings, and communicate with guests through text messaging. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

In 2006, Samantha Irwin bought the Historic Balch Hotel in the small town of Dufur, Oregon, an 18-room property devoid of furniture which had not been open consistently since the 1940's.  Over the next ten years, the former middle school teacher built a stellar reputation for the boutique property by training her staff to provide their guests with a phenomenal service experience. Now, as the owner of Kaizen Business Coaching and Consulting, Samantha leverages her unique educational and entrepreneurial background to help small business owners train their staff to enhance the service experiences of their customers.  Her high-energy, passionate approach and insightful suggestions for lodging professionals looking to improve their guest service offering makes this interview worth the listen! We are very thankful to Samantha for sharing her insights with us. You can learn more about Kaizen Business Coaching and Consulting at kaizen.zone. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, a mobile app that lodging professionals provide to their guests so they can recommend unique local places to eat, play and shop during their stay, allow guests to order their offerings, and communicate with guests through text messaging. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.

For Frictionless Innkeeper Podcast #43, Nathan Mayfield, Vice President of ResNexus, speaks about his company's extensive offerings for the lodging sector, how ResNexus helped property owners during the COVID-19 pandemic, and much more. ResNexus offers a comprehensive suite of solutions, which include a reservation/booking engine, property management system (PMS), website creation/hosting, digital marketing, payment processing, and a whole lot more. During the initial stages of the COVID pandemic, the company went all-out to help its customers to update their cancellation policies and has since developed its Worry-Free Bookings™ voucher program in response to guest and property needs. ResNexus is a customer-driven organization that provides a myriad of services to lodging professionals to help them ensure long-term success.  We are very thankful to Nathan for sharing his insights with us. You can learn more about ResNexus at resnexus.com. Our podcast is presented by the Frictionless Guest App, a mobile app that lodging professionals provide to their guests so they can recommend unique local places to eat, play and shop during their stay, allow guests to order their offerings, and communicate with guests through text messaging. To learn more, visit frictionlessguest.com.