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#054: The Future of ALP with Sarah Gazi, New CEO; E. Scot Fuller-Beatty, Former Interim CEO; and Erik Spence, Conference & Events Planner

#054: The Future of ALP with Sarah Gazi, New CEO; E. Scot Fuller-Beatty, Former Interim CEO; and Erik Spence, Conference & Events Planner

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.

#053: The Unforeseen Impact of Google Travel on Bookings with Lisa Kolb, Owner and Co-Founder of Acorn Marketing

#053: The Unforeseen Impact of Google Travel on Bookings with Lisa Kolb, Owner and Co-Founder of Acorn Marketing

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.

#052: Redesigning Your Property and Rejuvenating Your Lodging Career with Rita Sleys, Owner of the Rosemont Inn Bed & Breakfast

#052: Redesigning Your Property and Rejuvenating Your Lodging Career with Rita Sleys, Owner of the Rosemont Inn Bed & Breakfast

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.

Michigan Here We Come! MBBA Innkeeping Conference November 1-2 in Grand Rapids, MI

Michigan Here We Come! MBBA Innkeeping Conference November 1-2 in Grand Rapids, MI

The  Michigan Bed and Breakfast Association (MBBA) 34th Annual Innkeeping Conference is happening from Tuesday, November 1 through Wednesday, November 2, in Grand Rapids, Michigan and the Frictionless Guest App is looking forward to being there!

Speakers include innkeeping expert Carol Edmondson, who will be talking with new and aspiring innkeepers, and travel blogger Valerie Stimac (our latest podcast interview!), who will share tips to attract and connect with guests of all generations and provide them with the local experiences they crave.

To view the schedule and register to attend the conference go to the MBBA conference page. We hope to see you there!

#051: How Travel Influencers can Increase Bookings for your Property with Travel Blogger Valerie Stimac

#051: How Travel Influencers can Increase Bookings for your Property with Travel Blogger Valerie Stimac

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.