by Steve Short | Oct 10, 2025 | Frictionless Innkeeper Podcasts
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.
by Steve Short | Sep 11, 2025 | Frictionless Innkeeper Podcasts
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.
by Steve Short | Aug 8, 2025 | Frictionless Innkeeper Podcasts
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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.
by Steve Short | May 17, 2024 | Frictionless Innkeeper Podcasts
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.
by Steve Short | Apr 11, 2024 | Frictionless Innkeeper Podcasts
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.