984: Recruitment, Respect, and the Realities of Hospitality Culinary Hiring

The hospitality construction pipeline is full of mixed signals. For #NoVacancyNews, I spoke with Bruce Ford of Lodging Econometrics to cut through the noise for clarity on hotel development drivers. We discussed the rise of conversion brands, slowdown in new construction starts, and why markets like Dallas and Phoenix are still growth giants. Bruce also shares why franchise companies are clamping down on PIPs — and what that means for owners. #hoteldevelopment #hospitalitystrategy 📊 Key takeaways: • The U.S. hotel pipeline is expanding — but mostly through conversions • Franchise companies are enforcing PIPs hard after years of COVID relief • Extended stay still dominates new construction, with 38% of pipeline rooms • Markets like Dallas, Phoenix, and Nashville are leading growth • New brands are targeting younger travelers and lifestyle niches • Renovation, recapitalization, and brand switching are driving investment 💡 Special thanks to my friends at Actabl — the workforce and operations platform that turns data into action. Visit Actabl.com to learn how smarter tech can drive better decisions.

The hospitality labor crisis isn’t new — but it’s evolving. For #NoVacancyNews, Glenn and Anthony Melchiorri spoke with Todd Davis of Chef Agency about what it really takes to recruit and retain culinary talent in today’s casino and resort environments. We dig into the post-COVID talent shift, the rise of remote market opportunities, and why empathy, speed, and reputation matter more than ever. If you’re still relying on post-and-pray hiring, you’re already behind.  🎧 Key takeaways: • Culinary management turnover is still hovering around 30–35% • Remote casino markets are thriving — but require targeted recruiting • Candidates want growth, respect, and real work-life balance • Speed and clarity in hiring are non-negotiable — bureaucracy kills deals • AI helps recruiters connect faster, but human nuance still drives success • Military-trained chefs and private chefs offer untapped potential • Portfolios, Instagram, and direct outreach help chefs get noticed 💡 Special thanks to my friends at Actabl — the workforce and operations platform that turns data into action. Visit Actabl.com to learn how smarter tech can drive better decisions.

On the floor at The Hospitality Show, Glenn connects with Nick Horgan of Amaze Insights for a conversation equal parts inspiration and laughter. From lessons in leadership and the power of data to the importance of working with purpose, Nick shares how to make the most of every opportunity—even when the waters get choppy.   Presented by Actabl, the platform that gives hoteliers the power to profit. Learn more at Actabl.com .

Longtime friend and shadowy industry figure Chris Daly briefly emerges from his cicada like cocoon to bestow us with some laughs and wisdom during our happy hour salute to the weekend. Plus, Bruce Ford makes a suprise appearance while Producer Dave shares some legit news.

Just unveiled at #TheLodgingConference, Hilton's Outset Collection is redefining what it means to be an independent hotel — giving "indie gems" a global stage to shine while staying true to their identity. In this interview, Glenn Haussman chat with Kevin Osterhaus of #Hilton to talk about how Outset empowers hotels that have soul — properties that fit their place, not a mold.  Kevin shares how Hilton is bridging the gap between individuality and brand strength, with properties launching in Los Angeles, Moab, Chicago, and Upstate New York — and more than 60 active conversations in the works.   🎙️ Presented by #Actabl— giving you the power to profit through smarter insights and operational excellence.    👉 Learn more at Actabl.com #hotelindustry #hospitalitynews #boutiquehotels #OutsetCollection #HiltonHotels

Starting a new business is never easy — but after 39 years in the#hotelindustry, Greg A. Presley decided it was time to bet on himself. I caught up with Greg on the show floor during The Lodging Conference for #NoVacancyNews, where we talked about his leap of faith to launch Presley Hospitality, the power of relationships, and why getting "back to the basics" in #hotelmanagement might be exactly what the industry needs right now. Greg's focus on smaller#hotelowners, personalized service, and good old-fashioned integrity is a refreshing reminder of what hospitality is all about. A big thank-you to my friends at Entegra — helping hotels stay profitable through smarter purchasing with the power of a GPO. Learn more at Entegra.com

I had the chance to interview keynote luncheon speaker Mitch Patel, President & CEO of Vision Hospitality Group, on stage during the Southern Lodging Summit this past August. Here's that keynote session for you.  We covered a lot of ground — from the early days when Mitch cashed out his 401(k) to build his first hotel, to how he's navigating today's market with a laser focus on #operationalexcellence, smart development, and a culture built to last. Mitch talked about how passion drives everything he does, why hospitality is "the most beautiful business," and what it takes to build a company that thrives through every market cycle. His insights on #leadership and staying resilient through uncertainty are ones every hotel owner and operator should hear. Big thanks to my friends at Actabl for supporting conversations like this and for helping hoteliers turn insight into action. Learn more about how they're empowering teams with better data and tools at actabl.com.

Zack Gharib is running up success after success as President of Red Roof. We think that streak is about to end as he joins Glenn, Craig, Producer Dave and Doctor Producer Suzanne for some drinks and laughs to kick off the weekend.

Extended stay is dominating the hospitality pipeline, but not all brands are the same. For #NoVacancyNews, I spoke with Jennifer Kearney, CMO of StayAPT Suites, about how they're redefining the category with a true apartment-style experience. During The Lodging Conference we discussed the psychology of space, the importance of privacy and independence, and why StayAPT's purpose-built design is attracting both long-term and transient guests. This isn't just about sleep — it's about living your life on the road. #extendedstay #hospitalitydesign 🎧 Key takeaways: • StayAPT offers full suites with separate living, kitchen, and bedroom spaces • Guests enjoy full-size appliances, furnished kitchens, and real privacy • The brand blends apartment comfort with hotel flexibility • A secure interior courtyard adds lifestyle value to the property • Transient guests are increasingly drawn to the space and amenities • StayAPT rents by the night, week, or month — built for how people actually live 💡 Special thanks to my friends at Unifocus — technology that drives value. Visit Unifocus.com to see how smarter labor and operations tools can transform your bottom line.

Doing more with less — that's the reality for every #hotel operator today. I spoke with Cam Schultz, CEO of Foodbuy, about how smarter #procurement strategies and better technology are helping hoteliers protect margins, manage supply chains, and keep kitchens running smoothly — even when staffing is tight. Cam shared how #Foodbuy is giving operators a clearer look at costs, helping teams cut waste and focus on what really matters: creating great guest experiences. If you're trying to control expenses without cutting quality, this is a must-watch.