APR 27

Creating a Dynamic Career Path in Hospitality Management

In this episode, Andrra Berisha describes how she has dynamically created an envious hospitality management path for herself after her hospitality studies in Switzerland. As the Business Development Manager at Lighthouse, the leading commercial platform for the travel & hospitality industry, Andrra uses her hospitality acumen to drive revenue growth and foster long-term client partnerships. We ask Andrra to describe her hospitality education and how it has helped her to succeed in the hospitality sector and she gives our listeners some insights on how to creatively and dynamically approach a successful management career. Working in the luxury hotel sector gave Andrra the skills she needed to engage with demanding clients and to understand the importance of having a service-based approach to business. In addition, Andrra understood early in her career the importance of technology and how to use it optimally. She also explains how she moved from a traditional hospitality role into a more technology-based position and the challenges she faced during this time. Finally, Andrra gives us her opinion of AI and how this new technology can improve the customer experience while underpinning her solid conviction that the human touch will always be appreciated and needed. With a proven track record in academia and business development, Andrra is a dynamic force in the field. As the Business Development Manager at Lighthouse, Andrra drives growth by forging strategic partnerships and securing enterprise-level contracts. Based in Pristina, Kosovo, Andrra excels in remote environments, leveraging strong relationships with C-level executives to expand market reach and drive sales. Previously, Andrra served as a Business & Sales Consultant for Everguest, where they pioneered entry market strategies and elevated client portfolios through innovative approaches to online reputation management. Prior to this, Andrra demonstrated exceptional leadership as the Front Office & Revenue Manager at Four Points by Sheraton, optimizing guest experiences and increasing satisfaction scores through Design Thinking methodologies. With a background spanning pre-opening project management, client experience design, and sales, Andrra brings a wealth of expertise to every endeavor. From internships at neuvoo to roles at renowned hospitality establishments like Perry Lane Hotel and Penha Longa Resort, Andrra has consistently delivered outstanding results, earning accolades for her dedication and innovation.

34 min

APR 13

Discovering One of Turkey’s Lifestyle Destinations – Scorpios Bodrum

As a young hotelier, Can Erikan explains how his global career and Swiss hospitality education has led him back to his native country of Turkey where he is currently the General Manager of Scorpios Bodrum, part of the Soho House Group. Bodrum was once known as the ancient city of Halicarnassus and it is home to one of the seven ancient wonders of the world. Scorpios Bodrum is set on a 70,000 square metres and Can explains to our listeners why their aim is to recreate a Greek agora – a place where thought is cultivated and the soul nourished by sublime surroundings, fresh food and inspired cultural programming. It is no wonder that Scorpios Bodrum is a high-end destination for travelers looking for authenticity and a world-class hospitality experience. In this podcast, we ask Can about his global experience and his mind-set. He explains the importance of self-discipline and how his first experiences in the hospitality world, in particular in Food and Beverage, helped shape his approach to hospitality. Can shares his views on how the industry has changed over the past ten years and the importance of creating unforgettable memories for guests. Finally, we encourage Can to explain why wellness has become so important for guests and how these initiatives are balanced between ancient healing techniques and modern medical technology. As a highly skilled and results-driven hospitality professional, Can offers extensive experience in managing food and beverage operations within luxury hotels and resorts. With a proven track record of delivering exceptional guest experiences and driving profitability, He is well-versed in overseeing all aspects of hotel operations, from leadership development and strategizing to staffing and financial analysis. Can’s global living and working exposure, spanning the USA, France, Switzerland, China, Kazakhstan and Turkey, has equipped him with a keen understanding of diverse cultures and business practices. Throughout his career, Can has delivered outstanding services to renowned luxury hotel brands, including EDITION, Ritz-Carlton Hotels, and The Peninsula Hotels. As a strategic and collaborative leader, Can excels at building high-performing teams and fostering a positive work culture. His ability to navigate complex challenges, adapt to evolving industry trends, and implement innovative solutions has consistently driven business growth and success. He is passionate about delivering exceptional guest experiences, driving revenue and operational excellence in the hospitality industry.

35 min

MAR 30

Myth or Reality? The Allure of Becoming a Hotel General Manager

In this podcast, Philippe Clarinval, the current General Manager of Le Prince de Galles Hotel in Paris, France, discusses the role of the Hotel GM and what makes this role appealing and challenging. He also shares his passion for life-long learning and why continuing educational pursuits are important in our ever-changing world. Philippe’s role as General Manager of the Carlton Hotel in St.-Moritz Switzerland and the Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois in Basel allowed him realise the importance of transformational leadership. In this episode, Philippe delves into what transformational leadership looks like and how the hospitality sector must encourage and support service excellence by inspiring and cultivating their employee experiences. We also ask Philippe to share his rich educational and career path and to comment on the current lack of qualified hospitality staff. Philippe explains why hospitality education must continue to adapt if they want to inspire and prepare a new generation of hospitality employees. Finally, Philippe shares his thoughts on what makes a great GM and encourages young hoteliers to continue learning and pursue their dreams. Philippe Clarinval started his career in the United States and Asia with Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts. He is a luminary in the international luxury hospitality industry. He is renowned for his roles as the Managing Director of The Omnia Mountain Lodge, General Manager of the Carlton Hotel St. Moritz, and, most recently, the Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois in Basel. His transformational leadership is characterised by a steadfast commitment to service excellence, uncompromising engagement, inspiration, and the cultivation of a refined employee experience, making his hotels bastions of luxury. A solid academic foundation, with degrees from Ivy League Universities and Management Schools such as the Glion Institute of Higher Education, underpins Clarinval's journey in hospitality. His commitment to excellence has garnered industry accolades and recognition, affirming his status as a thought leader in hospitality. Beyond his professional endeavours, he contributes to the academic sphere, offering insights into leadership, service quality, and management. As such, he is the Vice Chairman of the Hoteliers Guild Academy of Hospitality Arts, a member and author of the Forbes Business Council and a former Board Member of Swiss Deluxe Hotels. His influence extends across other industries, inspiring professionals on executive boards and students alike.

40 min

MAR 16

Managing the Luxury Emeralda Golf Club in Indonesia

For this podcast, we invited and interviewed Yenny Tanudjaja, the General Manager of Emeralda Golf Club in Indonesia. This famous 27-hole golf club near Jakarta is a signature design of two Golf Legends : Arnold Palmer and Jack Niklaus and has played host to several Indonesian Opens, the Johnnie Walker Super Tour, the Dunhill Asian Masters and the Volvo Masters Asia. Emeralda Golf Club has deservedly been recognized as Best Luxury Golf Course in Indonesia by Luxury Lifestyle Awards, marking the club’s third consecutive LLA win. We ask Yenny about her childhood in Indonesia and she explains how and why she ended up studying hospitality management in Switzerland, first in Lucerne and then in Glion. We ask Yenny about the years she spent living and studying in Switzerland and the special memories that she continues to cherish today. After finishing her Bachelor’s degree, Yenny moved back to Indonesia and worked in several Indonesian establishments such as the American Club in Jakarta along with other hotels and golf clubs. In 2017, Yenny was named General Manager at Emeralda Golf Club and she continues to oversee the success of this famous golf destination. Finally, we ask Yenny about the day to day business of running a prestigious golf club and the skills needed to make sure that the clients have a memorable experience. Yenny Tanudjaja is a seasoned hospitality and golf management professional with extensive experience leading one of Indonesia’s premier golf destinations, Emeralda Golf Club. As General Manager, she oversees all aspects of club operations — from strategic planning and member relations to financial performance and guest experience — ensuring that Emeralda maintains its reputation for excellence in service, sustainability, and course quality. Under her leadership, the club has implemented modern operational systems, elevated service standards, and strengthened partnerships with corporate clients, tourism organizations, and golf associations. Yenny is recognized for her ability to balance operational efficiency with a personalized member experience, fostering a culture of teamwork and continuous improvement among her staff. With a strong background in hospitality management, Yenny brings a strategic and customer-focused approach to every initiative. Her leadership continues to enhance Emeralda Golf Club’s position as a leading golf and lifestyle destination in the region.

33 min

MAR 2

Being the first Ambassador of Hospitality in France (MOF)

Claire Dupleix is a Hospitality and Hotel Reception Ambassador in France and a MOF (Mellieur Ouvrier de France / Best Craftsman of France). She was the first to receive this prestigious honour for Hotel Receptionist in 2015. In this podcast, Claire describes her passion and enthusiasm for the hospitality industry and elaborates on her educational and career paths. In this podcast, we learn more about what it takes to be a MOF and how this competition is run. The title of Meilleur Ouvrier de France is a unique and prestigious award in France, according to different categories of trades in a contest among professionals. This competition is organized and recognized as a third-level degree by the French Ministry of Labour. The President of the French Republic is granted honorary membership with the title MOF honoris causa. The awarding of medals occurs at the Sorbonne, in Paris, during a large reunion followed by a ceremony at the Élysée in the presence of the President of the French Republic. Claire goes on to explain that this award for special abilities is unique in the world. Created in 1924, this competition celebrated its 100-year anniversary this year in Lyon. Claire describes this historical event and why this competition continues to inspire young people. Today, by the diversity of specialities, the list of which is regularly updated, the MOF award has also been awarded to more modern trades and high technology fields. Claire also describes the different competitions she has participated in including AICR and how she has gone from being a competitor to a judge and teacher. She explains her involvement in the AICR competitions and why she believes these events are relevant and important to promote Front Desk and Receptionist careers. Finally, Claire talks to our listeners about balancing her career and personal life and she shares some insights into what it takes to have a successful career in hospitality.

37 min

FEB 16

Twistic Digital - Revolutionising the Hospitality Industry

In this podcast, Salvador Elena Bosca, the Director of Twistic Digital (twisticdigital.com), gives our audience reasons why the hospitality and tourism industries should be using technology solutions as a way of taking their customers’ experiences to the next level. From using Information Totems, to Digital Signage and reducing buffet waste, Twistic Digital offers elevated and revitalized digital solutions as a way of improving and sustaining current hospitality endeavors. As a former hospitality Executive, Salvador Elena Bosca describes his global career path and how his experience led him to join Twistic Digital. Currently based in the Canary Islands, Salvador answers our questions about Spanish hospitality and why Spain has become one of Europe’s favourite holiday destinations. 50 Shades of Hospitality’s commitment to highlighting sustainability led us to Salvador’s company Twistic Digital because of their solutions for reducing food waste. We ask Salvador to explain how his company’s digital solutions can reduce food waste and save money for restaurants and hotels. Finally, we ask Salvador to explain the role of AI in improving the way hospitality businesses move forward and why hospitality executives need to anticipate the evolving role of digital solutions. Salvador Elena Bosca has over 30 years of executive experience in the hospitality field and has worked in Bali, Indonesia and in his native country of Spain. In 2024, Salvador joined the company Twistic Digital which offers digital solutions to the hospitality businesses including digital signage, customized software and solutions for food waste. Twistic Digital merges technology and sustainability, offering digital solutions that drive business and respect the environment.

35 min

FEB 2

Next Generation Hotel Equipment by Brandon Burnett, Hospitality Futurist

In this podcast, entrepreneur Brandon Burnett describes how his next generation of hotel equipment is poised to improve and transform the hotel industry. He also describes his career path from completing a hospitality management degree in Switzerland to working for some of the major hotel chains in different capacities. Brandon shares his views and opinions about the hospitality industry, tech trends and staffing challenges. Brandon in the founder of Abellcart LLC, a hospitality tech startup. Abellcart’s first product in the self-driving luggage cart that is trying to profoundly impact productivity in lodging properties worldwide. These self-driving luggage carts can be used by staff and guests and they operate safely and reliably, reducing the risk of workplace accidents and creating a safer environment for hotel staff. By creating affordable connected tools to reduce the physical labor necessary to work in the industry, Abellcart allows hotels to control labor costs, optimize scheduling and gives hotel staff the ability to focus on more important guest centric tasks. ABELLCART is customizable to the operation it serves. It is designed to withstand frequent usage and heavy payloads, providing a faster alternative to the older model bell cart. Staff can regularly spend up to 8 hours a day handling loaded carts. The design is centered on their needs, enhancing safety and drivability to create a tool that prioritizes physical well-being. Brandon Burnett is a hospitality veteran and has held various leadership roles within Marriott and Starwood across Hawaii, Florida, and New Orleans, gaining valuable insights into the operational needs of the industry. Abellcart specializes in autonomous cargo delivery and is fundraising to bring its innovative autonomous luggage carts to hotels across the United States, aiming to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve guest experiences in the hospitality industry.

35 min

JAN 19

Souji – The Circular Revolution for Hospitality

Souji (www.souji.es) is a Spanish company that has developed a unique and patented technology capable of transforming used cooking oil into effective and environmentally sustainable cleaning products in just a few minutes. In this podcast, we speak to Sergio Fernandez, the CEO of SOUJI. Souji offers a flexible solution that combines sustainability, practical circular economy practices, and operational efficiency. The products are effective, environmentally friendly, and allow businesses to reduce cleaning supply costs, lower their carbon footprint, and ensure full and transparent waste traceability. SOUJI’s on-site solution is designed for establishments that prioritize sustainability, as well as those located in remote areas or facing logistical challenges where home collection is costly or unfeasible. This includes islands, mountainous regions, or cruise ships. It enables the safe and immediate production of cleaning products for internal use, including multi-surface cleaner, dishwashing liquid, laundry detergent, and carpet cleaner. The industrial model is designed for clients who prefer not to change their current operations. The used oil is collected as usual, processed at scale, and returned with finished cleaning products that are ready to use. Sergio explains to our listeners that SOUJI also offers a hybrid model, ideal for companies that generate more oil than they consume. A portion is transformed on site, while the surplus is collected for industrial processing. There are three key reasons why SOUJI is especially useful for hotels and restaurants: · Cost efficiency: The resulting detergent is competitively priced compared to other high-quality professional cleaning products · True and local circular economy: No need to transport or process used oil off-site, reducing emissions, costs, and administrative burden · Brand enhancement: A visible and concrete sustainable action that can be proudly communicated SOUJI (www.souji.es) also provides valuable operational advantages. The system is fully automated, easy to use, fast, safe, and hassle-free for staff. SOUJI is particularly beneficial in environments with greater logistical challenges, such as cruise ships, where waste management is more complex and operational autonomy is crucial, as well as in rural areas, remote regions, and islands.

25 min

50 Shades of Hospitality

Episodes

Creating a Dynamic Career Path in Hospitality Management

Discovering One of Turkey’s Lifestyle Destinations – Scorpios Bodrum

Myth or Reality? The Allure of Becoming a Hotel General Manager

Managing the Luxury Emeralda Golf Club in Indonesia

Being the first Ambassador of Hospitality in France (MOF)

Twistic Digital - Revolutionising the Hospitality Industry

Next Generation Hotel Equipment by Brandon Burnett, Hospitality Futurist

Souji – The Circular Revolution for Hospitality

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