Level up with Hakim

AbdalHakim Omar
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Level Up with Hakim is where business, mindset, and growth collide. Inspiring conversations with leaders and entrepreneurs sharing strategies, stories, and insights to help you win, grow, and level up in work and life.

  1. 6d ago

    Can VR Fix Hospitality’s Retention Crisis? with Alison Barker Founder of Immersive XP #40

    Hospitality training is broken, and VR may be the fixThis episode explores why traditional hospitality training often fails under real pressure and what needs to change. Hakim speaks with Alison Magee-Barker F.I.H, founder and CEO of AG Lakes Consultancy and Immersive XP, about building scenario-based VR training that helps teams practice guest complaints, service recovery, leadership moments, and decision-making before those moments happen on the floor.Alison also explains how Immersive XP uses short modules, analytics, eye-contact assessment, and replay feedback to improve confidence, consistency, and retention in hospitality teams. Timestamps(00:00) Hospitality does not have a motivation problem (01:44) Why current training feels irrelevant and repetitive (04:00) Promoting great staff without teaching leadership (06:08) How AG Lakes Training Academy began during the pandemic (08:10) A Roblox moment that sparked Immersive XP (10:48) The real signs that a training system is failing (13:22) What a VR hospitality scenario feels like in practice (15:03) Eye-contact scoring and guest connection (16:16) Short scenarios, game over, and instant retries (17:09) Management portal, analytics, and leaderboard features (18:54) Core modules in the MVP and founder partner opportunities (23:10) Why service recovery creates guest ambassadors (25:51) Training, retention, and the cost of poor culture (30:10) How technology can make hospitality more human (40:45) Measuring ROI from training and reduced turnover (42:59) How onboarding and licensing work with hotels (45:54) The next five years of hospitality and immersive learning (47:57) What Alison would remove from current training structures (52:18) What “level up” means to Alison (54:43) VR retention rates compared with other training formats (55:36) Free trial and closing thoughts

    Can VR Fix Hospitality’s Retention Crisis? with Alison Barker Founder of Immersive XP #40

  2. Aug 6

    Why Great Sales People Can't Be Managed with Iggy Fisher VP Club Quarters Hotels #39

    Unlock the Secrets of Building Long-Lasting Client Relationships and Sales Mastery with Iggy FisherWhat does it truly take to develop resilience, trust, and long-term success in sales and hospitality? Iggy Fisher, Vice President of Club Quarters Hotels, shares his transformative journey from a Bosnian refugee to a hospitality sales leader. Discover how genuine connections, a people-centric culture, and intuitive listening elevate sales beyond mere transactions plus, how AI is shaping the future of customer engagement without replacing the human touch. In this episode, Iggy reveals the pivotal moments that shifted his career from early front desk roles to leading global sales highlighting why talent, authenticity, and a future-focused mindset are non-negotiable. You'll learn his unique approach to sales excellence, emphasizing talent over process, and how asking questions and active listening unlock customer needs often hidden beneath the surface. He emphasizes that great salespeople don’t just manage relationships they build trust that lasts decades Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and episode overview 00:25 - Iggy's early career and transition into sales 01:37 - The influence of mentorship and relationship-building in hospitality 02:24 - How hospitality culture and innovation define Club Quarters' success 03:46 - The significance of asking questions and understanding client needs 04:39 - The distinction between good and great salespeople: future mindset and relationship focus 06:20 - Shifting from front office to sales for stability and growth 07:44 - Leadership insights: Building a strong sales culture and coaching 09:02 - Explaining Club Quarters’ brand and membership model 11:49 - Post-COVID evolution of corporate travel and booking technology 13:11 - The human connection as a core element of customer loyalty 15:40 - What sales excellence looks like: talent, support, and culture 18:48 - The role of leadership in enabling sales success 20:19 - The influence of AI: automating mundane tasks versus maintaining emotional connection 31:29 - How AI is transforming travel booking and data management 38:18 - Industry changes post-pandemic and the future of business travel 44:30 - Navigating industry challenges and innovations with technology 46:53 - Building motivated, accountable, and confident sales teams 50:36 - The importance of setting ambitious goals and continuous learning 55:03 - Valuable advice for aspiring sales professionals 56:01 - What does leveling up mean to Iggy? 57:50 - Final thoughts and closing notes Connect with Iggy https://www.linkedin.com/in/iggy-fisher-52346051/ Spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/1Pt1j3SobW8Rd5FueKeskV?si=SDqBEKOJTzGEEAitYOTKPA Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/level-up-with-hakim/id1872491718 Amazon music https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8864be9e-558a-4632-94b2-6b121a5d7ebf/level-up-with-hakim

    Why Great Sales People Can't Be Managed with Iggy Fisher VP Club Quarters Hotels #39

  3. Jul 28

    Hotels Don't Need More Tech! | Arne Hagstad CGO @Suusify #38

    Most hotels are leaving millions on the table by treating revenue, marketing, and operations as disconnected silos, until now. Arne Hagstad, a seasoned hospitality tech leader Chief Growth Officer@Suusify , shares how aligning these functions can unlock dramatic growth, like boosting revenue per guest from €300 to €1100. In this episode, discover how hospitality businesses can harness real-time data and AI to anticipate guest needs, optimize price strategies, and deliver personalized experiences that stand out in a crowded market. 00:00 - Introduction to Arne Hagstad and key themes of growth, technology, and leadership 01:20 - Arne's background in hospitality technology and journey from banking 02:46 - The action-driven mindset and passion for insight over appearance 03:08 - The story of career change inspired by a mountain encounter 04:39 - The importance of understanding holistic hotel strategies 07:33 - Biggest mistake: siloed departments and disconnected strategies 10:02 - The significance of connecting revenue, marketing, and operations 12:26 - Benefits of independent hotels implementing holistic strategies faster 13:54 - Introducing the 'Hub by Suusify' BI platform 15:17 - How the platform connects data sources and aids future forecasting 16:36 - Applications of the platform in sales, demand, and guest insights 18:22 - Using data for targeted sales efforts and market analysis 20:26 - Upselling as a timely, personalized interaction, not spam 22:32 - The impact of tailored communication on guest satisfaction 23:56 - Integration of AI in travel planning and automation 24:48 - The hype versus real potential of AI in hospitality 27:46 - The role of AI in automating routine tasks and enhancing guest experiences 29:44 - Future trends: luxury's shift towards human connection and tech balance 32:07 - Technology's role in leisure and urban hotel experiences 35:34 - Concerns around data security, privacy, and ethical AI use 37:31 - Leadership lessons: building teams based on shared dreams and personality 40:08 - Hiring insights: spotting the fire, not just the CV 42:33 - Actionable advice for independent hotels and exciting tech tools to watch 44:16 - Defining 'level up' through learning from failures and successes 45:01 - Closing thoughts on the importance of continuous innovation and leadership connect with Arne https://www.linkedin.com/in/arne-hegstad-12293338/ Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@levelupwithhakim Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/level-up-with-hakim/id1872491718 Amazon music https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8864be9e-558a-4632-94b2-6b121a5d7ebf/level-up-with-hakim

    Hotels Don't Need More Tech! | Arne Hagstad CGO @Suusify #38

  4. Jul 9

    Stop Posting Boring Content / Zoe Koumbouzi #37

    Building Trust in Hospitality: Go-to-Market Strategy, AI, and the Future of Guest ExperienceIn this episode, with Zoe Koumbouzi for round two, the conversation explores how trust shapes sales, partnerships, and long-term growth in hospitality technology. The discussion also covers honest marketing, CEO visibility, benchmarking, and how AI and real-time data are changing how travelers discover and book experiences. Key TopicsWhy trust is the foundation of sales and relationshipsHow hospitality tech go-to-market strategies are evolvingHonest marketing and selling what’s actually on the tableThe Muse and Uber partnership and what it means for guest journeysWhy consultants and advisors are becoming more valuableBenchmark reports as a sales and authority toolCEO visibility and messaging consistency on LinkedInAI search, TikTok, and real-time travel discoveryLessons from acquisitions and industry changeTime Chapters00:00 Introduction and welcome 01:35 How careers and strategy evolve in hospitality 03:16 Why trust matters in go-to-market strategy 05:47 Broken trust between vendors and hoteliers 07:30 Honest marketing and clearer product positioning 09:27 The rise of consultants and advisors 11:01 Muse x Uber and the future of guest journeys 15:30 Muse Unfold and product launch reactions 17:45 Why benchmark reports matter 19:28 Salary, bonuses, and gender insights 23:01 CEO visibility and personal branding 27:04 Messaging consistency across platforms 28:06 AI search and how people research travel 29:20 TikTok’s role in travel discovery 32:23 Lessons learned from acquisitions 34:22 What’s next for helping tech companies grow 36:01 A surprise career pivot story 37:28 Closing thoughts CONNECT WITH ZOE https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoe-koumbouzi/ Spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/6shedvQZmcljNr9zkqmGNo?si=VXbGwhpWQUeHLfAC6ON30A Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/level-up-with-hakim/id1872491718 Amazon music https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8864be9e-558a-4632-94b2-6b121a5d7ebf/level-up-with-hakim

    Stop Posting Boring Content / Zoe Koumbouzi #37

  5. Jul 3

    How Real Estate Deals Really Happen | Alexander Shaw #36

    Unlocking the Future of Real Estate: Insights from Alexander ShawIn this episode, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of real estate - from capital movement, hospitality innovations, to technology's role in shaping tomorrow. Alexander Shaw shares invaluable insights on how relationships, trust, and tech are revolutionizing the sector for investors and operators alike. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and why real estate is underestimated 02:00 - Alexander's journey from law to real estate investment 04:00 - The systemic issues in real estate capital flows and how Capitan Connect addresses them 07:00 - The shift in market diligence and investor expectations in today’s environment 09:30 - Real estate as a capital allocation business, not just property management 12:00 - The blending of hospitality and other asset classes: innovations in community and experience 15:00 - Key factors investors evaluate in hospitality assets like branded residences 17:00 - The importance of operational excellence and brand consistency in hospitality trends 19:00 - How data and technology are transforming hotel management and investment decision-making 21:00 - Tips for hotel operators to improve capital raising efforts through fundamentals 23:00 - The impact of AI on underwriting, hiring, and operational management in real estate 26:00 - Building trust and long-term relationships in real estate and hospitality 30:00 - The future of real estate with tech, AI, and evolving asset classes 35:00 - The exciting innovations in residential, PBSA, and mixed-use developments 40:00 - Balancing human connection with automation and tech in hospitality 45:00 - Practical advice for newcomers: networking, LinkedIn, and mentorship 50:00 - The importance of transparency, honesty, and sharing knowledge in industry growth 55:00 - Reflections on future trends and the evolution of real estate 58:00 - Closing thoughts and how to level up in the industry Connect with Alexander Shaw:Alexander Shaw - Capitan Connect Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/65D40dyTOSM2nNaa9GfBUa Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/level-up-with-hakim/id1872491718 Amazon music https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8864be9e-558a-4632-94b2-6b121a5d7ebf/level-up-with-hakim

    How Real Estate Deals Really Happen | Alexander Shaw #36

  6. Jun 24

    Why Student Housing in Europe Is Broken | Marco Nobel, Founder of Fuse #35

    Unlocking the Future of Student Living: How Fuse is Reimagining a Fragmented MarketWhat if student housing in Europe could be faster, more connected, and truly tailored to young people's needs? Marco Nobel, founder of Fuse, reveals how he's transforming a slow, fragmented industry into a vibrant community-driven experience. With a background that blends real estate, music, and innovative community building, Marco shares the bold vision behind Fuse, to create not just places to live, but ecosystems that foster belonging and growth. This episode isn't just about real estate; it's about rethinking how we build spaces where students thrive, leveraging community, technology, and a founder's mindset.You'll discover: How Fuse is turning traditional student housing into a lifestyle brand by integrating community, events, and digital engagement.The innovative business models master leases, management agreements, and hybrid strategies—that are fueling rapid expansion across Europe.Why community is the hidden engine of student satisfaction and how Fuse uses it as a competitive edge.The role AI and automation are playing in streamlining operations while maintaining the human touch.The stakes and opportunities of scaling in a market with underdeveloped assets and growing demand. Reach out to Marco Nobel linkedin.com/in/marco-nobel?skipRedirect=true&miniProfileUrn=urn%3Ali%3Afs_miniProfile%3AACoAAAyyFfoBS45PSZWbXHIeQ_JdYGKEEkvRhsM Episode Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction: The Vision Behind Fuse 2:00 - From Communities to Real Estate: Marco’s Journey 4:30 - Why Europe’s Student Housing Market Needed Reinventing 7:00 - The Business Models Powering Scale 9:45 - The Role of Community and Experience in Student Satisfaction 13:00 - Leveraging AI & Technology to Optimize Operations 16:30 - Challenges on the Path to Growth 20:00 - Building a Brand in a Fragmented Market 23:00 - Future Expansion & Diversification Strategies 26:00 - The Founder’s Mindset & Building Public Presence 30:00 - Lessons from Hospitality for Real Estate 33:00 - The Power of Authenticity & Personal Branding 36:00 - The Long-Term Vision for Fuse 40:00 - How Music and Creativity Inform Leadership 43:00 - Final Thoughts: Leveling Up in a Rapidly Changing World https://open.spotify.com/episode/40SUhOu8iSMV8e3I3pX2uV?si=pBpuBWSxSsu2caTiaRA9vQ Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/level-up-with-hakim/id1872491718 Amazon music https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8864be9e-558a-4632-94b2-6b121a5d7ebf/level-up-with-hakim

    Why Student Housing in Europe Is Broken | Marco Nobel, Founder of Fuse #35

  7. Jun 16

    How to Get Hired in Hotel Tech with Edouard Clark #34

    Mastering the Art of Talent in Hospitality Tech: Insights with Edouard ClarkUnderstanding people, hiring smartly under pressure, and leveraging technology are key to thriving in the hospitality industry. In this episode, Edouard Clark shares his journey across continents and industries, revealing how human insight, expectation management, and innovative recruitment strategies can transform your approach to talent. Timestamps:00:00 - Unlocking the human side of hospitality: Edward Clark’s journey 02:14 - The importance of listening to candidates’ stories to understand their potential 03:52 - From rugby to entrepreneurship: lessons learned from a diverse career path 06:38 - Leading hotel pre-openings: managing chaos and stakeholder expectations 10:44 - Hiring under pressure: what hotel startups get wrong and how to improve 13:15 - The biggest mistakes in hospitality hiring and expectation setting 16:08 - The critical role of culture fit over urgency in talent acquisition 17:31 - Talent, leadership, or process: what’s really holding back hotel staffing? 20:20 - How to craft CVs that catch recruiters’ attention—voice notes and results 24:25 - The impact of AI on recruitment: automation without losing the human touch 27:43 - The worst CV mistakes to avoid: too lengthy, unorganized, or generic 29:51 - First-minute impressions in interviews: what to look for in candidate behavior 33:45 - One-minute advice for building a compelling, results-driven CV 38:16 - How top hiring managers stand out and attract the best talent 41:16 - The future of hospitality talent: how AI, robotics, and human skills intersect 45:41 - What leveling up truly means: stepping outside comfort zones Connect with Edourd Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edouardclark/ Listen to Level up with Hakim on spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/4TfLYtPkQ7A8WYGW46Rvl6?si=G7aWz36WQj2jI4bJTjSPGQ Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/level-up-with-hakim/id1872491718 Amazon music https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8864be9e-558a-4632-94b2-6b121a5d7ebf/level-up-with-hakim

    How to Get Hired in Hotel Tech with Edouard Clark #34

  8. Jun 3

    How Hotels Can Turn Service Into Sales with Lucas Peng #33

    In this eye-opening conversation, Lucas dives into what true peak performance really means for hotels today. You’ll discover how understanding the entire customer journey—from pre-arrival interactions online to a personalized check-in, can elevate guest experiences and increase revenue. He shares powerful insights on balancing technology with authentic human connection, emphasizing that a guest’s first impression often hinges on the smallest touchpoints, whether it's a greeting at the driveway or a seamless virtual tour. Here are the time-stamped highlights for your episode chapters: The True Meaning of Peak Performance in Hospitality - Starts at 13:49 The Power of Customer Journey & Touchpoints - Starts at 14:21 Evolving Sales Strategies in a Digital Age - Starts at 10:57 Cultures, Technologies, and Regional Differences - Starts at 9:09 The Role of AI: Enhancing, Not Replacing, Human Touch - Starts at 31:32 Building a Foundation: Sales and Service Fundamentals - Starts at 43:32 Virtual & Digital Site Inspections: New Skills for New Norms - Starts at 12:19 Measuring Success Beyond Numbers: Holistic Hotel Performance - Starts at 13:53 Staying Ahead: Embracing Change & Leveling Up - Starts at 44:27 Connect with Lucas https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucaspeng/ Listen to Level up with Hakim on spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/6B4x4SMxAQVvgQuapV8KdN?si=kFhmCOuwS26veV7jZ48IhQ Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/level-up-with-hakim/id1872491718 Amazon music https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8864be9e-558a-4632-94b2-6b121a5d7ebf/level-up-with-hakim

    How Hotels Can Turn Service Into Sales with Lucas Peng #33
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About

Level Up with Hakim is where business, mindset, and growth collide. Inspiring conversations with leaders and entrepreneurs sharing strategies, stories, and insights to help you win, grow, and level up in work and life.

Information

  • Creator
    AbdalHakim Omar
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 AbdalHakim Omar
  • Show Website
    Level up with Hakim