Check-In with Bryan

Bryan Fish
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Business
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to Check-In with Bryan, your essential podcast for staying ahead in the dynamic world of hospitality. Hosted by Bryan Fish, CEO of Reliance Hospitality and a highly sought-after keynote speaker, this podcast dives deep into the strategic insights, evolving trends, and transformative ideas driving the hospitality and travel industries forward.    Drawing from Bryan’s extensive background in hospitality management, strategic planning, and business innovation, each episode features compelling discussions with influential industry leaders, hotel executives, investors, asset managers, and expert consultants. You’ll gain valuable insights into operational excellence, market developments, investment opportunities, asset optimization strategies, and relevant travel news influencing the hospitality landscape.   Designed specifically for hotel owners, operators, hospitality investors, travel professionals, and industry leaders, Check-In with Bryan empowers listeners to elevate their business strategies, harness industry-leading insights, and navigate the ever-evolving intersection of hospitality and travel.    Stay informed, inspired, and ahead of the competition with Bryan Fish and Reliance Hospitality.

  1. Can a Hotel Run Without a General Manager?

    Jun 19

    Can a Hotel Run Without a General Manager?

    In this episode of Check-In with Bryan, Bryan sits down in person with returning guest Cody Adent, President and Chief Financial Officer of Vibrant Management, a forward-thinking hospitality management company specializing in boutique hotels, independent properties, and unique hospitality experiences. Cody shares how Vibrant Management is expanding into markets like South Lake Tahoe, why their “Virtual GM” model works so well for smaller independent hotels, and how AI, automation, guest messaging, smart locks, revenue tools, and remote operations are reshaping the way boutique properties are managed. The conversation also dives into hotel tech adoption, why hospitality is such a difficult industry for new software companies to break into, the role of AI in improving—not replacing—hotel operations, and why independent hotels need partners who understand their specific challenges. Bryan and Cody also talk about BITAC, casino hospitality, guest data, OTA challenges, conference networking, hotel reviews, barn door disasters, family travel, and the realities of building long-term relationships in the hospitality industry. In This Episode What a Virtual GM is and how it worksWhy smaller boutique hotels can benefit from remote operationsHow AI is being used in guest communication and revenue managementWhy hospitality tech companies need to play the long gameThe challenge of switching PMS, booking engines, and software systemsWhy independent hotels are often underserved by major conferencesHow Vibrant Management finds its niche with unique propertiesCody’s path into hospitality through finance and hotel ownershipWhat casino hotels can teach the rest of hospitality about dataWhy great hotel operations still come down to common sense #Hospitality #HotelManagement #BoutiqueHotels #IndependentHotels #HotelOperations #HospitalityIndustry #HotelTech #AIHospitality #RevenueManagement #HotelOwners #HotelDevelopment #VibrantManagement #CheckInWithBryan #BryanFish #HospitalityPodcast

    45 min
  2. Why Hyatt Is Betting Big on Midscale Hotels

    Jun 9

    Why Hyatt Is Betting Big on Midscale Hotels

    In this episode of Check-In with Bryan, Bryan Fish sits down with Jason Ballard, SVP and Global Brand Leader for the Essentials Portfolio at Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Jason shares how Hyatt is expanding into new markets through brands like Hyatt Studios, Hyatt Select, Caption by Hyatt, Hyatt Place, Hyatt House, Unscripted by Hyatt, and UrCove. The conversation dives into Hyatt’s approach to midscale and upper-midscale growth, owner-focused development, conversion strategy, brand discipline, guest experience, and what it takes to build hotel brands that actually work in the real world. They also discuss Jason’s 20+ year career at Hyatt, how hospitality creates long-term opportunity, why travel changes people, and the leadership lessons he has learned from working across revenue management, operations, analytics, brand development, and global hotel strategy. Topics covered: * Hyatt’s growth in the essentials and midscale hotel space * The strategy behind Hyatt Studios and Hyatt Select * Why conversion brands are becoming more important * How Hyatt thinks about owners, operators, and development costs * Building hotels around real operational feedback * The future of hotel loyalty and guest experience * What makes Hyatt’s brand approach different * Career lessons from 20+ years in hospitality * Why travel and hospitality still matter If you’re a hotel owner, developer, operator, investor, or hospitality professional, this conversation offers a deep look into where the hotel industry is heading and how one of the world’s most respected hospitality brands is thinking about growth. Subscribe for more conversations with leaders across hospitality, hotel ownership, operations, development, branding, and business strategy. #hoteldevelopment #hotelownership #hotelbrands #hospitalityleadership, #hotelconversions #midscale#hotels #HyattEssentials

    54 min
  3. Inside the Future of Hospitality Technology

    May 27

    Inside the Future of Hospitality Technology

    What if the future of hospitality starts with better spaces? In this episode of Check-In with Bryan, Bryan Fish sits down with Jeff Emmons, CEO of Immedia, to talk about how NextSpace became more than a showroom — it became an immersive experience center where clients can see, touch, test, and understand technology before making major investments. Jeff breaks down how Immedia built a multi-million-dollar ecosystem around AV integration, workplace technology, smart meeting rooms, event rentals, hospitality tech, and podcast production — and why physical experience still matters in a digital world. Bryan and Jeff also dig into what hotels can learn from this model, including built-in AV, smarter meeting spaces, guestroom automation, occupancy sensors, leak detection, energy savings, ROI, and the operational value of better data. In this episode: How NextSpace became a sales and experience engineWhy clients need to experience technology before buying itHow built-in AV can improve hotel meeting spacesWhy smart guestrooms can reduce costs and improve operationsThe ROI behind occupancy sensors, leak detection, and automationHow podcast studios and content spaces are becoming business assetsWhy hospitality needs better technology infrastructureSubscribe to Check-In with Bryan for more conversations on hospitality, hotel operations, technology, leadership, travel, business, and the future of guest experience. #HospitalityTechnology #HotelTechnology #AVIntegration #SmartHotels #CheckInWithBryan

    1h 8m
  4. Is Hotel Tech Losing the Human Touch?

    May 21

    Is Hotel Tech Losing the Human Touch?

    What happens when a longtime hotel operator moves into the world of hospitality technology? In this episode of Check-In with Bryan, Bryan Fish sits down with Nick Knight of Duetto to talk about the evolution of hotel tech, revenue management, AI, personalization, and why the future of hospitality still depends on human connection. From old-school PMS systems and wake-up call printers to cloud-based platforms, machine learning, generative AI, and profit optimization, Nick breaks down how technology is reshaping hotel operations — and where the industry still needs to be careful. They also discuss the disappearing role of the traditional concierge and maître d’, the importance of training, the rise of revenue and profit operating systems, and why hoteliers need to stay curious as the industry changes faster than ever. In this episode: How hotel technology has changed over the last 20 yearsWhy AI should support hoteliers, not replace themThe future of revenue management and profit optimizationHow Duetto is approaching AI and machine learningWhy hospitality still needs human connectionThe importance of training the next generation of hotel leadersSubscribe to Check-In with Bryan for more conversations on hospitality, hotels, travel, technology, operations, and the future of the industry. #HospitalityTechnology #HotelIndustry #RevenueManagement #HospitalityPodcast #HotelTech

    42 min
  5. The F&B Playbook Hotels Still Get Wrong

    May 7

    The F&B Playbook Hotels Still Get Wrong

    What separates a great hotel restaurant from one that quietly loses money? In this episode of Check-In with Bryan, Bryan sits down with hospitality veteran Guy Reinbold—former VP of Food & Beverage and Corporate Executive Chef at Marriott International—to break down what actually drives success in hotel F&B. With over 40 years of experience, Guy shares real-world insights from the front lines of hotel operations, covering everything from concept development and menu strategy to guest expectations and profitability. From fixing underperforming restaurants to navigating brand standards vs. owner ROI, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways for hotel owners, operators, and hospitality professionals. They dive into: Why most hotel restaurant concepts fail before they even openThe balance between brand standards and owner profitabilityHow guest expectations should shape your F&B strategyThe real impact of pricing, room service, and retail on revenueWhy simplicity and execution matter more than over-designed menusLessons from decades inside one of the world’s largest hotel brandsWhether you’re building a new concept or trying to fix an existing one, this episode is a masterclass in keeping hospitality both profitable and authentic. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for weekly insights from leaders shaping the hospitality industry. #Hospitality #HotelManagement #FoodAndBeverage #HotelBusiness #Leadership

    58 min
  6. What It’s Like Having Your Virgin Voyage Planned

    Apr 29

    What It’s Like Having Your Virgin Voyage Planned

    What does it actually feel like to take a trip where everything is planned for you? This week on Check-In with Bryan, we’re coming to you aboard the Scarlet Lady with Lara Eurdolian, Belle Baskt, and Melissa & Skye Neumann to break down their full Caribbean experience—this time planned entirely by Destinations by Reliance. From the moment they left home to the moment they stepped back off the ship, every detail of this trip was handled—from flights and transportation to onboard reservations, excursions in Key West and Bimini, and everything in between. The result? A completely different way to travel. Instead of stressing over logistics, the group was able to fully immerse themselves in the experience—leaning into spontaneity, enjoying curated recommendations, and having a dedicated concierge available 24/7 to handle anything that came up along the way. In this episode, they share their honest, unfiltered experience of what it’s like to: Travel without planning every detail yourselfExperience a Virgin Voyages cruise through a fully curated itineraryBalance spontaneity with structureEnjoy high-level service without the usual travel headachesThey also dive into the moments that made the trip unforgettable—from Scarlet Night and late-night karaoke to exploring Key West, discovering Bimini, and experiencing the energy that makes Virgin Voyages stand out. And perhaps most importantly, they reflect on what changed when they were able to truly be present—thanks to having every moving piece handled for them.  #VirginVoyages #LuxuryTravel #TravelPlanning #DestinationsByReliance #CheckInWithBryan In this episode, you’ll learn: What it’s like to have your entire trip planned for youHow Destinations by Reliance creates a seamless travel experienceWhy concierge-level service changes how you travelThe real difference between DIY travel and curated itinerariesHighlights from Virgin Voyages, Key West, and BiminiAbout the Show: Check-In with Bryan is hosted by Bryan Fish, CEO of Reliance Hospitality, featuring conversations with leaders, creators, and operators shaping the future of hospitality, travel, and business. Credits: This show is a production of RH Media Productions. Executive Producer: Tyler Alexander Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Reliance Hospitality Global Limited Co., its affiliates, or subsidiaries. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be interpreted as professional legal, financial, or investment advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions regarding your business. #VirginVoyages #LuxuryTravel #TravelPlanning #DestinationsByReliance #CheckInWithBryan

    22 min
  7. The Big A.I. Opportunity Hotels Are Missing

    Apr 23

    The Big A.I. Opportunity Hotels Are Missing

    Hospitality brands have more guest data than ever before — but most still are not using it to create truly personalized experiences. In this episode of Check-In with Bryan, Bryan sits down with Billy FisCher of Very Good Ventures at the Digital Transformation Summit in Arlington, Texas, to talk about where AI is actually headed in hospitality, why so many brands are stuck with stale digital experiences, and what operators should be doing right now to prepare for the next wave of innovation. Billy breaks down the disconnect between massive data warehouses and the actual guest experience, explaining why many hotel, travel, and restaurant brands have built powerful systems without creating meaningful personalization. The conversation also dives into the rise of generative AI, how customer expectations are changing, where brands should start experimenting, and why the smartest operators should focus on solving one friction point at a time instead of chasing hype. They also explore: Why hotel and travel digital experiences have started to feel staleHow AI could become the bridge between data and real-time personalizationWhat hospitality brands are getting wrong about implementationWhy operators should test AI through focused guest journey touchpointsThe difference between AI hype and actual practical use casesWhether AI will replace hospitality jobs — or simply reshape themWhy apprenticeship and early-career development may be one of the biggest long-term concerns If you’re in hospitality, hotels, travel, restaurants, or digital product strategy, this conversation offers a grounded look at where AI is creating real opportunity — and where the industry still has work to do. Billy also shares insight into the work being done at Very Good Ventures and how brands can begin thinking more strategically about generative UI, digital transformation, and customer experience design. Subscribe for more conversations with the leaders shaping hospitality, travel, and business. #Hospitality #AI #DigitalTransformation #Hotels #GuestExperience

    37 min
  8. ADA Lawsuits Are Exploding — What Hotel Owners Need to Know

    Apr 15

    ADA Lawsuits Are Exploding — What Hotel Owners Need to Know

    ADA compliance is becoming one of the fastest-growing legal risks in the hospitality industry — and most hotel owners don’t even realize how exposed they are. In this episode of Check-In with Bryan, Bryan sits down with attorney Lindsay Leavitt to break down what’s really happening behind the surge in ADA-related lawsuits across hotels in the U.S. From service animal policies to accessibility requirements, website compliance, and franchise responsibility — this conversation dives into the real-world legal challenges hotel owners, operators, and developers are facing today. Lindsay shares insights from defending hundreds of ADA cases, including: The most common ADA violations hotels get sued forWhy many lawsuits come from “serial plaintiffs”The difference between service animals and emotional support animalsHow ADA applies to hotel websites and online bookingWhy franchisees are still fully liable (even with major brands)The costly mistake of waiting too long to involve an attorneyHow to fix “low-hanging fruit” issues before they become lawsuits If you’re involved in hotel ownership, operations, development, or asset management, this episode is essential listening. 👉 Make sure to subscribe for more conversations with the top minds in hospitality. #Hospitality #HotelManagement #ADACompliance #HotelOwnership #HospitalityIndustry

    46 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Welcome to Check-In with Bryan, your essential podcast for staying ahead in the dynamic world of hospitality. Hosted by Bryan Fish, CEO of Reliance Hospitality and a highly sought-after keynote speaker, this podcast dives deep into the strategic insights, evolving trends, and transformative ideas driving the hospitality and travel industries forward.    Drawing from Bryan’s extensive background in hospitality management, strategic planning, and business innovation, each episode features compelling discussions with influential industry leaders, hotel executives, investors, asset managers, and expert consultants. You’ll gain valuable insights into operational excellence, market developments, investment opportunities, asset optimization strategies, and relevant travel news influencing the hospitality landscape.   Designed specifically for hotel owners, operators, hospitality investors, travel professionals, and industry leaders, Check-In with Bryan empowers listeners to elevate their business strategies, harness industry-leading insights, and navigate the ever-evolving intersection of hospitality and travel.    Stay informed, inspired, and ahead of the competition with Bryan Fish and Reliance Hospitality.

Information

  • Creator
    Bryan Fish
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    72
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Check-In with Bryan
  • Show Website
    Check-In with Bryan