Level up with Hakim

AbdalHakim Omar
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  • Entrepreneurship
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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. Why Student Housing in Europe Is Broken | Marco Nobel, Founder of Fuse #35

    6d ago

    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

    40 min
  2. How to Get Hired in Hotel Tech with Edouard Clark #34

    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

    40 min
  3. How Hotels Can Turn Service Into Sales with Lucas Peng #33

    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

    46 min
  4. Unlocking Future-Ready Leadership with Michael Cohen @LEVEL up with Hakim #32

    Apr 28

    Unlocking Future-Ready Leadership with Michael Cohen @LEVEL up with Hakim #32

    Unlocking Future-Ready Leadership with Michael Cohen: The Power of No-Man Executive and AIManaging Partner @ GAIN • ✈️ Nomad Executive™️ • Travel and Hospitality, Innovation Growth Advisor • Top 100 Social Media and Digital Thought Leaders in Global Hospitality• Lecturer @ NYU In this episode, Michael Cohen, a seasoned expert in travel, hospitality, and AI, shares transformative insights on adopting a no-man executive lifestyle, the future of remote leadership, and how AI is reshaping industries. His proven strategies center on agility, trust, and smart technology integration—key elements for staying competitive. Time-stamped Highlights:00:00 - Introduction to Michael Cohen and his unique perspective on borderless leadership 02:06 - The evolution of remote work culture post-COVID and its implications 05:32 - Building a lifestyle of leadership: working from anywhere and traveling intelligently 09:00 - The key to business growth: identifying root problems and developing tailored 'medicines' 12:17 - Gain’s mission: connecting strategic growth advisors across industries 15:53 - How success varies depending on company lifecycle and strategic needs 18:23 - The importance of scaling operational success through automation and replication 22:11 - Differentiating trends from hype in hospitality innovation 24:43 - The real-world impact of immersive training and AI in the industry 27:23 - Hesitation in hospitality innovation and the risks of falling behind 30:15 - Leveraging AI effectively: focusing on human intelligence and strategic integration 36:21 - Unlocking human potential: using AI to enhance creativity, decision-making, and guest experience 41:22 - The enduring importance of trust, relationships, and positive energy in leadership 44:24 - Common mistakes in go-to-market strategies and how to avoid them 47:46 - The power of amplification as a core growth principle 48:50 - What does "Level Up" really mean for Michael: focus, choices, and deliberate action 50:41 - The importance of sharing honest conversations in challenging industries 51:38 - Closing thoughts: embracing change, technology, and maintaining human connection Resources & Links:Borderless: A Nomad Executive Playbook — Michael Cohen’s upcoming book exploring remote leadership and borderless work strategiesGain — Growth Advisors — Strategic consultancy for travel, hospitality, and tech industriesModern Hotelier Podcast — Michael Cohen’s endorsement and industry insights Connect with Michael https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcohen-growth-advisor-travel-and-hospitality-tech/ Listen to Level up with Hakim on spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/65D40dyTOSM2nNaa9GfBUa?si=fcdf3604691a4ecf

    49 min
  5. Revenue Strategies Unveiled with Founder of AAYA Group,Vlatka Barcan @ Level up with Hakim #31

    Apr 21

    Revenue Strategies Unveiled with Founder of AAYA Group,Vlatka Barcan @ Level up with Hakim #31

    Unlocking Revenue and Profitability in Hospitality I dive into the world of hotel revenue management with Vlatka, a seasoned consultant with over 20 years of experience. Discover why focusing solely on occupancy and rates is a mistake, and learn how shifting your mindset toward profitability can transform your hotel's future. Vlatka shares her journey and practical strategies for boosting performance, managing distribution channels, and leveraging AI for smarter revenue tactics. This episode is essential for hotel owners and operators eager to challenge outdated paradigms and embrace innovation for lasting success. [Episode Chapters] 0:00 - The hospitality revenue shift: what many still misunderstand 4:35 - Vlatka’s journey into revenue management from operational roots 10:00 - Common mistakes hotels make: reverse pricing, OTA dependence, and cost miscalculations 15:20 - How independent hotels can boost first-month performance 20:40 - The role of data, AI, and automation in future-proofing revenue strategies 26:00 - Aligning sales, marketing, and operations for commercial success 33:10 - Building trust internally and externally for better revenue results 38:00 - The future of AI in revenue management: opportunities and risks 44:00 - Distribution strategies in a complex, multi-channel environment 49:00 - Why boutique, independent hotels hold a unique advantage in 2026-27 53:00 - What does leveling up really mean for hotel leader? Connect with Vlatka Barcan https://www.linkedin.com/in/vlatka-barcan/ 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

    49 min
  6. "The Power of Travel Coaching: Insights from Sahara" @LEVEL UP with Hakim #30

    Apr 7

    "The Power of Travel Coaching: Insights from Sahara" @LEVEL UP with Hakim #30

    Redefining Travel: A New Path for Wellness and Personal GrowthIn this inspiring episode, Sahara Rose DeVora shares her journey to creating a global travel coaching network focused on transformation, healing, and emotional well-being through travel. Learn how travel can be a tool for deeper human connection, personal growth, and industry innovation—especially in a world increasingly concerned with mental health. Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Sahara Rose DeVora and her journey into travel and wellness 01:17 - The deep meaning behind travel as a tool for transformation 02:45 - How personal stories shape travel as a healing modality 04:00 - Sahara’s journey from family travel to cultural exploration and personal growth 06:36 - The pivotal backpacking trip that ignited Sahara’s passion for travel 08:11 - Lessons about people and humanity learned through extensive travel 10:07 - Favorite destinations and why Thailand holds a special place in Sahara's heart 12:13 - Defining the Travel Coach Network — beyond traditional travel roles 14:42 - How Sahara created a meaningful certification for travel coaches via the ICF 16:18 - Addressing mental health and the emotional power of travel in corporate wellness 18:29 - The role of travel in combating burnout and promoting emotional well-being 21:05 - Building standards in travel coaching and industry implications 23:26 - The future of travel in an AI-driven world and the irreplaceable human element 25:45 - Expanding travel coaching to serve wider demographics and emotional needs 28:27 - How travel brands can embed meaning and emotion into their offerings 30:44 - The power of emotion-first travel and connecting deeply with audiences 32:29 - Sahara’s long-term vision for the Travel Coach Network and industry evolution 34:12 - Places still on Sahara’s bucket list and future travel plans 35:26 - What “leveling up” means in the context of wellness, travel, and personal growth Resources & Links: International Coach Federation (ICF)Travel Coach Network (hypothetical link for reference)Black Tomato – A travel company embracing emotional and experiential travelForbes on emotions and travel – article on emotion-first travel (search for specifics)Connect with Sahara Rose DeVora: Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahara-rose-de-vore-4b8bb394/

    31 min

  7. Mar 31

    From Corporate Rigidness to Entrepreneurial Freedom / Nora Slotz @ Level up with Hakim #29

    How to Transform Complexity into Clarity and Empower Women LeadersThis episode explores the importance of clarity in leadership, navigating corporate versus entrepreneurial mindsets, and building impactful networks for women in business. Nora Stolz shares insights from her diverse career, emphasizing strategic thinking, ownership, and community-building. Timestamps: 00:00 - The challenge of translating strategy into execution 02:19 - Asking questions early to clarify objectives and reduce trust erosion 04:47 - How international upbringing influences leadership approach 07:00 - Long-term strategy: vision, goals, and breaking down into actionable steps 08:46 - Personal and business goal setting with visualization and reflection exercises 11:07 - Lessons from career in finance giants and tech giants on execution and discipline 12:48 - Navigating humility and ownership in corporate and startup environments 14:25 - The story behind the Female Forum and its mission to support women leaders 15:45 - Building partnerships that create mutual value without commercializing emotions About the Show* What does it really take to level up your career, business, and life today? I ask the people actually doing it. Level Up with Hakim dives into the real stories, strategies, and mindset shifts behind growth in business, hospitality, travel, and beyond. 💬 If an episode helped you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. ⭐ Leave a review—your feedback helps us bring on more powerful voices and keep raising the bar. Connect with Nora https://www.linkedin.com/in/norastolz/ Linkedin Listen to Level up with Hakim on spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ZEwMToQzskVv4EsYoZbNh?si=kriaiNOoSb6-KaMVXuBTLA 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

    14 min
  8. Level up with Hakim #28 AI, Marketing and Content Creation with Tarek Raslan

    Mar 18

    Level up with Hakim #28 AI, Marketing and Content Creation with Tarek Raslan

    Summary In this conversation, Tarek Reslan shares his journey from a computer science graduate who disliked coding to becoming a content lead in marketing. He discusses the challenges and fears he faced while transitioning to a new career, the importance of continuous learning, and the impact of AI on marketing. Tarek emphasizes the need for curiosity and experimentation in both startups and corporate environments, and he offers insights on how to overcome mindset blocks and adapt to new challenges. Chapters 00:00 From Coding to Content Creation: A Bold Shift 05:14 Navigating the Marketing Landscape: Tools and Strategies 10:52 The Impact of AI on Marketing and Content Creation 16:39 Learning and Growth: Startups vs Corporates 22:06 Overcoming Challenges: Mindset and Adaptation 27:34 Final Thoughts: Curiosity and Continuous Learning 28:46 Untitled design.mp4 About the Show* What does it really take to level up your career, business, and life today? I ask the people actually doing it. Level Up with Hakim dives into the real stories, strategies, and mindset shifts behind growth in business, hospitality, travel, and beyond. 💬 If an episode helped you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. ⭐ Leave a review—your feedback helps us bring on more powerful voices and keep raising the bar. Connect with Tarek https://www.linkedin.com/in/tarek-reslan/ Linkedin 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

    29 min
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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
    2K
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 AbdalHakim Omar
  • Show Website
    Level up with Hakim