Hospitality Daily Podcast

Josiah Mackenzie
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Jul 9, 2025 • 16min

How citizenM Reinvented Hotel Loyalty (And Signed Up 50,000+ Subscribers) - Lennert de Jong

Lennert de Jong, CEO of citizenM, dives into the hotel chain's innovative subscription program, inspired by models from Netflix and Amazon Prime. He reveals how this idea emerged during the pandemic to tackle occupancy challenges, leading to over 50,000 subscribers. Lennert highlights a shift from traditional rewards to genuine customer relationships, discussing the importance of addressing customer pain points. Through the MyCitizenM+ initiative, he showcases how reimagined loyalty can foster deeper engagement and loyalty in the hospitality landscape.
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Jul 8, 2025 • 20min

citizenM CEO on the Future of Hotel Tech, AI, and Guest Experience: Lennert de Jong

Lennert de Jong, CEO of citizenM, a cutting-edge hotel company, discusses the future of hospitality with innovation correspondent Matthias Hüttebräuker. He shares how integrated technology and AI can simplify hotel check-ins, transforming them into a seamless one-touch experience. Lennert emphasizes automating repetitive tasks to allow staff to focus on personal guest interactions. He also explores the shifting landscape of hotel discovery driven by AI, predicting a significant evolution in how travelers choose accommodations.
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Jul 7, 2025 • 19min

citizenM CEO: Why We Sold to Marriott (And What's Next) - Lennert de Jong

Lennert de Jong, CEO of citizenM, shares insights on the company’s strategic sale to Marriott, highlighting how this move will propel global expansion and enhance brand identity. He discusses leveraging Marriott’s Bonvoy loyalty program while maintaining operational excellence. De Jong likens the partnership to a child's growth, illustrating citizenM's readiness for new challenges. The conversation dives into the significance of retaining control over assets post-sale and emphasizes the importance of innovation in the hospitality industry.
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Jul 5, 2025 • 5min

Winning as a Team: What Baseball Can Teach Hospitality Leaders About Culture and Performance - Edward Mady

Discover how baseball unfolds valuable lessons for hospitality leaders! Edward Mady emphasizes the power of team dynamics and continual improvement. He dives into creating an engaging team culture that elevates performance. The discussion encourages sharing insights and building community to drive success in the hospitality sector. Tune in to unlock strategies that can transform your team spirit and enhance business outcomes!
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7 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 15min

Creating a Culture of Welcome: How We Engaged Employees to Delight Guests - Edward Mady

Edward Mady, author of "Honing the Human Edge," shares his insights from leading iconic properties like the Beverly Hills Hotel. He emphasizes the crucial role of creating a welcoming culture for both guests and staff. You'll learn about effective staff training, the importance of employee pride, and the impact of recognition programs on morale. Mady also discusses how a positive organizational culture can improve overall performance and engagement in hospitality, encouraging listeners to foster a collaborative community in the industry.
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Jul 3, 2025 • 9min

Thriving Under Fire: How Strong Leaders Navigate Crisis with Clarity, Character, and Culture - Edward Mady

Discover how effective leaders navigate crises with clarity and character. The discussion highlights the importance of recognizing crises and fostering a strong team culture. Learn about the hidden challenges in hospitality management and the critical role of open communication. Edward Mady emphasizes the power of shared insights to empower teams and enhance collaboration. Perfect for anyone looking to turn crisis into opportunity while maintaining a humane approach in their leadership!
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Jul 2, 2025 • 7min

Leading Under Pressure, Building Relationships & the Power of Fellowship in Hospitality - Edward Mady

Explore the essence of humanistic leadership in the hospitality sector and how to navigate high-pressure situations with compassion. Discover the power of relationship building and fellowship, and learn why kindness is essential in creating a thriving team culture. Dive into practical insights that not only elevate leadership but also foster a supportive environment for everyone in the industry. Edward Mady also shares wisdom from his new book, emphasizing the human edge in hospitality.
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Jul 1, 2025 • 9min

Ritz Carlton Founder Horst Schulze Made Me a GM at 36: Here's What I Learned - Edward Mady

Edward Mady recounts his transformative experience under Ritz Carlton founder Horst Schulze. He delves into luxury hospitality leadership, emphasizing the values of hard work, dedication, and a service-first culture. Additionally, Mady underscores the essence of teamwork and shares inspiration from General Colin Powell. The conversation is filled with actionable insights that aim to enhance both personal and team development in the hospitality industry.
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Jun 30, 2025 • 10min

From Fear to Respect: Leadership Lessons from Working with the "Queen of Mean" - Edward Mady

Edward Mady shares compelling leadership lessons from working under a daunting boss in the hospitality industry. He discusses transforming fear into respect and the resilience needed to thrive in challenging environments. Personal anecdotes reveal the vital role of human connection when navigating strict workplace dynamics. Mady emphasizes the importance of maintaining calm and attention to detail in high-pressure situations, providing valuable insights for leaders looking to improve both their teams and business practices.
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4 snips
Jun 29, 2025 • 13min

Work Hard, Be Curious, Stay Present: Edward Mady’s Career Story (And Formula for Hospitality Success)

Edward Mady, a seasoned hospitality expert who has led iconic hotels like the Beverly Hills Hotel, shares invaluable lessons from his extensive career spanning over 35 roles. He discusses the importance of hard work, curiosity, and presence as vital keys to success in the industry. Mady emphasizes the significance of mentorship and understanding operations comprehensively for professional growth. Additionally, he introduces insights from his new book, highlighting the need for authentic communication and community engagement in hospitality.

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