E47: Scaling Soul: Preserving Boutique DNA While Growing a Platform w/ Rob Vogel
Today, we’re joined by Rob Vogel, VP of Operations at Arbus Hospitality, whose journey spans every level of the hotel world—from housekeeping and front desk to revenue management, general manager, and now platform leadership. With experience at brands like Ace Hotels and Bunkhouse, Rob shares what it really takes to scale boutique hospitality without losing its soul. We explore kiosks and high-touch service, building playbooks without becoming robotic, hiring for curiosity and empathy, and how Arbus is creating a family of distinct, hyper-authentic properties connected by culture—not conformity. https://www.arbushospitality.group/ https://longitudedesign.com/
E46: When Buildings Breathe: Designing with Heart & Heritage w/ Adamo Gumowski
Today, we’re joined by Adamo Gumowski, Founder and Design Director of Stuttio, known for crafting soulful, community-focused hospitality spaces. He shares his journey from engineering to design, the influence of Tuscany, and how thoughtful placemaking can balance guest experience with operational success—all while pursuing a boundless life through integrated, purpose-driven environments. https://www.stuttio.com/ https://longitudedesign.com/
E45: The Sound of Hospitality: Crafting Sonic Identity w/ Clay Bassford
In this episode of the Future Hospitality Podcast, we sit down with Clay Bassford, founder of Bespoke Sound, a sonic identity studio helping hotels and resorts design how they’re heard—not just seen. We explore the growing importance of sonic branding in hospitality, how music and sound shape guest experiences, and Clay’s journey from musician to entrepreneur. Whether you're a hotelier, designer, or creative thinker, this conversation will expand the way you think about brand experience—one song at a time. https://bespokesound.co/ https://longitudedesign.com/
E44: Revolutionizing Hospitality for the Next Generation w/ Alicia Zur-Szpiro and Saar Shai
In this episode, we’re joined by Alicia Zur-Szpiro and Saar Shai, co-founders of Wanderland London and seasoned creatives with backgrounds in game design, toy invention, and kids’ publishing. As the first Kids & Teens Hospitality Consultancy, they’re redefining family travel with insights from their Global Kids Hospitality Report and innovative ideas for engaging younger guests. https://www.kidshospitality.org/ https://www.wanderland.london/ https://longitudedesign.com/
E43: The Wonders & Wilds of Building a Stand-Out Hospitality Brand w/ Eric Moeller
Today we're joined by Eric Moeller, founder of Freewyld, to talk about his journey from a career in construction to navigating the wild west of short-term rentals and building a standout hospitality brand. During our discussion, Eric shares how Freewyld was born, why branding is so important, and what's next for his company. https://freewyld.com/ https://longitudedesign.com/