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The Real Economics Behind Glamping, Micro Resorts, and Outdoor Hospitality in 2026 with Connor Schwab
In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Show, Zeke Freeman sits down with outdoor hospitality expert Connor Schwab to explore what actually makes a glamping, micro resort, or outdoor lodging project work.
Connor shares insights from hundreds of feasibility studies, explains the real economics of canvas tents versus hard-wall units, breaks down where operators lose money, and reveals how scale, utilities, unit mix, and direct booking strategy can make or break a project.
They discuss the shift toward professionalization in the industry, why unique architecture creates a long-term moat, and how operators can build profitable, durable outdoor properties in 2026 and beyond.
Things You’ll Learn in This Episode
How outdoor hospitality has evolved and where it's heading
Why canvas tents often fail to pencil and the hidden costs behind them
The operational challenges of glamping and seasonal setups
Why utilities usually make or break your budget
How unit mix determines ADR, occupancy, and long-term brand value
Why scale matters and why most properties struggle below $1M in revenue
How OTAs can fast-track occupancy but hurt profitability
Why unique, hand-built units outperform off-the-shelf structures
What makes a micro resort work in cold or seasonal markets
Connor’s strategy for building a $100M hospitality portfolio today
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
How Vision Driven Leadership Builds Organizations That Last with Doug Dameron of Orchard Church
In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Show, Zeke Freeman sits down with Doug Dameron, founding and lead pastor of Orchard Church in Brighton, Colorado. Doug shares the journey of growing Orchard from a small apartment gathering into a thriving multi-site church reaching thousands each week. The conversation explores leadership, vision, accountability, and the often overlooked business side of running a healthy organization. Doug and Zeke unpack how churches and businesses alike can avoid becoming inward-focused, why hospitality is a powerful growth strategy, and how mission-driven leaders can embrace change, technology, and systems without losing their soul. From radical hospitality to kingdom-minded business principles, this episode is packed with practical insights for entrepreneurs, builders, and leaders who want to create lasting impact.
Things You’ll Learn in This Episode
How Orchard Church grew from an apartment living room to a thriving multi-site organization
Why vision should focus on people, not just buildings or scale
The dangers of becoming inward-focused in business and leadership
How accountability and clarity strengthen culture, not weaken it
Why hospitality is one of the most powerful and overlooked growth strategies
What churches and businesses can learn from each other about leadership and systems
How to balance mission with changing methods in a fast-moving world
Practical ways AI can support creativity and efficiency without replacing humanity
The trellis and the vine framework for sustainable growth
What it means to run a kingdom-minded business in everyday work
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
The Art of Landscape Architecture in Hospitality with Scott LaMont
In this episode of the Radical Hospitality podcast, host Zeke Freeman interviews Scott Lamont, CEO of EDSA, a global landscape architecture and design firm. They discuss Scott's journey in the industry, EDSA's unique approach to design that emphasizes the importance of place, and the collaborative nature of their projects. The conversation covers various topics including the design process for resorts, the challenges of working in different countries, and the balance between development and preservation. Scott shares insights on current trends in boutique hospitality and offers advice for aspiring developers looking to create unique experiences.
Takeaways
Scott Lamont emphasizes the importance of designing within a place, not just in it.
EDSA's philosophy centers on curiosity, humility, and collaboration.
The firm has a diverse portfolio, including hospitality, urban design, and community planning.
Understanding local cultures and communities is crucial in the design process.
Collaboration is key; great destinations are a collective vision.
The trend is shifting towards boutique resorts that offer unique experiences.
Master planning is an evolving process that requires flexibility.
EDSA leverages technology to analyze site data for better design outcomes.
Community engagement is essential for successful project implementation.
Hospitality is about delivering experiences and making guests feel welcome
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
In this episode, Zeke heads up to Evergreen, Colorado, to explore the story behind Juniper, a boutique lodge on a 10-acre property that is transforming into Colorado’s first treehouse hotel. Owners Alea and Ashley take us through their six-year journey—from buying a former B&B with zero hospitality experience to building luxury treehouses, hosting intimate weddings, and creating deeply personal guest experiences rooted in nature, design, and storytelling.
This conversation pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to create an experiential micro-resort:
Turning an old bed-and-breakfast into a modern boutique stay
Balancing operations while still living on property
The realities of building treehouses (why so few exist in the U.S.)
How design, soundproofing, durability, and cleanability truly make or break a hotel
Why “first five feet, first five words, first five seconds” defines their entire guest philosophy
Cultivating community trust through transparency, neighbor engagement, and listening
The long road of permitting, planning commissions, and navigating short-term rental regulation
The irreplaceable role of story, small moments, and human connection in hospitality
From the magic of themed treehouses to the weight of running a property without investors, Alea and Ashley share lessons in perseverance, design thinking, leadership, regulation, and the heart-led grit required to build something extraordinary.
This episode is a masterclass for hospitality entrepreneurs, boutique hotel developers, short-term rental operators, and anyone dreaming of building a place that inspires awe.
Grab the free Radical Hospitality Starter Kit → root-ad.com/starter
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
We’re on site with Tony to tour his newly built accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in Wheat Ridge, Colorado—a project that began as a simple garage and evolved when the city legalized ADUs. We unpack the real-world timeline (design do-overs included), what changed structurally from “just a garage” to a conditioned dwelling, and the big calls that move the budget—radiant heat, insulated doors, and a sewer ejector pit—so you can scope your own ADU with eyes wide open. Tony also shares how he’s weighing rental strategies (medium-term vs. short-term vs. long-term), why finish quality matters when it’s in your backyard, and the features that make the space livable for residents and useful for his home-based business.
Highlights:
Why the shift from garage to ADU: Once Wheat Ridge approved ADUs, adding water/sewer/power anyway made a full unit make sense for rental income and property value.
Permitting & design timeline: ~4–5 months with a couple of stop-starts after redesign; smoother than horror stories but still iterative.
Structure & envelope upgrades: Deeper foundations, full insulation, and R-17 foam-packed garage doors with side-mount motors (about $12K total) to keep conditioned space tight and clearance high.
Budget reality: Low $300Ks possible on a lean spec; this build landed ~$450K with high-end choices (radiant, solid-core doors, finishes, ejector pit).
Rent strategy thinking: Leaning medium-term (traveling professionals, 30–90 days) for lower turnover than STRs and more flexibility than year-long leases.
Homeowners, small developers, and designers weighing a garage-to-ADU conversion; anyone curious about Wheat Ridge/Front Range ADU realities—costs, code, utilities, and rental strategy.
Grab the free Radical Hospitality Starter Kit → root-ad.com/starter
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
Turning Vacant Buildings to Vibrant Spaces with Preston Snyder
In this episode of The Radical Hospitality Podcast, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Preston Snyder, Principal of Thomas Preston Real Estate and founder of Mad Hospitality in Madison, Georgia.
Preston shares how his early exposure to both real estate restoration and world-class hospitality at the Ritz-Carlton shaped a career that fuses adaptive reuse development with culinary innovation. Since 2020, he’s revitalized Madison’s town square by converting vacant historic buildings into thriving concepts like The Dining Room, The Sinclair, Heart & Crown Tavern, Betty Gene's Pop-Up at Buggy Works, and the retro South Motor Inn.
The conversation dives into:
Lessons from decades in both real estate development and hospitality
How adaptive reuse projects fuel local economies and community culture
Building multiple restaurant concepts from a centralized kitchen model
Investing in people: why Preston provides benefits, stability, and growth opportunities uncommon in the restaurant world
Pivoting, experimenting, and staying resilient—even after setbacks like a fire at Betty Jean’s
Preston’s story is both entrepreneurial and deeply personal—showing how vision, grit, and hospitality can transform not just properties, but entire communities.
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
Why Hospitality Workers Must Fill Their Own Cup First with Mike Messeroff
In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, Zeke sits down with Mike Messeroff—a 30-year veteran of the hospitality industry, coach, and founder of the Carpe Diem Collective. Mike’s journey has taken him from JetBlue’s corporate offices to bartending across the globe, through deep personal lows, and into a life of coaching leaders toward purpose and wellbeing.
They discuss Mike's journey from corporate success to personal fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of self-hospitality, mindfulness, and community support in the hospitality industry. Mike shares insights on the challenges faced by service workers, the significance of meditation, and the power of positive thinking. The conversation culminates in a guided meditation session, encouraging listeners to prioritize their mental well-being and personal growth.
Mike opens up about:
His decision to leave a secure corporate career for a more adventurous path in the Caribbean, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond
The wake-up call of hitting rock bottom while living what seemed like a “dream life” in Breckenridge
How mindfulness and meditation transformed his mental health and career trajectory
Why burnout is rampant in hospitality—and how “self-hospitality” can change the culture
The practices he teaches leaders: meditation, gratitude, and filling your own cup first
Building the Carpe Diem Collective, a purpose-driven community where hospitality leaders can exhale, connect, and realign with joy
Mike also guides listeners through a short meditation during the episode, offering a practical tool you can use anytime you need to reset.
If you’re in hospitality or simply in need of a reminder to slow down, breathe, and reclaim your purpose—this conversation is for you.
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
Hybrid Hotels for Retreats and Buyouts with Ben Wolff
Zeke tours a new “landscape hotel” of Ben Wolf of Onera that flexes between full-property buyouts and eight private suites—each with its own hot tub—anchored by a communal living/dining hub, a high-end residential kitchen (bar-ready), commissary, and a convertible conference/dining room. The conversation widens into pricing strategy (why weddings aren’t their focus), midweek corporate/wellness retreat demand, smart upsells (private sauna/pool), and the real-world developer playbook: picking the right GC, collaborating with architects, building cash-flow support businesses, and structuring partnerships that actually work.
We also get the founder’s origin story from NYC nightclub promoter to sober operator to one-of-one hotel developer—plus a sneak peek at a 20-key tropical, agritourism resort coming to South Florida (Bali vibes, stateside).
What you’ll learn:
How to design a hybrid “house buyout + independent suites” hotel that feels both private and communal
The revenue logic: midweek retreats > discounted weddings (and where high-ticket weddings still fit)
Cash-flow scaffolding for developers: management and marketing arms that keep the lights on
Agritourism development 101: 99-year land leases, low-density zoning, and farmer revenue share
Personal arc: sobriety, AirBnB arbitrage, Austin move, RV honeymoon inspiration, and learning the hard way
00:00 Intro & the landscape-hotel concept 03:20 Suite layout, hot tubs, communal core, and event flow 08:05 Pricing strategy: retreats vs weddings; upsell logic 12:10 Kitchen/bar configuration, commissary, and F&B support 17:40 From nightclub promoter to sober operator to developer 23:15 Cash-flow businesses that fund long-cycle development 28:30 GC vs architect: integrated delivery and cost control 34:10 Partnership filters: urgency, role clarity, reputation 39:45 South Florida project: 20 keys, agritourism lease, Bali vibes 46:30 Community/course preview and closing
Listen to another episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast featuring Ben Wolff:
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
Balancing Health, Hustle, and Hospitality with Kassidy and Erin Warren
In this episode of The Radical Hospitality Show, Zeke Freeman sits down with Kassidy and Erin Warren to unpack the realities of entrepreneurship, marriage, and building a hospitality business together. From sleeping on air mattresses in dusty renovation sites to scaling into boutique hotels, Kassidy and Erin share the raw grind behind their journey to financial independence. They talk candidly about the toll on their health and relationship, the lessons they’ve learned about individuality and partnership, and how focusing on fitness, mindset, and mentorship has reshaped their lives.
The conversation explores balancing personal identity with a shared vision, why doing hard things together matters in a marriage, and how real estate investment—short-term rentals to boutique hotels—can provide both freedom and challenge. Whether you’re a couple in business, a real estate investor, or simply navigating the tension between personal growth and shared goals, this episode offers grounded wisdom and real stories from the trenches.
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
From the Silos to Hotel 1928: How Magnolia’s Real Estate Vision is Restoring Glory to Communities
In this inspiring episode, Zeke sits down in Waco, Texas with Dale Pahmiyer, VP of Magnolia Realty and a pivotal figure behind the scenes of Fixer Upper. From his early friendship with Joanna Gaines to overseeing Magnolia’s design and construction teams, Dale shares his personal journey into real estate and hospitality—and how the team’s vision has always centered on makingspace for meaningful moments.
The conversation dives into Magnolia’s real estate culture, the transformation of downtown Waco, the heart behind projects like Hotel 1928, and Magnolia’s commitment to client care, hospitality, and intentional growth. Dale also opens up about a powerful project that provided an accessible home for a family with two disabled children—highlighting how thoughtful design can be life-changing.
Whether you're passionate about real estate, hospitality, or human-centered design, this episode offers insight into what makes Magnolia’s brand so trusted and beloved.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How Dale became involved with Magnolia and Fixer Upper
The strategy behind transforming downtown Waco
Magnolia’s vision: making space for meaningful moments
Creating boutique hospitality experiences with heart
How Magnolia Realty cultivates values-based real estate agents
What makes a “Fixer Upper” property work—and how Magnolia evaluates them
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
How Mike Demson Builds High-Impact Hospitality Projects
In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Mike Demson—a growth marketer turned real estate developer and boutique hotel operator. Mike’s unique journey began as one of the early employees at Airbnb, where he led global growth initiatives during the company’s breakout years. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from those formative Airbnb days, including the relentless focus on guest experience that shaped his approach to hospitality.
Today, Mike is at the forefront of boutique hotel development with standout projects like The Stone House in Sonoma and 400 Bay Street in San Francisco. He dives into the nuts and bolts of adaptive reuse, value-add renovations, navigating entitlements, and building legacy hospitality assets. From $1 million gut renovations to creative ground-up builds, Mike offers practical lessons on underwriting, construction strategy, management efficiencies, and the art of blending tech, real estate, and hospitality.
Whether you’re a developer, investor, or hospitality enthusiast, this episode is packed with actionable insights on scaling hospitality projects in high-barrier markets like California.
Highlights:
Early Airbnb growth stories and guest experience lessons
Deep dive into renovating a 100-year-old Stone House in Sonoma
Cost breakdowns: budgeting for boutique hotels and short-term rentals
How to unlock value through entitlements and zoning strategies
Balancing lifestyle assets with profitability
Partnership tips for architects, GCs, and management companies
Market outlook for building hospitality in 2025 and beyond
🎧 Tune in to hear why now might be one of the best times to build hospitality projects despite market headwinds.
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
The Hidden Power of Revenue Management in Short-Term Rentals Eric D. Moeller
In this episode, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Eric Moeller, an 18-year real estate veteran turned hospitality innovator and founder of FreeWyld. Eric shares his remarkable journey from flipping houses in New Jersey to building a nature-focused hospitality brand redefining short-term rentals and boutique stays.
Eric talks candidly about the inspiration behind FreeWyld—from a transformative hiking trip in Utah to the creation of “Wild Mode,” a unique guest experience that helps travelers unplug from their devices and reconnect with nature. He discusses how FreeWild cabins integrate intentional design, reclaimed materials, and tactile experiences that encourage presence and restoration.
Eric also unpacks the importance of revenue management and how FreeWild Foundry helps operators optimize pricing strategies to outperform their markets. From brand storytelling and influencer marketing to scaling direct bookings and creating unforgettable guest touchpoints, Eric offers actionable insights for anyone in hospitality or short-term rentals.
Key Topics Covered:
Eric’s journey from carpenter to hospitality entrepreneur
The early days of Airbnb arbitrage and property management
How FreeWild was born to help guests disconnect through “Wild Mode”
Designing spaces with purpose: tactile materials, record players, and analog experiences
The four non-negotiables that drive FreeWild’s success
Building revenue management systems that increase profitability
Influencer marketing strategies that work (and which ones don’t)
The future of FreeWild: expansion, more cabins, and a growing service brand
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
The Mindset Shift That Builds Trustworthy Teams in Hospitality with Tiffani Packer
In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Show, Zeke sits down with restaurateur and community builder Tiffani Packer, the energetic force behind several beloved concepts across Evergreen, Morrison, and Tampa. Tiffani shares the deeply personal story of how she and her husband Rand built a hospitality group while raising four kids, staying grounded in their core value of “family first.” She opens up about how they built teams that operate with autonomy, why each restaurant carries its own soul, and how they create experiences that feel intentional, warm, and elevated. From the challenges of entrepreneurship to the joy of watching their children grow into leadership roles, Tiffani offers a rare look at what it truly takes to build a hospitality business that thrives without burning out the people behind it.
In this episode, you'll learn:
How Tiffani and Rand built a hospitality group across multiple cities without losing balance at home
Why their core value of “family first” shapes every business decision
The story behind their children becoming entrepreneurs and leaders in the business
How they create strong, autonomous teams that run restaurants with excellence
Why they choose unique restaurant concepts instead of duplicating a single model
The small design details and operational decisions that shape unforgettable guest experiences
What it takes to stay resilient in tough seasons of business and parenting
How couples can successfully navigate entrepreneurship together
Why leaders must model enthusiasm and authenticity for their teams
What “radical hospitality” means to Tiffani and how she brings it to life daily
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
Kai Andrew on Land Hacking, Unique Stays, and the Real ROI of Short-Term Rentals
In this episode of The Radical Hospitality Show, host Zeke Freeman sits down with real estate investor, developer, and unconventional short-term rental expert Kai Andrew. Known for his deep-dive content on YouTube and Instagram, Kai shares how he transitioned from traditional rentals to pioneering some of the most unique and high-performing short-term rental properties on the market—from shipping containers and domes to landscape hotels and RV pads.
Kai walks us through his first "land hack" project, how he finances builds with creative strategies like HELOCs and refinancing, and why understanding your demographic is more valuable than blindly chasing turnkey properties. This episode is packed with tactical insights on development strategy, burn rate budgeting, design ROI, and how to scale at your own pace—whether you're a fast mover or a slow-and-steady type.
You’ll learn:
Why building for a targeted guest experience beats going “turnkey”
The real difference between long-term vs. short-term rental ROI
How Kai evaluates project payback periods and breakeven margins
What investors need to consider for profitable land-based STRs
Why trades knowledge and being hands-on still matters in 2025
How to make small design moves that drive BIG revenue returns
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced STR developer, Kai’s practical advice will challenge the way you think about hospitality, real estate investing, and building long-term wealth with intentionality.
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
In this episode of Radical Hospitality, Zeke Freeman sits down with Michael Sjogren—CPA-turned-hospitality entrepreneur, founder of Short-Term Rental Secrets, and co-founder of STR WealthCon, the world’s largest host-driven short-term rental conference. Michael shares his powerful origin story—from navigating his son’s rare health condition to leaving corporate life and building a real estate empire with 90+ properties and boutique hotels.
But this episode isn’t just about real estate—it’s about optimization. Michael breaks down his signature approach to building systems that let you stop trading time for money, avoid burnout, and play the game at the CEO level. Whether you're just starting or scaling fast, this conversation is filled with game-changing advice on co-hosting, RevPAR, investor relations, boutique hotel strategy, and how to build wealth through strategic hospitality.
Key Topics Covered:
Michael’s personal journey from CPA to STR mogul
How a health crisis became the catalyst for freedom
The CASPER framework for building scalable STR businesses
Why most people create another job (and how to avoid it)
RevPAR over ADR: how real pros optimize revenue
The shift from short-term rentals to boutique hotels
How to think like an asset manager, not a property manager
The power of mastermind rooms and leveling up your network
STR WealthCon 2025: what’s new and what to expect
Notable Quotes:
“There are three ways to play this game: the player, the coach, or the owner. The goal is to become the owner—and optimize your time, your team, and your freedom.”
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
Inside Azul Fuego: How a Family Rebuilt a Restaurant—and a Dream
Today, we’re coming to you straight from Azul Fuego with the incredible family behind its transformation—Levy, Ligmar, and Arturo.
In this episode, they open up about how they turned a longtime neighborhood restaurant into a vibrant, welcoming new space. You'll hear the full story of Azul Fuego’s rebirth: from buying the business back in 2006, to rolling up their sleeves for a full renovation, and building a restaurant that feels like home for the community.
We dive into:
The family’s deep roots in the restaurant industry
Why quality ingredients and genuine hospitality matter more than anything
How they curated a standout tequila selection without overwhelming guests
The unexpected hurdles (and surprises) during the renovation
What they learned about permits, planning, and patience
Their advice for anyone dreaming of opening or renovating a restaurant
Plus, they share their favorite dishes and the parts of the new space they’re most proud of—from the lively bar to the clean, inviting atmosphere.
Whether you're a foodie, an entrepreneur, or someone who loves hearing about passion projects coming to life, this episode will inspire you.
Grab the free Radical Hospitality Starter Kit → root-ad.com/starter
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
Brad Blazar Reveals the One Thing Investors Really Want—That Nobody Talks About
In this episode of the Radical Hospitality podcast, host Zeke interviews capital raising expert Brad Blazar. They discuss Brad's journey from aspiring architect to successful entrepreneur and capital raiser, exploring the intricacies of building relationships with investors, effective communication strategies, and the importance of understanding regulations in capital raising.
Brad shares insights on how to navigate the investment landscape, the significance of collaboration in real estate, and best practices for managing investor relations and capital. The conversation emphasizes the transformative potential of real estate investment and the importance of education and networking in achieving success.
00:00 Introduction to Capital Raising and Brad Blazar 05:45 Brad's Journey into Capital Raising 11:57 The Blueprint for Successful Capital Raising 18:06 Building Investor Relationships 24:03 Effective Communication with Investors 29:47 Pitch Deck Essentials for Capital Raising 33:01 Crafting the Perfect Pitch Deck 35:07 Understanding Subscription Agreements and PPMs 36:31 The Importance of Disclosure in Securities 41:39 Navigating Regulation D: 506B vs 506C 46:45 Benefits of Investing in Real Estate vs Stocks 55:08 Effective Capital Management and Investor Relations 59:25 The Power of Other People's Money (OPM)
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
Why Emotional Design Matters More Than Ever in Modern Architecture with Adrian Ramsay
In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, host Zeke Freeman interviews Adrian Ramsay, a visionary designer and founder of AR Design House. Adrian shares his unique journey from a swimwear designer to an award-winning architect, emphasizing the role of creativity, ADHD, and dyslexia in shaping his career. The conversation explores the importance of collaboration, community, and the power of focusing on one's strengths while navigating challenges in the design industry.
In this conversation, Adrian and Zeke explore the intricacies of architectural design, emphasizing the importance of editing in the design process, learning from industry giants, and the significance of working with great clients. Adrian shares insights from his podcast experiences, highlighting the value of design magic and land whispering, which focuses on understanding the relationship between a building and its environment.
The discussion also touches on finding and filtering clients, the role of word-of-mouth referrals, and the creative processes that lead to successful architectural projects.
Grab the free Radical Hospitality Starter Kit → root-ad.com/starter
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
How Adventure Built a Hotel: Bobby Mikulas on Purposeful Hospitality
In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Show, host Zeke Freeman interviews Bobby Mikulas, co-founder of Kinship Landing, a boutique hotel in Colorado Springs.
Bobby shares his journey from a non-hospitality background to creating a community-centric hotel that emphasizes adventure and local experiences. The conversation delves into the importance of core values in building a strong team and navigating the challenges of starting a new hospitality venture, including the construction process and lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, Bobby from Kinship Landing shares insights on navigating the complexities of construction costs, hotel operations, and future visions for community engagement.
He discusses the importance of budgeting, contractor relationships, and the challenges faced during hotel development. Bobby emphasizes the significance of culture in hotel management and the need for strategic partnerships. He also outlines his vision for expanding Kinship Landing and engaging with local communities through various initiatives.
03:55 Building a Community-Centric Boutique Hotel
09:33 Core Values and Team Formation
15:38 From Concept to Construction
20:14 Navigating Construction Challenges
25:58 Navigating Construction Bids and Budgeting
26:36 Dealing with Budget Overruns and Bank Issues
28:57 Strategies for Contractor Agreements
32:19 Incentivizing Contractors for Better Results
33:07 Transitioning to Hotel Operations
34:23 DIY vs. Professional Hotel Management
36:18 Key Roles in Hospitality Management
41:00 Balancing Unique Experiences with Professional Management
43:29 Future Plans and Vision for Kinship Landing
45:51 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement
Grab the free Radical Hospitality Starter Kit → root-ad.com/starter
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
Discover A Blueprint For Scaling From Side Hustle To A Thriving 10+ Hotel Portfolio with Neil Shah
In this episode of The Radical Hospitality Show, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Neil Shah, founder of Inntech Management and owner/operator of 13 hotels, including six in Sedona, Arizona. Neil shares his inspiring journey from immigrant electrical engineer to hospitality entrepreneur. He reveals how he got his start with just $20,000 saved from a side hustle building websites, and how that turned into a growing portfolio of boutique hotels.
Neil breaks down his investment strategy, partnership dynamics, operations philosophy, and what it really takes to succeed in the boutique hotel space—especially when transitioning from short-term rentals. This episode is packed with real-life lessons, tactical advice, and behind-the-scenes stories that are especially helpful for aspiring hoteliers, STR operators, and real estate entrepreneurs.
Key Topics Discussed:
Neil’s journey from India to owning 13 hotels in Arizona
How a side hustle funded his first hotel investment
The power of mentorship and long-term partnerships
What it takes to transition from STR to hotel ownership
Operational efficiencies, financing strategies, and building teams
Technology tools for hotel operations (Cloudbeds, DDL, Whistle)
Workforce housing challenges and solutions in high-cost areas
Advice for structuring GP/LP partnerships
What to consider before jumping into new hotel construction
How Neil turned around a 30% occupancy hotel into a thriving asset
02:15 Neil's Journey: From Electrical Engineer to Hotel Owner
03:04 First Steps in the Hotel Industry
04:09 The Big Realization: Loving the Hospitality Business
04:37 From College to Flagstaff: Building a Career
06:14 First Investment: The Best Western Deal
12:56 Scaling Up: The Tucson Property
17:24 Partnership Dynamics and Mentorship
21:44 Advice for Aspiring Hotel Entrepreneurs
27:00 Staffing Needs for Larger Properties
27:39 Transitioning from Airbnb to Boutique Hotels
28:13 Challenges in Hotel Management Systems
29:49 Common Mistakes by New Hoteliers
30:39 Defining Your Buy Box and Raising Capital
31:42 Current Portfolio and Management Strategies
34:23 Technology and Operations in Boutique Hotels
37:28 Dealing with Workforce Housing Challenges
38:54 Impact of Political Changes on Business
40:23 Advice for Limited and General Partners
43:41 Acquiring vs. New Constru
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Why Grit, Risk, and Vision Matter in Business and Climbing with Asa Firestone, CEO of A-Lodge
In this episode of The Radical Hospitality Show, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Asa Firestone—climber, adventurer, and CEO of A-Lodge—to unpack the wild journey from scaling granite walls in the Amazon to creating one of Colorado's most unique hospitality experiences.
Asa shares what it means to build a life around adventure, how near-death expeditions taught him tenacity, and the surprising lessons he carried from the big walls of El Capitan into building A-Lodge. Together, Zeke and Asa explore the parallels between entrepreneurship and exploration, the evolution of adventure hospitality, and why sometimes not knowing the full plan is a feature—not a bug.
Whether you’re a climber, a creative, or a business builder, this episode will challenge you to go all in—even when the summit seems far away.
What We Cover:
Growing up between D.C. and Colorado, and falling in love with the outdoors
Big wall climbing in Yosemite, Peru, and a wild National Geographic expedition to Venezuela
The uncomfortable lessons of solo climbing—and solo entrepreneurship
Building A-Lodge from scratch and reimagining what "adventure hospitality" means
Tips on seasonal hospitality, off-season strategy, and building for both climbers and families
How to commit to a path even if you don’t know the outcome
Quotes Worth Remembering:
“At a certain point, it’s easier to keep moving forward than to bail.” “If you're not growing, you're dying—and that applies to people just as much as business.” “Sometimes the climb you didn’t finish teaches you the most.”
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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The Growth Formula: How Architects Can Scale from $1M to $10M with Enoch Sears
Most architecture firms hit a glass ceiling at $1M—so how do you break past that and scale to $10M without burning out?
In this episode, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Enoch Sears, founder of Business of Architecture, to unpack the Smart Practice Method—a framework that helps architects transition from solopreneurs to firm owners with thriving, profitable businesses.
Enoch shares hard-won insights from his journey coaching architects on how to stop being overworked and underpaid, build a team, and implement scalable systems to achieve financial freedom. Whether you’re an architect, developer, or entrepreneur in the real estate and hospitality space, this episode is packed with actionable advice you don’t want to miss.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
The biggest mistakes architects make when trying to grow their firms
Why most firms stall at $1M and the mindset shift needed to break through
The Smart Practice Method—a 4-pillar framework for sustainable firm growth
How to position your firm for high-value projects and premium pricing
The power of delegation: hiring the right people vs. outsourcing efficiently
How to structure your fees to ensure profitability (hint: $200K should be your baseline)
Remote vs. in-house teams: which model is winning today?
How Enoch is building a retreat center in Costa Rica (and what he's learning from it)
02:22 Challenges in Starting an Architecture Firm 09:27 The Smart Practice Method 13:48 Scaling an Architecture Business 28:02 Remote vs. In-House Teams 29:57 The Red Hotel Project: From Architecture Office to Boutique Hotel 30:49 Building a Remote and Integrated Team 31:39 Effective Client Engagement Strategies 33:14 Creating Educational Content and Podcasting 36:34 The Business of Architecture: Consulting, Coaching, and Training 41:18 Delegation Challenges and Overcoming Subconscious Programming 46:45 Spiritual Growth and Internal Work 50:46 Upcoming Projects and Future Plans 53:43 Conclusion and Contact Information
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Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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The Blueprint for Building Wealth Through Short-Term Rentals with Emanuele Pani
In this episode of Radical Hospitality, host Zeke converses with Emanuele Pani, a seasoned real estate expert and CEO of Dulce Vita Vacation Rentals. Emanuele shares his journey from Sardinia, Italy to the U.S. and his success in building a diverse real estate portfolio and managing Airbnb properties. He delves into the essence of creating a clear mental picture, inspired by Gaudi's architectural visions, to achieve personal and professional goals. Emanuel also touches on the importance of mindset, personal development, and surrounding oneself with the right people to foster growth. The discussion addresses practical advice for those looking to break into the short-term rental market and create their own version of La Dulce Vita.
00:16 Emanuel's Journey and Achievements 01:32 Exploring Mediterranean Culture 05:18 Mindset and Personal Development 08:39 The Immigrant Experience and American Dream 13:27 Building a Supportive Community 17:31 Mentorship and Continuous Learning 21:06 The Importance of Deep Knowledge 21:58 Understanding the Concept of 'I Am' 27:25 The Power of Visualization 28:49 Creating a Clear Mental Picture 31:06 Bringing Your Vision to Life 39:00 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
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Hospitality as a Mindset in Design and Development with Devon Tilly
In this special crossover episode, Zeke joins Devon Tilly on The Art of Construction to explore how hospitality, design, development, and entrepreneurship intertwine to shape memorable places. Zeke shares his journey from growing up on job sites in East Texas to building Root Architecture and Development, and why hospitality is a mindset that influences every project and relationship. They discuss boutique hotels, entitlement challenges, feasibility studies, avoiding costly build mistakes, and the power of real human connection in a digital world. You’ll also hear behind-the-scenes stories about Zeke’s mountain treehouse stay, the upcoming boutique hotel in downtown Morrison near Red Rocks, and why long-term thinking and genuine relationships always win.
Things You’ll Learn in This Episode
Why hospitality is a mindset, not a project type
How childhood jobsite experiences shaped Zeke’s path
What “radical hospitality” looks like in design and development
Behind the scenes of the treehouse stay built during COVID
The multi‑year journey of entitling a boutique hotel near Red Rocks
How to avoid common and costly building mistakes
Why real relationships outperform digital networking
The value of feasibility studies and early design clarity
How entrepreneurs can collaborate to create better guest experiences
How architects can use AI responsibly as a tool, not a replacement
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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He Left Medicine to Build a $187M Hotel Empire—Here’s How! - Sujay Mehta Interview
In this episode of Radical Hospitality, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Sujay Mehta, the entrepreneur behind Bloom Ventures, a company managing over $187 million in hotel assets. Sujay’s journey is anything but ordinary—starting in medical research and addiction rehab before pivoting into boutique hotels and real estate development. He shares how a life-changing spiritual retreat influenced his business approach, why boutique hotels are better than multifamily investments, and the unexpected challenges of hotel development. Tune in to hear insider tips on raising capital, working with hotel brands, and managing a thriving hospitality business while balancing family life.
00:00 – Welcome to Radical Hospitality: Meet Sujay 01:07 – Sujay’s Wildly Diverse Background (Medical, Rehab, Real Estate) 04:45 – A Life-Changing Spiritual Retreat That Changed Everything 10:08 – Why Boutique Hotels Over Multifamily Investments? 16:45 – The Challenges of Running a Hotel vs. Other Real Estate 22:32 – Building a $7M Hotel: Costs, Financing, and Construction 34:15 – The Truth About Hotel Franchise Fees (And How They Get You!) 42:10 – The Rise of Container Hotels: Inside His Next Big Project 51:03 – How To Invest in Hotels & Get Involved with Sujay 56:45 – Where To Follow Sujay & Closing Thoughts
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Custom Homes & ADUs: What’s Next for Denver Real Estate with Jay Feaster of Feaster Realty
In this episode, we sit down with Jay Feaster of Feaster Realty to discuss Denver’s rapidly changing real estate market, the evolution of infill developments, and what’s next for custom home building. From the wild price jumps over the past decade to new trends like ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) and zoning changes, Jay shares his insider knowledge on what drives real estate growth.
We also break down the true costs of building a home, how financing and interest rates are shifting the market, and where the next big real estate opportunities are in Denver. Whether you’re an investor, homebuyer, or just curious about the industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights on the past, present, and future of Denver’s housing market.
00:00 – Introduction & Guest Introduction 02:30 – How Jay Feaster Got Started in Real Estate 08:00 – The Crazy Rise in Denver Home Prices 14:30 – The Role of Investors in Development 21:00 – Why Basements Are Becoming a Thing of the Past 26:00 – The ADU Trend & What It Means for Homeowners 34:00 – Custom Homes vs. Buying Existing Homes 41:00 – Where Are the Next Real Estate Opportunities in Denver? 48:00 – Closing Thoughts & Future Episodes
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Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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Building a 42-story, $250M Skyscraper in Minneapolis: Interview with Minnesota's Top Trained Architect-Turned-Developer - Carl Runck
In this episode of Radical Hospitality, host Zeke Freeman sits down with visionary real estate developer Carl Runck, founder of Monarch Development Partners. Carl shares his journey from architecture to development, his role in reshaping Minneapolis’ skyline, and the creative financing and city partnerships that make ambitious projects possible. From luxury high-rises to community-focused developments, Carl breaks down what it takes to build transformative projects and the lessons he’s learned along the way. If you’re interested in real estate, urban development, or just love hearing how cities evolve, this is a must-listen!
00:00 - Introduction to Carl Runk 02:00 - From Architect to Developer: The Big Shift 08:30 - How to Sell Luxury Condos Before Construction Begins 14:45 - The Power of Public-Private Partnerships in Real Estate 21:10 - Inside the $40M High-Rise That Transformed Minneapolis 30:20 - The Secret to Building the Right Team for Major Projects 38:15 - Navigating Market Risks & Unpredictable Challenges 45:00 - Future of Development: What’s Next for Carl Runk?
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Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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The #1 Mistake CEOs Make—And How to Fix It! - Steve Van Diest
Join Zeke Freeman as he sits down with Steve Van Diest, an executive coach and business leader with an extraordinary journey through nonprofit leadership, international living, and entrepreneurial success. From running businesses in the sleep industry to guiding CEOs toward wholeness, Steve shares raw and inspiring insights about faith, community, and overcoming personal and professional challenges. Discover how radical hospitality and vulnerability can transform both business and life.
Connect with Steve at: https://go.acumenimpact.com/steve-van-diest
00:00 - Introduction & Guest Overview 00:27 - Steve’s Journey: From Nonprofits to Business Leadership 01:31 - Stories from the Camino de Santiago 03:45 - Couples' Retreats & Strengthening Marriages 08:06 - Community & Leadership in Business 13:17 - Breaking Down Imposter Syndrome 22:50 - Radical Hospitality Defined 30:53 - Balancing Faith, Life, and Business 34:06 - Key Challenges for Entrepreneurs in 2025 35:23 - Final Thoughts: Love, Serve, Grow
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Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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From $250K in Tech to $6.5M in Real Estate: Gideon Spencer’s Game-Changing Blueprint
In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, Zeke Freeman sits down with Gideon Spencer, a tech-turned-real-estate entrepreneur who’s reshaping the boutique hotel industry. With $6.5 million in assets acquired through innovative financing strategies like seller financing and subject-to deals, Gideon shares his unique journey, the power of assembling rockstar teams, and actionable insights for anyone looking to break into real estate or hospitality. From scaling quickly to the importance of creating unforgettable guest experiences, this episode is packed with value.
Follow Gideon at @gideonspencer_ on Instagram!
00:00 - Introduction 00:43 - Gideon’s Journey 04:12 - First Steps in Real Estate 09:10 - Creative Financing Explained 15:45 - Building Rockstar Teams 20:20 - What Makes a Successful Deal 32:07 - Creating Unique Guest Experiences 42:00 - What’s Next for Gideon
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Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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Discover the power of equity and how to grow your net worth through smart real estate investments. Zeke, from Radical Hospitality, breaks down the key concepts of building equity, managing assets, and understanding liabilities to create long-term wealth. Learn how to store your equity in containers that grow, avoid common financial pitfalls, and make your first home the foundation of your financial success.
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Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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How We Built $1 Million in Equity from a $7,000 Investment on Our Primary Residence [Actual Numbers]
In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, host Zeke Freeman takes you through his family's decade-long journey to transform a modest foreclosure into a thriving real estate portfolio. Learn how a $7,000 initial investment and a lot of hard work turned into $1 million in equity and a sustainable legacy. Zeke shares practical insights, real numbers, and the challenges of building generational wealth in the mountains. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or dreaming of building a legacy, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable tips.
00:00 - Introduction 00:23 - Starting the Journey 00:51 - The Everyday Millionaire Inspiration 01:12 - Building a Family Legacy 03:35 - The Treehouse Project 07:00 - Lessons Learned and Real Numbers 09:55 - From Dream to Reality 11:11 - Closing Thoughts
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Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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Turning a 1,000 Year Old Castle into a Profitable Hotel: Michael Stohler's Journey from Pilot to Investor
In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Show, host Zeke Freeman dives deep into the fascinating journey of Michael Stohler, co-founder of Gateway Private Equity Group. From his beginnings as a Navy veteran and commercial airline pilot to building a thriving career in real estate and hospitality, Mike shares his invaluable lessons learned along the way. Discover how he transitioned from multifamily real estate to high-return hotel investments, the secrets to structuring successful deals, and his latest boutique hotel project in Spain. Packed with tips, inspiration, and actionable advice for aspiring investors, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in real estate and hospitality.
00:00 - Introduction to Radical Hospitality 00:07 - Meet Mike Stoler: From Pilot to Real Estate 00:23 - Transitioning to Hospitality: Why Hotels? 01:10 - Key Lessons from Real Estate Failures 02:30 - Strategies for Scaling a Real Estate Portfolio 08:00 - The Unique Challenges of Hotel Investments 20:00 - Spain Boutique Hotel Project: Vision & Strategy 35:00 - Advice for Aspiring Real Estate Investors
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Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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Building Space Hotels: Unique Challenges, Architecture, and Scaling the Business with Tim Alatorre
Explore the incredible world of space habitation design with Tim Alatorre, CEO of Above Space Development Corporation. In this episode, we dive into the vision of building the first luxury space hotel, the technological innovations making space accessible, and how Tim is turning futuristic ideas into tangible realities. From terrestrial architecture to pioneering in orbit, this conversation will leave you inspired about the future of space exploration and hospitality.
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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Inside a $29 Million Treehouse Resort Business: Funding, Management, and Bookings (with Ben Wolff)
In today's episode, I sat down with Ben Wolff, visionary co-founder of Onera and OAC, who has redefined upscale hospitality with unique stays and innovative landscape hotels. Starting in short-term rentals, Ben scaled to managing 200 units before transitioning into groundbreaking projects like Onera Fredericksburg and Wimberley.
We explore:
How Ben leveraged lease arbitrage and short-term rentals to build cash flow.
The development process behind Onera’s luxury landscape hotels.
Challenges with prefabrication, construction, and scaling operations.
Why social media marketing is key to driving direct bookings and increasing ADR.
Tips for entrepreneurs on raising capital, building a team, and crafting unique guest experiences.
0:00 Introduction 5:01 The Beginnings: From Short-Term Rentals to Unique Hotels 20:01 Building Onera: Challenges and Successes 35:01 Scaling and Innovations in Hospitality 50:01 Future Vision and Advice
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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From Raw Land to Micro Resorts with Janice Stitzer
In this episode of The Radical Hospitality Show, Zeke Freeman walks the property with developer and builder Janice Stitzer, co-founder of Uncommon Developer, as she breaks down the real story behind building a seven-unit micro resort in Salida, Colorado. From zoning surprises and water rights to SIP panel construction and infrastructure costs, Janice pulls back the curtain on what most people never see when they dream about building cabins in the mountains.
This is not just a conversation about design. It is about risk, resilience, operations, and long-term vision. Janice shares the lessons she learned navigating commercial codes, septic systems, excavation overruns, remote management, and guest experience strategy. She also gives us a look at her next project, a 40-acre regenerative ranch and event-driven hospitality concept built inside an Opportunity Zone. If you have ever dreamed about building your own A-frame, micro resort, or guest ranch, this episode is a masterclass in what it really takes.
In this episode:
What it actually costs to build a micro resort from the ground up
How zoning and commercial codes can reshape your entire design
Why infrastructure is often the biggest hidden expense
The pros and cons of SIP panel construction in mountain towns
How to think through water rights, augmentation, and septic planning in Colorado
Why Jan chose P-TAC units over mini splits
The importance of speed to dry-in during winter builds
How to structure ADR targets during ramp-up season
The realities of self-managing multiple short-term rentals
Systems Jan uses for automation, access control, and remote operations
Lessons learned from guest experience mistakes and tech stack gaps
How to think about wellness amenities like private saunas and cold plunges
The strategic value of Opportunity Zones for long-term development
Why regenerative ranching is part of Janice’s long-term hospitality vision
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Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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From Aviation to Real Estate Mogul: Rich Somers's Story into Boutique Hotels
In today's episode, I sat down with Rich Sommers, founder of Sommers Capital and host of The Sommers Report podcast. Rich shares his incredible journey from being an air traffic controller to becoming a leading figure in boutique hotel investments. Along the way, he highlights the power of quick decision-making, building complementary partnerships, and creating active income streams for long-term wealth.
This episode is packed with actionable advice for entrepreneurs, real estate investors, and anyone looking to capitalize on opportunities in 2025. Rich also dives into how mentorship and community have played pivotal roles in his success, and why he believes the bar has never been lower for those ready to take action.
To learn more about Rich's story, you can find him on social @rich_somers or his website: https://somerscapital.com/.
00:00:00 - 00:00:10 Introduction: Radical Hospitality Meets Real Estate
00:00:11 - 00:12:00 The Power of Speed and Decision-Making in Business
00:12:01 - 00:20:00 From Air Traffic Control to Real Estate Mogul
00:20:01 - 00:26:00 Mastering Partnerships, Mentorship, and Active Income
00:26:01 - End 2025 Vision: Opportunities in Real Estate and Entrepreneurship
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Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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Building a $400M Hostel Empire: From Airbnb to Hawaiian Hostels
After a chance encounter with a real estate agent, Michael Russell and Nathan St Cyr run two of the highest ranked hostels on the Hawaiian islands. After owning multiple Air BNB short-term rentals, they decided to transition into the big leagues - building out a team and infrastructure to scale their currently $30M portfolio in Hawaii a $400M hostel empire across the US.
00:00:00:00 - Welcome and Introduction Nathan and Michael's journey from real estate investors to hostel operators. The unique $30 million portfolio they’ve built and their ambitious goal to grow a $400 million hospitality company.
00:00:55:14 - Hostel Transformation – $800K to $8M How they turned an $800K hostel purchase into an $8M valuation through strategic planning during the COVID-19 downturn and leveraging timing and opportunities.
00:06:06:01 - Building the Perfect Partnership Insights into the complementary roles within their partnership. Nathan’s visionary leadership paired with Michael’s operational expertise, and how that synergy helps them scale effectively.
00:39:36:14 - Designing Hostels for Community and Experience How intentional design fosters guest interaction and enhances the hostel experience, with examples like smaller kitchens and centralized common areas to encourage socialization.
00:47:00:08 - Scaling Hospitality with Passion and Strategy Their reflections on the growing demand for community-driven experiences, lessons from the unique stays event, and the future of experiential lodging.
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Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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From Attorney to Ski Resort STR's to Historic Boutique Hotel Developer: Devin Visciano's Story
Today I sat down with Devin Visciano to discuss his background as an attorney, his surprising transition into developing luxury rental homes near ski resorts, to his most recent project building a boutique hotel in Castle Rock, Colorado. He's a fascinating guest to talk to and putting a lot of hard work into his current project - navigating entitlements, getting permission from the city, finding a good lender, and the building process.
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Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
Crafting Stories in Hospitality: Angela Biddle's Design Journey
In this episode of Radical Hospitality, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Angela Biddle, Principal at FK Australia, and a leader in hospitality and interior design. With over 20 years of experience working on transformative hotel projects across the globe, Angela brings invaluable insights into how storytelling, sustainability, and innovation drive the future of hospitality.
From revamping heritage properties like the Sofitel in Sydney to adapting commercial spaces for modern uses, Angela shares the strategies behind creating spaces that captivate guests, engage local communities, and honor the soul of a property. Discover how FK tackles the challenges of adaptive reuse, curates unforgettable guest experiences, and balances aesthetics with operational efficiency.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The Power of Storytelling in Design: How understanding the soul of a property transforms guest experiences.
Reviving Heritage Properties: Behind-the-scenes insights into restoring Sydney's first international luxury hotel.
Food & Beverage Innovation: Why activating hotel spaces with compelling dining options matters.
Sustainability Challenges: Exploring adaptive reuse, embodied carbon, and legislation driving the future of hotel design.
Hospitality Meets Community: How Angela and her team make hotels resonate with locals and visitors alike.
Team Building in Design: Angela’s approach to fostering creativity and collaboration within a world-class firm.
Key Highlights:
The art of balancing nostalgia with modern luxury in hotel refurbishments.
Strategies for creating vibrant public spaces that attract local guests.
Insights into the rising trend of self-check-in and flexible reception concepts.
Navigating challenges of adaptive reuse in aging office and hotel buildings.
How sustainability influences materials, design choices, and project feasibility.
About Our Guest: Angela Biddle is a Principal at FK Australia, specializing in hospitality and interior design. She has worked on major projects worldwide, including boutique hotels, branded residences, and mixed-use developments. With her visionary approach, Angela is reshaping the hospitality industry, one story-driven project at a time.
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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In this episode, I sat down with Mike and Anne Howard, the adventurous couple behind HoneyTrek. Known as "two Americans who realized life is short, the world is big, and the value of travel too great to wait another day," they sold everything 12+ years ago and have since journeyed across 80 countries, immersing themselves in diverse cultures and landscapes around the globe.
Mike and Anne are travel experts with a unique specialty in glamping, and they've chronicled their experiences on www.honeytrek.com, captivating an audience of over 400,000 followers. Beyond online content, they’re also authors of National Geographic’s bestselling book Ultimate Journeys for Two and Comfortably Wild, North America’s first travel guide focused on glamping. Their work has earned them accolades, including a Lowell Thomas Journalism Award and the 2024 Pioneer Award from the American Glamping Association.
The Howards are more than just storytellers—they’re industry pioneers. From consulting with glamping businesses to providing their expertise as photographers and writers, they’ve elevated countless glamping projects. Whether you’re dreaming of an epic adventure or looking for travel inspiration, Mike and Anne’s insights are bound to spark your wanderlust. Visit honeytrek.com or follow them at @honeytrek on all major platforms.
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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Single-Unit Airbnb's Are Failing - Do THIS Instead To Make Money in Real Estate Investing
I sat down with Blake Dailey, a dynamic figure in the boutique hospitality industry who transitioned from an Air Force officer to a powerhouse in short-term rentals and boutique hotel development. In this episode, Blake shares his journey from his first property investment to building a thriving portfolio of unique hotels, all while navigating the new responsibilities of fatherhood. We dive into the strategies he uses to raise capital, manage renovations, and build high-performing teams. If you're interested in scaling your own real estate ventures or getting into the boutique hotel business, this episode is packed with valuable insights on everything from property management to creating an unforgettable guest experience. Join us to learn how Blake approaches growth, legacy, and the joy of creating spaces that bring people together.
00:00:00 - Life Lessons from Playing Football at the Air Force Academy 00:09:45 - First Hires When Building Your Team 00:23:18 - Should Property Management Be In-House? 00:34:17 - How to Fund Fast Deals
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Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
Don't Hire an Architect Unless You Can Answer THIS Question - Peter Twohy Interview
I sat down to interview Peter Towhy to hear his philosophy in working with clients, the role of the architect in the design process, and how he's using VR to helps clients visualize their final projects.
Peter Twohy, Principal of 2e Architects, is an award-winning residential architect who specializes in designing custom homes. Peter’s home designs focus on elevating the lifestyle and enjoyment his clients have in their home from traditional or modern to the custom aesthetic his clients seek. He believes that the most beautiful home in the world is the one custom designed for you. Each luxury home he designs is unique and tailored to a client’s sensibilities.
Grab the free Radical Hospitality Starter Kit → root-ad.com/starter
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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Using Behavioral Science in Hospitality Design with Callie van der Merwe
I'm honored to have Callie Van Der Merwe join me on today's podcast to talk about how his firm uses humans hard-wired psychology to design the most efficient and effective spaces - what color temperature should lighting be, how heavy should chairs be, what angle should walls be. His firm always begins their design process by deeply understanding who is going to use the space, and then begin their process.
You can learn more about Callie Van Der Merwe at his firm's website: https://www.cooop.co/
Grab the free Radical Hospitality Starter Kit → root-ad.com/starter
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
5 Creative Strategies for Making Money in Short Term Rentals in 2024
The 2010's were the Golden Era of STR's and it was easy to make money, but with rising interests rates, new regulations, and competition, making money with STRs is a little harder. Today, I want to present to you five unique strategies and ways to make money in this ever-changing short-term rental market.
00:00 - How I Got Started in Real Estate 05:10 - Short-Term Rental Boom of the 2010's 09:00 - Alternatives to Short-Term Rentals 13:42 - Bed and Breakfasts 15:09 - House Hacks and ADU's 16:40 - Glampgrounds, Treehouses, RV's, etc. 21:09 - Boutique Hotels 24:00 - The Life Real Estate Provides You
Grab the free Radical Hospitality Starter Kit → root-ad.com/starter
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
Business & Life Lessons from 500 MILES of Hiking (Colorado Trail)
Luke Pesce, a local 16 year old adventurer, has accomplished a lot in life. Today, I had the honor of chatting with him about how his journey on the Colorado Trail - an 486 mile trail from Denver to Durango - and what we all can learn from it.
00:00:00 - Why Do The Colorado Trail 00:03:20 - Logistics of the Colorado Trail 00:07:38 - Business Lessons from 500 Miles of Hiking 00:12:25 - Spiritual/Life Lessons from the Colorado Trail 00:16:00 - Luke's Next Big Project
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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Design, Development, and Discipline: Zeke Freeman on Building to Scale
This repost episode features Zeke Freeman as a guest on the Build to Scale Podcast by Quinn V. Schilz, where he shares the pivotal moment that reshaped his career—being laid off in 2008 with a pregnant wife at home—and how that setback became the foundation for his entrepreneurial journey. From mastering architecture and learning sales to launching his own firm and stepping into real estate development, Zeke breaks down the real path to ownership, explaining why skill sets matter more than hype, why cash flow is king, and how young entrepreneurs can strategically move from earning income to building assets.
He unpacks practical real estate fundamentals like house hacking, leverage, appreciation, and liquidity, while also sharing how he built a high-performing remote team using systems, daily accountability huddles, and clear SOPs. Zeke also reveals how launching the Radical Hospitality podcast became a strategic growth engine for attracting clients, building trust, and positioning for future boutique hotel developments, making this episode a practical roadmap for anyone serious about building long-term wealth through intentional growth and ownership.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Why Zeke says failure in 2008 was the best thing that happened to his career
The difference between working for money and making money work for you
A step-by-step path for young entrepreneurs to buy their first property
Why learning a skill adjacent to real estate is a strategic advantage
How house hacking and ADUs can reduce risk while building equity
The truth about leverage, cash flow, and overextending in today’s market
The real benefits of real estate: mortgage paydown, tax advantages, and appreciation
How to structure daily team meetings with three simple questions
Why SOPs and systems are critical to scaling a business
How podcasting became a client acquisition and capital-raising strategy
Practical ways Zeke uses AI without losing human creativity
His 10-year vision for scaling boutique hotel developments
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
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Today, I sat down with Skyler Moore of Modus Real Estate who's launching Lost Fork - Colorado's newest clamping project just an hour from Denver. We talk his unlikely start in real estate, the challenges of finding and building his new project, and what the market looks like moving forward.
Skyler first obtained his real estate license in college while attending the University of Iowa for finance. He moved to Colorado in late 2008 to begin purchasing foreclosed properties. Since then, he has purchased, rehabbed and sold over 100 properties in the Denver market. He co-founded MODUS Real Estate to fill a need in the market for cutting edge marketing and high level customer service. In his free time, Skyler enjoys fly fishing, traveling, golf and spending time in the mountains.
00:00:00 - Getting Into Denver's Real Estate Market 00:04:33 - What is 'Vertical Integration' in Real Estate? 00:06:52 - The Start of Lost Fork Glamping Project 00:10:14 - Is It Better To Build New or Fix/Flip Hospitality Projects? 00:11:54 - Biggest Challenges In Hospitality 00:13:29 - How We Run 'Lost Fork' 00:18:45 - What's Next for Modus
Grab the free Radical Hospitality Starter Kit → root-ad.com/starter
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
The ONLY Way to Make Your Boutique Hotel Profitable
Today, I sit down with Shawn, a seasoned investor to, about the importance of creating unique experiences in the hospitality industry, providing exceptional and distinctive experiences, challenges and opportunities in scaling such projects, highlighting the need for strong fundamentals and effective management.
From reading real estate books at the public library to cashing his first wholesale check right out of college, Shawn has always been interested in finding the best opportunities in real estate. His desire to learn and achieve the best led him to seek great coaching from mentors and to be a good student. In his 22 years in the industry, Shawn has flipped homes, built a portfolio of long term rentals, attained land development deals, sold high-end luxury resort properties, and now leads the #1 short term rental education company and mastermind group in the world.
Shawn purchased his first vacation rental in 2006 and has not looked back since. The Vodyssey collective portfolio is currently over 1000 properties across the US and includes several international markets as well. He and his team analyze more than 100 properties in various markets across the US and around the world each month; while advising Vodyssey Empire Club mastermind members on each phase of short term rental success. Vodyssey’s goal is to create Lifestyle & Financial Freedom by assisting new and experienced vacation home investors master Acquisition, Management, & Marketing of “Lifestyle Assets.”
00:00 - Creating a Unique Experience 05:08 - Pros and Cons of Cluster Properties 11:28 - Them-ing Your Boutique Hotel 14:25 - What It Takes to Scale 17:44 - What Private Equity Looks For When Buying Your Project 23:54 - The ONLY Way to Overcome an Oversaturated Market 30:17 - Why You Should or Shouldn't Get Into This Space
Grab the free Radical Hospitality Starter Kit → root-ad.com/starter
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
Top Hotel Broker Shares SECRETS To Successfully Exiting Your Hospitality Project
Today, we're joined by Chris Kilcullen to talk about his story in the hospitality industry, capitalizing on experiential travel, and how you can beat the big-name hotel brands.
Christopher Kilcullen is an industry veteran with 30 years of experience in the hospitality business. Chris has spent time on both sides of the transaction, as SVP of Acquisitions for a REIT he completed over $160 million in transactions for its shareholders following a distinguished career as VP of Development for a major hospitality franchise company completing more than 250 transactions. Chris has built a trusted reputation by understanding the needs of his clients and looking for ways to move difficult transactions to a successful end for all parties involved.
When not working, Chris serves as Co-Founder of a non-profit food truck called Kitchen One for One, serving the homeless and impoverished in the Denver community. Mr Kilcullen is married to his amazing wife, Tyra of 25 years with two children and enjoy cooking with friends and all the joys of life in the Colorado Rockies.
00:00 - Intro 02:48 - Starting A Nightclub Out of College 7:01 - From Selling Suit to Selling Franchises 12:40 - The Rise and Franchises and Online Booking 17:24 - The Rise of Experiential Travel 23:30 - The SECRET To Beating the Big Name Brands 27:07 - Chris' Free Food Truck Serving the Homeless 34:04 - Excellence Will Always Succeed
Grab the free Radical Hospitality Starter Kit → root-ad.com/starter
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.
In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, Zeke Freeman sits down with Dustin Feider, founder of O2 Treehouse, to explore how elevated design, sustainability, and hospitality intersect—literally—in the trees. From geodesic spheres suspended 40+ feet in the air to modular treehouse villages designed for scalable hospitality, Dustin shares how his childhood inspiration evolved into a globally recognized design-build studio.
They unpack the engineering challenges of building on living, moving structures, the economics of unique stays, and how immersive, nature-forward hospitality can outperform traditional square-foot thinking. Whether you’re developing boutique hotels, glamping resorts, or experiential real estate, this conversation will expand how you think about space, experience, and return on investment.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How Dustin turned a furniture design background into a global treehouse brand
The engineering challenges of building on living trees and how O2 solves them
Why unique stays can outperform larger homes in ADR and ROI
What it costs to build elevated hospitality structures
The difference between suspended tree structures and ground-based glamping units
How experiential design drives demand in modern hospitality
Why smaller, one-of-a-kind builds can outperform traditional real estate metrics
The process behind designing, engineering, and budgeting custom tree projects
Where immersive, nature-driven hospitality is headed next
Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Follow, Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Your support helps us continue delivering conversations with industry leaders redefining hospitality.