Explore every episode of the podcast Pillow Talk Sessions
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Privacy, Safety & the Future of Rentals with Nils Mattisson (Minut) | 09 Apr 2026 | 00:36:31 | |
In this episode of Pillow Talk Sessions, Nils Mattisson, CEO & Co-Founder of Minut, explains how privacy-first technology is solving one of hospitality’s most complex challenges. Balancing guest privacy with host security. Minut developed a system that detects events such as noise, overcrowding, and smoking without recording or storing audio. This approach builds trust while enabling operators to maintain control over their assets. The conversation expands into broader industry shifts, including the convergence of short-term rentals, student housing, and senior living, all of which are adopting similar technologies and service expectations. At the same time, upcoming EU and UK regulations are expected to reshape supply, pricing, and operational strategies across the market. Key themes explored: How privacy-first monitoring builds trust between hosts and guests For hospitality and real estate leaders, this episode highlights a critical shift. The next generation of operations will be defined by how well technology balances privacy, safety, and efficiency. #HospitalityTech #PropTech #ShortStay #DigitalTransformation #GuestSafety #PillowTalkSessions Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Building Sustainable Hospitality with Marc Laros (The Usual Hotels) | 26 Mar 2026 | 00:33:39 | |
In this episode of Pillow Talk Sessions, Marc Laros, CTO of The Usual Hotels, explains how sustainability, technology, and guest experience can be designed as one integrated operating system. The Usual Hotels is building toward becoming Europe’s most sustainable hotel brand, targeting 20 hotels in five years. Rather than treating sustainability as a layer, the company embeds it into how hotels are built, operated, and measured. At the same time, a flexible, API-driven tech stack and growing use of AI are transforming operations. From frictionless check-in to automated backend workflows, technology is used to remove complexity and allow staff to focus on delivering meaningful guest experiences. The conversation explores how hospitality can evolve by aligning sustainability, automation, and human service into one coherent model. Key themes explored: Why sustainability must be embedded into operations For hospitality and technology leaders, this episode highlights a clear shift. The future of hospitality will not be defined by sustainability or technology alone, but by how effectively they are integrated. #SustainableHospitality #HotelTech #AIinHospitality #DigitalTransformation #GuestExperience #PillowTalkSessions Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Community, Affordability & Long-Term Value with Stephanie Smith (Muse) | 23 Oct 2025 | 00:40:10 | |
In this week’s Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski sit down with Stephanie Smith, Head of Residential at Muse, to unpack how thoughtful design, data, and collaboration are shaping the next era of residential living in the UK. 💡 Highlights include: Stephanie’s insights offer a refreshing, pragmatic view on how to create homes that genuinely support communities — not just markets. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Global Student Housing Trends with Joe Persechino (Yugo) | 09 Oct 2025 | 00:49:38 | |
In this week’s Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski sit down with Joe Persechino, COO of Yugo, to unpack the global growth trajectory of student accommodation and the strategies needed to meet demand. 💡 Highlights from the conversation: Joe explains why PBSA is no longer a niche “alternative” but a core asset class attracting global institutional capital — and how Yugo is leading the way. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Driving Building Performance with Jonathan Burridge (Utopi) | 25 Sep 2025 | 00:51:14 | |
In this week’s Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski sit down with Jonathan Burridge, Founder & CEO of Utopi, to explore how his company is helping operators cut costs, reduce carbon, and improve resident engagement through data-driven technology. 💡 Highlights include: Jonathan shares a candid perspective on how tech can drive operational excellence—without losing sight of residents or community. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| The Future of Smart Stays with Dr. Josef Vollmayr (Limehome) | 11 Sep 2025 | 00:47:13 | |
In this week’s Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski sit down with Josef Vollmayr, Co-Founder & Managing Director of Limehome, to explore how the company is reshaping hospitality across Europe with efficiency, design, and digital-first operations. 💡 Highlights include: Josef offers a candid, insider perspective on what it takes to scale hospitality today — and where the market is heading. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| From Leases to Loyalty: Reimagining Rentals with Kevin Murphy (Renew) | 28 Aug 2025 | 00:39:53 | |
In this episode of Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski sit down with Kevin Murphy, Co-founder & COO of Renew, to explore how multifamily operators can turn one of their biggest weaknesses—renewals—into a relationship-driven advantage. 💡 Highlights include: Kevin’s insights reveal a roadmap for operators to build loyalty, trust, and retention in a sector that has long struggled with churn. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Everything Is Hospitality – A Vision for Vertical Living with Philip Grace (Bob W) | 14 Aug 2025 | 00:52:07 | |
In this week’s Pillow Talk Sessions, we go behind the brand with Philip Grace, CDO at Bob W, to unpack the company’s vision of hospitality-first, asset-light, and tech-forward living across Europe. 💡 Inside the episode: Philip brings decades of experience with a future-facing lens—this one’s a must-listen. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Designing the Future of Urban Living with Nuno Jorge Trigo (FEEL GROUP) | 31 Jul 2025 | 00:43:05 | |
This week on Pillow Talk Sessions, hosts Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski sit down with Nuno Jorge Trigo, Co-Founder & Co-CEO of FEEL GROUP, to discuss how the company is reshaping hospitality through its vertical building model. 💡 Key insights include: 🏙️ How combining co-working, serviced apartments, and events is changing the way we live and travel 🤝 Why proactive collaboration with city councils leads to smarter, more balanced regulation 📲 How FEEL GROUP’s tech ecosystem and proprietary data warehouse drive smarter decision-making for 60,000 clients annually 🚀 Why São Paulo and Lisbon are the next big frontiers for work-leisure living From biophilic design to AI copilots, this episode is packed with lessons on scaling hospitality in the right way. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| A Vision for Flexible Living with Ed Ellerington (Packaged Living) | 17 Jul 2025 | 00:45:48 | |
This week on Pillow Talk Sessions, hosts Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski welcome Ed Ellerington, Founder & CEO of Packaged Living, to explore what it really means to bring a customer-first, tech-smart, and vertically integrated mindset to rental housing. 💡 In this episode: From cultural nuance to tech stack strategy, Ed shares a grounded, thoughtful roadmap for the future of rental living. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Reimagining the Student Experience with Suraiya Comunello (Nido Living) | 03 Jul 2025 | 00:40:10 | |
This week, we’re joined by Suraiya Comunello, CMO at Nido Living, for a deep dive into what truly matters to today’s students—and how operators can meet those expectations through service, design, and wellbeing. From cultural contrasts in booking behavior to the rise of digital-first decision-making, Suraiya offers a rare, international perspective on how the student accommodation sector is evolving. 🎧 Here’s what to expect: 🌱 How biophilic design helps ease student anxiety and promote wellbeing 🧠 Why Nido developed a 4-year mental health program with expert Dr. Tara Quinn 📲 What it means when 66% of students book housing without ever visiting 💬 Why localized, authentic content is outperforming polished marketing campaigns Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| The Coliving Playbook with Mayank Pokharna (Everything Coliving) | 19 Jun 2025 | 00:50:37 | |
The coliving industry is booming—but how you scale matters. In this episode of Pillow Talk Sessions, hosts Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski sit down with Mayank Pokharna, CEO of Fllat.com and Founder of Everything Coliving, to unpack the operational, cultural, and economic realities of coliving on a global scale. 💡 Key topics: From India to Europe to the US, Mayank offers practical, data-driven insights for anyone in Build-to-Rent, flex living, or residential operations. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Curated Hospitality with Cathrine Reimann (Landfolk) | 12 Mar 2026 | 00:33:16 | |
In this episode of Pillow Talk Sessions with Jessica Gillingham, Cathrine Reimann, Co-Founder of Landfolk, explains why disciplined curation, not scale alone, is the foundation of a successful short-stay marketplace. Landfolk has grown from just 33 homes to more than 1,500 handpicked properties across seven markets. But unlike many platforms focused on inventory growth, Landfolk rejects roughly 50% of potential hosts in order to protect quality, brand integrity, and long-term community health. This approach has produced unusually strong host loyalty. Nearly 60% of the original hosts who joined the platform five years ago remain active today, demonstrating what Cathrine calls “emotional collateral”, the trust and relationships that develop when hosts feel valued rather than treated as interchangeable supply. The conversation explores how Landfolk balances technology with human judgment, using AI to support efficiency while preserving what the company calls “warm hands” in moments where human interaction matters most. Key themes explored:
For leaders across hospitality, short-stay, and living platforms, this episode highlights an important shift. The strongest marketplaces of the future may not be the biggest. They may be the most disciplined, the most curated, and the most trusted by the communities they serve. #ShortStay #VacationRentals #HospitalityInnovation #MarketplaceStrategy #LivingSector #CuratedTravel #HospitalityLeadership #PillowTalkSessions Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Live Special — Experience is the New Amenity | 05 Jun 2025 | 00:54:29 | |
This week on Pillow Talk Sessions, we’re excited to release our first live-recorded episode, where we brought industry leaders together to unpack the future of resident experience in front of a live audience. Hosts Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski are joined by: 🔹 Freya Richard (Vertus) 🔹 Philippa Wagner (PeoplePlacesSpaces) 🔹 Mitch Hammond (OnTheMarket) 💡 In this episode, we explore: 📊 Why renters are prioritizing belonging, values, and community over physical amenities 🏨 The influence of hospitality on rental living 📲 How technology must serve experience—not drive it 📍 Why authenticity, service, and local context are essential to resident loyalty Don’t miss this dynamic panel discussion packed with real-world insight and forward-thinking perspectives. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Navigating Reform in Build-to-Rent with Rachel Hanniquet-Brooking (APO Group) | 22 May 2025 | 00:43:10 | |
This week on Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski are joined by Rachel Hanniquet-Brooking, Managing Director of APO Group LTD, to explore the state of the UK rental market—and how Build-to-Rent operators can prepare for seismic change. 💡 Tune in to hear Rachel’s perspective on: 🧾 The impact of the Renters Reform Bill on no-fault evictions and lease terms 📉 Why tighter regulation could drive traditional landlords out—and open new doors for BTR 🏘️ The fine balance between automation, cost efficiency, and real service 📲 Why resident-focused tech needs to be built in early—not just added later Rachel draws on 25+ years in hospitality and property to provide grounded, actionable insight into a sector at a turning point. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Hospitality Rewired with Simone Puorto (Travel Singularity) | 08 May 2025 | 00:53:25 | |
Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski sit down with Simone Puorto, Founder of Travel Singularity, to unpack how technology, empathy, and adaptability are reshaping the future of hospitality. 💡 Tune in to explore: 🔹 How tech can amplify human connection, not replace it 🔄 Why hospitality design must respond to human rhythms, not rigid formats 🏠 What rental living can teach hotels about personalization and experience ⚙️ How to avoid “tech for tech’s sake” and future-proof your operations This episode delivers forward-thinking insight into how we can create meaningful, guest-first spaces in an ever-changing world. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Community & Data in Modern Living with Robert Birch (Gravity Co) | 24 Apr 2025 | 00:42:32 | |
In this episode of Pillow Talk Sessions, Kristian and Jessica chat with Robert Birch, Head of Operations at Gravity Co, about creating meaningful living experiences across co-living, BTR, and hospitality. Tune in for insights on: Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Smart Tech in Living Spaces with Steve Davis (Operto) | 10 Apr 2025 | 00:49:23 | |
In this brand-new episode of Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica and Kristian chat with Steve Davis, CEO of Operto, about the powerful intersection of hospitality, multifamily, and smart technology. 💡 Listen in for key takeaways like: 🔑 How Operto grew from digital locks to a full-service guest/resident management platform 🏘️ Why STR tech is uniquely positioned to enhance multifamily and hotel operations 💬 Why real-time communication and service feedback loops are the future 📉 The risks of poor tech rollouts—and how to do it right 🔮 What IoT means for future personalization and resident satisfaction Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| PBSA 3.0: Beyond Housing with Bart Sasim (Spatial Experience) | 27 Mar 2025 | 00:43:52 | |
In this week’s episode of Pillow Talk Sessions, our founder, Jessica Gillingham, and co-host, Kristian Lupinski, chat with Bart Sasim, CEO & Founder of Spatial Experience, about the evolution of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) and what’s next for the sector. Bart shares insights on: Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| The Rise of Flexible Living with Begum Agca Okutgen (Blueground) | 13 Mar 2025 | 00:43:57 | |
Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski are joined by Begum Agca Okutgen, Head of Partner Network at Blueground, to explore the ongoing transformation of the rental market driven by remote work, technology, and evolving guests needs. 💡 Tune in to discover: This episode dives deep into tech-driven efficiencies, market trends, and what’s next for flexible rentals. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Why Build-to-Rent Needs a Unified Vision with Mitch Hammond (OnTheMarket) | 27 Feb 2025 | 00:52:28 | |
Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski are joined by Mitch Hammond, Build-to-Rent Manager at OnTheMarket, for a candid discussion on defining and differentiating Build to Rent (BTR) in the UK and beyond. 💡 Tune in to explore: 🏗️ Why a unified understanding of BTR terminology is crucial for market growth. 🤖 Balancing technology with human connection in resident services. 📊 Evolving resident expectations for security, amenities, and community spaces. 🏘️ OnTheMarket’s strategy following its acquisition by CoStar Group and the upcoming launch of homes.com in Europe. This episode offers fresh perspectives on how to create meaningful, community-driven living experiences. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Crafting Exceptional Living Experiences with Philippa Wagner (PeoplePlacesSpaces) | 13 Feb 2025 | 00:52:08 | |
Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski sit down with Philippa Wagner, founder of PeoplePlacesSpaces, to unpack the shifting landscape of hospitality and how it influences sectors like Build-to-Rent. 💡 Tune in to explore: 🔹 How guest expectations have evolved – prioritizing wellness, social engagement, and authentic connections. 🌍 The balance between global brand identity and local storytelling. 🏡 Hospitality principles inspiring multifamily living and intergenerational developments. 🔄 Emerging trends like co-working, sustainability, and the blending of hospitality with living spaces. This episode is packed with insights on how to create guest-centric experiences that resonate in today’s world. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Designing Sustainable Living Spaces with Benjamin Hall (LOFT) | 30 Jan 2025 | 00:52:09 | |
Jessica Gillingham and special co-host Iain Murray, Head of Operational Living at Bidwells, sit down with Benjamin Hall, Founder of LOFT, for an insightful conversation on how design and sustainability are shaping the future of multifamily and co-living spaces. 🎧 In this episode, we dive into: 🔹 The power of design in fostering resident retention and satisfaction. ♻️ Sustainability in multifamily interiors, featuring the circular economy approach. 📈 The rise of flexible living spaces that blend work, leisure, and community. ✨ Striking the perfect balance between luxury, sustainability, and budget. If you’re passionate about creating vibrant, sustainable living environments, this is a must-listen! 🎧 Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Reinventing Hotel Standards with Adam Tuttle (Yipy) | 26 Feb 2026 | 00:44:06 | |
In this episode of Pillow Talk Sessions with Jessica Gillingham, Adam Tuttle, Co-Founder and CEO of Yipy, explains why hospitality’s approach to standards management has remained fundamentally outdated and how digitising standards can transform operational performance, team culture, and guest experience. While hotels have embraced digital guest journeys and automation, internal standards often still live in binders, PDFs, or static intranets. Adam argues that without a live, accessible standards system, consistency breaks down, training becomes inconsistent, and decision-making relies too heavily on human bias. Yipy transforms standards from passive documents into an active operating system. By defining, distributing, and tracking compliance in real time, the platform gives hotels measurable visibility into performance across teams, properties, and portfolios. This shift unlocks smarter budgeting, more precise training, and stronger operational accountability. The conversation explores how standards intersect with culture, data, and emerging AI capabilities, and what must change for hospitality to evolve beyond outdated compliance models. Key themes explored:
For leaders across hospitality, living, and operations, this episode reframes standards not as administrative paperwork, but as infrastructure. The next competitive advantage will come from measurable clarity, embedded culture, and intelligent data-driven execution. #HospitalityOperations #HotelLeadership #StandardsManagement #HospitalityTech #DigitalTransformation #LivingSector #OperationalExcellence #PillowTalkSessions Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Optimizing Mixed-Asset Portfolios with Katherine Rose (VervLife) | 16 Jan 2025 | 00:45:52 | |
This week on Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski welcome Katherine Rose, Managing Director of VervLife, for an in-depth conversation about reshaping the future of mixed-asset management. Key highlights from the episode: 🏘️ Strategic Asset Management – Overcoming the challenges of managing diverse property types. 📊 Flex Rentals – Strategies for meeting the demands of short-term and long-term tenants. 🌍 Building Diverse Teams – Why team diversity is a game-changer in property management. 💡 Customer-Centric Approach – How customer service is redefining success in real estate. 🤝 Co-Living Opportunities – Educating the market on the hidden benefits of co-living spaces. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Revolutionizing Multifamily Living with Konrad Koczwara (ElevateOS) | 02 Jan 2025 | 00:50:02 | |
Join Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski in this latest episode of Pillow Talk Sessions as they explore how multifamily living is being transformed by the hospitality industry’s best practices. Featuring Konrad Koczwara, Founder & CEO of ElevateOS, this episode is packed with insights into creating a 5-star resident experience. Highlights include: 🔹 Hotelization Explained – How multifamily operators are adopting hospitality principles to exceed resident expectations. 🔹 Resident Retention – The role of events, interest groups, and community-building in keeping residents engaged and happy. 🔹 Innovations on the Horizon – Predictions for the future of multifamily living, from service models to tech integrations. 🔹 Cost vs. Quality – Strategies for maintaining high standards without breaking the bank. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Shaping the Future of Build-to-Rent with Brendan Geraghty (The Association of Rental Living) | 19 Dec 2024 | 00:42:30 | |
Join Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski on this week’s episode of Pillow Talk Sessions as they welcome Brendan Geraghty, CEO of the Association for Rental Living, to discuss how hospitality is reshaping the Build-to-Rent (BTR) sector. Key takeaways include: 🔹 The Hospitality-BTR Connection – Insights into how BTR is adopting hotel-inspired practices to enhance the resident experience. 🔹 #BrandbeforeBuilding – Understanding the focus on brand experience over physical infrastructure. 🔹 Service-Oriented Talent – Exploring the new workforce shaping the BTR sector. 🔹 UK vs. US Perspectives – Contrasting the strengths and lessons of these two key rental markets. 🔹 What’s Next for BTR – Trends and innovations redefining rental living. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Elevating Build-to-Rent Living Experiences with Freya Richard (Vertus) | 05 Dec 2024 | 00:50:51 | |
In this week’s Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski are joined by Freya Richard, Director of Operations & Leasing at Vertus, for an engaging conversation about how hospitality and Build-to-Rent (BTR) are learning from each other. Key highlights include: 🏘️ Lessons in Community – How Vertus is applying BTR community-building strategies to their upcoming aparthotel brand, Vertus Edit. ⚙️ Operational Insights – Anticipating the challenges and opportunities of managing aparthotels versus residential buildings. 📲 Tech-Enhanced Living – Specific technologies Vertus uses to elevate resident and guest experiences. ♻️ Sustainability in Focus – Vertus’ commitment to green practices and how they’re integrated into their aparthotel strategy. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Shaping the Future of Co-Living with Yianni Tsitouras (POHA House) | 21 Nov 2024 | 00:40:36 | |
In our latest episode, Jessica Gillingham and Krstian Lupinski sit down with Yianni Tsitouras, Founder & CEO of POHA House, to explore how POHA is redefining co-living with a focus on community, sustainability, and well-being. This conversation is filled with insights on the future of co-living and the ways it can foster connection and purpose in everyday spaces. Tune in to hear about: 🔹 The Co-Living, Co-Working, and Co-Spaces Concept – Yianni shares how these spaces combine flexibility with community for a unique living experience. 🔹 Commitment to Sustainability – From cradle-to-cradle building design to zero-carbon goals, Yianni talks about the challenges and triumphs in eco-friendly development. 🔹 Building a Trusted Brand – Discover how POHA House builds trust and engagement, setting new standards in the co-living sector. 🔹 A Diverse Community for All Ages – Learn how POHA House creates inclusive spaces that meet residents’ unique needs at every life stage. If you’re passionate about community-centric and sustainable living, don’t miss this episode! 🎧 Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Redefining Modern Hospitality with Michael Levie (citizenM) | 07 Nov 2024 | 00:50:23 | |
In this episode, hosts Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski sit down with Michael Levie, co-founder of citizenM, to dive into how citizenM is reshaping the hospitality industry with a bold, customer-first approach. 🎙️ Michael shares his insights on everything from digital transformation to creating unforgettable guest experiences. We explore citizenM’s unique strategies and how they’re influencing the Build-to-Rent and hospitality sectors. 🏢✨ Listen in as we discuss: How citizenM balances technology with genuine human connection 🤖❤️ The power of brand identity in redefining guest experiences 🌍 Lessons in creating adaptable, modern spaces for today’s travelers 🧳🛌 Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with one of hospitality’s visionary leaders! 🎧 #PillowTalkSessions #Podcast #citizenM #HospitalityInnovation #CustomerExperience #MichaelLevie Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Future of BTR & Co-Living with Suzanne Luscombe (resiCentral) | 24 Oct 2024 | 00:51:28 | |
In this episode, hosts Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski sit down with Suzanne Luscombe, Strategic Growth Director at resiCentral, to dive deep into the Build-to-Rent (BTR) and Co-Living sectors. 🎙️ What to expect: 🏢 Key strategies for positioning brands in BTR and Co-Living sectors. 🌱 The growing importance of sustainability and green buildings in rental living. 💻 How technology is transforming modern living spaces in mixed-use developments. 🔮 Future trends shaping flexible living, urban environments, and how we work and play. It’s a fascinating discussion you don’t want to miss! #PillowTalkSessions #Podcast #BuildToRent #CoLiving #Sustainability #FutureOfLiving #Technology #FlexibleLiving #BTR Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Bridging Hospitality and Build-to-Rent with Iain Murray (Bidwells) | 10 Oct 2024 | 00:51:43 | |
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our very first episode of Pillow Talk Sessions! 🎉 In this premier, we’re diving into the exciting convergence of the hospitality and Build-to-Rent (BTR) sectors with our special guest, Iain Murray, Head of Operational Living at Bidwells. 🎙️ What can you expect? 🏢 How the BTR sector is learning from hospitality to enhance resident experiences. 👥 Why building a strong sense of community is key to resident loyalty and retention. 📐 The impact of innovative space design on creating more flexible, engaging living environments. 💼 How talent from hospitality is reshaping BTR with a customer-centric mindset. Join us as we explore these fascinating insights and more with a true industry leader. 🔔 Tune in to our premiere episode and be part of the conversation shaping the future of hospitality and rental living! #PillowTalkSessions #PodcastPremiere #BuildToRent #Hospitality #ResidentExperience #CommunityBuilding #SpaceDesign #OperationalExcellence #FutureOfLiving #BTR Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Pillow Talk Sessions teaser | 27 Sep 2024 | 00:01:13 | |
We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new podcast series, Pillow Talk Sessions—where hospitality, real estate, and rental living meet to shape the future of how we live, work, and play! Join us, Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski, as we dive deep into the heartbeat of lodging. We’ll be exploring the transformation from simply providing spaces to creating experiences—and how customer-centric models are reshaping the landscape of hospitality, multifamily, and living sectors. ✨ What’s in store? ✔️ Conversations on the shift from asset-focused approaches to experience-forward strategies. ✔️ Insights into how prop-tech is revolutionizing how operators optimize assets. ✔️ Discussions with industry leaders who are reshaping the future of lodging and living. We’ve lined up some incredible guests for our first season, including: Iain Murray, Head of Operational Living at Bidwell Brendan Geraghty, CEO of The Association for Rental Living (ARL) Konrad Koczwara, Founder/CEO of Elevated Living Michael Levie, Former co-founder & COO of citizenM Freya Richard, Director of Operations and Leasing at Vertus Suzanne Luscombe, Strategic Growth Director at Resicentral Yianni Tsitouras, Founder/CEO of POHA House Katherine Rose, Managing Director of VervLife 🔔 Stay tuned for our first episode, where we’ll bring you the voices of visionaries driving the future of this dynamic industry! #PillowTalkSessions #PodcastLaunch #Hospitality #Multifamily #RealEstate #PropTech #CustomerExperience #FutureOfLiving #PodcastAnnouncement #BTR Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Professionalising Short-Term Rentals with Merilee Karr (UnderTheDoormat) | 12 Feb 2026 | 00:44:01 | |
In this episode of Pillow Talk Sessions, Merilee Karr, CEO of UnderTheDoormat Group, explains how short-term rentals have evolved from fragmented, alternative accommodation into a professional, institutional-grade asset class operating at scale across Europe and beyond. With short-term rentals now accounting for over 20% of accommodation nights in Europe, the sector is no longer a niche. Merilee outlines how operational infrastructure, technology platforms, and regulatory collaboration are shaping its next phase of growth. UnderTheDoormat operates across luxury B2C properties and institutional portfolios in London and Paris, while its technology arm, Hospiria, supports global operators with flexible PMS and reservation systems designed specifically for converging asset classes. Through Trusted Stays, the group has also opened access to government contracts and global distribution systems, accelerating the sector’s professionalisation. The conversation explores how short-term rentals intersect with real estate, hospitality, and policy, and what must happen next for the sector to mature sustainably. Key themes explored: Why short-term rentals have become a core part of Europe’s accommodation landscape For leaders across hospitality, real estate, and flexible living, this episode reframes short-term rentals not as disruption, but as convergence. The next competitive advantage will come from professional standards, agile infrastructure, and thoughtful regulatory collaboration. Explore related industry analysis and strategic perspectives: Website: https://abodeworldwide.com #ShortTermRentals #FlexibleLiving #HospitalityInnovation #PropTech #RealEstateTech #LivingSector #DigitalInfrastructure #Professionalisation #PillowTalkSessions Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Scaling Short-Stay Living with Laurenz Schwarzhappel (Global Living Apartments) | 29 Jan 2026 | 00:38:13 | |
In this episode of Pillow Talk Sessions, Laurenz Schwarzhappel, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Global Living Apartments, explains how the company consistently achieves around 92% occupancy across nine German cities by doing what most hospitality operators avoid. Narrowing the guest segment, rethinking asset use, and automating everything possible. Global Living Apartments focuses on families and group travelers, a segment traditional hotels struggle to serve. By converting commercial properties into short-stay apartments and operating with a deeply automated tech stack, the company delivers affordable, high-density stays with a lean team and minimal friction. The conversation explores how this model performs not only in major cities, but also in smaller industrial markets where demand is stable and competition is limited. Key themes explored:
For hospitality, short-stay, and living sector leaders, this episode reframes performance. The competitive edge is not scale alone, but clarity of segment, disciplined automation, and a willingness to operate where others are not looking. Explore related industry analysis and strategic perspectives: Website: https://abodeworldwide.com #ShortStay #HospitalityTech #PropTech #LivingTech #Automation #AIinHospitality #FamilyTravel #AlternativeAccommodation #OperationalStrategy #PillowTalkSessions Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Hospitality’s Digital Reset with Ulrich Pillau (Apaleo) | 15 Jan 2026 | 00:39:45 | |
In this episode of Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica Gillingham sits down with Ulrich Pillau, Co-founder & CEO of Apaleo, to explore how AI and API-first technology are redefining what modern hospitality looks like behind the scenes and in front of guests. Uli explains why the industry is splitting between digital-first operators and legacy brands struggling to adapt, and why simply “moving to the cloud” won’t fix broken guest journeys without a fundamental rethink of operating models. 💡 In this conversation, you’ll hear about: A clear-eyed look at what hospitality must rethink now to stay competitive in an AI-driven world. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Scaling Hospitality Through Automation with Alexander Limpert (RentalReady / GuestReady) | 04 Dec 2025 | 00:38:39 | |
In this week’s Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski speak with Alexander Limpert, the founder behind RentalReady and GuestReady, to unpack how automation, data, and AI are transforming operational efficiency in short-term rentals. 💡 Highlights include: Alex makes the case for a future where smarter tools empower operators, improve guest experience, and support sustainable growth across the sector. 🌐 pillowtalksessions.com Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| Rethinking UK Housing with Jason Hardman (CBRE) | 20 Nov 2025 | 00:37:19 | |
In this week’s Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski sit down with Jason Hardman, Head of UK Living at CBRE, to explore how policy, planning, and private capital are reshaping the UK’s housing future. 💡 Highlights include: Jason offers a grounded, data-informed perspective on how the UK living sector can innovate without losing sight of long-term value, community, and trust. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| The Future of Casual Living with Asli Kutlucan (TFE Hotels) | 06 Nov 2025 | 00:50:05 | |
In this week’s Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica Gillingham and co-host Kristian Lupinski sit down with Asli Kutlucan, CEO Europe at TFE Hotels, to explore how the company is bridging the gap between hotels and homes with its fast-growing Adina and MM:MT (Moment) brands. In this episode, Asli shares: From Berlin to Cambridge, Hamburg to Glasgow, TFE is leading a new era of living that’s flexible, connected, and human-centered. Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| The Rise of Agentic AI in Hospitality with Tim Major (Operto) | 23 Apr 2026 | 00:45:28 | |
In this episode of Pillow Talk Sessions, Tim Major, CEO of Operto, joins host Jessica Gillingham to explain how agentic AI is shifting hospitality from automation to autonomous execution. Through Operto One, Operto is building an AI workforce capable of performing operational and marketing tasks, optimizing performance, and driving outcomes across hotel systems. The conversation explores what this shift means for hotel teams, guest experience, and business performance. While AI offers significant potential, most hotels face a fundamental challenge. Data readiness. Without structured, accurate content, AI systems struggle to deliver reliable results. Tim outlines how hotels can begin adopting AI in a controlled, practical way, focusing on high-impact areas like direct bookings and operational efficiency. Key themes explored: What agentic AI means for hospitality operations For hospitality leaders, this episode provides a clear view of what AI will actually change, and what foundations must be in place to make it work. #HospitalityTech #AIinHospitality #AgenticAI #FutureOfWork #HotelTech #PillowTalkSessions Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| We Grew Too Fast and Nearly Lost Everything - With Njål Elliasson, Proptonomy & Heimby | 04 Jun 2026 | 00:36:13 | |
When Njål Elliasson co-founded his Norwegian-based short-term rental property management company, Heimby, in 2022, he was over the moon as it quickly grew in size and profit. But before he knew it, his company started crumbling, going from a $100k profit in year one to a $200k loss by the end of year two. The conversation explores: • Why so many short-term rental operators hit a ceiling when they try to scale • The operational mistakes that nearly brought Heimby down • Why quality and process matter more than chasing margins • The lessons learned from rebuilding a company from the ground up • How AI is being used to streamline maintenance, onboarding, and day-to-day operations • Why technology can become a competitive moat in property management • The changing relationship between operators and property owners Njål challenges some of the industry's assumptions. While many operators view relationships as their primary competitive advantage, Njål argues that technology and operational excellence may ultimately prove more scalable. He also makes the case that owners should take greater responsibility for the performance of their own assets, rather than relying on operators to absorb every problem. What emerges throughout the conversation is a picture of an industry wrestling with complexity. Short-term rentals have often been built on hospitality principles, but as portfolios grow, logistics, systems and operational discipline become increasingly important. Looking ahead, Njål's focus is on helping other operators avoid the mistakes he made. Through both Heimby and Proptonomy, he is exploring how technology, process, and accountability can help property managers scale without sacrificing quality. 🎧 Listen to the full episode to hear how Njål Eliasson went from rapid growth to operational collapse and back again — and what his experience reveals about the future of short-term rental management. Heimby LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/heimby-no/ Proptonomy LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/proptonomy/ Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| How Mollie's is Running Hospitality Like a High Street Retailer - With Matt Bell, Mollie's Motels | 21 May 2026 | 00:39:52 | |
What does it take to build a hospitality brand that delivers genuine quality at a budget price point? Matt Bell is the Managing Director of Mollie's, a design-led motel and diner concept with properties in Oxford, Bristol, and Manchester. With nearly two decades in independent hospitality, Matt brings a rare mix of operational rigour and brand instinct to everything Mollie's does. In this episode, Matt breaks down the philosophy behind the brand — why budget doesn't have to mean boring, and how Mollie's is building what he calls a value-lux proposition. Great design, thoughtful food, and a deeply human guest experience, all at an accessible price point.exclusive to the luxury end of the hospitality chain. The conversation gets into:
What makes Mollie's worth paying attention to is the clarity of thinking and deliberation. In a sector where budget often means transactional and the bare minimum, Matt and his team are making a deliberate case that the guest experience and the price point don't have to trade off against each other. The design, the diner, the technology, the people — each one is chosen to pull in the same direction. Matt is also clear about what technology should and shouldn't do. At Mollie's, it's an enabler — centralising expertise, reducing friction, and freeing up the floor team to focus entirely on the guest in front of them. The human side of the experience is non-negotiable, and the technology is there to protect it, not replace it. Looking ahead, Matt sees Mollie's growing through discipline. A standardised, refined product that can scale quickly, into locations with the right blend of corporate and leisure demand. The goal is a brand guests actively seek out — not just somewhere reliable to stop, but somewhere they actually want to be. 🎧 Listen to the full episode to hear how Matt Bell and the team at Mollie's are building a hospitality brand where great design, smart operations, and genuine warmth are designed to work together, not compete. #Hospitality #HospitalityTech #PillowTalkSessions Explore related industry analysis and strategic perspectives: Website: https://www.pillowtalksessions.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pillowtalksessionspodcast/ Tech-Enabled Hospitality: https://techenabledhospitality.com/ Matt Bell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewcrbell/ Mollie’s Motels: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mollies/ Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||
| How CitizenM Mastered Hospitality Automation with Mike Rawson (Formerly CitizenM) | 07 May 2026 | 00:43:01 | |
Mike Rawson spent seven years as CIO of CitizenM, one of the most tech-forward hotel brands in the world. His biggest lesson? Technology comes last. In the latest episode of Pillow Talk Sessions, Mike joins me to break down what most hotels are getting wrong about automation and how CitizenM built an NPS score good enough to catch Marriott's attention. His belief: you shouldn't reach for technology until you understand the real requirement, the business value it will bring, and most fundamentally, the people around it. In this episode, Mike shares with me:
#HospitalityTech #CitizenM #HotelTech #PillowTalkSessions Meet the host of Pillow Talk Sessions | |||