Explore every episode of the podcast The Conscious Check In
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biomimicry, Bamboo & Regenerative Design: A Masterclass with Louis Thompson | 20 Nov 2025 | 00:50:12 | |
Can bamboo architecture redefine sustainable hospitality and eco luxury travel? Award-winning eco-resort designer Louis (Louie) Thompson, CEO of Nomadic Resorts ( @Sixsenseshotels , @PlayaViva ) joins Amy to explore how bamboo, biomimicry, and biophilic design are transforming sustainable hospitality. From manta ray-inspired treehouses in Mexico to modular, nature-positive lodges, Louie shares practical insights on building regenerative, guest-loved experiences without greenwashing. You’ll learn why bamboo’s rapid renewability matters, how design shapes mental wellness, and what AI means for hyper-personalized, wellness-driven travel communities. Who this episode is for Conscious travelers, hotel owners, and hospitality leaders seeking high-impact, guest-centric sustainability strategies and regenerative design inspiration. Timestamps / Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Intro: From Mauritius to manta rays—meet Nomadic Resorts’ Louis Thompson 02:31 – Career origin: Six Senses, post-tsunami pivot, and “special projects” innovation 05:03 – Career advice: Find what you enjoy, get feedback, and stick with it 07:15 – Why bamboo: Rapid renewability, tensile strength, carbon benefits, and resilience 10:08 – Organic forms: How bendy bamboo enables biomimicry and biophilic design 11:21 – Native ranges: Bamboo worldwide and what that means for local sourcing 13:40 – Genius loci: Designing for place vs. modular, scalable eco hospitality 16:49 – Playa Viva case study: Manta ray bamboo treehouses built in 8 months 18:30 – Results: Global awards, guest immersion, and regenerative tourism in action 20:12 – Rethinking luxury: From objects to transformative experiences and wellness travel 22:49 – “Well-washing”: Spotting superficial wellness vs. evidence-based design 24:34 – Healthy buildings: Materials, VOCs, indoor air quality, and ethical frameworks 29:43 – Biomimicry 101: Nature-inspired function (gecko feet to lotus effect) 31:30 – Biophilic design: Prospect/refuge, mental health, and evidence-based spaces 34:03 – Urban tips: Plants, sunlight, textures, images, and air quality at home 36:10 – Spas of the future: Circadian lighting, acoustic landscapes, color therapy 38:10 – Neuro-architecture: Designing spaces to evoke security, calm, transformation 39:55 – Cocoon-inspired tents: Purpose-built hospitality for specific life moments 40:51 – AI-curated travel: Birds of a feather, niche communities, and brand evolution 43:30 – Net positive impact: Guest experience, community benefit, ecosystem regeneration 44:42 – Life in Mauritius: Walks, sunsets, and building Nomadic Escapes 45:45 – Food with place: Creole outdoor cooking and communal dining 46:48 – Legacy: Leave every site more beautiful and biodiverse Connect with the guest(s): • Nomadic Resorts: https://www.nomadicresorts.com • Follow Louis on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-thompson-9825308/ Out platforms Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conscious-check-in/id1832522451 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2YfXT8SElYqYEbhYqbD1AJ?si=00fad07476c14a70 Connect with us Sponsor this Podcast: https://www.greenluxeinc.com/partner-with-us LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theconsciouscheckin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theconsciouscheckin/ About Greenluxe: https://www.greenluxeinc.com/ 1:1 with Amy: https://calendly.com/greenluxeinc/sustainable-hospitality About the podcast The core mission of The Conscious Check-in is to inspire travelers and hospitality leaders to embrace sustainability, showing how conscious choices in travel and luxury hospitality can create meaningful experiences for guests while driving positive impact for people, planet, and business. | |||
| Fort Lauderdale’s Only Sustainable Beachfront Lazy River Hotel | TJ Pierri | 12 Nov 2025 | 00:27:36 | |
How Pelican Grand earned Green Key Global certification—and elevated sustainable hospitality. GM TJ Pierri of Pelican Grand Beach Resort (Fort Lauderdale) joins Amy to unpack how a legacy-driven, guest-first approach can power sustainable hospitality. From achieving Green Key Global certification to electrifying team and guest transport with Circuit, turtle-safe beach operations, and energy efficiency in rooms, TJ shares practical steps hotels can take now—plus the leadership mindset that wins buy-in. You’ll learn how to align guest experience with sustainability, start small without sacrificing impact, and communicate values that drive loyalty. Who this episode is for Conscious travelers and hospitality leaders who want guest-loved, profitable, and sustainable hotel operations. Timestamps / Episode Breakdown 00:00 — Conscious travel intro: sustainable hospitality and guest experience 00:29 — Live from Independent Hotel Show: Meet TJ Pierri, GM, Pelican Grand 01:11 — Leadership lesson from geese: team rotation, resilience, and servant leadership 02:53 — Mini-bar evolution: inclusive, low/zero-alcohol options and curated experiences 05:58 — Career path: Hyatt to Noble House; navigating a GM role through the pandemic 10:12 — Noble House DNA: authentically local, values-led, guest-centered hospitality 12:21 — What makes Pelican Grand unique: on-the-sand location, lazy river, Oceans 2000 dining, Pure Spa rooftop rituals 14:26 — Green Key Global certification: retrofitting a 2004 building, PMS-driven energy efficiency, water conservation, housekeeping optimization 16:20 — Electric mobility: partnering with Circuit for team shuttles and guest dinner runs 17:46 — Protecting sea turtles: daily monitoring, operations that respect nesting season 19:05 — How hotels reduce waste and get buy-in: start small, explain the “why,” celebrate wins 21:00 — Biggest operational win: reconcepting five outlets in six months—team-first execution 22:35 — Favorite guest story: turning a rainy-day crisis into a beautiful impromptu wedding 25:19 — Legacy: improve lives, inspire teams, and build cultures guests return to 26:17 — Dream trip: Greece calling ______ Hoteliers — ready to save money, boost sustainability scores, and make your housekeeping team’s day? Meet CleanCore Solutions, the refillable system turning ordinary water into your cleanest competitive edge. 💧 Explore more at CleanCoreSoul.com Key Links Connect with the guest(s) Our platforms Connect with us About the podcast The core mission of The Conscious Check-in is to inspire travelers and hospitality leaders to embrace sustainability, showing how conscious choices in travel and luxury hospitality can create meaningful experiences for guests while driving positive impact for people, planet, and business. | |||
| How the most loved travel brands are winning online | Scott Eddy | 07 Aug 2025 | 00:41:46 | |
In this insightful conversation, Greenluxe founder Amy Wald sits down with global travel influencer and digital marketing expert Scott Eddy to explore what truly drives loyalty and emotional connection in hospitality today. From storytelling and sustainability to personal branding and ROI, Scott shares lessons from decades of experience that hoteliers, marketers, and entrepreneurs alike can apply right now. Make sure to follow along all of Scott's exciting journeys at: Website: www.mrscotteddy.com Twitter: @twitter.com/MrScottEddy Facebook: facebook.com/MrScottEddyPage Instagram: instagram.com/mrscotteddy LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mrscotteddy TikTok: tiktok.com/@mrscotteddy Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast so we can continue to bring you more valuable content. Have an idea? Let us know what or who you would like to hear about! 📅 Ready to take your sustainability marketing to the next level? ➡ Book an intro call with Amy: https://calendly.com/greenluxeinc/sustainable-hospitality 🌿 Learn more about Greenluxe: www.greenluxeinc.com | |||
| Preserving Anegada’s Charm: The story you haven’t heard yet | Bunchie Wheatley | 07 Aug 2025 | 00:22:50 | |
Anegada is unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean. Flat, wild, and naturally resilient—this coral island has preserved its beauty not because of development, but in spite of it. In this special episode, I visit Anegada Beach Club and with Bunchie who know the island best. We explore:
This isn’t a sustainability success story. It’s a preservation-in-process story. 💚 For travelers who crave unspoiled destinations—and the hoteliers who want to protect them—this one’s for you. 📅 Ready to take your sustainability marketing to the next level? ➡ Book an intro call with Amy: https://calendly.com/greenluxeinc/sustainable-hospitality 🌿 Learn more about Greenluxe: www.greenluxeinc.com | |||
| How Long Bay became the BVI’s best-kept secret | Bria Guishard | 07 Aug 2025 | 00:38:23 | |
Join Amy Wald in this inspiring episode of the Conscious Check-in as she sits down with Bria Guishard, General Manager of Long Bay Resort in the British Virgin Islands. Discover how Bria blends authentic hospitality with thoughtful sustainability initiatives to create a luxurious yet eco-conscious guest experience. Learn how community engagement, resilient leadership, and innovative practices define visionary hospitality in the Caribbean and beyond. Discover:
💬 Help us grow our channel – don't forget to subscribe! 📅 Book a 1:1 with Amy: https://calendly.com/greenluxeinc/sustainable-hospitality 🌿 Learn more about Greenluxe: https://www.greenluxeinc.com/ | |||
| How to get travel right | Costas Christ | 07 Aug 2025 | 00:58:18 | |
Join us in this inspiring episode of the Conscious Check-in as Costas Christ, a pioneer of eco-tourism and sustainable travel, shares his groundbreaking journey transforming the tourism industry. Discover how sustainability not only protects our planet but also enhances profitability and creates lasting benefits for communities and businesses alike. Discover:
💬 Help us grow our podcast – don't forget to subscribe! 📅 Book a 1:1 with Amy: https://calendly.com/greenluxeinc/sustainable-hospitality 🌿 Learn more about Greenluxe: https://www.greenluxeinc.com/ | |||
| Staypineapple Chicago: Reinventing the Urban Hotel Experience | Beth Anne King | 06 Nov 2025 | 00:39:24 | |
How sustainable hospitality elevates luxury at Staypineapple Chicago—inside a certified, dog-obsessed boutique icon. Host Amy Wald sits down with Bethann, General Manager of Staypineapple Chicago, to explore how a historic Loop landmark delivers sustainable luxury without compromise. From Green Key certification and adaptive reuse to plastic-free water programs, elevated in-room amenities, and digital ops that slash waste, this episode shows how boutique hotel sustainability can boost guest experience and business results. You’ll learn practical ideas for sustainable hotel certification, guest-centric green amenities, and how to communicate impact authentically—plus a peek at Staypineapple’s beloved “Naked Experience” bedding and dog-obsessed culture. Conscious travelers and hospitality leaders seeking actionable sustainable hospitality strategies that enhance guest experience and ROI. 00:00 — The “Naked Experience”: European-style bedding and why guests love it 01:21 — Inside Staypineapple Chicago: sustainable luxury in a historic Loop skyscraper 01:49 — Location advantage: theaters, business district, lakefront access + borrow-a-bike 02:52 — Seamless transit: Blue Line from O’Hare to the hotel in minutes 03:41 — Why meeting planners care: sustainability in corporate RFPs and traveler confidence 04:07 — Green Key certification: third-party verified standards that matter 05:13 — Adaptive reuse wins: Burnham Building history, steel-frame windows, natural light 06:49 — Heritage details: original mosaic floors, office doors, physical keys 07:46 — “Beyond the beige”: unique design with lower embodied carbon than new builds 08:29 — On-property sustainability: composting, in-room recycling, K-Cup recycling 09:27 — Plastic-free water: branded reusable bottles + lobby refill stations (still, sparkling, hot) 10:24 — Sustainability as a value add: enhance guest experience, reduce footprint 10:53 — Cutting paper waste: new tech stack, digital audits, housekeeping boards on devices 12:10 — Culture shift: behavior change, team engagement, and data security benefits 13:10 — Certification clarity: measurable composting, lighting, and onsite verification 15:30 — Discoverability: OTAs now surfacing certified green hotels 16:40 — Luxury where it counts: Serta Black mattresses, durable high-quality linens 18:27 — The “Naked Experience” expanded: super-clean linens, two-duvet comfort 20:11 — The Everything Button: one number, full-service guest resolution 21:37 — Elevated F&B touch: yes, there are chocolate chip cookies 22:04 — Rethinking luxury: dispensing eco friendly toiletries hotels love (Tommy Bahama) 22:59 — Hygiene and security: locked, cleaned dispensers; daily maintenance 24:14 — Rolling out refillables: facing fears, winning guests, major bottle reductions 26:13 — Real impact: thousands of plastic bottles avoided across 10 hotels 27:20 — Teaser: new conservation partnership coming soon 27:43 — Advice to hoteliers: start small, use available resources, iterate what works 29:34 — Staff buy-in: ask, listen, co-create—adoption is easier than expected 30:34 — The future of boutique hotel sustainability: nimble, guest-led, business-smart 32:12 — Dog-obsessed hospitality: pets as VIPs with beds, treats, and Pup Cups 34:13 — Meet Dash: the brand mascot with a mission (donations to local rescues) 35:01 — “Live your dash”: the meaning behind Dash and brand ethos 36:31 — Parting message: fall in love with Chicago like the team does 37:24 — Innkeeper mentality: complimentary welcome beverage and true hospitality vibes Connect with the guest(s): Beth Anne — General Manager, Staypineapple Chicago Explore ways to partner with us The core mission of The Conscious Check-in is to inspire travelers and hospitality leaders to embrace sustainability, showing how conscious choices in travel and luxury hospitality can create meaningful experiences for guests while driving positive impact for people, planet, and business. | |||
| Inside the World’s Most Sustainable Travel Destinations | Rob Holmes, GLP Films | 30 Oct 2025 | 01:05:40 | |
How can storytelling and GSTC standards move sustainable hospitality from checkbox to culture? Documentary filmmaker and GLP Films founder Rob Holmes joins host Amy Wald to explore how authentic storytelling, destination stewardship, and GSTC-aligned practices can accelerate the shift toward sustainable travel destinations worldwide. From accessibility on the Oregon Coast to the groundbreaking Palau Pledge, Rob shares field-tested insights on how destinations and hotels can avoid greenwashing, champion conservation and biodiversity, and turn regenerative tourism into tangible guest experiences. Expect practical guidance for hoteliers, DMOs, travel journalists, and conscious travelers alike—covering supply-chain shifts, slow travel, Indigenous tourism, and why a little spontaneity still creates the most meaningful trips. Conscious travelers, hoteliers, DMOs, and travel journalists seeking practical, real-world strategies for sustainable hospitality and destination storytelling. 00:29 – Why sustainable hospitality moved from side note to center stage 02:02 – Food and place: raw, in-the-moment travel experiences (Senegal, Tierra del Fuego) 06:03 – Rob’s path: wildlife conservation, MBA, media, and founding GLP Films 10:20 – The falcon perspective: looking ahead, landscapes, and conservation mindset 12:16 – From slideshows to docs: how storytelling shapes traveler behavior 18:17 – Career advice: find your niche, blend creativity with business, avoid polish for polish’s sake 21:51 – Inside GSTC: raising the bar, community, and post-COVID momentum 23:31 – Certifications vs. checkboxes: accountability, greenwashing, and systemic change 28:22 – Destination realities: small DMO teams, why private sector support matters 33:14 – Case study: Oregon Coast—accessibility, inclusivity, and stewardship storytelling 34:54 – The Palau Pledge: locally led design that shifts traveler mindset 38:04 – World Tourism Day wish: conservation and biodiversity as core KPIs 42:39 – Standout regions: Canada (indigenous tourism), Greenland, Cook Islands, Finger Lakes 46:50 – Traveler tips: slow travel, off-season, public transport, buy local 50:13 – For travel journalists: keep it simple, verify, celebrate leaders, call out greenwashing 53:52 – Hotels: the highest-leverage move—transform your supply chain 58:05 – Travel hack: embrace spontaneity to unlock authentic experiences 1:03:14 – Where to find Rob and GLP Films content Connect with the guest(s): The core mission of The Conscious Check-in is to inspire travelers and hospitality and destination leaders to embrace sustainability, showing how conscious choices in travel and luxury hospitality can create meaningful experiences for guests while driving positive impact for people, planet, and business. | |||
| North America’s Top Adventure Operator on Legacy Travel | EXP Journeys | 24 Oct 2025 | 00:54:45 | |
Craving eco luxury travel that changes lives and protects places? Start here. Adventure luxury meets purpose-driven travel. Amy sits down with Kevin Jackson and Maxie Johnson of EXP Journeys, a B Corp adventure operator designing bespoke, conservation-forward experiences across the American Southwest and beyond. From helicopter-only lunches atop Tower Butte to Navajo-led cultural immersions and regenerative partnerships, learn how eco luxury travel can be exclusive, ethical, and life-changing. You’ll hear powerful guest transformation stories, why guided experiences beat DIY itineraries, how EXP vets sustainable partners, and what’s next for adventure travel: privacy, remoteness, and deeper cultural connection. Who this episode is for Conscious travelers, luxury hospitality leaders, and families seeking meaningful, sustainable, and bespoke adventure travel. Timestamps / Episode Breakdown 00:29 – Why adventure travel matters: connection, wellness, and shared experiences 01:17 – Origin stories: from John Muir Trail inspiration to leaving law for guiding 05:19 – Transformative moments: Tower Butte surprise lunch and a grandmother’s first rappel 10:22 – The “aha” loop: continuous innovation in experiential design and family programming 13:18 – Career pivot advice: loving the outdoors vs. loving guiding—what it really takes 16:48 – Spirit animals of guiding: eagle vision and “duck mode” calm under pressure 20:30 – Ideal traveler: curious families and guests who want to connect and give back 24:16 – How custom trips are built: collaboration, curiosity, and going beyond “see the Grand Canyon” 26:30 – Why guided beats DIY: mental load off, on-trip flexibility, and white-glove logistics 30:27 – Backstage access: Navajo Nation cultural leaders, code talker Peter MacDonald, and real fossil digs 33:28 – Conservation and culture: Navajo-led slot canyons, hoop dancing, and intergenerational storytelling 39:20 – Vetting sustainable partners: B Corp framework, local sourcing, and low-impact luxury camps 43:16 – What B Corp means for travelers: long-game stewardship for people, planet, and place 48:10 – Dream trips: GPS-only surprise journeys and a Colorado River land-water-sky odyssey 52:26 – How to connect with EXP Journeys and start your custom itinerary Key Links Connect with the guest(s):
Out platforms Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conscious-check-in/id1832522451 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2YfXT8SElYqYEbhYqbD1AJ?si=00fad07476c14a70 Connect with us Sponsor this Podcast: https://www.greenluxeinc.com/partner-with-us LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theconsciouscheckin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theconsciouscheckin/ About Greenluxe: https://www.greenluxeinc.com/ 1:1 with Amy: https://calendly.com/greenluxeinc/sustainable-hospitality About the podcast The core mission of The Conscious Check-in is to inspire travelers and hospitality leaders to embrace sustainability, showing how conscious choices in travel and luxury hospitality can create meaningful experiences for guests while driving positive impact for people, planet, and business. | |||
| Protecting Pink River Dolphins: Relais & Chateaux Amazon Cruises | Gabriela Orihuela | 16 Oct 2025 | 00:56:32 | |
Can a luxury Amazon cruise actually protect wildlife and empower local communities? In this episode on sustainable luxury travel, we explore how Delfin Amazon Cruises and Relais & Chateaux are redefining regenerative tourism in Peru’s Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. Host Amy Wald sits down with tropical biologist and sustainability lead Gabriela Orihuela of Delfin Amazon Cruises to unpack what it really means to cruise with purpose in the Amazon. From pink river dolphin research and giant river otter sightings to community-driven “BioRest” reforestation with native species, this conversation spotlights nature-based tourism that restores ecosystems and culture. You’ll learn how Delfin’s Relais & Chateaux partnership elevates eco luxury travel through seasonal, locally sourced gastronomy; why keystone species like river dolphins matter; and practical ways travelers and hoteliers can avoid wildlife trafficking, reduce impacts, and turn sustainability into a richer guest experience. Whether you’re a conscious traveler, hotelier, or brand leader, you’ll take away field-tested ideas for sustainable hospitality, community-based conservation, and storytelling in hospitality that inspires action. Timestamps / Episode Breakdown 00:00 - 00:57: Redefining Luxury in the Amazon — pristine rivers, biodiversity & culture 00:57 - 02:42: Delfin Amazon Cruises × Relais & Châteaux — sustainability at sea 02:42 - 04:39: Tropical biologist’s perspective + Peru’s Ramsar wetland & migratory birdlife 04:40 - 10:25: From community handcrafts to BIOREST — women-led impact & native reforestation 10:25 - 18:45: Aboard Delfin III — food heritage, seasonal landscapes & what river luxury means 18:46 - 26:49: Citizen science & wildlife conservation — pink dolphins, giant otters & trafficking threats 26:49 - 31:05: Partnering with the National Reserve + conscious traveler tips (what not to buy) 31:05 - 38:03: Biophilic ship design & Amazonian gastronomy with Relais & Châteaux standards 38:03 - 45:18: A day in the life on Delfin — sunrise skiffs, wildlife talks, community visits & how to get there 45:18 - 51:21: Hotelier playbook anywhere — water & energy savings, sustainable menus, sourcing responsibly 51:21 - 54:06: What to pack for the Amazon + guest takeaways (guides, culture, cuisine) 54:08 - 56:30: Why sustainable tourism matters + closing thoughts Guest Intro Gabriela Orihuela is a tropical biologist and the head of sustainability at Delfin Amazon Cruises, the first Amazon cruise line partnered with Relais & Chateaux. She leads community-based conservation, citizen science on pink river dolphins, and Delfin’s BioRest program restoring forests with native, culturally significant species. Learn more: https://www.delfinamazoncruises.com 💬 Help us grow our Podcast – don’t forget to subscribe! Stay Tuned on your favorite platform Find us on Social Media | |||
| Truffles, Italian Heritage & ESG: The Casa Di Langa Playbook | Eva Codina & Jessica Hinman | 07 Oct 2025 | 00:46:09 | |
Can luxury and sustainable hospitality truly coexist—and even drive profitability? Step into Casa di Langa in Piedmont, Italy, for a masterclass in sustainable luxury hotels, storytelling, and community impact. In this episode, we explore how a Beyond Green property brings regenerative design, local heritage, and guest delight together—without compromise. This Conscious Check-in takes you to northern Italy for a behind-the-scenes look at Casa di Langa, a Beyond Green boutique property redefining sustainable hospitality in the Piedmont region. Host Amy Wald is joined by General Manager Eva Codina and Krause Group Director of Sustainability, Jessica Hinman, to unpack how shared value, ESG strategy, and community-first design show up in real operations—from curated local minibars to biodiverse landscaping and white truffle experiences. You’ll learn how Casa di Langa combines regenerative practices with quiet luxury, why integrity is a non-negotiable across the Krause Group portfolio, and how hospitality leaders can start (and scale) sustainability in authentic, profitable ways. Whether you’re a conscious traveler or a hotel executive, this episode offers practical inspiration on guest experience innovation, sustainable luxury, and building a brand that travelers love—and remember. Timestamps / Episode Breakdown
About our Guests Eva Codina, General Manager, Casa di Langa (Beyond Green). A veteran luxury hotelier, Eva leads with warmth, empowerment, and precision—shaping a guest experience that’s both elevated and deeply human. Jessica Hinman, Director of Sustainability, Krause Group. Jessica guides ESG and CSR strategy across a multi-brand luxury portfolio—operationalizing shared value, transparency, and regenerative practices. Learn more about Casa di Langa: https://www.casadilanga.com Learn more about Krause Group: https://www.krausegroup.com/ -- 💬 Help us grow our Podcast – don’t forget to subscribe! Stay Tuned on your favorite platform Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conscious-check-in/id1831789668 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2YfXT8SElYqYEbhYqbD1AJ?si=00fad07476c14a70 Find us on Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theconsciouscheckin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theconsciouscheckin/ 📅 Book a 1:1 with Amy: https://calendly.com/greenluxeinc/sustainable-hospitality 🌿 Learn more about Greenluxe: https://www.greenluxeinc.com/ #sustainablehospitality #sustainablehospitality #sustainabletravel #luxurytravel #italytravel Sustainable luxury hotels, eco-friendly hotels, boutique hotel sustainability, regenerative tourism, storytelling in hospitality, ESG, shared value, guest experience innovation, Piedmont Italy, Beyond Green, truffle experiences. | |||
| Wildly Different: How Go2Africa is Reimagining Luxury Safaris | Liesel van Zyl | 27 Sep 2025 | 00:55:10 | |
Indulgence and impact can coexist, especially when your safari is designed to give back. This episode shows how nature-based tourism can deliver bucket-list safaris while creating real impact for wildlife, communities, and the planet. Go beyond the Big Five with a purpose-driven look at modern safaris. Amy sits down with Liesel van Zyl, Head of Positive Impact at Go2Africa (a B Corp) to explore how luxury, conservation, and community can thrive together. Learn how to plan a safari that feels indulgent yet regenerative—from choosing accredited partners to tailoring hands-on experiences for your interests and values. You’ll also hear practical tips for maximizing your impact, questions to ask operators, and how guest dollars translate into biodiversity protection and community uplift. • Reframing “bucket list” safaris into journeys of connection, culture, and purpose • What B Corp and third-party accreditations signal (and why they build trust) • How Go2Africa vets partners for regenerative impact (beyond sustainability) • Practical planning tips: share interests early; ask how your dollar benefits locally • Nature-based luxury: low-volume, high-impact models, farm-to-fork, plastic reduction Liesel van Zyl is the Head of Positive Impact at Go2Africa, where she helps redefine what a luxury safari can be by aligning conservation, community development, and exceptional guest experiences. Her work spans partner vetting, NGO collaborations, and guest education—turning every journey into a force for good across Africa’s diverse ecosystems. Learn more about Go2Africa: https://www.go2africa.com/ 💬 Help us grow our Podcast – don’t forget to subscribe! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/br/podcast/the-conscious-check-in/id1832522451 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2YfXT8SElYqYEbhYqbD1AJ?si=00fad07476c14a70 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theconsciouscheckin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theconsciouscheckin/ 📅 Book a 1:1 with Amy: https://calendly.com/greenluxeinc/sustainable-hospitality 🌿 Learn more about Greenluxe: https://www.greenluxeinc.com/ | |||
| Designing a Sustainable Luxury Guest Experience | Hervé Houdré, Forbes Verified | 05 Sep 2025 | 00:50:21 | |
Can luxury and sustainable hospitality truly thrive together? In this episode, we unpack how the Forbes VERIFIED Responsible Hospitality program is redefining five-star service through responsible hospitality—without sacrificing guest experience or profitability. Legendary hotelier Hervé Houdré—creator and global ambassador of Forbes VERIFIED Responsible Hospitality—joins Amy to explore how sustainability becomes a competitive advantage in luxury hotels. From designing energy- and water-smart properties to eliminating single-use plastics across the guest journey, Hervé shares practical frameworks leaders can use now. You’ll hear how the triple bottom line (People, Planet, Profit) informs winning brand strategy, why development and procurement decisions are decisive, and how verification (not box-ticking) builds real trust with guests and advisors. Secondary topics include GSTC certification alignment, energy efficiency in hotels (energy efficiency hotels), and elevating sustainable guest amenities. - Takeaways:
Hervé Houdré is the creator and Global Ambassador of the Forbes VERIFIED Responsible Hospitality program and a pioneer who helped popularize the term “sustainable hospitality.” A former COO of Kempinski and former leader at icons like the Hôtel de Crillon and Plaza Athénée, he advises global brands on integrating sustainability, GSTC certification principles, and operational excellence into luxury service. 💬 Help us grow our Podcast – don’t forget to subscribe! Stay Tuned on your favorite platform Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conscious-check-in/id1831789668 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2YfXT8SElYqYEbhYqbD1AJ?si=00fad07476c14a70 Find us on Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theconsciouscheckin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theconsciouscheckin/ 📅 Book a 1:1 with Amy: https://calendly.com/greenluxeinc/sustainable-hospitality 🌿 Learn more about Greenluxe: https://www.greenluxeinc.com/ #SustainableHospitality, #SustainableLuxury, #EcoFriendlyHotels, #ConsciousTravel, #ForbesVERIFIED, #GSTC, #UNSDGs, #EnergyEfficiency, #SustainableGuestAmenities, #GreenHospitality, #LuxuryTravel | |||
| Sustainable Luxury in Miami Beach: Inside the Palms Hotel & Spa | 20 Aug 2025 | 00:34:39 | |
Discover how The Palms Hotel and Spa in Miami Beach integrates sustainability into its core identity, proving that eco-conscious hospitality is more than a trend — it's a continuous journey. Join marketing and sustainability director Tanya Morariu as she candidly shares the challenges, successes, and impactful guest experiences that come with leading a truly green luxury hotel. This conversation offers valuable insights for hospitality professionals striving to embed sustainability authentically and effectively and inspiration for your next feel good tropical getaway!
💬 Help us grow our channel – don't forget to subscribe! 📅 Book a 1:1 with Amy: https://calendly.com/greenluxeinc/sustainable-hospitality 🌿 Learn more about Greenluxe: https://www.greenluxeinc.com/ #SustainableTravel, #LuxuryHospitality, #EcoChic, #HotelLife, #TravelSustainably, #HospitalityandTravelPodcast, #GreenluxeMedia, #BeyondGreen, #ThePalmsHotel&Spa, #SustainableTourism, | |||
| How 1 Hotels Reimagines Luxury Hotel Concierge | Michelle Exarhos | 12 Jun 2026 | 01:00:41 | |
What is the future of the luxury hotel concierge in a world of AI, personalization, and rising traveler expectations? In this conversation, Amy Wald speaks with Michelle Exarhos, President of Les Clefs d’Or Denmark and an experienced luxury hotel concierge, about why concierge service remains one of hospitality’s most powerful differentiators. Michelle shares how she built her career across Four Seasons, Generator, Radisson, and 1 Hotels, and why great concierge work goes far beyond bookings. The episode explores human intuition, guest psychology, sustainable luxury storytelling, local sourcing, and why the best concierge teams can drive loyalty, revenue, and unforgettable guest experiences. Timestamps / Episode Breakdown
Guest Bio Michelle Exarhos is an award-winning luxury hospitality professional and President of Les Clefs d’Or Denmark, the international concierge organization known for its service ethos and global network. With more than a decade of concierge experience across leading hospitality brands, Michelle brings deep expertise in guest experience, local partnerships, operational agility, and the evolving role of concierge teams in sustainable luxury hotels. Key Links Listen to this Podcast on Apple or Spotify: Connect with us: About The Conscious Check-In The Conscious Check-In is a Greenluxe podcast exploring the future of sustainable luxury hospitality, travel, and tourism. Hosted by Amy Wald, founder of Greenluxe, the show brings together hoteliers, travel leaders, sustainability experts, and brand innovators to examine how responsible hospitality can create stronger guest experiences, deeper brand trust, operational value, and measurable impact. From conservation-led luxury and responsible tourism to guest loyalty, wellness, community, and the evolving expectations of modern travelers, each episode helps hospitality leaders turn sustainability into a smarter way to stay relevant. Wherever you’re headed next — travel deeper, stay inspired. | |||
| How the Cruise Industry Uses Sustainability as Competitive Advantage | Steve Jones, Will Pearson, Alex Schultz & Tony Rossi | 28 May 2026 | 00:37:44 | |
How can the cruise industry use sustainability as a competitive advantage, not just a compliance exercise? In this Seatrade panel, Amy Wald is joined by Steve Jones (ORCA),Will Pearson (Ocean Bottle), Alex Schultz (4ocean), and Tony Rossi (TerraCycle) to explore how the cruise sector can turn sustainability into guest value, operational progress, and stronger brand trust. From ocean conservation and circularity to crew engagement, stakeholder mapping, and sustainable product innovation, the conversation shows why cruise industry sustainability matters commercially and reputationally—and how cruise brands can start small, communicate better, and create measurable impact across the voyage experience. Timestamps / Episode Breakdown
Guest Bio Steve Jones is Director of Fundraising and Operations at ORCA, where he supports whale and dolphin conservation through crew training, education, citizen science, and vessel strike mitigation. Will Pearson is Co-Founder of Ocean Bottle, a social enterprise creating products that help fund ocean plastic collection while delivering strong retail and branding value. Alex Schultz is CEO and Co-Founder of 4Ocean, an ocean cleanup company partnering with brands to deliver accessible sustainability programs and measurable environmental impact. Tony Rossi leads business development at TerraCycle, helping companies recycle hard-to-recycle materials and build circular solutions that support both sustainability goals and business performance. Key Links Connect with the guests: Listen to this Podcast on Apple or Spotify: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conscious-check-in/id1832522451 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2YfXT8SElYqYEbhYqbD1AJ?si=00fad07476c14a70 Connect with us Partner with us: https://www.greenluxeinc.com/partner-with-us LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theconsciouscheckin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theconsciouscheckin/ About Greenluxe: https://www.greenluxeinc.com/ 1:1 with Amy: https://calendly.com/greenluxeinc/sustainable-hospitality About the podcast The Conscious Check-In is a Greenluxe podcast exploring the future of sustainable luxury hospitality, travel, and tourism. Hosted by Amy Wald, founder of Greenluxe, the show brings together hoteliers, travel leaders, sustainability experts, and brand innovators to examine how responsible hospitality can create stronger guest experiences, deeper brand trust, operational value, and measurable impact. From conservation-led luxury and responsible tourism to guest loyalty, wellness, community, and the evolving expectations of modern travelers, each episode helps hospitality leaders turn sustainability into a smarter way to stay relevant. Wherever you’re headed next — travel deeper, stay inspired. | |||
| Transformational Travel and the Human Touch | Dan Christian | 15 May 2026 | 01:00:16 | |
How are sustainable travel and transformational travel reshaping the future of hospitality? In this episode, Amy sits down with Dan Christian, founder and host of the Travel Trends Podcast and a longtime travel industry executive, for a wide-ranging conversation on sustainable travel, storytelling, traveler behavior, and what’s next for the industry. Dan shares why sustainability is becoming table stakes, how transformational travel is moving from trend to expectation, and what travel brands, advisors, and hospitality leaders need to do now to stay relevant in a more conscious, experience-driven market. Timestamps / Episode Breakdown 00:02:03 – Meet Dan Christian: from travel executive to Travel Trends Podcast host 00:02:54 – A standout lesson in storytelling in hospitality and social-first travel marketing 00:04:40 – How travel content can influence careers, leadership, and industry learning 00:06:01 – Dan’s career journey through Lonely Planet, G Adventures, and digital transformation 00:11:02 – COVID, personal loss, and the launch of Travel Trends Podcast 00:13:52 – Where the industry is making real progress in sustainable travel 00:17:07 – Why sustainability used to rank low for travelers—and what changed 00:18:23 – Why sustainability is now table stakes for travel brands 00:19:02 – Closing the gap between traveler intent and actual booking behavior 00:19:55 – Why brands shouldn’t put the burden of sustainability on the guest 00:23:00 – The language problem: sustainability, regeneration, and consumer confusion 00:24:30 – What actually motivates conscious travel decisions: people, animals, and personal connection 00:27:34 – Reframing eco experiences through wellness, connection, and guest benefit 00:30:30 – The rise of transformational travel and why it matters now 00:35:34 – What travel advisors need to understand about selling transformative experiences 00:39:20 – What travel brands should stop saying—and start prioritizing instead 00:41:27 – The future of travel demand, overtourism, and why sustainability can’t be optional 00:46:10 – Dan’s favorite travel hacks and in-flight essentials 00:49:34 – An overrated destination, a scary travel story, and Dan’s “animal energy” Key Links Connect with the guest(s): Our platforms Connect with us Guest Bio Dan Christian is the founder and host of Travel Trends, a globally recognized B2B travel podcast focused on industry transformation, traveler behavior, and the future of travel. With over 20 years of experience across digital strategy, marketing, and travel leadership roles, Dan brings a sharp executive perspective on how brands can stay relevant, grow audience trust, and communicate change with clarity. About the Conscious Check-in Podcast The Conscious Check-In is a Greenluxe podcast exploring the future of sustainable luxury hospitality, travel, and tourism. Hosted by Amy Wald, founder of Greenluxe, the show brings together hoteliers, travel leaders, sustainability experts, and brand innovators to examine how responsible hospitality can create stronger guest experiences, deeper brand trust, operational value, and measurable impact. From conservation-led luxury and responsible tourism to guest loyalty, wellness, community, and the evolving expectations of modern travelers, each episode helps hospitality leaders turn sustainability into a smarter way to stay relevant. Wherever you’re headed next — travel deeper, stay inspired. | |||
| How to Visit the Galapagos Responsibly with Galapagos Safari Camp | 07 May 2026 | 00:46:21 | |
How can travelers experience the fragile wonder of the Galapagos more sustainably — and still feel the once-in-a-lifetime magic of the “Darwin Effect”? In this episode of The Conscious Check-In, Amy sits down with Stephanie Bonham-Carter, co-founder of Galapagos Safari Camp, to explore how sustainable Galápagos travel can protect one of the world’s most fragile ecosystems while preserving the awe that makes the islands unforgettable. From creating one of Latin America’s first tented camps to redefining “appropriate luxury,” Stephanie shares how land-based Galapagos travel can offer a deeper connection to conservation, community, and place. Together, Amy and Stephanie discuss why smaller-scale hospitality matters, how thoughtful design can reduce impact, and why the future of luxury travel may be less about overengineering the guest experience — and more about making space for wonder. Timestamps / Episode Breakdown 00:02:16 – Stephanie Bonham-Carter on the origin of Galapagos Safari Camp 00:04:22 – From cattle pasture to conservation-led destination in the Galápagos 00:07:24 – Why land-based travel offers a different Galápagos experience than cruising 00:11:12 – Inside the tented camp concept: immersive design and quiet luxury hotels 00:14:17 – What “appropriate luxury” means in sustainable luxury hotels 00:18:22 – Responsible travel in one of the world’s most protected ecosystems 00:21:57 – Sustainable hospitality in action: rainwater collection, airflow, and low-impact operations 00:26:14 – Moving beyond trends: timeless lessons in nature-based tourism 00:29:06 – What defines nature-based hospitality when it’s done right 00:31:02 – Designing personalized guest journeys for adventure seekers and reflective travelers 00:34:13 – Wellness luxury travel without a spa: reconnection, stillness, and the natural world 00:38:24 – What gives Stephanie hope about the future of the Galápagos 00:42:40 – Stephanie’s advice for hoteliers: stop overengineering guest experiences Credits: photos and video footage provided courtesy of Galapagos Safari Camp. Key Links Connect with the guest(s): Stephanie Bonham-Carter Our platforms Connect with us About the podcast The Conscious Check-In is a Greenluxe podcast exploring the future of sustainable luxury hospitality, travel, and tourism. Hosted by Amy Wald, founder of Greenluxe, the show brings together hoteliers, travel leaders, sustainability experts, and brand innovators to examine how responsible hospitality can create stronger guest experiences, deeper brand trust, operational value, and measurable impact. From conservation-led luxury and responsible tourism to guest loyalty, wellness, community, and the evolving expectations of modern travelers, each episode helps hospitality leaders turn sustainability into a smarter way to stay relevant. Travel deeper, stay inspired. | |||
| What Is Deep Travel? One Planet Journey's Richard Lindberg | 21 Apr 2026 | 00:28:32 | |
What if the problem with sustainable travel isn't the intention — it's the language? In this episode of The Conscious Check-In, Amy sits down with Richard Lindberg, co-founder of One Planet Journey, to explore a concept called deep travel — a philosophy built around why you travel, not just where. Richard breaks down the difference between sustainable, responsible, regenerative, and deep travel, unpacks the say-do gap that's stalling real change in the industry, and makes a compelling case that the responsibility for shifting travel behavior sits more with the industry than the traveler. Plus — a legendary pizza story from the Amalfi Coast you won't forget. What is deep travel?It's the shift from obsessing over the destination to understanding your deeper why — connecting meaningfully with local communities, cultures, and yourself in the process. One Planet Journey built their entire platform around it, and this conversation is one of the clearest explanations of the concept you'll find anywhere. What's the difference between regenerative and sustainable travel? 00:00:52 — Richard's sustainable travel hack: take fewer trips, do them better 00:02:21 — From tech entrepreneur to sustainability nonprofit to travel changemaker 00:04:43 — The slow European road trip that changed everything and sparked One Planet Journey 00:07:02 — What is deep travel and why it connects where sustainable travel language fails 00:09:28 — Deep travel vs sustainable vs responsible vs regenerative travel — the clearest breakdown you'll hear 00:11:49 — Why guilt, shame and doom are killing sustainable travel adoption (the clip you need to hear) 00:14:01 — The say-do gap: why travelers say they want responsible luxury travel but don't book it 00:16:02 — Should travelers be responsible for sustainability? Richard's answer might surprise you 00:18:03 — Why Richard believes sustainability must become the industry default, not a traveler choice 00:20:28 — The role of sustainable hotel certification and why it matters even when guests don't see it 00:22:46 — The underrated internal benefit of certification: what it does for your staff 00:25:01 — Food, culture and one legendary pizza story from the Amalfi Coast (Pepe Ingrani) 00:27:22 — Richard's sci-fi writing and how travel shapes his fiction 00:29:43 — The animal that reflects how Richard moves through the world 00:31:33 — Final fill-in-the-blank: why One Planet Journey exists Key Links Connect with the guest(s):Our platformsConnect with us About the podcastThe core mission of The Conscious Check-in is to inspire travelers and hospitality leaders to embrace sustainability, showing how conscious choices in travel and luxury hospitality can create meaningful experiences for guests while driving positive impact for people, planet, and business. | |||
| Is Sustainable Luxury Real? Inside Africa’s Most Impactful Safari Brand | 27 Mar 2026 | 00:36:36 | |
What if the future of luxury travel wasn’t defined by excess—but by what it protects? Sustainable luxury travel is evolving—and nature-based tourism is leading the shift. In this conversation with Beks Ndlovu of African Bush Camps, we explore how safari tourism supports local communities, wildlife conservation, and the future of meaningful travel. In this episode of The Conscious Check-In, Amy Wald sits down with Beks Ndlovu, founder of African Bush Camps, to unpack how hospitality can go far beyond operations and become a powerful model for conservation, community impact, and unforgettable guest experiences. From building one of Africa’s most respected safari brands to redefining what luxury actually means today, this conversation explores:
Whether you’re a hotelier, travel advisor, or a traveler seeking more purpose in where you go next, this conversation will challenge how you think about impact, experience, and the future of travel. Timestamps / Episode Breakdown
high-impact trip. Key Links Connect with African Bush Camp: Our platforms Connect with us Become a partner to the Podcast About the podcast The core mission of The Conscious Check-in is to inspire travelers and hospitality leaders to embrace sustainability and nature based solutions to drive conscious choices in travel and luxury hospitality. Using solutions based storytelling as a vehicle for meaningful experiences with guests while driving positive impact for people, planet, and the tourism industry . | |||
| Inside Seatrade Cruise’s push for sustainable cruising | Jason Gelineau | 09 Mar 2026 | 00:31:42 | |
How can sustainable hospitality and wellness at sea transform the cruise guest experience? Hospitality veteran Jason Gelineau joins host Amy Wald to explore how sustainable hospitality is evolving across the cruise industry—from empathetic, people-first leadership onboard to real-world environmental action. Jason shares lessons from 30+ years at sea, including crew wellbeing, operational resilience, and the shift away from fear-based hierarchies. He spotlights 4ocean’s “pull-a-pound” partnership model, noise-reduction and wildlife-safe navigation, and how wellness luxury travel is reshaping guest expectations through fitness, enrichment, and mindful shore experiences. Ideal for hoteliers and travel leaders seeking actionable ideas that elevate guest experience and deliver impact. Timestamps / Episode Breakdown
Key Links Our platforms
Connect with us
About the podcast The core mission of The Conscious Check-in is to inspire travelers and hospitality leaders to embrace sustainability, showing how conscious choices in travel and luxury hospitality can create meaningful experiences for guests while driving positive impact for people, planet, and business. | |||
| Luxury Hotels Are Getting Experiential Hospitality Wrong | Hans M. Pfister, Cayuga Collection | 20 Feb 2026 | 00:50:29 | |
How do sustainable luxury hotels stay profitable, authentic—and truly regenerative? Amy Wald sits down with Hans from the Cayuga Collection to unpack how small, remote, sustainable luxury hotels can thrive operationally and deliver unforgettable guest experiences. They explore Cayuga’s management model, “luxury rewilded” philosophy, passive wellness, and concrete tactics for reducing waste without sacrificing service. You’ll learn practical approaches to boutique hotel sustainability, guest-experience innovation, regenerative tourism, and how to turn sustainability into loyalty and ROI—while keeping brand storytelling authentic and clear. Timestamps / Episode Breakdown
Key Links Connect with the guest(s): Hans (Cayuga Collection) on LinkedIn Our platforms Connect with us About the podcast The core mission of The Conscious Check-in is to inspire travelers and hospitality leaders to embrace sustainability, showing how conscious choices in travel and luxury hospitality can create meaningful experiences for guests while driving positive impact for people, planet, and business. | |||
| Plastic-Free to Profitable at The Ranch at Laguna Beach | Kurt Bjorkman | 22 Jan 2026 | 00:51:31 | |
Can sustainable hospitality be true luxury? Inside The Ranch at Laguna Beach. Amy Wald sits down with Kurt Bjorkman, COO of The Ranch at Laguna Beach, to explore sustainable hospitality as a driver of luxury guest experience and real operational ROI. From bamboo room keys and plastic-free initiatives to community stewardship, Beyond Green certification, and “nature as our economy,” Kurt shares actionable, property-tested strategies. You’ll learn how guest expectations are shifting, why costs have flipped in favor of sustainable purchasing, and how to build culture, hiring, and design choices that elevate both impact and guest loyalty. Timestamps / Episode Breakdown 00:01 – Cruise ship roots: hospitality grit, guest connection, and leadership lessons 00:06 – The Ranch history: Indigenous gathering place to mid-century golf resort 00:12 – Preservation first: community-backed revitalization over teardown 00:14 – Strategy start: from basics to meaningful, place-based sustainability 00:17 – Stewardship mindset: operating as land and water guardians 00:19 – Overcoming barriers: budgets, ROI, and the new cost curve 00:21 – Case study: bamboo room keys reduce plastic and costs 00:23 – Procurement made easy: vendors now lead with sustainable options 00:25 – Big brand shifts: Hilton/Marriott phase out plastic water bottles 00:26 – Guest behavior: rising demand for eco-friendly hotels and amenities 00:28 – Leadership toolkit: scuba’s “stop, breathe, think” applied to operations 00:31 – Culture and hiring: the vibe check for true hospitality hearts 00:33 – Keeping it human: humor, humility, and guest joy 00:36 – Sustainability vs. regenerative: what language serves guests now 00:39 – Sense of place: designing for immersion in canyon and coastal sage 00:43 – Let nature teach: fewer signs, more felt experiences 00:44 – Urban lens: nature-based hospitality in cities (harbors, parks, rooftops) 00:45 – Reality check: regulatory complexity of nature-immersed properties 00:46 – Full circle: personal vision, purpose, and place 00:48 – Why The Ranch exists: people, community, and ownership alignment 00:49 – Learn more: Beyond Green recertification and rigorous standards 00:51 – Close: visit, learn, and experience green luxury Key Links Our platforms Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conscious-check-in/id1832522451 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2YfXT8SElYqYEbhYqbD1AJ?si=00fad07476c14a70 Connect with us Sponsor this Podcast: https://www.greenluxeinc.com/partner-with-us LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theconsciouscheckin/ About Greenluxe: https://www.greenluxeinc.com/ 1:1 with Amy: https://calendly.com/greenluxeinc/sustainable-hospitality About the podcast The core mission of The Conscious Check-in is to inspire travelers and hospitality leaders to embrace sustainability, showing how conscious choices in travel and luxury hospitality can create meaningful experiences for guests while driving positive impact for people, planet, and business. | |||