Grab your copy of the “Unlocking Hospitality Success: 25 Must-Know Insights for Independent Hotel Owners” PDF.
https://keystonehpd.com/the-hotelier-helpcast-pdf/

Should You Build or Buy Your First Hotel? | Episode 076 – Beds, Breakfast & Business

In Episode 076 of Beds, Breakfast & Business, we tackle one of the biggest decisions a new hotelier will face: build or buy your first hotel? This isn’t just about square footage—it’s about strategy, lifestyle, control, and timing.

🎙️ I break down the real-world pros and cons of each option, from construction delays and creative freedom to fast-track cash flow and fixer-upper surprises.

You’ll learn how to assess which path makes the most sense for your location, target guest, and financial plan—and you’ll hear stories from other hotel owners who’ve taken both routes.

Whether you're planning a luxury resort, historic inn revival, or budget-friendly motel reboot, this episode is packed with actionable advice and personality to match.

📌 Episode Timeline:
00:00 – Introduction: Build vs Buy, a lifestyle decision
01:25 – Building your hotel: control, costs, and challenges
03:58 – Buying an existing property: speed, surprises & second chances
06:10 – Budget breakdowns: what it really costs
08:15 – Time-to-launch realities
09:55 – Design freedom vs legacy renovation
11:20 – Walkarounds: why visiting the site can save you thousands
13:10 – Key takeaways + course mention

🎓 Get the full decision-making toolkit in The Hotel Owner’s Roadmap: Start, Manage & Grow – https://courses.keystonehospitalitydevelopment.com/course/the-hotel-owners-roadmap-start-manage-grow/

💬 QUESTION: What’s your biggest fear about building or buying a hotel? Let’s talk in the comments.

#Building a hotel #Buying a hotel #HotelOwnership #BuildOrBuy #HotelInvestment #HospitalityBusiness #HotelManagement #HotelStartup #IndependentHotelier #HotelConstruction #HotelRenovation #HospitalityTech

⇒ TO READ OR LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE ON KEYSTONE HOSPITALITY PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT:
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/2025/06/how-to-decide-between-building-or-buying-your-first-hotel-076

Grab your copy of the free “Your Independent Hotel Blueprint”.
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/hotelier-helpcast-pdf-download

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Listen to The Hospitality Property School PODCAST here
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YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/ @TheHotelierHelpcast

A Division of Keystone Hospitality Property Development

Grab your copy of the “Unlocking Hospitality Success: 25 Must-Know Insights for Independent Hotel Owners” PDF.
https://keystonehpd.com/the-hotelier-helpcast-pdf/

How to Craft a Hotel Business Plan That Attracts Investors | Episode 075 – Beds, Breakfast & Business

Episode 075 of Beds, Breakfast & Business is for every aspiring hotel owner staring at a blank Word doc wondering, “How do I write a hotel business plan that actually works?”

In this episode, I’m walking you through how to create a clear, compelling business plan that showcases your hotel’s unique value—and grabs investor attention. You’ll learn how to define your concept with confidence, use realistic financials, avoid generic fluff, and design a plan that inspires trust from partners, lenders, and future you.

This isn’t a corporate template you download and forget. It’s a working document that helps you launch smarter, market better, and avoid costly missteps.

📌 Episode Timeline:
00:00 – Introduction: Why your plan matters more than ever
01:20 – Concept clarity: ditching the clichés
03:10 – Market research tips that actually matter
05:00 – Target guest profiling made simple
06:55 – Financials: how to forecast without fantasy
09:15 – Operations: planning for who’s doing what
11:10 – Marketing strategy: beyond “just social media"
13:00 – What to cut: fluff, filler, and fake numbers
14:20 – Final tips + free course mention

🎯 Want step-by-step guidance with templates and tools? Get The Hotel Owner’s Roadmap: Start, Manage & Grow here → https://courses.keystonehospitalitydevelopment.com/course/the-hotel-owners-roadmap-start-manage-grow/

💬 What’s one smart (or surprising) thing you’ve added to your business plan? Share it in the comments—I’d love to know!

💬 Don’t forget to share your biggest non-negotiable in your hotel concept. I read every comment!

#HotelBusinessPlan #IndependentHotelier #HospitalityStrategy #HotelStartup #HotelMarketing #HotelFinancialPlanning #BoutiqueHotel #HotelOperations #HospitalityManagement #HotelSuccess

⇒ TO READ OR LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE ON KEYSTONE HOSPITALITY PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT:
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/2025/05/how-to-craft-a-hotel-business-plan-that-attracts-investors-75

Grab your copy of the free “Your Independent Hotel Blueprint”.
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/hotelier-helpcast-pdf-download

Join one of our groups
Facebook
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Say hi on social
https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehotelierhelpcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8811511/

Listen to The Hospitality Property School PODCAST here
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/HotelierHelpcastPodcast

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/ @TheHotelierHelpcast

A Division of Keystone Hospitality Property Development

Grab your copy of the “Unlocking Hospitality Success: 25 Must-Know Insights for Independent Hotel Owners” PDF.
https://keystonehpd.com/the-hotelier-helpcast-pdf/

How to Choose a Hotel Concept That Matches You | Episode 074 – Beds, Breakfast & Business

Welcome to episode 074 of Beds, Breakfast & Business, where we dive into the heart of what makes a successful independent hotel: a concept that fits you.

Have you ever wondered if your dream hotel idea aligns with your personal strengths, passions, and budget? In this episode, Gerry MacPherson explores why choosing the right hotel concept isn’t just a creative exercise—it’s a strategic decision that impacts guest satisfaction, profitability, and your sanity as an owner.

🧭 Whether you're a future boutique hotel owner or transitioning from another hospitality business, this episode delivers smart, practical advice grounded in real stories from the field.

Episode Breakdown:
00:00 – Introduction: Your concept = your foundation
01:20 – The power of leaning into your strengths
03:35 – The danger of trying to be everything to everyone
05:52 – Defining your vision with 4 key questions
07:40 – Finding a market gap in your location
09:50 – Aligning your dream with your budget and team
11:40 – Why consistency is your secret weapon
13:00 – Final thoughts + bonus course mention

🎓 Ready to refine your concept and launch with clarity? Enrol in The Hotel Owner’s Roadmap: Start, Manage & Grow: https://courses.keystonehospitalitydevelopment.com/course/the-hotel-owners-roadmap-start-manage-grow/

💬 Don’t forget to share your biggest non-negotiable in your hotel concept. I read every comment!

#HotelConcept #hotelconceptdevelopment #hospitalitybranding #boutiquehotelowners #hotelstartupguide #independenthoteliers #guestexperiencegoals #hoteltips2025 #hospitalityleadership #hotelvision #hotelbusinesssuccess

⇒ TO READ OR LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE ON KEYSTONE HOSPITALITY PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT:
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/2025/05/how-to-choose-a-hotel-concept-that-matches-you-074

Grab your copy of the free “Your Independent Hotel Blueprint”.
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/hotelier-helpcast-pdf-download

Join one of our groups
Facebook
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Say hi on social
https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehotelierhelpcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8811511/

Listen to The Hospitality Property School PODCAST here
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/HotelierHelpcastPodcast

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/ @TheHotelierHelpcast

A Division of Keystone Hospitality Property Development

Grab your copy of the “Unlocking Hospitality Success: 25 Must-Know Insights for Independent Hotel Owners” PDF.
https://keystonehpd.com/the-hotelier-helpcast-pdf/

Is 2025 the Right Year to Open Your Independent Hotel?

In this episode of Hotelier HelpCast podcast, host Gerry MacPherson explores whether 2025 is the optimal year to open an independent hotel post-COVID-19. He discusses the pandemic's lingering impact on the hospitality industry, the rising demand for unique and personalized travel experiences, and why independent hotels often outperform chains in certain markets. Jerry provides practical advice, including market analysis, trend spotting, and strategic planning to set your hotel up for success. He also addresses the role of technology, the importance of passion, and the intrinsic rewards of hospitality. Tune in for insights, actionable tips, and inspiration to make your hotel dream a reality.

00:00 Introduction: Is 2025 the Right Year to Open Your Hotel?

01:37 The Current State of the Hotel Industry

02:13 The Unique Advantage of Independent Hotels

03:18 Trends to Watch in 2025

04:01 Financial Considerations and Market Research

05:46 The Reality of Running a Hotel

06:32 The Role of Technology in Hospitality

08:16 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

09:02 Conclusion: Making Your Hotel Dream a Reality

#Opening a hotel in 2025 #HotelInvestment2025 #StartAHotel #IndependentHotelier
#BoutiqueHotelBusiness #HospitalityGrowth #HotelOwnerTips #HotelStartup #HotelBusiness2025 #HotelierHelpcast #OpenAHotelRight

⇒ TO READ OR LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE ON KEYSTONE HOSPITALITY PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT:
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/2025/05/how-to-know-if-opening-a-hotel-in-2025-still-a-smart-investment-073

Serious about taking your business to the next level? Sign up for the “The Hotel Owner’s Roadmap: Start, Manage, & Grow” course.
https://courses.keystonehospitalitydevelopment.com/course/the-hotel-owners-roadmap-start-manage-grow/

Grab your copy of the free “Your Independent Hotel Blueprint”.
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/hotelier-helpcast-pdf-download

Join one of our groups
Facebook
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Say hi on social
https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehotelierhelpcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8811511/

Listen to The Hospitality Property School PODCAST here
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/HotelierHelpcastPodcast

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/ @TheHotelierHelpcast

A Division of Keystone Hospitality Property Development

Grab your copy of the “Unlocking Hospitality Success: 25 Must-Know Insights for Independent Hotel Owners” PDF.
https://keystonehpd.com/the-hotelier-helpcast-pdf/

How Do You Develop a Winning Hotel Team?

What’s the real secret to delivering an exceptional guest experience? It starts behind the front desk—with your team. In this episode, Gerry MacPherson breaks down how independent hoteliers can create a strong, motivated workforce through meaningful employee development.

You’ll learn:

• Why staff growth equals guest satisfaction
• Budget-friendly training ideas that actually work
• How feedback and recognition can boost morale
• Ways to build a supportive, team-oriented environment

Whether you’re managing a boutique hotel or a country inn, these tips will help you lead a happier, more productive team—and run a smoother operation.

🎙 Subscribe and leave a review to support the show!

#HotelTeam #WinningHotelTeam #HotelLeadership #EmployeeDevelopment #GuestSatisfaction #TeamBuilding #HospitalityTips #HotelManagement #EmployeeEngagement #StaffTraining #HotelOperations #WorkplaceCulture

⇒ TO READ OR LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE ON KEYSTONE HOSPITALITY PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT:
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/2025/05/how-do-you-develop-a-winning-hotel-team-072

Serious about taking your business to the next level? Sign up for the “Check-In to Success-Building and Running Your Hotel Business” course.
https://courses.keystonehospitalitydevelopment.com/course/check-in-to-success-building-running-your-hotel-business/

Grab your copy of the “Unlocking Hospitality Success: 25 Must-Know Insights for Independent Hotel Owners” PDF.
https://keystonehpd.com/the-hotelier-helpcast-pdf/

Join one of our groups
Facebook
LinkedIn

Say hi on social
https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehotelierhelpcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8811511/

Listen to The Hospitality Property School PODCAST here
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/HotelierHelpcastPodcast

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/ @TheHotelierHelpcast

A Division of Keystone Hospitality Property Development

Grab your copy of the “Unlocking Hospitality Success: 25 Must-Know Insights for Independent Hotel Owners” PDF.
https://keystonehpd.com/the-hotelier-helpcast-pdf/

Building Lasting Customer Loyalty for Independent Hotels

In this episode of Hotelier Help Cast, discover essential strategies to foster customer loyalty for independent hotels. Host Jerry McPherson emphasizes creating simple and appealing loyalty programs, personalizing guest experiences, and encouraging guest referrals. Learn how to offer exclusive member benefits and the importance of tracking and adjusting your program based on guest feedback. Unlock tips to make guests feel valued and transform first-time visitors into lifelong ambassadors. Subscribe for more hotel management insights and download your free guide, 'Unlocking Hospitality Success' to elevate your hotel's appeal.

00:00 Introduction: Building Lasting Customer Loyalty

00:35 The Importance of Loyalty Programs

02:09 Creating Simple and Appealing Programs

03:47 Personalizing Guest Experiences

04:45 Turning Guests into Ambassadors

05:58 Exclusive Member Benefits

06:46 Tracking and Tweaking Your Program

07:38 Fostering Genuine Relationships

08:22 Conclusion: Your Blueprint for Success

#CustomerLoyalty #HotelLoyalty #GuestRetention #IndependentHotels #BoutiqueHotelTips

#LoyaltyPrograms #ReferralMarketing #HotelSuccess #CustomerLoyalty #HotelOwnerTips #GuestExperience

⇒ TO READ OR LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE ON KEYSTONE HOSPITALITY PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT:
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/2025/05/how-can-independent-hotels-build-customer-loyalty-that-lasts-071

Serious about taking your business to the next level? Sign up for the “Check-In to Success-Building and Running Your Hotel Business” course.
https://courses.keystonehospitalitydevelopment.com/course/check-in-to-success-building-running-your-hotel-business/

Grab your copy of the “Unlocking Hospitality Success: 25 Must-Know Insights for Independent Hotel Owners” PDF.
https://keystonehpd.com/the-hotelier-helpcast-pdf/

Join one of our groups
Facebook
LinkedIn

Say hi on social
https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehotelierhelpcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8811511/

Listen to The Hospitality Property School PODCAST here
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/HotelierHelpcastPodcast

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/ @TheHotelierHelpcast

A Division of Keystone Hospitality Property Development

Grab your copy of the “Unlocking Hospitality Success: 25 Must-Know Insights for Independent Hotel Owners” PDF.
https://keystonehpd.com/the-hotelier-helpcast-pdf/

Unlocking Guest Satisfaction: Psychological Secrets to Boost Your Hotel Service

In this episode of Hotelier HelpCast, host Gerry MacPherson looks into the psychology behind memorable hotel service. He explores the power of personalization, empathy, reciprocity, social proof, and the right environment in creating unforgettable guest experiences. Gerry provides practical tips for independent hotel owners and operators, emphasizing the importance of listening to guests, anticipating needs, and offering genuine acts of kindness. The episode also highlights the significance of handling mistakes with grace and how these strategies can turn first-time visitors into lifelong advocates. Tune in to learn how to transform your hotel into a guest-centric, thriving business.

00:00 Introduction: Unlocking Guest Satisfaction

01:33 The Power of Personalization

02:50 Empathy: The Key to Exceptional Service

04:41 Building Loyalty Through Reciprocity

05:49 Harnessing Social Proof and Testimonials

06:54 Creating the Perfect Environment

08:04 Turning Problems into Opportunities

09:33 Conclusion: Making Guests Feel Valued

#HotelService #GreatHotelService #HospitalityPsychology #GuestExperience #HotelService #EmpathyInService #LoyalGuests #HotelSuccess #CustomerSatisfaction #MemorableService #PersonalisedService #ServiceExcellence

⇒ TO READ OR LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE ON KEYSTONE HOSPITALITY PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT:
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/2025/04/the-psychology-behind-great-hotel-service-070

Serious about taking your business to the next level? Sign up for the “Check-In to Success-Building and Running Your Hotel Business” course.
https://courses.keystonehospitalitydevelopment.com/course/check-in-to-success-building-running-your-hotel-business/

Grab your copy of the “Unlocking Hospitality Success: 25 Must-Know Insights for Independent Hotel Owners” PDF.
https://keystonehpd.com/the-hotelier-helpcast-pdf/

Join one of our groups
Facebook
LinkedIn

Say hi on social
https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehotelierhelpcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8811511/

Listen to The Hospitality Property School PODCAST here
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/HotelierHelpcastPodcast

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/ @TheHotelierHelpcast

A Division of Keystone Hospitality Property Development

Grab your copy of the “Unlocking Hospitality Success: 25 Must-Know Insights for Independent Hotel Owners” PDF.
https://keystonehpd.com/the-hotelier-helpcast-pdf/

Mastering Guest Complaints: Turn Frustrations into Loyalty

The episode covers the significance of active listening, empathy, offering solutions rather than excuses, and the importance of follow-up. It also highlights the need for staff training and maintaining professionalism under stress. Guest complaints are presented as valuable feedback opportunities, not personal attacks. McPherson emphasizes that by mastering complaint handling, hotel owners can enhance guest satisfaction, build loyalty, and improve their hotel's reputation. He also offers a guide titled 'Unlocking Hospitality Success: 25 Must-Know Insights for Independent Hotel Owners' for further learning.

00:00 Introduction: Turning Complaints into Loyalty

01:16 The Power of Listening

02:16 Empathy in Action

03:09 Offering Solutions, Not Excuses

04:33 Following Up: The Final Touch

05:19 Training Your Team

06:12 Staying Professional Under Pressure

07:05 Viewing Complaints as Feedback

07:52 Maintaining Perspective

08:36 Conclusion: Mastering Complaint Handling

#GuestComplaints #HotelManagement #GuestSatisfaction #CustomerServiceTips #HotelOwner #ComplaintHandling #HospitalityIndustry #GuestLoyalty #CustomerExperience

#HotelSuccess #StaffTraining

⇒ TO READ OR LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE ON KEYSTONE HOSPITALITY PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT:
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/2025/04/how-can-you-turn-guest-complaints-into-loyalty-opportunities-069

Serious about taking your business to the next level? Sign up for the “Check-In to Success-Building and Running Your Hotel Business” course.
https://courses.keystonehospitalitydevelopment.com/course/check-in-to-success-building-running-your-hotel-business/

Grab your copy of the “Unlocking Hospitality Success: 25 Must-Know Insights for Independent Hotel Owners” PDF.
https://keystonehpd.com/the-hotelier-helpcast-pdf/

Join one of our groups
Facebook
LinkedIn

Say hi on social
https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehotelierhelpcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8811511/

Listen to The Hospitality Property School PODCAST here
https://hotelierhelpcast.com/HotelierHelpcastPodcast

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/ @TheHotelierHelpcast

A Division of Keystone Hospitality Property Development