In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Dr. Achim Schmitt, Dean of EHL Hospitality Business School, joins us to explore how hospitality education is shaping the future of the industry. We discuss the evolving role of talent, innovation, and sustainability in global hospitality, and examine how visionary programs prepare the next generation of leaders. From emerging trends like AI, experiential travel, and branded residences to opportunities in high-growth regions such as the Middle East, Dr. Schmitt highlights how investing in people and knowledge drives the industry forward.

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Daria Smith sits down with Arjan Pit, Managing Director Middle East at UNStudio, to explore how visionary architecture is shaping the future of hospitality and urban development in the region. From leading landmark projects such as Wasl Tower and Expo City Dubai to discussing the balance between creative design and commercial viability, Arjan shares how bold ideas can influence investment decisions. Tune in to hear how Dubai and the wider Middle East are becoming global hubs for innovation, sustainability, and talent in hospitality design.

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Eleonora Srugo, real estate broker at Douglas Elliman and star of Netflix’s Selling the City, shares her perspective on the rise of branded residences and their global appeal. Drawing on her 16 years in New York’s luxury market, she discusses why international investors trust brands, how markets like Dubai and Miami are reshaping the conversation, and the shifting demographics driving demand. From institutional investor interest to collaborations with fashion, wellness, and culinary brands, Eleonora offers practical insights into how branded residences are evolving and what this means for developers and investors alike.

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Randy Durband, CEO of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), joins Daria Smith to discuss how sustainability is becoming a key driver for hospitality investment. They explore the growing importance of GSTC certification for hotels and destinations, the tangible business benefits, and how investors are increasingly factoring in ESG criteria. Randy also shares his insights on overcoming industry barriers to sustainability, especially in fast-growing markets like Dubai.

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Jonathan Worsley speaks with Eddy Tannous, Chief Operating Officer of Rotana, to unpack the group’s dynamic growth strategy across the Middle East. Eddy shares how Rotana is scaling fast, especially in Saudi Arabia, where 13 hotels are in the pipeline, while maintaining a high-touch, owner-centric approach. The conversation dives into the practical challenges of building talent, managing local operations, and competing with global giants through agility and cultural understanding. They also explore the evolving branded residences sector and the franchise vs. third-party management debate.

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Riyan Itani, Director & Founder, Global Branded Residences, is joined by Nina Vithlani, Managing Director for MENA at Sectorlight, to explore the explosive growth of branded residences in Asia. They discuss the importance of emotional storytelling, evolving buyer expectations, and how developers and brands can craft meaningful, market-specific identities. From Thailand’s booming pipeline to the emerging hotspots of Vietnam and Japan, this episode is packed with insight into what it takes to resonate with high-net-worth buyers in the region.

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Catherine Edwards, Chief Growth Officer, QUO Global speaks with Ho Kwonping, Founder and Executive Chairman of Banyan Group, on the rise of branded residences and how Banyan pioneered the space in Asia. With over three decades in hospitality, Mr. KP Ho shares insights on the group’s multi-brand expansion, the growing relevance of standalone residences, and why sustainability - both environmental and social - must underpin long-term real estate success. A candid and wide-ranging conversation on strategy, values, and what the future holds for the industry.

In this episode, Bill Barnett, Managing Director, C9 Hotelworks, sits down with Omar Romero, Chief Development and Luxury Officer at Minor International, to explore how the definition of luxury is evolving—and how branded residences are leading the change. Omar shares insights on redefining luxury through sustainability, wellness, and personalised living, while also shedding light on Minor’s upcoming global projects. From wellness tech in residences to the rise of “real estate collectors,” the conversation covers the latest trends shaping high-end hospitality and residential development. Tune in for a candid, forward-looking discussion on what makes branded residences not just desirable, but meaningful.