• Travel Talk: "True Luxury, Boutique Style"
    Aug 14 2025

    In this episode of The Travel Talk Podcast, host Edward Leos, CEO of The Hotel Guide, sits down with Mark Reichle, CEO of Select Registry, to explore the future of independent inns, boutique hotels, and bed & breakfasts.

    From guest loyalty to brand trust, Mark reveals what sets Select Registry properties apart and how they’re redefining the art of personalized hospitality in an era dominated by big brands.

    🎟️ Discover why discerning travelers are seeking stays with soul, character, and an unmatched sense of place.

    🎤 In This Episode:
    ✅ What today’s traveler wants from boutique accommodations
    ✅ How Select Registry maintains exceptional quality across 260+ properties
    ✅ Why “authentic luxury” beats cookie-cutter opulence
    ✅ The growing demand for experiential travel and local immersion
    ✅ How guest recognition programs drive repeat stays
    ✅ The role of storytelling in boutique property marketing
    ✅ Why independent hoteliers must lean into their uniqueness
    ✅ Post-pandemic shifts shaping intimate travel experiences

    💡 Key Takeaways:

    🏡 Quality Is the Differentiator
    • Select Registry’s 300-point inspection ensures every stay exceeds expectations
    • True luxury is found in service, comfort, and attention to detail

    🌍 Local Roots, Global Appeal
    • Travelers crave places with personality and a connection to the community
    • Authenticity builds emotional loyalty—and lifelong memories

    📣 Brand Trust = Guest Confidence
    • Consistency across unique properties inspires confidence in booking
    • Guests return for both the destination and the hospitality they’ve come to trust

    🌟 About Mark Reichle:
    With decades of experience in hospitality leadership, Mark Reichle is committed to championing the independent lodging sector. As CEO of Select Registry, he leads a network of remarkable properties that combine individuality, quality, and unforgettable guest service.

    📍 Whether you’re a boutique hotelier, a seasoned traveler, or someone who values travel experiences with depth and character, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.

    📲 CONNECT WITH SELECT REGISTRY
    Instagram: @selectregistry
    Website: https://www.selectregistry.com

    📲 CONNECT WITH THE HOTEL GUIDE
    Instagram: @officialthehotelguide
    Facebook: The Hotel Guide
    LinkedIn: The Hotel Guide

    📖 Explore more and subscribe for exclusive travel stories & insider access:
    https://www.thehotelguide.com

    🛎️ Subscribe to The Travel Talk Podcast and join us as we explore luxury escapes, cultural gems, wellness travel, and stories that change the way we experience the world.

    #TravelTalkPodcast #EdwardLeos #MarkReichle #SelectRegistry #BoutiqueHotels #LuxuryTravel #AuthenticTravel #BedAndBreakfast #IndependentHotels #HospitalityLeadership #TravelWithPurpose #ExperientialTravel #TravelAndCulture #LuxuryEscapes #DestinationBranding #MeaningfulTravel #TravelPodcast

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    16 mins
  • EPISODE 97: "Lake Tahoe Luxury"
    Aug 7 2025

    What does it take to launch an iconic new resort—and how do you create a destination that blends bold luxury with local soul? In this episode of The Travel Talk Podcast, host Edward Leos, CEO of The Hotel Guide, sits down with hospitality powerhouse Karie Hall, General Manager of the all-new Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe, to explore leadership, design, and what truly defines a world-class guest experience.

    From opening strategy to building a culture of excellence, Karie shares her vision for a reimagined Lake Tahoe resort—and why storytelling, intentional service, and bold branding matter more than ever.

    🎟️ Get a behind-the-scenes look at the launch of one of the most anticipated luxury destinations in the West.

    🎤 In This Episode:
    ✅ How Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe redefines mountain luxury
    ✅ Karie’s insights on culture-building in pre-opening and beyond
    ✅ The importance of diversity, authenticity, and inclusion in leadership
    ✅ Why bold branding is more than a logo—it’s an experience
    ✅ Creating guest experiences that reflect the soul of Lake Tahoe
    ✅ What makes a hotel stand out in a competitive resort town
    ✅ The role of strategic partnerships and community connection
    ✅ Elevating women in hospitality leadership
    ✅ The mindset and execution behind an iconic launch

    💡 Key Takeaways:

    🛎️ Culture Is the Cornerstone
    • Leadership starts before opening day—with vision and values
    • Staff buy-in and empowerment are critical to long-term success
    • Hospitality thrives when teams feel seen, heard, and proud

    🏔️ Bold Vision, Local Heart
    • Caesars Republic is reshaping luxury in Lake Tahoe
    • It’s not about copying Vegas—it’s about honoring Tahoe
    • Local culture, design, and energy are infused into every guest touchpoint

    👑 Leadership with Purpose
    • Karie Hall brings decades of brand-building, operational excellence, and inclusive leadership to her role
    • Women in executive hospitality roles are changing the industry narrative
    • Leading with clarity, confidence, and compassion unlocks next-level results

    📣 Brand Is Experience
    • Every detail—design, service, scent, sound—is part of the brand
    • Great hotels don't just look good—they feel unforgettable
    • Consistency, surprise, and connection drive loyalty

    🌟 About Karie Hall:
    With more than 25 years in hospitality leadership, Karie Hall brings an unapologetically bold and strategic mindset to her role as General Manager of Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe. A champion of culture, creativity, and operational brilliance, Karie is shaping a new chapter for luxury in the mountains—one where inclusion, innovation, and local spirit meet.

    📍 Whether you're building a brand, leading a team, or dreaming of your next escape—this episode offers rare insight into what it really takes to bring a hotel to life.

    📲 CONNECT WITH CAESARS REPUBLIC LAKE TAHOE
    Instagram: @caesarsrepubliclaketahoe
    Website: https://www.caesarsrepublic.com/laketahoe

    📲 CONNECT WITH THE HOTEL GUIDE
    Instagram: @officialthehotelguide
    Facebook: The Hotel Guide
    LinkedIn: The Hotel Guide

    📖 Explore more and subscribe for exclusive features, travel stories, and insider access:
    https://www.thehotelguide.com

    🛎️ Subscribe to The Travel Talk Podcast as we dive into boutique escapes, industry icons, and stories that change how we experience the world.

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    16 mins
  • Travel Talk: "Love, Laughter & Las Vegas"
    Jul 31 2025

    🎯 What happens when two travel lovers tie the knot—and take their passion on the road? In this special on-the-go episode of The Travel Talk Podcast, host Edward Leos is joined by his wife Roxann Leos for their very first road trip edition, recorded live from the vibrant heart of Las Vegas.

    From Bellagio backdrops to spontaneous detours, Edward and Roxann offer a candid, entertaining, and heartfelt look at travel, marriage, and chasing unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re planning your next couple’s getaway or simply need a dose of travel inspiration, this episode delivers laughter, love, and Las Vegas vibes.

    🎟️ Grab your shades, because this Travel Talk goes off-script and on the strip:
    https://www.thehotelguide.com

    🎤 In This Episode:
    ✅ The excitement of hitting the road as newlyweds
    ✅ Behind-the-scenes moments from the Bellagio
    ✅ What makes Las Vegas more than just bright lights
    ✅ Spontaneous travel and the joy of saying “yes”
    ✅ Trips might be the ultimate relationship test (and triumph)
    ✅ Real talk on balancing business and fun while on the move

    💡 Key Takeaways:

    💑 Travel Bonds Hearts
    • Navigating new destinations together strengthens connection
    • Shared experiences fuel great stories (and lots of laughs)

    🎲 Vegas is a Vibe
    • It’s not all casinos and shows—there’s culture, culinary surprises, and charm
    • Embrace the unexpected—like a podcast episode with sun glare and fountain views

    🌍 Spontaneity = Magic
    • Some of the best travel moments are unplanned
    • Saying “yes” to the unknown often leads to the most unforgettable memories

    🌟 About Edward & Roxann Leos:
    Edward, founder of The Hotel Guide and host of Travel Talk, brings decades of hospitality experience and passion for uncovering hidden gems around the globe. Roxann, his newlywed co-host for this episode, shares her own travel tales and energy for exploring new destinations—together.

    📍 Whether you're a newlywed, a travel enthusiast, or just need a good story on the go—this episode is your ticket to laughs, love, and Las Vegas.

    📲 CONNECT WITH THE HOTEL GUIDE
    Instagram: @officialthehotelguide
    YouTube: The Hotel Guide

    🎧 Subscribe to The Travel Talk Podcast for more travel stories, cultural explorations, and the people behind the places we love.

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    19 mins
  • EPISODE 94 Spiritual Healing, Travel, and Letting Go The Cuatro Ciénegas Retreat Wellness Retreat
    Jul 21 2025

    *WATCH MORE:* https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PAIYdhpntJ8&list=PLK2aLJ1ruI8CRNPJSbO6ef-A_8JSOU_11&index=1🎯 If you’re feeling stuck, burned out, or called to something deeper—this conversation will awaken something in you. This story is a powerful reminder that your next destination could be your most important one yet: home to yourself.🎟️ *Learn more about upcoming retreats and offerings:*https://www.nourishbalanceglo.com*The Travel Talk Podcast*, host Edward Leos speaks with Alejandra Harguth—founder of *Nourish Balance Glo Retreats* —about how travel, healing, and sacred reconnection can spark true inner transformation.Alejandra opens up about her journey from burnout to clarity, including a spontaneous solo trip to India that challenged her identity and led to a life-changing breakthrough—complete with a lost passport, a stolen backpack, and a deep personal rebirth.🌿 That experience became the heart of her work: hosting intimate wellness retreats that help others release emotional blocks, reconnect with themselves, and return to life grounded and whole. Through Camino Encantado, Enchanted Glo, and her signature retreats, Alejandra blends holistic healing with soul-level support.📍 Her upcoming retreat, “Coming Back to Source,” takes place September 20–27 in the sacred desert of Cuatro Ciénegas, Coahuila, Mexico. With just 13 spots available, this is not your average getaway—it’s a guided return to self.🔍 *What You’ll Learn in This Episode:*✅ Why Alejandra left everything behind for a solo trip to India✅ How shedding labels like “mother” or “professional” leads to rediscovery✅ The story behind her stolen backpack—and what it taught her✅ Why Cuatro Ciénegas is more than a destination—it’s a spiritual reset✅ What “Coming Back to Source” means for healing and identity✅ Alejandra’s blend of skincare and energy healing—science meets spirit✅ How intimate retreats foster deep connection and transformation✅ Why integration after the retreat is the real key✅ How travel reveals purpose, identity, and what really matters✅ Why experiential travel is redefining wellness in a post-pandemic world💡 *Key Takeaways:*🌱 Nourish Begins With Breakdown• A health crisis pushed Alejandra to reevaluate everything• Healing began with the question: “Who am I without the labels?”• Nourishing yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary🧳 *Letting Go of What Carries You*• Her backpack—passport and all—was stolen in India• That symbolic loss revealed her inner strength• True security comes from within, not what you carry🌍 *Cuatro Ciénegas: The Origin of Essence*• This sacred desert holds microorganisms linked to the origin of life• It’s more than scenic—it mirrors the retreat’s deeper purpose• A powerful setting for personal awakening and return to self🧘‍♀️ *Intimacy Creates Impact*• Only 13 participants per retreat for deep support• Safe space for emotional, spiritual, and energetic growth• Lifelong friendships emerge from shared transformation🌸 *Healing Doesn’t End When You Leave*• The real journey starts after the retreat ends• Integration bridges the gap between retreat insights and real life• Alejandra’s method combines energy, esthetics, and soul-level support📖 Subscribe to The Hotel Guide and get exclusive travel inspiration:https://www.thehotelguide.com🛎️ Subscribe to The Travel Talk Podcast and join us as we explore luxury escapes, wellness destinations, and the transformative power of travel.#TravelTalkPodcast, #EdwardLeos, #AlejandraHarguth, #NourishBalanceGlo, #EnchantedGlo, #CaminoEncantado, #SpiritualRetreat, #TransformationalTravel, #SoloTravelStory, #HealingThroughTravel, #CuatroCiénegas, #MexicoRetreat,

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    15 mins
  • EPISODE 95: San Antonio’s Secret Sauce with Mario Bass
    Jul 17 2025

    What makes a destination unforgettable? In this episode, Travel Talk Podcast host Edward Leos sits down with Mario Bass, President & CEO of Visit San Antonio, to explore how culture, collaboration, and authenticity are driving the future of tourism in one of America’s most beloved cities.

    From the iconic River Walk to its rising culinary fame, discover how San Antonio is embracing its roots while reimagining what modern travelers crave—connection, inclusion, and true local flavor.

    🔗 Learn More About San Antonio
    Visit: https://www.visitsanantonio.com

    In This Episode:
    ✔️ How San Antonio is leading with authenticity
    ✔️ The power of culinary tourism and global foodie appeal
    ✔️ How DEI is transforming destination storytelling
    ✔️ Why small businesses and local creatives matter
    ✔️ Travel trends every city should be watching
    ✔️ Mario’s career journey from hotels to citywide impact
    ✔️ The art of balancing tradition with innovation

    📍 Featured Destination:
    San Antonio, Texas – A city where culture, cuisine, and community come together to create an unforgettable experience.

    🧭 Key Theme:
    Tourism isn’t just about visitors—it’s about vision.

    🌟 About Mario Bass:
    With over 20 years of experience in hospitality, Mario leads Visit San Antonio with a future-focused strategy grounded in inclusion, creativity, and collaboration. His leadership showcases how destinations can thrive post-pandemic by leaning into what makes them real.

    🛎️ SUBSCRIBE for more stories of travel, transformation, and destination excellence.
    👍 Like this episode? Drop a comment, share, and hit the bell so you never miss a new journey.

    📖 Subscribe to The Hotel Guide: https://www.thehotelguide.com
    🎙️ Listen to More Episodes: [Add Podcast Platform Link – Spotify, Apple, etc.]

    Follow Us:
    Instagram: @officialthehotelguide
    YouTube: @thehotelguide
    Podcast: Travel Talk – Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and more

    #TravelTalkPodcast #EdwardLeos #MarioBass #VisitSanAntonio #DestinationMarketing #TourismLeadership #CulturalTravel #SanAntonioRiverWalk #CulinaryTourism #InclusiveTravel #AuthenticDestinations #TravelStrategy #WellnessTravel #LuxuryMeetsCulture #TexasTravel #HospitalityLeaders #TravelPodcast

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    16 mins
  • EPISODE 93: Scott Eddy "Luxury Travel Tips Unveiled"
    Jul 3 2025

    We sit down with the globe-trotting digital nomad himself — Scott Eddy — a world-renowned travel entrepreneur and brand ambassador who’s turned his passion into a powerhouse global brand.

    From flying hundreds of flights to building one of the most trusted voices in travel, Scott shares what it really means to live the jet-set life — the mindset, the hustle, and the magic behind unforgettable experiences. ✈️✨

    🧭 Hear about:
    ✔️ How content and community fuel travel brands
    ✔️ His secrets to staying relevant in an evolving digital space
    ✔️ The story behind his personal brand success
    ✔️ His best advice for travelers AND travel marketers

    🌟 If you’re in hospitality, marketing, or just obsessed with exploring the world — this one’s for you.


    🎧 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more.
    📲 #TravelTalkPodcast #ScottEddy #TheHotelGuide #TravelInfluencer #LuxuryTravel #DigitalNomadLife #MarketingInMotion #HospitalityInsider #JetSetGo

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    17 mins
  • EPISODE 92: Top 10 Destination Marketing Strategies
    Jun 26 2025

    Are you a tourism board, hotelier, or travel brand looking to boost visibility and attract more visitors? In this episode of Travel Talk, we break down the Top 10 Destination Marketing Strategies you need to stand out in today’s competitive travel space.

    From influencer campaigns and virtual tours to niche travel branding and Google SEO, these proven tips will help you connect with modern travelers and turn your location into a must-visit destination.

    👉 Whether you're promoting a city, resort, attraction, or region, these ideas are designed to spark real results.

    🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    • The power of user-generated content and how to get more of it

    • Why storytelling matters more than ever

    • How to target niche travel audiences (and dominate!)

    • SEO tactics every destination should be using

    • How to run high-impact paid ads and build strong partnerships

    🔥 Perfect For:

    • Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs)

    • Hospitality & Travel Brands

    • Tourism Agencies & PR Firms

    • Hotel & Resort Marketing Teams

    🔗 Ready to elevate your destination marketing strategy?
    👉 Let’s work together: www.thehotelguide.com
    📧 Contact us: erleos@thehotelguide.com

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    15 mins
  • EPISODE 91: "Sustainable Travel Redefined"
    Jun 19 2025

    On this week’s Travel Talk, we sit down with the inspiring Amy Wald, founder of GreenLuxe, to explore how sustainability and luxury travel go hand in hand.
    From curating eco-conscious experiences to redefining what “luxury” means in today’s travel landscape, Amy shares her journey, her vision, and insider tips for travelers who want to make an impact — without sacrificing style or comfort.
    Tune in for:
    Sustainable travel trends
    GreenLuxe’s mission to elevate conscious tourism
    How to travel in style while protecting the planet
    Perfect for travelers, hoteliers, and anyone passionate about purposeful journeys.
    #TravelTalk #GreenLuxe #SustainableTravel #EcoLuxury #ConsciousTravel #TheHotelGuide #PodcastDrop #LuxuryLifestyle

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    14 mins