The Layover

The Layover

por LOST iN
Noticias de negociosLugares y Viajes
Temporada 1
Mandarin Oriental’s Alex Schellenberger on Luxury Branding, Service & Global Growth
In this episode of The Layover, we sit down with Alex Schellenberger, former Global Chief Marketing Officer of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, to explore how one of the world’s most iconic luxury hospitality brands balances heritage, growth, and modern brand building. From his early career at Procter & Gamble, Hugo Boss, Coty, and Accor to leading brand strategy for Mandarin Oriental, Alex shares how classical brand management principles translate into the world of ultra-luxury travel—where emotion, recognition, and service define the guest experience. Alex unpacks how luxury hospitality is evolving through: Preserving brand DNA while scaling Mandarin Oriental’s global footprint Building loyalty among ultra-high-net-worth travelers through recognition, access, and emotional connection Keeping the iconic “I’m a Fan” campaign relevant after more than two decades Using celebrities and cultural figures as authentic brand ambassadors, not just paid endorsers Applying AI and guest data to improve personalization while keeping the human touch at the center Designing transformational experiences, from monk-led retreats in Japan to private museum access and champagne house immersions The conversation also explores why service memories matter more than room design, how Asian hospitality continues to shape global luxury, and why the future of high-end travel depends on both technology and deeply human moments. Whether you’re a luxury traveler, hotelier, brand marketer, or simply fascinated by what makes a hospitality brand iconic, this episode offers a rare look inside the strategy behind one of the most respected names in global travel. 🏨 Learn More Explore Mandarin Oriental’s hotels, residences, and experiences at mandarinoriental.com.
T1 · E21
18 jun 2026
1:03:55
Inside Hospitality’s Human Future with Sander Allegro: High Tech, High Touch & the Power of Experience
In this episode of The Layover, we sit down with Sander Allegro, hospitality strategist, international speaker, and founder of Allegro Innovations, to explore one of the industry's biggest questions: as hospitality becomes increasingly automated, how do we preserve the human connection that makes great travel memorable? Drawing on decades of experience across hotel operations, education, consulting, and his leadership role with Quality Lodgings, Sander shares why the future of hospitality isn’t a choice between technology and service—it’s about mastering both. Sander unpacks how the industry is: Using AI and automation to eliminate repetitive tasks while creating more meaningful guest interactions Shifting from a gut-feel industry to a data-driven one without losing its soul Helping independent hotels compete by offering authenticity, personality, and unforgettable experiences Creating communities of hoteliers who share knowledge, resources, and innovation Preparing the next generation of hospitality leaders to balance business analytics with emotional intelligence Redefining luxury through personalization, storytelling, and genuine human care The conversation also explores why boutique hotels may have an edge in an increasingly standardized world, how brands outside hospitality—from dentists to automotive companies—are embracing hospitality principles, and why the most valuable travel experiences often come from people, not amenities. Whether you're a hotelier, entrepreneur, hospitality student, or traveler searching for more meaningful experiences, this episode offers a thoughtful look at why the future of hospitality may be more human than ever. 🏨 Learn More Explore Sander’s work at Allegro Innovations and discover Europe’s leading collection of independent luxury hotels through Quality Lodgings.
T1 · E20
4 jun 2026
54:10
Inside GuestOS with Jessie Fischer: AI Hospitality, Yosemite & the Future of Guest Experience
In this episode of The Layover, we sit down with Jessie Fischer, founder and CEO of GuestOS, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming hospitality—not by replacing people, but by giving hotel teams more time to create meaningful guest experiences. Raised in a family that has operated hotels near Yosemite National Park for more than 50 years, Jessie grew up answering phones, calming guests during wildfires and power outages, and learning firsthand what hospitality looks like when nature keeps you on your toes. Today, she’s channeling those experiences into GuestOS, an AI-powered hospitality platform helping hotels automate repetitive tasks while elevating service and personalization. Jessie breaks down how GuestOS is: Automating repetitive guest inquiries so hotel staff can focus on hospitality, not busywork Creating customizable AI “teammates” trained on each property’s unique brand and personality Helping hotels unlock underutilized spaces and create new guest experiences Using AI to improve communication during emergencies like wildfires and road closures Supporting outdoor destinations like Yosemite through better visitor information and coordination Reimagining hotels as hubs for experiences, community, and connection—not just places to sleep The conversation also dives into the future of hospitality tech, overtourism in national parks, outdoor travel, female founders in hospitality, and why the best travel memories almost always come from human connection—not amenities. Whether you’re a hotelier, travel tech founder, outdoor enthusiast, or simply curious about how AI can make hospitality feel more human, this episode offers a thoughtful look at where the industry is headed next.
T1 · E19
15 may 2026
53:40
Building Pink Notebook: Goedele Mangelaars on the Future of Travel Tech
In this episode of The Layover, we sit down with Goedele Mangelaars, founder and CEO of Pink Notebook, an AI-powered travel platform reimagining how trips are discovered, planned, and booked. From growing up across continents to working at companies like Skyscanner and Terra API, Goedele brings a global, data-driven perspective to one of travel’s biggest pain points: too much inspiration, not enough context. Pink Notebook is built to bridge that gap—combining visual discovery, smart curation, and seamless booking into one cohesive experience. Goedele breaks down how Pink Notebook is: Reducing decision fatigue by narrowing thousands of options into a curated shortlist Combining inspiration, context, and booking into a single end-to-end platform Challenging traditional OTAs by focusing on boutique hotels and high-intent travelers Using AI more like Spotify or Pinterest—surfacing what you’ll love, not overwhelming you with choices Designing for a world where 80% of travel decisions are driven by women Pushing back against trend-driven travel in favor of authentic, meaningful discovery The conversation also explores the future of agentic travel planning, the limits of AI trust, and why human curation still matters in a world flooded with content. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, startup founder, or simply tired of clicking through 277 tabs to plan a trip, this episode offers a fresh take on where travel tech is headed—and how to make it work better for real people. Follow Pink Notebook at @pinknotebooktravel for more!
T1 · E18
30 abr 2026
36:32
Inside LOST iN with Jon Skogmo: Print Revival, IRL Experiences & The Future of Travel Media
In this episode of The Layover, we sit down with Jon Skogmo, CEO of LOST iN, for an inside look at how the brand is redefining travel media; blending physical guidebooks, digital storytelling, and real-world experiences into one cohesive ecosystem. From betting on print in a digital-first world to building a community that spans social, newsletters, and IRL events, Jon shares why the future of travel isn’t just about where you go—but how you connect along the way. Jon unpacks how LOST iN is: Leading a resurgence of physical media, with guidebooks designed as collectible, story-driven travel companions Targeting millennials and Gen Z travelers who prioritize experiences over ownership Bridging the gap between URL and IRL, using events, pop-ups, and community moments to deepen engagement Treating travel as the antidote to AI, prioritizing real experiences over digital noise Building a curated creator network focused on authenticity, not follower count Expanding globally with 400+ retail locations and growing first-party audience data From vacations to transformational travel trends, this conversation dives into how cultural shifts, remote work, and creator ecosystems are reshaping the way (and the reasons) people explore the world. Whether you’re a traveler, brand marketer, or media operator, this episode offers a candid look at how LOST iN is building a next-generation travel brand rooted in curation, community, and real-world connection. 🌍 Explore LOST iN guidebooks, destinations, and experiences at lostin.com.
T1 · E17
23 abr 2026
25:40
Inside Black Tomato with Tom Marchant: Transformational Travel, Human Connection & the Future of Luxury
In this episode of The Layover, we sit down with Tom Marchant, co-founder of Black Tomato, the award-winning luxury travel company known for designing deeply immersive, emotionally driven journeys around the world. From backpacking through the Philippines and Brazil to building one of the most influential brands in experiential travel, Tom shares how curiosity, not comfort, has always been the compass. Tom unpacks how Black Tomato has helped pioneer the rise of transformational travel, creating trips that prioritize how travelers want to feel, not just where they want to go. In this conversation, Tom explores: Why luxury today is defined by thoughtfulness, access, and emotion, not just five-star amenities How Black Tomato finds meaningful experiences beyond overtouristed destinations The role of local fixers and human relationships in creating truly personal journeys Designing family and multi-generational travel that brings people together—without friction Why AI can support travel planning but will never replace human intuition and trust Whether you’re fascinated by the psychology of travel, seeking deeper experiences beyond the bucket list, or curious how luxury brands stay human in an AI-driven world, this episode offers a thoughtful look at why the most powerful journeys don’t just change where you go—they change how you see the world. 🌍 Discover more about Black Tomato and their approach to transformational travel at blacktomato.com. Website: https://www.blacktomato.com/ Instagram: @blacktomatotravel Tom Marchant on Instagram: @tommymarchant10 Gift of Boredom (mentioned in conversation) Destinations and itineraries mentioned: Iceland: Snorkel and dive between tectonic plates A Journey into Mongolia (for campfire cookouts, eagle hunting, and mountain monasteries) Ultimate Bhutan: A Luxurious & Cultural Retreat (spiritually enlightening and as remote as they come) An Adventure Across Iceland (for magma chambers, trolls, and geothermal tomato farms) Switzerland & Italy (a luxury vacation in the Alps, lakes, and coast) An insiders guide to the Amalfi Coast: Limoncello, sweeping vistas and storied villas
T1 · E15
10 feb 2026
1:02:23
Inside Unplugged Collective: Mike Richter & Erica Fieldman on Modern Travel Storytelling
In this episode of The Layover, we sit down with Mike Richter and Erica Fieldman of Unplugged Collective to unpack how modern travel storytelling is evolving—and what it really takes to build trust, scale audiences, and create content that actually moves people. From navigating brand partnerships and audience growth to balancing creativity with commercial realities, Mike and Erica share an insider’s perspective on building a media platform rooted in authenticity, intention, and community. Together, they explore: How Unplugged Collective approaches travel storytelling with purpose, not just reach Why depth, perspective, and credibility matter more than ever in a crowded media landscape What brands misunderstand about creator partnerships—and how to get them right How audience trust is built through consistent point of view and lived experience Where travel media is headed as platforms, formats, and consumer behavior continue to shift Whether you’re a creator, brand marketer, tourism board, or simply passionate about thoughtful travel, this episode offers a grounded look at how Unplugged Collective is shaping the future of travel media—one story at a time. Ever wonder what a city is like beyond the tourist traps? LOST iN is a travel company built on curiosity...dedicated to the food, fashion, people, and stories that show what a place actually feels like. At LOST iN we explore travel culture in all its forms through hidden restaurants, shops, and local spots far from the typical tourist path. Follow along to stay connected wherever you roam. For travelers craving deeper, more authentic experiences check out travel guides, destination videos, and our membership that unlocks exclusive travel deals, cultural insights, curated city guides, and members-only events. Connect with us Website: https://lostin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lost_in_travel/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lostintravelguide Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lostin_travel
T1 · E14
29 ene 2026
14:41
Inside Lithuania with Ambassador Gediminas Varvuolis: Culture, Cuisine & Europe’s Most Underrated Destination
In this episode of The Layover, we sit down with Gediminas Varvuolis, Ambassador of Lithuania to the United States, live from CES, to explore why this Baltic nation is quietly becoming one of Europe’s most intriguing travel destinations. From medieval old towns and Baroque architecture to lakeside castles, comfort-driven cuisine, and a booming innovation ecosystem, Lithuania blends deep history with modern momentum in a way most American travelers haven’t discovered yet. Ambassador Varvuolis shares how Lithuania is: Showcasing its 700-year-old capital Vilnius, a UNESCO-listed city rich in Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture Offering nature-forward travel with 2,000+ lakes, outdoor adventures, and slow-travel appeal Serving up hearty, soulful cuisine—from potato-based cepelinai to refreshing pink beet soup Positioning itself as a rising hub for fintech, startups, and digital nomads Leveraging CES to attract global entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators Investing in AI infrastructure, renewable energy, and human capital for the future Whether you’re a curious traveler looking beyond Western Europe, a foodie chasing regional flavors, or a founder scouting your next international base, this episode offers a compelling introduction to Lithuania—where old-world charm meets next-generation ambition. 🇱🇹 Learn More & Plan a Visit Explore Lithuania through the Lithuanian Embassy or connect with local consulates in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles—and if you’re craving Lithuanian food stateside, Chicago is your first stop.
T1 · E13
16 ene 2026
15:51
Inside Yucatán with Elizabeth Cole: Ancient Roots, Living Culture & Mexico’s Next Great Destination
In this episode of The Layover, we sit down with Elizabeth Cole, Undersecretary of Tourism for the Yucatán, to uncover why this storied region is quickly becoming one of Mexico’s most compelling travel destinations. Far beyond the crowds of Cancún, Yucatán offers travelers a deeper connection—to Mayan history, sustainable communities, and a culinary heritage that’s as alive today as it was centuries ago. Elizabeth shares how Yucatán is: Preserving and celebrating living Maya culture, from language to cuisine Offering immersive community-based tourism that empowers locals and protects tradition Home to award-winning gastronomy, cenotes, and archaeological wonders like Chichén Itzá and Uxmal Reviving coastal gems like El Cuyo—Tulum’s soulful predecessor—for travelers seeking quieter, more authentic escapes Building a sustainable model of tourism rooted in respect, authenticity, and shared benefit Whether you’re drawn by ancient ruins, turquoise sinkholes, or handmade tortillas cooked over open fires, this episode shows how Yucatán invites travelers to move slower, look deeper, and experience Mexico beyond the resort brochure. 🇲🇽 Plan Your Journey Discover more at yucatan.travel Want to dig deeper into a city or neighborhood? Check out our expertly curated city guidebooks at lostin.com We pour all of our love for travel into every guidebook, which includes recommendations for hidden restaurants, shops, and activities far from the well-known tourist areas and off the radar of mainstream travel accounts. We also share daily travel inspiration, city stories, and behind-the-scenes moments across our social channels, follow us to stay connected wherever you roam. --Connect with us-- Web: https://lostin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lost_in_travel Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lostintravelguide Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/lost_in_travel
T1 · E12
20 nov 2025
10:33
Inside Batch with Mike Petrakis: The Celebration Economy, Group Travel & Building the Ultimate Party Planning App
In this episode of The Layover, we catch up with Mike Petrakis, CEO and founder of Batch, the app revolutionizing how people plan group travel and celebrations. From bachelorette blowouts and golf trips to divorce parties and girls’ getaways, Batch has become the go-to destination for organizing unforgettable group experiences—now in 90 markets across the U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean. Mike shares how Batch is: Building what he calls “the celebration economy”—turning life’s milestones into travel-worthy moments Expanding beyond bachelor and bachelorette parties to serve every kind of group celebration Using predictive demand to see where travelers are going months before they book Empowering small businesses, from boat captains to hibachi chefs, to thrive by plugging into Batch’s ecosystem Curating authentic local stays, dining, and activities powered by user data, not algorithms Balancing explosive growth with profitability—and why they’ve turned down outside capital for two years Betting on community and curation over automation as AI reshapes travel Whether you’re a party planner, an entrepreneur in the experience economy, or just someone who loves celebrating life with your crew, this episode offers a front-row look at how Batch is redefining group travel—one unforgettable trip at a time. 🎉 Plan Your Next Celebration Download the Batch app and start planning your next group getaway at batch.com. Want to dig deeper into a city or neighborhood? Check out our expertly curated city guidebooks at lostin.com We pour all of our love for travel into every guidebook, which includes recommendations for hidden restaurants, shops, and activities far from the well-known tourist areas and off the radar of mainstream travel accounts. We also share daily travel inspiration, city stories, and behind-the-scenes moments across our social channels, follow us to stay connected wherever you roam. --Connect with us-- Web: https://lostin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lost_in_travel Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lostintravelguide Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/lost_in_travel
T1 · E10
20 nov 2025
12:56
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