Check-In with Bryan

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Welcome to Check-In with Bryan, your essential podcast for staying ahead in the dynamic world of hospitality. Hosted by Bryan Fish, CEO of Reliance Hospitality, industry thought-leader, and highly sought-after keynote speaker, this podcast dives deep into the strategic insights, evolving trends, and transformative ideas driving the hospitality and travel industries forward.

Designed specifically for hotel owners, operators, hospitality investors, travel professionals, and industry leaders, Check-In with Bryan empowers listeners to elevate their business strategies, harness industry-leading insights, and navigate the ever-evolving intersection of hospitality, travel, and business.

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Podcast Episodes

My Place Hotels CEO: The Extended-Stay Playbook

This week, Bryan sits down with Ryan Rivett, CEO of My Place Hotels of America, to unpack how a lean, owner-friendly brand is scaling nationwide in extended stay—without the bloat. From small-footprint prototypes and vertical integration to pragmatic amenity choices (no free breakfast, smart alternatives) and tech that actually helps operators, this is a masterclass in building hotels that pencil and perform.

Buyer's, PIPs & a Cooler Head: Ryan Bodine on 2025 Deals

What separates smart hotel deals from painful ones in 2025? Hotel broker Ryan Bodine (NewGen Advisory) joins Bryan to unpack what buyers/sellers keep getting wrong—overpaying under 1031 pressure, ignoring transfer PIPs, and underinvesting in staff—and how to prep your asset for a saner exit in the next 6–12 months.

Helping Build Maui's Top-Rated Hostel with Michael Russell

From selling candy in grade school to running the #1 rated hostel in North America, investor Michael Russell shares how hustle, timing, and creative thinking turned risk into a multimillion-dollar hospitality portfolio.

Design That Pays: ROI, Brand Standards & Boutique Edge

From brand standards and PIPs to boutique independence, designer Tonya Almallah Schmitt shares how to deliver ROI without losing soul—plus why scent, sound, and “memory points” matter more than spec sheets.

Hospitality, Humanity & “Come From Away” in Belfast

This week on Check-In with Bryan, we traveled to Northern Ireland to support St. Agnes’s Choral Society in their powerful production of Come From Away at Belfast’s Lyric Theatre.

Back from Northern Ireland: Photos, Sleep Chaos & What’s Next

After two whirlwind weeks in Northern Ireland, Bryan and Tyler are finally back stateside (in two different cities), unpacking the trip, the late-night sessions, and why Nando’s x 3 became a ritual.

Inside the Rise of Independent Hotels w/ Jenn Parks

In this episode of Check-In with Bryan, Bryan sits down with Jenn Parks, Vice President of Member Development & Communication at Curator Hotel & Resort Collection.

Work-Life Balance Myths Every Leader Believes

This week, Bryan takes the mic solo to break down one of the most common struggles in leadership and hospitality: work-life balance.

How Cody Adent is Transforming Hotel Management with Virtual GM's

In this episode of Check-In with Bryan, host Bryan Fish sits down with Cody Adent, President & CFO of Vibrant Management and host of The Virtual GM Podcast.

Revolutionizing Hotel Development with AI – Brian Ahmes of Parafin

In this episode of Check-In with Bryan, we’re joined by Brian Ahmes, co-founder of Parafin, an AI-powered platform that’s transforming how developers evaluate sites, run financial models, and design hospitality projects.

How Group Travel Helped Matthew Schueller Build Community

This heartfelt conversation welcomes back LGBTQ+ travel expert, content creator, and community builder Matthew Schueller, nearly a year after his first appearance.

Part 2: Scott Clary on Building Teams That Give 150%

In part 2 of this episode of Check-In with Bryan, host Bryan Fish sits down with returning guest Scott Clary—entrepreneur, podcaster, and marketing strategist—to explore how great leaders can unlock 150% effort from their teams.

Part 1: Scott Clary on Architecting a Life You Actually Enjoy

In this powerful episode of Check-In with Bryan, host Bryan Fish reconnects with Scott Clary—marketer, podcaster, and business strategist—to explore what it really means to architect a life you love.

Why Great Leaders Never Stop Serving | Jack Paul

With decades of experience across top hotel brands, Jack reflects on the moments that shaped his philosophy—how showing up, staying humble, and making small, human-centered choices can create lasting impact.

From Concept to Launch: The Rise of University Hotels

Meet Aileen Canta, visionary hotel developer and founder of University Hotels, who turned five years of persistence, passion, and personal sacrifice into a bold new hospitality concept.

How to Scale Smarter in Hospitality Investing (w/ Trusha Patel)

Welcome to Season 3 of Check-In with Bryan! We’re kicking things off with a powerhouse conversation on scaling smarter in hospitality investment.

Check-out Fridays

Hotel Reviews, Missed Flights & Outback Debates

From hilarious Reddit hotel reviews (featuring a mysterious “Mountain Lion Club” next door 😅) to Tyler’s missed flight adventure, and a deep dive into whether Outback Steakhouse still holds up — this episode is all about travel chaos, hospitality humor, and the art of not taking yourself too seriously at the end of a long week.

Reddit Hotel Chaos, NI Recap & Hawaii Dreams

From wild Reddit hotel reviews to a cinematic recap of our Belfast “Come From Away” episode, this Friday wrap hits travel, hospitality, and a little GM-life chaos.

Red-Eyes, Rants & Belfast: Midnight Check-Out in NYC

It’s midnight in New York, but Bryan and Tyler are wide awake for this week’s Friday Check-Out.

Karaoke in Airports, Grape Jelly Meatballs & Travel Plans to Northern Ireland

From Instant Pot debates to airport karaoke fails, this week’s episode of Check-Out Fridays with Bryan and Tyler is full of laughs, updates, and future plans.

Jet Lag, Greek Food & Group Travel with Matthew Schueller

This week’s Friday Checkout is packed with laughs, travel recaps, and real talk. Bryan and Tyler reunite (with working Wi-Fi!) to reflect on their recent Greece trip—from late-night pizza missions and legendary taxi drivers to overeating on cruise ships and Athens surprises.

Greece Recap, Hospitality Reflections & Scott Clary Wisdom

Hear all about a chaotic yet memorable group trip through Athens, Santorini, and Crete — with cruise surprises, internet meltdowns, and emotional wins.

Behind the Scenes in Greece: Travel, Content & Setting Sail!

This week on Friday Checkout, Bryan and Tyler are reporting in from Athens, Greece, where they’re prepping for a whirlwind content trip with Destinations by Reliance.

Dogs, Deadlines & Greece: A Wild Week in Hospitality

This week, Bryan and Tyler reflect on Tuesday’s conversation with Aileen Canta of University Hotels and the breakout star—Amper, her dog-slash-Chief Barketing Officer.

New Friday Series + Season Sneak Peek | Check-In Podcast

This week, Bryan Fish and executive producer Tyler Alexander kick off the brand-new Friday series with a relaxed, behind-the-scenes look at what’s coming this season — and it’s a lot.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 21: The Independent Hotel Show, UK 2024

We explore the latest trends and innovations at the Independent Hotel Show UK 2024, interviewing vendors and attendees shaping the future of boutique and independent hospitality.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 20: With Brand Building Expert, James Harper

James Harper shares his journey from founding Sneaker Doc to leading business development at Cotswolds Waterpark Retreats.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 19: Sailing Virgin Voyages with Veteran Matt Dronefield

Matt Dronefield shares pro-tips, insider experiences, and what makes Virgin Voyages unique, offering a fun, insider’s view of life on the open sea.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 18: Cotswold Waterpark Retreats

Joanne and Barry of Cotswolds Water Retreats share their journey from managing small operations to growing a family-owned business with 39 properties.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 17: In Phoenix with the AGM of The Camby Autograph Collection, Forrest Tyson

Forrest Tyson, AGM of The Camby, shares what makes the property stand out, his career journey in hospitality, and advice for aspiring hoteliers.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 16: with Sam Goldberg from Respect the Chain, in NYC

Sam Goldberg, host of Respect the Chain, joins to explore the world of chain restaurants, discussing brand consistency, and trends shaping the future of hospitality.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 15: The UK Glamping Show 2024

Inside look at the UK Glamping Show, featuring highlights from the marketing seminar and interviews with glampsite owners and industry experts.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 14: at the Reliance Hospitality Professionals Event 2024

In this live event episode, Heather Fields, Forrest Tyson, and Sarah Dandashy share insights on improving guest relations and all things hospitality.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 13: Advocacy, GLAAD, and LGBTQ+ Travel, with Tony Morrison

Tony Morrison shares his journey as an LGBTQ+ advocate, his work with GLAAD, and the importance of inclusivity and representation in media and travel.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 12: Vacations Rooftop Bar with Annie & Andy Shaner

Annie and Andy Shaner, the couple behind Brooklyn’s Vacations Rooftop Bar, share their journey in creating a unique venue and tips for aspiring bar owners.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 11: At the first Tempo by Hilton, with GM Matthew Slippoy

Matthew Sippoy, General Manager of the first Tempo by Hilton in Times Square, shares his journey, insights into the brand, and vision for the future of hospitality.

Check-In with Bryan : Bloopers Season 1

Enjoy a hilarious compilation of bloopers and outtakes from Season 1 for this special Labor Day episode!

Check-In with Bryan: Episode 10 - In NYC w/ Barry Wright, Mixologist & Beverage Director

Barry Wright, Beverage Director at The William Vale, shares insights on mixology, crafting beverage programs, staff training, and evolving cocktail trends.

Check-In with Bryan : Episode 9: In NYC with LGBTQ+ travel expert, Matthew Schueller

Matthew joins to discuss planning LGBTQ+ travel, community challenges, and inspiring advice on pursuing passions.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 8: In New York City with fashion icon and activist, Belle Bakst

Belle Bakst, a renowned fashion writer, beauty icon, and activist, shares her experiences in top fashion publications and offers tips for aspiring writers.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 6: In Berlin with tour guide and history buff, Jonny Whitlam

Jonny Whitlam shares his journey as a Berlin tour guide, tips for planning trips to new destinations, and insights into one of the 20th century’s most historic cities.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 5: In Berlin at ITB 2024

Highlights from the 2024 ITB conference and interviews with travel representatives from around the globe.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 4: In Cabo with marketing guru and children's book author, Lara Eurdolian

Lara Eurdolian discusses community service in hospitality, fashion and beauty tips for travel, and advice for female travelers at Destinations by Reliance in Los Cabos.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 3: In Cabo with hospitality profesional, Sarah Dandashy

Sarah Dandashy shares her expertise as a top concierge, insights on post-COVID hospitality, and tips to elevate guest experiences at Hotel El Ganzo in Los Cabos.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 2: In New York City with entrepreneur and business guru, Scott Clary

Scott Clary joins to discuss entrepreneurship, business growth strategies for 2024, and attracting investors from New York City.

Check-In with Bryan - Episode 1: In Cabo with event planning icon and housewife of Miami, Guerdy Abraira

Join our debut podcast episode with special guest Guerdy Abraira, discussing event planning, resilience, and her battle with breast cancer.

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Be Our Guest: Podcast Submission Form

Have a story, expertise, or experience that needs to be heard? Join us on the ‘Check-In with Bryan’ podcast!

We’re always looking for engaging guests who can bring fresh perspectives, unique insights, or unforgettable stories to our listeners. Whether you’re a hospitality professional, travel enthusiast, or someone with an extraordinary tale to tell, we’d love to hear from you!

Complete the form below to submit your application. Share details about your background, the topic you’d like to discuss, and why you’d be a great fit for our show. If selected, we’ll connect with you to arrange your feature, and your episode will be shared with our global audience across multiple platforms.

Take the mic and let your voice inspire, inform, and entertain! We can’t wait to welcome you to the show.

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