Luxury Travel Innovators
Luxury Travel Innovators is a podcast that explores the cutting-edge trends, game-changing technologies, and visionary leaders shaping the future of luxury travel. Each episode features insightful interviews with industry experts, entrepreneurs, and influencers who are redefining the way we experience high-end destinations, exclusive services, and bespoke travel experiences. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a luxury brand enthusiast, this podcast will keep you ahead of the curve in the world of opulence and innovation.
Episodes
Episode 35: Beyond the Wings: VistaJet’s Hospitality-First Approach to Luxury Travel
Leonia Qi, President of VistaJet US, joins Adam Deflorian on this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators to share the changes in private aviation, long associated with personalized luxury lifestyle, and how the future of the industry has less to do with aircraft and more to do with the experience in the sky and on the ground. Key topics include:Why VistaJet views itself as a hospitality company first
Episode 34: Building the Next Generation of Luxury Travel with KSL Capital Partners
May Lilley, Executive in Residence of Global Commercial for KSL Capital Partners, joins Adam Deflorian on this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators to share why meaningful experiences and human connection continue to define the future of luxury hospitality.Key topics include:May Lilley’s unconventional path from ski instructor to Executive in Residence at KSL Capital Partners, and the career decisi
Episode 33: Crafting a Sense of Place in New York with The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel
Pradeep Raman, Regional Vice President and Managing Director of The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel, joins Adam Deflorian on this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators to explore the evolution of modern luxury hospitality through storytelling, personalization, and a deep sense of place in New York’s Upper East Side.Key topics include:Why true luxury hospitality is rooted in personalization, empathy, and h
Episode 32: Why Slower, Smarter Travel is Defining Luxury’s Next Era
Paul Brady, News Director at Travel + Leisure, joins Adam Deflorian on this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators to discuss how the next era of luxury travel is all about helping travelers feel more connected (and less overwhelmed), along every step of the journey.Key topics include:Why luxury cruise and slow travel experiences continue to surge in popularity, especially with younger travelers.How
Episode 31: Inside Ponant’s Expanding World of Exploration
Belinda Hindmarsh, Deputy CEO of Ponant Explorations Group, joins Adam Deflorian on this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators to discuss how Ponant is redefining luxury travel by shifting focus from the ship itself to the experiences of true exploration, offering access to the world’s most remote destinations without sacrificing comfort or depth of connection.Key topics include:How Ponant is shifti
Episode 30: The New Economics of Luxury Travel with Investopedia
Caleb Silver, Chief Business Editor for People, Inc and Editor in Chief of Investopedia, joins Adam Deflorian on this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators to discuss the hidden economy behind how we travel. Key topics include:Why luxury travelers aren’t spending less, but instead demanding more value.How the loyalty and rewards economy is redefining how travel is funded - and growing more and more
Episode 29: The Power of Precision and Giving Time Back in Modern Aviation with Tradewind
David Zipkin, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer of Tradewind Aviation, joins Adam Deflorian on this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators to discuss how Tradewind strives to match the quality of the journey to the quality of the destination, with hospitality and customer experience top of mind. Key topics include:How Tradewind has found its edge by focusing on short-haul regional routes.Why th
Episode 28: The Future of Travel Storytelling with AFAR
Joseph Diaz, Co-founder of AFAR, joins Adam Deflorian on this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators to reflect on the unlikely origin story behind one of travel media’s most influential brands—and the philosophy that still drives it nearly two decades later..Key topics include:How two spontaneous trips across South America and India inspired the launch of AFAR.Why human connection matters more than
Episode 27: Turning the Fabric of Neighborhood Stories into Global Demand with New York City Tourism
Julie Coker, President and CEO of New York City Tourism and Conventions, joins Adam Deflorian on this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators to discuss leadership, luxury, and the evolving definition of value in one of the world’s most dynamic destinations.Key topics include:How NYC Tourism is expanding the definition of high-end travel across all five boroughs, blending culture, cuisine, and communi
Episode 26: Crafting Connection in Caribbean Luxury Travel with Grace Bay Resorts
Nikheel Advani, Co-Founder, Chief Operating Officer and Principal at Grace Bay Resorts, joins Adam Deflorian on this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators to share his journey from dishwashing in Singapore to the white sand beaches of Turks and Caicos and how growing people ultimately grows a brand.Key topics include:How mentorship, culture and global experience shaped a people-first luxury philosop
Episode 25: The Heritage and Hospitality Approach with Gleneagles and Estelle Manor
Conor O’Leary, Group Managing Director for Gleneagles & Estelle Manor, joins Adam Deflorianon this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators to discuss how a hotel with a century of history is leading the way in digital innovation with a human-first service mentality.Key topics include:Why Gleneagles is affectionately known as the “Glorious Playground” and has attracted travelers time and again thro
Episode 24: Shaping the Global Travel Narrative with Condé Nast Traveler
Host Adam Deflorian is joined by Erin Florio, Global Features Director at Condé Nast Traveler, for the latest episode of Luxury Travel Innovators.Key topics include:How travelers are seeking deeper and more immersive experiences in their destinations.The changing media landscape, and its influence on the way audiences discover new destinations.Emerging trends like off-season exploration and sports
Episode 23: Excellence with Wynn Resorts, Through Both Product and People
To open Season Two of Luxury Travel Innovators, host Adam Deflorian traveled to the Sirius XM Studio at Wynn Las Vegas for a conversation with Brian Gullbrants, COO - North America.Key topics include:Wynn’s investment in its employees and how discretionary care is embedded in the company culture.How their mutually beneficial partnership with Formula 1 has helped to change the fabric of Las Vegas i
Episode 22: Best Of Season One
Adam Deflorian looks back on the incredible inaugural year of Luxury Travel Innovators with a special “Best Of” episode, featuring some of his favorite moments from Season One. Key themes throughout Season One include:How experiential travel is a top trend across the hospitality industry.The importance of human connection as AI innovation initiatives take center stage. Why inspiring guests to expl
Episode 21: The Power of Place with Malibu Beach Inn
Adam Deflorian is joined by Gregory Day, President of Hospitality at Mani Brothers and Managing Director of Malibu Beach Inn to unpack the shifting expectations of modern travelers and the creative innovations redefining luxury hospitality.Key topics include:The evolution of Malibu Beach Inn and the resilience of the Malibu community.Shifts in guest demographics and rising expectations for persona
Episode 20: Elegance on the Water with Riverside Luxury Cruises
Adam Deflorian is joined by Jennifer Halboth, CEO of Riverside Collection, Americas on this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators to discuss how setting up an environment of authenticity creates a personalized experience for both travelers and travel advisors involved in the brand. Key topics include:Why river cruising is a flexible and relaxing travel experience for those looking for adventure with
Episode 19: Redefining Adventure Travel Through Connection & Innovation with Awasi
Nicolas Peluffo, CEO of Awasi, joins Adam Deflorian on this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators for a deep dive into the ongoing technological investments transforming the brand, freeing up human interaction with travelers. Key topics include:The extensive preparation process for private guides to create customized excursions itineraries for guests.How investing in cloud-based systems is ushering
Episode 18: Across Waters Less Traveled with Aqua Expeditions
Francesco Galli Zugaro, Owner of Aqua Expeditions, joins Adam Deflorian on this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators to discuss how Aqua Expeditions develops their river and coastal destinations to appeal to the luxury traveler looking for authentic adventure.Key topics include:Their recent acquisition by Ponant Expedition GroupWho Aqua Expeditions competes with (hint: typically not other cruises)
Episode 17: Beyond the Screen: How Minor Hotels Captured the World’s Attention
Joining Adam Deflorian is Ian Di Tullio, Global Chief Commercial Officer at Minor Hotels, for a conversation about the rapid growth of the brand following the success of having three properties host season three of HBO’s The White Lotus. Key topics include:The rapid growth of the brand, with expansion upwards of 600 properties worldwide.Once-in-a-lifetime experiences at remote destinations, includ
Episode 16: Rare and Remarkable Stays with Baillie Lodges and Tierra Hotels
Today in the LTI Studio, Adam Deflorian is joined by Michael Crawford, the new CEO of Baillie Lodges and Tierra Hotels, for a conversation about combining authentic adventures with team members fueled by passion and expertise for getaways to some of the most remote destinations in the world. Key topics include:Goals for the brand moving forward, including work on a refreshed singular brand name fo
Episode 15: Make Once-in-a-Lifetime Memories with Tourism Australia
Joining Adam Deflorian at Virtuoso Travel Week is Chris Allison, Vice President of Americas & New Zealand for Tourism Australia. Our conversation showcases the vast offerings of Australia as a destination, and highlights the importance of the travel advisor community in bringing visitors to the country for bucket-list vacations.Key topics include:The success of Come and Say G’day and how the n
Episode 14: The Allure of Sustainability in Luxury Travel with Nayara Resorts
Joining Adam Deflorian at Virtuoso Travel Week is Leo Ghitis, CEO and Co-Founder of Nayara Resorts. Our conversation offers an inspiring outlook on human-focused hospitality and provides a fascinating insight into how Nayara is paving the way for ecotourism.Key topics include:How Nayara focuses on developing people (rather than “training”) to create opportunities in rural areas.Why sustainability
Episode 13: Regaining Its Rightful Place as the Leader of Luxury Hospitality with Kempinski Hotels
Joining Adam Deflorian at Virtuoso Travel Week is Barbara Muckermann, CEO of Kempinski Hotels. Considered the oldest hospitality company in the world, Kempinski heralds a new golden era into the luxury travel industry with the brand’s first female CEO at the helm. Key topics include:The historical significance of the company, which began in 1897.Kempinski’s approach to optimizing digital experienc
Episode 12: Automate the Predictable So That You Can Humanize the Exceptional with Virtuoso
Joining Adam Deflorian at Virtuoso Travel Week is Misty Belles, Vice President of Global Public Relations for Virtuoso. With travel advisors spanning the globe, Virtuoso leads the charge in maintaining human connection while still utilizing innovative technology. Key topics include:The role of the travel advisor in the changing industry landscape.Why personalization is key to success for the high-
Episode 11: Kohler Hospitality on How We’re Playing the Notes (and quickly!) But Not Yet Making Music With AI
Stephen Beaumont, President of Kohler Hospitality, joins Adam Deflorian during HITEC for a conversation about the history of Kohler and a look into the future with AI-integrated technology for a seamless guest experience.Key topics include:The uniqueness of Kohler, a privately-owned, family-owned and operated brand and the synergy between their properties in Wisconsin and St. Andrews.How art, desi
Episode 10: Bringing Saudi Arabia’s Welcoming Culture to the World Through Adeera Hospitality, a PIF Company
Joining Adam Deflorian at HITEC, Shrikant Shenoy, Chief Information & Strategy Officer for Adeera Hospitality, discusses the new hotel management brand wholly owned by PIF and how it hopes to lead the way in innovation, while honoring its rich hosting heritage.Key topics include:Origins of Adeera, and how the nomadic beginnings of Saudi Arabian society influence modern-day hospitality. How Ade
Episode 9: Authentic Discovery Meets Impeccable Hospitality with Rocco Forte Hotels
Jan Arnold, Vice President of Sales for Rocco Forte Hotels, joins Adam Deflorian on this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators to discuss the exquisite portfolio of Rocco Forte destinations and how this fourth-generation family owned and operated business sets the tone for luxury travel.Key topics include:The deeply rooted family-focus company culture encouraged by Sir Rocco Forte. Their recent inve
Episode 8: Hospitality from the Heart with ETC Hotels
With views of the Pacific from Hotel Casa del Mar’s penthouse suite, Adam Deflorian sits down with Charlie Lopez-Quintana, Vice President and Managing Director of ETC Hotels, to explore how to embody hospitality from the heart. Key topics include:How this third-generation family business has created a beloved, long-term luxury brand through employee loyalty and timeless hospitality.The inspiring w
Episode 7: “State-of-Play” Travel & the Importance of Human-Created Content with Travel + Leisure
Senior Editorial Director of Travel + Leisure, Nina Ruggiero, discusses how to inspire readers to explore the world with Adam Deflorian on this episode of Luxury Travel Innovators.Key topics include:The print-digital relationship at Travel + Leisure and why human-created content is vital to remain connected to readers.Changes in the way people consume media and differentiating between social media
Episode 6: Owned and Operated Hospitality with Peregrine
Adam Deflorian welcomes Greg Kennealey, CEO of Peregrine Hospitality, to the new AZDS Podcast Studio for the inaugural video recorded episode of Luxury Travel Innovators. Key topics include:Why the travel industry is particularly resilient, which feels especially relevant during the current economic climate.How Peregrine values an "ownership" mentality in all levels of the hospitality bu
Episode 5: The Art of Hospitality with Montage International
In episode five of Luxury Travel Innovators, Adam Deflorian travels to Pendry Park City to talk with longtime AZDS client and friend, Chris Hamaway, about what truly differentiates an ultra-luxury hotel and resort experience. Key topics include:Why storytelling is an essential part of establishing an authentic hospitality experience.The way Montage and Pendry properties compliment each other and h
Episode 4: Traveling the World with Exclusive Resorts
In the fourth episode of Luxury Travel Innovators, Adam Deflorian talks with James Henderson about why community is one of the best parts of traveling and how experiential travel is increasingly popular with Exclusive Resorts members.Key topics include:A deep dive into the portfolio growth over the years of Exclusive Resorts and what being a part of the world’s foremost members-only club is like.H
Episode 3: Meet The Change-Makers At Internova Travel Group
Episode three of Luxury Travel Innovators includes a discussion with Adam Deflorian, JD O’Hara, and Albert Herrera about top travel destinations (current + emerging) and why AI can’t replace travel advisors.Key topics include:AI Innovation in the Travel Agent Community The “White Lotus” effect on the emerging top travel destinations.How the definition of luxury travel is evolving towards bespoke e
Episode 2: Navigating The Future Of Luxury Travel with Ponant
In episode two of Luxury Travel Innovators, Adam Deflorian discusses the rise in popularity of expedition-style travel with the CEO, Americas of Ponant Expedition Group, Sam Chamberlain. Key topics include:The intersection of luxury travel and adventure, especially in the context of expeditions to places like the Arctic and the geographic North Pole.Insights into sustainability efforts in the crui
Episode 1: A Chat with National Geographic Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief
In the premier episode of Luxury Travel Innovators, host Adam Deflorian sits down with Nathan Lump, the editor in chief of National Geographic magazine, to discuss travel holistically - past, present and future. Key topics include:How National Geographic goes beyond the traditional goals of a travel brand to find the “why” of it all - why a traveler wants to go to a destination and what would they
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