Ted's Hospitality Minute with Host Ted Kelly

Hosted by Ted Kelly

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Aug 2026

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As founder and chief executive of Interserv, I created a career around providing the most comprehensive solutions and start-to-finish project management for hospitality renovations and facility maintenance. If you are looking for a company to take on all the details of your project, look no further. I enjoy solving problems and earning enough trust to be considered a partner, so running my own business was a life goal. My father, who operated an appliance repair store in Savannah, Ga., during the civil rights era, used me early on as his helper and instilled a respect for a strong handshake.

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August 17, 2026Episode 39546 min

Fire Alarm Systems & Capital Planning with Mike Johnson of Jensen Hughes

Fire Alarm Systems & Hotel Capital Planning with Mike Johnson | Jensen Hughes Fire alarm systems are one of the most critical—and often overlooked—capital investments a hotel owner will make. In this episode of Ted's Hospitality Minute , Ted Kelly sits down with Mike Johnson of Jensen Hughes to discuss how owners, asset managers, engineers, and project teams can better plan for fire alarm system replacements and avoid costly mistakes. Mike shares practical insights on determining when a system is truly obsolete, evaluating migration versus full replacement options, and incorporating fire alarm upgrades into planned guestroom renovations to minimize disruption and maximize project efficiency. The conversation also covers ADA considerations, brand compliance, emerging fire and life safety technologies, and the importance of understanding what's included—and excluded—in contractor proposals to avoid unexpected change orders. When is a fire alarm system truly obsolete? Migration vs. complete system replacement Why guestroom renovations are the ideal time to upgrade fire alarm devices ADA and life safety considerations Brand compliance requirements Emerging technologies and industry trends Common planning mistakes that increase project costs How to reduce risk and avoid costly change orders Whether you're planning a Property Improvement Plan (PIP), major renovation, or long-term CAPEX strategy, this episode provides valuable guidance to help protect your investment, improve guest safety, and make smarter capital planning decisions. Guest: Mike Johnson, Jensen Hughes Host: Ted Kelly, Interserv Hospitality If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow Ted's Hospitality Minute on Spotify, subscribe on YouTube, and connect with Ted on LinkedIn for more conversations on hotel capital projects, engineering, asset preservation, sustainability, and owner-focused strategies.

October 7, 202426 min

A talk with Reese Holman: What does it REALLY take to succeed in the hospitality industry?

What does it REALLY take to succeed in the hospitality industry? On this episode of Ted's Hospitality Minute, Reese Holman, Regional Director of Operations at Aimbridge Hospitality, pulls back the curtain and shares his insights. From mastering the operational side – think property inspections, financial analysis, and labor management – to cultivating genuine compassion and resolving guest concerns, Reese emphasizes the multifaceted nature of hospitality leadership. He also shares his personal experiences, including a memorable encounter that highlighted his unique approach. Join him and host Ted Kelly for a dose of real-world wisdom and practical advice here: https://youtu.be/XIxsxJZsZsk #HospitalityOperations #GuestExperience #LeadershipSkills #CareerGrowth #HospitalityIndustry #TedsHospitalityMinute 0:00 – Preview of Episode 0:13 – Intro of guest Reese Holman 0:58 – Reese's background 2:43 – Number of hotels supported and a day in a life of a Regional Director 5:00 – Setting the culture, finding, and developing great potential GMs 7:51 – RecoverIT 9:06 – Reese’s job’s biggest challenge and most rewarding episode in Hospitality 18:10 – The importance of hospitality values: Never change towards people 20:53 – Advice to young schoolers who are considering Hospitality 25:09 – Conclusion The Recoverit App: Click the Link: https://www.recoverit.app/ USE PROMO CODE 2023IMSL1 🔗LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/ted-kelly1/ 📘Facebook: http://facebook.com/Ted-Kelly-103823931323304 💻Website: http://Interservsolutions.com 🎧 Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pmh4bSyQmaoc1HQyd13Yb As founder and chief executive of Interserv, I created a career around providing the most comprehensive solutions and start-to-finish project management for hospitality renovations and facility maintenance. If you are looking for a company to take on all the details of your project, look no further. I enjoy solving problems and earning enough trust to be considered a partner, so running my own business was a life goal. My father, who operated an appliance repair store in Savannah, Ga., during the civil rights era, used me early on as his helper and instilled a respect for a strong handshake and the power of your word. #Hospitality #Hotels #Podcast

September 23, 202425 min

In hospitality, you either love it or you don't: Wes Santos, GM of Sarasota's Hyatt Regency

In hospitality, you either love it or you don't. Wes Santos, GM of Sarasota's Hyatt Regency, shares his infectious passion for the industry and the rollercoaster ride that comes with it. He opens up about the challenges of leading a large team, the importance of guest satisfaction, and the unwavering dedication it takes to succeed in this fast-paced world. Join him and host Ted Kelly on this episode of Ted's Hospitality Minute here: https://youtu.be/3xXXKynB_yw #HospitalityPassion #IndustryInsights #CareerPath #HospitalityJourney #LeadershipLessons #TedsHospitalityMinute 00:00 – Preview of Episode 00:10 –Introduction to guest Wes Santos 01:08 – Wes's early experiences in hospitality 05:13 – Career progression and mentorship in hospitality 09:06 – Transitioning to General Manager roles 12:50 – Experiences across different locations 21:38 – Current role and future developments in Sarasota 23:40 – Closing The Recoverit App: Click the Link: https://www.recoverit.app/ USE PROMO CODE 2023IMSL1 🔗LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/ted-kelly1/ 📘Facebook: http://facebook.com/Ted-Kelly-103823931323304 💻Website: http://Interservsolutions.com 🎧 Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pmh4bSyQmaoc1HQyd13Yb As founder and chief executive of Interserv, I created a career around providing the most comprehensive solutions and start-to-finish project management for hospitality renovations and facility maintenance. If you are looking for a company to take on all the details of your project, look no further. I enjoy solving problems and earning enough trust to be considered a partner, so running my own business was a life goal. My father, who operated an appliance repair store in Savannah, Ga., during the civil rights era, used me early on as his helper and instilled a respect for a strong handshake and the power of your word. #Hospitality #Hotels #Podcast

August 19, 202415 min

From coast to coast, with a heart in the heartland - Erin Roberts, Heartland's Director of Operations

From coast to coast, with a heart in the heartland. Join Ted Kelly and special guest, Erin Roberts, The Heartland Director of Operations, as she shares her hospitality journey, love for her city, and insights on navigating the industry's challenges. It's a conversation filled with passion, resilience, and a touch of Midwestern charm. Tune in to Ted's Hospitality Minute today: https://youtu.be/jYfknGw7Ze0 #HospitalityHeartland #LeadershipLessons #DesMoinesPride #UrbanHospitality #TedsHospitalityMinute 0:00 – Preview of episode 0:17 – Introduction of guest Erin Roberts 1:10 – Personal and entrepreneurial background 2:42 – Life in Iowa and business 6:08 – Challenges and effects of COVID 8:06 – The Recover It App 9:06 – Labor shortages 12:24 – Upcoming events in Iowa 14:15 – Closing The Recoverit App: Click the Link: https://www.recoverit.app/ USE PROMO CODE 2023IMSL1 🔗LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/ted-kelly1/ 📘Facebook: http://facebook.com/Ted-Kelly-103823931323304 💻Website: http://Interservsolutions.com 🎧 Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pmh4bSyQmaoc1HQyd13Yb As founder and chief executive of Interserv, I created a career around providing the most comprehensive solutions and start-to-finish project management for hospitality renovations and facility maintenance. If you are looking for a company to take on all the details of your project, look no further. I enjoy solving problems and earning enough trust to be considered a partner, so running my own business was a life goal. My father, who operated an appliance repair store in Savannah, Ga., during the civil rights era, used me early on as his helper and instilled a respect for a strong handshake and the power of your word. #Hospitality #Hotels #Podcast

August 12, 202418 min

Showcasing Students with Jaden Crudup, Lodging Development Manager of Sonesta Hotels and Resorts

From Coding to Check-Ins: Jaden Crudup's Unexpected Hospitality Journey Jaden Crudup, Sonesta's Lodging Development Manager, shares his unique career transition from computer science to the hospitality industry on Ted's Hospitality Minute hosted by Ted Kelly. Jaden provides valuable insights on networking, mentorship, and the lessons learned from hands-on experience in the field. Don't miss this week's latest episode here: https://youtu.be/RHsmtg2f6C4 #CodingToCheckIns #HospitalityJourney #HospitalityJourney #CareerChange #HospitalityCareers #HotelManagement 0:00 – Preview of the episode 0:15 – Introduction of guest Jaden Crudup 1:11 – Background of the guest 4:26 – Favorite subject that pushes the guest to continue in the industry 7:29 – Home Recovery Application 8:56 – Journey of employment 13:29 – Opportunities and Aspirations in the Hospitality Industry 15:32 – Thoughts on being a hotel owner 17:20 – Closing The Recoverit App: Click the Link: https://www.recoverit.app/ USE PROMO CODE 2023IMSL1 🔗LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/ted-kelly1/ 📘Facebook: http://facebook.com/Ted-Kelly-103823931323304 💻Website: http://Interservsolutions.com 🎧 Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pmh4bSyQmaoc1HQyd13Yb As founder and chief executive of Interserv, I created a career around providing the most comprehensive solutions and start-to-finish project management for hospitality renovations and facility maintenance. If you are looking for a company to take on all the details of your project, look no further. I enjoy solving problems and earning enough trust to be considered a partner, so running my own business was a life goal. My father, who operated an appliance repair store in Savannah, Ga., during the civil rights era, used me early on as his helper and instilled a respect for a strong handshake and the power of your word. #Hospitality #Hotels #Podcast

July 24, 202437 min

Making history in hospitality with Andy Ingraham, President and Founder of NABHOOD

Making history in hospitality! Join Ted Kelly on Ted's Hospitality Minute as he interviews Andy Ingraham, President and Founder of NABHOOD. Andy’s story is one of resilience and innovation, from his early observations in the Bahamas to creating a platform for African American hotel owners. This episode explores the critical role of diversity and the future of the hospitality industry. Tune in for an inspiring and educational discussion that highlights the power of ownership and inclusion. Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/6kmYmtCKK_M #HospitalityLeaders #NABHOOD #TedHospitalityMinute #InclusiveIndustry #MinorityOwnership #DiversityMatters 0:00 – Preview of Episode 0:15 – Intro of guest Andy Ingram 1:36 – Guest’s Hotel ownership history and background 6:32 – African American Ownership in Hospitality and Civil Rights History 8:04 – Progress and Challenges of Minority Ownership in the Hospitality Industry 14:54 – RecoveryIt App 16:05 – State of the Hotel Industry in the Post-COVID Era 18:43 – 2025: Future Prospects and Opportunities in the Hospitality Industry 21:10 – Conference highlights 25:37 – Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Hotel Industry 29:58 – Opportunities and Assets: African-American Leadership 35:44 – Closing The Recoverit App: Click the Link: https://www.recoverit.app/ USE PROMO CODE 2023IMSL1 🔗LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/ted-kelly1/ 📘Facebook: http://facebook.com/Ted-Kelly-103823931323304 💻Website: http://Interservsolutions.com 🎧 Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pmh4bSyQmaoc1HQyd13Yb As founder and chief executive of Interserv, I created a career around providing the most comprehensive solutions and start-to-finish project management for hospitality renovations and facility maintenance. If you are looking for a company to take on all the details of your project, look no further. I enjoy solving problems and earning enough trust to be considered a partner, so running my own business was a life goal. My father, who operated an appliance repair store in Savannah, Ga., during the civil rights era, used me early on as his helper and instilled a respect for a strong handshake and the power of your word. #Hospitality #Hotels #Podcast

July 17, 202425 min

Be Iconic with Calvin Stovall The Hospitality Historian

From hotel front desks to the C-suite, Calvin Stovall's story is one of perseverance and passion. Calvin Stovall, a man who wears many hats—hospitality historian, executive coach, and author—joins us in this episode of Ted's Hospitality Minute by Ted Kelly. He shares his journey, the inspiration behind his book 'Hospitality Historiography,' and the transformative work happening at the Advanced Leadership Institute. This is a must-listen for anyone in the hospitality industry! Get ready for a dose of inspiration and wisdom on this episode. Watch the full episode here https://youtu.be/YezE8SGzzAY. #BlackOwnedBusiness #HospitalityLeaders #Empowerment #LeadershipDevelopment #HospitalityLife #BlackHistory #NewBook 0:00 – Preview of Episode 0:19 – Intro of guest Calvin Stovall 2:15 – Guest’s background 9:05 – Advance Leadership Institute 12:41 – Hospitality Historian book 20:12 – Where to buy the book 22:14 – ALI and Guests’s contact information 24:36 – Sponsor: RecoverIt 25:05 – Closing The Recoverit App: Click the Link: https://www.recoverit.app/ USE PROMO CODE 2023IMSL1 🔗LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/ted-kelly1/ 📘Facebook: http://facebook.com/Ted-Kelly-103823931323304 💻Website: http://Interservsolutions.com 🎧 Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pmh4bSyQmaoc1HQyd13Yb As founder and chief executive of Interserv, I created a career around providing the most comprehensive solutions and start-to-finish project management for hospitality renovations and facility maintenance. If you are looking for a company to take on all the details of your project, look no further. I enjoy solving problems and earning enough trust to be considered a partner, so running my own business was a life goal. My father, who operated an appliance repair store in Savannah, Ga., during the civil rights era, used me early on as his helper and instilled a respect for a strong handshake and the power of your word. #Hospitality #Hotels #Podcast

June 26, 202415 min

Teaching and Inspiring in Sacramento with Shelly Moranville

From teenager to top General Manager, Shelly Moranville's journey is pure #hospitality inspiration! Get a taste of California's capital city through the eyes of a seasoned hotelier on the latest episode of Ted's Hospitality Minute by Ted Kelly. Hear how she persevered, opened hotels, and now leads a team at the stunning Crescent Hotels & Resorts - Residence Inn by Marriott. Plus, a glimpse into California's sustainability initiatives and more. Make sure to not miss out the full episode here https://youtu.be/dKKMdMOTzhc #WomenInHospitality #HospitalityLeadership #HospitalityTrends #SustainableTravel #Ted'sHospitalityMinute The Recoverit App: Click the Link: https://www.recoverit.app/ USE PROMO CODE 2023IMSL1 00:00 - Intro to Episode 00:24 - Ted's introduction of Shelly Moranville 01:13 - How did Shelly Get into Hospitality? 01:58 - Hospitality, you are going to LOVE it or Hate it! 02:47 - A day in the life of a GM in Sacramento 03:45 - More about the property in Sacramento 04:43 - The property is in a great location 05:08 - How have things changed since COVID? 06:29 - Is there a shortage of labor in Sacramento? 08:46 - Sponsor Message 09:55 - What is Sacramento like in the Summer? 11:23 - How is sustainability impacting the hotel? 14:23 - Closing thoughts 15:55 - End of Episode 🔗LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/ted-kelly1/ 📘Facebook: http://facebook.com/Ted-Kelly-103823931323304 💻Website: http://Interservsolutions.com 🎧 Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pmh4bSyQmaoc1HQyd13Yb As founder and chief executive of Interserv, I created a career around providing the most comprehensive solutions and start-to-finish project management for hospitality renovations and facility maintenance. If you are looking for a company to take on all the details of your project, look no further. I enjoy solving problems and earning enough trust to be considered a partner, so running my own business was a life goal. My father, who operated an appliance repair store in Savannah, Ga., during the civil rights era, used me early on as his helper and instilled a respect for a strong handshake and the power of your word. #Hospitality #Hotels #Podcast

June 26, 202432 min

What's It Like to Turn Old Motels Into Luxury Boutique Hotels? With Matt Wright, Nomada Hotel Group

What's it like to turn old motels into luxury boutique hotels? Matt Wright, Regional Director of Hotel and Revenue for Nomada Hotel Group, sits down with Ted Kelly to gives us an inside look. From the challenges of renovation to creating unique guest experiences, Matt shares his expertise and passion for hospitality. Don't miss this episode of Ted's Hospitality Minute https://youtu.be/PYM0OV_3HsY! #boutiquehotels #NomadaHotelGroup #hospitalityinsider #TedKellyPodcast #travel 00:00 - Preview of Episode 00:21 - Intro of the episode and Matt Wright 01:19 - Matt's background before starting work in Hospitality 03:33 - Matt's time with Nomada so far 06:07 - The uniqueness of Nomada 12:53 - Sponsor Message 14:07 - Matt's Different Roles with Nomada 18:21 - What is Matt's new role? 22:23 - Typical day in the Life of Matt as a GM 28:47 - What are some new things we can expect from Nomada? 31:20 - Closing thoughts 32:20 - End of Episode The Recoverit App: Click the Link: https://www.recoverit.app/ USE PROMO CODE 2023IMSL1 🔗LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/ted-kelly1/ 📘Facebook: http://facebook.com/Ted-Kelly-103823931323304 💻Website: http://Interservsolutions.com 🎧 Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pmh4bSyQmaoc1HQyd13Yb As founder and chief executive of Interserv, I created a career around providing the most comprehensive solutions and start-to-finish project management for hospitality renovations and facility maintenance. If you are looking for a company to take on all the details of your project, look no further. I enjoy solving problems and earning enough trust to be considered a partner, so running my own business was a life goal. My father, who operated an appliance repair store in Savannah, Ga., during the civil rights era, used me early on as his helper and instilled a respect for a strong handshake and the power of your word. #Hospitality #Hotels #Podcast

May 28, 202424 min

Hotel AKA: Luxury and High-Level Design with Christopher Saputo of Hotel AKA Alexandria

Design, luxury, and a sprinkle of history... That's what makes Hotel AKA in Alexandria so special. Managing Director of Hotel AKA, Chris Saputo takes us on a tour of his unique property and shares the secrets behind its transformation from a Holiday Inn to a design award-winning masterpiece! He shares insider tips on the "five diamond concept" and the secret to understanding what guests REALLY want. You don't want to miss this! Tune into Ted's Hospitality Minute with Ted Kelly here https://youtu.be/LWL_ubck03Q #HotelDesign #LuxuryLiving #HistoricalHotels #TravelInspiration #HotelLife #HospitalityInsider The Recoverit App: Click the Link: https://www.recoverit.app/ USE PROMO CODE 2023IMSL1 00:00 - Preview of Episode 00:16 - Introduction to Chris Saputo 01:02 - How did Chris get into the hotel business? 04:43 - The Hospitality Sixth Sense! 06:26 - What is most unique about a 5 Diamond hotel? 08:23 - Sponsor Message 09:25 - What job position taught Chris the most about hospitality? 11:40 - More about Hotel AKA 13:18 - How is Chris Building Properties? 16:08 - What are some of the challenges in Alexandria? 19:09 - What have you done differently for labor needs since covid? 21:39 - Does hotel AKA have some upcoming events? 23:38 - Closing Thoughts 24:49 - End of Episode 🔗LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/ted-kelly1/ 📘Facebook: http://facebook.com/Ted-Kelly-103823931323304 💻Website: http://Interservsolutions.com 🎧 Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pmh4bSyQmaoc1HQyd13Yb As founder and chief executive of Interserv, I created a career around providing the most comprehensive solutions and start-to-finish project management for hospitality renovations and facility maintenance. If you are looking for a company to take on all the details of your project, look no further. I enjoy solving problems and earning enough trust to be considered a partner, so running my own business was a life goal. My father, who operated an appliance repair store in Savannah, Ga., during the civil rights era, used me early on as his helper and instilled a respect for a strong handshake and the power of your word. #Hospitality #Hotels #Podcast