In this episode of Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica Gillingham sits down with Ulrich Pillau, Co-founder & CEO of Apaleo, to explore how AI and API-first technology are redefining what modern hospitality looks like behind the scenes and in front of guests.

Uli explains why the industry is splitting between digital-first operators and legacy brands struggling to adapt, and why simply “moving to the cloud” won’t fix broken guest journeys without a fundamental rethink of operating models.

💡 In this conversation, you’ll hear about:
🤖 How AI and LLMs are changing how guests research, book, and interact
🏨 Why replacing a PMS doesn’t automatically modernise operations
🔌 How open, API-first platforms enable faster experimentation and innovation
🔄 The emergence of hybrid models blending hotels, serviced living, and niche lodging
⚠️ Why mid-market brands face consolidation pressure without real digital reinvention

A clear-eyed look at what hospitality must rethink now to stay competitive in an AI-driven world.

In this week’s Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski speak with Alexander Limpert, the founder behind RentalReady and GuestReady, to unpack how automation, data, and AI are transforming operational efficiency in short-term rentals.

💡 Highlights include:
🤖 How RentalReady became the first PMS to integrate OpenAI, now powering a third-gen AI assistant
💬 Why AI replies to “confident messages” but escalates complex ones to humans
🏗️ Why GuestReady is shifting toward entire building management to strengthen revenue stability
🌍 How geographic diversification helps manage regulatory volatility
🛏️ Why GuestReady blends local authenticity with hotel-like standards for a differentiated stay
📜 The case for reasonable, balanced STR regulation that protects housing and enables innovation

Alex makes the case for a future where smarter tools empower operators, improve guest experience, and support sustainable growth across the sector.

🌐 pillowtalksessions.com

In this week’s Pillow Talk Sessions, Jessica Gillingham and Kristian Lupinski sit down with Jason Hardman, Head of UK Living at CBRE, to explore how policy, planning, and private capital are reshaping the UK’s housing future.

💡 Highlights include:
🏡 Why housing models must evolve to reflect modern lifestyles and longer life spans
🏘️ How institutional investment is fueling growth in single-family rental
📊 The UK’s 1.5 million homes target—and how to balance quality, speed, and sustainability
🤝 How the Renters Reform Bill is changing landlord-tenant relationships
⚙️ Why tech-led service delivery is the key to happier renters and efficient operations

Jason offers a grounded, data-informed perspective on how the UK living sector can innovate without losing sight of long-term value, community, and trust.