Host Sandip Patel sits down with New York State Senator Joseph Griffo for an in-depth, candid conversation about how legislation intersects with hotel ownership, small business, and the hospitality industry at large. From insurance headaches to frivolous lawsuits to the very real impact of credit card fees, this episode peels back the curtain on how laws made in Albany (and beyond) ripple into your day-to-day operations as an owner.

Senator Griffo shares his perspective on finding balance—between consumer protections and business realities, between regulation and freedom, between federal and state action. Along the way, you’ll hear where New York is already taking steps (like junk fee prevention), where the gaps remain, and how owners themselves can step up to advocate for change.

And don’t worry—it’s not all heavy policy talk. From reality-show-worthy hotel tours to the idea of organizing lobbying “lobby days,” there are plenty of moments that make politics and hospitality feel a lot more relatable (and even a little entertaining).

In this episode you’ll hear about:

• Why credit card surcharges and hidden fees are back in the spotlight for owners and consumers
• The push for tort reform to protect small businesses from frivolous lawsuits
• How rising insurance costs are crippling hotels—and where owners can push for relief
• The power of collective lobbying and showing up in numbers to make real change
• Why advocacy, fairness, and member engagement are becoming the pillars of the future for hotel owners

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