Episode 6

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Published on:

24th Aug 2025

Doing Good Is Good for Business: Anna Blue on Workforce Strategy, DEI, and the Future of Hospitality | The Room Key

Can doing good actually make your business more profitable?

In this episode of The Room Key, host Chase Keller sits down with Anna Blue, former President of the AHLA Foundation, for a candid and insightful conversation about workforce development, DEI, and what hotel owners need to know about building a stronger team and a better guest experience.

Anna shares her journey from social justice to hospitality, unpacks the real meaning (and business impact) of DEI, and explains why hotel owners—many of whom are immigrants themselves—have more to gain than lose by investing in their people.

Whether you’re skeptical of DEI or already on board, this episode doesn’t take sides—it seeks solutions. From practical tips on retention and recruitment to bold thoughts on anti-trafficking efforts and generational leadership shifts, this conversation cuts through the noise and focuses on what matters.

Because at the end of the day, great hotels are built by great people.

🔑 Topics Covered

  • How Anna Blue accidentally entered hospitality
  • What hotel owners get wrong about DEI
  • Workforce programs that actually work (and are free!)
  • Why guest experience starts with employee experience
  • How to rethink hotel jobs as long-term careers
  • The role of hotel owners in the fight against human trafficking
  • Bridging the gap between what employees want and what ownership needs
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About the Podcast

The Room Key
Where Hotel Owners, Investors & Insiders Talk Shop with Chase Keller
The Room Key is where hotel owners, investors, lenders, brokers, and hospitality professionals come to talk shop. Hosted by Chase Keller, CCIM, a national hotel broker with Franchise Clearly. Each episode dives into the real stories, challenges, and insights that drive the hotel industry. Whether you're a first-time owner, a seasoned investor, or someone who just loves the business of hospitality, The Room Key offers candid interviews, market trends, and practical takeaways you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock behind-the-scenes conversations with the people who power the places we stay.

About your host

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Chase Keller, CCIM

Chase Keller is a dedicated hotel advisor and the Head of the Hospitality Division at Franchise Clearly, a brokerage redefining how hotel transactions are done. With over 16 years of real estate experience and CCIM training, Chase specializes exclusively in helping hotel owners and investors buy and sell hospitality properties across the U.S. His deep knowledge of franchise brands and independent hotels allows him to provide data-driven insights and strategies that maximize value for his clients.

At Franchise Clearly, Chase leads a team-based approach that sets the firm apart from traditional brokerages. Instead of relying on one person to handle every aspect of a transaction, Franchise Clearly brings together a team of specialists—each operating in their area of strength—creating a seamless process and delivering superior results for clients.

Known for his client-first mindset and meticulous attention to detail, Chase ensures that every deal is handled with precision, professionalism, and care.
Contact Chase today to explore your hotel investment opportunities with Franchise Clearly.