Episode 7

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Published on:

31st Aug 2025

From the Back of the House to the Courtroom: Steven Shapiro on Hospitality Law That Actually Helps

Most hotel owners don’t need more legal theory—they need lawyers who understand how hotels actually work. That’s exactly what Steven Shapiro is training his students to become.

Steven is the Director of the Hospitality and Tourism Law Program at American University Washington College of Law. In this episode, he and Chase talk about why hospitality law isn’t just about contracts, and why every law student should walk a hotel kitchen line or tour a property before they give legal advice.

From franchise agreements and liability to emotional intelligence and real-world risk, this episode explores how legal education can support hotel owners, developers, and operators in more meaningful, strategic ways.

Whether you’re a hotelier hiring legal help or just curious what a great hospitality lawyer should look like—this conversation lifts the curtain on a rarely discussed side of the industry.

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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.