Fast Forward STL: LHM President Steve O’Loughlin’s Optimistic Vision for St. Louis

In this episode of Fast Forward STL, Keith Alper sits down with Steve O’Loughlin, president of Lodging Hospitality Management (LHM), Missouri’s largest lodge operator, with 19 lodges and greater than 5,000 rooms; plus Westport Plaza, St. Louis Union Station, a number of eating places, and a rising portfolio of experiences—together with the Aquarium, The Polar Express, and seasonal pop-ups. Steve shares how he grew up within the lodge enterprise, working his method from a upkeep function to president alongside his father, who reworked LHM from a third-party supervisor right into a property-owning powerhouse. They talk about his function as chairman of Explore St. Louis, town’s tourism momentum, his optimism for the subsequent era, downtown development, and what’s forward for the Gateway City. It’s a constructive dialog about St. Louis you gained’t need to miss. Watch on YouTube, and pay attention on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platform. Love the present? Be certain to comply with or subscribe.

“St. Louis led the entire country in room revenue percent growth [in 2025]. If you look at the United States hotel industry, it actually contracted 0.4%. Some went up, some went down. St. Louis went up 7.4%. We were number one. We have unfortunately some stats where we lead in crime and that kind of thing. We actually led in hotel percent change. It’s these little things that just kind of fill in the gaps and it makes a St. Louis economy thrive.” —Steve O’Loughlin

This episode is sponsored by Bank of Washington and supported by the St. Louis Sports Commission. Bank of Washington believes banking ought to really feel private, as a result of your objectives are private. For over a century, they’ve invested within the communities they serve, supporting small companies, empowering households, and serving to neighbors construct brighter futures. With native decision-making, progressive instruments, and individuals who genuinely care, they’re right here for what issues most—you. Learn more.

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