Rishi Nigam and Bob Milne on Why Local Still Wins

8/31/2026

In this episode of the VRMA Arrival podcast, VRMA’s Alexa Schlosser sits down with First Chair Destinations CEO Rishi Nigam and president and chief operating officer Bob Milne to discuss what they believe is the next phase of the vacation rental industry’s evolution.

Drawing on decades of experience building companies like Wyndham Vacation Rentals and Vacasa, they reflect on the lessons learned from large-scale consolidation and explain why they believe long-term success will come from focused brands, empowered local teams, and memorable guest experiences—not simply adding more homes.

The conversation explores the changing definition of growth, the role of technology in supporting (rather than replacing) hospitality, why local decision-making matters, and how First Chair is building a brand around mountain and coastal destinations with a clear identity and purpose. They also share their perspective on where the industry is headed and what will separate the companies that thrive over the next several years.