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Send us a message!AI is changing the way travelers search, compare, and book vacation rentals. But what does that mean for direct bookings, local brands, and the websites operators have spent years building?In this episode, Alex and Annie are joined by Richard Vaughton of Yes Consulting and Mark Simpson of Boostly for The Great AI Debate. After taking this conversation to the stage at the Host Planet Roadshow in London, Richard and Mark continue the discussion around what AI could mean for vacation rental marketing, website strategy, and guest acquisition.Richard argues that AI will reshape websites, search, and distribution in ways the industry has not fully prepared for yet. Mark makes the case that strong website infrastructure, brand strategy, PMS connectivity, and niche positioning still matter, especially for operators who want to grow direct bookings.Together, they explore whether AI search will create new opportunities for independent vacation rental companies or make it even harder to compete with OTAs.Episode Chapters:05:29 - How AI is changing the future of vacation rental websites07:10 - The debate between WordPress websites and AI-built websites10:00 - Why website design alone is not enough to drive direct bookings28:25 - How Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, and Expedia continue to shape guest behavior36:29 - Why broad search terms are becoming harder for local operators to compete for18:00 - How AI search could make niche positioning more important21:53 - The growing role of TikTok, creators, and social media in travel discovery46:03 - Why brand trust still matters in an AI-driven search environment48:22 - How PMS data, integrations, and distribution may evolve53:22 - What vacation rental operators should be thinking about now as search changesAs guest behavior shifts, vacation rental operators are being pushed to think more carefully about how people find them, what makes their brand memorable, and how they can stay visible beyond the major booking platforms. Connect with Richard:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardvaughton/ Website: https://yes.consulting/ Connect with Mark:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrmarksimpson/ Website: https://boostly.co.uk/ ✨ Exclusive Offers to Alex & Annie Listeners: Thinking about the next chapter for your vacation rental business? Connect with Monarch Collective to explore what growth could look like with the right platform behind you.
AI is moving faster than most short-term rental hosts realize.In this episode of the STR Investing Podcast, Mark Lumpkin welcomes back Boostly founder Mark Simpson for a deep dive into how AI agents, automation, and direct booking technology are changing the future of hospitality.Mark Simpson shares how he went all-in on AI at the beginning of 2026, replacing repetitive manual tasks with AI agents that now help run parts of his business 24/7. What started as simple experiments quickly turned into real revenue, operational efficiencies, and entirely new systems for managing guests, marketing, and direct bookings.Throughout the conversation, they discuss the difference between basic AI chat tools and true AI agents, how operators can use AI without losing the hospitality element, and why most hosts are still thinking too small when it comes to automation.They also break down:AI agents and how they actually workUsing automation to increase direct bookingsWhy hospitality still matters more than AIThe future of Airbnb algorithms and booking platformsAI tools that save operators hours every weekHow hosts can leverage guest data more effectivelyThe importance of owning your customer relationshipsReal examples of AI-generated revenue growthMark also shares details about Boostly Connect, the new platform designed to help hosts better manage guest data, automate outreach, and improve direct booking performance.If you're trying to stay ahead in the short-term rental industry, this is an episode you don't want to miss.__Episode Sponsored By:STR SearchSTR Search is the industry leading property finder service. They've helped investors acquire over 215 profitable STRs across the US. If you'd like the data professionals to help you find your next STR, reach out to STRsearch.com
Welcome back to the Episode 801 of Boostly Podcast!
In this solo episode, Bruce from Smart Pizza Marketing shares what he learned during a recent visit to a struggling Florida pizzeria. From lacking basic checklists to chaotic kitchens, Bruce uncovers the root problems and offers actionable strategies every pizza shop owner should hear before trying to grow. He also talks about exciting tools like Boostly, Stanislaus Tomatoes, and Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses for training. If you're a pizza operator trying to stabilize or scale, this is a must-listen.
Send us a message!When Airbnb changes its policies, the ripple effect can shake operators everywhere. For many, the problem is deeper than one policy update. Relying too heavily on a single platform leaves businesses vulnerable, and the cracks are starting to show.In this episode, Mark Simpson, CEO and founder of Boostly, shares why now is the time for vacation rental operators to double down on direct bookings. Drawing from more than a decade of helping hosts grow beyond OTAs, Mark brings practical steps that any operator can put into action.We cover:1️⃣ Why overreliance on OTAs creates long-term risk for property managers2️⃣ How to turn guest data into a foundation for repeat bookings3️⃣ Simple strategies that work even without a large marketing budget4️⃣ Ways to use referrals, user-generated content, and email campaigns to build stronger relationships with guests5️⃣ What Boostly is creating to make direct bookings more accessible and effectiveMark also opens up about the importance of creativity in marketing, sharing real stories of campaigns that cut through the noise at conferences and online. His approach proves that building direct channels is not only possible but powerful.Connect with Mark:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrmarksimpson/ Website: https://boostly.co.uk/ ✨ Exclusive Offer to Alex & Annie Listeners:Get free onboarding when you partner with Xplorie! Valid through November 30, 2025.
Boostly: https://www.boostly.com/In this episode, I'm hanging with Shane from Boostly. We're talkin' real strategies for text marketing, SEO, and AI that actually help you get more customers in the door — without spending all day glued to your phone or computer.This isn't some sponsor fluff. Yeah, Boostly sponsors the show, but I only work with companies I'd use myself. This episode is packed with solid info that'll help you grow your shop, track your results, and stop wasting time on marketing that doesn't move the needle.
In this episode of the Smart Pizza Marketing Podcast, Bruce sits down with Sam and JD from Town Hall Pizza. Hear the remarkable story of how two former pastors with no restaurant experience took over a 50-year-old pizzeria, transformed it with modern systems, and built a thriving business without delivery. Discover their text marketing blunder that led to record-breaking sales, how they built a loyal vegan following, and the surprising realities of owning a legacy restaurant.Check out Boostly: https://www.boostly.com/
Are you putting all your hosting eggs in the Airbnb basket? What if there's a smarter way to grow your short-term rental business? In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Mark Simpson, founder of Boostly and one of the world's top experts in direct booking strategies. From running a family farm stay to becoming a global authority on short-term rental marketing, Mark's journey is as inspiring as it is informative. Discover why relying solely on one platform can be a risky move—and how you can take back control. Mark shares powerful, practical tactics for boosting direct bookings, defining your ideal guest avatar, and using tools like AI and ChatGPT to optimize your listings and guest communication. Whether you're just starting out or managing a portfolio of properties, this episode is packed with golden nuggets that will help you build a resilient, profitable business that doesn't depend on just one booking site. Don't miss this one—Mark's insights might just be the game-changer your hosting journey needs. Things we discussed in this episode: The importance of diversifying booking platforms beyond Airbnb to reduce business risk Mark Simpson's background growing up in a family farm stay and how it shaped his hospitality perspective The concept of creating an ideal guest avatar to improve marketing and listing effectiveness Utilizing property management software (PMS) as a central "zone of truth" for booking management The role of AI tools like ChatGPT in improving listing copy, marketing, and operational efficiency Boostly's evolution from a training platform to offering website design and API integrations for direct bookings The shift in hospitality marketing from traditional newspaper ads to digital platforms and social media Strategies for getting more direct bookings, with a goal of reaching 65% direct booking rate The importance of becoming a brand ambassador for your location, not just focusing on property features How technology and AI are changing the short-term rental industry, with a focus on freeing up time for hosts and improving guest communication Get in touch with Mark: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BoostlyUk/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/boostlyuk/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrmarksimpson/ Website - https://boostly.co.uk/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #DirectBookings #ShortTermRental #AirbnbStrategy #HostTips #TravelIndustry #AIinHospitality #MarketingForHosts #PropertyManagement #BoostlyMarketing #TechForHosts Follow Us! Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Mark Simpson, the founder of Boostly, to discuss the practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) for vacation rental hosts. Mark shares how AI can help streamline operations, enhance guest experiences, and optimize marketing efforts—without losing the personal touch that makes direct bookings successful. Mark Simpson is the founder of Boostly, a platform dedicated to helping short-term rental hosts and property managers increase their direct bookings. With years of experience in digital marketing and hospitality, Mark has become a leading advocate for independent hosts looking to take back control from OTAs. Revolutionize Your Employee Onboarding with THRIVE Essentials: Faster Training, Stronger Teams, Better Results! Discover how THRIVE Essentials accelerates onboarding for new property management staff, boosting performance and reducing turnover. >> THRIVE Essentials Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS605
Welcome to the Boostly Podcast Episode 770, the show that gives hosts the tools, tactics, and confidence to skyrocket their direct bookings! In today's episode, we're diving into the game-changing world of short-term rentals with a special guest who has mastered the art of standing out in a crowded market. Meet Mike Sebastian, the founder of Hideaways. After leaving a high-flying marketing career, Mike took the short-term rental industry by storm—transforming ordinary properties into one-of-a-kind vacation experiences that guests can't resist. His secret? Hyper-targeted design, bold marketing strategies, and an out-of-the-box approach to hospitality. In this episode, Mike shares: ✅ Why focusing on a niche audience is the key to skyrocketing profits ✅ How he turned a $215/night rental into a $620/night hotspot ✅ The power of viral marketing to fill bookings outside of Airbnb ✅ His best tips for choosing and designing unique rental properties If you're an Airbnb host, property investor, or STR enthusiast, you won't want to miss this! Let's jump in and uncover the secrets to short-term rental success.Connect with Mike Sebastian@matmiike@discoverthehideaways@buildyourhideawayConnect with Boostlyhttps://Boostly.co.ukhttps://Boostly.co.uk/5stepshttps://instagram.com/boostlyukhttps://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
In today's episode of STR Daily powered by Boostly, we discuss Bhutan's unexpected inclusion in the U.S. travel ban considerations and what it could mean for the nation's economy and global mobility. Plus, we take a look at the booming U.S. travel agency market, where rising demand for high-end experiences and cruises is fueling growth. Tune in for the latest travel insights and trends shaping the industry!Are you new and want to start your own hospitality business?Join our Facebook groupFollow Boostly and join the discussion:YouTube LinkedInFacebookWant to know more about us? Visit our websiteStay informed and ahead of the curve with the latest insights and analysis.
Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 769Join us for a fascinating conversation with Ger from Rhosydd Bach in Wales, a hospitality veteran with over 20 years of experience. We dive into his journey, from converting old pig farm buildings into luxury cottages to adapting to the ever-changing hospitality landscape. Ger shares invaluable insights on embracing change, the importance of personal touch, leveraging social media, and targeting your ideal customer. Learn how to stay ahead of the curve and build a thriving hospitality business in today's climate.Connect with Gerhttps://rhosyddbach.co.uk/Connect with Boostlyhttps://Boostly.co.ukhttps://Boostly.co.uk/5stepshttps://instagram.com/boostlyukhttps://Boostly.co.uk/podcast#Hospitality #DirectBookings #VacationRentals #Wales #MarketingTips #EmailMarketing #PersonalTouch #SmallBusiness #TravelPodcast #CustomerPersona #Adaptability #GirFromWales
Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 768In this inspiring episode of the Boostly Podcast, we sit down with Chad Harker, the 25-year-old founder of Eco Escapes, an Airbnb management company that's taking Canada by storm! Chad shares his incredible journey from renting out a single spare room to building a thriving business, and reveals the secrets behind his success.We dive deep into:Chad's early start and how he got into real estate investing at a young age.His experiences with starting out on Airbnb and the crucial lessons he learned.How he built a strong team, including the effective use of virtual assistants.The challenges of scaling an Airbnb business and maintaining high-quality service.His innovative website calculator that's helping investors make smarter decisions.The tools and tech he uses to automate and streamline his operations.If you're looking to start or scale your Airbnb business, this episode is packed with actionable insights and motivation!Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction & Meet Chad Harker: Welcome to the podcast and introduction to Chad's background.1:46 - Chad's Early Start & Real Estate Journey: How Chad transitioned from a single Airbnb room to a management company.4:02 - The First Airbnb Experience & Lessons Learned: Diving into the initial steps and challenges of starting with Airbnb.12:49 - Team Building & Utilizing Virtual Assistants: Chad's strategies for building a strong team and effectively using VAs.19:43 - Scaling & Maintaining Quality in a Growing Business: Addressing the challenges of scaling while keeping a high level of service.26:07 - Website Calculator & Lead Generation Strategies: Exploring the unique calculator tool and its benefits for attracting clients.Learn more about Chad and Eco Escapes:Website: http://ecoescape.com/Connect with Boostlyhttps://Boostly.co.ukhttps://Boostly.co.uk/5stepshttps://instagram.com/boostlyukhttps://Boostly.co.uk/podcast#Airbnb #ShortTermRental #RealEstateInvesting #PropertyManagement #DirectBookings #Boostly #EcoEscapes #Entrepreneur #PassiveIncome #AirbnbTips #VirtualAssistants #AI #CanadaAirbnb
Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 767In this episode, we dive deep into the world of short-term rentals and hospitality with industry expert Blake Duarte. From must-know strategies for hosts to hidden challenges in the business, we uncover what it truly takes to run a successful and guest-friendly rental. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, this conversation is packed with insider tips, industry insights, and actionable advice that can elevate your hosting game.Tune in to discover:✅ Common mistakes that could cost you bookings✅ The key to delivering 5-star guest experiences✅ How to optimize pricing for maximum profit✅ The future of hospitality and what's changing in 2024