Podcasts about direct bookings

Send us a message!Flexible cancellation policies are no longer optional in today's vacation rental market. Guests expect them, OTAs prioritize them, and competitors are already adapting. But for property managers, relaxed policies often feel like a direct threat to revenue and owner trust.In this episode, we talk with Sasha Lawler, CEO and Founder of Roam, about how her company is eliminating that trade-off. Roam's embedded insurance model allows managers to offer flexible bookings that attract more guests while ensuring income is protected even if cancellations occur.Sasha shares her 15+ year journey in hospitality and vacation rental tech, the conversations with property managers that inspired Roam, and why now is the moment for the industry to catch up with hotels and airlines in offering flexibility.We discuss:1️⃣ Why strict cancellation policies create tension between managers, owners, and guests2️⃣ How Roam's model differs from traditional travel insurance3️⃣ The tech behind embedding refundable and non-refundable rate options into booking sites4️⃣ Why smaller operators are leveraging Roam to stabilize revenue and win new owners5️⃣ How turning cancellations into a strength can improve guest trust and long-term brand growthIf cancellations have ever kept you up at night, this episode will show you how flexibility can protect (not jeopardize) your revenue.Connect with Sasha:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sasha-lawler-a4b33677/ Website: https://goroam.io/ ✨ Exclusive Offer to Alex & Annie Listeners:Get free onboarding when you partner with Xplorie! Valid through November 30, 2025.

What if the career you'd worked decades to build was the very thing holding you back from the life you actually wanted? In this episode, I sit down with Kerri Gibson, a former CPA who built a thriving hospitality empire in Quebec. After 22 years in tax and accounting software, Kerri's breaking point became her breakthrough when a simple house flip spiraled into seven renovated ski chalets—and eventually a full-scale motel transformation. Kerri opens up about the toll of burnout and the moments she missed with family because work always came first. She shares how she and partner Philip navigated the tricky shift from colleagues to business partners to spouses working side by side, and how a few uncomfortable conversations ultimately strengthened both their relationship and their business. Most impressively, Kerri has achieved what many hospitality owners dream of: 70% direct bookings through her own website—without relying on OTAs. She walks us through the exact strategies she built from the ground up, plus how she infused their signature “hygge” concept into a roadside motel, transforming it into a place where guests connect and create lasting memories. Packed with real-world advice and hard-earned wisdom, this episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling stuck—whether you're plotting your escape from corporate life or striving to build a hospitality business that truly reflects your values. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:16] A short introduction about our guest Kerri Gibson and how she got into the world of short-term rentals [03:27] Kerri shares her journey from from CPA to tech leader in tax and accounting software [06:28] Kerri's breaking point that pushed her to leave the corporate world [13:20] Kerri reveals her two-question strategy for making big decisions without a support system [21:06] Kerri recounts her journey from renovating distressed chalets to revitalizing a roadside motel  [25:39]  Kerri outlines her vision to reinvent the roadside motel experience through Scandinavian-inspired design and communal spaces [30:17] The challenges and growth that come from defining roles when running a business with a spouse [38:04] How Kerri shifted from relying entirely on OTAs to achieving 70% direct bookings [45:15] The power of starting early with a strategy and evolving it over time [48:08] Kerri talks about her self-taught marketing journey and how she strategically brought in outside expertise [52:39] The lightning round  Golden Nuggets: • “Find coziness, comfort and the simplicity of the small moments of life surrounded by those that you love the most.” • “I had to learn to find space for him to be a part of the business and flourish. And as we've defined, find our swim lanes, which is super important. It's allowed us to find, like these great things that go in sync together. You know, the Ying and the Yang.” • “Never, ever, ever build your house on someone else's land, no matter how small you are.” • “You have to create the strategy, then go implement the strategy. But without that strategy-first approach, it's just like throwing spaghetti at the wall and hoping that something works.” • “There's nothing you can't do, or nothing you can't be, there's only what you're willing to work for.” This episode is brought to you by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Lodgify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

Hospitality Marketing with AI is redefining how hotels, resorts, and short-term rentals attract guests — and in this episode, Sarah Stahl reveals proven strategies to thrive in this AI-driven era.With over 15 years of marketing experience, Sarah helped a treehouse resort grow from 6 to 21 units while achieving an unprecedented 93% direct bookings. She shares her playbook on blending AI in travel industry tools, influencer marketing strategies, and PR and discoverability to outperform competitors and reduce reliance on OTAs like Airbnb.If you've been searching for ways to:Rank higher through ChatGPT for SEO and LLM discoverabilityBreak free from Airbnb with direct booking strategiesBuild guest trust using influencer marketing strategiesLeverage synthetic data marketing for precision targetingBoost occupancy in glamping marketing and short-term rental marketing…this episode delivers answers, examples, and actionable steps.Sarah's expertise meets your business needs by addressing the exact search intent of hospitality professionals: how to get found, how to book more guests directly, and how to future-proof your marketing against rapid tech changes. Through real-world results and tested tactics, you'll gain insight and wisdom to solve discoverability challenges and drive bookings without being dependent on Airbnb.Whether you run a vacation rental, a boutique hotel, or a luxury resort, this conversation equips you with the strategies to compete smarter in the age of AI.⏱ Timestamps (20:24)0:00 Intro & Sarah Stahl's Background1:00 How Sarah Achieved 93% Direct Bookings2:30 AI in Travel Industry: ChatGPT Search & LLM Discoverability4:50 Why PR Is the New SEO for Hospitality6:15 Influencer Marketing Strategies that Build Trust8:40 Overcoming Airbnb Dependence10:30 Website Storytelling for AI Search Optimization12:20 Glamping Marketing & Niche Property Growth14:10 Airbnb Alternatives & Rising Guest Demand for Unique Stays15:30 How Synthetic Data Marketing Shapes Strategy17:00 ChatGPT for SEO vs. Other AI Tools18:30 Preparing for the Future of Hospitality Marketing with AI20:00 Closing Thoughts & Where to Find Sarah Stahl#HospitalityMarketingWithAI#AIinTravelIndustry#ChatGPTforSEO#InfluencerMarketingStrategies#ShortTermRentalMarketing#DirectBookingStrategies#PRandDiscoverability#LLMDiscoverability#GlampingMarketing#AirbnbAlternatives#SyntheticDataMarketing#SarahStahlTo check out the YouTube (video podcast), visit: https://www.youtube.com/@drchrisloomdphdDisclaimer: Not advice. Educational purposes only. Not an endorsement for or against. Results not vetted. Views of the guests do not represent those of the host or show.  Click here to join PodMatch (the "AirBNB" of Podcasting): https://www.joinpodmatch.com/drchrisloomdphdWe couldn't do it without the support of our listeners. To help support the show:CashApp- https://cash.app/$drchrisloomdphdVenmo- https://account.venmo.com/u/Chris-Loo-4Spotify- https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-loo/supportBuy Me a Coffee- https://www.buymeacoffee.com/chrisJxClick here to purchase my books on Amazon: ⁠https://amzn.to/2PaQn4p⁠Follow our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/chL1357Follow us on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/drchrisloomdphdFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thereal_drchrislooFollow the podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3NkM6US7cjsiAYTBjWGdx6?si=1da9d0a17be14d18Subscribe to our Substack newsletter: https://substack.com/@drchrisloomdphd1Subscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6992935013231071233Subscribe to our email list: https://financial-freedom-podcast-with-dr-loo.kit.com/Thank you to all of our sponsors and advertisers that help support the show!Financial Freedom for Physicians, Copyright 2025

In this episode, our guest experience correspondent, Danica Smith, speaks with Hector Hughes, co-founder of Unplugged, who shares how they have achieved the remarkable with 100% direct bookings and nearly full occupancy year-round -- all without relying on OTAs. Hector discusses Unplugged's unique approach to organic growth, the creative use of social media, and how building a movement rather than just a brand has driven their success. Hospitality leaders will gain fresh insights into how embracing authenticity and strategic marketing can boost direct demand and transform their businesses. A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

In this episode, we're joined by Sarah Stahl to talk all about her experience growing a unique stays brand in Alabama, using content creators, generating brand awareness and a LOT more...Enjoy!⭐️ Links & Show NotesAdam NorkoConrad O'ConnellSarah Stahl WebsiteSarah Stahl LinkedIn

The EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA) was designed to create a fairer digital landscape - but could it actually end up harming hotels instead? In this discussion with Javier Delgado Muerza of mirai, we break down the latest developments following the European Commission's investigation into Google's compliance with Article 6.5 of the DMA. With two proposed solutions (Option A and Option B), both could significantly reduce the visibility of direct hotel websites in Google search results - and that's bad news for hoteliers and revenue managers.

Send us a message!This week, we're joined by Deborah Labi, a seasoned hospitality professional and the founder of Have You Got, a verified global guest referral network designed to help independent property managers expand their reach and maximize revenue without sacrificing the personal touch that sets them apart.With two decades of experience in the industry, Deborah understands the frustration of turning away great guests, whether due to lack of availability or location. That challenge led to the creation of Have You Got, a platform that enables property managers to remain helpful, visible, and profitable even when they can't host the guest themselves. Through verified referrals, Have You Got turns missed bookings into meaningful opportunities for both managers and travelers.In this episode, we dive into:1️⃣ How Have You Got turns guest referrals into passive income2️⃣ Why verified managers and guest-first design build lasting trust3️⃣ Smart ways to use referral links to capture missed bookings4️⃣ How simple videos can strengthen guest loyalty5️⃣ Why collaboration, not consolidation, is key to reducing OTA dependenceWe also discuss the importance of transparency, collaboration, and brand-building in a market where travelers are increasingly craving trusted, local experiences.Connect with Deborah:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-labi-a7566a2b/ Website: https://www.thehaveyougot.network/ ✨ Exclusive Offer to Alex & Annie Listeners:Get a free market assessment from Track with 3 to 5 actionable insights tailored to your business. (valued at $400)You will meet one-on-one with an expert to help evaluate your market, identify opportunities, and build a strategy to help you stand out.

Discover the inspiring journey of Noble Crawford and learn innovative strategies in real estate like lease arbitrage and midterm rentals. A story of grit, sacrifice, and triumph awaits!See full article: https://www.unitedstatesrealestateinvestor.com/from-grit-to-glory-unveiling-the-power-of-resilience-real-estate-with-noble-crawford/(00:03) - Introduction to The REI Agent Podcast(00:15) - The Hustle Phase: A Nostalgic Look Back(02:40) - Building Teamwork: Overcoming Debt and Budget Challenges(04:25) - Erica's Journey: Balancing Career, Children, and Private Practice(07:05) - Mattias's Real Estate Evolution and Lessons from Early Sacrifices(10:50) - Meet Noble Crawford: A Unique Real Estate Journey(12:30) - Introduction to Short-Term Rentals and Lease Arbitrage(14:45) - Overcoming Challenges in Arbitrage: Framing Conversations for Success(17:20) - Midterm Rentals: Shifting Trends in Real Estate Investment(20:10) - Key Strategies for Direct Bookings and Building Recurring Revenue(23:00) - Due Diligence in Midterm Rentals: Risks and Rewards(25:30) - Noble's Turning Point: A Personal Story That Changed Everything(29:00) - Inspiration and Advice for Aspiring Real Estate InvestorsContact Noble Crawfordnoblecrawford.comFacebookInstagramYouTubeLinkedInX--Visit reiagent.com for more holistically successful content!

Are you a short-term rental host who is sick of paying OTA commission fees? If so, you need to check out listing sites like Simply Owners. For a low annual fee, Simply Owners will market your property to a large audience of holidaymakers and take zero commission! And right now, Simply Owners is offering a whopping 60% off the annual listing fee, meaning you can list your rental on the site for just £118.80! Click here to find out more: https://www.simplyowners.net/list-your-property/code/JUNE25?utm_campaign=june25&utm_medium=share&utm_source=hostplanetDuring this episode of Host Planet Bitesize – sponsored by Hostfully – Rebecca Ward from Simply Owners outlines the advantages of using listing sites, from zero commission fees, complete control over your property, and direct contact with every guest.Key takeaways:• Listing sites mean there is zero commission to pay on bookings.• Owners have complete control over their rental.• Simply Owners boasts a 95% renewal rate.0:00 Episode starts1:58 No commission – just a simple, one-off annual fee3:23 A listing site will send you direct bookings5:12 Hosts charge less because of zero commission 5:51 Control over your property and advert7:36 Extra exposure for your rental9:16 How many bookings you can expect from a site like Simply Owners10:18 Trust 12:48 Join Simply Owners for under £300 per property per year14:05 Supporting owners Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Rebecca Ward: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-ward-121990328/Simply Owners: https://www.simplyowners.net/list-your-property/code/JUNE25?utm_campaign=june25&utm_medium=share&utm_source=hostplanetSimply Owners website: https://www.simplyowners.net/Call: 01623 343 343Email: enquiries@simplyowners.netEpisode to check next: Learn How To Take Great Photos For Your Airbnb: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vi9XiAQ1H-0&t=13sHost Planet Bitesize is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #SimplyOwners #RebeccaWard

In this no-holds-barred conversation, Heather is joined by longtime friend of the show, Mark Simpson, to unpack the buzz - and backlash - surrounding Airbnb's newly launched "Services" offering. From liability concerns to insurance gaps, Mark breaks down why this move is raising eyebrows in the host community and what you can do right now to protect your business. Then, we switch gears and dive headfirst into the world of AI in vacation rentals. Mark shares how he's been helping hosts build custom GPTs, boost productivity, and take back control of their marketing strategies. If you're curious about how to harness AI without feeling overwhelmed, this episode delivers a masterclass in cutting through the fluff and getting to what works. 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/VRS615

Send us a message!In this week's episode, we're joined by Matt Gurley, Director of Sales and Partner Integrations at the Lynnbrook Group, for a deep dive into the payment side of vacation rentals that most property managers overlook until it's too late.From fraud prevention to faster checkouts to smarter cash flow tools, Matt breaks down how Lynnbrook is simplifying payment processing and helping operators keep more of what they earn. With a career that started in the OTA integration trenches and evolved into leading-edge fintech, Matt brings a unique perspective on why vacation rental companies need more than just a generic payment provider.If you've ever dealt with chargebacks, payout delays, or struggled with reconciling your books, this one's for you.Key Topics Discussed:1️⃣ Why payment processing is more than just a backend task in vacation rentals2️⃣ Common blind spots property managers face when it comes to fraud and chargebacks3️⃣ How modern checkout options like Apple Pay, Pay Later, and Venmo are shaping guest expectations4️⃣ What property managers can do to protect profits and streamline payouts5️⃣ The importance of industry-specific tools for high-risk booking scenarios6️⃣ Lessons learned from OTAs, hurricanes, and helping PMs stay financially stable7️⃣ What operators should ask when choosing a payment partner8️⃣ The real cost of ignoring risk and complianceConnect with Matt:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gurley-74688592/ Website: https://www.lynnbrookgroup.com/ Mention "Alex & Annie" when you sign up with Boom to get 50% off your onboarding fee and 1 month FREE: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.boomnow.com/⁠⁠Get a free Growth Hack Review and P&L Evaluation when you mention “Alex & Annie” during your discovery call with the Grand Welcome team: https://calendly.com/jessica-singer-grandwelcome/intro#vacationrentals #shorttermrentals #paymentprocessing

What does it take to turn a direct booking website into a real revenue driver?In today's episode of the Cash Flow Positive Podcast, Kenny Bedwell is joined by Gil Chan, tech founder, short-term rental host, and the creator of CraftedStays—a platform that helps STR hosts easily build customizable direct booking sites without breaking the bank.Drawing on his background in e-commerce, Gil walks through the parallels between retail and hospitality, explains how to structure a site that actually converts, and shares his strategies for guest vetting, trust-building, and long-term nurture campaigns. He breaks down what most hosts get wrong about direct bookings, and what to focus on instead—starting with knowing your ideal guest avatar and optimizing every piece of the guest journey around them.From lead magnets and email flows to the psychology of brand visibility, this episode is packed with insights on how to grow your direct bookings sustainably—without trying to master every marketing channel at once.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Listen now and enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:Why e-commerce and STRs are more similar than you thinkWhat your direct booking site must include to build trust and convert visitorsHow to structure your site around your “guest avatar”What most STR owners misunderstand about branding and professionalismHow to handle guest vetting on direct booking platformsWhy starting small (with the right tools) beats outsourcing everythingGil's favorite ways to collect and nurture guest emails automaticallyWhat a good year-one direct booking rate looks like—and how to scale itAnd much more...Guest Bio: Gil Chan is a short-term rental host, tech entrepreneur, and founder of CraftedStays—a platform that makes it easy for hosts to build fully integrated, conversion-focused direct booking websites. With a background as a product director in e-commerce, Gil saw the gap between STR operators and the tech tools they needed to take control of their businesses. After building the first version of CraftedStays for his own properties, he left his six-figure job in tech to grow the company full-time. Today, Gil helps hosts across the U.S. build their brands, attract the right guests, and increase revenue—one click at a time.Resources:Connect with Kenny on LinkedInFollow Kenny on InstagramConnect with Gil on LinkedInCraftedStays.co The Ultimate Guide to Direct BookingsBooked Solid Podcast

This week on Branded and Booked, I'm sharing how Cabins on the Cumberland (our micro-resort) brought in 50% direct bookings in May—and the exact strategy behind it. Even while the property is still under construction, we created a marketing plan powered by storytelling, strategy, and a whole lot of intention. In this episode, you'll learn: Why content is just one part of a bigger marketing picture How pairing SEO with storytelling builds long-term visibility The 3 C's of marketing you need to revisit ASAP What to offer instead of a basic newsletter to grow your list Why collecting phone numbers matters (even if you're not texting yet) How to prep during the slow season so you're fully booked in the busy one What to keep in mind about partnering with local businesses ✨ If you're trying to grow a direct booking strategy that actually works, this one's for you. DM me the word “INFO” at @theweberco on Instagram to learn more about how I can help you build a brand that books and a marketing strategy that converts.  Love this episode? Join my free →  Facebook Group to keep the conversation going!

Should you take direct bookings—and what does it take to make them work?In today's episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, Kenny Bedwell unpacks the real considerations behind building a direct booking strategy. While many hosts focus on software and site setup, Kenny zeroes in on the biggest challenge: attracting the right traffic. He explains how to create repeat business, leverage your property's location, and build trust with potential guests—without relying on OTAs.You'll learn how to think in terms of guest journeys, content marketing, and simple tactics like email and signage to grow your brand over time. Whether you're just starting to consider direct bookings or trying to make an existing strategy more effective, this episode offers clear, actionable guidance on how to do it right.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Listen now and enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:The top three concerns people have with direct booking sitesHow to identify and market to your “warm” and “cold” traffic segmentsWhy repeat business is more powerful (and cheaper) than new trafficSimple ways to promote your brand inside your propertyHow to use email and social to stay top-of-mind year-roundWhy promoting your market, not your property, builds trustHow lead magnets and content marketing drive real resultsAnd much more...Resources:Connect with Kenny on LinkedInFollow Kenny on Instagram

Unlock the playbook behind Michael Elefante's short‑term‑rental empire in this fast‑paced episode. We dive into how he's using Hospitable's AI, direct‑booking engine, and top‑notch support to automate away the headaches and boost profit. Michael also shares fresh 2025 STR trends - from shifting guest expectations to pricing tactics, and reveals why he launched BNB Investor Academy to help everyday investors scale just like he did. Tune in for actionable gems, market foresight, and a dose of host‑to‑host inspiration.bnbinvestoracademy.cominstagram.com/melefante6Sleep easy, host confidently with Hospitable. Automate your guest messages, sync your calendar across booking channels, and protect yourself from bad direct booking guests.Sign up today at hospitable.com/podcast and get 25% off your bill for 3 months.

In this episode, I'm joined by Arthur Colker, Founder of StayFi, and Philip Kennard, CEO of FutureStay, to unpack one of the most talked-about moves in short-term rental history: Airbnb's newly sharpened Off-Platform and Fee Transparency Policy. Depending on who you ask, it's either a long-overdue consumer protection measure... or a strategic power grab designed to lock in lifetime guest value at all costs. Arthur and Philip bring firsthand insights — and a healthy dose of reality — to a conversation that's been fueled by fear, misinformation, and a whole lot of LinkedIn hot takes. In this episode, we dive deep into: Why this "new" policy might actually be less revolutionary than most hosts realize — and what's really different this time The two “buckets” Airbnb is focused on: protecting guests (good) and protecting their margins (more complicated) How vague language, selective enforcement, and the threat of guest complaints create a new dynamic hosts must navigate Why operators building brands off-platform shouldn't panic — but should pay attention to regulatory winds (especially in Europe) What might come next: services marketplaces, tighter control over payments, and the looming specter of pricing parity The psychological game: How vague rules might cause small operators to self-police harder than Airbnb could ever enforce If you're a rentalpreneur, a professional operator, or someone who's betting their future on brand-building in the STR world, this episode is a must-listen. We break down not just what's happening — but what it means for the future of independent hospitality, ownership, and guest relationships in an increasingly walled-garden world. Because as Arthur and Philip both point out: the real battle isn't about moving one booking — it's about who owns the guest relationship in the long run. Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world's top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more. Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we'd love for you to apply to join our Alliance at journey.com/alliance.

Airbnb's latest updates aren't just platform tweaks—they're a strategic move to keep hosts (and their guests) locked into Airbnb. From limiting outside links in communication to discouraging direct bookings, these changes could seriously impact how you grow YOUR business, build guest relationships, and maintain control over your brand. In this episode, I'm breaking down what the changes mean, why they're a potential threat to independent hosts, and most importantly, how to stay in control of your brand, your business, and your bookings. Whether you're new to hosting or own multiple properties, this episode will help you take ownership of your short-term rental brand, so you're not just building someone else's platform. What You'll Learn: ✅ What's changing on the Airbnb platform ✅ Why relying solely on the platform is riskier than ever ✅ How to capture your guests' information while they're at your property ✅ How to build a guest pipeline you actually own (hello, email list + direct booking!) ✅ The key marketing assets every STR host needs to future-proof their business Resources Mentioned:

Joining us in this episode of Living Off Rentals is someone with a 20-year background in the digital media space. Kamille Longstreet is a real estate investor, influencer, and co-founder of Stay Booked, a company that helps vacation rental owners master independent marketing to grow their bookings.  With over 20 years of experience in the media and digital marketing industry, Kamille was able to generate over $50K in direct bookings (on top of her Airbnb revenue) and grow her Instagram following to 10K+ in less than 9 months.  Listen as she shares the social media strategies to get direct bookings for your properties, how to work with social media influencers, and why social media marketing is a great tool for property hosts. Enjoy the show! Key Takeaways: [00:00] Introducing Kamille Longstreet and her background [02:02] Getting into short-term rentals [09:07] Barriers to moving to another country [19:02] The eight playbooks of how to start getting more direct bookings [25:52] How do you hire an influencer? [28:03] Negotiating and making an agreement with influencers [30:54] Branding is very important [33:18] Content creation [37:53] Creating the direct booking website [49:32] About email marketing [01:00:10] Connect with Kamille Longstreet Guest Links:  Website: https://staybooked.net/  Show Links: Living Off Rentals YouTube Channel – youtube.com/c/LivingOffRentals  Living Off Rentals YouTube Podcast Channel - youtube.com/c/LivingOffRentalsPodcast  Living Off Rentals Facebook Group – facebook.com/groups/livingoffrentals  Living Off Rentals Website – https://www.livingoffrentals.com/  Living Off Rentals Instagram – instagram.com/livingoffrentals  Living Off Rentals TikTok – tiktok.com/@livingoffrentals   

http://www.futurestay.com/bill In this episode of Bill Faeth Unfiltered, Bill welcomes special guest Phil Kennard, a seasoned professional from the vacation rental industry. Phil is the founder of Futurestay, a platform that simplifies direct bookings for short-term rental owners. Bill introduces Phil's impressive background, which includes creating video games for Take Two Interactive, and developing a PropTech company for property managers. Phil shares how Futurestay evolved from his own need to manage bookings for his New York apartment. He highlights a surprising industry insight - that most vacation rentals are owned by small-scale operators, not large companies. FutureStay aims to level the playing field for these smaller operators by providing an easy-to-use platform for managing direct bookings, complete with features like dynamic pricing and Google Vacation Rentals integration. Bill emphasizes Futurestay's ability to transform any Airbnb listing into a highly converting direct booking site within minutes. Phil discusses the importance of optimizing Airbnb listings and the benefits of a direct booking loop. The episode offers listeners valuable tips on managing their short-term rental listings effectively, including leveraging OTAs and ensuring their listings are optimized. Bill and Phil also touch on the importance of customer retention and the various ways property owners can increase direct bookings. As a special offer, listeners can get a discount on Futurestay's services by visiting futurestay.com/bill. 00:00 Introduction 01:23 The Hair-Off Challenge 03:19 Phil Kennard's Journey into Entrepreneurship 05:36 From Video Games to Real Estate Tech 11:49 Entering the Short-Term Rental Market 15:17 The Birth of Futurestay 16:14 Future Stay's Unique Value Proposition 19:42 The Journey to Building the Easy Button 20:44 Challenges with Traditional Website Solutions 22:14 The Direct Booking Advantage 23:42 Understanding the Direct Booking Loop 25:02 Incremental Steps to Increase Direct Bookings 28:25 Future Stay's Unique Offerings 30:48 Optimizing Your Airbnb Listing 35:41 Leveraging OTAs for Direct Bookings 38:58 Final Thoughts and Exclusive Offer ➡️ Connect with us: • Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/284886002732508  • Check Out Our website: https://buildstrwealth.com/  • Bill's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billfaeth73 • Brea's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breafaeth/  • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bfaeth  On Bill Faeth Unfiltered, Bill Faeth breaks down the ins and outs of short-term rental hosting, giving listeners actionable advice that they can use to take their businesses to the next level. Subscribe/Follow so you never miss an episode! #BFUnfiltered #BillFaeth #STR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Living Off Rentals, we're joined by UK-based short-term rental investor Ollie Laing, who's cracked the code on direct bookings. While most hosts rely heavily on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com, Ollie generates over 50% of his revenue from direct bookings through his own website. In this episode, he shares exactly how he does it. He also talks about some of the key lessons he's learned while building a successful vacation rental business, including how he manages properties remotely, his go-to tactics for driving direct bookings, and the strategies he uses to mitigate risk. Enjoy the show! Key Takeaways: [01:59] How Ollie started in short-term rentals [05:11] Owning your properties vs managing others [11:37] Mitigating problems in short-term rentals [15:06] Ollie on remote management of properties [21:21] About SuiteOp [26:19] Tactics for getting direct bookings [32:21] Mitigating the risk for direct bookings [35:55] His advice for people starting their rental business [43:56] Connect with Ollie Laing Guest Links: Website: https://www.perfectbooking.co.uk/  Show Links: Living Off Rentals YouTube Channel – youtube.com/c/LivingOffRentals  Living Off Rentals YouTube Podcast Channel - youtube.com/c/LivingOffRentalsPodcast  Living Off Rentals Facebook Group – facebook.com/groups/livingoffrentals  Living Off Rentals Website – https://www.livingoffrentals.com/  Living Off Rentals Instagram – instagram.com/livingoffrentals  Living Off Rentals TikTok – tiktok.com/@livingoffrentals   

Connect with Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-wolff/Visit Stay Oasis: https://stayoasi.com/Want To Quit Your Job In The Next 6-18 Months Through Buying Commercial Real Estate & Small Businesses?

In this episode hosts Steve Carran and David Millili sit down with Charlie Osmond, the passionate and pioneering co-founder of Triptease. From leading a regiment in the British Army to founding multiple companies straight out of Oxford, Charlie's journey is anything but ordinary.We dive into:Charlie's early days in the British Army and Oxford Yacht Club

Are you tired of high OTA fees eating into your short-term rental profits? In this episode, Mark Lumpkin sits down with direct booking expert Mark Simpson, founder of Boostly, to uncover the secrets to maximizing direct bookings while keeping a balanced approach to Airbnb, Booking.com, and other platforms.Mark shares valuable insights on:The real percentage breakdown of direct vs. OTA bookings and why 65% direct is the sweet spot.Why going 100% direct booking can be just as risky as relying entirely on OTAs.Simple but powerful strategies to drive direct bookings—including a game-changing messaging tactic that can land you instant reservations.The biggest mistakes hosts make with pricing and why some direct booking sites charge more than Airbnb (and how to fix it!).The top tools and tactics for increasing direct bookings, including Get Directo and other must-have resources.How to structure your OTA listings to drive traffic to your direct booking site without breaking platform rules.Mark Simpson has helped set up over 1,000 direct booking websites, and he's here to share his playbook on how to make your short-term rental business thrive.Connect with Mark Simpson and get the exact template he uses to generate bookings: DM him “template” on Instagram @boostlyuk.Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your fellow hosts.Let's take control of our bookings!

In this episode of TRIBE BUILDERS, Tanya Rooney sits down with Gil from CraftedStays to unpack his journey from a W2 job to thriving as an entrepreneur in the short-term rental industry. They dive into the challenges of launching a direct booking platform and why treating short-term rentals like a business is key to success. Gil shares valuable marketing strategies and insights on how engaging with guests and creating memorable experiences can set hosts apart. Beyond business, Tanya and Gil explore the power of community—both personally and professionally. Gil reflects on how school communities have shaped his approach to networking and the financial strategies that have supported his entrepreneurial path. This conversation highlights the importance of resilience, collaboration, and building a strong support system to navigate the ups and downs of business ownership.   Follow & Connect with Gil: Instagram @craftedstays Check out the platform here:  www.craftedstays.co Follow Tanya: Tiktok @tanyarooneymn   Instagram @tanyarooneymn   Facebook @tanya.rooney28   youtube @tanyarooneymn www.tanyarooney.com

In this episode of the STR Data Lab, Jamie Lane, the Chief Economist at AirDNA, and Eric Goldreyer, the CEO and Founder of Savvy. Eric shares his rich history in the vacation rental industry, dating back to 1995 when he and his wife founded bedandbreakfast.com. The website became the leading platform for bed and breakfast listings and property management software. Eric recalls his journey, from creating central reservation systems, to selling bedandbreakfast.com, taking time off, and eventually pioneering new ventures like Turnkey Vacation Rentals and Funair.  He highlights the pain points property managers face with high distribution costs and how the Savvy platform aims to address these issues. Savvy offers a fresh approach with a no-fee model, aiming to facilitate direct bookings for vacation rentals, thereby saving costs for property managers and guests. Eric delves into the company's strategy, including maintaining algorithms that ensure high-quality matches between guests and properties. He emphasizes the importance of providing great hospitality, managing distribution costs, and building repeat and word-of-mouth business.  The conversation takes a deeper dive into the competitive landscape, where Eric stresses that Savvy doesn't aim to replace OTAs but complement them by offering an alternative that reduces booking costs. Jamie and Eric also discuss the importance of effective direct booking sites for property managers and the evolving dynamics of website quality, revenue management, and the role of property managers. Eric concludes by envisioning a future where Savvy is successful, benefiting both travelers and property managers, and addresses the challenges and opportunities within the vacation rental industry. He provides insights into what new property managers should focus on, drawing from his extensive experience in the sector. You don't want to miss this episode! ~~~~ Signup for AirDNA for FREE

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 766In this episode of the Spotlight Series, we dive into the world of curated spaces with design expert Molly Cooper. Molly shares her journey into the field, her philosophy on intentional design, and how curated spaces can transform the way we experience our surroundings. From selecting the right elements to crafting visually compelling yet functional environments, she offers invaluable insights for designers, homeowners, and anyone passionate about aesthetics. We also explore the impact of curation on mood, productivity, and storytelling through space. Whether you're a design enthusiast or just curious about creating meaningful spaces, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways. Tune in and discover how to bring more purpose and creativity into your surroundings.00:00 Introduction to Boostly Podcast and Curated Spaces01:25 Molly Cooper's Journey and Curated Spaces' Origin 02:26 Molly Cooper's Journey into Hospitality04:33 Impact of Guest Interactions on Hospitality Busines06:44 Molly Cooper's Journey and the "Scroll Less, Live More" Mantra08:34 Curated Spaces, Direct Bookings, and Host Experiences09:06 The Importance of Unique Details in Guest Experiences 11:09 The Impact of Small Gestures and Homely Details 11:30 The Shift in Consumer Behavior and Marketing Strategies12:58 Influencer Marketing in Hospitality14:46 Created Spaces: Access and Selection15:19 Platform Expansion and Community Growth17:20 Addressing Concerns about Creator-Led Marketing19:40 Influencer Marketing and Storytelling for Social Media 22:01 Building Emotional Connections in Marketing 23:16 The Power of Emotiveness in Marketing: A Personal Anecdote24:10 Enhancing Customer Experience Through Emotional Connection25:36 Biggest Wow Moments and Challenges in Curated Spaces and Digital Platforms 26:21 Post-Day Job Bliss and Entrepreneurial Challenges28:51 Sharing the Journey and Authenticity in Building a Brand31:19 Authenticity and Connection in Curated Content33:28 Curated Spaces Platform Launch and Future PlansConnect with Guesthttps://www.instagram.com/curatedspacesclub/https://www.curatedspaces.club/https://app.curatedspaces.club/----Connect with Boostlyhttps://Boostly.co.ukhttps://Boostly.co.uk/5stepshttps://instagram.com/boostlyukhttps://Boostly.co.uk/podcast

Are you struggling to fill your glamping units or wondering how to attract more direct bookings? In this must-listen episode of The Glamping Business Podcast, Sarah sits down with Ben Wolff, co-founder of Onera and Oasi, two trailblazing names in upscale experiential hospitality and marketing.  From Onera's stunning landscape hotels to Oasi's expert strategies driving 75%+ direct bookings, Ben shares actionable insights and proven marketing techniques to elevate your occupancy rates and profits. Discover how to harness the power of social media content marketing, improve guest experiences, work with influencers and take control of your booking process.  With first-hand advice from a leader who's reshaped the luxury glamping market, this episode is packed with practical takeaways that will transform your business. So grab your notebook and tune in for a marketing masterclass that works!  Contacts  Ben Wolff: LinkedIn: Ben-Wolff X: @uniquestaysguy Email: bw@stayoasi.com Onera: stayonera.com Oasi: stayoasi.com  Jessica Kirchner: The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us jessica.kirchner@emeraldx.com  Sarah Riley: Startup Advisor for Glamping Businesses and Retreat Events at The Glamping Academy https://glamping.academy hosted by https://www.inspiredcoursesvip.com/

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the tech and cost of managing your direct bookings? Without the right system in place, you risk lost revenue, double bookings, and a frustrating guest experience. In this episode, we break down exactly what you need—from secure payments to owning your brand—to make direct bookings effortless and profitable.Jamey King, Senior Marketing Manager for North America at eviivo, joins us to share his expertise in streamlining technology and helping property owners take control of their bookings. With years of experience working with brands like VRMA, Point Central, and Safely, Jamie offers valuable insights into building a strong foundation for direct booking success.In this episode, you'll learn:The key systems every property manager needs for seamless direct bookingsHow to increase revenue by maximizing control over pricing and promotionsThe power of guest relationships and how personalization enhances the experienceWhy owning your brand is crucial for standing out in a competitive marketHow to access and leverage guest data to drive repeat bookingsThe importance of reducing overbooking risks and keeping operations smoothJamey emphasizes the significance of having a reliable property management system (PMS) to help automate and optimize direct bookings without excessive costs or complexity. He also highlights how eviivo provides an all-in-one solution designed to keep direct bookings simple, secure, and profitable.“The goal is to capture guest dollars while maintaining control over pricing, guest experience, and your brand. When you own the booking process, you own your success.” – Jamey KingConnect with Jamey KingLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/james-king-bb4842bEmail: Jamey.King@eviivo.comResources Mentioned in This EpisodeEviivo website: https://eviivo.com/us/ Book a Demo with eviivo: https://eviivo.com/us/book-an-appointment/ Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/Work with Jenn to maintain consistency in your marketing and boost your direct bookings without spending so much money on it: https://directbookingsuccess.com/apply/The ULTIMATE all-in-one marketing platform for short-term rentals – Check it out: https://bookdirectpro.com/FREE GUIDE – 10 Ways to Drive Guests to Your Website Instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccessJoin Jenn's free Facebook group – the Marketing Hub: https://www.facebook.com/groups/strmarketinghub

In this episode, Chris Bowling, Head of Digital and Consumer Marketing at BWH Hotels Great Britain, shares insights on the importance of direct bookings, the role of OTAs, and the impact of AI on the hospitality industry.Read Chris' newsletter, The Hotel Hype. This episode is brought to you with support from Shiji Group, the global hospitality technology leader that helps hotels streamline operations and transform guest experiences. Recognized by their clients for their best-in-class solutions and exceptional implementation support, Shiji Group is trusted by leading brands worldwide to activate technology faster and drive better business results.A few more resources: If you're new to Hospitality Daily, start here. You can send me a message here with questions, comments, or guest suggestions If you want to get my summary and actionable insights from each episode delivered to your inbox each day, subscribe here for free. Follow Hospitality Daily and join the conversation on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. If you want to advertise on Hospitality Daily, here are the ways we can work together. If you found this episode interesting or helpful, send it to someone on your team so you can turn the ideas into action and benefit your business and the people you serve! Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands

Hosting Hotline: How to Accept Payments for Direct Bookings Without Zelle or Venmo?In this episode of the Hosting Hotline, Sarah and Annette tackle a question from a Canadian host managing a property in Maui. How can you simplify payment options for direct bookings when popular platforms like Zelle or Venmo aren't available to you? Whether you're an international host or just exploring ways to level up your direct booking experience, this episode has you covered!Episode Highlights:[00:01:00] Listener Question: A Canadian host asks about streamlining direct booking payments for their Maui property.[00:02:30] The Decline of Checks: Why checks are becoming obsolete and how switching to digital payments benefits both you and your guests.[00:03:00] Exploring Stripe: What you need to know about using Stripe for credit card payments—even as a Canadian host managing a U.S.-based property.[00:05:00] Relay to the Rescue: Learn how Relay banking supports international hosts by offering easy, secure payment solutions.[00:07:00] Relay's Expert Insight: Hear directly from the Relay team about how to use their platform to accept payments through ACH, wires, and more.[00:08:30] Practical Next Steps: Tips on setting up your business for seamless payments, including whether to establish a U.S. entity for hosting.Resources Mentioned:Relay Banking: Get $50 when you fund a Relay AccountStripe Customer ServiceThe Ultimate Guide to Setting Up Your Airbnb Business the RIGHT way (banking, taxes, LLC, profits) | Subscribe to our YouTube channel!Mentioned in this episode:StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 759. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY  https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, the host welcomes E from STR Secrets as the special guest. The podcast is dedicated to providing hosts with the tactics, tools, training, and confidence to achieve more direct bookings. E shares his journey from working as a maintenance guy in 2010 to owning a 40-unit apartment complex. He discusses the significance of mindset in overcoming business challenges. E emphasizes the importance of understanding desires versus paradigms and how a burning desire can change decision-making and results. The conversation covers how to maintain focus without succumbing to distractions and the crucial role of discipline. E shares insights on how one's environment and the people around them can influence their success. He advises listeners to ask themselves if the advice they receive is from those living the life they aspire to have. The importance of gratitude and expectancy in achieving goals is highlighted. E encourages hosts to strive for growth and not settle for mediocrity. He shares his coaching philosophy and the power of being in the right rooms with like-minded individuals. The discussion also touches on balancing daily tasks with long-term goals and bringing grace into one's life. E concludes by advising listeners to fall in love with the process and become obsessed with their craft. The episode is filled with practical tips and motivational insights aimed at helping hosts elevate their short-term rental businesses and personal growth. https://www.getdirecto.com/ Use code 'BOOSTLY' when you sign up for 2 months free. https://www.instagram.com/getdirectoextension/ https://www.tiktok.com/@getdirectoextension https://x.com/marin_directo https://Boostly.co.uk https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps https://instagram.com/boostlyuk https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast

In this episode of STR Daily, we dive into how AI is transforming corporate event planning with a spotlight on startup Nowadays. Plus, we break down the evolving battle between hotels and online travel agencies (OTAs) for booking dominance by 2030. Will AI-driven platforms and direct bookings reshape the industry? Tune in to stay ahead of the curve in hospitality and travel. Are you new and want to start your own hospitality business? Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Boostly and join the discussion: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to know more about us? Visit our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Stay informed and ahead of the curve with the latest insights and analysis

What if you could reduce your reliance on OTAs, save money, and build a loyal guest base—all while maintaining complete control over your short-term rental business? That's exactly what we're exploring in this episode of The SmartStay Show! Rory Gill and I sit down with Abby Grous, the Senior Product Manager of Direct at Hospitable, to unpack the power of direct bookings. From Hospitable's innovative tools to real-world strategies for maximizing revenue, we cover everything you need to know about making direct bookings work for you. Abby gives us an inside look at Hospitable's basic and premium offerings, shares tips for boosting guest loyalty, and highlights the game-changing features on their product roadmap. This is your chance to learn how to optimize your direct booking process, enhance the guest experience, and take full ownership of your rental business. Don't miss the special referral code Abby shares exclusively for our listeners—your next step to hosting success starts here. Things we discussed in this episode: The importance of direct bookings for short-term rental hosts and the benefits of having control over the guest experience. Hospitable's two direct booking product offerings - the basic and premium options - and the differences between them. The integration of Hospitable's direct booking tools, including the direct booking landing pages, widgets, and payment processing. The ability to manage taxes, discounts, and promo codes through Hospitable's direct booking platform. The challenges of integrating guest reviews on direct booking websites and Hospitable's plans to address this. Strategies for increasing direct bookings, such as capturing guest email addresses, utilizing social media, and offering trust-building content. Hospitable's focus on improving the booking flow, including features like express checkout for returning guests and skipping guest verification. Hospitable's partnership with Auto Host for guest vetting and the importance of this process for providing damage protection. Hospitable's plans to expand into the midterm rental market, including offering monthly payment options and alternative payment methods. Hospitable's commitment to building in partnership with their customers and the role of customer feedback in shaping the product roadmap. Get in touch with Abby: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/hospitable/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hospitable_com/ Website - https://hospitable.com/contact-us/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #DirectBookings #PropertyManagement #GuestExperience #PaymentProcessing #ReviewManagement #GuestVetting #DamageProtection #HospitableDirectBooking #STRHostTips 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!

As we wrap up an incredible year of growth and learning in the short-term rental industry, it's time to reflect on the valuable insights that have shaped our success. In this special episode of the Direct Booking Success Podcast, I'm sharing my favourite moments from 2024 - a year filled with practical strategies, inspiring stories, and expert advice.From reaching listeners in 38 countries to recording over 23 hours of content, this podcast has become more than just a source of information. It's a thriving community of property managers and hosts passionate about growing direct bookings and building sustainable businesses.In this episode you'll learn: Inside-out hospitality: Learn how treating your team will genuine care translates to exceptional guest experiencesFilling calendar gaps: Actionable strategies to boost bookings during slow periods without resorting to discountsThe power of video reviews: How authentic guest testimonials can significantly increase your conversion ratesStrategic consistency: Why blindly following the “just be consistent” mantra might be holding you backOptimizing your direct booking website: Essential tips for creating a seamless, mobile-responsive booking processHighlights from 2024Inside-Out Hospitality with Lauren Madewell"Inside-out hospitality is all about taking care of your own people first, so they care for others naturally."Discover how Lauren's approach to prioritizing employee well-being naturally translates into exceptional guest experiences. Learn about her creative marketing strategies that make her properties stand out in the competitive Smoky Mountains market.Listen to Episode 106 - The Truth About Airbnb Income, Hint… It's Not What You Think: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEHQ0UTrCYo&t=2sLearn more about Lauren and Auntie Belham's Cabin Rentals: Website: https://www.auntiebelhams.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/auntiebelhamscabinrentals/ Reviving Your Marketing After Peak Season"Your past guests are your biggest fans—remind them why they loved staying with you."Explore effective strategies to fill booking gaps without resorting to discounts or desperate measures. Find out why email marketing remains a powerful tool for reconnecting with past guests and driving repeat bookings.Listen to Episode 115 - Reviving Your Marketing After a Busy STR Season: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTTMNVE2gKYBuilding Community with Damian Sheridan"A simple phone video from a happy guest can increase your bookings by 25%—it's that powerful."Gain insights from industry veteran Damian Sheridan on reducing OTA reliance and leveraging video reviews to boost conversions. Learn how authentic guest testimonials can significantly impact your booking rates.Listen to Episode 94 - Why You Should Stop Chasing 5-Star Reviews and Do This Instead: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ngfx2O6DOk&t=7sLearn more about DamianBook Direct Show: https://bookdirect.show SCALE Rentals: https://scalerentals.show The Truth About Consistency in Marketing"Being consistent isn't enough if your efforts miss the mark—align your strategy with your goals."Challenge the common advice of "just be consistent" and discover why strategic consistency is key to driving results. Understand how to focus on quality over quantity in your marketing efforts.Listen to Episode 107 - Why Consistency in your Marketing Isn't Enough for Direct Bookings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxFKqYRyUM8Optimizing Your Direct Booking Website with Bart Sobies"If you're not testing your booking process on all devices, you're leaving

Are you ready to turn your Instagram followers into paying guests? In this episode, we explore how to harness the power of Instagram to drive direct bookings for your vacation rental property.Join me as I chat with Katie Besant, founder of the Holiday Hive and social media expert with years of experience in the tourism industry. Katie shares her insider knowledge on creating content that not only catches the eye but also converts scrollers into bookers.In this episode, you'll learn how to:Discover the three types of content you need to post for maximum impactLearn why Instagram Stories are your secret weapon for conversionsUncover the truth about hashtags and how to use them effectively in 2025Find out how to optimize your profile to attract your idea guests“Instagram is the new business card nowadays. If I'm out and about, people don't ask my business card, they ask my Instagram.” - Katie BessantAbout Katie BessantKatie Bessant, owner of The Holiday Hive, is a social media expert dedicated to helping holiday cottage owners and tourism businesses elevate their digital presence and generate more bookings. Growing up in South Devon, Katie has been immersed in the tourism industry her entire life, from working in her family's B&B to becoming a successful Airbnb superhost. With experience spanning roles like waitressing, cleaning holiday lets, and leading marketing for one of the UK's largest holiday letting agencies, Katie combines her deep industry knowledge with her passion for social media to empower property owners to stand out online and thrive.Connect with Katie and The Holiday HiveWebsite: https://theholidayhive.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theholidayhiveofficial/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theholidayhive/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HolidayHive Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@theholidayhiveofficial Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-bessant/Stop letting potential guests slip through your fingers. Tune in now and learn how to make Instagram work for your vacation rental business!The key moments on this episode are:00:00:00 Instagram: A Booking Powerhouse for Vacation Rentals00:00:56 Meet Katie Besant: Social Media Expert for Holiday Rentals00:04:44 Instagram's Power for Direct Bookings00:06:40 Types of Instagram Content for Booking Success00:13:48 Balancing Instagram Content and Posting Frequency00:16:03 Hashtags and Instagram Trends00:20:17 Effective Use of Call-to-Actions (CTAs)00:22:34 Getting Started with Instagram for Direct Bookings00:24:54 Instagram Course for Holiday Cottage Owners—-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/Simplify your STR Marketing this 2025! Join the DBS AI Content Sprint Workshop!In this live, hands-on workshop, I will guide you through creating a 3-month content calendar targeted to your ideal...

In this episode, we dive into two transformative stories in the short-term rental space. First, discover how Daniela Derin of Skol Apartments Marbella harnessed the power of social media to achieve 85% direct bookings and 65% repeat guests, proving the value of personalized guest engagement. Then, explore the future of STR analytics with AirDNA's new CEO, Rohit Bezewada, as he tackles growth challenges and innovations following the acquisition of Uplisting. Tune in for actionable insights to elevate your rental business. Are you new and want to start your own hospitality business? Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Boostly and join the discussion: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to know more about us? Visit our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Stay informed and ahead of the curve with the latest insights and analysis

In this episode, host Steve Carran speaks with Pablo Revale, CEO of Zerf, and Rodrigo Perez Garofalo, CPO of Zerf, live from the floor of The Hospitality Show.Zerf is a tech company helping hotels recover lost revenue by securing more direct bookings through website optimization, testing, and data-driven solutions. Pablo and Rodrigo discuss their diverse backgrounds, the challenges hotels face with OTAs (Online Travel Agencies), and how Zerf is working to empower hotels to regain control over their sales and booking processes. Key Topics:How does Zerf help hotels increase direct bookings by reducing dependency on OTAs? What are the industry challenges?Why do hotels struggle to convert website visitors into direct bookings due to poor clarity, trust, and user experience? This episode provides valuable insights for hoteliers looking to improve their website's performance and capture more direct bookings.Sponsor spot:This episode is sponsored by Zerf: https://zerf.tech/Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn pageThe Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More MediaLinks:Pablo Revale on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pablo-revale/Rodrigo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rperezgarofalo/Zerf: https://zerf.tech/For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/115Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-...Connect with Steve and David:Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil...

In this episode, Wil Slickers brings Arthur Colker from StayFi back for a deep dive into the role of AI in the hospitality industry, the growth and challenges of 2024, and StayFi's innovative email marketing solutions. They discuss how AI is not always the optimal solution and the importance of a well-constructed marketing strategy. Arthur also shares insights on booking trends, the significant role of OTAs, and the need for resilience in the industry. Additionally, they touch on the evolving tech landscape and what makes a professional in short-term rentals. Tune in for valuable industry insights, the impact of hurricanes on vacation rental markets, and the latest technology innovations presented at VRMA. This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: Minut – Minut has more than just security features! They monitor noise, movement, and occupancy all within one device, and all Slick Talk listeners get 2 months FREE when they sign up with this link! Hostfully – Use code SLICKTALK for three months free of their digital guidebook or $100 off their property management platform! Hudson Creative Studio - Get your direct booking site and brand built by them, and never look back! ——– Thank you for tuning into our podcast! Slick Talk is a Hospitality.FM production, and you can find more of our shows at Hospitality.FM or anywhere else you listen to your podcasts! Listen to more episodes on our website and take a look at our amazing podcast and network sponsors that make this all possible! You can also listen to our Monday morning podcast, Good Morning Hospitality, where we discuss the industry in a more casual setting! If you ever want to contact us for guest suggestions or anything else related to the podcast, please fill out our contact form, and we will be in touch! Last but not least, we love to connect on LinkedIn! Let's connect there so you can see the daily content we post beyond the podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're a host wanting to gain control over your bookings, this episode is a must! Gil Chan, founder of Crafted Stays, shares how he helps hosts build high-converting direct booking sites in minutes—without all the tech headaches..  After his own struggles with WordPress, Gil designed Crafted Stays to be user-friendly, with awesome templates that integrate directly with PMS tools (like Hospitable and Reshostaway). Click play to learn how you can create a direct booking site that performs well in search engines, so you can reduce dependency on OTAs! Listen in, and we'd love for you to tag us @hostedbythewebers and @craftedstays. Join our Free Community: >>HERE.

What's up guys, welcome back to another episode of The Vacation Rental Revolution Podcast. On this segment of Whiskey Wednesday Dave and I talk about the right time to run paid marketing for direct bookings.Direct bookings are a major part of maximizing your returns, but there is a right time and a wrong time to start. If you like what we do here at the Vacation Rental Revolution Podcast, share an episode with a friend or give us a review and a thumbs up on your favorite podcast platform.As always-pick one thing you can do today to build a life you don't want to take a vacation from!Cheers,Shawn MooreFounder, Vodyssey.comGet your FREE Property Analysis Tools:STR DataSenseJoin Our FREE 5 yrs To Freedom Group, Your NO BS Group To Build The Life You Don't Want A Vacation From:5 Yrs To Freedom GroupBook a call with a Vodyssey Lifestyle Asset Pro:Strategy Session Application - Vodyssey

In today's episode, I'm excited to introduce you to a truly inspiring figure in the vacation rental industry, Rose Tipka. Rose isn't just a successful short-term rental host; she's a homeschooling mom of six who's managed to build a multi-million-dollar portfolio while maintaining an admirable work-life balance. Her journey into vacation rentals started unexpectedly when her husband purchased their first property just a day before she gave birth to their fifth child! Instead of seeing this as a challenge, Rose embraced the opportunity with incredible determination. With 80% of her bookings coming directly through her website and 60% of her guests being repeat customers, Rose's approach to hospitality is clearly working. In this conversation, we'll explore how she's built her brand, diversified her booking sources, and balanced entrepreneurship with motherhood. Whether you're a seasoned host or new to the game, Rose's insights offer a fresh, inspiring perspective on thriving in the vacation rental world. Let's dive in! Things we discussed in this episode: Rose Tipka's background as a homeschooling mom of six and how that has shaped her entrepreneurial drive. The unexpected start of her vacation rental business when her husband purchased their first property without her initial knowledge. The importance of maintaining a work-life balance and being present for her family while growing a successful business. Rose's strategic decision to focus on high-end vacation rentals with average daily rates between $600-$1000. The power of branding and how Rose has built a cohesive brand experience across her properties, marketing, and customer interactions. Rose's use of "magic phrases" to reinforce her brand values, such as friendliness and hospitality. The personalized customer service tactics Rose employs, including video greetings, handwritten thank-you notes, and branded fridge magnets. The significance of diversifying booking sources beyond third-party platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo to build a sustainable business. The challenges of unpredictability and account suspensions on OTA platforms, and the importance of having a standalone business. The lessons Rose has learned in balancing entrepreneurship and parenthood, and the "ferocity" that comes with being a mom in business. Get in touch with Rose: Website - https://yourfamilysplace.com/ Email - rose@yourfamilysplace.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/yourfamilysplace YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCP79fgBZ2vzH2dGUuLavY6A Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/yourfamilysplace_/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvesting #realestateinvestor #realestatelaw #realestateagent #RealEstateNegotiation #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentalMarketing #VacationRentalBranding #VacationRentalHospitality #VacationRentalManagement #VacationRentalSEO #VacationRentalInfluencers #WorkLifeBalanceEntrepreneur #RemotePropertyManagement #VacationRentalCustomerService #WomenInBusiness ***** Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for another episode of SmartStay Show! ***** SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn SmartStay Coaching Website and on Instagram Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn ***** This podcast and these show notes are not legal advice, but we hope you find both entertaining and informative. 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!

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 748. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY  https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, the conversation explores different host categories, emphasizing the distinction between hobbyist hosts and professional companies, and the challenges they face in the current market. The episode discusses the influence of Airbnb and suggestions for educating guests on the benefits of booking directly, beyond just cost savings. It addresses strategic decisions for property managers aiming to grow their businesses while maintaining brand integrity and the potential niche markets for new OTAs in the evolving landscape. The importance of focusing on controllable outcomes in business growth is a prominent theme throughout the discussion. https://Boostly.co.uk https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps https://instagram.com/boostlyuk https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast

Find us on social media: Facebook & InstagramEmail us: hello@thetinlounge.com Discussion:Survey Finds Agencies Are Worried About Direct Bookings, Staffing Challenges and Economic UncertaintyTravel Advisors Tell All on Their Craziest Client Requests As heard on Excess Baggage:Atlas Obscura Adventures Launches Kid-Focused Family ToursNorwegian Cruise Line Moves from “Free at Sea” to “More at Sea”Southwest will take its time to implement assigned seatingDominica eyes a tourism growth spurtPort Workers Strike Begins; Cruises to Be UnaffectedASTA to Offer Verified Travel Advisor Certification to Signature MembersRiviera River Cruises Offering 50 Percent Off 2026 DeparturesCarnival Corporation Posts Record Third-Quarter ResultsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The best way to introduce new team members to Vacation Rental! Sign them up for our new THRIVE Essentials Program... Find out more: >> https://vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-essentials-PMC _______________________________________________________________________ Over the past 3 years, the Direct Book movement has matured to a dedicated effort to break free of the OTA stranglehold for those operators who see the folly in putting all their eggs in the Airbnb basket.  In this episode, Heather is joined by Jenn Boyles, one of Book Direct's strongest advocates, to talk about dispelling myths around direct bookings, the benefits of shifting away from reliance on OTAs (Online Travel Agencies), and how to make more money with more control through targeted strategies. Jenn Boyles is a seasoned vacation rental industry expert and the driving force behind the Direct Booking Success Summit, an online event focused on helping property managers and hosts maximize their direct booking potential. With years of experience managing her own rental properties and a deep understanding of the challenges that come with relying on platforms like Airbnb, Jenn has dedicated her career to educating others on how to gain more control, increase profitability, and build sustainable guest relationships through direct bookings. Her summit brings together industry experts to share proven strategies and insights that empower hosts to reduce OTA dependency. _______________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: >> https://vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar   Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS578

In this episode, I'm giving it ALL away—our exact marketing strategy that boosted our direct bookings by 15% in just two months. Because here's the truth: you can try all the marketing tactics in the world, but without a solid strategy, you're just throwing spaghetti at the wall. I'll walk you through the step-by-step approach we used to drive more direct bookings without relying on third-party platforms.  Enjoy this episode, and make sure to tag us when you listen to @hostedbythewebers and @theweberco so we can connect. Join our Free Community: >>HERE.