Podcasts about direct bookings

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

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!

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.

Send us a textOur latest episode kicks off with the hosts, Sarah, Dan and Deenie discussing listener feedback. With thanks to Tom Sutcliffe of Scape, Max Beilby from Vita Student and Aaron Bailey from Yugo for their input. Also, a big thank you to John Stotter-Marden from Washstation for providing us with facts and details on laundry facilities.We love hearing from our listeners so please continue to send in your thoughts and feedback to hello@housedpodcast.comThe episode also covers;• How thoughtful design elements can transform the twin room experience• Sector terminology: what do we mean by three-quarter beds?• Why laundry facilities are a critical accommodation feature • Marketplace ethics and challenges• Segregating different types of students• Apprenticeship Housing: Opportunities and Concerns inspired by the WONKHE article Plus Bhavini Patel from Howard Kennedy is back in our Ask the Expert feature to answer questions on The Building Safety Act specifically how the act will impact frontline ops staff - thanks to Laura Mathews from Epoch Rebel for her question. Thank you to our season four sponsors:MyStudentHalls - Find your ideal student accommodation across the UK.Utopi - The smart building platform helping real estate owners protect the value of their assets.Washstation - Leading provider of laundry solutions for Communal and Campus living throughout the UK and Ireland. Each week, Sarah Canning, Deenie Lee of The Property Marketing Strategists and Daniel Smith of RESI Consultancy will be delving into a wide variety of subjects and asking the questions that aren't often asked. This podcast is for anyone who works in Student Accommodation, BTR, Co-living, Later Living, university accommodation, Operational Real Estate or Shared Living.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are the personal views of the individual hosts and guests.

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

Social Media for B&B Owners: It's Not All About Direct Bookings Learn how to use social media as a tool to connect with guests, showcase your B&B's personality, and build lasting relationships—without relying on it for direct bookings. B&B expert Karen Thorne of Bed and Breakfast Academy shares how social media can support your business while discussing the risks of over-reliance and what to do if you decide social media isn't for you. In this episode, we discuss: Why social media isn't just a sales tool for running a B&B The 80/20 rule: how to balance connecting with guests and promoting your business The surprising benefits of building relationships over the “slow burn” of social media Why social media is one piece of the puzzle when starting a bed and breakfast How to handle an exit from social media (and why deleting old accounts is key) The importance of diversifying your marketing efforts with blogs and email newsletters How Karen built trust with repeat guests through consistent, authentic social media posts Whether you're running a B&B or starting a bed and breakfast, this episode is packed with insights to help you market smarter, not harder! Follow Karen Bed and Breakfast Academy WebsiteBed and Breakfast Academy Mini-WorkshopFull B&B Course Rate, Review, & Follow the Podcast Don't forget to follow the podcast. Karen is adding new episodes regularly, and if you're not following, you might miss out. Follow now so you never miss an episode!

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, we sit down with Jeff Usner, founder of STR Digital and a successful short-term rental host. Jeff shares his journey into the world of vacation rentals, highlighting the challenges he faced and how he overcame them with the help of Hospitable. Discover how Jeff leverages Hospitable's features to manage his diverse portfolio, maximize direct bookings, and streamline his operations & how he has grown 3 of the top 11 revenue properties in PA, including the #1 revenue property in PA in less than 2 years.  We'll also explore how Jeff's company, STR Digital, empowers other hosts with automated messaging and repeat booking funnels to achieve remarkable growth. Get ready for valuable insights and actionable strategies to elevate your short-term rental business.Who should we interview next? Text usSleep 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, 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.

In this episode, we're diving into the world of short-term rentals with Gil from Crafted Stays. Gil shares his journey, from launching his first Airbnb to becoming fully immersed in the business, discussing how a single night of high bookings ignited his passion for STRs. We explore the mindset shift that led him to expand quickly, leveraging skills from his tech background and previous roles in hospitality to optimize the guest experience. Gil and Taylor discuss the importance of understanding your ideal guest, building a differentiated product, and utilizing effective, simple strategies for direct bookings. This episode is packed with insights on staying competitive in STRs by focusing on core customer needs, design, and efficient operations. If you're ready to take your STR game to the next level, this episode is for you!Tune in to hear practical advice and inspiring stories from two seasoned STR operators.

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

Are you dreaming of more direct bookings but still relying heavily on online travel agencies? It's time to harness the power of market data to take control of your short-term rental business. In this episode, we explore how to use this valuable information to your advantage and transition more bookings to your own platform.Join me as I sit down with Mridul Bansal, Product Marketing Manager at PriceLabs, to uncover the secrets of using market data to your advantage. We'll dive deep into:What market data really means for short-term rentalsKey components of market data you should be trackingHow to analyze this data effectivelyStrategies to leverage market insights for more direct bookingsYou can't just be charging more. You also have to make more from each booking. -Mridul BansalAbout Mridul BansalMridul Bansal is a dedicated advocate for the vacation rental industry, currently serving as a Product Marketing Manager at PriceLabs. His focus is on empowering hosts and property owners by delivering tools and insights that help them succeed. Mridul leads weekly mastermind sessions, fostering a collaborative space where hosts can support one another and work towards achieving their goals. At PriceLabs, he plays a crucial role in ensuring customer feedback shapes product improvements, training, and ongoing support, ensuring the company continually evolves to meet the needs of its users.Connect with Mridul and PriceLabs: Website: https://hello.pricelabs.coInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pricelabsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pricelabsMridul's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bansal-mridul/Don't miss out on a special offer exclusively for our listeners - a free webinar with a PriceLabs expert to dive even deeper into practical revenue management strategies. Sign up here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/5617283976405/WN_vL8svoJCSwKjaLFqf7UPLQ#/registrationThe key moments in this episode are:Understand the importance of dynamic pricing across all your booking platformsLearn how to use market data to optimize your pricing strategyDiscover techniques to make your direct booking site more attractive than OTAsGet insights on adjusting your minimum stay requirements based on market trends—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/Missed the Direct Booking Success Summit 2024? Don't worry!You can still access all the invaluable insights and strategies with the All-Access Pass for just $219!Here's what you'll unlock:✅ Lifetime Access to All Sessions – Watch or rewatch every powerful session at your convenience.✅ Exclusive Bonus Content – Get behind-the-scenes interviews, bonus workshops, and expert-led training you won't find anywhere else.✅ Downloadable Workbooks & Checklists – Start applying actionable strategies right away with tools designed to help you grow.✅ VIP Q&A

Are you ready to take control of your vacation rental business and boost your direct bookings? In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on the 2024 Direct Booking Success Summit – an online event designed to empower short-term rental hosts and property managers with cutting-edge strategies and expert insights.“You're not doing this alone. You're part of a much larger community, all working towards the same goal, growing your vacation rental business through direct bookings.” - Jenn BoylesDiscover how this flexible, online summit can fit seamlessly into your busy schedule, allowing you to access valuable content from anywhere in the world. Here's what you'll discover in this value-packed discussion:The summit's structure and how to make the most of the 24-hour viewing windowWhy the All Access Pass might be your secret weapon for ongoing learningA sneak peek at some of the 29 industry experts sharing their knowledgeHow to connect with a global community of like-minded professionalsLearn why events like summits and conferences are crucial for your business growth. We'll discuss:The unparalleled value of expert-led sessionsNetworking opportunities that lead to game-changing collaborationsExposure to cutting-edge tools and tacticsAre you ready to take control of your vacation rental business? Register now and prepare to elevate your strategy, connect with industry leaders, and pave the way for a more profitable future. Register here: www.dbssummit.comThe key moments on this episode are:00:00:00 Introducing the Direct Booking Success Podcast: Strategies for Short-Term Rentals00:00:46 2024 Direct Booking Success Summit: Overview and Benefits00:05:30 Actionable Strategies and Expert Insights for Vacation Rental Success00:09:30 Featured Speakers and Session Highlights at the 2024 Summit00:14:27 Closing Remarks and Next Episode Preview—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/Direct Booking Success 2024 kicks off on October 8, 2024!YOU STILL HAVE TIME TO GET YOUR FREE TICKET TODAY.In this 3-day FREE online summit, you'll learn how to stop relying on OTAs like Airbnb and make more money with more control. Learn how to increase your direct bookings from industry experts and your fellow property managers from all over the world. This summit is completely free and online. Save your spot today: https://DBSsummit.com/While the summit is completely free, I highly recommend upgrading your free ticket to include the All-Access Pass and here's why: ✅ Lifetime Access to All Sessions: Rewatch every powerful session at your convenience, so you don't have to worry about juggling your busy schedule.✅ Exclusive Bonus Content: Gain deeper insights with behind-the-scenes interviews, bonus workshops, and expert-led training that you won't find anywhere else.✅ Downloadable Workbooks & Checklists: Fast-track your growth with actionable tools that you can implement in your business right away.✅ VIP Q&A Access: Get your burning questions answered by the experts in private sessions, ensuring you get personalized advice for your unique business...

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. 

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 745. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY  https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, the focus is on a powerful tool for short-term rental hosts—StayFi. Returning guest Arthur Kolker, CEO and founder of StayFi, explains how the platform allows hosts to collect guest data through WiFi logins and leverage it for impactful email marketing. The discussion covers new features, the importance of email marketing for direct bookings, and strategies to build guest relationships. The conversation also touches on effective email campaigns, automations, and optimizing email open and click-through rates. Hosts are encouraged to integrate StayFi into their tech stack to reduce dependency on OTAs and foster a stronger brand presence. stayfi.com https://www.instagram.com/stayfi_software/ https://Boostly.co.uk https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps https://instagram.com/boostlyuk https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast

In this episode of the STR Daily Podcast, we explore the latest shift in the vacation rental market towards direct bookings and how property managers can capitalize on this trend for greater profits and guest relationships. We also dive into Expedia Group's expansion of its Travel Shops feature, connecting travelers with curated recommendations from media brands and influencers. Tune in to stay ahead in the evolving world of travel and hospitality! 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.

Bill sits down with Jake Cohen, a top revenue manager, who provides insights on effective revenue management strategies post-COVID. Topics include the importance of market data, PriceLabs Market Research Report, listing optimization, and manual versus automated pricing adjustments. Jake also emphasizes the necessity of regular data review and offers free consultations to enhance revenue management. stayfi.com/bill Discount code: BILL https://www.stepbystepbnb.com/ Bootcamp Tour: https://go.buildstrwealth.com/tour ➡️ 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 STR 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! #STRUnfiltered #BillFaeth #STR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you ready to take control of your short-term rental business and reduce your reliance on online travel agencies? Many hosts dream of increasing their direct bookings but feel apprehensive about the potential risks involved. In this episode, we explore how to successfully transition away from platforms like Airbnb while mitigating common concerns.Join me as I sit down with Andrew Schorr, a key player in bringing Hospitable's innovative direct booking product to market. Andrew's journey in hospitality began in 2008 with a hotel concierge company in Beijing, and now he's at the forefront of revolutionizing direct bookings for vacation rental hosts.The best damage protection is damage prevention. - Andrew SchorrHere's what you'll discover in this value-packed discussion:Uncover the four major concerns hosts face when transitioning to direct bookings and how to overcome themLearn about cutting-edge guest vetting processes that ensure your property's safety and your peace of mindExplore how to shield yourself from fraudulent chargebacks and protect your income streamUnderstand the complexities of tax management for short-term rentals and how to simplify this processGain insights into $5 million damage protection policies that safeguard your propertyAbout Andrew SchorrAndrew Schorr is a seasoned professional in the hospitality industry, known for founding a hotel concierge company in Beijing and later joining Hospitable in 2022. With a strong background in navigating the challenges of transitioning from reliance on online travel agents to embracing direct booking strategies, Andrew brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. His insights into mitigating risks associated with direct bookings and optimizing the guest journey offer valuable guidance for property managers and vacation rental hosts aiming to enhance their revenue through direct channels. Andrew's practical expertise and understanding of the industry dynamics position him as a reliable source for actionable strategies to achieve direct booking success.** Take Advantage of the 14-day free trial + 25% off for 3 months when you sign up through this link:https://hospitable.com/dbspodcast **The key moments on this episode are:00:00:00 Introduction to Direct Booking Success Podcast00:02:50 Andrew Shore's Journey in Hospitality00:06:38 Common Fears and Misconceptions about Direct Bookings00:13:09 Chargeback Protection and Guest Vetting00:17:25 Damage Protection and Tax Management00:22:46 Additional Features and Future Plans00:26:38 Closing Remarks and Summit Information—-------------------------------------------------------------------------Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/JOIN ME FOR A FREE LIVE MASTERCLASS ON SEPTEMBER 12, 2024In this hour long masterclass, I'll be teaching you the 4 Steps to More Bookings.Here's what you'll learn on this FREE Live Training:Why expanding your guest base is crucial for scaling your vacation rental businessThe secrets to not only capturing their interest but also gathering the crucial details that turn curious visitors into booked guestsHow to craft compelling campaigns that resonate with new guests and drive them to book with youThe essential tool and templates that will streamline your marketing and supercharge your...

In this episode of Hotel Moment, host Karen Stephens is joined by Patrick Norton, Chief Marketing Officer at Brittain Resorts and Hotels. Together they delve into the secret to direct bookings, the touch points for capturing consumer data directly, and the future landscape for Brittain Resorts and Hotels. Another vital element of this conversation is the role that advanced technology is playing in personalizing guest experiences and how this has played a role in the rapid growth of Brittain Resorts and Hotels.

Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Short Term Rental Riches Podcast! I'm thrilled to have Mark Simpson with us today, the brilliant mind behind Boostly and the acclaimed author of "The Book Direct Playbook." Mark has been a pivotal figure in the short-term rental space, helping thousands of property owners navigate the complexities of marketing and increase their direct bookings. Mark dives deep into the essence of building a sustainable short term rental business by reducing dependency on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. His journey, which began in a small community in the UK, has evolved into a mission to empower hosts globally with the knowledge and tools to succeed independently. Mark also shared his insights on the evolving role of social media marketing and the immense potential of email marketing. As technology advances, AI in hospitality is becoming a game-changer, and Mark is at the forefront of integrating these innovations into everyday operations. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting, this episode is packed with practical advice that can elevate your short term rental business to new heights. In this episode, you'll learn: Direct Bookings Strategy: Learn how to reduce your reliance on third-party platforms like Airbnb by building a strong direct booking strategy. Importance of PMS and Website: Understand why having a property management system and a direct booking website is crucial for your short term rental business. Social Media Marketing Tips: Discover the power of documenting your journey and engaging with your audience authentically on social media. Email Marketing for Rentals: Find out how email marketing can offer an incredible ROI and why it's a must-have in your rental marketing toolkit. Future of AI in Hospitality: Explore how AI can revolutionize customer service in the short-term rental industry and streamline your operations.   Thanks for tuning in to this insightful episode with Mark Simpson! If you found these tips helpful, make sure to grab a copy of "The Book Direct Playbook" for even more valuable insights.  Take advantage of StayFi's special offer for our listeners 

In this episode of the Short Term Rental Riches podcast, we sit down with Eric Moeller, the visionary founder and CEO of FreeWyld, a groundbreaking hospitality brand. Discover how Eric is revolutionizing the short-term rental market by creating unique, nature-based experiences that help guests disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. Learn about his innovative wild switch, the importance of direct bookings, and how personal growth has influenced his entrepreneurial journey. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with actionable tips for short-term rental success! In this episode, you'll learn: Introduction to Eric Moeller and FreeWyld The concept and inspiration behind FreeWyld How the "wild switch" enhances guest experiences Strategies for driving direct bookings through social media Balancing unique experiences with market demands The impact of personal growth on professional success Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Short Term Rental Riches podcast. We hope you found Eric Moeller's insights as inspiring and informative as we did. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to our podcast and leave us a review. Don't forget to check out FreeWyld at freewyld.com and follow Eric on Instagram and LinkedIn at Eric D. Moeller. Stay tuned for more expert advice and actionable tips on how to build a successful short-term rental business.  Take advantage of StayFi's special offer for our listeners 

Join us on the Short Term Rental Riches podcast as we welcome Arthur Colker, CEO and founder of StayFi. Arthur shares invaluable insights on how to boost your direct bookings and build a powerful email list for your short-term rental business. Learn about StayFi's innovative Wi-Fi login system and discover strategies to reduce reliance on OTAs like Airbnb and Vrbo.  Whether you're managing one property or hundreds, Arthur's tips and strategies can help you maximize your revenue and build a sustainable rental business. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and get ready to transform your short-term rental strategy with the power of StayFi! Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your rental business and achieve greater financial freedom!

In this episode of 'No Vacancy the Podcast,' Natalie brings on Isaac French, the visionary and creator behind Live Oak Lake, a stunning seven-cabin landscape hotel in Texas. Isaac shares his remarkable journey from finding the perfect piece of raw land on Zillow to building and eventually selling the property for an astonishing $7 million. He delves into the financials, design choices, challenges, and successes he encountered along the way. This episode provides insightful details about the value of building an engaged audience, leveraging social media for direct bookings, and running a highly profitable short-term rental property. The podcast concludes with valuable tips for aspiring vacation rental hosts and a segment where Natalie addresses an 'Am I the Airbnb Hole' query about guests asking for discounts. 00:00 Welcome to No Vacancy Podcast 00:31 Simplifying Short-Term Rental Setup with Host GPO 01:30 Introducing Isaac French and Live Oak Lake 02:48 Isaac's Journey: From Concept to Creation 04:25 Finding the Perfect Property 04:44 Financing and Building Live Oak Lake 06:10 Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Success 16:40 The Power of Direct Bookings and Social Media 24:29 Navigating Financials and Scaling the Business 33:25 Emotional Connection and Bittersweet Decisions 33:38 Unexpected Offers and Appraisal Challenges 35:44 Negotiations and Closing the Deal 37:05 Investor Satisfaction and Profit Breakdown 38:22 Reflecting on the Journey and Future Plans 41:04 Building a Community and Sharing Knowledge 52:33 The Importance of Unique Vision in Hospitality 58:27 Closing Remarks and Future Projects 01:01:34 Am I the Airbnb Hole? Connect with Steph at these links: theweberco.com | @theweberco hostedbythewebers.com | @hostedbythewebers cabinsonthecumberland.com | @cabinsonthecumberland Until August 1st, DM the word PODCAST @theweberco to get $500 off any branding, marketing, or design service through The Weber Co! Thank you to my sponsors! Start using Turno today! Get 3 months of HostGPO for free!  Connect: Show Notes | Start Your Airbnb  Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Hosting Hotline! This is an Ask Me Anything where each week we'll answer your questions on Airbnb, STRs, real estate, and everything in between.Angela asks:One of my properties has a 60% direct booking rate. I'm trying to figure out the best way to adjust my pricing so that my net earnings on a direct booking is slightly higher than when guests book through a third-party platform.Right now, if I get an Airbnb booking, I pay 3% commission to Airbnb. If I get a direct booking, I pay a 3% commission to Stripe in credit card fees. So I net the same either way, it's only the guest that saves money by booking directly. I know I can add a booking fee for direct bookings that would increase my bottom line, but I think a long list of fees is a turnoff for guests. I'm curious what's worked for you and what percentage do you add, if any, to your direct booking rate so that you're netting more?(00:02:03) How Can I Boost Bottom-Line Revenue via Direct Bookings?(00:03:39) Reframing the Inherent Value of Captured STR Customer Data(00:05:26) Leveraging PriceLabs Dynamic Pricing to Boost Revenue Thanks to everyone who submitted questions. To hear your voice on the show and send a question to Sarah and Annette, submit your burning hosting questions at: hostinghotline.com.Resources:• Click here for full show notes• Check out PriceLabs: Start your 30-day free trial• Angela's properties: lazypinesnm.com• Video: Dynamic Pricing Software for Airbnb & Short Term Rentals• Airbnb Essentials Checklist: hostchecklist.comThanks for Visiting is produced by Crate Media.Mentioned in this episode:Quiz | Take our quiz to reveal your hosting personality style!Host Checklist | Grab our Airbnb Essentials Checklist and make stocking your Airbnb a breeze – we've got all your hosting needs covered!