Podcasts about direct bookings

In this episode, Cody & Meagan are coming to you a little early—because by the time this drops, they'll just be getting back from Hawaii

What happens when you take an underperforming boutique hotel… and completely reimagine it? In this episode, I'm joined by former client Andrés Pérez, co-owner of The Iceberg Tahoe, and we're breaking down the story behind transforming what was once the Avalon Lodge in South Lake Tahoe. Andres spent nearly a decade working at Google before transitioning into real estate investing. Like many investors, he started with long-term rentals, then moved into short-term rentals. But eventually he realized something a lot of people in this industry are starting to discover. Scaling single properties is hard. The margins are tighter than people on Instagram make them seem, interest rates change the math, and building a real hospitality business requires something more strategic than just buying one property after another. That realization is what led Andres and his team into the boutique hotel space. In this conversation, we walk through the entire journey of acquiring the property that would eventually become The Iceberg Tahoe. From building broker relationships that led to an off-market opportunity, to negotiating seller financing, raising investor capital, and renovating a 20-room hotel in just 90 days. But the transformation didn't stop at the renovation. The property had outdated branding, weak reviews, and no real identity that matched the experience Andres wanted to create. Instead of trying to polish what was already there, they made the decision to start fresh. That's where the branding work came in. Together we built the strategy behind The Iceberg Tahoe. A name designed to be memorable, iconic, and deeply tied to the Tahoe experience. A brand story rooted in mystery, discovery, and the idea that there's always more beneath the surface. Because branding is not just about making something look better. It's about creating a story people want to be part of. It's about giving a property an identity that guests remember, talk about, and come back to. It's about positioning a business so that marketing actually works. And the early results are already showing up. Just a few months after launch, The Iceberg Tahoe has already seen strong early revenue and is generating a meaningful percentage of direct bookings. Even more interesting, the branding has created real excitement among investors and stakeholders who now feel emotionally connected to the project they helped bring to life. This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at what happens when branding, strategy, and hospitality vision all come together. If you've ever wondered what it actually takes to reposition a property, launch a boutique hotel, or build a hospitality brand that stands out in a crowded market, this conversation is packed with insight. Let's get into it. Connect with Andrés and The Iceberg Tahoe: @theicebergtahoe Connect with Steph: @theweberco Apply to work with us: theweberco.com 

Send a textIn this exciting episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we chat with Carlos Castillo, co-founder of Direct Book Me, a platform revolutionizing the short-term rental industry. With a wealth of travel experience spanning 40 countries and 30 U.S. states, Carlos shares his journey from healthcare to entrepreneurship and his vision for building authentic connections between hosts and guests. He discusses how Direct Book Me empowers property owners by allowing them to retain 100% of their profits while providing travelers with a fee-free booking experience. Carlos emphasizes the importance of trust in the short-term rental space and how his platform aims to foster a trusted community. Tune in as he reveals the unique benefits of direct bookings, the challenges faced with traditional online travel agencies, and the exciting future trends shaping the vacation rental market. Whether you're a host or a traveler, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the evolving landscape of short-term rentals. Don't miss out on the chance to learn how to get started with Direct Book Me!Want to be a guest on Living the Dream with Curveball? Send Curtis Jackson a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1628631536976x919760049303001600Support the show

Will AI replace OTAs like Airbnb and Booking.com?In this episode of the Host Planet Podcast – powered by Hostfully – Shahar Goldboim, Founder & CEO of BOOM, reveals how agentic AI will transform the short-term rental (STR) industry across the world.We explore:* What agentic AI actually means for vacation rental hosts* Why AI will become the primary travel discovery engine* How independent hosts can compete with large property managers* Whether OTAs like Airbnb will lose influence* How to get your business cited by AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini* The future of direct bookings, automation, and revenue management* Why the STR tech stack is about to compress* BOOM's new product launch: BAMIf you're an Airbnb host, vacation rental manager, or STR tech founder, this episode will change how you think about distribution, marketing, pricing, and direct bookings in 2026 and beyond.1:15 What is agentic AI?2:06 AI will become the primary discovery function for travel7:59 Dozens of new AI-driven booking channels will emerge 10:59 The playing field will level for independent hosts 13:53 How can businesses get cited by AI large language models like ChatGPT and Gemini?15:13 OTA influence will decline but not disappear 17:17 How advertising is going to change AI platforms 18:47 Automation and revenue management 21:22 The STR tech stack will compress 24:51 Direct booking websites will become AI-first 26:46 Trust will shift from platforms to AI interpreters 29:09 Hosts who prepare now will win big 31:23 BOOM releases BAMLooking for a great property management software or digital guidebook?You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Shahar Goldboim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahar-goldboim-80820b95/BOOM: https://www.boomnow.com/Episode to check next: Has Airbnb Peaked? Jamie Lane on Booking.com, Direct Bookings & 2026 Trends: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQBraDVJ1i0The Host Planet Podcast is where Airbnb hosts, Booking.com hosts, Vrbo hosts, and short-term rental operators come to learn what actually works. Each episode features expert insights from people actively building, managing, and scaling short-term rentals, covering everything from Airbnb hosting fundamentals to advanced rental strategies. Whether you're focused on guest satisfaction, rental management, or smarter automation tips, the show delivers practical advice you can apply immediately to improve performance and increase Airbnb bookings.Across the series, we explore Airbnb host tips, listing optimization, price optimization, and Airbnb listing optimization – alongside real-world investing insights and behind-the-scenes Airbnb secrets you won't hear elsewhere. From hosted conversations with industry leaders and Airbnb ambassadors to actionable guidance on bookings and short-term rental growth, Host Planet helps hosts navigate short term rentals with confidence and clarity.The show 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 #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #AgenticAI #RevenueManagement #STRTech #AITravel #ShaharGoldboim #BOOM #BAM

You don't have a marketing problem. You have a branding problem. I know that might sound bold, but after dozens of strategy calls with short-term rental owners and boutique hotel founders, I can tell you this with confidence: most marketing issues are actually brand clarity issues. As we head into peak season, so many of you are thinking about ads, influencers, social posts, email campaigns, SEO. And yes, marketing matters. But if the foundation underneath it isn't solid, none of it will convert the way you want it to. In this episode, I break down the real relationship between branding and marketing and why you cannot have one without the other. Branding is not your logo. It's not your color palette. It's not a Canva mood board. Branding is the emotional connection. It's the lifestyle you're selling. It's the reason someone chooses you instead of another property in the same market. It's where trust is built. It's where loyalty is formed. Marketing, on the other hand, is the action. It's how you distribute that brand into the world. It's social media, email, Pinterest, YouTube, OTAs, paid ads. But without brand clarity, marketing becomes posting and praying. It becomes throwing spaghetti at the wall and hoping something sticks. And that's where so many owners get stuck. In this conversation, I walk you through exactly how we approach brand strategy inside our agency. From developing deeply specific audience avatars to crafting mission, vision, core values, positioning, tagline, differentiators, guest experience design, and even the first ten minutes of a stay. Because when branding is dialed in, marketing gets easier. Clearer. More consistent. More profitable. We also talk about the rise of AI in hospitality and why human-centered storytelling matters now more than ever. Hospitality is built on emotion. If your brand doesn't make people feel something, your marketing will struggle to convert. The biggest takeaway? Everything in branding informs marketing. Every email. Every caption. Every touchpoint. Every piece of signage on your property. If you're frustrated that your direct bookings aren't growing the way you hoped, this episode will help you diagnose whether the issue is truly marketing… or if it's time to strengthen the brand foundation underneath it. And if you're ready to build a brand that actually fuels your marketing, you'll want to listen all the way through. Let's get into it. Connect with Steph: @theweberco Apply to work with us: theweberco.com

Guests expect hotel-level standards when they book a short-term rental – but are hosts delivering?In this episode of the Host Planet Podcast – powered by Hostfully – Jonathan Wicks from Well & Good Professional Services shares practical advice on cleaning systems, linen strategy, and why standardisation is the foundation of five-star reviews.We discuss:• Why customisation should come after standardisation• The truth about towels, linens, and replacement cycles• Whether to buy or hire your linen• What STR operators can learn from hotels• How to get cleaning right from day oneIf you want fewer complaints, stronger reviews, and smoother operations in 2026, this episode is essential listening.Watch now and elevate your hosting standards.1:02 Guests want hotel standards in short-term rentals2:11 Customisation can be good – but start with standardisation 5:01 Are brown towels hiding stains?5:51 Buy cheap, buy twice 8:53 What you need to get right on day one10:36 Should you buy or hire linen?11:51 Buy according to guest expectations for your rental 13:58 Linens should be changed everything 18 months (at the latest)15:11 What vacation rentals can learn from hotels16:58 Cleaning fees 19:23 The pump soap revolution 21:38 Standardising training for STR cleaning 23:52 Getting cleaning right from day one25:38 Well & Good Professional Services26:51 Favourite brand: Casago28:40 Individual shout-out: Justin Ford30:10 No. 1 cleaning tipLooking for a great property management software or digital guidebook?You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Jonathan Wicks: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-wicks-b2546637/Well & Good Professional Services: https://www.wellandgood.pro/Episode to check next: Has Airbnb Peaked? Jamie Lane on Booking.com, Direct Bookings & 2026 Trends: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQBraDVJ1i0The Host Planet Podcast is where Airbnb hosts, Booking.com hosts, Vrbo hosts, and short-term rental operators come to learn what actually works. Each episode features expert insights from people actively building, managing, and scaling short-term rentals, covering everything from Airbnb hosting fundamentals to advanced rental strategies. Whether you're focused on guest satisfaction, rental management, or smarter automation tips, the show delivers practical advice you can apply immediately to improve performance and increase Airbnb bookings.Across the series, we explore Airbnb host tips, listing optimization, price optimization, and Airbnb listing optimization – alongside real-world investing insights and behind-the-scenes Airbnb secrets you won't hear elsewhere. From hosted conversations with industry leaders and Airbnb ambassadors to actionable guidance on bookings and short-term rental growth, Host Planet helps hosts navigate short term rentals with confidence and clarity.The show 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 #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #JonathanWicks #Well&Good #Cleaning #CleaningServices #AirbnbCleaning

Guest BioMartin Rosenberg is the founder and CEO of OverseasInfo.tv, a pioneering video-based travel platform that connects travelers directly with tourism operators. With a background in international sales and procurement, Martin has spent decades building relationships across Europe and Asia. Originally from Glasgow, Scotland, he moved to London in 1985 before settling in Antalya, Türkiye, where he now balances semi-retirement with entrepreneurial passion.Known for his creative vision, sharp eye for detail, and love of networking, Martin continues to drive innovation in the travel space. His platform, OverseasInfo.tv, recently earned two industry awards for its unique approach to showcasing destinations through immersive video. When he's not developing new ideas, you can find him on the golf course enjoying the Mediterranean sun.Show SummaryIn this episode of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Martin about his journey from international business executive to founder of an award-winning tourism platform. They explore how OverseasInfo.tv offers an alternative to major booking engines by promoting direct relationships between travelers and local operators through engaging video content.Martin shares insights into how technology — particularly AI — is reshaping customer service in the travel industry, and why authentic experiences matter more than ever. The episode takes listeners behind the scenes of the travel tech world, offering a glimpse into how personal passion and global insight can spark meaningful innovation.Key Takeaways✓ How Martin's global business background inspired a new approach to tourism✓ The story behind launching OverseasInfo.tv as a video-first platform✓ Why direct booking empowers both travelers and tour operators✓ The role of storytelling in building traveler trust✓ How AI is improving — and complicating — customer service in tourism✓ Challenges independent travel businesses face in a platform-dominated market✓ The importance of visual content in the discovery phase of travel planning✓ Why authenticity and human connection are key to meaningful travel✓ Martin's perspective on semi-retirement as a time for reinvention✓ How networking remains central to his success — both online and off Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

If you own a short-term rental and your entire strategy is hoping Airbnb or VRBO sends you bookings, this episode will completely change how you think about your property. The most profitable property owners don't just list homes. They build brands, collect data, and create demand that they actually own. Airbnb is a tool. VRBO is a tool. But neither is a business. Ashley shows the full system to advertise a rental — what to set up first, how to track bookings, and how ads turn one property into a repeatable booking engine. In this episode, she breaks down:

Is Airbnb losing ground – and why is Booking.com winning right now?On this episode of the Host Planet Podcast – powered by Hostfully – James Varley is joined by Jamie Lane, Chief Economist at AirDNA, to break down what the data is really telling us about the short-term rental market.We cover:• Has Airbnb peaked?• Airbnb vs Booking.com vs Vrbo – who's winning and why• The impact of Airbnb's commission hike on US hosts• Guest behaviour and booking trends• The rise of themed rentals and lifestyle-led stays• Why direct bookings continue to grow• Jamie's predictions for 2026, including the impact of the FIFA World Cup in the US, Canada & Mexico• How to analyse your competition using AirDNAIf you're a short-term rental host, property manager, or investor, this episode is packed with data-backed insight you can actually act on.1:06 Has Airbnb peaked?1:58 Will the new things take off? 5:14 Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo right now7:31 Booking.com is winning right now 3:3111:26 The impact of Airbnb's commission hike for US, property management software-connected hosts15:55 Bookings were relatively strong after US hosts didn't hike their rates17:58 Analysing strongly themed rentals, such as those aimed at bachelorette / hen parties 22:28 Lifestyle boutique hotel rooms are being themed 24:29 2026 trends to help short term rental hosts and property managers30:03 Guest behaviour 36:18 The growth of direct bookings 39:42 Jamie's predictions for 2026, including disruptions like the FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico 42:38 Favourite brand in the STR industry: Airbnb44:16 Shout-out: Brandreth Canaley45:27 Check out your competition on AirDNA: https://www.airdna.co/Looking for a great property management software or digital guidebook?You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Jamie Lane: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/AirDNA: https://www.airdna.co/Episode to check next: The 2026 Holiday Let Compliance Checklist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ITvlxKPA8v0&t=1sThe Host Planet Podcast is where Airbnb hosts, Booking.com hosts, Vrbo hosts, and short-term rental operators come to learn what actually works. Each episode features expert insights from people actively building, managing, and scaling short-term rentals, covering everything from Airbnb hosting fundamentals to advanced rental strategies. Whether you're focused on guest satisfaction, rental management, or smarter automation tips, the show delivers practical advice you can apply immediately to improve performance and increase Airbnb bookings.Across the series, we explore Airbnb host tips, listing optimization, price optimization, and Airbnb listing optimization – alongside real-world investing insights and behind-the-scenes Airbnb secrets you won't hear elsewhere. From hosted conversations with industry leaders and Airbnb ambassadors to actionable guidance on bookings and short-term rental growth, Host Planet helps hosts navigate short term rentals with confidence and clarity.The show 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 #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS

The New Frontier of Hospitality: Optimizing for AI and Direct Bookings with Adam HamadacheIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Podcast, host Josh Elledge sits down with Adam Hamadache, the CEO of Formula Digital, to discuss the radical evolution of how travelers find and book accommodations. As AI-powered search tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity begin to act as digital concierges, traditional SEO is no longer enough for independent hotels to remain competitive. Adam shares his expertise on how hospitality brands can bridge the gap between classic search engine visibility and the emerging world of AI optimization, ensuring they capture guest attention and drive high-value direct bookings in an increasingly automated marketplace.Mastering the Shift from Search Engines to AI EnginesThe traditional playbook for hospitality marketing is being rewritten as AI platforms move from simple chatbots to fully integrated booking interfaces. Adam explains that the modern definition of SEO has expanded to include "AI Visibility," which requires a website to be easily "readable" by large language models that suggest travel itineraries and specific properties to users. For independent hotels, this means the technical health of a website—specifically the implementation of structured data and schema markup—is now just as important as the aesthetic design. If an AI tool cannot instantly identify a hotel's amenities, pricing, and location through its backend code, that property essentially ceases to exist in the eyes of the digital concierge.Beyond the technical hurdles, Adam emphasizes that the human element of reputation remains a primary data point for AI recommendations. These intelligent systems don't just look for keywords; they synthesize guest reviews, consistent business information, and topical authority to determine which hotels are "trustworthy" enough to recommend. Maintaining absolute consistency across directories and actively managing online reviews are no longer just administrative tasks—they are the fuel that powers an AI's decision to put a property in front of a potential traveler. By treating online reputation as a core SEO asset, hotels can significantly lower their reliance on expensive third-party booking platforms and recapture their profit margins.To help hospitality leaders navigate these changes, Adam highlights the importance of creating "content hubs" that establish a property as a local authority. Instead of thin, disconnected blog posts, hotels should focus on interlinked, comprehensive guides that answer every possible question a traveler might have, from wedding logistics to local hidden gems. This depth of information signals to both Google and AI bots that the brand is an expert in its niche, resulting in higher rankings and more personalized user experiences. As the hospitality industry moves toward hyper-personalization, those who invest in these foundational digital strategies will be best positioned to thrive in the era of AI-driven travel.About Adam HamadacheAdam Hamadache is the CEO and founder of Formula Digital, a specialized agency dedicated to driving digital growth for independent hotels. With a deep background in hospitality marketing and technology, Adam is a recognized expert in helping hotel brands increase direct bookings and optimize their online presence for the next generation of search.About Formula DigitalFormula Digital is a hospitality-focused digital agency that helps independent hotels compete with major chains by leveraging advanced SEO, AI optimization, and direct booking strategies. The agency also developed Score Plan AI, a proprietary tool that allows hotel owners to benchmark their visibility across AI platforms and search...

In this episode of the Boostly Podcast, I'm joined by voices from across the industry to break down what's coming next and what hosts and property managers need to prepare for now.Drawing on insights from operators, tech leaders, consultants, and founders, we cover the biggest shifts already happening beneath the surface, including:• AI moving from hype to table stakes• Direct bookings becoming a survival strategy, not a nice-to-have• Automation reshaping guest communication, marketing, and operations• Rising guest expectations and the return of high-touch experiences• Consolidation across software and management companies• Regulation, tourist taxes, and what they could mean for supply• Longer stays, digital nomads, and stronger shoulder seasons• Why revenue management and marketing are finally mergingI also share my own prediction for 2026 and why I believe this is the year the industry fully crosses into a new operating model.If you're a host or property manager who wants to stay profitable, future-proof your business, and reduce reliance on OTAs like Airbnb and Booking.com, this episode will help you see what's coming before it hits.Listen now and decide which side of the change you want to be on.

Send us a textChina is one of the most misunderstood markets for student housing, BTR,  universities and the wider rental living sectors - we wanted to bust some of the myths surrounding this market and, in true Housed style, dig deeper and get some practical takeaways to share with the sector. We learnt so much from this conversation with Sam Rason, CEO of VIVA - Mini Programs and Gabriel Nicklin, Managing Partner of TONG Global and are pretty sure our listeners will feel the same. This episode covers:- Why China is different?- WeChat, platforms and direct engagement- Marketplaces and the 'convenience trap'- Diversifying your marketing mix- How to practically build a direct China strategy- What the future looks like for this sector A big thanks to Sam and Gabriel for joining us, we felt that we only just scratched the surface of this topic - if you do have any further questions please get in touch with Sam or Gabriel directly.And if there any other hot topics you would like us to cover on Housed - please do get in touch.Stay up to date on Housed podcast via its LinkedIn page.Dan Smith is Founder of RESI Consultancy and Co-Founder of Verbaflo.AI.Sarah Canning and Deenie Lee are Directors and Co-Founders of The Property Marketing Strategists - Elevating Marketing in Property.Thank you to our season four sponsors:Mystudenthalls.com -  Reach thousands of students searching every month with 0% commission student accommodation listings.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.Howden  - With a lifetime of expertise, Howden provides tailored insurance, property risk management, and wellbeing solutions for accommodation providers across the UK.Who this episode is for:PBSA and student accommodation professionalsBTR, co-living and rental operatorsProperty developers and investorsUniversity and higher education leadersAnyone working in or around housing policy and shared livingThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of their employers, organisations, clients, or partners. This podcast is for general discussion and informational purposes only. Nothing said should be taken as professional, legal, financial, or investment advice. While we aim to be accurate, we make no guarantees and accept no liability for decisions made based on the content of this podcast. This was a jointly sponsored podcast. 

In this edition of Host Planet Bitesize – powered by Hostfully – Carlos Castillo from Direct BookMe shares practical insights on how hosts can build trust, understand their ideal guest, and communicate with impact.Carlos reveals why communication is your superpower, how automation should support (not replace) hospitality, and what every host must do to make guests feel confident booking directly. We also explore the balance between tech and human touch, plus simple ways to elevate your guest experience.1:52 Build trust 2:07 Get to know your ideal guest 2:27 Communication is your superpower 2:38 Automate where you can 2:52 It's hospitality – act like it!3:46 How to make sure guests trust your business4:28 The importance of understanding your target guest5:25 Automation and guest communication 6:50 Remember, it's hospitality 7:50 Direct BookMeLooking for a great PMS or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Carlos Castillo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlos-castillo-73732a36b/Direct BookMe: https://directbookme.co/Episode to check next: Beyond's Guide to Profitable Slow Periods: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLIi2ftGzSs&t=4sHost 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 #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #CarlosCastillo #DirectBookMe

Tired of paying high OTA commissions? This week, we're diving deep into the power of direct bookings for your short-term rentals and boutique hotels. Learn how to increase profits, build guest loyalty, and protect your listings—all without getting kicked off Airbnb or VRBO. Discover strategies that top hosts use to win repeat guests and take control of their business. Discover how to set up your direct booking site in under 10 minutes Learn which types of properties benefit the most from direct bookings Tips to safely promote your site without OTA penalties Tools & tricks to capture guest emails for repeat bookings Real talk on what actually works (and doesn't) with social media marketing Direct bookings are more than a trend—they're your path to long-term success and sustainability. Start small, stay consistent, and take back control of your rental income. If this episode helped you, subscribe, leave a review, or share it with a fellow host! Check out our videos on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ShortTermRentalRiches Grab your free management eBook: https://strriches.com/#tools-resources Looking to earn more with your property (without the headaches)? Chat with our expert management team: https://strriches.com/management-services/

In this episode of the Real Estate Pros Podcast, host Kristen interviews Brandon McLean, a multifaceted entrepreneur involved in real estate investing, property management, and a med spa business. Brandon shares his early influences in real estate, stemming from his mother's career as a realtor, and recounts his journey into property flipping and rental management. He discusses the challenges he faced with Airbnb and how he pivoted to direct bookings, leading to the establishment of Red Carpet Furnished Homes. Additionally, Brandon talks about the creation of Bright Sky Aesthetics, a med spa he runs with his wife, highlighting the importance of teamwork and adaptability in business. The conversation concludes with insights on navigating the real estate market and the significance of having a solid business foundation.   Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind:  Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply   Investor Machine Marketing Partnership:  Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true 'white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com   Coaching with Mike Hambright:  Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike   Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a "mini-mastermind" with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming "Retreat", either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas "Big H Ranch"? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat   Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform!  Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/   New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club   —--------------------

Send us a message!In this episode, we're joined by Kerri Gibson, CEO and Co-Founder of Chalets Hygge, a hospitality brand inspired by the Scandinavian idea of hygge — finding joy and contentment in life's quieter moments.After years in the corporate tech world, Kerri took a much-needed step back to rediscover what truly mattered. That pause led her to create a business grounded in balance, creativity, and genuine human connection.What began as a single renovation project has grown into a collection of cozy retreats and a thriving brand where 70% of bookings come directly from guests. With Lodgify at the core of her tech stack, Kerri has built systems that simplify operations while keeping guest relationships personal and meaningful.We discuss:1️⃣ How a personal sabbatical evolved into a purpose-led hospitality brand2️⃣ Building trust through authenticity and storytelling3️⃣ Why repeat guests are the strongest driver of direct bookings4️⃣ How Lodgify helps her maintain genuine connection at scale5️⃣ Lessons from expanding into a boutique motel guided by the same valuesConnect with Kerri:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerri-gibson-cpa/ Website: https://chaletshygge.com/ Get 20% off any yearly or bi-yearly Lodgify plan, plus free personalized onboarding (a $3,000 value).

In this bite-sized solo episode, I'm breaking down the insane results we've helped our client, Tremont Lodge, achieve since partnering in spring 2025. From stock photos and low engagement to over $40,000 in tracked direct bookings, you'll hear exactly how an integrated marketing strategy — blending social media, email, influencer collaborations, and automation — completely transformed their results. I'll walk you through the story from the very beginning: where Tremont was when they came to us, the first steps we took to revamp their brand presence, and how each piece of the strategy now works together to drive measurable growth. What You'll Learn How we turned uninspired, stock-driven content into a story-driven brand experience that connects The 3 C's we use with every client: Content, Conversations, and Collaborations The power of ManyChat funnels and promo codes for tracking real ROI on organic content How influencer partnerships drove more than $16K in direct bookings — and how to choose the right creators for your season Why timing matters for influencer stays and how to shift focus in slower seasons Ways to integrate organic, paid, and email marketing so they all amplify one another Key Takeaways If you're a boutique hotel, short-term rental, or small business wondering how to actually track what's working in your organic marketing — this episode gives you the blueprint. From codes to lead funnels, I'll show you exactly how to build a strategy that drives bookings, builds your list, and grows your brand all year long. Connect with me:

Every host dreams of more direct bookings—but few have cracked the code like Brittany Magsig of Mountain Mama Cabins. In this episode, Jamie Lane dives into Brittany's journey from buying her first Smoky Mountain cabin during COVID to becoming a social media powerhouse who now drives the majority of her reservations directly through her own channels.Brittany shares how she turned TikTok and Instagram into engines of trust, loyalty, and bookings—while also balancing the challenges of being both an influencer and a host. She explains what types of content actually convert, how to build lasting guest relationships, and why consistency matters more than perfection.If you've ever wondered how to move beyond pretty property photos and really make social work for your short-term rental, this conversation will spark new ideas you can put into practice right away. You don't want to miss this episode!What You'll Learn in This Episode:How Brittany built a loyal following that drives 60%+ direct bookingsThe content strategies that actually attract guests (and what to avoid)Why showing your face builds trust faster than polished photosTips for handling viral content, controversy, and guest perceptionsActionable first steps to start posting consistently—even if you're camera shySign up for AirDNA for FREE

What if the “quiet season” wasn't your biggest booking struggle, but your greatest business opportunity? In this eye-opening episode, Sarah Riley is joined by Ged Brown from Low Season Traveller to explore a powerful shift happening in tourism that few are talking about, but that savvy glamping business owners, retreat leaders, and unique holiday rental hosts need to hear. Together, they unpack: Why rising global travel is creating chaos during peak seasons, and what that means for boutique hosts How low season travel benefits everyone... your guests, your profits, and the planet Proven strategies to increase bookings, impact, and guest satisfaction during slower months Ged's journey creating the world's first platform for off-peak travel, and why it's changing the game If you're ready to stop chasing high-season chaos and start designing a glamping or short-stay business that thrives all year round, this conversation will shift your perspective and ignite new ideas. Plus, you'll learn how to build a brand that values connection over crowds, and sustainability over saturation, so your unique hospitality experience stays in demand no matter the season. __________ Sarah Riley - Glamping, retreats, events, and guest attraction  Courses. Guided Growth. Done-for-You Marketing. Learn it - join our tribe - or let us handle it Glamping Academy & Owners Club https://inspiredcourses.com Boutique marketing studio https://inspiredcollectiveltd.com/    Ged Brown - Low Season Traveller https://lowseasontraveller.com/ 

In this episode of the Hospitable Hosts podcast, we spoke with Carrie Nilsen about her journey into the short-term rental industry and the creation of Inndirectly, a platform designed to help hosts gain more direct bookings. We discussed the importance of independence from major booking platforms, the benefits for both hosts and guests, and the future of direct bookings in the hospitality industry. Carrie shares insights on overcoming common misconceptions and fears about direct bookings, emphasizing the need for hosts to take ownership of their listings and the advantages of direct communication with guests.Sleep 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.

Don't forget — STR Marketing Simplified kicks off today (Sept 23–25)! It's a free 3-day workshop where I'll walk you through how to rely less on OTAs and build a marketing system that works. Save your seat here (or catch the replays if you can't make it live).

In this episode, Cody and Meagan reveal Vibrant's proven secrets to revenue success in boutique hospitality.Segment 1: The Boutique Revenue Mindset – how independent hotels can thrive without competing like the big brands.Segment 2: Hidden Revenue Streams – think late check-out/early check-in fees, in-room add-on packages, and curated experiences that elevate the guest stay.Segment 3: Direct Booking Power Plans – exclusive perks for booking direct, website optimization tips, and how to re-engage past guests with smart email marketing.Segment 4: Seasonal & Event-Based Packages – capitalize on local events, holiday specials, and off-peak retreats to keep revenue flowing year-round.Segment 5: Avoiding the Discount Trap – why deep discounts erode value and what to do instead.Whether you're running a boutique hotel, resort, or vacation rental, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to maximize profitability without rushing to slash rates. Follow us on Instagram - @thevibrantteam@virtualgmpodcastCheckout our website - www.thevibrantteam.com

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

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!

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

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

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

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.