Podcasts about hostfully

Are short-term rental hosts putting their entire business at risk by relying too heavily on platforms like Airbnb? In this episode of the Host Planet Podcast, sponsored by Hostfully, we sit down with Humphrey Bowles, Founder and CEO of Truvi (formerly Superhog), to unpack why hosts need to stop "building on someone else's land" – and what they can do to protect their properties and future-proof their operations.From the risks of unchecked guest bookings to the myths around instant book and platform policies, Humphrey offers a no-nonsense take on why verification and guest screening are non-negotiables in today's market. He also dives into Truvi's evolving tech, how it differs from Airbnb and Booking.com's approach, and why thinking like a true hospitality business owner – not just a platform host – is the mindset shift STR pros need now more than ever.Key takeaways:1. Airbnb isn't your safety net – Hosts must take ownership of guest screening, verification, and risk mitigation instead of relying on platforms to protect them.2. Guest screening tech has evolved – Tools like Truvi go beyond basic checks, offering a smarter, scalable way to verify guests and protect your property.3. Think like a business owner – To build long-term success, stop acting like a user of someone else's system – and start building your own trusted brand and booking flow.1:09 Stop building your business on someone else's land3:09 Would we be having this conversation if Airbnb didn't exist?6:32 Airbnb has so much power (so hosts need to fight back)10:31 The danger of just being an Airbnb host12:10 Does Airbnb have a shelf life?15:34 Airbnb's policy changes17:06 Truvi19:20 The verification process21:37 Risks of not verifying your guests23:44 Are Airbnb and Booking.com doing enough when it comes to guest screening?27:49 The difference between Airbnb and Booking.com31:26 How guest screening tech is evolving34:19 The biggest myth about guest screening37:21 Instant book is OK – so long as you screen guests38:48 Favourite brands: Boostly, StayFi, Breezeway, PriceLabs, Beyond40:07 Individual shout-out: the guests who book direct41:28 Stop thinking like a platform host and start thinking like a hospitality business ownerLooking 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://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2CEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.comHost Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Humphrey Bowles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/humphrey-bowles/Truvi: https://truvi.com/The Entrepreneurial Illusion: They Take the Gold, You Keep the Glitter | Humphrey Bowles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARGCJ7cSsDIEpisode to check next: This Vacation Rental Pricing Tool Thinks Differently: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sh_Bal6ll-wHost Planet Podcast 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 #HumphreyBowles #Truvi #Superhog #GuestScreening

In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Fred Bassili from Hostfully to discuss the evolving role of AI in vacation rental businesses and how short-term rental managers can use AI tools and workflows to scale operations, improve guest communication, and boost owner acquisition. Fred Bassili, a seasoned content and marketing strategist at Hostfully, brings a wealth of experience from both sides of the vacation rental industry - as a former host and now a driving force behind tech adoption and education. With a background in content development and a passion for simplifying complex technologies, Fred is on a mission to help property managers use AI in practical, hospitality-centered ways. His insights come not only from his work at Hostfully, but from years of observing the shift in industry sophistication and tech stack growth among property managers worldwide. 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/VRS619

What separates an average short-term rental from one that guests rave about? According to Mark Lumpkin from STR Cribs, it often comes down to the simple, thoughtful details that elevate comfort, security, and overall experience. In this episode of Host Planet Bitesize, Mark shares practical, no-nonsense upgrades that property managers and hosts can implement to boost reviews, improve operations, and impress guests from the moment they arrive.From the type of bedding you choose, to the importance of a full-length mirror, and why smart locks aren't optional anymore, Mark walks us through the small changes that can make a big difference. He also dives into location-specific amenities, how to think like your guest avatar, and the work STR Cribs is doing to help hosts design guest-centric stays that convert.Key takeaways:1. Smart locks = smart hosting – a high-quality smart lock adds convenience, security, and a smoother guest check-in experience.2. Design for your guest avatar – tailoring your amenities and decor to your ideal guest helps you stand out in a crowded market.3. Details matter – quality bedding, a full-length mirror, and relevant amenities can be the difference between a 4-star and a 5-star stay.1:59 Use a good quality smart lock4:01 Use high quality bedding5:30 Install a full-length mirror6:58 Location-specific amenities7:57 Think about your guest avatar 9:28 STR CribsLooking 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://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi, Hostfully's Senior Director of Partner Development: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2CHost Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Mark Lumpkin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-lumpkin-84b173142/Mark's email: mlumpkin@strcribs.comCompany: https://strcribs.com/Episode to check next: Learn How To Take Great Photos For Your Airbnb: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vi9XiAQ1H-0Host 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 #MarkLumpkin #STRCribs #Hostfully

If you're still setting a base price and hoping for the best, it's time to rethink your entire approach to pricing. On this episode of the Host Planet Podcast, sponsored by Hostfully, we're joined by Neal Cyr, CEO and Co-Founder at Quibble, to talk all things dynamic pricing – and why the strategies many hosts rely on are not just outdated, but potentially costing them bookings and revenue.Neal explains why fixed minimum rates and base prices might be doing more harm than good, how to find your occupancy sweet spot, and what hosts can learn from the airline industry about pricing with discipline. He also shares how Quibble sets itself apart from other tools, especially when dealing with unique properties, and why tweaking your strategy regularly is key to long-term success.Three key takeaways:1. Forget the base price – Neal argues that starting with a fixed base rate can limit your revenue potential and prevent you from adapting to real-time market conditions.2. Aggressive discounting is a mistake – Many hosts over-correct when trying to fill their calendars, but smart, data-driven pricing is more effective than slashing rates.3. Discipline is everything – Just like airlines, successful STR hosts treat pricing as a performance lever, not a set-and-forget function.0:56 Why is setting a base price a waste of time?1:43 How can you find the optimal price?5:03 Comparisons to other dynamic pricing tools7:50 Is there an argument to say you shouldn't set a minimum rate?9:23 The occupancy level sweet spot11:02 The challenge of pricing ‘unique' rentals11:55 What to consider when pricing13:56 How Quibble is different to other tools16:25 Is this set and forget?18:14 How often should hosts be tweaking their rates?19:29 The most common pricing mistake: aggressive discounting21:06 How airlines price (and what we can learn)22:50 What we can learn from airline pricing: discipline24:34 The correct set-up is essential for dynamic pricing 26:02 Quibble success stories27:04 $10 per property, per month. Check out Quibble:27:26 AI confusion 28:43 Favourite brand: Casago29:26 Individual shout-out: Jim Barlow30:06 Biggest lesson learnedLooking 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://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2CEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.comHost Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Neal Cyr: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nealcyr/Quibble: https://quibblerm.com/Episode to check next: The Smart Way to Price Your Vacation Rental: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YsHYwAUreLsHost Planet Podcast 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 #Quibble #NealCyr #RevenueManagement #DynamicPricing #JamesVarley

In this episode of Host Planet Bitesize – sponsored by Hostfully – we welcome Jay Ullrich, CEO and Co-Founder of HostBuddy AI, to share five expert tips for automating your guest messaging without losing the personal touch.Whether you're just getting started with automation or looking to fine-tune your current setup, this episode will help you level up your systems, avoid common pitfalls, and get the most out of your AI tools – without sounding like a robot.Key takeaways:* Create well-timed, value-driven guest touch points that feel human.* Use automation to boost occupancy with smart gap-night upsells.* Avoid robotic AI by using SOPs and digital guidebooks to guide your tools.1:57 Create touch points with your guests3:20 Stop sending messages to the wrong guest at the wrong time5:21 Automate gap night upsells7:24 Don't use AI that doesn't sound like you10:44 Use standard operating procedures and digital guidebooks to help the AI (it will need it!)14:11 Check out HostBuddy AILooking 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://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2CEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.comHost Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Jay Ullrich: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaytullrich/HostBuddy AI: https://www.hostbuddy.ai/Episode to check next: Airbnb Hosts: Stop Saying No To Pets!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_MoRATH9coHost 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 #AI #GuestCommunication #Automation

In this episode of the Host Planet Podcast – sponsored by Hostfully – we're joined by Johanne Hedges, Co-Founder of LiBi, to explore how short-term rental hosts and property managers can build stronger guest loyalty – and boost revenue in the process. Johanne shares insights on how to elevate the guest experience through simple, hotel-inspired touches.From the power of a good mattress to the psychology behind premium add-ons, Johanne reveals how LiBi is helping operators across all budgets create memorable stays while monetising smartly. Whether you're new to the industry or scaling fast, this episode is packed with practical advice you can implement right away.Key takeaways:* Why many hosts overlook the importance of understanding their true guest experience.* Simple ways to upsell and increase your revenue – from high-earning items to everyday essentials.* How LiBi's plug-and-play platform helps you stand out while staying within budget.There are shout-outs for yhangry and James Varley during the episode, plus a sponsor mention for Hostfully.0:07 Where are hosts falling short when it comes to building loyalty?1:17 How important is it for owners to understand the guest experience they are offering?1:59 What can we learn from hotels?3:41 Get a good mattress! 4:18 What can operators do to stand out?5:24 Upselling traction7:37 Shout about your USPs8:50 LiBi11:16 LiBi can suit any budget12:53 Working with LiBi and the most popular products14:44 The high-earning commission items15:34 The best ways of upselling18:08 LiBi integrations18:59 LiBi website:19:46 Favourite brand: yhangry20:25 Individual shout-out: James Varley21:06 Go back to basicsLooking 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://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2CEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.comHost Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Guest: Johanne Hedges: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanne-hedges-cofounder-libi/Company: LiBi: https://www.libiloves.com/Episode to check next: The Smart Way to Price Your Vacation Rental: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YsHYwAUreLs&t=3sHost Planet Podcast 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 #LiBi #JohanneHedges

In this episode of Host Planet Bitesize – sponsored by Hostfully – we're joined by Chris Rule from Turno to break down five compelling reasons why vacation rental owners should consider allowing pets. From expanding your guest pool to increasing your nightly rate, Chris shares real-world insights that show how being pet-friendly can be a game-changer for short-term rental hosts looking to boost bookings and guest satisfaction.Chris also addresses common concerns – like cleaning and property care – and explains how services like Turno can help hosts maintain high standards while welcoming furry friends. Plus, he shares practical tips on how to go the extra mile for pet owners and create a five-star experience that encourages longer stays, repeat visits, and glowing reviews.Key takeaways:* Pet-friendly properties attract more guests and often lead to longer stays.* You can increase your rates and build stronger guest loyalty.* With the right cleaning support, welcoming pets doesn't mean sacrificing quality.1:57 A larger guest pool2:27 You can charge more2:46 Guest loyalty3:22 Longer stays4:08 Pet owners are responsible5:26 This is where short-term rentals can stand out against hotels6:30 Pet lodging can be expensive7:51 Deeper cleaning (Turno can help!)9:44 How to go the extra mile for guests with pets 11:00 Trust the pet owners12:29 Head to Turno for all your short-term rental cleaning needsLooking 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://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2CEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.comHost Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Chris Rule: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-rule-88874b8/Turno: https://turno.com/find-airbnb-cleaners/?utm_source=ad&utm_medium=promoted&utm_campaign=hch_a_to_zEpisode to check next: 10 Tips To Boost Your Airbnb Listing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLBGxHFSSo4&t=514sHost 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 #ChrisRule #Cleaning #Pets #Turno #STRCleaning

Airbnb hosts – this one's for you!Want to optimise your listing, attract more guests, and rack up those five-star reviews? Then don't miss this episode of Host Planet Bitesize, sponsored by Hostfully.Our special guest is Sabrina Calnan from bnbExcellent — an Airbnb Superhost Ambassador, co-host of 35 properties, and mentor to over 500 hosts worldwide.Sabrina shares 10 powerful tips to help you crack the Airbnb algorithm, boost visibility, and turn more clicks into bookings. If you're serious about levelling up your short-term rental game and increasing revenue, this episode is packed with actionable gold.Tune in now and start standing out on Airbnb.Key takeaways:• Turn on professional hosting tools and do not price your listing too low.• Know your ideal guest and understand what your competitors are doing.• Use professional photos and a dynamic pricing tool from day one.1:12 Tip 1: turn on professional hosting tools2:00 Tip 2: charge an all-in-one price5:56 Don't price low at the start6:53 Tip 3: know who your ideal guest is8:47 Tip 4: do not use smart pricing within Airbnb9:54 Tip 5: search your competitor pricing11:40 Tip 6: your content should highlight your stand-out features13:35 Tip 7: use the insights tab in Airbnb15:07 Tip 8: put content in every single field16:22 Tip 9: respond to guests quickly17:26 Tip 10: use professional photos18:23 Good design is incredibly important19:54 Common mistakes 22:04 Start with Airbnb tech and a dynamic pricing tool23:32 Connect with Sabrina and bnbExcellent Looking 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://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2CEmail Frank Bosi: frank@hostfully.comHost Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Sabrina Calnan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinacalnan/Free checklist from bnbExcellent: https://www.bnbexcellent.com/hostplanetEpisode to check next: This Is How Airbnb Hosts Can Deliver A Great Guest Experience & Secure 5-Star Reviews Every Time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QA8Wiv1EKlk&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 #SabrinaCalnan #AirbnbSuperhost #Superhost #bnbExcellent

Ready to take your revenue strategy to the next level?In this episode of the Host Planet Podcast, we uncover the three Rs of short-term rental revenue management — essential principles every property manager should know.Our special guest is Zak Ali, a published author and revenue expert who has helped some of the biggest brands in the vacation rental space build powerful, bespoke pricing systems that deliver results.Whether you manage one property or a growing portfolio, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you maximise income, boost occupancy, and optimise your pricing strategy.Tune in now — and unlock the full potential of your revenue management game.Key takeaways:• Pricing automation without strategy is just accelerated noise.• How to avoid reactive and emotional pricing.• The obvious signs you are under-pricing your rental.1:08 The most common revenue management mistakes1:59 Be listed in the right places and know your target guest3:36 Revenue isn't earned, it's designed4:15 What can property managers do to avoid being reactive?5:16 Revenue management advice for smaller hosts7:13 Dynamic pricing9:05 How to create a revenue management strategy11:28 Automation without strategy is just accelerated noise13:43 The importance of setting a target16:01 You can have too many bookings!18:03 Brand reputation should be part of your strategy20:05 The three Rs of revenue management23:39 Why property managers struggle to action their data25:19 Pricing with a purpose26:26 Should hosts use a dynamic pricing tool? Yes!30:22 Obvious signs an operator is under-pricing30:57 The optimum occupancy rate34:37 What the STR industry can learn from hotels36:33 Brand alignment and pricing strategy41:10 Responsive calendars45:08 Revenue management tools need strategy46:42 Favourite brand: Hostfully and Joseph Cox47:48 Individual shout-out: Alistair Handyside from PASC UK49:06 No. 1 tip for revenue managersHost Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Zak Ali: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zak-a-056b2714/PASC UK: https://www.pascuk.co.uk/Episode to check next:How Braydon Ross (AKA @MrAirbnb) Built a Short-Term Rental Empire: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_OP7oqGsmE&t=7sThe Host Planet Podcast 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 #ZakAli #DynamicPricing #RevenueManagement

Vacation rental managers need to go the extra mile in order to deliver a great guest experience and secure those all-important five-star reviews.On this edition of Host Planet Bitesize, Frank Bosi from Hostfully shares a bunch of brilliant tips to help Airbnb hosts and property managers stand out in this competitive market.Key takeaways:• Make sure you personalise the experience.• Use a digital guidebook to help your guests find everything they need.• Automate your hosting methods without losing the human touch.1:22 Experiences overview2:50 Tip 1: personalisation at scale5:24 Tip 2: use a digital guidebook8:13 Tip 3: utilise Viator to earn commission9:12 Tip 4: offer a memorable local experience11:52 Tip 5: automation without losing the human touch14:24 Delight your guests with thoughtful extras16:01 Hot tip: send a follow-up message just after check-in18:41 Let your personality shine through21:05 Go the extra mile to stand out23:55 Keep the local vendors on side by being a great advocate25:55 Hostfully's digital guidebooks and PMSLooking 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://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2CEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.comHost Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Episode to check next:Learn How To Take Great Photos For Your Airbnb: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vi9XiAQ1H-0&t=8sHost 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 #Hostfully #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo

Leaving guests a welcome hamper can supercharge the experience at your short-term rental and power those all-important five-star reviews. It can also help you earn upselling revenue.On today's Host Planet Bitesize, sponsored by Hostfully, the focus is welcome hampers and our special guest is Ariana Hudson from The Travellers Pantry.Key takeaways:• Your guests will love opening a welcome hamper.• It's an opportunity to earn upselling revenue.• Health and safety benefits.1:16 Increased profit 2:08 Enhanced guest experience 3:09 Convenience 4:08 Reduced waste4:57 Health and safety6:05 Origin story7:21 Hosts can sign up for the affiliate programme8:16 The Travellers PantryLooking 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://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi, Hostfully's Senior Director of Partner Development: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2CHost Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/The Travellers Pantry: https://thetravellerspantry.co.uk/Episode to check next:Learn How To Take Great Photos For Your Airbnb: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vi9XiAQ1H-0&t=7sHost 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 #TheTravellersPantry #WelcomeHampers

Short-term rental hosts and property managers can learn everything they need to know about guest screening in today's Host Planet Bitesize, sponsored by Hostfully.Autohost President and Co-Founder Ela Mezhiborsky is our special guest – and she's got five need-to-know facts about guest screening.Key takeaways:• Discover what Airbnb and Booking.com are doing to screen your guests• There is not a one-size-fits-all guest screening solution• Hosts must educate themselves on data privacy and security0:00 Episode starts1:13 Fact number one: you need to have something in place2:58 Fact number two: standardisation of your process is key to avoid loopholes6:50 Fact number three: guest screening is not one-size-fits-all9:33 Fact number four: educate yourself on data privacy and security11:40 Fact number five: guest screening is getting more and more sophisticated (and frightening!)15:43 What Airbnb and Booking.com are doing in relation to guest screening18:44 AutohostHost Planet Bitesize is sponsored by Hostfully. Need a great PMS or digital guidebook? Give Hostfully a try (your first guidebook is free!): https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Ela Mezhiborsky: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elamezhiborsky/Autohost: https://www.autohost.ai/Episode to check next:Learn How To Take Great Photos For Your Airbnb: https://youtu.be/vi9XiAQ1H-0Host 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 #Autohost #GuestScreening

Are you an Airbnb host or short-term rental property manager who is keen to earn extra revenue? During today's Host Planet Bitesize – sponsored by Hostfully – Shiven Vinod Khera from Linkbase has five tips to increase your profits without adding more rentals to your portfolio.Key takeaways:• Capture guest data in order to supercharge your marketing and direct bookings.• Offer simple upsells like early check-in and mid-stay cleaning.• Utilise platforms like Viator in order to earn commission.0:00 Episode starts1:19 Tip No. 1: Capture guest data4:32 Tip No. 2: Offer simple upsells6:01 Tip No. 3: Utilise Viator (and earn commission)7:07 Tip No. 4: Automate where possible9:54 Tip No. 5: Utilise a guest experience platform11:11 Give Linkbase a try: https://linkbase.ca/Host Planet Bitesize is sponsored by Hostfully. Need a great PMS or digital guidebook? Try Hostfully today (your first guidebook is FREE!): https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Shiven Vinod Khera: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shiven-vinod-khera-a05149120/Linkbase: https://linkbase.ca/Episode to check next:Learn How To Take Great Photos For Your Airbnb: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vi9XiAQ1H-0Host 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 #Linkbase

In this episode, we welcome Susan Barry, host of the Top Floor podcast and founder/CEO of Hive Marketing. Dive into Susan's extensive background in hospitality, from her early days in restaurant catering to her significant role in Starwood, opening New Build hotels. Discover her journey of starting her own business during the financial crisis and evolving it into a B2B marketing powerhouse in the hospitality industry. Susan shares how she launched her podcast, Top Floor, and its growth over the last four years, while discussing the state of the hospitality industry, technology gaps, and trends. Tune in for an engaging conversation that covers the importance of treating teams well, bringing back the essence of hospitality, and the future of hotel and short-term rental integration. Don't miss Susan's invaluable insights and her passion for the industry's progression! Connect with Susan Barry: ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Hive Marketing The Top Floor Podcast SLICK50 - for 50% off LinkedIn Content Made Easy Connect with Wil: ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: ⁠⁠Hostfully⁠⁠ – $500 off onboarding fee using code SLICK500 - Connect with⁠⁠ Frank here!⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Send Squared⁠⁠, the Hubspot for Hospitality Brands & Professionals! Get your business and leads organized and automated with Send Squared, the industry's best CRM! ——– 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

Are you an Airbnb host or short-term rental property manager? If so, you need to learn how to take great photos that appeal to your target guests and keep the bookings rolling in.During today's Host Planet Bitesize – sponsored by Hostfully – Joseph Cox shares five essential tips to help you create perfect images that will supercharge your presence on online travel agencies like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo. Key takeaways:• Use a professional photographer• Prioritise the images in your listing (don't use a shot of the bathroom first!)• Good lighting is essential1:23 Be creative and think outside the box3:29 Use a professional photographer6:31 Prioritise your images properly8:27 Good lighting is integral11:07 Edit the imagesHost Planet Bitesize is sponsored by Hostfully. Need a great PMS or digital guidebook? Try Hostfully today (your first guidebook is FREE!): https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Joseph Cox: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephmicox/Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Episode to check next: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6sxswbwMuT1MAOoh4TKvzNUse AI to Create Marketing Content For Your Short-Term Rental: Host 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 #Hostfully #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #Photography #AirbnbPhotography #AirbnbPhoto

In this heartfelt episode, Wil Slickers sits down with Tom Goodwin, a hospitality veteran and current co-owner of Mountain Laurel Chalets. Tom shares the incredible journey of taking over his in-laws' legacy business, the challenges faced, and the personal growth he's experienced over the years. From leading a successful hospitality firm to creating a podcast that tells the rich stories of Gatlinburg, Tom's insights into leadership, vulnerability, and the importance of lingering in life are profound. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the true spirit of hospitality, leadership in turbulent times, and the power of storytelling. Connect with Tom Goodwin: ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠Mountain Laurel Chalets' ⁠ For The Love of Gatlinburg Podcast Connect with Wil: ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: ⁠Hostfully⁠ – $500 off onboarding fee using code SLICK500 - Connect with⁠ Frank here!⁠ ⁠Send Squared⁠, the Hubspot for Hospitality Brands & Professionals! Get your business and leads organized and automated with Send Squared, the industry's best CRM! ——– 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

Keen to grow your short-term rental inventory? This is the episode for you!Brooke Pfautz from Vintory shares 13 ways to scale your vacation rental business during today's Host Planet Bitesize, sponsored by Hostfully.Key takeaways:• Be front of mind when building a vacation rental business – billboarding is key.• Facebook groups and community micro sites are very effective tools for generating business.• Give before you get – understand human psychology.0:00 Episode starts1:40 Organise a homeowner appreciation event2:42 Sign people up for a magazine subscription3:59 Offer a home watch service4:51 Check out Comparent6:28 Build a Facebook group7:49 Send personalised gifts10:02 Partner with realtors – give before you get12:23 Work on your Google business profile13:29 Utilise branded vehicles15:06 Create community micro sites16:59 Share some free education18:19 Find underperforming properties20:32 Check out VintoryNeed a great PMS or digital guidebook? Give Hostfully a try: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Brooke Pfautz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brookepfautz/Vintory: https://www.vintory.com/Episode to check next: How holiday let owners can support local businesses: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_FLrxQIGmwHost 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 #BrookePfautz #Vintory

Big changes are coming to Airbnb's terms of service—and hosts need to take action. In this bonus episode, we break down Airbnb's updated Off-Platform and Fee Transparency Policy, which officially goes into effect May 10, 2025.From mandatory fees and upsells to off-platform communication, security deposits, and software compliance, we walk through the biggest updates, what they mean for your short-term rental business, and how to stay compliant without panic.You'll learn:What must be listed in your Airbnb description now (and why)How to handle upsells the right way under the new policyWhether you can still use services like Hostfully, StayFi, or other API toolsThe gray areas (and why you should be cautious)Our personal take on why this might be a good thing for hosts in the long runThis episode is not legal advice—we're sharing what we know and what we're hearing across the industry. Be sure to do your own research, talk to your tech partners, and reach out to Airbnb directly for your specific circumstances.Resources:Airbnb Off-Platform and Fee Transparency Policy UpdateHow to Create a Direct Booking Site for Your Airbnb Business | Subscribe to our YouTube Channel!Mentioned in this episode:Make More Money in 2025! Join us for a Pricing Boot Camp!Make More Money in 2025! Join us for a Pricing Boot Camp!

Join us for an exciting episode as we chat with Steve Carran, the co-host of the Modern Hotelier Podcast! In this episode, we geek out about the ins and outs of podcasting, discussing the behind-the-scenes work, the rise of AI in hospitality, and the importance of personalization in enhancing guest experiences. Steve shares his journey from working under a property management company to spinning off the Modern Hotelier as an independent media brand. We also dive into trending topics in the hotel industry, the art of guest experience, and the challenges and rewards of being full-time podcasters. Don't miss this engaging episode where we explore the dynamic crossover of podcasting and hospitality!  Connect with Steve Carran: LinkedIn Modern Hotelier Podcast Connect with Wil: LinkedIn Instagram This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: Hostfully – $500 off onboarding fee using code SLICK500 - Connect with Frank here! Send Squared, the Hubspot for Hospitality Brands & Professionals! Get your business and leads organized and automated with Send Squared, the industry's best CRM! ——– 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

In this episode of Slick Talk, Wil Slickers is joined by Jennifer Barnwell from Curator Hotel Collection. They discuss the unique perks of operating an independent hotel versus being part of a major brand like Marriott or Hilton. Jennifer shares her journey in the hospitality industry, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, creativity, and community within the independent boutique hotel space. They explore Curator's role in supporting independent hotels through vendor partnerships, cost-saving initiatives, and marketing efforts. Jennifer also provides insights into the challenges and opportunities for independent hotels, particularly in secondary markets and resort areas. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with industry insights and practical advice for hoteliers. Connect with Jennifer: LinkedIn Curator Hotel & Resort Collection Connect with Wil: LinkedIn Instagram This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: Hostfully – $500 off onboarding fee using code SLICK500 - Connect with Frank here! Send Squared, the Hubspot for Hospitality Brands & Professionals! Get your business and leads organized and automated with Send Squared, the industry's best CRM! ——– 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

Amanda Stecker is an expert holiday let host and coach who prides herself on supporting local businesses.On today's episode of Host Planet Bitesize – sponsored by Hostfully – Amanda shares five tips for hosts who are keen to go the extra mile for their local community.Key takeaways:• Send restaurant recommendations to your guests a week before they arrive to give them time to make reservations.• Don't put a coffee maker in your rental – instead direct your guests to the best independent coffee shop in town.• Supply local produce in your welcome pack, especially if your area is famous for it.0:00 Episode starts1:21 Tip number one: send recommendations2:31 Tip number two: direct your guests to the best coffee shop in town3:42 Tip number three: supply local goods in your welcome pack5:04 Tip number four: collaborate with local businesses 6:35 Tip number five: highlight local providersLinks:Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Amanda Stecker: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandastecker/Episode to check next:Airbnb does not want you to listen to Mark Simpson: Host 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 almost a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#shorttermrentals #realwaystomakemoneyfromhome #vacationrental #airbnb #investing #business #holidaylets #jamesvarley #amandastecker #hostplanet #hostfully

Welcome back, Slick Talkers! In this episode, Wil Slickers sits down with Boris Pavlov, a European entrepreneur and expert in the hospitality industry, to discuss his journey and the innovations he's spearheading with Flataway. Boris shares his experience scaling a property management company from 0 to 700 properties, selling it, and moving forward with new ventures. We explore the current landscape of vacation rentals, the challenges with OTAs, and how the book direct movement is evolving. Boris also reveals his ambitious plans to create a more interconnected and personalized experience for travelers and property managers alike. Tune in for a deep dive into the future of hospitality, technology integration, and the human touch in guest experience! Connect with Boris: LinkedIn Flataway - Use code: UKPB2R to access the platform as a guest Connect with Wil: LinkedIn Instagram This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: This episode is brought to you by Fido! Professionals know that taking out the trash suck and is often missed! Well, not anymore, because Fido offers amazing bin-to-curb service. If you mention the podcast, they will take great care of you! Go to getfido.com to learn more! Hostfully – $300 off onboarding fee using code HFM300 - Connect with Frank here! Send Squared, the Hubspot for Hospitality Brands & Professionals! Get your business and leads organized and automated with Send Squared, the industry's best CRM! ——– 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

Kay Walten is a hospitality and AI expert who has merged her two passions to create a growing business: Smart Pineapple.On today's episode of Host Planet Bitesize, sponsored by Hostfully, Kay explains how short-term rental hosts and managers can utilise AI to create marketing content for their properties.Key takeaways:• Your prompts must be clear, direct, and full of detail• Try various AI platforms to see which is the best fit for your business• You must review and edit the content0:00 Episode starts1:25 Be clear and direct2:39 Add detail7:07 Keep the conversation going9:06 Review and edit12:57 Try different AI platforms14:34 The AI platforms Kay recommends trying15:42 Smart Pineapple: https://www.smartpineapple.ai/Links:Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Kay Walten: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaywalten/Smart Pineapple: https://www.smartpineapple.ai/Episode to check next: Airbnb do not want you to listen to Mark Simpson: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6AW5aNPaOWvtoizOA9Rd1UThe Host Planet Mortgage Podcast 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 almost a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 organising committee.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#AI #Content #ChatGPT #SmartPineapple #HolidayLets #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #SelfCatering #Property #PropertyInvestment #PropertyManagement #Airbnb #BookDirect #DirectBookings #JamesVarley #Bookingcom #Vrbo

In this episode, Wil sits down with Jeff Low, CEO and founder of Stash Hotel Rewards, to discuss the evolution of loyalty programs within the hotel industry. They dive into Jeff's journey, starting Stash Hotel Rewards in 2010 and its mission to support independent hotels against larger chains and OTAs. Jeff shares fascinating insights on how modern loyalty programs have shifted, the importance of personalized guest experiences, and the challenges posed by the dominance of OTAs like Expedia. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of hotel loyalty, the impact of technology, and ways hoteliers can regain control of their businesses! Connect with Jeff: LinkedIn Stash Hotel Rewards Website Connect with Wil: LinkedIn Instagram This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: This episode is brought to you by Fido! Professionals know that taking out the trash suck and is often missed! Well, not anymore, because Fido offers amazing bin-to-curb service. If you mention the podcast, they will take great care of you! Go to getfido.com to learn more! Hostfully – $300 off onboarding fee using code HFM300 - Connect with Frank here! Send Squared, the Hubspot for Hospitality Brands & Professionals! Get your business and leads organized and automated with Send Squared, the industry's best CRM! ——– 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

Send us a textDuring this episode of Host Planet Bitesize – sponsored by Hostfully – Oscar Hepworth from KeyNest shares five reasons why Airbnb hosts and property managers should utilise key management systems.Key takeaways:• Learn how key safety provisions can improve the guest experience and enhance security.• Find out why neighbours and local regulators prefer key management solutions.1:33 Reason number one: guest experience3:27 Reason number two: avoid break-ins5:35 Reason number three: automation6:48 Reason number four: tracking8:51 Reason number five: neighbour issues10:25 KeyNest: https://keynest.com/Links:Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Oscar Hepworth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oscar-hepworth-257521166/Episode to check next: Why stamp duty is stalling the UK property market: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lt2H9LWDwT4Host 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 almost a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 organising committee.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club

Join Wil Slickers as he dives deep into an insightful conversation with Benjamin Gross, Co-Founder of Minty Living. In this episode, Benjamin shares his journey from quantitative trading in New York to dominating the property management industry in Atlanta. The discussion spans a variety of critical topics including the limitations of siloed technology, achieving consistency at scale, and the need for better data integration in vacation rental management. Discover how Minty Living has managed to maintain a stellar 4.9 rating on Google with over 500 reviews and explore the potential avenues for solving some of the industry's most pressing problems. This episode is a must-watch for anyone in the vacation rental or broader hospitality sectors! Connect with Ben: LinkedIn Minty Living Connect with Wil: LinkedIn Instagram This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: This episode is brought to you by Fido! Professionals know that taking out the trash suck and is often missed! Well, not anymore, because Fido offers amazing bin-to-curb service. If you mention the podcast, they will take great care of you! Go to getfido.com to learn more! Hostfully – $300 off onboarding fee using code HFM300 - Connect with Frank here! Send Squared, the Hubspot for Hospitality Brands & Professionals! Get your business and leads organized and automated with Send Squared, the industry's best CRM! ——– 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

Send us a textIn this episode of HCH Bitesize, we're joined by John Deroulet from Wheelhouse, a leader in revenue management for the hospitality industry. John shares his expert tips on how choose a dynamic pricing tool and discusses hot to optimise revenue management for your vacation rental business. Whether you're new to revenue management or looking to refine your strategy, John provides valuable insights to help you stay ahead of market trends and make smarter pricing decisions.Throughout the episode, John discusses the importance of doing your research, collaborating with others, and understanding the bigger picture of revenue management. He emphasises that it's not just about adjusting prices but about making revenue management a consistent practice. Tune in for practical advice that will help you maximise your rental income and get a deeper understanding of how to stay competitive in a dynamic market.1:37 Tip number one: there's more to revenue management than dynamic pricing6:58 Tip number two: do your research and check with others9:54 Tip number three: agree to disagree14:37 Tip number four: understand market trends16:52 Tip number five: make revenue management a practice 19:37 WheelhouseAre you looking to streamline your operations and amaze your guests? Look no further than Hostfully! Try their top-rated property management software and award-winning digital guidebooks today (your first guidebook is free!). Join the thousands of satisfied property managers who trust Hostfully to grow their business: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/John Deroulet: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jderoulet/Wheelhouse: https://www.usewheelhouse.com/Active Revenue Management Fundamentals: https://www.usewheelhouse.com/research/education-active-rm-course-page#1-identifyGot a comment or interested in being a guest on the show? Get in touch: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/contact If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share! Your support helps us bring more industry experts like John to the show.

In this episode, Wil Slickers sits down with Nathan Woods to dive deep into the art of crafting amazing guest experiences. They discuss the importance of utilizing data, mid-stay engagement, digital touchpoints, and personalized hospitality to create memorable moments for guests. Nathan shares insights from his diverse background in hospitality, e-commerce, and sports, along with practical tips for both remote and onsite operators. Learn how to anticipate guest needs, integrate technology effectively, and bring back the true essence of hospitality in your business. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with actionable advice! Connect with Nathan: LinkedIn Beloved Hospitality Ministry of Welcome Connect with Wil: LinkedIn Instagram This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: This episode is brought to you by Fido! Professionals know that taking out the trash suck and is often missed! Well, not anymore, because Fido offers amazing bin-to-curb service. If you mention the podcast, they will take great care of you! Go to getfido.com to learn more! Hostfully – $300 off onboarding fee using code HFM300 - Connect with Frank here! Send Squared, the Hubspot for Hospitality Brands & Professionals! Get your business and leads organized and automated with Send Squared, the industry's best CRM! ——– 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

Join Wil Slickers in an engaging conversation with Josiah Mackenzie, Chief Marketing Officer at Actable and host of Hospitality Daily. In this episode, we dive deep into the intersection of profitability and culture in the hospitality industry. Learn about the importance of real-time data, the role of leadership in driving innovation, and ways to attract the younger generation to hospitality careers. Josiah shares his insights on creating operational efficiency, enhancing guest experiences, and building brand power to drive long-term success. Whether you're a hotel manager, vacation rental operator, or hospitality entrepreneur, this episode offers valuable takeaways for elevating your business. Tune in and explore the future of hospitality with us! Connect with Josiah: LinkedIn Actable Website Hospitality Daily Podcast Connect with Wil: LinkedIn Instagram This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: This episode is brought to you by Fido! Professionals know that taking out the trash suck and is often missed! Well, not anymore, because Fido offers amazing bin-to-curb service. If you mention the podcast, they will take great care of you! Go to getfido.com to learn more! Hostfully – $300 off onboarding fee using code HFM300 - Connect with Frank here! Send Squared, the Hubspot for Hospitality Brands & Professionals! Get your business and leads organized and automated with Send Squared, the industry's best CRM! ——– 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

In this episode, Wil welcomes Eli Pritykin, the founder of Hudson Creative Studio, to discuss Eli's journey in the world of short-term rentals and hospitality. Eli, who initially majored in computer science but found his passion in visual communications and marketing, shares his experience working for Spears Group and eventually starting Hudson Creative Studio in 2021. The conversation delves into the concept of transitioning from being a co-host under platforms like Airbnb to establishing one's own brand identity. Eli introduces HomeRunner, a standalone booking engine developed by Hudson Creative Studio, and explains its importance in the direct booking movement and how it empowers operators by providing tailored business intelligence. The episode highlights the significance of listening to customer needs, the development of HomeRunner, and the vision for its future, including expanding its use cases and potentially integrating with other software providers. Through detailed narratives and insightful discussions, the episode offers a comprehensive look into the evolution of Hudson Creative Studio and the transformative potential of HomeRunner. Connect with Eli: LinkedIn HomeRunner Website Hudson Creative Studio Website Connect with Wil: LinkedIn Instagram This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: This episode is brought to you by Fido! Professionals know that taking out the trash suck and is often missed! Well, not anymore, because Fido offers amazing bin-to-curb service. If you mention the podcast, they will take great care of you! Go to getfido.com to learn more! Hostfully – $300 off onboarding fee using code HFM300 - Connect with Frank here! Send Squared, the Hubspot for Hospitality Brands & Professionals! Get your business and leads organized and automated with Send Squared, the industry's best CRM! ——– 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

Join us for a conversation with James Lemon from Stripe as we explore the landscape of payments in the hospitality industry.   Discover how modern payment solutions can drive higher conversions, improve operations, and even create new business models.   James will break down the complexities of payment systems and highlight their strategic importance, using real-world case studies and discussing emerging technologies like stablecoins and AI.   Whether you're a hotelier or a vacation rental manager, this episode is filled with valuable insights to help you optimize your payment processes and enhance guest experiences. Plus, you'll get a glimpse into Stripe's innovative offerings that can revolutionize your business operations! Connect with James: LinkedIn Connect with me on whatever platform you use most: LinkedIn Instagram Email: wil@hospitality.fm This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: This episode is brought to you by Fido! Professionals know that taking out the trash suck and is often missed! Well, not anymore, because Fido offers amazing bin-to-curb service. If you mention the podcast, they will take great care of you! Go to getfido.com to learn more! Hostfully – $300 off onboarding fee using code HFM300 - Connect with Frank here! Send Squared, the Hubspot for Hospitality Brands & Professionals! Get your business and leads organized and automated with Send Squared, the industry's best CRM! ——– 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

In this cross-promoted episode originally from Good Morning Hospitality, Wil Slickers interviews Christian Lee, CEO of Mint House, about their first acquisition, Locale, as well as the exciting changes and developments happening in the multifamily urban operator sector. They discuss Christian's experiences, the benefits of the acquisition, the importance of scale, and the future plans for integration and growth. Christian shares insights into how Mint House is leveraging technology for guest experience and operational efficiency. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the latest trends and consolidation within the hospitality industry. Christians First Episode on Slick Talk: https://megaphone.link/SLICK9739423525 Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:25 Introduction to Mint House and Locale Acquisition 01:58 Interview with Christian Lee Begins 02:15 Discussing the Acquisition Details 03:34 Importance of Scale in Hospitality 06:53 Challenges and Opportunities in Residential Hospitality 12:55 Integration and Future Vision 21:54 Closing Remarks and Future Outlook 22:47 Outro and Call to Action Connect with me on whatever platform you use most: LinkedIn Instagram Email: wil@hospitality.fm This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: This episode is brought to you by Fido! Professionals know that taking out the trash suck and is often missed! Well, not anymore, because Fido offers amazing bin-to-curb service. If you mention the podcast, they will take great care of you! Go to getfido.com to learn more! Hostfully – $300 off onboarding fee using code HFM300 - Connect with Frank here! Send Squared, the Hubspot for Hospitality Brands & Professionals! Get your business and leads organized and automated with Send Squared, the industry's best CRM! ——– 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

Why Your PMS is the Heartbeat of Your STR Business—A Conversation with Hostfully's CEOYour Property Management Software (PMS) is more than just a tool—it's the heartbeat of your short-term rental business. But how do you know you're using the right one? And are you truly optimizing it to save time, increase efficiency, and drive more revenue?In this episode, we sit down with Margot Schmorak, CEO & Co-Founder of Hostfully, our preferred PMS partner, to talk about the must-have features of a PMS, the biggest mistakes hosts make when choosing or switching systems, and how to use a PMS to scale smarter—whether you have one property or 100+.We also dive into:The number one mistake hosts make when selecting a PMSHow a strong tech stack can make your hosting life easierDirect bookings: Is a PMS worth it if you only have one or two properties?The power of repeat guests and how a PMS can help you get moreWhy booking direct is one of the biggest opportunities for hosts in 2025How Hostfully's AI-powered inbox is saving hosts three or more hours per dayHow midterm rentals are evolving—and what Hostfully is doing about itWhether you're shopping for a PMS, considering a switch, or just want to maximize the power of the one you have, this episode is packed with insights, strategy, and actionable tips to take your STR business to the next level.More About Our Guest: Margot SchmorakMargot is the CEO & Co-Founder of Hostfully, a leading PMS in the STR industry. Under her leadership, Hostfully has helped thousands of property managers streamline their operations, grow their portfolios, and embrace direct bookings as a key revenue driver.Beyond Hostfully, Margot is also a mom, wife, and creative entrepreneur based in San Francisco. She's passionate about supporting women, moms, and underrepresented groups in tech and hospitality, and she loves travel, design, and music.Resources & Links from This EpisodeListen to Margot's first TFV EpisodeExact Steps for Leaving a Negative Airbnb Guest Review | Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelWant to get your property featured on #STRShareSunday? | Submit your listing here: strsharesunday.comMentioned in this episode:Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment TodayHostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV100 to get $200 off your subscription.Fido | Visit getfido.com/tfv & get your first month free!Extenteam | Receive 20% off the first 2 months with Tailwind!Quiz | Take our quiz to reveal your hosting personality style!

Superhost status has long been seen as a mark of excellence, but is it still relevant, or just the baseline? In this episode, Wil unpacks the realities of maintaining Superhost at scale, the overlooked safety concerns in Airbnb's system, and whether the status truly reflects hospitality excellence. He also explores how Airbnb could evolve the program into something more meaningful and what hosts should really be striving for. If Superhost disappeared tomorrow, would your business still stand out? Connect with me on whatever platform you use most: LinkedIn Instagram Email: wil@hospitality.fm This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: This episode is brought to you by Fido! Professionals know that taking out the trash suck and is often missed! Well, not anymore, because Fido offers amazing bin-to-curb service. If you mention the podcast, they will take great care of you! Go to getfido.com to learn more! Hostfully – $300 off onboarding fee using code HFM300 - Connect with Frank here! Send Squared, the Hubspot for Hospitality Brands & Professionals! Get your business and leads organized and automated with Send Squared, the industry's best CRM! ——– 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

In the first Slick Talk episode of 2025, Wil Slickers welcomes Frank and Fred from Hostfully to discuss their annual industry report. This episode delves into the main concerns of the hospitality industry, highlighting tech challenges and opportunities. Key topics include the shift toward direct bookings, the rise of AI, optimization of guest experiences through digital guidebooks, and emerging trends in property management technology. The discussion also covers the importance of embracing growth mindsets, effective marketing strategies, and the potential of new features in Hostfully's property management system. A must-listen for hospitality operators looking to stay ahead in 2025! This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: The Best Stays & The Best Days are brought to you by Well & Good Morning Coffee. Ensure your guests aren't left unsatisfied with generic or gross coffee, and get Well & Good Morning Coffee in your properties for better guest satisfaction! 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

This week, we explore Europe's most festive cities for Christmas getaways, highlighting top destinations like Berlin, Vienna, and Prague. We also discuss major updates in the short-term rental world, including Google's growing role in bookings, Airbnb's shifting market share, and new insights from Hostfully's annual report paired with AirDNA data. On the regulatory front, we cover France's nationwide STR laws, Lisbon's potential referendum on short-term rentals, and Italy's surprising ban on self-check-ins. Stay tuned for holiday travel tips, market insights, and key updates impacting the short-term rental landscape this season!

We're coming to you live from the Vacation Rental Managers Association Conference! We partnered with Hostfully to host a party at the conference, and we took the opportunity to chat with leaders in the STR space and get their tips for you. In this episode, we share our biggest takeaways from VRMA. Plus, we interview 8 major players in the STR industry — from CEOs to co-hosts to leading property managers. They offer insights and advice on leveraging AI in your business, working with influencers, and optimizing your maintenance strategies. We also talk about the biggest pain points hosts face, and how to solve for them. These conversations will give you a look into today's STR landscape and inspire ideas for the future. (00:00:00) Introductions(00:01:26) #STRShareSunday: @hipandhistoricfrederick(00:02:26) Key Takeaways From Where We Stayed (00:07:30) Major Learnings From VRMA (00:20:25) Meghan Ketterman with Oconee Hospitality(00:26:21) Madison Rifkin, CEO and Founder of Mount (00:33:48) Casey Hohman, CEO of Scottsdale Bachelorette (00:39:24) Wendy Doris, CEO at Mostess Host(00:43:48) Margot Schmorak, CEO and Co-Founder at Hostfully (00:52:20) Arthur Colker, CEO at StayFi (01:01:15) Steve Davis, CEO at Operto(01:05:32) Chris Hawkins with Tidy.comResources:• Click here for full show notes • Meghan Ketterman with Oconee Hospitality• Madison Rifkin, CEO and Founder of Mount • Casey Hohman, CEO of Scottsdale Bachelorette • Wendy Doris, CEO at Mostess Host• Margot Schmorak, CEO and Co-Founder at Hostfully • Arthur Colker, CEO at StayFi • Steve Davis, CEO at Operto• Chris Hawkins with Tidy.com• Loctite Threadlocker • #STRShareSunday: @hipandhistoricfrederick• Submit your property for our next #STRShareSunday at

Meet Edward Haynes — a visionary entrepreneur with roots in the event rental industry, now revolutionizing the luxury glamping space.  What started as a pivot during the pandemic has become a mission to help landowners transform beautiful landscapes into high-end, profitable escapes. Edward's journey reflects the intersection of innovation, craftsmanship, and hospitality, blending unique structures with unforgettable guest experiences. His company EJH Distribution sources and distributes premium accommodations—from safari tents to stunning glass “Tubo” structures—while Posh Outdoors empowers landowners to build luxury stays through profit-sharing partnerships. For Edward, success is more than just unique units; it's about crafting experiences that make the first and last impressions unforgettable. Tune in to hear: How Edward pivoted from events to hospitality in response to the pandemic The rise of luxury glamping and why travelers are turning away from conventional hotels Posh Outdoors' unique business model, helping landowners monetize with minimal upfront costs Why Edward believes ski resorts and vineyards will become the next big hubs for luxury stays The challenge of balancing prefab solutions with customization to maintain uniqueness How Posh's first site in Sky Ridge, Canada will set a new standard for luxury glamping F&B innovations for remote resorts and the power of shared spaces in hospitality Edward's deep understanding of both events and hospitality means no detail is overlooked, from on-site amenities to the guest journey itself.  Whether you're curious about starting your own micro-resort or fascinated by the latest glamping trends, this conversation offers insights into the future of luxury hospitality. Alright, friends—without further ado, get ready to meet Edward.  Learn more about EJH Distribution  Learn more about Posh Outdoors Connect with Edward on LinkedIn This episode is brought to you by our friends at Hostfully.  Upselling sounds great in theory, but how do you actually do it? How do you know what to offer, and how do you make it seamless for your guests? Well, that's where Hostfully's latest eBook comes into play. This isn't just another generic guide; it's a goldmine of insights drawn from real transaction data collected from June 2023 to June 2024. We're talking about the most popular upsells that guests actually buy — from early check-ins to premium amenity access — and how these can significantly enhance your bottom line. But here's the best part: this eBook doesn't just leave you with data; it gives you practical advice and checklists to help you start implementing these upsells right away. Whether you're just getting started with a simple upsell or looking to expand your offerings, Hostfully has you covered. About the Show Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.   

Meet Eliza Clark, the Co-Founder of Foxfire Mountain House and The Lost Fox Inn, two remarkable boutique hotels in New York and Connecticut.  Eliza is an inspiring storyteller turned hospitality entrepreneur who grew up outside of Toronto. From her beginnings as a novelist and TV director for HGTV, to co-founding two breathtaking inn Eliza's journey is all about crafting immersive experiences that bring people together. The story of Eliza's journey into hospitality entrepreneurship is really a love story — after a hard divorce, she met now-husband Tim, an executive American chef.  It was their romance that ultimately inspired Eliza to take a leap from television to hospitality.  Together, they've created boutique properties that seamlessly blend history, design, and unforgettable food and beverage experiences. Their hotels aren't just places to stay; they're curated environments built with heart, imagination, and a whole lot of hard work. Tune in to hear: How Eliza's storytelling background influences every aspect of her properties The challenges and joys of running a hospitality business as a family The creative process behind transforming a bioluminescent fungus into a brand story (you won't want to miss this one!) Lessons from balancing beautifully designed spaces with Tim's world-class food and beverage programs Why Eliza believes boutique hospitality is about offering personalized, “indie” travel experiences And so much more Alright, friends, without further ado, let's jump in with Eliza Clark. Book a Stay at Lost Fox Inn Book a Stay at Foxfire Mountain House Follow Lost Fox on Instagram Follow Byrd Studio on Instagram  This episode is brought to you by our friends at Hostfully.  Upselling sounds great in theory, but how do you actually do it? How do you know what to offer, and how do you make it seamless for your guests? Well, that's where Hostfully's latest eBook comes into play. This isn't just another generic guide; it's a goldmine of insights drawn from real transaction data collected from June 2023 to June 2024. We're talking about the most popular upsells that guests actually buy — from early check-ins to premium amenity access — and how these can significantly enhance your bottom line. But here's the best part: this eBook doesn't just leave you with data; it gives you practical advice and checklists to help you start implementing these upsells right away. Whether you're just getting started with a simple upsell or looking to expand your offerings, Hostfully has you covered. About the Show Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn. 

Meet Hillary Flur, the Co-Founder and Co-Visionary behind Folly, a collection of stunning off-grid retreats in the Mojave Desert and beyond that are redefining sustainable luxury travel. Hillary didn't start out in hospitality. She began her hospitality entrepreneurship journey by renting out a small, kitchen-less studio apartment on Airbnb—but what started as a side hustle quickly evolved into a portfolio of design-forward, off-grid getaways that blend architecture, nature, and luxury in a next-gen, outo-of-this-world sort of way. In this conversation, we dive deep into Hillary's journey—from surviving her first DIY build in Joshua Tree to creating expansive desert compounds that attract everyone from A-list celebrities to adventure-seeking travelers.  Tune in to hear: Where the idea of creating magical, architecturally stunning stays first came from The challenges of scaling unique stays like Folly's and why they're betting on pop-up locations next The genius behind Folly's exclusive membership program and how it offers hyper-personalized stays for their guests Why Hillary believes AI will be pivotal in helping hoteliers and hospitality entrepreneurs hyper-personalize their guest experience at scale Hillary's vision of having a Folly near every National Park  And so much more Alright friends, without further ado, get ready to meet Hillary.  This episode is brought to you by our friends at Hostfully.  Upselling sounds great in theory, but how do you actually do it? How do you know what to offer, and how do you make it seamless for your guests? Well, that's where Hostfully's latest eBook comes into play. This isn't just another generic guide; it's a goldmine of insights drawn from real transaction data collected from June 2023 to June 2024. We're talking about the most popular upsells that guests actually buy — from early check-ins to premium amenity access — and how these can significantly enhance your bottom line. But here's the best part: this eBook doesn't just leave you with data; it gives you practical advice and checklists to help you start implementing these upsells right away. Whether you're just getting started with a simple upsell or looking to expand your offerings, Hostfully has you covered. About the Show Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn. 

Meet Nathan St Cyr, the co-founder of Howzit Hostels, a next-generation travel brand transforming hostel stays in the U.S.  Nathan and his co-founder Michael have been on the pod before, but Nathan joined us at the recent Unique Stays Summit that Ben Woldff and I hosted so I wanted to bring him back on to share some more details on what he's building. In this episode, Nathan shares the bold and inspiring journey behind building Howzit—a hospitality brand focused on creating affordable, community-driven, and experiential stays that challenge the traditional hostel model. Nathan and I discuss: How his team recognized the gap in the U.S. hostel market, with over 300,000 hotels but only 309 hostels, and the vision for Howzit Hostels to fill that void. Their mission to grow into a $400 million company while maintaining responsible growth and delivering unforgettable guest experiences. The surprising fulfillment Nathan and his team have found in cultivating the hostel community, which initially started as a pure financial opportunity. The challenges and opportunities in scaling their brand in cities like Austin, Boston, and Denver, and why they focus on underappreciated real estate assets. What sets Howzit Hostels apart from other experiential brands like Selena, and how Nathan's unique approach to hostel development is fueling growth. Tune in to hear Nathan's thoughtful insights on what it takes to build a large-scale hostel brand in an overlooked market and why Howzit Hostels is perfectly positioned to shape the future of affordable experiential travel in the U.S. This episode is brought to you by our friends at Hostfully.  Upselling sounds great in theory, but how do you actually do it? How do you know what to offer, and how do you make it seamless for your guests? Well, that's where Hostfully's latest eBook comes into play. This isn't just another generic guide; it's a goldmine of insights drawn from real transaction data collected from June 2023 to June 2024. We're talking about the most popular upsells that guests actually buy — from early check-ins to premium amenity access — and how these can significantly enhance your bottom line. But here's the best part: this eBook doesn't just leave you with data; it gives you practical advice and checklists to help you start implementing these upsells right away. Whether you're just getting started with a simple upsell or looking to expand your offerings, Hostfully has you covered. About the Show Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.   

Meet Austin Phippen, a hospitality entrepreneur balancing the demands of multiple ventures in the heart of Chama, New Mexico. Austin and his wife Karlee are redefining what it means to build a rural hospitality empire, managing everything from a boutique motel to an event venue and even vacation rentals. Tune in as Austin shares his journey from construction to hospitality, how his family's legacy property sparked a wedding venue business, and the surprising lessons he's learned about running a motel in one of the most remote, yet scenic, areas of the country. Discover how Austin transformed a family cabin into a top wedding destination, navigated the complexities of managing a motel, and how seasonal challenges shape his business strategy. If you're curious about what it takes to run multiple hospitality ventures in a small town or how to grow a business with little initial experience, this episode is packed with insights for you. Austin and I also discuss the power of organic growth, the balance between low-touch and high-touch hospitality, and why Austin believes hands-on interaction is key to guest satisfaction. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in rural tourism, family-run hospitality businesses, or those dreaming of building their own legacy in the industry. Learn more about Chama Trails This episode is brought to you by our friends at Hostfully.  Upselling sounds great in theory, but how do you actually do it? How do you know what to offer, and how do you make it seamless for your guests? Well, that's where Hostfully's latest eBook comes into play. This isn't just another generic guide; it's a goldmine of insights drawn from real transaction data collected from June 2023 to June 2024. We're talking about the most popular upsells that guests actually buy — from early check-ins to premium amenity access — and how these can significantly enhance your bottom line. But here's the best part: this eBook doesn't just leave you with data; it gives you practical advice and checklists to help you start implementing these upsells right away. Whether you're just getting started with a simple upsell or looking to expand your offerings, Hostfully has you covered. About the Show Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn. 

Curious what your portfolio's potential is? Apply for RPM at https://freewyldfoundry.com/rpm/. In this episode of 'Get Paid for Your Pad', Jasper Ribbers discusses the latest features from Hostly with Fred Bassili and David Jacoby. They delve into the importance of upselling in the current flat market, exploring various upsell strategies and the potential revenue they can generate. The conversation highlights the integration of AI in property management, the significance of early check-ins and late check-outs, and unique upsell ideas that can enhance guest experiences. The episode concludes with practical advice on implementing upselling strategies effectively.TakeawaysHostfully has introduced new features including Inbox AI for messaging.AI can help save time in guest communication without fully automating responses.Upselling is crucial in a flat market to increase revenue.Many property managers plan to implement upsells but few actually do.Early check-in and late check-out are popular upsell options.Unique upsell ideas can significantly enhance guest experiences.Revenue from upsells can be a substantial part of overall income.It's important to vet local tour operators when offering experiences.Technology can streamline the upselling process for property managers.Start small with upselling strategies and expand as you learn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the STR Daily Podcast, we delve into Vrbo's clever ad campaign aimed at distinguishing itself from Airbnb and explore Hostfully's innovative AI messaging tool designed to enhance property management. Join us as we dissect how these strategies are setting new standards in the travel and hospitality industry, aiming to improve both host and guest experiences. Tune in to stay ahead with the latest industry insights! 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.

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.Marie asks:We are wondering if we should get a PMS. We have four properties. They're all on Airbnb, and they're doing well. We're about to bring on a fifth and we're wondering if now is the time, but we are truly overwhelmed with all the options. How do we decide which PMS to use? How did you guys decide, and what is important to look for when you are deciding?(00:01:18) Marie Asks How To Choose a Property Management Software (PMS)(00:02:42) How To Evaluate Customer Support in Property Management Softwares (00:04:44) Choose a PMS That Will Grow With Your Business Goals(00:08:01) Is Investing in a PMS Important for Long-Term STR Success? (00:09:32) Software Options + How Sarah And Annette Chose Their PMS(00:16:12) An Exercise To Help You Start Your Search 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 • Hostfully: hostfully.com • Lodgify: lodgify.com/thanksforvisiting • Hospitable: hospitable.com • Guesty: guesty.com • Hostaway: hostaway.com • OwnerRez: ownerrez.com • Track: tnsinc.com • Streamline: streamlinevrs.com • FutureStay: futurestay.com • Video: 10 Must Have Apps For Airbnbs & Short-Term Rentals • Airbnb Essentials Checklist: hostchecklist.comThanks for Visiting is produced by Crate Media.Mentioned in this episode:Hosting Handbook | Get everything you need to fast track your way to Superhost at thanksforvisiting.com/handbookQuiz | Take our quiz to reveal your hosting personality style!

Kenny talks with Margot, the CEO and co-founder of Hostfully, a leading property management software company. Kenny discusses his journey from replacing his W2 income with short-term rental cash flow to helping others achieve the same success. Margot delves into how Hostfully assists property managers, particularly smaller-scale and novice hosts, with features like digital guidebooks, booking platform integration, and dynamic pricing. They also explore how automation can manage cleaning schedules, guest communication, and upselling opportunities to optimize both revenue and guest satisfaction. Margot emphasizes the importance of planning and leveraging technology from the outset to ensure smooth scaling and effective management of rental properties. They also touch on the role of AI in property management and how it can enhance customer support and guest experiences. https://strscalesummit.com/ Connect with Kenny on LinkedIn! Follow Kenny on IG

Meet Paul Zway, the incredible founder of Exclusive Tents, who is joining us live from the lush jungles of Belize.  Paul's journey from a young boy fascinated with wildlife in South Africa to becoming a pioneer in the luxury glamping industry is nothing short of extraordinary. Raised among the snakes and wilderness of a rural community outside of Pretoria, Australia, Paul's path led him through the vast expanses of Kruger National Park as a game ranger and nature conservationist.  In this episode, Paul shares the highs and lows of his entrepreneurial journey, from the struggles of adjusting to city life in the US to the innovative creation of Exclusive Tents — a company that manufactures stunning luxury tents that blend the thrill of outdoor living with high-end comfort, catering to both individual adventurers and world-renowned hospitality brands like Sir Richard Branson's Virgin. We'll dive into the nuances of glamping, the evolution of this unique industry, and the emerging markets that hold exciting potential for luxury outdoor accommodations. Paul's insights are invaluable for anyone interested in the intersection of nature, innovation, and hospitality. This episode is brought to you by our friends at Hostfully. Hostfully Digital Guidebooks are the easiest way to help your guests get to know your property and discover just how special the community that surrounds it is. Hostfully Guidebooks give you a dynamic place to store every bit of information you might want your guests to have — from the wifi password to how to work the hot tub to where to take the best selfies at golden hour. Hostfully empowers you with easy-to-use tools that help you feature a totally curated list of your favorite eateries, pubs, hiking trails, and more — OR Hostfully can automatically create a list of experiences through their Guidebook Wizard if you've got dozens of properties and just can't afford to curate a custom set of recommendations for each one. Learn more here! Want to book a consulting brainstorm with Zach? Send him an email directly at zach@staywatch.ai or complete this payment link and get immediate access to his schedule where you can book some time with him! About the Show Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn. 

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 731. https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, recorded live from STR WealthCon 2024 in Nashville, host Mark Simpson interviews Jake Cowen, a prominent short-term rental host from Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Jake shares his journey from managing boutique hotels to building a diverse portfolio that includes short-term and mid-term rentals. He also talks about the crucial role of revenue management and his use of various tech tools like Pricelabs and Hospitable. Additionally, Jake discusses his plans for expanding his business in 2024, including launching a new podcast and growing his clientele. The episode concludes with a shoutout to the podcast sponsor, Hostfully. https://Boostly.co.uk https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps https://instagram.com/boostlyuk https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meet Annie Holcombe, a seasoned hospitality industry expert with a passion for vacation rentals and an impressive track record at major travel tech companies. Annie's journey in the vacation rental industry is nothing short of inspiring. Starting from property management, she moved on to pivotal roles at Expedia and Homes and Villas by Marriott, gaining invaluable insights into the world of travel and hospitality. In this episode, Annie dives into the current state of the industry, emphasizing the importance of standardization and safety in vacation rentals. She shares her thoughts on how new entrants can navigate the complexities of regulations and market demands and offers practical advice on building a brand that stands out in a crowded market. We'll explore the challenges and opportunities facing vacation rental managers today, discuss the role of OTAs in the evolving landscape, and consider the potential for loyalty programs within the industry. This episode is brought to you by our friends at Hostfully. Hostfully Digital Guidebooks are the easiest way to help your guests get to know your property and discover just how special the community that surrounds it is. Hostfully Guidebooks give you a dynamic place to store every bit of information you might want your guests to have — from the wifi password to how to work the hot tub to where to take the best selfies at golden hour. Hostfully empowers you with easy-to-use tools that help you feature a totally curated list of your favorite eateries, pubs, hiking trails, and more — OR Hostfully can automatically create a list of experiences through their Guidebook Wizard if you've got dozens of properties and just can't afford to curate a custom set of recommendations for each one. Learn more here! Want to book a consulting brainstorm with Zach? Send him an email directly at zach@sponstayneous.com or complete this payment link and get immediate access to his schedule where you can book some time with him! About the Show Behind the Stays is brought to you twice a week by Sponstayneous — a free, biweekly newsletter that brings subscribers the best last-minute deals and upcoming steals on Airbnb. You can subscribe, for free, at www.sponstayneous.com. Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, co-founder of Sponstayneous, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee.

Meet Cody Watson, the entrepreneur behind Explorely, a groundbreaking platform poised to revolutionize outdoor travel planning and experiences.  Growing up, Cody dreamed of being an inventor. And while he didn't end up creating the next big gadget, he did channel that inventive spirit into the entrepreneurial world, ultimately founding Explorely — a platform designed to be the Kayak.com for outdoor travel. Explorely simplifies the often fragmented process of finding and booking RV rentals, campsites, and glamping spots.  In this episode, Cody and I discuss:  The inspiration behind Explorally and how it evolved from his experiences at RVZ, a peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace The challenges and opportunities in aggregating outdoor accommodations and building partnerships in a highly fragmented industry The impact of technology, including AI and machine learning on the future of travel businesses Why building a strong brand is more critical than ever in this digital age  And so much more.  Explore Explorely Connect with Cody on LinkedIn This episode is brought to you by our friends at Hostfully. Hostfully Digital Guidebooks are the easiest way to help your guests get to know your property and discover just how special the community that surrounds it is. Hostfully Guidebooks give you a dynamic place to store every bit of information you might want your guests to have — from the wifi password to how to work the hot tub to where to take the best selfies at golden hour. Hostfully empowers you with easy-to-use tools that help you feature a totally curated list of your favorite eateries, pubs, hiking trails, and more — OR Hostfully can automatically create a list of experiences through their Guidebook Wizard if you've got dozens of properties and just can't afford to curate a custom set of recommendations for each one. Learn more here! Want to book a consulting brainstorm with Zach? Send him an email directly at zach@sponstayneous.com or complete this payment link and get immediate access to his schedule where you can book some time with him! About the Show Behind the Stays is brought to you twice a week by Sponstayneous — a free, biweekly newsletter that brings subscribers the best last-minute deals and upcoming steals on Airbnb. You can subscribe, for free, at www.sponstayneous.com. Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, co-founder of Sponstayneous, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee