Podcast appearances and mentions of margot schmorak

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!

Send us a textIn this episode of HCH Bitesize, Margot Schmorak, CEO and Co-Founder of Hostfully, shares her expert insights on how short-term rental hosts can enhance guest communication to improve their ratings and overall guest experience.0:00: Episode starts1:38: Use a digital guidebook2:36: Experience the guest journey yourself4:27: Leverage AI tools to streamline communication and provide instant responses5:57: Know your typical guests and personalise the experience7:48: Back to basics – ask for the five-star review10:15: Try a digital guidebook from Hostfully – the first one's free! Find out more: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Are 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. 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/Margot Schmorak: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mschmorak/Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Got a comment or interested in being a guest on the show? Get in touch: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/contact

Send us a textIn this episode of the Holiday Cottage Handbook Podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Annie Munro Sloan, Founder and CEO of The Host Co., to share her expert insights on the art of upselling in short-term rentals. From Silicon Valley inspirations to actionable tips, Annie covers everything hosts and property managers need to know about boosting revenue and enhancing guest experiences.  Tune in to gain practical advice and discover why upselling is more than just an extra income—it's a way to delight guests and grow your business. Don't miss this exciting episode packed with insights from one of the industry's brightest leaders!2:55: A Silicon Valley eye-roll(!) 7:00: How The Host Co. empowers hosts and property managers  9:29: Onboarding takes just two minutes – yes, really!  12:25: Unlocking the potential of upselling  15:56: The must-have upsells every host should offer  18:06: Connect with The Host Co.: @thehostcompany on Instagram  19:00: Annie's top tips for hosts and property managers  20:09: Trends to watch, including the rise of direct bookings  21:53: Brian Chesky's vision and what's next for Airbnb  23:23: Social media strategies every host should know  27:42: Annie's favourite brand: StayFi  29:32: Shout-outs to Margot Schmorak and Paul Hall  30:20: No. 1 lesson learned: you're not 'nickel and diming' guests  Links: James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/Free event:Your Air Success on Friday 4 April, LondonRegister for your free ticket: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/yourairsuccessFree downloads:The Ultimate Guide to Short-Term Rentals: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/e-bookGuest Communication 101 for Direct Bookings: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/hospitableHow to Navigate London's 90-Day Short-Term Rentals Limit: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/your-airhostAnnie Munro Sloan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anniesloan/The Host Co.: https://www.thehost.co/Mentions:StayFi: https://stayfi.com/Margot Schmorak: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mschmorak/Paul Hall: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hallpaul/Sponsors:HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/Hosthub: https://www.hosthub.com/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=HCHBooklee: https://www.bookl.ee/Smiling House: https://smilinghouse.ch/Subscribe now to the Holiday Cottage Handbook Podcast for more tips, trends, and expert advice!

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

Margot Schmorak, the CEO and Co-Founder of Hostfully, is the special guest on today's Holiday Cottage Handbook Podcast. Margot discussed her varied career, the story of Hostfully, and shared hosting tips and trends. During this episode, learn: ·       The story of Hostfully and why it stands out in the property management software space·       Why Guesty's acquisition of Rentals United was no surprise·       Why you should use a digital guidebook·       Trends to look out for as a host and property managerMargot picked PriceLabs for her favourite brand and gave Robin Craigen and Nicholas Halverson special shout-outs. 3:21 Margot's career: nanny, barista, architecture, Apple, start-ups…and Hostfully!5:47 The story of Hostfully8:41 What makes Hostfully stand out in the PMS space11:40 Margot's thoughts on Guesty's acquisition of Rentals United12:51 Will we see more consolidation in the PMS space?14:45 Solutions can be more user-friendly16:20 A number of STR platforms are too complicated17:20 The challenges the STR industry is facing21:21 Being a female founder25:15 Top tips for hosts and property managers 27:57 Major trends in the STR industry30:18 Favourite brand in the STR space: PriceLabs31:33 Individual shout-outs: Robin Craigen from Moving Mountains and Nicholas Halverson from Osa Property Management 32:56 Biggest lesson learned since founding Hostfully Links: James Varley: https://shorturl.at/rstABHoliday Cottage Handbook website: https://shorturl.at/xLMRYFree newsletter: https://shorturl.at/xLMRYFree e-book: https://shorturl.at/imtW6Survey: https://shorturl.at/axOV6 Margot Schmorak: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mschmorak/Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1 Sponsor links: HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com Sustonica: https://www.sustonica.com/ Touch Stay: https://touchstay.com/?utm_source=HolidayCottageHandbook&utm_medium=email+social&utm_campaign=airbnb Smiling House Luxury: https://smilinghouse.ch/ Mentions: PriceLabs: https://hello.pricelabs.co/ Robin Craigen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robincraigen/ Moving Mountains: https://www.movingmountains.com/ Nicholas Halverson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholashalverson/ Osa Property Management: https://osapropertymanagement.com/ Other: Enjoy the show? Please subscribe, rate, and review!  Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

Join Alex, Annie, and special guest Margot Schmorak in this episode of "Alex & Annie, the real women of Vacation Rentals," as they explore the captivating journey of Hostfully over the past year and the crucial aspects of building a supportive community for women in the vacation rental industry. Listen as Margot shares her experiences in a powerful group, emphasizing the importance of mutual support, advice-sharing, and mentorship for women navigating both personal and professional challenges. Margot Unveils Hostfully's Triumphs: In an exclusive interview, Margot shares behind-the-scenes insights into Hostfully's impressive growth, strategic investments, and overall success throughout 2023. She sheds light on the indispensable role of a united team and the transformative impact of thoughtful product development. Industry Dynamics: Challenges and Opportunities: Dive deep into the dynamic landscape of the vacation rental sector. The trio discusses the effects of industry consolidation and heightened investment, offering listeners valuable perspectives on navigating challenges and seizing opportunities in this ever-evolving market. Key Takeaways:

Meet Margot Schmorak, Co-Founder and CEO of Hostfully — one of the hospitality industry's leading technology companies.  Margot started her career working in marketing at Apple during one of the company's most pivotal eras.  She remembers the launch of the very first iPhone quite vividly since she was the only person on the marketing team to NOT receive a phone since she was just an intern at the time. In this conversation, Margot and I discuss: The lessons she learned about marketing, startups, and company culture during her time at Apple Where the idea for Hostfully first came from How Hostfully grew from a digital guidebook to a full-fledged property management platform  How much money Hosttfully has raised so far Why she started a community for venture-backed founders who are also moms The gaps she seems in the hospitality tech space And so much more… Learn more about Hostfully here Listen to Margot's Episodes of The Pitch Podcast This episode is brought to you by Summer.  Summer takes the headache out of owning a vacation rental by taking care of sourcing, designing, furnishing and managing your home. What makes Summer especially unique is the pathway to ownership that they offer — think of this as an option to “try before you actually buy an Airbnb”  Here's how Summer's Gradual Ownership model works: You work with Summer to find the perfect vacation rental — one that's in a market that you want to vacation to and also in a market that makes sense for a vacation rental. Summer guides you through the whole discernment process of where, when and what kind of home to buy. When you find the right home, put down a downpayment of 15+% but Summer buys the home for you and holds it for up to two years — during this time you can buy back the home from them any time you are ready or, after the two year period you can decide you DON'T want the home and get a full refund of your down payment. Also, Summer covers all of the closing costs and fees for the upfront purchase on the home, as well as furnishing and design. This means you pay far less out of pocket than you would if you bought the home yourself from day one. So if you've been looking for a way to beta test the whole Airbnb game, this is your sign. Go and chat with my new friends at Summer and tell them that Zach from Behind the Stays sent you there way. Have you signed up for Ping yet? Ping makes it easy for guests to be notified when their favorite Airbnbs become available — and it's the secret tool the best Airbnb hosts use to maximize bookings. Sign up today at bnbping.com 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.

Are you ready to supercharge your Airbnb and short-term rental business? Dive deep into the world of "tech stacks" and discover why they are THE game-changer for short-term rental entrepreneurs like you! Join me as I sit down with Margot Schmorak, the empowering CEO and co-founder of Hostfully. With her extensive knowledge, Margot sheds light on the essentials of a tech stack tailored to the short-term rental market, helping you navigate and conquer challenges. We unveil the power of tech stacks – what are they and why are they your Airbnb's ultimate success toolkit. We also chat it up about what your short-term rental tech stack should include, how to overcome the challenges of setting up your tech stack, and how to safeguard your business from cyber threats. Get ready to expand your knowledge – tune in and enjoy! Key highlights in the episode [02:35] Margot Schmorak's bio  [03:15] What was Margot doing before co-founding Hostfully, and what was the impetus behind starting it? [05:47] When was the Hostfully founded? [06:17] How Margot's life has changed as a result of her company [07:23] What is a tech stack, and why is it important for someone to have it in their business? [09:59] The most important basic components of a tech stack  [10:26] #1 Property Management Software (PMS) [13:14] #2 Pricing management [15:44] #3 Operations management tools such as a guidebook and a self-service platform [17:36] #4 Turnover management software [18:40] The secondary components of a tech stack  [20:37] The importance of insurance and protection in a tech stack [22:53] What to look for when outsourcing a property management software company [26:18] How to navigate challenges when setting up a tech stack [29:55] Cyber security for short-term rentals [33:35] The lightning round [39:28] Best place to connect with Margot Schmorak  Website: https://www.hostfully.com/   Golden Nuggets The primary value proposition of Property Management Software (PMS) is to ensure the smooth management of your bookings.  Just like one bad review can put your company out of business, a bad experience with a guest can do that too. Therefore, it's crucial to have insurance that provides you with both financial and time cushions. No one is living your life except you, and you are the one who knows the best answer for yourself. So, don't worry about what others think you should be doing. Make your decisions based on what you believe is best for you because nobody else has the full context of your life.    Don't forget to Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!  Resources Mentioned 1. PriceLabs: https://hello.pricelabs.co/  2. Wheelhouse: https://www.usewheelhouse.com/ 3. Beyond Pricing: https://www.beyondpricing.com/ 4. Safely: https://safely.com/ 5.Superhog: https://superhog.com/ Let's Connect! Follow Margot Schmorak on; Website: https://www.hostfully.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hostfully Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hostfully_/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hostfully-inc-/ Follow Stacey St. John on; Website: https://staceystjohn.com/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801?_rdc=1&_rdr Fire link: https://lnk.to/z4iJAlgs

This week, host Avery Carl chats with the CEO and Co-Founder of Hostfully, Margot Schmorak. They discuss the future of property management software companies, software integrations, the importance of guide books and much more! Margot Schmorak is the CEO and Co-Founder of Hostfully. She has spent her career working on community-driven products that help businesses and entrepreneurs get closer to their customers. Prior to Hostfully, Margot worked at Apple, leading marketing initiatives for the first iPhone Developer Program before joining ServiceSource (NASDAQ: SREV) as VP of Marketing and Strategy and Head of Sales Strategy for the $250M business. Margot loves food, travel, music, and learning. She holds an MBA with Distinction from the University of Michigan and a BA in Economics from Vassar, and lives in the heart of San Francisco with her husband Ari and three young children. How to Connect with Margot: hostfully.com @Schmorak on Twitter Email: Margot@hostfully.com How to connect with Avery: The Short Term Shop - https://theshorttermshop.com/ Follow Avery Carl on Instagram - @theshorttermshop For more information on how to get into short term rentals, read Avery’s Book, Short-Term Rental, Long-Term Wealth: Your Guide to Analyzing, Buying, and Managing Vacation Properties - https://amzn.to/3Adg6PA Need lending for your Short Term Rental? Get Pre-Approved on a loan with up to 89.99% of LTV with The Mortgage Shop - https://mortgage.shop/ The Short Term Show is made possible in part by our sponsors. Relay is a no-fee, online banking and money management platform. Spend, save and plan more efficiently with unparalleled clarity into operating expenses, cash flow and accounts payable. Visit https://relayfi.com/theshorttermshop to get started.

Fresh off a major announcement that Hostfully successfully raised $4M in funding, Margot is part of only 2% of venture funded companies led by female founders. Margot credits her success to her ability to lead with transparency and authenticity that is rarely seen in the VC world. Mom of 3 beautiful children, she talks to us about how she balances a very busy work and home life and the challenges this has created along the way of building Hostfully into one of the most successful property management companies in the world. CONTACT MARGOT SCHMORAKmargot@hostfully.comLinkedInFacebookHostfullyCONTACT ALEX & ANNIEAlexandAnniePodcast.comLinkedIn | Facebook | InstagramAlex Husner - LinkedinAnnie Holcombe - LinkedinPodcast Sponsored by Condo-World and Lexicon Travel

Hello, hello! Welcome to the Flying Cat Marketing Podcast Summer Edition. During the month of August, I'm republishing some of the earlier conversations I've had and post clips from them on our social media channels.Today's replay is with  Hostfully's Co-founder & CEO, Margot Schmorak. Hostfully started off as a free, personalized guidebook for vacation rental guests, then pivoted twice, before becoming a powerful SaaS company for vacation rental hosts. There's a reason why Ross Geller's “pivot...pivot...pivot!” moment in ‘Friends' became so iconic. We bring you an episode that talks about the journey of a company that pivoted their way to success.In today's episode, we chat about how:✅ Building a brand is a long-term commitment✅ Hostfully's pivots were necessary for growth✅ Listening to customers helped drive their decisions✅ Customers know what they want - you just have to ask themTimestamps 00:58 - Introduction to Margot Schmorak   00:35 - Challenges while pivoting 02:04 - Beginning at Hostfully  05:53 - One thing they could have done better08:22 - Biggest takeaway from this experience 10:09 - Role of content in the Hostfully's growth 13:22 - Understanding customer needs15:22 - Barriers faced as a woman in a male-dominated industryWhile you're hereFollow Flying Cat Marketing on the following channels to get more tips, tactics, and knowledge on content marketingVisual – YouTubeAudio – Flying Cat Marketing Podcast (Spotify) (Apple Podcasts) (Stitcher)InstagramFacebookLinkedin

GUEST BIO "MARGOT SCHMORAK, CO-FOUNDER + CEO  Margot is CEO and Co-Founder of Hostfully. She has spent her career working on community-driven products that help businesses and entrepreneurs get closer to their customers. Prior to Hostfully, Margot worked at Apple, leading marketing initiatives for the first iPhone Developer Program before taking the reins at ServiceSource (NASDAQ: SREV) as VP of Marketing and Strategy. In her free time, Margot is an avid traveler, having visted Yunnan (China), Vinales (Cuba) and Paris. Margot holds an MBA from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business and a BA in economics from Vassar College. She lives in San Francisco with her husband and three young children. DAVID JACOBY, CO-FOUNDER + PRESIDENT David is President and Co-Founder of Hostfully. A proud Airbnb Superhost living in San Francisco, he loves welcoming guests from around the world and showing his kids the transformative experience of sharing your home with others. As a traveler, he's couch surfed around the world, including Cairo, Lima, Jerusalem, Hanoi, and Kigali. Prior to Hostfully, David was COO at WellCall, Inc., a health coaching and corporate wellness program company, where he grew the business from its infancy until its acquisition by Health Advocate in 2012. David graduated from the Wharton School of Business."   HIGHLIGHTS OF THE EPISODE 04:43  Margot's introduction 06:20  David's introduction 12:36  How their website/product works. 15:10  The struggles with using guide books manually. 16:58  Them going with the new web design usability practices. 18:15  What you can expect when you go to their website. 19:33  Put something in that helps you provide the support system for you. 22:25  Dedicated to being a platform product. 23:57  Owning on what you're good at. 25:38  How the ecosystem has evolved and their Goal. 27:59  Common questions that they usually get from their guidebook. 30:03  Their guidebook breakdown. 31:30  Things that were not important before that are important now. 33:50  Corona Virus accelerated the industry even more recently. 38:14  No one graduates with the degree in vacation rental management from college. 39:15  Hostfully's biggest focus right now. 42:00  The failed vision. 46:43  The software's automated templates and triggers. 49:14  Giving customers a reason to come back. 49:36  Gift certificate ideas for Airbnb's. 51:48  2 FREE months use of any guide book subscription. Use the code: strsecrets 52:21  What is their best secret for success in Short Term Rentals? 53:46  Surprise tip from Margot Schmorak. NOTABLE QUOTES (KEY LESSONS): "Speed people up by 6 months at getting successful in this industry, especially for newcomers, is much more meaningful." - Margot Schmorak  "The most important thing that successful people say is the word, No." Warren Buffett "The more you can feel and look local the more trust you're going to inspire with your guest and I think the more likely, people will be able to book with you." -Margot Schmorak CONNECTING WITH THE GUEST Website: https://www.hostfully.com/ Margot's Email: margot@hostfully.com David's Email: david@hostfully.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

GUEST BIO "MARGOT SCHMORAK, CO-FOUNDER + CEO Margot is CEO and Co-Founder of Hostfully. She has spent her career working on community-driven products that help businesses and entrepreneurs get closer to their customers. Prior to Hostfully, Margot worked at Apple, leading marketing initiatives for the first iPhone Developer Program before taking the reins at ServiceSource (NASDAQ: SREV) as VP of Marketing and Strategy. In her free time, Margot is an avid traveler, having visted Yunnan (China), Vinales (Cuba) and Paris. Margot holds an MBA from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business and a BA in economics from Vassar College. She lives in San Francisco with her husband and three young children. DAVID JACOBY, CO-FOUNDER + PRESIDENT David is President and Co-Founder of Hostfully. A proud Airbnb Superhost living in San Francisco, he loves welcoming guests from around the world and showing his kids the transformative experience of sharing your home with others. As a traveler, he's couch surfed around the world, including Cairo, Lima, Jerusalem, Hanoi, and Kigali. Prior to Hostfully, David was COO at WellCall, Inc., a health coaching and corporate wellness program company, where he grew the business from its infancy until its acquisition by Health Advocate in 2012. David graduated from the Wharton School of Business." HIGHLIGHTS OF THE EPISODE 04:43 Margot's introduction 06:20 David's introduction 12:36 How their website/product works. 15:10 The struggles with using guide books manually. 16:58 Them going with the new web design usability practices. 18:15 What you can expect when you go to their website. 19:33 Put something in that helps you provide the support system for you. 22:25 Dedicated to being a platform product. 23:57 Owning on what you're good at. 25:38 How the ecosystem has evolved and their Goal. 27:59 Common questions that they usually get from their guidebook. 30:03 Their guidebook breakdown. 31:30 Things that were not important before that are important now. 33:50 Corona Virus accelerated the industry even more recently. 38:14 No one graduates with the degree in vacation rental management from college. 39:15 Hostfully's biggest focus right now. 42:00 The failed vision. 46:43 The software's automated templates and triggers. 49:14 Giving customers a reason to come back. 49:36 Gift certificate ideas for Airbnb's. 51:48 2 FREE months use of any guide book subscription. Use the code: strsecrets 52:21 What is their best secret for success in Short Term Rentals? 53:46 Surprise tip from Margot Schmorak. NOTABLE QUOTES (KEY LESSONS): "Speed people up by 6 months at getting successful in this industry, especially for newcomers, is much more meaningful." - Margot Schmorak "The most important thing that successful people say is the word, No." Warren Buffett "The more you can feel and look local the more trust you're going to inspire with your guest and I think the more likely, people will be able to book with you." -Margot Schmorak CONNECTING WITH THE GUEST Website: https://www.hostfully.com/ Margot's Email: margot@hostfully.com David's Email: david@hostfully.com

Margot is CEO and Co-Founder of Hostfully which services more than 17,000 vacation rental properties worldwide.  She is also an Apple veteran and her focus on community-driven products brings a unique perspective to the vacation rental industry.  In this virtual sit-down with Matt, she covers everything from finding focus in difficult times to automation in the vacation rental experience. Please visit our sponsors, which made this episode possible: PointCentral, the leader in business grade smart property solutions designed for rental properties.  PointCentral's technology helps vacation rental managers increase property safety, reduce operational costs and improve guest satisfaction. https://www.pointcentral.com/vrmb/ With over 1M Property Owners, Thousands of Property Managers, Hundreds of Software Partners and counting, RentalGuardian is one of the most complete and trusted travel and damage protection platforms in the industry. https://rentalguardian.com/ AirDNA is the vacation rental industry’s leading provider of data and analytics. By tracking the daily performance of over 10 million listings on Airbnb and Vrbo, AirDNA delivers powerful insights to help hosts, managers, and investors thrive in their vacation rental markets. https://www.airdna.co Other links and people mentioned in this episode: Hostfully: www.hostfully.com VRMB Keystone Awards: https://www.vrmb.com/keystone-awards/ On grief during a Pandemic: https://hbr.org/2020/03/that-discomfort-youre-feeling-is-grief Maturity Model implementation and use: https://reports.hostfully.com/maturity-model  

What if you could simplify the way you run your short-term rental business? Margot Schmorak is the CEO and co-founder of Hostfully, a property management software company that services thousands of properties worldwide and helps you do just that. Hostfully helps to automate guest communications, distribution across multiple platforms, and integrates with other companies in the vacation rental space. They empower property managers with an essential platform to be able to make choices about how they run their business. Whether you’re big or small, Hostfully can help you get your properties in front of as many guests as possible and make your life and your business easier. To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: https://thanksforvisiting.me (https://thanksforvisiting.me/) Resources: www.hostfully.com (http://www.hostfully.com) Hostfully Guidebooks: hostfully.com/guidebooks-feature-overview (http://hostfully.com/guidebooks-feature-overview) Hostfully Reports: reports.hostfully.com/data (http://reports.hostfully.com/data) Hostfully Maturity Model (https://reports.hostfully.com/maturity-model?hsCtaTracking=9f2d3950-2565-40c3-9829-68c24d31aa8e%7C84f1ea2a-2c52-40b3-bab0-acd5ecc76c55) #STRShareSunday: @sunriversiesta (http://instagram.com/sunriversiesta) Thanks for Visiting is a production of (http://crate.media)

Accommodations account for 40% of the global travel industry, bringing in a jaw-dropping $675B in 2018. And according to a recent report by Cleveland Research Company, accommodations also happen to represent the largest, fastest growing, and most profitable segment of the online travel market. So, how much of that $675B is credited to Airbnb and other short-term rental opportunities?Margot Schmorak is the cofounder and CEO of Hostfully, the SaaS company that helps short-term rental hosts save time, make more money and deliver a five-star experience by way of beautiful, personalized guidebooks for guests. Today, she joins me to discuss the Cleveland Research Company’s latest report on the global accommodations market, comparing the numbers for traditional vacation rentals and the sharing economy as well as the growth rates for each type of booking.Margot and I go on to cover the EU controversy around short-term rental transparency, explaining how Airbnb listings there are required to show the real price, fees included, from the start. Listen in for insight around Airbnb’s increase in Instant Book listings, the site’s new search tools for business travelers, and the recent launch of Airbnb Adventures.Topics Covered Article #1: Breaking Down the Global Accommodations and Vacation Rental Market· Global accommodations market = $675B· Vacation rentals 17%, sharing economy 6%· Sharing economy growing at 30-40%· Airbnb double revenue of Booking.com (same # of listings)Article #2: Airbnb Reaches Seven Out of Ten Properties Available for Instant Booking· All listings on Booking.com book instantly· VRBO/HomeAway 63%, Airbnb 70%· Airbnb hosts screen after booking madeArticle #3: Airbnb’s Sale of an Around-the-World Trip Has Left Some Customers Angry· 12-week Around the World in 80 Days sold out· Complexity makes difficult to scale, manageArticle #4: How to Earn Airline Miles & Points Through Airbnb· Requested during Chesky Twitter chat· Includes Delta, Qantas and ANAArticle #5: Airbnb Offers Greater Price Transparency in Europe After Regulatory Threats· Required to show real price from start (with fees)· Like to see worldwide implementationArticle #6: Airbnb Introduces New Search Tools for Business Travelers· Work trip filter under stay type· Listings highly rated by business travelersConnect with MargotHostfullyMargot on LinkedInResourcesArticle #1Article #2Article #3Airbnb AdventuresArticle #4Delta|AirbnbANA|AirbnbQantas|AirbnbInspiratoArticle #5Article #6Airbnb for WorkGPFYP Facebook GroupZapierRezfest2019 VRMA International ConferenceTo subscribe to the podcast, please use the links belowClick Here to Subscribe via iTunesClick here to Subscribe via Stitcher (Android users)If you like the show, please consider leaving the show a review in iTunesor Stitcher. A couple minutes of your time can help the show immensely! Thanks! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Back in 2018, Margot Schmorak pitched our investors on Hostfully. It’s a startup that ushers old-style vacation-rental companies into the digital age. Margot ginned up a lot of excitement in the room that day. But then, she had to put her fundraising on hold. A year later we’ll find out whether she was able to get the ball rolling again.  Today's investors are Jillian Manus, Daniel Gulati, Phil Nadel and Nicole Verkindt.

In today's episode I discuss news updates in short term rental land with Margot Schmorak, CEO of Hostfully. Items discussed: Skift Forum Europe: Airbnb Is Doubling Down on ExperiencesThe Airbnb Invasion of BarcelonaAirbnb Leads $160 Million Investment Into Hospitality Startup LyricAirbnb improves security deposit featureSTR Legends Live See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The year 2018 was a very interesting one for Airbnb. In today´s podcast episode I discuss the major events that took place within the world of Airbnb with Margot Schmorak, CEO of Hostfully.What happened in 2018Airbnb hides guest profile picturesAirbnb tops 1B revenue in 2018 Airbnb shifts towards a focus on professional operators in an effort to grow horizontally Introduction of Airbnb Plus and Airbnb SelectSeveral changes in the executive board What didn´t happen in 2018 Airbnb didn´t IPO but expected to do so in 2019The Airbnb Open didn´t take place and probably won´t in the future eitherThe much requested loyalty program wasn´t introducedConnect with Margot Email: margot@hostfully.comWebsite: www.hostfully.comConnect with JasperEmail: jasper@getpaidforyourpad.comTwitter: @GetPaidForUrPadInstagram: @GetPaidForYourPad Facebook: www.facebook.com/getpaidforyourpadAirbnb News Facebook GroupTo subscribe to the podcast, please use the links belowClick Here to Subscribe via iTunesClick here to Subscribe via Stitcher (Android users)If you like the show, please consider leaving the show a review in iTunesor Stitcher. A couple minutes of your time can help the show immensely! Thanks! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Margot Schmorak says half of all vacation rentals aren't listed online—and she sees that as a big opportunity for her startup. But things get messy in the pitch room when Margot reveals that Hostfully comes with a little extra baggage. Today's investors are Jillian Manus, Daniel Gulati, Phil Nadel, and Nicole Verkindt. You'll find Margot's AMA hosted on the /r/Entrepreneur subreddit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens behind the scenes in the merger of two fast-growing startups? Margot Schmorak, the Co-founder + CEO of Hostfully, shares the story about joining forces with another early-stage startup to give vacation rental companies a better way to manage and scale their business. Learn how Margot successfully managed the merging company cultures, CRMs, customer support efforts, and investors. Full show notes: http://backstagecapital.com/podcast/hostfully-merger/ Credits: Executive Producer: Arlan Hamilton Host + Producer: Bryan Landers Theme by: Janine Additional Music by: Birocratic

It was a quiet news week for Airbnb, though the themes of acquisitions, group travel and regulations remain top of mind.This week, Jasper chats with Margot Schmorak, CEO and Co-Founder of Hostfully. They deliberate Airbnb’s recent acquisition of micropayments platform Tilt as well as an interesting perspective on regulations that appeared on BaconsRebellion.com this week.Margot also covers her recent Airbnb experiences in Hawaii, offering feedback to hosts regarding consistency and responsiveness, and Jasper shares a recent investment that will make his international travels easier – and more exclusive!Topics CoveredArticle #1: Airbnb Buys Tilt, Signaling Its Growing Interest in Group Travel•Micropayment platform that had early success on college campuses•Tilt talent now part of Airbnb•Indicates a plan to enter the group travel spaceArticle #2: Just a Thought: Instead of Extending Regs to Airbnb Rentals, Let’s Roll Back Regs on Hotels•The hotel lobby argues that Airbnb should be subject to the same regulations•Due to sites like Yelp, some of these consumer protections may be obsolete•Author suggests a review and reduction of the current regulationsMargot’s Feedback for Airbnb Hosts•Consider interviewing your guests to find out what stood out•Highlight what differentiates you in the listing title•Be sure the information you provide guests is accurate•It is better to under-promise and overdeliver than to create unrealistic expectationsJasper’s New Membership in JetSmarter•Airbnb for private jets•Unlimited flights for $15,000 annual membership•Less hassle at the airport•Worthwhile for travelers who take several international flights per yearResources MentionedArticle #1: fastcompany.com/3068446/new-money/airbnb-buys-tilt-signaling-its-growing-interest-in-group-travelArticle #2: baconsrebellion.com/heres-an-idea-instead-of-extending-regs-to-airbnb-rentals-lets-roll-back-regs-on-hotels-and-bbs/jetsmarter.com Connect with JasperEmail: jasper@getpaidforyourpad.comTwitter: @GetPaidForUrPadInstagram: @GetPaidForYourPad Facebook: www.facebook.com/getpaidforyourpadThis episode is sponsored by Aviva IQ. Aviva IQ automates messages to your Airbnb guests. It's also free! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Trump is on our radar again this week as his travel ban on refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries has left travelers stranded at airports all over the world.Jasper is joined by Margot Schmorak, CEO and Co-founder of Hostfully, to discuss the details of Airbnb’s response to the executive order and tech executives speaking out against the policy.In other news, Jasper and Margot cover Airbnb’s milestone in becoming profitable in the second half of 2016, a complementary service (Traveling Spoon) that offers travelers a meaningful cultural experience, and Jasper’s personal update regarding an exciting new investment.Some of the topics coveredArticle #1: Airbnb Offers Free Housing to People Stranded by Immigration Order •CEO Brian Chesky is soliciting volunteers to host people in need •Airbnb will subsidize the cost in locations where free housing is unavailableArticle #2: Airbnb Reaches Profitability •Significant because other sharing economy firms are still losing money •Uber lost 3 billion last year •Airbnb still has nearly all the $3 billion in funding raised •Success attributed to growth and lack of competition •Airbnb steals some market share from the hotel industry, but it is also expanding the market •31% of users in the last 12 months switched from staying with friends and family •HomeAway’s pricing model and site design prevent it from becoming a true competitorArticle #3: Traveling Spoon, An Airbnb For Home-Cooked Dinners Globally, Launches With $870K in Funding •Offers home-cooked meals and cooking classes with the best home cooks around the world •Potential complementary service to market to Airbnb guestsJasper’s Personal News •Investment in penthouse in Cali, Colombia •Building allows short stay rentals •Will provide high-end accommodations in an area where few are availableResources MentionedAirbnb Volunteer Link to Host RefugeesArticle #1: techcrunch.com/2017/01/29/airbnb-free-housing-immigration-banArticle #2: businessinsider.com/airbnb-reaches-profitability-2017-1Article #3: techcrunch.com/2015/09/16/traveling-spoon/travelingspoon.comeatwith.comeatfeastly.com Connect with JasperEmail: jasper@getpaidforyourpad.comTwitter: @GetPaidForUrPadInstagram: @GetPaidForYourPad Facebook: www.facebook.com/getpaidforyourpadThis episode is sponsored by Aviva IQ. Aviva IQ automates messages to your Airbnb guests. It's also free! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Travel time on Female Seeeking Start-up! Margot Schmorak, CEO and Co-Founder of Hostfully, a virtual travel concierge aimed at vacation rental hosts, shares her journey from high tech marketing exec to CEO and Co-founder of a fast growing start-up.

Judge Faith visits Female Seeking Startup and shares how she brings a new tech-informed social media awareness to her tv court room. Also Fran and Kym answer questions from entrepreneurs on how to get funding and media attention. Great tips for everyone. Next week Margot Schmorak, co-founder of Hostfully, producer of local guidebooks for vacation rental hosts.