Podcasts about stayfi

This Episode is Sponsored by StayFi Your ultimate tool for Vacation Rental WiFi marketing allowing you to collect guest emails automatically via custom captive WiFi login splash pages. Drive repeat direct bookings and convert your OTA bookings to book direct for their next visit. Visit https://stayfi.com/vrsuccess/ and use code VRSUCCESS for 50% off 3 months of StayFi service. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Jodi Bourne is back for the latest installment of the new regular segment with Heather, built around a simple premise: AI is moving fast, and the two of them are going to keep working through it together, out loud, for listeners who want to come along. This conversation goes deeper into the practical mechanics of working with Claude. Heather and Jodi talk through connectors (MCPs that link Claude to tools like Gmail, Google Drive, Asana, and accounting software), skills (saved, reusable instruction sets that replace the old habit of copying and pasting prompts), and what both of them call their AI business brain - a structured foundational document that teaches Claude who you are, what you sell, and how you sound, before you ask it to produce anything. You'll come away with a clear starting point: build the foundation first, connect the tools you already use, and create one simple skill - Jodi's suggestion is a daily "morning coffee" briefing - before trying to do anything more ambitious. Key Takeaways AI output defaults to generic. The fix isn't a better prompt - it's a structured foundation document (Jodi calls hers the Hospitality Brand Bible; Heather calls hers her Business Brain) that teaches the model your business, voice, and audience before you ask it to create anything. Building that foundation properly is not a five-minute job. Heather recommends setting aside the better part of a day and using reverse prompting - asking Claude to interview you, question by question, until it has a full picture of your business. Connectors (MCPs) link Claude directly to the tools already in use - Gmail, Google Drive, Google Calendar, Asana, accounting platforms - so requests can be carried out end to end instead of copying information back and forth manually. Skills replace the old habit of maintaining a library of saved prompts. A skill is a reusable, named instruction set that automatically pulls in the right reference documents and brand voice without being told to every time. The recommended first skill for anyone starting out is a daily briefing - a "morning coffee" routine that summarizes email, flags anything unanswered, and reviews the calendar - because it is simple, immediately useful, and teaches the basics of how skills work. AI will hallucinate and occasionally get things wrong with total confidence. Both hosts were emphatic that nothing goes out the door - a guest bio, an email, an Instacart order - without a human checking it first. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

On Monday's Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast, Brandreth Canaley, Michael Goldin, and Jamie Lane break down three platform moves that sound host-friendly on the surface but deserve a much closer look. The conversation opens with Airbnb's first fintech product — a cancel-for-any-reason feature that auto-enrolled hosts without requiring an opt-in. Hosts still get paid, but still have to scramble. From there, the team unpacks what one week of FIFA World Cup 2026™ - Canada, Mexico and the United States data actually tells operators about pricing strategy for the knockout rounds, with RevPAR up across all host markets but occupancy down in six of nine. They close with American Express's $700 million acquisition of TheFork and why dining reservations might be the next front in the battle for the guest relationship. This episode is presented by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Cloudbeds⁠⁠⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠⁠⁠Bilt⁠⁠⁠⁠. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠cloudbeds.com/gmh⁠⁠⁠⁠ to learn more. And for hotels with restaurants and restaurant owners, Bilt Hospitality is finally here. Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠joinbilt.com/gmh⁠⁠⁠⁠ to learn more. And if you're leaving direct bookings on the table, StayFi turns your wifi into a guest relationship engine. Visit ⁠⁠⁠https://stayfi.com/goodmorninghospitality/⁠⁠⁠ to learn more.

On this week's Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast: Hotels Edition, Steve Turk and guest host Katie Cline break down a week where consolidation is happening at every layer of the hotel industry at once. The conversation opens with NORWEGIAN AIR UK LIMITED's $843 million bet to acquire Nordic Leisure Travel Group AB Group and own the entire travel value chain from flights to hotels. The number that explains the deal: NLTG's owned hotels are 25% of its holiday volume but 60% of its gross profit. From there, Steve and Katie dig into IHG Hotels & Resorts' CEO, making the case that eight years of tech investment is finally showing up in franchisee margins, and close with RealTime Reservation's acquisition of STAY and what unified ancillary revenue tech actually means for total RevPAR. This episode is presented by ⁠⁠⁠Cloudbeds⁠⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠⁠Bilt⁠⁠⁠. Visit ⁠⁠⁠cloudbeds.com/gmh⁠⁠⁠ to learn more. And for hotels with restaurants and restaurant owners, Bilt Hospitality is finally here. Go to ⁠⁠⁠joinbilt.com/gmh⁠⁠⁠ to learn more. And if you're leaving direct bookings on the table, StayFi turns your wifi into a guest relationship engine. Visit ⁠⁠https://stayfi.com/goodmorninghospitality/⁠⁠ to learn more.

On Monday's Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast, Brandreth Canaley, Michael Goldin, and Jamie Lane break down where STR demand is actually coming from right now and who controls the guest relationship as platforms make their next big bets. The conversation opens with the FIFA World Cup 2026™ - Canada, Mexico and the United States booking story every operator in a host market needs to hear. Hotels priced up and set minimums and the surge has not arrived the way anyone expected. Short-term rental bookings tell a different story, with host market reservations more than doubling since April. From there, the team digs into Vrbo's launch of sponsored listings and what a paid visibility layer means for independent hosts, and closes with Brian Chesky's bet that creators are Airbnb's next big Experiences opportunity and what that means for the operators already building businesses on the platform. This episode is presented by ⁠⁠⁠Cloudbeds⁠⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠⁠Bilt⁠⁠⁠. Visit ⁠⁠⁠cloudbeds.com/gmh⁠⁠⁠ to learn more. And for hotels with restaurants and restaurant owners, Bilt Hospitality is finally here. Go to ⁠⁠⁠joinbilt.com/gmh⁠⁠⁠ to learn more. And if you're leaving direct bookings on the table, StayFi turns your wifi into a guest relationship engine. Visit ⁠⁠https://stayfi.com/goodmorninghospitality/⁠⁠ to learn more.

On this week's Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast: Hotels Edition, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk break down why hotel AI is stuck on the wrong side of the ledger and what it will take to flip it. The conversation opens with Mews founder Richard Valtr making the case at Skift's Data and AI Summit that fragmented hotel data is the reason AI keeps cutting costs instead of driving revenue. From there Sarah and Steve dig into what Apple's rebuilt Siri means for how guests will find and interact with travel, Alaska Airlines' bet that Starlink wifi is a better loyalty driver than points for basic economy travelers, and why Delta Air Lines is expanding American Express card benefits without raising fees while every competitor goes the other direction. This episode is presented by ⁠⁠Cloudbeds⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠Bilt⁠⁠. Visit ⁠⁠cloudbeds.com/gmh⁠⁠ to learn more. And for hotels with restaurants and restaurant owners, Bilt Hospitality is finally here. Go to ⁠⁠joinbilt.com/gmh⁠⁠ to learn more. And if you're leaving direct bookings on the table, StayFi turns your wifi into a guest relationship engine. Visit ⁠https://stayfi.com/goodmorninghospitality/⁠ to learn more.

On this week's Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast: Hotels Edition, Sarah Dandashy and Steve Turk break down why hotel AI is stuck on the wrong side of the ledger and what it will take to flip it. The conversation opens with Mews founder Richard Valtr making the case at Skift's Data and AI Summit that fragmented hotel data is the reason AI keeps cutting costs instead of driving revenue. From there Sarah and Steve dig into what Apple's rebuilt Siri means for how guests will find and interact with travel, Alaska Airlines' bet that Starlink wifi is a better loyalty driver than points for basic economy travelers, and why Delta Air Lines is expanding American Express card benefits without raising fees while every competitor goes the other direction. This episode is presented by ⁠⁠Cloudbeds⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠Bilt⁠⁠. Visit ⁠⁠cloudbeds.com/gmh⁠⁠ to learn more. And for hotels with restaurants and restaurant owners, Bilt Hospitality is finally here. Go to ⁠⁠joinbilt.com/gmh⁠⁠ to learn more. And if you're leaving direct bookings on the table, StayFi turns your wifi into a guest relationship engine. Visit ⁠https://stayfi.com/goodmorninghospitality/⁠ to learn more.

Download the Guest Contact Info Capture Checklist Your Airbnb account can change overnight. Algorithm shifts, fee increases, a sudden suspension, and if your entire guest relationship lives inside the platform, you have nothing. In this episode, Tim walks through 10 platform-compliant ways to collect your guests' real contact info, legally, automatically, and without sending a single message that could put your listing at risk. The in-property QR code strategy that converts at the highest-intent moment of any guest stay — and why the offer matters more than the placement How WiFi login tools like Stayfi turn a giveaway you're already offering into an automatic email capture that runs in the background 24/7 Why your Stripe dashboard may already hold dozens of real guest emails you've never used — and how to start putting them to work The exact post-stay message approach that stays compliant with OTA terms while sending guests directly to your own contact form How listing on Google Vacation Rentals and VRBO direct changes the contact info equation entirely — every booking comes with real data by default If this episode helped you see your guest list differently, subscribe so you never miss what's next. Share it with a host who's still relying entirely on platform traffic — it could be the most important thing they hear this year. See you in the next one. Check out our videos on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ShortTermRentalRiches Grab your free management eBook: https://strriches.com/#tools-resources Looking to earn more with your property (without the headaches)? Chat with our expert management team: https://strriches.com/management-services/  

On Monday's Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast, Brandreth Canaley, Michael Goldin, and Jamie Lane break down what AI is actually doing to travel economics and operations right now. The conversation opens with a story that stops you in your tracks: one traveler used Claude to run 881,076 searches on Etihad Airways to find one flight. The infrastructure cost of that search exceeded the commission. From there, the team digs into Brian Chesky's move to build an AI lab outside of Airbnb and what it signals about the platform's AI strategy, before closing with a look at what real AI adoption looks like at scale through Evolve's playbook of deflecting 60% of guest inquiries without human intervention. This episode is presented by ⁠Cloudbeds⁠ & ⁠Bilt⁠. Visit ⁠cloudbeds.com/gmh⁠ to learn more. And for hotels with restaurants and restaurant owners, Bilt Hospitality is finally here. Go to ⁠joinbilt.com/gmh⁠ to learn more. And if you're leaving direct bookings on the table, StayFi turns your wifi into a guest relationship engine. Visit https://stayfi.com/goodmorninghospitality/ to learn more.

On Monday's Good Morning Hospitality, A Skift Podcast, Brandreth Canaley, Michael Goldin, and Jamie Lane break down what AI is actually doing to travel economics and operations right now. The conversation opens with a story that stops you in your tracks: one traveler used Claude to run 881,076 searches on Etihad Airways to find one flight. The infrastructure cost of that search exceeded the commission. From there, the team digs into Brian Chesky's move to build an AI lab outside of Airbnb and what it signals about the platform's AI strategy, before closing with a look at what real AI adoption looks like at scale through Evolve's playbook of deflecting 60% of guest inquiries without human intervention. This episode is presented by ⁠Cloudbeds⁠ & ⁠Bilt⁠. Visit ⁠cloudbeds.com/gmh⁠ to learn more. And for hotels with restaurants and restaurant owners, Bilt Hospitality is finally here. Go to ⁠joinbilt.com/gmh⁠ to learn more. And if you're leaving direct bookings on the table, StayFi turns your wifi into a guest relationship engine. Visit https://stayfi.com/goodmorninghospitality/ to learn more.

Send us Fan MailThere are 10+ marketing and advertising channels which should you invest in? We break down a practical, trackable way to drive more direct bookings for outdoor hospitality using better creative, Meta ads, landing pages and email nurture. We also share what we have learned the hard way about OTAs, influencer marketing, pixels, and where AI can genuinely help operators and marketing teams. • prioritising high-quality video content over higher ad spend • treating Meta creative as the main driver of performance • allocating launch budget towards content creation and Meta ads • weighing influencer “exposure” against trackable paid social ROI • deciding when Google Ads and SEO are worth it for a property • building a direct booking funnel with landing pages and email capture • using Meta Pixel and conversion events to optimise for bookings • creating clearer customer avatars and committing to one niche • understanding creative volume and stage-based ads after Andromeda • benchmarking cost per booking against OTA commissions • using StayFi to capture guest details and enable upsells • applying AI for property knowledge bases, concierge replies and pricing ideas Learn more or book a call at hiddengem.media Follow @dustindeanbaker and @hiddengem.staysWe work really hard to bring you the best content from the best operators in our industry and we do it all absolutely free of charge. All we ask is that you consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so we can keep the momentum going. Simply go to the homepage of the podcast and scroll down till you see the stars. Thanks for your support and let's keep getting more people outside.This podcast is powered by Sage Outdoor Advisory the industry leaders in feasibility studies and appraisals. 

Short-term rental hosts are waking up to a hard truth: Airbnb and Vrbo bring the bookings, but they keep the guest relationship. In this episode, we sit down with StayFi founder Arthur Colker to unpack how Wi-Fi-based guest data collection can help hosts and property managers build their own brands, drive more direct bookings, and reduce reliance on OTAs. Arthur shares the origin story of StayFi, why Wi-Fi captive portals are such a powerful marketing entry point, and how their built-in email tools turn past guests into repeat, direct bookers. We also dig into real-world results from Pride Away Stays, the launch of StayFinder as a direct-booking meta search tool, and what the future looks like for hosts who truly want to own the guest experience from first click to check-out.Things we discussed in this episode:Hosts lose guest data and relationships when relying on Airbnb/VRBO.StayFi was created to capture guest info for direct bookings.Guests enter emails through a branded Wi‑Fi splash page.StayFi runs on UniFi access points or StayFi Express.Jason and Rory saw stronger Wi‑Fi and fixed a Schlage lock.They clarified why “not secure” Wi‑Fi warnings appear for guests.Automated emails help turn past guests into repeat direct bookers.Availability-based campaigns promote only properties open for specific dates.StayFinder shows OTA vs. direct prices and links to direct sites.StayFi plans managed email services and cheaper mesh hardware.Get in touch with ARTHUR:Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/a.colker/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/a_colker/?hl=enWebsite - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://stayfi.com/#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #DirectBooking #BookDirect #EmailMarketing #GuestExperience #OwnYourGuest#StayFi #StayFinder #WiFiMarketing #HospitalityTech #PropTechFollow Us!Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

What if the biggest opportunity in your STR business isn't higher ADR or better occupancy — but who actually owns your guest relationship?In this episode of The STR Data Lab, Jamie Lane sits down with Arthur Colker, CEO of StayFi, to unpack one of the most under-discussed levers in short-term rentals: guest acquisition costs and repeat demand. As OTAs continue tightening control over guest data and shifting fee structures, hosts and property managers are left asking an important question — are we building a business, or renting one?Arthur breaks down why tracking guest acquisition costs, collecting first-party data, and building a direct booking channel isn't just about avoiding platform fees. It's about increasing total occupancy, improving booking windows, and creating long-term resilience. From practical strategies for smaller operators to how advanced hosts are reaching 60%+ direct bookings, this conversation reframes direct booking as a growth strategy — not just a defensive move.If you've ever wondered whether investing in your brand, email marketing, or direct booking site is worth it — this episode delivers clarity.You don't want to miss this episode.Practical Takeaways You Can Apply NowThink beyond the booker. Every guest in the reservation is a potential future customer. Expanding your marketing mindset beyond the primary booker unlocks new repeat and referral opportunities.Consistency beats perfection. A simple monthly email — even plain-text and personalized — can outperform polished newsletters. The goal is to stay top of mind when guests are ready to book again.Direct bookings increase total occupancy — not just margins. The real ROI isn't only saving OTA fees. It's filling nights that would otherwise sit empty.Build a brand, even if you're small. Whether you have one property or ten, guests need an identity to remember. For smaller operators, your personal story and hospitality voice are the brand.Control your pricing strategy. Advanced operators often price higher on OTAs and reward direct bookings with better value — flipping the script from dependence to leverage.Sign up for AirDNA for FREE

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✅ FREE masterclass - how to earn $250K+ NET per year from Airbnb:https://buildstrwealth.com/550250masterclass✅ FREE tool and training to find your own Super Property: https://go.buildstrwealth.com/superpropertygrader

✅ FREE tool and training to find your own Super Property: https://go.buildstrwealth.com/superpropertygrader

✅ FREE tool and training to find your own Super Property: https://go.buildstrwealth.com/superpropertygrader

This episode is brought to you by StayFi — the easiest way to grow your direct bookings! ⁠Visit stayfi.com/bill and use code "BILL" for an exclusive 50% off your first three months.

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In this Hosting Hotline episode, listener Colby from Humble Abode in Australia calls in with a question many hosts are asking: Can you still nudge guests toward booking direct after their stay—even with Airbnb's updated policies?Colby has been sending post-stay messages encouraging repeat visits and direct bookings. But with Airbnb tightening its rules, is that strategy still allowed?We break down:Why post-stay messages via Airbnb's platform are now a hard noWhat is still okay when it comes to asking for reviewsHow to compliantly shift communication off-platformWhy your in-home marketing game matters more than everSimple tools and strategies (like StayFi) that keep you compliant and effectiveThe real reason you shouldn't try to outsmart Airbnb's AIPlus, we share smart alternatives to keep your marketing efforts alive—without breaking the rules.

This episode is brought to you by StayFi — the easiest way to grow your direct bookings! ⁠Visit stayfi.com/bill and use code "BILL" for an exclusive 50% off your first three months.Think you've nailed your summer pricing strategy? Think again.In this episode, I sit down with Emile Sakhel, an anesthesiologist turned STR revenue genius and founder of Pricing by Mira, live from our 2,200-acre mastermind ranch retreat. We talk about the #1 mistake most hosts make heading into peak season, the psychology behind “hedging,” and a game-changing pricing tactic you've probably never heard of: the ELF Method.Emile manages over $1M in projected revenue for my top two Outer Banks properties, and his approach has consistently outperformed traditional pricing tools and methods. If you want to maximize your bookings and keep ADR high, don't miss this one!00:00 – Intro and mastermind setting01:45 – Emile's background and W2 exit03:00 – Becoming a top revenue manager04:35 – The biggest summer pricing mistake06:00 – Changing length-of-stay rules07:25 – Pricing psychology and shorter stays09:35 – The ELF method for dynamic discounts10:10 – Applying ELF manually inside Airbnb12:10 – Why pricing tools aren't enoughEmile SakhelWebsite: www.pricingbymira.comFacebook Group: STR Revenue Management by Emile SakhelMentioned in this episode:This episode is brought to you by StayFi — the easiest way to grow your direct bookings! ⁠ Visit stayfi.com/bill and use code "BILL" for an exclusive 50% off your first three months.

If you're treating your STR like a hobby, don't expect elite-level income. In this episode, I break down the 6 core tools I use to stay in the top 0.25% of earners—from revenue management to marketing to easy-button systems that actually scale.Whether you're just getting started or ready to go all in, I'll show you what works and where most hosts go wrong.This episode is brought to you by StayFi — the easiest way to grow your direct bookings! ⁠Visit stayfi.com/bill and use code "BILL" for an exclusive 50% off your first three months.Mentioned in this episode:This episode is brought to you by StayFi — the easiest way to grow your direct bookings! ⁠ Visit stayfi.com/bill and use code "BILL" for an exclusive 50% off your first three months.

Ever wondered how AI could revolutionize your short-term rental business and save you thousands of dollars? In this episode, I sit down with Chandni Dhanjal, a bosslady who's shaking up the real estate investment world with bold, AI-powered strategies. A former tech executive turned vacation rental mogul, Chandni shares how she scaled six luxury properties across multiple states—without breaking the bank. From generating custom artwork for pennies to sourcing designer furniture at a fraction of the cost, Chandni reveals the exact tools and workflows that helped her slash expenses and build unforgettable Airbnb properties. She shows us how AI isn't just a trend—it's a transformational tool for savvy entrepreneurs ready to innovate. We dive into her five pillars of property design, her journey from tech to real estate, and how she's building a prop-tech empire that's making high-end investing more accessible than ever. This episode will open your eyes to what's possible when tech and creativity collide. This isn't the future, it's happening now! Tune in and learn how to turn AI into your rental business's secret weapon! HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:12] A short introduction about our guest Chandi Dhanji and her short-term rental journey and portfolio [03:33] Chandi talks about her strategy behind market selection and why she intentionally spread her short-term rentals across several states [05:49] Chandi's approach to integrating AI into market analysis to improve decision-making and reduce risk in short-term rental investing [08:07] Chandi talks about her idea of using AI for furnishing and design to save over $20,000 while elevating guest experience and ROI [15:39] Chandi's strategy to leveraging AI tools as a design collaborator for high-end STR efficiency [22:49] How anyone can get started with AI tools—even without tech skills [26:11] Chandi talks about how much time she spends using AI tools and how she uses them in pricing strategies to save time and money on property renovations [36:23] How Chandi delegates pricing research and uses AI-generated artwork to significantly reduce costs in her real estate projects [40:41] Chandi explains how she prints AI-generated artwork and how it enables unique, custom design solutions that save time and money [44:48] Chandi shares her plan of design innovation and creating customized decor using 3D printing [46:40] Chandi shares how experimentation, persistence, and team collaboration drive her innovation and savings [48:50] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “I'm a very data driven person. Once you decide to invest remotely, it doesn't matter if it's North Carolina, Maine or wherever it is, the drill is the same.” “You just can't pick something you like, you have to see if it is worth it.” “Don't let the jargon scare you.Think of it like an assistant. T If you have a VA or somebody the way you ask your VA or talk with the VA, just use ChatGPT like that.” “If you're putting your vision, I'm putting my vision, that is one way that we can build truly unique properties is by creating our own artwork.” “Don't forget to make life while you're making a living.” This episode is brought to you by StayFi — the easiest way to grow your direct bookings! ⁠⁠⁠http://stayfi.com/STRSisterhood⁠⁠⁠ Use the code “SISTERHOOD” at checkout for 50% off your first 3 months. AI Tools Mentioned: SketchUp: https://www.sketchup.com/ Enscape: https://www.chaos.com/enscape Google Lens: https://lens.google/ Leonardo.Ai: https://leonardo.ai/ Imagen: https://deepmind.google/technologies/imagen-3/ Let's Connect! Website: www.charmingvacationhomes.com Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

What if you could ditch expensive booking platforms and turn your brand into a magnetic force that drives real revenue—directly? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Tori Bolt to unpack how she and her husband transformed Airbnb listings into a luxury treehouse empire—without relying on OTAs. Tori shares the pivotal moment that changed everything—and how one bold decision led them to walk away from traditional booking platforms and build a direct-booking model that fuels every reservation they now receive. With zero hospitality background, they leaned into passion, persistence, and purpose to build something unforgettable. We dive deep into the intentional design behind guest experiences that spark connection, the mindset shifts that turned them from beginners into industry leaders, and the radical clarity it took to say no to the wrong customers so they could say yes to the right ones. Tori opens up about the real challenges, the strategic moves that kept 100% of booking fees in-house, and how they built an Instagram following of over 600,000 by focusing on content that converts, not just entertains. This isn't just another marketing episode—it's a blueprint for breaking free from conventional business models and building a brand that's driven by purpose, not just profits. If you're ready to reclaim your bookings, grow with intention, and turn your business into something guests can't stop talking about—this episode is your launchpad! HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:16] A short introduction about our guest Tori Bolt and her journey of founding and scaling Bolt Farm Treehouse, a mountaintop luxury glamping retreat in Tennessee [03:32] What was the original spark that ignited Tori's journey to begin Bolt Farm Treehouse [07:27] Tori talks about the intentionally crafted environment at Bolt Farm Treehouse and how it fosters presence, connection, and the flow state [10:15] How the decision to embrace an adults-only policy at Bolt Farm Treehouse clarified their brand and strengthened guest satisfaction [18:36] Tori's approach to mastering delegation in order to scale the business, reclaim time, and focus on high-impact leadership tasks [22:44] Tori explains Bolt Farm's bold shift to 100% direct bookings and the importance of owning your platform [30:04] Tori reveals what is Bolt Farm's channels for customer acquisition for brand awareness and direct bookings [30:54] Tori's three-part formula for growing a 600K+ Instagram following and driving meaningful business result [35:14] The mindset shift from going it alone to investing in mentorship—and how it radically transformed their business [40:51] Tori shares how she and her husband now host hands-on workshops at Bolt Farm, offering a full-access experience to a small group of entrepreneurs in the short-term rental space [44:07] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “Be true to yourself, your brand. Know your brand and your brand identity; your goal is not to make everybody happy.” “It's absolutely necessary to delegate. If you want to scale and if you want to grow your team, you cannot do everything yourself.” “As soon as you can build trust, you can get people to go direct; and just highlight the reasons why they should go direct.” “I truly believe that mindset is everything. It's the foundation for success. Because the only way that you can truly fail is if you quit.” “If you believe in yourself and believe in what you're looking to build, I believe one of the fastest and best ways to get there is to surround yourself with other people who have been there, because, again, you can plug right into them and not have to reinvent the wheel or live with the mistakes.” This episode is brought to you by StayFi — the easiest way to grow your direct bookings! ⁠⁠http://stayfi.com/STRSisterhood⁠⁠ Use the code “SISTERHOOD” at checkout for 50% off your first 3 months. Let's Connect! Website: boltfarmtreehouse.com Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly how I've become the most recognized name in multiple industries by using a local celebrity strategy—and how you can do the same thing in just 100 days.I'll walk you through:The “Kardashian Effect” (and what it has to do with STRs)Why co-hosts and property owners should stop chasing and start attractingA step-by-step plan to become the most known and trusted name in one high-value marketHow to use short weekly videos and $3/day ads to build a following that brings leads in on autopilotWhat to say, how to say it, and when to drop your first CTA for max conversionWhether you're a new co-host or a seasoned investor, this is the most overlooked (and most powerful) growth strategy in the game.This episode is brought to you by StayFi — the easiest way to grow your direct bookings! ⁠Visit stayfi.com/bill and use code "BILL" for an exclusive 50% off your first three months.Mentioned in this episode:This episode is brought to you by StayFi — the easiest way to grow your direct bookings! ⁠ Visit stayfi.com/bill and use code "BILL" for an exclusive 50% off your first three months.

Montana is hands down my favorite place on earth—and I've done over $9M in deals there in the last two years. In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly where the real opportunities still exist (and where you're just paying for the name).From fly fishing rivers to ski-in/ski-out condos, Lauren Taylor and I are covering the markets that actually cash flow—and the ones I'm still investing in today. If you've been sleeping on Montana or assuming it's all hype, this will change your mind.This episode is brought to you by StayFi — the easiest way to grow your direct bookings! ⁠Visit stayfi.com/bill and use code "BILL" for an exclusive 50% off your first three months.➤ Lauren Taylor – STR-focused real estate agent covering Whitefish, Bozeman, Paradise Valley, Red Lodge, and more▸ Website: https://www.ltremontana.com▸ Phone: 406-595-0286✅ FREE tool and training to grade properties instantly & spot winners faster: https://go.buildstrwealth.com/superpropertygrader✅ FREE Proforma - know exactly how much a property will make before you buy: https://buildstrwealth.com/proforma✅ FREE DTI Calculator - determine your bankability before you apply for a loan: https://buildstrwealth.com/dticalculator✅ FREE masterclass - how to earn $250K+ NET per year from Airbnb: https://buildstrwealth.com/masterclass00:00 – Why I Keep Coming Back to Montana02:35 – Is Montana Just “Yellowstone” Hype?05:20 – What You Can (and Can't) Buy with $1M08:45 – How I Made $200K on a $950K Riverfront Property12:15 – Why Ski Condos Are Crushing in Summer Too15:58 – These Montana Towns Are Flying Under the Radar20:40 – The STR Strategy No One's Talking About25:30 – The $3.4M Sale That Appreciated 20% in 7 MonthsSocial & Website Links

What if your weekly calendar was designed to fit your life—and not the other way around? In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Melissa Mondzelewski—a powerhouse mom of four, Airbnb host, short-term rental entrepreneur, and master of intentional living. Melissa pulls back the curtain on how she structures her “ideal week”—a flexible, evolving framework that helps her stay grounded in what matters most while managing a thriving Airbnb business, motherhood, and personal growth. From themed workdays to long-term vision planning, Melissa shares the systems and routines that keep her short-term rental business running smoothly without sacrificing her sanity. We dive into how she balances hosting, handles disruptions in her Airbnb operations, and embraces delegation as a key to growth. This isn't about rigid schedules or perfection—it's about creating a week that aligns with your life, your business goals, and your values. Whether you're managing one vacation rental or scaling a portfolio of Airbnbs, Melissa's approach will inspire you to rethink what balance and productivity look like as a short-term rental host. If you're ready for more alignment, more ease, and more clarity in how you run your Airbnb or short-term rental business (and your life!), this episode is your permission slip to build success your way. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:09] A short introduction about our guest Melissa Mondzelewski and how she got started in the world of short-term rentals [03:44] Melissa talks about how balancing motherhood and business requires constant adjustment and shares that her “ideal week” evolves regularly [05:03] Melissa's ideal week concept and how it evolved from managing a busy family schedule to setting firm personal and family priorities first [08:29] Melissa share her experience and approach to navigating disruptions and prioritizing family over business during a crisis [11:27] Melissa share her weekly planning tools and strategies for family and business balance [16:31] Melissa's advice for non-planners highlights how planning helps manage stress and progress toward goals [23:19] How Melissa manages guest communications for her four properties and the importance of delegation [29:03] How  Melissa structures her workweek to keep herself on track and productive [32:56] Melissa shares how she structures her workdays, incorporating creative time and flexibility [36:48] How Melissa handles the unpredictability of her schedule and the importance of avoiding overwhelm [42:12] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “There are certain things that I just won't compromise on. I won't compromise on my kids schedule. I won't compromise on my workouts. I won't compromise, doing family stuff. So when I create my ideal week, all of that goes into my week first, then I put the business stuff in.” “I think you really need to have that five year vision of where you want to go. And if you don't have that five year vision, you're never going to get there.” “I think those priorities come front and center, and they're always there to remind us, hey, I have a business. I love my business, but my family comes first.” “Be true to yourself and your values; find your why and just stick to it.” “Talk to yourself like you would your best friend.” This episode is brought to you by StayFi — the easiest way to grow your direct bookings! ⁠http://stayfi.com/STRSisterhood⁠ Use the code “SISTERHOOD” at checkout for 50% off your first 3 months. Let's Connect! Website: https://www.stylishstay.com/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

This episode is brought to you by StayFi — the easiest way to grow your direct bookings! ⁠Visit stayfi.com/bill and use code "BILL" for an exclusive 50% off your first three months.In this episode, Bill sits down with the legendary Avery Carl, CEO of The Short Term Shop and one of the top-selling STR agents in the country, to talk all things vacation markets, lowball offers, and smart investing in a high-interest economy.From scoring a $1.275M home on 30A for just $815K to breaking down why luxury STRs are struggling while one-bedrooms in the Smokies are thriving, Avery holds nothing back.

What does it really take to build a thriving Airbnb or short-term rental business—without burning out or sacrificing what matters most? In this game-changing episode of The STR Sisterhood Podcast, I sit down with Carrie Drier, a Northern Michigan entrepreneur who has successfully scaled her short-term rental portfolio while staying true to her peace, her personal life, and her core values. Carrie pulls back the curtain on her real, unfiltered journey of growing a profitable Airbnb and vacation rental business with purpose and intention—proving that success doesn't have to come at the cost of your well-being. Inside this episode, we dive into: Carrie's early days as a real estate investor and Airbnb host How embracing uncertainty led to both purpose and profit The mindset shifts that helped her overcome fear and take bold action The systems and strategies she uses to scale her short-term rental business—without losing the personal touch that sets her apart The hard lessons she learned about managing expectations (especially her own!) If you've ever dreamed of growing your Airbnb or vacation rental business your way—aligned with your values and vision for life—this episode is your permission slip to make it happen. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:11] A short introduction about our guest Carrie Drier and what inspired her to dive into short term rentals [03:27] Carrie reflects on her initial thoughts when her husband suggested they move to Traverse City and become real estate investors [08:45] Carrie discusses how she taps into her gut feelings to stay true to herself, prioritizing balance, family, and personal happiness [12:04] Carrie shares how her journey of self-discovery taught her it's okay to pivot, embrace discomfort, and stay true to her desires, creating an authentic life despite others' perceptions of failure [18:35] What are Carrie's game-changing systems for scaling her portfolio while maintaining a personal touch [24:11] Carrie shares how creating distance from her work helped her to break free from the limiting belief around pricing [31:03] Carrie shares her experience navigating the challenges of building a team while balancing her naturally high expectations with her desire to avoid conflict [35:55] The emotional and logistical consequences of keeping a team member who isn't the right fit [41:00] The importance of paying yourself, creating separation between personal finances and the business [44:53] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “This is your life, and you need to be living it the way that you want to live it.” “Try, I believe should be removed from everyone's vocabulary, because I feel like it is a dangerous word, because it gives us an excuse for not actually stepping into the person or the human we want to be.” “For me, it has been a learning curve on hiring people, and I think by letting go of the people that I know aren't going to work has been really helpful for me to find the people that do work.” “Whether you have one property, 100 properties, or anything in between, we are operating businesses. And when we make that mindset shift that we have to be the leader of a business, things tend to actually get executed very differently.” “Find the gratitude, find the joy. There's a silver lining in everything. Sometimes it's harder to see that silver lining, especially in the midst of the struggle, but it's often revealed to us only when we're looking for it. This episode is brought to you by StayFi — the easiest way to grow your direct bookings! http://stayfi.com/STRSisterhoodUse the code “SISTERHOOD” at checkout for 50% off your first 3 months. Let's Connect! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roostnorthrentals https://www.instagram.com/carrie.drier/ Website: https://www.roostnorth.com/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

Airbnb's new Off-Platform and Fee Transparency Policy has left a lot of hosts wondering: Can you still use tools like StayFi to collect guest emails?Today on the Hosting Hotline, Natasha calls in with a smart and timely question—and we bring in the best person to answer it: Arthur Colker, CEO of StayFi.In this episode, we cover:How Airbnb's updated policy affects communication and guest data collectionWhat it means to have guests “opt in” under the new rulesWhy StayFi's WiFi marketing and email tools are still compliant (and important!)How to use this moment as an opportunity for a full business compliance checkOur own experience continuing to use StayFi for both our urban STRs and new glamping propertyIf you're focused on building your direct booking strategy while staying fully compliant, this is an important conversation you won't want to miss.Resources:The Hidden Truth: Why Most Airbnb Hosts Fail (And How to Succeed) | Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more host strategies and support!Airbnb Off-Platform and Fee Transparency PolicyLearn more about StayFi and get 50% off your first 3 monthsMentioned in this episode:Make More Money in 2025! Join us for a Pricing Boot Camp!Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment TodayMake More Money in 2025! Join us for a Pricing Boot Camp!

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!

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

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

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

Meet Arthur Colker, the founder of StayFi,a marketing platform for short-term rental hosts and operators. Arthur and I explore the evolution of marketing in the vacation rental industry. Since StayFi's inception back in 2018, Arthur has observed a dramatic shift in how hospitality entrepreneurs and property managers approach marketing, especially as reliance on OTAs like Airbnb has become less sustainable. Arthur and I discuss The rise of direct booking strategies and the importance of diversifying demand channels. Creative ways property managers are generating ancillary revenue, from upsells to unique guest experiences. How StayFi is empowering short-term rental operators to build email marketing campaigns that capture guest data and drive direct bookings with minimal effort. The role of social media versus SEO and other marketing channels in 2024. And so much more Whether you're a vacation rental host with one property or a property manager with a large portfolio, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you future-proof your business. This episode is brought to you by StayFi. StayFi makes it easy to collect data from and market to every single person staying in your short-term rental. StayFi lets you create a custom branded WiFi splash page similar to what you might experience when logging onto the WiFi network at your favorite coffee shop.  This means you can collect the name, email address, and phone number  from every guest staying with you, not just the one who booked…because who doesn't need to use the WiFi. The best part is that once you have their information, you can use StayFi's email and text marketing tools to keep in touch and make sure they become a guest for life.  Head on over to StayFi.com and be sure to use the code “BTS” at checkout for 50% off your first 3 months. 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.