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The STR Sisterhood

Stacey St. John

Whether you’re brand new to Airbnb or an experienced Superhost, you’re giving yourself the gift of financial freedom and FUN when you enter the short-term rental space. If there’s anyone who knows this, it’s Stacey St. John. She built a 7-figure STR portfolio in less than two years and was able to leave her W2 thanks to the earnings from her properties. Today, she’s living the life she was always meant to live – on her terms. And on her new podcast, The STR Sisterhood, she’s sharing how you can, too!
On this show, it’s all about you and your short-term rental journey. You’ll hear actionable advice from industry experts as well as inspiring stories from real women about their experiences, achievements, frustrations, and challenges…and how they’ve managed to turn their short-term rental dreams into reality. If you’re an ambitious woman who’s looking to have a 5-star Airbnb business on your hands without having to sacrifice the things you love, then tune in every week for all the goodness!

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  • 21 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 45 min
  • English

Episodes 21

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  • Tuesday · 54 min

    Back to Basics: What Really Makes a Great Short-Term Rental Host with Jodie Odlin

    There’s no shortage of information about short-term rentals. Podcasts. YouTube videos. Facebook groups. AI. Courses. Conferences. Tools. Software. In fact, sometimes there’s so much information that figuring out what you actually need to do next becomes the hard part. And if you’re a newer host, it can leave you wondering whether you’re really ready to do this at all. In this episode, I’m sitting down with my friend Jodie Odlin, short-term rental host, hospitality professional, and creator of the Hospitable Hosts book series, to talk about what actually makes someone a great host — and spoiler alert: it isn’t having every piece of technology, every fancy amenity, or every system perfectly dialed in. Sometimes, you need to get back to basics. We talk about the difference between simply owning a short-term rental and truly understanding hospitality, why more information doesn’t necessarily create better hosts, and how to turn what you’re learning into action instead of allowing it to become another source of overwhelm. Jodie also shares one of the biggest mistakes she made in her own STR business — waiting years to collect guest email addresses — and why building relationships with your guests beyond the OTAs matters. And because this is a conversation between Jodie and me, we somehow take a rather unexpected detour into… beekeeping. 🐝 Yes. Beekeeping. But even that conversation brings us right back to one of the biggest themes of this episode: you don’t have to know everything before you begin. You learn. You ask questions. You find people who are ahead of you. And then you take action. We also talk about the power of being in the room with other hosts, the upcoming STR Hospitality Summit, burnout in our industry, and the advice Jodie carries with her when business — or life — feels particularly hard. If you’ve been consuming ALL the information but still find yourself wondering what you should actually be doing next, this conversation is for you. Join the STR Hospitality Summit: https://theglobalhospitalitycollective.com/summit HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:08] A short introduction about our guest Jodie Odlin and how her hospitality background inspired her to educate short-term rental hosts through storytelling [06:19] Jodie explains the difference between simply owning a short-term rental and truly understanding hospitality [10:54] Jodie shares why more information can overwhelm hosts instead of making them better—and why going back to the basics matters [15:39] The hard lesson that taught Jodie to stop relying entirely on OTAs and start building direct guest relationships [20:12] Jodie shares the unexpected story of how she became a beekeeper after volunteering to learn from a woman whose husband had recently passed away and left behind a beehive [25:33] Jodie draws a clear distinction between having access to information and actually being educated [28:20] Jodie highlights how sharing what you know can help others, no matter where you are in your hosting journey [33:05] How connecting with other hosts creates practical learning, fresh ideas, and space to recharge [36:15] Jodie gives listeners a closer look at what to expect from the STR Hospitality Summit, emphasizing that the event is designed to combine practical education, connection, fun, and wellness [41:50] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “Not everyone understands hospitality, and I think you don't have to. It's not all about the property. It's how you make the guest feel.” “If you set it up for success by letting the guests know, set the expectations before the guests arrive in the correct way, then you're going to have a very successful stay with your guests.” “By truly caring for the guests, caring about their experience inside of our property, and also being super communicative with them and treating them like they're a friend that wins hands down over any coffee bar or waffle bar.” “There's no point listening to this stuff or just reading the information and then not taking action with it.” “Sharing one nugget of information can be dramatically helpful for someone who is just starting out.” “Being in the same room with other people is a way to really enhance all the magic that can happen just by again empowering someone with education or encouragement.” “Just go for it, and just take one day at a time.” “Everything happens for a reason. Good or bad, there is an opportunity for us to learn from an experience.” Let’s Connect: Website : theglobalhospitalitycollective.com Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • August 18 · 45 min

    From Tax Wake-Up Call to STR Portfolio: Building Wealth Through Real Estate with Traci Capraro

    Have you ever had a single conversation completely change the way you think about money, work, and what’s possible for your future? Most professionals assume building wealth through real estate requires starting early, having perfect market timing, or making zero mistakes along the way. In this episode, I sit down with Traci Capraro, a tech sales leader, single mom of two, and founder of Take a TraCation. We’re unpacking how one unexpected tax appointment with her CPA became the catalyst for buying her first oceanfront beach condo, building a geographically diversified portfolio, and scaling a thriving co-hosting business across the Carolinas. We talk about: Transforming a tax obligation into real estate equity after her CPA gave her a wake-up call, leading to her first short-term rental purchase in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Navigating the messy realities of a "failed BRRRR," from managing high interest rates and HOA assessments to learning how to evaluate properties based on strict data rather than emotion. Mitigating coastal seasonality by intentionally diversifying into the mountains of North Carolina, successfully refinancing a college-town cabin within twelve months to fund further growth. Converting personal project documentation on social media into a co-hosting business, deploying a robust tech stack—including management platforms, PriceLabs, and Turno—to deliver five-star guest experiences. Re-engineering personal mindset through podcasts, books, and focused goal-setting, creating a resilient business model that models financial independence and entrepreneurship for her teenage sons. Traci pulls back the curtain on the day-to-day realities of balancing a demanding tech career with active real estate investing and co-hosting. You’ll hear how she navigated difficult client conversations, established firm vendor standards, and built a diversified portfolio that smooths out year-round cash flow while protecting her Superhost status and her sanity. If you’re wondering if it's too late to start investing, how to bounce forward after early missteps, or how to build a business that leaves a lasting legacy for your family, this conversation is your blueprint. Get ready to learn how to drop perfectionism and start leading your life and business with intention. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [00:46] A short introduction about our guest Traci Capraro and how a career in tech sales and single motherhood led her to build a growing co-hosting business [02:16] Traci’s tax surprise turns a tech career into a real estate investment journey across beach and mountain markets [04:57] How a simple conversation with Traci’s CPA opened her eyes to the possibilities of real estate investing and completely changed the direction of her financial future [07:35] Traci reveals how choosing lifestyle-driven investments helped her build a diversified short-term rental portfolio [09:07] Traci shares the lessons she learned from her first real estate investment, which she describes as a failed BRRRR project [13:56] How Traci’s first short-term rental and the right systems opened the door to her first co-hosting client [17:10] Traci opens up about the doubts and challenges that come with building a business, admitting that moments of uncertainty still happen—even as she continues to grow [20:12] Why choosing the right co-hosting clients has become essential to protecting Traci’s business and reputation [23:35] Traci highlights why strong cleaning systems, communication, and backup plans are critical to delivering a consistent guest experience [27:28] Traci reflects on how real estate investing and entrepreneurship transformed her mindset around wealth and what’s possible [29:55] Traci shares how personal growth, positive influences, and involving her children have shaped her entrepreneurial journey [36:39] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “Having a diversified portfolio is a way to protect ourselves from risk.” “One of the smartest things I ever did was invest in a coaching program because that coaching program taught me how to create the foundation, technology, and operations.” “If I had to start over again, I would do co-hosting in a heartbeat.” “Pumpkin planning is you pulling clients out of your business that are no longer a fit that may be costing you effort, energy, resources, so that you can go and find a right fit client for you.” “Look in the mirror and be your biggest cheerleader instead of your biggest critic.” Let’s Connect: Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/takeatracation/ Website : https://takeatracation.com/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • August 11 · 45 min

    From England to Texas: How Joanna Woods Built a Purpose-Driven STR Business Across Continents

    How do you turn one of the hardest seasons of your life into the catalyst for a hospitality business that changes not just your family’s future, but your guests’ experience too? In this episode, I sit down with Joanna Woods, a British short-term rental host and co-host who manages properties in Grapevine, Texas, all the way from her home an hour north of Liverpool. We talk about: Navigating a life-altering family shift when her son became a wheelchair user, discovering wheelchair motocross (WCMX), and purchasing a home in Grapevine, Texas, to support his international athletic competitions. Reinvesting property cash flow into high-impact experiential amenities—like transforming an acre of land to include a game barn, outdoor cinema, pool table, and cowboy pool. Managing transatlantic operations by building an elite local team and creating a family "shift pattern" to ensure 24/7 guest support despite a six-hour time difference. Leveraging the Airbnb co-host network to scale, optimizing listings by restricting calendars to three-month windows, and actively analyzing daily search and pricing data. Using AI to mine guest reviews for exact phrasing, updating property copy to speak directly to both human guests and search algorithms, and making data-driven pricing adjustments during seven-day booking windows. Joanna pulls back the curtain on how she transitioned from seeing a property as a way to cover family travel bills to operating a high-performing hospitality brand. You'll hear how she balances market metrics with heart-led hospitality, constantly refining her listings to address missing guest needs while building a business that gives her family total flexibility. If you are a high-achieving professional wondering how to turn personal adversity into a thriving hospitality enterprise and manage operations remotely without losing quality, this conversation is your blueprint. Get ready to learn how to drop perfectionism and start leading your life and business with intention. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [00:56] A short introduction about our guest Joanna Woods, shares how an unexpected family journey led her from long-term rentals in the UK to discovering short-term rentals in Texas [05:40] Joanna recounts the whirlwind journey of launching her first U.S. short-term rental while supporting her son's wheelchair motocross world championship competition [08:28] Joanna reveals what made her fall in love with hospitality after launching her first short-term rental [10:44] How Joanna’s family manages overseas short-term rental operations across time zones with strong systems and a trusted local team [13:10] Joanna explains how co-hosting created a path to grow her short-term rental business without traditional financing options [15:16] Why co-hosting became the ideal path for growing her short-term rental business without the financial pressure of property management [17:44] Joanna shares how saying yes to an unexpected opportunity helped her land her first co-hosting clients from across the world [20:24] How Joanna maintained Airbnb visibility and optimized a part-time vacation rental impacted by owner stays [23:06] Joanna and I discuss how small listing updates, guest feedback, and AI analysis can transform Airbnb performance [27:44] Why AI requires human oversight, clear instructions, and careful review when used in short-term rentals [29:31] Joanna shares how tracking revenue, conversion metrics, and Airbnb insights helped her make smarter pricing decisions and maximize property performance [33:05] Joanna shares how she balances pricing data, market experience, and intuition when making revenue management decisions [36:03] Joanna shares the mindset shift that transformed her from someone who simply listed properties on Airbnb into a true hospitality business owner [39:55] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “Co-hosting is a wonderful way for folks who want to grow their portfolio and grow their experience and expand their team.” “If I had to start over again, I would absolutely move into co-hosting first because as a property manager, I didn't realize early on how cash intensive the property management business is.” “Whether you tell yourself you can or you can't, you're right. So let's tell ourselves we can.” “We can all benefit by hearing someone else's story.” Let’s Connect: Website : https://www.pathfindervacations.co/ Facebook : www.facebook.com/p/Pathfinder-Vacations-LLC-100095005793929/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/pathfindervacationsllc/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • August 4 · 44 min

    When Growth Stops Serving You: The STR Pivot That Changed Everything with Leah Yuhasz

    How do you know when it’s time to stop pushing through and finally pivot—even when everything you’ve built looks successful from the outside? Most professionals assume scaling is a one-way street and that stepping back means giving up. In this episode, I sit down with Leah Yuhasz, a former nurse, mom, real estate agent, and short-term rental operator from Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. We’re unpacking what it really looks like to scale a management business, hit a personal breaking point, and intentionally choose a new season that puts family and sanity first. We talk about: Transitioning from a high-stakes nursing career into real estate, leveraging cost segregation and bonus depreciation tax strategies to scale a portfolio across Destin, Panama City Beach, and Asheville. The operational shift from managing personal assets to handling client properties using management software like Hospitable and OwnerRez to streamline guest communication and owner relations. Facing the invisible emotional load of property management—nonstop guest messages, constant maintenance logistics, and the silent strain it puts on a marriage and family life. Unwinding a business with intention by transitioning clients to trusted boutique managers, selling a primary investment asset, and utilizing house hacking along Florida's Emerald Coast to maintain wealth creation with far less friction. Navigating the psychological aftermath of a business pivot, including overcoming the impulse to constantly produce and learning how to reclaim personal energy without feeling guilty. Leah pulls back the curtain on the moment she realized her growing business was pulling her away from being present with her kids. You'll hear how she and her husband shifted their entire strategy away from high-volume operations and toward a sustainable, family-first model that honors their long-term wealth goals without sacrificing their daily peace. If you are a high-achiever wondering how to step off the hamster wheel of endless growth, realign your business with your true priorities, and make a courageous pivot, this conversation is your blueprint. Get ready to learn how to drop perfectionism and start leading your life and business with intention. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [00:59] A short introduction about our guest Leah Yuhasz, and shares how early motherhood, financial curiosity, and exposure to investing conversations go her into short-term rentals [05:49] Leah explains how one investment property became the foundation for a short-term rental management business [10:09] Leah walks through how her portfolio expanded from managing her own arbitrage property and one additional owner relationship into a 10-property management portfolio [13:22] The hidden pressure that comes with managing multiple properties and the challenge of balancing high standards, business growth, and personal relationships [20:41] Leah shares the moment she realized she needed to slow down and rethink how she wanted to grow [23:43] Leah opens up about the difficult decision to step away from her management company after years of growth [28:08] Leah reflects on the emotional adjustment of life after stepping away from her management business [30:11] Leah shares how her pivot created space to be more present for her family while continuing to serve others in a new way [31:28] How stepping away from daily property management helped Leah transform years of short-term rental experience into a new opportunity to serve investors [35:00] Leah shares her advice for anyone who is questioning whether it is time to make a change in their business or personal life [35:31] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “Working with your spouse is very different from raising a family with your spouse, or being married to your spouse.” “To grow carefully is to do yourself and your property owners a favor.” “When we're giving other people our energy and we're not able to recharge ourselves, we're draining our own battery, and eventually it's going to give out.” “You're having to pivot, that's not failing at all, that's simply making a change. So many people look at pivoting as failure.” “I look at pivoting as a beautiful thing. It's an opportunity for us to, to change and also to grow and stretch in different ways, and oftentimes to recharge as well.” Let’s Connect: Website : https://www.savvy.realty/meet-the-team Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/leah.yuhasz/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • July 28 · 44 min

    From Zero STR Experience to 27 Properties: Building a Co-Hosting Business with Maddie Malik

    How do you go from having zero experience in short-term rentals to running a thriving, 27-property co-hosting business built almost entirely on word of mouth? Most people assume they need years of corporate hospitality experience before they can successfully scale. In this episode, I’m joined by Maddie Malik of Nomad Vacation Rentals. We’re digging into how she went from brand-new and admittedly clueless to becoming the go-to co-host in her Greensboro, North Carolina market—simply by being honest, obsessed with learning, and relentlessly committed to high standards. We talk about: Starting a co-hosting career before feeling "ready," leveraging an initial opportunity with an owner's two properties to learn the business entirely through real-world trial and error. Identifying the professional gap for high-touch operators in local markets, and turning a relentless focus on guest satisfaction and property condition into a powerful organic referral engine. Building a lean, specialized internal team—including an administrator, a systems-focused operations manager, and two dedicated quality inspectors who audit cleanings to catch maintenance issues before guests arrive. Structuring a simple back-office ecosystem using Hostaway for owner statements alongside basic expense-tracking tools, prioritizing functional systems over operational over-engineering. Embracing the operational chaos of peak-season crises, like mid-summer AC failures, as a direct mechanism for expanding personal problem-solving thresholds and building resilience. Maddie pulls back the curtain on the mindset shift required to transition from "helping out" a friend to running a multi-property family enterprise. You'll hear how she established strict client boundaries—learning to charge appropriately for renovation management, and confidently saying no to misaligned owners who don't share her exact property standards. If you are a high-achieving professional wondering how to break into the short-term rental industry from scratch and build a respected brand through sheer execution and honesty, this conversation is your blueprint. Get ready to learn how to drop perfectionism and start leading your life and business with intention. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:28] A short introduction about our guest Maddie Malik, and what it was like getting her very first client while openly admitting she had no prior experience in short-term rentals [05:03] Maddie recalls the moment she realized co-hosting was solving a real need in her market and could become a sustainable business [06:52] Maddie attributes her early business growth to a relentless commitment to learning, improving, and delivering exceptional service [08:58] How continuous learning, personal accountability, and a growth mindset have fueled Maddie’s expansion to 27 properties [10:58] Maddie shares that fear and overwhelm have been a consistent part of growing her co-hosting business, learned to view discomfort as a sign that she is expanding her capabilities [17:20] Maddie talks about her systems, team structure, and quality control processes that support her growth to managing 27 properties [20:42] Maddie shares the referral-driven growth strategy that helped her build a 27-property co-hosting portfolio [22:45] The importance of financial transparency and evolving systems as her co-hosting business grows [29:24] How staying motivated as an entrepreneur comes from recognizing that Maddie’s work impacts real people who rely on her [31:27] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “You have to want that growth.” “There is no growth in comfort. If you are comfortable, you're not growing.” “It's okay to sit and not know, and then go learn what you can.” Let’s Connect: Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/MadelaineMalik Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/nomad.elaine/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • July 21 · 11 min

    The Hardest Business Decision I’ve Made This Year with Stacey St. John

    What do you do when something in your business is still making money, still getting attention, and still looks like a success from the outside… but deep down, you know it’s no longer the right fit for where you’re headed? In this solo episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of one of the hardest business decisions I’ve made recently: retiring the STR Virtual Summit for Women. On paper, it was working. But the more I looked at what my audience actually needed, the more I realized the summit wasn’t the best vehicle to help women in this industry create real momentum. It was delivering a ton of information—but not enough implementation. And if you’ve ever bought a course, joined a summit, or downloaded the freebie only to never fully use it… you know exactly what I mean. In this episode, I’m sharing: why I chose to walk away from something that looked successful from the outside how I knew it was time to stop offering more information and start creating more implementation the three questions I’ve been using to evaluate whether something in my business still deserves a place what it looks like to strategically prune offers, projects, or commitments that are pulling focus from your bigger goals how I’m rebuilding the STR Sisterhood around a simpler, more actionable model with monthly challenges, focused trainings, and live support I’m also sharing the thought process behind the new pricing model and why I intentionally wanted the most hands-on, implementation-focused option to be the easiest one to say yes to. If you’ve been holding onto a property, a service, a marketing strategy, or even a business model that technically “works” but doesn’t feel aligned anymore, this episode is for you. We’re talking about how to make smart pivots, clear out what’s no longer serving your next level, and build a business that actually supports the life you want to live—not just one that looks good on paper. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [00:01] My decision to retire the STR Virtual Summit for Women and embrace a new direction for serving the community [01:21] Why courageous pivots require letting go of what no longer serves your mission [02:23] I share the real reason behind my decision to retire the STR Virtual Summit for Women, and it comes back to the women I created it for [03:31] The difficult realization that the biggest barrier was never a lack of information—it was the ability to actually implement what was being learned [04:22] The concept of Strategic Pruning as the lesson I want listeners to carry with them beyond this episode [05:34] My three questions for identifying what to eliminate and refocusing your business priorities [06:04] My vision for rebuilding the STR Sisterhood into a year-round community focused on action, connection, and meaningful growth [07:16] I share the boundary I’m putting in place as I reshape the STR Sisterhood and my commitment to creating a hands-on STR Sisterhood experience for women [08:49] My reassurance that the STR Sisterhood community remains open while my deeper support shifts toward women ready to take action Golden Nuggets: “You get in life what you have the courage to ask for.” “Having to pivot does not mean you have failed; it means you're paying attention. Real failure isn't changing course. Real failure is staying loyal to something that has quietly stopped working just because you're afraid of what people will think if you let it go.” “Letting go of something good, so something better has room to grow, has a name. It's called Strategic Pruning, and it's one of the hardest disciplines there is for a high achieving woman to practice.” “A good thing that pulls your focus is more dangerous than a bad thing you could easily walk away from.” “Pruning what you love is not failing, it is how you make room for what comes next.” Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • July 14 · 49 min

    How Branding and Marketing Turn Ordinary STRs into Premium Listings with Ali Haney

    How do you turn what feels like an “ordinary” property into a brand that guests connect with, remember, and actively choose over everyone else’s? In this episode, I’m joined by branding and marketing strategist Ali Haney. We’re unpacking how she transitioned from a long-term rental disaster into remote short-term rental management across multiple states, eventually blending her photography background with her hospitality experience to help hosts build true brand equity. We talk about: Flipping perceived property weaknesses into powerful market differentiators, like turning a Gatlinburg cabin's lack of internet into an intentional, off-the-grid romantic reset complete with analog experiences. Building a foundational brand strategy from scratch by defining core messaging pillars, identifying a hyper-specific guest avatar, and establishing values that serve as concrete criteria for hiring and firing your team. Utilizing ChatGPT and AirDNA as a market research "cheat code" to analyze competitor specs, summarize guest review trends, and spot high-impact amenities missing in your local market. Designing property features around guest origin data, such as installing an EV charger at a Catskills rental specifically to attract higher-income, eco-conscious travelers driving up from the city. Executing a deep property rebrand that goes beyond a logo tweak, using your brand strategy as a daily filter for social content, listing updates, and team briefs to eliminate decision fatigue. Ali pulls back the curtain on how to use your brand strategy as the literal backbone of your guest experience and long-term business scaling. You’ll hear how to shift your mindset to view marketing as structured testing and learning rather than a verdict on your worth, allowing you to "do it scared" and out-position your competition. If you are a short-term rental / Airbnb host wondering how to stop competing on price alone and start engineering an unforgettable hospitality brand that commands premium rates, this conversation is your blueprint. Get ready to learn how to drop perfectionism and start leading your life and business with intention. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:07] A short introduction about our guest Ali Haney, and how she got into the world of short-term rentals [03:12] Ali talks about using branding strategy to move beyond photography and create marketing that connects with ideal guests [06:50] Ali explains how defining a property's personality and turning perceived limitations into unique selling points creates a memorable brand that attracts the right guests [09:32] How identifying a property's natural differentiators helps build a stronger and more memorable brand [10:49] Ali shares how operators can decide between separate property brands or a unified brand strategy when managing multiple listings across different markets [12:39] Ali outlines portfolio-level values as the foundation for aligning multiple property brands while preserving each listing’s individuality [15:40] Ali defines brand strategy as the foundational framework that aligns mission, guest targeting, differentiation, and messaging to guide every part of a short-term rental business [21:14] How the core value of excellence creates clear operational boundaries and simplifies decision-making across hospitality and property management [24:33] Ali highlights branding as a profit-driven strategy that turns one-time OTA guests into repeat direct bookings while improving long-term ROI [27:51] Ali frames rebranding as a full strategic reset that goes beyond visuals to ensure alignment between guest targeting, design, and business goals [30:16] Ali distinguishes between legacy brands and STR assets while outlining when rebranding makes sense and how to use guest data to guide the decision [32:52] How competitor and review analysis can uncover actionable differentiators that directly shape STR brand strategy and guest experience design [34:56] Ali reframes STR marketing as a data-driven cycle of testing and learning, separating performance outcomes from personal identity to support better decision-making [37:31] Ali shares how short-term rental owners can begin building a brand strategy by using existing performance data and evaluating properties through a differentiation-first mindset [40:07] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “You're giving the house essentially a personality, so that people can start to feel like they know that property before they even step foot into it.” “We took what she thought was a weakness and instead tailored the entire property's brand and made it their superpower.” “If we don't have a strategy that we want to enact within our business and we just build pretty things on top of it, it's probably going to fall down at some point.” “Create an experience that people want to return to, because it's much easier to nurture a client or a guest that already trusts you, versus having to consistently acquire new ones.” “If we just take a small step each and every day, and we do that scared, that is still a huge amount of progress over six months time, nine months time, 12 months time.” Let’s Connect: Website : https://brandandmarket.co/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/brandandmarket.co/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • July 7 · 52 min

    Why She Left the Fortune 500 World for Hospitality with Katie Wanzer

    How do you find the courage to take on a project that feels way bigger than you—and turn it into something you’re genuinely proud of? In this episode, I sit down with Katie Wanzer, a corporate PR crisis expert turned boutique hotel operator and co-host. We’re unpacking how she transitioned from Fortune 500 communications into running an expanding boutique hotel portfolio and co-hosting company across Door County, Wisconsin. We talk about: Buying a historic motel sight unseen during a corporate crisis, only to face massive infrastructure nightmares like dry wells and lifting entire buildings off their foundations. Co-operating a growing hospitality portfolio as a four-way partnership between two couples by establishing rigid role boundaries, structured monthly board meetings, and a dedicated leadership team. Leveraging a deep background in strategic PR to pitch local media, partner with tourism bureaus, and use nostalgia to put a revived 1940s roadside motel on the map. Launching simple, community-minded marketing tactics like local food drives and media stays, while using AI tools to polish press releases and discover the unique story behind a property. Battling peak-season burnout by scheduling non-negotiable self-care blocks, utilizing tech-boundaries like the Brick app to disconnect, and leaning on a steady support system. Katie pulls back the curtain on the intense emotional realities of stepping into true hospitality leadership, including the exact moment the scale of the project hit her. You’ll hear how she and her partners divide responsibilities based on individual strengths to keep the business humming without sacrificing their personal lives. If you are a high-achieving professional wondering how to scale from a single short-term rental into a multi-property commercial hospitality brand without losing your sanity, this conversation is your blueprint. Get ready to learn how to face the unexpected and start leading your business with absolute resilience. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [00:55] A short introduction about our guest Katie Wanzer, and shares her evolution from corporate communications professional to short-term rental operator and boutique motel owner [03:58] Katie shares how purchasing and renovating a boutique motel transformed her perspective from managing rentals to building a full-scale hospitality business [08:11] How overcoming unexpected renovation setbacks strengthened her resilience and confidence as an entrepreneur [10:31] Katie shares how having partial construction experience helped—but didn’t eliminate the learning curve in large-scale hospitality renovations [12:09] Katie’s approach to overcoming overwhelm by grounding decisions in long-term vision, resilience, and support systems [14:37] Katie on navigating real estate investing and construction projects with both a spouse and business partners while maintaining alignment and boundaries [16:41] Katie outlines how a four-owner STR and boutique motel business is governed through structured meetings, defined roles, and consistent operational communication [20:38] How Katie balances hands-on short-term rental operations with seasonal support while adapting daily focus across multiple hospitality businesses [21:52] Katie describes how she uses PR to turn storytelling, nostalgia, and renovation strategy into earned media that drives early bookings and demand [29:16] How short-term rental operators can identify PR-worthy stories through community impact, relatability, and persistence in earned media strategy [34:42] Katie shares how intentional PR outreach, personalized journalist targeting, and strategic multi-channel follow-ups help turn hospitality stories into consistent earned media and sustained visibility [38:33] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “Even with failures, we fail forward, right? Everything that we go through, whether positive or negative, I believe is a learning opportunity.” “Sometimes giving up a little bit of that revenue for a gain elsewhere can, can really help you long term.” “You're already everything to everyone: you’re finance, you’re accounting, you’re marketing, you’re everything. But you can't forget that you're also yourself and you have to do things for yourself, and you still have to go and do the things that make you happy.” “Nobody can advocate for you more than yourself.” Let’s Connect: Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/katetheinnkeeper/ Website : https://freshcoastmotel.com/ https://spruceandshoremotel.com/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • June 30 · 47 min

    From Medicine to STR Investing: Building a Thriving Airbnb Portfolio with Dr. Christina Kendrick

    How do you grow a thriving short-term rental portfolio, protect your family life, and still keep a demanding career from taking over your entire identity? Most professionals assume they have to choose between their career and building wealth. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Christina Kendrick, a pediatric anesthesiologist turned short-term rental investor. We’re unpacking how she and her husband transitioned from accidental long-term landlords into active operators of an 11-property STR business across Sedona and Cornville, Arizona. We talk about: Hunting for properties that have sat on the MLS forever, negotiating the price down, and uncovering hidden income streams like forgotten RV pads. Using sweat equity and buying at the right price to keep fixed expenses low enough that a property only needs 10 to 12 booked nights a month to cover costs. Moving past vague rules to implement explicit, direct guest messaging after a close call with a guest's grill on a wooden deck near propane tanks. Transitioning 50 existing reservations into independent hosting profiles and scaling a portfolio through a mix of solo ownership and co-ownership with other families. Leveraging MBA marketing principles to revamp a direct booking platform, optimize for AI search, and launch email campaigns that actually convert. Christina pulls back the curtain on how she manages her time and energy while balancing medicine, an MBA program, and parenthood. You’ll hear how she applies the hospital philosophy of "only do what only you can do" to her personal life—outsourcing house cleaning and grocery shopping, and shifting her medical schedule to build a dedicated business admin day. If you are a high-achieving professional wondering how to buy back your time and build a generational family enterprise without burning out, this conversation is your blueprint. Get ready to learn how to drop perfectionism and start leading your life and business with intention. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [00:49] A short introduction about our guest Christina Kendrick, and she shares how a series of practical real estate decisions evolved into a self-managed short-term rental portfolio [06:37] Christina explains how disciplined risk-taking and value-add investing have shaped her real estate decision-making process [09:08] Christina reveals how overlooked properties and strong neighborhood relationships have become key drivers of her portfolio’s success [13:26] Christina discusses how proactive neighbor relationships help mitigate conflicts and support long-term short-term rental success [19:12] How delegation, role clarity, and structured time blocks allow her to balance medicine, family, education, and real estate investing [22:47] Christina’s approach to outsourcing everyday responsibilities to create more time for high-value work and personal priorities [25:58] Christina shares how lessons from her MBA program have directly influenced the way she markets and operates her short-term rental business [29:21] Christina talks about how running a short-term rental business with her husband has naturally evolved into a clear division of strengths [32:16] How Christina and her husband handle feedback between each other after real-world guest situations that expose gaps in communication and house rules [36:14] The importance of intentional communication and structured check-ins in maintaining a strong business and personal partnership while scaling together [40:19] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “You don't create wealth by saving, you create wealth by taking risks and investing.” “One of the keys to having a successful STR is having nice neighbors.” “The biggest life hack is outsourcing stuff that other people can do.” “As long as it's getting done, and nobody's getting hurt, and everything's happening the way that it should happen, it doesn't have to be perfect.” “You have to take that first step, otherwise you're going to be stuck where you are.” Let’s Connect: Website : www.stargazersedona.com Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/stargazervacation Proudly sponsored by strsisterhood.steadilypartner.com Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • June 23 · 51 min

    The Demand Generation Strategy Every Airbnb Host Needs with Amber Knight

    Are you truly in control of the demand for your short-term rentals, or have you quietly outsourced it to the OTAs without even realizing it? Relying solely on large platforms means you don’t actually own your customer base; the hosts who master true demand generation are the ones who will thrive in the next phase of our industry. In this episode, I sit down with Amber Knight, the founder of Bookings Cloud and a seasoned veteran of vacation rental heavyweights like Vacasa, Rented, Inhabit, and LiveRez. We’re unpacking what it really means to build a direct guest acquisition engine for your properties and step into true ownership of your business. We talk about: How public booking platforms control the narrative using your listing content, and why reclaiming that control is vital for long-term business survival. Why a beautiful direct booking website means nothing if it breaks guest trust by kicking them over to an unbranded, clunky PMS engine at the final step. Utilizing true paid social ads, not just boosted posts, to feed rich property data into algorithms that match your stay with the perfect guest. Why clicks on Meta can be pennies compared to dollars on Google, why you should never put pricing in your ads, and how to automate property-level campaigns at scale. Clear guidance on when to focus strictly on guest communication versus when your portfolio size justifies a full website investment. We pull back the curtain on the messy reality of data tracking and attribution in a world of privacy laws and GA4. You’ll hear why diversifying your booking sources isn't just a quick fix for the low season, but a long-game retirement strategy that compounds over time and builds a business with real enterprise value. If you are ready to move from hoping bookings show up to intentionally creating your own demand, this conversation will give you the playbook. Get ready to stop letting other platforms dictate your revenue and start engineering your own growth. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:03] A short introduction about our guests Amber Knight, and journey from growing up around vacation rentals to building a career focused on strengthening local hospitality businesses and destination communities [04:12] Amber reflects on how intentionally building a life and business through consistent daily actions creates opportunities that once seemed out of reach [06:10] Amber explains how owning guest demand has become a critical competitive advantage as short-term rental operators can no longer rely solely on OTAs to drive bookings [10:58] Amber emphasizes that successful demand generation starts with building trust and creating a direct-booking experience that converts website visitors into guests [18:24] How demand generation moves beyond simply having a trusted website and focuses on actively driving qualified traffic to it [21:07] Amber breaks down Meta advertising as a layered system—from organic content to fully automated, property-level ads—designed to turn raw property data into targeted demand at scale [28:15] Amber explains when paid social becomes viable for STR operators based on ad spend consistency and unit economics versus OTA commissions [30:40] What are the effective Meta ads for STRs rely on high-intent, property-specific visuals and structured data feeding rather than pricing-driven creatives [33:35] Amber explains that attribution is imperfect and long-term direct booking growth should be measured through influence, pacing, and consistent investment rather than immediate ROAS results [42:16] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “It's really empowering that we each have the ability to build a business around a life that we love.” “If every day you make another step to get to the life you want, the career you want, in the place that you want, eventually you’ll get there.” “A business that is sellable does not require the owner to be in the day to day.” “You can't change what happens to you, you can change how you respond to it.” Let’s Connect: Website : www.bookingscloud.com Instagram : https://www.linkedin.com/company/bookingscloud/ Email : aknight@bookingscloud.com Proudly sponsored by PriceLabs Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • June 16 · 48 min

    Beyond Dynamic Pricing: STR Revenue Strategies with Melissa Stewart

    Is your short-term rental truly set up to cash flow, or are you just hoping the market will do the heavy lifting for you? Most hosts look at dynamic pricing as a "set it and forget it" tool, but real revenue strategy requires getting behind the wheel of your data. In this episode, I sit down with Colorado host and revenue strategist Melissa Stewart, the founder of Rev Collective. Melissa scaled from zero to four high-performing mountain cabins in under two years by combining a value-add investment blueprint with a highly intentional, data-driven revenue management strategy. We talk about: Buying distressed mountain properties for maximum negotiating power, doing a full gut rehab to build equity, and leveraging a smart refi to roll into the next deal. Moving past simple bulleted descriptions to craft narrative-driven listing copy that makes guests feel like they are walking through a storybook. What a "healthy" MPI looks like, how to recognize if you are underpriced or overpriced, and why treating dynamic pricing tools like autopilot is a massive mistake. Designing interior and exterior spaces with a strict guest avatar in mind—from luxury robes and sound machines to curated coffee and tea stations. Shifting your mindset around money as energy, shedding old financial stories, and building wealth that creates real opportunities for other women in hospitality. Melissa pulls back the curtain on how her background in accounting and data analysis gave her a unique edge in the short-term rental market. You’ll hear how she bridges the gap between high-end hospitality and cold, hard data, and how she built her company specifically to empower women hosts who love the guest experience but feel overwhelmed by numbers and tech. If you are ready to stop guessing on your pricing, master your local pacing, and inject serious intention into your operations, this conversation will completely redefine your approach to revenue. Get ready to stop relying on market luck and start commanding the rates your property deserves. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:14] A short introduction about our guests Melissa Stewart and shared her journey from exiting a business to getting into the short-term rental industry [03:06] Melissa reflects on how a background in real estate and a desire for lifestyle-driven wealth building led her and her husband into the world of short-term rentals [05:30] How strategic investing, leveraging equity, and taking bold action helped Melissa scale from one short-term rental property to four in a relatively short time [07:36] Melissa and I dive into how taking on distressed properties, embracing renovation challenges, and viewing obstacles as opportunities helped accelerate equity growth and STR success [12:31] How embracing problems, adapting quickly, and treating short-term rental hosting as a constant problem-solving business is essential for long-term success [14:36] Melissa unpacks how creating intentional five-star guest experiences, strategic branding, and emotionally driven listings became the foundation of cash-flowing STR properties at the top of the market [21:10] Melissa highlights how overlooking listing strategy after investing heavily in a property is a common mistake, and how emotional storytelling and optimization are key to turning beautiful homes into booked STRs [24:54] How STR success depends not just on design, but on operations, pricing, and listing strategy working together to drive higher nightly rates and long-term profitability [28:08] Melissa shares how her passion for entrepreneurship, wealth building, and supporting women in business ultimately led her to launch The Rev Collective [34:16] Melissa’s emphasis on active revenue management as a critical profit driver that requires strategy, oversight, and expertise beyond Pricelabs [38:15] Melissa’s guidance on using listing optimization, market pacing, and key revenue metrics to make smarter pricing decisions and improve booking performance [43:23] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “Know your obstacles. That way when they come, they're opportunities.” “We cannot leave any stone unturned when it comes to positioning ourselves for getting that booking, these guests have so many options in front of them on the OTAs.” “If you're not operating well, your reviews are not going to be what you need them to be, and you're going to fall to your competition in the marketing.” “Stick to doing things that you're good at and delegate the rest.” “If your ultimate goal is to cash flow to build wealth in this real estate, you know, gig that you've got going, if that's your goal, then revenue management should be your top priority when it comes to running your business, because that's how you make your money Let’s Connect: Website : www.revcollective.co Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/itsmelissastewart Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • June 9 · 47 min

    Why the STR Market Isn’t Scary: Data-Driven Investing and Opportunity with Sandy Lee

    What if the “scary” short-term rental market you keep hearing about is actually one of the best opportunities you’ll see in the next decade—especially if you’re willing to get smart with your data? Most investors are backing out due to market noise; my guest today used engineering logic to lean in and build a highly resilient portfolio. In this episode, I’m joined by returning guest Sandy Lee, an engineer-turned-investor who built a multi-market STR portfolio in her 50s. We’re talking about grounding big brave moves in math rather than hype, and why right now is a powerful time to buy if you know how to stress-test a deal. We dive into: How Sandy spent eighteen months analyzing her first deal, using spreadsheets to move past analysis paralysis and into confident action. Sandy’s exact system for connecting AI directly to her property management software to run pacing analyses, build dashboards, and generate plain-language summaries twice a week. How to look beyond standard calculators to find hidden market catalysts—like shifting local regulations, nearby airport expansions, or reopening ski hills. Why pricing for momentum instead of ego out of the gate is critical in highly seasonal markets, and why professional photography remains non-negotiable. Overlooked pathways into the industry for hesitant investors, including house hacking, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and strategic co-hosting partnerships. But this isn't just about running analytics. It’s about the line between smart investing and pure speculation. We pull back the curtain on how to ensure your baseline numbers work on day one while still positioning your portfolio for massive long-term growth. You’ll hear real examples from competitive markets like Steamboat, Orange Beach, and the mountains of North Carolina, proving that data and deep local research are the ultimate risk mitigation tools. If you’ve felt hesitant to scale or buy your next property in an uncertain economy, this conversation will completely reframe your perspective. Get ready to zoom out, trust the math, and build a business that supports the life you actually want to live. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:06] A short introduction about our guest Sandy Lee and her reflection on how a major career transition in her 50s, pushed her to explore short-term rentals [03:09] Sandy shares about the use of data and AI to build confidence and simplify decision-making in short-term rentals [05:57] Sandy and I discuss how AI has evolved beyond simply analyzing data to becoming a strategic business partner [09:44] Sandy explains why she believes now remains an attractive time to invest in short-term rentals despite recent industry challenges [11:42] Sandy and I discuss the many ways investors can build a diversified real estate portfolio, emphasizing that there is no single path to success [13:11] Sandy’s approach to finding investment “magic” beyond the data to anticipate future market growth [19:56] How to identify emerging opportunities by paying attention to large-scale developments, infrastructure projects, and long-term regional shifts that may signal future growth in a market [24:09] Sandy’s approach to balancing conservative underwriting with strategic, forward-looking real estate investment decisions [25:43] The importance of timing in real estate acquisitions is highly situational and ultimately comes down to the underlying numbers and the investor’s financial flexibility [29:54] Sandy and I discuss two critical components of a successful short-term rental launch: professional photography and strategic pricing [32:52] the importance of intentional pricing strategy at launch, particularly in the context of property management and co-hosting relationships [34:46] Sandy’s perspective on overlooked short-term rental opportunities that help investors move past fear and re-enter the market strategically [37:13] Sandy’s breakdown of the ownership and operations paths in short-term rentals, and how co-hosting creates flexible entry and exit options [39:09] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “If I start to get anxious and if things start to seem scary, I'll back down into a spreadsheet, and I'll think really hard about it, and I'll look at all of the numbers. It has got to make financial sense.” “If you don't have money to invest in property right now, starting out co-hosting is a fabulous way to get your feet wet, earn that cash flow that you can eventually invest in the real estate asset.” “Do the big scary thing that you're afraid of. I mean, that's the best piece of advice. What's the worst thing? Figure out what the worst thing that could happen is, and work yourself through it, and do it anyway.” Let’s Connect: Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/strjumpstart/ Website : https://www.strjumpstart.com/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • June 2 · 14 min

    Airbnb Metrics That Actually Matter: Stop Guessing and Start Optimizing with Stacey St. John

    What if the real reason your Airbnb isn’t booking has nothing to do with your decor, your rate, or your “perfect guest,” and everything to do with numbers you’ve never even looked at? Most hosts guess, tweak, and stress when bookings drop. In this solo episode of the STR Sisterhood podcast, I’m pulling back the curtain on the exact data you need to stop guessing and start diagnosing your listing like a CEO. Inside the episode, I dive into: A recent wake-up call in my own business when my data vanished, and why turning on the Professional Hosting Tools toggle is a non-negotiable for every single host. How to understand your first-page search impression rate and your search-to-listing conversion (click rate) to ensure guests choose your door over the competition. Spotting the hidden deterrents like surprise checkout fees, incomplete photos, or aggressive house rules—that make guests click away without booking. Why cleanliness, check-in, and communication are the three category scores that can quietly drag down your performance if left unchecked. A simple, step-by-step practice to establish your baseline numbers today, choose one lever to pull this month, and review the results in 30 days. But this isn't just about staring at charts and graphs. It’s about moving out of the drama and into leadership. I walk through how to audit each of your properties individually so you can see the exact story the data is trying to tell you. You’ll hear how small, intentional adjustments to your hero photo, headline, or booking rules can radically alter your inbound demand and shift your business from a stressful side-hustle into a high-performing asset. If you’re ready to stop playing guessing games with the algorithm and start making decisions based on cold, hard facts, this framework is your playbook. Get ready to log into your dashboard and step fully into leading your business with data. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [00:00] Welcome to a data-driven STR Sisterhood podcast episode, where I open up about the frustration of empty calendars and the shift away from reactive hosting [02:21] I share a recent experience of losing access to my Airbnb insights and the urgent setting every host needs to check [03:53] How mixed property data can mislead STR hosts and why individual listing insights matter [04:43] The first Airbnb metric hosts should track: listing views and why they matter most [05:26] The importance of first page search impression rate and how it impacts Airbnb visibility and bookings [07:14] I break down click rate as a key Airbnb metric and how it reflects how often guests choose your listing over competitors [08:17] How listing-to-booking conversion rate helps Airbnb hosts diagnose what’s stopping guests from booking [09:23] Why reviews are a performance metric and how Airbnb category scores directly impact visibility and bookings [11:09] How consistent Airbnb metric tracking and community accountability turn data into clarity, confidence, and scalable growth Golden Nuggets: “You cannot improve what you don't measure.” “If nobody is seeing your property on Airbnb, nobody is booking it, that's the top of the funnel, and if it's tiny, nothing else matters.” “That's how CEOs operate. We test, we measure, we adjust.” “Knowing the numbers is one thing, sitting in a room with other women who are looking at the same levers and watching what works, that's the part that changes everything.” “You don't build this business to be buried by it. You built it to be free in it. Lead with data, not drama.” Let’s Connect: STR Success Accelerator :https://strsuccessaccelerator.com/ Proudly sponsored by Futurestay: cleanconnection.futurestay.com Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • May 26 · 55 min

    Systems, Leadership, and 115 Homes: Scaling in a Seasonal Market with Amanda Look

    What does it really take to grow a boutique vacation rental management company from a single DIY renovation to more than 115 homes in a tiny, highly seasonal market? Most operators think scaling just means adding more doors, but the reality requires a complete evolution of infrastructure, systems, and leadership. In this episode, I sit down with Amanda Look, the founder of Salt Air Properties. We’re unpacking how she walked away from a vice president role in banking to build a thriving, guest-centric operation around Acadia National Park—all while navigating the journey as a single mom. We dive into: The exact guest interaction that pushed her to leave a stable commercial lending career and commit to her hospitality business full-time. Why jumping from 25, 50, 75, and 100+ properties forces a complete systems reset, and the specific tech stack needed to survive the growth. The logistical reality of building a 3,000-square-foot facility to house a commercial laundry operation capable of handling over 40 same-day turnovers. How partnering with local high schools and technical programs for internships solved the seasonal hiring crisis in a rural market. The hard-won lessons of firing problem properties quickly, saying no to misaligned owners, and trusting your gut to protect your team. We pull back the curtain on how a dedicated physical office with morning huddles and professional standards transforms the morale of a seasonal workforce and anchors homeowner trust. You’ll hear how to transition from a "basement days" mindset with a paper calendar into a sophisticated enterprise that trains staff to handle high-stress, fast-paced situations without spiraling. If you are trying to scale a short-term rental portfolio in a highly seasonal or rural market, this conversation is your operational blueprint. Get ready to learn how to scale with strict boundaries, smarter systems, and genuine heart. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:02] A short introduction about our guest Amanda Look and shares her journey from commercial lender for a community bank into short-term rentals [03:29] Amanda shares how her short-term rental management company began from early hands-on experience and growing demand for her help [06:05] Amanda talks about the biggest challenges in growing a short-term rental management company [09:51] Amanda reflects on how her tech stack and vendor relationships had to continuously evolve as her short-term rental portfolio expanded from just a few properties to over 100 [15:21] Amanda describes how building physical infrastructure like offices, laundry systems, and on-site operations becomes essential to scaling a short-term rental business efficiently [21:25] How Amanda’s hiring strategy has evolved into a blend of structured partnerships and practical, on-the-ground evaluation of people’s ability to perform in fast-paced, high-pressure environments [25:32] Amanda explains how she develops interns through hands-on work, feedback loops, and allowing them to discover their strengths within the business [28:25] Amanda describes how she identifies potential in employees through core values, mindset, and real-world problem-solving behavior rather than just technical skills [37:35] Amanda discusses the difficult but necessary responsibility of addressing team members who are not a cultural fit, even when they may be technically skilled or operationally useful [39:59] Amanda outlines a structured, values-driven onboarding system that blends company education, hands-on training, and team-based operations to set standards and scale efficiently [43:54] How Amanda strategically pairs team members, sets operational boundaries, and develops leadership habits to protect team performance and business quality as she scales [51:23] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “The difference between my company and some others is just how we get the right people in the right seats.” “Having the right software for the right stage of business that you have is so important.” “When your cleaning team is full of people who don't care about your company, don't care about the guest experience, they're just looking for a paycheck, they're looking to get in and out as fast as possible. For me, that's not the right team member.” “When you provide a work environment that is empowering people to do their best and be their best and feel valued, they become 100% loyal to you like they will jump through fire for you.” Let’s Connect: LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-look-7a106a16/ Website : https://www.saltairmaine.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/saltairpropertymanagement/ Proudly sponsored by Futurestay: cleanconnection.futurestay.com Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • May 19 · 47 min

    The ROI of Design: How Strategy and Story Create Standout STRs with Courtney Petrovich

    What if the difference between an average short-term rental and a standout, revenue-driving asset came down to story, strategy, and a few well-placed details on your walls? Most hosts view design as a finishing touch; my guest today views it as the core of the investment. In this episode, I’m joined by designer, investor, and boutique hotel visionary Courtney Petrovich of Denori Designs. We’re talking about the intersection of high-level underwriting and high-impact creativity, and how you can use that balance to build properties that truly perform. We dive into: Why every creative choice, from a hot tub to a fire pit, must be backed by AirDNA data, pro formas, and a clear path to ROI Designing for operational reality, turnover efficiency, and the hard truth about why white sofas and kids don't mix How to create local resonance using custom pieces, regional cookbooks, and art that actually reflects the property’s location A deep dive into using wallpaper at the beach, including how to handle humidity, vetting installers, and spotting quality paper. How Courtney is translating STR logic into the boutique hotel world with a massive project in Page, Arizona. Courtney pulls back the curtain on how a site visit and a fascination with local history can lead to a hotel concept that investors instantly understand and get behind. You’ll hear how she rethinks everything from lobby layouts to "cold plunge" amenities, ensuring that every design choice serves both the guest’s emotions and the owner’s bottom line. If you’ve been thinking of design as an optional expense rather than a strategic business tool, this conversation will completely shift your perspective. Get ready to start designing spaces that are profitable, operationally smart, and impossible to scroll past. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:00] A short introduction about our guest Courtney Petrovich, and how her passion for design unexpectedly evolved into building a business within the short-term rental space [02:33] Courtney explains how balancing design, guest experience, and operational practicality shapes successful short-term rentals [06:15] Courtney shares how she discovered that thoughtful design directly influences performance and revenue in short-term rentals [09:27] Courtney describes the overlooked details that elevate guest experience beyond just design and amenities [12:29] Courtney explains how intentional, place-based art choices play a key role in elevating short-term rental design [13:39] How Courtney evaluates wallpaper choices for beach and humid environments, balancing durability, installation quality, and design impact [17:24] Courtney shares practical guidance on how to find a qualified wallpaper installer, emphasizing starting with trusted referrals such as local networks, or community groups rather [20:03] Courtney describes the challenges of installing wallpaper in beach homes where walls and ceilings are often not perfectly level and how installers navigate them [22:34] How transitioning into boutique hotel design has introduced Courtney to a more complex, on-site, and collaborative development process compared to short-term rentals [24:44] Courtney describes how boutique hotel design operates on a different scale than short-term rentals [28:02] How boutique hotel design uses immersive storytelling rooted in local history to shape a fully themed guest experience that extends from branding and interiors to reflective moments [31:13] Courtney shares how short-term rental owners can uncover a meaningful design story by starting with the nature, geography, and local history as the foundation for creative direction [32:45] Courtney explains how AI can support storytelling design, and why on-site experience remains critical for shaping boutique hotel guest experience [34:37] Courtney shares how working on a boutique hotel project revealed an unexpected but critical role of design in capital raising [37:50] Courtney describes how property owners can determine whether a designer is the right fit by first reviewing their portfolio to understand their aesthetic style and experience level [39:53] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “We should be moving towards that level of detail that guests notice during their stay.” “When you're actually talking to designers in the short term rental space, it's important to find someone who's focused on short term rentals and not a residential designer. That can go really wrong, really fast.” “Always bet on yourself. So whatever your dreams are, your ambitions, whatever your heart desires, bet that you can do it and make that happen.” “What you believe about yourself, what you believe is possible, makes a huge impact on reality.” Let’s Connect: Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/denoridesigns/ Website : denoridesigns.com Proudly sponsored by Futurestay: futurestay.com/stacey Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • May 12 · 45 min

    From Rock Bottom to STR Success: Rebuilding with Mindset and Strategy with Elle Anderson

    What would you do if you lost everything—twice—and had to rebuild your life, your finances, and your identity from the ground up? Most people would let the weight of that loss define them. In this episode, I sit down with acquisitions expert and STR investor Elle Anderson. We’re diving into her extraordinary journey from the depths of financial loss to building a business rooted in mindset, identity work, and high-level strategy. Inside the episode, I dive into: How Elle jumped into buying businesses with no money, raising equity, and learning the high-stakes game of investor relations on the fly What happened when Elle’s last $5 became the catalyst for a total identity shift, moving her from chronic worry to conscious creation How Elle applies deep due diligence to real estate, spotting market gaps and adding high-ROI amenities like year-round pools to outperform the competition A creative, guest-centric approach to winning over neighbors and building community goodwill around your rentals Exploring the connection between your nervous system, your identity, and the actual results in your bank account But this isn't just a story about a comeback. It’s about the freedom of choice. Elle pulls back the curtain on why she walked away from a company with 120 employees to find the flexibility and creativity of short-term rentals. You’ll hear how she designs for "memorable moments", from slides between floors to interactive design touches, and why she believes bold action is only possible once you’ve done the inner work to support it. If you’ve ever wondered if you can truly recover from a setback and build something even better on the other side, this conversation is your proof. Get ready to stop praying for things to go wrong and start training your mind for what’s possible. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [00:54] A short introduction about our guest Elle Anderson, and how she began her entrepreneurial journey with no experience or capital, relying on belief, resourcefulness, and investor support [04:12] Elle explains how she navigated entering business acquisitions with no experience or capital, relying on belief, resourcefulness, and investor support [06:05] Elle describes the wide variety of businesses she acquired and shares how her follow-up approach helped build trust and credibility with investors. [08:58] Elle recounts the second time she was left with only $5, no food for her two-year-old son, and describes how a profound shift in mindset transformed her path forward [13:01] How Elle recognized her lifelong tendency to worry and transformed it into intentional focus on positive outcomes. [15:29] Elle shares how she learned to harness awareness and intention to transform her mindset, even after repeated setbacks [18:37] Elle talks about the emotional impact after her first financial loss and how she began the long journey of rebuilding without the knowledge she needed [21:22] Elle describes her recipe for success, emphasizing the power of momentum and decisive action in rebuilding and growing her businesses [23:05] Why taking imperfect action and learning from mistakes is more powerful than waiting for the perfect moment [26:56] Elle’s transition from large-scale business acquisitions to short-term rentals and how she identifies gaps in competitive markets [32:38] Elle shares how she translates lessons from business acquisitions into short-term rentals, using due diligence, creative design, and strategic ROI-driven decisions [37:20] Elle talks about the foundational mindset shift that transforms success, even in moments of uncertainty or doubt [38:47] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “Where you put your attention is where your energy goes, and that grows.” “I would celebrate my success long before it happened. And it just kept coming and coming and coming.” “Worrying is one of the biggest wastes of energy ever possible, because you end up putting out into the world what ultimately you're going to attract.” “My brain is literally just a data center. It's just a big old, massive computer, right? And what we input into that computer directly affects the output that we're able to get from it.” “Once I understood about mindset and identity, like who you believe you are inside, then it all made sense. You don't have to be smart, you don't even have to be good, you don't even have to have the best tactics. You just have to believe that it's going to be successful.” “You have to have action, even if it's not perfect action. You're going to learn and you're going to adjust, and you're going to get better.” “Perfectionism is one reason why people don't take action because they're waiting to do something until they get that home run, or it's a slam dunk, or they know for sure.” “Failure comes from mistakes only when we don't learn from them.” Let’s Connect: Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/elle.ande.10 Resource Mentioned: Innercise: The New Science to Unlock Your Brain's Hidden Power Proudly sponsored by Futurestay: futurestay.com/stacey Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • May 5 · 56 min

    Fixing the Messy Middle of Airbnb Hosting: The Story Behind Simpli Host with Beth Turner

    What happens when the “messy middle” of short-term rental hosting gets so chaotic that you decide to build the software you wish already existed? Most hosts just keep duct-taping systems together; my guest today decided to build a better way. In this episode, I sit down with Beth Turner, the non-technical founder of Simpli Host. We’re talking about the unfiltered reality of operating multiple short-term rentals while working a demanding full-time job, and how that operational anxiety pushed her to create an all-in-one platform designed for the hands-on host. We dive into: The "messy middle" of juggling seven different apps and the constant anxiety of wondering if the cleaner showed up or the hot tub is actually hot. Practical tools for reclaiming your peace—from the power of a deep breath to reframing yourself as a true business owner rather than a "side-hustle" host. How repeated requests for help led to a platform with unified messaging, integrated locks, and seasonal maintenance reminders. The hard lessons of hiring and firing dev teams, trusting the experts, and resisting the urge to "just learn to code." Why establishing firm policies and guardrails around things like pets and trash days is the only way to protect both your profit and your sanity. But this isn't just about software. It’s about buying back your time. We pull back the curtain on the importance of quiet time, journaling, and surrounding yourself with a community that understands the unique weight of this industry. You’ll hear about the power of a daily gratitude practice and a vision for building a business that serves your life, rather than one that consumes it. If you’ve ever felt like you’re drowning in notifications and logistics, this conversation will offer you a roadmap to systems, support, and a more aligned way of hosting. Get ready to move out of the chaos and into a more intentional way of leading. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [00:47] A short introduction about our guest Beth Turner, her accidental journey into short-term rentals, and how she started Simpli Host [02:52] Beth describes the chaotic behind-the-scenes reality that quietly overwhelms hosts before they realize something has to change [05:13] Beth and I challenge the “passive income” myth and highlight the hands-on reality of running short-term rentals [06:51] Beth shares how the “messy middle” actually begins earlier, when juggling a full-time job, constant travel, and nonstop guest demands [09:40] Beth reveals how simple mental shifts, not complex systems, helped her regain control in high-stress hosting moments [12:18] How separating identity from the business helps operators lead more objectively, improve standards, and make stronger operational decisions [16:44] How documenting processes, especially through simple repeatable methods, prevents knowledge from being siloed and ensures business continuity and consistency [20:41] How using policies as a neutral authority helps operators remove emotion from guest decisions and maintain consistency, even when running solo [21:54] Beth explains how fragmented systems and operational overload led her to create Simpli Host as a unified solution for short-term rental management [25:37] Beth describes how the software functions as a centralized system that brings together the core operational layers of short-term rental management [31:58] Beth explains how building Simpli Host forced her to delegate, stop coding herself, and shifting from frustration and control to empowerment and trust in her team [34:36] Beth and I explore how clarity, creativity, and business insight emerge through quiet reflection, self-awareness, and intentional disconnection from noise [43:56] The importance of surrounding yourself with a supportive network of women and operators at different stages of their short-term rental journeys [47:26] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “One thing that people don't realize is, STRs are not passive.” “You feel that rising and you know that you're no longer in a good mental space to make good choices. And even if you do make good choices, you're rolling the dice on that choice when you're in that state. So one of those is taking, taking that deep breath.” “I think it is so important that we learn as business owners to separate ourselves from the business.” “Having good people in your business is 100% essential. However, I will say, you know, I learned a huge lesson. Yeah, along with those good people, we have to make sure that if they're smarter than you about something, they're helping you build your policies, your processes and procedures. So that if they ever got hit by a bus, you know you would still operate without them.” “Exploit your strengths and hide your weaknesses.” “Having a network of other women around us who have experienced different things that are in all different stages of their businesses, I will tell you, I have mastermind programs. I have mentorships, I learn as much from the folks that I have the opportunity to support in their journeys as they learn from me.” “All of these masterminds, all these beautiful women, all of these smart, ambitious people that I've been around have gotten me where I am today. I carry a little bit of them everywhere I go.” Let’s Connect: Website : https://simplihost.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/simplihostinc/ Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/simplihostinc Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • April 28 · 50 min

    Building an STR Business Through Faith & Grit with Christina Tracy

    Have you ever felt a deep nudge to change your life, but had no idea what the path ahead would look like, and stepped forward anyway? Most people wait for a perfect plan; Christina Tracy is proof that you only need the courage to take the first imperfect step. In this episode, we’re tracing her journey from a handshake deal on an off-market property in Ohio to building a multi-market portfolio across Florida and Charlotte, all while navigating the messy reality of flipping houses with a toddler in tow. We talk about: How Christina jumped into real estate with zero experience, relying on grit and YouTube tutorials to build her first successful portfolio. How Christina’s background in public health turned her into a "data nerd" who uses tools like PriceLabs to master pricing and performance. A candid conversation on rebuilding trust, reconnecting with God, and finding peace after seasons of grief and "hustle culture." The healing power of quiet time, prayer, and meditation as tools for hearing your own voice, and God’s, again. Shifting from "controlling tasks" to "empowering outcomes" and how inner growth changes the way you hire and lead a team. Christina pulls back the curtain on what it means to lead a values-driven, people-first business while protecting your own energy. You’ll hear why intentionality is the ultimate secret to scaling, and how a deep spiritual foundation provides the peace required to navigate the growing pains of entrepreneurship. If you’ve been sensing that there is a different, more peaceful way to build your empire, this conversation will speak straight to your heart. Get ready to stop surviving the grind and start leading with purpose. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [00:59] A short introduction about our guest Christina Tracy, the owner of STR Host Company [05:31] Christina shares her background in public health and real estate and describes how she transitioned into short-term rentals by combining data analysis with hospitality [06:15] Christina shares taking action on their first investment property without experience and reflects on the challenges and lessons from learning through doing [10:19] Christina’s shift from a grind mindset to a more intentional approach, explaining how she learned to move through challenges with greater awareness, grace, and alignment over time [12:19] How Christina developed awareness of limiting beliefs through intentional practices like solitude, journaling, and daily routines that build self-trust and mental clarity [15:55] Christina and I share how reconnecting with God profoundly shaped our personal growth and resilience, illustrating the role of faith in navigating life’s challenges [22:20] Christina shares how cultivating inner peace has transformed her daily life, relationships, and business [23:34] Christina shares her daily habits and mindset practices for maintaining inner peace, protecting her energy, and creating a positive, aligned environment both personally and professionally [27:38] How Christina mentally prepares for challenging situations by grounding herself, focusing on service, and detaching from outcomes while trusting the bigger picture [29:48] The challenges of building and leading an aligned team while the host shares leadership strategies for hiring, developing, and empowering team members as a business evolves [37:21] How I integrate mindset and emotional awareness into leadership through coaching, trust-building, and proactive communication rather than formal discussions about mindset [42:41] Christina shares practical advice for those feeling stuck or disconnected by encouraging them to dream freely, identify internal resistance, and grow through small, intentional steps [45:08] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “You can't sit in the planning forever. You have to take action.” “If I'm sandwiching my day with truth, then it kind of keeps me more aligned as the day goes on.” “In every failure, there's always a seed of benefit being planted.” “It's really important that you're working towards a goal.” “I don't delegate tasks. I empower people to produce business results.” “Give yourself space to dream. That's always where we start.” Let’s Connect: Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/christinatracy/ Proudly Sponsored by PriceLabs: https://pricelabs.co/users/sign_up?referral=STRSISTER Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • April 21 · 50 min

    Designing for Bookings: The Power of Cohesive STR Experiences with Ashlyn & Olivia

    What if the secret to a standout short-term rental isn’t just great design, but a fully cohesive experience that starts the moment a guest clicks on your listing? In this episode, I’m joined by sisters Ashlyn and Olivia, the creative powerhouses behind Abideaway. We’re diving into how a simple idea shared over a Marco Polo video evolved into a full-service studio that helps hosts build standout stays through the perfect marriage of design and strategy. We talk about: How interior design, branding, and web presence work together to create a seamless narrative for your property Moving beyond "who" your guest is to what they are worrying about, and how to solve those fears through intentional layout and amenities Why custom art is more than just a "photo op" and how it can be used to stop the scroll and reinforce your property’s story Practical, high-impact advice on where to spend a limited budget in your kitchen, living room, or outdoor space for maximum ROI How to mine architecture, local history, and personal passions to guide every design decision you make But this isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about intentionality. Ashlyn and Olivia pull back the curtain on their creative process, from using Procreate mockups to ensure owner confidence to scoping mural projects that actually last. You’ll hear their "design hotline" wisdom on how to avoid the "I wish they’d thought of that" moments that kill guest reviews, and how to create a space that feels custom, memorable, and deeply resonant. If you’ve been looking for the bridge between "just a rental" and a "cohesive brand," this conversation is your roadmap. Get ready to stop guessing and start designing with a clear, story-driven purpose. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [00:59] A short introduction about our guests, Ashlyn Feller and Olivia Gerber from Abideaway, and shares how the idea started organically between them as sisters with complementary creative skill sets [04:31] Ashlyn and Olivia emphasize defining the ideal guest and starting with priorities to build a cohesive STR brand [07:45] Olivia explains starting with the ideal guest avatar and using a phased approach to build a cohesive STR brand experience [11:35] Olivia shares her philosophy of designing with intentionality and uncovering the story of a property [13:27] Olivia describes ways for hosts who are bootstrapping their STR design to uncover and build the story of their property [16:04] Ashlyn and Olivia explain when themed properties make sense and the role of data in decision-making [17:44] Olivia shares why engaging a designer early in the acquisition process is beneficial [18:45] Olivia and Ashlyn talk about what to consider in design before closing on a property and explain that designers can also refresh or elevate underperforming properties [20:37] Ashlyn shares why murals are a powerful design tool for short-term rentals and describes how hosts can budget for them based on size, complexity, and customization [24:16] Ashlyn describes her mural creation process from concept to installation, including design mockups, painting techniques, and care, and [27:26] Ashlyn shares creative ideas for placing murals in both large and smaller spaces and introduces the STR Sisterhood Design Hotline as a resource for hosts seeking design guidance [29:21] Ashlyn and Olivia describe the STR Sisterhood Design Hotline and what folks can expect if they've never been to a design hotline [32:39] Ashlyn and Olivia explain how even a modest $1,000 budget can meaningfully improve different areas of a short-term rental when spent strategically [34:01] Ashlyn explains how to approach branding with a limited budget by focusing on defining the overall guest experience and building a cohesive brand beyond just a logo [37:44] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “We have to go deeper and understand what that person is thinking when they're looking at properties, what that person is thinking when they are making a booking decision, what that person is stressed out about, what they're afraid of, what they're concerned about if they book the wrong property, because those are the things that ideal guest is not actually telling anyone that's a conversation he or she is having with themselves.” “Pull some piece of the puzzle and use that as, like a seed of inspiration.” “I am a huge believer that we are all in business to, not only, you know, improve our own lives. But isn't it great that we can proactively help each other like that just makes us all go to bed at night feeling that much better, right?” “Build your network and build it strong.” “If we're not aware, number one of things we need to tackle in our businesses, or things that may need improvement in our businesses, if we don't dedicate focused thinking time, which is that white space, we can go for months and even years without having those problems solved or those new ideas generated.” Let’s Connect: Website : https://www.abideaway.com/ Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090299230620 Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/abideaway/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

  • April 14 · 44 min

    Scaling STRs Together: The Airbnb Sisters’ Secrets to Success with Jen Stone and Lauren Schmidt

    What happens when two sisters team up to build a powerhouse short-term rental brand in two of the most competitive markets in the country? Most people think working with family is a recipe for disaster; Jen and Lauren prove it’s actually a competitive advantage. In this episode, I sit down with Jen Stone and Lauren Schmidt, better known as The Airbnb Sisters. We’re unpacking how they’ve grown a thriving portfolio across Nashville and 30A while keeping their standards sky-high and their sisterly bond intact. We talk about: How a single CMA Fest booking turned into a professional management career for Nashville’s biggest developers The strategy behind their iconic pink-themed homes and how they attract high-value group stays like weddings and bachelorette parties How Jen transitioned from personal assistant to the engine of the business, managing guest flow and flawless check-ins The story of finding (and fiercely protecting) a standout cleaning crew to maintain five-star standards from hundreds of miles away A candid look at hosting large groups, and how their branding and screening process attract guests who actually respect the property But this isn't just a story about pretty houses. It’s about the evolution of a brand. Jen and Lauren pull back the curtain on the delicate conversations they have with owners about decor budgets and why they now insist on being involved before a home is even furnished. You’ll hear how they still run a high-volume business with a personal touch, and my honest take on where they can finally let technology take some of the weight off their shoulders. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn a "side hustle" into a recognizable brand or how to successfully partner with family, this conversation is your front-row seat. Get ready to learn what it really takes to dominate the high-energy group stay market. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:15] A short introduction about our guests Jen Stone and Lauren Schmidt, and share how they started and grew their short-term rental business together as sisters [05:42] Jen explains how she and Lauren divided roles while building their short-term rental business [07:16] Lauren shares why she brought her sister Jen into the short-term rental business [08:29] Jen explains how social media helped grow their short-term rental business and attract large group bookings [10:54] Lauren outlines their mixed short-term rental business model of ownership and management, and how a long-term developer partnership shaped their portfolio [13:41] Lauren highlights that running properties far from home, like their 30A beach rentals, is very different from managing Nashville homes [14:35] Jen and Lauren discuss managing long-distance properties and finding the right cleaning team [18:19] Lauren and Jen explain how they maintain quality and consistent design across their properties [20:12] Lauren describes managing guest communications themselves and my advice to them about dynamic pricing tool and property management software [26:57] Jen explains that their approach to adding properties is highly selective, focusing first on the relationship and communication style with the owner rather than just the property itself [29:19] How Jen and Lauren use experience and firm standards to guide budgeting and property fit decisions [33:12] Jen and Lauren debunks bachelorette myths and highlights the reality of high-quality group guests [36:00] Lauren and Jen share how they generally don’t actively screen bachelorette parties or other group bookings and they treat all guests equally and welcome those who want to book [37:47] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “It's so important that we've got backups and backups for our backups.” “You can have a beautifully designed property, but if it's poorly run, you're not going to get great reviews.” “If somebody is giving you trouble, kill them with kindness.” Let’s Connect: Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/the.airbnb.sisters/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

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