The Hospitality Edge

In this episode of The Hospitality Edge podcast, we sit down with Tim Hubbard, the founder of Midtown Stays and host of Short Term Rental Riches. Tim shares his insightful journey from starting in real estate to achieving financial freedom through short-term rentals (STR).  We delve into the nuances of financing STR investments, exploring both residential and commercial loan options. Tim explains the challenges he faced and the strategies he used to overcome them, including leveraging local banks and implementing creative financing solutions like seller financing. Listeners will learn about the importance of meticulous underwriting, how to build and manage a remote team, and the significance of effective systems and standard operating procedures. Tim also shares his experiences in navigating regulations and the permitting process, especially in international markets like Colombia, where he is currently developing a 15-unit STR property. Join us for an episode filled with practical advice and actionable tips on securing financing for your STR investments and scaling your real estate portfolio successfully.

Join us on this episode of the Hospitality Edge podcast as we dive into the fascinating journey of Sief Khafagi, the founder of Techvestor. Discover how Sief transitioned from a successful career at Facebook to revolutionizing the short-term rental (STR) industry. In this insightful conversation, Sief shares his experiences, challenges, and strategies for scaling a real estate empire with Techvestor.  Learn how his tech background and innovative approach have paved the way for creating a lucrative and passive income stream through Airbnb investments. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a real estate investor, or someone looking to break into the STR market, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice. Don’t miss out on Sief’s story and expert tips on building and scaling an STR empire! Key Takeaways: - The founding story of Techvestor and its unique approach to short-term rentals - Sief’s transition from Facebook to real estate and the challenges faced - The importance of leveraging tech skills in the real estate industry - Strategies for creating passive income through Airbnb investments - Insights into scaling a real estate portfolio and building a successful team

In this enlightening episode of our podcast, "Longevity Secrets: How to build a legacy in hospitality with Robin Craigen," we dive deep into the principles and practices that have fueled sustainable success in the hospitality industry. Our guest, Robin Craigen, the visionary behind Moving Mountains, shares invaluable insights drawn from over two decades of experience.  Robin discusses the foundational importance of exceptional hospitality, the strategic growth of his company, and the pivotal role of company culture in forging a lasting business. He also delves into how maintaining strong, trust-based relationships with clients has been crucial in weathering the industry's ups and downs. Listeners will gain a unique perspective on what it takes to build a legacy in hospitality, including the necessity of patience, strategic thinking, and the willingness to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just starting out, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration for anyone looking to make a lasting impact in their field. Join us for a masterclass in building a sustainable, respected business in the dynamic world of hospitality.

In this insightful episode of the Hospitality Edge podcast, we sit down with Fred Boothby, the innovative founder of Enjoy Unique Stays. Fred brings his extensive background in finance and commercial banking to the realm of short-term rentals, sharing valuable strategies that have significantly increased the value of his property management portfolio. Dive deep into the nuances of financial planning within the hospitality sector as Fred discusses the impact of creative financing, strategic property management, and the importance of aligning property investment with branding efforts. He highlights how understanding market dynamics and owner needs has propelled Enjoy Unique Stays to dominate in competitive markets like Chattanooga. Fred also delves into the practicalities of third-party management, explaining the complexities and costs associated with acquiring and retaining property owners. This episode is packed with actionable advice on optimizing investment returns through innovative property management and development strategies tailored for the short-term rental market. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur in the hospitality industry or an existing property manager looking to refine your approach and scale your operations, Fred’s experiences and insights offer invaluable guidance. Tune in to learn how to leverage finance strategies to not only sustain but also expand your short-term rental portfolio effectively.

In this enlightening episode of our podcast, we sit down with Matt Landau, a renowned entrepreneur and the visionary behind VRMB, a leading media empire in the vacation rental industry. The episode, titled "Fueling Business Innovation Through Curiosity: Matt Landau’s Approach," delves into the powerful role that curiosity plays in fostering innovation within businesses, particularly in the realms of real estate and hospitality. Matt shares his unique journey from the inception of a boutique hotel in Panama to becoming a major influencer through his educational platforms and community engagements in the vacation rental market. He discusses how embracing curiosity not only shaped his career but also led to significant societal contributions, including programs designed to reintegrate gang members into society through education and mentorship. Listeners will gain insights into the practical applications of curiosity in business—from sparking creative solutions to driving forward-thinking strategies. Matt also explores the concept of 'unlimited edition' thinking, advocating for a mindset that embraces possibilities rather than constraints, which can lead to profound business transformation and personal growth. Join us for a compelling discussion that highlights how curiosity can be a transformative force in any entrepreneur's toolkit, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in business and life. Whether you're a seasoned business owner, a budding entrepreneur, or simply someone interested in the power of innovative thinking, this episode offers valuable perspectives on turning curiosity into a competitive advantage.

In this engaging episode of the Hospitality Edge podcast, we sit down with Joni Lee, the visionary founder of Suches Vacations, to delve into the intricacies of building successful relationships and ensuring retention in the competitive world of short-term rentals (STR). Joni shares her unique journey from starting with Airbnb to managing a burgeoning portfolio of diverse properties, revealing the personal touches and strategic decisions that set her company apart in the hospitality sector. Discover how Joni leverages custom technology to enhance guest experiences and streamline operations, making Suches Vacations a standout name in property management. She discusses the importance of understanding owner goals, crafting personalized guest experiences, and the role of technology in scaling her business efficiently. Listeners will gain invaluable insights into: - The pivotal role of relationship-building in both guest loyalty and owner retention. - Strategies for differentiating your services in a saturated market. - The benefits and challenges of developing in-house technology solutions. - Joni's approach to growth and education within the STR industry. Tune in to learn from Joni Lee’s extensive experience and perhaps find the inspiration you need to innovate and excel in your own real estate or hospitality endeavors. Whether you’re a seasoned property manager or just starting out, Joni’s practical advice and personal anecdotes will provide you with fresh perspectives on how to thrive in this dynamic industry.

Join us on this insightful episode of the Hospitality Edge Podcast as we sit down with Jonathan Wicks, the innovative founder and CEO of Well & Good Professional Services. Dive deep into the world of hospitality, entrepreneurship, and real estate through Jonathan's rich journey from his early days of managing a lawn service to revolutionizing service standards in short-term rentals. Learn how his unique approach to customer service and employee engagement is setting new benchmarks in the industry. Jonathan also shares valuable findings from a comprehensive guest survey that sheds light on consumer preferences, impacting how properties should tailor their offerings. Whether you're a property manager, host, or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable advice and pioneering insights that can elevate your operational success and enhance guest satisfaction. Tune in to explore how focusing on detailed, hotel-like servicing can differentiate your property in the competitive short-term rental market.

In this enlightening episode of the Hospitality Edge podcast, we dive deep into the entrepreneurial journey of Louis-Philippe Therrien, the visionary founder and CEO of Den Stays. From the streets of Montreal to the bustling hospitality scene, Louis shares his fascinating story of growth, innovation, and resilience. Discover how Den Stays carved its niche in the competitive realms of real estate and hospitality by staying true to its identity and consistently delivering unparalleled guest experiences.  Louis-Philippe opens up about starting with a side project that turned into a passion, leading to a portfolio of over 150 properties under management. He reflects on the challenges of navigating the industry, from convincing landlords to embracing the lease arbitrage model, the resilience he developed through the pandemic, and the pivotal shift towards property management amidst the ever-evolving landscape. This episode is packed with strategic insights and practical advice for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, hospitality, and real estate. Louis-Philippe’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, adaptability, and the importance of building a solid support system. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, you'll find inspiration and valuable lessons in Louis-Philippe's story. Join us as we explore the keys to successful property management, the impact of regulations on the industry, and the future of Den Stays. Don't miss this compelling narrative of ambition, strategy, and success in the hospitality sector.

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Rachel Alday, the co-founder and co-owner of Abode Luxury Rentals, a company that has carved out a niche for itself in the luxury vacation rental market in Park City, Utah. Rachel shares the journey of building Abode from the ground up, emphasizing the significance of team building, and the art of hospitality. Rachel offers an in-depth look into how Abode has managed to not just survive but thrive by focusing on high-touch, personalized service that caters to the unique needs of each guest and homeowner. She discusses the importance of building a team that operates like a close-knit family, where everyone is dedicated to serving others and contributing to creating unforgettable experiences for their guests. Throughout the conversation, Rachel also touches on the challenges and opportunities presented by instant booking technologies, the evolution of guest expectations in the luxury segment, and the strategies that have enabled Abode to maintain its edge in a competitive market. She candidly shares her insights on why focusing on unscalable, personalized touches has been crucial for scaling their business and how embracing technology, without losing the personal touch, is shaping the future of luxury vacation rentals. Whether you're a property manager looking to elevate your service level, someone interested in the dynamics of the luxury vacation rental market, or just looking for inspiring entrepreneurial stories, this episode offers valuable lessons on the importance of staying true to your core values while adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the hospitality industry. Join us for this deep dive into luxury, hospitality, and the power of human connection with Rachel Alday.

In this detailed episode, we sit down with Taylor Jones, the Head of Acquisitions at TechVestor, to dissect the intricacies of achieving high ROI in the competitive landscape of short-term rentals. Taylor shares his journey from sales to real estate mogul, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the precision, strategy, and analytical rigor that drive success in property acquisitions and management. "How to Buy 130 Properties in 2 Years: Strategies from Taylor Jones" delves into the critical aspects of property investment, focusing on the selection of renovations and amenities that promise the best returns, understanding market demands, and the nuances of financial planning in real estate. Taylor's insights into the art and science of property upgrades are invaluable for anyone looking to elevate their investment strategy. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence profitability in short-term rentals, including the importance of data-driven decision-making, effective capital allocation, and strategic market positioning. This episode is an essential listen for real estate investors who are serious about deepening their knowledge of the sector's financial mechanisms and maximizing their investment returns. Tune in for a masterclass in the economics of short-term rental investments and equip yourself with the knowledge to make informed, strategic decisions in your real estate ventures.

In this insightful episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Karl Scarlett, a visionary entrepreneur who has seamlessly navigated the realms of technology and hospitality to establish himself as a leader in both industries. With a foundation built on resilience, innovation, and a profound commitment to doing things with love, Karl shares his experiences from starting with humble beginnings to becoming the founder of the renowned hospitality company, Great Dwellings, and the tech enterprise, NetAesthetics. We explore the critical moments that shaped Karl's entrepreneurial path, the challenges he overcame, and the strategies that propelled his businesses to success. Karl's story is not just about business growth; it's about impacting lives positively, whether it's through providing unforgettable experiences for guests, supporting property owners, or nurturing his team. Join us as we uncover valuable insights on scaling a business, the importance of building a quality team, and why doing things with love is at the heart of Karl's success. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, Karl's journey offers inspiration and practical advice that can help you navigate your own path to success.

In this episode, we sit down with Noah Itovich, the co-founder of Matcha.ooo, a groundbreaking platform aiming to reshape the hospitality industry. Dive into Noah's journey from a career in law to launching a startup that prioritizes trust and user data to create safer, more reliable rental experiences. Learn how Matcha.ooo is setting itself apart from giants like Airbnb by leveraging professional networks and innovative technology. Whether you're interested in the future of hospitality, entrepreneurship, or tech innovations, this conversation sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of building a marketplace that users can trust.

Dive into the compelling journey of scaling from 0 to 175 properties in just three years in "Scaling from 0 to 175 properties in 3 years: Growth Hacks to Master Vacation Rental Scale"🚀. This episode features Andrew's detailed account of building a vast portfolio of vacation rentals, providing a blend of ambition, strategic planning, and resilience that fueled their rapid growth in the competitive vacation rental market. Transitioning from corporate stability to the challenges of scalability and technological integration, this episode offers key insights for anyone in the vacation rental industry 🔍. Discover the critical decisions, learning moments 📚, and strategic moves that not only facilitated fast growth but also guaranteed its sustainability. Whether aiming to scale your property management business or seeking inspiration from a real success story, "Scaling from 0 to 175 properties in 3 years" is a guide to effective strategies and mentalities essential for substantial growth. Andrew's narrative showcases the importance of focused vision, operational efficiency, and adaptability 💡. Tune in to gain actionable advice, strategic insights, and the motivation necessary to take your vacation rental business to new heights 🚀.

Hello everyone and welcome to the 21st episode of The Hospitality Edge podcast. Today we have Annie Munro Sloan! Co-Founder & CEO at The Host Co. Join us to learn about the wonderful world of short-term rentals, vacation rentals and more! Some of the topics we will be covering today are: Elevating Hospitality Game: Annie drops truth bombs on bridging the hospitality gap between short-term rentals and hotels. 🛏️✨ Get ready to learn how to sprinkle that hotel magic onto your Airbnb stays! Unleash Your Unique Mojo: Annie spills the beans on cracking the code to stand out in the crowded market! 💥🚀 Find out how to carve your niche, build a community, and turn those newbie mistakes into gold. Tech-Savvy, Heart-Wise Automation: Discover the secret sauce behind automating without losing that personal touch! 🤖❤️ Annie shares how to keep it real while streamlining your processes for maximum efficiency. Cash Flow Kingdom: Dive into Annie's treasure trove of revenue-boosting tips! 💰💡 Learn how to up your game with killer add-ons and create a revenue stream that rivals your nightly rate. Midterm Rentals: The Sweet Spot?: Annie breaks down why midterm rentals might just be the game-changer you've been looking for! 🔄💼 Explore the flexible financing options and freedom they offer. Values Fuel Success: Annie dishes on the power of diversity and accessibility in business! 🌟💼 Get inspired to build a company culture that thrives on inclusivity and humanity. Hosts Rule the Roost: Join Annieas he uncovers why focusing on hosts is the ultimate power move! 🎯🏠 Learn why catering to smaller hosts is the key to unlocking big-time success in the hospitality biz.

Hello everyone and welcome to the 20th episode of The Hospitality Edge podcast. Today we have Drew Pierce, CEO and Co-Founder of Sage Vacations. Join us to learn about the wonderful world of short-term rentals, vacation rentals and more! 🏨 Scaling a Hospitality Empire 💼 Drew discusses building a brand in the hospitality industry and managing growth. 🌟 Balancing Guest Experience and Investor Returns 💰 How Drew navigates between providing top-notch guest experiences and maximizing returns for investors. 🛠️ Tech Tools for Efficiency and Automation 🤖 A deep dive into the tech stack Drew uses to automate operations and streamline efficiency. 🏢 Team Structures for Success 👥 Drew shares insights into his team structure, covering roles from revenue management to investor relations. 🌄 Future Vision: From Glamping to Condo Hotels 🏨 Drew outlines his ambitious future plans, including building a glamping resort and venturing into condo hotels. 💸 Financing Strategies for Growth 📈 How Drew leverages traditional and private financing to fund his projects and manage debt. 📉 Lessons Learned: Expenses, Forecasting, and Conservative Growth 🔮 Drew shares valuable lessons on managing expenses, forecasting for growth, and taking a conservative approach. 🚀 From Joint Ventures to Hotel Acquisitions: Drew's Journey 🏢 A retrospective on Drew's journey from joint ventures in single-family homes to hotel acquisitions and beyond.

Hey folks! Get ready to dive into the world of cutting-edge hospitality with our special guest Adam Nedved, co-founder of Prague Days and Blahobyty. Join your host Sebastian Muñoz as we uncover the journey behind crafting unforgettable guest experiences. 🏨💼 🔍 Tech Talk: Ever wondered about the ins and outs of property management systems? Adam spills the beans on why he and his co-founder decided to build their own tech solutions instead of sticking with off-the-shelf options. 💻💡 💰 Commercializing Innovation: How do you turn innovative tech into a game-changer for your business? Adam breaks down the challenges and opportunities of bringing proprietary technology to market. 🚀💼 🌟 The Heart of Hospitality: Explore the essence of exceptional hospitality with Adam as he shares insights on empathy, team dynamics, and the pursuit of perfection in guest service. ❤️🛎️ 🔄 From Tech to Team: Discover the pivotal moment when Adam's focus shifted from tech efficiency to empowering his team, and how it transformed the hospitality experience. 🔄👥 👨‍💼 HR Insights: Learn from Adam's journey into the world of HR and talent management, and why investing in your people is the ultimate recipe for success in the hospitality industry. 💼🌟 👥 Cultivating Culture: Tune in as Adam reveals the secrets behind building a winning culture that drives exceptional guest experiences, from recruitment strategies to fostering unity and purpose. 🤝 📚 Inspirational Reads: Find out how a single book – "Work Rules" by Laszlo Bock – became a guiding light in Adam's quest to create a workplace culture that's second to none. 📖✨ Don't miss out on this enlightening episode! Exclusive insights from Adam Nedved, co-founder of Prague Days and Blahobyty, on how to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of hospitality. 🎧

Hello everyone and welcome to The Hospitality Edge podcast! Today we have the 18th episode and I'm joined by Wil Slickers, founder of Hospitality.FM and also the Co-Founder and Chief Hospitality Officer of Recreation Rentals Some of the topics we'll be covering today: 🎙️Hospitality.FM: born for educating in an unstructured way for everyone! 🚗 From Chauffeur to Hotel Management🏨 🌟 Brand Identity & Standards: 🤝 Partnership Dynamics 👥 Values-based Decision Making 📈 Rapid Scaling Strategies 💼 Choosing Growth Over Comfort Don’t miss out on this new episode! Stay tuned for more STR and hospitality insights!

Hello everyone and welcome to The Hospitality Edge podcast! Today is time for the 17th episode and we have Jean-Emmanuel Losi and Simon Seroussi, co-founders of Sosuite and SuiteOp! Some of the topics we'll be covering today: The Birth of SoSuite: A Philadelphia Story 🏙️ Scaling from Two to 200 Properties: Strategies & Challenges 📈🏡 Lease Arbitrage Model: Risks & Rewards of scaling models 💼📈 Failure and Progress: Navigating ERP Challenges at SweetUp ❌💻 Beyond Noise Monitoring: SweetUp's Vision for Comprehensive Guest Experience Don’t miss out on this new episode! Stay tuned for more STR and hospitality insights!

Hello everyone and welcome to The Hospitality Edge podcast! This is the 16th episode and today we have Sabrina Calnan! Sabrina started exploring the world of Airbnb in 2014 and quickly became an exper while focusing on opportunities to optimize the guest experience and maximize revenue for her clients. Sabrina is a hand-selected Airbnb Ambassador and Superhost to over $3 Million in Airbnb revenue. 🌟 Highlights: ✅ The Art and Science of Airbnb Investing ✅ Lessons from the 2008 Market Crash ✅ Identifying Red Flags in Real Estate ✅ Transitioning from Long-Term to Short-Term Rentals ✅ Airbnb Hosting Tips and Tricks

Hello everyone and welcome to The Hospitality Edge podcast! This is the 15th episode and today we have Kristen & Lionne Decker! They lead the Mazatlan4Sale & Mazatlan4Rent team, offering high-quality service with a focus on effective communication in the dynamic market. With over thirteen years of experience, they prioritize client satisfaction, keeping clients informed and educated on market trends for beneficial outcomes. Some of the topics we will be covering today are: Managing Dual Customers 🤹‍♂️: Balancing Guest, Owner Needs, and Expectations Vacation Rental Insights 🏠💼: Guests Turned Buyers and Mexico Real Estate Navigating Property Development 🌟🏡: Tips, Red Flags, and Trust Building Investing Insights in Mexico 🌎🏠: From Fideicomiso to Financing Entrepreneurial Journey 🏡🤝: Lion and Kristen's Adventure in Mazatlan Love, Marriage, and Real Estate 💑🌅: Lion and Kristen's Unique Story Success and Celebrations 🎉🏡: Thriving in Real Estate and Hospitality Crossing Borders 🌍👫: Lion and Kristen's Move from U.S. to Mexico Stay tuned for this new episode!