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Showing episodes and shows of
Heather Bayer Aka @CottageGuru
Shows
Vacation Rental Success
VRS650 - Amber Hurdle – Keeping the Human in the Loop: Building a Strategic AI-Driven Brand
Amber Hurdle is back for her fourth appearance on the podcast - and once again, she's lighting up the conversation with her bold, insightful take on branding, leadership, and the evolving role of AI in business. A year after her last visit (when ChatGPT was just becoming mainstream), Heather reconnects with Amber to explore how the AI landscape has shifted - and how short-term rental pros can ride the wave without losing their voice. From crafting a strategic AI approach to retrofitting your team structure and refining your brand voice, Amber offers practical, no-nonsense advice with her...
2026-02-11
56 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS649 - Sewn in Soil and Spirit – Designing Guest Experiences with Heather Dunwoody - A Book Direct Day Special
On this very special Book Direct Day, I'm thrilled to welcome Heather Dunwoody to the podcast for a deeply resonant conversation about the why behind what we do in this industry. Heather isn't just someone who works in branding and guest experience., she's someone who truly understands that hospitality goes far beyond service. For her, it's about creating meaningful connections and welcoming guests into something much deeper than just a place to stay. After reading her article Sewn in Soil and Spirit on Medium, I knew we had to dive into a conversation about designing guest experiences...
2026-02-04
51 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS648 - Lead Better, Clean Smarter: The Coaches and Consultants Behind Vacation Rental Growth
In this special episode from our Training Series, host Heather Bayer is joined by Brittany Blackman (Discover Freedom) and Sean Kemper (ETI Solutions) - two powerhouse professionals who are bringing serious change to the short-term rental industry through coaching, consulting, and training. Together, they unpack the often unseen emotional weight of solopreneurship, why training isn't just "nice to have" but foundational, and how leaders can prioritize people over process for long-term success. Whether you're doing it all in-house or looking to bring in outside expertise, this episode is a deep dive into the role of real education...
2026-01-28
51 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS647 - The Missing Piece in STR Training: Why Soft Skills Matter More Than Ever - with Ali Cammelletti
In this episode, Heather sits down with returning guest Ali Cammelletti, a hospitality consultant, speaker, and the founder of Spark Your Mindset. With more than 30 years of experience in hospitality, Ali brings powerful insights into how soft skills - like empathy, emotional intelligence, and communication - can make or break a vacation rental business. While software training and hard skills often dominate onboarding and development, Ali makes the case for why soft skills are just as essential across every role in a short-term rental company - from the cleaners to the C-suite. Whether you're leading...
2026-01-21
53 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS646 - NotebookLM & the New Age of STR Team Training
In this solo episode Heather Bayer continues the series on training and development in the short-term rental space. Drawing on her past as a training consultant and her years of managing hundreds of properties, Heather shares a clear, practical path to building team training that works - even if you're not a "trainer." She also introduces an incredible AI tool - NotebookLM - that can help you design and deliver onboarding, checklists, and micro-trainings using content you already have. If you're short on time, resources, or tech confidence, this episode will give you the roadmap t...
2026-01-14
35 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS645 - Duct Tape Doesn't Scale: Onboarding, Training, and Thriving in 2026
In this episode, Heather Bayer welcomes back her son and business partner, Mike Bayer, for a timely New Year's discussion on a topic that affects nearly every property manager: onboarding and training. After a holiday season filled with family chaos (a trip to the emergency room, and a broken hot tub!), Heather and Mike shift gears to reflect on the challenges of integrating new team members into short-term rental businesses. Drawing from Mike's personal experience onboarding at a new job in the pickleball industry, they reveal how even fast-growing companies can feel "held together by duct tape"...
2026-01-07
45 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS644 - Forecasting 2026: Tech, Trust, and Transformation in Vacation Rentals with David Angotti
It's the first episode of 2026 - and that means it's time for our annual deep dive into what's happened across the vacation rental industry over the past year, and what's coming next. Back by popular demand, David Angotti joins Heather to break down the big shifts of 2025 and share what smart property managers should focus on heading into the New Year. From PMS shakeups and AI integration to a renewed focus on local hospitality, David brings a candid and insightful perspective from inside some of the industry's most talked-about brands, including his transition from Guesty to Casago...
2025-12-31
56 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS643 – How Voice AI Can Elevate Hospitality Without Losing the Human Touch – with Eliseo Palous
What if artificial intelligence could actually enhance the human touch instead of replacing it? In this episode, Heather speaks with Eliseo Palous, co-founder of Short Stay Media, to explore how AI - especially voice AI - is revolutionizing guest communications in the short-term rental industry without sacrificing what matters most: hospitality, responsibility, and trust. Eliseo shares the fascinating journey from starting as an intern in a small property management company to co-founding a business at the forefront of AI-powered communication. His insights into the human challenges behind tech adoption and the risks of depersonalized service...
2025-12-24
46 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS642 - How Stacey St. John Built a High-Performing STR Portfolio From Scratch
What happens when a corporate professional takes a chance on short-term rentals in the middle of a global pandemic? In this inspiring episode, Heather sits down with Stacey St. John - real estate investor, property manager, and community builder - to unpack her incredible journey from cautious investor to powerhouse property manager with a portfolio of beachfront properties in Myrtle Beach. Stacey didn't just enter the industry - she transformed her life through it. Tune in to hear how she went from buying two "ugly" condos during COVID, to building a thriving business, managing properties with purpose...
2025-12-17
56 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS641 - The Insurance Housing Opportunity: What Every STR Operator Should Know with Jake Mast
When disaster strikes - whether it's a fire, flood, or even a bat infestation - families are often left scrambling for safe, comfortable housing. That's where Jake Mast steps in. In this episode, Heather Bayer sits down with Jake, founder of Rapid Response AI Housing, to explore how his company is disrupting the traditional insurance housing model by combining speed, accuracy, and human-centered AI solutions. Jake shares his unconventional journey - from CPA to Hollywood actor to vacation rental host - and how that ultimately led him to carve out a niche in insurance relocation housing. With...
2025-12-10
57 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS640 - Why the FIFA World Cup 2026 Starts NOW for Your Vacation Rental with Mark Simpson
📌In this power-packed episode, Heather Bayer is joined once again by vacation rental marketing guru Mark Simpson of Boostly. Mark returns for his fifth appearance on the podcast - and this time, he's bringing an urgent message for vacation rental professionals across North America: The FIFA World Cup 2026 doesn't start in June... it starts on December 5, 2025. That's the date the match draws are announced, and it's also when the first wave of global bookings will begin. If you're located in or near any of the 16 host cities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, this epi...
2025-12-03
52 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS638 - Democratizing Genius: How Dr. Rachel Gainsbrugh Uses AI to Supercharge Short-Term Rental Success
In this episode, Heather sits down with Dr. Rachel Gainsbrugh from Short Term Gems to explore how artificial intelligence is changing the way short-term rental businesses operate. Rachel shares how she moved from being a pharmacist to building a real estate education company focused on medical professionals, and how AI is now a core part of that mission. They discuss how AI is helping hosts get more done with less effort, speed up onboarding, reduce mistakes, and support team members in delivering better guest experiences. Rachel gives examples from her work building hundreds of GPTs, creating custom...
2025-11-19
52 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS637 - AI in Action: What STR Hosts Can Learn from the AI for Business Summit
In this packed episode, Heather Bayer shares her biggest takeaways from the AI for Business Summit in Las Vegas - and how short-term rental hosts and property managers can take immediate, practical steps to adopt AI tools in their business. Heather reveals how she used a Plaud NotePin to record and summarize every session, giving her powerful insights on AI avatars, automated guest journeys, direct-response video, personal branding, and more. If you're ready to get ahead of the curve and use AI to save time, elevate guest experiences, and stand out in a competitive market, this is...
2025-11-12
48 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS635 - From Tinkering to Transformation: Building an AI Adoption Strategy for Your Vacation Rental Business
While everyone's been playing around with AI tools like ChatGPT, few in the short-term rental industry have taken the next step - turning experimentation into strategy. In this episode, Heather shares a clear, step-by-step framework to help you move from random tinkering to thoughtful implementation, drawn straight from her AI Ambassador Program. Whether you're a property manager overwhelmed by AI options, or a team leader unsure how to get your staff onboard, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you start small, think big, and bring AI into your business in a human-centered...
2025-10-29
45 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS633 - The Trustology: The Secret to a Successful Direct Booking Strategy with Chris Maughan
In this penultimate episode in our series on Direct Booking, this is an episode you can't afford to miss. Heather is joined by long-time industry leader Chris Maughan, the founder of i-PRAC and a pioneer in the trust movement for short-term rentals. This conversation isn't about OTAs, algorithms, or the latest booking engine. It's about what really drives guests to book directly - and it's not price or promotions. It's trust. Chris unpacks the real psychological barriers guests face when booking direct, and why removing uncertainty is the single most important thing you can do...
2025-10-15
51 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS632 - How to Transform Your Short Term Rental Business with Google's NotebookLM
In this solo episode, Heather shares her enthusiasm for Google's NotebookLM. If you've ever wished for a research assistant who knows your business inside and out - an assistant who can analyze guest reviews, SOPs, market data, and spit out insights without hallucinating - this one's for you. Heather walks through how NotebookLM works, why it's different from ChatGPT and other popular AI tools, and how vacation rental hosts and managers can use it to streamline operations, improve guest experience, and uncover hidden business insights. This isn't theory - it's a practical, passionate review of a platform...
2025-10-08
58 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS631 - Are You a Digital Sharecropper? Taking Back Control with Humphrey Bowles
In this bold and thought-provoking episode, Heather sits down with Humphrey Bowles, the founder of Truvi and who has adopted the term "digital sharecropping" within the short-term rental industry. Together, they explore the illusion of entrepreneurship in the short-term rental world - especially when you build your business entirely on platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. Humphrey shares the powerful analogy behind digital sharecropping and breaks down what it really means to build a business you don't own. If you've ever questioned who really controls your guest relationships, your reviews, or even your ability to operate...
2025-10-01
53 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS630 - Build Trust, Book Direct: Lessons from Louis Andrews of OVO Network
In this first episode of a special 5-part series on direct booking, Heather Bayer sits down with Louis Andrews, Director at OVO Network, to explore what it really takes to win the battle against OTAs and build a successful direct booking strategy. With OVO Network reaching 75-80% direct bookings, Louis shares the secrets behind their platform, the importance of niche branding, trust-building, and the role of tech and website UX in conversion success. Heather also reflects on her own company's success - CottageLINK Rental Management, which achieved 85% direct bookings by the time it was sold in 2022.
2025-09-24
55 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS627 - Thriving in the Age of AI and Short-Term Rentals with Bart Sobies
In this episode, Heather Bayer welcomes back a long-time friend and industry innovator, Bart Sobies, founder of iBooked.Online and the creative mind behind the Strive to Thrive events in Australia and beyond. Bart joins Heather (from tomorrow, no less - Australia time!) to share insights on: The power of in-person connections and how conferences can radically transform your business trajectory What's happening right now in the Australian short-term rental market Why AI isn't a trend - it's a revolution, and how it's already reshaping our industry How to...
2025-09-03
55 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS626 - Tech-Enabled Hospitality with Jessica Gillingham of Abode Worldwide
What does it really mean to run a tech-enabled hospitality business - and how do we do it without losing the human touch? In this episode, Heather sits down with Jessica Gillingham, founder of Abode Worldwide and author of Tech-Enabled Hospitality, to talk about how property managers can embrace technology to improve guest experiences, operations, and brand storytelling. This is a conversation about more than tools - it's about mindset. From scaling sustainably to building trust in a digital world, Jessica brings clarity and compassion to a topic that often feels overwhelming. Whether you're a...
2025-08-27
52 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS625 - Five Quick Wins to Start Using AI in Your STR Business Today
In this solo episode, Heather Bayer returns to the mic for an approachable explanation of the transformative power of AI in short-term rental operations. With over 600 episodes under her belt, Heather has seen just about every trend in this space - but few as game-changing as this. Whether you're a solo host or run a multi-property management company, you've likely heard about ChatGPT, Claude, and AI tools - but how do you actually put them to work? This episode delivers five actionable ways to get started with AI right now, even if you're not a...
2025-08-20
47 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS623 - Safety Sells: Why STR Leaders Are Putting Protection First
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down for a summer Sunday chat with Justin Ford from Breezeway, to discuss how prioritizing safety can transform your short-term rental business. Not just in protecting reputations, even boosting bookings, but in saving lives. Justin has been on the show just a few times over the years and his inspiring take on safety is a reflection of his two decades of experience in the industry. For anyone not familiar with his booming voice and 6'5" stature, he is a globally recognized vacation rental safety exp...
2025-08-06
49 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS622 - Navigating Growth, Change, and True Hospitality with Jackie Norde from Casago
When change hits fast and hard, what keeps a company grounded? In this episode, Heather welcomes Jackie Norde, who shares her remarkable journey from vacation rental software onboarding to her current role helping Casago franchisees succeed - especially in the wake of Casago's rapid expansion via Vacasa acquisitions. Jackie offers rich insights into hospitality, franchise onboarding, operational standards, and how a tiny orange booklet - the Casago ORANGE Standard - is transforming how vacation rental businesses deliver unforgettable guest experiences. Whether you're a property manager facing change, an owner scaling up, or just someone who...
2025-07-30
50 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS621 – The Power of Storytelling: How Hospitality Brands Can Stand Out in a Sea of Sameness
In this inspiring episode, Heather Bayer sits down with storyteller and copywriter Neely Khan to explore how hospitality businesses can set themselves apart through powerful, purpose-driven storytelling. Neely shares her journey from aspiring writer to founding AWC, a story-branding agency that helps short-term rental businesses create meaningful connections through every guest touchpoint. This episode is a must-listen for property managers and owners who want to stand out in a saturated market filled with AI-generated sameness. Make sure you complete The Strategic AI Adoption Survey >>https://www.hostfully.com/survey You will get the chance to...
2025-07-23
54 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS620 - Staying Human: The Power of Vulnerability in Vacation Rental Leadership
In this episode, Heather Bayer sits down with Heather Fillmore, co-founder of Utah-based StayLuxe Properties, for an honest and inspiring conversation about resilience, growth, and leadership in the short-term rental space. Heather shares her remarkable journey from surviving a catastrophic flood in Baton Rouge to launching a successful luxury vacation rental brand in Park City, Utah - right in the middle of the COVID pandemic. Make sure you complete The Strategic AI Adoption Survey >>https://www.hostfully.com/survey You will get the chance to win an iPad and get access to '24 Use Cases...
2025-07-16
57 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS619 - Making AI Work for You: Insights, Use Cases, and a New Industry Survey with Fred Bassili of Hostfully
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Fred Bassili from Hostfully to discuss the evolving role of AI in vacation rental businesses and how short-term rental managers can use AI tools and workflows to scale operations, improve guest communication, and boost owner acquisition. Fred Bassili, a seasoned content and marketing strategist at Hostfully, brings a wealth of experience from both sides of the vacation rental industry - as a former host and now a driving force behind tech adoption and education. With a background in content development and a...
2025-07-09
50 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS618 - Legacy, Leadership & AI: Inside the Evolution of Cottage Connection of Maine with Alexis Miller
Some of the strongest brands in the vacation rental business have been around for decades and are rooted in tradition, family values and local knowledge. As the next generation stepping into a decades-old family-run vacation rental business, Alexis Miller personifies this legacy as she shares how she's honoring her family's rich story while ushering in thoughtful innovations to meet today's fast-paced demands. Cottage Connection of Maine was founded in 1992 by Jeff Miller and Audrey Leeds-Miller, and 33 years later is still going strong. It's a lean organisation operationally managed by their daughter Alexis, a graduate of an International bu...
2025-07-02
44 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS617 - What an AI Summit Taught Me About Hosting, Branding, and Staying Ahead
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer shares her top takeaways from the AI for Business Summit in Orlando, diving into the transformative power of artificial intelligence and how vacation rental professionals can leverage it to drive growth, efficiency, and guest experience Revolutionize Your Employee Onboarding with THRIVE Essentials: Faster Training, Stronger Teams, Better Results! Discover how THRIVE Essentials accelerates onboarding for new property management staff, boosting performance and reducing turnover. >> THRIVE Essentials Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: ht...
2025-06-25
42 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS616 - A Podcast Within a Podcast: A Look into NotebookLM
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with… herself! It's a podcast within a podcast as Heather explores the power of AI through a hands-on demonstration of Google's NotebookLM, sharing practical examples of how it can be a game-changer for short-term rental businesses. Drawing on her extensive industry experience and recent immersion in AI tools, Heather shares insights into how vacation rental operators can use AI not only to save time and money, but also to transform their business operations. Through a live example of AI-generated podcast content, she showcases ho...
2025-06-18
44 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS615 - Direct Bookings, AI, and Airbnb Disruption: A Real Talk with Mark Simpson
In this no-holds-barred conversation, Heather is joined by longtime friend of the show, Mark Simpson, to unpack the buzz - and backlash - surrounding Airbnb's newly launched "Services" offering. From liability concerns to insurance gaps, Mark breaks down why this move is raising eyebrows in the host community and what you can do right now to protect your business. Then, we switch gears and dive headfirst into the world of AI in vacation rentals. Mark shares how he's been helping hosts build custom GPTs, boost productivity, and take back control of their marketing strategies. If...
2025-06-11
51 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS613 - Why Every Vacation Rental Business Needs an AI Champion - Now
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with her son and business partner, Mike Bayer, to discuss the essential role of an "AI Ambassador" in vacation rental businesses. Together, they explore why nominating a dedicated AI advocate can unlock efficiencies, reduce burnout, and help teams fully embrace the transformative potential of artificial intelligence. In this conversation Heather and Mike talk about why companies must move from passive awareness to active implementation. The best way to do this is to empower someone within their business to lead the AI charge and...
2025-05-28
50 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS612 - Access for All: How One Woman's Mission and Expedia's Support Are Transforming the Way We Host
This week on the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, Heather reconnects with long-time friend and returning guest, Lorraine Woodward, the unstoppable force behind Becoming rentABLE. Lorraine has been championing accessibility in the short-term rental industry for years, and this time, she's back with big news - an exciting new partnership with Expedia Group through their Open World Accelerator Program. Together, Heather and Lorraine dive into what accessibility really means today (spoiler alert: it's not just ramps and wide doors), and how simple, low-cost features like under-counter lighting, secondary locks, and hard surface driveways can dramatically open your property...
2025-05-21
55 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS611 - Leadership by Culture: How Rachel Alday Built Loyalty and Hospitality Through Intentional Team Values
In this special replay episode in our Leadership Series, Heather reconnects with Rachel Alday, founder of Abode Luxury Rentals, for a powerful conversation on building a thriving business through intentional leadership and company culture. Rachel shares the real story behind how she and her husband grew their boutique vacation rental company from a few properties to a high-performing, values-driven team of nearly 60 people across three markets. What started as a "mom-and-pop" business became a case study in leadership - rooted in authenticity, driven by values, and centered around a deep commitment to both team and guest experience.
2025-05-14
51 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS610 - The Quiet Power of Leadership: Steve Schwab on Earning Loyalty and Driving Change
In this landmark episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, Heather Bayer is joined by Steve Schwab, the Founder and CEO of Casago, at a truly pivotal moment - not just in his personal journey, but in the history of the vacation rental industry. As Casago steps into a groundbreaking merger with Vacasa, Steve reflects on the path that led him here and the deeply held leadership values that have shaped the company's evolution. From climbing rooftops in Rocky Point, Mexico, to becoming the driving force behind a national franchise brand, Steve's story is anything but typical...
2025-05-07
42 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS609 - What Type of Leader Are You? Reflections from the Short-Term Rental Industry
In this powerful solo episode, Heather Bayer reflects on one of the most fundamental - and often overlooked - questions in the short-term rental space: What kind of leader are you? Through years of podcast interviews and her own journey managing STR properties, Heather unpacks the evolving nature of leadership and how it uniquely manifests in the vacation rental industry. From traditional leadership styles to emotionally intelligent approaches, she guides us through a wide spectrum of frameworks, weaving in personal stories and rich insights from some of the most inspiring voices in the business. This...
2025-04-30
33 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS608 - Are You Born to Lead? Lessons in STR Leadership with Ali Cammelletti
Most short-term rental operators didn't plan on becoming leaders. They started as solopreneurs - cleaning toilets one day, managing a team the next. If you've ever found yourself in a leadership role and thought, "How did I get here?", this episode is for you. In this powerful and relatable conversation, Heather is joined by leadership coach Ali Cammelletti, who has spent over 20 years helping hospitality professionals grow into confident, emotionally intelligent leaders - often without any formal training. Together, they explore the very real challenges of leadership in the short-term rental world and how to navigate them...
2025-04-23
45 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS606 - AI Meets Hospitality: Shahar Goldboim on Building the World's First AI-Powered PMS
What happens when a vacation rental entrepreneur, his tech-savvy brothers, and a close-knit team of hospitality veterans come together with a mission to solve the biggest operational headaches in property management? You get Boom - the world's first AI-powered property management system (AIPMS). In this episode, Heather sits down with Shahar Goldboim, the dynamic founder of Boom, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the vacation rental industry - without sacrificing the personal, human-centered heart of hospitality. From automating time-consuming tasks to interpreting emotional cues in guest communication, Boom is more than a tool...
2025-04-09
50 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS605 - Using AI to Work Smarter, Not Harder with Mark Simpson
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Mark Simpson, the founder of Boostly, to discuss the practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) for vacation rental hosts. Mark shares how AI can help streamline operations, enhance guest experiences, and optimize marketing efforts—without losing the personal touch that makes direct bookings successful. Mark Simpson is the founder of Boostly, a platform dedicated to helping short-term rental hosts and property managers increase their direct bookings. With years of experience in digital marketing and hospitality, Mark has become a leading advocate for in...
2025-04-02
53 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS603 - AI-Powered Marketing for Vacation Rentals: What You Need to Know
This episode of the podcast is sponsored by Guesty, your all-in-one platform for hospitality businesses to automate and optimize every aspect of your operations. ***Use code SSTIRCRAZY for 50% off your first annual plan*** >> Discover more about Guesty in the Virtual Vendor Showcase AI-Powered Marketing for Vacation Rentals: What You Need to Know Wondering how AI can make your vacation rental marketing more efficient and impactful? From crafting compelling property descriptions to optimizing SEO and automating guest communication, AI is changing the game. But how do you use it effectively - without getting overwhelmed? ...
2025-03-19
53 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS600 - From Energy Hog to Eco-Hero with Bob Garner
We've arrived at Week 5 of SSTIR Crazy 2025, and this might be the most critical challenge yet! Sustainability Week is here, and the stakes have never been higher for StayWise Rentals. This episode of the podcast and SSTIR Crazy Month is sponsored by Guesty, your all-in-one platform for hospitality businesses to automate and optimize every aspect of your operations. ***Use code SSTIRCRAZY for 50% off your first annual plan*** >> Discover more about Guesty in the Virtual Vendor Showcase >> Register today to attend SSTIR Crazy Month 2025 According to the...
2025-02-26
44 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS597 - When Vacation Rental Safety Systems Fail: Lessons from the Field with Justin Ford
In this second week of SSTIR Crazy 2025, StayWise Rentals grapples with a critical turning point: a safety crisis threatening their direct bookings. Easter Egg #7 [Justin] - >> SSTIR Crazy Registrants can enter this phrase in the gamification section on the app to earn big points towards the 2 VIP Tickets to VR Nation Conference, Austin, TX, April 27-28, 2025. This episode of the podcast and SSTIR Crazy Month is sponsored by Guesty your all-in-one platform for hospitality businesses to automate and optimize every aspect of your operations. ***Use code SSTIRCRAZY for 50% off your first annual plan...
2025-02-05
41 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS596 - From Questionable to Trustworthy: A Trust Transformation - with Chris Maughan
In this first week of SSTIR Crazy 2025, StayWise Rentals grapples with a critical turning point: a trust crisis threatening their direct bookings. Easter Egg #3 [Guest-Centric] - >> SSTIR Crazy Registrants can enter this phrase in the gamification section on the app to earn big points towards the 2 VIP Tickets to VR Nation Conference, Austin, TX, April 27-28, 2025. This episode of the podcast and SSTIR Crazy Month is sponsored by Guesty your all-in-one platform for hospitality businesses to automate and optimize every aspect of your operations. >> Discover more about Guesty in the Virtual Ven...
2025-01-29
49 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS594 - SSTIR Crazy 2025: Tackle the Tough Topics, Win the Grand Prize
Around this time last year, we had an idea that grew out of a LinkedIn post by Justin Ford. He had expressed his disappointment at the limited attention given to some topics at the 2023 VRMA conference and questioned how we could get more interest in the foundational elements of our business. SSTIR Crazy Month is the perfect FREE online event for anyone in the short-term rental business. This is your opportunity to take advantage of a month of incredible content that will help protect, you, your guests and your business. >> Register FREE for...
2025-01-15
41 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS593 - AI at Work: Real-World Applications in the Vacation Rental Industry With Steve Trover
If you've ever wondered how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is shaking things up in the vacation rental industry, you're in for a treat. Steve Trover has been a driving force in our industry for over 28 years, and through his company, Better Talent, he's helped over 300 property managers refine their recruitment strategies and operations. But here's where it gets exciting - Steve and his team are harnessing AI to transform everything from how job ads are crafted to how talent is optimized. In this episode Heather and Steve explore how these innovations are not just streamlining operations...
2025-01-08
51 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS590 - Co-Hosting vs. Traditional Management: What Property Managers Need to Know with Thibault Masson
Is Airbnb's new co-hosting network a game-changer for property management, or a challenge for traditional operators? In this episode Heather is joined by the founder of Rental Scale-up and Global Head of Product Marketing at PriceLabs, Thibault Masson, to discuss the opportunities, threats and potential of Airbnb's latest endeavours. Thibault Masson is a seasoned entrepreneur and thought leader in the short-term rental industry. With experience managing properties in Bali, Saint Barts, and now Venice, Thibault combines hands-on operational knowledge with strategic expertise. He offers unique insights into industry trends, regulatory challenges, and the evolution of property management pra...
2024-12-18
48 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS588 - From Content to Conversion: SEO Essentials for Vacation Rentals
Is SEO dead in the short-term rental space? According to experts, it remains a vital and evolving component of digital marketing strategies for vacation rental businesses in 2024 and beyond. In this episode, host Heather Bayer sits down with Jill McGee from InterCoastal Net Designs (ICND) to discuss SEO strategies for vacation rental websites. Together, they explore how to optimize content, adapt to AI-driven search trends, and drive direct bookings through enhanced online visibility. Jill is the Senior Digital Marketing Specialist at ICND, a web design and digital marketing platform for vacation rental businesses. With a strong background in...
2024-12-04
55 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS587 - Thanksgiving at Work: Your Guide to The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with her business partner and son, Mike Bayer, to explore The Five Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace. Together, they discuss how these principles can be applied in vacation rental management to motivate, retain, and inspire team members. Mike Bayer is the CEO and co-founder of the Vacation Rental Formula Business School, bringing his leadership experience from the British Army and the fire service into the short-term rental industry. With a passion for fostering strong teams and creating supportive workplaces, Mike has leveraged...
2024-11-27
51 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS585 - From Goals to Execution - Mastering Your Marketing Strategy with Nihal Salah
When we talk about marketing it's often about tactical aspects like posting on Instagram, making reels or how to manage influencers. But without a sound marketing strategy behind the tactics, the chance of them succeeding is low. In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with marketing strategist Nihal Salah, from Barcelona, to discuss the essential elements of a successful marketing strategy for vacation rental businesses. Nihal is a marketing powerhouse with nearly 20 years of experience, bridging the worlds of big business and small startups. She started out as a...
2024-11-13
57 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS584 - Hospitality Meets Spirituality: Building a Unique Guest Experience with Valerie Gangas
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Valerie Gangas from Juniper Holiday + Home to discuss how diverse life experiences can shape success in the vacation rental business. Valerie shares how her background in hospitality, real estate, and spirituality drives her unique approach to creating memorable guest experiences and building a strong, value-driven team. Valerie Gangas is the founder of Juniper Holiday + Home, a distinctive vacation rental and property management company known for its personalized, luxurious experiences. With a background spanning hospitality, real estate, and spiritual coaching, Valerie has seamlessly...
2024-11-06
54 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS583 - The Power of People: How to Hire and Retain the Best Talent with Steve Trover
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Steve Trover from Better Talent to discuss the intricacies of hiring, team building, and finding the right people for the right roles. Steve shares his experience in helping vacation rental businesses build strong, impactful teams and avoid the pitfalls of poor hiring practices. Steve Trover is a seasoned entrepreneur and the founder of Better Talent, a recruitment agency tailored to the vacation rental industry. With over 34 years of experience and having founded 16 companies, including All-Star Vacation Homes, Steve brings a wealth of...
2024-10-30
55 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS582 - From Team Dynamics to Guest Experience: The Power of Showing Up
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Christine Smith from CS Consulting 101, to discuss how showing up in the workplace impacts communication, relationships, and ultimately, the success of a vacation rental business. Christine Smith is a seasoned hospitality professional with over 20 years of experience in the industry. Having started her journey as a live-in host and evolving into property management, Christine is now the founder of CS Consulting 101, where she helps businesses improve internal communication and team dynamics. Her expertise lies in fostering self-awareness and strengthening relationships within teams...
2024-10-23
45 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS581 -The Ultimate Guide to Hiring and Onboarding a Virtual Assistant Within Your Vacation Rental Business
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Tammi Sims, Vice President of Partnership Experience at Extenteam, to discuss the benefits of hiring virtual assistants for short-term rental businesses, and how property managers can integrate remote team members to enhance efficiency and guest experience. Tammi brings over a decade of experience in the short-term rental industry, having started her journey as a short-term rental home owner, and later transitioning to a role in a tech start-up. Now at Extenteam, she focuses on helping property managers connect with virtual assistants to...
2024-10-16
53 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS580 - From Day One to Rockstar: Transforming New Hires into High Performers with a 7-Step Process
Hiring and onboarding new team members is a significant activity within a property management company, yet it gets limited attention in posts and articles. But as Better Talent's Steve Trover said recently, "A well structured onboarding plan increases the chance of long-term success and retention by over 80%". In this episode Heather Bayer sits down with business partner, Mike Bayer from the Vacation Rental Formula Business School to discuss how to transform new hires into top performers in a property management company by delivering foundational training in the early days of employment. ________________________________________________ Supercharge Your Prop...
2024-10-09
45 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS579 - The Future of Property Management: Navigating Airbnb's Co-Hosting Revolution with Simon Lehmann
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Simon Lehmann, founder and CEO of the consulting firm AJL Atelier, to discuss the impact of Airbnb's Experienced Co-Hosting Program on the property management industry and the challenges professional property managers face in a rapidly evolving ecosystem. Simon Lehmann is a leading expert in the vacation rental industry and the founder of AJL Atelier, a global consulting firm that focuses on professionalizing the short-term rental and property management space. With over 20 years of experience, Simon has been instrumental in helping property managers...
2024-10-02
53 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS578 - Unlocking the Power of Direct Bookings with Jenn Boyles
The best way to introduce new team members to Vacation Rental! Sign them up for our new THRIVE Essentials Program... Find out more: >> https://vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-essentials-PMC _______________________________________________________________________ Over the past 3 years, the Direct Book movement has matured to a dedicated effort to break free of the OTA stranglehold for those operators who see the folly in putting all their eggs in the Airbnb basket. In this episode, Heather is joined by Jenn Boyles, one of Book Direct's strongest advocates, to talk about dispelling myths around direct bookings, the benefits of shifting away f...
2024-09-25
54 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS577 - Strength in Numbers: The Power of Local Alliances in the Vacation Rental Industry with Julie Marks of VTSTRA
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Julie Marks from the Vermont Short-Term Rental Association (VTSTRA) to discuss the importance of local alliances, networking, and navigating regulations in the short-term rental industry. Julie Marks is a dedicated homesteader who began her journey into the vacation rental industry as a means to support her rural lifestyle. With two of her own rental properties and a growing portfolio of managed homes in Vermont, Julie's expertise in regulatory issues and advocacy has positioned her as a key voice in the industry. She...
2024-09-18
53 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS576 - Safe Rentals, Secure Profits: Why Safety is the New Selling Point with Justin Ford
This week brought a 2022 tragedy into focus as two vacation rental property owners plead guilty to multiple misdemeanors and code violations in a fire that killed 2 young women. Sadly, this is just one incident among many that could have been so easily avoided, yet safety in our business remains a topic that gets minimal attention. In this episode, the industry's leading expert in safety, Justin Ford, explores the ways property managers and hosts can get ahead of potential safety issues by taking simple steps to protect themselves, their homes in their care, and their guests. Justin shares s...
2024-09-11
57 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS575 - Unlocking Expertise: How Fractional Executives are Transforming Vacation Rentals with Alex O Husner and Michelle Marquis
We all know about virtual assistants and how valuable they can be to a company looking for flexible, short-term or part-time help with guest services, administrative tasks and social media management. But what if you need more executive level assistance but aren't ready to take on someone full-time? This is where fractional leaders come into their own. It's a relatively new area and we are now seeing more very experienced and professional people offering their services on a fractional basis. That means they become embedded into a company on a short-term, part-time contract. Alex Husner and...
2024-09-04
58 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS574 - Storytelling Strategies to Elevate Your Vacation Rental Business
Jeff Bartsch has edited over 100 episodes of the hit show, American Ninja Warrior, over the last 11 years. He says that when you can take five hours of video footage and create a 90-second piece that shows who the contestant is, what they do, and why they are so different, it makes a powerful piece of content. And now he's joining Heather to talk about the nature of storytelling and how we can use it to build meaningful connections and drive business success. Jeff is also a communication strategist at Story Greenlight, where he empowers professionals to attract and...
2024-08-28
53 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS573 - From Personal Touch to Operational Success: Innovative Hospitality with Nick Russell
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Nick Russell, the COO and VP of The Cottages on the Key, to discuss their unique approach to hospitality that sets them apart in the vacation rental industry. Nick brings a dynamic and personalized approach to vacation rental management. With a background marked by an unusual entry into the industry through a personal experience, Nick's leadership is characterized by a commitment to exceptional guest experiences and a profound emphasis on company values and hospitality standards. His innovative strategies and personal touch have...
2024-08-21
53 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS572 - Rethinking Your Vacation Rental Business Model: Insights from Matt Landau
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Matt Landau from VRMB (Vacation Rental Marketing Blog) to discuss the importance of creative interventions in the vacation rental industry and how stepping outside of your comfort zone can lead to innovation and growth. Matt Landau, a seasoned thought leader in the vacation rental industry, has been instrumental in helping property managers and owners elevate their businesses through intentional leadership and innovative thinking. With a background in founding the Vacation Rental Marketing Blog (VRMB) and organizing transformative retreats, Matt has consistently encouraged...
2024-08-14
55 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS571 - Beyond Limits: How Coaching Can Revolutionize Your Vacation Rental Business
Investing in personal development is a no-brainer for the most successful people in this business. They have mentors; they hire coaches and join mastermind groups, and along the way, transform their mindsets. But how do you know what is right for you? In this episode Heather Bayer talks with Cliff Ravenscraft, a renowned coach, mentor, and mastermind leader, to explore the transformative power of coaching in business. Cliff shares his journey from teaching podcasting to becoming a mindset and business strategy coach, highlighting the importance of coaching, consulting, and mastermind groups in achieving business success.
2024-08-07
53 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS569 - Unlocking Growth in Vacation Rentals Through Franchising with Lukas Krause
For some aspiring property managers, the challenge of setting up a business, learning the ins and outs of every aspect of operations, marketing and business development, and software setup is a lot to take on. This is where a franchising model can offer a significant advantage. In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer speaks with Lukas Krause, CEO of SkyRun Vacation Rentals, about how franchising can simplify the process, providing the tools, training, and support needed to thrive in the competitive vacation rental market. What You'll Discover: Lukas's Jo...
2024-07-24
53 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS568 - The Untapped Market: Boost Bookings with Accessible Vacation Rentals with Adam Norko and Lorraine Woodward
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer discusses the untapped potential of accessibility in vacation rentals with Adam Norko, host of The Art of Hospitality Podcast, and Lorraine Woodward, founder of Becoming rentABLE. What You'll Discover: ● First Mover Advantage: With 26% of the population having a disability, less than 1% of vacation rentals in the US are accessible. This represents a significant business opportunity. ● Personal Stories: Heather shares her personal experiences with her step-granddaughter who is severely autistic, highlighting the challenges faced by families seeking accessible vacation rentals. Lorraine and Adam provide ins...
2024-07-17
57 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS567 - The Power of Intentional AI: Amber Hurdle's Approach to Branding Excellence
In this insightful episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Amber Hurdle, the host of the Bombshell Business Podcast and author of The Bombshell Businesswoman. Inspired by a recent newsletter from Amber, Heather explores the fascinating world of AI and its impact on personal and professional branding in our vacation rental business. Amber shares her expertise on integrating AI effectively into your business strategy, ensuring you harness its power while maintaining authenticity and emotional connection with both guests and owners. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend...
2024-07-10
57 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS566 - Top 10 Foundations for a Successful Property Management Business
In this solo episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, Heather delves into the foundations of a strong property management business. Drawing on her 20 years of experience as a property manager, where she made a lot of mistakes and missteps, she shares valuable insights and lessons learned to help listeners navigate the ever-changing landscape of the short-term rental business. You'll discover the importance of: · Learning the Industry's History: Spoiler alert! This business didn't start with Airbnb. · Being Intentional with Your Niche. · Creating a Busin...
2024-07-03
44 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS565 - Housekeeping Excellence: Training Techniques from Industry Leaders
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer welcomes Brittany Blackman of Breathe Easy Rentals and Sean Kemper from ETI Solutions. They discuss their innovative housekeeping workshops launched in the spring in the Florida Panhandle and Orange Beach, Alabama, emphasizing the importance of housekeeping training and mindfulness in property management. Heather also shares insights from Rob Walker's book, "The Art of Noticing," and how it ties into enhancing attention and creativity in the vacation rental industry. What You'll Discover: Housekeeping Training Initiatives: Brittany and Sean explain their approach to housekeeping workshops...
2024-06-26
38 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS564 - The Role of Company Culture in Delivering Exceptional Guest Experiences with Rachel Alday
In this insightful episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Rachel Alday, co-founder of Abode Luxury Vacation Rentals, to discuss the crucial role of company culture in the short-term rental business. Rachel shares her journey of growing a family-owned business into a highly respected company, emphasizing the importance of building a team that embodies core values and delivers exceptional hospitality. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://thrive.vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar.
2024-06-19
54 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS563 - Human Trafficking and the Vacation Rental Industry: What You Need to Know with Catherine Ratcliffe
This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today ______________________________________________________________________ In this episode Heather Bayer and Catherine Ratcliffe discuss the pressing issue of human trafficking within the short-term rental industry. Catherine shares insights into the prevalence of human trafficking, including both sex and labor trafficking, and its impacts on the industry. She highlights the importance o...
2024-06-12
55 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS562 - From Startup to Award-Winning Team: Andy McNulty on Remote Work Success
This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today ______________________________________________________________________ In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, Heather Bayer sits down with Andy McNulty, co-founder of Touch Stay. They delve into the intricacies of building and managing a remote team that spans across the globe. Andy shares his experiences and insights on fostering a dynamic a...
2024-06-05
55 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS561 - Achieve More By Doing Less - How to Make Your Business Inspirational
This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today ______________________________________________________________________ In this solo episode Heather Bayer delves into the transformative concepts from the book "10X is Easier than 2X" by Dan Sullivan and Benjamin Hardy. Heather shares her personal journey of embracing a 10X mindset, recounting pivotal moments in her career that led to exponential growth.
2024-05-29
50 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS560 - Here Goes Nothin'…Matt Landau on Experiences, Retreats and Memorable Events
This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today ______________________________________________________________________ In this episode, host Heather Bayer welcomes back Matt Landau, a seasoned mentor and coach in the vacation rental industry. He shares insights from a transformative event he attended in Morocco, which inspired him to rethink traditional conference formats and foster deeper business interactions. The...
2024-05-22
1h 01
Vacation Rental Success
VRS559 - VRNation Launch: A New Era for NWVRP and Insights from Scouted.com's CMO
This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today ______________________________________________________________________ There's been a lot of talk over the airwaves recently about the value of conferences - why we attend them, what makes some more unique than others and what the industry could do differently. It's a conversation we need to have. Fresh from the VRNation e...
2024-05-15
42 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS558 - Mastering Trust: Strategies for Success in Short-Term Rentals with Yoram Solomon
This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today ______________________________________________________________________ Trust is the cornerstone of our business. Owners needs to trust managers and OTAs to market their properties successfully, guests have to trust their hosts to deliver on their promises, and mutual trust underpins the relationships between the community and the short-term rentals that operate in their lo...
2024-05-08
53 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS557 - Beyond Bookings: Unlocking the Power of Vacation Rentals for Local Good with Kirsten King
This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today ______________________________________________________________________ Being a property manager is more than just acquiring homes, sourcing guests and creating experiences for them. It's about making a mark in the local area and being seen as an effective community partner and advocate. In this episode, Heather is joined by industry veteran, Ki...
2024-05-01
52 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS551 - How to Maintain Your Property Rights
During our SSTIR Crazy Month Rolf Blizzard from Atlantic Realty in the Outer Banks said… "If you don't have regulations in place, or are not currently dealing with regulation issues, know that it is coming to your location". For many property managers and owners in British Columbia, the announcement of new rules limiting short-term rentals to primary residences and in communities under 10K people, came as a surprise and had them scrambling to organize a response. The Property Rights BC Association was formed in October 2023 to advocate for property rights in reaction to th...
2024-03-20
50 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS549 - SSTIR Crazy Month: Safety, Sustainability, Trust, Insurance, and Regulations
We've just wrapped up SSTIR Crazy Month after 5-weeks of focusing on the core elements of our business that tend to be sidelined in conferences and summits. For the month of February, we talked about Safety, Sustainability, Trust, Insurance and Regulations, with podcast episodes, expert panels, blog posts and social media content. In this episode, Heather and Mike - co-founders of the Vacation Rental Formula Business School - review the month, pulling out the best bits and key takeaways from each week, and sharing some of the highlights from our expert contributors. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ...
2024-03-06
51 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS546 - Insuring Success: Proactive Risk Management for Property Managers
Insurance often takes a back seat in conversations about building a successful short-term rental property management business, but it has such critical importance, we have to pay more attention to it. When we do discuss it, it's often to complain about the rising cost of premiums, but if it takes a lawsuit, or catastrophic damage to bring it front of mind and to realize its value, it may be too late. In this episode, we are focusing on every type of insurance including liability coverage, damage waiver products, and travel insurance. Nick Massey f...
2024-02-14
1h 00
Vacation Rental Success
VRS545 - From Trust Signals to 5-Star Reviews: Strategies to Elevate Your Vacation Rental Business
Trust is at the core of everything we do in this business, and there's no-one better to talk about this than Chris Maughan of I-PRAC. He has been studying trust for more than 25 years and in this episode shines a spotlight on its paramount importance in building relationships with guests, reducing uncertainty, and shaping confidence. Airbnb says they 'want to build the world's most trusted community'. They underscore this by assuring potential guests they will 'dedicate a knowledgeable and experienced team to monitor any suspicious activity in our marketplace'. Yet, they are just what they call themselves - a...
2024-02-07
57 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS544 - How to Master Guest Screening For Your Short Term Rentals: The Key to Protecting Your Business
Do we need to know our guests? They book, pay, arrive, stay a while, leave, and we hope that all will go well, the property will be respected and there won't be a charge-back. That is not always the case though, and while we can expect most of our guests to be great, there will always be a few that cause issues…and unfortunately, they can be the costliest ones. Guest screening used to be easy in the 'way back when' days when we didn't care as much about protecting personal information. Now that people are rightly relu...
2024-01-31
51 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS543 - Evolving Mom & Pop - A New Definition of the Vacation Rental Business with Matt Landau
This episode is sponsored by Minut. You can discover more about Minut at our Virtual Vendor Showcase >> https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/virtual-vendor-showcases/minut Get access to the best education for your short-term rental business! Enroll in The Vacation Rental Formula Business School today and start seeing results tomorrow. Get 25% OFF an All-Access Pass For A Limited Time: Don't Miss Out >> Get Your All-Access Pass Get on the waitlist for the next intake for VRF B-School Consultation https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/consult Discover more ab...
2024-01-24
56 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS542 - 12 Lessons for A Better Life In Vacation Rentals with Australian Powerhouse Rebecca Cribbin
This episode is sponsored by Minut. You can discover more about Minut at our Virtual Vendor Showcase >> https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/virtual-vendor-showcases/minut Get access to the best education for your short-term rental business! Enroll in The Vacation Rental Formula Business School today and start seeing results tomorrow. Get 25% OFF an All-Access Pass For A Limited Time: Don't Miss Out >> Get Your All-Access Pass Get on the waitlist for the next intake for VRF B-School Consultation https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/consult Discover more ab...
2024-01-17
56 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS541 - Inside Power Partnerships with Kerri Gibson - Secrets of Successful Collaborations
This episode is sponsored by Minut. You can discover more about Minut at our Virtual Vendor Showcase >> https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/virtual-vendor-showcases/minut Get access to the best education for your short-term rental business! Enroll in The Vacation Rental Formula Business School today and start seeing results tomorrow. Get 25% OFF an All-Access Pass For A Limited Time: Don't Miss Out >> Get Your All-Access Pass Get on the waitlist for the next intake for VRF B-School Consultation https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/consult Discover more ab...
2024-01-10
55 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS540 - We Could Write a Book About Short-Term Rental Management - With Craig White
This episode is sponsored by Minut. You can discover more about Minut at our Virtual Vendor Showcase >> https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/virtual-vendor-showcases/minut ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ At the close of every summer season in our 20-year tenure as custodians of our property management company, we met with our team and reviewed the ups and downs of the year. There were serious moments when we looked at what we might have done better, and how those experiences would impact strategies for the next year. We reflected on the crazy things that happened - the g...
2024-01-03
1h 00
Vacation Rental Success
VRS539 - Behind the Scenes of a Vacation Rental Powerhouse - The Casiola Story
This episode is sponsored by Minut. You can discover more about Minut at our Virtual Vendor Showcase >> https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/virtual-vendor-showcases/minut Get access to the best education for your short-term rental business! Enroll in The Vacation Rental Formula Business School today and start seeing results tomorrow. Get 25% OFF an All-Access Pass For A Limited Time: Don't Miss Out >> Get Your All-Access Pass Get on the waitlist for the next intake for VRF B-School Consultation https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/consult Discover more ab...
2023-12-27
59 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS538 - The Art of Standards: Redefining Vacation Rental Quality
This episode is sponsored by Minut. You can discover more about Minut at our Virtual Vendor Showcase >> https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/virtual-vendor-showcases/minut Get access to the best education for your short-term rental business! Enroll in The Vacation Rental Formula Business School today and start seeing results tomorrow. Get 25% OFF an All-Access Pass For A Limited Time: Don't Miss Out >> Get Your All-Access Pass Get on the waitlist for the next intake for VRF B-School Consultation https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/consult Discover more ab...
2023-12-20
44 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS537 - Crafting Stories, Creating Experiences: Social Media Mastery and Beyond with Derry Green & Alice Fry
This episode is sponsored by Minut. You can discover more about Minut at our Virtual Vendor Showcase >> https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/virtual-vendor-showcases/minut Get access to the best education for your short-term rental business! Enroll in The Vacation Rental Formula Business School today and start seeing results tomorrow. Get 25% OFF an All-Access Pass For A Limited Time: Don't Miss Out >> Get Your All-Access Pass Get on the waitlist for the next intake for VRF B-School Consultation https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/consult Discover more ab...
2023-12-13
1h 03
Vacation Rental Success
VRS535 - Designing to Stand Out: Expert Tips for Memorable Short-Term Rentals
This episode is sponsored by The Vacation Rental Formula Business SchoolCan you hands on the year's biggest course sales Get all our courses in Buy One, Get One Bundles Don't Miss Out >> Get Your Course Offers Here Get on the waitlist for the next intake for VRF B-School Consultation: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/consult Discover more about the VRF B-School: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/ Listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vac...
2023-12-06
55 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS536 - The Great Debate: STR, VRM... or something else?
This episode is sponsored by The Vacation Rental Formula Business School. Discover more about the VRF B-School: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/business-school/ Listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS536
2023-12-06
1h 02
Vacation Rental Success
VRS534 - Breaking Boundaries: Pioneering Paths for Women in Vacation Rentals
This episode is sponsored by The Vacation Rental Formula Business SchoolCan you hands on the year's biggest course sales Get all our courses in Buy One, Get One Bundles Don't Miss Out >> Get Your Course Offers Here Get on the waitlist for the next intake for VRF B-School Consultation: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/consult Discover more about the VRF B-School: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/ Listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vac...
2023-11-29
52 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS533 - The Keys To Success - How To Create a Solid Foundation for Your Vacation Rental Business
This episode is sponsored by PriceLabs.You can discover more about PriceLabs and their 2023 Breakthrough Release at our Virtual Vendor Showcase. Sign up today for a free 30-day trial >> https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/virtual-vendor-showcases/pricelabs Get access to the best education for your short-term rental business! Enroll in The Vacation Rental Formula Business School today and start seeing results tomorrow. Get 25% OFF an All-Access Pass For A Limited Time: Don't Miss Out >> Get Your All-Access Pass Get on the waitlist for the next intake for VRF B-School Co...
2023-11-22
52 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS532 - Welcoming International Guests (And Keeping Them Out of Jail)
This episode is sponsored by PriceLabs. You can discover more about PriceLabs and their 2023 Breakthrough Release at our Virtual Vendor Showcase. Sign up today for a free 30-day trial >> https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/virtual-vendor-showcases/pricelabs Welcome to 'The Tipping Point' where we bring you bite-sized education in the business of short-term rental, Airbnb co-hosting, and property management. Listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS532 This episode features a free download to help you and your rental b...
2023-11-20
09 min
Direct Booking Success Podcast
Of mice and being 95% book direct with Heather Bayer
Today we speak with serial entrepreneur Heather Bayer who has been immersed in the vacation rental industry for over 25 years. In this episode, Heather shares her story and also what is coming up for her since selling her 95% book direct, 20-year-old company in Canada earlier this year.Hear how the idea was born for her to leave the UK and head to Cottage Country in Ontario, Canada. And how the direct booking landscape looked in 2003, what’s changed and what the future may hold. Heather also shares another terrible Airbnb shut down story and gives some top re...
2022-09-12
34 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS222 - Rick Oster interviews Heather Bayer Pt2
Get access to the best education for your short-term rental business! Enrol in The Vacation Rental Formula Business School today and start seeing results tomorrow. Discover more about the VRF B-School: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/business-school/ Listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: http://www.vacationrentalformula.com/vrs222
2018-02-28
40 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS221 – Rick Oster Interviews Your Vacation Rental Success Host Heather Bayer
Get access to the best education for your short-term rental business! Enrol in The Vacation Rental Formula Business School today and start seeing results tomorrow. Discover more about the VRF B-School: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/business-school/ Listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: http://www.vacationrentalformula.com/vrs221
2018-02-21
54 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS184 - Vacation Rental Marketing 2.0 with Mike Bayer
Get access to the best education for your short-term rental business! Enrol in The Vacation Rental Formula Business School today and start seeing results tomorrow. Discover more about the VRF B-School: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/business-school/ Listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: http://www.vacationrentalformula.com/vrs184
2017-06-07
56 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS107 – Payment options, Online courses and Blabbing with Heather Bayer
Get access to the best education for your short-term rental business! Enrol in The Vacation Rental Formula Business School today and start seeing results tomorrow. Discover more about the VRF B-School: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/business-school/ Listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: http://www.vacationrentalformula.com/vrs107
2015-12-16
33 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS032 – Your Vacation Rental Questions Answered with Heather & Mike
Get access to the best education for your short-term rental business! Enrol in The Vacation Rental Formula Business School today and start seeing results tomorrow. Discover more about the VRF B-School: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/business-school/ Listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: http://www.vacationrentalformula.com/vrs032
2014-07-09
52 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS028 - The Vacation Rental World Summit with Antonio Bortolotti and Heather Bayer
Get access to the best education for your short-term rental business! Enrol in The Vacation Rental Formula Business School today and start seeing results tomorrow. Discover more about the VRF B-School: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/business-school/ Listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: http://www.vacationrentalformula.com/vrs028
2014-06-11
28 min
Vacation Rental Success
VRS002 - Getting Started in Vacation Rental with Mike Bayer
Get access to the best education for your short-term rental business! Enrol in The Vacation Rental Formula Business School today and start seeing results tomorrow. Discover more about the VRF B-School: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/business-school/ Listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: http://www.vacationrentalformula.com/vrs002
2013-02-09
52 min