Vacation Rental Success
Heather Bayer, author of Renting Your Recreational Property for Profit, former CEO of a highly successful cottage rental agency, and a popular blogger, hosts the Vacation Rental Success podcast. With many years experience of owning and managing multiple vacation rental properties, Heather brings her knowledge and views on every aspect of the business, together with interviews with vacation homeowners and industry experts. Heather has appeared as a guest on CTV Canada, CBC Radio, Rogers TV, and Chex TV and is frequently interviewed on real estate and travel topics by magazines and daily newspapers.
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VRS614: Marketing Shifts, AI in Search, and the Future of Vacation Rental Websites with Conrad O’Connell
06/04/2025
VRS614: Marketing Shifts, AI in Search, and the Future of Vacation Rental Websites with Conrad O’Connell
In this insightful conversation, I welcome back digital marketing expert Conrad O’Connell, founder of BuildUp Bookings, to talk about the dramatic shifts in how people are finding, booking, and experiencing vacation rentals. It’s been nearly a decade since our first conversation, and we’ve both been on quite the journey -personally and professionally. Conrad shares what’s changed (including growing his family and his business) and what’s stayed consistent in the ever-evolving digital landscape. We talk about how Google’s AI-powered search is impacting SEO, how paid ads are gaining traction again, and what content strategies still work in 2025. If you’ve ever felt confused about where to put your marketing dollars - or how to write content that still gets found - this episode is packed with clarity. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS613 - Why Every Vacation Rental Business Needs an AI Champion - Now
05/28/2025
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 they explain the steps to get this underway. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS612 - Access for All: How One Woman’s Mission and Expedia’s Support Are Transforming the Way We Host
05/21/2025
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 to a broader guest base - including families with children, seniors, people recovering from surgery, and neurodivergent travelers. Lorraine also shares her personal journey, building an inclusive rental to meet her family's needs, and the lightbulb moment that sparked the idea for a global platform. Her story is as inspiring as it is actionable. This is a must-listen if you've ever thought, "Accessibility isn't for my market." Think again - Lorraine shows us why accessible design is not only the right thing to do, it's really good business. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS611 - Leadership by Culture: How Rachel Alday Built Loyalty and Hospitality Through Intentional Team Values
05/14/2025
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. Whether you’re managing five properties or five hundred, this episode offers practical insights on how to lead with purpose, build loyalty from the inside out, and create a culture that sustains long-term growth and excellence. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS610 - The Quiet Power of Leadership: Steve Schwab on Earning Loyalty and Driving Change
05/07/2025
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. In this conversation, he opens up about the early moments that launched his career, the foundation of the ORANGE Credo that anchors Casago’s culture, and what it means to scale a values-based business without losing its soul - especially in the wake of one of the industry’s biggest mergers to date. If you’re thinking about growth, culture, or the future of professional property management, this episode delivers both heart and strategy in equal measure. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS609 - What Type of Leader Are You? Reflections from the Short-Term Rental Industry
04/30/2025
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 episode highlights the remarkable leadership archetypes shaping our space - from the spiritual and creative to the cultural and transformational. Whether you’re managing a team, growing a portfolio, or simply aiming to lead with more purpose, this episode is a must-listen. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS608 - Are You Born to Lead? Lessons in STR Leadership with Ali Cammelletti
04/23/2025
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 with grace, strategy, and self-awareness. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS607 - Leading with Intention: Matt Landau on Breakthroughs, Burnout, and the Power of Pause
04/16/2025
VRS607 - Leading with Intention: Matt Landau on Breakthroughs, Burnout, and the Power of Pause
In this special episode, we kick off our brand-new Leadership Series with someone who’s been part of this journey from the very beginning - Matt Landau. Matt’s been on the show more than 20 times over the years, but this conversation feels different. It’s deeper, more reflective, and marks a shift in how we talk about leadership in the vacation rental industry. From managing boutique vacation rentals in Panama City’s historic Casco Viejo to founding The Vacation Rental Marketing Blog and The Inner Circle, Matt has always led by example. But over the last few years, he’s taken a big step back - literally and figuratively - to re-evaluate what leadership really means. His latest project, Here Goes Nothin’, is all about helping short-term rental professionals find clarity, reconnect with purpose, and lead from a place of authenticity. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS606 - AI Meets Hospitality: Shahar Goldboim on Building the World’s First AI-Powered PMS
04/09/2025
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 - it's a vision for the future of property management. Shahar shares how Boom was born out of real-world frustration, why AI isn’t replacing hospitality, but making room for more of it, and how his family-run team is scaling technology with soul. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS605 - Using AI to Work Smarter, Not Harder with Mark Simpson
04/02/2025
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 independent hosts looking to take back control from OTAs. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS604 - Cutting Through the AI Noise: How to Choose the Right Tools for Your STR Business
03/26/2025
VRS604 - Cutting Through the AI Noise: How to Choose the Right Tools for Your STR Business
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*** We’re back with Part 2 of my chat with AI educator and vacation rental marketer, Nihal Salah - and trust me, if you thought the first conversation was packed, this one goes even deeper. In this episode, we tackle the challenge so many of us are facing right now: how do you choose the right AI tools without getting overwhelmed by the endless options? With over 32,000+ tools out there (yes, really), it’s easy to fall into analysis paralysis or end up subscribing to a dozen platforms you barely use. Nihal and I share our favorite go-to tools, what we’re using in our own businesses, and how to evaluate which platforms are truly worth your time and money. We also explore the difference between individual LLMs (like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini) versus aggregator platforms (like Abacus and Poe), and how each one fits into a short-term rental operator’s toolkit. We even take a side trip into dog diet planning using Claude (yes, AI really can do that), and why being intentional is the most important skill you can develop when integrating AI into your business. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS603 - AI-Powered Marketing for Vacation Rentals: What You Need to Know
03/19/2025
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*** 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? In this episode, marketing expert Nihal Salah joins Heather Bayer to break down practical AI use cases for short-term rental marketing. You’ll discover how AI can help streamline content creation, enhance guest experiences, and drive more direct bookings - all while saving you time. Why AI Matters for Your Vacation Rental Marketing AI isn't just a trend - it’s a powerful tool that can help hosts and property managers work smarter, not harder. Nihal shares how AI can: Improve your property listings with optimized descriptions and compelling titles Boost your SEO strategy to increase visibility and direct bookings Analyze guest reviews to uncover hidden trends and key selling points Repurpose content efficiently across multiple platforms Enhance guest communication through AI-powered assistants and chatbots If you’ve been curious about AI but unsure where to start, this episode will give you clear, actionable steps to integrate AI into your marketing strategy. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS602 - Unlocking Efficiency: Exploring AI Solutions in Vacation Rentals with Brooke Pfautz
03/12/2025
VRS602 - Unlocking Efficiency: Exploring AI Solutions in Vacation Rentals with Brooke Pfautz
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*** Brooke Pfautz is the innovative mind behind Vintory and Comparent and has been a trailblazer in the vacation rental industry for over 17 years. He’s also fully immersed in AI to not only streamline operations but also supercharge growth and efficiency, particularly in owner acquisition. In this episode Brooke shares the platforms he uses the most and offers advice and recommendations on their use. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS601 - Is Your ChatGPT Showing? - with Amber Hurdle
03/05/2025
VRS601 - Is Your ChatGPT Showing? - with Amber Hurdle
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*** In a recent post on Linkedin, Amber Hurdle said: “Your ChatGPT Is Showing….and it’s stripping the authenticity out of your brand. ”Whether it’s an over-use of hyphens, emojis or particular sentence structures, most of us have used enough of them to be ‘seen’ as ChatGPT users, and the grammar police aren’t taking prisoners. It’s time to take back our humanness and our attention to sharing personal brand in a way that makes us unique.If you have ever been in a room where Amber Hurdle is speaking, you’ll appreciate her passion for branding and marketing, and will have come away with a renewed enthusiasm for making your mark. In this episode, Amber brings the zest she shares in her opening keynotes to the topic of strategic use of AI in the ways we communicate and build our brands. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS600 - From Energy Hog to Eco-Hero with Bob Garner
02/26/2025
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*** According to the 2024 Booking.com Sustainability Survey, 75% of global travelers want to make more eco-friendly travel choices in the next 12 months. However, 43% admit to feeling guilty when their choices fall short. This reveals a growing trend: while there’s a demand for sustainability, travelers still struggle to act on it—unless the choice is made easy for them. That’s exactly the challenge StayWise Rentals is facing this week. As competitors successfully market their eco-friendly rentals and attract sustainability-conscious travelers, StayWise is falling behind. Their properties are energy inefficient, their waste management is outdated, and they haven’t figured out how to make sustainability work without breaking the bank. Enter Bob Garner—a sustainability expert and founder of EnviroRental—who joins Heather Bayer to help StayWise Rentals navigate their sustainability crisis. Bob brings decades of experience in vacation rental sustainability and shares practical, no-nonsense advice for property managers who want to future-proof their businesses while keeping costs in check. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS599 - The Compliance Challenge: Strategies for Navigating New Regulations
02/19/2025
VRS599 - The Compliance Challenge: Strategies for Navigating New Regulations
We’ve arrived at Week 4 of SSTIR Crazy 2025, and this might be the most critical challenge yet! Regulations 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*** This week, we tackle one of the biggest challenges short-term rental operators face: regulations. With StayWise Rentals in crisis, our expert Dana Lubner from Rent Responsibly joins us to break down the strategies for compliance, advocacy, and overcoming regulatory hurdles. The StayWise Rentals Incident After weeks of dealing with trust issues, safety failures, and an insurance disaster, Sarah and Mike Chen at StayWise Rentals were blindsided by a notice from their local municipality. New short-term rental regulations had just been passed, and StayWise had only 60 days to comply with a long list of requirements: Mandatory fire safety upgrades across all properties. New occupancy limits based on square footage. A requirement to have a local representative available 24/7. A $1,500 licensing fee per property. Surprise city inspections—two properties even received cease and desist orders. With property owners panicked, guests caught in the crossfire, and mounting compliance costs, StayWise is at a crossroads. Can they navigate this storm without losing their business? 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS598 - Lessons Learned from a Disaster Scenario with Nick Massey - Proper Insurance
02/12/2025
VRS598 - Lessons Learned from a Disaster Scenario with Nick Massey - Proper Insurance
In this third week of SSTIR Crazy 2025, StayWise Rentals grapples with an insurance nightmare when a malicious pool party threatens to ruin their business. 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*** Proper has developed a specialty short-term rental insurance policy that covers both commercial and personal use of your vacation rental. “It just makes sense to buy the best cover available," said a lone voice in a Facebook group in answer to the question “Where can I get the cheapest insurance?”. Sadly many of the responses pointed to cut price options which is clearly the route Staywise Rentals went when they started out. And now to their horror, an incident at one of their prime beachfront homes has brought home the folly of this choice. In this episode and third week of the SSTIR Crazy event where we follow the issues Stay Wise Rentals are facing, Nick Massey, a seasoned expert in vacation rental insurance and the director of sales at Proper Insurance, shares his thoughts on the direction they need to take. Nick has extensive experience in identifying coverage gaps and optimizing insurance strategies for property managers, and he brings a wealth of knowledge to one of the most daunting aspects of vacation rental management. He gets right into the complexities of insurance policies, highlighting common pitfalls and actionable strategies to protect rental properties effectively. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS597 - When Vacation Rental Safety Systems Fail: Lessons from the Field with Justin Ford
02/05/2025
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] - 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*** Join thousands of top operators using Breezeway to elevate their business—because better operations mean better guest experiences and stronger owner relationships. In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Justin Ford, the Director of Safety and Certification Programs at Breezeway, to discuss the crucial role of safety in vacation rentals and the ongoing SSTIR Crazy safety campaign." Justin is a recognized leader in property safety and certification. As the Director of Safety and Certification Programs, Justin brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the forefront of vacation rental safety. His insights are not only valuable but essential for property managers and owners striving to maintain the highest standards of guest safety. Justin's work in developing comprehensive safety protocols and training programs has profoundly influenced industry standards, making him a pivotal figure in promoting safe and secure vacation experiences. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS596 - From Questionable to Trustworthy: A Trust Transformation - with Chris Maughan
01/29/2025
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] - 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. Trust Week of SSTIR Crazy Month is also sponsored by I-Prac, your global verification and certification platform that ensures hosts and property managers are legitimate and trustworthy, thereby enhancing safety and confidence for travelers. In this episode, Heather Bayer sits down with trust expert Chris Maughan from I-PRAC to explore how property managers can rebuild trust, enhance direct booking experiences, and transform skepticism into loyalty. Chris Maughan, founder of I-PRAC and a leader in trust certification for short-term rentals, joins Heather to share insights drawn from over two decades in the vacation rental industry. With a wealth of experience managing properties in the South of France, Chris has dedicated his career to understanding and building trust as the foundation for successful property management. His practical tips empower property owners to boost credibility, foster guest loyalty, and make their direct booking channels indispensable. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS595 - Navigating Change: Why, When and How to Switch Your PMS with David Angotti
01/22/2025
VRS595 - Navigating Change: Why, When and How to Switch Your PMS with David Angotti
There comes a point in every property manager’s journey where they have to consider whether their chosen property management system is still the right fit. For those who made a strong and well-researched choice early on, this may not be an issue, but for many, that tipping point arrives and needs to be addressed. 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. So, as we kick off SSTIR Crazy Month, we’re discussing a hot topic that's especially relevant for our fictional company, Stay Wise Rentals. Over the next five weeks, we'll follow Stay Wise as they tackle various challenges and consider switching their PMS to boost efficiency and growth." In this pivotal episode, I’m joined by David Angotti, Chief Evangelist at Guesty, who brings a wealth of knowledge about the evolution of property management systems. David’s expertise couldn’t come at a better time as we explore the critical role these systems play in scaling operations and enhancing profitability in the vacation rental industry. Today, we're setting the stage for a month-long exploration of how modern PMS can transform a business from surviving to thriving. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS594 - SSTIR Crazy 2025: Tackle the Tough Topics, Win the Grand Prize
01/15/2025
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. That was the spark for the first SSTIR Crazy month, and here we are now heading into year 2. In this episode, the co-founders of the Vacation Rental Formula Business School share what you’ll experience in this new and enhanced SSTIR Crazy 2025. Joining your host Heather Bayer, is her son and business partner, Mike - both seasoned experts in the vacation rental industry. Together they bring their insights into the foundational aspects of running a successful vacation rental business - focusing on safety, sustainability, trust, insurance, and regulations. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS593 - AI at Work: Real-World Applications in the Vacation Rental Industry With Steve Trover
01/08/2025
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, but also enhancing the guest and homeowner experience. It’s a conversation packed with insights, practical tips, and a glimpse into the future of AI in short-term rentals. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS592 - From Trends to Tactics with David Angotti
01/01/2025
VRS592 - From Trends to Tactics with David Angotti
Happy New Year! This special episode - our annual reflection on the last 12 months and a look at where we are going in 2025 - features none other than David Angotti. David’s been in the short-term rental world for years and has done it all - co-founding tech startups, building a successful property management company in the Smoky Mountains, and now serving as Chief Evangelist at Guesty. He’s also an incredible storyteller and someone who just gets the ins and outs of this business like few others. Having him on the show is always a treat, and I couldn’t think of a better way to set the tone for the year ahead. In this episode, we take a look back at 2024 - what worked, what didn’t, and the lessons we can carry forward. From evolving guest expectations to AI tools that can transform your business, David shares his perspective on what’s next for the vacation rental industry and how you can thrive in 2025. What You'll Discover: Evolving Guest Expectations: Insights into how guest expectations are shifting and what property managers can do to meet these rising standards. Technological Advancements: Discussion on the critical role of technology in shaping the operations and efficiency of vacation rental businesses. Regulatory Challenges: Overview of the regulatory landscape in 2024 and how it might affect the industry moving forward. Market Dynamics: Analysis of market trends, including occupancy rates and average daily rates (ADRs), and their implications for property managers. Actionable Strategies for 2025: David shares practical strategies to help property managers and hosts thrive in the coming year, considering the ongoing industry transformations. You Will Learn: Adaptation to Market Changes: How to remain flexible and adaptable in a rapidly evolving industry to maintain competitiveness. Leveraging Technology: Ways to integrate and leverage new technologies to enhance operational efficiency and guest satisfaction. Navigating Regulations: Strategies to effectively manage and adapt to new and existing regulations within the vacation rental sector. Understanding and Setting Guest Expectations: Tips on managing guest expectations to ensure satisfaction and repeat business. Forecasting and Planning: How to use market data and trends from 2024 to better prepare for the opportunities and challenges of 2025. Connect with David Angotti: Listeners can connect with David through his profile or explore further insights and resources at Guesty's website. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS591 - Carving Your Niche: Strategic Marketing with Nihal Salah
12/25/2024
VRS591 - Carving Your Niche: Strategic Marketing with Nihal Salah
2024 showed us that direct booking isn’t dead. On the contrary, the appetite for building a strategy for independence from the OTAs is as strong as ever, if a little more challenging. For it to be successful, there’s work involved, but for those with enthusiasm and commitment, it will be fulfilling in the long run. Joining us in this episode is Nihal Salah, a marketing strategist with a knack for demystifying marketing strategies for businesses. With extensive experience in leveraging AI to streamline marketing efforts, Nihal offers practical insights into how vacation rental businesses can develop their niche marketing strategies into practical strengths. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS590 - Co-Hosting vs. Traditional Management: What Property Managers Need to Know with Thibault Masson
12/18/2024
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 practices, making him a trusted resource for property managers worldwide. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS589 - Creating Spectrum-Friendly Vacation Rentals with Suzanne Hacker
12/11/2024
VRS589 - Creating Spectrum-Friendly Vacation Rentals with Suzanne Hacker
1 in 36 children in the U.S. have been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which represents a significant increase from previous years with the prevalence of autism in the U.S. increasing by 312% since 2001. While these are staggering statistics, they also represent an opportunity for vacation rental owners and managers to create the inclusive and safe spaces that families with autistic children need. And it doesn’t require a huge investment. In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, Suzanne Hacker, the founder of Spectrum Friendly Vacations, shares her ideas on how vacation rental owners can make small yet meaningful changes to create accessible spaces for these families. Suzanne Hacker is a vacation rental business coach and passionate advocate for inclusivity. She works with vacation rental hosts to design properties that accommodate families with autistic children. Drawing from her background in vacation rental management and her personal experiences, Suzanne offers practical advice on safety, sensory-friendly spaces, and effective marketing strategies to reach this growing niche. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS588 - From Content to Conversion: SEO Essentials for Vacation Rentals
12/04/2024
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 content optimization, data analysis, and innovative marketing strategies, Jill helps property managers build powerful direct booking websites and compete effectively in the ever-evolving digital landscape. Her practical advice and deep industry insights make her a go-to resource for online growth in the vacation rental sector. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS587 - Thanksgiving at Work: Your Guide to The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace
11/27/2024
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 his expertise to help property management companies build thriving teams. His insights on workplace appreciation are drawn from both practical application and formal leadership coaching, making him an authority on creating positive work environments. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS586 - Unpacking AI Tools for Short-Term Rental Success with The CEO Host
11/20/2024
VRS586 - Unpacking AI Tools for Short-Term Rental Success with The CEO Host
Following an AHA moment at the VTSTRA Conference in Vermont in early November, where AI was mentioned in just about every presentation, this episode introduces Kate Stoermer from The CEO Host to discuss the practical uses of AI in vacation rental management, from simplifying workflows to optimizing guest experience. Kate Stoermer, founder of The CEO Host, brings over two decades of business expertise and hands-on experience in short-term rental management to the conversation. With a background in healthcare administration, nonprofit leadership, and as a founding member and President of the Michigan Short-Term Rental Alliance, Kate has been instrumental in guiding property owners through the challenges of managing and scaling short-term rental portfolios. Her consulting business focuses on empowering property managers and owners with innovative solutions, including the strategic use of AI to streamline processes and improve guest satisfaction. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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VRS585 - From Goals to Execution - Mastering Your Marketing Strategy with Nihal Salah
11/13/2024
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 data analyst at Nokia, where she got hooked on the power of data to shape effective marketing. But it wasn’t long before she found her true passion: helping entrepreneurs cut through the noise and build marketing strategies that drive real results. Today, as a fractional marketing officer, Nihal partners with businesses across industries, including the fast-paced world of short-term rentals. Her knack for blending consumer insights with practical, data-driven strategies has made her the go-to expert for creating marketing plans that work without all the fluff. 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. >> Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here:
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