Branded & Booked
Are you ready to stand out in the crowded world of short-term rentals and boutique hotels? Branded & Booked is the podcast for ambitious hosts and property owners who want to create rave-worthy brands and stay consistently booked. Hosted by Steph Weber, an expert in branding and marketing for STRs, this podcast is packed with actionable advice, inspiring stories, and behind-the-scenes insights to help you elevate your property and attract your best guests. Tune in every week to learn how to market your property, create a guest experience they’ll rave about, and build a hospitality business.
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EP 215: The 3 C’s of Social Media Strategy for Short-Term Rentals
09/16/2025
EP 215: The 3 C’s of Social Media Strategy for Short-Term Rentals
If you’ve ever wondered how to make social media actually work for your short-term rental, boutique hotel, or micro resort—this episode is for you. I'm breaking down my 3 C’s of Marketing on Social Media Strategy that I've been teaching since 2020. These tried-and-true pillars have helped businesses across industries grow their brands, book more clients, and build genuine connections. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to develop a content strategy rooted in your brand stories and guest experience. Why conversations (and engagement funnels like ManyChat) are essential to boost visibility and track bookings. How to approach collaborations and influencer marketing in a way that actually drives results. I'm also shareing real client examples, proven strategies, and practical ways you can implement the 3 C’s in your own business right now. And if you’re ready to go deeper? Be sure to save your seat for my free 3-day workshop, , happening September 23–25. I'll walk you through these strategies in even more detail, plus give you examples and tools you can apply immediately. A replay will be available for a limited time, but you’ll get the most out of being there live. 👉 Resources & Links: Reserve your spot in the STR Marketing Simplified Workshop (Sept 23–25) → Follow me on Instagram for more tips and behind-the-scenes: If you enjoyed this episode, leave a quick review and share your favorite takeaway!
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EP 214: Mistakes STR Owners make with marketing
09/10/2025
EP 214: Mistakes STR Owners make with marketing
Are you running yourself ragged trying to market your short-term rentals… and still not seeing results? You’re not alone. In today’s episode of Branded and Booked, I’m digging into the top two mistakes I see STR hosts make with their marketing—mistakes that cost you time, money, and bookings. Here’s what we cover: Why splitting your attention across multiple property accounts and brands is actually holding you back The difference between “spaghetti marketing” and strategy (and how to stop wasting energy) The two non-negotiables every STR owner needs in place before worrying about social media How a streamlined brand and direct booking setup can put thousands back in your pocket each year 🎉 And don’t forget: I’m hosting , a free 3-day workshop happening September 23–25. If you’re ready to build a brand that stands out and a direct booking strategy that actually works, grab your spot . Replay will be available if you can’t join live. Follow along on Instagram for more tools, strategies, and behind-the-scenes of how we’re building guest-first brands in the STR space.
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EP 213: How to Not Lose Money with Airbnb’s New Host Fee
09/03/2025
EP 213: How to Not Lose Money with Airbnb’s New Host Fee
Airbnb just announced another major policy change — and hosts on Facebook are losing it. But here’s the truth: panicking won’t protect your business. Strategy will. In this episode, I’m breaking down: ➡️ What the new Airbnb host fee structure actually means ➡️ The simple pricing adjustment we’re making right now to protect revenue ➡️ Why direct bookings must be part of your growth plan (and the exact first steps I’d take) ➡️ How email + SMS marketing is the lowest-hanging fruit you’re probably ignoring ➡️ The role social media and ads play when you’re ready to scale At the end of the day, we are entrepreneurs — which means we stay solution-oriented. These platform changes aren’t the end of your business. They’re the nudge you need to take more control of your bookings, your brand, and your bottom line. 🎙️ Plus: I’m hosting a free 3-day live workshop, STR Marketing Simplified, starting September 23. We’ll dig into brand foundations, the marketing strategies that actually drive direct bookings, and how to stop building your business at the mercy of Airbnb’s rules. 👉 Save your seat here: Follow along on Instagram for more tools, strategies, and behind-the-scenes of how we’re building guest-first brands in the STR space.
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EP 212: How We Got 1,100 Subscribers + $5K in Bookings with ONE Email Funnel
08/26/2025
EP 212: How We Got 1,100 Subscribers + $5K in Bookings with ONE Email Funnel
Are you leaving thousands of dollars in bookings on the table because your website has no opt-in? In this episode of Branded and Booked, I walk you through the exact funnel we set up for Cabins on the Cumberland that grew our email list to over 1,100 potential guests—people who have never stayed with us but are now primed to book. You’ll learn: Why simply having a direct booking site isn’t enough How to use pop-ups, giveaways, and promo codes to collect guest data The 5-email sequence we use to convert subscribers into paying guests How we’ve leveraged QR codes, ads, and social media to drive traffic The results we’ve already seen: $5,000 in bookings directly tied to this funnel Marketing doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right opt-in strategy, you can build a list of warm leads that generates revenue for you month after month. 📲 Ready to stop losing leads and start converting browsers into bookings? Hit play and I’ll show you exactly how we did it. ✨ Let’s stay connected: → DM me or follow → Visit or for more resources → Hop into my free Facebook group:
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EP 211: Personal Update: Proof You Don’t Need It All to Keep Going
08/19/2025
EP 211: Personal Update: Proof You Don’t Need It All to Keep Going
A question I was asked recently stopped me in my tracks: “Steph, where does your willpower come from?” It made me reflect on my story—and here’s what I realized: you don’t need everything perfectly lined up to create the life and business you want. I didn’t have financial support for college. I didn’t have a mic for 200+ podcast episodes. I didn’t have a clear, linear path into entrepreneurship. But I showed up anyway. In this episode, I’m sharing the real side of that journey: ➡️ How my family’s financial crisis shaped the way I work and lead ➡️ What self-funding college taught me about grit and clarity ➡️ Why defining your “why” matters more than a perfect setup ➡️ How I navigate the overlap of being a mom, daughter, and entrepreneur ➡️ The boundaries I’ve set to keep family and health first If you’ve ever felt like you can’t start until you “have it all together,” this episode is proof you already have what you need. Whether you DIY your Instagram or hand it off entirely, you’ll leave knowing exactly where to focus so your time (and budget) on the platform actually pays off. ✨ Let’s stay connected: → DM me or follow → Visit or for more resources → Hop into my free Facebook group:
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EP 210: Why Your Instagram Isn’t Converting (and How to Fix It)
08/13/2025
EP 210: Why Your Instagram Isn’t Converting (and How to Fix It)
If you run a boutique hotel, micro resort, short-term rental, or property management company, your Instagram can lead to bookings — but only if you’re using it strategically. In this episode, I’m sharing why most hospitality brands miss the mark and exactly how to change that. We’ll cover: The one account setup mistake that instantly splits your audience (and how to fix it) Why your “pretty pictures” might actually be hurting your bookings The secret ingredient missing from most hospitality Instagram strategies A simple shift that turns passive scrollers into active inquirers How to make Instagram’s evolving features work for you — not against you The overlooked partnership that can fast-track your results in weeks, not years What to expect when you commit to a real strategy (and how long it takes to see traction) Whether you DIY your Instagram or hand it off entirely, you’ll leave knowing exactly where to focus so your time (and budget) on the platform actually pays off. ✨ Let’s stay connected: → DM me or follow → Visit or for more resources → Hop into my free Facebook group:
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EP 209: Behind the Scenes of Our Co-Hosting Business (and lessons I've learned)
07/22/2025
EP 209: Behind the Scenes of Our Co-Hosting Business (and lessons I've learned)
If you've ever wondered what co-hosting really looks like — the wins, the hard lessons, and everything in between — this is the episode for you. I'm pulling back the curtain on how we've grown our boutique co-hosting business, the boundaries we’ve had to draw, and the challenges that have shaped the way we operate today. Here’s what I cover in this episode: The difference between co-hosting and traditional property management Why slow growth with the right properties is the goal What I look for in new properties (and red flags I now avoid) The absolute hardest part of this business (cleaning, anyone?) Why documenting SOPs is non-negotiable — and how I finally got mine together The surprising way I landed some of our best clients What new co-hosts must get clear on before saying yes to anyone If you’re thinking about stepping into the co-hosting world — or already in it and feeling the weight of it all — you’re not alone. This one’s for you. ✨ Let’s stay connected: → DM me or follow → Visit or for more resources → Hop into my free Facebook group:
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EP 208: How to Train Your Team to Think Like You (and Trust Their Gut) with Punith Upadhya
07/16/2025
EP 208: How to Train Your Team to Think Like You (and Trust Their Gut) with Punith Upadhya
Let’s be honest—building a co-hosting business sounds easier than it is. You think: I’ve got systems, I’ve got listings…now where are the bookings? Or worse—you get the bookings and then spend your nights cleaning up after guests who clearly missed the “no parties” line in your house rules. In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with Punith Upadhya, who went from managing two properties to twelve in under six months—and not by working more, but by becoming the version of himself who could lead at that level. We’re talking about: What it really takes to grow a co-hosting business from the ground up The wild guest story that forced Punith to overhaul his entire vetting system How to train your team to follow their gut (yes, really) Why your business growth will never outpace your self-image Tactical mindset habits that actually move the needle—without the fluff Whether you're deep in the weeds of short-term rental ops or dreaming about scaling without working 60-hour weeks, this convo is full of the perspective shift you didn’t know you needed. LINKS & RESOURCES: ➡️Connect with Punith on LinkedIn: ➡️Follow me on IG: ➡️Learn more at: ➡️Join my free Facebook Group:
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EP 207: Why I Sold My First Short-Term Rental and What We’re Doing Next
07/08/2025
EP 207: Why I Sold My First Short-Term Rental and What We’re Doing Next
In this special solo episode, I get personal and share a raw behind-the-scenes look at where my heart, head, and business are at right now. From influencer beginnings in 2016 to a (game-changing!) pivot into coaching and consulting in 2020, and then again into the world of short-term rentals—this episode takes you through the honest evolution of what it means to build a business and a life that’s in true alignment. I open up about: Why I walked away from chasing arbitrary revenue goals The “two-year shift” cycle that always signals a big move How selling our first STR created more opportunity, not less Our family’s dream to hit the road for a year of camper life What it looks like to build and scale two businesses with intention Letting go of what success should look like—and rewriting it your way This is one of those episodes that’s less about strategy and more about soul. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to hit milestones that don’t align with your actual dreams, this one’s for you. Love this episode?: Follow along for more real-time updates: . Curious about STR branding and marketing support? Visit Join the free Facebook community for STR owners:
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EP 206: Systems + Ops That Give You Your Time Back with Marisa Grover
07/02/2025
EP 206: Systems + Ops That Give You Your Time Back with Marisa Grover
If you’re still doing everything yourself in your short-term rental business, this episode is the sign you need to stop. I sat down with Marisa Grover—a systems + operations expert for STR owners—and we’re diving deep into the exact ways you can streamline, delegate, and actually get your time back. Whether you’re overwhelmed with guest communication, hiring cleaners, or just tired of being in your inbox 24/7… this one’s for you. Inside the episode, we cover: ✅ The first systems you must have in place (even if you're just getting started) ✅ Tools and automations Marisa recommends for saving hours each week ✅ How to decide what to keep doing yourself vs. what to outsource ✅ The mindset shift every owner needs to go from burnout → balance ✅ Real-world examples of STR owners getting out of the weeds If you're dreaming of running your rental like a real business—not just a second job—this episode will give you the next right steps. 🎧 Tune in now and start building systems that work for you.
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EP 205: Cabins on the Cumberland Update: Financing, Partnerships, and Lessons Learned
06/24/2025
EP 205: Cabins on the Cumberland Update: Financing, Partnerships, and Lessons Learned
In this episode of Branded and Booked, I’m pulling back the curtain on our biggest project to date—Cabins on the Cumberland. I’ve been getting two questions over and over again: 1️⃣ “What would you do differently?” 2️⃣ “Would you ever do this again?” Spoiler alert: Yes, I would. But there are definitely things I’d change next time. I’m walking you through: The origin story of how this nine-acre riverfront development came to life (yes, it started with a Facebook post from my brow girl) The deal structure, bank process, and why we chose partners over raising capital What I would 100% change about the timeline, build order, and amenity placement Why sweat equity mattered, and how we managed roles, logistics, and full-on furniture delivery runs My honest take on whether I’d go new build or renovation for the next big idea What’s next (RV parks, campgrounds, glamping?? 👀) Whether you’re dreaming about developing a vacation rental community or knee-deep in one already, this episode will help you think more strategically—especially if you're planning to bring in partners or build from scratch. We’ve learned a LOT over the past year and a half, and we’re this close to wrapping the final phase. August 2025, let’s go. Have questions about building, partnerships, or STR strategy? DM me on Instagram or visit to learn how we help vacation rental owners turn their vision into a brand that books. And don’t forget to join my free Facebook group to !
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EP 204: Why Influencer Marketing Still Works—But Only If You Do It Right
06/17/2025
EP 204: Why Influencer Marketing Still Works—But Only If You Do It Right
Why Influencer Marketing Still Works—But Only If You Do It Right Influencer marketing isn’t dead—it’s just misunderstood. In this episode, you’ll get the 411 on what’s working (and what’s not) when it comes to influencer strategy for boutique hotels, short-term rentals, and hospitality brands. You’ll also hear behind-the-scenes stories from recent campaigns (including one that turned a $0 stay into $7,000 in bookings), red flags to watch for, and the mindset shift owners need to make before diving in. If you’ve been burned by bad influencer experiences or feel overwhelmed by where to start, this is your permission slip to rethink the strategy—and do it the right way. What You’ll Learn: Why influencer marketing is not just about pretty photos and free stays The exact deliverables Steph includes in her influencer campaigns Metrics that actually matter (spoiler: it’s not likes) A $7K case study that proves influencer ROI Two influencer red flags you need to watch out for Why your organic content has to be dialed in first What makes an influencer pitch an instant yes—or a hard pass Bottom line: Influencer marketing works—but not if you hand over a free stay and call it strategy. Resources Mentioned: Want us to run your influencer campaigns or help you build your strategy from the ground up? DM “INFLUENCER” on Instagram and we’ll send you the details. Love this episode? Join my free → to keep the conversation going!
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EP 203: 50% Direct Bookings with Zero Paid Ads? Here's the Strategy
05/20/2025
EP 203: 50% Direct Bookings with Zero Paid Ads? Here's the Strategy
This week on Branded and Booked, I’m sharing how (our micro-resort) brought in 50% direct bookings in May—and the exact strategy behind it. Even while the property is still under construction, we created a marketing plan powered by storytelling, strategy, and a whole lot of intention. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why content is just one part of a bigger marketing picture How pairing SEO with storytelling builds long-term visibility The 3 C’s of marketing you need to revisit ASAP What to offer instead of a basic newsletter to grow your list Why collecting phone numbers matters (even if you’re not texting yet) How to prep during the slow season so you’re fully booked in the busy one What to keep in mind about partnering with local businesses ✨ If you're trying to grow a direct booking strategy that actually works, this one’s for you. DM me the word “INFO” at on Instagram to learn more about how I can help you build a brand that books and a marketing strategy that converts. Love this episode? to keep the conversation going!
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EP 202: Is Airbnb Trying to Prevent Direct Bookings?
04/17/2025
EP 202: Is Airbnb Trying to Prevent Direct Bookings?
Airbnb’s latest updates aren’t just platform tweaks—they’re a strategic move to keep hosts (and their guests) locked into Airbnb. From limiting outside links in communication to discouraging direct bookings, these changes could seriously impact how you grow YOUR business, build guest relationships, and maintain control over your brand. In this episode, I’m breaking down what the changes mean, why they’re a potential threat to independent hosts, and most importantly, how to stay in control of your brand, your business, and your bookings. Whether you’re new to hosting or own multiple properties, this episode will help you take ownership of your short-term rental brand, so you’re not just building someone else’s platform. What You’ll Learn: ✅ What’s changing on the Airbnb platform ✅ Why relying solely on the platform is riskier than ever ✅ How to capture your guests’ information while they’re at your property ✅ How to build a guest pipeline you actually own (hello, email list + direct booking!) ✅ The key marketing assets every STR host needs to future-proof their business Resources Mentioned: 🔗 Read Airbnb’s Policy Updates → 📲 Connect with me on Instagram → 🎙️ Love this episode? Join my free → to keep the conversation going!
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EP 201: Don’t Take My Word for It: STR Marketing Bootcamp Success Stories
03/21/2025
EP 201: Don’t Take My Word for It: STR Marketing Bootcamp Success Stories
In today’s episode of Branded & Booked, I’m handing the mic to three incredible short-term rental business owners who went through my last round of STR Marketing Bootcamp—April, Cathleen, and Jess. Each of them has a different business model, different challenges, and different results, and you’ll hear firsthand how this 12-week live coaching program helped them build a powerful brand and marketing system that leads to more direct bookings and increased guest loyalty. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ Why relying only on OTAs (Airbnb, Vrbo) limits your business growth ✔️ How these STR pros built a renowned brand and systemized their marketing ✔️ The behind-the-scenes of an STR lifestyle photoshoot (and why it matters!) ✔️ Real results from real business owners who made the shift to direct bookings Meet Today’s Guests & Connect With Them ✨ April – Modern Mountain Vacations 📍 Lake Tahoe, CA & NV | Boutique STR consulting & co-hosting business 🔗 Follow along: | ✨ Cathleen – Discovered in Travels 📍 Poconos, Pennsylvania | Short-term rental business & travel experiences 🔗 Follow along: | ✨ Jess – Wander North | Northern Michigan Vacation Rentals 📍 Traverse City, MI | Real estate expert specializing in STR investments 🔗 Follow along: | Resources & Links Mentioned 🔥 Want to learn more about STR Marketing Bootcamp? Join the waitlist → 📲 Connect with me on Instagram → 🎙️ Love this episode? Join my free → to keep the conversation going!
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EP 200: STR Marketing Simplified All About Your Brand Strategy
03/19/2025
EP 200: STR Marketing Simplified All About Your Brand Strategy
Be honest: Have you ever said “Oh, I own an Airbnb,” when asked what you do? Now imagine the difference between that and saying something like “I run a short-term destination for young couples.”. The difference? Branding. In this episode, we dive into what makes an Airbnb (or any business) go from just another option to a must-experience destination. Because let’s be real—every industry is saturated, and standing out isn’t about being the best; it’s about creating a feeling that guests fall in love with. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✨ How to turn your Airbnb into a raving guest magnet ✨ Why a brand is more than a logo—it’s an emotion ✨ What branding is NOT (and why most hosts get it wrong) ✨ The key to making guests feel transported—not just accommodated ✨ The ultimate way to differentiate in a crowded market This episode will change how you think about standing out in a competitive space. Because when you build a brand people connect with, they won’t just stay once—they’ll keep coming back. Steph on Instagram: and . And don’t forget: Join our Free Community >>.
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199: BTS of The Asheville Affair
03/12/2025
199: BTS of The Asheville Affair
Some short-term rentals offer a place to stay, but some create an unforgettable experience… The Asheville Affair offers a trip guests will never forget. In this episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes of how we designed, branded, and launched a short-term rental built for bachelor and bachelorette groups—and how you can apply these strategies to make your own rental stand out. You’ll learn: ✔️ The strategy behind designing a space that stays booked (it’s more than just good decor) ✔️ How we crafted an experience-first brand that attracts high-value guests ✔️ Key lessons from launching a rental that commands premium pricing If you want to move beyond generic listings and create a rental that’s the only choice for your ideal guests, this episode is packed with insights you can use. 🎉 FREE Workshop! 🎉 Want to go deeper? DM me the word ‘workshop’ on Instagram, and I’ll send you access to an exclusive free training inside my Facebook group >>!
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EP 198: Stop selling your amenities. Do THIS instead!
03/06/2025
EP 198: Stop selling your amenities. Do THIS instead!
Are you relying on your amenities to book your short-term rental? Saying “We have a hot tub” or “We have a sauna” is fine—but it won’t set you apart in a crowded market. (Trust me, there’s a better way!) In this episode, we’re talking about how to move beyond a basic amenities list and: ✔️ Create a branded guest experience that makes your rental unforgettable ✔️ Sell the story of your stay so guests feel emotionally connected before they even book ✔️ Use simple, strategic tweaks to increase demand and justify premium pricing The goal? To make your rental the only choice for your ideal guests—because they’re not just booking a place to stay… they’re booking an experience. 🎉 FREE Workshop! 🎉 Want to go deeper? DM me the word ‘workshop’ on Instagram, and I’ll send you access to an exclusive free training inside my Facebook group !
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EP 197: Social Media Marketing for STRs
02/04/2025
EP 197: Social Media Marketing for STRs
If you own a short-term rental (STR), you’ve probably wondered: Do I need an Instagram account for my property? Is social media even worth it? In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how to approach social media marketing for your STR—without wasting time or energy. Here’s what I cover: Why choosing one platform first is key (and which one to start with) The surprising reason email marketing is actually more important than social media How to increase direct bookings (and rely less on Airbnb/VRBO) Whether or not your STR needs its own Instagram account If you’ve been struggling to market your STR or aren’t sure where to focus your efforts, this episode is for you! I’d love to hear your biggest takeaway from this episode—tag me when you listen so we can connect! Steph on Instagram: and . And don’t forget: Join our Free Community >> .
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EP 196: Direct Booking Secrets: Breadcrumbs for Your Airbnb Listing
01/28/2025
EP 196: Direct Booking Secrets: Breadcrumbs for Your Airbnb Listing
Branding. Marketing. Direct bookings. If you’ve ever wanted to rely less on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO and take full control of your short-term rental business, this episode is for you. We’re diving into practical, no-fluff strategies to help you stand out, attract more direct bookings, and create a guest experience that leaves people raving (and returning). From branding tips that position you as the go-to host to marketing secrets that feel authentic and effective, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you: Create an epic guest experience. Handle less-than-stellar guest experiences. Encourage repeat bookings without relying on third-party platforms. I’d love to hear your biggest takeaway from this episode—tag me when you listen so we can connect! Steph on Instagram: and . And don’t forget: Join our Free Community >>
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EP 195: Strategies to Increase Your Bookings During Slow Periods
01/14/2025
EP 195: Strategies to Increase Your Bookings During Slow Periods
Whether it's seasonal, economical, or due to shifts in the market, slow seasons will happen. But this doesn't have to mean slashing your prices to get bookings... In this episode, we’re talking about practical, no-fluff strategies to bring in guests, even when business feels quiet. From smart marketing moves to creative ways to reconnect with past clients, I’ll show you how to attract more customers without discounting your value. If you’re ready to make slow months work for your business (instead of against it), hit play now! Make sure to tag me when you listen so we can connect! Steph on Instagram: and And don’t forget: Join our Free Community: .
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EP 194: Welcome to Branded & Booked!
01/07/2025
EP 194: Welcome to Branded & Booked!
Welcome to the very first episode of Branded & Booked! In case you’re new here: I’m your host Steph Weber, branding and marketing expert helping short-term rental and boutique hotel owners create unforgettable guest experiences. In this episode, you’ll hear what’s in store for Branded & Booked—from actionable branding and marketing strategies to stories that will inspire you to elevate your property and keep it consistently booked. Whether you’re a seasoned host or just starting out, this is your go-to podcast for standing out in a crowded market and turning your short-term rental into a brand guests can’t wait to book. Hit play and get ready to create rave-worthy experiences! Thank you for being part of this journey. Enjoy this FIRST episode of 2025, and make sure to tag me when you listen so we can connect! Steph on Instagram: and And don’t forget: Join our Free Community: .
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EP 193: 2024 The Good The Hard and What’s Coming Next
12/19/2024
EP 193: 2024 The Good The Hard and What’s Coming Next
As the year comes to a close, I’m reflecting on 2024—the good, the hard, and everything in between. This year, I can truly say I've leaned into messy, uncomfortablt action and just let things flow. It wasn’t perfect (far from it!), but through the chaos, I gained something monumental: a level of freedom I’ve never felt before. In this episode, I’m sharing what it really looked like to step into this freedom, how I learned to operate my business in alignment with my life, and what it means to me to be a more present mom while still serving my audience in the best way possible. I’ve also grown even deeper into my role as your trusted go-to for branding and marketing in the short-term rental world, and I’m so grateful for the connections we’ve built here on the podcast. And while we’re wrapping up the year, I’m also looking ahead—because something BIG is coming next year. We’re making an exciting pivot with the podcast, and I can’t wait to share more soon. Thank you for being part of this journey. Enjoy this final episode of 2024, and make sure to tag me when you listen so we can connect one more time before the new year! Steph on Instagram: and And don’t forget: Join our Free Community: .
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EP 192: 2025 Predictions for STR
12/17/2024
EP 192: 2025 Predictions for STR
In this episode, I’m diving into my biggest STR predictions for 2025 and sharing practical ways to apply them to your business right now. You’ll learn about the 3 C’s of marketing and why they’re more important than ever in building trust, engaging your audience, and driving results. And finally, I’ll explain how reducing your reliance on third-party platforms can increase profits, deepen customer relationships, and set you up for long-term success. Enjoy the episode, and don’t forget to tag me when you listen so we can connect! Steph on Instagram: and And don’t forget: Join our Free Community: .
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EP 191: Long-Term vs Short-Term Rental with Ryan Rominger
12/04/2024
EP 191: Long-Term vs Short-Term Rental with Ryan Rominger
In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Rominger, the owner of Intrigue Property Management. Ryan shares his journey from California to Indianapolis and explains why the City of Indy has become such an attractive market for real estate investors. With over 400 properties under management, he breaks down the benefits of long-term rental investments and the stability they offer, especially in comparison to pricier markets like California. Ryan also gives an honest look at the challenges of property management, from managing tenant expectations to dealing with legal issues. And the best part? Ryan’s super creative approach to social media has played a big role in his success. His “Why Indianapolis is Cooler” video series has helped him build strong local connections, attract clients, and create partnerships with Indianapolis businesses. Enjoy this episode, and make sure to tag us when you listen so we can connect! Steph on Instagram: and Ryan on Instagram: And don’t forget: Join our Free Community: .
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EP 190: You’re missing THIS in your STR design & guest experience - Interview with Harshad and Ishita Lalan
11/19/2024
EP 190: You’re missing THIS in your STR design & guest experience - Interview with Harshad and Ishita Lalan
Building wealth with real estate often starts with a small idea and grows into something much bigger. Harshad and Ishita’s journey began with renting out their basement, which led to renting out a room in their home—and before they knew it, they were covering their mortgage with rental income. But when it comes to short-term rentals, it’s about more than just a place to stay—it’s about creating unforgettable experiences. That’s why I’m so excited to have Harshad and Ishita on the show. These two entrepreneurs are shaking things up in the short-term rental space by putting design and guest experience at the forefront. In today’s episode, we're diving into their incredible journey, how they rapidly scaled their portfolio, and their approach to creating spaces that guests rave about. Plus, we’ll talk about their experience navigating Hurricane Helene and what’s next for their business. Tune in for a conversation that shows how thoughtful design and a guest-first mentality can transform a rental property into a thriving business. Enjoy this episode, and make sure to tag us when you listen at , , , and so we can connect. Join my Facebook Group: >>.
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EP 189: Simplifying Direct Bookings with Gil Chan of Crafted Stays
11/05/2024
EP 189: Simplifying Direct Bookings with Gil Chan of Crafted Stays
If you’re a host wanting to gain control over your bookings, this episode is a must! , founder of , shares how he helps hosts build high-converting direct booking sites in minutes—without all the tech headaches.. After his own struggles with WordPress, Gil designed Crafted Stays to be user-friendly, with awesome templates that integrate directly with PMS tools (like Hospitable and Reshostaway). Click play to learn how you can create a direct booking site that performs well in search engines, so you can reduce dependency on OTAs! Listen in, and we'd love for you to tag us and . Join our Free Community: >>.
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EP 188: How I Built the brand for Cabins on the Cumberland
10/29/2024
EP 188: How I Built the brand for Cabins on the Cumberland
I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again: branding is more than the visuals. It’s the story you tell. It’s the way you make people feel. It’s what people say about you when you’re not in the room. That is exactly why, in this episode, I dive deep into the branding process for , sharing how we crafted a compelling brand strategy that resonates with our (Ideal Client) Avatar. Join me as I unpack the essential elements that make up a strong brand, and end with an action step that you can take immediately. Enjoy this episode, and make sure to tag us when you listen to and so we can connect. Join our Free Community: >>.
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EP 187: From STR Owner to Treehouse Resort: Interview with Hanan Kim
10/22/2024
EP 187: From STR Owner to Treehouse Resort: Interview with Hanan Kim
If you love having an inside look at what successful short-term rental hosts are doing to remain profitable during markets like this, you’re in luck. is about to spill the tea on how she successfully transitioned from short-term rental owner to boutique hotel operator and the many, MANY lessons she learned along the way. Because here's the truth: you can have the best property in the world, but without a solid strategy and understanding of the market, you're just hoping for the best. In this episode, you’ll learn how Hanan identifies the right properties, leverages her travel experiences, and grows her hospitality business. Enjoy this episode, and make sure to tag us when you listen to and so we can connect! Join our Free Community: >>.
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EP 186: Steal Our Marketing Strategy: 15% Direct Bookings in 2 Months
09/25/2024
EP 186: Steal Our Marketing Strategy: 15% Direct Bookings in 2 Months
In this episode, I'm giving it ALL away—our exact marketing strategy that boosted our direct bookings by 15% in just two months. Because here's the truth: you can try all the marketing tactics in the world, but without a solid strategy, you're just throwing spaghetti at the wall. I’ll walk you through the step-by-step approach we used to drive more direct bookings without relying on third-party platforms. Enjoy this episode, and make sure to tag us when you listen to and so we can connect. Join our Free Community: .
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