Youre a Tourist

Katie Dudley is an award winning researcher, educator, and comedian. In each episode she brings on a new guest to help uncover an array of unspoken aspects of tourism and ways listeners can become more responsible tourists.

Balancing Act: The Impact and Future of Short-Term Rentals in New Orleans 11/14/2024

Short-Term Rentals and Community Impact: Residents Demand Regulations for Safe Neighborhoods 11/04/2024

Short-Term Rentals and Community Impact: Residents Demand Regulations for Safe Neighborhoods In this episode of You’re a Tourist, Dr. Dudley dives into the rising concerns around short-term rentals (STRs) in Long Beach, California with the co-founders of the Long Beach Safe Neighborhood Coalition, Andy Oliver and Christina Negrelli. Formed in response to the negative impacts of short-term rentals in residential areas, the coalition sheds light on issues like noise, safety, excessive parking, and the strain on community relationships. Andy and Christina share firsthand experiences of living next to unregulated, unhosted STR properties and discuss the urgent need for STR regulations to protect the quality of life for Long Beach residents. With stories of deception by property owners, lack of transparency, and the city's conflict of interest as some city council members are Airbnb hosts, this conversation highlights the complex dynamics between tourism development and community well-being. The coalition argues for common sense reforms, including a ban on unhosted rentals and stricter enforcement of STR regulations. They emphasize that public awareness and community involvement are essential to pushing for change, using tools like the petition process to voice resident concerns. Join us as we unpack the impact of short-term rentals on communities and explore what’s truly at stake when resident well-being is prioritized over tourism revenue. Key Takeaways: - Negative impacts of STRs on residential areas include loud parties, safety concerns, and community disruption. - Calls for stricter regulations and enforcement by the city council, with accountability for violations. - Importance of public awareness campaigns and community-driven actions to protect quality of life. - The conflict of interest among council members with STR listings. - A strong case for a ban on unhosted rentals and immediate permit revocation for properties involved in crimes. Sound Bites: - "We spent an entire year dealing with marijuana smoke come into your house, all kinds of this crazy stuff that we have a lot of kids and elderly that in our streets." - "A hotel has security around the clock. A hotel has someone who checks your ID. This does not belong in a residential neighborhood." - "People are getting more vocal about it. People are kind of rising up." - "In the meantime, all the residents around are like, oh my God, the noise, the lack of parking, what that invites, late night drinking times." Listen in for a candid conversation about community resilience and the fight for safe neighborhoods in the face of unregulated short-term rentals in Long Beach. /episode/index/show/ee749260-01b8-4f6d-8cc6-edcd902e7be5/id/33780102

Airbnb & Inequality: How Short-Term Rentals Are Shaping Communities with Dr. Mehmet Cansoy 10/24/2024

Airbnb & Inequality: How Short-Term Rentals Are Shaping Communities with Dr. Mehmet Cansoy Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Katie Dudley, tourism researcher and educator, as she interviews Dr. Mehmet Cansoy, assistant professor of sociology, about the intersection of technological change, inequality, and the platform economy. In this episode, we dive deep into the impact of Airbnb on communities, exploring how short-term rentals affect economic activity, social patterns, and neighborhood dynamics. Dr. Cansoy's research reveals that middle-income and predominantly white neighborhoods often benefit from Airbnb, while marginalized communities do not see the same gains. We also examine the commercialization of Airbnb and its differences from other platform industries like rideshare or food delivery. From profitability to regulation, we discuss how this platform has evolved from an idealistic sharing economy model to a capital-driven business. You'll hear about the challenges in obtaining data on Airbnb, using tools like AirDNA, and the influence of local regulations on short-term rentals. This episode tackles the broader consequences of unchecked growth in the short-term rental market, such as rising rents, illegal rentals, and the Disneyfication of urban spaces. Tune in to learn why structural changes and community organizing are essential for addressing these challenges. Takeaways The relationship between technological change and inequality in the platform economy is a key focus of Dr. Cansoy's research. Middle-income and predominantly white neighborhoods tend to benefit more from Airbnb, while marginalized areas do not. Airbnb has evolved from an idealistic sharing platform to a commercial business driven by capital. The profitability of Airbnb sets it apart from other platform-based industries like rideshare or food delivery apps. Understanding the transformation and change in platforms like Airbnb is crucial for analyzing their impact. Platforms are malleable and adaptable, shaped by regulations and market conditions. Obtaining data on platforms like Airbnb can be challenging, and commercial data scrapers like AirDNA can be useful. A significant portion of the profits on Airbnb goes to very frequently rented properties. While some regulations have had limited success, outright bans and stricter regulations have shown more effectiveness. Short-term rentals, particularly through platforms like Airbnb, pose challenges and have significant impacts on cities and communities. The commercialization of short-term rentals and the lack of data sharing by Airbnb make it difficult for cities to regulate the industry effectively. Residents often feel anger and confusion, and there is a lack of clarity on who to hold accountable for the negative consequences of short-term rentals. Potential future consequences include dramatic rent increases, the growth of illegal rentals in unregulated markets, and the loss of community and local character in cities. Addressing the issues surrounding short-term rentals requires structural changes and local organizing, as individual actions alone may not be sufficient. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:11 Defining Technological Change and Inequality 02:15 Research on Airbnb and Neighborhoods 04:41 The Impact of Airbnb on Marginalized Communities 06:37 The Commercialization of Airbnb 17:10 How Airbnb Differs from Other Platform-Based Industries 23:24 The Idealistic Discourse of Airbnb 26:21 The Evolving Nature of Airbnb 26:45 Understanding Transformation and Change in Platforms 27:33 The Malleability and Adaptability of Platforms 29:01 Challenges of Obtaining Data on Airbnb 30:55 Profits on Airbnb: The Dominance of Very Frequently Rented Properties 46:31 The Impact of Regulations on Airbnb: Limited Success and Effectiveness 53:43 The Challenges and Impacts of Short-Term Rentals 55:45 The Commercialization and Unchecked Growth of Airbnb 56:14 The Difficulty of Regulating Short-Term Rentals 01:06:19 Future Consequences: Rent Increases and Disneyfication 01:07:11 The Need for Structural Changes and Local Organizing /episode/index/show/ee749260-01b8-4f6d-8cc6-edcd902e7be5/id/33575142

Airbnb and the Housing Crisis: Navigating Regulations, Data, and Sustainable Tourism with Murray Cox 10/10/2024

Airbnb and the Housing Crisis: Navigating Regulations, Data, and Sustainable Tourism with Murray Cox In this episode of the You're a Tourist Podcast, Dr. Katie Dudley speaks with Murray Cox, founder of the data activist project inside Airbnb. They discuss the evolution of Airbnb, its impact on housing markets, and the regulatory responses from cities. The conversation highlights the significant increase in entire home listings, the challenges of compliance with regulations, and the economic implications of short-term rentals on local communities. They also explore the need for sustainable tourism practices and the importance of balancing tourist demands with the needs of residents. In this conversation, Murray discusses the significant impact of regulations on short-term rentals, particularly focusing on Airbnb. He highlights the drastic reduction in legal listings due to new laws and the challenges cities face in managing these rentals. The discussion also touches on the implications for housing affordability, the role of property owners, and the need for community organizing against the proliferation of short-term rentals. Murray emphasizes the importance of data in understanding these issues and shares insights from recent research that quantifies the financial burden of short-term rentals on renters. He concludes with advice for tourists and community organizers on navigating the complexities of short-term rentals and advocating for better regulations. Takeaways Inside Airbnb started as a data activist project in 2014. The majority of Airbnb listings are entire homes, not shared spaces. Short-term rentals have significantly impacted housing availability. Regulatory responses vary by city, with some implementing strict bans. Airbnb often proposes regulations that benefit their business model. Compliance with regulations is a major challenge for cities. The economic argument for short-term rentals often overlooks local needs. Sustainable tourism should prioritize community well-being. Tourism can displace residents and alter local economies. There is a need for a balanced approach to tourism and housing. Regulations have drastically reduced the number of legal short-term rentals. Cities face challenges in managing short-term rentals due to varying local regulations. Property owners often prefer short-term rentals over long-term tenants for financial reasons. Community organizing is essential in addressing the impact of short-term rentals. Data is crucial for understanding the effects of short-term rentals on housing markets. International models show that effective regulations can mitigate the negative impacts of short-term rentals. Research indicates that short-term rentals contribute to rising housing costs. Tourists should consider alternatives to Airbnb, such as hotels and traditional B&Bs. Support for policies that protect housing and renters is vital for community health. The financialization of housing is a growing concern in the short-term rental market. /episode/index/show/ee749260-01b8-4f6d-8cc6-edcd902e7be5/id/33399282

Airbnb's Impact: Disrupting Tourism and Communities 10/03/2024

Episode 10: Exploring the World of Through & Managing Human Impact on National Parks 08/08/2024

Episode 10: Exploring the World of Through & Managing Human Impact on National Parks In this episode, Dr. Katie Dudley and Dr. Brian Peterson discuss through hiking and the experiences and challenges associated with long-distance trails like the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail. They also touch on the impact of tourism on these trails and the issues of crowding and ecological impact. The conversation includes humorous anecdotes about tourists' encounters with wildlife and headlines related to tourism in national parks. Dr. Peterson shares his insights on the evolving culture of through hiking and the desire for solitude among hikers. The conversation in this part focuses on the management of national parks and the impact of human activities on wildlife and the natural soundscape. Dr. Peterson discusses his research projects with the National Park Service, including the analysis of flights and the development of air tour management plans. He emphasizes the need for managing overflights to protect the natural soundscape and wildlife. The conversation also touches on the importance of education and setting goals that have a probability of failure, such as participating in ultra marathons. In this conversation, they discusses the accessibility of ultra marathons and the impact of social media on outdoor activities. He also explores the issue of overcrowding in national parks and offers tips for being a responsible tourist. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Through Hiking 05:50 Tourist in the News: Woman Feeding Peanut Butter to a Bear 11:41 Tourist in the News: Appalachian Trail Record Breaker 15:18 Dr. Peterson's Work on National Parks and Crowding 19:35 The Impact of Through Hiking on Local Communities 23:13 The Personalities of Different Trails 26:21 Analyzing Flights and Developing Air Tour Management Plans 32:46 The Importance of Education in Mitigating Ecological Impacts 36:25 Reevaluating Management Strategies for National Parks 41:36 The Challenge and Reward of Setting Big, Scary Goals 49:08 The Experience of Ultra Marathons 52:23 The Influence of Social Media on Outdoor Activities 56:14 Alternative Outdoor Areas and Supporting Local Economies For more deep dives into all things tourism, SUBSCRIBE to this channel and follow You're a Tourist: YouTube: IG @YoureaTourist TikTok: @YoureaTourist IG @kateddudley Website: www.youreatourist.com/ /episode/index/show/ee749260-01b8-4f6d-8cc6-edcd902e7be5/id/32351627

Episode 9: Traveling with a disability w/Jennifer Kumiyama 08/01/2024

Episode 9: Traveling with a disability w/Jennifer Kumiyama Summary In this episode, host Dr. Katie Dudley and guest Jennifer Kumiyama discuss the experience of traveling with a disability. Jennifer was born with Arthrogryposis and uses a wheelchair daily. She is a disability rights activist, singer and actress who can be heard as the voice of Dahlia in Disney's animated feature "WISH". She currently works as the Citywide Accessibility Coordinator at the City of Long Beach and loves spending time with her family, friends and cats; and traveling. They start by playing a game called Tourists in the News, where they discuss funny and bizarre headlines related to tourism and Jennifer shares her love for travel and her favorite destinations, including New York and Hawaii. They discuss the challenges faced by travelers with disabilities, such as inaccessible infrastructure and lack of training for airline staff. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of speaking up and advocating for better accessibility in the travel industry. Throughout this conversation, Jennifer Kumiyama discusses the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in the tourism industry. She highlights the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities when traveling and emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding from both tourists and service providers. Jennifer also shares her experiences with the TSA and discusses the issues surrounding the DAS Pass at Disneyland. She acknowledges the progress that has been made in terms of accessibility but emphasizes the need for continued improvement. Jennifer provides tips for tourists, including treating people with disabilities with dignity and respect, being mindful of accessible facilities, and avoiding stereotypes and offensive comments. Keywords travel, disability, tourism, accessibility, airline, headlines, inclusivity, accessibility, tourism industry, disabilities, empathy, understanding, TSA, DAS Pass, Disneyland, progress, tips For more deep dives into all things tourism, SUBSCRIBE to this podcast and follow You're a Tourist: YouTube: www.youtube.com/@YoureaTourist IG @YoureaTourist TikTok: @YoureaTourist IG @kateddudley Website: www.youreatourist.com/ /episode/index/show/ee749260-01b8-4f6d-8cc6-edcd902e7be5/id/32335047

Episode 8: Working Remotely while Cruising 07/25/2024

Episode 7: Hippies, Jam Bands and Hope for Gen Z 07/11/2024

Episode 6: Talking Tourism in Charleston, SC 06/27/2024

Episode 5: Traveling with an autistic child 06/20/2024

Episode 4: Wild & Wonderful West Virginia 06/13/2024

Episode 3: Tourists in Paradise w/Justine Smith 06/06/2024

Episode 2: Sexism, Stereotypes and Strong Women in the Outdoor Industry 05/30/2024

Travelers, Tourists & Tigers 05/09/2024

Youre a Tourist

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