The Boostly Podcast - podcast cover

The Boostly Podcast

Mark Simpsonboostly.co.uk
Ready to reclaim control of your bookings and break free from the unpredictability of OTAs like Airbnb? Craving the stability of building your business on your terms? Dive into the Boostly Podcast, where Mark Simpson and Liam Carolan unveil the secrets to unlocking a flood of direct bookings. With a rich mix of insights, Mark and Liam equip you with the tools and strategies needed to secure your independence in the hospitality industry. Liam Carolan shines in the "Behind The Host" mini-series, offering a peek into the journeys of successful hosts. Mark Simpson, the driving force behind the Boostly Podcast, shares actionable advice and the latest trends to help you stay ahead. Join us for a journey over 700 episodes deep – all designed to empower you with knowledge and tactics for boosting your bookings. Catch our engaging video content on the Boostly YouTube channel at boostly.co.uk/youtube. Your path to direct booking mastery starts here!
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Episodes

Fries With That? How to Master Upsells & Boost Your Short-Term Rental Profits

🎙 Welcome to this Special Webinar Episode of 'Fries with that' on the Boostly Show! 🎙 👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads. 💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs. How can you make guest upsells a meaningful part of your short-term rental business? In this special panel episode, Mark Simpson...

Jul 14, 202530 min

This OTA Alternative Is Saving Guests Thousands — Meet Savvy.com

🎙 Welcome back to the Episode 785 of Boostly Podcast! 🎙 👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads. 💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs. In today’s Spotlight Series, we’re talking to a true hospitality veteran — Eric Goldreyer, the founder of BedandBreakfast.com and TurnKey — who’s now on a mis...

Jul 07, 202537 minEp. 785

From Airbnb Dependent to Fully Booked Direct - The Power of Direct Bookings!

🎙 Welcome back to the Episode 784 of Boostly Podcast! 🎙 👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads. 💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs. In this episode of the Boostly Podcast, we're joined by Jenn Boyles—vacation rental pro, marketer, and founder of Direct Booking Success and Book Direct Pro. ...

Jun 29, 202533 minEp. 785

The Secret to Running a Scalable STR Business — Smoobu’s Strategy for 2025!

🎙 Welcome back to the Episode 783 of Boostly Podcast! 🎙 👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs. In today’s Spotlight Series, we introduce you to the tools, strategies, and people transforming the short-term rental world.In this episode, we’re joined by Ni...

Jun 23, 202527 minEp. 783

The Grocery Concierge Changing the Game for Hosts!

🎙 Welcome back to the Episode 782 of Boostly Podcast! 🎙 👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs. In today’s Spotlight Series, we’re diving into one of the easiest guest-first upgrades you can offer: groceries delivered before your guests even arrive.Joinin...

Jun 16, 202526 minEp. 782

How to Get a Vacation Rental License (Without the Stress or Fines) – Expert Tips for STR Hosts

🎙 Welcome back to the Episode 783 of Boostly Podcast! 🎙In this Boostly Spotlight episode, we interview Guy from Vacation Rental License, a U.S.-based service that helps hosts secure the correct licensing to run their STRs legally and stress-free. Guy shares the truth about permits, licensing delays, and the often-overlooked zoning pitfalls that can cost hosts thousands or shut their business down completely. You’ll hear real stories, common mistakes, and learn how to stay ahead of regulation c...

Jun 15, 202527 minEp. 783

Turning Stargazing into a 5-Star Guest Experience with Visit Dark Skies

🎙 Welcome back to the Episode 781 of Boostly Podcast! 🎙 In today’s Spotlight Series, we’re diving into one of the most unique and memorable guest experiences out there— stargazing. But not just any stargazing… we’re talking about star bathing with a guided audio experience designed to turn your remote property into a destination that guests will never forget.Joining us is Etta Dunman, lighting designer and founder of Visit Dark Skies. She’s on a mission to help hosts create magical, immersive ...

Jun 02, 202519 minEp. 781

The Future of Direct Bookings, AI, and the End of OTA Dependence

🎙 Welcome back to the Episode 780 of Boostly Podcast! 🎙 In this episode, Mark Simpson the founder of Boostly sat down with Oriol from Mr. Alfred to share his journey—from growing up in UK hospitality to helping short-term rental hosts around the world generate over £50 million in direct bookings through Boostly. Mark talk about the early days, building a global brand, and why he's on a mission to help 1 million hosts take back control from OTAs. We dive into why over-reliance on Airbnb is a da...

May 26, 202539 minEp. 780

AI, Data, and the Direct Booking Revolution – The 3 Phases of AI in Hospitality.

🎙 Welcome back to the Episode 779 of Boostly Podcast! 🎙 In this Spotlight Series episode, we sit down with Luca Zambello , CEO and co-founder of Journey , to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the hospitality industry—from the inside out. Joining us is Luca Zambello , CEO and co-founder of Journey, an AI-powered property management system that’s transforming how hosts run their businesses—from automated guest comms and reviews to smart co-pilots that respond to voice commands and...

May 26, 202532 minEp. 779

How to Build a MARKETING FUNNEL That Drives Direct Bookings (NO MORE Relying on OTAs)

🎙 Welcome back to the Episode 778 of Boostly Podcast! 🎙In today’s Spotlight Series, we’re talking all things marketing funnels — and how short-term rental hosts can use them to skyrocket direct bookings. Joining us is Dustin Baker , founder of Hidden Gem Media and a marketing expert who’s helping hosts break free from Airbnb and OTAs using the same powerful strategies big brands use—without needing a massive ad budget. We’re diving into why trust is the missing link in most direct booking stra...

May 12, 202528 minEp. 778

Is This the Easiest PMS for STR Hosts? Let’s Find Out!

🎙 Welcome back to the Episode 777 of Boostly Podcast! 🎙In today’s Behind the PMS episode: we’re shining a spotlight on Free to Book—a popular property management system especially loved by B&Bs and small accommodation providers. Joining us is Harro, owner of The Hive at 52 in Cheshire and long-time hospitality pro, who’s been using Free to Book for over a decade. From handling bookings and automation to using dynamic pricing tools like RoomPriceGenie, Harro shares exactly how this PMS help...

May 05, 202520 minEp. 777

The BIGGEST Instagram Mistakes Hosts Are Still Making in 2025!

🎙 Welcome back to the Episode 776 of Boostly Podcast! 🎙 Today’s episode is a game-changer: we're diving into why most hosts are completely missing the mark on Instagram — and what you need to do right now to turn your social media into a powerful booking machine. Our guest Paul Anderson spent 15 years in hospitality , left it all behind, and is now helping hosts like YOU grow massive audiences and boost direct bookings — without wasting time posting every single day. If you've ever felt like y...

Apr 21, 202557 minEp. 776

This AI Just Replaced Airbnb Customer Service 🤯 | HostBuddy Revealed!

🎙 Welcome back to the Episode 775 of Boostly Podcast! 🎙 In today’s Spotlight Series , we’re diving deep into one of the hottest topics in hospitality right now: AI . And not just any AI—we're talking about a platform built by hosts, for hosts that’s transforming how guest communication is done. Joining us is Jay , the CEO and co-founder of HostBuddy.ai , an automated AI guest messaging platform that integrates with your property management system and takes care of communication, upsells, and m...

Apr 21, 202529 minEp. 775

The SECRET Tool That Airbnb Hosts Don’t Want You To Know About!

🎙 Welcome back to the Episode 774 of Boostly Podcast! 🎙 The go-to show for hosts who are tired of relying on OTAs and ready to take control of their bookings, their brand, and their business. Today, we’ve got a returning guest who’s been making waves in the hospitality tech world — Arthur Colker from StayFi is back in the hot seat. And trust me, if you're not already using StayFi, this episode might just change the way you run your short-term rental business forever. We’re diving into the ulti...

Apr 14, 202523 minEp. 774

I Found the NEXT Big Stars in Short-Term Rentals

🎙 Welcome back to the Episode 773 of Boostly Podcast! 🎙 The place where we shine a light on the people shaking up the short-term rental space and give you the tools, tactics, and inspiration to grow your business. I’m your host Mark Simpson, and today, we’re diving into something that the community has been buzzing about...Back in January, I dropped an episode highlighting a few rising stars in the content creation world — creators who are doing seriously good work but aren’t always in the spo...

Apr 07, 202515 min

I Tried THIS PMS for 3 Years... Here’s What Happened!

🎙 Welcome back to the Episode 772 of Boostly Podcast! 🎙 If you’re a short-term rental host looking to streamline your business, avoid double bookings, and maximize efficiency, then today’s episode is for you! We’re diving into the world of Property Management Systems (PMS) —the software that can make or break your hosting experience. In this episode, we’re joined by Toby Dore from Cajun Stays , an experienced Airbnb host, property manager, and world traveler who has spent 13 years in the short...

Mar 31, 202530 minEp. 772

Why Leaving Revenue on Autopilot is Costing You Bookings

🎙️ Welcome to the Boostly Podcast 771! If you're a short-term rental host looking to maximize your direct bookings and boost your revenue, you're in the right place. At Boostly, we bring you the tools, tactics, and confidence to take your business to the next level. In today’s episode, we’re shining the spotlight on TechTape , a company dedicated to helping short-term rental operators supercharge their revenue and optimize their tech stack. Joining us is John, the founder and CEO of TechTape , ...

Mar 24, 202537 minEp. 771

The Airbnb Secret No One Talks About – Boost Your Profits 4X!

Welcome to the Boostly Podcast Episode 770 , the show that gives hosts the tools, tactics, and confidence to skyrocket their direct bookings! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the game-changing world of short-term rentals with a special guest who has mastered the art of standing out in a crowded market. Meet Mike Sebastian , the founder of Hideaways . After leaving a high-flying marketing career, Mike took the short-term rental industry by storm—transforming ordinary properties into one-of-a...

Mar 17, 202531 minEp. 770

Mastering Hospitality: Adapt, Market & Thrive with Ger

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 769 Join us for a fascinating conversation with Ger from Rhosydd Bach in Wales, a hospitality veteran with over 20 years of experience. We dive into his journey, from converting old pig farm buildings into luxury cottages to adapting to the ever-changing hospitality landscape. Ger shares invaluable insights on embracing change, the importance of personal touch, leveraging social media, and targeting your ideal customer. Learn how to stay ahead of the curve and ...

Mar 10, 202535 minEp. 769

25-Year-Old Builds Airbnb Empire! (You Won't Believe How)

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 768 In this inspiring episode of the Boostly Podcast, we sit down with Chad Harke r, the 25-year-old founder of Eco Escapes , an Airbnb management company that's taking Canada by storm! Chad shares his incredible journey from renting out a single spare room to building a thriving business, and reveals the secrets behind his success. We dive deep into: Chad's early start and how he got into real estate investing at a young age. His experiences with starting out ...

Mar 03, 202530 minEp. 768

Hospitable Uncovered: What Every Host Must Know

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 767 In this episode, we dive deep into the world of short-term rentals and hospitality with industry expert Blake Duarte . From must-know strategies for hosts to hidden challenges in the business, we uncover what it truly takes to run a successful and guest-friendly rental. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, this conversation is packed with insider tips, industry insights, and actionable advice that can elevate your hosting game. Tune in to di...

Feb 24, 202522 minEp. 767

Designing with Intention: Molly Cooper on Curated Spaces & Guest Experiences

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 766 In this episode of the Spotlight Series , we dive into the world of curated spaces with design expert Molly Cooper. Molly shares her journey into the field, her philosophy on intentional design, and how curated spaces can transform the way we experience our surroundings. From selecting the right elements to crafting visually compelling yet functional environments, she offers invaluable insights for designers, homeowners, and anyone passionate about aestheti...

Feb 17, 202536 min

Announcing the Mark Simpson Business YouTube Channel

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 764 https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ Welcome to the Boostly Podcast, Mark Simpson announces the launch of his new solo YouTube channel, the Mark Simpson Business Channel, set to go live on February 5, 2025, also known as Book Direct Day. He invites listeners to subscribe via the provided links. The new channel will focus on all aspects of business with a strong emphasis on short-term rentals. Mark plans to release new videos every Wednesday, featuring him tra...

Feb 03, 20254 min

Maximizing Last-Minute Bookings with Whimstay | Featuring Alex Alioto

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 763 https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ Welcome to the Boostly Podcast, the go-to resource for short-term rental hosts looking to scale their businesses with direct bookings. In this episode, we sit down with Alex from Whimstay. the episode explores the innovative approach Whimstay takes to help property managers and hosts fill their unsold gap nights. Alex, the CEO and co-founder, shares his journey and insights into the OTA's unique last-minute booking model. ...

Jan 27, 202529 min

Enhancing the Guest Journey with Mike O’Connell of Happy Guest

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 762 https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ Welcome to the Boostly Podcast, the go-to resource for short-term rental hosts looking to scale their businesses with direct bookings. In this episode, the spotlight is on Happy Guest, a guest management system founded by Mike. Happy Guest offers various features including handling post-booking processes, upsells, and damage waivers. The discussion covers the impactful guest journey, benefits of avoiding OTAs, the importan...

Jan 20, 202534 min

Airbnb Content Creators to watch in 2025

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 761 https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ Welcome to the Boostly Podcast, the go-to resource for short-term rental hosts looking to scale their businesses with direct bookings. In this episode, Mark discusses the launch of a new solo channel while ensuring the podcast's regular content remains the same. This episode focuses on recommending a list of content creators to follow in 2025, highlighting their unique approaches and contributions. The list includes Zach B...

Jan 13, 202514 min

Boostly’s Game-Changing Predictions for 2025!

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 760. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ Welcome to the Boostly Podcast, the go-to resource for short-term rental hosts looking to scale their businesses with direct bookings. In this special year-end episode, Mark returns to share an exciting compilation of 2025 predictions from 15 industry experts across the globe. Covering everything from AI innovation and sustainability to the impact of regulations and the rise of un...

Jan 06, 202547 min

Directo: Revolutionizing How You Get Direct Bookings

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 759. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, the host welcomes E from STR Secrets as the special guest. The podcast is dedicated to providing hosts with the tactics, tools, training, and confidence to achieve more direct bookings. E shares his journey from working as a maintenance guy in 2010 to owning a 40-unit apartment complex. He discusses the significance of mindset in overcoming ...

Dec 30, 202430 min

The STR Mindset Playbook: Overcoming Doubts and Growing Boldly

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 758. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, the host welcomes E from STR Secrets as the special guest. The podcast is dedicated to providing hosts with the tactics, tools, training, and confidence to achieve more direct bookings. E shares his journey from working as a maintenance guy in 2010 to owning a 40-unit apartment complex. He discusses the significance of mindset in overcoming ...

Dec 23, 202440 min

Scaling & Selling: Lessons from Guest Homes with Josh Guest

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 757. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, host Liam interviews Josh Guest, a successful entrepreneur in the short-term rental industry. Josh started Guest Homes in 2018, initially as a rent-to-service accommodation (SA) business based in Brighton. Despite facing numerous challenges, such as managing properties four hours away, he quickly scaled his portfolio. By networking and lever...

Dec 16, 202441 min
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