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

Standing Out in STR: How Yhangry is Revolutionizing Guest Experiences with Private Chefs

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 756. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, host Liam interviews Siddhi from YHangry, a service offering private chefs, as the special guest. Siddhi emphasizes the importance of standing out by providing exceptional guest experiences, similar to the amenities provided by hotels. She explains the origin and mission of YHangry, which aims to make private chefs more affordable and access...

Dec 09, 202431 min

Streamlining Payments and Protecting Against Chargebacks: Insights from Yapstone

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 755. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, host Liam interviews Chris from Yapstone about the importance of using effective payment solutions for short-term rentals. Yapstone offers dedicated payment management services designed specifically for short-term rental businesses. Chris explains the benefits of using Yapstone, including easier onboarding, faster fund release, and specializ...

Dec 02, 202423 min

From Startup to Scale-Up: How I Built and Sold A 130-Unit Business

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 754. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, host Liam speaks with Sasha, the owner of Norfolk Holiday Properties, about the journey of building a holiday property management agency. They discuss key strategies for starting, scaling, and eventually selling a management business, with valuable insights for hosts and property managers. Sasha shares his experiences of expanding his busine...

Nov 25, 202445 min

Outsource & Grow: Leveraging Virtual Teams for Short-Term Rental Success

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 753. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, the focus is on providing hosts with tools, tactics, training, and confidence to secure more direct bookings in hospitality. Liam sits down with Matthew Metro, founder of CS Outsource. Matthew shares that his company helps short-term and mid-term rental operators build virtual assistant teams. They began with guest communications, vendor sch...

Nov 18, 202453 min

Stand Out & Get Booked: The Power of Branding for Hosts

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 752. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, Liam interviews Dominique Hart. She is an International Visual Branding Strategist, Dynamic Speaker, Serial Entrepreneur, CEO and founder of Dynamik Endeavors, and six-figure Real Estate Investor — all by the age of 30. Now she’s empowering entrepreneurs worldwide how they can elevate their business through the power of dynamic brand design....

Nov 11, 202457 min

From Overlooked to Overbooked: The Power of Eye-Catching Photos

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 751. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly Podcast, Liam welcomes back Katie and Brian from Overlooked to Overbooked, a company specializing in vacation rental photography. Katie and Brian share their experiences, insights, and expert advice on improving property listings to attract more guests. They discuss the importance of eye-catching photos, color usage, and sequencing. The team also emp...

Nov 04, 202456 min

Superhost Status: Myth or Reality? Let’s Look at the Data

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 750. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly Podcast, Mark discusses the significance of Airbnb's Superhost badge with Kenny Bedwell, CEO of STR Insights. They explore the perception and impact of the badge, emphasizing that while it may slightly increase revenue through filters, it doesn't guarantee success for hosts. Bedwell explains that 56% of hosts are Superhosts, with criteria including a...

Oct 28, 202421 min

When an OTA Bans You: A Host’s Story of Resilience and Reinvention

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 749. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly Podcast, guest Elam King shares his challenging journey in the short-term rental business after being unexpectedly banned from Airbnb. Hosted by Boostly, the podcast focuses on providing tools and advice to hosts in the hospitality industry. Elam discusses the events leading to his account suspension, including a shadow ban and the eventual cancellat...

Oct 21, 202457 min

The Future of Direct Bookings: Where Is the Book Direct Movement Headed?

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 748. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, the conversation explores different host categories, emphasizing the distinction between hobbyist hosts and professional companies, and the challenges they face in the current market. The episode discusses the influence of Airbnb and suggestions for educating guests on the benefits of booking directly, beyond just cost savings. It addresses ...

Oct 14, 202452 min

Turning Stays into Stories: A Host’s Journey to Creating Memories

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 747. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, we hear the inspiring story of Andy Cheetham, owner and managing director of The Terrace Windermere. Host Liam and Andy discuss how the Boostly podcast empowered Andy to transform his business from relying almost entirely on OTAs to achieving a significant share of direct bookings. Andy shares detailed insights into his property journey, inn...

Oct 07, 202459 min

Partnering for Success: Connecting Your Property with Travel Experts

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 746. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, Liam welcomes Mariah Rockman, co-founder of the Smiling House Group, to discuss the new Villa Tracker platform. Mariah explains how Villa Tracker creates a unique B2B2C bridge for vacation rental professionals and travel professionals, offering a closed platform to facilitate bookings and enhance trust in the hospitality industry. The podcas...

Sep 30, 202436 min

Mastering Direct Bookings: Email Marketing Strategies

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 745. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, the focus is on a powerful tool for short-term rental hosts—StayFi. Returning guest Arthur Kolker, CEO and founder of StayFi, explains how the platform allows hosts to collect guest data through WiFi logins and leverage it for impactful email marketing. The discussion covers new features, the importance of email marketing for direct bookings...

Sep 23, 202432 min

Concierge Secrets: How Amenities Can Make or Break Your Bookings

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 744. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, Liam interviews Annie Sloan, co-founder and CEO of The Host Co. Sloan discusses the importance of offering creative and valuable amenities in short-term rentals, beyond the typical offerings like late checkouts. They cover how amenities can enhance guest experiences, streamline operations, and generate additional revenue. Sloan shares her jo...

Sep 16, 202430 min

27 Units, 7 Years: Defining Success in Vacation Rentals

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 743. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly Podcast, Liam interviews Gordon Martin, the CEO of People's Places and Things Incorporated, a vacation rental experience company based in Newfoundland, Canada. Gordon discusses his journey from starting with a single property in 2017 to managing 27 unique vacation rentals. He highlights the importance of defining your business, knowing your ideal cli...

Sep 09, 202441 min

Boost Your Bookings: Strategies to Fill Calendar Gaps

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 742. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, Liam interviews Sean Wilkinson, the co-founder of HostShare. Sean shares insights about HostShare, a platform designed to help short-term rental hosts convert their vacant nights into valuable travel opportunities. The discussion delves into how the platform works, its benefits to hosts, and the inspiration behind its creation. Sean explains...

Sep 02, 202433 min

Community-Driven STRs: Strategies for Success

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 741. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, Liam sits down with Kim Herrlein, the Chief Leisure Officer of Purveyors of Leisure. Kim shares insights from her journey in the accommodation business, detailing how her business evolved from managing large vacation rentals in Southern California to launching a new boutique hotel, The Fainting Couch, in Northern California's wine region. Ki...

Aug 26, 202440 min

Hidden Gems: Unveiling Australia’s STR Secrets

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 740. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, Liam sits down with Mark Berry, co-founder of 'The Bower at Broulee' in Australia. The discussion covers the unique aspects of Mark's business, including its architect-designed, private accommodations for couples nestled in the forest, and its popularity post-pandemic with those seeking nature escapes. Mark shares insights into their high oc...

Aug 19, 202430 min

Million-Dollar STR Secrets: Growing a 7 Million Dollar Portfolio

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 739. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, Liam sits down with David Fornelli, co-founder of Napoli Properties. David shares his journey from flipping houses to operating a 15-unit short-term rental portfolio and a 10-key boutique hotel. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, leveraging other people's money, and the power of a strong team. David discusses the significance of des...

Aug 12, 202437 min

How to Craft a Unique STR Experience

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 738. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, Liam welcomes Moira Sedgwick, CEO and founder of a Chalet Collective, about the importance of interior design in short-term rentals. Moira shares insights on how unique design elements can enhance property value and lead to increased bookings. They discuss the integration of design and hospitality, and share practical tips for hosts on selec...

Aug 05, 202428 min

Connecting Hosts and Homeowners: A Pro Hosts Startup Guide

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 737. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, Liam welcomes Elena Stepanova, founder of My Perfect Host, an STR company based in Australia. Elena shares her inspiring journey from a corporate job to becoming a bestselling author and a successful host. She provides insights into her transition into Airbnb hosting, challenges she faced, and how she turned those challenges into opportuniti...

Jul 29, 202439 min

From Retail to Rentals: A Best-Selling Author's Hosting Journey

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 736. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, Liam welcomes welcomes Tanya Rooney, a dynamic short-term rental host from Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota. Tanya shares her journey from a corporate real estate background and house flipping to becoming a best-selling author and successful short-term rental host. She discusses her passion for hospitality, the importance of communication...

Jul 22, 202437 min

Fearless Investments: Acquiring Short-Term Rentals with Confidence

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 735. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, Liam is joined by Lamè Kinikini, the founder of Elkridge Management and a prominent coach at Fearless Investors. Lamè discusses his journey from starting a short-term rental management company in 2018 to scaling it into an investment firm with around 150 properties. He shares insights on creative financing, property acquisition strategies, a...

Jul 15, 202441 min

Secrets of a Successful BnB Host: Proven Marketing Strategies

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 734. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, Liam is joined by Georgina Berman, the owner of See the Seacroft Bed, Breakfast and Bar. Georgina shares her journey in hospitality, including her experiences on the TV show 'Hotel Inspector' and her challenges boosting business during the off-peak season. Key discussion points include actionable marketing tips, the importance of digital mar...

Jul 08, 202437 min

Transform Your Bookings with Strategic Creative Communications

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 733. stayfi.com/boostly Discount code: BOOSTLY https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, Liam is joined by Gillian Davies, director of Conteur, a communications company specializing in video production for hospitality businesses. Gillian shares her journey from journalism to video production, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, humanizing content, and consistent marketing. They discuss the benefits of professional video ...

Jul 01, 202437 min

Inside Pink Walls Designs: Mastering STR Interiors

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 732. https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly Podcast we sit down with Heather and Erin, co-founders of Pink Wall Designs. The discussion centers around the critical importance of interior design in the hospitality industry, particularly for vacation rentals and boutique hotels. Heather and Erin emphasize that properties must be designed well to attract and retain guests, effectively treating rental properties as full-fledged products. ...

Jun 24, 202429 min

From Boutique Roots to STR Heights

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 731. https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, recorded live from STR WealthCon 2024 in Nashville, host Mark Simpson interviews Jake Cowen, a prominent short-term rental host from Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Jake shares his journey from managing boutique hotels to building a diverse portfolio that includes short-term and mid-term rentals. He also talks about the crucial role of revenue management and his use of various tech too...

Jun 17, 202414 min

Corporate to Comfort: One Hosts Journey to STR Innovation and Family Balance

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 730. https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode of the Boostly podcast, Liam is joined by Manisha, the founder of KVM Stays, to discuss effective strategies for obtaining more direct bookings. Manisha shares her journey from feeling stuck in her job to building a successful property business in Peterborough, UK. She details her approach to balancing family life with running a business, managing 21 units, and focusing on long-term bookings for contractor...

Jun 10, 202442 min

Eco-Friendly Success: Crafting a Sustainable STR Business Model

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 729. https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ This episode of the Boostly podcast features an interview with Emma, the joint owner of Mill Farm Eco Barns, a sustainable holiday rental business in Norfolk. Emma shares the journey of starting and running an eco-conscious business with a focus on sustainability, from securing funding and adapting eco-friendly building renovations to operational practices that reduce environmental impact. The discussion covers the import...

Jun 03, 202437 min

In the Mind of a Mentor: Conversations with Robin Waite the Fearless Business Coach

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 728. https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ In this episode, we dive into the realms outside hospitality to bring insights from Robin Waite, a business coach, published author, and former agency owner. Waite shares his journey from systems analyst to successful entrepreneur and business coach, highlighting the key decisions that led him to sell his business and focus on coaching. He discusses the importance of overcoming fear and the impact of mindset on pricing an...

May 27, 202426 min

Streamlining Stays: How ChargeAutomation Delivers a Slick Guest Experience

Welcome to Boostly Podcast Episode 727. https://www.hostfully.com/boostly/ This episode of the Boostly podcast features a deep dive into Charge Automation, a service aimed at enhancing guest experience and revenue for property managers in the short-term rental and boutique hotels industry. The guest, Flo, the Chief Revenue Officer of Charge Automation, discusses the significance of the service in the hospitality industry, highlighting its capabilities in contactless check-in, payment automation,...

May 20, 202432 min
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