The STR Sisterhood: Recent Episodes
Stacey St. John
Whether you’re brand new to Airbnb or an experienced Superhost, you’re giving yourself the gift of financial freedom and FUN when you enter the short-term rental space. If there’s anyone who knows this, it’s Stacey St. John. She built a 7-figure STR portfolio in less than two years and was able to leave her W2 thanks to the earnings from her properties. Today, she’s living the life she was always meant to live – on her terms. And on her new podcast, The STR Sisterhood, she’s sharing how you can, too! On this show, it’s all about you and your short-term rental journey. You’ll hear actionable advice from industry experts as well as inspiring stories from real women about their experiences, achievements, frustrations, and challenges…and how they’ve managed to turn their short-term rental dreams into reality. If you’re an ambitious woman who’s looking to have a 5-star Airbnb business on your hands without having to sacrifice the things you love, then tune in every week for all the goodness!
Dive into today's episode as I sit down with Sarah Orchard - once a corporate marketing executive, now a trailblazer in the short-term rental universe. Leveraging her experience from the corporate sector, Sarah is reshaping the rules of the short-term rental marketing game. Ever wonder why your direct bookings aren’t soaring? We uncover common marketing missteps you might be making and delve deep into the maze of marketing vs. advertising, crafting the perfect website, harnessing the power of Google reviews, and the magic of SEO. You’ll also discover the art of continuously putting your property on the map and pinpoint the social media hotspots every short-term rental owner should be tapping into. And here’s something you won’t want to miss: Sarah shares secrets on crafting a robust email list, a game-changer for your bookings. Boost your bookings, enrich your knowledge, and transform your Airbnb journey with Sarah’s pearls of wisdom. Don't miss out - hit play NOW! Timestamps for the key highlights in the episode [03:19] Know our guest; Sarah Orchard [03:58] How Sarah got into the world of short-term rental and acquired The Hudnalls Hideout: A Luxury Treehouse [07:32] How Sarah’s marketing role in the corporate world helped her in her STR life [10:04] The 7-step marketing system (The Customer D.E.L.I.G.H.T Marketing Blueprint®) [12:49] The difference between marketing and advertising [14:32] The importance of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and having a website for anyone looking to maximize direct bookings in their business [16:39] What is Search Engine Optimization (SEO)? [18:34] How to update your meta title & meta description [21:30] The Importance of Google reviews for your business [22:44] How much emphasis should you place on proactively marketing your property on an [26:42] Optimal social media platforms to incorporate into your marketing strategy continuously [30:01] Tips on how to build your email list [32:47] Mistakes people make when building direct bookings [35:49] The secret to boosting your direct bookings quickly [37:26] The lightning round [42:33] How to get in touch with Sarah Orchard: https://www.instagram.com/getfullybooked/ Golden Nuggets
Advertising and marketing are different; advertising is just one of the tactics you have access to as part of your overall marketing strategy.
Google reviews increase your online exposure and improve your page rankings. The more the reviews, the better.
“Marketing is like a tap; you can’t just turn it on and expect the results. You have to keep it dripping so that it fills the bucket.”
Remember to Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share! Resources Mentioned 1. Yoast SEO plugin; https://yoast.com/
Let’s Connect! Follow Sarah Orchard on;
Website: https://get-fully-booked.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getfullybooked/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehospitalitymarketinghub
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/GetFullyBooked
Follow Stacey St. John on;
Website: https://staceystjohn.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801?_rdc=1&_rdr
Fire link: https://lnk.to/z4iJAlgs
In this engaging episode, we are joined by Brianne Hamilton, co-founder of Junction House Getaways & Junction House Properties. She sheds light on the intricacies of running a short-term rental (STR) business alongside her spouse. Drawing from her personal experiences, Brianne delves into the strategies that have helped her and her husband thrive in their partnership. One key takeaway is their thoughtful approach to defining roles within the business, allowing each partner to leverage their unique strengths for maximum efficiency. By assigning tasks that align with their individual capabilities, they’ve managed to maintain a harmonious balance while driving their STR venture forward. One challenge many couples face in such joint endeavors is maintaining a clear distinction between business and family conversations. Brianne shares a practical tip: leveraging shared notes on iPhones to distinguish conversations in these two important spheres of life. The episode offers valuable insights for couples seeking to collaborate harmoniously in the STR industry. Let’s tap into some of Brianne’s wisdom. Key highlights in the episode [02:28] Introducing today’s guest, Brianne Hamilton [02:53] How Brianne got into the STR space [06:26] Brianne’s experience running her short-term rental business with her spouse [10:48] How they determine roles and responsibilities in their STR business [14:36] How do they separate short-term rental conversations from family conversations? [18:38] How Brianne and her husband navigate the challenge of having different opinions about business [22:11] How to ensure that you are accelerating at the same pace as your spouse in business [26:07] Distinguishing between family and business conversations [26:49] Tip on how to utilize the shared notes on iPhone to distinguish between family and business conversations [29:44] Advice for anyone considering working with their spouse in the STR business [31:06] The lightning round [38:05] Best way to connect and learn more from Brianne Hamilton Golden Nuggets
To ensure that you are accelerating at the same pace as your spouse in business, focus on tasks that align with your individual strengths.
To accelerate your growth in the short-term rental industry, don’t depend solely on a single tool or platform.
Don’t forget to Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share! Let’s Connect! Follow Brianne Hamilton on;
Website 1: https://www.junctionhousegetaways.com/
Website 2: https://www.junctionhouseproperties.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/junction-house-properties/
Follow Stacey St. John on;
Website: https://staceystjohn.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801?_rdc=1&_rdr
Fire link: https://lnk.to/z4iJAlgs
Step into an exhilarating episode where Debbie Todd, the visionary owner of The Woodlands at Hocking Hills, takes us on an unforgettable journey behind her groundbreaking giveback program in the short-term rental space. Learn what ignited Debbie's desire to transform lives, from her very first endeavors to the careful selection of charities she passionately supports. You’ll discover her distinctive donation formula and get a front-row seat to the real-world impact her contributions have fostered. Debbie also shares how she’s involving her guests in this charitable quest and making a real difference in people’s lives. Ever thought about creating your own giveback initiative? Debbie's advice and rich insights are a treasure trove, guaranteed to guide and inspire you in adding layers of purpose to your “Airbnb biz.” Get ready for a dose of inspiration! Key highlights in the episode [02:04] A quick bio of our guest; Debbie Todd [03:04] How she got started in short-term rentals [05:07 What inspired Debbie to start giving back to the community, and how did she select the charities she is donating to? [06:57] The formula she uses to allocate the amount for donations [13:29] How the donations are made to the charities [15:04] How she involves the guests in the donation and their reaction to the giveback program [17:47] How Debbie engaged her community in giving back [20:11] The amount of time she dedicates to the giveback program [23:00] Debbie’s advice to anyone who would want to implement a giveback program within their STR business [27:40] The lightning round [32:01] Get in touch with Debbie Todd Website: https://www.thewoodlandsathockinghills.com/ Golden Nuggets
“When you invest time and energy upfront, it pays off in dividends.”
“Short-term rentals are not passive income.”
Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share! Let’s Connect! Follow Debbie Todd on;
Website: https://www.thewoodlandsathockinghills.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewoodlandsathockinghills/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100072403310165
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/Thewoodlandsathockinghills
Follow Stacey St. John on;
Website: https://staceystjohn.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801?_rdc=1&_rdr
Fire link: https://lnk.to/z4iJAlgs
Welcome to this inspiring episode featuring Lori Shaw, a fellow STR sister and founder of Lori Shaw Interiors. In this candid conversation, she shares her inspiring journey of resilience and success. Discover how Lori fearlessly confronted a breast cancer diagnosis while simultaneously embarking on her path in the world of short-term rentals. Lori unveils the unwavering determination that propelled her forward during this challenging time, offering invaluable insights into navigating life’s twists and turns. Additionally, we chat about her stress-relieving strategies, emphasizing the power of a positive frame of mind in every aspect of life. Lori wisely asserts that “Mindset plays a huge role in everything.” With her unique blend of resilience, creativity, and unwavering positivity, Lori Shaw’s story is a beacon of hope and inspiration for anyone seeking to conquer challenges. Tune in and enjoy! Timestamps for the key highlights in the episode [02:20] Meet our guest; Lori Shaw [02:49] How she entered into the short-term rental space [04:20] How Lori got diagnosed with breast cancer [11:47] What helped Lori navigate through her cancer diagnosis while starting in short-term rentals? [17:57] How she furnished her short-term rental [19:51] What led Lori to become a short-term rental-specific designer? [24:44] The transition process into the short-term rental design business [28:23] Her favorite strategies for relieving stress [31:57] What Lori has learned through her journey [33:00] The lightning round [37:45] Connect with Lori Shaw Website: https://lorishawinteriors.com/ Golden Nuggets
“Mindset plays a huge role in everything.”
“Having a positive frame of mind is critical to anything you want to achieve.”
“It doesn’t feel like work when you love it.”
Remember to Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share! Let’s Connect! Follow Lori Shaw on;
Website: https://lorishawinteriors.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorishawinteriors/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/LoriShawInteriors/
Follow Stacey St. John on;
Website: https://staceystjohn.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801?_rdc=1&_rdr
Fire link: https://lnk.to/z4iJAlgs
In the dynamic and fiercely competitive world of Airbnb and short-term rentals, standing out and leaving a lasting impression is the key to success for owners and operators. It's not just about providing a place to stay; it's about creating an experience that guests will remember and cherish. In this exciting episode, we have the privilege of being joined by Rebecca Lombardo, co-founder of The 100 Collection. Branding plays a crucial role in the success of any business, and short-term rentals are no exception. Rebecca unveils the profound significance of branding for owners and operators alike. More than just a logo or a catchy slogan, a strong brand is about forging a unique identity that resonates with guests and sets your property apart from the competition. As Rebecca shares her expertise, she reveals the four essential traits that successful short-term rental brands have in common. Understanding these key elements will empower you to build a brand that not only attracts guests but also creates a loyal following of delighted customers. So, if you're eager to elevate your short-term rental business to new heights and create a lasting impact in the minds of your guests, this episode is a must-listen! Join us as we unlock the power of branding in the world of hospitality and embark on a path to create a distinctive and unforgettable experience for your guests. Happy listening! Inhaven Offer | Get $50 off your first order at inhaven.com/sister and use code SISTER Timestamps for the key highlights in the episode [02:39] Know our guest; Rebecca Lombardo [03:28] How Rebecca transitioned from a journalist into the short-term rental space….. [04:25] How Rebecca’s prior experience has helped her be successful in her current role at The 100 Collection [05:49] Why branding is important for short-term rental owners/ operators [07:06] 4 Things successful brands have in common [07:13] #1 Relevance [10:02] #2 Value [15:53] #3 Clear and consistent messaging [17:50] Should you use AI to build a brand? [19:11] #4 Memorable [21:38] What are the essential elements of branding a short-term rental business? [23:58] Why a brand style guide is important for a short-term rental business [27:56] How to build a brand from scratch [30:18] Should you rebrand your business? [32:22] Mistakes that STR owners make when branding their business [38:40] The lightning round [43:49] Best way to connect and learn more from Rebecca LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccabredholt/
Golden Nuggets
“Your brand is what your guests say it is.” ~ Rebecca Lombardo
“Your properties are not your business; they are a product of your business. You have to elevate yourself above the properties.” ~Stacey St. John
“Brand is consistency from discovery to experience.” ~Rebecca Lombard
Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share! Resources Mentioned 1. Unreasonable Hospitality: https://bit.ly/457NQdz Let’s Connect! Follow Rebecca Lombardo on;
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccabredholt/
Website: https://theonehundredcollection.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theonehundredcollection/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the100collection
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theonehundredcollection
Follow Stacey St. John on;
Website: https://staceystjohn.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801?_rdc=1&_rdr
Fire link: https://lnk.to/z4iJAlgs
Today we dive into the world of spectrum-friendly vacations with Suzanne Hacker, the visionary founder of Spectrum Friendly Vacations. Suzanne shares her motivation behind focusing on spectrum-friendly short-term rentals and sheds light on the challenges faced by families with children on the autism spectrum while traveling. She provides invaluable tips so you can learn how to make your Airbnb a secure and accommodating environment for kids with autism. You’ll learn how simple changes like securing the front door, implementing staircase safety measures, and creating an autism-friendly kitchen can make a significant difference. Discover the impact of room color choices and the essential accessories that can transform any home into a spectrum-friendly haven. Suzanne emphasizes that it’s possible to make a home spectrum-friendly with a low budget, and it doesn’t consume time because you can seamlessly incorporate these changes during turnovers. Tune in and discover how small changes and thoughtful additions can transform your short-term rental into a welcoming and inclusive space for families with autism. Inhaven Offer | Get $50 off your first order at inhaven.com/sister and use code SISTER Timestamps for the key highlights in the episode [02:12] Who is Suzanne Hacker? [02:57] What prompted Suzanne to focus on spectrum-friendly vacation rentals [05:38] Challenges experienced by families that have children on the spectrum when traveling [08:00] How can hosts ensure the front door is secure for kids with autism? [11:09] Staircase safety tips to make your vacation rental spectrum friendly [13:16] Safety tips for an autism-friendly kitchen [14:42] Room color choices for children with autism [16:00] Accessories to include in your home to make it spectrum friendly [18:40] What’s the budget to make a home spectrum friendly? [22:04] Suzanne’s training for vacation rental owners on how to make their properties more spectrum-friendly [23:19] Why most families with autistic children don’t travel very much and why you should be more compassionate as a host [27:08] The lightning round:
Where is your favorite place to vacation?
What’s one place you’ve never been to that you want to visit?
What’s one thing you know now that you wished you knew when you were starting out in your business?
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
What’s one thing and/or person that you are grateful for today?
[34:19] Best way to connect and learn more from Suzanne: Golden Nuggets
“It’s better to be more safe than sorry.”
It’s possible to make a home spectrum-friendly with a low budget, and it doesn’t consume time because you can seamlessly incorporate these changes during turnovers
It’s essential to find people who you resonate with and learn from their experience and their education
Don’t forget to Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share! Let’s Connect! Follow Suzanne Hacker on;
Website(Business): https://www.spectrumfriendlyvacations.com/
Website(Personal): https://www.suzannehacker.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spectrumfriendlyvacations/
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/suzannehacker
Follow Stacey St. John on;
Website: https://staceystjohn.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801?_rdc=1&_rdr
Fire link: https://lnk.to/z4iJAlgs
In this engaging episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Vivian Yip and Regan Sonnabend, who reveal why the mid-term rental strategy is a solid wealth-building opportunity. They provide valuable insights on how to effectively analyze mid-term rentals and also discuss how to navigate the challenges that come with mid-term rentals. Are you on the fence about rental strategies? Vivian and Regan offer their expert advice on positioning a property as a short-term rental, mid-term rental, or long-term rental. Vivian and Regan also share their fascinating story of how they met and have built a successful business together, The Hestia Brand- Corporate Rentals USA. Tune in and enjoy! Inhaven Offer | Get $50 off your first order at inhaven.com/sister and use code SISTER Timestamps for the key highlights in the episode [02:34] Get to know our guests; Vivian Yip & Regan Sonnabend [05:03] How Vivian & Regan met, and the business they share [06:03] How The Hestia Brand- Corporate Rentals USA evolved [08:55] The housing request process [10:12] Why the mid-term rental strategy is a good solid wealth-building strategy [13:46] How to effectively analyze a mid-term rental [16:51] Analyzing price and occupancy trends for the mid-term rentals using the PriceLabs market dashboard [18:40] Saturation in the mid-term rental space [21:16] The source of the housing requests for The Hestia Brand- Corporate Rentals USA [23:23] What are the requirements for a property owner to join the HESTIA family? [25:54] Challenges in the mid-term rental space and how to navigate them [28:37] Their advice to a property owner who is unsure whether to position a property as a short-term rental, mid-term rental, or long-term rental [30:41] The lightning round [39:44] Connect with Vivian & Regan: https://www.instagram.com/corporaterentalsUSA/ Golden Nuggets
Mid-term rentals should be located close to hospitals, highways, and major employers
“Quality creates loyalty.”
“The secret to doing well in mid-term rentals is having an open extended calendar.”
Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share! Let’s Connect! Follow Vivian & Regan on;
Website: https://corporaterentalsusa.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corporaterentalsUSA/
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/vivianyip
Follow Stacey St. John on;
Website: https://staceystjohn.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801?_rdc=1&_rdr
Fire link: https://lnk.to/z4iJAlgs
Welcome, and thanks for checking this week’s STR Sisterhood episode. Partnerships are a catalyst for success both in business and in life. They combine unique strengths, perspectives, and expertise to create a harmonious synergy surpassing individual capabilities. However, partnerships are not without challenges. They require mutual trust, effective communication, and collaborative problem-solving to navigate the ups and downs. Join Sarah Karakaian and Annette Grant in this exciting podcast episode as they share their incredible journey as partners. They dive into the intricacies of their thriving partnership and their ventures in the world of short-term rentals. Moreover, they discuss the exciting projects they undertake together and the invaluable lessons they’ve learned from working side by side. Prepare to be inspired by their journey as they share their typical day, the key elements that make their partnership work, and the undeniable benefits of hiring a bookkeeper. Tune in and discover the secrets of successful partnerships and the transformative power they hold. Inhaven Offer | Get $50 off your first order at inhaven.com/sister and use code SISTER Timestamps for the key highlights in the episode [02:52] Meet our guests; Sarah & Annette, and find out how they teamed up [11:25] The projects that they do together [13:01] What does a typical day look like for Sarah and Annette? [23:22] What makes their partnership work? [34:59] Why you should hire a bookkeeper [35:44] The most valuable lesson they have learned from working together [38:21] The lightning round [44:08] The upcoming conference at Columbus, Ohio [46:24] Grab the $100 Discount on the ticket (Code: Sister) Website: https://tfvcon.com/
Golden Nuggets
Anyone should go into any project with the end in mind and how it does come to an end
Partnerships aren’t going to be amazing the entire time
“Profits are better than wages.”
Remember to Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share! Let’s Connect! Follow Sarah & Annette on;
Website: https://www.thanksforvisiting.me/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thanksforvisiting_/
Podcast: https://www.thanksforvisiting.me/podcast
Follow Stacey St. John on;
Website: https://staceystjohn.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801?_rdc=1&_rdr
Fire link: https://lnk.to/z4iJAlgs
Content marketing is a powerful tool for short-term rental hosts looking to make a massive difference in attracting guests and standing out. You can effortlessly build connections and foster trust with your potential guests by crafting compelling and informative content. Whether through blogs, videos, or social media posts, content marketing is your ticket to getting free traffic to your listing and maximizing your success. Today we are joined by Jodi Bourne, a vacation rental consultant, marketing coach, and web designer. Jodi shares invaluable tips & strategies to create compelling content that attracts free traffic to your short-term rental and emphasizes that blogging is the best strategy for search engine optimization. Unveiling the secrets of great blog content, Jodi walks us through the must-have elements that captivate readers and keep them coming back for more. Moreover, she explores the concept of content pillars and their importance in content marketing. Additionally, Jodi reveals How to integrate email marketing into content marketing and shares an inspiring success story of a client who achieved remarkable results by implementing her advice. Let’s tap into some of her wisdom. Inhaven Offer | Get $50 off your first order at inhaven.com/sister and use code SISTER Timestamps for the key highlights in the episode [02:19] Jodi Bourne’s bio [03:36] How Jodi got started in the short-term rental space [07:15] What is content marketing, and why is it important for a short-term rental host? [08:34] Content marketing tips & strategies for short-term rental hosts and owners [10:05] How to come up with content marketing topics for STRs [20:38] How to transcribe audio using Google Docs [23:33] How often should you post content? [26:18] Content pillars/themes and why they are important [31:47] Must-have elements of great blog content [32:59] The success story of a client that Jodi helped to build a successful blog [35:55] How to integrate email marketing into content marketing [39:15] Jodi’s advice to people struggling with perfectionism in content marketing [43:35] The lightning round:
Where is your favorite place to vacation?
What’s one place you’ve never been to that you want to visit?
What’s one thing you know now that you wished you knew when you were starting out in your business?
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
What’s one thing and/or person that you are grateful for today?
[48:04] Best way to get in touch with Jodi: https://jodibourne.com/
Golden Nuggets
The purpose of content marketing is to build connections, build authority, and build trust.
Content marketing is the best way to get free traffic to your listing
Blogging is the best strategy for search engine optimization
“Progress, not perfection.” ~Marie Forleo
Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share! Resources Mentioned 1. AnswerThePublic: https://answerthepublic.com/ 2. Substack: https://substack.com/ Let’s Connect! Follow Jodi Bourne on;
Website: https://jodibourne.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyjodibourne/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeyJodiBourne/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodibourne/
Podcast: https://savvyhostpodcast.com/
Follow Stacey St. John on;
Website: https://staceystjohn.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801?_rdc=1&_rdr
Fire link: https://lnk.to/z4iJAlgs
In this episode, we learn about the fascinating journey of Ashley Arthur, an amazing STR Sister who transitioned from the restaurant industry to become a successful short-term rental investor. Join us as we explore Ashley's unique story and learn how her leadership skills from running a restaurant business seamlessly translated into her flourishing "Airbnb biz." During our conversation, Ashley generously shares her experience of working alongside her spouse in this venture and the transformative power of operating within your zone of genius. She reveals the process of identifying her genius zone and how it played a pivotal role in elevating her short-term rental business to new heights. Furthermore, Ashley emphasizes the importance of strategic delegation, freeing up valuable time to focus on operating within your area of expertise. Tune in now for an engaging discussion that will undoubtedly leave you motivated and empowered. Inhaven Offer | Get $50 off your first order at inhaven.com/sister and use code SISTER Key Highlights [02:36] Know our guest; Ashley Arthur, and know where she is located [03:14] Her current STR portfolio [04:00] How she got into the short-term rental space [08:01] The leadership skills Ashley learnt from her successful restaurant business and how they have translated into STR effectively [09:54] Why she decided to sell her restaurant and venture into real estate [12:24] Ashley’s experience running a business with her spouse [14:08] The benefits of operating in your zone of genius [15:58] How did Ashley discover her genius zone? [17:24] The File person vs Pile person [18:48] The biggest challenge she encountered during the property rehab process and how she navigated it [21:13] How is Ashley financing her properties? [25:21 Why she is considering self-managing her properties [29:22] What’s next in Ashley’s journey? [33:28] The lightning round:
Where is your favorite place to vacation?
What’s one place you’ve never been to that you want to visit?
What’s one thing you know now that you wished you knew when you were starting out in your business?
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
What’s one thing and/or person that you are grateful for today?
[40:09] Connect with Ashley: https://www.ajmyagent.com/ Golden Nuggets
Delegating frees you up to operate in your genius zone
“Time is our most valuable asset.”
It’s essential that we celebrate the small wins along the way because a bunch of small wins adds up to a big win over time
Don’t forget to Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share! Resources Mentioned 1. Innercise: The New Science to Unlock Your Brain’s Hidden Power: https://bit.ly/3NvZnvS Let’s Connect! Follow Ashley Arthur on;
Website: https://www.ajmyagent.com/
Instagram 1: https://www.instagram.com/awayframe/
Instagram 2: https://www.instagram.com/ashleyjarthur/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AJmyagent/
Follow Stacey St. John on;
Website: https://staceystjohn.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801?_rdc=1&_rdr
Fire link: https://lnk.to/z4iJAlgs
Join us for an engaging podcast episode featuring Meghan Cruse, an expert short-term rental designer and consultant specializing in Airbnb hosts and short-term rental property owners. Get ready to unlock the secrets of creating remarkable guest experiences while maintaining a healthy and aesthetically pleasing space. Discover the insider "tricks of the trade" as we delve into practical tips that will elevate your property to new heights. Learn how to effortlessly keep your space smelling delightful without compromising the well-being of your valued guests. But that's not all! We delve into the fascinating realm of biophilic design with Meghan. Uncover the power of incorporating natural elements into your property, bringing the beauty of the outdoors inside and curating an environment of tranquility and serenity for your guests. Whether you're a seasoned Airbnb Superhost or a brand new host, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we take your "Airbnb biz" to the next level. Don't miss out on this opportunity to revolutionize your short-term rental success! Inhaven Offer | Get $50 off your first order at inhaven.com/sister and use code SISTER Timestamps for the key highlights in the episode [02:24] A short bio of our guest; Meghan Cruse [03:39] What prompted Meghan to get into STR space, and how did she start designing properties? [07:09] The Art of guest experience [10:36] Tips on how to get rid of musty smells in your property [13:27] The health hazards of plug-in air fresheners and the best alternatives for a great-smelling home [19:04] Where to purchase essential oils & lead diffusers and key considerations before buying [22:13] Pro tips to make your short-term rental property stand out [26:48] How to bring biophilic design elements into your short-term rental property [30:30] Tips on how you can start incorporating the biophilic design into an already-designed property [35:01] The lightning round:
Where is your favorite place to vacation?
What’s one place you’ve never been to that you want to visit?
What’s one thing you know now that you wished you knew when you were starting out in your business?
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
What’s one thing and/or person that you are grateful for today?
[39:54] Connect with Meghan Cruse: https://www.instagram.com/megcruserealtor/
Golden Nuggets
If the air is pure, it shouldn’t smell like anything. If the space is clean, it shouldn’t have an odor at all, whether good or bad
“The cleaning company is the backbone of your business, and without a good one, your reviews are going to suffer.”
“Unless we are recognizing the progress that we’re making, it’s really difficult to stay focused on the prize.”
Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!
Let’s Connect! Follow Meghan Cruse on;
Website: https://consultembodied.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megcruserealtor/
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/mcruse
Follow Stacey St. John on;
Website: https://staceystjohn.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801?_rdc=1&_rdr
Fire link: https://lnk.to/z4iJAlgs
Discovering and understanding your investor persona can unlock a world of advantages in your STR entrepreneurial journey. Find out how in this amazing episode with Kate Stoermer, founder of The CEO Host. In this episode, we discuss the most common challenges STR investors face, the five distinct investor personas (along with their characteristics), and how to bridge the gap between spouses with different investor personas. Kate offers valuable insights and strategies to help them align their investment goals and foster a harmonious partnership. We also delve into whether it’s better to partner with someone who shares your investor persona or has a different one. Listen in and grow your knowledge! Inhaven Offer | Get $50 off your first order at inhaven.com/sister and use code SISTER
Timestamps for the key highlights in the episode [03:31] Meet our guest, Kate Stoermer [04:06] How Kate got started in the world of short-term rentals [07:41] The most common challenges faced by STR property investors [10:18] What is an investor persona? [12:57] 5 types of investor personas [18:31] Strategies Kate uses to help bridge the gap between spouses who have different investor personas [20:15] Questions to help you identify your investor persona [21:27] The advantages of identifying your investor persona [28:54] When considering joint ventures, should you team up with a partner who shares your investor persona or has a different one? [34:46] The lightning round:
Where is your favorite place to vacation?
What’s one place you’ve never been to that you want to visit?
What’s one thing you know now that you wished you knew when you started out in the world of short-term rentals?
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
What’s one thing and/or person that you are grateful for today?
[38:06] Connect with Kate: https://www.theceohost.com/
Golden Nuggets
Your goal in STR determines your action list
“Just because something is right for me doesn’t mean it’s right for you, and just because something is right for you doesn’t mean it’s right for the next person.”
Identifying your investor persona helps you to understand what your priority should be and brings a strategic approach to how you are consuming content and who you’re learning from
“Your property is simply a product of your business.”
Remember to Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share! Let’s Connect! Follow Kate Stoermer on;
Website: https://www.theceohost.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theceohost
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-stoermer/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theceohost/
Follow Stacey St. John on;
Website: https://staceystjohn.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801?_rdc=1&_rdr
Fire link: https://lnk.to/z4iJAlgs
Are you considering rehabbing a property but don’t know where to start? Look no further! In this captivating podcast episode, Aubrey Carlson shares invaluable insights on rehabbing properties that will leave you confident and well-prepared. Whether you’re considering rehabbing out of state or locally, Aubrey sheds light on the pros and cons of both options and discusses how to estimate rehab costs. She emphasizes the importance of vetting contractors and discusses the red flags that indicate it’s time to fire a contractor. Moreover, Aubrey provides a comprehensive list of questions to ask a contractor’s references before hiring. Drawing from her own experience, Aubrey shares a personal story about her biggest challenge during rehabbing and how she successfully overcame it. For anyone embarking on a property rehab journey, Aubrey’s advice is a guiding light filled with wisdom and practical tips that will set you on the right path. Don’t miss out on this must-listen episode filled with invaluable tips and insights. Timestamps for the key highlights in the episode [04:01] A quick bio of our guest; Aubrey Carlson [05:22] How Aubrey got started in short-term rentals [08:18 The short-rental regulations in San Diego [11:12] Advantages of buying ugly properties [14:37] Greatest tip you should know when rehabbing a property [15:04] Rehabbing out of state vs. rehabbing locally [20:15] Estimating rehab costs [27:07] When should you fire a contractor? [29:15] How to vet a contractor [33:33] Questions to ask a contractor’s references before hiring [35:29] Aubrey’s experience working with contractor referrals [40:25] The Biggest challenge in her property rehab experience and how she navigated it [42:12] Her advice to anyone looking to rehab their property [44:31] The lightning round:
Where is your favorite place to vacation?
What’s one place you’ve never been to that you want to visit?
What’s one thing you know now that you wished you knew when you started out in the world of short-term rentals?
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
What’s one thing and/or person that you are grateful for today?
[49:21] Link with Aubrey: https://www.instagram.com/mary.aubrey/ Golden Nuggets
“Experience gives you confidence.”
“Hire slowly and fire fast because if they are not the right fit for your business, they will become toxic to your business. “Jump out of the airplane and figure out the parachute on the way down.”
“Don’t let your fear guide your actions; instead, understand your fear and tap into people who can help you get the rehab project done.”
Don’t forget to Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share! Inhaven Offer | Get $50 off your first order at inhaven.com/sister and use code SISTER Let’s Connect! Follow Aubrey Carlson on;
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.aubrey/
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/saltandsky
Follow Stacey St. John on;
Website: https://staceystjohn.com/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801?_rdc=1&_rdr
Fire link: https://lnk.to/z4iJAlgs
Julie George is a best-selling author, coach, and speaker in the short-term rental industry and her success story has inspired us all. Yet, things weren’t always so rosy for her, and in this episode, Julie gives us the inside scoop as to what life was like before her short-term rental fame and fortune, how stress impacted her mentally and physically, and how she ended turning her life around with her “Airbnb” business. She also walks us through the growing pains she experienced early-on and how she navigated those challenges. Plus, we’ll hear what’s next for Julie, too. This is an episode you won’t want to miss! Key Highlights [00:02:53] Julie’s story and how she got started in short-term rentals [00:10:44] What it looked like growing Julie’s business [00:15:44] Julie’s biggest challenge when she was scaling her property management business [00:17:55] Finding team members and the types of folks that Julie found to be the most successful ones on her team [00:24:11] The Lightning Round:
Where's your favorite place to vacation? Hawaii
What one place you've never been to that you want to visit? Maui
What is one thing you know now that you wish you knew when you started out in short-term rentals? You can be fussy about what types of properties your deal is taking on and what property owners you are dealing with.
What is the best piece of advice you've ever been given? Find something you love to do, and then find someone to pay you to do it.
What is one thing and or person that you're grateful for today? Stacey St. John (and I didn’t even pay her to say that! 😊)
[00:27:14] What’s next for Julie? Notable Quotes ● One of my favorite things about the coaching and education arena is seeing others find that solution for their lives, find that lifestyle balance, and escape the corporate world. You're no longer a slave to the cubicle, and you can forge your path and be your own boss. ● If you are listening in now and you feel like you're on edge, and that stress is taking hold of your life, just know that there is a solution out there in short-term rentals. ● You've just got to keep resetting your goals, but that's one of the hardest things for entrepreneurs because they almost limit themselves. ● Folks out there, anything is possible; it's just you that might be holding yourself back. ● You dream big, and suddenly, anything is possible; you've just got to start with that dream and then work backward. ● What makes believing in yourself hard is when you have naysayers in your life or people that maybe want to knock you down or give you a hard time or question what you're doing; if you let that get to you, then game over because you got to keep believing that you have got the guts and the grit to get through and determination to achieve these dreams. ● You've got to be around people that lift you and give you energy. If you are around people who drain or doubt you, you've got to let them go. Resources To get in touch with Julie: LinkedIn: LinkedIn Facebook: Facebook Instagram: Instagram Twitter: Twitter
Let's Connect! My Facebook group (Female Short-Term Rental Investors) https://www.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801) My personal website (https://staceystjohn.com/) My Free Masterclass: How I Went From A W2 to An STR Dream Life in 5 Simple Steps: https://staceystjohn.com/strwebinar/ The Short-Term Rental Society (https://www.strconnections.com/)
It takes more than just hiring a cleaning service and advertising your short-term rental on the OTAs (Online Travel Agencies) to make the most of it; you must make sure your ideal guests can discover your property and recognize your value. Can they tell what distinguishes your listing from other local listings in the area? Why is your home the best place to stay, exactly? What type of amenities do you offer? With the right short-term rental marketing strategies at work, you can increase your income and boost your profits. And whether you manage a large portfolio of properties or only rent out your vacation home during the off-season, building your brand will help you build your business. In this episode, I sit down with fearless leader of The Short-Term Rental Society’s Digital Marketing Meet-Up, Emily Miethner. Emily will share how she manages to marry her day job, digital marketing, with her STR business and her most preferred marketing channels. Stay tuned. Key Highlights [00:02:00] Introduction to Emily and where her STR is located [00:03:52] How Emily got into the STR world [00:06:01] How her day-time job as a digital marketer has crossed that over into her short-term rental life [00:08:04] Emily’s favorite strategies for leveraging digital marketing to drive lookers and bookers into her properties [00:11:54] Who do informational posts address, individuals versus enlightening everyone [00:15:43] When you welcome guests into your property, do you ask them to tag you on Instagram? [00:18:27] Overarching tips on ways to build a brand for your short-term rentals [00:24:01] The Lightning Round:
Where is your favorite place to vacation? Tensing Pen Resort, Negril, Jamaica
What's one place you've never been to that you would like to visit? Ireland
What's one thing you know today that you wished you had known when you started out in the world of short-term rentals? Making choices more quickly
What is the best piece of advice you've ever been given? You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.
What is one thing and or person that you're grateful for today? My husband
[00:32:25] Do you cross-promote your cat travel accessories in your short-term rental? Notable Quotes ● I really enjoy hosting and the hospitality and experience side because that does align with my professional background. I've had multiple businesses, and a lot of them revolve around experiences and events, so a lot of that stuff comes naturally to me. ● Growing marketing is a big way you can differentiate yourselves. ● Something else that is a big thing that's a quick win is on Instagram having a clear and information-packed bio and really using all the characters. ● Regarding marketing, I really like Instagram because I love connecting with the community and seeing what's going on in the community and the small businesses. ● Learn and educate yourself but spend less time learning and reading and listening that you end up wasting time that you could be taking action. ● I'm always a fan of “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” I like that phrase, and I think it's important to surround yourself with smart, encouraging, optimistic people who challenge and support you in good ways. To connect with Emily: LinkedIn: LinkedIn Instagram: Instagram Website: Your Cat BackPack Emily’s properties’ website: https://getawayupstate.com/ Go to https://www.strconnections.com/ to join Emily for one of the digital marketing meetups Let's Connect! My Facebook group (Female Short-Term Rental Investors) https://www.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801) My personal website (https://staceystjohn.com/) My Free Masterclass: How I Went From A W2 to An STR Dream Life in 5 Simple Steps: https://staceystjohn.com/strwebinar/ The Short-Term Rental Society (https://www.strconnections.com/)
In this episode, Chris Cash (who branched out from her career as an interior designer and real estate agent, to become a short-term rental business owner) shares her story. She walks us through how she got started, her experiences so far (including the highs and lows) as well as how she’s already giving back to her local real estate community by helping them build their knowledge of the short-term rental space. She offers advice for anyone considering working in the short-term rental industry...and drops some incredible tips for staging a property, too! Key Highlights [00:01:37] Introduction to the guest, Chris Cash, and where her STR business is located [00:02:32] Why Chris chose South Haven for her STR business [00:04:06] How Chris decided to get into STR business [00:11:28] How Chris decided to become a business educator for agents [00:13:38] Chris’s designing her short-term rentals [00:17:53] What Chris found to be the most stressful when setting up her property and how she navigated that [00:20:35] The Lightning Round:
What is your favorite place to vacation? The Caribbean
What's one place you've never been to that you would like to go to? London
What is one thing that you know now that you wished you knew when you were starting out in short-term rentals? Ask for more help
What's the best piece of advice you have ever been given? Don't be afraid of failure
What is one thing and or person that you are grateful for today? My neighbor, Mark
[00:27:15] What Chris did to win over her neighbor, Mark [00:31:24] Chris’s advice to someone starting out on short-term rentals Notable Quotes ● When purchasing properties, we need to have an investor's brain, have data in front of us, and drive our decision-making through data analysis. ● I was shocked to learn less than 5% of the real estate agents across the country invest in real estate themselves, which I find very sad. ● During that two years of heavy COVID, I fell into analysis paralysis of the markets like crazy, and eventually, I just had to pull the trigger. ● To be a business leader, you must analyze a situation and make swift decisions to drive your business forward. ● Any investment, any business startup, is a risk, and you're allowed to be scared, but don't let it paralyze you. ● If you come from a place of contribution, it comes back to you. I believe in karma. I'm not a competitive person; I just feel like if you come from giving, you will get back and return. ● Don't be afraid of failure; just always fail forward. No failure is a failure; it's just a learning stepping stone to the next. Connect with Chris: Instagram Airbnb property Let's Connect! My Facebook group (Female Short-Term Rental Investors) https://www.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801) My personal website (https://staceystjohn.com/) My Free Masterclass: How I Went From A W2 to An STR Dream Life in 5 Simple Steps: https://staceystjohn.com/strwebinar/ The Short-Term Rental Society (https://www.strconnections.com/)
Welcome to the FIRST episode of the STR Sisterhood Podcast! In this episode, Stacey St. John is joined with Amy Corbett, and they discuss how Amy and her husband walked away from a stable income, "tested" their short-term rental business for 1 year, and haven't looked back since! Connect with Amy: Website Instagram Facebook TikTok Let's Connect! My Facebook group (Female Short-Term Rental Investors) https://www.facebook.com/groups/911671659592801) My personal website (https://staceystjohn.com/) My Free Masterclass: How I Went From A W2 to An STR Dream Life in 5 Simple Steps: https://staceystjohn.com/strwebinar/ The Short-Term Rental Society (https://www.strconnections.com/)