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In this episode Zach sits down with the French Cowboys — Dylan and Franklin — to chat about how they built their business, what the future of boutique hospitality will look like, why experiential hospitality is overhyped, and the pros and cons of owning and managing boutique hotels vs. boutique vacation rentals.
Learn more about the French Cowboys.
This episode is brought to you by the Short Term Rental Forum hosted by IMN!Join me this January 15-16 at the Miami JW Marriott for the premier Short Term Rental Forum hosted by IMN—the industry leader with over 30 years of experience! I'll be speaking at the forum, and you’ll have the chance to network with 400+ top investors, operators, property managers, lenders, and tech providers in the Short Term Rental space. It’s the must-attend event of the year to elevate your business strategy and connect with the industry's best. Don’t miss out – the super early bird rate expires Friday November 22nd and you can use code BTS for an extra 15% off this lowest available rate. Register now at events.imn.org/str25 – I’ll see you in Miami!
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.
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In this special crossover episode of Behind the Stays and The Unique Hospitality Podcast, hosted by my friend Nick Purslow, we bring together two of the most innovative names in experiential hospitality—Ben Wolff of Onera and Isaac French of Live Oak Lake. Known for creating standout micro-resorts and unique stays, Ben and Isaac are veterans of the podcast scene, but this time, they’re answering some questions they’ve never been asked before.
Tune in for unfiltered insights on what it takes to create deeply personal, experiential stays that go beyond just beautiful design. Our conversation dives into Ben’s big-vision approach with projects like Onera Wimberley, where scale meets seamless guest experience, and contrasts it with Isaac’s preference for smaller, more intimate stays—designed to immerse guests fully in nature and unparalleled design.
We also explore how shifts in consumer spending and a growing preference for authenticity and personalization are reshaping the hospitality landscape and why consumers are looking beyond the traditional, finding luxury in boutique, nature-centric stays that prioritize immersive moments over cookie-cutter amenities.
You’ll get Ben and Isaac’s takes on:
How Instagram and tech-centric tools are transforming hospitality, enabling small brands to capture attention, build loyalty, and reach consumers at scale, just like industry giants.Why scaling across multiple properties, brand differentiation, and why personal brand-building can be a game-changer in boutique hospitality.Why “build fewer, spend more” is becoming the motto for unique stays, and how these one-of-a-kind locations are meeting consumer demand for high-quality, memorable escapes.Predictions for the future of boutique hotels, from decentralized hospitality chains to collaborative, local-first models.And so much moreListen to The Unique Hospitality Podcast
Follow Behind the Stays on Instagram
Follow Isaac on Twitter/X or Instagram
Follow Ben on Twitter/X or Instagram
Learn more about Posh Outdoors
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more. Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.
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Meet Adam Dailey – an adventurous soul and hospitality innovator who owns a collection of short-term rentals and boutique hotels in San Diego.
From an Olympic sports tour operator to a global family traveler, Adam’s journey into hospitality began with a family sabbatical, taking him, his wife, and their four young children around the world.
Today, Adam channels that passion for exploration and authentic experiences into managing boutique hotels and vacation rentals that blend charm, service, and design to create truly memorable stays.
In this episode, we dive into:
Adam’s journey from corporate burnout to launching a hospitality portfolio inspired by his global travelsHis pivot from owning and managing vacation rentals to owning and managing boutique hotelsWhy he believes smaller, well-designed properties (20-30 rooms) allow for an exceptional level of personal serviceLessons learned from his partnership with Sonder, and the difference between low-touch, tech-driven stays and high-touch, luxury-focused hospitalityWhy the right touchpoints—like an on-site concierge or thoughtful lobby design—create a feeling of true luxury, even in boutique settingsAdam’s insights on navigating the evolution of guest expectations in a saturated market where unique stays are in high demandThe role of AI and technology in optimizing operations, without sacrificing the human element that guests craveAlright friends, without further ado, get ready to meet Adam.
Follow Behind the Stays on Instagram
Connect with Adam on LinkedIn
Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance.
If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.
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Meet Jason Thawley, founder of Tree Tents — a one-of-a-kind suspended tree structures.
Tree Tents isn’t your typical prefab company. With a product lineup featuring the iconic “Tree Tent”, fuselage-inspired pods, and the whimsical Birdhouse, Jason’s designs offer travelers an immersive outdoor experience that’s as unique as it is sustainable. As the demand for glamping grows, Jason’s creations provide unique stay entrepreneurs a way to offer something truly different, designed to bring guests closer to nature with every moment.
Tune in to hear:
How Jason’s curiosity and early love of nature inspired his designsThe story behind Tree Tents’ first structure—built on a tight deadline for a UK TV seriesWhy immersive design matters in creating memorable glamping experiencesJason’s take on “rooming with nature”—why separate structures make the outdoors part of each stayHis vision for affordable, eco-friendly units that meet the needs of small business ownersTree Tents’ growing presence in the U.S., and why the brand is expanding internationallyIn this episode, Jason shares how each structure is crafted to give guests the feeling of true escape, encouraging them to embrace the outdoors while enjoying a unique, comfortable stay. Whether you’re a glamping enthusiast, hospitality entrepreneur, or just curious about what’s next in nature-immersive design, this conversation offers a glimpse into the future of experiential stays.
Learn more about Tree Tents
Behind the Stays and its parent company StayWatch have been acquired by Journey — a next-generation loyalty program designed for the modern traveler. Learn more about what Journey is building at JoinJourney.com.
Apply to Join the Journey Alliance
Connect with Zach on LinkedIn
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In this can't-miss episode, host Zach shares the most exciting announcement in the history of the show: Behind the Stays (and its parent company StayWatch) has been acquired by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program designed to help travelers earn points on unique stays, landscape resorts, boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and more.
Joining Zach is John Sutton, the visionary founder of Journey, who brings over a decade of experience from his time at Red Ventures and collaborations with industry giants like Brian Kelly, Founder of The Points Guy.
Together, they unveil how Journey plans to bridge the gap between boutique hotels and unique short-term rentals by creating a unified loyalty program that truly benefits both travelers and property owners.
Discover how Journey aims to empower property owners with powerful marketing tools, shared insights, and a community that values their independence and brand identity. Learn about the star-studded team behind Journey, including notable figures like Chris Burch (founder of Tory Burch) and James McBride (luxury hotelier), all passionate about transforming the travel landscape.
Tune in to hear Zach and John discuss:
The vision behind Journey and why it's set to disrupt traditional loyalty programsThe creation of the Journey Alliance and how it's uniting exceptional propertiesInnovative marketing and storytelling tools available to alliance membersHow Journey plans to offer more meaningful rewards to travelersThe role of Journey Studios in amplifying authentic brand stories of hotels and vacation rentalsAnd so much moreSign up for the Journey waitlist
Request to be a part of the Journey Alliance
Read the exclusive Bloomberg article announcing Journey
Connect with Zach on LinkedIn
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Meet Edward Haynes — a visionary entrepreneur with roots in the event rental industry, now revolutionizing the luxury glamping space.
What started as a pivot during the pandemic has become a mission to help landowners transform beautiful landscapes into high-end, profitable escapes. Edward’s journey reflects the intersection of innovation, craftsmanship, and hospitality, blending unique structures with unforgettable guest experiences.
His company EJH Distribution sources and distributes premium accommodations—from safari tents to stunning glass “Tubo” structures—while Posh Outdoors empowers landowners to build luxury stays through profit-sharing partnerships.
For Edward, success is more than just unique units; it’s about crafting experiences that make the first and last impressions unforgettable.
Tune in to hear:
How Edward pivoted from events to hospitality in response to the pandemicThe rise of luxury glamping and why travelers are turning away from conventional hotelsPosh Outdoors’ unique business model, helping landowners monetize with minimal upfront costsWhy Edward believes ski resorts and vineyards will become the next big hubs for luxury staysThe challenge of balancing prefab solutions with customization to maintain uniquenessHow Posh’s first site in Sky Ridge, Canada will set a new standard for luxury glampingF&B innovations for remote resorts and the power of shared spaces in hospitalityEdward’s deep understanding of both events and hospitality means no detail is overlooked, from on-site amenities to the guest journey itself.
Whether you’re curious about starting your own micro-resort or fascinated by the latest glamping trends, this conversation offers insights into the future of luxury hospitality.
Alright, friends—without further ado, get ready to meet Edward.
Learn more about EJH Distribution
Learn more about Posh Outdoors
Connect with Edward on LinkedIn
This episode is brought to you by our friends at Hostfully. Upselling sounds great in theory, but how do you actually do it? How do you know what to offer, and how do you make it seamless for your guests?
Well, that’s where Hostfully’s latest eBook comes into play.
This isn’t just another generic guide; it’s a goldmine of insights drawn from real transaction data collected from June 2023 to June 2024. We’re talking about the most popular upsells that guests actually buy — from early check-ins to premium amenity access — and how these can significantly enhance your bottom line.
But here’s the best part: this eBook doesn’t just leave you with data; it gives you practical advice and checklists to help you start implementing these upsells right away. Whether you’re just getting started with a simple upsell or looking to expand your offerings, Hostfully has you covered.
About the Show
Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai
Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.
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Meet Eliza Clark, the Co-Founder of Foxfire Mountain House and The Lost Fox Inn, two remarkable boutique hotels in New York and Connecticut.
Eliza is an inspiring storyteller turned hospitality entrepreneur who grew up outside of Toronto. From her beginnings as a novelist and TV director for HGTV, to co-founding two breathtaking inn Eliza’s journey is all about crafting immersive experiences that bring people together.
The story of Eliza’s journey into hospitality entrepreneurship is really a love story — after a hard divorce, she met now-husband Tim, an executive American chef. It was their romance that ultimately inspired Eliza to take a leap from television to hospitality.
Together, they’ve created boutique properties that seamlessly blend history, design, and unforgettable food and beverage experiences. Their hotels aren’t just places to stay; they’re curated environments built with heart, imagination, and a whole lot of hard work.
Tune in to hear:
How Eliza’s storytelling background influences every aspect of her propertiesThe challenges and joys of running a hospitality business as a familyThe creative process behind transforming a bioluminescent fungus into a brand story (you won’t want to miss this one!)Lessons from balancing beautifully designed spaces with Tim’s world-class food and beverage programsWhy Eliza believes boutique hospitality is about offering personalized, “indie” travel experiencesAnd so much moreAlright, friends, without further ado, let’s jump in with Eliza Clark.
Book a Stay at Lost Fox Inn
Book a Stay at Foxfire Mountain House
Follow Lost Fox on Instagram
Follow Byrd Studio on Instagram
This episode is brought to you by our friends at Hostfully. Upselling sounds great in theory, but how do you actually do it? How do you know what to offer, and how do you make it seamless for your guests?
Well, that’s where Hostfully’s latest eBook comes into play.
This isn’t just another generic guide; it’s a goldmine of insights drawn from real transaction data collected from June 2023 to June 2024. We’re talking about the most popular upsells that guests actually buy — from early check-ins to premium amenity access — and how these can significantly enhance your bottom line.
But here’s the best part: this eBook doesn’t just leave you with data; it gives you practical advice and checklists to help you start implementing these upsells right away. Whether you’re just getting started with a simple upsell or looking to expand your offerings, Hostfully has you covered.
About the Show
Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai
Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.
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Meet Stephen and Sam Hopkins — the founders of Missing Hotel, a one-of-a-kind retreat nestled in the Texas Hill Country. With 96 acres bordering a nature preserve and uniquely designed domes and villas, the property offers more than just a place to stay—it’s an invitation to disconnect and reconnect with what matters most.
We dive deep into their founding story, from working corporate jobs in the energy sector to making the bold decision to take a year-long sabbatical that transformed their lives and careers. Their passion for creating experiences stems from their own love of travel, and with Missing Hotel, they’ve crafted a stay that combines surprise, spontaneity, and simplicity to create meaningful moments for guests.
Tune in to hear:
How the inspiration for Missing Hotel struck during a sabbatical and a few bottles of rum in AustraliaThe challenges (and a few wild stories) of building unique structures during COVID, including being held at gunpoint over $3,000Why Stephen and Sam believe in keeping elements of mystery and surprise throughout their guests’ staysTheir approach to creating spaces that offer a mental reset through digital detox and immersive, experiential hospitalityTheir exciting plans to expand Missing Hotel into new states and wilder ideas in the next five yearsThis conversation is packed with insights into creating unforgettable guest experiences, the power of brand storytelling, and the future of experiential hospitality.
Discover Missing HotelFollow Missing Hotel on InstagramApply for the Experiential Hospitality Community
This episode is brought to you by Hudson Creative Studio — the leading web design agency for vacation rental managers. Hudson Creative is offering a special deal for Behind the Stays listeners. When you mention Behind the Stays during your discovery call, you’ll get 10% off any service level option.
If you’re serious about taking your hospitality brand to the next level, head over to HudsonCreativeStudio.com/behindthestays. Trust me, Eli and his team will make your website something truly special.
And don’t forget to listen to our series, "Unlocking the Secrets of Successful Hospitality Websites," which we’ll link in the show notes below, for a deep dive into what makes these guys the best in the biz.
About the Show
Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai
Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.
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Meet Zoey Berghoff, the entrepreneur and visionary who's transforming the short-term rental landscape by creating unique, unforgettable stays—and teaching others how to do the same.
Zoey is an entrepreneur, an adventurer, and a mom who travels full-time—all while building an incredible community on Instagram. She's dedicated to helping others leave their 9-to-5 jobs and dive into entrepreneurial ventures in the hospitality space, especially focusing on unique and memorable stays.
In this conversation, we dive deep into Zoey's remarkable journey—from leaving her corporate job to becoming a full-time entrepreneur and influencer in the short-term rental world.
Tune in to hear:
Where the idea of renting out a yurt, her first unique stay, came from The challenges and triumphs of scaling unique stays in remote locationsThe power of building a personal brand on social media and how it amplifies business growthWhy Zoey believes that offering out-of-the-ordinary experiences is the future of hospitalityHow she balances entrepreneurship and motherhood while traveling full-time with her familyHer insights on the next big opportunities in the unique stays and boutique hotel spaceAnd so much more. Alright friends, without further ado, get ready to meet Zoey.
Connect with Zoey on Instagram
This episode is brought to you by The Content House
If you listen to this podcast, you likely care a lot about your brand. You care about building it thoughtfully and purposefully.
What I love about Nate and the team at The Content House is that they truly understand this. They care about getting to know your style, your approach, and the unique quirks and features that make your collection of stays special.
Their service is full end-to-end social media management and content creation. From shooting stunning videos and photos to editing, posting, and even sourcing influencers to partner with…
The Content House specializes in working with hospitality entrepreneurs building well-branded, boutique collections, often in exotic or extra-special locations…
Follow The Content House on Instagram
Dunlap Hollow Reel
Live Oak Lake Reel
FLOHOM Reel
Villa Stay Texas Reel
About the Show
Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai
Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.
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Meet Hillary Flur, the Co-Founder and Co-Visionary behind Folly, a collection of stunning off-grid retreats in the Mojave Desert and beyond that are redefining sustainable luxury travel.
Hillary didn’t start out in hospitality. She began her hospitality entrepreneurship journey by renting out a small, kitchen-less studio apartment on Airbnb—but what started as a side hustle quickly evolved into a portfolio of design-forward, off-grid getaways that blend architecture, nature, and luxury in a next-gen, outo-of-this-world sort of way.
In this conversation, we dive deep into Hillary’s journey—from surviving her first DIY build in Joshua Tree to creating expansive desert compounds that attract everyone from A-list celebrities to adventure-seeking travelers.
Tune in to hear:
Where the idea of creating magical, architecturally stunning stays first came fromThe challenges of scaling unique stays like Folly’s and why they’re betting on pop-up locations nextThe genius behind Folly’s exclusive membership program and how it offers hyper-personalized stays for their guestsWhy Hillary believes AI will be pivotal in helping hoteliers and hospitality entrepreneurs hyper-personalize their guest experience at scaleHillary’s vision of having a Folly near every National Park And so much moreAlright friends, without further ado, get ready to meet Hillary.
This episode is brought to you by our friends at Hostfully. Upselling sounds great in theory, but how do you actually do it? How do you know what to offer, and how do you make it seamless for your guests?
Well, that’s where Hostfully’s latest eBook comes into play.
This isn’t just another generic guide; it’s a goldmine of insights drawn from real transaction data collected from June 2023 to June 2024. We’re talking about the most popular upsells that guests actually buy — from early check-ins to premium amenity access — and how these can significantly enhance your bottom line.
But here’s the best part: this eBook doesn’t just leave you with data; it gives you practical advice and checklists to help you start implementing these upsells right away. Whether you’re just getting started with a simple upsell or looking to expand your offerings, Hostfully has you covered.
About the Show
Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai
Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.
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Meet Katie Cline, a powerhouse in hospitality PR who’s worked with renowned brands like Ritz Carlton, W Hotels, and St. Regis. But Katie isn’t just a PR strategist—she’s also a vacation rental entrepreneur and the host of Sweet Success, a brand-new podcast where she interviews hospitality leaders from her world of luxury hotels and beyond.
Katie's journey into short-term rentals began just over a year ago, blending her deep expertise in PR with a newfound passion for creating unique guest experiences at her own properties. Since then, she’s launched a second vacation rental and is building an exciting podcast focused on the intersection of hospitality, innovation, and guest experience.
In this episode, we dive deep into Katie’s multifaceted career, exploring her approach to creating standout PR strategies and how she’s applied her hotel background to the world of short-term rentals.
Tune in to hear:
How Katie crafted a guest experience at her rentals inspired by luxury hotel standardsHer expert take on PR for independent hospitality brands, and why media coverage is key for growthThe challenges of maintaining brand consistency across multiple properties and platformsPersonal stories of resilience, including how her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis has shaped her journeyConnect with Katie on LinkedIn
Checkout her podcast Suite Success on Apple Podcasts
Subscribe to Podcast Email Updates
This episode is brought to you by Hudson Creative Studio — the leading web design agency for vacation rental managers. Hudson Creative is offering a special deal for Behind the Stays listeners. When you mention Behind the Stays during your discovery call, you’ll get 10% off any service level option.
If you’re serious about taking your hospitality brand to the next level, head over to HudsonCreativeStudio.com/behindthestays. Trust me, Eli and his team will make your website something truly special.
And don’t forget to listen to our series, "Unlocking the Secrets of Successful Hospitality Websites," which we’ll link in the show notes below, for a deep dive into what makes these guys the best in the biz.
About the Show
Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai
Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.
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Meet Travis Chambers, the genius behind Outpost X, a mind-bending desert hotel that’s redefining experiential stays.
Travis didn’t just wake up one day and decide to build a viral hotel—he first built an ad agency where he worked with brands like Vitamin Water, Turkish Airlines, and Old Navy to create viral social content.
After selling the agency for $17 million in 201, he used that capital to create something completely new in the world of hospitality.
In this conversation, we dive deep into Travis’s unique approach to hospitality, where he blends art, adventure, and immersive storytelling to create an experience like no other. His goal? To push guests beyond their comfort zones in a place designed to make you feel slightly
uncomfortable—in the best way possible.
And here’s the kicker: Outpost X is just the beginning. Travis has developed an elaborate storyline that will eventually connect all of his future properties across the world, building a universe where each stay is part of a larger narrative.
Tune in to hear:
How Travis generated nearly $1 million on Indiegogo to fund the Outpost X buildThe genius behind designing a hotel that’s more art project than resort, and why some guests call it better than Disneyland while others simply don’t get itWhy he believes creating immersive experiences will save humanity in an AI-driven worldHis ambitious plans to tie every future property into a sci-fi-inspired worldAnd so much moreThis was one of the most amazing, inspiring, and crazy interviews I’ve ever conducted. You’re going to love it.
Check out Outpost X
Follow Travis on Instagram
Follow Outpost X on Instagram
This episode is brought to you by The Content House
If you listen to this podcast, you likely care a lot about your brand. You care about building it thoughtfully and purposefully.
What I love about Nate and the team at The Content House is that they truly understand this. They care about getting to know your style, your approach, and the unique quirks and features that make your collection of stays special.
Their service is full end-to-end social media management and content creation. From shooting stunning videos and photos to editing, posting, and even sourcing influencers to partner with…
The Content House specializes in working with hospitality entrepreneurs building well-branded, boutique collections, often in exotic or extra-special locations…
Follow The Content House on Instagram
Dunlap Hollow Reel
Live Oak Lake Reel
FLOHOM Reel
Villa Stay Texas Reel
About the Show
Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai
Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.
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Meet Nathan St Cyr, the co-founder of Howzit Hostels, a next-generation travel brand transforming hostel stays in the U.S.
Nathan and his co-founder Michael have been on the pod before, but Nathan joined us at the recent Unique Stays Summit that Ben Woldff and I hosted so I wanted to bring him back on to share some more details on what he’s building.
In this episode, Nathan shares the bold and inspiring journey behind building Howzit—a hospitality brand focused on creating affordable, community-driven, and experiential stays that challenge the traditional hostel model.
Nathan and I discuss:
How his team recognized the gap in the U.S. hostel market, with over 300,000 hotels but only 309 hostels, and the vision for Howzit Hostels to fill that void.Their mission to grow into a $400 million company while maintaining responsible growth and delivering unforgettable guest experiences.The surprising fulfillment Nathan and his team have found in cultivating the hostel community, which initially started as a pure financial opportunity.The challenges and opportunities in scaling their brand in cities like Austin, Boston, and Denver, and why they focus on underappreciated real estate assets.What sets Howzit Hostels apart from other experiential brands like Selena, and how Nathan's unique approach to hostel development is fueling growth.Tune in to hear Nathan’s thoughtful insights on what it takes to build a large-scale hostel brand in an overlooked market and why Howzit Hostels is perfectly positioned to shape the future of affordable experiential travel in the U.S.
This episode is brought to you by our friends at Hostfully. Upselling sounds great in theory, but how do you actually do it? How do you know what to offer, and how do you make it seamless for your guests?
Well, that’s where Hostfully’s latest eBook comes into play.
This isn’t just another generic guide; it’s a goldmine of insights drawn from real transaction data collected from June 2023 to June 2024. We’re talking about the most popular upsells that guests actually buy — from early check-ins to premium amenity access — and how these can significantly enhance your bottom line.
But here’s the best part: this eBook doesn’t just leave you with data; it gives you practical advice and checklists to help you start implementing these upsells right away. Whether you’re just getting started with a simple upsell or looking to expand your offerings, Hostfully has you covered.
About the Show
Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai
Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.
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Meet Melissa and Sacha Leclair, the dynamic duo behind LD Cabin, an awe-inspiring modern cabin retreat nestled in the stunning mountains of Mont-Tremblant, Quebec. In this episode, Melissa and Sacha share the inspiring journey of how they transformed their love for design and nature into a hospitality brand that allows guests to experience relaxation in its purest form.
Melissa, Sacha, and I discuss:
The story of how their personal escapism adventures led to building LD Cabin.The wild twists during construction, including accidentally designing for the wrong lot and powering the entire build with a generator for a year.How Instagram and their design aesthetic have played a pivotal role in shaping the cabin’s brand, turning their followers into an active, engaged community that helped influence decisions during the build.The unique partnerships that brought the cabin to life, with everything from custom-built cornhole boards to brand collaborations with KitchenAid and Blackwood Siding.Tune in to hear Melissa and Sacha’s thoughtful approach to designing experiences that not only captivate guests but also immerse them in nature, inspiring repeat visits and creating lasting memories.
If you're passionate about unique stays, design, and creating unforgettable guest experiences, this episode is packed with ideas and insights that will leave you inspired.
Book a stay at LD Cabin
Follow Melissa and Sacha on Instagram
Follow LD Cabin on Instagram
This episode is brought to you by Enso Connect:My new friends at Enso Connect have created a tool that’s putting AI to work in a way that’s saving hospitality pros countless hours every week.Here’s how it works: Enso Connect’s Guest Messaging Insights tool dives into your guest messages across all booking platforms. Using AI, it analyzes these interactions and pulls out hidden opportunities that you might be missing. And the best part? It’s FREE, and you’ll get your personalized report in just 72 hours.
Here’s what this AI-powered report will do for you:
Analyze your message volume so you can see exactly where your time is going.Break down common guest questions, giving you the info you need to improve your property listings and FAQs.Provide sentiment analysis to understand how guests feel and spot potential issues before they escalate.Offer personalized recommendations that highlight upselling opportunities you might have overlooked, allowing you to tailor your services more effectively.Get the report
This episode is also brought to you by Hudson Creative Studio:
This episode is brought to you by Hudson Creative Studio — the leading web design agency for vacation rental managers. Hudson Creative is offering a special deal for Behind the Stays listeners. When you mention Behind the Stays during your discovery call, you’ll get 10% off any service level option.
If you’re serious about taking your hospitality brand to the next level, head over to HudsonCreativeStudio.com/behindthestays. Trust me, Eli and his team will make your website something truly special.
And don’t forget to listen to our series, "Unlocking the Secrets of Successful Hospitality Websites," which we’ll link in the show notes below, for a deep dive into what makes these guys the best in the biz.
About the Show
Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai
Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.
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Meet Arthur Colker, the founder of StayFi,a marketing platform for short-term rental hosts and operators.
Arthur and I explore the evolution of marketing in the vacation rental industry. Since StayFi's inception back in 2018, Arthur has observed a dramatic shift in how hospitality entrepreneurs and property managers approach marketing, especially as reliance on OTAs like Airbnb has become less sustainable.
Arthur and I discuss
The rise of direct booking strategies and the importance of diversifying demand channels.Creative ways property managers are generating ancillary revenue, from upsells to unique guest experiences.How StayFi is empowering short-term rental operators to build email marketing campaigns that capture guest data and drive direct bookings with minimal effort.The role of social media versus SEO and other marketing channels in 2024.And so much moreWhether you're a vacation rental host with one property or a property manager with a large portfolio, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you future-proof your business.
This episode is brought to you by StayFi. StayFi makes it easy to collect data from and market to every single person staying in your short-term rental. StayFi lets you create a custom branded WiFi splash page similar to what you might experience when logging onto the WiFi network at your favorite coffee shop.
This means you can collect the name, email address, and phone number from every guest staying with you, not just the one who booked…because who doesn’t need to use the WiFi.
The best part is that once you have their information, you can use StayFi’s email and text marketing tools to keep in touch and make sure they become a guest for life.
Head on over to StayFi.com and be sure to use the code “BTS” at checkout for 50% off your first 3 months.
Want to book a consulting brainstorm with Zach?
Send him an email directly at [email protected] or complete this payment link and get immediate access to his schedule where you can book some time with him!
About the Show
Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai
Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.
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Meet Austin Phippen, a hospitality entrepreneur balancing the demands of multiple ventures in the heart of Chama, New Mexico. Austin and his wife Karlee are redefining what it means to build a rural hospitality empire, managing everything from a boutique motel to an event venue and even vacation rentals. Tune in as Austin shares his journey from construction to hospitality, how his family’s legacy property sparked a wedding venue business, and the surprising lessons he’s learned about running a motel in one of the most remote, yet scenic, areas of the country.
Discover how Austin transformed a family cabin into a top wedding destination, navigated the complexities of managing a motel, and how seasonal challenges shape his business strategy. If you’re curious about what it takes to run multiple hospitality ventures in a small town or how to grow a business with little initial experience, this episode is packed with insights for you.
Austin and I also discuss the power of organic growth, the balance between low-touch and high-touch hospitality, and why Austin believes hands-on interaction is key to guest satisfaction. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in rural tourism, family-run hospitality businesses, or those dreaming of building their own legacy in the industry.
Learn more about Chama Trails
This episode is brought to you by our friends at Hostfully. Upselling sounds great in theory, but how do you actually do it? How do you know what to offer, and how do you make it seamless for your guests?
Well, that’s where Hostfully’s latest eBook comes into play.
This isn’t just another generic guide; it’s a goldmine of insights drawn from real transaction data collected from June 2023 to June 2024. We’re talking about the most popular upsells that guests actually buy — from early check-ins to premium amenity access — and how these can significantly enhance your bottom line.
But here’s the best part: this eBook doesn’t just leave you with data; it gives you practical advice and checklists to help you start implementing these upsells right away. Whether you’re just getting started with a simple upsell or looking to expand your offerings, Hostfully has you covered.
About the Show
Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai
Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.
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Meet Rena Pacheco-Theard, co-founder of Boutiq, a vacation rental management company that’s blending tech with high-quality guest experiences to transform the industry.
From starting Boutiq as a side hustle to enrolling in an Autsin-based startup accelerator, to running a nationwide portfolio, Rena shares how her team has harnessed technology, like their custom revenue management algorithm, to optimize every property.
Tune in to hear how Rena is driving innovation in vacation rentals, using partnerships like Capital One Travel to open new booking channels, and why PR is an essential but often overlooked tool in growing a brand.
Takeaways include:
How Rena and her team built a company that balances boutique-style guest service with cutting-edge technology.Why new booking channels like Capital One Travel are game-changers for reaching untapped guest segments.How Boutique’s custom-built revenue management tools give them a competitive edge over off-the-shelf solutions like PriceLabs.Why PR plays a critical role in attracting homeowners, guests, and investors—and how to do it right.Rena’s take on the future of vacation rentals, and where new opportunities lie for entrepreneurs in the space.Learn more about Boutiq
Connect with Rena
This episode is brought to you by our friends at AirDNA
Want to see if a Treehouse resort in Dubai pencils? You can do so in AirDNA.
Want to buy land in Ontario to build a Glamping resort? AirDNA will show you how other, comparable products are performing in the region.
Or maybe you’ve already got your stay up and running and you want a better understanding of how your Airbnb compares to others in the market? You can connect your listing to AirDNA and get accurate nightly pricing recommendations based on real-world, real-time demand.
AirDNA is the key you need to unlock the insight behind what it’s going to take to bring those big dreams you have to life.
Pay just $25/month and access ANY market in the world — AirDNA is cheaper, faster, better, and stronger to use than ever before.
About the Show
Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai
Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.
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In this episode, you’ll meet Shari Heilala — the founder of Sage Outdoor Advisory, an appraisal services consultancy for campgrounds, glamping resorts, and experiential hospitality companies.
With over 30 years in commercial real estate, Shari shares her journey from valuing hotels at Cushman & Wakefield — one of the world’s largest commercial real estate services firms — to becoming a leader in the unique stays space, helping hospitality entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of financing and underwriting innovative properties.
Shari dives into the growing demand for nature-immersive stays, the challenges of securing investment for unconventional assets, and why institutional capital is starting to take notice of this emerging market. She also explores the resurgence of independent hoteliers, driven by a new wave of creative entrepreneurs who are blending luxury, design, and outdoor experiences to redefine hospitality.
Whether you're a budding hospitality entrepreneur or a seasoned investor, Shari offers invaluable insights into how to build a successful, data-driven strategy in this evolving, exciting, and at sometimes murky space.
Connect with Shari
Learn more about Sage Outdoor Advisory
This episode is brought to you by Enso ConnectMy new friends at Enso Connect have created a tool that’s putting AI to work in a way that’s saving hospitality pros countless hours every week.Here’s how it works: Enso Connect’s Guest Messaging Insights tool dives into your guest messages across all booking platforms. Using AI, it analyzes these interactions and pulls out hidden opportunities that you might be missing.And the best part? It’s FREE, and you’ll get your personalized report in just 72 hours.
Here’s what this AI-powered report will do for you:
Analyze your message volume so you can see exactly where your time is going.Break down common guest questions, giving you the info you need to improve your property listings and FAQs.Provide sentiment analysis to understand how guests feel and spot potential issues before they escalate.Offer personalized recommendations that highlight upselling opportunities you might have overlooked, allowing you to tailor your services more effectively.Get the report
About the Show
Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai
Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.
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Meet Corinne Traub, founder of Firefly Ridge, a 17-acre magical glamping escape just 90 minutes outside of Washington D.C in Berkeley Springs, WV. What started as a dream to bring people closer to nature without the hassle of traditional camping quickly evolved into a thriving business that draws guests from across the Mid-Atlantic.
In this episode, Corinne opens up about the long search for the right land, the challenges of building 14 luxurious canvas tents, mastering the art of hospitality, and offering unforgettable experiences all of which have yielded 95% of their bookings coming direct.
Finally, Corinne hints at her next big venture—a product line for busy parents on the go. Tune in to hear how Firefly Ridge became a reality, and what’s next for this creative entrepreneur
Book your stay at Firefly Ridge.
Follow Firefly Ridge on Instagram
This episode is brought to you by Hudson Creative Studio — the leading web design agency for vacation rental managers. Hudson Creative is offering a special deal for Behind the Stays listeners. When you mention Behind the Stays during your discovery call, you’ll get 10% off any service level option.
If you’re serious about taking your hospitality brand to the next level, head over to HudsonCreativeStudio.com/behindthestays. Trust me, Eli and his team will make your website something truly special.
And don’t forget to listen to our series, "Unlocking the Secrets of Successful Hospitality Websites," which we’ll link in the show notes below, for a deep dive into what makes these guys the best in the biz.
About the Show
Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai
Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.
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Meet Francois Gouelo, the founder of Enso Connect, a guest engagement platform that’s reshaping the short-term rental space.
The story behind the founding of Enso Connect starts with a $5,000 mishap during a stay at a vacation rental stay — you’ll have to listen to the full pod for the deets.
During our conversation, Francois argues that there's still a major gap in tech innovation in hospitality despite the proliferation of property management systems, guest experience tools, and smart locks.
We also discuss:
The importance of integrating technology to automate guest interactions, allowing hosts to focus only on solving real issues like complaints, which in turn lead to happier guests.Francois’ breakdown of upsell opportunities that property managers often leave on the table—like early check-ins, late check-outs, and local experiences—which can generate substantial extra revenue with the right timing and approach.The value of focusing on deep, high-quality integrations with a few key platforms rather than trying to be everywhere at once. And his vision for the future of AI in hospitality,This episode is packed with insights for anyone curious about the future of hospitality, from tech-savvy property managers to newcomers looking to scale their vacation rental operations.
This episode is brought to you by Enso ConnectMy new friends at Enso Connect have created a tool that’s putting AI to work in a way that’s saving hospitality pros countless hours every week.Here’s how it works: Enso Connect’s Guest Messaging Insights tool dives into your guest messages across all booking platforms. Using AI, it analyzes these interactions and pulls out hidden opportunities that you might be missing. And the best part? It’s FREE, and you’ll get your personalized report in just 72 hours.
Here’s what this AI-powered report will do for you:
Analyze your message volume so you can see exactly where your time is going.Break down common guest questions, giving you the info you need to improve your property listings and FAQs.Provide sentiment analysis to understand how guests feel and spot potential issues before they escalate.Offer personalized recommendations that highlight upselling opportunities you might have overlooked, allowing you to tailor your services more effectively.Get the report
About the Show
Behind the Stays is brought to you by StayWatch — the internet's best resource for deals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. You can subscribe, for free, at www.staywatch.ai
Behind the Stays is hosted by Zach Busekrus, Co-founder of StayWatch, you can connect with him on Twitter at @zboozee or on LinkedIn.
- Visa fler
