Alex and Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals

In this week’s episode, we’re thrilled to welcome back Tom Goodwin, CEO of Mountain Laurel Chalets and host of For the Love of Gatlinburg Podcast. Tom shares insights into his family-run vacation rental business in Gatlinburg, which has been a beloved destination for over 50 years. We dive into his journey of preserving the essence of Gatlinburg through his podcast and discuss how it celebrates the community's rich heritage and unique stories. Tom also gives an update on Mountain Laurel Chalets, including the lessons learned from a recent business acquisition and how they’ve grown their portfolio while staying true to their brand’s values. From creating meaningful guest experiences to forming deep community ties, this episode is packed with inspiration for anyone in the vacation rental or hospitality industry. Key Topics Discussed: 💭 The Vision for For the Love of Gatlinburg ✨ Mountain Laurel Chalets: A Family Legacy 🎯 Challenges and Insights from Acquiring Another Company ⭐ The Importance of Guest Experiences ⚡ Marketing and Branding Strategies 🤝 Community and Industry Collaboration 💡 The Role of Hospitality in Fostering Connection 📍 Future Goals and Inspirations Connect with Tom Goodwin: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trgoodwinmlc/ Website: https://www.mtnlaurelchalets.com/ Exclusive offers for Alex & Annie Listeners: - Get a FREE OwnerPoint Analyst with a demo ($1200 value). Enjoy 10% off OwnerPoint Pro or OwnerPoint Connect services, plus over 50% off additional markets and zip codes. Alex & Annie listeners also receive free Jini for Property Managers. Claim this offer here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ownerpoint.io/alex-and-annie⁠⁠⁠ - Mention "Alex & Annie" when you sign up with Boom to get 50% off your onboarding fee and 1 month FREE. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.boomnow.com/⁠⁠⁠ to claim this limited-time deal! #VacationRentals #ShortTermRentals #Gatlinburg

In this special throwback episode, we revisit a powerful conversation with Amber Hurdle, CEO and founder of Employer Brand Central. Originally aired around this time last year, this episode marks a pivotal moment for Alex & Annie as they navigated career transitions and personal growth. Amber’s wisdom, energy, and insights set the tone for what was to come, not just for the hosts, but for countless listeners. Amber reflects on the importance of building strong personal and employer brands, overcoming self-doubt, and unlocking potential by “getting out of your own way.” With actionable advice and heartfelt stories, this episode will resonate with anyone standing at the edge of a new beginning or deep in the trenches of change. Whether you’re rethinking your career, building your personal brand, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is packed with insights to guide you forward. Key Topics Discussed: 🔨 Building Personal and Employer Brands 🗺 Navigating Career Transitions 🔥 Confidence and Personal Power 🧹 Cleaning Out Your “Friend Closet” 🤝 The Role of Authenticity ⭐ Leadership and Empowerment 💡 Reflections and Lessons Learned Connect with Amber: Website: https://www.employerbrandcentral.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theamberhurdle/ Exclusive offers for Alex & Annie Listeners: - Get a FREE OwnerPoint Analyst with a demo ($1200 value). Enjoy 10% off OwnerPoint Pro or OwnerPoint Connect services, plus over 50% off additional markets and zip codes. Alex & Annie listeners also receive free Jini for Property Managers. Claim this offer here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ownerpoint.io/alex-and-annie⁠⁠⁠ - Mention "Alex & Annie" when you sign up with Boom to get 50% off your onboarding fee and 1 month FREE. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.boomnow.com/⁠⁠⁠ to claim this limited-time deal! #PersonalBranding #EmployerBranding #CareerTransitions

This week, we’re thrilled to welcome back John Hildebrand, founder of Hilde Homes and a leading advocate in the short-term rental industry. From his early days as a property manager to becoming a leading voice in vacation rental advocacy and education, John shares his inspiring journey with authenticity, humor, and valuable insights. With firsthand experience navigating the challenges of hosting, John highlights the vital role of advocacy in driving positive change for operators, guests, and local governments. He discusses how grassroots efforts, statewide coalitions, and collaboration with groups like Rent Responsibly are helping to elevate the industry’s standards while fostering more balanced and fair regulations. Key Topics Discussed: 🐣 The evolution and impact of Airbnb’s Co-Host Experience. ✨ Why diversifying your booking channels is critical for long-term success. 🍃 The critical role of advocacy in addressing regulatory challenges. 🙌 Building statewide coalitions to create sustainable solutions for hosts and communities. 📢 How small-scale operators can find their voice and make an impact. 🤝 John’s collaboration with Rent Responsibly to educate and empower hosts. ⭐ Bridging gaps between operators and local governments through open dialogue. 🔔 The importance of noise monitoring, safety measures, and compliance for professionalizing the industry. Connect with John LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnhildebrandphoto/ Website: https://hildehomes.com/ Exclusive offers for Alex & Annie Listeners: - Get a FREE OwnerPoint Analyst with a demo ($1200 value). Enjoy 10% off OwnerPoint Pro or OwnerPoint Connect services, plus over 50% off additional markets and zip codes. Alex & Annie listeners also receive free Jini for Property Managers. Claim this offer here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ownerpoint.io/alex-and-annie⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Mention "Alex & Annie" when you sign up with Boom to get 50% off your onboarding fee and 1 month FREE. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.boomnow.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ to claim this limited-time deal! #vacationrentals #STRregulations #vacationrentaladvocacy

In this week’s episode, we sit down with Declan McGonigal, the dynamic owner-operator of My Beach Vacation Rentals, based in North Myrtle Beach. Declan’s story is one of grit, growth, and ingenuity, as he shares how he went from managing just two properties to overseeing a thriving portfolio of 70 vacation rentals in just a few years. Declan opens up about the lessons he’s learned along the way, from the early challenges of starting his business to the strategies that helped him scale successfully. He shares how realtor referrals and local meetups powered his growth, the role of technology in streamlining operations, and the importance of building a strong team. Whether you’re a seasoned property manager or just starting out in the vacation rental industry, Declan’s journey offers invaluable insights and actionable advice. Key Topics Discussed: ⚡ Transitioning from engineering to vacation rentals 📢 Using realtor referrals to grow a portfolio 🎯 Choosing and evolving a tech stack 🙌 Building and managing a strong team 💡 Benefits of community involvement with the Chamber of Commerce 📊 Plans for scaling to 250 properties 🎧 Insights from Declan’s podcast, STR Unlocked Connect with Declan: LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/declan-mcgonigal/⁠ Website: ⁠https://mybeachrentals.com/⁠ Exclusive offers for Alex & Annie Listeners: - Get a FREE OwnerPoint Analyst with a demo ($1200 value). Enjoy 10% off OwnerPoint Pro or OwnerPoint Connect services, plus over 50% off additional markets and zip codes. Alex & Annie listeners also receive free Jini for Property Managers. Claim this offer here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ownerpoint.io/alex-and-annie⁠⁠⁠ - Mention "Alex & Annie" when you sign up with Boom to get 50% off your onboarding fee and 1 month FREE. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.boomnow.com/⁠⁠⁠ to claim this limited-time deal! #VacationRentals #PropertyManagement #BusinessGrowth

Register at https://vrdarm.com/registration/ and get $200 off when you use the promo code alexannieVIP In this exciting episode, we are joined by the dynamic Amy Hinote, founder of the Vacation Rental Data and Revenue Management Conference (DARM). Amy shares her vision for DARM 2024, revealing exciting details about the venue, agenda, and the groundbreaking educational sessions planned for property managers and industry professionals. Tune in to learn about innovative strategies for revenue and marketing integration, the role of AI in the evolving tech landscape, and how to master direct booking strategies for long-term growth. Whether you're a seasoned attendee or new to DARM, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Key Topics Discussed: 🎯 The Vision for DARM 2024 ⭐ Revolutionizing Revenue and Marketing Strategies ⚡ Tech Innovation and Challenges 📊 Industry Insights and Trends 💡 DARM’s Signature Battleground Competition 🤝 Building Connections and Community Connect with Amy: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amymutual/ DARM Website: https://vrdarm.com/registration/ Exclusive offers for Alex & Annie Listeners: - Get a FREE OwnerPoint Analyst with a demo ($1200 value). Enjoy 10% off OwnerPoint Pro or OwnerPoint Connect services, plus over 50% off additional markets and zip codes. Alex & Annie listeners also receive free Jini for Property Managers.  Claim this offer here: ⁠⁠https://www.ownerpoint.io/alex-and-annie⁠⁠ - Mention "Alex & Annie" when you sign up with Boom to get 50% off your onboarding fee and 1 month FREE. Visit ⁠⁠⁠https://www.boomnow.com/⁠⁠ to claim this limited-time deal! #DARM #DARM2024 #VacationRentals

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Turk, founder of Tangy Management, a vacation rental management company known for its unique hotel-inspired approach to hospitality. With over 24 years of experience in luxury hotels, Steve brings a fresh perspective to the vacation rental industry, blending high standards from the hotel world with the flexibility of short-term rentals. Steve shares the story of how he shifted from a career in luxury hotels to founding Tangy Management, and the unique value his team brings to the vacation rental market. Steve also discusses his journey as the host of Hospitality Mentor podcast, which he started as a way to connect with industry leaders and share insights about careers in hospitality. From this, he has grown a vibrant community and organized popular networking events. Steve opens up about the challenges of managing vacation rentals in competitive markets like Miami, adapting to market shifts, and the importance of building community among guests and property owners alike. Key Topics Discussed: 🚪 Steve’s Background in Luxury Hotels 🐣 Founding Tangy Management 🎙 Launching The Hospitality Mentor Podcast ✨ Event Organizing and Community Building ⚡ Innovative Approaches to Guest Experience 💡 Expansion Plans & Market Challenges Whether you're a seasoned property manager or just curious about the evolving landscape of vacation rentals, Steve's insights into the business and his innovative projects are sure to inspire. Connect with Steve: LinkedIn Website Exclusive offers for Alex & Annie Listeners: - Get a FREE OwnerPoint Analyst with a demo ($1200 value). Enjoy 10% off OwnerPoint Pro or OwnerPoint Connect services, plus over 50% off additional markets and zip codes. Alex & Annie listeners also receive free Jini for Property Managers.  Claim this offer here: ⁠https://www.ownerpoint.io/alex-and-annie⁠ - Mention "Alex & Annie" when you sign up with Boom to get 50% off your onboarding fee and 1 month FREE. Visit ⁠⁠https://www.boomnow.com/⁠ to claim this limited-time deal! #LuxuryVacationRentals #HospitalityStandards #BotiqueBrand

This week, we’re coming to you live from the heart of Florence, Italy, where Alex & Annie attended Scale Italia 2024! In this special on-the-ground episode, we bring you a dynamic mash-up of conversations with some of the most influential figures in the vacation rental and property management industries. Hear firsthand perspectives from Italy’s vibrant conference floor, where the future of global property management, tech trends, and regulatory changes in the short-term rental space were top of mind. From unique regulatory hurdles in Italy to the latest advancements in AI and PMS technology, this episode captures the pulse of Europe’s growing vacation rental market. Join us as we sit down with conference organizers, tech innovators, and industry leaders to unpack the challenges and opportunities facing property managers worldwide. Key Topics Discussed: 🏛 European Insights and Hospitality: Alex and Annie share their experiences at Scale Italia, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere, local hospitality, and the refreshing international focus of the event. 📜 Navigating Italian Regulations: Cristiana Carpini, CEO of Tara Home Consulting and Event Director for Scale Italia, discusses Italy’s complex regulatory landscape and her efforts in advocating for vacation rentals, particularly in regions like Florence that pose challenges to short-term rentals. 💻 Technology and AI Transformation: Alon Goldboim from Boom delves into the ways his company is leveraging AI to streamline operations for property managers, creating integrated ecosystems that replace fragmented systems. 🤝 Building Community and Sustainable Business Practices: Bob Garner from Envirorental shares his vision for sustainability in property management, stressing the business advantages of eco-friendly practices. 🎉 The Importance of Local Events in a Global Context: John An of Tech Tape and Marcus Rader from Hostaway emphasize the benefits of Scale Italia, which brings together local markets and international leaders to foster innovation and expansion. Featured Guests: Cristiana Carpini - CEO, Tara Home Consulting, and Event Director for Scale Italia Richard Vaughton - Industry Expert, Member of the Board for Boom Alon Goldboim - Founder & CTO, Boom Marcus Rader - CEO, Hostaway Deborah Labi - Founder, Have You Got Bob Garner - Founder, Envirorental John An - Founder, TechTape #ScaleItalia2024 #EuropeanSTR #VacationRentals

In this special re-air of one of our most popular episodes, Alex & Annie brings together a powerhouse panel of industry experts, known as the OGs of the Panhandle. Our guests—James Olin, Steve Caron, Lino Maldonado, and Paul Wohlford—share invaluable insights from their decades-long journeys in the vacation rental industry, reflecting on where it all started, where it is now, and where it’s headed. Episode Highlights: The Early Days: Travel back with our panel as they recount the challenges and successes that marked their early years in vacation rentals. Hear the stories of navigating uncharted territory with passion, resilience, and a vision for the future. The Industry Today: Explore how mergers, acquisitions, and new technologies are reshaping guest experiences and operations. Our experts discuss balancing innovation with the personal touch that defines hospitality and reveal the tech innovations that have made the biggest impact. Looking Ahead: The conversation shifts to the future, delving into topics like potential industry standardization, the role of larger players, and the value of a boutique approach. Hear insights on how advocacy and regulatory involvement are shaping what’s next for vacation rentals. Key Takeaways: 💡 Evolution of an Industry: Understand the milestones that have propelled the industry forward and the challenges in keeping pace with consumer and market changes. 📚 Collaboration and Community: With a focus on bridging the gap between legacy vacation rental companies and newer STR operators, the panel highlights the importance of collaboration, advocacy, and creating a strong sense of community. Tune in for a chance to revisit this insightful episode packed with lessons, inspiration, and shared passion for the future of vacation rentals. Whether you’re a long-time listener or new to the show, this conversation is a must-hear! Exclusive offers for Alex & Annie Listeners: - Get a FREE OwnerPoint Analyst with a demo ($1200 value). Enjoy 10% off OwnerPoint Pro or OwnerPoint Connect services, plus over 50% off additional markets and zip codes. Alex & Annie listeners also receive free Jini for Property Managers. Claim this offer here: ⁠https://www.ownerpoint.io/alex-and-annie⁠ - Mention "Alex & Annie" when you sign up with Boom to get 50% off your onboarding fee and 1 month FREE. Visit ⁠⁠https://www.boomnow.com/ to claim this limited-time deal! Connect with Lino: LinkedIn Connect with Jim: LinkedIn Connect with Steve: LinkedIn #VacationRentals #FloridaPanhandle #IndustryOGs

In this special re-air of one of our most popular episodes, Alex & Annie revisit our insightful conversation with Tom Goodwin, CEO of Mountain Laurel Chalets. Tom’s remarkable journey in the vacation rental industry, from unexpected beginnings to building a brand rooted in community, continues to inspire. Tom's Journey: Discover how Tom's unexpected entry into the vacation rental world, through his wife's family-run business in Gatlinburg, evolved into a thriving venture. His initial 18-month commitment turned into an 11-year commitment, filled with challenges and triumphs. Community and Branding: Explore Tom's insights into the profound impact of community involvement and branding in the hospitality industry. Learn how his diverse background seamlessly translated into revitalizing the Mountain Laurel Chalets brand. Looking to the Future: Tom shares his excitement for the future, including the acquisition of a new business and plans for a local podcast. Stay tuned as he promises to keep us updated on his journey throughout the year. Key Takeaways: 💪 Community Resilience: Witness how the Mountain Laurel Chalets community not only survived but thrived in the face of adversity, exemplified by the creation of the "Family First" program after the 2016 Gatlinburg fires. 🍀 Guest Experience Philosophy: Delve into Tom's philosophy on guest experiences and how it influences the company's reputation and customer loyalty. 🤝 Building Lasting Relationships: Uncover the significance of strong relationships with property owners, highlighted by the annual owner meetings that not only retain existing owners but attract new ones, creating a familial atmosphere within the business. Join us in exploring more stories and insights from the vacation rental industry. Share your thoughts, subscribe, and stay engaged as we continue to learn that success is about more than just the properties we manage—it's about the relationships we build and the communities we serve. Exclusive offers for Alex & Annie Listeners: - Get a FREE OwnerPoint Analyst with a demo ($1200 value). Enjoy 10% off OwnerPoint Pro or OwnerPoint Connect services, plus over 50% off additional markets and zip codes. Alex & Annie listeners also receive free Jini for Property Managers. Claim this offer here: https://www.ownerpoint.io/alex-and-annie - Mention "Alex & Annie" when you sign up with Boom to get 50% off your onboarding fee and 1 month FREE. Visit ⁠https://www.boomnow.com/ to claim this limited-time deal! Connect with Tom LinkedIn Website

Exclusive offers for Alex & Annie Listeners: - Get a FREE OwnerPoint Analyst with a demo ($1200 value). Enjoy 10% off OwnerPoint Pro or OwnerPoint Connect services, plus over 50% off additional markets and zip codes. Alex & Annie listeners also receive free Jini for Property Managers.  Claim this offer here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.ownerpoint.io/alex-and-annie⁠⁠⁠ - Mention "Alex & Annie" when you sign up with Boom to get 50% off your onboarding fee and 1 month FREE. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.boomnow.com/⁠⁠⁠ to claim this limited-time deal! In this week’s episode, we welcome back Dennis Goedheid, founder and CEO of Casiola Vacation Homes. Dennis returns to share exciting updates on his company's growth, including the launch of a new franchise model. Since its inception, the franchise has rapidly expanded into key markets, including Aruba, where Casiola has seen tremendous success. Dennis also dives into the challenges and opportunities in the vacation rental space, from navigating property management in international markets to the importance of local partnerships. He provides insight into Casiola’s unique franchise approach, which aims to create a global brand for vacation rentals, much like Marriott did for hotels. The conversation touches on the critical issue of short-term rental regulations, with Dennis discussing his advocacy efforts in Florida and Aruba to ensure fair regulations that support both property managers and local communities. Key Topics Discussed: 📃 Casiola Vacation Homes' growth and current portfolio ⭐ Launch and success of Casiola's franchise system 🗺 Expansion into Aruba and rapid growth in that market 💭 Importance of regulatory involvement in the vacation rental industry 📛 Florida's recent legislative challenges for short-term rentals 📢 Upcoming fundraiser at DARM to support fair regulations 🏝 Dennis's experience on Richard Branson's Necker Island 💡 Insights into Richard Branson's leadership style and business philosophy 📈 The challenges and opportunities in the vacation rental industry 🤝 Balancing profitability with social responsibility and legacy-building Connect with Dennis: LinkedIn Website #VacationRentalFranchise #GlobalVacationRentals #ShortTermRentalRegulations

Exclusive offers for Alex & Annie Listeners: - Get a FREE OwnerPoint Analyst with a demo ($1200 value). Enjoy 10% off OwnerPoint Pro or OwnerPoint Connect services, plus over 50% off additional markets and zip codes. Alex & Annie listeners also receive free Jini for Property Managers.  Claim this offer here: ⁠⁠https://www.ownerpoint.io/alex-and-annie⁠⁠ - Mention "Alex & Annie" when you sign up with Boom to get 50% off your onboarding fee and 1 month FREE. Visit ⁠⁠⁠https://www.boomnow.com/⁠⁠ to claim this limited-time deal! In this episode of Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals, we are joined by Ian Carter, the former CEO of Hilton International and current Chair of the Board for Watches of Switzerland, Eataly, The Boston University School of Hospitality and Administration, and Boom. Ian shares his remarkable career journey, from his early days at General Electric to leading Hilton International through its historic merger with Hilton Hotels Corporation. We also dive into the vacation rental market, where Ian reflects on the challenges and opportunities this sector presents, especially in comparison to his experience in the hotel industry. He highlights the increasing role of AI and technology in managing vacation rentals and the importance of personalizing guest experiences.  Key Topics Discussed: 💫  Ian's transition from non-hospitality sectors to becoming CEO of Hilton International. 💼 Insights into The Evolution of Hilton International 💡 AI and Technology in Vacation Rentals 💬 Differences Between Hotels and Vacation Rentals ✨ Personalization in Hospitality 🤝Challenges and Opportunities in Scaling Vacation Rentals ✅ Public vs. Private Companies in Hospitality ⭐ Luxury and Hospitality Brand Leadership Connect with Ian: LinkedIn #AIinhospitality #vacationrentals #hospitalitytech

Exclusive offers for Alex & Annie Listeners: - Get a FREE OwnerPoint Analyst with a demo ($1200 value). Enjoy 10% off OwnerPoint Pro or OwnerPoint Connect services, plus over 50% off additional markets and zip codes. Alex & Annie listeners also receive free Jini for Property Managers.  Claim this offer here: ⁠https://www.ownerpoint.io/alex-and-annie⁠ - Mention "Alex & Annie" when you sign up with Boom to get 50% off your onboarding fee and 1 month FREE. Visit ⁠⁠https://www.boomnow.com/⁠ to claim this limited-time deal! In this episode of Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals, we're once again joined by Rebecca Ballart, COO of Rev & Research, a leading revenue management consulting firm for vacation rentals. Rebecca shares her deep insights into the current state of the vacation rental market, discussing the challenges and opportunities that property managers are facing as we head into 2024. We dive into the key trends, including increased supply, softening demand, and how international travel options are affecting domestic bookings. Rebecca provides actionable advice on navigating tough homeowner conversations, adjusting pricing strategies, and enhancing guest experiences to drive long-term success. Key Topics Covered: ⭐ The current challenges in vacation rental markets and strategies to stay ahead in 2024. 💬 How property managers can better communicate with homeowners, especially during tough conversations about revenue performance. 💫 The importance of having a well-rounded revenue management strategy, beyond relying solely on pricing tools. 💡 Practical tips for using guest communication to increase direct bookings and improve guest retention. 🔨 Strategies for tackling oversupply in saturated markets and optimizing inventory performance. Connect with Rebecca: LinkedIn Connect with Rev & Research: LinkedIn | Website#vacationrentals #revenuemanagement #propertymanagement

Exclusive offers for Alex & Annie Listeners: - Get a FREE OwnerPoint Analyst with a demo ($1200 value). Enjoy 10% off OwnerPoint Pro or OwnerPoint Connect services, plus over 50% off additional markets and zip codes. Alex & Annie listeners also receive free Jini for Property Managers.  Claim this offer here: https://www.ownerpoint.io/alex-and-annie - Mention "Alex & Annie" when you sign up with Boom to get 50% off your onboarding fee and 1 month FREE. Visit ⁠https://www.boomnow.com/ to claim this limited-time deal! In this special 1st of the month bonus episode, Alex & Annie are joined by Ari Eryorulmaz, founder and CEO of Extenteam, to discuss their exciting new staffing program designed for vacation rental hosts of all sizes.  Ari shares insights into the company's journey, from humble beginnings as a side gig to becoming a leader in providing virtual staffing solutions for property managers worldwide. He highlights the evolution of staffing needs in the hospitality industry post-COVID and introduces Extenteam’s newest service, Tailwind, which enables smaller operators to access professional staffing on a flexible, per-unit subscription basis.  This game-changing program is set to help hosts operate efficiently and elevate guest satisfaction, regardless of property size. Key Topics Discussed: 🐣 The Evolution of Extenteam: From Side Gig to Industry Leader 💼Post-COVID Staffing Trends in Vacation Rentals ⚡ Introduction of Tailwind: Staffing Solution for Small Hosts 🍃 Work-Life Balance for Property Managers ⭐ Extenteam’s Global Expansion: Entering Europe and Beyond 💡Scaling Business Through Virtual Staffing Connect with Ari: LinkedIn Connect with Extenteam: LinkedIn | Website #vacationrentals #vacationrentalstaffing #shorttermrentals

Exclusive offer for Alex & Annie listeners: Mention "Alex & Annie" when you sign up with Boom to get 50% off your onboarding fee and 1 month FREE. Visit boomnow.com to claim this limited-time deal! In this week’s episode, we’re joined by Eric Moeller, the visionary founder and CEO of Freewyld, a brand creating nature-inspired cabin communities. Eric takes us on his entrepreneurial journey from real estate investment to building luxury short-term rental brands and developing Freewyld.  With decades of experience in real estate and vacation rentals, Eric has a fresh perspective on how to elevate the short-term rental experience. His passion for thoughtful design, personalized hospitality, and creating spaces that encourage guests to unplug from technology and reconnect with nature sets Freewyld apart from other rental brands. In this conversation, Eric breaks down how Freewyld combines modern amenities, reclaimed materials, and nature-centric properties to craft unforgettable guest experiences. Key Topics Discussed: 🚪 Eric's Entry into Short-Term Rentals 🐣 The Birth of Freewyld 💎 Blending Boutique Hospitality and Vacation Rentals 🔨 Challenges of Renovating Vintage Cabins 😎 Elevating Guest Experiences 🤝 Hospitality as a Passion Connect with Eric Moeller: LinkedIn  Freewyld Website

In this exciting episode, Alex & Annie sit down with Larry Hoffer, CEO of Rentalz, a company specializing in breakthrough growth solutions for vacation rental managers.  Larry takes us on a journey through his two-decade career, starting from a personal double-booking mishap in Vail, Colorado, to becoming a key figure in the vacation rental industry.  He shares how Rentalz, with its innovative services like OwnerPoint, ContactPoint, AnswerPoint and the recently launched TravelPoint, is driving exponential growth for property managers across North America. Key Topics Discussed: 🚪 Larry’s Origin Story 💡 Rentalz' Core Focus on Growth 🤖 AI in Property Management ⚡ OwnerPoint, ContactPoint, AnswerPoint, and TravelPoint 🎯 Importance of Consistency 🤝 High-Touch Customer Engagement ✨ Breakthrough Sponsorships 🙌 Real Estate & Realtor Partnerships Connect with Larry: LinkedIn Connect with Rentalz: Website #vacationrentals #pms #crm

In this week’s episode, we sit down with Shahar Goldboim, CEO of Boom, to discuss the world’s first AI-driven Property Management System (AiPMS). Shahar shares the story behind Boom’s inception and how his passion for innovation in real estate led to the creation of a cutting-edge solution for property managers.  By blending AI with the complexities of property management, Boom is revolutionizing the way companies scale, optimize operations, and enhance the guest experience. Shahar also gives us an inside look at how Boom’s AiPMS seamlessly integrates property management tasks like guest communication, work orders, review management, and upselling—all in one platform. Key Topics Discussed: 🚪 The Origins of Boom 🤖 AI in Property Management ⚡ Operational Efficiency 🚀 Guest Experience & Automation 💎 Owner Transparency 💡 Scalability for Property Managers ⭐ The Future of Property Management If you're looking to streamline your property management processes, this episode is a must-listen! Connect with Shahar: LinkedIn Connect with Boom: Website

Exclusive offer for Alex & Annie listeners: Get $400 off your onboarding fee when you partner with Hostaway using this link: http://get.hostaway.com/alexandannie In this episode, Alex and Annie sit down with Heather Bayer, a veteran in the vacation rental industry.  Heather shares her journey from running a management training company in England to becoming a prominent figure in the vacation rental space. She discusses her current role as the Director of Training for the Vacation Rental Formula Business School and her experiences as a podcast host. Throughout the episode, the discussion touches on the importance of understanding different personality types and communication styles in the workplace, the challenges of online education, and the evolving landscape of networking and knowledge-sharing in the vacation rental industry. Key Topics Discussed: 🚪 Heather's entry into the vacation rental industry 💫 The evolution of her career from property management to education and training 📖 The importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the industry 💻 The launch of a new coaching program featuring industry experts  ⭐The value of personality assessments in improving workplace dynamics 🚀 The changing landscape of education and networking in the vacation rental sector Connect with Heather: LinkedIn Website Podcast #trust #vacationrentals #education

In this special first-of-the-month episode, Alex and Annie bring back one of their most impactful discussions from June 2022, perfect for the peak of hurricane season. This re-airing of Episode 36 features Pete DiMaio from TravelBoom, who shares vital strategies for preparing vacation rental managers and hoteliers for potential disasters, particularly hurricanes. Pete walks through his comprehensive "Six P’s of Disaster Planning," a methodical approach to ensure that vacation rental businesses and hotels are ready to handle the chaos and communication challenges that arise during a disaster. He emphasizes the importance of proper planning and the critical role of effective communication before, during, and after such events. Key Topics Discussed: 📅 The Importance of Planning Ahead 📲 On-Site Content Management 📨 Communication Strategies 💻 Social Media and PR Management 🆘 Guest and Community Assistance Pete DiMaio’s insights offer actionable steps that can help you protect your business, support your guests, and contribute positively to your community when it matters most. Connect with Pete: LinkedIn #DisasterPreparedness #VacationRentals #CrisisManagement

Exclusive offer for Alex & Annie listeners: Get $400 off your onboarding fee when you partner with Hostaway using this link: http://get.hostaway.com/alexandannie In this episode of Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals, we are thrilled to welcome Rachel Alday, co-owner and co-founder of Abode Luxury Rentals. Rachel shares the fascinating journey of how she and her husband built a successful luxury vacation rental business that spans multiple high-end markets, including Park City, Jackson Hole, and Sun Valley. Rachel’s story is one of perseverance, vision, and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the vacation rental industry. From navigating the complexities of luxury property management to strategically expanding into new markets, Rachel shares the invaluable lessons she has learned along the way.  Key Topics Discussed: .🚀 The organic growth of Abode Luxury Rentals from Park City to Jackson Hole and Sun Valley 💰 Managing high-end properties valued between $2 million and $50 million 🚢 The importance of hiring local talent when expanding to new markets 🤝 Building and maintaining a strong company culture in the vacation rental industry 🧘 The role of therapy and mental health support in employee satisfaction and performance Whether you’re a seasoned professional in the vacation rental industry or just starting out, Rachel’s insights and experiences offer something for everyone. Connect with Rachel: LinkedIn Connect with Abode Luxury Rentals: LinkedIn | Website #vacationrentals #luxuryvacationrentals #teams

In this episode of Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals, we sit down with Alexis Rivera Scott, the dynamic founder of Fairy Job Mom.  Alexis shares her journey from a career in hospitality sales to becoming a powerhouse on LinkedIn with over 81,000 followers. She opens up about her transition from traditional employment to entrepreneurship, the challenges she faced along the way, and the importance of building a personal brand. Key Topics Discussed:  🔁 The Evolution of Alexis' Career 📱 Building a Personal Brand on LinkedIn 🐣 The Story Behind Fairy Job Mom 💎 Balancing a Personal Brand with Professional Roles 💼 Challenges of Entrepreneurship 🤝 Networking and Engagement Strategies 💬 Career Advice for Professionals Whether you’re looking to enhance your own personal brand, considering a career pivot, or simply interested in hearing the inspiring story of a successful entrepreneur, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Connect with Alexis: LinkedIn Connect with The Fairy Mom Job: LinkedIn | Website #PersonalBranding #SocialMediaMarketing #LinkedInEngagement