Jeff Bartsch has edited over 100 episodes of the hit show, American Ninja Warrior, over the last 11 years.  He says that when you can take five hours of video footage and create a 90-second piece that shows who the contestant is, what they do, and why they are so different, it makes a powerful piece of content.  And now he’s joining Heather to talk about the nature of storytelling and how we can use it to build meaningful connections and drive business success. Jeff is also a communication strategist at Story Greenlight, where he empowers professionals to attract and retain their ideal clients by leveraging the power of story. With his background in Hollywood, where he shaped content for major media outlets including ABC, NBC, Disney, Apple, and Netflix, Jeff brings a wealth of experience to the table. His expertise extends beyond entertainment, having been recognized as a top thought leader in the accounting advisory world, supporting thousands of students and clients across 50 countries. Jeff's passion lies in helping others harness the potential of storytelling to build successful businesses. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar. Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS574

In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Nick Russell, the COO and VP of The Cottages on the Key, to discuss their unique approach to hospitality that sets them apart in the vacation rental industry. Nick brings a dynamic and personalized approach to vacation rental management. With a background marked by an unusual entry into the industry through a personal experience, Nick's leadership is characterized by a commitment to exceptional guest experiences and a profound emphasis on company values and hospitality standards. His innovative strategies and personal touch have significantly shaped the operations and guest satisfaction levels at The Cottages on the Key. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar. Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS573

In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Matt Landau from VRMB (Vacation Rental Marketing Blog) to discuss the importance of creative interventions in the vacation rental industry and how stepping outside of your comfort zone can lead to innovation and growth. Matt Landau, a seasoned thought leader in the vacation rental industry, has been instrumental in helping property managers and owners elevate their businesses through intentional leadership and innovative thinking. With a background in founding the Vacation Rental Marketing Blog (VRMB) and organizing transformative retreats, Matt has consistently encouraged industry professionals to embrace creativity and re-evaluate their business models. His deep insights into operational efficiency, guest experience, and team dynamics have made him a trusted voice in the short-term rental community.  ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar. Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS572

Investing in personal development is a no-brainer for the most successful people in this business.  They have mentors; they  hire coaches and join mastermind groups, and along the way, transform their mindsets.   But how do you know what is right for you? In this episode Heather Bayer talks with Cliff Ravenscraft, a renowned coach, mentor, and mastermind leader, to explore the transformative power of coaching in business. Cliff shares his journey from teaching podcasting to becoming a mindset and business strategy coach, highlighting the importance of coaching, consulting, and mastermind groups in achieving business success.  ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar. Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS571

How do you show appreciation to your work colleagues?  Do you spend time with them, give them words of praise, give the occasional gift or ask if they need help.  You probably do all of the above, but did you know some of your team members will prefer one type of appreciation to another?   In this episode Dr. Paul White, a psychologist, author, and speaker, talks about the importance of appreciation and vibrant workplace culture in the vacation rental business and offers tips on how to deliver targeted appreciation. Dr. White shares his expertise on creating a workplace where employees feel valued and appreciated, which in turn leads to higher motivation, better teamwork, and exceptional guest experiences. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar. Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS570

For some aspiring property managers, the challenge of setting up a business, learning the ins and outs of every aspect of operations, marketing and business development, and software setup is a lot to take on. This is where a franchising model can offer a significant advantage. In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer speaks with Lukas Krause, CEO of SkyRun Vacation Rentals, about how franchising can simplify the process, providing the tools, training, and support needed to thrive in the competitive vacation rental market. ‍What You'll Discover: Lukas's Journey: Lukas discusses his transition from managing the largest single-family property management firm in the US to leading SkyRun Vacation Rentals. Franchising Fundamentals: Hear about the core aspects of franchising within the vacation rental industry, including the support and resources provided to franchisees, and how the franchise model can help property managers succeed. Overcoming Market Challenges: Lukas offers insights into the current challenges faced by property managers, such as increased competition and market saturation, and shares strategies to stand out and thrive. The Role of Technology and Data: Discover how SkyRun leverages technology and data to optimize pricing, marketing, and guest experiences, ensuring franchisees can compete effectively in a crowded market. Building a Strong Brand: Lukas emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards and delivering exceptional guest experiences to build a strong, recognizable brand in the vacation rental industry. Regulations and Advocacy: Heather and Lukas discuss the importance of navigating local regulations and the role of advocacy in ensuring sustainable growth for the vacation rental industry. You Will Learn: Benefits of Franchising: Understand how the franchise model can reduce risk and provide a proven system for success in the vacation rental industry.Effective Property Management: Gain insights into best practices for managing vacation rental properties and delivering exceptional guest experiences.Market Differentiation: Learn strategies to differentiate your vacation rental business and attract more guests.Navigating Regulations: Find out how to effectively handle local regulations and advocate for the vacation rental industry.Growth and Scalability: Discover how to scale your property management business efficiently with the support of a franchise. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar. Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS569

In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer discusses the untapped potential of accessibility in vacation rentals with Adam Norko, host of The Art of Hospitality Podcast, and Lorraine Woodward, founder of Becoming rentABLE. What You'll Discover: ●       First Mover Advantage: With 26% of the population having a disability, less than 1% of vacation rentals in the US are accessible. This represents a significant business opportunity. ●       Personal Stories: Heather shares her personal experiences with her step-granddaughter who is severely autistic, highlighting the challenges faced by families seeking accessible vacation rentals. Lorraine and Adam provide insights from their own experiences and the broader community. ●       Accessibility Beyond Wheelchair Access: The discussion expands beyond the common perception of accessibility, covering mobility, cognitive needs, sensory issues, and more. ●       Statistics and Market Potential: Lorraine provides eye-opening statistics, including the expected increase in the senior population and the broad scope of disabilities, both permanent and temporary. ●       Challenges in the Industry: Adam and Lorraine discuss the current shortcomings in the vacation rental industry regarding accessibility and how ignorance can no longer be an excuse as awareness grows. ●       Becoming rentABLE: Lorraine introduces Becoming rentABLE, a listing platform focused on accessible short-term rentals, offering a comprehensive approach to accessibility beyond just physical modifications. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar. Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS568

In this insightful episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Amber Hurdle, the host of the Bombshell Business Podcast and author of The Bombshell Businesswoman. Inspired by a recent newsletter from Amber, Heather explores the fascinating world of AI and its impact on personal and professional branding in our vacation rental business. Amber shares her expertise on integrating AI effectively into your business strategy, ensuring you harness its power while maintaining authenticity and emotional connection with both guests and owners. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar. Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS567

In this solo episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, Heather delves into the foundations of a strong property management business. Drawing on her 20 years of experience as a property manager, where she made a lot of mistakes and missteps, she shares valuable insights and lessons learned to help listeners navigate the ever-changing landscape of the short-term rental business.‍ You’ll discover the importance of: ·        Learning the Industry's History: Spoiler alert! This business didn’t start with Airbnb. ·        Being Intentional with Your Niche. ·        Creating a Business Plan. ·        Building Key Community Relationships. ·        Finding a Mentor or Consultant. ·        Knowing Your Location. ·        Understanding Regulations and Restrictions. ·        Conducting a SWOT Analysis. ·        Tracking Metrics and KPIs. ·        Familiarizing Yourself with Industry Jargon. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar. Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS566

In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer welcomes Brittany Blackman of Breathe Easy Rentals and Sean Kemper from ETI Solutions. They discuss their innovative housekeeping workshops launched in the spring in the Florida Panhandle and Orange Beach, Alabama, emphasizing the importance of housekeeping training and mindfulness in property management. Heather also shares insights from Rob Walker's book, "The Art of Noticing," and how it ties into enhancing attention and creativity in the vacation rental industry. What You'll Discover: Housekeeping Training Initiatives: Brittany and Sean explain their approach to housekeeping workshops, highlighting the need for practical, front-line training in the vacation rental industry. The Art of Noticing: Heather introduces concepts from Rob Walker's book, "The Art of Noticing," discussing how being more mindful and attentive can improve business operations and guest experiences. Workshop Highlights: Learn about the unique and engaging activities used in the workshops, such as bed-making competitions and communication games, designed to foster better teamwork and attention to detail. Challenges in Housekeeping: Brittany and Sean discuss the current challenges in housekeeping, from finding reliable cleaners to maintaining consistent quality standards, and how their workshops address these issues. Importance of Mindfulness: Heather and her guests delve into how mindfulness practices can help property managers and housekeeping staff notice and address the small details that can significantly impact guest satisfaction. Combining Training Programs: A teaser about potential future collaborations between Heather, Mike, Brittany, and Sean to provide comprehensive training that combines THRIVE principles with housekeeping best practices. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar. Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS565

In this insightful episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, host Heather Bayer sits down with Rachel Alday, co-founder of Abode Luxury Vacation Rentals, to discuss the crucial role of company culture in the short-term rental business. Rachel shares her journey of growing a family-owned business into a highly respected company, emphasizing the importance of building a team that embodies core values and delivers exceptional hospitality.  ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://thrive.vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar. Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS564

This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today ______________________________________________________________________ In this episode Heather Bayer and Catherine Ratcliffe discuss the pressing issue of human trafficking within the short-term rental industry. Catherine shares insights into the prevalence of human trafficking, including both sex and labor trafficking, and its impacts on the industry. She highlights the importance of recognizing signs of trafficking and the role of vacation rental operators in preventing these activities. Catherine emphasizes training for property managers and staff, and the need to establish standard operating procedures to handle suspicious activities. The discussion also covers the responsibilities of hosts in ensuring their properties do not become venues for such exploitative practices. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://thrive.vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar. Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS563

This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today ______________________________________________________________________ In this episode of the Vacation Rental Success Podcast, Heather Bayer sits down with Andy McNulty, co-founder of Touch Stay. They delve into the intricacies of building and managing a remote team that spans across the globe. Andy shares his experiences and insights on fostering a dynamic and committed team culture despite the challenges of remote working. This conversation is a goldmine for short-term rental managers and hosts who aim to create vibrant and effective remote teams. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://thrive.vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS562

This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today ______________________________________________________________________ In this solo episode Heather Bayer delves into the transformative concepts from the book "10X is Easier than 2X" by Dan Sullivan and Benjamin Hardy. Heather shares her personal journey of embracing a 10X mindset, recounting pivotal moments in her career that led to exponential growth. She provides practical examples and strategies for vacation rental managers to apply 10X thinking, from creating unique guest experiences to leveraging technology and forming strategic partnerships. Heather emphasizes the importance of a mindset shift, focusing on core strengths, simplifying operations, and continuously innovating to achieve significant business growth. The episode is a motivational guide for those looking to make bold changes and elevate their vacation rental business to new heights. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://thrive.vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS561

This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today ______________________________________________________________________ In this episode, host Heather Bayer welcomes back Matt Landau, a seasoned mentor and coach in the vacation rental industry. He shares insights from a transformative event he attended in Morocco, which inspired him to rethink traditional conference formats and foster deeper business interactions. The conversation delves into the significant role of retreats in fostering personal growth and professional development. Matt highlights how well-designed, intimate gatherings can spur creativity and innovation, allowing participants to step away from daily routines and reassess their business strategies and life goals. Matt also introduces his new venture, "Here Goes Nothin'," a series of retreats, workshops, and discussions designed to equip business leaders with the tools to navigate the future creatively and courageously. He stresses the importance of taking creative risks and stepping out of comfort zones to propel business success. Additionally, the discussion touches on the concept of experience design, which Matt believes is crucial in planning the customer journey to enhance satisfaction and loyalty, particularly in the vacation rental industry. The episode concludes with Heather and Matt reflecting on the need for continuous innovation and creativity to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving vacation rental market. They encourage listeners to embrace new ideas and approaches, emphasizing the importance of being open to change. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://thrive.vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS560

This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today ______________________________________________________________________ There’s been a lot of talk over the airwaves recently about the value of conferences - why we attend them, what makes some more unique than others and what the industry could do differently. It’s a conversation we need to have. Fresh from the VRNation event in Boise, Heather shares her thoughts on the new look for the former Northwest Vacation Rental Professionals(NWVRP) and talks to outgoing President, Brian Olson and the new executive - President Matt Tesdall and Vice President Tera Lorimer. She also explores the innovative platform Scouted.com, which has partnered with VRNation to offer unique local experiences to travelers, and speaks with their CMO, Jess Fuhrman. ______________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://thrive.vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS559

This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today ______________________________________________________________________ Trust is the cornerstone of our business.  Owners needs to trust managers and OTAs to market their properties successfully, guests have to trust their hosts to deliver on their promises, and mutual trust underpins the relationships between the community and the short-term rentals that operate in their locales. In this episode Heather delves deep into the concept of trust with Dr. Yoram Solomon, an innovator and globally recognized thought leader. Yoram, celebrated for his extensive work on trust and its pivotal role in organizational success, brings his insights into the vacation rental industry, sharing invaluable strategies to build and maintain trust with guests and property owners alike. He discusses the essential nature of trust in all business interactions and its profound impact on a company’s reputation and operational success. With his rich background in technology, business management, and as a prolific author, he offers practical advice that can be implemented immediately by vacation rental managers. Whether you’re a seasoned vacation rental manager or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights that can help you set your business apart by cultivating a trustworthy brand. Dr. Solomon’s advice will not only help you improve your interactions with guests and owners, but also boost your overall business performance by fostering a culture of trust. ______________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://thrive.vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS558

This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today ______________________________________________________________________ Being a property manager is more than just acquiring homes, sourcing guests and creating experiences for them.  It’s about making a mark in the local area and being seen as an effective community partner and advocate. In this episode, Heather is joined by industry veteran, Kirsten King from Curate Telluride, a vacation rental management company with a strong community focus. Kirsten shares her journey from starting Big Sky Vacation Rentals to her current venture, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of running a vacation rental business in small, destination towns. She draws on these experiences to share advice and suggestions for vacation rental managers who want to integrate community-centric practices into their business models. Kirsten talks about the strategic shift in her business approach towards community involvement, partnerships with local non-profits, and how these collaborations make the  guest experiences so much better while contributing to  community well-being. Heather and Kirsten delve into the dynamics of managing vacation rental properties in competitive markets, the role of trust and values in business operations, and the potential impacts of short-term rentals on local communities. ______________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://thrive.vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS557

This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today ______________________________________________________________________ Getting involved in advocacy means more than just making a token appearance at a council meeting when they are discussing short term rental issues.  It means having a voice and getting a seat at the table.  When Ben Pereira started to build his Yukon-based business, he took this seriously and realized that you have to show up to be heard.  Now, as the Chair of the Housing Committee on Whitehorse City Council, he can make his stakeholders' views known and considered. In this episode, Ben talks about the uniqueness of his business, which involves a wide range of guest personas, from sports teams and adventure seekers to families preparing for imminent childbirth.   It’s a fascinating look into a model of business that requires a good deal of flexibility, tolerance, and empathy.  On top of that, there’s the ever-present threat of regulations, and we hear how Ben uses his position to share the benefits of short-term rentals in his community. ______________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://thrive.vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS556

This episode is sponsored by Lodgify, an all-in-one solution that will help you start, manage, and grow your short-term rental business. Use Code VRF10 for 10% off their Professional and Ultimate yearly plans > Click here to visit Lodgify.com to start your free trial today Today’s guest is on a mission to solve industry- wide problems that few others are prepared to trial. She says it’s for good reason – because they aren’t easy. Undeterred (or just belligerent) Rachel rolls her sleeves up, weighs stinky bins, asks a lot of questions, raises funds and collaborates across the industry to create change. It’s a great story. In 2011, with a very small baby in tow, Rachel started renting her cottage. She ran it for 4 years before she set up New Forest Escapes, partly with the goal of encouraging more people to holiday in the UK, reducing travel emissions and making UK holidays an alternative to overseas family travel. Her experience in sustainable projects and travel over the years makes her uniquely suitable to be leading the way in greener tourism.  We hear how and why she went down the route of gaining B-Corp certification and what she is doing now to ensure those who stay in her properties benefit from the work she’s done. The whole conversation about sustainability is so relevant to the work we’re doing on our THRIVE training system.  In the module on Responsibility there’s a lesson on Environmental Responsibilities, and now I can put the New Forest Escapes website into the Resources section and include information on B-Corp Certification. This is the joy of continuous learning - that it never stops evolving as we come across new things to share.  If you are interested in finding out more about THRIVE, just check below. In the episode, Rachel shares: Her journey into sustainable rentals Why you shouldn’t mention the ‘S’ word & the better alternatives What goes into B-Corp certification A simple furniture change that will wow your guests (and their feathered friends) How weighing stinky bins can help change minds Simple things that make a real difference Ways to help guests get greener   Links: New Forest Escapes B-Corp Certification Intrepid Travel Exodus Travels Pura Aventura Much Better Adventures Sawday’s THRIVE  ___________________________________________________________________________ Discover the THRIVE Training System and attend an information session to get your questions answered about our foundational team training: https://thrive.vacationrentalformula.com/thrive-live-webinar Are you listening to this podcast on the move? Get to the show notes here: https://www.vacationrentalformula.com/VRS555