Are you worried that partnering with family in real estate will strain your relationships? In this episode, I sit down with Annchen Knodt, a neuroscience researcher who joined my STR Accelerator program during its very first beta launch. Annchen’s story is a powerful example of how building an Airbnb business with family can work—even when things get messy. She opens up about the reality of partnering with her parents: the disagreements that got heated, what it felt like to be outvoted, and the boundaries they created to protect family dinners from turning into business meetings. Annchen also faced another challenge—having a spouse who wasn’t sold on the time and energy she was putting into real estate investing. She shares the loneliness of being the only one in her circle excited about Airbnb and short-term rentals, and how finding a community of like-minded women gave her the courage to keep moving forward. From waking up early to analyze deals before heading into the lab, to answering Airbnb guest messages between experiments, Annchen’s dedication shows what’s possible when you refuse to let excuses hold you back. She even reveals the breakthrough moment she realized she was much closer to financial freedom than she thought. Her journey proves that success in Airbnb and real estate isn’t always about scaling fast or building an empire—it’s about creating a business that supports the life you truly want. With the right systems, boundaries, and support, both family and business can thrive side by side. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:06] A short introduction about our guest Annchen Knodt and what she does outside the short-term rental space [05:38] Annchen shares how she overcame the common fear of partnerships especially when working with her parents [08:59] Annchen recounts the process of deciding to sell one of the long-term properties she co-owned with her parents in Texas [11:11] How a major challenge tested Annchen’s family partnership and revealed the importance of balancing values with business decisions [14:45] Annchen shares how blending business with family creates harmony rather than conflict [17:30] Annchen opens up about the challenges of pursuing real estate when her spouse shows little interest and how she found strength through community and mindset  [21:44] How accountability pods provided the structure, support, and community Annchen needed to set goals, stay consistent, and feel less alone in her real estate journey [26:20] How redefining success beyond rapid portfolio growth allowed Annchen to embrace financial independence more holistically and prioritize family, passive investing, and a fuller life  [30:05] Annchen shares how embracing pivots and diversification clarified her dream life, strengthened harmony at home, and renewed her joy in the process [35:59] How finding and building community has been essential for overcoming isolation in real estate investing and hosting [38:02] The lightning round  Golden Nuggets: “Life is way too short not to enjoy what you're doing.” “If you really want to achieve something that's beyond your comfort zone, that's pushing the boundaries of what you've done in the past.” “At the end of the day, living your best life is knowing what you want.” “Look for a coaching program. Join a coaching program. It's always worth the investment. Talk to other people who are already in the program to get some feedback. From them, you can learn pretty quickly whether it's worth the investment.” “Live below your means, something that I had been taught growing up, basically, but it's what's put me in the position, to be able to invest fairly early in life, and then to be able to achieve financial independence fairly early in life.” Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

What if the career you’d worked decades to build was the very thing holding you back from the life you actually wanted? In this episode, I sit down with Kerri Gibson, a former CPA who built a thriving hospitality empire in Quebec. After 22 years in tax and accounting software, Kerri’s breaking point became her breakthrough when a simple house flip spiraled into seven renovated ski chalets—and eventually a full-scale motel transformation. Kerri opens up about the toll of burnout and the moments she missed with family because work always came first. She shares how she and partner Philip navigated the tricky shift from colleagues to business partners to spouses working side by side, and how a few uncomfortable conversations ultimately strengthened both their relationship and their business. Most impressively, Kerri has achieved what many hospitality owners dream of: 70% direct bookings through her own website—without relying on OTAs. She walks us through the exact strategies she built from the ground up, plus how she infused their signature “hygge” concept into a roadside motel, transforming it into a place where guests connect and create lasting memories. Packed with real-world advice and hard-earned wisdom, this episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling stuck—whether you’re plotting your escape from corporate life or striving to build a hospitality business that truly reflects your values. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:16] A short introduction about our guest Kerri Gibson and how she got into the world of short-term rentals [03:27] Kerri shares her journey from from CPA to tech leader in tax and accounting software [06:28] Kerri’s breaking point that pushed her to leave the corporate world [13:20] Kerri reveals her two-question strategy for making big decisions without a support system [21:06] Kerri recounts her journey from renovating distressed chalets to revitalizing a roadside motel  [25:39]  Kerri outlines her vision to reinvent the roadside motel experience through Scandinavian-inspired design and communal spaces [30:17] The challenges and growth that come from defining roles when running a business with a spouse [38:04] How Kerri shifted from relying entirely on OTAs to achieving 70% direct bookings [45:15] The power of starting early with a strategy and evolving it over time [48:08] Kerri talks about her self-taught marketing journey and how she strategically brought in outside expertise [52:39] The lightning round  Golden Nuggets: • “Find coziness, comfort and the simplicity of the small moments of life surrounded by those that you love the most.” • “I had to learn to find space for him to be a part of the business and flourish. And as we've defined, find our swim lanes, which is super important. It's allowed us to find, like these great things that go in sync together. You know, the Ying and the Yang.” • “Never, ever, ever build your house on someone else's land, no matter how small you are.” • “You have to create the strategy, then go implement the strategy. But without that strategy-first approach, it's just like throwing spaghetti at the wall and hoping that something works.” • “There's nothing you can't do, or nothing you can't be, there's only what you're willing to work for.” This episode is brought to you by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Lodgify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! 👉 Use the code STRSH20 at checkout for 20% off any yearly plan and start owning your bookings today. 🔗 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit Lodgify.com Let’s Connect! LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/kerri-gibson-cpaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerri_reinventedEnjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

In this mind-opening episode, I sit down with Dawn Asher, the creative force behind The Olive Jar, to explore the powerful intersection of neuroscience and hospitality marketing. Dawn isn't your typical branding expert—she’s a master of emotional design, turning short-term rentals into sensory-rich experiences that guests rave about (and return to). We dive into the science of human behavior, breaking down how neurochemicals like dopamine and oxytocin shape memory, emotion, and connection. Dawn reveals how to harness these neurological triggers through intentional design choices, subtle surprises, and personalized moments that leave a lasting impact. This episode is packed with practical strategies that go far beyond throw pillows and curated art. We’ll challenge the traditional idea of luxury and explore why true hospitality is about making guests feel understood, valued, and emotionally engaged. You’ll walk away with fresh inspiration—and a toolkit rooted in science—to turn your property into a story your guests won’t stop talking about. Tune in now and discover the neuroscience behind next-level guest experiences! HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:14] A short introduction about our guest Dawn Asher and introduces her creative studio that enhances the guest experience through immersive marketing and storytelling [03:33] Dawn explains the science behind memorable guest experiences and how hosts can use neurological triggers to build trust and emotional connection [09:32] Dawn and I discuss the myth that five-star reviews stem solely from luxury items and consider where emphasis should be placed to ensure guest satisfaction [13:10] Dawn’s advice to decoding guest identity to create deeper brand resonance  [17:10] How hosts can uncover what their ideal guests want and use it to create emotionally resonant experiences [22:30] Why emotional intelligence is the real driver of STR success [29:25] How thoughtful post-checkout nurturing helps to shift from transactional stays to lifelong touchpoints [33:34] Dawn dives into the often-overlooked treasure trove of travel content and inspiration that exists online  [36:11] Dawn talks about how to use AI as a brand amplifier  [37:47] Dawn reveals how hidden design details spark memorable dopamine hits [42:25] Dawn shares the importance of listening to your turnover team as a key source of insight into what guests actually use and what might just be taking up space [45:53] The lightning round  Golden Nuggets: • “The more that you do to build that trust with your traveler, when those bumps come, there is going to be less friction.” • “If you've been nurturing that relationship long before they arrive, you're activating that hippocampus to tell them you're safe. I've got you. I'm gonna get this taken care of.” • “The best way to get five star reviews, we have to actually provide five star service, and the rest will follow.” • “If you're in this business, you have to invest in yourself personally. You have to care about that traveler that you're serving. And if you don't, you will keep hitting this wall.” • “It's about creating an experience for a guest that they're going to remember and come back to us. And we don't do that through the bottom line of a P& L.” This episode is brought to you by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Lodgify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! 👉 Use the code STRSH20 at checkout for 20% off any yearly plan and start owning your bookings today. 🔗 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit Lodgify.com Let’s Connect! Website: www.theolivejar.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theolivejar.co/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

Have you ever wondered if there’s a smarter, more profitable way to rent your property—hidden in plain sight? In this episode, I sit down with Aisha Govani—a dynamic entrepreneur who turned financial rock bottom into a midterm rental success story. From living in her in-laws' basement with two young kids and zero income during COVID, Aisha and her husband rewrote their future through grit, resilience, and an entirely new approach to real estate. We dive into the world of midterm rentals, where Aisha reveals how this overlooked strategy can be your golden ticket—especially if you’re battling short-term rental restrictions. She breaks down how she built a thriving platform connecting independent hosts with corporate clients, turning properties into profit through business-to-business bookings. You’ll get actionable tips on everything from cold calling corporate contacts, networking with relocation agencies, to landing contracts with insurance companies. Aisha peels back the curtain on how to structure deals, vet hosts, and maximize bookings—all while building a sustainable, values-driven business. This isn’t just a roadmap for better bookings—it’s a blueprint for reinvention. Aisha’s story will challenge you to rethink your strategy and show you what’s possible when you bet on yourself. Get ready to turn resilience into revenue and learn why midterm rentals are the smart investor’s next big move! HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:01] A short introduction about our guest Aisha Govani and her journey from nonprofit work to real estate entrepreneurship [06:07] Aisha recalls the tough COVID days living in her in-laws’ basement, where grit triumphed over fear [09:56] The importance of commitment over hesitation, framing failure as an essential step toward mastery and fulfillment [13:30] How Aisha’s own entrepreneurial evolution reshaped her view on education to empower her children with personalized, real-world education inspired by her entrepreneurial growth [17:18] Aisha talks about the intensive work behind securing B2B midterm rental bookings and how her platform simplifies access for independent hosts  [22:45] Aisha explains why cold calling often triggers discomfort and shares the key to overcoming  [25:38] Aisha breaks down how to identify decision-makers for B2B bookings and highlights the mindset and approach needed to succeed in cold calling  [30:49] How Aisha’s midterm rental platform connects hosts to both B2C and B2B bookings with a focus on ease and quality of guests [32:24] Aisha + details the streamlined vetting process for hosts on her platform and highlights high-demand areas, especially in the Greater Toronto Area  [35:57] The lightning round  Golden Nuggets: “Decide and ignore the noise.” “I always choose grit over fear.” “There are days I wake up and I'm like, should I be doing this? Is this the right choice? What have I decided to do? Can I even do this? Am I capable of doing what I think I can do? And when those questions come into your brain, you're really the only one that can quiet it. So I always try to choose, one foot, one foot, one foot. Don't worry about the rest of the race.” “We have to commit to what we want first before we do anything else.” “What I would say to anyone who's trying to cold call anything is, when you call that person, you speak to them like you're providing a solution for their problem.” “It's going to be harder than you think, but networking is going to be a large part of the answer.” “If you work on your mind and your body, all else will align. This episode is brought to you by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Lodgify⁠⁠⁠⁠! 👉 Use the code STRSH20 at checkout for 20% off any yearly plan and start owning your bookings today. 🔗 ⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit Lodgify.com Let’s Connect! Website: https://aishagovani.com/ https://midtermrentalproperties.com/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

Are you ready to transform your short-term rental business from a chaotic side hustle into a thriving, systemized empire? In this episode, I sit down with Kit Leggett, a fearless entrepreneur who went from jobless during COVID to managing 35+ properties —and building a business culture so powerful, her team calls it their favorite place to work. Kit’s journey is anything but ordinary. After losing her job, she took a leap of faith, and started investing in real estate. But what truly sets her apart isn’t just the number of properties—it’s the heart behind her business. She’s created a supportive, women-powered team where flexibility is real, kids are welcome at work, and team bonding includes zip-lining adventures. We dive into how Kit scaled her business, the software that keeps things running smoothly, and the mindset shifts that helped her overcome the fear of growing too fast. Her story is a powerful mix of resilience, innovation, and redefining leadership in an industry that often overlooks the human side of success. If you're dreaming of your first rental or ready to scale with soul, this episode will inspire you to build a business that thrives—from the inside out! HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:04] A short introduction about our guest Kit Leggett and what made her decide to start in the world of short-term rentals [05:15] Kit shares what sparked her first STR listing during COVID, jumpstarting her journey in a booming market [07:04] Kit recounts the emotional toll of doing everything herself early on, leading to a breakdown that pushed her to finally ask for help [11:48] How hiring a local, all-women team transformed Kit’s business and became a mission-driven extension of her values [13:59] Kit shares her client reactions and the day-to-day logistics of working with kids  [16:33] What inspired Kim to create a work culture where kids are welcome [19:09] How Kit’s team-first mindset and hands-on leadership organically created a loyal, supportive culture among her all-women staff [24:25] Kit describes how she plans team activities organically and affordably, focusing on connection rather than formal budgets [28:31] Kit shares how a casual coffee chat led to acquiring 13 hosting contracts through an informal but strategic business offer [31:44] How Kit calculated a fair purchase price for hosting contracts using a practical, grounded approach [34:15] Kit reveals how she financed her contract acquisition that did not require upfront cash [36:01] Kit shares the single biggest factor enabling her to manage over 35 properties [38:33] Kit’s perception of failure and her response to setbacks [40:04] Kit reveals a game-changer software for automating operations and managing cleanings at scale [42:37] How Kit structures scheduling and autonomy for her cleaning team [44:44] Kit shares about her plan to expand beyond her local market [47:11] The lightning round  Golden Nuggets: “When we find good team members, they're like gold to our businesses, and we want to do everything we can to keep them.” “I just love supporting women, and we're a tight knit group, and we really rely on each other, and help each other.” “Any kind of culture starts at the top, and works its way down.” “When your team knows that you will bend over backwards to help them, they will do the same for you.” “It's so important to test different things on the journey of continuous improvement. But give yourself grace when it doesn't work out and you have to pivot, that's okay.” “The cleaners are the backbone of the business. And if you don't have a good team or good systems in place with good software, then you're going to be scrambling.” “Surround yourself with people that do encourage you and do help you.” Let’s Connect! Website: https://stayinthevalley.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stayinthevalley/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

Want to turn your Airbnb or vacation rental into a brand’s secret marketing playground? In this episode, I’m joined by Rachel Vigil from Up Close Marketing to uncover a powerful product placement strategy that’s making waves in the short-term rental industry. Whether you host an Airbnb, manage multiple short-term rentals, or operate a high-end vacation rental, this episode will show you how to attract brand partnerships that elevate your guest experience and your bottom line.Imagine stocking your Airbnb with premium products—without spending a dime. Rachel shares how she built a revolutionary platform that connects vacation rental hosts with brands looking to reach travelers in a more authentic, memorable way. No cold pitching. No hidden fees. Just powerful partnerships that make your short-term rental stand out.You’ll learn: How product placement works in the vacation rental space What brands are actually looking for in an Airbnb host or property How to make your short-term rental irresistible to marketing partners Ways to enhance your guest experience while earning perks and profit If you’re ready to transform your Airbnb or short-term rental into a brand magnet, this episode is your step-by-step guide. Tune in and discover how your vacation rental can go from hidden gem to marketing goldmine. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:00] A short introduction about our guest Rachel Vigil and how she transitioned from rental to launching a product sampling company for vacation rentals [03:21] Rachel breaks down the tactical side of product placement in short-term rentals [05:15] Rachel explains the simple but specific requirements for hosts participating in product placement programs [07:55] Rachel shares brand-specific property requirements and guest demographics to align with their marketing goals [10:28] Rachel identifies categories of products that may not be ideal for placement due to safety, regulation, or guest perception [12:19] The strategies hosts can introduce free product placements to enhance guest experience and brand engagement [14:38] How often would a host expect to be able to get new products for their properties [15:41] Rachel shares how hosts and property managers can streamline logistics when receiving and stocking product placements in their short-term rentals [18:51] How new hosts can easily sign up and onboard their properties to start receiving product placement opportunities [20:48] Rachel addresses common hesitations from hosts who may think product placement is too much work—especially for their cleaners [22:50] Rachel’s favorite product placements in her own rentals, naming a massive, durable outdoor speaker paired with an outdoor projector to create a cinematic backyard experience [24:26] Rachel encourages hosts to pitch product ideas—especially if they can help make brand connections, which can lead to mutual benefit [25:26] Rachel discusses the exciting future of Up Close Marketing, including potential expansion into untapped markets [27:30] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “It is so competitive right now, and what you have control of is what is inside your property.” “Don't keep it a secret, share it; because it'll just bring us more brands.” “Direct bookings - I wish I had started that from the beginning so that I could have really gathered every single guest who has stayed in my properties over those years.” “Real estate investing is about leverage and making sure our money is working hard for us.” “If you are young enough to afford the time to take the risk, you know it's going to pay off in the end.” Let’s Connect! Email: info@upclosemktg.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/upclosemarketing Instagram: www.instagram.com/upclosemarketing Website: upclosemktg.com Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

In this episode, I sit down with dashboard and data visualization expert Carolyn O’Brien, who’s on a mission to make data not just understandable—but actionable. Carolyn shares her journey to becoming a data visualization guru, helping entrepreneurs ditch the overwhelm and step confidently into data-driven decision-making. Together, we dive into how visualizing your business metrics—through simple, beautiful dashboards—can unlock powerful strategic insights. Think you’re “not a numbers person”? Think again. Carolyn walks us through how anyone can build a custom dashboard that tells you exactly what’s working (and what’s not)—from property performance and booking trends to revenue optimization and ROI. And here’s the best part: Carolyn and I are teaming up for a three-day “Data to Dollars Challenge” this August! You’ll learn how to build your very own real-time, visually stunning dashboard that helps you grow smarter, not harder. Whether you’re managing a single unit or scaling a full portfolio, this episode will change the way you think about data forever. No more guessing. No more overwhelm. Just clarity, confidence, and serious business intelligence. Let’s turn your data into dollars! Here is the link to join the challenge! HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:17] A short introduction about our guest Carolyn O’Brien and how she help business owners understand data and metrics [03:28] Carolyn shares the game-changing power of visualizing business data and her clients’ feedback [04:27] Carolyn emphasizes that data doesn’t have to be overwhelming—especially for those intimidated by spreadsheets [06:56] Carolyn’s strategy for making data review a weekly habit that drives better business decisions [08:36] Carolyn’s perspective on how clarity with numbers transforms business decisions [12:36] How clear, visual data not only improves business strategy but also strengthens communication between partners who co-invest [15:08] Carolyn explains how visual dashboards empower women to confidently engage with their numbers [22:38] How Carolyn's dashboard design unlocks smarter decisions in the short-term rental space [23:57] Carolyn emphasizes the value of integrating Airbnb data into custom dashboards to offer clarity and context for short-term rental owners [25:38] Introducing “The Data to Dollars Challenge” – a three day challenge to empower and help short-term rental hosts turn their data into actionable business insights [29:07] Carolyn offers advice to anyone intimidated by numbers or spreadsheets, especially those intrigued by the upcoming workshop but feeling hesitant [30:04] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “Getting started doesn't mean tracking everything, because tracking too many numbers is almost just as bad as not tracking anything at all.” “Data can help back up so many different decisions, no matter what type of business you're in, no matter what size of business you're in.” “It's so critically important now, even more than ever, that we are making strategic decisions when it comes to our portfolio, when it comes to our investing, when it comes to perhaps what properties we want to, you know, redeploy money from.” “Sometimes you can learn from someone what not to do, which is more helpful than someone telling you what to do.” This episode is brought to you by ⁠⁠⁠Lodgify⁠⁠⁠! Ready to take control of your vacation rental business? With Lodgify, you can build your own direct booking website and manage all your reservations in one place — no middleman, no extra fees. 👉 Use the code STRSH20 at checkout for 20% off any yearly plan and start owning your bookings today. 🔗 ⁠⁠⁠Visit Lodgify.com Let’s Connect! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynobrienstrategist/ Website: metricssuccess.com Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

Are you ready to turn your short-term rental from basic to breathtaking—and bankable through strategic short-term rental design? In this high-impact episode, I sit down with Ishita Lalan, a powerhouse designer who's redefining what it means to design for profitability. With a background that spans architecture, Bollywood set design, and over 300 short-term rental design projects, Ishita brings a unique, globally inspired approach to transforming properties into wealth-building machines. We explore how intentional short-term rental design can dramatically boost your property's value—sometimes by hundreds of thousands of dollars. Ishita shares the story of a once-overlooked Asheville home that skyrocketed from $850,000 to $2.1 million in just four months through targeted design upgrades. But this conversation goes way beyond aesthetics. From maximizing "heads in beds" to leveraging market-specific design strategies, Ishita reveals the behind-the-scenes decisions that separate top-performing rentals from the rest. She also unpacks the costly mistakes investors often make—and how to avoid them if you want real ROI. If you're ready to see your short-term rental as both a stunning space and a serious investment, this episode will show you exactly how to design with purpose, power, and profit in mind. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [00:59] A short introduction about our guest Ishita Lalan and shares the foundation of her work as both an investor and a designer [03:12] Ishita shares how short-term rental design makes it the perfect culmination of her life experiences and professional passions [08:36] What are some of the best upgrades that Ishita is seeing to drive impact when it comes to return on investment with property upgrades these days [15:11] How Ishita manages multiple projects across different geographies successfully and opens up about a challenging project in Tennessee that didn’t go as planned [19:03] Ishita breaks down how thoughtful design, strategic layout changes, and underutilized space conversions can unlock major equity gains and long-term wealth [27:09] What are some of the most common mistakes that Ishita is seeing these days in short term rental design [31:34] Ishita shares how strategic design—even within the confines of a small condo—can create impact, boost functionality, and help listings stand out [37:52] Ishita shares how thoughtful, minimalist, and upscale design plays just as vital a role in urban rentals as it does in vacation properties [43:22] Ishita explains the importance of the design process should be collaborative, phased, and tailored—not a one-size-fits-all handoff [45:52] Why Ishita encourages getting a designer and emphasizes the importance of designing with detachment, market appeal, and long-term goals in mind [48:49] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “Short term rental has been a game changer in my life as an investor. It has literally changed our lives, not only my own, but it had a ripple effect in our family's life as well. We are able to have financial freedom.” “We need to be able to be in constant communication with our contractors. And setting expectations for those contractors is absolutely critical.” “I'm a big believer that a vacation should start from the minute your guest steps in on your doorstep, and they should feel like that's where the vacation starts.” This episode is brought to you by ⁠Lodgify⁠! Ready to take control of your vacation rental business? With Lodgify, you can build your own direct booking website and manage all your reservations in one place — no middleman, no extra fees. 👉 Use the code STRSH20 at checkout for 20% off any yearly plan and start owning your bookings today. 🔗 ⁠Visit Lodgify.com Let’s Connect! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ishita.interiors Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ishita.nagda/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

What if the key to building your dream Airbnb business was hidden inside a bold decision—and one life-changing Facebook ad? In this powerful episode of The STR Sisterhood podcast, I sit down with Anja Schaer, a fearless short-term rental investor whose journey is anything but ordinary. From growing up behind the Berlin Wall to building a thriving portfolio of Airbnb and mid-term rental properties in Atlanta, Anja’s story is a masterclass in reinvention and real estate success. We talk about her surprising pivot—from running a lighting store to diving headfirst into the world of Airbnb hosting and property investing. It all began with a single Facebook ad and a $35,000 coaching program that changed the trajectory of her life. Anja shares the mindset shifts that helped her break free from limiting beliefs, the power of risk in growing a short-term rental business, and how her East German upbringing shaped her relentless pursuit of freedom and financial independence. But this episode isn’t just about real estate—it’s about reclaiming your story and designing a life you love. Anja also reveals how she’s using hybrid rental strategies (think Airbnb meets mid-term stays) to scale smarter—and how she's empowering other women to build wealth through property-backed income. If you’ve ever felt the pull to do something bigger, this episode is for you. You’ll walk away with inspiration, practical takeaways for your Airbnb business, and a fresh reminder that sometimes the boldest leaps bring the biggest rewards. Tune in now—and get ready to dream bigger, invest smarter, and live life on your terms. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:30] A short introduction about our guest Anja Schaer and a glimpse on her short-term rental portfolio [02:47] How Anja’s journey from East Germany to the U.S. shaped her mindset around risk, freedom, and money [09:22] How the fall of the Berlin Wall and reunification of Germany impacted her emotionally and shaped her worldview [17:38] Anja and her husband’s transition from a lighting business to real estate investing [24:06] Anja’s view on balancing education and action when taking a leap into something new [35:52] How building and being part of communities provided Anja with emotional support, strategic feedback, and validation during pivots in her business journey [45:41] Anja talks about her book, The Hybrid Rental Strategy —based entirely on her real-life experiences and experiments [50:32] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “We just have to be open to new things, to be ready to adapt, not holding onto old structures for too long, keeping our eyes open for opportunities.” “There's always good things and bad things. It's just weighing your options and making a decision that aligns with your goals, that aligns with your values.” “Jump and grow your wings on the way down.” “It might feel hard and uncomfortable for now, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. Just keep on going, push through.” “The power of a community is not only having the ability to ask questions and get plugged into formalized education, but also learning from other people's challenges before it ever occurs in our own businesses.” Resources Mentioned: Live Big Book : https://tinyurl.com/mvdvetb6 The Hybrid Rental Strategy : https://tinyurl.com/48hskfrs This episode is brought to you by ⁠Lodgify⁠! Ready to take control of your vacation rental business? With Lodgify, you can build your own direct booking website and manage all your reservations in one place — no middleman, no extra fees. 👉 Use the code STRSH20 at checkout for 20% off any yearly plan and start owning your bookings today. 🔗 ⁠Visit Lodgify.com Let’s Connect! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anja_invests/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

Are you ready to unlock the true magic of hosting in the Airbnb and short-term rental world? In this heartfelt episode of The STR Sisterhood podcast, I sit down with the amazing Jodie Odlin—the visionary behind the global Hospitable Hosts movement. What started as a leap of faith in the Cotswolds has grown into a worldwide celebration of heart-led hosting and elevated guest experiences. We dive deep into what hospitality really means—and spoiler alert: it’s not just about clean linens or five-star reviews. It’s about human connection. It’s about storytelling. It’s about showing up with soul and creating spaces that leave a lasting impact on every guest who walks through your door. Jodie shares how following her intuition and leading with love helped her turn a single short-term rental into something far greater—a movement that’s redefining what it means to be a host. We also chat about the bold new STR Sisterhood Edition of Hospitable Hosts—a one-of-a-kind collaboration featuring 40 powerhouse women in the short-term rental industry. This isn’t just another book. It’s a movement rooted in empowerment, authenticity, and purpose-driven hosting. Whether you're an Airbnb host, a short-term rental investor, or simply someone who believes in the power of hospitality to change lives, this conversation will leave you inspired to lead with heart—and scale with soul. Want to become a featured author in the STR Sisterhood Edition of Hospitable Hosts? Get all the details here: https://www.hospitablehosts.com/HHSTRSisterhoodEdition Let this episode remind you: Hosting isn’t just a business model—it’s a calling. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:23] A short introduction about our guest Jodie Odlin and how she got started in the world of short-term rentals [10:09] Jodie shares how the idea for Hospitable Hosts was born [14:34] How publishing the Hospitable Hosts books transformed Jodie’s life [22:27] Jodie highlights the powerful shift from “trying” to deciding and how taking committed action must also align with the season of life you’re in [28:36] How contributing to Hospitable Hosts Volume One sparked my journey I never imagined – writing my own book [35:10] Jodie highlights the transformational ripple effect of storytelling, how contributing even one chapter can unlock purpose and confidence, and encourages everyone [40:27] Jodie and I announce our newest collaboration—Hospitable Hosts: STR Sisterhood Edition—a global anthology celebrating the personal and professional journeys of women in the short-term rental space [45:06] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “Hospitality skills are a learned skill.” “Trust your gut and your intuition. I call it your GodRod. Your GodRod will lead you, naturally and organically to people and opportunities that you may not have had in your five year plan.” “People do get too caught up in when they're so set on these five year plans, and it doesn't happen, they get disappointed. Don't see it as a disappointment. See what was the opportunity that you could have learned from.” “Just think big, Be open. Be open to everything.” This episode is brought to you by Lodgify! Ready to take control of your vacation rental business? With Lodgify, you can build your own direct booking website and manage all your reservations in one place — no middleman, no extra fees. 👉 Use the code STRSH20 at checkout for 20% off any yearly plan and start owning your bookings today. 🔗 Visit Lodgify.com Resources Mentioned: STR Sisterhood Edition of Hospitable Hosts: https://www.hospitablehosts.com/HHSTRSisterhoodEdition Let’s Connect! Website: hospitablehosts.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hospitablehosts/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

Are you an Airbnb host or short-term rental investor wondering what legal pitfalls could derail your entire business? In this must-listen episode, I sit down with powerhouse attorney and STR host Katie Johnson—who’s not just navigating the short-term rental industry, she’s on the front lines fighting to protect it. What began as a side hustle hosting on Airbnb quickly escalated into a legal battle when her Michigan township tried to shut down vacation rentals with a sweeping ban. Katie shares her eye-opening journey from new Airbnb host to legal advocate for over 100 property owners—and why this fight could affect every short-term rental operator across the country. We’re talking: The biggest legal mistakes Airbnb hosts and STR investors make Why surface-level research isn’t enough when buying a short-term rental property How deed restrictions and local zoning laws can quietly kill your cash flow And why having a STR-savvy real estate attorney is no longer optional Katie is on a mission to educate, empower, and protect Airbnb hosts and vacation rental owners who feel like they’re at the mercy of shifting regulations. This episode isn’t just about legal fine print—it’s about defending your right to host, protecting your real estate investment, and understanding the legal foundation your STR business must be built on.If you’re serious about growing a profitable, long-term Airbnb business, this legal deep dive is your non-negotiable wake-up call. Don’t miss it. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:19] A short introduction about our guest Katie Johnson and how she got started in the short term rental space [04:22] What is a Deed Restriction and why should short term rental owners be on the lookout for them [07:05] Michigan’s interpretation of residential zoning in relation to rental types [08:04] What should you do if you encounter unclear language in a Deed Restriction or zoning rule [08:54] Katie explains how deed restrictions are typically created and is there a way to get it removed [11:05] Katie weighs the risks of self-research versus hiring an attorney for deed restrictions [14:01] Katie shares her firsthand experience challenging a short-term rental ban in Park Township, Michigan [16:44] Katie outlines the process of organizing short-term rental owners in response to a local ban [18:00] How the short-term rental owner coalition quickly scaled, structured funding, and secured major legal support [22:18] Katie outlines the ideal mix of skills and roles needed to build an effective nonprofit board for STR advocacy [24:52] Katie’s experience navigating post-lawsuit challenges to preserve STR rights in Park Township [27:10] Katie’s shares her personal and professional transformation through STR litigation involvement [29:33] What does Katie advise hosts who are facing similar scenarios involving local restrictions or ordinances [32:37] Katie’s advice for women in STRs to protect themselves and their businesses [34:49] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “Getting organized and banding together, finding an attorney, a local attorney, ideally, that knows the board or knows the town that you're dealing with to help you navigate through this process, is the best advice I can give anyone.” “Finding people who are doing the same things, finding people who are thinking big like you, that's been immensely helpful.” “If the numbers work, you should buy it like you can buy everything you can. So I wish I had started buying earlier.” “How you do anything is how you do everything.” Let’s Connect! Website: katiejohnsonplc.com Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

Are you drowning in the operational chaos of managing short-term rentals or Airbnb properties? What if there were an AI-powered property management solution that could give you back your time, your sanity, and your passion for hospitality? In this episode, I sit down with Erika and Lana from Jurny—a revolutionary AI-driven platform that’s transforming how Airbnb hosts and short-term rental property managers run their businesses. Imagine a smart system that handles automated guest communication, manages phone reservations, optimizes Airbnb and vacation rental listings, and delivers personalized guest experiences—all while maintaining your brand voice. That’s not a dream—it’s Jurny. We dive into how this all-in-one platform goes beyond automation to empower Airbnb hosts and vacation rental managers to streamline daily operations, reduce manual tasks, and bring joy back into their hospitality business. Erika and Lana share how their own struggles in short-term rental management led them to build a solution designed to save time, reduce burnout, and help hosts thrive in today’s competitive market. If you're ready to simplify your short-term rental workflow, eliminate operational overwhelm, and reignite your love for hosting, this episode is your sneak peek into what’s possible with AI-powered property management. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:25] A short introduction about our guests Erika and Lana of Jurny, a vacation rental property management platform [07:21] What is Jurney, and how it helps short-term rental hosts and property managers simplify operations and reclaim their time [13:34] How Jurney’s AI-driven communication system, Nia, supports hosts while preserving brand tone and guest trust [20:51] How hosts can stay in control of guest messaging with Jurney’s AI, using assisted mode and feedback loops [22:38] How hosts are using Jurney’s network of AI agents to streamline operations, improve guest service, and optimize performance [25:46] Jurney’s approach to integration streamlines platform connectivity for property managers [28:36] How Jurney’s use of digital welcome guides enhances the guest experience through its integrated app [30:15] Jurney’s upcoming features and community focus aim to empower hosts through smarter automation [33:31] Erika and Lana’s favorite aspects of working at Jurney [37:23] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “I love communities. The power of your community is so incredible, and not only to provide support, but to get your finger on the pulse of what other hosts are doing in other locations, whether it's across the state, across the country, or around the globe. It's tremendously helpful to learn from, from other hosts.” “Yes, we work with AI and yes, we work with technology, but there are humans behind all this technology. And we are people that are looking for ways on how to improve human life, not replace something that a robot can do better.” “Listen to your gut, we are women, right? I think we have a very well developed sense of our intuition. So listen to it, if you have something in you telling you that that's the right move, you’ve got to pull the trigger. Just do it. Don't hesitate, don't think twice. Just do it.” Let’s Connect! Website: www.jurney.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jurnyinc/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jurny Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/jurnyinc Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!