Alex and Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals

Join Alex and Annie in this insightful episode of "Alex and Annie, The Real Women of Vacation Rentals," recorded live from Panama City Beach, as they welcome Michael, a seasoned vacation rental expert, to discuss his journey in the industry. From starting a business with a solid plan to exiting and now embarking on a new venture with a focus on accessibility, Michael shares his wealth of knowledge and experience.

Michael's Journey:
Michael recounts his move to the 30A area in 2004 and the launch of his vacation rental company in 2013. He emphasizes the importance of having a business plan and seeking mentorship, which contributed to his company's organic growth.

Business Growth and Strategy:
Learn about Michael's approach to growing his vacation rental company to 41 properties and his unique strategy of treating each property as if it were his own. He shares insights on the importance of hospitality and the impact of mentorship and education in the vacation rental space.

New Business Focus on Accessibility:
Michael discusses his new mission, which centers on creating universally designed vacation rentals that are accessible to all, including those with disabilities. He shares a personal story that inspired this focus and highlights the growing demand for accessible vacation rentals.

Educational Mission:
Alex and Annie talk about their mission to educate and mentor others in the vacation rental industry. They discuss the potential of Michael's journey to serve as a learning opportunity for listeners who are starting or growing their own vacation rental businesses.

Key Takeaways:
🏡 Starting and Growing a Vacation Rental Business: Michael's story shows the benefits of a well-thought-out business plan and the organic growth that can follow.
🌟 Importance of Hospitality: Michael's Disney background influenced his approach to providing exceptional hospitality in his vacation rental business.
♿️ Focus on Accessibility: There's a significant and growing market for accessible vacation rentals, and Michael's new venture aims to address this need.
📚 Education and Mentorship: Alex and Annie's commitment to sharing knowledge and opportunities for education in the vacation rental industry.

🎧 Tune in for a captivating conversation filled with insights, challenges, and opportunities in the dynamic world of vacation rentals!

Connect with Michael
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Alex Husner | Annie HolcombeAlexAndAnniePodcast.com

Mentioned in this episode:
Streamline
Brooke Pfautz
Rosemarie Rossetti
Jacobie Olin
CJ Stam
Steve Trover
Lance & Elaine Stitcher
Vintory
C2G Advisors
Better Talent

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Join Alex and Annie in this exciting episode of "Alex and Annie, The Real Women of Vacation Rentals," as they sit down with Assaf Karmon, the CEO and founder of Turno. Discover Assaf's journey from being an Airbnb host to creating a revolutionary platform that transforms the vacation rental turnover process.

Assaf's Journey:
Assaf opens up about his struggles managing cleaning and turnovers as a host, leading to the birth of Turno. The hosts delve into the challenges hosts face in finding reliable cleaners and how Turno's marketplace connects hosts with vetted professionals.

Turno's Features:
Explore how Turno is the "Uber of cleaning" with the added benefit of consistent cleaners for each turnover. Assaf discusses the platform's accountability aspect, allowing hosts to review cleaners, and highlights features like customizable checklists, inventory lists, and automatic payments.

Turno's Growth:
Learn about Turno's impressive growth, now available in every US market and expanding internationally. From individual hosts to large companies, Turno scales effortlessly. The hosts touch on Turno's potential in addressing regulatory requirements and its role in the rise of co-hosts.

Special Offer:
Don't miss the exclusive offer for listeners – sign up for Turno using turno.com/alexandanniepodcast and receive a $150 Amazon gift card to elevate your hosting experience.

Key Takeaways:
🧼 Streamlining Turnovers with Turno: Turno, the "Uber of cleaning," offers reliable and consistent cleaning with customizable checklists and automatic payments.
⭐ Accountability and Reliability in Cleaning Services: Consistent cleaners for each turnover foster reliability, addressing a common industry pain point.
💰 Elevating Passive Income for Hosts: Efficient features like automatic payments empower hosts to focus on strategic aspects, fostering a hands-off, lucrative hosting experience.

Learn about the features of Turno, the benefits of reliable cleaners, and how it can help you achieve a state of passive income. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation!

Connect with Assaf Karmon:
LinkedIn

Connect with Turno:
Website | Facebook | Instagram
LinkedIn | Tiktok | YouTube | Pinterest

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Alex Husner | Annie Holcombe
AlexAndAnniePodcast.com

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In the latest episode of "Alex and Annie, the Real Women of Vacation Rentals," listeners were treated to an insightful conversation with the dynamic duo of 30A Beach Girls, Hollie and Lisa. Nestled in a stunning vacation home with the aroma of a chef's creation wafting through the air, the podcast delved into the secrets behind the success of this female-led empire in the vacation rental industry.

The Founding Story:
Hollie unveils the fascinating journey of 30A Beach Girls, from a humble housekeeping and maintenance company to a thriving management enterprise. Discover how their evolution was fueled by proactive communication and a commitment to personalized guest experiences.

Unreasonable Hospitality" and Beyond:
Explore the unique culture of 30A Beach Girls, where going above and beyond guest expectations is the norm. Learn about their approach to building lasting relationships with repeat guests and the art of adding personal touches, such as holiday home decorations.

Key Takeaways:
💃 Unique Guest Experience: The 30A Beach Girls have built their brand by offering personalized vacation experiences, leading to repeat business and a strong reputation.

📈 Strategic Growth: The company plans to expand to 200 units but will then focus on maintaining quality over quantity, being selective about the properties they manage to fit their business model.

💼 Seasonal Business Diversification: They are expanding into corporate retreats and events during off-peak seasons to provide consistent work for staff and additional revenue streams.

Join us for a conversation that's as enriching as the vacations that 30A Beach Girls curate. Subscribe, listen, and transform the way you think about vacation rentals with Alex and Annie, the Real Women of Vacation Rentals! 🌅🎧

This episode is brought to you by Turno: the smart way to schedule, pay, and find vacation rental cleaners. Join hosts and property managers worldwide who put their short-term rental and Airbnb cleaning on autopilot with Turno.

Special offer for Alex & Annie listeners: Receive $150 Amazon gift card when you try Turno and its Cleaner Marketplace. New users can sign up at turno.com/alexandanniepodcast. Search for a cleaner in your area, connect with one or more, and then complete a marketplace cleaning. Once you see how easy and simple cleaning management can be, you’ll love how much time and money you save, not to mention no more cleaning headaches!

Connect with the 30A Beach Girls
Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

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Alex Husner | Annie Holcombe
AlexAndAnniePodcast.com

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In this special first-of-the-month episode of 'Alex and Annie, the Real Women of Vacation Rentals,' hosts Alex and Annie take a nostalgic journey through 2023 and unveil exciting plans for the upcoming year.

Book Announcement:
Get ready for their upcoming book, "Connecting the Dots," where Alex and Annie delve into the biggest aha moments from their interviews with industry experts. Discover the insightful themes and lessons that will be explored in this must-read for anyone in the vacation rental sphere.

Top Five Episodes of 2023:
Join the hosts as they revisit their favorite episodes, including interviews with Marcus Räder from Hostaway, Kristin Brown from Concishare, and Melanie Brown from Key Data. Explore the valuable insights and memorable moments that made these episodes stand out.

Predictions for 2024:
Alex and Annie share their thoughts on the future of the vacation rental industry in 2024. Dive deeper into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and join the conversation by sharing your own predictions using #AlexAnnie2024.

Alex and Annie Foundation:
Learn more about the newly launched Alex and Annie Foundation, designed to support individuals in the industry looking to take the next step forward. Discover how you can get involved in their mission to elevate and empower the vacation rental community.

As the episode concludes, Alex and Annie express heartfelt gratitude to their listeners and reiterate their commitment to providing valuable content and support. Stay tuned for their adventures in 2024, including conference appearances and the ongoing efforts of the Alex and Annie Foundation. Your journey in the vacation rental community just got even more exciting.

This episode is brought to you by Rev & Research!

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Alex Husner | Annie Holcombe

AlexAndAnniePodcast.com

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In this insightful episode, hosts Alex and Annie dive deep into the world of vacation rentals with a special guest, Sarah Bradford, co-host of Sarah and T Podcast, and former owner of two successful vacation rental companies in the picturesque landscapes of Colorado.

Journey Through Experience:
Sarah begins by unraveling her rich background in the vacation rental industry, providing listeners with an intimate look into her entrepreneurial journey. She candidly shares her experiences in selling not just one but two thriving businesses, shedding light on the highs, lows, and invaluable lessons learned along the way.

Challenges of the Trade:
The discussion seamlessly transitions to the challenges and pressures inherent in running a vacation rental company. Sarah delves into the complexities of navigating regulations and effectively managing staff, providing a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the day-to-day operations of this dynamic industry.

Key Takeaways:
👩‍🏫 The Power of Mentorship: Sarah stresses the pivotal role mentors played in her career, underscoring the importance of a supportive network within the vacation rental industry.

🚦 Future Trends and Considerations: Sarah offers a forward-looking perspective, emphasizing the need for vacation rental companies to meticulously budget and track finances. She passionately advocates for dispelling misconceptions associated with vacation rentals, particularly the prevalent Airbnb stereotype.

🦺 Safety First: The conversation touches upon critical issues like liability and safety measures. Sarah passionately discusses the responsibility vacation rental professionals have in ensuring the well-being of both guests and staff.

Tune in for an engaging discussion that goes beyond the surface, offering a nuanced understanding of the vacation rental industry, its challenges, and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.

This episode is brought to you by Rev & Research!

Connect with Sarah:
LinkedIn | Podcast | Facebook

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Alex Husner | Annie Holcombe

AlexAndAnniePodcast.com

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Join us for an exclusive throwback to our most viewed episode of the year with Ben Coleman - Founder of Rev & Research, Vanessa Humes - Director of Sales & Marketing at InterCoastal Net Designs and Lance Stitcher - Broker/Owner at Seaside Vacations and Sales.

In this episode, Alex & Annie are joined by a panel of experts to help guide you on a pressing topic - How to Explain Changes in Revenue and Bookings to Your Homeowners.

2023 is not turning out to be as profitable as expected for vacation rental managers, and naturally this is causing quite a bit of turmoil for property managers, especially those who got into the business during the golden years of 2020-2022.

Some of the great insights discussed in this episode includes proactive, data-driven communication with your homeowners, as well as the importance of making sure you’re pricing appropriately for 2023 instead of making decisions like it’s still last year.

Whether you’re an individual property manager feeling the pressure of the current market, or a Vacation Rental company with hundreds of properties under management looking to safeguard your book of business - tune in to this episode to learn from our expert panel on exactly what steps to take to navigate the stormy seas of 2023 and beyond.

This episode is brought to you by Rev & Research!

Connect with Ben:
Website | LinkedIn

Connect with Vanessa:
Website | LinkedIn

Connect with Lance:
Website | LinkedIn

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Alex Husner | Annie Holcombe

AlexAndAnniePodcast.com

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In this episode of Alex & Friends, Leslie Sonnier joins Alex for an in-person conversation set against the backdrop of Myrtle Beach. From a chance meeting three years ago in matching dresses at a conference, to reflecting on the emotional process of selling Rebl Rentals, a thriving vacation rental business in Scottsdale, Arizona, this episode is a rollercoaster of memories, lessons, and the excitement of new beginnings.

Creating Memorable Experiences and Impact on Families:
The conversation emphasizes the profound impact vacation rentals have on families and their cherished memories. Leslie discusses the importance of creating memorable experiences for guests.

Life as a Balancing Act:
Explore the challenges of finding a balance between work and personal life in the demanding vacation rental industry. Alex and Leslie share insights into the importance of self-care for those navigating this dynamic field.

Key Moments:
👩🏼‍🤝‍👩🏻 Connection through Coincidence: Three years ago, Alex and Leslie met at a conference and discovered an unexpected bond—wearing the same dress. The duo reflects on this serendipitous start to their friendship.
👩‍💼  From Homeowner to Mogul: Leslie shares her remarkable journey into the vacation rental industry. Starting with listing her own house on Airbnb with minimal knowledge, she transformed her venture into a booming business with 137 properties.
👐 Emotional Business Transitions: Dive into the heartfelt discussion about Leslie's emotional process of selling her vacation rental business. The hosts explore the challenges of moving on to a new phase in life and the resilience required in such transitions.

Tune in to the full episode to hear Leslie's incredible journey in the vacation rental industry, her experience of selling her business, and her exciting plans for the future!

This episode is brought to you by Rev & Research!

Connect with Leslie:
LinkedIn | Instagram

Connect with Alex and Annie
Alex Husner | Annie Holcombe
AlexAndAnniePodcast.com

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In this empowering episode of "Alex and Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals", we're reunited with a dear friend and the  very first podcast guest, Amber Hurdle, the CEO and founder of Employer Brand Central. Together, the A.H. Trio dives deep into the transformative power of confidence and personal branding.

The Fluidity of Confidence:
The conversation delves into the concept of confidence not being static, but something that needs continuous work and self-awareness. They discuss the vulnerability and insecurities inherent in everyone, challenging the misconception that confident individuals are immune to self-doubt. Amber encourages listeners to embrace their personal power and not let external validation or negative opinions affect their self-worth.

Wrap-up:
This episode serves as a reminder that confidence is a journey, and it requires self-reflection, resilience, and the willingness to step out of one's comfort zone. By embracing personal power, building a strong personal brand, and surrounding oneself with the right people, individuals can unlock their potential and navigate through life's transitions with confidence and purpose.

Key Takeaways:

• 😎 Confidence as a Journey: Explore how confidence evolves over time, requiring continuous self-work and awareness.
• 👩‍💼 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship: Amber shares her personal journey from a thriving corporate career to launching Employer Brand Central, emphasizing the value of recognizing one's worth.
• 🥚 Embracing Vulnerability: Discuss the vulnerability and insecurities inherent in everyone, regardless of outward confidence. Amber encourages listeners to embrace personal power and resilience.
• 🤝 The Power of Relationships: Highlight the impact of nurturing relationships with supportive individuals and being intentional about one's environment for personal growth.

Get ready for a confidence boost! Join us in this episode as Amber reveals the secrets to embracing your uniqueness, crafting your personal brand, and kickstarting your journey towards a more confident and purposeful you!

This episode is brought to you by Rev & Research!

Connect with Amber:
Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

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Alex Husner | Annie Holcombe
AlexAndAnniePodcast.com

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In this captivating episode of "Alex and Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals," we are thrilled to have Mark Simpson, the visionary founder of Boostly. Boostly is a game-changer for vacation rental hosts and managers, providing a unique blend of tools, tactics, and a supportive community.

Boostly's Mission:
Mark dives deep into how Boostly empowers short-term rental owners. The company focuses on securing more direct bookings, reaching the ideal guests, and giving hosts valuable time back through their personalized vacation rental websites.

Exciting Announcement: The Boostly Documentary:
Mark unveils a groundbreaking project that's been in the works – a documentary-style video series featuring the transformative journeys of two hosts implementing Boostly's strategies. This series promises an immersive experience, offering insider glimpses into their challenges, successes, and the strategies that elevated their direct bookings.

Key Insights and Inspiration:
The aim of the documentary is clear – to inspire and guide hosts looking to amplify their direct bookings. Mark shares the release date, December 26th, for this insightful series. But that's not all – a watch party will be held for viewers to join in, learn from these hosts' experiences, and be part of a community of thriving vacation rental owners.

Key Takeaways:

• 🧰 Tools, Tactics, Tribe: Boostly's three-pronged approach ensures hosts not only enhance their direct bookings but also build a supportive community.
• 🤝 More Than Bookings: Beyond the metrics, Boostly helps hosts connect with their "should-be" guests, fostering meaningful connections.
• ⌚ Time Freedom: A significant emphasis on regaining time, allowing hosts to focus on what truly matters.

Tune in to this special episode to catch Mark's exciting announcement and discover his unwavering passion for helping vacation rental owners achieve unprecedented success.

This episode is brought to you by Rev & Research!

Connect with Mark:
Website | Linkedin | Youtube | Facebook | Instagram

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Alex Husner | Annie Holcombe

AlexAndAnniePodcast.com

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🎙️ Today we're in for a treat as we chat with the fantastic Stacey St. John, a powerhouse in short-term rentals and a great friend of Alex and Annie. From crunching real estate numbers to running a buzzing property management firm, Stacey's got stories that'll make you nod in agreement and maybe chuckle a bit.

Stacey's Journey into Short-Term Rentals:
In this episode, Stacey shares her inspiring transition from long-term real estate to short-term rentals amidst the challenges of COVID-19. She unveils the strategic decisions behind this shift, emphasizing the importance of data-driven strategies and a deep understanding of real estate fundamentals for effective wealth building in the vacation rental industry.

Bridging the Gap:
The conversation takes an exciting turn as Stacey advocates for unity between short-term rental owners and their counterparts in vacation rental management. Discover the pearls of wisdom she imparts on creating a collaborative community, fostering an abundance mindset, and most importantly, bridging the gap between these two integral facets of the industry. Imagine a world where professionals from both sides come together, sharing knowledge, learning, and growing collectively—Stacey paints a vivid picture of this harmonious collaboration in the form of a conference.

Mentorship and Empowering Women:
The dialogue extends to the crucial topic of mentorship and the prevailing lack of female representation in leadership roles within the vacation rental industry. Stacey and Annie engage in a thought-provoking discussion on the transformative power of mentorship in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities. Stacey graciously shares anecdotes from her mentoring journey, passionately advocating for more women to step into leadership roles and urging everyone to pay it forward within this vibrant and supportive community.

Key Takeaways:

• 💡 Uncover the indispensable role of mentorship and community in the short-term rental industry.
• ⭐ Gain valuable insights into the art of data-driven decision-making for effective and sustainable wealth building.
• 🤝 Embrace the vision of collaboration between short-term rental enthusiasts and vacation rental management professionals.
• 👩 Experience Stacey's empowering journey and her fervent call for increased female representation in leadership roles.

Ready to unlock the full spectrum of insights from our deep dive into the dynamics of the vacation rental industry with Stacey? Don't miss a beat – tune in to the full episode now!

This episode is brought to you by Rev & Research!

Connect with Stacey:
Website | Linkedin | Facebook

Connect with Alex and Annie
Alex Husner | Annie Holcombe
AlexAndAnniePodcast.com

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