Cabin Culture

Today we're welcoming Andy Whitcomb, whose journey from furniture designer to cabin creator offers fresh insights into crafting immersive experiences that reconnect guests with nature. From his early days learning Airbnb hosting in a six-bedroom Seattle house to creating a row of three stunning riverside cabins, Andy shares how his background in design and entrepreneurship has shaped his approach to hospitality. We'll explore his philosophy that cabin culture is about "leaving the fake, superficial world and entering a more real world," and how that belief guides every decision – from foregoing TVs in favor of record players to creating Instagram-worthy moments that don't feel contrived.

Whether you're an established host looking to elevate your property from good to great, someone curious about the evolution of Airbnb from its early days to post-pandemic reality, or simply interested in the intersection of design, nature, and hospitality, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and creative inspiration. We'll dive into everything from the importance of creating unique experiences to navigating county permit challenges, and why sometimes the best feature of your property is the one thing you can't create yourself. 

 WEBSITE: https://canyoncreekcabins.com

IG HANDLES
@canyoncreekcabins

@cozyrockcabin

@cozycampsebec

@cozycabinboone

BOOKING SITES

Canyon Creek Cabins: https://canyoncreekcabins.com
Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051
Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com

Book a Cabin Consultation Here:  http://www.staycozycabin.com

Today we're welcoming Nat Farber, whose journey from NASA's Europa Clipper mission to mountain cabin builder offers a refreshing perspective on the art of slow building. From finding burned land after the Four Mile Canyon Fire to spending ten years crafting his vision, Nat shares how approaching construction as a creative project rather than a race to completion allowed him to build something truly unique. We'll explore how his engineering background influenced his design process, why he chose to test materials on a practice shed first, and how he eventually transitioned from aerospace to full-time building projects.

Whether you're dreaming of designing your own space, curious about the intersection of engineering and architecture, or interested in how patience and persistence can lead to extraordinary results, this conversation offers both technical insights and creative inspiration. We'll dive into everything from fire-resistant building materials to the value of experiencing land through all seasons, and why sometimes the best designs come from letting inspiration find you. Let's dive in!

 WEBSITE: https://www.themountainlookout.com/ 

IG HANDLES
@themountainlookout

@cozyrockcabin

@cozycampsebec

@cozycabinboone

BOOKING SITES
Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051
Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com

Book a Cabin Consultation Here:  http://www.staycozycabin.com

Today we're welcoming Zoe Berghoff, whose journey from glamping property owner to mentor and real estate developer offers a refreshing perspective on creating unique stays that align with your lifestyle. From transforming abandoned log cabins to developing off-grid properties at 8,000 feet, Zoe shares how focusing on quality over quantity has shaped her approach to hospitality. We'll explore why she believes the short-term rental industry is at a pivotal moment, and how hosts can create authentic experiences that stand out in an increasingly crowded market.

Whether you're dreaming of developing raw land, considering your first renovation project, or simply interested in building a sustainable hospitality business that aligns with your values, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and strategic insights. We'll dive into everything from the importance of local market knowledge to the realities of property development, and why sometimes the best deals are the ones you create yourself. Let's dive in!

WEBSITE: https://www.zoeyberghoff.com

FREE RESOURCES! https://www.zoeyberghoff.com/tools

IG HANDLES
@zoeyberghoff

@cozyrockcabin

@cozycampsebec

@cozycabinboone

BOOKING SITES
Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051
Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com

Book a Cabin Consultation Here:  http://www.staycozycabin.com

Today we're welcoming Nicole, known online as The Cabin Hunter, whose journey from wedding photographer to cabin specialist offers unique insights into the art of capturing and marketing vacation properties. From photographing over 100 unique properties across the globe to co-founding a property management company, Nicole shares how telling a cabin's story goes far beyond just beautiful photos. We'll explore everything from what to look for when hiring a photographer to the small details that can make or break a guest's experience, and why sometimes the most meaningful shots happen at sunrise or around a carefully staged campfire.

Whether you're a cabin owner looking to elevate your marketing, a photographer interested in specializing in cabin photography, or simply curious about what makes certain properties stand out from the crowd, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and creative inspiration. We'll dive into the spectrum of photography options available to hosts, the importance of proper gear and backup equipment, and why telling a cabin's story sometimes means digging into its history. 

CABIN HUNTER WEBSITE: https://www.thecabinhunter.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZ9Wz3tPnSF23cmiXyv9pUeOQTSY8LY0OQSX_hsk_jjIW-PiwD8FgTKUJE_aem_qYQsdjwTEIA2TZJMpFOBxA

IG HANDLES
@thecabinhunter

@cozyrockcabin

@cozycampsebec

@cozycabinboone

BOOKING SITES
Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051
Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com

Book a Cabin Consultation Here:  http://www.staycozycabin.com

Today we're welcoming Carrie from Roost North Rentals, whose journey from a self-described "failed stay-at-home mom" to the owner of nine successful vacation rentals in Traverse City, Michigan, offers a masterclass in thoughtful growth and systematic hospitality. From her first casual property purchase in 2015 to her latest A-frame renovation and plans for an 18-cottage resort, Carrie shares how creating strong systems and maintaining high standards has allowed her to scale while keeping the personal touch that makes each stay special. We'll explore how she transformed a $75,000 A-frame "disaster" into a stunning retreat, and why sometimes the best business decisions come from following your gut while keeping one eye on the numbers.

Whether you're dreaming of growing your rental portfolio, curious about the evolution of hospitality over the last decade, or fascinated by the intersection of systems and soul in hosting, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and inspiring insights. We'll dive into everything from commercial laundry solutions to the importance of proper labeling, and why sometimes the best growth happens when you take your time. Let's dive in!

IG HANDLES
@roostnorthrentals

@cozyrockcabin

@cozycampsebec

@cozycabinboone

BOOKING SITES
Direct Booking: https://www.roostnorth.com

Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051
Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com

Book a Cabin Consultation Here:  http://www.staycozycabin.com

Today we're chatting with Alison from Water Camp, whose collection of 1950s fishing cabins on Torch Lake, Michigan, beautifully balances modern comfort with vintage charm. From her thoughtful perspective on embracing imperfection to her three core values of rest, connection, and exploration, Alison shares how authenticity in hospitality often means resisting the urge to make everything perfect. We'll explore how she transformed three aging lakeside cottages into spaces that honor their historic roots while meeting modern expectations, and why sometimes the most memorable stays aren't about luxury - they're about character.

For anyone questioning the balance between renovation and preservation, wondering how to build a business that aligns with their values, or seeking to create experiences that feel both polished and approachable, this conversation offers both practical insights and philosophical wisdom. We'll dive into everything from the financials of hosting to the importance of giving back, and why sometimes the hardest part of growth is knowing when to say no.

IG HANDLES
@water_camp

@cozyrockcabin

@cozycampsebec

@cozycabinboone

BOOKING SITES
Water Camp Direct Booking: https://watercampstays.com/book-now

Birch Cottage: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/49837024?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYmOHhi1xikTWnEhgh5pZ-mQfFNK8dGP4cibbYDLpcaCZmV3-Fygy_ui10_aem_omrkzWfF_xATe7cBD0lNnA&source_impression_id=p3_1739320076_P3PVmBwE2lZ2DFvB

Cedar Cabin: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/44088764?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaa9iyrIVhEWn4t12D_dUBruh1wm48IbfkNo6g9alJu2CIWP2sU4UgGDc8Q_aem_diwyrG2KaS59CCkDb49vVA

Blue Spruce Cottage: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/547772400314458231?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaaW8D3tK2b7dpUqxFKCR41k_ujW-vi2lUEc2XvTd8oRMk94KOg4ftchKug_aem_xSdDThzPaTCajHiXIufOrA&source_impression_id=p3_1739320112_P3gGZPoVhSvi9GFJ

Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051

Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com
Book a Cabin Consultation Here:  http://www.staycozycabin.com

Today we're welcoming Kelsey and Chris Still of Still Resorts, whose journey from a 95' Georgie Boy Swinger RV to creating two distinct cabin properties in Minnesota is a masterclass in perseverance and creative vision. From their innovative use of 140-year-old reclaimed barn wood to their commitment to preserving the natural landscape, the Stills share how staying true to your vision often means taking the harder path. We'll explore how they transformed challenging pieces of land - including an old mining shelf and a densely forested Lake Superior property - into spaces that honor Minnesota's cabin heritage while reimagining what a modern retreat can be.

Whether you're dreaming of building your own hospitality project, fascinated by the evolution of cabin culture, or simply love a good story of persistence and creativity, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and inspiring insights. We'll dive into everything from navigating commercial funding to the importance of knowing your avatar, and why sometimes the most meaningful growth comes from embracing the struggle. Let's dive in!

www.stillresorts.com

IG HANDLES
@stillresorts

@cuyunacove

@toftetrails

@cozyrockcabin

@cozycampsebec

@cozycabinboone

BOOKING SITES
Cuyuna Cove: https://www.cuyunacove.com/

Tofte Trails: https://www.toftetrails.com/

Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051

Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com
Book a Cabin Consultation Here:  http://www.staycozycabin.com

Today we're welcoming Ashley from On Cabin Time, who joins us from Porto, Portugal, where she and her husband Kyle are redefining what it means to live adventurously while hosting remotely. From their first nine-month backpacking journey through Southeast Asia to building a stunning cabin in Canada and now hosting guests in both countries, Ashley shares how spontaneity, calculated risks, and a willingness to trust your instincts can lead to extraordinary opportunities.

Whether you're curious about hosting from abroad, wondering how to design a truly unique cabin from scratch, or seeking insight into building systems that allow you to host from anywhere, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and inspiring possibilities. We'll explore everything from their journey of sketching their dream cabin on paper to managing properties across time zones, and why sometimes the best plans come from knowing what could go wrong - and being okay with it anyway. Let's dive in!

On Cabin Website: https://www.oncabintime.com

IG HANDLES
@oncabintime
@cozyrockcabin
@cozycampsebec
@cozycabinboone

BOOKING SITES
On Cabin Time: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/544436947200237226?source_impression_id=p3_1735156441_P3sC5kXTlZMyHupJ
Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051


Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com
Book a Cabin Consultation Here:  http://www.staycozycabin.com

On today's episode features a conversation that reminds us how some of the most inspiring success stories emerge from our greatest challenges. Meet Jennifer, the creative force behind Wisconsin's stunning Pepin Forest Tree House. What began as a dream to build a treehouse during the uncertainty of 2020 evolved into something far more complex – a story of resilience, creative problem-solving, and ultimately, triumph. Despite facing a contractor crisis that left her with little more than a skeleton structure and depleted funds, Jennifer and her husband refused to give up. They sold their car, dipped into retirement savings, and even turned to local investors to bring their vision to life.

Drawing from her background in wedding photography and social media marketing, Jennifer transformed their setback into an opportunity. Today, the Pepin Forest Tree House stands as a testament to perseverance, boasting massive windows that replaced the original "tiny, crappy" ones, handcrafted railings made from forest-gathered sticks, and an Instagram following that's helped achieve an impressive 80% direct booking rate.

In this episode, we'll dive deep into Jennifer's journey from crisis to success, exploring everything from the nitty-gritty of social media strategy to the delicate dance of being an on-site host. Whether you're a fellow host, an aspiring cabin owner, or simply someone who loves a good comeback story, you won't want to miss this honest and inspiring conversation.

Pepin Forest Tree House Website: https://www.pepinforesttreehouse.com/

IG HANDLES
@pepinforesttreehouse
@cozyrockcabin
@cozycampsebec
@cozycabinboone

BOOKING SITES
Pepin Forest Tree House: https://www.pepinforesttreehouse.com/book-your-stay
Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051

Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com
Book a Cabin Consultation Here:  http://www.staycozycabin.com

Today we're welcoming Simone, co-owner of three stunning rentals in northern Minnesota and founder of She Hosts consulting. From building her first cabin as a screen porch that evolved into something more, to now helping other hosts navigate their journeys from raw land to profitable properties, Simona brings a unique perspective on intentional hosting. Originally from Brazil, she found herself embracing Minnesota cabin life through love, and together with her partner, has created a collection of timber frame retreats that showcase both craftsmanship and heart.

Whether you're dreaming of building your first cabin, looking to improve your hosting skills, or wondering how to balance automation with authentic hospitality, this conversation offers invaluable insights from someone who's walked the path. We'll explore everything from construction budgeting to the art of guest communication, and why sometimes the best hosting advice mirrors how we text when we're flirting.

Agua Norte Website: www.aguanortemn.com

IG HANDLES
@raguanortemn
@cozyrockcabin
@cozycampsebec
@cozycabinboone

BOOKING SITES
Agua Norte: https://book.aguanortemn.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYgkNNpXidERenUdcvd9EBh94qR3TFcUXiDJZ8kDfDEYzXsgylGE8RfwBk_aem_6w_Ryd026BCviBuMYoKGkw
Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051

Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com
Book a Cabin Consultation Here:  http://www.staycozycabin.com