Cash Flow Positive

What does Airbnb’s latest fee increase mean for your bottom line, and how should it change the way you evaluate deals?

In this episode of the Cash Flow Positive Podcast, Kenny Bedwell sits down with Rachel Gniady, full-time real estate investor and STR Insights consultant, to talk about how the new 15.5% host fee is reshaping underwriting, deal selection, and long-term strategy.

Rachel shares how she is being even more conservative with revenue estimates, why she is rejecting deals that don’t have a wide enough margin, and why being “one of one” in a market is more important than ever. Together, Kenny and Rachel dive into moats, market trends, appraisals, and the importance of thinking like an investor first, even as competition heats up and the “middle” of the STR market gets squeezed.

Want to keep spotting high-margin STR deals even as fees climb? Listen now and sharpen your strategy. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Listen now and enjoy!

Key takeaways:

1. Why Airbnb’s fee change demands more conservative underwriting
2. How to evaluate properties with a “good, better, best” revenue approach
3. Why being unique in your market protects your profits
4. The dangers of chasing trends and how to know when to walk away
5. Why comps, cost basis, and appraisals matter more than ever
6. How to protect yourself in today’s “Wild West” real estate market
7. Why stability can beat higher short-term returns in the long run
8. The importance of making offers quickly and confidently
9. And much more...

Guest Bio:

Rachel Gniady is a full-time real estate investor and consultant for STR Insights, where she has helped over 50 clients close deals and build profitable short-term rental portfolios. Based in New Orleans, she has nearly 20 years of experience buying, improving, and selling properties.

Resources:

Part 2: Finding High ROI STR Deals with No Money with Rachel Gniady

Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn

1. Want us to find the deals for you? https://strinsights.com
2. Get Top Markers for STRs (2025) - https://rebrand.ly/28b1df
3. Instagram – @kenny_bedwell
4. YouTube – Cash Flow Positive
5. LinkedIn – Kenneth Bedwell

Cash Flow Positive is an original podcast hosted by Kenny Bedwell. Brought to you by STR Insights. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Cash Flow Positive podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

Airbnb has just announced a major change to its fee structure, and for hosts, the impact could be huge.

In this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, Kenny Bedwell breaks down the shift from a split-fee model to a single-host fee of 15.5%. He explains what this really means for your payouts, why simply raising your rate isn’t the answer, and how the wrong pricing strategy could tank your rankings and bookings.

Kenny walks through the math behind the change, why some hosts will be hit harder than others, and what you can do to protect your bottom line. From understanding price elasticity to planning ahead with discounts and direct bookings, this episode is packed with insights and strategies you won’t want to miss.

Don’t let Airbnb’s new fee structure cut into your earnings. Tune in to learn the smart strategies that keep your payouts strong.

If you've enjoyed this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Listen now and enjoy!

Key takeaways:

1. Why raising your prices could hurt your rankings
2. How pricing without a strategy leaves you vulnerable to underpriced competitors
3. Why cookie-cutter properties are more exposed than unique listings
4. The exact percentage increase needed to maintain your current payouts
5. Why timing your price adjustments can affect your Airbnb search rankings
6. How to think about cause and effect when responding to platform changes
7. And much more...

1. Want us to find the deals for you? https://strinsights.com
2. Get Top Markers for STRs (2025) - https://rebrand.ly/28b1df
3. Instagram – @kenny_bedwell
4. YouTube – Cash Flow Positive
5. LinkedIn – Kenneth Bedwell

Cash Flow Positive is an original podcast hosted by Kenny Bedwell. Brought to you by STR Insights. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Cash Flow Positive podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

What separates investors who land the best deals from those who watch them slip away?

In this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, Kenny Bedwell continues his deep dive into the reasons most people miss out on profitable real estate deals. Building on Part 1’s discussion of vision and creating a moat, Kenny highlights three more critical factors that separate average investors from top performers: acting fast, knowing your guest avatar, and truly understanding what makes a property special in its market.

Through real-world examples, Kenny shows why hesitation, personal bias, and limited knowledge often cost investors life-changing opportunities. This episode is a practical roadmap to spotting hidden value and moving with confidence when great deals appear.

If you've enjoyed this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Listen now and enjoy!

Key takeaways:

1. Why hesitation and “analysis paralysis” cause investors to miss out on deals
2. The importance of acting fast while protecting yourself with contingencies
3. How top investors use due diligence periods to secure multiple opportunities
4. Why buying for personal preference instead of guest demand leads to missed deals
5. How understanding your “guest avatar” reveals what drives revenue in each market
6. Why many investors fail simply because they don’t know what to look for
7. How to elevate a property’s value by adding design, decor, and amenities
8. The difference between a natural moat and a completed moat — and how to build one
9. And much more...

1. Want us to find the deals for you? https://strinsights.com
2. Get Top Markers for STRs (2025) - https://rebrand.ly/28b1df
3. Instagram – @kenny_bedwell
4. YouTube – Cash Flow Positive
5. LinkedIn – Kenneth Bedwell

Cash Flow Positive is an original podcast hosted by Kenny Bedwell. Brought to you by STR Insights. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Cash Flow Positive podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

Why do so many investors pass up incredible opportunities that are sitting right in front of them?

In this episode of the Cash Flow Positive Podcast, Kenny Bedwell breaks down the number one reason most people miss out on great real estate deals: a lack of vision. Using real-world examples, including a six-bedroom Montana property overlooked by more than ten investors, Kenny illustrates how the best opportunities often require foresight, creativity, and the willingness to see potential where others only see problems.

From the concept of building a “moat” that sets your property apart, to understanding why people default to safe, turnkey investments, Kenny shows how successful investors think differently. Discover how one investor turned a rejected Montana property into a top-performing STR.

If you've enjoyed this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Listen now and enjoy!

Key takeaways:

1. Why most investors fail to recognize the potential in overlooked properties
2. The importance of having vision when evaluating deals
3. How to identify and build a “moat” that separates your property from the competition
4. Why great deals often come in the form of outdated or overlooked homes
5. How one investor turned a rejected Montana property into a cash-flowing success story
6. Why copying turnkey models is short-term thinking, and how long-term strategies create real wealth
7. And much more...

1. Want us to find the deals for you? https://strinsights.com
2. Get Top Markers for STRs (2025) - https://rebrand.ly/28b1df
3. Instagram – @kenny_bedwell
4. YouTube – Cash Flow Positive
5. LinkedIn – Kenneth Bedwell

Cash Flow Positive is an original podcast hosted by Kenny Bedwell. Brought to you by STR Insights. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Cash Flow Positive podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

What does it really take to turn a rundown property into a high-return investment? In this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, host Kenny Bedwell is joined by Kyle Powers, a top-producing agent and experienced real estate investor, to continue the discussion on the infinite return model.

Kyle shares his hands-on approach to finding undervalued properties, forcing appreciation, and navigating the emotional roller coaster of major renovation projects. From choosing the right markets to building reliable teams, Kyle explains how smart planning and execution can eliminate risk and create life-changing financial wins.

Want to know how pros turn rundown homes into cash-flow machines? Hear the infinite return model explained step by step in this episode. Don’t just buy another property—discover the strategy that pays you back in full and keeps paying you forever.

If you've enjoyed this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Listen now and enjoy!

Key takeaways:

1. Why having “boots on the ground” is invaluable for successful real estate projects
2. How to budget realistically and prepare for surprises in renovation projects
3. The emotional side of investing and why big returns require taking calculated risks
4. Why eliminating risk comes down to working with the right people and running the right numbers.
5. How to find the best markets for forcing equity and long-term gains.
6. Kyle’s coaching insights on what makes the infinite return model sustainable.
7. And much more...

Guest Bio:

Kyle Powers is a Top Producing Agent from Manhattan, Kansas, ranking in the top 5% of Realtors with over 400 homes sold in just 8 years. Beyond sales, he invests in long-term and short-term rentals, house flips, and co-founded The Elevated Realtors, where he trains agents to scale their businesses.

Resources:

Connect with Kyle on LinkedIn

Connect with Kenny on LinkedIn

Follow Kenny on Instagram

1. Want us to find the deals for you? https://strinsights.com
2. Get Top Markers for STRs (2025) - https://rebrand.ly/28b1df
3. Instagram – @kenny_bedwell
4. YouTube – Cash Flow Positive
5. LinkedIn – Kenneth Bedwell

Cash Flow Positive is an original podcast hosted by Kenny Bedwell. Brought to you by STR Insights. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Cash Flow Positive podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk

What if you could own a property that pays you back entirely and then continues to cash flow year after year, with no money left in the deal? In this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, Kenny Bedwell breaks down the infinite return model and shows how real estate investors can use it to create cash flow with minimal long-term capital tied up.

Kenny explains how this strategy works in both short-term rentals and larger projects, including his own experience renovating a hotel in New Orleans. From understanding appraisals and refinancing to leveraging other people’s money, this episode offers practical insights into achieving truly infinite returns in real estate.

Don’t just buy another property. Learn the strategy that can give you returns with no money left in the deal. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Listen now and enjoy!

Key takeaways:

1. What the infinite return model is and why it matters in real estate investing
2. How to force appreciation through renovations or strategic value-add projects
3. The role of appraisals, refinancing, and financing options in pulling money back out of a deal
4. Why short-term rentals are uniquely positioned for infinite returns
5. How building or renovating with short-term rentals in mind creates long-term advantages
6. Kenny’s real-world hotel investment example and how it demonstrates this model in action
7. And much more...

1. Want us to find the deals for you? https://strinsights.com
2. Get Top Markers for STRs (2025) - https://rebrand.ly/28b1df
3. Instagram – @kenny_bedwell
4. YouTube – Cash Flow Positive
5. LinkedIn – Kenneth Bedwell

Cash Flow Positive is an original podcast hosted by Kenny Bedwell. Brought to you by STR Insights. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Cash Flow Positive podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

If you want to dominate your market and attract guests who keep coming back, your property needs to stand out in ways others can’t (or won’t) replicate. In this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, Kenny Bedwell shares advanced strategies for turning an ordinary property into a top-performing short-term rental that crushes the competition.

Kenny explains why unique property characteristics, “Wow” spaces, and smart upgrades can make your listing nearly impossible for competitors to match. He also discusses how to identify undervalued opportunities, keep expenses down, and plan for long-term profitability, all while staying laser-focused on guest experience.

If you've enjoyed this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Listen now and enjoy!

Key takeaways:

1. Why the most successful properties have attributes that competitors can’t easily replicate
2. How to identify and enhance unique characteristics in your property
3. The role of “Wow” spaces in boosting bookings and enhancing guest satisfaction
4. Why keeping expenses low is just as powerful as finding undervalued deals
5. How Kenny applies his own “Crusher Competition” strategy to make his Airbnbs unbeatable
6. And much more...

Resources:

The Strategy That Makes My Airbnbs Impossible to Compete With

1. Want us to find the deals for you? https://strinsights.com
2. Get Top Markers for STRs (2025) - https://rebrand.ly/28b1df
3. Instagram – @kenny_bedwell
4. YouTube – Cash Flow Positive
5. LinkedIn – Kenneth Bedwell

Cash Flow Positive is an original podcast hosted by Kenny Bedwell. Brought to you by STR Insights. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Cash Flow Positive podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

What separates a property that barely breaks even from one that dominates its market? It’s not just timing, it’s strategy.

In this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, Kenny Bedwell shares hard-earned insights from his latest experiences in the field and on stage at the STR Wealth Conference. Drawing from real client case studies, personal portfolio wins, and lessons learned from analyzing hundreds of STRs, Kenny emphasizes one core principle: if you want to stand out, you need to do what 95% of people won’t, or can’t do.

Whether it’s investing in an unconventional niche, buying undervalued properties with built-in equity, or avoiding oversaturated markets that everyone’s rushing into, this episode offers a blueprint for smarter decision-making. Kenny doesn’t just talk numbers, he dives deep into mindset, strategy, and the critical difference between copying a great idea and creating one.

You will walk away with a sharper understanding of what makes an STR truly resilient and why now, more than ever, real estate investing requires bold moves and creative thinking. If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines or unsure where to focus your next property search, this episode will give you the urgency and clarity to act.

If you've enjoyed this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Listen now and enjoy!

Key takeaways:

1. Why you shouldn’t wait until fall to start searching for STR properties
2. The 95% rule and how to apply it to your next investment
3. What it really means to have a moat and how to create one
4. How to spot undervalued properties with instant equity
5. Why copying a good deal isn’t the same as creating one
6. What investors are getting wrong in oversaturated markets
7. The biggest mistake Kenny sees when hosts chase cash flow alone
8. How to structure your next deal to survive any dip in revenue
9. And much more...

1. Want us to find the deals for you? https://strinsights.com
2. Get Top Markers for STRs (2025) - https://rebrand.ly/28b1df
3. Instagram – @kenny_bedwell
4. YouTube – Cash Flow Positive
5. LinkedIn – Kenneth Bedwell

Cash Flow Positive is an original podcast hosted by Kenny Bedwell. Brought to you by STR Insights. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Cash Flow Positive podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

Are you thinking about selling your short-term rental but unsure how to prepare it for a profitable sale? In this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, host Kenny Bedwell sits down with real estate expert and investor Madeline Blum to unpack the strategic steps needed to maximize your return when exiting a short-term rental investment.

Madeline shares her insights from both the agent and investor perspective, offering practical advice on preparing a property for listing, managing guest experience during the transition, and understanding the realities of today’s saturated market. From the importance of budgeting and inspections to the value of patience and honesty, this conversation is a candid and informative guide for anyone considering selling an STR.

If you've enjoyed this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Listen now and enjoy!

Key takeaways:

1. Why budgeting upfront for guest experience can make or break your STR’s performance
2. How to coach your clients for STR success before listing
3. Why a bad cleaner can hurt your reviews—and your ability to sell
4. The importance of routine inspections and functional appliances
5. Why pre-listing inspections are crucial in today’s competitive market
6. When it might be wiser to take a loss and move on
7. How to make executive decisions based on your unique situation
8. The value of leaning on local resources and being adaptable
9. Why honesty—from yourself and your agent—is key to success
10. Why patience is a necessary mindset in a slow market
11. And much more...

Guest Bio:

Madeline Blum is a real estate agent and short-term rental investor with properties in multiple markets, including the Smoky Mountains, North Carolina, the Bourbon Trail, and Panama City Beach. With experience on both sides of the deal, she brings a strategic, investor-savvy approach to buying, selling, and managing STRs—always focused on creating long-term value and delivering exceptional service.

Resources:

Follow Madeline on Instagram

Follow Madeline on Facebook

1. Want us to find the deals for you? https://strinsights.com
2. Get Top Markers for STRs (2025) - https://rebrand.ly/28b1df
3. Instagram – @kenny_bedwell
4. YouTube – Cash Flow Positive
5. LinkedIn – Kenneth Bedwell

Cash Flow Positive is an original podcast hosted by Kenny Bedwell. Brought to you by STR Insights. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Cash Flow Positive podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

Are you thinking about selling your short-term rental property, but unsure how to get top dollar for it? In this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, Kenny Bedwell shares a step-by-step guide to help you prepare, list, and profit from selling your STR.

You’ll learn what documents to gather, how to estimate your property’s value, what buyers are really looking for, and how to present your property in the most attractive light. Kenny also explains common mistakes to avoid, like underestimating how much your property is worth or ignoring the emotional aspects of the sale.

Thinking of selling your short-term rental? Don’t list it before you listen to this episode. Kenny breaks down how to prep your STR like a pro—from documents and value estimates to buyer psychology and profit strategy. Whether you’re weeks or years away from a sale, this episode will help you exit smart.

If you've enjoyed this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Listen now and enjoy!

Key takeaways:

1. The importance of keeping your data clean and organized
2. How to estimate your property’s value based on market context
3. What information to include in a property packet for buyers
4. Why making your listing “look like a business” boosts its appeal
5. The emotional side of selling a property and how to prepare for it
6. Common pitfalls sellers face when trying to exit
7. How to communicate the true potential of your STR to investors
8. And much more...

1. Want us to find the deals for you? https://strinsights.com
2. Get Top Markers for STRs (2025) - https://rebrand.ly/28b1df
3. Instagram – @kenny_bedwell
4. YouTube – Cash Flow Positive
5. LinkedIn – Kenneth Bedwell

Cash Flow Positive is an original podcast hosted by Kenny Bedwell. Brought to you by STR Insights. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Cash Flow Positive podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.