In this Host Planet Podcast, powered by Hostfully, Florian Montag from Apaleo breaks down how short-term rental managers can use AI today – including what tools to try, the best live use cases, and where humans still matter.

We touch on OpenAI’s Operator model, practical workflows for tech-savvy hosts to stay ahead, and the STR trends for 2025 (including what Airbnb is up to). Florian also spotlights standout operators and closes with actionable tips to start – or scale – your AI journey.

0:52 How should STR managers be using AI?

4:46 The AI tools STR managers should be trying

6:57 The best use cases involving AI right now

11:12 AI won’t take over completely

13:45 How can tech-savvy hosts stay ahead of the curve in relation to AI

17:35 OpenAI’s Operator model

20:46 Apaleo

24:24 STR trends in 2025, including what Airbnb is up to

26:04 Favourite brand: Cuckoo and Co in Switzerland 

27:16 Shout-out: Jessica Gillingham from Abode Worldwide

28:06 Top tips for people who want to use AI

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Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/

Florian Montag: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fmontag/

Apaleo: https://apaleo.com/

Episode to check next: UK STR Outlook: Late Bookings, Channel Mix & Pricing Discipline: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fnaFLgeYjl4&t=1s

Host Planet Podcast is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Contact the show: [email protected]

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