Most new hosts waste thousands before guests ever check in—Kim Fitzpatrick is here to change that.

In this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, Kenney Bedwell is joined by STR expert and Launched Host founder Kim Fitzpatrick, who reveals the #1 thing she wishes she’d done before opening the doors to guests. Hint: It’s not about having Instagram-worthy decor or the perfect throw pillows. It’s about protection, durability, and saving your sanity.

Kim shares a refreshingly honest behind-the-scenes look at what actually happens after launch day, including the unexpected ways guests use (and sometimes misuse) your space. She dives into what she learned through her own costly mistakes—like hours spent stain-fighting ottomans and chasing down replacement remotes—and how a few proactive decisions could have saved her thousands of dollars and endless frustration.

If you’re about to launch your own STR—or thinking about upgrading an existing one—this conversation is packed with actionable insights that will help you furnish smarter, protect your investment, and build a guest-ready home that holds up to real-world wear and tear.

Want expert help launching your STR? Visit LaunchedHost.com to get started with Kim’s team. 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!

In This Episode You'll Learn:

1. Why investing in fewer, better-quality furnishings saves money in the long run
2. What “preventative maintenance” actually looks like in a real STR
3. The importance of protecting fabrics and surfaces from day one
4. How to prioritize your STR budget when it starts to stretch
5. The simple cleaning items every STR needs on-site
6. What Kim regrets not doing from the start, and how it cost her hours of frustration
7. And much more...

Guest Bio:

Kim Fitzpatrick is the owner and founder of Launched Host, a company that helps short-term rental owners stage and prepare their properties for guests fast. After a 20-year career as a physical education teacher, Kim transitioned into real estate and became a successful investor and Superhost across multiple states. Her hands-on experience revealed a major need in the short-term rental (STR) market: efficient, professional property setup.

Resources:

PART 2 Kim Fitzpatrick - The STR tortoise vs the hare

Connect with Kim on LinkedIn

Launchedhost.com

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.