What if you could reduce your reliance on OTAs, save money, and build a loyal guest base—all while maintaining complete control over your short-term rental business? That’s exactly what we’re exploring in this episode of The SmartStay Show!

Rory Gill and I sit down with Abby Grous, the Senior Product Manager of Direct at Hospitable, to unpack the power of direct bookings. From Hospitable’s innovative tools to real-world strategies for maximizing revenue, we cover everything you need to know about making direct bookings work for you. Abby gives us an inside look at Hospitable’s basic and premium offerings, shares tips for boosting guest loyalty, and highlights the game-changing features on their product roadmap.

This is your chance to learn how to optimize your direct booking process, enhance the guest experience, and take full ownership of your rental business. Don’t miss the special referral code Abby shares exclusively for our listeners—your next step to hosting success starts here.

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/hospitable/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hospitable_com/

Website - https://hospitable.com/contact-us/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #DirectBookings #PropertyManagement #GuestExperience #PaymentProcessing #ReviewManagement #GuestVetting #DamageProtection #HospitableDirectBooking #STRHostTips

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Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

Ready to take your short-term rental business to the next level? In this episode of the Smart Stay Podcast, Rory Gill and I chat with Punith Upadhya, the mastermind CEO of Moon Gaze Stays, who’s figured out how to run a world-class short-term rental operation from hundreds of miles away!

Puneet pulls back the curtain on his game-changing strategies, including how he’s built seamless systems, empowered his local team, and mastered the art of delivering unforgettable guest experiences. Plus, he reveals how the "Limitless" program transformed his mindset, helping him tackle challenges and seize unexpected opportunities with confidence.

We also get into his personal tips for staying motivated, creating SOPs that keep operations smooth, and adding those wow-factor touches that guests rave about. If you’re serious about scaling your short-term rental business and learning from a true pro, this is the episode you can’t miss. Hit play and get inspired!

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/punith.upadhya

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/punith3upadhya/

Website - https://www.moongazestays.com/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #RemoteManagement #GuestExperience #LimitlessMindset #SystemsAndProcesses #PersonalizedTouches #DirectBookings #BusinessPartnerships #Motivation #EngineeringApproach

Follow Us!

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

In this episode of the Smart Stay Show, I sit down with Christina Melander, the founder of Knotty Pine Design and a talented short-term rental host, to discuss how she creates memorable guest experiences with a blend of budget-conscious, authentic design. Christina shares her insights on crafting distinctive, fantasy-driven vibes that stand out on listings and leave a lasting impression.

We dive into how to balance sturdy, long-lasting furniture with unique, locally-sourced pieces, and how meaningful items like family heirlooms and artwork can elevate the guest experience. Christina also shares practical advice for new hosts, including sourcing high-quality furnishings through resale channels, gathering guest feedback, and avoiding generic décor.

If you're a short-term rental host looking to elevate your space and make a real impact on your guests, this episode is full of valuable takeaways. Tune in for inspiration on creating a home away from home that your guests will never forget!

Email - [email protected]

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/knottypine.design/

Website - https://www.knottypine.design/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #AirbnbHosting #UniqueDesign #BudgetFriendlyDecor #SustainableHospitality #GuestExperience #VintageFinds #LocalTouchpoints #HostCommunication #InteriorDesignTips

Follow Us!

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

In this episode of The Smart Stay Show, we’re diving into the critical role of signage in short-term rentals. From the must-have Wi-Fi sign to rules about smoking, plumbing, and pets, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you create a seamless guest experience.

We’ll discuss how to balance necessary information with tasteful design, avoid the pitfalls of overwhelming guests, and even incorporate humor and creativity to make your signs stand out. Tune in for actionable tips to protect your property, keep guests informed, and enhance their stay!

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jasonmuth

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonmuth/

Website - https://www.smartstayshow.com/ https://www.straightforwardstrs.com/ https://prideawaystays.com/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbHostTips #ShortTermRentalSignage #GuestExperienceEnhancement #PlumbingProtection #PetFriendlyRules #ThermostatInstructions #QRCodeGuides #CreativeSignDesign #IdiotProofingYourRental #ShortTermRentalHacks

Follow Us!

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for another episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

*****

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

SmartStay Coaching Website and on Instagram

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

*****

This podcast and these show notes are not legal advice, but we hope you find both entertaining and informative.

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

In this episode, we’re joined by the brilliant Justin Miller, co-founder of Showplace and a true trailblazer in hospitality design. Justin brings a wealth of experience to the table, having co-founded Pillow, a groundbreaking property management tech platform, and now leading Showplace, where he helps rental owners and investors create spaces that leave a lasting impression.

Justin’s journey is as inspiring as it is insightful. From navigating the challenges of launching tech-driven solutions for property management to becoming a go-to expert for design-driven short-term rental setups, he’s seen firsthand how the right approach can elevate a property from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re new to hosting or a seasoned STR owner looking for fresh ideas, Justin’s advice is packed with actionable insights you can start using today. Tune in now and discover how the power of design can help you create a short-term rental that guests will never forget!

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/showplacehq

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/showplace_hq/

Website - https://www.showplacehq.com/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #ShortTermRentalDesign #AirbnbInteriorDesign #VacationRentalOptimization #GuestExperienceDesign #HospitalityInvestments #InstagrammableSpaces #AmenitiesArmsRace #RealEstateHospitalityConvergence #MemorableTravelExperiences #DesignForProfitability

Follow Us!

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

In this episode, We dive into the crucial role of location in short-term rental success. From being close to key attractions like beaches and national parks to considering the charm of quieter residential neighborhoods, I’ll walk you through the factors that can make or break your rental’s performance.

I also share my experiences hosting in Provincetown, Massachusetts, and offer practical tips for enhancing the value of your property—whether it's upgrading amenities, marketing hidden gems in your area, or catering to your guests' specific needs. Tune in to learn how to unlock the full potential of your short-term rental through the power of location!

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jasonmuth

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonmuth/

Website - https://www.smartstayshow.com/ https://www.straightforwardstrs.com/ https://prideawaystays.com/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbHostTips #AirbnbSuperhost #ShortTermRentalSuccess #ShortTermRentals #LocationMatters #AirbnbHosting #PropertyInvesting #VacationRentals #CommunityDynamics #GuestExperience #MarketingTips #TargetMarket #DestinationTravel

Follow Us!

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for another episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

*****

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

SmartStay Coaching Website and on Instagram

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

*****

This podcast and these show notes are not legal advice, but we hope you find both entertaining and informative.

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

In this episode, I’m joined by Jarrett Chouinard, the founder of Stellar Retreats, who shares his inspiring journey into the short-term rental world. Starting with just one arbitrage unit in Connecticut, Jarrett has grown his business into a thriving operation spanning multiple properties in New York, Rhode Island, and beyond.

We’ll dive into his experiences with the challenges of the arbitrage model, how he navigates working with landlords, and the lessons he’s learned about guest demographics and client relationships.

Jarrett also shares his approach to technology, systems, and building a team that supports growth. And as if that’s not enough, we’ll also talk about Jarrett's ambitious plans for the future and his entrepreneurial ideas that go beyond short-term rentals.

This is a must-listen for anyone looking to learn, grow, and succeed in the short-term rental industry. Let’s get started! 

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jarrett.chouinard

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jarrettchouinard/

Website - https://www.stellaretreats.com/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #AirbnbArbitrage #PropertyManagement #EntrepreneurialMindset #HospitalityTechnology #RemoteTeamBuilding #CommunityBuilding #GuestExperience #ScalingSTRBusiness #HospitalityInsights

Follow Us!

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

In this episode, we’re thrilled to sit down with Brent Hieggelke, the visionary founder of Trustr, a groundbreaking platform redefining the short-term rental experience. 

Brent brings decades of experience in the vacation rental world, and together, we dive into how Trustr taps into the power of social networks to create trusted, more personal guest-host connections. Say goodbye to renting to total strangers and hello to curated "guest lists" of friends, family, and acquaintances!

We explore how this innovative model leverages word-of-mouth recommendations, integrates with property management tools, and even uses an affiliate-style approach to enhance platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. 

Whether you're a property owner hesitant to list or a guest seeking more authentic stays, this episode is packed with insights into the future of short-term rentals. Tune in now to hear how Truster is bridging the gap and opening new doors! 

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/brenth

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bhieggelke/

Website - https://trustr.com/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #TrustedConnections #SocialNetworkRentals #PersonalizedHospitality #VacationRentalInnovation #PropertyOwnerEmpowerment #WordOfMouthMarketing #RentalMarketDisruption #TrustedRecommendations #CuratedGuestExperience

Follow Us!

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

In this episode, we explore the intersection of travel, content creation, and short-term rental marketing with special guest Jordan Kahana, founder of Stayamo. As the lines between work and vacation blur, today’s creators are reimagining how destinations are experienced and showcased. Jordan explains how Stayamo connects properties with creators, making it easier for hosts to collaborate with storytellers and bring their spaces to life.

Host Jason Muth, a 29-time Airbnb Superhost, has firsthand experience listing his property on Stayamo, with results that speak for themselves. Joined by real estate broker Rory Gill, they discuss the shift from traditional real estate photography to lifestyle-driven visuals that capture what it’s really like to stay at a property. From staging seasonal scenes to negotiating with creators, Jordan shares top strategies for short-term rental owners.

Whether you’re a host wanting to enhance your marketing or a content creator looking for new opportunities, this episode is packed with insights. Don’t miss it!

Things we discussed in this episode:

Get in touch with Jordan:

Website - https://stayamo.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jordankahana

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@JordanKahana/videos

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvesting #realestateinvestor #RealEstateEntrepreneur #remotework #digitalnomad #travelinfluencer #stayation #vacationrental #airbnb #shorttermrental #visualstorytelling #dronephotography #influencermarketing

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for another episode of The Real Estate Law Podcast!

Following and subscribing to The Real Estate Law Podcast not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

The Real Estate Law Podcast Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

This podcast and these show notes are not legal advice, but we hope you find both entertaining and informative.

Hospitality.FM

The Real Estate Law Podcast is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

Ever wondered what it’s like to live in a house full of entrepreneurs all driven to succeed? Meet Jesse Ray, the mind behind the "Growth House" concept, where like-minded professionals live, learn, and grow together under one roof. In this episode, Jesse Ray shares his journey from corporate America to real estate investing and the game-changing decision that sparked his success: building a community that fuels ambition.

From shared masterclasses to daily accountability, the Growth House isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive. Jesse explains how residents like Derek went from managing a few properties to scaling up to 60+ rentals, all thanks to the connections and support within the house.

Join us as we dive into the power of intentional living, the importance of community, and how surrounding yourself with the right people can ignite your path to success. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or just curious about real estate innovation, this episode has something for you. Don’t miss it!

Things we discussed in this episode:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010717680041

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_thegrowthhouse/

Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/journey-from-%240-to-%2410-million-business-solo-jesse-ray-37/id1713820406?i=1000648515810

#realestatepodcast #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestatelaw #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #Entrepreneurship #CoLiving #BusinessCommunity #PassiveIncome #StartupGrowth #MindsetShift #CorporateExit #Resilience #EntrepreneurialJourney

*****

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for another episode of SmartStay Show!

*****

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

SmartStay Coaching Website and on Instagram

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

*****

This podcast and these show notes are not legal advice, but we hope you find both entertaining and informative.

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!