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Ever wondered what makes a short-term rental truly unforgettable?
Some hosts swear by bold color schemes, while others lean into quirky themes, but what really drives bookings and keeps guests coming back?
Today, we sit down with renowned designers Bri West and Jordan McDonough here on SmartStay Show to explore the art and strategy of standout short-term rental design. Discover how bold color, imaginative themes, and strategic branding can transform any property into not just a beautiful space, but an unforgettable guest experience, and a profitable investment.
From emerging market trends to must-have amenities, this episode is packed with actionable insights for both new and seasoned hosts. Whether you’re ready to go all-in on a themed rental or simply considering a design refresh, learn how thoughtful choices can elevate your bookings, enhance guest satisfaction, and maximize ROI.
Things we discussed in this episode:
Get in touch with BRI & JORDAN:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/somerled.designs/?hl=en
Website - https://www.somerleddesigns.com/
Linkedin Bri- https://www.linkedin.com/in/bri-west-2a7a93288/
Linkedin Jordan- https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-patchell-mcdonough-758a9ba4/?trk=people-guest_people_search-card
#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #ShortTermRentals #AirbnbDesign #RentalROI #InteriorDesign #PropertyBranding #VacationRental #GuestExperience #HospitalityTrends
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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
What actually makes one short-term rental crush it… while another barely books?
Today we sit down with Kenny Bedwell, a former data analyst turned short-term rental expert, to unpack what truly separates top-performing properties from the rest. We talk about why blending in is the fastest way to lose (and why your rental needs its own “Impossible Whopper”-style edge), how Kenny’s investment strategy has evolved over time, and what most hosts still misunderstand about ROI and aligning with real client goals.
Whether you’re buying your very first property or scaling a growing portfolio, this conversation is packed with real-world, data-backed insights to help you stand out, book more, and build smarter in today’s ultra-competitive short-term rental market.
Things we discussed in this episode:
Get in touch with Kenny :
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ShortTermRentalInsights
Website - https://www.strinsights.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/strinsights/Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@strinsights7414
#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #ShortTermRentals #STRInsights #VacationRentals #DataDriven #ROI
#UniqueStays #PropertyManagement #InvestSmart
#RentalIncome
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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
What does it really take to build a short-term rental business that supports the life you want?
Today we sit down with special guest Dan Rivers from Synergy Stays as they unpack the real motivation behind Dan’s journey, from real estate sales to revenue management expert, all driven by the goal of creating a truly mobile lifestyle.
In this episode, Dan shares practical pricing strategies, why listing optimization is a game-changer, and how shifting your mindset from “side project” to real business can unlock long-term success. Whether you’re a new host or an experienced operator ready to sharpen your strategy, this conversation is packed with takeaways you can put to work right away.
Things we discussed in this episode:
Get in touch with Dan:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SynergyStays/
Website - www.synergystayslocal.com
#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #ShortTermRentals #RevenueManagement #AirbnbHost #RemoteWork #ListingOptimization #TravelWithKids #EntrepreneurMindset #PropertyManagement #BusinessGrowth
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
What does it really take to stay ahead as short-term rentals and property management continue to evolve?
In this episode, we sit down with Pierre-Camille Hamana, CEO of Hospitable, for a candid conversation about where the hospitality industry is headed and what hosts need to be thinking about right now. We dive into real-world strategies around automating guest communication, using dynamic pricing to maximize revenue, navigating tax remittance across multiple states, and how Hospitable’s unique Host Token program is designed to better align the platform with the hosts who rely on it every day.
Whether you’re brand new to hosting or managing a growing portfolio, this conversation offers practical insights and forward-thinking ideas to help you stand out, scale with confidence, and build a more resilient hospitality business.
Things we discussed in this episode:
Get in touch with Pierre:
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/pchamana/
Website - https://hospitable.com/
#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #ShortTermRentals #HospitalityTrends #DirectBooking #PropertyManagement #DynamicPricing #HostLife #RentalInnovation #VacationRental #Hospitable #STRsuccess
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
Can intentional design actually boost your short-term rental profits?
Find out in this week’s episode featuring Vacation Rental Design Strategist Erica Dike. We dive into why the most successful rentals combine eye-catching style with smart strategies for ROI.
Erica shares her journey from student Airbnb host to expert designer, offering actionable tips for balancing personal taste with guest appeal, all while maximizing profitability.
Whether you’re an investor, homeowner, or design enthusiast, this episode is packed with stories, expert advice, and practical insights you can use for your next project.
Subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode!
Things we discussed in this episode:
Get in touch with Erica:
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-dike/
Website - https://www.ericaooh.com/
#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #ShortTermRentals #BusinessPartnership #VacationRental #Entrepreneurship#PropertyManagement #TeamBuilding #STRBusiness#RealEstateInvesting #WorkLifeBalance #RentalSuccess
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
Is going solo really the best way to scale a short-term rental business—or can the right partnership take you further, faster?
In this episode, we sit down with Evan Davison and Evan Montgomery to unpack what actually happens when two ambitious operators decide to merge their short-term rental businesses. We talk openly about dividing roles using the visionary and integrator model, building trust, and navigating the real challenges of scaling while maintaining a boutique guest experience.
The conversation also explores team leadership, growing pains, and how personal life and fatherhood intersect with running a fast-growing STR operation. This episode offers honest insights, real lessons, and practical perspective for anyone considering partnership or scaling in the short-term rental space.
Things we discussed in this episode:
Get in touch with Evan Davison and Evan Montgomery:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/aesthetic_p.g/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AestheticPropertyGroup
Website - https://www.stupendousstays.com/
https://www.aestheticpg.com/
#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #ShortTermRentals #BusinessPartnership #VacationRental #Entrepreneurship
#PropertyManagement #TeamBuilding #STRBusiness
#RealEstateInvesting #WorkLifeBalance #RentalSuccess
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
What does it really take to scale a short-term rental business, and when does “more” stop meaning “better”?
In this episode, we sit down with Blake and Jeremy from Cribs Consulting, the powerhouse duo behind one of Austin’s most respected short-term rental operations. We dig into their journey from managing just three Airbnbs to nearly a hundred properties, and the surprising decision to intentionally scale back in order to gain clarity, profitability, and balance.
We talk candidly about creative financing strategies, tax-smart moves like the STR loophole, and what it truly means to build a long-term, legacy business alongside your spouse. Blake and Jeremy also share how community events, genuine relationships, and showing up authentically for clients have been key drivers of their success.
If you’re a host, investor, or entrepreneur questioning how to grow smarter, not just bigger, this conversation is packed with real-world insight, hard-earned lessons, and plenty of inspiration.
Things we discussed in this episode:
Get in touch with Blake and Jeremy:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cribsconsulting/
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-courtney/
Website - https://www.cribsconsulting.com/
#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #ShortTermRentals #AirbnbHost #STRloophole #CreativeFinancing #FamilyBusiness #PropertyManagement #CommunityBuilding #VacationRental #Entrepreneurship
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
What really makes a short-term rental unforgettable—and consistently five-star worthy?
In this episode, we sit down with Allegra Muzzillo—editor-turned-designer, superhost, and one of the sharpest minds in STR design—to uncover the secrets behind creating guest-ready spaces that truly stand out.
Allegra shares her fascinating journey from the fast-paced world of NYC publishing to crafting beautifully designed, highly functional rentals. We dive into the exact design decisions that matter most: choosing durable, cleaner-friendly materials, standardizing essentials to streamline turnovers, and integrating thoughtful local touches without falling into overdone clichés.
Whether you’re a seasoned host looking to elevate your listings or setting up your very first property, this episode is packed with real-world, actionable strategies to help you boost guest satisfaction, simplify operations, and increase profitability.
🎧 Tune in and learn how to design spaces guests can’t wait to book.
Things we discussed in this episode:
Get in touch with Allegra:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/acminteriors/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ACMinteriorsFLA
Website - https://www.acminteriors.com/
#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #ShortTermRentals #AirbnbHost #InteriorDesign #VacationRental #Superhost #RentalSuccess #HomeDecor #DesignTips #RentalProperty #GuestExperience
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
How do you turn a rustic flower farm into the Northeast's most enchanting glamping experience?
On this episode, I step into the heart of the Vermont woods to chat with the incredible Melissa Hessney Masters, the creative force behind Tangle Bloom. This conversation is all about transformation: how Melissa took a rustic flower farm and her deeply imaginative spirit and turned it into one of the most sought-after glamping retreats in the entire Northeast.
Melissa walks us through her journey, sharing how a tiny, 100-square-foot cabin became a genuine sanctuary for city dwellers craving nature and slow living. We dig into the details of her success, from the thoughtful touches—think fresh-cut wildflower bouquets and the magic of a wood-fired hot tub—that set her experience apart, to the practical realities of managing guest expectations in an off-grid environment.
If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to cultivate an authentic, successful hospitality business, Melissa's story of building Tangle Bloom is a must-listen. You're going to leave this episode inspired to completely reimagine what true hospitality looks like.
Things we discussed in this episode:
How Melissa turned a 100 sq. ft. cabin on her Vermont flower farm into a popular glamping stay.
The shift from personal use to rental after friends encouraged her.
Off-grid guest perks like wildflower bouquets, a wood-fired hot tub, and thoughtful hospitality.
Using Airbnb and Hipcamp to manage bookings and diversify income.
Adding outdoor showers, kitchens, and composting toilets for guest comfort.
Attracting mostly urban, younger couples who book two-night stays.
Adjusting pricing for weekends vs. weekdays and navigating seasonal demand.
Balancing guest expectations while keeping listings accurate.
Growing community through social media, creators, and local outreach.
Future plans for new projects and gathering ongoing guest feedback.
Get in touch with Melissa:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tanglebloom/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/tanglebloomflowers/
Website - https://tanglebloom.com/
#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #ShortTermRentals #Glamping #TinyCabin #Vermont #FlowerFarm #AirbnbHost #OffGridLiving #SustainableTourism #SlowLiving #SmartStay #NatureRetreat
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
Ever wonder what it really takes to walk away from a steady W2 and reinvent your life in real estate and short-term rentals?
In this episode, host Jason Muth sits down with Jeremy De Grasse for an honest, inside look at how they each stepped out of corporate careers and built thriving businesses in the stunning Adirondacks. Together, they dive into the lessons learned the hard way, the juggling act of family and entrepreneurship, the importance of scaling with intention, and how tools like Host Buddy can transform your operations.
If you’re dreaming about your own career shift or looking to grow your rental portfolio, their candid conversation is packed with inspiration, insights, and real-world advice to help you shape your next chapter.
Things we discussed in this episode:
Get in touch with Spencer:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drifterstays/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drifterstays
Website - https://www.drifterstays.com/
#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #ShortTermRentals #CareerChange #EntrepreneurLife #MidlifeReinvention
#BusinessGrowth #PropertyManagement #FamilyBusiness #AIAutomation #WorkLifeBalance
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
From the publisher's feed
Welcome to the SmartStay Show, your go-to podcast for mastering Short-Term Rentals on Airbnb, Vrbo, and beyond. For more Airbnb tips, visit smartstayshow.com and…
Hosted by 30-time Airbnb Superhost Jason Muth and Real Estate Attorney Rory Gill, we equip you with the tools to launch, manage, and optimize your vacation rental like a pro.
Unlike other shows, we specifically cater to owners of small-but-mighty portfolios who self-manage their properties. Each episode delivers expert insights, legal tips, and proven strategies from successful hosts across the U.S. Whether you’re buying your first property, improving your listing, or looking to stay ahead of the competition, we offer actionable advice and real-life stories to help you thrive.
From pricing strategies to guest communication, we provide the playbook to turn your property into a top-performing rental. Subscribe now and unlock your rental’s full potential with the SmartStay Show!
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