Skool Group - https://www.skool.com/drive-direct-bookings-for-strs-5526
This was a thorough deep dive into AI, WordPress, PMS platforms, direct-booking websites, guest communication, content, search, community, and the future of hospitality tech.
Big shoutout to Stay Direct for inviting me into their monthly session and for leading such a strong conversation around what is changing in the industry.
We also mentioned and discussed:
Graeme from Forge, and the work they are doing with AI agents
Neely Khan, and the importance of storytelling and being chosen, not just discovered
Richard Vaughton
Boris from Onseason
Gil from Crafted Stays
Gareth, who joined the discussion around AI search and discovery
Gareth's Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAABnNNhwBMQ1NDdjPM8JO3TjGvDSe0NZB50c?skipRedirect=true
Guesty, and how PMS platforms are moving into AI
Hospitable, including an example of a host using AI to find booking opportunities
Claude, ChatGPT, Perplexity, OpenClaw, Lovable, Replit, HubSpot and other AI tools are changing how operators work
The main message from the session is simple:
AI is not here to replace your story, your brand, or your relationships.
But it can help you remove boring work, spot missed revenue, follow up with guests, review costs, research leads, and make better decisions faster.
We talked about:
Whether WordPress is still the best option for direct booking websites
Why AI website builders are exciting but not always ready for proper booking flows
How PMS companies are adapting to AI
How hosts can connect PMS data to AI tools
How one host generated $7,000 in bookings within 72 hours using AI
Why AI generated content is often weak
Why community and brand are becoming more important
How ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini and Perplexity are changing online discovery
Why niche brands will be easier for AI tools to recommend
What short-term rental hosts should focus on over the next 12 months
This session was part of the Stay Direct monthly meet-up.
You can join the Stay Direct school group using the link in the description below.
Watch this if you are a host, property manager, website builder, PMS user, or short-term rental business owner trying to understand how AI fits into your direct booking strategy.
Alistair's Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/alistairmalins/
]]>In this video, we break down how Arqdia's new “decision brain” helps vacation rental companies turn overwhelming amounts of data into clear, prioritised action. Instead of replacing existing tools like Guesty, Hostaway, or PriceLabs, Arcadia sits on top of the tech stack as a decision operating system designed to help operators make faster, smarter decisions across revenue, operations, maintenance, and guest experience.
We cover:
• How Aqrdia prioritises urgent operational tasks
• Why STR operators struggle with data overload
• How the AI resolves conflicts between departments
• The company’s vision for preserving institutional knowledge
• What the 8–12 week AI learning process looks like
• Arqdia's roadmap leading up to the October VRMA launch
• The “Backstage Nashville” event happening during VRMA
• Workshops, networking, parties, and industry meetups at the Maddox Hotel
Arqdia is already working with global design partners across London, Miami, Finland, Australia, and the Caribbean as it refines the platform ahead of its full production release.
If you’re in vacation rentals, hospitality tech, AI, or property management, this is one of the most important emerging platforms to watch in 2026.
In this episode, Gil Chan of Crafted Stays and I explore how SEO is changing in the age of AI search. We break down the rise of AEO and GEO, why guests are asking tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity for recommendations, and what accommodation businesses need to do to stay visible.
You’ll learn why deep, niche content matters more than generic landing pages, how schema and crawlability affect AI discovery, why Bing Webmaster Tools should not be ignored, and how AI is becoming the new “influencer” in the booking journey.
Amber shares her experience across the short-term rental industry and explains why guest acquisition can no longer be treated as an afterthought. We dive into the difference between boosting posts and running effective Meta ad campaigns, how clean property data can improve ad performance, and why your website and property detail pages are critical assets for converting qualified traffic.
Amber also breaks down the data points that many operators overlook, including booking pace, booking-source dynamics, OTA fee impact, revenue per property, and profit per property. She shares a real example of how a North Carolina client increased RevPAR by $60 while the wider market declined by 17%.
Whether you manage one property or a large portfolio, this episode offers practical advice on preparing your listings, improving website trust, and using marketing to drive higher-quality bookings instead of simply filling last-minute gaps.
Learn more about Bookings Cloud at http://bookingscloud.com/ or connect with Amber Knight on LinkedIn.
]]>Stayfi is https://stayfi.com/💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.🎟️ Save Your Spot: Boostly’s Free 90-Minute WorkshopMaster the systems top hosts use to hit 65%+ direct bookings:👉 https://boostlybootcamp.com/workshop/📊 Try the Bookings Booster Score Card15 questions. Instant insights. Personalized plan.👉 https://www.bookingsbooster.ai/📞 Ready to scale your direct bookings? Let’s talk.Book a free strategy call with our team:👉 https://boostly.co.uk/call🤖 Ask the Boostly AI, anytime.Your 24/7 hospitality chatbot:👉 https://boostly.co.uk/bot📢 No gatekeeping. No ads. Just the tools to help you build the hospitality brand you deserve.DISCLOSURE Information shared here is for educational purposes only. Individuals and business owners should evaluate their own business strategies, and identify any potential risks. The information shared here is not a guarantee of success. Your results may vary.Copyright © 2026
]]>Drawing on insights from operators, tech leaders, consultants, and founders, we cover the biggest shifts already happening beneath the surface, including:
• AI moving from hype to table stakes
• Direct bookings becoming a survival strategy, not a nice-to-have
• Automation reshaping guest communication, marketing, and operations
• Rising guest expectations and the return of high-touch experiences
• Consolidation across software and management companies
• Regulation, tourist taxes, and what they could mean for supply
• Longer stays, digital nomads, and stronger shoulder seasons
• Why revenue management and marketing are finally merging
I also share my own prediction for 2026 and why I believe this is the year the industry fully crosses into a new operating model.
If you’re a host or property manager who wants to stay profitable, future-proof your business, and reduce reliance on OTAs like Airbnb and Booking.com, this episode will help you see what’s coming before it hits.
Listen now and decide which side of the change you want to be on.
]]>You’ll learn:
• When to hire your first assistant
• Why cheap VAs cost you more
• The real onboarding process hosts never do
• The traits of great operators
• How to stop micromanaging and actually lead
• Why your SOPs are simpler than you think
• What agencies like CS Outsource really offer behind the scenes
If you’re managing 5 to 10 properties and feeling stretched, this video is the one that will save you months of headaches.
Work with the team I trust for all my hiring:
https://boostly.co.uk/hiring
]]>Welcome to the Boostly Spotlight, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.
In this Boostly Spotlight episode, we shine the spotlight on Garrett Brown from BiggerPockets — diving into his insights on real estate investing, short-term rental growth, and how community-driven education empowers everyday investors to build wealth through property.
Let's jump in.
https://www.biggerpockets.com/
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
]]>Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.
Episode 800 of The Boostly Podcast is a celebration of eight years behind the mic—starting with a Skype setup in 2017 and growing into a global community with over a million YouTube views.
Mark Simpson and co-host Liam Carolan sit down in person for the first time to reflect on the journey so far: hundreds of guest interviews, thousands of minutes of direct booking tactics, and the lessons learned from scaling hospitality businesses through consistency, better follow-up, smart systems, and a relentless focus on guest experience.
Let's jump in.
https://boostly.co.uk/
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
]]>Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.
In this Boostly Spotlight episode, Liam is joined by James King, Senior Marketing Manager for Eviivo in the US and Canada. With over 20 years of STR and hospitality experience, Jamey unpacks how Eviivo has grown into one of the leading all-in-one PMS platforms for independent hosts, boutique hotels, and professional managers.
You’ll hear how Eviivo simplifies operations across diverse portfolios — from cabins and RVs to boutique hotels — and why automation, integrations, and a unified dashboard save hosts hours every week. Jamie shares how Eviivo helps operators grow direct bookings, cut down OTA reliance, and deliver five-star guest experiences consistently. He also explains why the US market is unique, what hosts often get wrong about tech, and how to use integrations like PriceLabs to maximize occupancy and ADR.
Let's jump in.
https://eviivo.com/
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
]]>Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.
In this Boostly Bootcamp session, Mark Simpson is joined by Hailey Marie Anderson, a 22-year-old Airbnb entrepreneur who built a 7-figure arbitrage business with 58 properties — all fully remote. Hailey reveals how she went from high school side hustles to running an empire by mastering three key steps: automate, delegate, and scale.
She breaks down the difference between CEO vs operator mindset, how to run time audits to spot your biggest time wasters, and why burnout, micromanaging, and limited scalability disappear once you hire a remote team. You’ll discover the exact roles she outsourced first (VAs, cleaners, handymen, runners), where to find them, and how to train and retain them with SOPs and checklists.Hailey also shares her tech stack — Hostaway, PriceLabs, Turno, Truvia, TouchStay, Bestie AI, and Discord — and explains how she integrates teams and tools to keep occupancy above 90% while traveling the world as a digital nomad. From guest communication automations to video guidebooks and guest verification, every process is systemized for five-star consistency.
Let's jump in.
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
]]>👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.
In this Boostly Bootcamp session, Mark Simpson is joined by Ruben Kanya, co-founder of Invested Escapes and a nationwide leader in temporary housing. Together they unpack how short-term rental operators can pivot into the booming B2B market by targeting corporate relocations and insurance placements.
Ruben shares how he and his wife went from ordinary STR hosts to scaling a profitable business by focusing on relocation agencies and insurance companies. He reveals the data behind the $7.2 billion insurance housing market, why “monthly rentals” is now the keyword you need to win, and how four- to six-bedroom homes create premium opportunities. You’ll also learn his “duplicate listing” strategy for Airbnb, why visibility and searchability matter more than ever, and how to make your business easy to work with for corporations.
Let's jump in.
https://investedescapes.com/
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
]]>👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.
In this Boostly Bootcamp session, Mark Simpson is joined by Dr. Rachel to explore how AI tools are transforming the mid-term rental space. Building on Day 1 with Ryan Luke, this session dives into the opportunities hosts have when they pivot from short stays to 30+ day bookings.
Dr. Rachel reveals how she uses custom GPTs to uncover the most profitable guest avatars in any market — from displaced insurance families to construction crews, academic housing, seasonal workers, and even sports teams. She explains how AI can build a seasonality playbook for your property, map out which guest types to target, and give you insights into bookers’ budgets, must-haves, and decision-making processes.
Let's jump in.
www.shorttermgems.com/
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
]]>👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.
In this Boostly Bootcamp session, Mark Simpson is joined by Ryan Luke to unpack one of the hottest strategies in short-term rentals right now: medium-term stays of 30 days or more. With Airbnb reporting that one in every five bookings is now over 30 days, hosts who adapt will win big.
Ryan shares how he scaled from hundreds of short-term rental units to a leaner, more profitable business focused on contractor bookings. He explains how buying the right properties, converting them into 4–6 bedroom homes, and targeting the contractor niche transformed his business into a sustainable, stress-free model. You’ll hear his journey from 450 units and chaos to just 59 highly profitable properties, how he attracts four- to seven-month stays, and how he now raises capital to expand without relying on OTAs.
Let's jump in.
https://www.lukestays.com/
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
]]>In this special Boostly Spotlight episode, Mark Simpson is joined by Christina Vassel, Director of Partnerships at Turno, the cleaning automation platform built for hosts. Together they dive into what the guest journey really looks like in 2025—from the very first click to the final clean—and how you can impress guests at every stage.
Christina explains how Turno’s data-driven “Quality Center” helps hosts track cleanliness scores, manage turnovers, and avoid costly negative reviews. She also shares insights from Turno’s partnership with Airbnb, revealing how cleanliness ratings directly impact reservations. Mark follows up with practical marketing tactics for pre- and post-booking that ensure you turn lookers into bookers—and keep guests from cancelling.
Let's jump in.
https://turno.com/
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
]]>👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.
Today,
In this Boostly collab session, Mark, Madi, and Mike Petrek, founder & CEO of Batch, explore how the world’s biggest party-planning app evolved into a full-blown group travel marketplace.
Batch helps party planners (think bachelorettes, birthdays, divorce parties, guys/girls trips) easily book experiences, bars, restaurants, and group accommodations — all in one place.
Let's jump in.
https://letsbatch.com/
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
]]>👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.
Today, we are joined by Jeff from Furnished Finder — the go-to platform for hosts looking to attract reliable mid-term tenants such as traveling nurses, remote workers, and corporate clients. They dive into how Furnished Finder connects property owners with a steady stream of pre-screened, background-checked renters without the high commissions of OTAs.
You’ll learn how the platform works, what sets it apart from traditional short-term rental channels, and why it’s becoming a game-changer for hosts aiming to reduce vacancies and secure consistent rental income. From tips on optimizing your listing to insights on tenant expectations and rental trends, this episode is packed with practical advice for anyone exploring mid-term rentals.
Let's jump in.
https://www.furnishedfinder.com/
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.
In today’s Spotlight Series, Liam sits down with Pierre from Directo — the all-in-one guest experience platform helping short-term rental hosts ditch OTAs and win back direct bookings.Directo (formerly known under a different brand) is back with a new look and powerful tools that convert website visitors into paying guests — fast.
From real-time price syncing and property filtering to mobile-optimised booking flows, Directo helps you take control of your marketing and maximise revenue.If you’re serious about direct bookings in 2025, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss.
Let's jump in.
https://www.getdirecto.com/
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
In this special Boostly webinar, Mark Simpson dives into Enso Connect — the all-in-one guest experience platform that’s transforming short-term rental operations. From automating messaging and smart lock access to boosting upsells and review rates, Enso Connect helps STR hosts streamline the entire guest journey while keeping everything personalised and on-brand.
Built to integrate seamlessly with your PMS, this powerful tool acts like your digital concierge, letting you focus on growth while the tech handles the heavy lifting. Whether you manage boutique stays or hundreds of units, this session unpacks how hosts are using Enso to deliver 5-star experiences with less effort — and more profit.
Let's jump in.
https://ensoconnect.com/
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
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https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
In this special Boostly webinar, Mark Simpson is joined by Michael and Ryan from Conduit — the AI-powered guest communication platform formerly known as HostAI. They share how Conduit helps short-term rental managers save time by automating up to 80% of guest communication through AI messaging, omnichannel inboxes, and new voice AI features.
The team explains how their system integrates directly with major PMS platforms and Airbnb, setting up in just two quick calls. You'll also get a behind-the-scenes look at how Conduit's AI is trained, how it can handle calls, manage escalations, and even support your guest services team. Whether you're a host, property manager, or hotelier, this session is packed with valuable insights on how AI can help futureproof your business.
Let's jump in.
https://www.conduit.ai/
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
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https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
How can you make guest upsells a meaningful part of your short-term rental business? In this special panel episode, Mark Simpson is joined by Laura Muse from Muse Escapes, Mike O’Connell from Happy Guest, and Siddhi Mittal from YHangry to share practical strategies for making upsells work in the real world of hosting.
They discuss how to figure out what your guests actually want, simple ways to set up and market upsells, and how building relationships with local partners can create unique guest experiences — and boost your bottom line. You’ll hear why adding a personal touch matters more than ever and how using upsells the right way can even help reduce cancellations and increase booking conversions.
Let's jump in.Happy Guest:
https://www.happyguestofficial.com/
YHangry: https://yhangry.com/
Muse Escapes: https://museescapes.com/
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
]]>👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
In today’s Spotlight Series, we’re talking to a true hospitality veteran — Eric Goldreyer, the founder of BedandBreakfast.com and TurnKey — who’s now on a mission to disrupt the OTA model with his latest platform, Savvy.
If you're tired of handing over control (and cash) to Airbnb and Vrbo, this episode is for you. Eric shares how Savvy is helping professional hosts take back guest relationships and avoid sky-high booking fees — all while delivering better hospitality.
We get into OTA frustrations, the need for consistency in STRs, the rise of professional hosts, and how platforms like Savvy are making direct booking easier, smarter, and more profitable.
Let's jump in.
https://www.savvy.com/
Connect with Boostly
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]]>👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.
💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
In this episode of the Boostly Podcast, we're joined by Jenn Boyles—vacation rental pro, marketer, and founder of Direct Booking Success and Book Direct Pro. Jenn shares her incredible journey from growing up in luxury hotels to becoming a short-term rental host and helping others achieve booking independence.
We dive into the realities of relying on OTAs, the mindset shift needed to embrace direct bookings, and how to turn your property from just a listing into a thriving brand. Jenn also introduces her all-in-one marketing tool, Book Direct Pro, and the STR Content Lab, designed to give hosts the support and confidence to build a sustainable, profitable business without relying solely on Airbnb or Vrbo.
Let's jump in.https://directbookingsuccess.comhttps://bookdirectpro.com
Connect with Boostly
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]]>👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
In today’s Spotlight Series, we introduce you to the tools, strategies, and people transforming the short-term rental world.In this episode, we’re joined by Nicolas, Strategic Partnerships Manager at Smoobu, to dive deep into what makes a scalable, successful STR business in 2025. From dynamic pricing and direct booking websites to flexible messaging automations and open API access, Smoobu is more than just a channel manager—it’s a platform built to empower hosts who want to grow without burning out.
We cover how top hosts are using automation, what mistakes most hosts make when setting up their PMS, and the AI tools Smoobu is building to stay ahead of the curve. If you're still juggling bookings manually or haven't tapped into revenue management tools yet, this conversation is your wake-up call.
Let's jump in.
https://www.smoobu.com/en/
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]]>👋 Welcome to Boostly, where we give STR and MTR owners and managers the tools, strategies, and support to win more direct bookings — no fluff, no ads.💡 This video is part of our free training series to help you grow your short-term rental business and take control away from OTAs.
In today’s Spotlight Series, we’re diving into one of the easiest guest-first upgrades you can offer: groceries delivered before your guests even arrive.Joining us is Connor Paton, CEO of Notable — the grocery concierge service designed specifically for short-term rentals. We explore how this upsell can boost your 5-star reviews, increase revenue, and help you stand out in competitive markets — all while making your guests feel instantly at home.
This isn’t just about groceries. It’s about convenience, personalisation, and creating unforgettable moments. Whether you manage luxury villas or beach cottages, this episode is packed with ideas to elevate your guest experience and drive direct bookings.
Let’s jump in.
https://www.shopnoshable.com/
Connect with Boostly
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]]>Guy shares the truth about permits, licensing delays, and the often-overlooked zoning pitfalls that can cost hosts thousands or shut their business down completely. You’ll hear real stories, common mistakes, and learn how to stay ahead of regulation changes without getting buried in paperwork or red tape. Whether you're managing one unit or an entire portfolio, this conversation will help you protect your business, operate with confidence, and make smarter investments in the future.
Let's Jump in.
https://www.vacationrentallicense.com/
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
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]]>In today’s Spotlight Series, we’re diving into one of the most unique and memorable guest experiences out there—stargazing. But not just any stargazing… we’re talking about star bathing with a guided audio experience designed to turn your remote property into a destination that guests will never forget.Joining us is Etta Dunman, lighting designer and founder of Visit Dark Skies. She’s on a mission to help hosts create magical, immersive experiences by using the natural beauty of the night sky—something guests crave, but most hosts overlook.We explore how light pollution is making dark sky locations more valuable than ever, how a simple 30-minute activity can create lifetime memories, and how you can implement this at your property in just two hours—no astronomy skills required.
If your rental is in a remote location or you’re looking for an easy way to boost bookings and reviews through experience-led hosting, this episode is for you.
Let’s jump in.
https://www.visitdarkskies.com/sky
Connect with Boostly
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]]>In this episode, Mark Simpson the founder of Boostly sat down with Oriol from Mr. Alfred to share his journey—from growing up in UK hospitality to helping short-term rental hosts around the world generate over £50 million in direct bookings through Boostly. Mark talk about the early days, building a global brand, and why he's on a mission to help 1 million hosts take back control from OTAs.
We dive into why over-reliance on Airbnb is a dangerous game, the importance of building a guest database, and how he is using AI to transform guest communication and streamline operations for hosts. Mark also shares his thoughts on the future of the industry, global market trends, and the game-changing tools he think every host should be paying attention to right now.
Whether you're new to direct bookings or scaling fast, this episode is packed with tips to help you grow your business on your terms.
Let’s jump in.
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
]]>In this Spotlight Series episode, we sit down with Luca Zambello, CEO and co-founder of Journey, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the hospitality industry—from the inside out.
Joining us is Luca Zambello, CEO and co-founder of Journey, an AI-powered property management system that’s transforming how hosts run their businesses—from automated guest comms and reviews to smart co-pilots that respond to voice commands and even personalised guest experiences at scale.
If you’ve been curious (or sceptical) about AI, this episode breaks down exactly how it works, what’s changing, and how it can enhance the human side of hosting rather than replace it.
Whether you manage 2 properties or 200, this is your roadmap to staying ahead in a fast-moving industry.
Let’s jump in.
https://www.jurny.com/
Connect with Boostly
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https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
]]>Joining us is Dustin Baker, founder of Hidden Gem Media and a marketing expert who’s helping hosts break free from Airbnb and OTAs using the same powerful strategies big brands use—without needing a massive ad budget.
We’re diving into why trust is the missing link in most direct booking strategies, how to turn social media followers into email subscribers, and how a properly built funnel can completely transform your business.
If you’ve ever felt stuck posting on Instagram with no results, or you’re wondering how to actually turn traffic into bookings, this episode is your game plan.
Let’s jump in.
https://hiddengem.media/
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https://Boostly.co.uk
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]]>Joining us is Harro, owner of The Hive at 52 in Cheshire and long-time hospitality pro, who’s been using Free to Book for over a decade. From handling bookings and automation to using dynamic pricing tools like RoomPriceGenie, Harro shares exactly how this PMS helps streamline his day-to-day operations and boost direct bookings.If you’re running a small guesthouse, B&B, or even a multi-room STR under one roof—and you’re looking for a low-cost, flexible PMS that scales with you—this episode is packed with honest, hands-on insights from someone who’s been there, done that.
Let’s jump in.
https://en.freetobook.com/
@freetobook
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https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
]]>Today’s episode is a game-changer: we're diving into why most hosts are completely missing the mark on Instagram — and what you need to do right now to turn your social media into a powerful booking machine.
Our guest Paul Anderson spent 15 years in hospitality, left it all behind, and is now helping hosts like YOU grow massive audiences and boost direct bookings — without wasting time posting every single day.
If you've ever felt like you're shouting into the void on Instagram... or wondering why your beautiful posts aren't converting into guests — you do NOT want to miss this.Get ready for some hard truths, easy wins, and insider secrets that will change the way you use Instagram forever. Let’s jump in!
https://thesocialmediahotelier.com/
@thesocialmediahotelier
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https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
In today’s Spotlight Series, we’re diving deep into one of the hottest topics in hospitality right now: AI. And not just any AI—we're talking about a platform built by hosts, for hosts that’s transforming how guest communication is done.
Joining us is Jay, the CEO and co-founder of HostBuddy.ai, an automated AI guest messaging platform that integrates with your property management system and takes care of communication, upsells, and more—24/7. Whether you’re managing 2 properties or 200, this episode is packed with insights on how to save time, cut costs, and boost revenue using smart automation.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by guest messages or considered hiring a VA, you’re gonna want to hear what Jay has to say.
Let’s jump in.
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
The go-to show for hosts who are tired of relying on OTAs and ready to take control of their bookings, their brand, and their business.
Today, we’ve got a returning guest who’s been making waves in the hospitality tech world — Arthur Colker from StayFi is back in the hot seat. And trust me, if you're not already using StayFi, this episode might just change the way you run your short-term rental business forever.
We’re diving into the ultimate WiFi hack that’s helping hosts around the world grow massive email lists, build guest loyalty, and boost direct bookings like never before. From avoiding rookie email mistakes to crafting the perfect post-stay automation — this episode is packed with actionable insights you can start using today.
So whether you’ve got one rental or one hundred, grab your notebook — because you’re about to learn the secret sauce that could 10x your guest marketing game.
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
The place where we shine a light on the people shaking up the short-term rental space and give you the tools, tactics, and inspiration to grow your business. I’m your host Mark Simpson, and today, we’re diving into something that the community has been buzzing about...Back in January, I dropped an episode highlighting a few rising stars in the content creation world — creators who are doing seriously good work but aren’t always in the spotlight. And wow, the response was massive. So massive, in fact, that other creators were jumping in the comments asking, “Hey, why wasn’t I on the list?!”So guess what? We’re back with another round. This time, I’ve broadened the radar — we’re going international, we’re going multi-platform, and we’re shining a light on some seriously talented people who are killing it in the Airbnb and short-term rental world.Creators:Kristen And Michael: https://www.instagram.com/kristen_and_michael/
Matthew Robson:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-robson-980a01b0/
Taylor Jones:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-jones-38997154/
Garrett Browne:
https://www.instagram.com/garrettbrownre/
Emily Lethgo:
https://www.instagram.com/emilylethgo/
Bergathor Palsson: https://www.instagram.com/subleasingdubai/
Jeremy Werden:
https://www.instagram.com/jeremywerden/
Ben Wolff:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-wolff/
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
If you’re a short-term rental host looking to streamline your business, avoid double bookings, and maximize efficiency, then today’s episode is for you! We’re diving into the world of Property Management Systems (PMS)—the software that can make or break your hosting experience.
In this episode, we’re joined by Toby Dore from Cajun Stays, an experienced Airbnb host, property manager, and world traveler who has spent 13 years in the short-term rental industry. Toby shares his journey of switching PMS providers, why he made the change, and how his current system, Uplisting, has transformed the way he runs his business.
We’ll cover:
✅ The challenges of managing multiple rental properties✅ How tech glitches forced Toby to find a better solution✅ The key features that make a PMS truly game-changing✅ How automation helps him manage his rentals while traveling✅ The must-have integrations that save time and boost efficiency
If you’re thinking about upgrading your PMS—or just want to hear real insights from an experienced host—stick around!
Connect with Toby Dore
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https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
In today’s episode, we’re shining the spotlight on TechTape, a company dedicated to helping short-term rental operators supercharge their revenue and optimize their tech stack. Joining us is John, the founder and CEO of TechTape, who has years of hands-on experience in the industry. He’s here to reveal the biggest mistakes hosts make when it comes to revenue management—and how to avoid them!
🚀 Whether you're managing one property or a hundred, you CANNOT afford to ignore revenue management in today's competitive market. John will break down the industry shifts happening right now, share insider tips on maximizing your profits, and give you actionable strategies to implement today.
💡 Stay tuned until the end for John’s top advice on how to stay ahead of the competition and future-proof your rental business.
Let’s dive in! 🎧
Connect with TechTape
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https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
]]>Meet Mike Sebastian, the founder of Hideaways. After leaving a high-flying marketing career, Mike took the short-term rental industry by storm—transforming ordinary properties into one-of-a-kind vacation experiences that guests can’t resist. His secret? Hyper-targeted design, bold marketing strategies, and an out-of-the-box approach to hospitality.
In this episode, Mike shares:
✅ Why focusing on a niche audience is the key to skyrocketing profits
✅ How he turned a $215/night rental into a $620/night hotspot
✅ The power of viral marketing to fill bookings outside of Airbnb
✅ His best tips for choosing and designing unique rental properties
If you're an Airbnb host, property investor, or STR enthusiast, you won’t want to miss this! Let’s jump in and uncover the secrets to short-term rental success.
Connect with Mike Sebastian
@matmiike
@discoverthehideaways
@buildyourhideaway
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
Join us for a fascinating conversation with Ger from Rhosydd Bach in Wales, a hospitality veteran with over 20 years of experience. We dive into his journey, from converting old pig farm buildings into luxury cottages to adapting to the ever-changing hospitality landscape. Ger shares invaluable insights on embracing change, the importance of personal touch, leveraging social media, and targeting your ideal customer. Learn how to stay ahead of the curve and build a thriving hospitality business in today's climate.
Connect with Ger
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https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
#Hospitality #DirectBookings #VacationRentals #Wales #MarketingTips #EmailMarketing #PersonalTouch #SmallBusiness #TravelPodcast #CustomerPersona #Adaptability #GirFromWales
]]>In this inspiring episode of the Boostly Podcast, we sit down with Chad Harker, the 25-year-old founder of Eco Escapes, an Airbnb management company that's taking Canada by storm! Chad shares his incredible journey from renting out a single spare room to building a thriving business, and reveals the secrets behind his success.
We dive deep into:
If you're looking to start or scale your Airbnb business, this episode is packed with actionable insights and motivation!
Timestamps:
Learn more about Chad and Eco Escapes:
Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
https://instagram.com/boostlyuk
https://Boostly.co.uk/podcast
#Airbnb #ShortTermRental #RealEstateInvesting #PropertyManagement #DirectBookings #Boostly #EcoEscapes #Entrepreneur #PassiveIncome #AirbnbTips #VirtualAssistants #AI #CanadaAirbnb
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of short-term rentals and hospitality with industry expert Blake Duarte. From must-know strategies for hosts to hidden challenges in the business, we uncover what it truly takes to run a successful and guest-friendly rental. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, this conversation is packed with insider tips, industry insights, and actionable advice that can elevate your hosting game.
Tune in to discover:
✅ Common mistakes that could cost you bookings
✅ The key to delivering 5-star guest experiences
✅ How to optimize pricing for maximum profit
✅ The future of hospitality and what’s changing in 2024
📌 Don’t miss this one—it’s a game-changer for Airbnb and short-term rental hosts!
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🔹 [00:00] Introduction – Welcome & episode overview
🔹 [01:30] Meet Blake Duarte – His journey into hospitality
🔹 [04:20] The biggest mistakes new hosts make
🔹 [08:10] How to create a 5-star guest experience
🔹 [12:00] Pricing strategies that boost revenue
🔹 [15:45] Trends shaping the future of short-term rentals
🔹 [19:00] Blake’s top actionable tip for hosts
🔹 [20:30] Closing thoughts & where to connect with Blake
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Connect with Guest
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Connect with Boostly
https://Boostly.co.uk/5steps
]]>In this episode of the Spotlight Series, we dive into the world of curated spaces with design expert Molly Cooper. Molly shares her journey into the field, her philosophy on intentional design, and how curated spaces can transform the way we experience our surroundings. From selecting the right elements to crafting visually compelling yet functional environments, she offers invaluable insights for designers, homeowners, and anyone passionate about aesthetics. We also explore the impact of curation on mood, productivity, and storytelling through space. Whether you're a design enthusiast or just curious about creating meaningful spaces, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways. Tune in and discover how to bring more purpose and creativity into your surroundings.
00:00 Introduction to Boostly Podcast and Curated Spaces
01:25 Molly Cooper's Journey and Curated Spaces' Origin
02:26 Molly Cooper's Journey into Hospitality
04:33 Impact of Guest Interactions on Hospitality Busines
06:44 Molly Cooper's Journey and the "Scroll Less, Live More" Mantra
08:34 Curated Spaces, Direct Bookings, and Host Experiences
09:06 The Importance of Unique Details in Guest Experiences
11:09 The Impact of Small Gestures and Homely Details
11:30 The Shift in Consumer Behavior and Marketing Strategies
12:58 Influencer Marketing in Hospitality
14:46 Created Spaces: Access and Selection
15:19 Platform Expansion and Community Growth
17:20 Addressing Concerns about Creator-Led Marketing
19:40 Influencer Marketing and Storytelling for Social Media
22:01 Building Emotional Connections in Marketing
23:16 The Power of Emotiveness in Marketing: A Personal Anecdote
24:10 Enhancing Customer Experience Through Emotional Connection
25:36 Biggest Wow Moments and Challenges in Curated Spaces and Digital Platforms
26:21 Post-Day Job Bliss and Entrepreneurial Challenges
28:51 Sharing the Journey and Authenticity in Building a Brand
31:19 Authenticity and Connection in Curated Content
33:28 Curated Spaces Platform Launch and Future Plans
Connect with Guest
https://www.instagram.com/curatedspacesclub/
https://www.curatedspaces.club/
https://app.curatedspaces.club/
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https://instagram.com/boostlyuk