The STR Sisterhood

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Whether you’re brand new to Airbnb or an experienced Superhost, you’re giving yourself the gift of financial freedom and FUN when you enter the short-term rental space. If there’s anyone who knows this, it’s Stacey St. John. She built a 7-figure STR portfolio in less than two years and was able to leave her W2 thanks to the earnings from her properties. Today, she’s living the life she was always meant to live – on her terms. And on her new podcast, The STR Sisterhood, she’s sharing how you can, too! On this show, it’s all about you and your short-term rental journey. You’ll hear actionable advice from industry experts as well as inspiring stories from real women about their experiences, achievements, frustrations, and challenges…and how they’ve managed to turn their short-term rental dreams into reality. If you’re an ambitious woman who’s looking to have a 5-star Airbnb business on your hands without having to sacrifice the things you love, then tune in every week for all the goodness!

  1. 9 HR AGO

    Designing for Bookings: The Power of Cohesive STR Experiences with Ashlyn & Olivia

    What if the secret to a standout short-term rental isn’t just great design, but a fully cohesive experience that starts the moment a guest clicks on your listing? In this episode, I’m joined by sisters Ashlyn and Olivia, the creative powerhouses behind Abideaway. We’re diving into how a simple idea shared over a Marco Polo video evolved into a full-service studio that helps hosts build standout stays through the perfect marriage of design and strategy. We talk about: How interior design, branding, and web presence work together to create a seamless narrative for your propertyMoving beyond "who" your guest is to what they are worrying about, and how to solve those fears through intentional layout and amenitiesWhy custom art is more than just a "photo op" and how it can be used to stop the scroll and reinforce your property’s storyPractical, high-impact advice on where to spend a limited budget in your kitchen, living room, or outdoor space for maximum ROIHow to mine architecture, local history, and personal passions to guide every design decision you make But this isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about intentionality. Ashlyn and Olivia pull back the curtain on their creative process, from using Procreate mockups to ensure owner confidence to scoping mural projects that actually last. You’ll hear their "design hotline" wisdom on how to avoid the "I wish they’d thought of that" moments that kill guest reviews, and how to create a space that feels custom, memorable, and deeply resonant. If you’ve been looking for the bridge between "just a rental" and a "cohesive brand," this conversation is your roadmap. Get ready to stop guessing and start designing with a clear, story-driven purpose. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [00:59] A short introduction about our guests, Ashlyn Feller and Olivia Gerber from Abideaway, and shares how the idea started organically between them as sisters with complementary creative skill sets [04:31] Ashlyn and Olivia emphasize defining the ideal guest and starting with priorities to build a cohesive STR brand [07:45] Olivia explains starting with the ideal guest avatar and using a phased approach to build a cohesive STR brand experience [11:35] Olivia shares her philosophy of designing with intentionality and uncovering the story of a property [13:27] Olivia describes ways for hosts who are bootstrapping their STR design to uncover and build the story of their property [16:04] Ashlyn and Olivia explain when themed properties make sense and the role of data in decision-making [17:44] Olivia shares why engaging a designer early in the acquisition process is beneficial [18:45] Olivia and Ashlyn talk about what to consider in design before closing on a property and explain that designers can also refresh or elevate underperforming properties [20:37] Ashlyn shares why murals are a powerful design tool for short-term rentals and describes how hosts can budget for them based on size, complexity, and customization [24:16] Ashlyn describes her mural creation process from concept to installation, including design mockups, painting techniques, and care, and [27:26] Ashlyn shares creative ideas for placing murals in both large and smaller spaces and introduces the STR Sisterhood Design Hotline as a resource for hosts seeking design guidance [29:21] Ashlyn and Olivia describe the STR Sisterhood Design Hotline and what folks can expect if they've never been to a design hotline [32:39] Ashlyn and Olivia explain how even a modest $1,000 budget can meaningfully improve different areas of a short-term rental when spent strategically [34:01] Ashlyn explains how to approach branding with a limited budget by focusing on defining the overall guest experience and building a cohesive brand beyond just a logo [37:44] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “We have to go deeper and understand what that person is thinking when they're looking at properties, what that person is thinking when they are making a booking decision, what that person is stressed out about, what they're afraid of, what they're concerned about if they book the wrong property, because those are the things that ideal guest is not actually telling anyone that's a conversation he or she is having with themselves.”“Pull some piece of the puzzle and use that as, like a seed of inspiration.”“I am a huge believer that we are all in business to, not only, you know, improve our own lives. But isn't it great that we can proactively help each other like that just makes us all go to bed at night feeling that much better, right?”“Build your network and build it strong.”“If we're not aware, number one of things we need to tackle in our businesses, or things that may need improvement in our businesses, if we don't dedicate focused thinking time, which is that white space, we can go for months and even years without having those problems solved or those new ideas generated.” Let’s Connect: Website : https://www.abideaway.com/ Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090299230620 Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/abideaway/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

    51 min

  2. 14 APR

    Scaling STRs Together: The Airbnb Sisters’ Secrets to Success with Jen Stone and Lauren Schmidt

    What happens when two sisters team up to build a powerhouse short-term rental brand in two of the most competitive markets in the country? Most people think working with family is a recipe for disaster; Jen and Lauren prove it’s actually a competitive advantage. In this episode, I sit down with Jen Stone and Lauren Schmidt, better known as The Airbnb Sisters. We’re unpacking how they’ve grown a thriving portfolio across Nashville and 30A while keeping their standards sky-high and their sisterly bond intact. We talk about: How a single CMA Fest booking turned into a professional management career for Nashville’s biggest developersThe strategy behind their iconic pink-themed homes and how they attract high-value group stays like weddings and bachelorette partiesHow Jen transitioned from personal assistant to the engine of the business, managing guest flow and flawless check-insThe story of finding (and fiercely protecting) a standout cleaning crew to maintain five-star standards from hundreds of miles awayA candid look at hosting large groups, and how their branding and screening process attract guests who actually respect the property But this isn't just a story about pretty houses. It’s about the evolution of a brand. Jen and Lauren pull back the curtain on the delicate conversations they have with owners about decor budgets and why they now insist on being involved before a home is even furnished. You’ll hear how they still run a high-volume business with a personal touch, and my honest take on where they can finally let technology take some of the weight off their shoulders. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn a "side hustle" into a recognizable brand or how to successfully partner with family, this conversation is your front-row seat. Get ready to learn what it really takes to dominate the high-energy group stay market. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:15] A short introduction about our guests Jen Stone and Lauren Schmidt, and share how they started and grew their short-term rental business together as sisters [05:42] Jen explains how she and Lauren divided roles while building their short-term rental business [07:16] Lauren shares why she brought her sister Jen into the short-term rental business [08:29] Jen explains how social media helped grow their short-term rental business and attract large group bookings [10:54] Lauren outlines their mixed short-term rental business model of ownership and management, and how a long-term developer partnership shaped their portfolio [13:41] Lauren highlights that running properties far from home, like their 30A beach rentals, is very different from managing Nashville homes [14:35] Jen and Lauren discuss managing long-distance properties and finding the right cleaning team [18:19] Lauren and Jen explain how they maintain quality and consistent design across their properties [20:12] Lauren describes managing guest communications themselves and my advice to them about dynamic pricing tool and property management software [26:57] Jen explains that their approach to adding properties is highly selective, focusing first on the relationship and communication style with the owner rather than just the property itself [29:19] How Jen and Lauren use experience and firm standards to guide budgeting and property fit decisions [33:12] Jen and Lauren debunks bachelorette myths and highlights the reality of high-quality group guests [36:00] Lauren and Jen share how they generally don’t actively screen bachelorette parties or other group bookings and they treat all guests equally and welcome those who want to book [37:47] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “It's so important that we've got backups and backups for our backups.”“You can have a beautifully designed property, but if it's poorly run, you're not going to get great reviews.”“If somebody is giving you trouble, kill them with kindness.” Let’s Connect: Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/the.airbnb.sisters/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

    44 min

  3. 7 APR

    Story-Driven Design That Boosts Airbnb Bookings with Andrea Moxham

    What if the secret to an Airbnb or short-term rental that stays fully booked isn’t just a high-end renovation, but a story that dictates every decision you make? Most hosts start with a mood board; Andrea Moxham starts with a narrative. In this episode, I’m joined by virtual STR designer Andrea Moxham, who has mastered the art of turning properties into experience-driven destinations—often without ever stepping foot on-site. We talk about: How Andrea’s background in buyer psychology gives her a competitive edge in creating spaces that don’t just look good, but convert.How to craft a "story" for a property by mining local history, architecture, and even competitor reviews.Why leaning into a specific identity is the only way to win in saturated markets like beach towns or mountain retreats.Practical, high-impact design strategies for rugs, bedding, and curtains that transform a guest’s first impression.Navigating the challenges of remote projects—from color matching online to managing the guest journey from afar. But this isn't just about picking out furniture. It’s about design as a strategic business tool. Andrea pulls back the curtain on how she builds "memorable moments" around everyday features to ensure a property stands out in a crowded feed. You’ll hear why she believes hosts should never operate in a silo and how "knowledge hacking" through mentorship and community is the fastest way to scale a design-forward business. If you’ve been looking at your property as just a collection of rooms, this conversation will challenge you to see it as a story waiting to be told. Get ready to stop decorating and start designing for results. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:00] A short introduction about our guest Andrea Moxham, her journey getting into interior design, and the short term rental space [02:39] Andrea shares how her marketing background led her to short-term rental design and blending creativity with business strategy [06:32] How grounding bold design decisions in a property’s story and guest experience makes them intentional and strategic [09:18] Andrea explains how she creates a compelling property narrative when clients don’t have one [12:43] Andrea shares how hyper-niching and experience-driven amenities help properties stand out in saturated markets [17:41] How Andrea’s marketing background informs thoughtful design for multi-generational short-term rentals [24:27] Andrea discusses practical upgrades and key design elements for impactful short-term rental bedrooms on a $1500 budget [33:40] Andrea addresses a common challenge in virtual design: the discrepancy between how colors appear online versus in real life [36:09] Andrea reflects on the pitfalls of working in isolation and the value of community [38:26] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “Creating something really specific, it kind of allows you to make the home the destination.”“I would say that the biggest mistake is trying to figure things out on my own. It wastes so much time, waste so much money, leads to mistakes on real projects.”“You get what you pay for. I find that there is always a cost with choosing a cheaper option.”“The value of our time is so so, so important to keep in mind, because we can always earn more money. We cannot always create time while we can't create time at all.” Let’s Connect: Website : https://www.moxieandco.ca/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/andreamoxham/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

    49 min

  4. 31 MAR

    From Strangers to Strategy: How One Week Built a Powerful Women’s Tribe

    What actually happens when you say “yes” to a women’s real estate retreat where you barely know anyone? Most people assume it’s all networking and small talk, but the reality is much deeper. It’s about the moment you stop overthinking and start showing up for yourself. In this episode, I’m joined by my friends from the Outer Banks Girlfriends & Growth Rereat– Sue, Shae, Karey, and Jamie. We’re pulling back the curtain on what it really feels like to trade the daily grind for a house full of strangers and leave with a tribe. We talk about: From five-minute "just booked it" moments to following a gut feeling, how each woman pushed past the "introvert's anxiety" to get into the room.How a simple hallway conversation can spark an entirely new revenue stream or a "true north" business realignment.Why we designed a retreat that prioritizes breathing room over back-to-back PowerPoints.Using the retreat to turn scattered ideas into actionable structures—from team building to smarter automations.How these women are using tools like Notion and AI to document processes and clarify their guest avatars without losing the human touch. But this isn't just a recap of a trip. It’s about the courage to invest in yourself. We dive into the emotional side of growth, navigating the "grumpy" voice of self-doubt and balancing businesses with families and W-2 jobs. You’ll hear why shared values in real estate and hospitality can turn a house of strangers into a powerful support system in less than a weekend. If you’ve ever wondered if a retreat is "for you" or if you’re too new, too seasoned, or just too busy, this conversation is your honest, unfiltered answer. Get ready to discover why stepping into the right room is the fastest way to find the clarity and momentum you’ve been looking for. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:32] A short introduction about our guests Sue, Shay, Carrie, & Jamie, and their experiences at a recent Girlfriends & Growth Retreat in the Outer Banks [04:42] Sue shares deciding quickly to attend the Girlfriends and Growth retreat [06:55] Shay’s experience when she first heard about the Girlfriends & Growth and shares that her decision to attend the retreat came from a place of curiosity mixed with hesitation [09:43] Jamie shares that her decision to attend the Girlfriends & Growth retreat was driven primarily by intuition [10:51] Carrie’s initial reaction to the retreat concept was skeptical, particularly about hosting it at the beach during winter [14:54] Sue talks about her experience when arriving at a house full of women she didn’t know and how she navigated the initial discomfort [17:40] Jamie reflects on walking into the retreat and feeling completely at ease, even though she didn’t know who she would connect with [19:21] Shay’s experience on stepping into the retreat feeling a little shy and uncertain, worried that everyone else might have more in common or be more experienced since she no longer hosts [21:51] How Carrie’s takeaways from the Outer Banks retreat are shaping a more flexible, intentional experience in Pigeon Forge [28:13] Jamie explains that the retreat helped her clarify and organize the next steps for her business, particularly around building foundational systems, automations, and processes [32:00] How Sue used the retreat to refocus on guest experience, processes, and collaborative innovation [36:39] How Shay discovered the value of technology and the power of a supportive industry tribe [38:38] Carrie emphasizes the joy of watching 25 strangers enter a retreat and leave as a connected tribe, having shared experiences and exchanged contact information [41:02] Jamie advises trusting both gut and logic when making retreat decisions, especially for those who may not feel their intuition guiding them [42:39] Shay advises anyone on the fence about attending a retreat to just go, emphasizing that it’s a net gain no matter the outcome [43:52] Sue encourages silencing self-doubt and embracing the investment in oneself [45:05] The importance of mastering mindset, silencing “Grumpy Greg,” and paying it forward Golden Nuggets: “Being surrounded by smart women in real estate, but also just having sound boards you know, to be able to share ideas and get perspective in a non threatening, non judgmental environment, I think is so helpful.”“Just having alone time in my room to think and process the things that I've learned is incredibly helpful for me to be able to walk away from that retreat and walk away with an action plan.”“If anyone is thinking about making decisions, it is a breeding ground for the type of collaboration and brainstorming that you really need to not be stuck in making your own decisions.”“The more skilled that we can become at controlling those voices and controlling our mindset, the stronger we are, as women, as individuals, as entrepreneurs.” Join Our Next Retreat: https://bit.ly/4bPybnW Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

    49 min

  5. 24 MAR

    The Rentalpreneur Advantage: Competing with the Giants with Phil Kennard

    Most people think they need a huge portfolio to win; Phil Kennard is here to prove that "rentalpreneurs" with just a few properties can actually outperform the giants. In this episode, I’m joined by Phil Kennard, the founder and CEO of Futurestay. Phil’s journey started with a tiny loft in Greenwich Village and a realization: a handful of strategic bookings could cover an entire mortgage. That sparked a mission to build a platform for hosts who treat short-term rentals as an investment, not a second full-time job. We talk about: How technology and community-driven education have shifted the power from legacy managers to everyday independent hostsWhy income isn’t distributed evenly in any market, and how to get your property into the top tier of performersWhy great photos aren't enough, and how strategic positioning and thoughtful policies drive real RevPARA deep dive into a new tool we developed together that tracks how cleaning standards and fees directly impact your bottom lineFuturestay’s mission to provide smaller operators with the infrastructure, like direct booking and Google Vacation Rentals, to grow on their own terms But this isn't just about software. It’s about taking back control. Phil pulls back the curtain on how solo hosts can leverage systems and the right partners to thrive despite constant platform changes. You’ll hear why operations and guest satisfaction are your non-negotiables, and how focusing on "cleanliness sentiment" can save your reviews and your revenue. If you’ve ever felt intimidated by the "big players" in your area, this conversation will give you the confidence to compete. Get ready to stop worrying about the competition and start building a business that works for you. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:20] A short introduction about our guest, Phil Kennard, the founder and CEO of Future Stay, and how he got into the world of short term rentals [06:31] Phil explains how the early development of his platform was fueled by an obsessive, entrepreneurial mindset [09:33] Phil defines rentalpreneurs as hands-on investors using rentals to build income and control their future [12:06] The importance of community, education, and competition in outperforming the rental market [17:31] Phil explains evolving Futurestay’s service to include listing optimization alongside direct bookings and outlines three key pillars of optimization [23:41] Phil stresses that operations and guest experience outweigh design in short-term rental success [26:05] The importance of hosts giving feedback to Airbnb to protect supply interests [27:59] Phil advises focusing on one channel at a time while starting direct bookings early [31:45] Phil introduces the Clean Connection, a new tool designed to help hosts understand how cleaning impacts their short-term rental performance. [33:25] How Clean Connection bridges the resource gap for smaller hosts who don’t have access to Airbnb market managers [43:47] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “I think people think of Airbnb optimization as like, here is your Airbnb listing. Let us change content on your Airbnb listing, and that will make you successful. Unfortunately, that's like one of the three pillars of optimization. If you just change the listing content, and you do nothing to your competitive set analysis and to also the consistency of how your listing is performing, you will never be super successful in your market.”“It is imperative that you deliver a quality experience for your guests, because in the absence of a good operation that allows you to deliver that consistent experience, you could have the boat, the most beautiful property and the best photos, but your listing will tank if you can't deliver.”“I think it's important for us as hosts, if Airbnb does come out with policies that we feel like may benefit the guests more or feel short sighted as a host, it's really important to share that feedback with Airbnb.”“One of the most important aspects of our guest experience is the cleanliness, and I also think it is one of the most important, most scary yet controllable pieces to the puzzle as a host.”“Doing one thing better than anyone else really matters.” Let’s Connect: Website : https://futurestay.com/stacey Sign Up for the Clean Connection: https://cleanconnection.futurestay.com/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

    54 min

  6. 17 MAR

    From Pretty to Profitable: Designing High-Performing STRs for Bookings with Sarah Glidewell

    What if the secret to a high-performing short-term rental isn’t adding more amenities or dropping your prices, but simply designing with more intention? In this episode, I’m joined by designer and investor Sarah Glidewell. Sarah shares her fascinating transition from architecture to Airbnb arbitrage and ownership, eventually building a business so successful she was able to bring her husband out of the insurance world and into real estate full-time. We talk about: Why a "pretty" space can still fail if it lacks functionality (and how to fix the disconnect)How small details, like towel hooks by the hot tub or adequate dining seating, communicate to guests that they are seen and valuedInspired by luxury travel, Sarah shares her favorite touches, from spa slippers to take-home linen spraysWhy "loud," over-the-top interiors often fail to convert and how to use refinement to win in a saturated marketHow Sarah’s team uses 3D renders and a strict "Do’s and Don’ts" list to design 100% remotely without losing quality But this isn't just about decor. It’s about operational excellence. Sarah pulls back the curtain on the "unsexy" side of design, choosing fabrics with high rub counts, avoiding light-colored rugs, and checking dining chair weight limits. You’ll hear why your off-season design strategy is just as important as your peak-season look, and how smart material choices reduce management headaches rather than creating them. If you’re ready to move past "surface-level" hosting and build a property that is truly guest-obsessed and high-performing, this conversation is your playbook. Get ready to stop decorating and start designing for the five-star experience. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [01:08] A short introduction about our guests Sarah Glidewell, and shares how her design and architecture background led her into Airbnb investing [03:32] Sarah Glidewell explains the difference between designing a beautiful space and designing a profitable short-term rental [06:54] Sarah shares how she spoils guests with thoughtful luxury-inspired details [10:59] Why overly flashy designs may look good online but underperform on Airbnb [15:30] Sarah outlines how she would allocate a $5,000 upgrade budget for a short-term rental to increase their nightly rate [18:22] What are the the top design mistakes Sarah sees in short-term rental properties and how they impact guest experience and ROI [22:11] Sarah addresses the challenge of standing out in markets where multiple properties share the same layout, amenities, and building, like high-rise condos in Myrtle Beach [26:47] How understanding the emotional concerns and fears of guests is critical for designing short-term rentals that truly delight [31:02] Sarah shares her approach to selecting materials and furniture that withstand the high traffic and unpredictability of short-term rental guests [36:26] Sarah Glidewell recommends using realistic room renders to guide online furniture and material purchases [38:57] Sarah’s words of wisdom for nervous first-time investors worried about the cost of hiring a designer [44:03] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “When I'm guiding anyone through where to spend their money on their BnB, I'm always prioritizing the things that I think are going to get the most traffic for their guest avatar.”“One thing that a lot of people do wrong when it comes to design is they don't necessarily think through splurge like where they need to splurge and where they need to reel back.”“When you put higher quality items in your property, and you attract higher quality guests, they absolutely take better care of your property.” Let’s Connect: Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/studiohost.co/ Website : https://www.studiohost.co/ TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@studiohost.co Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

    51 min

  7. 10 MAR

    Protect Your STR Business: Avoid Costly Insurance Mistakes with Darren Nix

    Have you ever considered that one misunderstood clause in your insurance policy could cost you tens of thousands of dollars? Most hosts view insurance as a "set it and forget it" expense, but in the world of short-term rentals, what you don't know can absolutely bankrupt your business. In this episode, I’m joined by Darren Nix, the founder of Steadily Insurance. Darren is a real estate investor and former software developer for the world’s largest carriers who realized the industry was broken—so he built a better way for landlords to protect their assets. We talk about: Why treating insurance as a tool for major disasters, not minor claims, is the secret to lowering your premiumsWhy your standard homeowners policy is a ticking time bomb and how a true STR policy differs in the eyes of an adjusterThe dangerous mistake of insuring for "purchase price" instead of "rebuild cost," and how to estimate your true riskDarren’s personal story from a Chicago rental and the one simple email every host should send their agent to avoid a denied claimWhy $300,000 in coverage might only cover your legal fees, and how to match your limits to your actual wealth This isn't just about fine print and premiums, it’s about strategic risk management. Darren pulls back the curtain on the "unsexy" side of scaling, from how past claims influence your future growth to the difference between homeowner- and landlord-focused carriers. You’ll hear practical tips on content coverage for furnished rentals and why a higher deductible paired with a solid reserve fund is the ultimate wealth-protection move. If you’ve ever felt uneasy about whether you’re actually covered, this conversation is your reality check. Get ready to stop crossing your fingers and start protecting your rental business with total confidence. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [00:59] A short introduction about our guest Darren Nix, and shares how personal frustration with rental property insurance led to founding Steadily [04:53] Darren outlines the biggest misconceptions investors have about insurance before filing a claim, and explains why insurance should protect against catastrophe, not cover every minor issue [08:49] Darren talks about Steadily’s national coverage and the rare exceptions to insurability [10:11] Darren outlines the key differences between short-term rental policies and standard homeowner or landlord insurance [13:47] Darren highlights common insurance gaps, especially underinsuring property replacement costs and emphasizes when insurance policies should be reviewed [19:20] Darren explains insurance considerations when shifting from short-term to midterm rentals, including vacancy risks [22:30] How to maintain insurance coverage during property renovations and extended vacancies [24:35] Darren confirms it’s possible to insure his own properties and shares that Steadily’s very first policy was written on his own rental property in Indianapolis [25:19] Darren emphasizes that the single most effective way to lower insurance costs is simply to avoid filing claims for minor incidents [28:12] The importance of sufficient liability coverage for short-term rental hosts [31:18] Darren advises key areas to review in an insurance policy and emphasizes that being proactive and informed can prevent surprises when a claim arises [32:36] Darren explains insurance and safety considerations for house-hacking and STRs [35:42] Darren advises new property investors to start locally and build the right support system [48:11] The lightning round Golden Nuggets: “What you paid for the house doesn't typically have that much of a relationship with what it costs to rebuild the house.”“The single best thing you can do to reduce your cost of insurance is to not file a claim.”“I like to carry roughly the amount of my net worth in liability coverage, because the juicier target someone is the more aggressively a plaintiff's attorney is going to go after them to get a payday.”“Buy a property in a city that you know very well, that you can keep close eyes on until you've built the reps of knowing the ins and outs, because there are so many surprises of things that will happen.”“It's so important to surround yourself with people who push you and also are smarter than you.” Connect with our guest: Website: https://strsisterhood.steadilypartner.com/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

    51 min

  8. 3 MAR

    Why Your Ideal Guest Avatar Isn’t Booking – And What to Do Instead with Stacey St. John

    What if your “ideal guest avatar” is the very thing keeping your best guests from ever booking with you? Most hosts treat an avatar like a worksheet to fill out, giving them a name, an age, and a salary, but they never actually reach the person behind the booking button. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on my "Iceberg Method" to combat this very problem. We’re moving beyond demographics and diving into the silent pressures, anxieties, and hopes that drive your guests to hit "Book Now." Inside the episode, I dive into: A framework to stop marketing to surface-level actions and start speaking to the deep emotional layers underneath.Understanding the silent fear your guests carryWhy a calm, confident, and predictable listing will beat a "salesy" one every single time.How to use your reviews and description to prove you are the solution to their stress, not another problem to manage.Shifting your focus from who your guest is to what they are feeling when they find your listing. This isn't just a marketing lesson. It’s about strategic empathy. I’m challenging you to look at your guest journey, from your first photo to your checkout instructions, through a new lens. You’ll learn why your guest isn't really choosing between three bedrooms and four; they are choosing between regret and confidence. If you’re ready to stop talking at your guests and start speaking to their real needs, this episode will show you exactly how to find the "hidden" copy that's already waiting in your guests' fears. It’s time to evolve from a property owner into a strategic filter for the guest experience. HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS: [00:00] Introducing a more powerful, results-driven way to define your ideal guest avatar so it truly impacts your business [01:48] Why bookings are driven by emotion, not demographics, and how most hosts are marketing to the wrong layer [03:41] Why real ideal guest avatars live below the surface, and why most hosts are stuck marketing above it [05:08] The Iceberg Method – how actions, thoughts, and emotions shape every booking decision [06:58] How understanding hidden fears like letting family down, wasting money, or creating stress, is key to attracting the ideal guest [12:57] The difference between shallow and deep avatar thinking when defining your ideal guest [14:13] What are the five strategic questions to uncover the emotional drivers of your ideal guest [15:24] How truly understanding your guest transforms your listing copy, photos, communication, and even pricing confidence Golden Nuggets: “When you understand the psychographics of your ideal guest avatar, that's where you start to create a booking engine with your listing.”“You are not selling excitement. You are not selling an amazing stay. What you are selling is confidence.”“Predictability beats promises. So your listing must be written so that it feels predictable.”“Your best listing copy is already hiding in your guests’ fears not your amenities.” Let’s Connect: Website : https://staceystjohn.com/ Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!

    18 min
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About

Whether you’re brand new to Airbnb or an experienced Superhost, you’re giving yourself the gift of financial freedom and FUN when you enter the short-term rental space. If there’s anyone who knows this, it’s Stacey St. John. She built a 7-figure STR portfolio in less than two years and was able to leave her W2 thanks to the earnings from her properties. Today, she’s living the life she was always meant to live – on her terms. And on her new podcast, The STR Sisterhood, she’s sharing how you can, too! On this show, it’s all about you and your short-term rental journey. You’ll hear actionable advice from industry experts as well as inspiring stories from real women about their experiences, achievements, frustrations, and challenges…and how they’ve managed to turn their short-term rental dreams into reality. If you’re an ambitious woman who’s looking to have a 5-star Airbnb business on your hands without having to sacrifice the things you love, then tune in every week for all the goodness!

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