Glamping Americas Podcast

Sarah Riley
  • 4.6 (5)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

This is an inspirational and aspirational podcast sharing tips and information to ignite your imagination and shape your vision for your own outdoor luxury camping business. This is where you learn from guest experts and podcast host Sarah Riley from The Glamping Academy who has been immersed in unique accommodations around the world for more than 20 years. Together with the owners of The Glamping Show Americas, we will be sharing how to launch or evolve your glamping enterprise, and pros from every corner of the industry will be sharing their hard-earned hospitality expertise to support your success. This podcast is published by The Glamping Show Americas in partnership with Sarah Riley, for Glamping business professionals who visit from the four corners of the world. This outstanding Show, their trade magazine Glamping Business Americas together with this podcast offers a year-round immersive experience complementing the regular in-person live events in Colorado, giving an invaluable opportunity for information gathering, brainstorming and deal-making in the Americas. The annual Glamping Show is a gold mine for glamping pros. It is the place to overcome your challenges and discover solutions for your business barriers, allowing you to reach your goals with ease. So are you ready to capitalise on the thriving glamping industry in the Americas? Subscribe to the Glamping Americas podcast to receive notifications of all new episodes as soon as they go live. Also, contact Sarah or David below for more information about The Glamping Academy and The live USA Show. David Korse: The Glamping Show Americas https://www.glampingshow.us/ Sarah Riley: The Glamping Academy https://glamping.academy hosted by Inspired Courses https://inspiredcourses.com/

  1. FEB 1

    37. How to Use Other People's Money to Build Your Dream Business

    In this episode, Sarah Riley talks with Tyler Watts, a civil engineer turned real estate developer who's transformed raw land into thriving outdoor hospitality businesses, using creativity, strategy, and seller financing instead of deep pockets.  Tyler shares how he scaled from single-family homes to multi-million-dollar apartment portfolios, then pivoted into glamping and RV resorts... all while leveraging partnerships, other people's capital, and a clear vision for long-term growth.  Disclaimer: The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not financial advice. We are not financial advisors. Please consult with a professional to determine what may be best for your individual needs. In this episode, you'll learn:  How to use seller financing and creative funding to grow your glamping or hospitality business.  The skills you need to be good at attracting the right seller and sealing the deal.  The power of combining RV, cabins and glamping units in one destination.  Why diversification and design-thinking are reshaping the outdoor hospitality market.  And how to turn a small idea... and someone else's capital... into a dream project that guests can't stop talking about.  This is an inspiring, practical episode that proves you don't need to be rich to build something remarkable... you just need to be resourceful.  More Information:  Tyler Watts - Broad River Campground, North Carolina  Email: tyler@studentrental.net   Website: https://broadrivercampgroundnc.com/   _________   Sarah Riley - Glamping, retreat events, and guest attraction    Glamping Academy & Owners Club https://inspiredcourses.com   Glamping marketing studio https://inspiredcollectiveltd.com/   __________   The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us  info@glampingshow.us

    58 min

  2. JAN 1

    36. Building a Glamping Brand with Soul: The Story of Walden Retreats

    Today, we're stepping into the world of Walden Retreats, a breathtaking riverside escape in the Texas Hill Country that reimagines what it means to live well, simply, and with intention. Inspired by Henry David Thoreau's timeless work Walden, this is a place where luxury meets philosophy, and where the modern traveler can pause, breathe, and reconnect with what truly matters.  Thoreau spent two years in a cabin by Walden Pond, exploring what it meant "to live deliberately." His reflections on simplicity, self-sufficiency, and harmony with nature became a cornerstone of American thought, and today, that same spirit echoes through the vision of my guest, Blake Smith, founder of Walden Retreats.  Blake and his wife have created more than a destination... they've built a living philosophy. A place that reminds us that great hospitality isn't about building the most luxurious property… it's about building the most intentional one.  A space where guests aren't just offered comfort, but clarity. Not just an escape, but a return... to themselves, to stillness, to meaning.  In this episode, we explore how Blake turned an idea rooted in literature and mindfulness into an extraordinary guest experience. We talk about the power of defining your mission, vision, and values, and how that foundation can shape every decision, from design to guest experience to long-term success.  If you've ever wondered how to build a brand that feels as good as it looks, or how to infuse your glamping or retreat business with soul, you're going to love this episode.  More Information  Blake Smith, Walden Retreat  Website: https://waldenretreats.com/   Email: reservations@waldenretreats.com   _________      Sarah Riley - Glamping, retreat events, and guest attraction       Glamping Academy & Owners Club https://inspiredcourses.com   Glamping marketing studio https://inspiredcollectiveltd.com/   __________      The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us  info@glampingshow.us

    47 min

  3. 12/01/2025

    35. From Bare Ground to Welcoming Guests in Just Four Months - A Glamping Owners Story

    What does it really take to build an outdoor hospitality business from the ground up, and do it in record time… even with a full-time job? In this episode, we sit down with the founders of Nature Nook Acadia, who went from a construction site to hosting their very first guests in less than four months.  They share the behind-the-scenes reality: the long days of building, the unexpected challenges, the trade-offs and tough decisions, and the exhilarating moment when the first guests finally arrived. This is a story of determination, resourcefulness, and a vision brought to life at speed… through effective project management and a bit of good old-fashioned luck!  If you've ever dreamed of creating your own guest retreat, or you're curious about what happens when passion meets pressure, you won't want to miss this inspirational conversation.  More Information:  Edoardo Centioni, Nature Nooks Acadia https://naturenooksacadia.com/  https://www.instagram.com/naturenooksacadia/ @naturenooksacadia  _________   Sarah Riley - Glamping, retreat events, and guest attraction    Glamping Academy & Owners Club https://inspiredcourses.com   Glamping marketing studio https://inspiredcollectiveltd.com/   __________   The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us  info@glampingshow.us

    54 min

  4. 11/01/2025

    34. Behind the Scenes at Glamping Show Americas: Lessons, Laughter, and Game-Changing Ideas

    What really happens when the glamping industry's brightest minds, boldest creators, and most passionate operators come together in one place? In this lively and insightful episode, Sarah Riley and Steph Curtis-Raleigh relive the energy and inspiration of Glamping Show Americas, sharing their favourite moments, key takeaways, and the behind-the-scenes stories you didn't see on stage. From Bolt Farm Treehouse's insider tips and Camp Ferncrest's creative financing breakthroughs, to AI-driven guest experiences and even a few hilarious "what not to do" moments (yes, drones and robotic dogs make an appearance!), this conversation captures the innovation, community, and creativity shaping the future of unique hospitality. Expect laughter, honesty, and ideas you'll want to steal for your own business, all wrapped in the warmth of two friends reflecting on an unforgettable event and what's next for glamping in 2025. Listen if you want to: Learn what's really working for glamping and retreat operators right now Discover new trends in funding, guest experience, and technology Feel re-energised about your own hospitality project Get a sneak peek at what's next for Glamping Show Americas   More Information:    The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us  info@glampingshow.us   __________    Steph Curtis-Raleigh Upgrade Publishing and Eco-Resort Network https://www.ecoresort.network/  __________    Sarah Riley - Glamping, retreat events, and guest attraction   Glamping Academy & Owners Club https://inspiredcourses.com  Glamping marketing studio https://inspiredcollectiveltd.com/  __________    Intro credit: Chris Jeub, Glamping Guy, YouTube Individual credits: Brendan Riley, Marmora Retreat, Kyle - Virgin Islands, Kristy - Okanagan Vallley

    47 min

  5. 10/01/2025

    33. How Furniture Shapes Connection, Storytelling and an improved customer experience

    Today, we uncover a detail many overlook, but one that has the power to transform your guest experience... furniture and layout design.  My guest, Mike Waring, founder of Mustang Home Goods, blends Japanese joinery, North American architecture, and timeless craftsmanship to create sustainable, ergonomic, and story-driven furniture perfect for glamping sites and boutique retreats. You'll hear:  How Mike's journey from the Navy to furniture design shaped his philosophy of "design as an experience."  Why conversational spacing and thoughtful layouts build deeper guest connections.  How sustainability, craftsmanship, and even the golden ratio can elevate your spaces and your brand.  Whether you're launching your very first glamping site or refining a long-standing resort, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical ideas to help you create unforgettable guest moments.  And if you're attending The Glamping Show Americas on 29th September, be sure to stop by and meet Mike, who would love to help you design a space that delights your guests.  More Information:  Mike Waring – Mustang Home Goods  https://www.mustanghomegoods.com/  mike@mustanghomegoods.com   505-418-8070  _________  Sarah Riley - Glamping, retreat events, and guest attraction   Glamping Academy & Owners Club https://inspiredcourses.com  Glamping marketing studio https://inspiredcollectiveltd.com/  __________  The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us  info@glampingshow.us

    47 min

  6. 09/01/2025

    32. Beyond Glamping Industry Data: Designing Travel That Heals, Connects, and Lasts

    What if the future of travel isn't about going farther, but going deeper? In this thought-provoking episode, we explore the shift from surface-level escapes to soul-nourishing journeys and experiences that reconnect us to people, place, and purpose.  Joining me is Whitney Scott, strategist and co-founder of Walden Insights. Whitney helps hospitality leaders navigate toward regenerative intelligence: a forward-thinking approach that weaves sustainability with story, and design with deeper meaning.  Together, we unpack what it means to build travel experiences that don't just impress but truly resonate. From redefining luxury to regenerating the land, we explore how hospitality brands can lead with integrity, longevity, and soul.  Whether you're building a retreat, evolving your glamping business, or reimagining what your guests really want, this episode will inspire you to create with more intention, and design from the start with the future in mind.  More Information:  Whitney Scott, Walden Insights  https://waldeninsight.com/     Sarah Riley: Startup Support- Glamping Business and Retreat Events - The Glamping Academy https://glamping.academy hosted by https://www.inspiredcoursesvip.com/      The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us  info@glampingshow.us

    58 min

  7. 08/01/2025

    31. Building with Heart: How One Entrepreneur Turned Raw Land into a Soulful Glamping Retreat

    What if your business could be built with intention, on wild, beautiful land, and still thrive without compromising your values? In this episode, we dive deep into the story of Brendan Riley, the visionary behind Marmora Retreat and Boho-Luxe Glamping in Ontario.  A full-time project manager, father of three, and soulful entrepreneur, Brendan shares how he transformed untouched land into a wellness-driven glamping destination. We unpack why glamping became his perfect business model and how crowdfunding became more than just a funding tool. In fact, it's helping him build a community, which is becoming his most valuable investment. But what's the secret to crowdfunding success? Brendan shares his thoughts on this and much more in this episode.  If you're dreaming of launching your own site, scaling consciously, or simply want to hear what modern hospitality can look like when built with purpose, this episode is for you.  So hit the play button and discover what it really means to create space that heals, inspires, and sustains, while being light on the land, and deeply rooted in intention.  More Information:   Brendan Riley, Marmora Retreat and Boho-Luxe Glamping https://www.marmoraretreat.ca/   Sarah Riley: Startup Support - Glamping Business and Retreat Events - The Glamping Academy https://glamping.academy hosted by https://www.inspiredcoursesvip.com/    The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us  info@glampingshow.us

    40 min

  8. 07/01/2025

    30. Is Traditional Hospitality SEO Dead? What Glamping Hosts Need to Know Now

    The digital landscape is shifting... fast! If you've felt like your website traffic is down and you're not sure why, you're not imagining things.  AI search, zero-click traffic, and Google's new search overviews are changing how potential guests discover and book their next stay. In fact, website traffic across industries has dropped by 20% and the old rules of SEO just aren't working as they used to.  So… is traditional hospitality SEO dead?  In this episode, I'm joined by Kenny Ridgell from Ridge Media, a digital marketing strategist who works with leading names in hospitality and knows exactly how small, boutique brands can stay visible (without a massive budget).  We're unpacking:  What these changes really mean for glamping, retreat and experience-based businesses  How to optimise your site for a future shaped by AI  And the specific tools and strategies that are working right now for those who want to stay ahead of the curve  Whether you're just starting out or you've been in the game a while, this conversation will give you the clarity and confidence to adapt... before your website traffic starts to reduce significantly.  Tune in now and future-proof your visibility. More Information:   Kenny Ridgell, Ridge Media   C: 864-354-6175 | O: 864-230-2546  1565 Laurens Road, Greenville, SC 29607  https://ridgemediallc.com/     Sarah Riley: Glamping Startup Support- Glamping Business and Retreat Events - The Glamping Academy https://glamping.academy hosted by https://www.inspiredcoursesvip.com/    The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us  info@glampingshow.us    Links mentioned in the episode:  Allai - https://www.alliai.com/  Surfer SEO - https://surferseo.com/  Market Muse - https://www.marketmuse.com/   PEEC AI - https://peec.ai/   Go High Level - https://www.gohighlevel.com/   Grok - https://grok.com/   ChatGPT - https://chatgpt.com/   Custom GPT - https://customgpt.ai/

    50 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.6
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

This is an inspirational and aspirational podcast sharing tips and information to ignite your imagination and shape your vision for your own outdoor luxury camping business. This is where you learn from guest experts and podcast host Sarah Riley from The Glamping Academy who has been immersed in unique accommodations around the world for more than 20 years. Together with the owners of The Glamping Show Americas, we will be sharing how to launch or evolve your glamping enterprise, and pros from every corner of the industry will be sharing their hard-earned hospitality expertise to support your success. This podcast is published by The Glamping Show Americas in partnership with Sarah Riley, for Glamping business professionals who visit from the four corners of the world. This outstanding Show, their trade magazine Glamping Business Americas together with this podcast offers a year-round immersive experience complementing the regular in-person live events in Colorado, giving an invaluable opportunity for information gathering, brainstorming and deal-making in the Americas. The annual Glamping Show is a gold mine for glamping pros. It is the place to overcome your challenges and discover solutions for your business barriers, allowing you to reach your goals with ease. So are you ready to capitalise on the thriving glamping industry in the Americas? Subscribe to the Glamping Americas podcast to receive notifications of all new episodes as soon as they go live. Also, contact Sarah or David below for more information about The Glamping Academy and The live USA Show. David Korse: The Glamping Show Americas https://www.glampingshow.us/ Sarah Riley: The Glamping Academy https://glamping.academy hosted by Inspired Courses https://inspiredcourses.com/

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