the no BS podcast

Mateo Bradford & John Stokinger
  • 5.0 (20)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

An unfiltered look into the global hospitality and short-term rental industry with a focus on founder stories, current events, and culture. Co-Hosts Mateo Bradford and John Stokinger discuss current news and affairs surrounding the vacation rental, lodging, and accommodation industry. the no BS podcast brings the right people to the table at the right time giving their audience an inside view and real take like no other. https://thenoBSpodcast.co

  1. Co-Living & Short-Term Rentals: Profit with a Purpose with Cliff Johnson and Atticus LeBlanc

    APR 18

    Co-Living & Short-Term Rentals: Profit with a Purpose with Cliff Johnson and Atticus LeBlanc

    In this episode of the no BS podcast, we explore the intersection of co-living and short-term rentals with guests Cliff Johnson and Atticus LeBlanc. The discussion delves into the benefits of co-living, the flexibility and financial empowerment it offers, and its role in addressing affordable housing issues. Atticus shares his journey into creating PadSplit, including his experiences with real estate investment and the evolution of the co-living model. Cliff adds insights from his extensive background in vacation rentals and highlights how co-living can complement the short-term rental market. The episode also covers regulatory challenges, the potential for commercial property conversions, and the community support PadSplit provides to both investors and residents. PadSplit https://www.padsplit.com/ Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to the No BS Podcast 00:57 Diving into Co-Living and Short-Term Rentals 02:31 Atticus LeBlanc's Journey and Vision 07:19 The Birth of PadSplit 13:10 PadSplit's Impact and Future 20:41 Challenges and Misconceptions 21:33 Regulatory Clarifications and Affordable Housing 24:15 Addressing Misconceptions About Co-Living 26:15 Making Co-Living Easy and Effective 28:19 Community and Peer Support in Co-Living 34:31 Scaling and Future Prospects of PadSplit 35:29 Innovative Housing Solutions and Conversions 40:34 Empowerment and Community Impact 41:39 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

    43 min
  2. Big Raise, Now What? With Marcus Räder

    MAR 31

    Big Raise, Now What? With Marcus Räder

    In this episode of the No BS podcast, we welcome back Marcus from Hostaway to catch up on the exciting developments since his last appearance in December 2022. We dive into Hostaway's impressive feats, such as raising a massive $175 million in Series A funding, followed by an even more staggering $365 million Series B funding round. Marcus gives us an inside look at the intricacies of running a top-tier business, emphasizing the paramount importance of stellar customer support and innovative technology. We also explore the future plans for Hostaway, the evolving landscape of the short-term rental industry, regulatory challenges, and what it takes to achieve market leadership. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with industry knowledge and future trends. Link to Hostaway: https://www.hostaway.com/ Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to the No BS Podcast 00:57 Welcoming Marcus from Host Away 02:26 The Simple Truths of Business and Life 04:56 Host Away's Major Funding Announcements 06:20 The Three Pillars of Running a Business 12:31 The Importance of Customer and Investor Relationships 20:45 The Future of Vacation Rentals and Direct Bookings 23:16 Investing in Technology and Customer Success 24:08 Acquisitions and Market Competition 25:55 Challenges of Following Playbooks 30:30 Valuations and Market Opportunities 35:20 Impact of Regulation on Real Estate 40:04 Company Culture and Employee Compensation 45:58 Conclusion and Future Outlook

    47 min
  3. Future Forward Inventory Management and Property Care with Brian Butler

    MAR 7

    Future Forward Inventory Management and Property Care with Brian Butler

    In this episode, we journey from the days of Big Printing, brush elbows with some very established brands, and take the learnings to Vacation Rental Operations with Brian Butler The conversation covers the evolution and impact of technology in vacation rentals, the integration of AI and machine learning, and the balancing act of scaling while maintaining company culture. Brian also introduces his current project, EZcare, detailing how it revolutionizes property care and operations through innovative inventory management and scheduling solutions. The discussion is candid, insightful, and filled with valuable industry perspectives and future tech trends. We LOVE this conversation and know you will too! EZcare website: https://www.ezcare.io/ Contact Brian Butler: brian@ezcare.io Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to the No BS Podcast 00:57 Hosts' Personal Updates and Banter 02:04 Introducing Guest Brian Butler 03:01 Brian Butler's Career Journey 06:09 Transition to the Hospitality Industry 07:42 Experiences at Navis and Vacasa 16:50 Challenges and Innovations in the Industry 22:12 The Rush to Grow: Is It Worth It? 23:16 The Impact of Rapid Scaling on Company Culture 24:34 The Rise of the Hobbyist in the Vacation Rental Market 25:42 Introducing EZcare: A New Approach to Business 26:16 Building Tools for the Vacation Rental Industry 32:24 The Importance of Inventory Management 39:54 The Future of Property Care with AI 42:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    44 min
  4. Pimp My Crib: Elevating STRs to Ensure ROI with Mark Lumpkin

    FEB 14

    Pimp My Crib: Elevating STRs to Ensure ROI with Mark Lumpkin

    In this episode of the no BS podcast, we dive deep into the world of short-term rental upgrades with Mark Lumpkin of STR Cribs. The discussion covers everything from the origin of STR Cribs, which provides comprehensive renovation and setup services for short-term rentals, to their unique approach to transforming dated properties into high-revenue vacation spots. Mark explains how STR Cribs not only handles design and construction but also advises on maximizing revenue through strategic amenities and safety considerations. The episode also touches upon Mark's journey into the industry, the importance of differentiating rental properties, the company's financing opportunities, and potential future expansions and plans for the company Notably, the conversation explores the broader trends in the STR industry and the growing need for unique, experience-driven rental properties to stand out in saturated markets. STR Cribs website - https://strcribs.com/ Mark's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-lumpkin-84b173142/ Mark's email - mlumpkin@strcribs.com 00:00 Welcome to the No BS Podcast 00:57 Meet the Hosts: Mateo and John 01:08 Home Renovation Stories 01:29 Introducing Our Guest: Mark Lumpkin 03:09 Mark's Journey into the STR Industry 05:15 Travel Adventures and STR Insights 09:15 The Birth of STR Cribs 10:50 Consulting and Revenue Management 14:40 Expanding STR Cribs' Reach 19:40 Future Projects and Innovations 21:25 The Airbnb Clone Epidemic 22:42 Standing Out with Bold Design Choices 23:24 Exploring Partnerships and Collaborations 24:14 Maximizing Property Revenue with Small Changes 24:51 Media and Marketing Strategies 25:46 The Power of Social Media 26:19 Upcoming TV Show and Content Plans 26:43 The Value of Sharing Knowledge 29:29 Networking and Industry Events 32:51 Innovative Financing Opportunities 35:52 Future Trends in the STR Market 39:16 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

    41 min
  5. Human Trafficking Prevention is All of Our Responsibility with Ela Mezhiborsky

    JAN 23

    Human Trafficking Prevention is All of Our Responsibility with Ela Mezhiborsky

    This week we share an important conversation during Human Trafficking Prevention month and delve into the dark side of the vacation rental industry with our friend Ela Mezhiborsky, co-founder and president of Autohost. We discuss the crucial issues around human trafficking in short-term rentals and the importance of awareness, education, prevention, and protection. Ela shares her journey, detailing how Autohost emerged as a key player in AI-driven guest screening to combat fraudulent activities and criminal behavior, including human trafficking. We also stress the importance of training and awareness, encouraging listeners to take concrete steps such as enrolling in specialized courses. With a focus on bringing industry players together for greater accountability and ethical operations, this episode aims to spur action and discourse around a critical but often overlooked issue. DO NOT MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY TO EDUCATE YOURSELF AND YOUR TEAM! Vacation Rental Human trafficking awareness education by Dr. Judy Sullivan Osterhage Visit this link for a special $50 off deal exclusive for the no BS podcast listeners --> https://www.traffickingawareness.org/offers/QUSL2jy8/checkout 00:00 Welcome to the No BS Podcast 00:57 Introducing Our Special Guest: Ela Mejaborski 01:51 The Dark Side of the Hospitality Industry 03:14 The Birth of Autohost 05:38 A Light Bulb Moment: Spotting Illegal Activity 11:39 Understanding Human Trafficking 15:24 The Importance of Awareness and Training 21:26 Housekeeping Team Challenges 21:56 Importance of Neighbor Relations 23:07 Security and Technology in Rentals 23:30 Human Trafficking Awareness 28:21 Educational Resources and Courses 32:11 Call to Action for Property Managers 39:12 Conclusion and Future Steps

    40 min
  6. Unified API for STR Tech is Here with Abdul Ahadh

    JAN 9

    Unified API for STR Tech is Here with Abdul Ahadh

    This week, we’re diving into the messy world of **hospitality tech** and uncovering solutions that actually work.   Our guest is Abdul Ahadh, CEO and co-founder of Calry, a game-changing Unified API for property management systems (PMS). If you’ve ever struggled with clunky integrations or wasted time wrestling with tech that doesn’t play nice, this episode is for you.   We break break down:   - Why the PMS integration game is broken.   - How Calry’s Unified API cuts through the chaos.   - Real-world benefits like reduced resource burn and faster integrations.   Plus, Ahad shares his journey from Bangalore’s startup scene to disrupting the short-term rental API game. He gives us a sneak peek into Calry’s expansion plans and why they’re the partner you need to scale smarter, not harder.   Visit CALRY - https://calry.app/ Timestamps (because we know you’re busy):   **00:00** - No BS welcome: Let’s get real about hospitality tech.   **00:57** - Post-VRMA takeaways and industry chatter.   **03:00** - Homecoming Week in Atlanta: The vibe shift.   **07:51** - Meet Abdul Ahadh and the origin story of Calry.   **09:49** - Building Calry: Why the world needed a Unified API.   **13:32** - The gritty truth about hospitality tech challenges.   **16:49** - Bangalore: Why it’s the Silicon Valley you should care about.   **18:05** - How Calry’s solving real problems—and what’s next.   **21:34** - Why PMS integrations suck and how to fix them.   **22:31** - The Unified API solution: One point of contact, endless possibilities.   **24:05** - Business efficiency unlocked: The Calry effect.   **26:23** - Open API and business decisions.   **31:50** - Scaling up: Calry’s roadmap for the future.   **38:51** - The advantages of switching to Calry.   **44:28** - Closing thoughts: Ahad’s advice for the next big disruptor.

    47 min
  7. The Psychology Behind Happy Guests with Kanan Whited and Alex Husner

    10/12/2024

    The Psychology Behind Happy Guests with Kanan Whited and Alex Husner

    In this episode of the podcast, Mateo and John chat it up with Happy Guest co-founders Alex Husner and Kanan Whited. There's something refreshing about this guest portal and the story and psychology behind the app is entertaining and fulfilling. You're gonna want to download this one. Episode Highlights: Guest Introductions: Exciting projects ahead: Alex, a returning guest, shares her excitement about new projects and life post-Casago. First-time guest Kanan Whitehead, co-founder of Happy Guest, joins the show to discuss his journey into vacation rental tech. Kanan’s Origin Story: From Amazon to Vacation Rentals: Kanan’s background in scaling creativity at Amazon/Whole Foods led him into vacation rental branding and operations. His work at Airbnb led to developing tools that streamline operations for property managers, leading to the founding of Happy Guest. Why Happy Guest was created: Kanan and Alex discuss how Happy Guest was born from a desire to simplify the vacation rental guest experience. Focus on creating a seamless guest journey by improving communication, workflows, and reducing operational burdens for managers. Psychology of the Guest Journey: Happy Guest focuses on the psychology of guest interactions, creating a fun and stress-free experience for both guests and property Upsells Timing: The trend is upsells in the property management space, but upsells are most effective closer to the check-in date rather than at the time of booking. Importance of Guest Communication: Guests prefer to communicate on platforms they are comfortable with (e.g., Airbnb), and property managers should align with those preferences while collecting necessary contact details. Unified Communication: The challenge of disjointed guest communications (email, text, Airbnb messages) can make Airbnb the most consistent touchpoint. The goal is to streamline communication and keep it aligned with the guest's preferences. Gamification: Happy Guest's check-in process includes a gamified element to make it engaging for guests, inspired by the success of platforms like Hopper that have integrated fun, playful design elements. Visual Design and Branding: There is a trend towards minimalist design in tech, but Happy Guest differentiates itself with a more playful, colorful approach. The design aims to make the platform memorable and enjoyable for both property managers and guests. Guest Journey Optimization: Happy Guest emphasizes simplifying the guest journey, from booking to check-in, using technology to make the process intuitive and stress-free for both guests and property managers. Revenue Opportunities: Happy Guest offers upsells such as early check-in or other customizable add-ons. Property managers can increase revenue while saving time through automation. Streamlined Setup: The platform is quick to set up, requiring little ongoing management from hosts. Once implemented, it automates many repetitive tasks, freeing property managers to focus on other responsibilities. Consistency in Guest Experience: Inconsistent messaging and outdated terms across platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, direct bookings) are common pain points. Happy Guest helps property managers streamline and standardize their guest communications across all platforms. No App Download Required: Happy Guest is web-based, avoiding the friction of requiring guests to download an app, which is a significant roadblock for user adoption. Event Participation: Happy Guest is involved in industry events, offering prizes and stays to encourage people to experience the platform firsthand at...

    39 min
  8. Introducing Villa Tracker: Bridging the Gap Between Travel Professionals and Vacation Rentals with Moriya Rockman

    08/16/2024

    Introducing Villa Tracker: Bridging the Gap Between Travel Professionals and Vacation Rentals with Moriya Rockman

    We're excited to announce the launch of Villa Tracker OTA, a pioneering platform connecting the vacation rental industry with traditional travel agencies. Our good friend Moriya Rockman, founder of Smiling House and Villa Tracker, joins us to discuss the platform's vision, its impact on the industry, and its partnership with Guesty. Moriaya shares her journey, the challenges faced in creating an OTA, and the potential for new bookings, sustainability, and innovation within the short-term rental sector. The episode highlights the collaborative spirit of the industry, the importance of trust and high standards, and the exciting future of integrated travel planning. Episode Highlights: Villa Tracker Overview: Villa Tracker is a new OTA that connects the vacation rental industry with traditional travel agencies, bridging a gap that has existed since the inception of platforms like Airbnb.History and Need: The vacation rental industry has traditionally excluded third-party professionals like travel agents. Villa Tracker seeks to integrate these professionals into the booking process, offering a B2B2C model.Target Audience Expansion: Villa Tracker aims to serve not just high-budget clients but also travelers who are looking for unique accommodations, including city apartments and luxury villas, with the help of their trusted travel agents.COVID-19 as a Catalyst: The demand for private accommodations during COVID-19 highlighted the need for vacation rentals in the travel industry, inspiring the creation of Villa Tracker.Challenges and Vision: Creating Villa Tracker required overcoming significant technical and trust-building difficulties, but the platform is poised to open new opportunities for property managers and travel agents alike.Partnership with Guesty: Villa Tracker's partnership with Guesty, a leading PMS, was critical in meeting high industry standards and launching the platform.Moriya's Journey: Moriya shares her story from managing a small property in Switzerland to creating a groundbreaking platform, emphasizing the importance of innovation and collaboration in the industry.Industry Collaboration: The podcast highlights the collaborative nature of the vacation rental industry, where professionals push each other to innovate and grow, benefiting the industry as a whole.

    31 min
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5
out of 5
20 Ratings

About

An unfiltered look into the global hospitality and short-term rental industry with a focus on founder stories, current events, and culture. Co-Hosts Mateo Bradford and John Stokinger discuss current news and affairs surrounding the vacation rental, lodging, and accommodation industry. the no BS podcast brings the right people to the table at the right time giving their audience an inside view and real take like no other. https://thenoBSpodcast.co

Information

  • Creator
    Mateo Bradford & John Stokinger
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    139
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 no BS productions LLC
  • Show Website
    the no BS podcast