The IO Podcast: Investor + Operator
How Great Founders SELL Before They BUILD — An Exceptional Startup Chat w/ The Founder of Wander
May 6, 2025
John Andrew Entwistle, Founder and CEO of Wander, shares insights on pioneering the vacation rental industry. He reveals inventive waitlist strategies that attract customers before a product launch. The conversation covers solving supply challenges, transitioning to third-party inventory, and choosing revenue models. Entwistle emphasizes building a visionary workplace culture at Wander, where exceptional service fosters customer loyalty. He also delves into blending technology with personal touch to enhance guest experiences, positioning Wander as an industry disruptor.
34:03
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Quick takeaways
- Wander successfully validated market interest by charging potential customers for a waitlist, generating significant early revenue and engagement.
- The company's focus on technology integration and operational efficiency allows it to provide exceptional customer service and maintain competitive margins.
Deep dives
Wander's Unique Approach to Vacation Rentals
Wander focuses on enhancing the vacation rental experience by verticalizing the fragmented market. Unlike traditional platforms, Wander combines a reservation service, operations management, and exceptional customer support, leading to an impressive Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 86. This score reflects high customer satisfaction, driven by consistent quality in property offerings and a dedicated concierge service that addresses guest needs effectively. By addressing common complaints associated with platforms like Airbnb, Wander aims to provide a superior guest experience, ultimately changing customer expectations in the industry.
