The Hotel Investor Playbook
Michael Russell
Welcome to The Hotel Investor Playbook, hosted by real estate investor and hospitality operator Michael Russell. Michael is the co-founder of Malama Capital and Howzit Hostels, and has built a personal real estate portfolio exceeding $20 million.With an operator-first mindset, Michael brings a practical perspective to hotel investing. On the show, he breaks down what it actually takes to scale from short-term rentals into boutique hotels, covering deal sourcing, operations, capital strategy, and risk.Each week, Michael shares real lessons from the field as he builds toward a $400 million real estate business, giving listeners an honest look at the decisions, challenges, and strategies behind the growth. Subscribe and follow along as he documents the journey in real time.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 11, 2025 • 53min
Buying, Financing & Operating a Seasonal Boutique Hotel | Ryan Edwards E17
In this discussion, Ryan Edwards, owner of a 17-unit boutique hotel in Maine, shares insights on turning seasonal challenges into lucrative opportunities. He reveals his $3.6M financing strategy with 75% bank support and how a $100K revenue boost increased his property's value by $1.4M. Ryan emphasizes the power of a fully direct booking strategy, sidestepping OTAs entirely. He also tackles staffing hurdles using visa programs and discusses innovative marketing techniques that ensure consistent bookings months ahead. Perfect for aspiring boutique hotel investors!
Feb 5, 2025 • 45min
The Glamping Boom: Hype, Profits, & Pitfalls | Edward Haynes E16
Join Edward Haynes, an expert in unique stays and experiential lodging, as he dives into the booming world of luxury glamping. Discover why this trend is gaining traction and whether it's sustainable. Edward reveals how these unique accommodations can outperform traditional hotels and elaborates on crucial factors for developing profitable sites. He also shares common pitfalls investors face and highlights how major hospitality brands are tapping into this vibrant market, making it a must-listen for anyone in the hospitality industry!
Jan 28, 2025 • 59min
From Vision to Execution: Our Framework for Hospitality Success | Mike & Nate E15
Discover how to turn visions into reality in hospitality! The hosts share a four-step process to achieve your 2025 goals, emphasizing actionable strategies. Learn how to align personal values with professional ambitions for sustainable growth. They discuss the importance of crafting clear objectives and creating accountability structures within your team. Dive into insights on building an effective accountability framework and empowering staff for future success. Tune in for practical advice to work smarter, not harder!
Jan 21, 2025 • 48min
Lessons Learned from a Failed Motel Deal | Tanya Rooney E14
In a candid conversation, Tanya Rooney, a savvy real estate investor and short-term rental expert, shares the rollercoaster of her failed motel investment. She dives into vital lessons about spotting red flags during due diligence and emphasizes how partnerships can mirror marriages. Discover the critical role of community support in business and the importance of hands-on experience over just theoretical knowledge. Tanya’s insights provide invaluable strategies for anyone aiming to navigate the challenging waters of hospitality investing.
Jan 16, 2025 • 1h 4min
Turning $400K into $10M: Lessons in Fear, Failure, and Direct Bookings | E13
In this engaging conversation, Gil Chan, the host of Direct Booking Simplified, shares his expertise on turning a $400,000 investment into a thriving $10 million hospitality business. Tune in as they expose the secrets behind boosting direct bookings by 12%, which increased property valuation by over $600,000. Discover how an obsession with guest experience and strong team culture can fuel growth, and learn how overcoming fear and failure can be a pathway to success in the competitive hospitality landscape.
Jan 7, 2025 • 52min
How a Property Manager Can Help You Maximize Your Hotel Profits | Bryan Tubaugh E12
In this episode, Bryan Tubaugh, founder of Aligned Hotel Management and a hotel management veteran, dives into the vital decision of outsourcing hotel management versus self-managing. He highlights common pitfalls owner-operators face and the benefits of professional oversight. Bryan shares success stories illustrating how expert management can enhance profitability and offers key strategies for effective communication with management companies. This insight-packed conversation is essential for both budding and seasoned hotel investors looking to maximize returns.
Dec 31, 2024 • 49min
Leveling Up: How To Turn STR Success into Boutique Hotel Ownership | Kim Herrlein E11
Kim Herrlein, a savvy STR investor, shares her journey from selling a thriving vacation rental to acquiring a boutique hotel for under $1 million. She discusses the strategic shift towards hotel ownership, the hurdles of property renovations, and the complexities of remote management. Kim also highlights the importance of building a reliable team and effective communication in hospitality. Her insights reveal how leveraging short-term rental success can pave the way for ambitious real estate ventures.
Dec 17, 2024 • 57min
How to Drive 70% Direct Bookings: Strategies for Hotel Investors | Kerri Gibson E10
Kerri Gibson, founder of Chalets Hygge, boasts a thriving hospitality brand with six rentals and a boutique motel. She shares ways to reclaim profits by driving 70% of bookings directly. Kerri emphasizes establishing a Google Business profile and selecting a fitting property management system. Discover how understanding your ideal guest and crafting memorable experiences can attract repeat visitors. She also discusses the power of influencer partnerships and the effective use of Google ads to reach high-intent travelers.
Dec 10, 2024 • 44min
Building a Winning Investment Thesis for Hotel Success | Mike & Nate E9
Mike and Nate dive into the essentials of crafting a winning investment thesis in the hospitality sector. They discuss the importance of understanding guest profiles and market dynamics, which directly influence property design and profitability. Key performance metrics like Average Daily Rates and occupancy rates are highlighted as crucial for informed decision-making. The duo also navigates the complexities of transitioning hotel classes, emphasizing how subtle changes can significantly impact valuation. Tune in for valuable insights that can transform investment strategies!
Dec 3, 2024 • 1h 2min
How to Build a Hotel: Expert Insights into Real Estate Development | Zeke Freeman E8
Zeke Freeman, an architect and developer with over 20 years of experience, shares his insights into transforming properties into thriving hotels, including a current project near Red Rocks Amphitheater. He discusses the intricacies of zoning and entitlement processes, creative property conversions, and the importance of a strong development team. Zeke provides valuable tips on risk management, raising capital, and maximizing ROI, making this conversation a must-listen for anyone interested in hospitality real estate.
