The Airbnb Superhost

Neil Harvey
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Feb 4, 2026 • 15min

#101 Guests Are Not The Problem - Your Systems Are

Link to zoom webinar! - https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/h15hgvyqQYmHk4GFjlaTAg#/registration In this episode, Neil explores the ‘Success Triangle’ of hosting, focusing specifically on you, the host. Neil tackles the inevitable frustrations of property damage, from water rings on polished wood to wet floors, and offers a radical mindset shift to protect your peace of mind. Featuring insights from conflict management expert Andy Baker, the episode discusses why we should stop judging guest ‘malice’ and start investigating the ‘ignorance’ or systems that lead to mistakes. KEY TAKEAWAYS When furniture gets damaged, ask yourself: ‘Would I rather have a perfect floor or £100,000 in the bank?’ Reframing damage as a small cost of a successful business cures emotional stress. Most guest ‘bad behaviour’ is actually just ignorance. They aren't trying to annoy you; they likely just don't know that certain surfaces (like polished wood) are sensitive to water. Instead of reprimanding guests for long showers, Neil ‘gamified’ the solution with a 10-minute sand timer. Changing the steps leading to an outcome is more effective than fighting the outcome itself. ‘Grown men die for it and babies cry for it.’ By publicly praising guests when they do something right (like cleaning the kitchen), you encourage them, and others, to repeat that behaviour. Move away from a ‘blame culture’. If a recurring issue arises, look back at your instructions and house rules to see where the system failed to guide the guest properly. BEST MOMENTS "Anger is the punishment we give ourselves for other people’s behaviour." "Never attribute to malice what can be attributed to ignorance." "Design for normal humans who just happen to be imperfect." "The person who is punished most with that anger is ourselves. It certainly doesn't improve reviews." "Stop managing guests. Start managing the systems and your own reactions." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.
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Jan 28, 2026 • 23min

#100 - 100 Things I've Learnt from 18,000 Guest-nights

In this milestone 100th episode of the Airbnb Superhost Podcast, Neil celebrates a decade of hosting and 18,000 guest nights by sharing 100 rapid-fire lessons he’s learned along the way. Moving away from the typical interview format, Neil reflects on the realities of being a live-in host, covering everything from guest psychology and essential room amenities to setting boundaries and managing finances.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Most hosting issues stem from miscommunication rather than ‘bad’ guests. Tone, timing, and clarity often matter more than the actual words you use. The most critical ‘amenity’ isn't high-end decor or gadgets, but a high-quality mattress and a dark, quiet room. If a guest can't sleep well, nothing else matters. Clear, friendly boundaries (like lockable doors and specific shelf space) actually make guests feel safer and more welcome, rather than restricted. Automating boring tasks like finances, receipts, and messaging frees you up to focus on the human element of hosting, which keeps the experience enjoyable. Guests are human. They will make mistakes, misread instructions, and forget things. Designing your space and rules for real human behaviour, rather than perfect behaviour, prevents frustration for everyone. BEST MOMENTS "Guests don't read messages, so make everything shorter than you think it needs to be." "A top-quality mattress isn't a luxury, it's essential." "There is one rule in the kitchen: Leave no evidence." "Always remember, strangers are just friends that you haven't made yet." "Assume good intent and design everything for real human behaviour, not perfect behaviour." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.
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Jan 21, 2026 • 18min

#099 Avoid Your Guests Kicking Off

In this episode, Neil is joined by behavioural specialist Andy Baker (Able Training Support Ltd) to dissect a hosting horror story that started with a tumble dryer and ended with accusations of racism. Neil shares the story of how a simple request to turn off an appliance spiralled into a heated confrontation with a guest. Together, they explore the psychology behind why guests ‘kick off’, the dangers of text-based communication, and how misinterpretation can turn a small friction point into a full-blown battle. KEY TAKEAWAYS Research suggests communication is only 7% words, the rest is tone (38%) and body language (55%). Written notes and texts strip away 93% of the context, making them high-risk for misinterpretation. Conflict often escalates not because of the actual issue (e.g., a dryer), but because the guest feels their intelligence or identity is being attacked. When a guest becomes aggressive, the goal isn't to win the argument but to resolve the conflict. Sometimes this means apologising for the impact of your actions, even if your intent was correct. If you find yourself constantly nagging guests about a specific rule (like locking doors or turning off heaters), the problem is likely the process, not the person. Use smart tech to remove the human element. Don't just put out the fire (resolve the argument); analyse why it started. If a friction point happens twice, it’s a pattern that needs a systemic fix. BEST MOMENTS "Communication can become miscommunication, and how quickly things can escalate, even when you think you're being reasonable." "Nobody should ever argue based on a text message ever again, because I guarantee you're reading it differently to how they intended it." "De-escalation is the art of resolving conflict through communication rather than force." "If a rule keeps causing friction, stop explaining it; systemise it. Remove the need for the conversation altogether." "The moment something feels personal, it becomes emotional. And emotion can stop us all hearing logic." ABOUT THE GUEST Andy Baker runs a company called Able Training Support Ltd which is a national company, and the external training organization of the Alzheimer's Society, as well as partnered with Dementia Forward. Website; www.able-training.co.uk email; info@able-training.co.uk He has his own podcast called “Able to Care”, which is aimed at helping parents, teachers, paid and unpaid caregivers to better understand themselves as well as those that they support. He also has a book entitled “Targeting the Positive with Behaviours that Challenge”, written for teachers, social workers and professional carers. The full interview is on YouTube - https://bit.ly/Conflict-Resolve-Andy-Baker CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.
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Jan 14, 2026 • 21min

#098 Why Guests Don't Think Like You Do

In this episode, Neil chats with behaviour specialist Andy Baker, exploring the complexities of guest behaviour that can challenge even the most seasoned hosts. They discuss real-life scenarios, including a guest's puzzling disregard for cleanliness and another's awkward response to a note about food in the room. Andy shares insights on understanding the motivations behind such behaviours and emphasises the importance of clear communication and setting expectations. KEY TAKEAWAYS It's important to recognise that unusual guest behaviour may stem from various underlying reasons, including psychological traits or personal circumstances. Approaching these situations with empathy and curiosity can lead to better outcomes. Implementing preventative strategies, such as clear house rules and guidelines, can help set expectations for guests before they arrive. This proactive approach minimises potential conflicts and misunderstandings. When conflicts arise, responding calmly and thoughtfully rather than reacting impulsively can lead to more constructive resolutions. It's essential to maintain composure and communicate boundaries clearly. Rewriting negative instructions (e.g., "Don't slam doors") into positive directives (e.g., "Please close doors quietly") can create a more welcoming atmosphere and guide guests toward appropriate behaviour without sounding punitive. BEST MOMENTS "If you want fewer awkward conversations, clearer boundaries, and a calmer hosting experience overall, this episode is for you." "You met one person with autism, you met one person with autism; that's as much as you understand about it in some ways." "I developed a technique of giving people an out when there's an issue." "Most people focus on what they don't want, but they've actually got no idea what they do want." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 9 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambience creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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Jan 7, 2026 • 20min

#097 If Money Wasn't a Problem, What Would You Do?

In this episode, Neil reflects on the power of pursuing one's dreams when financial constraints are lifted. As the new year begins, he challenges listeners to consider what they would do if money were no longer an obstacle and to confront the excuses that hold them back. He recounts the story of his friend Paul Collis, a talented musical theatre actor who bravely pursued his dreams despite the risks, ultimately achieving remarkable success before his untimely passing. KEY TAKEAWAYS The episode emphasises the importance of following your passions and dreams, especially when financial stability is achieved. It encourages listeners to consider what they would pursue if money were not a barrier. It highlights the need to confront and eliminate excuses that prevent individuals from taking action towards their goals. Recognising that many of these excuses are unfounded can lead to significant life changes. Neil shares personal experiences and the story of Paul Collis, illustrating how making bold decisions can lead to fulfilling careers and lives. Both stories serve as examples of how taking risks can result in unexpected and rewarding outcomes. A practical takeaway is to calculate the exact monthly income needed to cover essential living costs. This allows individuals to design their Airbnb business to meet that target, creating a safety net that enables them to pursue their passions. BEST MOMENTS "What would you do if money was no longer the thing stopping you?" "I wanted to be an inventor, but the dream of becoming an inventor died in that moment." "I want to be a musical theatre actor." "If you give it a go and everything failed, would your parents look after you?" "Sheer determination, damn hard work, and belief in myself." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 9 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambience creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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Dec 31, 2025 • 14min

#096 The Airbnb TERMINATOR

Neil explores the potential pitfalls of using AI in the hosting business, drawing parallels to the iconic sci-fi franchise, "The Terminator". While AI can significantly enhance efficiency and streamline operations, Neil highlights the top five mistakes that hosts often make, such as over-automating communications, blindly trusting AI-generated information, and neglecting the essential human touch that defines hospitality. KEY TAKEAWAYS While AI can streamline processes, over-automating can lead to robotic communication that lacks warmth and personal connection. It's essential to maintain the human element in hosting to create a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Blindly trusting AI can lead to misinformation. Always verify the accuracy of the information generated by AI tools to avoid potential chaos in your listings and guest communications. AI should be viewed as a powerful tool to elevate your hosting experience, not as a shortcut to avoid genuine effort. Quality input leads to quality output, so invest time in crafting thoughtful prompts and responses. Avoid using AI in ways that could violate policies or mislead guests. Misrepresentation can damage your reputation and lead to severe consequences, including account suspension. BEST MOMENTS "Hosts who fall so in love with AI automation that they let it handle absolute everything, they lose that warmth, charm, humour, the nuance that makes guests feel safe and welcomed." "AI can confidently tell guests that a property has a hot tub that doesn't exist. Always ensure that you have a handle on how the messages are being generated." "Using AI purely to avoid doing real work is the equivalent of expecting a terminator to babysit your child while you disappear into the future." "AI is an incredible tool, but only when used with intention, oversight, and humanity." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 9 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambience creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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Dec 24, 2025 • 15min

#095 The Airbnb MATRIX

Drawing parallels to the classic film "The Matrix," today Neil explores how AI can streamline hosting tasks, enhance guest communication, optimise pricing, and improve property listings. He shares five key ways AI can elevate your hosting experience, from crafting engaging descriptions to automating guest messaging and managing operations efficiently. KEY TAKEAWAYS Utilise AI to create engaging and dynamic property descriptions that capture the unique aspects of your space, making it more appealing to potential guests. Implement AI-powered messaging tools to automate responses to common guest inquiries, ensuring timely and consistent communication without the need for constant monitoring. Leverage AI-driven pricing tools that analyse market trends and adjust your rates in real-time, helping you maximise occupancy and revenue based on demand fluctuations. Use AI to manage operational tasks such as coordinating cleaning schedules, tracking supplies, and maintaining communication with your team, leading to smoother workflows and better guest experiences. Employ AI to improve your property photos by enhancing lighting and colours, ensuring that your images accurately represent your space and attract more guests. BEST MOMENTS "AI can help you rewrite your entire listing in a way that actually sounds engaging." "AI messaging frees you from living like that and gives you breathing room." "AI-powered pricing tools let you see the pattern beneath these fluctuations." "Smooth operations equals five-star reviews and five-star reviews equals more bookings." "AI does not replace you. It augments you." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 9 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambience creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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Dec 17, 2025 • 17min

#094 Does Your Listing Make Sense?

In this episode, Neil shares valuable insights from a recent experience where he reviewed a fellow host's listing that was struggling to gain traction. He notes the importance of crafting an appealing title that resonates with the target audience and tells a story about the property. Neil discusses the significance of clear and organised photo presentations, highlighting how confusion can deter potential guests. KEY TAKEAWAYS The title of your listing should resonate with your target audience and tell a story rather than just listing features. For example, instead of a functional title, use something that highlights the experience, like "Contractor's Choice" or "Adventure Base Camp." You can list the same property multiple times with different titles and descriptions to appeal to various audiences. This allows for targeted marketing and can help in identifying which title or description attracts more bookings. Having a strong hosting history, such as achieving Superhost status or a guest favourite badge, can significantly impact booking rates. If your listing lacks these credentials, consider explaining its status in the description to manage guest perceptions. Regularly ask friends or peers to review your listing for clarity. Fresh eyes can identify confusing elements that you may overlook, helping to ensure that your listing communicates effectively and meets potential guests' expectations. BEST MOMENTS "The title is starting to tell a story about the place, rather than just being a menu of what's available." "A confused mind doesn't buy. Let's look at a few other specifics which added to my confusion." "When the story is clear, relatable, and confusion-free, we buy." "In any walk of life, we all become blind to things when we live with them." "Feedback is the breakfast of champions. It's neither good nor bad. It's just feedback." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 9 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambience creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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Dec 10, 2025 • 18min

#093 The Guest Favourite Badge

Neil dives into the significance of the 'Guest Favourite' badge, often overshadowed by the more well-known 'Superhost' badge. He explains how this badge serves as a powerful trust signal for potential guests, indicating that a listing consistently delivers exceptional experiences through great communication, cleanliness, and accuracy. Neil outlines the impact of earning this badge on booking rates and visibility, especially in competitive markets. KEY TAKEAWAYS The 'Guest Favourite' badge is a significant indicator of a host's ability to provide excellent guest experiences, enhancing trust and credibility for potential guests. Listings with quality badges, like the 'Guest Favourite', tend to have higher engagement and conversion rates, leading to quicker bookings and a more predictable flow of reservations. To earn the 'Guest Favourite' badge, hosts should focus on exceptional communication, rigorous cleanliness, accurate listings, thoughtful touches, proactive issue resolution, encouraging honest feedback, and keeping listings updated. Achieving the 'Guest Favourite' badge is about maintaining consistency in hosting practices rather than striving for perfection. A checklist can help ensure that all tasks are completed for every booking. Earning both the 'Superhost' and 'Guest Favourite' badges positions a host as a hospitality professional, attracting discerning guests and justifying higher nightly rates in competitive markets. BEST MOMENTS "Having a badge that publicly says, this host knows what they're doing, is a massive trust boost." "A well-maintained listing sends a clear sign of professionalism." "You should never push for a positive review, but inviting guests to share their experience is absolutely on point." "Getting the guest's favourite badge isn't about perfection. It's about consistency, kindness, and hosting with heart." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 9 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambience creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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Dec 3, 2025 • 18min

#092 Why Praising Guests Can Transform Your Hosting Experience

In this episode, Neil delves into the powerful principle of edification and how it can enhance your Airbnb hosting business. He explains why promoting others rather than yourself can lead to greater success and credibility. From the importance of genuine compliments to strategic guest interactions, Neil emphasises that building a community through the art of edification can significantly boost your bookings and reputation. KEY TAKEAWAYS Promoting others rather than yourself enhances credibility and likability. When you praise someone else, it builds trust and makes others more receptive to their words. Engage with guests to learn about their strengths and interests. This information can be used to edify them to other guests, creating a positive atmosphere and enhancing their experience. Encourage guests to leave small notes of appreciation on a designated wall or fridge. These micro-reviews serve as social proof and can influence future guests' perceptions. Foster a sense of community among guests by encouraging them to interact and share experiences. This not only enhances their stay but also promotes your hosting reputation organically. BEST MOMENTS "You can promote anybody except yourself. Promote yourself and it's bragging. Promote someone else and you're suddenly wise, warm, and mysteriously likable." "Praise from a third party is pure gold to you. The principle works in any walk of life, not just in business." "If you tell your guests that you run a brilliant Airbnb, they'll just raise an eyebrow. If someone else who stayed last night tells them, they'll believe them long before they believe you." "When you praise someone sincerely in front of others, you give them status and people repay status with loyalty, kindness, and glowing reviews." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 9 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambience creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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