Slick Talk: The Hospitality Podcast

In this insightful episode, we welcome Matt Curtis, an expert in short-term rental regulations and local government interactions. Matt shares his remarkable journey, including his weight loss and professional transitions, that led him to work closely with local governments on vacation rental policies. He discusses the importance of creating balanced, fair regulations and addressing misconceptions about the impact of short-term rentals on housing crises. Matt also delves into the role of organizations like VRMA and the need for consistent, transparent advocacy. Tune in to learn about the complexities and future prospects of short-term rental regulations and strategies to engage with local governments effectively.This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: Minut – Minut has more than just security features! They monitor noise, movement, and occupancy all within one device, and all Slick Talk listeners get 2 months FREE when they sign up with this link! Hostfully – Use code SLICKTALK for 3 months free of their digital guidebook or $100 off their property management platform! Hudson Creative Studio - Get your direct booking site and brand built by them, and never look back! Connect with Matt: Website: https://smartcitypolicygroup.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmartCityPolicy/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smartcitypolicy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/smart-city-policy-group/ X:https://x.com/SmartCityPolicy ——–Thank you for tuning into our podcast! Slick Talk is a Hospitality.FM production, and you can find more of our shows at Hospitality.FM or anywhere else you listen to your podcasts!Listen to more episodes on our website and take a look at our amazing podcast and network sponsors that make this all possible!You can also listen to our Monday morning podcast, Good Morning Hospitality, where we dive into the industry as a whole in a more casual setting!If you ever want to contact us for guest suggestions or anything else related to the podcast, please fill out our contact form, and we will be in touch!Last but not least, we love to connect on LinkedIn! Let’s connect there so you can see the daily content we post beyond the podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive into a fascinating conversation with Franklin Dusserre, co-founder of French Cowboys. Franklin shares his journey from growing up in Paris and the U.S. to founding a unique hospitality brand that blends hotels with vacation rentals. We explore his experiences with WeWork, the creation of Outpost Capital, and how French Cowboys is revolutionizing boutique hospitality in Texas. Learn about their tech stack choices, operational efficiencies, and their ambitious plans for the future. Whether you're an investor, a potential partner, or just interested in innovative hospitality solutions, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving world of boutique hotels and vacation rentals.This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: Minut – Minut has more than just security features! They monitor noise, movement, and occupancy all within one device, and all Slick Talk listeners get 2 months FREE when they sign up with this link! Hostfully – Use code SLICKTALK for 3 months free of their digital guidebook or $100 off their property management platform! Hudson Creative Studio - Get your direct booking site and brand built by them, and never look back! Connect with Franklin: https://www.frenchcowboys.com/ https://www.outpostcapital.co/ ——–Thank you for tuning into our podcast! Slick Talk is a Hospitality.FM production, and you can find more of our shows at Hospitality.FM or anywhere else you listen to your podcasts!Listen to more episodes on our website and take a look at our amazing podcast and network sponsors that make this all possible!You can also listen to our Monday morning podcast, Good Morning Hospitality, where we dive into the industry as a whole in a more casual setting!If you ever want to contact us for guest suggestions or anything else related to the podcast, please fill out our contact form, and we will be in touch!Last but not least, we love to connect on LinkedIn! Let’s connect there so you can see the daily content we post beyond the podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this compelling episode of Slick Talk, we dive deep into a heartfelt conversation with Nic, Co-Founder of SendSquared. Discover Nic’s inspiring journey from a challenging past to starting SendSquared in 2018 with his Co-Founder Roy. Nic shares his experiences at the VRMA executive summit in Boca Raton, the mission of SendSquared, and why it's known as the 'HubSpot of Hospitality.' The episode also explores  Nic’s personal struggles, including a life-changing bike accident and childhood abandonment issues, highlighting the importance of resilience and lasting relationships. Tune in to get an intimate look at  Nic’s life, career, and aspirations.This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: Minut – Minut has more than just security features! They monitor noise, movement, and occupancy all within one device, and all Slick Talk listeners get 2 months FREE when they sign up with this link! Hostfully – Use code SLICKTALK for 3 months free of their digital guidebook or $100 off their property management platform! Hudson Creative Studio - Get your direct booking site and brand built by them, and never look back! Connect with Nic: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolas-j-wegener/ Bike wreck story: https://medium.com/@nicolaswegener/keep-pedaling-8ddbd2926aee Company Website: https://sendsquared.com/ ——–Thank you for tuning into our podcast! Slick Talk is a Hospitality.FM production, and you can find more of our shows at Hospitality.FM or anywhere else you listen to your podcasts!Listen to more episodes on our website and take a look at our amazing podcast and network sponsors that make this all possible!You can also listen to our Monday morning podcast, Good Morning Hospitality, where we dive into the industry as a whole in a more casual setting!If you ever want to contact us for guest suggestions or anything else related to the podcast, please fill out our contact form, and we will be in touch!Last but not least, we love to connect on LinkedIn! Let’s connect there so you can see the daily content we post beyond the podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special recap episode of Slick Talk, Kelsey Tran (HFM Producer of Slick Talk) returns after her maternity leave, sharing her journey into motherhood and experiences of labor and delivery with host Wil Slickers. They discuss exciting updates within the Hospitality.FM network, including new hires, adding a European crew to Good Morning Hospitality, and the revival of 'Workflows and Espressos' with Meghan Moylan. Wil also provides an overview of their successful inaugural retreat, which featured an inspiring session with Horst Schulze, co-founder of Ritz Carlton. Tune in for an insightful catch-up and vision for the future of Hospitality.FM.This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: Minut – Minut has more than just security features! They monitor noise, movement, and occupancy all within one device, and all Slick Talk listeners get 2 months FREE when they sign up with this link! Hostfully – Use code SLICKTALK for 3 months free of their digital guidebook or $100 off their property management platform! Hudson Creative Studio - Get your direct booking site and brand built by them, and never look back! ——–Thank you for tuning into our podcast! Slick Talk is a Hospitality.FM production, and you can find more of our shows at Hospitality.FM or anywhere else you listen to your podcasts!Listen to more episodes on our website and take a look at our amazing podcast and network sponsors that make this all possible!You can also listen to our Monday morning podcast, Good Morning Hospitality, where we dive into the industry as a whole in a more casual setting!If you ever want to contact us for guest suggestions or anything else related to the podcast, please fill out our contact form, and we will be in touch!Last but not least, we love to connect on LinkedIn! Let’s connect there so you can see the daily content we post beyond the podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is extra special as we sit down with Rachel Alday to discuss her journey in the luxury vacation rental industry. We talk about the beginnings of Abode Luxury Rentals, the importance of authenticity, and how luxury and high-end services have evolved over the years. Rachel shares personal experiences about growing her business organically, maintaining high standards, and expanding into new markets like Jackson Hole and Sun Valley. We also delve into the significance of therapy, personal growth, and maintaining a work-life balance while running a business with a spouse. Tune in to learn from Rachel's incredible insights on offering exceptional hospitality and building a sustainable, heartfelt business.This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: Minut – Minut has more than just security features! They monitor noise, movement, and occupancy all within one device, and all Slick Talk listeners get 2 months FREE when they sign up with this link! Hostfully – Use code SLICKTALK for 3 months free of their digital guidebook or $100 off their property management platform! Hudson Creative Studio - Get your direct booking site and brand built by them, and never look back! Connect with Rachel:www.abodeluxuryrentals.com@aldayrachel Instagramhttps://www.facebook.com/rachel.alday FBhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelalday LinkedIn——–Thank you for tuning into our podcast! Slick Talk is a Hospitality.FM production, and you can find more of our shows at Hospitality.FM or anywhere else you listen to your podcasts!Listen to more episodes on our website and take a look at our amazing podcast and network sponsors that make this all possible!You can also listen to our Monday morning podcast, Good Morning Hospitality, where we dive into the industry as a whole in a more casual setting!If you ever want to contact us for guest suggestions or anything else related to the podcast, please fill out our contact form, and we will be in touch!Last but not least, we love to connect on LinkedIn! Let’s connect there so you can see the daily content we post beyond the podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, the host welcomes Wes Smithe, co-founder and CEO at Direct, to discuss the evolving landscape of vacation rental management technology. The conversation covers Wes's personal journey in the industry, the challenges and innovations in property management systems (PMS), and the importance of data management. Wes also dives into the significance of AI and machine learning in the industry's future. The episode provides a deep dive into optimizing operational workflows and the intricacies of onboarding in tech systems. A must-listen for property managers and tech enthusiasts in the vacation rental space.Connect with Wes:Business Website: https://www.directsoftware.com/Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wsmithe/Business LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/direct-software/Business 𝕏: https://x.com/directpmsBusiness FB: https://www.facebook.com/Directpms/Business IG: https://www.instagram.com/directsoftware/——–Thank you for tuning into our podcast! Slick Talk is a Hospitality.FM production, and you can find more of our shows at Hospitality.FM or anywhere else you listen to your podcasts!Listen to more episodes on our website and take a look at our amazing podcast and network sponsors that make this all possible!You can also listen to our Monday morning podcast, Good Morning Hospitality, where we dive into the industry as a whole in a more casual setting!If you ever want to contact us for guest suggestions or anything else related to the podcast, please fill out our contact form, and we will be in touch!Last but not least, we love to connect on LinkedIn! Let’s connect there so you can see the daily content we post beyond the podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us in this insightful episode as Wil sits down with Ashley Ching, founder of Inhaven, to discuss her entrepreneurial journey from consulting at Deloitte to starting a pioneering business to standardize the vacation rental industry. Ashley shares her experiences, industry challenges, and the strategic steps Inhaven is taking to bring hotel-grade standards to vacation rentals. Learn about the importance of local hospitality, the evolution of lodging standards, and Ashley's valuable advice for professional property managers and budding entrepreneurs in the vacation rental market. Plus, listeners will enjoy a special promotion.This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: Minut – Minut has more than just security features! They monitor noise, movement, and occupancy all within one device, and all Slick Talk listeners get 2 months FREE when they sign up with this link! Hostfully – Use code SLICKTALK for 3 months free of their digital guidebook or $100 off their property management platform! Hudson Creative Studio - Get your direct booking site and brand built by them, and never look back! Connect with Ashley:www.inhaven.com ($100 off your first order using promo code STANDARDS)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inhavenstay/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inhavenstayPersonal Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-ching-inhaven-b56a843/Inhaven Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inhavenYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@inhavenstay——–Thank you for tuning into our podcast! Slick Talk is a Hospitality.FM production, and you can find more of our shows at Hospitality.FM or anywhere else you listen to your podcasts!Listen to more episodes on our website and take a look at our amazing podcast and network sponsors that make this all possible!You can also listen to our Monday morning podcast, Good Morning Hospitality, where we dive into the industry as a whole in a more casual setting!If you ever want to contact us for guest suggestions or anything else related to the podcast, please fill out our contact form, and we will be in touch!Last but not least, we love to connect on LinkedIn! Let’s connect there so you can see the daily content we post beyond the podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us as we welcome back Ryan Killeen, co-founder of Annex Hotel, and introduce his partner, Ben Hoffman. In this episode, we dive deep into the Annex Hotel's expansion from Toronto into the US, specifically focusing on their new project in Palm Springs. Learn about their unique approach to merging the best elements of hospitality and tech, their journey through various market ventures, and the intricate details of their latest deal. Perfect for anyone interested in hospitality, real estate investment, and innovative branding strategies.This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: Minut – Minut has more than just security features! They monitor noise, movement, and occupancy all within one device, and all Slick Talk listeners get 2 months FREE when they sign up with this link! Hostfully – Use code SLICKTALK for 3 months free of their digital guidebook or $100 off their property management platform! Hudson Creative Studio - Get your direct booking site and brand built by them, and never look back! Connect with Ben & Ryan:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankkilleen/https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-hoffman-818a0949/——–Thank you for tuning into our podcast! Slick Talk is a Hospitality.FM production, and you can find more of our shows at Hospitality.FM or anywhere else you listen to your podcasts!Listen to more episodes on our website and take a look at our amazing podcast and network sponsors that make this all possible!You can also listen to our Monday morning podcast, Good Morning Hospitality, where we dive into the industry as a whole in a more casual setting!If you ever want to contact us for guest suggestions or anything else related to the podcast, please fill out our contact form, and we will be in touch!Last but not least, we love to connect on LinkedIn! Let’s connect there so you can see the daily content we post beyond the podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this spirited episode, Wil welcomes his friend Connor Cushman. Connor dives into his transformative journey from a successful career at LinkedIn to becoming a self-employed short-term rental entrepreneur. Sharing insights from their first meeting, they explore the significance of making connections and stepping out of one's comfort zone. Connor reveals his background, motivations, and the challenges he faced transitioning from tech to real estate. They discuss the nuances of managing STR properties, the importance of family, and striking a balance between professional and personal life. Join them for a reflective conversation on entrepreneurship, parenthood, and finding true fulfillment.This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: Minut – Minut has more than just security features! They monitor noise, movement, and occupancy all within one device, and all Slick Talk listeners get 2 months FREE when they sign up with this link! Hostfully – Use code SLICKTALK for 3 months free of their digital guidebook or $100 off their property management platform! Hudson Creative Studio - Get your direct booking site and brand built by them, and never look back! Connect with Connor:www.cushmanhomes.comhttps://www.instagram.com/cushmanhomes——–Thank you for tuning into our podcast! Slick Talk is a Hospitality.FM production, and you can find more of our shows at Hospitality.FM or anywhere else you listen to your podcasts!Listen to more episodes on our website and take a look at our amazing podcast and network sponsors that make this all possible!You can also listen to our Monday morning podcast, Good Morning Hospitality, where we dive into the industry as a whole in a more casual setting!If you ever want to contact us for guest suggestions or anything else related to the podcast, please fill out our contact form, and we will be in touch!Last but not least, we love to connect on LinkedIn! Let’s connect there so you can see the daily content we post beyond the podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Slick Talk, we dive deep with Isaac French, the visionary behind Live Oak Lake. We explore his journey from a hesitant outreach to a successful exit. Isaac shares valuable lessons on being proactive and taking action, detailing his unique story of growing up in a large family and his early ventures in business and art. Discover how Isaac combined his diverse skills to create a one-of-a-kind hospitality experience, overcoming challenges like financing and property development. Learn about the importance of design, attention to detail, and the human connection in hospitality. Isaac also gives a sneak peek into his next exciting project and offers insightful advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.This episode is brought to you by our sponsors at: Minut – Minut has more than just security features! They monitor noise, movement, and occupancy all within one device, and all Slick Talk listeners get 2 months FREE when they sign up with this link! Hostfully – Use code SLICKTALK for 3 months free of their digital guidebook or $100 off their property management platform! Hudson Creative Studio - Get your direct booking site and brand built by them, and never look back! Connect with Isaac:isaacjfrench.comexperientialhospitality.comhttps://www.instagram.com/isaacfrench_/https://x.com/isaacfrench_https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaacjfrench/——–Thank you for tuning into our podcast! Slick Talk is a Hospitality.FM production, and you can find more of our shows at Hospitality.FM or anywhere else you listen to your podcasts!Listen to more episodes on our website and take a look at our amazing podcast and network sponsors that make this all possible!You can also listen to our Monday morning podcast, Good Morning Hospitality, where we dive into the industry as a whole in a more casual setting!If you ever want to contact us for guest suggestions or anything else related to the podcast, please fill out our contact form, and we will be in touch!Last but not least, we love to connect on LinkedIn! Let’s connect there so you can see the daily content we post beyond the podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices