

Live Let Thrive Podcast
Live Let Thrive
"Live Let Thrive" is a podcast about Airbnb life and the Shareconomy in general. Steve and Myka guide you through this exciting new world by sharing experiences of their own. They also dish out advice, tips and pointers on how to thrive in the new Airbnb/Shareconomy world. Join us on this journey and let us know what you think. Feedback is King. Hope you enjoy!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 8, 2023 • 1h 9min
Airbnb Going Downhill, Dallas' limited rental supply becoming a huge opportunity, and Finding The Right Cleaners For the Job.
Episode 276 of "Live Let Thrive" springs forward with a timely discussion on Daylight Savings Time and its impact on the rental industry. Join us for our next meetup in Irving and celebrate our wins for the week, including Steve's profitable domain sale.
Myka breaks down the secrets to setting the right prices for your mid-term rentals, particularly for those coveted insurance clients. With Dallas facing a shrinking creative rental market, we discuss strategies for success in a limited inventory environment and emphasize the importance of understanding your business model.
Steve will share insights on his roofer connection, ensuring your properties are always in top shape. Meanwhile, get inspired by Grant Cardone's journey on "Undercover Billionaire," and learn how to amplify your presence in the digital realm across platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, and more.
The cleanliness of your rentals is paramount – find out how to select the best cleaning services and weigh in on the debate over accommodating early check-ins. We also talk about the value of convenience and the costs of participating in a mastermind group.
Dive into the strategy of investing in condos with creative financing methods like "subject to" and the benefits of getting involved in HOA boards. Discover the transformation of condos into boutique hotels and identify your target clientele to ensure your rental business thrives.
Airbnb trends are shifting towards more upscale offerings – what does this mean for the classic hotel vs. Airbnb debate? And we can't ignore the implications of Dallas's new 3% rule for multifamily properties.
Also, Google makes a splash at the VRWS Vacation Rental World Summit, and we ponder the ultimate question for property features: Garage or converted game room? Tune in for these topics and more, where we discuss how to stay at the peak of the rental industry game.
Holler at Steve and Myka!
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https://linktr.ee/liveletthrive
www.liveletthrive.com

Nov 1, 2023 • 1h 2min
From Halloween Hustles to Empowered Teams: Navigating the Rental Realm
Episode 275 of the "Live Let Thrive" Podcast delves deep into the art and science of rental management. Join us as we recap the spook-tacular LLTU Halloween meetup and discuss the undeniable power of networking in the industry. Learn the nuances of surrounding yourself with the right people and the incredible influence it can have on your success.
Holler at Steve and Myka!
Click our linktree for the latest news and updates!
https://linktr.ee/liveletthrive
www.liveletthrive.com

Oct 26, 2023 • 1h 10min
Rental Resilience: Navigating the Texas Turbulence, Strategic Shifts, and Crafting Your 'Why'
🎙️ Welcome to Episode 274 of the "Live Let Thrive" Podcast 🎙️
This episode swings into the heart of the rental world with a special focus on Texas, serving up a mix of actionable insights, challenges, and stories of perseverance.
⚾ **World Series Mania**: The Texas Rangers have entered the arena! What does this mean for DFW property prices, and just how immense is baseball's crowd-pulling power?
🌐 **Diversifying Booking Channels**: Learn the ins and outs of listing on platforms like Google vacation rentals, TripAdvisor, and Whimstay, and the perks of having a direct booking channel.
📈 **Insurance Instability**: Delve into the spiraling insurance rates and why companies are distancing themselves from the DFW metroplex.
🔄 **The Arbitrage Approach**: Examine the increasing trend of people pushing for arbitrages and its implications.
🔍 **Consultant vs. Management**: Does your client truly need a management company, or is a consultant a better fit? We dissect the differences.
🏠 **Local STR Markets**: Explore the intricacies of the Allen, TX STR market and brace for the shakeup in Dallas due to new regulations and the 3% rule.
🤝 **Owner Finances and Section 8 Insights**: Unravel the secrets behind owner finance deals and the strategy of using section 8 rentals to ensure rent coverage.
🌦 **Weathering the STR Storm**: Hear tales of persistence and strategy that help navigate the shifting landscapes of short-term rentals.
💡 **W-2 Wisdom and Smart Debts**: Discover the advantages of working a W-2, acquiring smart debt, and the importance of being a true rental scientist.
👩💼 **Life Updates**: Join us as Myka shares about Mahogany's new professional venture.
🏞 **Peaks, Valleys, and Building Character**: Dive deep into the lessons from Elon Musk's book, the importance of embracing challenges, and the essence of competitiveness.
🤔 **Finding Your 'Why'**: Reflect on the profoundness of understanding your purpose and why it's vital in every endeavor.
🤝 **Join the Community**: Don't miss out on the details of the upcoming Live Let Thrive Meetup on 10/26/23.
Episode 274 is a potent blend of industry know-how, personal anecdotes, and invaluable advice, making it a must-listen for every rental enthusiast out there.
🎧 Gear up for a thrilling ride through the dynamic world of rentals with Myka and Steve!
Holler at Steve and Myka!
Click our linktree for the latest news and updates!
https://linktr.ee/liveletthrive
www.liveletthrive.com

Oct 19, 2023 • 1h 16min
Rental Revelations: Navigating Arbitrage, Airbnb's Challenges, and Power Conversations
🎙️ Welcome to Episode 273 of the "Live Let Thrive" Podcast hosted by Myka and Steve 🎙️
In this episode, we dive deep into the complexities and opportunities that come with property management and rental strategies.
🔄 **Flipping the Script with Stevie Stacks**: Discover the tactics behind turning management clients into profitable arbitrages and the journey of transforming arbitrage clients into owned properties. What's the secret sauce? Tune in to find out!
🔑 **Behind the Lock**: Uncover the importance of having a trusted locksmith on your side and the myriad benefits it brings.
🌟 **Leadership & Growth**: Myka and Steve touch upon the essence of good leadership skills, and how they're instrumental in this industry.
💰 **Tax Tactics**: Navigate the labyrinth of tax strategies with pointers on selecting the right CPA, making the most of Quickbooks, and understanding the nuances of cost segregation.
🎯 **Purposeful Planning with Myka**: Learn about being intentional in your real estate approach, whether it's subscribing, BRRRRR strategies, owner financing, and more.
🚫 **Airbnb's Tumultuous Times**: We delve into the challenges Airbnb is currently facing - from their rapid growth concerns, trust issues, removal of cleaning fees, to hosts asking guests to clean despite charging a cleaning fee. What's going on with Airbnb?
🆕 **Diversifying Platforms**: Hear about our experience hosting on Whimstay and how it's turning into a reservation magnet.
🗣️ **The Power of Conversation**: Steve sheds light on the art of communication, emphasizing the value of mature discussions, especially with HOA presidents.
👩💻 **Tech Struggles of Older Hosts**: Explore the increasing demand for management support for older hosts who might find modern technology challenging.
🤝 **Client Management Nuances**: Dive into the art of managing diverse clients, from selecting the ideal ones to steering those resistant to change, even when their property is bleeding money.
Episode 273 is a treasure trove of information, experiences, and wisdom for anyone in the property management and rental space. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, Myka and Steve's insights will leave you with plenty of food for thought.
🎧 Plug in, relax, and let's thrive together in the world of rentals!
Holler at Steve and Myka!
Click our linktree for the latest news and updates!
https://linktr.ee/liveletthrive
www.liveletthrive.com

Oct 11, 2023 • 1h 5min
Rental Rundown: Navigating Taxes, Interest, and Innovative Strategies in the Real Estate Jungle
An insightful deep-dive into the dynamic world of rentals and real estate, this episode navigates through the peaks and valleys of managing properties in today's ever-shifting landscape.
📉 The Downfall of Long-Term Rentals: Explore how fluctuating property tax and interest rates are impacting the viability and profitability of long-term rentals.
🏘️ Navigating Section 8 Rentals: Uncover the strategies for utilizing DHA to invest in section 8 rentals and ensuring consistent rental income.
🏛️ Legal Battles in Texas: Understand the tussle between state and city laws pertaining to rental properties in Texas.
🔍 Mid-Term Rental Misconceptions: Dive into the challenges and myths surrounding mid-term rentals, especially dealing with calendar gaps when short-term isn’t permissible.
🌎 Short-Term Rental Strategies: We're revealing the top 10 states to consider for starting a short-term rental business today, with insights into buying houses in those locales.
🛑 Airbnb’s Hefty Cancellation Charges: Analyzing the impact and rationale behind Airbnb’s policy of charging up to $1000 for cancellations.
🤝 Building a STR Community: Gain insights into the significance and strategies for constructing a supportive and resourceful community in the short-term rental space.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Protocols: Discover the perks and perils of allowing pets in your rental units and devise an optimal charging strategy.
💡 Utility Management: Learn how to implement utility caps on your rentals to manage and limit your expenditure.
📱 Tech & Business Account Tricks: Unveil the benefits of using ATT business accounts across multiple properties to secure a lower rate.
🏠 Power in Ownership and Tax-Free House Flipping: Unlock the secrets to obtaining and maintaining power through property ownership and explore strategies for tax-free house flipping.
🏢 Commercial Real Estate Woes: Explore the struggles currently facing the commercial real estate sector.
⛽ No-Gas Rentals: Discussing the feasibility and challenges of operating rentals without gas.
💰 Profits & Taxes: Master the profit-first strategy and delve into the practicality of paying your taxes on a quarterly basis.
From the trials and tribulations of managing rentals to smart financial strategies and navigating regulatory hurdles, Episode 272 provides a wholesome peek into real estate endeavors that both neophytes and seasoned professionals will find valuable.
Holler at Steve and Myka!
Click our linktree for the latest news and updates!
https://linktr.ee/liveletthrive
www.liveletthrive.com

Oct 4, 2023 • 1h 3min
Balancing the Grind: Navigating Business Stress and Strategy
Join Myka and Steve as they entwine experiences, strategies, and heartfelt discussions into a tapestry of entrepreneurial wisdom, providing a safe space for discourse, learning, and shared journeys through the highs and lows of business. Whether you're navigating through the calm or weathering a storm, Episode 271 is crafted to equip, inspire, and walk alongside you in your business venture, ensuring you not only survive but thrive!
Holler at Steve and Myka!
Click our linktree for the latest news and updates!
https://linktr.ee/liveletthrive
www.liveletthrive.com

Sep 27, 2023 • 1h 7min
Real Estate and Marketing Mastery: Airbnb Arbitrage, Building Connections, and Risk Management
In Episode 270 of the Live Let Thrive podcast, we delve deep into the dynamic world of real estate and marketing, exploring strategies, challenges, and valuable insights to help you succeed in the ever-evolving hospitality industry.
In the marketing segment, we discuss the power of emails, commercial real estate opportunities, and the art of building connections through platforms like LinkedIn.
Our featured topic centers on Airbnb Arbitrage, where we uncover the latest developments, including VRBO's registration requirements and the intriguing practice of arbitraging brand new properties. We also share stories of furniture woes and innovative furniture rental solutions. Plus, we examine how evolving regulations are having a positive impact and explore the pitfalls of buying arbitrage properties and dealing with challenging co-hosting situations.
Holler at Steve and Myka!
Click our linktree for the latest news and updates!
https://linktr.ee/liveletthrive
www.liveletthrive.com

Sep 20, 2023 • 55min
Scaling to 500: Brooke Pfautz's Vacation Rental Secrets
Welcome to Episode 269 of the Live Let Thrive podcast, hosted by the dynamic duo, Myka & Steve! In this episode, we're thrilled to introduce you to a true industry powerhouse, Brooke Pfautz.
Brooke's journey is nothing short of remarkable. He took a leap of faith in the short-term rental world and built an empire, amassing an impressive 500 properties. His insights and wisdom have been captured in his book, "Vacation Rentals Secrets," and he's lent his expertise to over 600 companies looking to expand their inventory.
Holler at Steve and Myka!
Click our linktree for the latest news and updates!
https://linktr.ee/liveletthrive
www.liveletthrive.com

Sep 13, 2023 • 1h 11min
From Arbitrage to Property Management in the Changing Landscape of Short-Term Rentals
Myka and Steve dive deep into the ever-evolving world of short-term rentals, property management, and the shifting landscape of Airbnb.
Myka starts the conversation by sharing his experiences and insights on transitioning out of the arbitrage game and focusing on owning and managing properties. Steve joins in, offering a balanced discussion on the pros and cons of managing properties versus arbitraging them.
With the short-term rental market's volatility in mind, our hosts explore strategies to hedge against risk and ensure the sustainability of your business. They also touch upon the recent developments in New York, where Airbnb faces challenges and discuss whether Airbnb can sustain its insurance model.
Holler at Steve and Myka!
Click our linktree for the latest news and updates!
https://linktr.ee/liveletthrive
www.liveletthrive.com

Sep 6, 2023 • 53min
Cleaning Up the Short-Term Rental Scene with Derrick Agyiri, Founder of Cleanster.com
Join hosts Myka and Steve as they sit down with Derrick Agyiri, the visionary founder of Cleanster.com. Discover the intriguing story behind the inception of Cleanster and how it evolved into a game-changer for the short-term rental cleaning industry.
Derrick takes us on a journey from Montreal, Canada, where Cleanster first emerged, to its expansion into the United States, particularly Dallas, Texas, prompted by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn how Cleanster's early days were marked by a commitment to quality, with no profits taken for the first nine months.
Explore the unique approach that sets Cleanster apart, as they hire and rigorously vet their cleaners, ensuring top-notch service for clients. Discover how AI and geolocation technology are employed to maintain transparency and integrity within the platform.
Holler at Steve and Myka!
Click our linktree for the latest news and updates!
https://linktr.ee/liveletthrive
www.liveletthrive.com