Short Term Rental Secrets Podcast

MICHAEL SJOGREN
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Sep 29, 2025 • 27min

Ep 261 - Revenue, Scaling, and the Traits of Successful STR Hosts with Matthew McDonald

What separates the STR hosts who burn out from those who thrive?In this episode, Matt shares his hard-earned lessons on revenue management, scaling, and the mindset shifts that set top operators apart.• The truth about revenue management: when to DIY vs. hire• How beginners can scale from 1–2 units to many• Success traits Matt has seen across hundreds of operators• Why your calendar is the foundation of business success• The mindset shift: “If you can’t help yourself, you can’t help others”• How to design life first, then build STR around it00:02 – DIY Revenue Management: Matt’s 3 Best Tips14:11 – Success Traits vs. Failure Traits15:29 – The Power of a Strong WHY18:29 – Calendar & Life Buckets for STR Success19:08 – If You Can’t Help Yourself, You Can’t Help Others20:52 – Designing Life First, Then BusinessGuest Bio:Matthew McDonald is a short-term rentals and hotels investor and coach.Guest Link:matt.mcdonald@strsecrets.comGet FREE Access to our Community and Weekly Trainings:http://group.strsecrets.com/
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Sep 25, 2025 • 26min

Airbnb’s 15% Fee Change Explained: What Hosts and Managers Must Do | The STR Scale Show with Mike Reilly | Ep 27

Finance expert Ben Coons, CEO of Keystone Bookkeepers, dives into Airbnb's new 15% fee structure and its implications for property managers and homeowners. He clearly explains the difference between gross and net commission models and how these changes might impact profits. Ben offers insights on pricing adjustments to maintain margins and effective communication strategies for homeowners. With tips on navigating these new financial waters, he emphasizes the importance of adapting early to stay competitive in the market.
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Sep 22, 2025 • 40min

Ep 260 - Marketing Frameworks Every STR Host Can Steal with Chris Crawford

Marketing isn’t just about ads—it’s about positioning, messaging, and action.In this episode, Chris shares practical frameworks and timeless principles that every business owner (and STR host) can use to stand out, attract clients, and scale smarter.• Why marketing and sales matter more than ever• The real difference between content and community• How to build a personal brand the right way• Authentic content vs. performative posting• Head vs. heart: the two frames of content• Why information ≠ transformation in business• How to message to your avatar’s pain + desire• Funnels, ads, and what they can’t replace• Systems for managing leads without overwhelm• Why investing in belief shifts your identity00:01:27 – Why Listen to Chris (Marketing & Sales Depth)00:03:07 – Community Leverage > Content Alone00:11:38 – “Give Me a Framework” Moment00:12:02 – Starting a Brand the Right Way00:15:05 – Content Resistance, Authenticity, and Output00:16:48 – Frames of Content: Head vs. Heart00:21:26 – Information ≠ Transformation00:26:33 – Avatar, Pain + Desire (Messaging 101)00:28:15 – Ads, Funnels, and Social Avoidance00:34:45 – Investing in Belief and Identity ShiftGet FREE Access to our Community and Weekly Trainings:http://group.strsecrets.com/
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11 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 36min

Cohosting 101: How to Start and Scale a Sustainable STR Business | The STR Scale Show with Mike Reilly | Ep 25

Discover the ins and outs of cohosting for short-term rentals, a model that minimizes upfront costs. Learn the essential three things you need before starting and how to select the right market for success. Dive into effective strategies for finding clients and scaling your portfolio. Get the lowdown on the cohost funnel, your roadmap to growth. Plus, a special giveaway awaits listeners, perfect for those ready to take their rental business to the next level!
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10 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 30min

Ep 259 - Why STR Is Just the Vehicle to Building True Freedom

Short-term rentals serve as a launchpad for greater ambitions, not the final destination. The hosts emphasize the importance of a mindset shift to envision and achieve lasting freedom. They discuss strategies to avoid the pitfalls of merely chasing unit counts and stress the role of belief in fueling momentum. Personal growth is linked to redefining identity and leveraging imagination. Essential tactics for sustaining business success include regular partner check-ins and aligning daily actions with long-term goals.
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8 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 36min

Ep 258 - Analyzing STR Markets and Deciphering the Numbers with John Bianchi

John Bianchi, Founder of STR Search, has directed over $100M in investments into cash-flowing Airbnbs. In this discussion, he reveals his foolproof methods for analyzing over 100 STR markets. John emphasizes that market selection can make or break your success. He also shares common missteps hosts make when crunching numbers and offers insights on using data to build a sustainable portfolio. From learning from costly mistakes to spotting lucrative deals, John's expertise is a goldmine for aspiring STR investors.
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11 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 38min

Ep 257 - Why Getting Sick Taught Steve Resnick the Real Goal of STR

Steve Resnick, a former corporate professional, transformed his life by scaling from 12 to 99 short-term rental properties in under two years. After a health scare, he realized that time freedom is more valuable than just chasing numbers. The discussion emphasizes building sustainable systems that can operate independently, avoiding burnout, and focusing on exceptional service. Steve shares how strategic planning and a positive mindset helped him turn adversity into motivation, ensuring his business continues to thrive without his constant presence.
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12 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 12min

Do You Really Want It? Lessons on Grit and STR Growth | The STR Scale Show with Mike Reilly | Ep 25

This discussion explores the essence of commitment versus mere interest in achieving success. It emphasizes how obstacles can serve as excuses and offers resilience lessons inspired by Navy SEALs. The conversation highlights the importance of reframing challenges to create momentum and developing grit when facing setbacks. Listeners learn how to push past mental barriers and the value of recommitting when doubt arises. Through personal anecdotes, the significance of proactive action and team trust in the short-term rentals industry is also underscored.
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10 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 27min

Ep 256 - Why 95% of STR Deals Fail—and the 10 Hospitality Rules That Make the Rest Win

Discover why a staggering 95% of short-term rental deals fail before they even start. Uncover the essential 10-point hospitality playbook that can turn the tide for successful investments. Explore how creativity and a guest-centric approach elevate the rental experience, rivaling luxury hotels. Learn the critical distinction between service and true hospitality, and its impact on guest satisfaction. Finally, delve into building a strong team and fostering emotional connections to create lifelong fans through exceptional guest experiences.
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Aug 18, 2025 • 38min

Ep 255 - How Two Investors Scaled from Co-Living to 80 STRs with Blake Anthony Carter and Jeremy Courtney

Blake Anthony Carter and Jeremy Courtney, seasoned real estate and property management experts, share their incredible journey from co-living spaces to managing 80 short-term rental properties. They discuss their strategic pivot, emphasizing the importance of systems and partnerships in scaling. The duo also delves into lessons learned about market timing, staying focused during rapid growth, and the value of hands-on evaluation of their properties. Their insights on adapting business structures reveal how challenges become easier with experience.

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