Are you feeling overwhelmed by the tech and cost of managing your direct bookings? Without the right system in place, you risk lost revenue, double bookings, and a frustrating guest experience. In this episode, we break down exactly what you need—from secure payments to owning your brand—to make direct bookings effortless and profitable.

Jamey King, Senior Marketing Manager for North America at eviivo, joins us to share his expertise in streamlining technology and helping property owners take control of their bookings. With years of experience working with brands like VRMA, Point Central, and Safely, Jamie offers valuable insights into building a strong foundation for direct booking success.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The key systems every property manager needs for seamless direct bookings
• How to increase revenue by maximizing control over pricing and promotions
• The power of guest relationships and how personalization enhances the experience
• Why owning your brand is crucial for standing out in a competitive market
• How to access and leverage guest data to drive repeat bookings
• The importance of reducing overbooking risks and keeping operations smooth

Jamey emphasizes the significance of having a reliable property management system (PMS) to help automate and optimize direct bookings without excessive costs or complexity. He also highlights how eviivo provides an all-in-one solution designed to keep direct bookings simple, secure, and profitable.

“The goal is to capture guest dollars while maintaining control over pricing, guest experience, and your brand. When you own the booking process, you own your success.” – Jamey King

Connect with Jamey King

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/james-king-bb4842b

Email: Jamey.King@eviivo.com

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

• Eviivo website: https://eviivo.com/us/
• Book a Demo with eviivo: https://eviivo.com/us/book-an-appointment/

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Work with Jenn to maintain consistency in your marketing and boost your direct bookings without spending so much money on it: https://directbookingsuccess.com/apply/

The ULTIMATE all-in-one marketing platform for short-term rentals – Check it out: https://bookdirectpro.com/

FREE GUIDE – 10 Ways to Drive Guests to Your Website Instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join Jenn’s free Facebook group – the Marketing Hub: https://www.facebook.com/groups/strmarketinghub

Are you ready to turn your vacation rental website into a booking powerhouse?

In this episode, we explore the art of creating high-converting websites with website strategist Jodi Bourne.

With her extensive experience in the vacation rental industry and as a guest herself, Jodi shares invaluable insights on crafting a digital presence that not only looks great but drives revenue.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Learn how to craft a compelling digital front door that instantly appeals to potential guests
• Understand the three primary goals of an effective website: creating FOMO, building trust, and converting visitors
• Gain insights on using professional photography and video to showcase your property
• Explore the importance of storytelling and personal branding in your “About Us” page
• Uncover common website mistakes that hurt trust-building and conversions

Jodi Bourne, with her extensive experience of staying in over 70 vacation rentals, brings a unique perspective as both an industry expert and a seasoned guest. Her approach combines technical know-how with a deep understanding of guest psychology, helping you create a website that resonates with your ideal visitors.

“There’s going to be people that are going to choose your property regardless. You want to be honest and upfront with them in your imagery and videos. So show it at your best light, but also be truthful.” - Jodi Bourne

About Jodi Bourne

Jodi Bourne is a vacation rental consultant and website designer passionate about helping property owners create standout guest experiences and achieve business success. With over a decade of experience and a portfolio of strategies tailored to vacation rentals, Jodi combines her hospitality expertise with a deep understanding of branding, marketing, and direct bookings. She specializes in building guest-centric websites and implementing start-to-finish strategies that drive bookings and foster repeat guests. Having stayed in 67 vacation rentals herself, Jodi uses her insider knowledge to design spaces and experiences that resonate with travellers. Her innovative approach consistently helps owners increase profitability while elevating the guest experience.

Connect with Jodi Bourne

Website: jodibourne.com

Instagram: instagram.com/heyjodibourne

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Tyann Marcink Hammond’s About Us Page: https://bransonfamilyretreats.com/about/

About Page Blueprint: https://jodibourne.com/trusted-host-about-page-blueprint/

Website Mistakes Checklist: https://jodibourne.com/build-a-vacation-rental-website-checklist/

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Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Work with Jenn to maintain consistency in your marketing and boost your direct bookings without spending so much money on it: https://directbookingsuccess.com/apply/

The ULTIMATE all-in-one marketing platform for short term rental is finally here! Check it out: https://bookdirectpro.com/

FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb:

Are you ready to take your short-term rental business to new heights?

In this episode, we explore the remarkable journey of Chad Harker, a savvy entrepreneur who has transformed his single-room Airbnb listing into a thriving portfolio of seven properties with an impressive 75% direct booking rate.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The importance of providing exceptional hospitality as a foundation for success
• How to leverage guest data to create personalized experiences and drive repeat bookings
• Strategies for building local partnerships to enhance your offerings
• Tips for implementing upsells that benefit both guests and hosts

“If you’re utilizing the right tech, it could go such a long way with being able to buy back some of your time and operate at a higher level.” - Chad Harker

About Chad Harker

Chad Harker is a real estate investor and short-term rental entrepreneur passionate about transforming properties into exceptional spaces that maximize guest experiences and profitability. With three properties—soon expanding to six units after renovations—he combines real estate investing expertise with short-term rental strategies to create high-performing spaces for himself and the investors he partners with. Chad’s approach focuses on adding value through legal suites, direct booking strategies, and guest-centric branding, achieving a 75% increase in direct bookings and fostering repeat guests. On track to surpass Edmonton’s top-performing rental, Chad’s model exemplifies how thoughtful renovations, strategic operations, and independent marketing can redefine what short-term rentals can achieve.

Connect with Chad and Eco Escapes

Eco Escapes Website: www.ecoescape.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chad_harker780

Resources Chad mentioned in the podcast

Linkbase: https://linkbase.ca/

Chad shares his journey from conventional real estate investing to short-term rental success, offering practical advice for those looking to follow in his footsteps. Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale your existing operation, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you achieve direct booking success.

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Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Simplify your STR Marketing in 2025! Join the DBS AI Content Sprint Workshop!

In this live, hands-on workshop, I will guide you through creating 3 months of content targeted to your ideal guest.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

✨ How to use AI to craft engaging, personalized content.

✨ A proven strategy to save time while driving direct bookings.

✨ Step-by-step guidance to simplify your marketing efforts for 2025.

📅 Date: January 9, 2025

You will leave with a full written guide, lifetime access to the training video, and a strategy you can replicate anytime.

Save your seat and start 2025 with a clear, actionable plan to grow your bookings and profits with 3 months of booking-driving content.

👉 https://mydbs.live/sprint

Use...

As we step into 2025, are you ready to revolutionize your short-term rental business? In this episode, we're exploring how to simplify, streamline, and set yourself up for success using AI in the new year.

Discover how to create a strategic marketing plan that goes beyond mere consistency, focusing on purpose-driven content that resonates with your ideal guests. Learn how AI can be your secret weapon in content creation, automation, and optimization, freeing you up to focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Here’s what you will be getting:

• Reflect on key lessons from 2024 and how they shape our approach to resilience in 2025
• Understand how AI can enhance your marketing efforts without replacing your unique touch
• Get insights on crafting a three-month content calendar tailored to your ideal guests
• Learn about the upcoming DBS AI Content Sprint, a 90-minute workshop to jumpstart your 2025 marketing strategy
• Discover how to integrate AI with tools like Book Direct Pro for seamless campaign management

Plus, get a special discount code for the DBS AI Content Sprint, where you'll create three months of targeted social media content with proven strategy in driving direct bookings in just 90 minutes! You’ll leave with a full written guide, a lifetime access to the training and a strategy that you can rinse-and-repeat anytime.

Don't miss this opportunity to start 2025 with a clear plan and less stress. Your journey to simplified, effective marketing begins here!

—------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Simplify your STR Marketing in 2025! Join the DBS AI Content Sprint Workshop!

In this live, hands-on workshop, I will guide you through creating 3 months of content targeted to your ideal guest.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

✨ How to use AI to craft engaging, personalized content.

✨ A proven strategy to save time while driving direct bookings.

✨ Step-by-step guidance to simplify your marketing efforts for 2025.

📅 Date: January 9, 2025

You will leave with a full written guide, lifetime access to the training video, and a strategy you can replicate anytime.

Save your seat and start 2025 with a clear, actionable plan to grow your bookings and profits with 3 months of booking-driving content.

👉 https://mydbs.live/sprint

Use discount code: DBSPODCAST40 to join the workshop for only $29

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Work with Jenn to maintain consistency in your marketing and boost your direct bookings without spending so much money on it: https://directbookingsuccess.com/apply/

The ULTIMATE all-in-one marketing platform for short term rental is finally here! Check it out: https://bookdirectpro.com/

FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Follow Jenn on Instagram:...

As we wrap up an incredible year of growth and learning in the short-term rental industry, it's time to reflect on the valuable insights that have shaped our success. In this special episode of the Direct Booking Success Podcast, I'm sharing my favourite moments from 2024 - a year filled with practical strategies, inspiring stories, and expert advice.

From reaching listeners in 38 countries to recording over 23 hours of content, this podcast has become more than just a source of information. It's a thriving community of property managers and hosts passionate about growing direct bookings and building sustainable businesses.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• Inside-out hospitality: Learn how treating your team will genuine care translates to exceptional guest experiences
• Filling calendar gaps: Actionable strategies to boost bookings during slow periods without resorting to discounts
• The power of video reviews: How authentic guest testimonials can significantly increase your conversion rates
• Strategic consistency: Why blindly following the “just be consistent” mantra might be holding you back
• Optimizing your direct booking website: Essential tips for creating a seamless, mobile-responsive booking process

Discover how Lauren's approach to prioritizing employee well-being naturally translates into exceptional guest experiences. Learn about her creative marketing strategies that make her properties stand out in the competitive Smoky Mountains market.

Listen to Episode 106 - The Truth About Airbnb Income, Hint… It’s Not What You Think: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEHQ0UTrCYo&t=2s

Learn more about Lauren and Auntie Belham’s Cabin Rentals:

Website: https://www.auntiebelhams.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/auntiebelhamscabinrentals/

"Your past guests are your biggest fans—remind them why they loved staying with you."

Explore effective strategies to fill booking gaps without resorting to discounts or desperate measures. Find out why email marketing remains a powerful tool for reconnecting with past guests and driving repeat bookings.

Listen to Episode 115 - Reviving Your Marketing After a Busy STR Season: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTTMNVE2gKY

"A simple phone video from a happy guest can increase your bookings by 25%—it’s that powerful."

Gain insights from industry veteran Damian Sheridan on reducing OTA reliance and leveraging video reviews to boost conversions. Learn how authentic guest testimonials can significantly impact your booking rates.

Listen to Episode 94 - Why You Should Stop Chasing 5-Star Reviews and Do This Instead: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ngfx2O6DOk&t=7s

Learn more about Damian

Book Direct Show: https://bookdirect.show

SCALE Rentals: https://scalerentals.show

"Being consistent isn’t enough if your efforts miss the mark—align your strategy with your goals."

Challenge the common advice of "just be consistent" and discover why strategic consistency is key to driving results. Understand how to focus on quality over quantity in your marketing efforts.

Listen to Episode 107 - Why Consistency in your Marketing Isn’t Enough for Direct Bookings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxFKqYRyUM8

"If you’re not testing your booking process on all devices, you’re leaving

Are you ready to turn your Instagram followers into paying guests? In this episode, we explore how to harness the power of Instagram to drive direct bookings for your vacation rental property.

Join me as I chat with Katie Besant, founder of the Holiday Hive and social media expert with years of experience in the tourism industry. Katie shares her insider knowledge on creating content that not only catches the eye but also converts scrollers into bookers.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

• Discover the three types of content you need to post for maximum impact
• Learn why Instagram Stories are your secret weapon for conversions
• Uncover the truth about hashtags and how to use them effectively in 2025
• Find out how to optimize your profile to attract your idea guests

“Instagram is the new business card nowadays. If I’m out and about, people don’t ask my business card, they ask my Instagram.” - Katie Bessant

About Katie Bessant

Katie Bessant, owner of The Holiday Hive, is a social media expert dedicated to helping holiday cottage owners and tourism businesses elevate their digital presence and generate more bookings. Growing up in South Devon, Katie has been immersed in the tourism industry her entire life, from working in her family’s B&B to becoming a successful Airbnb superhost. With experience spanning roles like waitressing, cleaning holiday lets, and leading marketing for one of the UK’s largest holiday letting agencies, Katie combines her deep industry knowledge with her passion for social media to empower property owners to stand out online and thrive.

Connect with Katie and The Holiday Hive

Website: https://theholidayhive.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theholidayhiveofficial/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theholidayhive/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HolidayHive

Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@theholidayhiveofficial

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-bessant/

Stop letting potential guests slip through your fingers. Tune in now and learn how to make Instagram work for your vacation rental business!

The key moments on this episode are:

00:00:00 Instagram: A Booking Powerhouse for Vacation Rentals

00:00:56 Meet Katie Besant: Social Media Expert for Holiday Rentals

00:04:44 Instagram's Power for Direct Bookings

00:06:40 Types of Instagram Content for Booking Success

00:13:48 Balancing Instagram Content and Posting Frequency

00:16:03 Hashtags and Instagram Trends

00:20:17 Effective Use of Call-to-Actions (CTAs)

00:22:34 Getting Started with Instagram for Direct Bookings

00:24:54 Instagram Course for Holiday Cottage Owners

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Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Simplify your STR Marketing this 2025! Join the DBS AI Content Sprint Workshop!

In this live, hands-on workshop, I will guide you through creating a 3-month content calendar targeted to your ideal...

Are you prepared for the future of the vacation rental industry?

In this episode, I sit down with Caitlin Cassady, VP of Marketing at Beyond, to explore the evolving landscape of short-term rentals and how data-driven insights can propel your business forward.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

• Discover why thinking beyond “short-term rentals” and embracing the broader “stays industry” is crucial for success
• Learn how to use real-time search data to make informed decisions about pricing, marketing, and amenities
• Understand the impact of events like concerts and major sports competitions on booking patterns

“Don't just rely on historical pacing data. That is not going to help your direct booking website really start to shine and really start to be as impactful as it probably could be.” - Caitlin Cassady

About Caitlin Cassady

Caitlin Cassady is the VP of Marketing at Beyond, where she spearheads the company's marketing strategy and cross-functional initiatives, transforming data into compelling narratives that deliver measurable business results. With 15 years of experience as a communications and content marketing leader in enterprise tech, Caitlin brings a wealth of expertise to the table. She’s also an avid reader, a recovering journalist, and a self-proclaimed mac & cheese connoisseur.

Connect with Caitlin and Beyond:

Caitlin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlincassady/

Website: https://www.beyondpricing.com/

Whether you're new to data analytics or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers valuable insights to help your vacation rental business thrive in the evolving stays industry.

The key moments on this episode are:

00:00:00 The Future of Travel: Trends Reshaping the Vacation Rental Industry

00:00:51 Meet Caitlin Cassidy: VP of Marketing at Beyond

00:02:51 The Evolving Short-Term Rental Market: Data-Driven Insights

00:07:07 Leveraging Data for Direct Bookings

00:13:13 Beyond Pricing: Data-Driven Strategies Beyond Just Pricing

00:15:50 Event-Based Pricing Strategies: The Taylor Swift Effect

00:23:21 Leveraging Data for Amenity Offerings

00:26:09 Data Democratization: Leveling the Playing Field for Small Property Managers

00:27:30 Key Advice for Growing Direct Bookings

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Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Work with Jenn to maintain consistency in your marketing and boost your direct bookings without spending so much money on it: https://directbookingsuccess.com/apply/

The ULTIMATE all-in-one marketing platform for short term rental is finally here! Check it out: https://bookdirectpro.com/

FREE GUIDE: 10 Ways to Drive Guests to your Website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join Jenn’s...

Are you ready to elevate your guests' experience without breaking the bank? In this episode, we explore the art of creating unforgettable stays through thoughtful personal touches and exceptional customer service.

Join me as I chat with Rachel Butler, owner of the Angel Caves bed and breakfast in Gran Canaria. Rachel shares her journey from bustling London to the serene mountains, where she's mastered the art of hospitality.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

• The power of first impressions and how to nail them, even if you're not on-site
• Simple, cost-effective ways to make guests feel like VIPs
• Strategies for setting clear expectations and exceeding them
• How to handle unexpected issues while maintaining excellent customer service

Plus, get Rachel's expert tips on:

• Crafting a welcoming atmosphere that doesn't require a hefty investment
• Communicating effectively to build guest loyalty
• Balancing personal touches with essential amenities

“You’ve got to be so empathetic to what they’re going through that you understand you.” - Rachael Butler

About Rachael Butler

Rachael Butler is the visionary owner and host of Angel Caves Farmstay & Retreats. Nestled in the breathtaking mountains of Gran Canaria, Rachael is a busy mum of two who, alongside her husband, is lovingly renovating a unique cave house. Angel Caves isn't just a bed and breakfast—it's a sanctuary where Rachael combines her deep roots as a former London-based therapist with her passion for creating transformative women’s retreats.

With years of experience in therapy, Rachael brings a special touch to hospitality, crafting unforgettable guest experiences that go beyond comfort. Her keen understanding of human connection ensures every visitor leaves with cherished memories and a sense of renewal.

Connect with Rachael:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourangelcaves

Website: www.angelcaves.online

Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you create lasting loyalty and rave reviews.

Ready to take your hosting to the next level? Don't miss Rachel's special offer for podcast listeners – a 50% discount on her business audit service, designed to boost your bookings and enhance your guest experience.

Join us to learn how small, thoughtful gestures can make a big impact on your short-term rental success!

The key moments on this episode are:

00:00:00 Elevating Guest Experiences: First Impressions and Budget-Friendly Touches

00:00:53 From London to Gran Canaria: Rachel Butler's Journey to Hospitality

00:04:20 Building a Successful B&B: The Angel Caves Story

00:06:04 The Power of First Impressions in Hospitality

00:09:04 Building Trust and Meeting Guest Expectations

00:12:14 Adding Value with Personal Touches on a Budget

00:15:07 Balancing Basic Service with Extra Touches

00:18:25 Handling Guest Issues and Providing Excellent Customer Service

00:22:26 Offering Business Audits for Short-Term Rental Hosts

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Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

🚨 EXCLUSIVE FREE MASTERCLASS WITH JENN BOYLES 🚨

Streamline Your Marketing for 2025 and Drive More Direct Bookings

Powered by Book Direct Pro for effortless direct bookings.

🗓 Thursday, December 12th, 2024

🕚 11 AM PST | 2 PM EST | 7 PM...