Jasper Ribbers breaks down the three-method projection framework that reveals the truth: historical comparison shows what happened last year, seasonality-based extrapolation tells you what should happen based on market patterns, and forward-looking opportunity analysis predicts what will happen based on current bookings and unbooked nights. When these three methods disagree significantly, you've found a problem that needs investigation.

You will hear:

- Why net rental revenue is the only projection metric worth tracking (and why total revenue creates false comparisons)

- How to combine three complementary projection methods to catch unit-level problems before they compound

- What happened when one client's unit appeared to underperform until data revealed last year's anomalous booking

- How to build an automated projection system in under 60 minutes with zero coding background

- Why the Ramp CEO worries when employees spend less on AI credits than their salary

- When revenue projections function as red flag detection systems versus forecasting tools

- How AI automation reduced client call follow-up from 10-15 minutes to 3 seconds

We also talk about:

- The difference between rental arbitrage cash flow planning and owner communication strategies

- Why low season projections remain volatile while high season accuracy increases

- How market seasonality percentages convert recent performance into annual baselines

- What "unbooked opportunity" means and how to calculate expected capture rates

Mentioned in the Episode:

- Claude AI: https://claude.ai

- PriceLabs Market Dashboard: https://www.pricelabs.co

- Fathom AI Note Taker: https://fathom.video

- Ramp CEO AI Interview (search: "Ramp CEO AI podcast")

Favorite Takeaway:

"I spent three hours and I built an entire web app. It calculates market penetration index for a portfolio and I have zero coding experience."

Want us to audit your pricing strategy?

Get your free, personalized revenue report at FreewyldFoundry.com/get-started

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode captures a live masterclass where three revenue management experts reveal why the biggest threat to your portfolio isn't market competition but your own listings cannibalizing each other. Kyle Driscoll from PriceLabs moderates as Austin Whitaker (Enrich Revenue Management) and Jasper Ribbers (Freewyld Foundry) expose the critical shift from listing-level to portfolio-level pricing. The conversation gets tactical fast, diving into booking window management, owner psychology, and the momentum factors that algorithm-driven platforms actually reward.

The most surprising insight? When properties underperform, price drops rarely solve the problem. Booking velocity does.

**You will hear:**

- Why portfolio occupancy at 80% (versus 65% market average) can still mean you're leaving 20-30% revenue on the table through ADR mismanagement

- How to control pacing 60-90 days out instead of scrambling to fill gaps in the next two weeks (the booking window strategy that separates good from great revenue managers)

- What to change first when identical properties perform differently (hint: it's not the price)

- When your own listings actually compete with each other and how to spot it using neighborhood-level data

- Why new listings should ignore revenue optimization for 2-3 months and focus entirely on five-star reviews (those early reviews determine years of algorithm performance)

- How to handle the owner who watches their neighbor's pricing like a hawk and sends angry emails when someone books at $300 while they sit empty

**We also talk about:**

- Using MPI (Market Penetration Index) to track if you're pacing ahead or behind the market

- Strategic grouping based on settings you want to apply, not arbitrary categories

- When optimizing for owner psychology at 95% revenue beats pure math at 100%

- The Excel tracking system for high-value dates that shows exactly which comps book when

- Why underpricing competitors should never be in your comp set (they create pricing ceiling opportunities, not market reality)

Mentioned in the Episode:

- Freewyld Foundry Revenue Reports: https://freewyldfoundry.com/report

- PriceLabs Neighborhood Data Tool

- Enrich Revenue Management: https://enrichrevmgmt.com

Favorite Takeaway:

"Portfolio occupancy can be at 80% when the market's at 65%, and the owner thinks they're crushing it. But what they don't know is they're selling at way too low ADR and leaving 20 to 30% on the table by not leveraging the earlier part of the booking window."

Want us to audit your pricing strategy?

Get your free, personalized revenue report at FreewyldFoundry.com/report

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Jasper Ribbers breaks down the exact strategy Freewyld Foundry uses to launch new short-term rental units, drawing from our experience launching 500+ properties across 70 portfolios in just two years. You'll discover why chasing high ADR in the first 60 days tanks your long-term revenue, how four-star reviews can permanently kill a new listing, and the step-by-step process to maximize review velocity and visibility from day one.

YOU WILL HEAR:

- Why your first 60 days should focus on reviews, not revenue

- The one chance you get at launch momentum and how to capitalize on it

- Why four-star reviews are listing killers on Airbnb

- How to price new listings to accelerate review accumulation

- The critical mistakes that tank new listing visibility permanently

- Why you need MAXIMUM night stays during launch, not just minimums

- The exact pre-launch checklist to avoid expensive sync errors

- How to educate owners who want high ADR from day one

WE ALSO TALK ABOUT:

- Why 50% of launch predictions are wrong even with 15 years of data

- The timing strategy for syncing PMS, OTAs, and pricing tools

- How to use new listing promotions from Airbnb and Booking.com

- Why you should tell guests your property is new

- The ROI of spending $200-500 per booking on guest experience

- How to protect high-value dates while offering competitive pricing

- Why calendar availability impacts visibility

- The difference between launching in competitive vs. predictable markets

MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE:

- Freewyld Foundry Revenue Report: https://freewyldfoundry.com/yt

- Airbnb new listing promotion

- Booking.com new listing promotion and property score

→ APPLY FOR FREE REVENUE REPORT: FreewyldFoundry.com/get-started

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most property managers think owner acquisition is a price war. Lower your commission rate, undercut the competition, and the owners will come.

Annie Holcombe has seen this play out hundreds of times across her career as an operator, Marriott channel manager, and now consultant. The PMs who compete on price burn out fast. The ones who win play a completely different game.

In this episode, Annie reveals why your entire team (yes, even your housekeepers) are your best acquisition tool, why telling owners “you won’t make your mortgage” actually closes more deals than overpromising, and why rapid growth without systems destroys businesses through review damage that bleeds across your entire portfolio.

You’ll learn:

• Why price doesn’t matter when you have a strong brand and honest communication
• The one factor that keeps owners loyal (and the one that makes them leave)
• How to turn your maintenance and housekeeping teams into brand ambassadors
• Why telling hard truths upfront closes 9 out of 10 owner deals
• How negative reviews on one property damage visibility across your entire portfolio

We also talk about:

• Why your local competitors should be partners, not enemies
• How channel distribution creates owner pride beyond just bookings
• When rapid growth becomes dangerous for your business
• How to engage with destination marketing organizations effectively
• Why small operators are more local than any hotel chain

Mentioned in the Episode:

• Abode Luxury Rentals (Park City, Utah)
• Moving Mountains (Robin and Heather Cragen)
• Alex and Annie Podcast
• Annie & Co. Solutions
• VRMA (Vacation Rental Management Association)

Follow Annie Holcombe:

• LinkedIn: Annie Holcombe
• Website: anniecosolutions.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most STR operators track revenue religiously. They check their dashboards daily, celebrate when numbers go up, and panic when they dip. But here’s the problem: they’re often tracking the wrong metrics, tracking them incorrectly, or comparing numbers that can’t actually be compared.

In this episode, Jasper Ribbers pulls back the curtain on how Freewyld Foundry tracks performance across 3,000+ listings managing $153M in annual bookings. You’ll discover why your “total revenue” number is lying to you, how to make fair comparisons when your portfolio changes monthly, and why beating last year isn’t good enough if the market grew faster than you did.

This is the exact system we use to manage revenue for operators doing $1M+ in annual bookings.

You’ll learn:

• Why net rental revenue beats total revenue as your North Star metric (and how cleaning fees distort your performance by 50% or more)
• The three comparison angles you need for accurate performance tracking (vs last year, vs previous months, vs market)
• How to identify which units are actually “comparable” year-over-year (12+ months of data is just the starting point)
• Why you need separate dashboards for comparable and non-comparable units
• Which KPIs actually matter for decision-making (occupancy, ADR, RevPAR, market penetration index, RevPAR index, booking window, length of stay)

We also talk about:

• How to use PriceLabs Market RevPAR YoY percentage to measure market performance
• Why calendar blocks of 7+ days kill your visibility on the remaining days
• The Combined Listings feature for tracking multi-unit properties correctly
• How to diagnose underperforming listings (pricing vs marketing vs distribution vs reviews)
• Why making profit on cleaning fees complicates your entire pricing strategy

Mentioned in the Episode:

• PriceLabs
• AirDNA
• KeyData
• Free Revenue Report

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What started as a gut-wrenching $20,000 loss became the catalyst for Autohost, a screening platform now protecting operators from an even scarier threat: AI-powered fraud. The same tools making marketing easier are making crime easier too. Voice bots that sound more human than humans. Fake IDs generated in seconds. Deepfakes that pass visual inspection. And amateur criminals can now access what used to require expert-level sophistication.

The worst part? The hospitality instincts that make this industry special (benefit of the doubt, going above and beyond, trusting your guests) have become dangerous vulnerabilities. Your gut feeling that used to be merely inadequate is now actively dangerous.

You will hear:

• How a 4-month fraud pattern across 100+ units went undetected until police called on Christmas Eve
• Why the very things that make hospitality magical create a playground for fraudsters exploiting our instincts
• What happens when criminals deploy voice bots programmed with psychological manipulation to pass your screening calls
• Why AI-generated messages, IDs, and voices eliminate the traditional "tells" that guest support teams relied on
• How objective data points (IP location, form submission speed, credit card patterns) catch AI fraud when gut feelings fail

We also talk about:

• The shift from screening as a privilege to screening as table stakes (similar to payment processing)
• Parenting in the age of AI: teaching kids to use ChatGPT as assistant, not authority
• Why physical conferences are becoming MORE valuable as bots take over digital communication
• How Autohost's internal AI system (AutoChat) uses department-specific agents for everything from sales prep to customer success

Mentioned in the Episode:

• Autohost: https://autohost.ai
• Autohost Blog: https://autohost.ai/blog
• Scale AI Conference (June 2026)
• Zack Kass (former OpenAI go-to-market lead)

Want us to audit your pricing strategy? Get your free, personalized revenue report at FreewyldFoundry.com/report

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Jasper breaks down the three most-asked questions about pacing strategy. He reveals why STR pricing follows the exact opposite model of hotels and airlines, how fragmented ownership forces operators into a race-to-the-bottom, and the surprising scenarios where pacing BEHIND the market actually maximizes revenue.

You will hear:

- Why STR operators cannot take the same pricing risks as hotels with 200 rooms

- How to calculate Market Penetration Index in under a minute

- When pacing behind the market makes you more money (the last man standing strategy)

- Why empty January rooms kill your July bookings

- What pickup rate reveals that MPI alone does not show

- The pricing tool blind spot during demand spikes

- How to set different pacing targets for high season vs low season

Mentioned in the Episode:

- PriceLabs MPI Feature: Available in reports section and multi-calendar view

Want us to audit your pricing strategy?

Get your free, personalized revenue report at FreewyldFoundry.com/get-started

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After reviewing hundreds of Price Labs accounts through our revenue management service, we discovered something shocking: 90% of operators are leaving money on the table by ignoring features they already have access to. Not premium add-ons. Not expensive upgrades. Just functionality sitting right there in their account, untouched.

In this walkthrough, Jasper Ribbers reveals the seven most powerful Price Labs features that separate high-performers from everyone else. From the free market dashboard that shows exactly how your market is pacing, to the booking pickup metrics that tell you if your current pricing is actually working, to the comp set strategy that turns spiky randomness into smooth decision-making data.

You will hear:

- Why every Price Labs user gets a free market dashboard credit but 90% never activate it (and what competitive intelligence you're missing)

- How inactive listings contaminate your KPI reports and create false performance data (plus the one-button fix)

- What 7-day and 15-day booking pickup metrics reveal about your pricing effectiveness that occupancy percentages can't show

- When expanding your comp set to include different bedroom counts produces better data than rigid matching

- Which calendar color mode instantly shows if you're pricing higher or lower than your proven last-year performance

- Why the neighborhood data graph matters more than the market dashboard for daily pricing decisions

- How to tell if your comp set is too small (hint: if one group booking can occupy 50% of your market's inventory, you have a problem)

We also talk about:

- The combined listings feature that fixes revenue allocation for multi-unit properties

- Multi-calendar metrics most operators never add but should check daily

- Future occupancy graphs vs. booking curves and when to use each

- Market penetration index setup for different booking windows

Mentioned in the Episode:

- Price Labs: https://www.pricelabs.co

- Freewyld Foundry Free Revenue Report: https://freewyldfoundry.com/report

Want us to audit your pricing strategy?

Get your free, personalized revenue report at FreewyldFoundry.com/report → We'll show you exactly where you're leaving money on the table

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eric asked again: "Yeah, but what are you doing for revenue management?"

That disconnect between having a pricing tool and having a revenue strategy is costing operators with $1M+ portfolios anywhere from $200K to $2M annually. And most don't even know it's happening.

In this episode, Jasper walks through the fundamental concepts that actually drive revenue performance, why 99% of portfolios audited leave 10-40% on the table, and how one skeptical client went from $20K to $68K in weekly booked revenue in just 4 weeks.

[ This is a replay of one of our most popular 2025 episodes while Jasper steps away from recording this week! ]

You will hear:

- Why comparing yourself to market averages creates false confidence while masking massive underperformance

- What pacing actually means and why it's the most overlooked fundamental in revenue management

- How restrictive minimum stay policies block 80% of your potential demand without you realizing it

- Why strict cancellation policies show you visible benefits while hiding invisible losses

- The real difference between booked revenue and stay revenue (and why it matters for measuring performance)

We also talk about:

- Why pricing tool algorithms can't correct bad baseline settings

- The Tesla self-driving analogy that explains pricing automation perfectly

- How to audit your portfolio in 15 minutes daily (the non-negotiable routine)

- When operators should hire in-house revenue staff vs. outsourcing to specialists

- Case study numbers: $117K to $206K in monthly booked revenue in 30 days

Mentioned in the Episode:

- PriceLabs: https://www.pricelabs.co

- Free Revenue Report: https://freewyldfoundry.com/show

- Freewyld Foundry RPM Service: https://freewyldfoundry.com

Favorite Takeaway:

(From an RPM client) "While running cash flow tonight, I was shocked with what I'm seeing. The volume of revenue is ridiculous. Makes me a little nervous actually, like it's a fluke. Pretty clear that what you're doing is working here. I was carefully skeptical and there's no denying the correlation of your start time and our most recent results." - Client testimonial

Want us to audit your pricing strategy?

→ Get your free, personalized revenue report at https://www.FreewyldFoundry.com/show

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dustin Baker, founder of Hidden Gem Media, has built a systematic approach to breaking that cycle. His team helps property managers and unique stay operators drive discovery traffic through social media, capture leads via email, and convert them into direct bookings with trackable ROI. And his results are hard to argue with: one client with traditional homes in the Poconos went from $20,000 to $137,000 in direct bookings within a single month.

In this episode, Eric and Dustin break down exactly how the social media funnel works, why influencers aren't the answer, and how new paid ad strategies are compressing timelines from months to weeks.

You will hear:

- How to drive "discovery traffic" through social media instead of competing for finite search demand

- Why sending social traffic directly to your booking page kills conversions

- The email capture strategy that lets you attribute direct booking ROI to specific campaigns

- How Meta's ad platform outperforms influencer collaborations for reach and targeting

- Why niching down is the first step to making social media marketing work for your STR brand

We also talk about:

- Which property types perform best on social media (and which ones struggle)

- How giveaways work better behind a paid ad strategy than through influencer partnerships

- Crowdfunding strategies for funding new STR developments using Indiegogo

- The content creator vs. influencer distinction and where to invest your budget

🎯 Mentioned in the Episode:

- Hidden Gem Media — hiddengemmedia.com

- LaunchBoom — crowdfunding platform for lodging and hospitality

- Indiegogo — crowdfunding campaigns

🔥 Favorite Takeaway:

"Views and likes are great, but they don't pay the bills. Having a systematic way to really drive the traffic from social media to your email list and your website and retarget with Facebook ads — that's been the game changer."

📝 Ready to maximize your property's revenue?

Get your free, personalized revenue report at FreewyldFoundry.com/report

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when STR operators finally get clear, direct answers to the revenue management questions they've been asking for months?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers tackles the six most common revenue management questions submitted by operators across the country. From choosing between PriceLabs, Wheelhouse, and Beyond Pricing to understanding how much time revenue management actually requires, Jasper delivers actionable answers based on managing over 50 portfolios and $115M in bookings.

Whether you're managing 5 listings or 500, this episode gives you the exact roadmap to improve your pricing strategy, build sustainable daily routines, and finally understand the metrics that actually drive revenue. Jasper breaks down pacing strategies, MPI targets, minimum stay optimization, and listing improvements that operators consistently overlook, plus he explains why most portfolios are leaving 20-30% of revenue on the table without realizing it.

You'll discover:

• Which pricing tool Jasper recommends and why PriceLabs is the team's top choice
• How PriceLabs, Wheelhouse, and Beyond Pricing compare in functionality and interface
• Why every operator should use a pricing tool instead of manual pricing
• The exact time commitment needed for effective revenue management (15-30 minutes daily)
• Why you must review every single booking every day without exception
• How to structure weekly strategy sessions and monthly deep dives
• The three highest-impact areas for revenue increases: pacing, minimum stays, OTA discounts
• Why pacing is the most critical concept in revenue management
• How to set MPI targets for low season, shoulder season, and peak season
• Why listing optimization on Airbnb can shift 70% of bookings to optimized properties
• How visible OTA discounts on Booking.com drive bookings even when prices are lower
• What MPI range to target heading into summer high season (70-90% for markets with 80%+ final occupancy)

Jasper also explores why free resources like this podcast can get you 80% of the way to revenue mastery, how daily practice is the only real path to improvement, and why operators with restrictive minimum stay rules consistently underperform. He explains how early high-season bookings are often just underpriced properties getting scooped up, not actual pricing signals, and why last-minute pricing in peak season actually means 4-6 weeks out, not same-day availability.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Pricing tool comparison and selection
• Daily, weekly, and monthly revenue management routines
• Market Penetration Index (MPI) and pacing strategies
• Minimum stay optimization by season
• OTA discount strategies for Airbnb and Booking.com
• Listing optimization tactics that drive bookings
• Cancellation policy impact on visibility and revenue
• Booking window behavior and pricing adjustments
• How to get better at revenue management through practice and education

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Cashflow Mastery Course → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com/cashflow-mastery

Keywords:

revenue management, short term rentals, airbnb, pricing strategy, PriceLabs, Wheelhouse, Beyond Pricing, MPI, market penetration index, pacing strategies, minimum stay optimization, OTA discounts, Booking.com, listing optimization, vacation rentals, STR operators, dynamic pricing, revenue optimization, portfolio performance, Freewyld Foundry, Jasper Ribbers, STR education, pricing tools, occupancy strategy, ADR growth, STR profitability

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when a Head of Marketing rebuilds an entire company website in just one week... without knowing how to code?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Eric Moeller and Kaye Putnam pull back the curtain on the AI revolution happening inside Freewyld Foundry right now, and explain why STR operators who don't adopt AI in 2026 will be left behind by competitors who do. From Claude bots creating their own social networks to revenue managers building fully functional client-facing tools in three hours, this episode reveals how artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing what's possible in short-term rental operations.

Eric and Kaye share their experience using AI in marketing, sales, and revenue management, including the tools they rely on, mistakes they’ve made, and the impressive results they’re already seeing. This episode offers a clear roadmap for spotting bottlenecks, learning AI without technical skills, and building internal solutions that save 15–20 hours per week while improving outcomes.

Kaye explains how she rebuilt a website in 10 days with no coding experience using Claude Code, while Eric highlights why leaders must understand AI now. They break down why “human-led, AI-powered hospitality” is the future of short-term rentals, how to avoid distractions with new tools, and why those who direct AI strategically will dominate their markets.

You will discover:

• Why STR operators must adopt AI now or fall permanently behind
• How to rebuild an entire website in one week without coding skills
• Why revenue management bottlenecks can be solved with AI in days, not months
• How to identify repeatable tasks in your business that AI can automate
• Why Claude Code is the #1 tool every STR leader should learn
• How AI agents are making decisions 24/7 and what that means for your business
• The difference between AI tools you buy vs AI solutions you build internally
• Why pattern recognition is the most valuable skill in the AI era
• How to hire AI engineers who direct tools instead of traditional developers

Eric and Kaye also explore the dangers of AI going rogue, why Freewyld Foundry is building proprietary revenue management tools that don't exist in the market, how AI enables real-time dashboards that pull data from multiple sources, and why the future belongs to operators who lead with human expertise but execute with AI power. They discuss market intelligence, proactive decision-making, and why small operators can now compete with large companies using the same technology.

💡 Topics Covered:

• AI adoption strategies for STR operators
• Claude Code tutorial and implementation guide
• Building internal automation tools without developers
• Revenue management AI and data analysis
• Identifying business bottlenecks and solving them with AI
• Pattern recognition and strategic thinking
• Hiring AI engineers vs traditional developers
• The future of short-term rental operations
• Human-led, AI-powered hospitality model
• Real-time dashboards and business intelligence
• Competitive advantage through early AI adoption

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Eric Moeller → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdmoeller

Follow Kaye Putnam → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayeputnam

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords: AI for Airbnb, artificial intelligence, short term rentals, Claude AI, Claude Code, STR automation, revenue management AI, vacation rentals, AI tools for hosts, property management automation, Airbnb operators, STR business growth, coding without developers, AI implementation, hospitality technology, competitive advantage, business automation, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Eric Moeller, Kaye Putnam, AI revolution, STR profitability, operational efficiency, pattern recognition, AI agents, website development, revenue optimization

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when an STR operator runs 400 listings, generates $20 million in revenue, but makes almost zero profit?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Eric Moeller (CEO of Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) reveals why most STR operators are driving blind, chasing every opportunity, and working harder without moving forward. Eric breaks down the 7 Strata framework from Verne Harnish's "Scaling Up," the exact strategic planning system that transformed Freewyld's business and helped define their audacious $1.2 billion revenue under management goal.

Whether you manage 2 listings or 200, this episode gives you a clear roadmap to stop reacting and start building with intention. Eric walks through the seven critical questions every operator must answer to create focus, eliminate shiny object syndrome, and turn hustle into sustainable profit. This is the strategic foundation that separates operators who scale profitably from those who simply get busier.

You will discover:

• Why most STR operators can't answer basic questions about their business identity
• The real story of a 400-listing operator doing $20M in revenue with zero profit
• How serving everyone means serving no one (and killing your profitability)
• Why the 7 Strata framework forces long-term thinking before tactical execution
• What Elon Musk's approach to solving major problems teaches STR builders
• How to define core values that actually shape hiring, operations, and guest experience
• Why your brand promise should solve your ideal client's biggest objection
• How one operator guarantees five-star reviews or charges zero commission
• The exact process to identify your ideal guest avatar and stop wasting marketing dollars
• Why interviewing property owners (instead of accepting anyone) protects profit
• How Freewyld Foundry defines its ideal client: $1M+ revenue, 4.7+ reviews, top 1% operators
• What a BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) is and why it creates unstoppable momentum
• How Freewyld's $1.2 billion ten-year goal guides every decision the team makes
• Why "every listing, every day" separates real revenue management from set-it-and-forget-it tools
• How to calculate profit per listing and why it reveals which properties to cut immediately
• Why revenue growth means nothing if you're not driving profit
• The difference between planning and execution (and why most operators never execute)
• How to narrow your annual focus down to five strategic actions that actually matter

Eric also shares how Freewyld used 7 Strata to make a difficult decision at VRMA 2025, why saying no to 99% of a room led to better alignment, and how you can use ChatGPT to implement this framework in your own business starting today.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Strategic planning for STR operators
• 7 Strata framework and BHAG methodology
• Core values, brand promise, and ideal client definition
• Shiny object syndrome and focus management
• Profit per listing vs revenue per listing
• Why most operators leave 20-30% revenue on the table
• Portfolio optimization and property selection criteria
• Long-term goal setting and working backwards
• Competitive differentiation in STR markets
• Scaling with intention vs scaling with chaos

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Eric Moeller → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdmoeller

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords: short term rentals, vacation rentals, strategic planning, 7 Strata, scaling up, STR profitability, revenue management, BHAG, business strategy, core values, brand promise, ideal client, profit optimization, Airbnb business, property management, STR growth, portfolio strategy, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Eric Moeller, STR operators, vacation rental business, focus strategy, shiny object syndrome, sustainable growth, STR scaling

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when an STR operator runs 400 listings, generates $20 million in revenue, but makes almost zero profit?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Eric Moeller (CEO of Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) reveals why most STR operators are driving blind, chasing every opportunity, and working harder without moving forward. Eric breaks down the 7 Strata framework from Verne Harnish's "Scaling Up," the exact strategic planning system that transformed Freewyld's business and helped define their audacious $1.2 billion revenue under management goal.

Whether you manage 2 listings or 200, this episode gives you a clear roadmap to stop reacting and start building with intention. Eric walks through the seven critical questions every operator must answer to create focus, eliminate shiny object syndrome, and turn hustle into sustainable profit. This is the strategic foundation that separates operators who scale profitably from those who simply get busier.

You will discover:

• Why most STR operators can't answer basic questions about their business identity
• The real story of a 400-listing operator doing $20M in revenue with zero profit
• How serving everyone means serving no one (and killing your profitability)
• Why the 7 Strata framework forces long-term thinking before tactical execution
• What Elon Musk's approach to solving major problems teaches STR builders
• How to define core values that actually shape hiring, operations, and guest experience
• Why your brand promise should solve your ideal client's biggest objection
• How one operator guarantees five-star reviews or charges zero commission
• The exact process to identify your ideal guest avatar and stop wasting marketing dollars
• Why interviewing property owners (instead of accepting anyone) protects profit
• How Freewyld Foundry defines its ideal client: $1M+ revenue, 4.7+ reviews, top 1% operators
• What a BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) is and why it creates unstoppable momentum
• How Freewyld's $1.2 billion ten-year goal guides every decision the team makes
• Why "every listing, every day" separates real revenue management from set-it-and-forget-it tools
• How to calculate profit per listing and why it reveals which properties to cut immediately
• Why revenue growth means nothing if you're not driving profit
• The difference between planning and execution (and why most operators never execute)
• How to narrow your annual focus down to five strategic actions that actually matter

Eric also shares how Freewyld used 7 Strata to make a difficult decision at VRMA 2025, why saying no to 99% of a room led to better alignment, and how you can use ChatGPT to implement this framework in your own business starting today.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Strategic planning for STR operators
• 7 Strata framework and BHAG methodology
• Core values, brand promise, and ideal client definition
• Shiny object syndrome and focus management
• Profit per listing vs revenue per listing
• Why most operators leave 20-30% revenue on the table
• Portfolio optimization and property selection criteria
• Long-term goal setting and working backwards
• Competitive differentiation in STR markets
• Scaling with intention vs scaling with chaos

🔗 Relevant Links: Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com Follow Eric Moeller → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdmoeller Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords: short term rentals, vacation rentals, strategic planning, 7 Strata, scaling up, STR profitability, revenue management, BHAG, business strategy, core values, brand promise, ideal client, profit optimization, Airbnb business, property management, STR growth, portfolio strategy, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Eric Moeller, STR operators, vacation rental business, focus strategy, shiny object syndrome, sustainable growth, STR scaling

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when a single bad review can cost you $5,000 in lost revenue and potentially get your entire Airbnb listing suspended or permanently removed from the platform?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers breaks down one of the most expensive risks facing STR operators in 2026: Airbnb listing suspensions. With Airbnb removing over 100,000 listings in recent months and aggressively tightening quality standards, even experienced operators with strong portfolios are now facing warnings, temporary suspensions, and permanent removals triggered by guest complaints and low review scores.

Jasper explains why Airbnb's strategy has shifted from quantity to quality, how the suspension process actually works, and most importantly, the exact prevention systems that elite operators use to maintain 4.9+ ratings across 100+ listings. Whether you manage 5 properties or 50, this episode gives you a clear playbook for protecting your listings, recovering from bad reviews, and diversifying revenue channels so that platform risk doesn't destroy your business.

You will discover:

• Why Airbnb is removing listings and prioritizing guest experience over inventory growth
• How the three-stage suspension process works (warning, temporary suspension, permanent removal)
• Why maintaining high ratings at scale is possible (and how top operators do it consistently)
• The cleaner communication system that prevents issues before guests arrive
• How to respond to service failures in ways that turn angry guests into five-star reviews
• Why many guests don't understand Airbnb's rating system and accidentally leave damaging reviews
• How to request official review removal through Airbnb (and when it actually works)
• The strategy for contacting guests directly after the 14-day window to get reviews removed
• How to push bad reviews off your listing's front page using relevant, long-form feedback
• Why refunds cost far less than suspensions (and when to offer them proactively)
• How diversifying to Booking.com and direct bookings protects your revenue when Airbnb fails

Jasper also shares why "Unreasonable Hospitality" should be required reading for every STR team, how to train cleaners to catch broken amenities before guests do, and why taking ego out of difficult guest situations is the single most important mindset shift for protecting your business. He explains how professional review responses speak to future guests (not past ones), why Booking.com is becoming a viable Airbnb replacement in many markets, and how prevention through systems always beats mitigation.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Airbnb listing suspensions, warnings, and removals
• Guest experience standards and review score impact
• Prevention systems for maintaining 4.9+ ratings at scale
• Cleaner training and issue reporting protocols
• Review removal process and Airbnb's terms of service
• Guest education on rating systems and fridge magnets
• Professional review response strategies
• Booking.com distribution and direct booking diversification
• Refund strategies and when to pay proactively
• Mindset shifts for handling difficult guest interactions

🔗 Relevant Links: Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords: Airbnb suspensions, listing removals, guest reviews, five star ratings, short term rentals, vacation rentals, STR operations, guest experience, Airbnb quality standards, review management, hospitality systems, cleaner training, Booking.com strategy, direct bookings, channel diversification, STR profitability, revenue protection, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Jasper Ribbers, Airbnb policy, guest communication, refund strategy, review removal

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when two STR operators in Ohio prove that Airbnb isn't dead by scaling to 77 properties, maintaining 4.8+ guest ratings, and building a wizard-themed castle that uses AI portraits to create unforgettable guest experiences?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Eric Moeller sits down with Dave Stokley and Mark from Host Pros to unpack how they went from renting spare rooms in 2015 to running one of Ohio's most innovative property management companies. They reveal the partnership mindset, hospitality obsession, and strategic focus that allowed them to dominate their market while everyone else chases hot destinations.

Whether you're building your first partnership, scaling a portfolio, or wondering how to compete in saturated markets, this episode gives you a blueprint for sustainable growth through unreasonable hospitality, disciplined focus, and saying no to shiny objects. Dave and Mark share why knowing one market deeply beats spreading thin across ten, how small experiential details justify premium rates, and why their number one value is "we don't compete, we dominate."

You will discover:

• How Host Pros scaled from 2 units to 77 listings in Ohio
• Why they chose property management over passive real estate investing
• The AI wizard portrait system that personalizes every guest stay
• How cleaners print and frame custom portraits before guests arrive
• Why focusing on one market creates more opportunity than expansion
• How they bought a castle with 5% down using owner financing
• The partnership values that sustained 10 years of business growth
• Why living company values matters more than hitting revenue targets
• How the Vivid Vision exercise aligned their team and goals
• Why they reject "set it and forget it" STR strategies

Dave and Mark also explore how they navigate success and conflict as partners, why they turned down a California property to stay focused, and how small hospitality details like AI-generated wizard robes create premium positioning. They break down why every stay is a promise to create lifelong memories, how they maintain 4.8+ ratings across dozens of properties, and why expertise comes from solving the same problems deeply instead of chasing trends.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Business partnerships and shared values
• Unreasonable hospitality and guest experience design
• Market focus vs geographic expansion
• AI tools for personalized guest experiences
• Property management company scaling strategies
• Hiring and team building in STR operations
• Vivid Vision framework for business clarity
• Measuring success beyond revenue goals
• Saying no to distractions and staying disciplined
• Themed properties and experiential differentiation

🔗 Relevant Links:

Host Pros → https://www.hostproscle.com

School of Sorcery Castle → https://www.stayatschoolofsorcery.com

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Eric Moeller → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdmoeller

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords: airbnb, short term rentals, property management, business partnerships, Ohio STR market, unreasonable hospitality, guest experience, AI personalization, themed properties, wizard castle airbnb, revenue management, STR scaling, business focus, vivid vision, partnership success, host pros, freewyld foundry, eric moeller, vacation rentals, hospitality strategy, niche markets, STR profitability, experiential travel, premium rates, market domination

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when STR operators start seeing $1,718-per-night bookings roll in for the 2026 FIFA World Cup… but most of the market is still sitting at only 10 to 25 percent occupancy?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers delivers a critical pricing update on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, breaking down what's actually happening in host cities right now, why the early booking wave stalled after December 6, and what strategy makes sense for operators who are sitting on open inventory wondering if they should hold rates or start dropping prices.

The World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, spanning five full weeks across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It's the biggest sporting event in the world, with millions of international travelers, elevated demand, and pricing opportunities most operators have never experienced. But demand isn't moving the way many hosts expected. Jasper walks through real bookings, real prices, and real occupancy data from Seattle, Kansas City, and Philadelphia to show you what's working, what's not, and why holding your rates is still the right move.

You will discover:

• Why we booked $1,718 per night for a two-bedroom in Philadelphia on July 4
• How Seattle is already at 65% occupancy for the US vs Australia game
• Why Kansas City listings are holding rates above $1,000 per night with minimal inventory sold
• What caused the initial booking wave to stop so quickly after the match schedule was released
• Why smaller cities like Kansas City and Philadelphia will see bigger rate premiums than New York or Los Angeles
• How visa delays, ticket lotteries, and high ticket prices are slowing early bookings
• Why fans from Europe, South America, and Asia are still in planning mode
• How business travelers and journalists are less price-sensitive than leisure fans
• Why occupancy across most World Cup markets is still only 10 to 25 percent
• What strategy makes sense right now if you're sitting on open inventory

Jasper also explores how Philadelphia's 250th Independence Day anniversary on July 4 creates a stacked demand event, why international travelers rely heavily on Booking.com for accommodation, how surrounding tourist markets will capture overflow demand, and why panic pricing now could cost you massive upside later. He breaks down how to research fan forums and ticket pricing to understand guest behavior, why holding your rates is the right move even when occupancy looks low, and what pickup patterns suggest about when the next booking wave should arrive.

💡 Topics Covered:

• FIFA World Cup 2026 pricing strategy
• Seattle, Kansas City, Philadelphia STR markets
• Booking windows and demand pacing for major events
• International traveler behavior and visa processing
• Ticket pricing, fan forums, and guest research
• Small city vs large city rate premiums
• Booking.com distribution for international guests
• Overflow demand in surrounding tourist markets
• When to hold rates vs when to adjust pricing
• How to monitor competition and track inventory movement

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords: FIFA World Cup 2026, short term rentals, vacation rentals, pricing strategy, revenue management, event pricing, Seattle STR, Kansas City STR, Philadelphia STR, international travel, booking windows, ADR optimization, occupancy strategy, Booking.com, Airbnb pricing, major events, demand forecasting, STR profitability, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Jasper Ribbers, World Cup hosting, event revenue, sports travel, STR operators

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when Airbnb announces that the new standard for professional hosts is 4.9 stars or above… and properties below that rating risk losing visibility, placement, and revenue?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Kaye Putnam (Head of Marketing at Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) sits down with Eric Moeller, CEO of Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry, to decode what separates 4.9-star portfolios from the rest of the market.

After analyzing hundreds of top-rated Airbnb listings with 4.9+ ratings, Kaye identified four core attributes that guests consistently call out in their reviews, and the data is clear: properties rated 4.9 or higher earn 15% more revenue than those rated 4.7 or 4.8.

Whether you manage 5 listings or 500, this episode gives you a complete breakdown of how to scale without sacrificing guest experience, how to maintain hotel-plus standards across large portfolios, and why the operators who win in 2026 will be the ones who optimize for connection instead of just efficiency. Eric shares real examples from Freewyld, their RPM clients managing hundreds of properties at 4.97, and the systems that make unreasonable hospitality scalable.

You will discover:

• Why properties rated 4.9 or above earn 15% more revenue on average
• What Brian Chesky announced at the Airbnb Host Summit about professional operators
• The four core attributes behind every 4.9-star portfolio
• How to create proactive communication strategies that build trust before problems arise
• Why "better than photos" accuracy drives five-star reviews
• How to implement hotel-plus cleanliness standards with sensory experiences
• Why the first 60 seconds after check-in determine guest perception
• How to solve problems within the "golden hour" before reviews suffer
• Why using cheap products limits your ability to charge premium rates
• How one client manages $20M in bookings across massive properties at 4.97
• Why maintenance breakdowns happen when teams stop reporting issues immediately
• How to personalize stays even when managing 100+ properties at scale

Kaye and Eric also explore why efficiency at scale often kills brand soul, how Beth from Northridge Escapes earned over 1,000 five-star reviews by managing communication herself, and why delegating pricing frees up CEO time to focus on guest experience. They break down the five-minute response rule, how to anticipate guest requests before they're asked, and why investing in quality linens, beds, and amenities directly impacts ADR and repeat bookings.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Airbnb 4.9 rating standard and platform changes
• The four core attributes of 4.9-star portfolios
• Unreasonable hospitality at scale
• Proactive communication vs reactive customer service
• Hotel-plus cleanliness and sensory design
• Maintenance systems and quality control
• Personalization strategies for large portfolios
• Cheap products vs premium guest experiences
• Problem-solving speed and guest retention
• CEO time allocation and delegation strategies

🔗 Relevant Links: Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com Follow Kaye Putnam → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayeputnam Follow Eric Moeller → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericmoeller Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords: airbnb, 4.9 star ratings, five star reviews, guest experience, hospitality, short term rentals, unreasonable hospitality, STR operations, revenue management, property management, scaling STR portfolios, communication strategy, cleaning standards, maintenance systems, hotel quality standards, vacation rentals, Airbnb host summit, Brian Chesky, professional hosting, STR profitability, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Kaye Putnam, Eric Moeller, rating optimization, guest satisfaction, portfolio performance, quality standards

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After analyzing hundreds of pricing accounts and managing $120M+ in STR bookings across 50+ portfolios worldwide, Jasper Ribbers has seen the same revenue management mistakes show up over and over again. And in today's market, where year-over-year growth has stalled and the start of 2025 has been slow—these mistakes are costing operators real money.

In this RevUp Monday episode, Jasper breaks down the five most common pricing mistakes he finds when doing free revenue reports for operators. Some of these are simple fixes you can make today. Others require a complete mindset shift about how you approach your booking window.

You will hear:

• Why setting a maximum price in your pricing tool could be limiting your peak season revenue

• How unbookable nights silently drain your calendar (and the toggle that exposes them)

• Why a single minimum price across the year leaves money on the table during peak demand

• The counterintuitive truth about minimum night stay settings—and why "more restrictive further out" rarely works

• How one client increased RevPAR by 35% just by fixing their booking window pacing

We also talk about:

• World Cup pricing insights: $1,800/night bookings already coming in for 3-bedroom units

• Why Pricelabs raises prices aggressively on peak dates (and when that's actually right)

• The difference between occupancy optimization and true revenue optimization

• How to use seasonal profiles for minimum price adjustments

• Why founders who do revenue management "on the side" always miss the early booking window

🎯 Mentioned in the Episode:

• PriceLabs: https://pricelabs.co

• Freewyld Foundry Revenue Report: https://freewyldfoundry.com/report

• VRMA Conference presentation on pacing

🔥 Favorite Takeaway: "It's not just about how much occupancy do you achieve. It's like, when are those bookings coming in? Because if they're all coming in last minute, you're going to have a really low ADR."

📝 Want us to audit your pricing strategy? Get your free, personalized revenue report at FreewyldFoundry.com/report

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when you realize that 80% of people quit their goals just 10 days into the new year, and how do you ensure your business doesn't become part of that statistic?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Eric Moeller, CEO of Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry, takes the mic for his first solo podcast to dive deep into a practice he has been fine-tuning for over a decade: the art of single focus goals. Eric reveals the psychological and operational shifts required to win your year by doing less, but doing it better. He unpacks why traditional goal setting often leads to burnout and missed targets, and shares the exact framework he uses to maintain momentum without sacrificing personal well-being.

Whether you are an STR operator managing a growing team or an entrepreneur looking to scale your portfolio, this episode gives you a clear understanding of why energy is your most valuable resource, how to identify the "one thing" that makes everything else easier, and why accountability must include both a reward and a painful penalty.

Eric breaks down the core elements of his 2026 strategy, from the "Fit 40" vision to the importance of data transparency, and explains why STR leaders must narrow their focus if they want to achieve massive growth in a competitive market.

You will discover:

• Why 80% of New Year's resolutions fail by January 10th
• The "Single Focus" strategy: why one goal for business and one for personal is the limit
• How to conduct an energy audit to prevent goals from competing for your resources
• Why the "greats" like Michael Jordan and Elon Musk prioritize singular obsession over multitasking
• How to use "The ONE Thing" philosophy to create a domino effect in your business
• The difference between high-stakes goals and "experiences" like learning an instrument
• Why a "Fit 40" identity drives better decisions than a standard fitness target
• How to build a "Pain and Reward" contract to guarantee your own follow-through
• Why transparency in tracking (weigh-ins, photos, and KPIs) is non-negotiable
• How the EOS and Scaling Up frameworks provide the structure needed for consistency

Eric also explores why business goals must feed each other to be successful, how decision fatigue quietly destroys CEO productivity, and why Eric might be forced to work out in a dress if he misses his targets. He discusses the power of a "Big Ass Calendar" for mapping energy, the role of a personal trainer in professional accountability, and why scaling a revenue management company requires a different focus than property acquisition.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Single focus goal setting and achievement
• Energy management and avoiding burnout
• The 4 Elements: Vision, Plan, Transparency, and Accountability
• "Pain and Reward" psychology and personal contracts
• Business frameworks: EOS, Traction, and Scaling Up
• Productivity systems and the Big Ass Calendar
• CEO focus and identifying business bottlenecks
• Personal development and identity-based habits

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Eric Moeller → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericmoeller

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords: airbnb, revenue management, short term rentals, goal setting, productivity, business scaling, CEO mindset, EOS system, Traction, Scaling Up, The ONE Thing, energy management, accountability, STR operations, business growth, pricing strategy, professional habits, personal development, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Eric Moeller, focus strategy, success framework

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when the biggest revenue opportunities of the year are not Thanksgiving or Christmas, but the quieter holidays most operators barely plan for?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers breaks down how “hidden holidays” create outsized revenue opportunities and why minimum stay settings, not nightly rates, are often the deciding factor between fully monetized calendars and unfillable gaps. Drawing from real-world revenue management across dozens of markets, Jasper explains how demand shifts around federal holidays, long weekends, and observed days off, and why applying the same rules year-round quietly limits upside.

Whether you operate in a drive-to market or a fly-to destination, manage a handful of listings or an entire portfolio, this episode helps you rethink how minimum stay rules interact with holiday demand, guest behavior, and booking patterns. Jasper walks through the strategic tradeoffs behind flexibility versus restriction and explains why there is no universal answer, only better decision-making grounded in data and market context.

You will discover:

• Why minimum stay rules matter more than pricing on holidays

• How hidden holidays create demand patterns most operators overlook

• When three-night minimums increase revenue and when they backfire

• How drive-to and fly-to markets require different holiday strategies

• Why flexibility can outperform restrictions in high-demand weekends

• How shorter stays often support higher ADR during holidays

• Which days should carry minimum stay requirements and which should not

• How to loosen restrictions without risking empty high-value nights

• Why operational constraints like cleaning schedules change strategy

• How owner expectations should shape holiday risk tolerance

Jasper also explores how to implement holiday strategies inside pricing tools like PriceLabs and Wheelhouse, the pros and cons of manual overrides versus seasonal profiles, and why clean, simple setups outperform complex rolling minimum stay rules. He explains how messy pricing configurations reduce visibility, slow learning, and increase the chance of costly mistakes, especially around peak demand periods.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Holiday demand patterns in short-term rentals

• Minimum stay strategy and revenue optimization

• Drive-to vs fly-to market behavior

• Booking windows and length-of-stay data

• Seasonal profiles vs manual overrides

• Operational constraints and cleaning logistics

• Owner communication and risk management

• Pricing tool setup and strategy clarity

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

short-term rentals, airbnb, revenue management, minimum stay strategy, holiday pricing, hidden holidays, STR demand patterns, booking windows, length of stay, pricing tools, PriceLabs, Wheelhouse, seasonal profiles, vacation rentals, ADR optimization, calendar management, STR operations, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Jasper Ribbers, portfolio performance, revenue strategy, holiday demand

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when a hurricane wipes out one-third of your short-term rental portfolio in just two weeks, and forces you to rethink everything about how you operate, scale, and survive?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Kaye Putnam (Head of Marketing at Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) sits down with Joe Prillaman, co-founder of Host Help, to unpack how a natural disaster became the unexpected turning point that pushed him from managing his own properties to building a professional STR management company overseeing nearly 70 homes.

Joe shares the raw reality of losing properties to hurricanes and floods, carrying fixed mortgages and team costs, and realizing that managing for owners is a completely different business than managing your own portfolio. This conversation explores the operational stress, leadership decisions, and system-building required to rebuild stronger—without sacrificing guest experience, five-star reviews, or long-term vision.

Whether you manage 10 listings or are already scaling a full property management operation, this episode offers a clear look at what actually breaks as portfolios grow, why quality must be built upfront, and how crisis often accelerates the lessons most operators learn too late.

You’ll discover:

• How losing one-third of a portfolio forced a major STR business pivot

• Why managing owner properties is far harder than managing your own

• What changes operationally when you move from 30 to 70 rentals

• Why “cute, clean, comfortable” still drives five-star reviews at scale

• How guest experience systems prevent small issues from becoming disasters

• Why quality onboarding saves years of operational pain

• How pricing becomes the highest ROI activity once systems stabilize

• Why removing ego is essential as teams and portfolios grow

• How disasters expose weaknesses most operators overlook

• What it really takes to scale STR management sustainably

Joe and Kaye also explore how hurricanes and floods reshaped Host Help’s risk management approach, why disaster preparedness must be built into STR operations, how AI is reducing daily workload without replacing people, and why most operators underestimate the staffing and systems required to scale beyond survival mode.

💡 Topics Covered:

• STR portfolio loss and crisis-driven growth

• Scaling short-term rental management companies

• Guest experience systems and five-star reviews

• Onboarding processes and operational checklists

• Pricing strategy as a leverage point

• Leadership roles and team structure

• Disaster preparedness for coastal STR markets

• AI in guest communication and operations

• Seasonal profitability in beach destinations

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Kaye Putnam → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayeputnam

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

airbnb, short-term rentals, STR property management, scaling STRs, hurricane disaster, STR portfolio loss, vacation rentals, property management systems, guest experience, five-star reviews, STR operations, revenue management, pricing strategy, AI in hospitality, coastal rental markets, STR growth, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Get Paid For Your Pad, Kaye Putnam, Joe Prillaman, Host Help, vacation rental management, scaling property management businesses

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when revenue management is treated like a side task instead of a core function in your STR business?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers breaks down how short-term rental operators should think about revenue management ownership in today’s tighter, more competitive market. With margins shrinking and performance no longer rising automatically year over year, Jasper explains why who owns revenue management can be the difference between breaking even and building a profitable business.

Whether you currently manage pricing yourself, are considering hiring in-house, or are evaluating revenue management service providers, this episode walks through the real-world trade-offs of each option. Jasper shares practical insights from years of hands-on experience working with STR portfolios at scale and explains why revenue management now deserves the same level of attention as operations, marketing, and distribution.

You’ll discover:

• Why revenue management has become one of the most critical roles in STR businesses

• The advantages and risks of managing revenue yourself as an owner

• Why education is essential before owning or delegating pricing decisions

• What makes hiring an in-house revenue manager especially difficult in STRs

• Why analytical skills alone are not enough for STR revenue management

• How poor revenue management decisions quietly reduce profitability

• Why ramp-up time often hurts performance when hiring in-house

• How the impact of revenue management differs for managers vs owner-operators

• Why revenue gains often outweigh the cost of the right expertise

Jasper also explores the risks of key person dependency, why working with a team can reduce operational exposure, and what operators should expect when working with a revenue management service provider. He explains the importance of transparent reporting, access to pricing tools, aligned incentives, and clear communication, along with what to watch out for when evaluating potential partners.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Revenue management ownership models

• DIY vs in-house vs outsourced revenue management

• STR profitability and margin pressure

• Hiring and training revenue managers

• Revenue reporting and performance transparency

• Key person risk in STR operations

• Pricing tools and access considerations

• Incentive alignment and fee structures

• Evaluating revenue management partners

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

short-term rentals, STR revenue management, revenue manager hiring, pricing strategy, STR profitability, revenue ownership, in-house revenue manager, outsourced revenue management, pricing tools, STR operations, Airbnb pricing, vacation rentals, revenue reporting, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Jasper Ribbers, revenue optimization, portfolio performance

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when a short-term rental operator scales past 100 units in a highly seasonal market and still refuses to compromise on quality?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Kaye Putnam (Head of Marketing at Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) sits down with Troy Daily, CEO of Elevated Stays, to unpack the real operational, leadership, and systems work behind scaling a 100+ unit STR portfolio in Traverse City. Troy shares how his business grew from a small operation into a professional short-term rental company managing over 100 units, while maintaining brand standards, guest experience, and owner alignment.

Whether you are managing 20 listings or planning to scale toward 50 or 100+, this episode gives you a grounded look at what actually breaks when STR portfolios grow and what needs to be built to support that growth. Troy explains why systems, people, and quality controls matter more than rapid acquisition, especially in seasonal markets with extreme occupancy swings.

You will discover:

• How to scale a 100+ unit STR portfolio without losing quality

• Why systems become non-negotiable as STR operations grow

• How leadership responsibilities change when scaling past 50 units

• Why in-house housekeeping and laundry improved operational control

• How quality standards directly impact ADR and repeat bookings

• Why owner alignment is critical when managing large STR portfolios

• How to approach growth in highly seasonal STR markets

• What to consider when evaluating new acquisition opportunities

Kaye and Troy also explore the reality of renovating older properties to meet modern guest expectations, including turning a 150-year-old building into a boutique-style STR asset. They discuss investing over $700,000 in renovations, why not every property belongs in a growing portfolio, and how splitting housekeeping and operations roles created clarity and accountability. The conversation also covers planning during low season, managing 90% summer occupancy and 10% winter occupancy, and why experience-driven amenities can elevate both revenue and brand perception.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Scaling short-term rental portfolios past 100 units

• STR operations, systems, and quality control

• Leadership and team structure for growing STR businesses

• In-house housekeeping and laundry operations

• Owner relations and portfolio alignment

• Seasonal occupancy planning and off-season strategy

• Renovating legacy properties for STR performance

• Guest experience, amenities, and ADR growth

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Kaye Putnam → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayeputnam

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

short-term rentals, STR scaling, 100+ STR units, STR operations, property management, seasonal markets, guest experience, quality control, STR systems, boutique short-term rentals, Airbnb portfolio, vacation rentals, STR leadership, owner relations, ADR optimization, portfolio growth, professional hosting, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Get Paid For Your Pad

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What should STR operators actually focus on in 2026 when demand is flat and growth is harder to find?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers shares five practical pieces of advice to help short-term rental operators strengthen their revenue management and stay ahead of the market in 2026. Drawing from what he sees across more than 50 active portfolios, Jasper explains why the next wave of revenue gains will come from better control, pacing, and flexibility rather than expecting demand to save the business.

This episode is especially relevant for STR operators managing their own pricing and for revenue managers overseeing multiple portfolios. Jasper breaks down where operators are most often leaving money on the table, how small decisions compound over time, and why many portfolios with strong occupancy are still underperforming on revenue.

You will discover:

• Why investing in revenue management education pays off year after year

• How misusing pricing tools limits performance without operators realizing it

• Why pacing is the most important concept in STR revenue management

• How to use Market Penetration Index (MPI) to manage the full booking window

• Why last minute bookings often drag down ADR

• How daily and weekly revenue cadences improve consistency

• What a pacing adjustment did for a portfolio that increased RevPAR by 35%

Jasper also explains why operators need to prepare for World Cup driven demand in summer 2026, how international travelers behave differently when booking US travel, and why distribution on Booking.com will matter more than ever. He dives into availability settings, minimum stay restrictions, and cancellation policies, showing how overly restrictive rules quietly block demand and reduce total revenue.

💡 Topics Covered:

• STR revenue management strategy for 2026

• Pricing tools and education for operators

• Pacing, booking windows, and forward occupancy

• Market Penetration Index (MPI)

• World Cup 2026 travel demand

• Booking.com and international distribution

• Availability settings and minimum stay rules

• Cancellation policies and booking flexibility

• Daily and weekly revenue management cadences

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

short-term rentals, STR revenue management, pricing strategy, pacing, Market Penetration Index, MPI, booking window, STR pricing, Airbnb pricing, Booking.com, revenue optimization, STR operators, vacation rentals, World Cup travel demand, availability settings, cancellation policies, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers, STR growth, revenue strategy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What if the biggest revenue mistake most STR operators make isn’t their pricing tool… but the lack of a daily and weekly pricing routine?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers breaks down the real-world revenue management cadence professional STR operators follow to stay ahead of their market. Instead of talking theory, Jasper walks through what actually happens inside a daily pricing review, how to read bookings as data, and why consistent routines matter more than any single pricing rule.

Whether you manage 10 listings or 100+, this episode gives you a clear, practical framework for structuring your revenue management time. Jasper explains why most hosts underperform not because they lack tools, but because they don’t know what to look at, when to look at it, or how to interpret booking behavior once it shows up.

You will discover:

• Why revenue management must be scheduled, not reactive

• How reviewing every booking reveals pricing and demand signals

• Why early bookings can indicate underpricing or upcoming events

• How to spot mistakes in minimum stays and pricing settings

• What last-minute inventory tells you about demand and visibility

• Why small daily price changes can increase exposure on OTAs

• How weekends require different attention than weekdays

• Why experience matters more than formulas in pricing decisions

Jasper also explains how to review pacing on a weekly basis using Market Penetration Index (MPI), why you shouldn’t overcorrect pricing too quickly, and how small adjustments compound into meaningful revenue gains over time. He shares examples of bookings that reveal hidden demand, misconfigured rules, and missed opportunities that most operators never notice.

💡 Topics Covered:

• STR revenue management routines

• Daily and weekly pricing workflows

• Booking reviews as pricing signals

• Market Penetration Index (MPI) explained

• Booking windows and pacing analysis

• Last-minute pricing adjustments

• Minimum stay rules and calendar settings

• Peak demand dates and minimum pricing

• Portfolio-level revenue strategy

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

airbnb, revenue management, short-term rentals, STR pricing, booking windows, pacing, MPI, Market Penetration Index, Airbnb pricing strategy, vacation rentals, portfolio management, dynamic pricing, last-minute bookings, minimum stay rules, peak demand dates, STR revenue optimization, pricing routine, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Jasper Ribbers, Get Paid For Your Pad, STR profitability

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when STR CEOs stay busy all day but still feel like the business isn’t moving forward?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Kaye Putnam (Head of Marketing at Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) sits down with Eric Moeller, CEO of Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry, to break down one of the most important leadership questions in short-term rentals: where should a CEO actually spend their time as the business scales?

Citing research showing that CEOs waste 30 to 50 percent of their time on low-value activities, Eric explains why this problem becomes more dangerous as STR businesses grow. They unpack how decision fatigue pushes leaders toward reactive work, why action is often confused with momentum, and how solving the wrong problems stalls growth even when demand is strong.

Whether you manage 10 listings or 100+, this episode will help you rethink priorities, recognize patterns inside your business, and identify the true bottlenecks that require CEO-level attention instead of more activity.

You will discover:

• Why being busy does not mean your STR business is progressing

• How decision fatigue pulls CEOs into low-value tasks

• Why letting small fires burn can protect strategic focus

• How to identify the biggest bottleneck in your STR business

• Why bottlenecks shift as marketing, sales, and fulfillment scale

• How trying to fix everything at once slows growth

• Why ego often blocks CEOs from stepping into the right role

• What high-ROI CEO work looks like at different growth stages

Kaye and Eric also explore why pattern recognition is becoming one of the most important CEO skills, how success in one department creates pressure in another, and why focus must be sequential rather than simultaneous. They discuss AI adoption, not as a replacement for people, but as a way to remove repeatable work so leaders can spend time on reasoning, decision-making, and leadership.

💡 Topics Covered:

• CEO focus and time allocation in STR businesses

• Decision fatigue and low-value work

• Business bottlenecks in marketing, sales, and fulfillment

• Pattern recognition as a leadership skill

• Ego and role responsibility at scale

• Action versus momentum in growth

• AI as a tool to enhance teams, not replace them

• Strategic focus for scaling STR operators

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Eric Moeller → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdmoeller

Follow Kaye Putnam → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayeputnam

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

short-term rentals, STR CEO, STR leadership, business bottlenecks, decision fatigue, pattern recognition, CEO focus, scaling STR business, STR operations, AI in business, delegation, strategic leadership, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Get Paid For Your Pad, Eric Moeller, Kaye Putnam, STR growth, business momentum, CEO mindset

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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What happens when a hotel revenue director who once managed 10,000 rooms steps into the Short-Term Rental world… and discovers that pricing Airbnbs is far harder than pricing massive resorts?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers sits down with Adriaan Sonneveld, former Director of Revenue for Riu Hotels & Resorts across Aruba, Jamaica, Bahamas, and Punta Cana. After years overseeing one of the largest all-inclusive portfolios in the world, Adriaan entered the STR space, and immediately realized how unpredictable, volatile, and operationally constrained STR revenue management really is.

Whether you manage 5 listings or 500, this episode gives you a deep understanding of why hotel playbooks don’t translate into the STR category, why every listing behaves like its own micro-hotel, and how booking windows, guest behavior, and operational realities create a completely different pricing landscape.

Adriaan breaks down the core differences he never saw coming, from product uniqueness to hyper-fragmented demand curves, and explains why STR managers must think differently if they want to win in today’s market.

You will discover:

• Why STR pricing is dramatically harder than hotel pricing

• How product uniqueness turns every listing into its own “mini hotel”

• Why hotels can rely on last-minute demand but STRs cannot

• How booking windows shape revenue strategy in ways hotels never deal with

• Why STR rate drops must be deeper near arrival

• How operational constraints (cleaning, check-ins, minimum stays) influence pricing

• Why cancellations are low-risk for hotels but extremely costly for STRs

• How hotel brands enjoy loyalty advantages STRs rarely have

• Why forecasting breaks down when STR listings lose “momentum”

• How distribution channels differ and why Airbnb dominance changes strategy

Adriaan and Jasper also explore why STR volatility makes forecasting harder, how competition behaves differently on Airbnb maps than in hotel markets, and why STR operators must stay tightly connected to operations if they want accurate pricing. They discuss rate parity, overbooking, last-minute sell-through, and why hotel data systems create stability that STRs simply don’t have.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Hotel vs STR revenue management

• Product uniqueness and pricing complexity

• Booking windows and pacing strategies

• Distribution differences: Airbnb vs OTAs vs direct

• Cancellation policies and revenue risk

• Forecasting volatility and market unpredictability

• Operational constraints and pricing decisions

• Brand loyalty, guest expectations, and conversion behavior

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

airbnb, revenue management, short term rentals, hotel vs STR, pricing strategy, booking windows, pacing, ADR optimization, vacation rentals, distribution strategy, operational constraints, forecasting, cancellations, STR profitability, Airbnb pricing, hotel revenue director, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Jasper Ribbers, Adriaan Sonneveld, revenue optimization, portfolio performance

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when an STR operator keeps trying to fix chaos with more hires, more tools, or more units, only to realize the real problems were never the ones they were solving?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Kaye Putnam (Head of Marketing at Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) and Eric Moeller unpack the hectic host stage, the operational limbo where everything feels urgent, priorities constantly shift, and growth never creates the relief operators expect. They break down why so many STR businesses stay stuck in firefighting mode, why operators chase “squirrels” instead of closing the hole in the roof, and how strategic cadence, clearer systems, and better decision making change the trajectory of a company.

Whether you manage a small team or a fast-growing portfolio, this episode shows what actually moves a business out of overwhelm and into intentional, sustainable scale. Kaye and Eric share the behind-the-scenes lessons from a recent Freewyld offsite, including how they restructured workflows, redesigned communication rhythms, and tapped into external expertise to accelerate problem solving.

You will discover:

• Why operators stay stuck in the hectic host stage even as they grow

• How to identify whether a problem is worth solving right now

• Why fixing symptoms instead of root issues keeps teams overwhelmed

• How daily huddles and weekly cadences expose bottlenecks quickly

• Why operators should let small fires burn to stay focused

• The role of external experts in speeding up problem solving

• How to use long-term vision vs urgency to prioritize decisions

• Why overloaded roles create hidden friction across the company

Kaye and Eric also explore how offsites transform clarity, why KPIs only matter when tied to action, and how the “jobs to be done” exercise reveals exactly where a CEO is overextended. They discuss how marketing and operations teams can create alignment through lean metrics, why remote teams need intentional structure, and how specialization increases output across every department.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Hectic host stage and operational overwhelm

• Team structure, delegation, and role clarity

• Systems thinking and root-cause problem solving

• Meeting cadences, daily huddles, and offsite strategy

• KPI design, metric prioritization, and accountability

• Project management workflows and process rebuilding

• Decision making for scale and CEO mindset

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Kaye Putnam → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayeputnam

Follow Eric Moeller → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericmoeller

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

airbnb, hectic host, STR operations, business systems, delegation, team leadership, project management, meeting cadence, KPIs, short term rentals, operational overwhelm, CEO mindset, property management, business scale, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, process improvement, STR growth, organizational clarity, team communication, remote teams, workflow design

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when the FIFA World Cup match schedule is finally released and STR operators can see exactly which cities, matchups, and dates will generate the strongest travel demand and pricing power?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper breaks down the complete 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage schedule and reveals how different matchups, countries, and host cities are likely to impact short term rental demand. He explains why some cities may see modest lift while others could experience extreme ADR spikes and rapid sellouts. Jasper also walks through what early booking data is showing, why large homes are getting picked up first, and how hotel inventory plays a major role in determining rate ceilings.

Whether you operate one listing or one hundred, this episode gives you a clear understanding of which cities are positioned for major revenue gains, why certain national teams trigger massive travel waves, and how visa rules, travel distance, and domestic immigrant communities influence demand. Jasper also shares why some hosts are already underpricing their listings and how to prepare for the booking surge that will play out over the coming months.

You will discover:

• Which cities and matchups are likely to produce the strongest ADR lift

• Why countries such as Germany, Brazil, Spain, England and Argentina drive heavy international travel

• How smaller markets like Kansas City, Boston, Seattle and Philadelphia may outperform larger cities

• How visa requirements and travel distance affect booking timing and demand

• The pricing mistake hosts make when they try to fill early instead of letting demand mature

Jasper also explores why major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Miami and Mexico City may experience lower price elevation due to hotel supply, why knockout rounds could trigger extreme last minute ADR spikes, and how to track competitor pricing using ADR reports and tools like PriceLabs. He discusses how group travel agencies influence hotel demand, how domestic communities from countries like Ghana or Poland affect attendance, and why summer seasonality ensures most markets will still sell out regardless of matchup size.

💡 Topics Covered:

• World Cup match schedule analysis and demand forecasting

• Pricing strategy for STR operators during major events

• Visa considerations, travel distance, and international demand patterns

• Hotel inventory and its impact on STR rate ceilings

• Group travel, tour operators, and booking behavior

• Early booking trends, pacing, and ADR monitoring

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

airbnb, world cup 2026, fifa 2026, pricing strategy, revenue management, nightly rates, ADR growth, short term rentals, event demand, STR forecasting, hotel inventory, booking trends, market analysis, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, portfolio performance, vacation rentals, pricing optimization, STR operators, revenue opportunities

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when an STR operator maintains a 4.99 average rating across three completely different markets and earns more than 1,000 five-star reviews from guests who consistently describe their stays as exceptional?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Kaye Putnam (Head of Marketing at Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) sits down with Beth Palmer, co-owner of Northridge Escapes, to unpack the three-part formula behind her extraordinary guest experience results. Beth reveals how communication, quality, and amenities work together to create emotional resonance for guests and why feelings, not features, ultimately drive five-star ratings.

Whether you manage a handful of listings or operate in multiple regions, this episode gives you a clear understanding of what truly moves guest satisfaction, how small decisions compound into consistent excellence, and why a hospitality mindset outperforms any checklist. Beth and Kaye also discuss the operational routines, standards, and thought processes behind maintaining 4.99-level experiences at scale.

You will discover:

• The three elements behind more than 1,000 five-star reviews

• Why emotional experience drives ratings more than amenities

• How proactive communication builds trust and reduces friction

• Why high quality linens, beds, and household items shape guest perception

• How consistent standards make multi market operations easier to run

• How to create memorable moments that guests talk about for months

• Where small upgrades deliver major returns in reviews and revenue

Kaye and Beth also explore how to set expectations effectively, the difference between clean and set when working with cleaners, and why large homes attract multi generational travel that boosts profitability. They break down the mindset shift that removes ego from difficult guest interactions and explain how personalization and small touches increase loyalty and repeat stays.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Guest experience, reviews, and hospitality standards

• Communication strategy and pre-arrival touchpoints

• Quality selection, stocking decisions, and home setup

• Emotional design and unexpected details that create wow moments

• Multi market operations, consistency, and delegation

• Cleaner training, room setups, and step by step checklists

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Kaye Putnam → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayeputnam

Follow Northridge Escapes → https://www.northridgeescapes.com

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

airbnb, five star reviews, guest experience, hospitality, short term rentals, communication strategy, quality standards, STR operations, emotional design, cleaning checklists, property management, multi market hosting, guest satisfaction, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, vacation rentals, review strategy, hospitality mindset, STR growth, rating strategy, listing optimization

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when pricing becomes the number two priority for operators, yet ADR is flat, demand is weakening, and most teams still do not have a real revenue management routine?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Kaye Putnam (Head of Marketing at Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) and Jasper Ribbers unpack the newest KeyData trends report and reveal why most operators think they are performing well while still missing 20 to 30 percent in revenue. They break down why pricing tools alone are not enough, how operators get stuck in reactive tasks, and why expert revenue management is creating double digit gains even in down markets.

Whether you operate 5 listings or 500, this episode gives you a clear understanding of why ADR is flat, how Airbnb suspensions are changing distribution strategies, and what mid sized operators are doing to prepare for 2026. Jasper and Kaye also discuss the impact of the upcoming World Cup, the rise in OTA diversification, and why pacing control is one of the most important skills in revenue management today.

You will discover:

• Why ADR is flat nationally and why real ADR is declining with inflation

• How operators think they are optimized while missing major revenue opportunities

• Why most pricing tool usage is reactive instead of strategic

• How daily, weekly, and monthly pricing routines improve decision making

• Why only a small percentage of operators understand pacing and its impact

• How expert revenue managers unlock 15 to 25 percent gains in flat markets

Jasper and Kaye also share what they see behind the scenes with mid sized operators, why many teams are stuck solving urgent issues instead of focusing on pricing, and how Airbnb suspensions and rating pressure are accelerating OTA diversification. They explain why the 2026 World Cup could create major demand spikes, what the December 5 team draw means for operators, and how to prepare for sudden changes in your market.

💡 Topics Covered:

• KeyData 2026 trends, ADR analysis, and demand shifts

• Pricing strategy, pacing, and revenue management routines

• Airbnb suspensions, rating pressure, and OTA diversification

• Direct booking trends, stay length, and conversion behavior

• Mid sized operator growth opportunities and industry optimism

• World Cup 2026 demand forecasting and market preparation

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers

Follow Kaye Putnam → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayeputnam

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

airbnb, adr, pricing strategy, revenue management, short term rentals, OTA strategy, pacing, demand trends, STR industry, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, property management, direct bookings, booking conversion, STR growth, world cup 2026, keydata report, portfolio performance, STR operators, pricing tools, vacation rentals

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when one of the largest, most celebrated short-term rental companies collapses overnight?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Kaye Putnam (Head of Marketing at Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) and Eric Moeller (CEO of Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) break down the shocking downfall of Sonder, once valued at over $2B, operating 9,000 units across 40+ cities, and viewed as the blueprint for scaling an STR brand.

They unpack what really led to Sonder’s bankruptcy, how the rental arbitrage model buckled under massive fixed costs, and why the company’s economics never worked at scale. Whether you operate 5 units or 500, this episode is a masterclass in avoiding the financial, operational, and strategic mistakes that took down one of the industry’s biggest players.

You’ll discover:

• Why rental arbitrage becomes dangerously fragile at scale

• How fixed costs, liabilities, and rapid expansion eroded Sonder’s margins

• Why chasing occupancy instead of profitability led to massive cash burn

• How custom tech and PMS development slowed operations and added complexity

• What operators must learn about single points of failure and platform dependency

• Where the biggest opportunities now lie for STR CEOs after Sonder’s collapse

Eric and Kaye also reveal how the industry reacted behind the scenes, what former employees shared about internal challenges, and why this collapse is creating a sudden wave of opportunity, from talent acquisition to landlord negotiations to premium inventory hitting the market.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Sonder bankruptcy, short-term rental economics, and business model risk

• Rental arbitrage vs. property management models

• Profitability, cash flow discipline, and cost structure analysis

• How operational spread destroys margin in the STR industry

• Lessons for STR CEOs, founders, and operators scaling portfolios

• Identifying and eliminating single points of failure in STR businesses

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Eric Moeller → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdmoeller/

Follow Kaye Putnam → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayeputnam/

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

sonder, short-term rentals, rental arbitrage, STR risk, Airbnb business, profitability, hospitality, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, real estate investing, STR operations, revenue management, portfolio scaling, hospitality economics, Airbnb host, property management, bankruptcy analysis, growth strategy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when your cancellation policy is working against your revenue instead of protecting it?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers breaks down the real impact of cancellation policies across VRBO and Booking.com and explains why hosts are leaving significant revenue on the table by using the wrong rules for the wrong seasons. This episode is the continuation of last week’s conversation about Airbnb policies and goes deeper into how each platform structures cancellations, how booking windows shape risk, and how small policy adjustments can dramatically improve your ADR and occupancy.

Jasper unpacks why relying on a single, static policy for the entire year can be harmful, how different markets demand different rules, and why Booking.com’s flexible setup offers strategic advantages that most hosts don’t take advantage of.

You’ll discover:

• Why one cancellation policy for the entire year rarely makes sense

• How booking windows should determine whether you go strict or flexible

• The major differences between strict, firm, moderate, and relaxed VRBO policies

• How Booking.com lets you build multiple policies and price them separately

• Why offering both flexible and non-refundable rates boosts conversions

• How choice overload can confuse guests and reduce bookings

• A strategy to use flexible policies to gain early traction on new channels

• When and why to align your policies across platforms

• Why diversifying policies can help new listings grow faster

• How cancellations affect your ability to rebook at similar ADRs

Jasper also explores how Airbnb will introduce dynamic cancellation policies in 2026, why blocking your summer calendar can protect you from expensive last-minute cancellations, and why Booking.com is gaining momentum in the US short-term rental market.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Cancellation strategies for revenue optimization

• Booking windows and seasonal policy adjustments

• VRBO cancellation tiers explained

• Flexible vs non-refundable rate setup on Booking.com

• Guest behavior and choice stress

• Protecting ADR with the right refund windows

• Channel diversification for STR operators

• Onboarding strategies for new listings

• Airbnb’s upcoming dynamic policies for 2026

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers

Follow Freewyld Foundry → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

Short-term rentals, vacation rentals, cancellation policies, revenue management, booking windows, Booking.com strategies, VRBO cancellations, Airbnb update, STR host tips, non-refundable rates, flexible policies, ADR growth, occupancy strategy, channel diversification, dynamic pricing, STR profitability, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Jasper Ribbers, hospitality strategy, maximizing revenue

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What does a high-performing direct-booking setup look like when you’re tired of relying on OTAs and a weak booking engine?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Kaye Putnam (Head of Marketing at Freewyld) interviews Eli Pritykin, founder of Hudson Creative Studio and creator of HomeRunner, to dive into why most short-term rental operators are stuck building on “rented land” and how to reclaim control with a website that converts.

They discuss the shift from listing-manager mindset to e-commerce mindset, reveal the three key elements of a website that drives direct bookings, and explore how structured data and AI search are changing discovery for properties.

You’ll discover:

• Why many booking engines fall short and trap you on someone else’s platform

• How trust and user experience matter in the first 2–4 seconds of your site visit

• What it means to build your brand as a “curated box of chocolates” so guests choose you instinctively

• How friction in your booking flow silently destroys revenue

• Why WordPress and HomeRunner offer real ownership, flexibility and scalability for direct bookings

• How schema, structured data and emerging AI engines (AEO/GEO) will impact hosting in the near future

💡 Topics Covered:

• Direct booking strategy for short-term rentals

• Trust psychology in user experience and conversion

• Brand building vs commodity operations in STR

• Booking flow optimization and UX design

• Data strategy, schema markup and AI search in hospitality

• WordPress websites vs PMS-built solutions

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Hudson Creative Studio → https://www.hudsoncreativestudio.com

Explore HomeRunner → https://www.homerunner.io

Follow Kaye Putnam → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayeputnam/

Keywords:

direct bookings, short-term rentals, STR website, branding, user experience, trust signals, conversion optimization, booking engine, WordPress, HomeRunner, structured data, schema, AI search, AEO, GEO

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Rev Up Monday episode, Jasper dives deep into one of the most overlooked aspects of revenue management: cancellation policies. Learn why your strict cancellation policy might be costing you thousands in lost bookings and discover the optimal policy for your specific market and property type.

Key Topics Covered:

The Hidden Cost of Strict Policies

• Why strict cancellation policies discourage early bookings
• How policies impact your booking window and revenue
• The psychology behind guest booking decisions (44% of guests prioritize free cancellation)

Breaking Down Every Airbnb Policy

• Super Strict 30/60 (avoid)
• Firm: 30-day cancellation window
• Limited: 14-day cancellation window (NEW)
• Moderate: 5-day cancellation window
• Flexible: 24-hour cancellation window

Market-Specific Strategies

• Short booking window markets (like Miami): Go flexible
• Seasonal markets (ski/beach): Consider firm for peak season
• Stable mid-tier cities: Moderate or limited works best
• Large homes vs. small units: Different policies for different property sizes

Advanced Tactics

• Using flexible policies to recover from bad reviews
• Temporary policy changes to boost momentum
• The "last man standing" strategy for 100% occupancy markets
• Balancing protection vs. booking velocity

Action Items:

1. Check your current cancellation policy immediately
2. Review your market's booking window patterns
3. Consider loosening your policy if bookings are slow
4. Test different policies for different property sizes

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Kaye and Eric celebrate Freewyld Foundry's first profitable quarter and reveal their unique approach to sharing success with their team. They discuss the three options for handling company profits and explain why they chose a profit-sharing bonus plan that incentivizes excellence while fostering a culture of ownership.

Key Topics Covered:

The Profit Milestone

• Achieving the first profitable quarter after years of reinvestment
• The difference between revenue and actual profit
• Why most entrepreneurs never see profit despite high revenue

Three Options for Profit

• Reinvesting back into the business
• Owners taking dividends
• Sharing with the team (the path Freewyld chose)

The Bonus Plan Structure

• Based on tenure, performance KPIs, and seniority level
• Designed to attract and retain top revenue management talent
• Future vision: allowing team members to invest bonuses into Freewyld real estate projects

Building Culture Through Rituals

• Starting every meeting with professional and personal wins
• Implementing "unreasonable hospitality" for B2B clients
• Creating company-specific language (like "MIFA" - Make It F***ing Awesome)

Communication & Leadership

• Leading without ego in challenging conversations
• Approaching problems as "us versus the problem"
• Over-communicating appreciation and celebrating client wins

Notable Quotes:

• "We never really understand what profit is. We see top line revenue and we invest it, constantly keep growing the business."
• "By bringing the team members into the profit pool, it gives them a sense of ownership to what we're doing."
• "Culture is made up of rituals, emotional highlights, and how you communicate to each other."

Connect with the Hosts:

• LinkedIn: Eric D. Moeller
• Follow Freewyld Foundry for more revenue management insights

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What we cover

• Key dates that move the market (including the group-stage draw on December 5, 2025)
• Host cities to watch (Vancouver, Seattle, SF Bay Area, Los Angeles, Kansas City, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Miami, Toronto, Boston, Philadelphia, New York/New Jersey, plus Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey)
• Why fan zones and downtown corridors matter as much as stadiums
• Pricing philosophy when comps are thin (bias high, protect inventory, monitor pacing)
• Travel spillover to nearby destinations (Grand Canyon, Vegas, national parks, regional drives)
• Cultural touches that convert (e.g., bikes + orange swag for Dutch supporters)
• How to monitor market signals daily without losing your mind

Action steps

1. Raise your June–July 2026 base rates now (2–10× your norm, depending on proximity + property quality).
2. Block or minimum-stay protect high-demand nights until after the draw.
3. Calendar alert: December 5, 2025 — release of group-stage draw → expect a booking rush within hours.
4. Map your micro-locations: stadium, downtown, fan zones (municipal announcements), transit, watch-party districts.
5. Daily scan post-draw: track competitor pricing, pick-ups, and event calendars; adjust pacing thresholds.
6. Differentiate listings for specific fan bases (amenities, décor accents, transit guides, supporter-area tips).
7. Widen your net: push content/SEO for “near [host city]” itineraries; capture spillover demand.

Links & resources

• Match info & schedule: fifa.com
• Free revenue audit (for $1M+ portfolios / ~15+ listings): freewyldfoundry.com/report

Work with us

Want our team to run your pricing through World Cup ’26? Apply for a free revenue audit: freewyldfoundry.com/report

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Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What does real leadership look like when your STR company is growing faster than you can keep up?

In this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Eric Moeller (CEO of Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) and Kaye Putnam (Head of Marketing at Freewyld) take you behind the scenes of what it takes to lead, scale, and sustain a high-growth short-term rental business, without losing your sanity or your team.

They share how to evolve from attack mode to strategic leadership, how to build a strong culture of A-player talent, and what it really means to lead with humility and curiosity in a remote-first hospitality company.

You’ll discover:

• Why “pressure is a privilege” for fast-growing STR leaders

• How to stop micromanaging and start empowering your team

• The real difference between managing and leading

• How to identify and elevate A-players in your organization

• What it takes to build culture inside a remote STR team

• How to have hard conversations without ego or conflict

Eric and Kaye also unpack the leadership shift from control to clarity, the role of overcommunication in scaling, and why defining culture early is the key to sustainable growth in hospitality.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Leadership in the short-term rental and hospitality industry

• Building culture and alignment in remote STR teams

• Servant leadership and the “humble and hungry” mindset

• From operator to strategic CEO in STR growth

• Leading through pressure, uncertainty, and rapid scaling

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Eric Moeller → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericmoeller/

Follow Kaye Putnam → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayeputnam/

Follow Freewyld → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

leadership, Airbnb, short-term rentals, team culture, property management, hospitality, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, STR growth, scaling teams, servant leadership, conscious leadership, leadership mindset, vacation rentals, hospitality business, Airbnb host, remote leadership

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What if you could finally make your low season perform like a pro’s high season?

In this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers (Co-Founder of Freewyld Foundry) shares the exact Low Season Strategy they use across 43 short-term rental portfolios to stay ahead of the market, protect visibility, and keep occupancy strong when everyone else slows down.

The low season doesn’t have to drain your revenue. Jasper reveals how pacing, smart pricing, and proactive planning can help you maintain momentum on OTAs and build long-term growth even in your toughest months.

You’ll discover:

• Why low season performance determines your summer revenue potential

• How to track your Market Penetration Index (MPI) and stay ahead of the curve

• The right way to lower prices without hurting your high season ADR

• How to use seasonal pricing profiles instead of slashing base rates

• Why long-stay discounts can boost occupancy and visibility simultaneously

Jasper also explains why reacting late destroys algorithm traction, how to keep cleaners and maintenance teams busy during off months, and why momentum is the real currency of revenue management.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Pacing and MPI explained for low season success

• Seasonal pricing profiles in Pricelabs, Wheelhouse, and Beyond

• Length-of-stay discounts and snowbird opportunities

• Maintaining OTA visibility and momentum year-round

• Why low season planning starts months in advance

🔗 Relevant Links:

Join the Foundry community → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Get your Free Revenue Report → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com/report

Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers

Keywords:

Airbnb, low season strategy, short-term rentals, Freewyld Foundry, revenue management, pacing, MPI, occupancy strategy, pricing optimization, property management, Airbnb growth, seasonal pricing, vacation rentals, host strategy, STR performance, Get Paid for Your Pad

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when your local government suddenly changes short-term rental laws, cutting your guest capacity from 17 to 10 overnight?

In this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Eric Moeller (CEO of Freewyld) and Kaye Putnam (Brand Strategist at Freewyld) share how Riverside County’s new short-term rental regulation forced a complete rethink of their operations, strategy, and brand growth plan.

You’ll discover:

• How a new Riverside occupancy cap instantly changed Freewyld’s business model

• The exact mindset shift that turned frustration into expansion

• Why regulation can be the best catalyst for brand and design innovation

• How Eric plans to rezone Freewyld’s Idyllwild cabins into a full hotel project

• The critical role of mentors, architects, and community when scaling STRs

• How to stay profitable and compliant amid fast-changing STR laws

Eric and Kaye also unpack what this means for the broader short-term rental industry, and why hosts must adapt their operations, brand story, and pricing models to survive the new wave of local regulation.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Riverside County’s new STR occupancy law

• How to pivot when guest capacity drops

• The difference between reaction and resilience in hospitality

• Turning regulation into opportunity through brand strength

• The future of STR zoning, compliance, and hospitality growth

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Eric Moeller → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericmoeller/

Follow Freewyld → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

Riverside County, short-term rental law, STR regulation, occupancy cap, Airbnb, vacation rentals, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, short-term rental growth, hospitality brand, real estate development, zoning, hotel conversion, regulation strategy, Airbnb host, property management, STR pivot, compliance, hospitality innovation

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What happens when Airbnb quietly shifts 12.5% of your revenue overnight?

In this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers (Head of Revenue Management at Freewyld) and Miles Chew (Revenue Manager at Freewyld Foundry) break down Airbnb’s new 15.5% host fee, explain what it means for your payouts, and show you how to fix your pricing strategy before your margins vanish.

You’ll discover:

• The exact markup you need to stay revenue-neutral

• How to adjust cleaning, pet, and resort fees to avoid losses

• Why small miscalculations in PMS markups can quietly drain six figures

• How this update affects management splits and owner payouts

• The hidden ripple effect on guest pricing, demand, and taxes

Jasper and Miles also explain why Airbnb made this move, what it means for hosts globally, and how to keep your pricing consistent across OTA channels without sacrificing rate parity.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Airbnb’s 15.5% host fee breakdown

• How to calculate the right markup using Freewyld’s tool

• PMS limitations, rounding errors, and pricing precision

• Adjusting management and cleaning fees to stay profitable

• How to communicate these changes transparently to owners and guests

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers/

Follow Freewyld → https://www.linkedin.com/company/freewyldfoundry

Keywords:

Airbnb, Airbnb host, Airbnb fees, Airbnb update, short-term rentals, vacation rentals, revenue management, pricing strategy, property management, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, STR growth, Airbnb pricing, Airbnb markup, hospitality industry, profit optimization

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

In this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Kaye Putnam (Head of Marketing at Freewyld) sits down with Eric Moeller (CEO of Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) and Jasper Ribbers (Head of Revenue Management) to break down what they discovered at VRMA Las Vegas 2025, including how they uncovered millions in missed profit during live Turbo Rev Revs.

They reveal the surprising truth about pricing tools, why “set it and forget it” automation is quietly costing operators six figures a year, and how hands-on revenue strategy still beats AI every time.

You’ll discover:

• How Freewyld’s 15-minute Turbo Rev Revs exposed $4.15M in missed revenue
• The most common mistakes even experienced hosts make with pricing tools
• Jasper’s simple KPI framework to track and improve performance daily
• Why AI is trending everywhere but still not delivering real revenue impact
• The critical difference between cheap management and high-impact strategy
• How social content and brand storytelling are becoming essential to STR growth

Eric, Jasper, and Kaye also share the biggest takeaways from leading a packed Skills Lab at VRMA, the shift from “old-school vacation rentals” to modern STR operations, and why operators who review every single booking are the ones who win.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Real-world proof of hidden revenue inside STR portfolios
• The gap between automation and true optimization
• How to evaluate if your pricing process is leaving money behind
• Why AI tools aren’t enough without expert human oversight
• Content, community, and data as growth pillars for 2025

🔗 Relevant Links:

Apply for a Free Revenue Report → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com/report

Follow Eric Moeller → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdmoeller/

Follow Kaye Putnam → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayeputnam/

Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers/

Keywords:

short-term rentals, Airbnb revenue, hidden revenue, VRMA, revenue management, pricing strategy, Turbo Rev Revs, STR growth, dynamic pricing, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, hospitality leadership, property management, Airbnb optimization, AI in hospitality

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What if you could sit inside Airbnb HQ and hear Brian Chesky reveal the company’s next big move?

In this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Eric Moeller (CEO of Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) and Kaye Putnam (Head of Marketing at Freewyld) share everything they learned at Airbnb’s invite-only Host Summit, where top operators got a first look at the future of hospitality.

Airbnb is officially entering a new era. The platform is doubling down on Pro Hosts, design-driven listings, and hospitality experiences that build trust. Eric breaks down what that means for you, why quality will now determine visibility and success, and how hosts can evolve from managing listings to leading true hospitality brands.

You’ll discover:

• What Airbnb’s “Pro Host” initiative really means for scaling operators

• How quality, trust, and design impact ranking and bookings

• The merchandising secrets that make listings convert faster

• What Gen Z and Latino travelers expect from modern hosts

• How global events like FIFA 2026 will shape future travel demand

Eric and Kaye also share how Airbnb is investing in tools, reps, and education to help Pro Hosts operate at a higher level, and why “heads in beds” is no longer enough to stand out.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Airbnb’s shift from listings to full hospitality experiences

• How to build trust through storytelling and brand presence

• Why “relentless hospitality” separates 4.6 hosts from 4.9+

• How to design listings that inspire emotion and connection

🔗 Relevant Links:

Learn more about Freewyld → https://www.freewyld.co

Join the Foundry community → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Follow Eric Moeller → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdmoeller/

Follow Kaye Putnam → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayeputnam/

Keywords:

Airbnb, Pro Host, short-term rental, hospitality, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Airbnb host, quality hosting, Airbnb design, Brian Chesky, property management, STR growth, Airbnb 2025, travel trends, experiential travel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What if the key to higher revenue, better reviews, and happier guests… had four paws?

In this World Animal Day special of Get Paid for Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers (CEO and Co-Founder of Freewyld) sits down with his furry co-host Elvis, a five-year-old Pomeranian and self-proclaimed Airbnb expert. Together, they reveal why being pet-friendly isn’t just good hospitality, it’s smart business.

Forget the idea that pets create problems. The truth? They create profits. Pet-friendly listings not only attract more bookings, but also earn better reviews, build guest loyalty, and perform better in competitive markets.

You’ll discover:

• Why pet-friendly listings outperform standard Airbnbs in occupancy and review scores
• The psychology of pet owners and how it impacts guest behavior
• How to set fair pet fees and cleaning policies that actually work
• Why drive-to markets benefit most from accepting pets
• Safety and design tips to make your space pet-ready without extra hassle

Jasper also shares his personal experience traveling with Elvis and the surprising data on how pets can increase your average booking lead time, reduce risk of parties, and boost your marketing reach through user-generated content.

💡 Topics Covered:

Pet-friendly Airbnb strategy

Pricing and cleaning fee structure

Host-to-guest relationship building

Marketing to pet owners and families

Revenue growth through niche positioning

🔗 Relevant Links:

Apply for a Free Revenue Report → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com/report

Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers/

Learn more about Freewyld Foundry → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com

Keywords:

pet-friendly Airbnb, short-term rental, STR revenue, Airbnb strategy, pet-friendly hosting, revenue management, hospitality, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, Jasper Ribbers, vacation rental marketing, dynamic pricing, STR optimization

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What separates a scalable short-term rental operator from one stuck in spreadsheets?

In this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers sits down with Jonathan Sukhia, CEO and co-founder of Topkey, to reveal how leading hosts automate their STR finances, close their books faster, and recover thousands in missed owner charges.

Forget the myth that bookkeeping is just about compliance. The truth? Financial clarity is a growth weapon. Operators who scale beyond 20, 50, or 100 units all have one thing in common: they systemize money movement before it breaks their business.

You’ll discover:

• Why most STR hosts lose money without realizing it
• The hidden financial blind spots killing profitability
• How automation can cut bookkeeping time from weeks to days
• The difference between outsourcing vs. systemizing your finances
• Real examples of operators scaling faster with transparent accounting

Jonathan and Jasper also unpack how Topkey integrates PMS, QuickBooks, and banking tools into one dashboard, why trust accounting is simpler than you think, and how financial visibility empowers hosts to make smarter, faster decisions.

💡 Topics Covered:

The true cost of manual expense tracking

How to identify and recover unbilled owner charges

Building scalable financial workflows for STR companies

Why automation is reshaping hospitality finance

🔗 Relevant Links:

Explore Topkey → https://www.topkey.io

Follow Jonathan Sukhia → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathansukhia

Follow Jasper Ribbers → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers

Keywords:

short-term rental, STR finances, Airbnb hosts, property management, expense tracking, bookkeeping automation, trust accounting, Topkey, Jasper Ribbers, financial operations, vacation rental software, scaling STR businesses

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pricing tools are powerful, but they don’t think for you.

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Eric Moeller and Kaye Putnam unpack where pricing tools stop, and where true revenue management begins for professional STR operators.

You’ll hear why:

• Occupancy is misleading and MPI is the real metric
• Pacing and booking windows reveal demand signals most hosts miss
• Flexible minimum night stays can actually increase long bookings
• Strict cancellation policies often hurt visibility and conversion
• Pricing tools can’t replace human strategy and market insight

Mentioned in the episode:

• Freewyld Foundry (Revenue & Pricing Management service)
• VRMA Pricing Power Skills Lab & Turbo Revenue Reports
• Airbnb pricing strategies, comp sets, and pacing tools

📍 Subscribe to Get Paid For Your Pad and explore more resources at FreewyldFoundry.com.

🎯 Keywords:

Airbnb pricing, STR revenue management, pacing, MPI, booking windows, minimum nights, occupancy vs profitability, vacation rental strategy, Airbnb conversion, property management.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how much money your portfolio is leaving on the table. Risk-free.

What separates a million-dollar Airbnb host from everyone else?

In this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Kaye Putnam (Head of Marketing at Freewyld) sits down with Eric Moeller (CEO of Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) to reveal the real mindset, systems, and revenue strategies behind top-performing STR operators.

Forget the myth that a pricing tool alone can maximize your income. The truth? Automation is not optimization. The hosts that break the $1M+ mark know when to step out of the weeds, release control, and lean on experts.

You’ll discover:

• Why ego quietly kills STR growth (and how to fix it)
• The common revenue blind spots in $1M+ portfolios
• Why “set it and forget it” pricing is leaving six figures behind
• How growth-minded CEOs scale from 15 units to 100+
• Real proof points: Troy’s jump from $1M to $4M, and Sheboygan Vacation Rentals’ 30% lift without adding properties

Eric and Kaye also share why top CEOs value peace of mind as much as profit, and how to tell if you’re acting like a hectic host or a strategic leader.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Invisible revenue opportunities most operators miss
• How to recognize when you’ve become the bottleneck
• Practical steps to delegate pricing and reclaim your time
• Why automation isn’t enough without daily, expert oversight

🔗 Relevant Links:

Apply for a Free Revenue Report → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com/report

Follow Eric Moeller → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdmoeller/

Follow Kaye Putnam → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayeputnam/

Keywords:

short-term rental, Airbnb revenue, dynamic pricing, revenue management, STR growth, hospitality leadership, Freewyld, Freewyld Foundry, property management, scaling Airbnb

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Airbnb-only is a risk. In this episode, we break down why Booking.com has become a must-have revenue channel for professional STR operators—and how to set it up so discounts work for you (not against you). We cover ratings (1–10 vs Airbnb’s binary), merchant payments, Genius/mobile promos, rate plans, markups, and how to keep owners calm when parity isn’t perfect.

What you’ll learn

• Why Booking.com’s 1–10 rating system cushions revenue impact from the occasional meh review
• How the merchant model solves the old chargeback headache
• The Genius program: why hitting 3 reviews fast matters and how to unlock the badge-driven conversion lift
• Mobile-only rates, preferred program, and visible promos that act like hotel-grade conversion boosters
• The truth about price parity (and why a 15–25% Booking.com markup is a sane default)
• Onboarding playbook: the first 30–60 days to momentum without nuking your other channels
• Listing optimization: how to use the Property Page Score to hit 100% and earn visibility

Quick hits / Takeaways

• Airbnb’s binary review culture can tank a listing with a few 4⭐ reviews; BDC’s 1–10 keeps you alive and converting.
• Use Genius + 10% mobile early to win visibility; once unlocked, apply a markup so discounts don’t undercut your floor.
• Expect imperfect parity—that’s normal on BDC. The game is markup + visible, conversion-driving discounts.
• Get to three reviews fast (follow up with guests; incentives ok) → unlock Genius → watch conversion rise.
• Treat BDC like a hotel channel: rate plans, visible offers, and merchandising matter more than on Airbnb.

Links & resources

• 👉 Free Revenue Report (for $1M+ STR portfolios): https://www.freewyldfoundry.com/get-started
• VRMA Las Vegas — catch our 90-minute Pricing Power workshop & come say hi at booth #1118

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Logo or host photo, what makes guests book on Airbnb?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Eric Moeller and Kaye Putnam unpack the branding dilemma every STR operator faces: should your Airbnb profile lead with a polished company logo or a personal host photo?

You’ll hear why:

• A face builds instant trust and stronger guest connections
• Logos can help scale but sometimes reduce conversion
• Consistency in branding matters across multiple listings
• Choosing wrong risks making your STR look like a commodity

Mentioned in the episode:

• Freewyld (Eric’s STR brand)
• Freewyld Foundry (Revenue & Pricing Management service)
• Airbnb profile branding strategies

📍 Subscribe to Get Paid For Your Pad and explore more resources at FreewyldFoundry.com.

🎯 Keywords:

Airbnb profile, STR branding, host photo vs logo, guest trust, short-term rentals, Airbnb conversion, brand identity, direct bookings, vacation rental strategy, property management.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you using Airbnb’s built-in merchandising tools to actually increase your revenue, or are your discounts invisible to guests?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers uncovers the hidden power of OTA merchandising on Airbnb. He explains why most operators apply discounts incorrectly, how visible offers like strike-through pricing and banners boost both conversions and ranking, and the practical steps to set up promotions that work. Drawing from his team’s experience managing 38+ portfolios, Jasper reveals the frameworks that help Airbnb hosts win more bookings without sacrificing profitability.

In this episode you will learn:

• Why visible discounts drive more conversions than silent price drops
• How Airbnb merchandising impacts both bookings and search visibility
• The right way to use early bird, last-minute, and custom promotions

We also talk about:

• When to apply length-of-stay discounts for higher occupancy
• The risks of following Airbnb account manager advice blindly
• Why custom promotions can sometimes show a discount without lowering your price

Keywords: Airbnb discounts, OTA merchandising, Airbnb revenue management, short-term rentals, pricing strategy, booking conversions, Freewyld, custom promotions, STR growth, Airbnb visibility

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is it really worth paying to be featured on a TV show if you want to grow your STR business?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Eric Moeller, Co-Founder of Freewyld, and Kaye Putnam, Head of Marketing at Freewyld, share their full experience of getting featured on the Emmy-awarded TV show Staycation. They explain why they invested, what happened behind the scenes, and the results they saw in direct bookings, brand awareness, and content creation.

In this episode you will learn:

• How Freewyld got featured on Staycation and what it cost
• The impact on website traffic, direct bookings, and STR brand authority
• Why social proof and video content can be more powerful than reach

We also talk about:

• Using podcasts, PR, and influencer collabs to grow your STR business
• How backlinks and SEO drive direct booking growth
• The future of SEO in a world of AI and ChatGPT

Keywords: STR, Staycation, direct bookings, Freewyld, short-term rental marketing, social proof, content marketing, influencer marketing, Airbnb growth, OPA strategy, SEO for STR

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when traditional STR deals no longer pencil out, Airbnb’s review system becomes harsher, and local governments push restrictive ordinances?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers sits down with Garrett Ham, founder and CEO of Weekender Management, to reveal how he’s navigating one of the toughest markets for short-term rentals in years.

Garrett shares how he has acquired 10+ properties in the past year using creative financing strategies while fighting a legal battle before the Arkansas Supreme Court over restrictive Fayetteville ordinances. He also opens up about the risks of Airbnb’s stricter review system, where even a single four-star review can slash visibility and cost hosts thousands in lost bookings.

💡 Takeaways:

• Why traditional STR acquisitions rarely work in 2025
• How to use seller financing and other creative deal structures
• Why knowing your bottom line is key to negotiations
• How regulations could reshape property rights in Arkansas and beyond
• What stricter Airbnb reviews mean for revenue and visibility

Whether you manage 5 units or 50, this episode gives you actionable strategies to acquire properties, protect your listings, and grow smarter in a challenging market.

🔗 Relevant Links:

• Weekender Management → weekendermanagement.com
• Freewyld Foundry → freewyldfoundry.com

📌 Keywords: short-term rentals, Airbnb investing, creative financing, property management, STR regulations, 5-star reviews, Freewyld, Weekender Management

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Kaye Putnam (Head of Marketing at Freewyld) interviews Madi Rifkin, founder of Mount, about how she created the Content Army, a community of creators that is reshaping how hospitality brands, property managers, and tourism destinations collaborate with influencers.

Madi shares how she went from being frustrated with traditional influencer partnerships (expensive, inauthentic, hard to track) to building a system that now has 10,000+ applicants and dozens of active creators producing organic, aligned, and highly effective content for travel “hidden gems.”

In this episode you’ll learn:

• What the Content Army is and how it actually works
• Why “wannabe influencers” may be your strongest marketing allies
• How to organize creator retreats that multiply content and generate FOMO
• The most important lessons in matching brands with creators
• Strategies for measuring real impact on direct bookings and traffic
• Common mistakes when working with influencers (and how to avoid them)

We also talk about:

• How a viral TikTok with 1M+ views launched the project
• Partnerships with property managers and tourism boards in Jackson Hole and Aruba
• Why the future of hospitality marketing blends content, experiences, and community

🎯 Keywords:

short-term rental, influencer marketing, content strategy, direct bookings, hidden gems, tourism marketing, Content Army, property managers, hospitality growth, organic social media

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers (Head of Revenue Management at Freewyld Foundry) dives deep into one of the most misunderstood yet powerful concepts in STR revenue management: pacing.

Hosts constantly ask:

• Why do short-term rentals slash prices last minute while hotels and airlines often raise theirs?
• What KPIs actually matter when tracking pacing?
• When should you pace behind, with, or ahead of the market?

Using real-world examples, from Ibiza flights to Taylor Swift concerts, Jasper explains why STR operators can’t afford to blindly follow hotel or airline pricing models. He breaks down the Market Penetration Index (MPI) as the go-to KPI for forward occupancy, reveals how pickup trends should guide your pricing decisions, and shares exactly when it pays to undercut the market versus hold firm.

You’ll learn:

• The key differences between airline/hotel inventory and STR inventory
• Why most operators panic and drop rates too quickly
• How MPI uncovers whether you’re pacing behind, in line, or ahead
• Scenarios where “last man standing” pricing can win big
• Why seasonality and booking windows must shape your pricing targets

If you’ve ever struggled with last-minute discounts, inconsistent occupancy, or uncertainty about whether you’re pacing correctly, this episode gives you a practical roadmap to approach revenue management with confidence.

Takeaways:

• Treat pacing as a leading indicator of revenue performance, not an afterthought
• Use MPI + pickup together for smarter pricing decisions
• Sometimes pacing behind the market is the winning move
• Availability settings and timing can make or break your portfolio’s revenue

Keywords:

short-term rental, Airbnb pricing, pacing strategy, revenue management, occupancy rate, dynamic pricing, MPI, Freewyld, STR success, booking optimization

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if you could take your short-term rental business from 17% to nearly 50% direct bookings in just six weeks? In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Eric Moeller and Kaye Putnam break down the exact influencer collaboration strategy that turned a $900 investment into over $12,000 in direct revenue.

You’ll discover:

• How to choose local influencers that actually drive bookings
• The giveaway format that generated 233,000+ views and thousands of new prospects
• Why global or personality-driven creators fail to convert for STRs
• The must-have contracts and content rights that protect your brand
• How single-property landing pages transform attention into bookings

This isn’t theory. It’s a real case study STR operators can use to reduce OTA reliance, build brand awareness, and grow direct bookings with intentional influencer partnerships.

🎧 Listen now and learn how to stop decorating, start branding, and design collaborations that deliver real ROI.

Keywords

Direct bookings, influencer collaborations, short-term rentals, STR growth, Instagram giveaways, hospitality marketing, property management, Freewyld case study, Airbnb revenue, OTA alternatives

Timestamps

00:00 – Tripling direct bookings in six weeks

02:14 – Why some influencer campaigns fail to convert

07:05 – The profile of creators who actually drive bookings

09:08 – How to find and qualify the right accounts

10:16 – Outreach strategies: DM vs. email

11:10 – Timelines, weekday hosting, and trades

13:29 – Setting expectations and giving direction

15:24 – Contracts, content rights, and model releases

17:28 – Giveaway mechanics that create virality

21:43 – Results: 233k views and $12k in direct bookings

24:36 – ROI breakdown and ad-value comparison

27:50 – Improving the direct booking experience

32:05 – Landing pages vs. full websites for campaigns

34:31 – How STR hosts can apply this playbook

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In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers kicks off our new RefUp Series on revenue management with one of the most overlooked levers in STR revenue: minimum night stay (MNS) settings.

Most hosts see MNS as a simple calendar setting, but it directly impacts your availability, visibility, and overall revenue. Hotels handle short stays differently for a reason, and STR operators can learn a lot from that approach.

We break down:

• The 3 key reasons to restrict minimum nights: operations, risk, and revenue optimization
• Why one-night bookings often bring more benefits than problems
• How Airbnb’s algorithm rewards flexibility with more visibility
• The indirect revenue value of reviews, repeat guests, and exposure
• Real-world examples of operators who unlocked growth by testing shorter stays

Whether you manage a few units or a large portfolio, this episode will show you how to think about MNS settings strategically and stop leaving money on the table.

Keywords: short-term rental, Airbnb, minimum night stay, revenue management, STR optimization, Airbnb algorithm, pricing strategy, Freewyld, property management, bookings

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the real ROI in your short-term rental business isn’t just pricing or operations, but design?

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Kaye Putnam sits down with Jordan McDonough, co-founder of Summerled Designs, to reveal how intentional design and branding transform STR properties into high-performing, unforgettable guest experiences.

Jordan shares how she and her co-founder combined design expertise with marketing strategy to help investors consistently stand out in competitive markets, command premium nightly rates, and turn ordinary spaces into five-star guest favorites.

You’ll learn:

🎨 Why design is not an expense but an investment with 30–50% ROI

🏡 How to align interiors with your target guest instead of personal preference

📸 Why great photography and lifestyle visuals multiply the impact of design

📈 How design, branding, and amenities drive direct bookings and repeat guests

⚡ The Summerled process for creating standout STR properties, even 100% remotely

We also cover:

The biggest mistakes hosts make when DIY-ing design

Why brand identity is now essential for STR success

How to design “Instagrammable” moments that fuel marketing

Why strategic amenities outperform generic check-the-box features

Real examples from markets like Nashville where design directly boosted revenue

🎯 Favorite Takeaway:

“Design isn’t just décor. It’s strategy. It’s what allows you to charge more, book faster, and create experiences guests can’t wait to share.”

📍 Ready to see how design can unlock your property’s potential?

Apply for your free Revenue Review at https://www.freewyldfoundry.com/report

Keywords: short-term rental design, Airbnb interiors, STR branding, guest experience, property management, hospitality, STR success, design ROI, direct bookings, Summerled Designs

⏱️ Chapter Timestamps

00:00 – Intro and Summerled origin story

03:25 – Why design delivers ROI in STRs

06:15 – Current trends in branding and amenities

10:30 – How to define a property’s brand identity

14:05 – Summerled’s remote design process and deliverables

16:20 – The role of AI in design workflows

18:00 – Common design mistakes STR investors make

20:15 – Why photography is critical to marketing success

21:45 – Favorite projects and lessons from Nashville

24:55 – Final thoughts and how to work with Summerled

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In this episode, Kaye Putnam joins Freewyld co-founder Eric Moeller to reveal the real strategies behind maintaining a top-rated Airbnb portfolio. Spoiler: it’s not just about having a beautiful property.

They break down the essentials every STR operator must master to win guest loyalty and outperform the competition:

• Accurate Marketing & Listing Optimization
• Meeting and Surpassing Guest Expectations
• Personalized Hospitality & Human Connection
• Creating Magic Moments That Drive Reviews

Using Freewyld’s cabins and client portfolios as examples, Kaye and Eric share how to turn guest feedback into a growth engine, protect your visibility on Airbnb, and build systems that ensure consistent 5-star experiences.

Whether you manage 15+ units or are scaling your first few, this episode will give you practical steps to improve reviews, boost rankings, and grow a hospitality-first STR business.

Keywords:

short-term rental, Airbnb reviews, 5-star rating, guest experience, listing optimization, hospitality, Freewyld, property management, STR success, review strategy

⏱️ Episode Chapters

00:00 – Intro: Why Airbnb reviews matter more than ever

01:32 – Accurate listings and managing expectations

04:25 – When great marketing falls short in execution

06:36 – Why accuracy beats luxury every time

09:41 – Overcommunication and guest connection

14:34 – Creating emotional “magic moments” for guests

18:23 – Turning friction into positive experiences

21:32 – The coffee debacle: learning from reviews

26:36 – Reading feedback and fixing small details

28:18 – Internal systems and team training for reviews

29:51 – Guest journey mapping with Nathan Woods

32:05 – Final takeaways: reviews as growth opportunities

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In this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Eric Moeller interviews Jasper Ribbers, co-founder of Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry, about the fast-growing world of revenue management.

Jasper shares how their team scaled from managing a handful of Freewyld cabins to overseeing 66 clients, 1,600 listings, and more than $61M in revenue, and why most STR operators are unknowingly missing out on 20 to 40 percent of their potential income.

We also dive into:

• Why revenue management is not just a pricing tool
• The number one mistake operators make when setting prices
• How pacing (forward occupancy) reveals untapped demand
• Real case studies where portfolios jumped 25 to 40 percent in booked revenue
• Why strict availability and cancellation policies often backfire

If you want to scale your portfolio, capture hidden revenue, and finally give pricing the same attention as marketing and operations, this episode is for you.

Takeaways

• Treat revenue management as a core business function, not an afterthought
• Most operators are leaving 10 to 40 percent on the table by misusing pricing tools
• Pacing is the most powerful and overlooked concept in STR pricing
• Availability and cancellation policies impact revenue just as much as rates
• A dedicated revenue manager can consistently outperform DIY strategies

Relevant Links

• Apply for a Free Revenue Report: freewyldfoundry.com
• Follow Jasper: LinkedIn
• Follow Eric: LinkedIn

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In this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Jasper sits down with Jeremy Udovich, co-founder of Sheboygan Vacation Rentals, to talk about building and scaling a thriving STR business on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Jeremy shares the story of how one lakefront property hit $100,000 in a single month, why charging premium rates doesn’t automatically mean unhappy guests, and how mindset + market-driven pricing beats gut instinct every time.

We also dive into:

• Why hospitality experience is the ultimate STR advantage
• How to balance growth with a lean team
• The new quality-first direction at Airbnb and how to stay visible
• Why “fair share” isn’t enough, and how to claim your “unfair share” of the market

If you’re looking to scale your portfolio or fine-tune your pricing strategy, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Takeaways

• Luxury STRs thrive when the experience matches the rate.
• Market demand, not your gut, should set your pricing.
• Airbnb is rewarding fully optimized, high-quality listings.
• A lean team plus automation can drive big results, but hospitality fundamentals are non-negotiable.
• Mindset matters: challenges are inevitable, but your response determines your success.

Relevant Links

• Apply for a Free Revenue Report
• Sheboygan Vacation Rentals: sheboyganvacationrentals.com
• Connect with Jeremy: Jeremy@sheboyganvacationrentals.com
• Follow Jasper: LinkedIn

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What’s the real difference between a hectic host and a high-performing CEO in the short-term rental space?

In this episode, Kaye Putnam and Eric Moeller break down how successful STR leaders escape the daily grind and create real business freedom. You’ll learn why systems, energy management, and delegation aren't just buzzwords, they're essential tools for scaling without burning out.

Eric shares the behind-the-scenes of helping Troy (a client in Northern Michigan) go from 30 to over 100 listings, culminating in his first $1M revenue month. The secret? Getting out of the weeds, hiring elite operators, and focusing on high-leverage activities only the CEO can do.

Whether you're still handling pricing yourself or buried in customer service messages, this episode is a wake-up call. You’ll walk away with the mindset shifts and practical systems you need to step fully into your role as a strategic CEO.

💡 Topics covered:

• Signs you’re stuck in “reactive” mode
• How to run an “energy audit” on your weekly tasks
• Systems = freedom: why delegation is non-negotiable
• Why pricing your own listings is probably costing you six figures
• Real-world example: how Troy scaled from chaos to clarity (and 3x'd his revenue)
• How to use tools like ChatGPT to scale your SOPs

🔗 Episode Links

• Eric Moeller (Co-founder, Freewyld) → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdmoeller/
• Kaye Putnam → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayeputnam/
• Freewyld Foundry (RPM Service) → https://www.freewyldfoundry.com/

⏱️ Chapter Timestamps

00:00 – The Hectic Host vs. The Strategic CEO

02:48 – Understanding Reactivity in Business

05:35 – The Cost of Being in the Weeds

08:40 – Energy Management vs. Time Management

11:32 – The Importance of Delegation and Systems

14:11 – Troy's Success Story: A Case Study

19:52 – Key Strategies for Scaling Your Business

22:57 – The Role of Systems in Business Freedom

26:33 – Effective Delegation and Ownership

32:07 – Final Thoughts and Action Steps

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Freewyld Foundry’s Revenue & Pricing Management service is driving a 24.6% performance lift for $1M+ STR operators—even in down markets. If you're managing 15+ listings and want a free pricing audit, apply here →

In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Kaye Putnam (Head of Marketing at Freewyld) is joined by Eric Moeller (CEO of Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry) to break down how to make the most of STR conferences.

If you’ve ever left a conference wondering whether it was worth the time or cost, this is for you. Eric shares his “3 Conference Hacks” and explains how being intentional before and during an event can dramatically change the outcome.

You’ll hear:

• Why the hallways and cocktail hours are more valuable than the panels
• How Eric preps as an introvert (hint: start with a workout)
• What questions to ask that leave a lasting impression
• The Will Guidara story that changed how Eric shows up at events
• How to host your own meetup (and why it positions you as a connector)
• Why VRMA is still the one to watch—and what we’re teaching there

We also talk about:

• The upcoming VRMA Vegas workshop: “Pricing Power: How the Top STR Hosts Outpace the Market”
• What makes that session different (no fluff, just actionable results)
• A preview of Freewyld’s newest expansion plans—and how to connect if you're a property owner or investor

🎯 Mentioned in the Episode:

• Freewyld Foundry – Revenue Management for $1M+ STR Portfolios
• VRMA International Conference
• IMN Conference in Park City

🔥 Eric’s Go-To Networking Questions:

1. “What are you working on right now that excites you the most?”
2. “Is there any way I can support you?”

📍 If you’ll be at IMN in Park City or VRMA in Vegas—come say hi. Ask us the two questions above, and let’s connect.

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In this episode of Get Paid For Your Pad, Jasper Ribbers sits down with Alex De Camp, founder of Great Stays in Detroit, Michigan. A former banker turned short-term rental operator, Alex shares his path from redeveloping properties in Detroit to managing a growing STR portfolio, with over 150 turns a month.

They dive into how Alex automated his operations, leveraged Freewyld Foundry's RPM service, and how early involvement in the LegendsX community shaped his journey.

You’ll hear how Alex’s experience inspired his next big move: opening a laundromat to vertically integrate laundry into his STR business, cutting costs, improving quality, and creating a more efficient turnover process.

The episode is packed with practical insights on SOPs, AI, team building, and scaling smart (not just fast).

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apply for a free Revenue Review at FreewyldFoundry.com/get-started and discover where you can unlock serious growth.

In this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Kaye Putnam and Eric Moeller unpack the often-overlooked engine behind every thriving STR brand: operational excellence.

They explore how the best short-term rental operators use systems, processes, documentation, and technology to deliver consistent guest experiences, reduce stress, and scale with confidence. From tools like Breezeway to lessons learned from high-stakes industries like aviation and healthcare, this is a tactical conversation grounded in real-world experience.

Whether you're managing five properties or fifty, operational excellence is how you create reliability, elevate hospitality, and free yourself from day-to-day firefighting.

Keywords: operational excellence, short-term rentals, hospitality, systems, processes, guest experience, technology, tools, documentation, growth

🕐 Episode Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Operational Excellence

02:47 – Understanding Operational Excellence

05:30 – Tools and Technology for Operations

08:19 – Learning from High-Stakes Industries

11:16 – Building Systems for Success

14:07 – Documenting Processes Effectively

16:37 – The Impact of Operational Excellence

19:29 – Resources for Improvement

22:19 – Community and Mastermind Benefits

25:03 – Looking Ahead: Unreasonable Hospitality

🎧 Listen now and start building the systems that will support your next stage of growth.

FreewyldFoundry.com/get-started

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In this episode, Kaye Putnam joins Freewyld co-founder Eric Moeller for a candid conversation on what really drives long-term success in short-term rentals. Spoiler: it’s not just your pricing tool.

They break down the four non-negotiables every elite STR operator needs to master:

• Brand and Product
• Unreasonable Hospitality
• Revenue Mastery
• Operational Excellence

Using the Freewyld brand as a case study, they explore how these pillars work together to create a differentiated guest experience, improve profitability, and scale with confidence.

Whether you're managing 15+ units or just thinking bigger, this episode delivers clarity, strategy, and inspiration for growing a hospitality-first, brand-driven STR business.

Keywords:

short-term rental, STR success, hospitality, brand strategy, unreasonable hospitality, revenue mastery, operational excellence, FreeWild, guest experience, property management

⏱️ Episode Chapters

00:00 – Intro: Why the STR game has changed

02:37 – The Four Non-Negotiables of STR

05:29 – Brand & Product: Where it all starts

08:35 – Unreasonable Hospitality: The FreeWild secret

11:17 – Revenue Mastery: Smarter pricing, better profit

14:12 – Operational Excellence: Your brand depends on it

16:53 – Building a STR Brand: Lessons from FreeWild

19:52 – Creating Emotional Guest Connections

22:51 – Wrap-Up: Applying the 4 non-negotiables

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If you’re scaling a short-term rental business, this is your room.

In this episode, Kaye Putnam and Eric Moeller unpack the real power behind mastermind groups for entrepreneurs - why they work, what makes them fail, and how to get the most out of them. They break down the mindset and structure that drive true transformation inside the right group.

You'll learn:

• Why perspective and community are non-negotiable for growth
• What to look for (and avoid) when joining or building a mastermind
• How the Foundry Mastermind is helping STR hosts solve real business challenges in real time

Whether you’re new to masterminds or ready to level up into an industry-specific group, this conversation will help you find the support, strategy, and collaboration you need to thrive.

Mentioned:

Foundry Mastermind →freewyldfoundry.com/foundry-mastermind

Keywords: masterminds, entrepreneurship, community, collaboration, networking, personal growth, business challenges, peer support, Foundry Mastermind, short-term rentals

Chapters

00:00 The Power of Masterminds

02:58 Defining Masterminds

06:02 Creating and Joining Masterminds

08:48 Maximizing Value in Masterminds

12:05 Finding the Right Mastermind

15:06 Introducing the Foundry Mastermind

18:05 The Evolution of Masterminds

21:05 Continuous Growth Through Masterminds

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In this episode, Kaye Putnam and Eric Moeller dive deep into one of the most overlooked growth levers in short-term rental businesses: revenue management. Whether you're operating a few units or managing a large portfolio, understanding how to optimize your pricing strategy can make or break your profitability.

They break down the most common mistakes hosts make—like set-it-and-forget-it pricing—and explore the benefits of dynamic pricing tools, in-house experts, and third-party revenue optimization services. This is a must-listen if you're serious about growing your STR business with a CEO mindset.

🎯 Key Takeaways:

• Revenue management is critical for profitability in the STR industry.
• Most hosts unknowingly leave money on the table.
• Tools alone aren't enough—strategy is key.
• Hosts must assess their current capabilities and options: Learn and lead revenue strategy themselves, Hire internally, or Partner with experts
• A daily focus on pricing decisions drives business growth.
• The most successful operators treat revenue management as a core business function.

⏱ Episode Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction to Revenue Management

05:07 – Identifying Revenue Management Gaps

11:42 – Strategies for Maximizing Revenue

21:10 – Choosing the Right Revenue Management Approach

27:39 – Conclusion and Future Insights

Keywords: revenue management, short-term rentals, pricing strategy, dynamic pricing, hospitality, business growth, Freewyld, property management, revenue optimization, CEO mindset

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Get early access to property acquisition opportunities, behind-the-scenes updates, and insights into how we’re crafting a hospitality brand with soul.

In this episode, Kaye Putnam and Eric Moeller pull back the curtain on the emotional and strategic journey behind Freewyld’s latest real estate acquisition. From the excitement of discovering a promising property to the challenges of staying true to the Freewyld brand identity, they share raw insights and hard-earned lessons.

You’ll hear how the team balanced investor relations, cash flow planning, and renovation realities—while staying focused on building a hospitality brand designed to stand the test of time. This is a candid look at entrepreneurship, the importance of market fit, and the grit it takes to build a legacy business in the property acquisition space.

Whether you're an aspiring real estate investor, a hospitality brand builder, or simply someone who appreciates the emotional side of business, this episode is for you.

⏱ Episode Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Freewyld's Journey

02:58 – The Search for the Perfect Property

06:13 – Emotional Roller Coaster of Property Acquisition

08:59 – Brand Identity and Market Fit

11:47 – Highs and Lows of the Acquisition Process

17:47 – Navigating Challenges and Investor Relations

29:52 – Lessons Learned and Future Focus

Keywords: Freewyld, property acquisition, hospitality, brand identity, investor relations, emotional journey, business lessons, market fit, real estate, entrepreneurship

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In this behind-the-scenes episode, Kaye Putnam and Eric Moeller reflect on the unexpected rise of Freewyld, our design-forward cabin brand rooted in Idyllwild, California, and built to help guests disconnect from tech and reconnect to what matters.

From humble beginnings to building Wyldwood Park, they share the lessons, pivots, and breakthroughs that helped Freewyld evolve from an idea into one of the most-loved short-term rental stays in SoCal. You’ll hear how “Unreasonable Hospitality” became a core operating value, why revenue management is a growth lever most hosts overlook, and what’s next, including the relaunch of The Foundry, their mastermind for hospitality operators looking to scale with excellence.

This episode is packed with insights for anyone in the hospitality, STR, or real estate investment world looking to create unforgettable guest experiences—and stronger revenue along the way.

Mentioned in this episode:

• Freewyld Cabins
• @stayfreewyld on Instagram
• Connect with Eric on LinkedIn
• Follow Eric on Instagram

Chapters & Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction to Freewyld and Idyllwild

02:45 – Building the Freewyld Brand

06:01 – Creating the Wyldwood Park Experience

08:48 – Unreasonable Hospitality in Operations

11:46 – Improving Guest Experience and Communication

14:57 – Revenue Management and RPM Launch

18:10 – Scaling Freewyld and Future Plans

21:06 – The Foundry Mastermind Relaunch

Keywords: Freewyld, Idyllwild, Wyldwood Park, short-term rentals, hospitality, guest experience, revenue management, operational excellence, boutique travel, Freewyld Foundry, STR marketing, community building, The Foundry mastermind, Wyld Mode.

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Get your free Revenue Report from our expert team—see what’s working, what’s not, and how much more your STR business could be making:

👉 https://www.freewyldfoundry.com/get-started/

In this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, host Jasper Ribbers interviews Alisha Nelson, co-founder of Nestaide, a standout property management company based in Whistler, Canada.

Alisha shares how she launched her short-term rental business during maternity leave and scaled it into one of Whistler’s top-performing Airbnbs. From forming a powerful business partnership to navigating the challenges of seasonal property management, Alisha offers practical insights for both new and established short-term rental (STR) operators.

You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how NestAid approaches revenue management, builds strong teams, and manages owner expectations during market shifts. Plus, Alisha breaks down key market trends, what made this winter season different, and why authenticity is their secret weapon.

If you're in the short-term rental game, especially in seasonal markets, this episode is packed with value.

Stay with Nestaide and use coupon code GETPAID15 to take 15% off!

⏱️ Episode Timestamps & Topics

00:00 – Introduction to Alisha Nelson and Nestaide

02:48 – Alisha’s leap into property management during maternity leave

05:59 – Why a strong business partnership is non-negotiable

09:03 – Insights from the 2024 winter season in Whistler

11:59 – Market shifts, shorter booking windows, and rate drops

14:59 – Hiring, leadership, and building a reliable team

17:59 – Managing seasonal operations and turnover schedules

21:14 – What new property managers need to hear

24:07 – Alisha’s closing thoughts and what’s next for Nestaide

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In this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, host Jasper Ribbers sits down with Suzanna and Jared Styles of Pink Door BnB to unpack their inspiring journey in the short-term rental industry. From managing properties to running their thriving Airbnb business, this dynamic duo shares insights on scaling effectively, optimizing Airbnb listings, and prioritizing guest experiences. They candidly discuss balancing their roles as both business and life partners, offering valuable tips on maintaining healthy relationship dynamics while scaling a hospitality business.

Whether you're looking to enhance your property management strategy or improve your Airbnb visibility, Suzanna and Jared’s success story offers actionable advice and inspiration.

Key takeaways:

• Transitioning smoothly from property management to short-term rentals
• Secrets to scaling a rental property business from 11 to 80 listings
• The importance of high-quality design and furnishings in guest satisfaction
• Strategies for setting clear boundaries to balance business and personal life
• Tips for understanding and leveraging Airbnb’s algorithm to boost visibility

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Introduction to Suzanna and Jared Styles from Pink Door BnB
• 01:10 – Their journey from property management into the short-term rental industry
• 04:00 – How Pink Door BnB scaled effectively from 11 to 80 properties
• 08:01 – Maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life
• 09:33 – Insights into relationship dynamics as business and life partners
• 19:04 – Creating irresistible Airbnb listings to attract guests
• 29:03 – Challenges and lessons learned while scaling their hospitality operations

Keywords: short-term rentals, property management, Airbnb, business growth, guest experience, relationship dynamics, listing optimization, hospitality industry, scaling business, rental properties

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