Behind the Stays

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Behind the Stays Wrapped! The Top 10 Episodes of 2024 Dec 10, 2024

Show notes

As 2024 draws to a close, we’re celebrating the standout conversations that defined our year. Today’s episode revisits your top 10 favorites:

#10 The New Era of Exploration: How Today's Travelers Think About Loyalty, Independent Hotels, and Experiential Stays

#9 He Buys RV Parks: Predictions on the Future of Camping and Outdoor Hospitality

#8 How They Transformed a 100-Year-Old Beach House into a Chic Airbnb (And Booked it Fully in Just 11 Days)

#7 How They're Building the Hottest New Tiny Home: The Story of ÖÖD Mirror House

#6 How to Merge Luxury, Sustainability, and MICHELIN-Star Experiences — The Story of the Kabn Company

#5 Meet the 19-Year-Old Who Builds (and Buys) Unique Stays

#4 He Dreamed of Being a Farmer, But Wound Up An Entrepreneur: The Story of Back Forty Glamping

#3 Hans Lorei on Building an Instagram Audience from 0 to 100k in 100 Days

#2 How They're Building the Airbnb for Houseboats: The Story of FLOHOM

#1 The Dark Side of Airbnb: How One Host Lost Everything in a Day

Each of these top episodes underscores a common thread: intention. The hosts, designers, and entrepreneurs you’ll hear from don’t just provide a place to sleep.

They craft experiences that evoke emotion, foster connection, and invite guests to see travel differently. Whether it’s a lakeside houseboat, a mountaintop treehouse, or a contemporary villa, the essence remains the same—thoughtful, meaningful hospitality that leaves a lasting impression.

Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.

Netflix Fame, Rock-Star Roots, and a Treehouse Empire: The Bolt Farm Story Dec 06, 2024

Show notes

Meet Tori Bolt — Co-Founder of Bolt Farm, a celebrated nature retreat in Whitwell Tennessee, offering 23 meticulously designed villas.

In 2016, Tori and Seth Bolt embarked on a bold adventure, building their first luxury treehouse—an intimate project that began as a handcrafted wedding gift. What they didn’t know then was that this creative labor of love would spark a new era in experiential hospitality.

Long before the surge in unique stays and experiential accommodations, the Bolts were leading the way, crafting spaces that balanced the serenity of nature with the sophistication of high-end design. It wasn’t long before their work caught the attention of Netflix’s The World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals, a feature that helped position Bolt Farm as a pioneer in the luxury glamping space.

Seth Bolt, a longtime member of the Grammy-nominated band Needtobreathe, brought a unique perspective to the design process. Years of touring and experiencing hospitality across the spectrum informed the couple’s meticulous approach to guest experience. The result? A collection of stays where every detail, from heated marble floors to handcrafted interiors, is intentional, offering guests a haven for rest, connection, and inspiration.

In this episode, we explore:

How their first luxury treehouse laid the foundation for Bolt Farm’s success.
What it meant to be featured on Netflix and how the exposure transformed their brand.
The journey from a small collection of unique stays to a full-fledged wellness resort with a seven-day-a-week spa and curated dining options.
The couple’s vision for expansion, including discussions around franchising and strategic partnerships that maintain their signature level of quality and charm.
Lessons from balancing bold creativity with operational excellence as they scale.

Tori and Seth’s story is one of creativity, resilience, and innovation. From their first treehouse to their plans for nationwide expansion, this episode is a testament to what’s possible when you dream big and create with intention.

Connect with Seth and Tori

Follow Bolt Farm on Instagram

This episode is brought to you by the Short Term Rental Forum hosted by IMN!
Join me this January 15-16 at the Miami JW Marriott for the premier Short Term Rental Forum hosted by IMN—the industry leader with over 30 years of experience! I'll be speaking at the forum, and you’ll have the chance to network with 400+ top investors, operators, property managers, lenders, and tech providers in the Short Term Rental space.
It’s the must-attend event of the year to elevate your business strategy and connect with the industry's best. You can use code BTS for an extra 15% off this lowest available rate. Register now at events.imn.org/str25 – I’ll see you in Miami!

What Most Hotels and STRs Miss: The Hidden Power of the In-Stay Journey Dec 03, 2024

Show notes

Meet Samantha Hardcastle — founder of The Storied Experience, a Creative Studio Re-imagining Hospitality Destinations, Tourism Experiences & Lifestyle Hotels.

Samantha specializes in helping boutique hotels and unique stays craft meaningful guest journeys that inspire connection, curiosity, and reflection.

Her journey began in 2011, when she launched a social media marketing company. After years of creating content for boutique hotels, Samantha felt called to dive deeper—beyond the surface of beautiful imagery and into the heart of storytelling. Today, her work helps properties infuse their brand narratives into every touchpoint, offering guests at the world’s most memorable properties something truly unforgettable.

Tune in to hear:

Samantha’s approach to experience design and why story is the foundation of all her work.
How she helps properties create immersive offerings, like a full moon dinner inspired by Aztec lore or a forest whisper confessional that blends nature with human connection.
The three "opportunity zones" for creating memorable guest experiences: multi-day retreats, interactive touchpoints, and local collaborations.
Why intentional design matters and how properties can create spaces that foster engagement, reflection, and playfulness.
Real-world examples of small, cost-effective ideas—like symbolic painted rocks—that spark creativity and connection.
Why Samantha believes the future of hospitality lies in embracing authenticity, storytelling, and bold creativity.

Connect with Samantha

Explore the Storied Experience Website

This episode is brought to you by the Short Term Rental Forum hosted by IMN!
Join me this January 15-16 at the Miami JW Marriott for the premier Short Term Rental Forum hosted by IMN—the industry leader with over 30 years of experience! I'll be speaking at the forum, and you’ll have the chance to network with 400+ top investors, operators, property managers, lenders, and tech providers in the Short Term Rental space.
It’s the must-attend event of the year to elevate your business strategy and connect with the industry's best. Don’t miss out – the super early bird rate expires Friday November 22nd and you can use code BTS for an extra 15% off this lowest available rate. Register now at events.imn.org/str25 – I’ll see you in Miami!

Scaling Soulfully: The Story of The Archer Hotel and The Rise of Boutique Business Travel Nov 26, 2024

Show notes

In just a moment you'll meet Peter Triolo, the General Manager of Archer Hotel Tysons, a standout boutique hotel that's redefining hospitality in Virginia.

With over eight years at Archer, Peter has been a driving force behind the brand's growth—from his beginnings at the Archer Hotel Napa to the expansion of unique properties across the country. His journey is all about creating genuine, memorable experiences that resonate with every guest.

Archer Hotels are more than just places to stay; they're immersive environments that reflect the soul of their local communities. Each hotel is thoughtfully designed with local inspiration—from the peach murals honoring Tysons' history as a former peach field to daily treats and cocktails that celebrate regional flavors.

Tune in to hear:

How Archer Hotels craft unique yet consistently welcoming experiences across different locations
The brand's philosophy of being playful, careful, and thoughtful in every guest interaction
Stories of personalized touches, like handwritten notes and special surprises that make stays unforgettable
Peter's insights on maintaining a boutique feel while the brand grows
The importance of community connections and supporting local artisans
And so much more

Discover The Archer Hotel
Connect with Peter on LinkedIn

This episode is brought to you by the Short Term Rental Forum hosted by IMN!
Join me this January 15-16 at the Miami JW Marriott for the premier Short Term Rental Forum hosted by IMN—the industry leader with over 30 years of experience! I'll be speaking at the forum, and you’ll have the chance to network with 400+ top investors, operators, property managers, lenders, and tech providers in the Short Term Rental space.
It’s the must-attend event of the year to elevate your business strategy and connect with the industry's best. Don’t miss out – the super early bird rate expires Friday November 22nd and you can use code BTS for an extra 15% off this lowest available rate. Register now at events.imn.org/str25 – I’ll see you in Miami!

The Power of Partnership: Lessons from a Collaborative Creator Campaign of Top Unique Stays in New England Nov 22, 2024

Show notes

Meet returning guests Monique DeLorenzo and Kerri Gibson, two visionary short-term rental operators who recently piloted an exciting marketing partnership.

A couple of months ago Kerri came on the show to share a vision that she and Monique had to bring together four distinct properties, a pair of talented creators, and a shared goal of curating the ultimate New England road trip experience.

In this episode, Kerri and Monique discuss what the results of this first-of-its-kind collaboration were…

Tune in to hear:

The birth of a boutique road trip: How Monique and Kerri turned a bold idea into a full-fledged marketing campaign in partnership with the folks at Lumen Camps and The Maine Cabins.
Lessons learned from the journey: From wrangling tourism boards to selecting the perfect collaborators, they share what worked—and what they’d refine.
How boutique stays align with shifting traveler preferences: Why personalized, design-forward accommodations are capturing consumer spending.
The long-term vision: How Monique and Kerri plan to turn this road trip campaign into a blueprint for regional hospitality experiences across seasons.
Why engagement is everything: The surprising metrics—from Instagram followers to DMs—that show their strategy resonated with audiences.

Alright friends, without further ado, get ready to meet Kerri and Monique.

Connect with Kerri

Connect with Monique

This episode is brought to you by the Short Term Rental Forum hosted by IMN!
Join me this January 15-16 at the Miami JW Marriott for the premier Short Term Rental Forum hosted by IMN—the industry leader with over 30 years of experience! I'll be speaking at the forum, and you’ll have the chance to network with 400+ top investors, operators, property managers, lenders, and tech providers in the Short Term Rental space.
It’s the must-attend event of the year to elevate your business strategy and connect with the industry's best. Don’t miss out – the super early bird rate expires Friday November 22nd and you can use code BTS for an extra 15% off this lowest available rate. Register now at events.imn.org/str25 – I’ll see you in Miami!

The Boutique Boom: Data and Ideas Shaping the Future of Hospitality Nov 19, 2024

Show notes

In this solo-episode, Zach transports listeners to Dawn Ranch, a boutique retreat in Guerneville, California, nestled in the heart of Sonoma wine country. The property, designed as a haven for creative renewal, invites guests to escape the distractions of modern life and reconnect with themselves. The host reflects on their stay while exploring trends and innovative ideas shaping the future of boutique and experiential travel.

Tune in to hear:

How Dawn Ranch fosters creative awakenings and why properties like it play a crucial role in helping guests think deeply and recharge.
Data-backed insights on the rise of experiential travel, including a 34% increase in spending on travel experiences since 2019.
The shift toward boutique hotels and unique stays, with boutique properties growing at nearly double the rate of big-box hotels.
Creative ideas for hospitality entrepreneurs, such as niche retreats like book club weekends, gamified treasure hunts, and pop-up wellness labs.
The importance of storytelling and designing spaces with soul, and how properties can craft narratives that resonate deeply with guests.
Why exclusivity and luxury experiences are pivotal in creating lasting guest connections and fostering loyalty.

This episode serves as both inspiration and a roadmap for hospitality innovators eager to embrace emerging trends and offer transformative experiences to their guests. Whether you’re a boutique hotelier, short-term rental operator, or an enthusiast of unique stays, this conversation explores how the future of travel is being shaped by thoughtful, immersive, and creative hospitality.

This episode is brought to you by the Short Term Rental Forum hosted by IMN!
Join me this January 15-16 at the Miami JW Marriott for the premier Short Term Rental Forum hosted by IMN—the industry leader with over 30 years of experience! I'll be speaking at the forum, and you’ll have the chance to network with 400+ top investors, operators, property managers, lenders, and tech providers in the Short Term Rental space.
It’s the must-attend event of the year to elevate your business strategy and connect with the industry's best. Don’t miss out – the super early bird rate expires Friday November 22nd and you can use code BTS for an extra 15% off this lowest available rate. Register now at events.imn.org/str25 – I’ll see you in Miami!

Is Experiential Hospitality Overhyped? Hot Takes on Travel Trends, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, and More with the French Cowboys Nov 15, 2024

Show notes

In this episode Zach sits down with the French Cowboys — Dylan and Franklin — to chat about how they built their business, what the future of boutique hospitality will look like, why experiential hospitality is overhyped, and the pros and cons of owning and managing boutique hotels vs. boutique vacation rentals.

Learn more about the French Cowboys.

This episode is brought to you by the Short Term Rental Forum hosted by IMN!
Join me this January 15-16 at the Miami JW Marriott for the premier Short Term Rental Forum hosted by IMN—the industry leader with over 30 years of experience! I'll be speaking at the forum, and you’ll have the chance to network with 400+ top investors, operators, property managers, lenders, and tech providers in the Short Term Rental space.
It’s the must-attend event of the year to elevate your business strategy and connect with the industry's best. Don’t miss out – the super early bird rate expires Friday November 22nd and you can use code BTS for an extra 15% off this lowest available rate. Register now at events.imn.org/str25 – I’ll see you in Miami!

Build Fewer, Spend More: A Round Table on The New Formula for Experiential Hospitality with Ben Wolff and Isaac French Nov 12, 2024

Show notes

In this special crossover episode of Behind the Stays and The Unique Hospitality Podcast, hosted by my friend Nick Purslow, we bring together two of the most innovative names in experiential hospitality—Ben Wolff of Onera and Isaac French of Live Oak Lake. Known for creating standout micro-resorts and unique stays, Ben and Isaac are veterans of the podcast scene, but this time, they’re answering some questions they’ve never been asked before.

Tune in for unfiltered insights on what it takes to create deeply personal, experiential stays that go beyond just beautiful design. Our conversation dives into Ben’s big-vision approach with projects like Onera Wimberley, where scale meets seamless guest experience, and contrasts it with Isaac’s preference for smaller, more intimate stays—designed to immerse guests fully in nature and unparalleled design.

We also explore how shifts in consumer spending and a growing preference for authenticity and personalization are reshaping the hospitality landscape and why consumers are looking beyond the traditional, finding luxury in boutique, nature-centric stays that prioritize immersive moments over cookie-cutter amenities.

You’ll get Ben and Isaac’s takes on:

How Instagram and tech-centric tools are transforming hospitality, enabling small brands to capture attention, build loyalty, and reach consumers at scale, just like industry giants.
Why scaling across multiple properties, brand differentiation, and why personal brand-building can be a game-changer in boutique hospitality.
Why “build fewer, spend more” is becoming the motto for unique stays, and how these one-of-a-kind locations are meeting consumer demand for high-quality, memorable escapes.
Predictions for the future of boutique hotels, from decentralized hospitality chains to collaborative, local-first models.
And so much more

Listen to The Unique Hospitality Podcast

Follow Behind the Stays on Instagram

Follow Isaac on Twitter/X or Instagram

Follow Ben on Twitter/X or Instagram

Learn more about Posh Outdoors

Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world’s top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more.
Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.

From World Traveler to Boutique Hotelier: Lessons Learned on Owning Both Vacation Rentals and Hotels Nov 08, 2024

Show notes

Meet Adam Dailey – an adventurous soul and hospitality innovator who owns a collection of short-term rentals and boutique hotels in San Diego.

From an Olympic sports tour operator to a global family traveler, Adam’s journey into hospitality began with a family sabbatical, taking him, his wife, and their four young children around the world.

Today, Adam channels that passion for exploration and authentic experiences into managing boutique hotels and vacation rentals that blend charm, service, and design to create truly memorable stays.

In this episode, we dive into:

Adam’s journey from corporate burnout to launching a hospitality portfolio inspired by his global travels
His pivot from owning and managing vacation rentals to owning and managing boutique hotels
Why he believes smaller, well-designed properties (20-30 rooms) allow for an exceptional level of personal service
Lessons learned from his partnership with Sonder, and the difference between low-touch, tech-driven stays and high-touch, luxury-focused hospitality
Why the right touchpoints—like an on-site concierge or thoughtful lobby design—create a feeling of true luxury, even in boutique settings
Adam’s insights on navigating the evolution of guest expectations in a saturated market where unique stays are in high demand
The role of AI and technology in optimizing operations, without sacrificing the human element that guests crave

Alright friends, without further ado, get ready to meet Adam.

Follow Behind the Stays on Instagram

Connect with Adam on LinkedIn

Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance.

If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we’d love for you to apply to join our Alliance at joinjourney.com/alliance.

He's Bringing Nature-Inspired, Suspended Treehouses to the World of Unique Stays — Meet Jason Thawley from Tree Tents Nov 05, 2024

Show notes

Meet Jason Thawley, founder of Tree Tents — a one-of-a-kind suspended tree structures.

Tree Tents isn’t your typical prefab company. With a product lineup featuring the iconic “Tree Tent”, fuselage-inspired pods, and the whimsical Birdhouse, Jason’s designs offer travelers an immersive outdoor experience that’s as unique as it is sustainable. As the demand for glamping grows, Jason’s creations provide unique stay entrepreneurs a way to offer something truly different, designed to bring guests closer to nature with every moment.

Tune in to hear:

How Jason’s curiosity and early love of nature inspired his designs
The story behind Tree Tents’ first structure—built on a tight deadline for a UK TV series
Why immersive design matters in creating memorable glamping experiences
Jason’s take on “rooming with nature”—why separate structures make the outdoors part of each stay
His vision for affordable, eco-friendly units that meet the needs of small business owners
Tree Tents’ growing presence in the U.S., and why the brand is expanding internationally

In this episode, Jason shares how each structure is crafted to give guests the feeling of true escape, encouraging them to embrace the outdoors while enjoying a unique, comfortable stay. Whether you’re a glamping enthusiast, hospitality entrepreneur, or just curious about what’s next in nature-immersive design, this conversation offers a glimpse into the future of experiential stays.

Learn more about Tree Tents

Behind the Stays and its parent company StayWatch have been acquired by Journey — a next-generation loyalty program designed for the modern traveler. Learn more about what Journey is building at JoinJourney.com.

Apply to Join the Journey Alliance

Connect with Zach on LinkedIn

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