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#072: Perseverance in Action: From Navigating Cease-and-Desist Orders to a Successful Urban Property with Julie McAferty, Greenlake Guest House

#072: Perseverance in Action: From Navigating Cease-and-Desist Orders to a Successful Urban Property with Julie McAferty, Greenlake Guest House

In 2004, when Julie McAferty and her husband Blayne purchased a 1920s-era home in Seattle, WA they did not anticipate the obstacles that they would encounter. From facing cease-and-desist orders to navigating changes in local laws, their perseverance and advocacy for the lodging industry were key to their triumphs.

Overcoming these obstacles early on, helped them master a strategic approach to running their business. As urban lodging owners, it soon became apparent that providing guests with personalized recommendations to local attractions was essential for creating memorable guest experiences.

Their story serves as an inspiring example of how perseverance, local expertise, and advocacy can drive success in the ever-changing world of hospitality.

You can learn more about the Greenlake Guest House at greenlakeguesthouse.com.

#071: Simplify, Connect, Grow: One B&B Owner’s Secret to Success with Jan Smith, Maple Cove Bed & Breakfast

#071: Simplify, Connect, Grow: One B&B Owner’s Secret to Success with Jan Smith, Maple Cove Bed & Breakfast

The challenges of independent lodging professionals can be overwhelming. Sometimes innkeepers need to be reminded to simplify their approach and connect more effectively with guests in order to grow.

Jan Smith, owner of Maple Cove Bed & Breakfast and the August House, shares how she has transformed her business by improving the experience of her guests, streamlining operations, and building stronger relationships with local businesses.

We are very thankful to Jan for sharing her insights with us.

You can learn more about the Maple Cove Bed & Breakfast and the August House at maplecovebandb.com.

Fall Into Networking: The Start of Lodging Conference Season is Upon Us

Fall Into Networking: The Start of Lodging Conference Season is Upon Us

It’s hard to believe that fall is upon us. It’s time to put away the sunscreen and pull out the sweaters! To many, it will be a welcome relief from those 100+ degree days. There’s nothing better than crisp autumn days and all things pumpkin!

Fall not only ushers in cooler temps and maybe a little snow on some mountain peaks, it also marks the beginning of state, regional and national lodging association conferences. These conferences provide a great opportunity for both aspiring and experienced lodging providers to come together to exchange ideas, learn new business strategies from respected speakers and discover innovative products and services.

The first conference will be here before you know it. So get planning and register for a conference or maybe two! Where will we see you?

For your convenience the following list of upcoming conferences has been compiled for you.


• October 27th – 29th, 2024: Michigan B & B Association at the Amway Grand Plaza in Grand Rapids, MI.
• November 3rd – 6th, 2024: Select Registry at the Rancho Bernardo Inn in San Diego, CA.
• November 12th – 13th, 2024: Washington Independent Inns Network at The Winds Casino Resort in Arlington, WA.
• November 12th – 14th, 2024: New England Inns & Resorts Association at the Cliff House Maine in Cape Neddick, ME.
• November 18th – 20th, 2024: Mid Atlantic Innkeepers at the DoubleTree Resort in Lancaster, PA.
• December 3 – 5th, 2024: Midwest Association of Independent Inns at the Holiday Inn & Suites Bien VenU Event Center in Cedar Falls, IA.
• March 24th – 27th, 2025: Association of Lodging Professionals at the Galt House in Louisville, KY.

#070: Protect Your Lodging Business – Insurance Essentials with Mitch Pies, of Mitchell J. Pies Insurance Agency

#070: Protect Your Lodging Business – Insurance Essentials with Mitch Pies, of Mitchell J. Pies Insurance Agency

In today’s uncertain world, the need for lodging insurance has become more critical for property owners.

Though lodging insurance is not always black and white, there are many often-unknown liabilities to consider. Thankfully, Mitch Pies of the Mitchell J. Pies Insurance Agency, which is part of Leavitt Recreation & Hospitality, can provide the right insurance policy to protect your property and business.

We are very thankful to Mitch for sharing his insights with us.

You can learn more about the Mitchell J. Pies Insurance Agency at lodgeandinninsurance.com.

#069: Top Strategies to Boost Your Property’s Value with Marilyn Bushnell and Chuck Anderson, Marilyn Bushnell & Associates

#069: Top Strategies to Boost Your Property’s Value with Marilyn Bushnell and Chuck Anderson, Marilyn Bushnell & Associates

Whether you just bought a property or are looking to sell one, innkeepers should always focus on enhancing the value of their properties.

Enhancing value is a critical component of any business strategy for independent lodging owners – and it is a continual process, as highlighted by Marilyn Bushnell and Chuck Anderson of Marilyn Bushnell & Associates.

We are very thankful to Marilyn and Chuck for sharing their insights with us.

You can learn more about Marilyn Bushnell & Associates at marilynbushnell.com.