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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.

#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.

#068: Richard Aday, CEO of ThinkReservations, Discusses Acorn Acquisition, ThinkWeb Launch and Leadership

#068: Richard Aday, CEO of ThinkReservations, Discusses Acorn Acquisition, ThinkWeb Launch and Leadership

ThinkReservations, led by CEO Richard Aday, acquired Acorn Marketing in April 2024, and proceeded to launch its latest major offering, ThinkWeb, soon thereafter.

Making a major acquisition and launching a new product around the same time required strong leadership to help ensure its success.

Richard discusses the Acorn acquisition, ThinkWeb launch, and the challenges of leading the combined teams toward his vision of the future.

You can learn more about ThinkReservations at thinkreservations.com.