Today we're welcoming Zach, founder of the Behind the Stays podcast and former CEO of Stay Watch, who's here to share some exciting news about the future of boutique hospitality. From his journey documenting unique stays across the country to his recent acquisition by Journey - a new platform aiming to revolutionize how we experience and get rewarded for choosing independent properties - Zach offers invaluable insights into where the industry is headed. We'll explore everything from the tension between traditional hospitality operators and "hobby hosts" to how boutique properties might finally be able to compete with big hotel chains' loyalty programs.

For anyone interested in the evolution of unique stays, the future of hospitality, or how independent properties can thrive in an increasingly competitive market, this conversation offers both practical insights and an exciting glimpse into what's next.

Join Journey Here: https://www.joinjourney.com/

PLACES TO FIND ZACH
@zboozee
@behindthestays
LinkedIn
Behind The Stays Podcast

BOOKING SITES
Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051

Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com
Book a Cabin Consultation Here: http://www.staycozycabin.com


YouTube Channel:
/ @cozyrockcabin1664

Today's episode is a powerful testament to perseverance and purpose. We're joined by Brie and Dave, the creators of Sweet Briar Ridge in Minnesota, where three geodesic domes offer more than just a unique stay - they provide a sanctuary for healing. As a paramedic and outdoor educator respectively, this couple's journey from vision to reality wasn't just about building a business; it was about creating a space where first responders, veterans, and anyone seeking connection with nature could find peace.

What started as a dream in 2017 evolved into a two-year battle with building inspectors, multiple engineering studies, and countless pivots. Through it all, their unwavering commitment to their mission - providing a place where the 'three-day effect' of nature could work its magic - kept them going. Now, with their first season behind them and their third dome under construction, they're seeing firsthand how their perseverance is paying off in the lives of their guests.

For anyone thinking about developing a unique property or wondering how to stay true to your mission when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles, this conversation offers both practical insights and inspiration. We'll explore everything from navigating small-town politics to creating spaces that prioritize healing over efficiency, and why sometimes the hardest path leads to the most meaningful destination.

https://sweetbriarridgemn.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZk_9Qfckf7tZX62LeqEMKHMyCyvcRSOlJuAsqNXWknR7W2xWJh71hUa0M_aem_sqmIerNxipSij5HCggZeDQ

INSTAGRAM HANDLES
@sweetbriar_ridge
@cozyrockcabin
@cozycabinboone
@cozycampsebec

BOOKING SITES
Sweet Briar Ridge: https://sweetbriarridgemn.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZk_9Qfckf7tZX62LeqEMKHMyCyvcRSOlJuAsqNXWknR7W2xWJh71hUa0M_aem_sqmIerNxipSij5HCggZeDQ
Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051

Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com
Book a Cabin Consultation Here: http://www.staycozycabin.com


YouTube Channel:
/ @cozyrockcabin1664

Today we're welcoming a self-proclaimed "grandma millennial" who's revolutionizing the retreat space in northern Michigan. From her first floating house project to her current ambitious ridge-top development, she brings a refreshing perspective on building without outside investors and doing things her own way. As someone who's flipped houses, built unique properties, and learned to trust her design instincts, she's now embarking on her most ambitious project yet - creating an intentional retreat space where groups can disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature.

For anyone interested in the nitty-gritty of financing creative projects, navigating zoning challenges, or building on difficult terrain, this episode offers candid insights into the reality of developing unique properties. We'll explore everything from the importance of novelty in saturated markets to the courage it takes to build something different, and why sometimes the best business strategy is simply following your own creative vision.

@miretreatnorth
@jessbuildingthings

BOOKING SITES
Riverbend Retreat: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1004562222864426647?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZZrl1sfCc3Fr6m0LPKY7yIsCcyYQXLT6q8zw8N0Pm_OWrOA_ZV287NP8U_aem_OT-a3nEmIYfhEui-6_WREA&source_impression_id=p3_1731450172_P3W1Es-rQh--uNef
Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051

Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com
Book a Cabin Consultation Here: http://www.staycozycabin.com


YouTube Channel:
/ @cozyrockcabin1664