Capturing Cabin Magic | Nicole, The Cabin Hunter Cabin Culture podcast

59:17

Today we're welcoming Andy Whitcomb, whose journey from furniture designer to cabin creator offers fresh insights into crafting immersive experiences that reconnect guests with nature. From his early days learning Airbnb hosting in a six-bedroom Seattle house to creating a row of three stunning riverside cabins, Andy shares how his background in design and entrepreneurship has shaped his approach to hospitality. We'll explore his philosophy that cabin culture is about "leaving the fake, superficial world and entering a more real world," and how that belief guides every decision – from foregoing TVs in favor of record players to creating Instagram-worthy moments that don't feel contrived. Whether you're an established host looking to elevate your property from good to great, someone curious about the evolution of Airbnb from its early days to post-pandemic reality, or simply interested in the intersection of design, nature, and hospitality, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and creative inspiration. We'll dive into everything from the importance of creating unique experiences to navigating county permit challenges, and why sometimes the best feature of your property is the one thing you can't create yourself. WEBSITE: https://canyoncreekcabins.com IG HANDLES @canyoncreekcabins @cozyrockcabin @cozycampsebec @cozycabinboone BOOKING SITES Canyon Creek Cabins: https://canyoncreekcabins.com 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…

1
Beyond Blueprints | Nat Farber, The Mountain Lookout 57:49

14 days ago57:49

57:49

Today we're welcoming Nat Farber, whose journey from NASA's Europa Clipper mission to mountain cabin builder offers a refreshing perspective on the art of slow building. From finding burned land after the Four Mile Canyon Fire to spending ten years crafting his vision, Nat shares how approaching construction as a creative project rather than a race to completion allowed him to build something truly unique. We'll explore how his engineering background influenced his design process, why he chose to test materials on a practice shed first, and how he eventually transitioned from aerospace to full-time building projects. Whether you're dreaming of designing your own space, curious about the intersection of engineering and architecture, or interested in how patience and persistence can lead to extraordinary results, this conversation offers both technical insights and creative inspiration. We'll dive into everything from fire-resistant building materials to the value of experiencing land through all seasons, and why sometimes the best designs come from letting inspiration find you. Let's dive in! WEBSITE: https://www.themountainlookout.com/ IG HANDLES @themountainlookout @cozyrockcabin @cozycampsebec @cozycabinboone 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…

1
Creating Your Own Path | Zoey Berghoff 1:00:02

20 days ago1:00:02

1:00:02

Today we're welcoming Zoe Berghoff, whose journey from glamping property owner to mentor and real estate developer offers a refreshing perspective on creating unique stays that align with your lifestyle. From transforming abandoned log cabins to developing off-grid properties at 8,000 feet, Zoe shares how focusing on quality over quantity has shaped her approach to hospitality. We'll explore why she believes the short-term rental industry is at a pivotal moment, and how hosts can create authentic experiences that stand out in an increasingly crowded market. Whether you're dreaming of developing raw land, considering your first renovation project, or simply interested in building a sustainable hospitality business that aligns with your values, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and strategic insights. We'll dive into everything from the importance of local market knowledge to the realities of property development, and why sometimes the best deals are the ones you create yourself. Let's dive in! WEBSITE: https://www.zoeyberghoff.com FREE RESOURCES! https://www.zoeyberghoff.com/tools IG HANDLES @zoeyberghoff @cozyrockcabin @cozycampsebec @cozycabinboone 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…

1
Capturing Cabin Magic | Nicole, The Cabin Hunter 58:32

27 days ago58:32

58:32

Today we're welcoming Nicole, known online as The Cabin Hunter, whose journey from wedding photographer to cabin specialist offers unique insights into the art of capturing and marketing vacation properties. From photographing over 100 unique properties across the globe to co-founding a property management company, Nicole shares how telling a cabin's story goes far beyond just beautiful photos. We'll explore everything from what to look for when hiring a photographer to the small details that can make or break a guest's experience, and why sometimes the most meaningful shots happen at sunrise or around a carefully staged campfire. Whether you're a cabin owner looking to elevate your marketing, a photographer interested in specializing in cabin photography, or simply curious about what makes certain properties stand out from the crowd, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and creative inspiration. We'll dive into the spectrum of photography options available to hosts, the importance of proper gear and backup equipment, and why telling a cabin's story sometimes means digging into its history. CABIN HUNTER WEBSITE: https://www.thecabinhunter.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZ9Wz3tPnSF23cmiXyv9pUeOQTSY8LY0OQSX_hsk_jjIW-PiwD8FgTKUJE_aem_qYQsdjwTEIA2TZJMpFOBxA IG HANDLES @thecabinhunter @cozyrockcabin @cozycampsebec @cozycabinboone 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…

1
Systems & Soul | Carrie Drier, Roost North Rentals 1:00:51

5 weeks ago1:00:51

1:00:51

Today we're welcoming Carrie from Roost North Rentals, whose journey from a self-described "failed stay-at-home mom" to the owner of nine successful vacation rentals in Traverse City, Michigan, offers a masterclass in thoughtful growth and systematic hospitality. From her first casual property purchase in 2015 to her latest A-frame renovation and plans for an 18-cottage resort, Carrie shares how creating strong systems and maintaining high standards has allowed her to scale while keeping the personal touch that makes each stay special. We'll explore how she transformed a $75,000 A-frame "disaster" into a stunning retreat, and why sometimes the best business decisions come from following your gut while keeping one eye on the numbers. Whether you're dreaming of growing your rental portfolio, curious about the evolution of hospitality over the last decade, or fascinated by the intersection of systems and soul in hosting, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and inspiring insights. We'll dive into everything from commercial laundry solutions to the importance of proper labeling, and why sometimes the best growth happens when you take your time. Let's dive in! IG HANDLES @roostnorthrentals @cozyrockcabin @cozycampsebec @cozycabinboone BOOKING SITES Direct Booking: https://www.roostnorth.com 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…

1
Rest, Connection & Exploration | Water Camp 56:32

6 weeks ago56:32

56:32

Today we're chatting with Alison from Water Camp, whose collection of 1950s fishing cabins on Torch Lake, Michigan, beautifully balances modern comfort with vintage charm. From her thoughtful perspective on embracing imperfection to her three core values of rest, connection, and exploration, Alison shares how authenticity in hospitality often means resisting the urge to make everything perfect. We'll explore how she transformed three aging lakeside cottages into spaces that honor their historic roots while meeting modern expectations, and why sometimes the most memorable stays aren't about luxury - they're about character. For anyone questioning the balance between renovation and preservation, wondering how to build a business that aligns with their values, or seeking to create experiences that feel both polished and approachable, this conversation offers both practical insights and philosophical wisdom. We'll dive into everything from the financials of hosting to the importance of giving back, and why sometimes the hardest part of growth is knowing when to say no. IG HANDLES @water_camp @cozyrockcabin @cozycampsebec @cozycabinboone BOOKING SITES Water Camp Direct Booking: https://watercampstays.com/book-now Birch Cottage: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/49837024?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYmOHhi1xikTWnEhgh5pZ-mQfFNK8dGP4cibbYDLpcaCZmV3-Fygy_ui10_aem_omrkzWfF_xATe7cBD0lNnA&source_impression_id=p3_1739320076_P3PVmBwE2lZ2DFvB Cedar Cabin: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/44088764?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaa9iyrIVhEWn4t12D_dUBruh1wm48IbfkNo6g9alJu2CIWP2sU4UgGDc8Q_aem_diwyrG2KaS59CCkDb49vVA Blue Spruce Cottage: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/547772400314458231?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaaW8D3tK2b7dpUqxFKCR41k_ujW-vi2lUEc2XvTd8oRMk94KOg4ftchKug_aem_xSdDThzPaTCajHiXIufOrA&source_impression_id=p3_1739320112_P3gGZPoVhSvi9GFJ 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…

1
Modern Nostalgia | Kelsey & Chris, Still Resorts 58:28

7 weeks ago58:28

58:28

Today we're welcoming Kelsey and Chris Still of Still Resorts, whose journey from a 95' Georgie Boy Swinger RV to creating two distinct cabin properties in Minnesota is a masterclass in perseverance and creative vision. From their innovative use of 140-year-old reclaimed barn wood to their commitment to preserving the natural landscape, the Stills share how staying true to your vision often means taking the harder path. We'll explore how they transformed challenging pieces of land - including an old mining shelf and a densely forested Lake Superior property - into spaces that honor Minnesota's cabin heritage while reimagining what a modern retreat can be. Whether you're dreaming of building your own hospitality project, fascinated by the evolution of cabin culture, or simply love a good story of persistence and creativity, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and inspiring insights. We'll dive into everything from navigating commercial funding to the importance of knowing your avatar, and why sometimes the most meaningful growth comes from embracing the struggle. Let's dive in! www.stillresorts.com IG HANDLES @stillresorts @cuyunacove @toftetrails @cozyrockcabin @cozycampsebec @cozycabinboone BOOKING SITES Cuyuna Cove: https://www.cuyunacove.com/ Tofte Trails: https://www.toftetrails.com/ 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…

1
Adventures in Global Hosting | Ashley & Kyle, On Cabin Time 54:24

13 weeks ago54:24

54:24

Today we're welcoming Ashley from On Cabin Time, who joins us from Porto, Portugal, where she and her husband Kyle are redefining what it means to live adventurously while hosting remotely. From their first nine-month backpacking journey through Southeast Asia to building a stunning cabin in Canada and now hosting guests in both countries, Ashley shares how spontaneity, calculated risks, and a willingness to trust your instincts can lead to extraordinary opportunities. Whether you're curious about hosting from abroad, wondering how to design a truly unique cabin from scratch, or seeking insight into building systems that allow you to host from anywhere, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and inspiring possibilities. We'll explore everything from their journey of sketching their dream cabin on paper to managing properties across time zones, and why sometimes the best plans come from knowing what could go wrong - and being okay with it anyway. Let's dive in! On Cabin Website: https://www.oncabintime.com IG HANDLES @oncabintime @cozyrockcabin @cozycampsebec @cozycabinboone BOOKING SITES On Cabin Time: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/544436947200237226?source_impression_id=p3_1735156441_P3sC5kXTlZMyHupJ 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…

1
The Power of Persistence | Jennifer Lund, Pepin Forest Tree House 1:00:46

14 weeks ago1:00:46

1:00:46

On today's episode features a conversation that reminds us how some of the most inspiring success stories emerge from our greatest challenges. Meet Jennifer, the creative force behind Wisconsin's stunning Pepin Forest Tree House. What began as a dream to build a treehouse during the uncertainty of 2020 evolved into something far more complex – a story of resilience, creative problem-solving, and ultimately, triumph. Despite facing a contractor crisis that left her with little more than a skeleton structure and depleted funds, Jennifer and her husband refused to give up. They sold their car, dipped into retirement savings, and even turned to local investors to bring their vision to life. Drawing from her background in wedding photography and social media marketing, Jennifer transformed their setback into an opportunity. Today, the Pepin Forest Tree House stands as a testament to perseverance, boasting massive windows that replaced the original "tiny, crappy" ones, handcrafted railings made from forest-gathered sticks, and an Instagram following that's helped achieve an impressive 80% direct booking rate. In this episode, we'll dive deep into Jennifer's journey from crisis to success, exploring everything from the nitty-gritty of social media strategy to the delicate dance of being an on-site host. Whether you're a fellow host, an aspiring cabin owner, or simply someone who loves a good comeback story, you won't want to miss this honest and inspiring conversation. Pepin Forest Tree House Website: https://www.pepinforesttreehouse.com/ IG HANDLES @pepinforesttreehouse @cozyrockcabin @cozycampsebec @cozycabinboone BOOKING SITES Pepin Forest Tree House: https://www.pepinforesttreehouse.com/book-your-stay 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…

1
The Host Whisperer | Simone Strand, Agua Norte 1:00:05

15 weeks ago1:00:05

1:00:05

Today we're welcoming Simone, co-owner of three stunning rentals in northern Minnesota and founder of She Hosts consulting. From building her first cabin as a screen porch that evolved into something more, to now helping other hosts navigate their journeys from raw land to profitable properties, Simona brings a unique perspective on intentional hosting. Originally from Brazil, she found herself embracing Minnesota cabin life through love, and together with her partner, has created a collection of timber frame retreats that showcase both craftsmanship and heart. Whether you're dreaming of building your first cabin, looking to improve your hosting skills, or wondering how to balance automation with authentic hospitality, this conversation offers invaluable insights from someone who's walked the path. We'll explore everything from construction budgeting to the art of guest communication, and why sometimes the best hosting advice mirrors how we text when we're flirting. Agua Norte Website: www.aguanortemn.com IG HANDLES @raguanortemn @cozyrockcabin @cozycampsebec @cozycabinboone BOOKING SITES Agua Norte: https://book.aguanortemn.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYgkNNpXidERenUdcvd9EBh94qR3TFcUXiDJZ8kDfDEYzXsgylGE8RfwBk_aem_6w_Ryd026BCviBuMYoKGkw 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…

1
Small Decisions, Big Impact | Spenser Kernea & Janice Smith 56:49

16 weeks ago56:49

56:49

Today we're diving into a conversation inspired by Will Guidara's "Unreasonable Hospitality" with Spenser from Fall Branch Falls. On this episode we explore the difference between service and true hospitality, we'll examine what it means to make guests feel truly seen, and how small, intentional decisions can create unforgettable experiences. From paint colors to handwritten notes, we'll discover how thoughtful touches - not just luxury amenities - create the kind of hospitality that guests remember alongside life's biggest moments. For anyone questioning the balance between automation and authenticity, or wondering how to create experiences that transcend the ordinary, this conversation offers both practical insights and philosophical perspective on what it truly means to be a host. We'll explore everything from systematic approaches to hospitality to the art of reading between the lines with guests, and why sometimes the most meaningful gestures aren't about going bigger - they're about being more thoughtful. IG HANDLES @retreatatfallbranchfalls @cozyrockcabin @cozycampsebec @cozycabinboone BOOKING SITES Retreat at Fall Branch Falls: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/44029746?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYNcs_UERxiUua2GjZEH0p63FJNy2BNhxowab7_ccQpYm1np9nL5FRwT-Q_aem_gZekS-6K2jK0C_4StfAD3w 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…

1
From StayWatch To Journey | Zach Busekrus 45:27

17 weeks ago45:27

45:27

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…

1
Healing in the Heartland | Bri & Dave, Sweetbriar Ridge 1:04:12

18 weeks ago1:04:12

1:04:12

Today's episode is a powerful testament to perseverance and purpose. We're joined by Bri and Dave, the creators of Sweetbriar 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…

1
The Art of the Pivot | Jessica Anderson, Retreat North Nature Cabins 1:08:29

19 weeks ago1:08:29

1:08:29

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…

1
Where the Tent Meets Luxury | Camp Hudson Pines 59:48

20 weeks ago59:48