When it comes to designing short-term rentals, Becky Jones doesn’t just think in furniture—she thinks in photos. And in today’s market, that visual-first mindset can make or break your ROI.

In this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, Kenny Bedwell sits down with design expert and STR consultant Becky Jones to unpack how design, comfort, and guest experience all connect to your bottom line.

Becky explains how she balances aesthetics with function to attract better guests, command higher nightly rates, and reduce property issues. From managing remodels to optimizing guest comfort, this episode is packed with actionable advice to make your short-term rental more profitable—and less stressful.

If you've enjoyed this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Listen now and enjoy!

In This Episode You'll Learn:

• How to approach design with a photo-first mindset to increase bookings
• Why well-designed rooms can raise your nightly rate and reduce guest complaints
• The real impact of design on guest behavior—and your stress level
• Why high-end finishes attract higher quality guests
• How market research and guest avatars influence design decisions
• What to watch for when coordinating design with remodeling timelines
• Why spending more upfront can actually save you time and money later
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Becky Jones is an interior designer specializing in designing short-term rentals that are functional, beautiful, and profitable, and founder of Becky Jones Branding. Known for her visual-first approach and guest-centric design strategies, Becky helps STR owners elevate their properties through thoughtful upgrades that enhance comfort, increase profitability, and create memorable guest experiences.

Resources:

Connect with Kenny on LinkedIn

Follow Kenny on Instagram

BeckyJonesBranding.com

Follow Becky on Instagram

Follow Becky on Facebook

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Cash Flow Positive podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

Think interior design is just about picking pretty furniture? Think again—your return on investment might depend on it.

In this solo episode of Cash Flow Positive, Kenny Bedwell reveals why the speed of your short-term rental launch is one of the most critical—and commonly overlooked—factors in maximizing profit. He shares a personal story of how delays during the design process cost him thousands in holding fees and lost revenue, and walks listeners through how to avoid making the same mistake.

Kenny breaks down the real financial impact of slow timelines, how to vet designers for efficiency and market alignment, and why identifying your guest avatar should come before any décor decisions. You’ll also learn how to communicate clearly with designers, set firm expectations, and ensure your property is not just beautiful, but bookable.

Whether you're launching your first STR or scaling a portfolio, this episode will shift the way you think about design, timelines, and how to protect your bottom line from the start.

Ready to turn design delays into revenue wins? Subscribe now and discover more strategies that make your STR cash flow faster. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, be sure to leave a review. Listen now and enjoy!

In This Episode You'll Learn:

• Why launching quickly is crucial to maximizing STR profitability
• How holding costs during the design phase can hurt your returns
• What to ask your designer before hiring them
• Why timelines, clarity, and accountability matter more than you think
• How to ensure your designer incorporates what actually attracts guests to your area
• The danger of creating generic, forgettable spaces that appeal to no one
• How to ensure your designer reflects what actually draws guests to your area
• And much more…

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Cash Flow Positive podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

If people just wanted a place to sleep, they’d book a hotel. But in today’s competitive short-term rental market, it’s experiences that drive revenue, and no one knows that better than Merit Harris.

In this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, Kenny Bedwell welcomes Merit, founder of Merit Badge Property Management, to dive into the business of creating standout STRs through interactive amenities, ROI-driven design, and a deep understanding of what guests actually want. From his no-nonsense approach to systems and team leadership to the design decisions that impact bookings, Merit shares a wealth of practical insights for property owners and managers alike.

Whether you’re co-hosting a few properties or scaling a management business, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger and design smarter.

If you've enjoyed this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Listen now and enjoy!

In This Episode You'll Learn:

• Why design and amenities must go beyond aesthetics to actually drive revenue
• How to evaluate your property as an experience, not just a place to stay
• What makes a listing “sticky” and how that affects your nightly rate
• Why most designers miss the mark on interactive ROI
• How Merit approaches team management with outcomes—not micromanagement
• The importance of systems in building a scalable STR business
• How to identify design strengths and expand creatively without losing cohesion
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Merit Harris is the founder of Merit Badge Property Management, where he helps short-term rental owners increase revenue and create unforgettable guest experiences through strategic design and streamlined operations. Known for his bold mindset and system-driven approach, Merit is passionate about empowering clients and team members alike to live their “best life” while building a thriving STR business.

Resources:

Connect with Kenny on LinkedIn

Follow Kenny on Instagram

Merit Badge Property Management

Follow Merit on Facebook

Follow Merit on Instagram

Follow Merit on TikTok

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Cash Flow Positive podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.