The Power of Unreasonable Hospitality: Transforming Short-Term Rentals with Candice Menard

What if standing out in the short-term rental industry isn’t just about the property—but the experience you create?

In this episode, I sit down with Candice Menard, the powerhouse behind Rent It Like a Saint, to explore the transformative philosophy of “Unreasonable Hospitality.” Candice isn’t just managing rentals—she’s redefining modern hosting by crafting heart-centered guest experiences that turn first-time visitors into lifelong fans.

Candice shares her inspiring journey from long-term property management to becoming a visionary in short-term rental hospitality. She breaks down how understanding her ideal guests—hardworking professionals who crave comfort, connection, and care—helped her anticipate needs before they were spoken, setting a new gold standard for guest experience.

We also dive into Travel Like a Saint, her complementary travel service that elevates the guest journey from start to finish. Candice reveals how she blends technology with personal touch through AI-assisted communication, community partnerships, and holistic brand storytelling that keeps guests coming back.

This episode is a must-listen for hosts and entrepreneurs ready to elevate their hospitality game. Candice’s story is a masterclass in business growth, intentional service, and brand differentiation—proving that true success comes from serving with heart, purpose, and a touch of the extraordinary.

HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS:

[01:00] A short introduction about our guest Candice Menard and how did she get into short-term rental business

[02:57] Candice’s approach to embracing unreasonable hospitality and gaining clarity on her ideal guest to elevate the guest experience

[06:24] Candice talks about how an unexpected Airbnb booking helped her discover her ideal guests and shape the future direction of her rental business

[08:42] How Candice brings “unreasonable hospitality” to life by anticipating guest needs through fast communication, personalization, and gratitude

[12:33] Candice explains how she blends AI with human communication to deliver efficient yet personal guest experiences

[15:43] How the idea of “unreasonable hospitality” inspired Candice to expand from Rent It Like a Saint into a full travel service with Travel Like a Saint

[18:35] Candice explains how she promotes Travel Like a Saint across multiple channels and the enthusiastic feedback she’s received from guests

[20:33] Candice details the foundational systems she built within Rent It Like a Saint to free up her time and focus for launching Travel Like a Saint

[23:23] How Candice’ involvement in the Louisiana Travel Summit unexpectedly turned into an opportunity to build stronger ties within her local community

[28:06] Candice offers thoughtful, grounded advice for anyone who wants to infuse the spirit of “unreasonable hospitality” into their business

[32:00] The lightning round

Golden Nuggets:

• “Providing excellent world class customer service is the best way to get those five star reviews.”
• “The most valuable asset you can have in your hosting arsenal is your speed of communications.”
• “Relationships are where referrals come from.”
• “What's important to you, what's important to your guests, find your who's that can make that connection to get your puzzle piece...