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.

Is your short-term rental just blending into the crowd? In this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, Kenny Bedwell breaks down one of the most powerful (and affordable) ways to make your property stand out—micro designs.

Kenny explores why the typical templated design approach fails to drive bookings and how a strategic focus on a few unique spaces can elevate your listing and boost your bottom line. You’ll learn how to approach short-term rental design from a marketing-first perspective—without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re furnishing a new property or looking to revamp an existing one, this episode offers smart, practical advice to help you create an unforgettable guest experience.

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 traditional, templated setups don’t maximize your STR’s revenue potential
• What micro designs are and how they can transform a property
• How to choose which spaces to focus on—and why less is more
• Three types of amenities that directly affect your revenue
• How photo strategy influences booking decisions
• Why micro designs work for any budget, not just luxury listings
• The real reason most STRs fail to stand out—and how to fix it
• And much more...

Resources:

Connect with Kenny on LinkedIn

Follow Kenny on Instagram

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.

Is the mid-term rental strategy a hidden gem in today’s market, or are short-term rentals still king?

In this insightful continuation of the MTR vs. STR conversation, host Kenny Bedwell brings back real estate investor and healthcare professional Vivian Yip to break down the realities of both strategies in today’s economic climate. Drawing from her extensive experience operating properties across multiple states, Vivian walks listeners through the nuances of running mid-term rentals (MTRs), how they compare to short-term rentals (STRs), and how to adapt your investment strategy for long-term success.

They also dive into key data points, guest expectations, regulations, and real-world profitability scenarios, making this a must-listen for anyone considering a shift in their rental portfolio or entering the game with a clear strategy in mind.

Listeners like you are scaling faster—and smarter—by following this show. Subscribe now and level up your STR playbook. 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:

• What type of investor is best suited for MTRs vs. STRs
• Why MTRs can be more stable but not necessarily passive
• Key differences in guest expectations, operations, and pricing
• How to adapt your rental strategy when regulations change
• Why the STR narrative has shifted and what it means for your cash flow
• Vivian’s insight into property selection, especially in healthcare-heavy markets
• How to evaluate the real profit margins when choosing your rental type
• When and how to pivot from STR to MTR depending on demand and seasonality
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Vivian Yip, formerly a program manager at Apple, transitioned full-time into real estate in 2018 alongside her husband, James. While raising two children and flipping homes, they discovered the power of furnishing affordable properties for extended stays—an approach that thrived during the pandemic and simplified management. Today, Vivian leads Corporate Rentals USA by Hestia, where she merges hospitality with real estate and helps investors elevate their rental income through strategic branding and smart operational systems.

Resources:

Connect with Kenny on LinkedIn

Follow Kenny on Instagram

CruHomes.com

VivianYip.com

Follow Vivian on Instagram

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...

Are mid-term rentals really the safer bet—or are short-term rentals still the reigning champion when it comes to maximizing cash flow?

In this episode, Kenny Bedwell dives into the often-debated comparison between MTRs and STRs. He breaks down the financial, operational, and strategic nuances of each model, offering a balanced look at the pros and cons. From tax savings and revenue potential to guest expectations and personal preferences, Kenny lays out a clear framework for making the right investment choice based on your goals.

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to scale to commercial-grade properties, this episode will help you think beyond the hype and make data-informed decisions.

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:

• What makes STRs more dynamic—but also more volatile
• The role of "experience" in STR marketing vs. MTR expectations
• How future financing may be based more on revenue potential than credit
• What buying the right “moat” means for long-term STR success
• The tax advantages of STRs over MTRs
• Why STRs are a stepping stone to owning commercial or hotel properties
• And much more...

Resources:

Connect with Kenny on LinkedIn

Follow Kenny on Instagram

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.

Most new hosts waste thousands before guests ever check in—Kim Fitzpatrick is here to change that.

In this episode of the Cash Flow Positive podcast, Kenney Bedwell is joined by STR expert and Launched Host founder Kim Fitzpatrick, who reveals the #1 thing she wishes she’d done before opening the doors to guests. Hint: It’s not about having Instagram-worthy decor or the perfect throw pillows. It’s about protection, durability, and saving your sanity.

Kim shares a refreshingly honest behind-the-scenes look at what actually happens after launch day, including the unexpected ways guests use (and sometimes misuse) your space. She dives into what she learned through her own costly mistakes—like hours spent stain-fighting ottomans and chasing down replacement remotes—and how a few proactive decisions could have saved her thousands of dollars and endless frustration.

If you’re about to launch your own STR—or thinking about upgrading an existing one—this conversation is packed with actionable insights that will help you furnish smarter, protect your investment, and build a guest-ready home that holds up to real-world wear and tear.

Want expert help launching your STR? Visit LaunchedHost.com to get started with Kim’s team. 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 investing in fewer, better-quality furnishings saves money in the long run
• What “preventative maintenance” actually looks like in a real STR
• The importance of protecting fabrics and surfaces from day one
• How to prioritize your STR budget when it starts to stretch
• The simple cleaning items every STR needs on-site
• What Kim regrets not doing from the start, and how it cost her hours of frustration
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Kim Fitzpatrick is the owner and founder of Launched Host, a company that helps short-term rental owners stage and prepare their properties for guests fast. After a 20-year career as a physical education teacher, Kim transitioned into real estate and became a successful investor and Superhost across multiple states. Her hands-on experience revealed a major need in the short-term rental (STR) market: efficient, professional property setup.

Resources:

Connect with Kenny on LinkedIn

Follow Kenny on Instagram

PART 2 Kim Fitzpatrick - The STR tortoise vs the hare

Connect with Kim on LinkedIn

Launchedhost.com

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...

Ever feel like launching your short-term rental is like pouring money into a black hole? Before you spend a dime on furniture or tools, you need to hear this. In this episode, Kenny Bedwell breaks down five high-impact strategies to help STR operators save thousands of dollars before even opening their doors to guests.

From leveraging partnerships with cleaning companies to understanding tax benefits, Kenny shares tactical, money-saving insights that many first-time hosts overlook. If you're launching—or even planning to launch—an STR, this episode is your financial wake-up call.

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 getting on your cleaning company’s preferred list can give you major discounts
• How to avoid unnecessary tool and equipment costs
• The benefits of hiring a general contractor vs. DIY
• What you need to know about state and local STR licenses
• How to leverage tax strategies to reduce your upfront expenses
• The critical importance of knowing your zoning laws before launching
• Why doing less yourself might actually save you money in the long run
• Practical real-world examples of STR operators who saved big
• And much more...

Resources:

Connect with Kenny on LinkedIn

Follow Kenny on Instagram

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.