• Part 2: How to make your STR unique with Micro Designs, with Merit Harris
    Jul 3 2025

    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.

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    38 mins
  • Part 2: MTR's vs STR's with Vivian Yip
    Jun 26 2025

    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...

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    45 mins
  • Part 1: MTR's vs STR's
    Jun 24 2025

    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.


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    20 mins
  • Part 2: Save Thousands by Doing This First Before Launching with Kim Fitzpatrick
    Jun 19 2025

    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...

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    39 mins
  • Part 1: Save Thousands by Doing This First Before Launching
    Jun 17 2025

    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.



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    18 mins
  • Part 2: Is It Really a Buyers' Market? with Brenna Carles
    Jun 12 2025

    Rates are high, inventory is tight, and opinions are all over the place—so is now actually a good time to buy a property? In this episode, Kenny Bedwell sits down with mortgage expert Brenna Carles to cut through the confusion and answer the big question: Is it really a buyers’ market? They dive into hard truths about investing, bust common excuses, and offer no-nonsense guidance on how to make decisions based on data, not drama.

    Brenna shares her perspective as someone who helps investors build wealth through real estate financing—and as someone who doesn’t shy away from calling it like it is. Whether you're waiting for rates to drop, unsure if you should refinance, or just feeling paralyzed by market uncertainty, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need.


    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:

    • The reality of fluctuating interest rates and what it means for your investment plans
    • How to approach refinancing with realistic expectations and avoid being caught off guard
    • Why the housing market isn’t as “bad” as it may seem for investors willing to act strategically
    • What’s driving the market: understanding the difference between residential and short-term rental dynamics
    • Why you should stop making excuses and start taking action if the numbers work for you
    • How the 100% bonus depreciation change could affect short-term rental investment strategies
    • The importance of building reserves and being financially prepared for unexpected costs
    • And much more...



    Guest Bio:

    Brenna Carles is the CEO and founder of The Mortgage Shop, specializing in short-term rental, long-term rental, and vacation home loans. With over $600 million in loan volume closed, Brenna is one of the top brokers in the industry and a trusted resource for investors navigating complex financing landscapes. She’s passionate about educating and empowering her clients to make informed decisions and build sustainable wealth through real estate. Brenna is also known for her work on creating solutions for real estate investors, particularly in managing financing in today’s shifting market conditions.


    Resources:

    Connect with Kenny on LinkedIn

    Follow Kenny on Instagram

    mortgage.shop

    Follow Brenna 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.



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    47 mins
  • Part 1: Is It Really a Buyers' Market?
    Jun 10 2025

    Everyone's talking about a "buyer’s market"—but is that really what we’re seeing in short-term rental real estate right now? In this episode, Kenny Bedwell explores whether today’s environment truly favors buyers or if the opportunity is more nuanced. He breaks down current market dynamics, challenges assumptions, and reveals what it actually takes to land a great STR deal right now.

    He explores why short-term rentals remain a viable long-term investment, even when buyer competition, pricing dynamics, and interest rates fluctuate. This episode provides a grounded perspective on when and why to make a move, and what “timing the market” actually looks like in real estate.


    Whether you're considering your first STR or evaluating your next acquisition, this episode offers the strategic lens you need to cut through the noise.


    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 a slower buyer’s market could mean better deals for STR investors
    • What makes “the best deals” move off-market quickly
    • How bonus depreciation can drive market activity toward year-end
    • The two components you must consider beyond just price or revenue
    • Why short-term rentals are not a trend, but a lasting piece of the economy
    • What it takes to ride out challenges in any market cycle
    • How to think long-term while spotting near-term opportunities
    • 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.


    Show more Show less
    30 mins