Welcome to the RV Rental Secrets Podcast. I'm your host, Stacy Maxson, and I'm thrilled to guide you through the journey of launching, growing, and managing a profitable RV rental business. Today, I have my co-host with me again, Gar Russell, the founder and CEO of Fireside RV Rental. Our topic is hiring and managing staff and outsourcing responsibilities so you can focus on what truly moves the needle in your business.

First, let's dispel a common misconception: whether you rent out one RV or manage a fleet, you are running a business. Every service you provide is part of your business operations, and recognizing this can change your approach to managing your time and resources.

Gar shared a valuable perspective on valuing your time. He assigns a dollar amount to his time, currently $250 an hour, to determine whether a task is worth his effort. This mindset helps in making decisions about whether to perform tasks personally or delegate them. For instance, if cleaning an RV doesn’t align with the value of your time or bring you joy, it’s worth outsourcing.

Outsourcing can look different for everyone based on individual strengths and passions. Some might enjoy cleaning and use it as a unique selling point for their business, while others, like myself, prefer to delegate this task. There are many resources for finding reliable help, such as care.com, local high school or college students, and even stay-at-home parents. For those familiar with Airbnb, you can often find experienced cleaners through local networks or Facebook groups.

Engaging local communities is also effective for finding drivers. Gar’s strategy of posting in Facebook groups and directly appealing to specific audiences, such as retired individuals with trucks, has proven successful. This approach not only fills immediate needs but builds a network of potential helpers for future requirements.

Time management is crucial, especially when balancing business with personal life. Outsourcing tasks like cleaning or driving frees up time for more valuable activities, such as spending quality time with family. This proactive approach ensures you’re not overwhelmed and can enjoy the benefits of entrepreneurship, like financial and time freedom.

Marketing and customer retention are also critical components. Using platforms like RVshare or Outdoorsy might come with fees, but they bring customers who can become long-term clients. Building a social media presence and encouraging customer engagement can convert one-time rentals into recurring business. Simple strategies like starting a Facebook page or offering incentives for customer interaction can significantly boost your marketing efforts without extensive costs.

If marketing or social media isn't your forte, consider hiring help. Platforms like Fiverr can connect you with students or interns eager to gain experience. This not only enhances your marketing efforts but also frees you to focus on core business activities.

Finally, evaluate what tasks don’t bring you joy and consider outsourcing them. This could include bookkeeping, administrative tasks, or even customer inquiries. The goal is to focus on what you love and what drives your business forward, ensuring a fulfilling and successful entrepreneurial journey.

Thank you for joining us this week. We hope you found value in this episode. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review. We’ll see you again next week.

Welcome to this episode of the RV Rental Secret Podcast. Today, I'm thrilled to have Garr Russell with us. Garr is stepping in as our new co-host and brings a wealth of experience as the founder and CEO of Fireside RV Rental, as well as my business partner and mentor. His insights have been invaluable to my understanding of the RV rental industry.

Today, we dive into the topic of tackling the challenging aspects of business, especially relevant during our peak season. Garr shares his philosophy, influenced by his mentor Josh Latimer, on the importance of perseverance in entrepreneurship, regardless of the industry. His advice? Embrace the challenges as they come, recognizing that each effort, successful or not, contributes to personal and professional growth.

A key takeaway from Garr's experience is the power of delegation. Learning to entrust tasks to others who can perform them sufficiently allows business owners to focus on areas that drive revenue and growth. This approach has transformed our operations at Fireside, making room for innovations like the Fireside Plus program.

Garr also touches on the pivotal lessons learned from the economic shifts caused by COVID-19, emphasizing the importance of using other people's assets to scale business without accumulating excessive overhead. This strategy proved crucial during the uncertain times of the pandemic.

We also explore strategies for managing the high season in the RV rental industry, from maintaining a positive outlook amidst last-minute bookings and unforeseen issues to optimizing pricing and reservation policies to capitalize on urgent demand.

Garr's anecdotes and the principles he shares, like those found in the book "Three Feet from Gold," remind us that persistence and a positive mindset can lead to breakthroughs even when success seems elusive.

In wrapping up, Garr and I discuss the significance of community and mentorship in navigating the ups and downs of business. This episode is packed with practical advice and real-life examples that underscore the importance of resilience, strategic thinking, and community support in the RV rental industry.

Thank you for tuning in, and we look forward to bringing more insights and stories in our upcoming episodes with Garr.

To learn more about Garr's story, download his FREE ebook, 'My Wheel Estate Story' here.

Luis Valdez from Central Washington RV Rentals started his journey into the RV rental business unexpectedly after purchasing a camper for personal use. Here are some key points from his interview on the RV Rental Secrets podcast:

How It All Started: Luis and his wife decided to buy a camper to spend more time outdoors with their kids after his father-in-law passed away. They quickly learned about the challenges of booking good campsites during peak seasons.

Discovery of RV Rental Business: Luis stumbled upon the idea of renting out their camper after seeing a suggestion on Facebook Marketplace. They listed their camper on RVshare and Outdoorsy, and bookings started pouring in immediately, leading them to realize the potential of this business.

Business Expansion: Encouraged by initial success, they expanded their fleet by purchasing more units to meet demand. Eventually, they also started managing RVs owned by others through rental agreements.

Operational Growth: Initially managing most operations themselves, Luis and his wife later hired cleaners and maintenance personnel to handle the growing workload. Eventually, the business became so successful that Luis left his full-time job to focus on it.

Marketing Strategies: They utilized various marketing channels such as social media (including TikTok), Google Ads, and a YouTube channel ("LR Valdez Rentals") to promote their business. Their YouTube channel not only helped with direct bookings but also attracted investors interested in purchasing units for rental purposes.

Rebranding and Focus: As their business grew, they rebranded to "Central Washington RV Rentals" to better reflect their location and attract local customers searching for RV rentals.

Tips for Aspiring RV Rental Entrepreneurs: Luis emphasizes the importance of clear communication and division of responsibilities for couples or partners entering the business together. He also advises being prepared for the fast-paced nature of the business and the need for constant attention to customer service and maintenance.

Luis's journey highlights the rapid growth potential in the RV rental industry and the importance of leveraging online platforms and community engagement for business success.

Check out his Youtube channel @boutthatrvlife

Welcome to another insightful episode of the RV Rental Secrets Podcast. I'm your host, Stacy Maxon, and today we're diving into crucial strategies for avoiding common pitfalls in the RV rental business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your operations, these tips will help you navigate the road to success with confidence.

Running an RV rental business is a rewarding venture, but it comes with its share of challenges. One of the most costly mistakes is skipping thorough RV inspections between rentals. Rushing through this process can lead to missed damages and wear, potentially resulting in unexpected repairs and dissatisfied customers. Stacey emphasizes the importance of detailed inspections, complete with documentation through photos or videos, to ensure accountability and protection against financial losses.

Another critical area highlighted is the need for comprehensive renter education. Educating your customers on the operation and maintenance of your RVs can prevent accidents and minimize misunderstandings. Providing instructional videos and guides not only enhances the renter experience but also reduces the frequency of support calls and ensures renters are equipped to handle common scenarios like driving tips and basic maintenance tasks.

Customer service excellence is identified as a cornerstone of a successful rental business. Stacey shares a personal example where exceptional service salvaged a situation where a reserved RV was unavailable, showcasing the power of empathy and proactive resolution. Addressing customer concerns promptly and professionally not only boosts satisfaction but also fosters loyalty and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

Regular maintenance checks are crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of your fleet. Sticking to a scheduled maintenance plan not only prevents breakdowns during rentals but also strengthens your position in case of disputes over rental damage. Stacey underscores the importance of maintaining detailed maintenance records to substantiate claims and protect your business interests.

Lastly, the podcast stresses the significance of adequate insurance coverage. Operating without comprehensive insurance exposes your business to significant financial risks. Stacey advises listeners to ensure their policies cover both the RV fleet and renters comprehensively, including scenarios beyond the rental period to safeguard against potential liabilities.

By steering clear of these five common mistakes—skipping inspections, inadequate renter education, neglecting customer service, skipping maintenance checks, and insufficient insurance coverage—you'll not only enhance customer satisfaction but also protect your business investments. Tune in to future episodes for more insights on optimizing your RV rental operations. Don't forget to subscribe and share this podcast with your fellow RV enthusiasts. Happy renting and safe travels until next time!

In this episode of the "RV Rental Secrets Podcast," host Stacy Maxon offers an in-depth guide on expanding an RV rental fleet. Stacy begins by addressing common questions about choosing the right type of RV to start or grow a rental business. She explains the initial decision-making process, whether you already own an RV or are contemplating your first purchase. The focus is on the importance of market research to determine the best fit for local demand.

Stacy delves into strategies for fleet expansion, recommending owners start with similar models to their current successful rentals for ease of management and customer satisfaction. She also suggests considering diverse RV types to cater to different customer needs, such as drivable units or lighter models for those without families.

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the financial aspects of acquiring new RVs. Stacy discusses various financing options, including traditional and RV-specific loans, and introduces the concept of RV rental management as a cost-effective strategy to expand a fleet without hefty initial investments. She shares her personal experience with hybrid units in upstate New York, highlighting their cost-effectiveness and profitability.

Further, Stacy covers operational considerations like mileage limits, insurance, and the logistics of managing a growing fleet. She emphasizes the importance of scaling business operations, using tools like Wheelbase for fleet management, and the potential need for additional storage space.

Lastly, Stacy touches on the legal and business aspects of running an RV rental operation, stressing the importance of setting up a formal business structure, such as an LLC, for those looking to transition from casual renting to a more structured business model. She mentions a course available for beginners in the RV rental industry, aimed at providing essential knowledge and skills needed to succeed.

The episode concludes with Stacy encouraging listeners to reach out with any questions and promising more valuable insights in future episodes. The show notes include a link to the mentioned course, offering a resource for listeners eager to learn more about starting or expanding their RV rental business.

In this episode of the RV Rental Secrets Podcast, host Stacy Maxon warmly welcomes Ali Rasmussen, CEO and Creative Director of Spacious Skies Campgrounds. Ali shares her inspiring journey into the campground industry, which began during the pandemic with her husband Eric. They embraced RV life, exploring various types of campgrounds with their three children, which serendipitously turned into market research. This experience led them to purchase their first campground in Maine, eventually expanding to 15 locations from Maine to Georgia.

Ali describes Spacious Skies Campgrounds' focus on nature, community, and the immersive camping experience, emphasizing their commitment to inclusivity and fostering a welcoming environment for all campers, including undertaking initiatives like the certification with "Black Folks Camp Too." She details the unique features of their campgrounds, from astro-tourism in Maine to entertainment-driven activities in New Jersey, enhancing each location's personal touch.

Further discussing their Cosmic Camper Loyalty Program, Ali explains how it encourages campers to explore different locations within their network, with themed weekends and trails that highlight the natural beauty and seasonal changes from location to location. She also touches on the variety of lodging options available, including yurts and retro RVs, catering to diverse preferences and encouraging group camping.

Concluding the episode, Ali offers advice for those interested in entering the RV industry, emphasizing the importance of networking and firsthand experience.

Connect with Spacious Skies Campgrounds:

Instagram

Facebook

Website

Welcome to this week's episode of the RV Rental Secrets Podcast, where I, Stacy Maxon, am thrilled to host Garr Russell from Fireside RV Rental once again. Unlike his previous appearance focusing on the technicalities of RV rental management, Garr takes us on a more personal journey this time. He dives into his new book, "My Wheel Estate Story," which not only chronicles his entrepreneurial successes but also the trials and tribulations he's faced. Garr shares the importance of vulnerability, arguing that the entrepreneurial journey, much like life, involves presenting a facade of having it all together, which isn't always the case.

Garr emphasizes the significance of being open about our struggles to foster genuine connections and community. He reflects on the universal nature of ups and downs, advocating for sharing not just triumphs but also setbacks. This openness, Garr believes, creates a bridge that allows for mutual support and learning within the community. He also discusses the concept of the hero's journey and how encountering and overcoming obstacles is essential for growth and preparation for future success.

Highlighting a key takeaway from his book, Garr mentions, "there's no such thing as losing; you're either winning or learning." He shares his personal "COVID comeback story," illustrating how setbacks can lead to significant learning opportunities. Garr encourages entrepreneurs to persevere, emphasizing the importance of learning from failures and the value of mentorship and continuous self-improvement.

Garr and Stacy discuss the psychological aspect of entrepreneurship, including overcoming negative self-talk and the benefits of stepping away to regain perspective. They touch upon the importance of recognizing and celebrating progress to maintain motivation. Concluding the episode, Garr offers insights on finding one's purpose, managing stress, and the transformative power of adopting a positive mindset.

For those intrigued by Garr's insights and his approach to blending entrepreneurship with personal growth, his book "My Wheel Estate Story" is available for free download at mywheelestatestory.com or for purchase on Amazon for those who prefer a physical copy. Garr's story is a testament to the power of vulnerability and the strength found in community, offering valuable lessons for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey.

Connect With Garr:

• Youtube
• Instagram
• Facebook

Book Mentioned in this Podcast:

• 3 Feet From Gold
• Think and Grow Rich
• My Wheel Estate Story
• The Gap & The Gain

In this episode of the RV Rental Secrets Podcast, financial coach Sarah joins the host to discuss essential strategies for financial preparation in both personal and business contexts. Sarah shares her journey of overcoming debt twice with her husband and how their experiences led to the birth of "Keeping Up with the Joneses Financial Coaching."

The conversation delves into common financial pitfalls faced by business owners, such as co-mingling personal and business expenses, lack of understanding of key financial metrics, and the absence of a solid financial system. Sarah emphasizes the importance of keeping personal and business finances separate to gain clarity and avoid IRS audit risks.

Moreover, Sarah highlights the significance of knowing all financial numbers, including costs, profits, and year-to-date earnings, to make informed decisions. She stresses the need for a robust financial system that encompasses tools, support partners like CPAs and bookkeepers, and scheduled financial tasks to ensure business sustainability and growth.

Addressing the challenge of paying oneself as a business owner, Sarah advises establishing consistency and predictability in personal payments, regardless of the business's growth stage. By prioritizing self-compensation and implementing financial systems early on, entrepreneurs can achieve financial harmony and stability in their businesses.

Listeners are encouraged to connect with Sarah for further guidance and complimentary consultations through her website and social media channels.

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Youtube