Today is a special episode, as it’s only the second one ever recorded IN PERSON. Rick and Charles are the charming inn keepers at The Hideaway Inn in Camden, Maine. We got to visit during our last trip to Maine, and it did NOT disappoint.

After falling in love with New England during their first visit in 2021, this couple made the bold decision to leave their corporate careers on the West Coast and purchase a historic inn in a town they'd only visited a handful of times. What started as a romanticized dream quickly became reality when Charles arrived alone on Valentine's Day to begin renovations on a 1990s-era property that needed significant updating.

From running between two separate kitchens during their first season to creating a space that blends the best of Airbnb's independence with an inn's personal touch, Charles and Rick share the realities of their "Hallmark movie" life change. We'll explore how they transformed the property while building deep connections in a tight-knit community, their approach to hosting that deliberately avoids the traditional front desk, and how they navigate working together 24/7 after 18 years as a couple.

Whether you're dreaming of your own hospitality venture or simply curious about what happens when two corporate professionals trade boardrooms for breakfast service, this conversation offers both practical insights and heartwarming moments from their journey of creating a space where guests become friends and a house becomes a true hideaway.

Website: https://www.hideawayinnmaine.com

Booking Site: https://hotels.cloudbeds.com/en/reservation/fXr5m3?currency=usd

IG Handle: @hideawaymaine

Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051
Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_FgMwAgvORd1IwlH1nlC9g

Today we're welcoming Ina, a 25-year-old chemist and Airbnb host whose riverside cabin in Concrete, Washington offers breathtaking views of the North Cascades. While many episodes focus on the joys of cabin ownership, today's conversation tackles a scenario that keeps many hosts awake at night: what happens when disaster strikes? Ina shares her harrowing experience of receiving a call that her cabin was on fire after guests checked out without extinguishing candles, and the subsequent seven-month battle with Airbnb's AirCover to receive compensation for the damages.

From the initial shock and frustration of dealing with defensive guests who refused to acknowledge their role in the incident, to navigating the complexities of insurance claims and restoration work, Ina's story offers valuable lessons for hosts about emergency preparedness, documentation, and maintaining resilience through challenging circumstances. We'll explore how she managed cancellations during the long restoration process, the specific changes she made to prevent future incidents, and why—despite everything—she still finds joy and purpose in hosting.

Whether you're a current host concerned about worst-case scenarios or someone considering entering the short-term rental market, this conversation provides both practical advice and emotional reassurance that even in the darkest moments of hosting, recovery is possible.

Booking Site: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/831983744737808549

IG Handle: @riverside.retreatPNW

Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051
Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_FgMwAgvORd1IwlH1nlC9g

This episode is from our very first month of the podcast, back in 2023, where we talked with Chris & Pam (the famous Dirt & Glass) about everything from how they got their start (hint: a hike, heartbreak, and an off-grid cabin in New York) to what makes a cabin photo truly stand out. They share insights on the evolution of cabin culture online, the behind-the-scenes process of working with cabin owners, and their deep commitment to not just aesthetics—but to curation, integrity, and connection.

We also chat about the rise of short-term rentals, the importance of standing out as a host, and how a solid Instagram presence can make all the difference. Plus, we finally answer the important question: what is cabin fashion?

If you're dreaming about a cabin, in the midst of building one, or just love to cozy up in flannel and scroll beautiful cabin photos, this one’s for you!

Website: https://www.chrisdaniele.com
Cabinpedia: https://www.chrisdaniele.com/cabinpedia
IG Handles

• @dirtandglass
• @heypamcakes
• @thecabinpedia

TikTok handle:

• @dirtandglass

YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@dirtandglass

Booking Site

Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051
Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_FgMwAgvORd1IwlH1nlC9g

Today we're joined by Kitty Costello, a design enthusiast and short-term rental consultant who brings a refreshingly authentic approach to creating spaces that tell a story. After relocating from Silicon Valley to Maine's magical mid-coast in 2022, Kitty has embraced the local culture and channeled her natural design instincts into helping vacation rental owners transform ordinary spaces into memorable experiences.

We'll explore how Kitty and her business partner Jen are reimagining the Airbnb landscape in Maine, one thoughtfully designed property at a time. From her philosophy that "DIY is the holy grail of getting to know yourself" to her fearless approach of breaking design rules, Kitty shares insights on creating spaces that reflect personality while making guests feel truly welcome.

Whether you're curious about navigating the current challenges in the short-term rental market, finding your authentic design voice, or simply understanding what makes Mid-Coast Maine hospitality so special, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and inspirational ideas. Plus, we'll dive into some hot topics like property labels, pet-friendly policies, and the delicate balance of making a space feel personal without being intrusive.

Get ready for a joyful, heartfelt discussion about creating vacation rentals that guests don't want to leave – and how sometimes the most memorable design choices come from being brave enough to try something different.

WEBSITES

www.crookedcape.com

www.highfivesforhospitality

INSTAGRAM
@crookedcape

@cozyrockcabin

@cozycampsebec

@cozycabinboone

BOOKING SITES

Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051
Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com

Book a Cabin Consultation Here: http://www.staycozycabin.com

Today we're joined by an amazing couple who embody what it means to create intentional spaces in the mountains of Utah. With over 11 years of hosting experience, they've transformed a treehouse and a 1970s hand-built cabin into magical retreats that offer more than just beautiful design—they create experiences that hold space for life's tender moments.

We'll explore how they discovered these unique properties just steps from their own A-frame home, their philosophy of preservation over new construction, and the delicate balance they've found between real estate development and honoring the character of original spaces.

Their approach to hospitality goes beyond business metrics, focusing instead on creating human connections and designing with purpose. From installing windows that frame perfect mountain views to replacing a planned glass floor with a hammock that became a guest favorite, their story reminds us that sometimes the most meaningful elements emerge from constraints.

Whether you're curious about curating spaces that encourage disconnection from technology, handling the unique challenges of managing properties at 8,000 feet elevation, or simply creating experiences that help burnt-out travelers reconnect with nature and themselves, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and heartfelt reflection.

INSTAGRAM
@theforggotencabins

@cozyrockcabin

@cozycampsebec

@cozycabinboone

BOOKING SITES

The Forgotten Cabins Website: https://theforgottencabins.com

Book the Treehouse Utah: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/3635074?source_impression_id=p3_1745247103_P3w90uh9RJgavIWZ

Book the Hideaway Utah: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/50888753?source_impression_id=p3_1745247121_P3nu3hsSyhGOmeMG

Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051
Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com

Book a Cabin Consultation Here: http://www.staycozycabin.com

Today we're welcoming Laura, a high school principal and passionate cabin owner in the Adirondack Mountains, who brings a uniquely educational perspective to the cabin ownership experience. From her beginnings as a home design blogger to managing two cabins while balancing a demanding career in education, Laura shares valuable insights on finding escape and renewal in mountain retreats.

We'll explore how she transformed a "630 square foot ski chalet box" into a cozy getaway, navigated the unexpected shift when COVID hit just months after her purchase, and eventually expanded to a second A-frame cabin down the street. Laura opens up about the challenges and joys of maintaining properties that are "indoor-outdoor experiences" designed to push people into nature.

Whether you're curious about the financial realities of cabin investment, the intersection of education and hospitality, or how cabin ownership can become part of your legacy planning, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and honest reflection. We'll dive into everything from the evolution of cabin culture on social media to finding the right collaborators for your property, and why thinking of your cabin as an extension of your creativity might be the most rewarding approach.

INSTAGRAM
@juniperhillcabin

@cozyrockcabin

@cozycampsebec

@cozycabinboone

BOOKING SITES

Juniper Hill Cabin: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/39966287?s=67&shared_item_type=1&sharer_id=234621258&virality_entry_point=1&source_impression_id=p3_1617653491_t4Q7DPNMrHCxr0bb

Juniper Hill Aframe: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/52171966?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=2afa8d6a-3d73-4d84-b409-30d4d175ab21&source_impression_id=p3_1744763229_P3kgZPDY2DoWLg43

Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051
Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com

Book a Cabin Consultation Here: http://www.staycozycabin.com

Today we're welcoming Kendra, a real estate agent and A-frame cabin owner in Lake Almanor, California, who brings a uniquely practical perspective to the world of cabin ownership. From her family's deep roots in real estate investment to managing her own A-frame in an HOA-controlled community, Kendra shares valuable insights on the financial realities of cabin ownership in today's market. We'll explore how she transformed her three-level A-frame with strategic renovations, discovered her unexpected guest demographic, and navigates the challenges of operating a seasonal property that's "in the red" despite what AirDNA might suggest.

Whether you're considering buying a vacation property, curious about the impact of HOA regulations on short-term rentals, or interested in the nuts and bolts of real estate investment strategy, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and honest reflection. We'll dive into everything from the tax advantages of making your children "employees" of your LLC to the surprising disparity between projected and actual rental income, and why thinking long-term might be the smartest approach in today's challenging market.

INSTAGRAM
@almanoraframe

@cozyrockcabin

@cozycampsebec

@cozycabinboone

BOOKING SITES

Almanor A-Frame: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/54071556
Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051
Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com

Book a Cabin Consultation Here: http://www.staycozycabin.com

Today we're welcoming Lynn from Fresh Coast Cabins, whose journey from digital marketing executive to cabin entrepreneur offers a refreshing perspective on placemaking in the wilderness of Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula. From renovating a single rustic cabin to developing a collection of lakeside retreats, a public sauna, and now even a bar and event space, Lynn shares how her passion for creating meaningful experiences has evolved into a thriving ecosystem of hospitality ventures. We'll explore her philosophy that cabin culture is about connecting guests to the unique beauty and heritage of Lake Superior, including the area's deep Finnish roots and mining history.

Whether you're curious about managing guest expectations in remote locations, navigating the balance between rustic charm and modern comforts, or interested in leveraging digital marketing to build direct bookings, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and a thoughtful perspective on intentional growth. We'll dive into everything from the ritual of seasonality along Lake Superior's shores to the challenges of operating in a place where the nearest big box store is three hours away, and why sometimes the most memorable experiences come from embracing the imperfections rather than hiding them.

WEBSITE: https://freshcoastcabins.com

INSTAGRAM
@freshcoastcabins

@cozyrockcabin

@cozycampsebec

@cozycabinboone

BOOKING SITES

Fresh Coast Cabins: https://freshcoastcabins.com
Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Cabin Boone: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311026
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051
Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com

Book a Cabin Consultation Here: http://www.staycozycabin.com