Episodes

  • The Guest-First Trap: Why Airbnb is Losing Its Best Hosts
    Dec 18 2025

    Airbnb was built on partnership, but is that era over?

    This week, Sarah and Leo interview Steve Taggart of MyGetaways to dissect the platform’s aggressive pivot toward guest loyalty at the expense of host support.

    We explore the financial impact of commission changes and the growing trend of hosts being sidelined in their own properties. If you’re a host feeling the squeeze, this episode offers vital advice on navigating the new landscape and diversifying your bookings beyond the Airbnb algorithm.

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    36 mins
  • The Breakup: Why Southern Europe’s Love Affair With Tourism is Coming to an End
    Dec 12 2025

    In this episode, Sarah and Leo delve into the complex relationship between southern Europe and its tourism industry. Once a thriving love affair, the region's dependency on tourism is now facing unprecedented challenges. From economic strains to environmental concerns, we explore the factors driving this shift and what it means for the future of these beloved destinations. Join us for the stories behind the statistics as we deep-dive the evolving landscape of tourism in southern Europe.

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    36 mins
  • Has Airbnb Outgrown the Host Community?
    Dec 4 2025

    In the latest episode of The Check-In Sarah and Leo discuss the significant changes happening at Airbnb, including the introduction of hotel inventory and new cancellation policies. They analyze the implications of these changes for hosts and the broader short-term rental industry, emphasizing the need for hosts to adapt to a more competitive landscape. The conversation also touches on Airbnb's Q3 earnings and the strategic shifts that are shaping the future of the platform.

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    27 mins
  • Does the Airbnb Side-Hustle Still Work? A Host Shares Everything
    Nov 28 2025

    In the latest episode of The Check-In, Sarah and Leo discuss the intricacies of managing short-term rental properties on your own, with Sarah interviewing James Kinnersly, who operates properties in the Canary Islands. They explore the challenges of remote management, the importance of local knowledge, the dynamics of online travel agencies (OTAs), and the impact of regulations on the short-term rental market. The discussion also highlights the role of technology in property management and shares insights from industry events.

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    36 mins