Radical Hospitality Show

Raising Hotel Capital Through Future Guest Pre-Bookings with Mark Pecota

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 11:00:00 -0400

What if future guests could help fund a hospitality project before construction is complete?

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, Zeke Freeman is with Mark Pecota, founder of LaunchBoom, to explore how hospitality developers are using crowdfunding and pre-booking campaigns to generate capital, validate demand, and build an audience long before opening day.

Mark shares how LaunchBoom evolved from launching consumer products on Kickstarter into helping boutique hotels, glamping resorts, and experiential hospitality concepts raise significant pre-booking revenue through guest deposits and discounted future stays. Together, they discuss the mechanics behind hospitality crowdfunding, the role of renderings and storytelling, how developers can test market demand before building, and why some projects generate hundreds of thousands of dollars before a single guest checks in.

For anyone exploring creative alternatives to traditional debt and equity financing, this conversation offers a practical look at a rapidly growing funding strategy.

What You'll Learn

Learn how hospitality crowdfunding differs from traditional investor-backed fundraising.
Discover how pre-booking campaigns can generate revenue before a property opens.
Understand why small guest deposits can become powerful indicators of market demand.
Explore how renderings, visuals, and storytelling help sell an experience before construction is complete.
Hear how hospitality projects like Cosmos generated over $1.9 million in pre-bookings through crowdfunding.
Learn how developers can use pre-launch data to refine concepts and reduce risk before construction begins.

Listen to the full conversation for practical insights on crowdfunding, guest demand validation, and innovative hospitality funding strategies.

Connect with Mark Pecota
Website: https://www.launchboom.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markpecota/

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Grab the free Radical Hospitality Starter Kit → root-ad.com/starter

Connect with Zeke Freeman:
Instagram: @zekefreeman_rootarchitecture and @rootarchitecture
YouTube: @rootarchitecture
Facebook: @RootArchitectureandDevelopment
LinkedIn: Zeke Freeman
X/Twitter: @zfreemanroot

Ready to get started with your hospitality project?
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Get in Touch: Stay connected with the Radical Hospitality podcast for more episodes exploring the intersection of architecture, design, and unforgettable guest experiences.

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From Branded Hotels to Boutique Experiences with Sujay Mehta

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Most people work their way up into boutique hotels from short term rentals, but Sujay Mehta came at it from the other direction, and that changes almost everything.

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, Zeke Freeman sits down with Sujay Mehta of Bloom Ventures in Columbus, Ohio. Sujay spent years in the branded, flagged hotel world before pushing his portfolio toward boutique, experiential hospitality, and he brings a rare mix of operations discipline and creative ambition. They talk about chasing corporate demand instead of only leisure guests, building ancillary revenue around the rooms, and why he believes nobody will ever care about your property more than you do.

Sujay shares how he learned operations by working night shifts and driving the guest shuttle, why your first deal should probably be an acquisition, and how owning a cluster of properties in one market unlocks real economies of scale. Zeke adds stories from the Red Hotel in Morrison and a mountain project at the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park.

What You'll Learn

Discover why boutique hotels can win corporate demand that leisure-focused owners miss.
Learn how to build ancillary revenue with bars, local restaurant partnerships, merch, and white-labeled wine.
Understand why nobody cares about your property more than you, and what that means for self-management.
Hear how Sujay turned a $44,000 repair quote into a $4,500 fix in one hour.
Explore why your first hotel deal should be an acquisition before you ever try a ground-up build.
Learn how working the night shift and driving a shuttle taught him operations no SOP could.

There is a lot more in the full conversation, from a golf resort with a vineyard to a private member social club. Give it a listen.

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Scaling Short Term Rentals With AI Automation and Operations with Tim Hubbard

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 12:00:00 -0400

Most people think the hard part of a short-term rental is buying it, but the real work starts the day a guest checks in.

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, Zeke Freeman was with Tim Hubbard, founder and CEO of Corzly and host of the Short Term Rental Riches podcast. Tim got into real estate sixteen years ago chasing financial freedom, bought his first short-term rental in California eleven years ago, and slowly turned a remote operation into a business that now supports owners and managers across more than fifty cities. He runs it all from South Brazil with a team spread across the globe.

Tim and Zeke get into what it really takes to operate rentals well, where AI helps and where it still falls short, and the honest lessons from Tim's boutique hotel project in Medellin. It is a practical, grounded conversation about operations, technology, and building hospitality businesses that last.

What You'll Learn

Learn how Tim structures a fully virtual team into four focused groups that keep operations running smoothly
Discover the partnership model that lets owners keep their brand and their listings while handing off the day-to-day
Understand exactly where AI helps in guest communication and where it still needs a human
Explore the real numbers and setbacks behind a boutique hotel build in Colombia
Hear why good reviews, not good marketing, decide which properties win in a crowded market
Understand what to check before you ever invest in real estate in another country

If you own, manage, or dream about short-term rentals, this conversation is worth your time. Listen to the full episode with Tim Hubbard on the Radical Hospitality Podcast.

Connect with Tim Hubbard
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-hubbard-str/
Website: https://corzly.com/

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Purpose Beyond Profit: Bruce O'Neal on MANNA Worldwide and Mango Tree Coffee

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 11:00:00 -0400

Bruce O'Neal chased money through his whole twenties, hit every goal he set by 27, and still woke up empty for six months straight.

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, Zeke Freeman sits down with Bruce O'Neal, founder of Manna Worldwide, at the organization's headquarters in Dallas. What started as one small calling has grown into 247 projects across more than 40 countries, including schools, nutrition centers, clean water initiatives, and medical clinics.

Bruce shares the whole arc: growing up poor with an alcoholic father, building a successful exotic flooring company, finding faith at 27, and then selling everything to become a missionary in Japan and the Philippines. He opens up about the first feeding center that began with 10 kids and grew to 250 in three months, the motto that drives everything he does, the discipline that keeps Manna's overhead near 5%, the Mango Tree coffee shops that fund the mission, and why he handed leadership to his son Keith while he is still around to mentor him.

What You'll Learn

Learn why chasing money left Bruce empty even after he reached every goal he set.
Discover how one feeding center for 10 children grew into 247 projects worldwide.
Understand why staying long-term matters more than short bursts of generosity.
Explore how Manna keeps overhead near 5% while most nonprofits spend close to half.
Hear how a coffee shop became one of the busiest in Denver and funds hungry kids.
See why Bruce built the organization to outlast him and handed it to his son Keith.
This one goes deeper than a business conversation. Listen to the full episode to hear Bruce tell his story in his own words.

Connect with Bruce O'Neal
Website: https://mannaworldwide.com/

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

North & South Padre Island:The Next Big Hospitality Market with Tiffany Zhou and Chris Kilcullen

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Most people hear Padre Island and think spring break, but two developers are quietly turning it into one of the most interesting hospitality markets in the country.

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, Zeke sits down with Tiffany Zhou and Chris Kilcullen to compare the North and South ends of the longest barrier island in the world. Chris walks through Whitecap Resort, a 240-acre master-planned resort near Corpus Christi with canals for direct Gulf access, a fully automated boat storage facility, a world-class marina, and hundreds of homes entitled for short-term rental.

Tiffany shares what is happening on the South side, where SpaceX and Starbase are pouring billions into the Rio Grande Valley and reshaping a historically overlooked border region. Along the way they get into cheap land, fast permitting, designing for real guests, the value of getting in the room with people who scare you, and why being early is still the best edge an investor has.

What You'll Learn

Learn why Padre Island is being called one of America's most overlooked hospitality markets
Discover how White Cap is turning 240 acres into a waterfront destination with direct Gulf access
Understand how SpaceX and Starbase are changing real estate on the South side
Explore why fast permitting and low land cost give Padre a real advantage over Colorado, California, and Florida
Hear how Tiffany runs a full-cycle design, build, and operate model for short-term rentals
Learn the networking and risk-taking habits that helped both guests build their businesses

Connect with Tiffany Zhou
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-zhou-design/
Website: www.tiffanyzhou.com

Connect with Chris Kilcullen
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-kilcullen/
Website: https://www.avisonyoung.us/

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Scale Faster with Direct Bookings and Group Stays with Tim Ensmann

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Tim Ensmann, founder of the Boutique Hotel Fund and managing partner of the Pine Tree Hotel. Tim shares how he went from investing in short-term rentals to building a fast-growing boutique hotel business.

Many investors start with short-term rentals, but Tim Ensmann believes boutique hotels create a better path to long-term wealth. In this conversation, he shares how his team transformed an underperforming hotel into a profitable business using strong branding, direct bookings, social media marketing, and group experiences. He also talks about the mistakes they made during renovations, why marketing should start before opening day, and how they are applying those lessons to build an even bigger boutique hotel portfolio.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why Tim shifted from short-term rentals to boutique hotels
How direct bookings increase profit and reduce OTA dependence
The marketing strategy that filled hotel bookings before opening
Why group bookings create more predictable revenue
How to use social media to grow a hospitality brand
The biggest renovation mistakes to avoid
Why investor expectations matter during hotel development
How to decide whether boutique hotels fit your investment goals

Connect with Tim Ensmann
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-ensmann/
Website: https://boutiquehotelfund.com/

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Turning Chalets and a Roadside Motel into a Hygge‑Inspired Boutique Hospitality Brand with Kerri Gibson

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0400

In this Radical Hospitality Podcast episode, host Zeke Freeman talks with Kerri Gibson, co‑founder of Chalet Hygge and Motel Boutique Hygge, a growing boutique hospitality brand in Quebec’s ski country. Kerri explains how she walked away from a top general‑manager role in a multinational tech company, reinvented her life and career, and built a hands‑on portfolio of chalets and a boutique motel grounded in hygge‑inspired design, disciplined numbers, and intentional lifestyle choices.

You’ll learn how she and her husband Philippe structure deals, renovate while cash‑flowing, use government loans and grants, and create guest experiences that consistently outperform the local market on ADR, occupancy, and reviews

Key topics covered

Kerri’s journey from CPA and software executive to full‑time boutique hospitality owner in Quebec
How a winter trip to Norway and discovering “hygge” reshaped her design philosophy and lifestyle priorities
The three‑phase model they use for every project: acquisition and underwriting, renovation, and property management/operations
Why they chose to renovate their 16‑room roadside motel while keeping it open and cash‑flowing—and how that reduced long‑term debt needs
Creative financing strategies: personal savings, pulling equity from existing chalets, and leveraging Quebec and Canada government programs for a 20‑year loan and grants
The operational reality of running short‑term rentals versus a motel: guest planning behavior, communications, staffing and guest expectations
KPIs they track (ADR, RevPAR, occupancy, pacing) and how they lifted ADR from ~139 CAD to ~189 CAD in 18 months, with even higher rates in peak summer
Building a cohesive brand across multiple properties, staying within a tight “buy box,” and leading with passion and guest experience in every acquisition decision
How local and regional tourism boards and influencer collaborations drive “warm” demand for their properties
Kerri’s “life 2.0” reflections on leaving corporate, redefining wealth, and designing a business around her strengths and values

Connect Kerri Gibson
Chalets Hygge: https://chaletshygge.com/
Hygge Motel Boutique: https://www.motelboutiquehygge.com/en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerri-gibson-cpa/

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

How to Sell Your Short-Term Rental for Greater Value with Tyler Coon

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Zeke sits down with Tyler Coon, founder and CEO of Savvy Realty, a network of over 50 short-term rental specialists across 25+ markets in the United States. Tyler shares how he went from renting out a spare bedroom to afford his first home in 2020 to building a nearly $20 million short-term rental portfolio in just six years.

They dig into what makes a great STR agent, how Tyler's team uses local case studies instead of relying purely on data algorithms, and why experiential amenities like indoor laser tag arenas and outdoor pools are reshaping what investors need to compete. Tyler also breaks down market saturation, how appraisals are starting to catch up to luxury short-term rental values, tips for maximizing your sale price, and his read on where Airbnb and Booking.com are headed next.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

How Tyler turned a single homestay rental into a $20 million short-term rental portfolio
What separates a great short-term rental agent from a typical real estate agent
Why Tyler relies on local case studies instead of trusting data algorithms alone
How to tell if a short-term rental market is getting saturated
What outdoor amenities and design features are driving bookings in 2026
The right way to price and prepare a short-term rental for a maximum sale
Why appraisals are starting to catch up with luxury short-term rental value
What's changing with Airbnb and Booking.com and what it means for hosts

Connect with Tyler Coon

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-coon/

Website: https://www.savvy.realty/

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Designing Spaces That Pay You Back w/ Ishita Lalan

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Radical Hospitality, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Ishita Lalan, founder of Ishita Interiors, to talk about how she and her husband Harshad built a short-term rental design and investment business from the ground up.

Ishita shares her journey from working a W2 job in architecture to becoming a full-time designer after a visa delay during COVID opened an unexpected door. She breaks down how their early investing experience, including a BRRRR deal that took a property from $330,000 to a $475,000 valuation in just six months, shaped the way she now designs for return on investment.

The conversation covers her studio's process, pricing structure, favorite design features, and how she has scaled a team of 30 designers while still staying hands on with every project.

In this episode, you'll learn:

How Ishita and Harshad used the BRRRR strategy to force appreciation on their first short-term rental
What happens during their 90-minute client consultation call and why it matters
The three service tiers they offer (virtual design, full design, and white glove) and how pricing works per square foot
Why landscaping and outdoor amenities can double a property's rental income
The design trend Ishita says is overused and should be retired (hint: neon signs)
How she built and structured a 30-person design team using a pyramid model
What makes short-term rental design different from residential or commercial design
Her advice for scaling a creative business without losing quality control

Connect with Ishita Lalan
Website: https://discovery.ishitainteriors.com/

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Beyond Airbnb Building a Scalable Glamping Business with Garrett Brown

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Garrett Brown, founder of Cameron Ranch Glamping, short-term rental expert at BiggerPockets, and author of The Glamping Investor.

Garrett shares how he went from a music career and three downtown Houston condos to running a 20-plus unit glamping business across two Texas markets. He opens with one of the wildest short-term rental stories you'll ever hear, then digs into the real lessons behind his growth: why commercial real estate and micro resorts beat one-off cabins, how partnerships opened doors without big money down, and why branding and marketing are the real difference between a forgettable stay and a fully booked one. He also reveals his newest project, Paw House Resort, a dog-first luxury nature hotel built to scale.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why micro resorts and commercial real estate build more wealth than single cabins, thanks to economies of scale and net operating income valuation
How to use partnerships and park model financing to get into hospitality without a hedge fund behind you
Where to spend your build budget (hint: don't go cheap on the outdoor landscaping and amenities)
Why dominating one market beats spreading yourself thin across many
How to spot an untapped niche and turn passion into a brand people will pay a premium for
The exact three-step marketing funnel Garrett uses to turn social media views into actual bookings

Connect with Garrett Brown:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-brown-03b673169/
Website: https://cameronranchglamping.com/
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/cameronranchglamping

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Mark Batterson on Building Churches That Transform Communities

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, host Zeke sits down with Pastor Mark Batterson of National Community Church in Washington, DC, for a conversation about the spiritual weight of physical spaces. What began with three people meeting in a blizzard in 1996 has grown into a multi-campus church and a portfolio of community-driven places—Ebenezer's Coffee House (built in a former crack house), the Miracle Theater, the Dream Center, and the Capitol Turnaround, a 100,000-square-foot streetcar building stripped down to its 96 columns and rebuilt.

Mark unpacks why he believes a church confined to its four walls "is a club, not a church," how honoring the history of old buildings shapes new vision, and why his team invested a million dollars reinforcing a roof deck they have no plans to build on—because the next generation might. Drawing on themes from his book Gradually, Then Suddenly, he reflects on long-game thinking, the boundaries that protect family and ministry, defining success as being respected most by those who know you best, and why leadership always begins with self-leadership.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

Why Mark Batterson believes physical spaces carry spiritual weight—and how a coffee house can do what a pulpit sometimes can't
The "rebuilder of broken walls" philosophy: tapping into a building's backstory rather than erasing it
How intentional design (like seating that faces inward rather than spotlighting a stage) creates communal worship instead of personality-driven worship
The case for activating church real estate 24/7 through event venues, childcare, and partnerships rather than letting buildings sit empty six days a week
"Third and fourth generation" thinking: making costly decisions today to set up people you'll never meet
Why he capped his speaking trips—and the wake-up call from his wife that prompted it
His definition of success: "when those who know you best respect you most"
A measured take on AI and technology as "theologically neutral" tools requiring discernment
What encourages him about the next generation's spiritual hunger—and his concern about binary, "us vs. them" thinking
Why the best athletes and leaders he's met excel first at self-leadership, rest, and recovery

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

The Biophilic Design Revolution That Is Transforming Luxury Hospitality Worldwide with Louis Thompson

Mon, 18 May 2026 12:00:00 -0400

Louis Thompson, CEO and co-founder of Nomadic Resorts, joins host Zeke Freeman to share how a hospitality career, a tsunami, and a mushroom-inspired treehouse dining pod led to one of the most distinctive eco-resort design firms in the world. Louis and his creative partner have spent over a decade building bamboo floating resorts, manta ray treehouses, caterpillar-cocoon tent camps, and other biomimicry-driven structures for major luxury brands like Six Senses, Shangri-La, and Banyan Tree — all while bootstrapping the company on a $10,000 loan from Louis's mom.

The conversation covers everything from the engineering reality of hanging a nest from living trees in a Thai rainforest to why unconventional construction doesn't have to cost more than a conventional build, and why the future of hospitality belongs to hyper-niche, experience-first destinations.

Things You'll Learn in This Episode

What biophilic design and biomimicry actually mean, and how they shape every Nomadic Resorts project
Why a mushroom-inspired treehouse dining pod that rises on a winch became a massive PR win for a luxury hotel brand
How Louis and Olaf bootstrapped Nomadic Resorts and convinced a client to invest $13M from a hand sketch
Why unconventional, nature-inspired construction can cost the same as a conventional build
How Nomadic Resorts approaches new locations by studying vernacular architecture and local building materials
Why Louis believes AI will drive a surge in hyper-niche, activity-specific resort concepts

Connect with Louis Thompson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-thompson-9825308/
Nomadic Resorts: https://nomadicresorts.com/
Nomadic Escapes: https://www.nomadic-escapes.com/

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Building Passive Income Through RVs and Franchising with Garr Russell

Wed, 06 May 2026 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Show, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Garr Russell, founder of Fireside RV Rentals, to unpack how a simple family RV purchase turned into one of the largest RV rental management franchises in the country. Garr shares his entrepreneurial journey from early lawn care businesses to building scalable systems in hospitality, why RV rental management is fundamentally different from short-term rentals, and how faith, discipline, and long-term thinking have shaped his approach to business. The conversation covers franchising, asset-light models, delegation, generational wealth, and why documenting systems is the real work behind scale.

Things You’ll Learn in This Episode

How RV rental management works and why it differs from Airbnb-style real estate rentals
Why turning lifestyle assets like RVs into income streams can offset ownership costs without chasing appreciation
The economics behind Fireside’s 50/50 management model and why it makes sense in the RV industry
What it takes to build and operate an RV rental management franchise with low overhead
How franchising can be a faster and more scalable path than owning large fleets of depreciating assets
The importance of documentation, systems, and delegation when scaling a hospitality business
How faith influences Garr’s decision-making, leadership style, and approach to entrepreneurship
Why thinking in terms of assets and recurring revenue changes how entrepreneurs build long-term wealth
How community and support systems play a critical role in sustainable franchise growth

Connect with Garr Russell
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrrussell
Website: https://firesidervrental.com/
https://firesidervrentalfranchise.com/
https://garrrussell.com/

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

From One Treehouse to 33 Units: Building Bolt Farm the #1 Bucket-List Romantic Getaway - Tori Bolt

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 14:00:00 -0400

Download to get you $1M Presale Framework based on this episode →
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In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Show, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Tori Bolt, co-founder of Bolt Farm Treehouse, to unpack how one of the most recognizable names in experiential outdoor hospitality was built from a single handcrafted treehouse into a thriving, design-forward micro-resort.

Tori shares the real story behind Bolt Farm, including early missteps with zoning and entitlements, the painful decision to walk away from a failed development, and the lessons that shaped their successful relaunch in Tennessee.

The conversation dives deep into building with intention, scaling through offsite construction, designing amenities that actually drive revenue, and creating a hospitality brand centered on connection, relationships, and unforgettable guest experiences.

This episode is a masterclass for anyone building in hospitality who wants to grow with clarity, discipline, and heart.

Things You’ll Learn in This Episode

How Bolt Farm Treehouse evolved from a single wedding treehouse into a 33-unit experiential destination
Why zoning, entitlements, and location selection can make or break a hospitality project
The financial and operational lessons learned from a failed development and full restart
How offsite construction and prefab manufacturing accelerated Bolt Farm’s growth
Why focusing on a clear guest avatar leads to stronger branding and higher nightly rates
How spa and wellness amenities can significantly impact revenue and margins
The role of Instagram, influencers, and direct bookings in building demand before opening
How to structure a hospitality team as you scale without bloating payroll
What it takes to deliver “unreasonable hospitality” at scale
Practical advice for couples building and running a business together

Connect with Tori Bolt

LinkedIn: Tori Bolt - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tori-bolt/

Website: https://www.boltfarmtreehouse.com/

Instagram: @boltfarmtreehouse - https://www.instagram.com/boltfarmtreehouse/

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

From Wiped Out to $100M Exit: How Sarah Dusek Built the Glamping Brand That Changed Outdoor Hospitality

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Radical Hospitality Show, host Zeke Freeman sits down with entrepreneur, investor, and hospitality visionary Sarah Dusek to explore what it really takes to build, scale, and reinvent purpose-driven travel brands. From her beginnings as an “accidental hotelier” to co‑founding Under Canvas, one of the largest luxury glamping brands in the U.S., Sarah shares candid stories of failure, resilience, and defining moments—including the night a storm flattened her entire camp.

The conversation dives deep into scalable business models, the power of repeatability, leadership through crisis, and why identity matters more than imitation in hospitality. Sarah also unpacks her current work with Few & Far, a transformational travel brand rooted in conservation in South Africa, and Enigma Ventures, an investment fund backing women founders across Africa.

This episode is a masterclass in problem‑solving, impact-driven entrepreneurship, and building businesses that balance people, planet, and profit.

Things You’ll Learn in This Episode

How Sarah transitioned from nonprofit work to building impact-driven hospitality businesses
Why defining the right problem is half the solution in business and development
Key lessons from scaling Under Canvas from “tents in a field” to a national brand
What truly makes a business scalable—and why not every business should scale
How to respond when everything falls apart (literally) and keep moving forward
The importance of identity and personal values in hospitality brand design
How Few & Far is redefining luxury travel through conservation, community, and carbon sequestration
What investors really look for beyond pitch decks and financials
Lessons Sarah learned moving from founder to investor and why she returned to building
Practical advice for hospitality entrepreneurs navigating growth, capital, and leadership challenges

Connect with Sarah Dusek

Website: https://www.sarahdusek.com
Few & Far Travel: https://www.fandftravel.com
Few & Far Luvhondo Lodge: https://www.fewandfarluvhondo.com
Book: Thinking Bigger: A Pitch Deck Formula for Women Who Want to Change the World

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

The Real Economics Behind Glamping, Micro Resorts, and Outdoor Hospitality in 2026 with Connor Schwab

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Show, Zeke Freeman sits down with outdoor hospitality expert Connor Schwab to explore what actually makes a glamping, micro resort, or outdoor lodging project work.

Connor shares insights from hundreds of feasibility studies, explains the real economics of canvas tents versus hard-wall units, breaks down where operators lose money, and reveals how scale, utilities, unit mix, and direct booking strategy can make or break a project.

They discuss the shift toward professionalization in the industry, why unique architecture creates a long-term moat, and how operators can build profitable, durable outdoor properties in 2026 and beyond.

Things You’ll Learn in This Episode

How outdoor hospitality has evolved and where it's heading
Why canvas tents often fail to pencil and the hidden costs behind them
The operational challenges of glamping and seasonal setups
Why utilities usually make or break your budget
How unit mix determines ADR, occupancy, and long-term brand value
Why scale matters and why most properties struggle below $1M in revenue
How OTAs can fast-track occupancy but hurt profitability
Why unique, hand-built units outperform off-the-shelf structures
What makes a micro resort work in cold or seasonal markets
Connor’s strategy for building a $100M hospitality portfolio today

Contact Connor Schwab
• Website: https://www.clearsummitinvestments.com/
• Email: connor@clearsummittinvestments.com
• LinkedIn: Connor Schwab
• Podcast: Outdoor Hospitality Podcast

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

How Vision Driven Leadership Builds Organizations That Last with Doug Dameron of Orchard Church

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Show, Zeke Freeman sits down with Doug Dameron, founding and lead pastor of Orchard Church in Brighton, Colorado. Doug shares the journey of growing Orchard from a small apartment gathering into a thriving multi-site church reaching thousands each week. The conversation explores leadership, vision, accountability, and the often overlooked business side of running a healthy organization. Doug and Zeke unpack how churches and businesses alike can avoid becoming inward-focused, why hospitality is a powerful growth strategy, and how mission-driven leaders can embrace change, technology, and systems without losing their soul. From radical hospitality to kingdom-minded business principles, this episode is packed with practical insights for entrepreneurs, builders, and leaders who want to create lasting impact.

Things You’ll Learn in This Episode

How Orchard Church grew from an apartment living room to a thriving multi-site organization
Why vision should focus on people, not just buildings or scale
The dangers of becoming inward-focused in business and leadership
How accountability and clarity strengthen culture, not weaken it
Why hospitality is one of the most powerful and overlooked growth strategies
What churches and businesses can learn from each other about leadership and systems
How to balance mission with changing methods in a fast-moving world
Practical ways AI can support creativity and efficiency without replacing humanity
The trellis and the vine framework for sustainable growth
What it means to run a kingdom-minded business in everyday work

Orcharch Church: https://www.orchard.church/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orchardchurchco/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OrchardChurchCo

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

The Mindset Shift That Builds Trustworthy Teams in Hospitality with Tiffani Packer

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Show, Zeke sits down with restaurateur and community builder Tiffani Packer, the energetic force behind several beloved concepts across Evergreen, Morrison, and Tampa. Tiffani shares the deeply personal story of how she and her husband Rand built a hospitality group while raising four kids, staying grounded in their core value of “family first.” She opens up about how they built teams that operate with autonomy, why each restaurant carries its own soul, and how they create experiences that feel intentional, warm, and elevated. From the challenges of entrepreneurship to the joy of watching their children grow into leadership roles, Tiffani offers a rare look at what it truly takes to build a hospitality business that thrives without burning out the people behind it.

In this episode, you'll learn:

How Tiffani and Rand built a hospitality group across multiple cities without losing balance at home
Why their core value of “family first” shapes every business decision
The story behind their children becoming entrepreneurs and leaders in the business
How they create strong, autonomous teams that run restaurants with excellence
Why they choose unique restaurant concepts instead of duplicating a single model
The small design details and operational decisions that shape unforgettable guest experiences
What it takes to stay resilient in tough seasons of business and parenting
How couples can successfully navigate entrepreneurship together
Why leaders must model enthusiasm and authenticity for their teams
What “radical hospitality” means to Tiffani and how she brings it to life daily

Connect with Tiffani Packer

La Rocca Rossa Website: https://laroccarossa.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffani-packer-a6913a2bb/

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Hospitality as a Mindset in Design and Development with Devon Tilly

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0400

In this special crossover episode, Zeke joins Devon Tilly on The Art of Construction to explore how hospitality, design, development, and entrepreneurship intertwine to shape memorable places. Zeke shares his journey from growing up on job sites in East Texas to building Root Architecture and Development, and why hospitality is a mindset that influences every project and relationship. They discuss boutique hotels, entitlement challenges, feasibility studies, avoiding costly build mistakes, and the power of real human connection in a digital world. You’ll also hear behind-the-scenes stories about Zeke’s mountain treehouse stay, the upcoming boutique hotel in downtown Morrison near Red Rocks, and why long-term thinking and genuine relationships always win.

Things You’ll Learn in This Episode

Why hospitality is a mindset, not a project type
How childhood jobsite experiences shaped Zeke’s path
What “radical hospitality” looks like in design and development
Behind the scenes of the treehouse stay built during COVID
The multi‑year journey of entitling a boutique hotel near Red Rocks
How to avoid common and costly building mistakes
Why real relationships outperform digital networking
The value of feasibility studies and early design clarity
How entrepreneurs can collaborate to create better guest experiences
How architects can use AI responsibly as a tool, not a replacement

The Art of Construction hosted by Devon Tilly:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-construction/id932645265

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

From Raw Land to Micro Resorts with Janice Stitzer

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0500

In this episode of The Radical Hospitality Show, Zeke Freeman walks the property with developer and builder Janice Stitzer, co-founder of Uncommon Developer, as she breaks down the real story behind building a seven-unit micro resort in Salida, Colorado. From zoning surprises and water rights to SIP panel construction and infrastructure costs, Janice pulls back the curtain on what most people never see when they dream about building cabins in the mountains.

This is not just a conversation about design. It is about risk, resilience, operations, and long-term vision. Janice shares the lessons she learned navigating commercial codes, septic systems, excavation overruns, remote management, and guest experience strategy. She also gives us a look at her next project, a 40-acre regenerative ranch and event-driven hospitality concept built inside an Opportunity Zone. If you have ever dreamed about building your own A-frame, micro resort, or guest ranch, this episode is a masterclass in what it really takes.

In this episode:

What it actually costs to build a micro resort from the ground up
How zoning and commercial codes can reshape your entire design
Why infrastructure is often the biggest hidden expense
The pros and cons of SIP panel construction in mountain towns
How to think through water rights, augmentation, and septic planning in Colorado
Why Jan chose P-TAC units over mini splits
The importance of speed to dry-in during winter builds
How to structure ADR targets during ramp-up season
The realities of self-managing multiple short-term rentals
Systems Jan uses for automation, access control, and remote operations
Lessons learned from guest experience mistakes and tech stack gaps
How to think about wellness amenities like private saunas and cold plunges
The strategic value of Opportunity Zones for long-term development
Why regenerative ranching is part of Janice’s long-term hospitality vision

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Design, Development, and Discipline: Zeke Freeman on Building to Scale

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0500

This repost episode features Zeke Freeman as a guest on the Build to Scale Podcast by Quinn V. Schilz, where he shares the pivotal moment that reshaped his career—being laid off in 2008 with a pregnant wife at home—and how that setback became the foundation for his entrepreneurial journey. From mastering architecture and learning sales to launching his own firm and stepping into real estate development, Zeke breaks down the real path to ownership, explaining why skill sets matter more than hype, why cash flow is king, and how young entrepreneurs can strategically move from earning income to building assets.

He unpacks practical real estate fundamentals like house hacking, leverage, appreciation, and liquidity, while also sharing how he built a high-performing remote team using systems, daily accountability huddles, and clear SOPs. Zeke also reveals how launching the Radical Hospitality podcast became a strategic growth engine for attracting clients, building trust, and positioning for future boutique hotel developments, making this episode a practical roadmap for anyone serious about building long-term wealth through intentional growth and ownership.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

Why Zeke says failure in 2008 was the best thing that happened to his career
The difference between working for money and making money work for you
A step-by-step path for young entrepreneurs to buy their first property
Why learning a skill adjacent to real estate is a strategic advantage
How house hacking and ADUs can reduce risk while building equity
The truth about leverage, cash flow, and overextending in today’s market
The real benefits of real estate: mortgage paydown, tax advantages, and appreciation
How to structure daily team meetings with three simple questions
Why SOPs and systems are critical to scaling a business
How podcasting became a client acquisition and capital-raising strategy
Practical ways Zeke uses AI without losing human creativity
His 10-year vision for scaling boutique hotel developments

Built to Scale Podcast

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@builttoscalepod?si=rifm68Rq0Qka3ppV

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-scale-podcast/id1823789408

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Elevated Treehouse Hospitality with Dustin Feider

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, Zeke Freeman sits down with Dustin Feider, founder of O2 Treehouse, to explore how elevated design, sustainability, and hospitality intersect—literally—in the trees. From geodesic spheres suspended 40+ feet in the air to modular treehouse villages designed for scalable hospitality, Dustin shares how his childhood inspiration evolved into a globally recognized design-build studio.

They unpack the engineering challenges of building on living, moving structures, the economics of unique stays, and how immersive, nature-forward hospitality can outperform traditional square-foot thinking. Whether you’re developing boutique hotels, glamping resorts, or experiential real estate, this conversation will expand how you think about space, experience, and return on investment.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How Dustin turned a furniture design background into a global treehouse brand
The engineering challenges of building on living trees and how O2 solves them
Why unique stays can outperform larger homes in ADR and ROI
What it costs to build elevated hospitality structures
The difference between suspended tree structures and ground-based glamping units
How experiential design drives demand in modern hospitality
Why smaller, one-of-a-kind builds can outperform traditional real estate metrics
The process behind designing, engineering, and budgeting custom tree projects
Where immersive, nature-driven hospitality is headed next

Connect with Dustin:

Website: https://www.o2treehouse.com/

Email: dustinfeider@o2treehouse.com

LinkedIn: Dustin Feider https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinfeider/

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Building Neighborhood First Real Estate With Tyler Cauble

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0500

In this episode of The Radical Hospitality Podcast, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Tyler Cauble, a Nashville-based commercial real estate investor, advisor, and developer known for turning overlooked properties into community anchors through adaptive reuse and neighborhood-first strategy.

Tyler shares how he dropped out of college, landed an in-house leasing role at a boutique development firm, and quickly built real-world experience across office, retail, industrial, and development. After completing his first major development project, he launched his own firm and began raising capital for deals rooted in a clear philosophy: be product-type agnostic, but hyper-local about where you invest. For Tyler, that means spending nearly all his time understanding the real fabric, demand, and trajectory of specific neighborhoods like East Nashville and Madison.

Takeaways:

Tyler Cauble emphasizes the importance of understanding neighborhood dynamics for successful investments.
He prefers commercial real estate over residential due to the complexities of tenant relationships.
Tyler's approach to underwriting deals focuses on finding the 'X factor' that sets projects apart.
He believes in the potential of opportunity zones to spur investment in neglected areas.
Tyler discusses the challenges of navigating city regulations and permitting processes.
He highlights the significance of choosing the right management team for hospitality projects.
Tyler's Peerless Mill project aims to create a self-sustaining community within a mixed-use development.
He stresses the need for conservative underwriting in uncertain market conditions.
Tyler shares insights on the benefits and challenges of utilizing historic tax credits.
He advocates for hiring experienced professionals to navigate complex financing options like TIFs.

Connect with Tyler Cauble:

Website: crecentral.com

Instagram: @commercialinnashville

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

How Storytelling Builds Boutique Hotel Brands That Last with Steph Weber

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 12:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Zeke Freeman sits down with Steph Weber, a branding and marketing leader in the short-term rental, boutique hotel, and micro resort space. Steph shares the origin story behind her move from fashion and influencer marketing into hospitality, and why story-led branding is no longer optional as platforms shift and competition tightens.

They unpack what “owning your brand” really means for STR and boutique operators, how to build a brand before construction is even finished, and why strong marketing systems (email lists, content, direct bookings) become part of the business asset itself, especially when it’s time to exit.

What you’ll learn

How Steph went from fashion branding and influencer work to hospitality investing and development
Why storytelling is the competitive edge in modern STR and boutique hotels
The difference between “good design” and a stay that creates emotion (and loyalty)
How to define a target guest profile that guides everything from amenities to messaging
What it looks like to market a property while it’s still under construction
Why relying on OTAs alone can cost you loyalty, margin, and long-term business value
The real-world journey of building Cabins on the Cumberland: partnerships, financing, surprises, and lessons learned
How to think about event venues, capacity, and the economics of full-property buyouts

Connect with Steph Weber:

Website: theweberco.com

Instagram : @theweberco

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Craftsmanship in Modern Hospitality with Brandon Gore

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, Zeke Freeman interviews Brandon Gore, a craftsman known for his work in concrete artistry and sustainable building. Brandon shares his journey from a career in hospitality to becoming a designer and builder, emphasizing the beauty and longevity of rammed earth construction. He discusses his current project, the Outlier Hotel in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, which aims to provide unique accommodations for visitors. The conversation explores the challenges and benefits of rammed earth, the importance of craftsmanship in design, and the search for strategic investment to bring the Outlier Hotel to life.

Takeaways:

Brandon Gore's journey into concrete artistry began with a passion for mountain biking and architecture.
His work emphasizes sustainable building materials and timeless design.
Rammed earth construction offers longevity and minimal maintenance compared to traditional materials.
The Outlier Hotel aims to cater to a demographic seeking modern, unique accommodations in Eureka Springs.
Brandon's experience with Dwell Magazine significantly boosted his career and visibility in the industry.
Rammed earth is gaining traction in building codes across the U.S., but still faces challenges due to historical lobbying.
The Outlier Hotel project is strategically located near popular attractions, enhancing its market potential.
Brandon seeks a strategic investor who shares his vision for the Outlier Hotel.
Market studies indicate strong demand for high-end accommodations in Eureka Springs.
Brandon's personal connection to the area drives his commitment to creating meaningful spaces.

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

The Art of Landscape Architecture in Hospitality with Scott LaMont

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality podcast, host Zeke Freeman interviews Scott Lamont, CEO of EDSA, a global landscape architecture and design firm. They discuss Scott's journey in the industry, EDSA's unique approach to design that emphasizes the importance of place, and the collaborative nature of their projects. The conversation covers various topics including the design process for resorts, the challenges of working in different countries, and the balance between development and preservation. Scott shares insights on current trends in boutique hospitality and offers advice for aspiring developers looking to create unique experiences.

Takeaways

Scott Lamont emphasizes the importance of designing within a place, not just in it.
EDSA's philosophy centers on curiosity, humility, and collaboration.
The firm has a diverse portfolio, including hospitality, urban design, and community planning.
Understanding local cultures and communities is crucial in the design process.
Collaboration is key; great destinations are a collective vision.
The trend is shifting towards boutique resorts that offer unique experiences.
Master planning is an evolving process that requires flexibility.
EDSA leverages technology to analyze site data for better design outcomes.
Community engagement is essential for successful project implementation.
Hospitality is about delivering experiences and making guests feel welcome

Connect with Scott LaMont:

Website: EDSA - https://www.edsaplan.com/

LinkedIn: Scott LaMont

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Building Colorado’s First Treehouse Hotel

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 14:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Zeke heads up to Evergreen, Colorado, to explore the story behind Juniper, a boutique lodge on a 10-acre property that is transforming into Colorado’s first treehouse hotel. Owners Alea and Ashley take us through their six-year journey—from buying a former B&B with zero hospitality experience to building luxury treehouses, hosting intimate weddings, and creating deeply personal guest experiences rooted in nature, design, and storytelling.

This conversation pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to create an experiential micro-resort:

Turning an old bed-and-breakfast into a modern boutique stay
Balancing operations while still living on property
The realities of building treehouses (why so few exist in the U.S.)
How design, soundproofing, durability, and cleanability truly make or break a hotel
Why “first five feet, first five words, first five seconds” defines their entire guest philosophy
Cultivating community trust through transparency, neighbor engagement, and listening
The long road of permitting, planning commissions, and navigating short-term rental regulation
The irreplaceable role of story, small moments, and human connection in hospitality

From the magic of themed treehouses to the weight of running a property without investors, Alea and Ashley share lessons in perseverance, design thinking, leadership, regulation, and the heart-led grit required to build something extraordinary.

This episode is a masterclass for hospitality entrepreneurs, boutique hotel developers, short-term rental operators, and anyone dreaming of building a place that inspires awe.

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Maximizing ADU Investment with Tony Pasquale

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 14:00:00 -0400

We’re on site with Tony to tour his newly built accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in Wheat Ridge, Colorado—a project that began as a simple garage and evolved when the city legalized ADUs. We unpack the real-world timeline (design do-overs included), what changed structurally from “just a garage” to a conditioned dwelling, and the big calls that move the budget—radiant heat, insulated doors, and a sewer ejector pit—so you can scope your own ADU with eyes wide open. Tony also shares how he’s weighing rental strategies (medium-term vs. short-term vs. long-term), why finish quality matters when it’s in your backyard, and the features that make the space livable for residents and useful for his home-based business.

Highlights:

Why the shift from garage to ADU: Once Wheat Ridge approved ADUs, adding water/sewer/power anyway made a full unit make sense for rental income and property value.
Permitting & design timeline: ~4–5 months with a couple of stop-starts after redesign; smoother than horror stories but still iterative.
Structure & envelope upgrades: Deeper foundations, full insulation, and R-17 foam-packed garage doors with side-mount motors (about $12K total) to keep conditioned space tight and clearance high.
Budget reality: Low $300Ks possible on a lean spec; this build landed ~$450K with high-end choices (radiant, solid-core doors, finishes, ejector pit).
Rent strategy thinking: Leaning medium-term (traveling professionals, 30–90 days) for lower turnover than STRs and more flexibility than year-long leases.

Homeowners, small developers, and designers weighing a garage-to-ADU conversion; anyone curious about Wheat Ridge/Front Range ADU realities—costs, code, utilities, and rental strategy.

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Turning Vacant Buildings to Vibrant Spaces with Preston Snyder

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Radical Hospitality Podcast, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Preston Snyder, Principal of Thomas Preston Real Estate and founder of Mad Hospitality in Madison, Georgia.

Preston shares how his early exposure to both real estate restoration and world-class hospitality at the Ritz-Carlton shaped a career that fuses adaptive reuse development with culinary innovation. Since 2020, he’s revitalized Madison’s town square by converting vacant historic buildings into thriving concepts like The Dining Room, The Sinclair, Heart & Crown Tavern, Betty Gene's Pop-Up at Buggy Works, and the retro South Motor Inn.

The conversation dives into:

Lessons from decades in both real estate development and hospitality
How adaptive reuse projects fuel local economies and community culture
Building multiple restaurant concepts from a centralized kitchen model
Investing in people: why Preston provides benefits, stability, and growth opportunities uncommon in the restaurant world
Pivoting, experimenting, and staying resilient—even after setbacks like a fire at Betty Jean’s

Preston’s story is both entrepreneurial and deeply personal—showing how vision, grit, and hospitality can transform not just properties, but entire communities.

👉 Learn more about Preston’s work:

Thomas Preston Real Estate: thomasprestonrealestate.com
Mad Hospitality: mad-hospitality.com

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Why Hospitality Workers Must Fill Their Own Cup First with Mike Messeroff

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 16:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, Zeke sits down with Mike Messeroff—a 30-year veteran of the hospitality industry, coach, and founder of the Carpe Diem Collective. Mike’s journey has taken him from JetBlue’s corporate offices to bartending across the globe, through deep personal lows, and into a life of coaching leaders toward purpose and wellbeing.

They discuss Mike's journey from corporate success to personal fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of self-hospitality, mindfulness, and community support in the hospitality industry. Mike shares insights on the challenges faced by service workers, the significance of meditation, and the power of positive thinking. The conversation culminates in a guided meditation session, encouraging listeners to prioritize their mental well-being and personal growth.

Mike opens up about:

His decision to leave a secure corporate career for a more adventurous path in the Caribbean, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond
The wake-up call of hitting rock bottom while living what seemed like a “dream life” in Breckenridge
How mindfulness and meditation transformed his mental health and career trajectory
Why burnout is rampant in hospitality—and how “self-hospitality” can change the culture
The practices he teaches leaders: meditation, gratitude, and filling your own cup first
Building the Carpe Diem Collective, a purpose-driven community where hospitality leaders can exhale, connect, and realign with joy

Mike also guides listeners through a short meditation during the episode, offering a practical tool you can use anytime you need to reset.

If you’re in hospitality or simply in need of a reminder to slow down, breathe, and reclaim your purpose—this conversation is for you.

🔗 Explore Mike’s free masterclass at self-hospitality.com

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Hybrid Hotels for Retreats and Buyouts with Ben Wolff

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0400

Zeke tours a new “landscape hotel” of Ben Wolf of Onera that flexes between full-property buyouts and eight private suites—each with its own hot tub—anchored by a communal living/dining hub, a high-end residential kitchen (bar-ready), commissary, and a convertible conference/dining room. The conversation widens into pricing strategy (why weddings aren’t their focus), midweek corporate/wellness retreat demand, smart upsells (private sauna/pool), and the real-world developer playbook: picking the right GC, collaborating with architects, building cash-flow support businesses, and structuring partnerships that actually work.

We also get the founder’s origin story from NYC nightclub promoter to sober operator to one-of-one hotel developer—plus a sneak peek at a 20-key tropical, agritourism resort coming to South Florida (Bali vibes, stateside).

What you’ll learn:

How to design a hybrid “house buyout + independent suites” hotel that feels both private and communal
The revenue logic: midweek retreats > discounted weddings (and where high-ticket weddings still fit)
Operational upsells that guests love: private pool/sauna access layered onto shared amenities
Why GC selection trumps low bids—and how to align GC + architect from day one
Partnership rules that prevent burnout: complementary roles, urgency culture, “project > ego”
Cash-flow scaffolding for developers: management and marketing arms that keep the lights on
Agritourism development 101: 99-year land leases, low-density zoning, and farmer revenue share
Personal arc: sobriety, AirBnB arbitrage, Austin move, RV honeymoon inspiration, and learning the hard way

00:00 Intro & the landscape-hotel concept
03:20 Suite layout, hot tubs, communal core, and event flow
08:05 Pricing strategy: retreats vs weddings; upsell logic
12:10 Kitchen/bar configuration, commissary, and F&B support
17:40 From nightclub promoter to sober operator to developer
23:15 Cash-flow businesses that fund long-cycle development
28:30 GC vs architect: integrated delivery and cost control
34:10 Partnership filters: urgency, role clarity, reputation
39:45 South Florida project: 20 keys, agritourism lease, Bali vibes
46:30 Community/course preview and closing

Listen to another episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast featuring Ben Wolff:

Inside a $29 Million Treehouse Resort Business: Funding, Management, and Bookings

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Balancing Health, Hustle, and Hospitality with Kassidy and Erin Warren

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 15:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Radical Hospitality Show, Zeke Freeman sits down with Kassidy and Erin Warren to unpack the realities of entrepreneurship, marriage, and building a hospitality business together. From sleeping on air mattresses in dusty renovation sites to scaling into boutique hotels, Kassidy and Erin share the raw grind behind their journey to financial independence. They talk candidly about the toll on their health and relationship, the lessons they’ve learned about individuality and partnership, and how focusing on fitness, mindset, and mentorship has reshaped their lives.

The conversation explores balancing personal identity with a shared vision, why doing hard things together matters in a marriage, and how real estate investment—short-term rentals to boutique hotels—can provide both freedom and challenge. Whether you’re a couple in business, a real estate investor, or simply navigating the tension between personal growth and shared goals, this episode offers grounded wisdom and real stories from the trenches.

Connect with Kassidy Warren:
Instagram: @kassidy.warren
LinkedIn: Kassidy Warren

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

From the Silos to Hotel 1928: How Magnolia’s Real Estate Vision is Restoring Glory to Communities

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 13:00:00 -0400

In this inspiring episode, Zeke sits down in Waco, Texas with Dale Pahmiyer, VP of Magnolia Realty and a pivotal figure behind the scenes of Fixer Upper. From his early friendship with Joanna Gaines to overseeing Magnolia’s design and construction teams, Dale shares his personal journey into real estate and hospitality—and how the team’s vision has always centered on making space for meaningful moments.

The conversation dives into Magnolia’s real estate culture, the transformation of downtown Waco, the heart behind projects like Hotel 1928, and Magnolia’s commitment to client care, hospitality, and intentional growth. Dale also opens up about a powerful project that provided an accessible home for a family with two disabled children—highlighting how thoughtful design can be life-changing.

Whether you're passionate about real estate, hospitality, or human-centered design, this episode offers insight into what makes Magnolia’s brand so trusted and beloved.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

How Dale became involved with Magnolia and Fixer Upper
The strategy behind transforming downtown Waco
Magnolia’s vision: making space for meaningful moments
Creating boutique hospitality experiences with heart
How Magnolia Realty cultivates values-based real estate agents
What makes a “Fixer Upper” property work—and how Magnolia evaluates them
Designing for accessibility and why it matters
The story behind the Hotel 1928 restoration
Magnolia’s slow-growth philosophy and what's next

Resources & Links:
Explore Magnolia Realty: magnoliarealty.com
Learn about Hotel 1928: hotel1928.com
Visit Magnolia Market in Waco: magnolia.com/visit

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

How Mike Demson Builds High-Impact Hospitality Projects

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Mike Demson—a growth marketer turned real estate developer and boutique hotel operator. Mike’s unique journey began as one of the early employees at Airbnb, where he led global growth initiatives during the company’s breakout years. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from those formative Airbnb days, including the relentless focus on guest experience that shaped his approach to hospitality.

Today, Mike is at the forefront of boutique hotel development with standout projects like The Stone House in Sonoma and 400 Bay Street in San Francisco. He dives into the nuts and bolts of adaptive reuse, value-add renovations, navigating entitlements, and building legacy hospitality assets. From $1 million gut renovations to creative ground-up builds, Mike offers practical lessons on underwriting, construction strategy, management efficiencies, and the art of blending tech, real estate, and hospitality.

Whether you’re a developer, investor, or hospitality enthusiast, this episode is packed with actionable insights on scaling hospitality projects in high-barrier markets like California.

Highlights:

Early Airbnb growth stories and guest experience lessons
Deep dive into renovating a 100-year-old Stone House in Sonoma
Cost breakdowns: budgeting for boutique hotels and short-term rentals
How to unlock value through entitlements and zoning strategies
Balancing lifestyle assets with profitability
Partnership tips for architects, GCs, and management companies
Market outlook for building hospitality in 2025 and beyond

🎧 Tune in to hear why now might be one of the best times to build hospitality projects despite market headwinds.

Connect with Mike Demson
Instagram: @mike.demson
LinkedIn: Mike Demson

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

The Hidden Power of Revenue Management in Short-Term Rentals Eric D. Moeller

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 13:00:00 -0400

In this episode, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Eric Moeller, an 18-year real estate veteran turned hospitality innovator and founder of FreeWyld. Eric shares his remarkable journey from flipping houses in New Jersey to building a nature-focused hospitality brand redefining short-term rentals and boutique stays.

Eric talks candidly about the inspiration behind FreeWyld—from a transformative hiking trip in Utah to the creation of “Wild Mode,” a unique guest experience that helps travelers unplug from their devices and reconnect with nature. He discusses how FreeWild cabins integrate intentional design, reclaimed materials, and tactile experiences that encourage presence and restoration.

Eric also unpacks the importance of revenue management and how FreeWild Foundry helps operators optimize pricing strategies to outperform their markets. From brand storytelling and influencer marketing to scaling direct bookings and creating unforgettable guest touchpoints, Eric offers actionable insights for anyone in hospitality or short-term rentals.

Key Topics Covered:

Eric’s journey from carpenter to hospitality entrepreneur
The early days of Airbnb arbitrage and property management
How FreeWild was born to help guests disconnect through “Wild Mode”
Designing spaces with purpose: tactile materials, record players, and analog experiences
The four non-negotiables that drive FreeWild’s success
Building revenue management systems that increase profitability
Influencer marketing strategies that work (and which ones don’t)
The future of FreeWild: expansion, more cabins, and a growing service brand

Connect with Eric Moeller:
👉 Eric Moeller on LinkedIn
👉 FreeWyld

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Kai Andrew on Land Hacking, Unique Stays, and the Real ROI of Short-Term Rentals

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Radical Hospitality Show, host Zeke Freeman sits down with real estate investor, developer, and unconventional short-term rental expert Kai Andrew. Known for his deep-dive content on YouTube and Instagram, Kai shares how he transitioned from traditional rentals to pioneering some of the most unique and high-performing short-term rental properties on the market—from shipping containers and domes to landscape hotels and RV pads.

Kai walks us through his first "land hack" project, how he finances builds with creative strategies like HELOCs and refinancing, and why understanding your demographic is more valuable than blindly chasing turnkey properties. This episode is packed with tactical insights on development strategy, burn rate budgeting, design ROI, and how to scale at your own pace—whether you're a fast mover or a slow-and-steady type.

You’ll learn:

Why building for a targeted guest experience beats going “turnkey”
The real difference between long-term vs. short-term rental ROI
How Kai evaluates project payback periods and breakeven margins
What investors need to consider for profitable land-based STRs
Why trades knowledge and being hands-on still matters in 2025
How to make small design moves that drive BIG revenue returns

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced STR developer, Kai’s practical advice will challenge the way you think about hospitality, real estate investing, and building long-term wealth with intentionality.

Connect with Kai Andrew:

📺 YouTube: Kai Andrew
📸 Instagram: @KaiJAndrew

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

The STR Optimization Mindset with Michael Sjogren

Mon, 26 May 2025 13:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Radical Hospitality, Zeke Freeman sits down with Michael Sjogren—CPA-turned-hospitality entrepreneur, founder of Short-Term Rental Secrets, and co-founder of STR WealthCon, the world’s largest host-driven short-term rental conference. Michael shares his powerful origin story—from navigating his son’s rare health condition to leaving corporate life and building a real estate empire with 90+ properties and boutique hotels.

But this episode isn’t just about real estate—it’s about optimization. Michael breaks down his signature approach to building systems that let you stop trading time for money, avoid burnout, and play the game at the CEO level. Whether you're just starting or scaling fast, this conversation is filled with game-changing advice on co-hosting, RevPAR, investor relations, boutique hotel strategy, and how to build wealth through strategic hospitality.

Key Topics Covered:

Michael’s personal journey from CPA to STR mogul
How a health crisis became the catalyst for freedom
The CASPER framework for building scalable STR businesses
Why most people create another job (and how to avoid it)
RevPAR over ADR: how real pros optimize revenue
The shift from short-term rentals to boutique hotels
How to think like an asset manager, not a property manager
The power of mastermind rooms and leveling up your network
STR WealthCon 2025: what’s new and what to expect

Notable Quotes:

“There are three ways to play this game: the player, the coach, or the owner. The goal is to become the owner—and optimize your time, your team, and your freedom.”

Resources & Links:

Connect with Michael on Instagram: @mike.sjogren
Learn more at: shorttermrentalsecrets.com
STR WealthCon 2025 Tickets: strwealthconference.com

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Inside Azul Fuego: How a Family Rebuilt a Restaurant—and a Dream

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 11:00:00 -0400

Today, we’re coming to you straight from Azul Fuego with the incredible family behind its transformation—Levy, Ligmar, and Arturo.

In this episode, they open up about how they turned a longtime neighborhood restaurant into a vibrant, welcoming new space. You'll hear the full story of Azul Fuego’s rebirth: from buying the business back in 2006, to rolling up their sleeves for a full renovation, and building a restaurant that feels like home for the community.

We dive into:

The family’s deep roots in the restaurant industry
Why quality ingredients and genuine hospitality matter more than anything
How they curated a standout tequila selection without overwhelming guests
The unexpected hurdles (and surprises) during the renovation
What they learned about permits, planning, and patience
Their advice for anyone dreaming of opening or renovating a restaurant

Plus, they share their favorite dishes and the parts of the new space they’re most proud of—from the lively bar to the clean, inviting atmosphere.

Whether you're a foodie, an entrepreneur, or someone who loves hearing about passion projects coming to life, this episode will inspire you.

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Brad Blazar Reveals the One Thing Investors Really Want—That Nobody Talks About

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality podcast, host Zeke interviews capital raising expert Brad Blazar. They discuss Brad's journey from aspiring architect to successful entrepreneur and capital raiser, exploring the intricacies of building relationships with investors, effective communication strategies, and the importance of understanding regulations in capital raising.

Brad shares insights on how to navigate the investment landscape, the significance of collaboration in real estate, and best practices for managing investor relations and capital. The conversation emphasizes the transformative potential of real estate investment and the importance of education and networking in achieving success.

00:00 Introduction to Capital Raising and Brad Blazar
05:45 Brad's Journey into Capital Raising
11:57 The Blueprint for Successful Capital Raising
18:06 Building Investor Relationships
24:03 Effective Communication with Investors
29:47 Pitch Deck Essentials for Capital Raising
33:01 Crafting the Perfect Pitch Deck
35:07 Understanding Subscription Agreements and PPMs
36:31 The Importance of Disclosure in Securities
41:39 Navigating Regulation D: 506B vs 506C
46:45 Benefits of Investing in Real Estate vs Stocks
55:08 Effective Capital Management and Investor Relations
59:25 The Power of Other People's Money (OPM)

Connect with Brad Blazar:

Instagram: @bradblazar

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Why Emotional Design Matters More Than Ever in Modern Architecture with Adrian Ramsay

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, host Zeke Freeman interviews Adrian Ramsay, a visionary designer and founder of AR Design House. Adrian shares his unique journey from a swimwear designer to an award-winning architect, emphasizing the role of creativity, ADHD, and dyslexia in shaping his career. The conversation explores the importance of collaboration, community, and the power of focusing on one's strengths while navigating challenges in the design industry.

In this conversation, Adrian and Zeke explore the intricacies of architectural design, emphasizing the importance of editing in the design process, learning from industry giants, and the significance of working with great clients. Adrian shares insights from his podcast experiences, highlighting the value of design magic and land whispering, which focuses on understanding the relationship between a building and its environment.

The discussion also touches on finding and filtering clients, the role of word-of-mouth referrals, and the creative processes that lead to successful architectural projects.

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

How Adventure Built a Hotel: Bobby Mikulas on Purposeful Hospitality

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 15:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Show, host Zeke Freeman interviews Bobby Mikulas, co-founder of Kinship Landing, a boutique hotel in Colorado Springs.

Bobby shares his journey from a non-hospitality background to creating a community-centric hotel that emphasizes adventure and local experiences. The conversation delves into the importance of core values in building a strong team and navigating the challenges of starting a new hospitality venture, including the construction process and lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, Bobby from Kinship Landing shares insights on navigating the complexities of construction costs, hotel operations, and future visions for community engagement.

He discusses the importance of budgeting, contractor relationships, and the challenges faced during hotel development. Bobby emphasizes the significance of culture in hotel management and the need for strategic partnerships. He also outlines his vision for expanding Kinship Landing and engaging with local communities through various initiatives.

03:55 Building a Community-Centric Boutique Hotel

09:33 Core Values and Team Formation

15:38 From Concept to Construction

20:14 Navigating Construction Challenges

25:58 Navigating Construction Bids and Budgeting

26:36 Dealing with Budget Overruns and Bank Issues

28:57 Strategies for Contractor Agreements

32:19 Incentivizing Contractors for Better Results

33:07 Transitioning to Hotel Operations

34:23 DIY vs. Professional Hotel Management

36:18 Key Roles in Hospitality Management

41:00 Balancing Unique Experiences with Professional Management

43:29 Future Plans and Vision for Kinship Landing

45:51 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Discover A Blueprint For Scaling From Side Hustle To A Thriving 10+ Hotel Portfolio with Neil Shah

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Radical Hospitality Show, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Neil Shah, founder of Inntech Management and owner/operator of 13 hotels, including six in Sedona, Arizona. Neil shares his inspiring journey from immigrant electrical engineer to hospitality entrepreneur. He reveals how he got his start with just $20,000 saved from a side hustle building websites, and how that turned into a growing portfolio of boutique hotels.

Neil breaks down his investment strategy, partnership dynamics, operations philosophy, and what it really takes to succeed in the boutique hotel space—especially when transitioning from short-term rentals. This episode is packed with real-life lessons, tactical advice, and behind-the-scenes stories that are especially helpful for aspiring hoteliers, STR operators, and real estate entrepreneurs.

Key Topics Discussed:

Neil’s journey from India to owning 13 hotels in Arizona
How a side hustle funded his first hotel investment
The power of mentorship and long-term partnerships
What it takes to transition from STR to hotel ownership
Operational efficiencies, financing strategies, and building teams
Technology tools for hotel operations (Cloudbeds, DDL, Whistle)
Workforce housing challenges and solutions in high-cost areas
Advice for structuring GP/LP partnerships
What to consider before jumping into new hotel construction
How Neil turned around a 30% occupancy hotel into a thriving asset

02:15 Neil's Journey: From Electrical Engineer to Hotel Owner

03:04 First Steps in the Hotel Industry

04:09 The Big Realization: Loving the Hospitality Business

04:37 From College to Flagstaff: Building a Career

06:14 First Investment: The Best Western Deal

12:56 Scaling Up: The Tucson Property

17:24 Partnership Dynamics and Mentorship

21:44 Advice for Aspiring Hotel Entrepreneurs

27:00 Staffing Needs for Larger Properties

27:39 Transitioning from Airbnb to Boutique Hotels

28:13 Challenges in Hotel Management Systems

29:49 Common Mistakes by New Hoteliers

30:39 Defining Your Buy Box and Raising Capital

31:42 Current Portfolio and Management Strategies

34:23 Technology and Operations in Boutique Hotels

37:28 Dealing with Workforce Housing Challenges

38:54 Impact of Political Changes on Business

40:23 Advice for Limited and General Partners

43:41 Acquiring vs. New Construction

46:23 Case Study: Successful Repositioning in Sedona

53:15 Future Plans and Mentorship

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Why Grit, Risk, and Vision Matter in Business and Climbing with Asa Firestone, CEO of A-Lodge

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Radical Hospitality Show, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Asa Firestone—climber, adventurer, and CEO of A-Lodge—to unpack the wild journey from scaling granite walls in the Amazon to creating one of Colorado's most unique hospitality experiences.

Asa shares what it means to build a life around adventure, how near-death expeditions taught him tenacity, and the surprising lessons he carried from the big walls of El Capitan into building A-Lodge. Together, Zeke and Asa explore the parallels between entrepreneurship and exploration, the evolution of adventure hospitality, and why sometimes not knowing the full plan is a feature—not a bug.

Whether you’re a climber, a creative, or a business builder, this episode will challenge you to go all in—even when the summit seems far away.

What We Cover:

Growing up between D.C. and Colorado, and falling in love with the outdoors
Big wall climbing in Yosemite, Peru, and a wild National Geographic expedition to Venezuela
The uncomfortable lessons of solo climbing—and solo entrepreneurship
Building A-Lodge from scratch and reimagining what "adventure hospitality" means
Tips on seasonal hospitality, off-season strategy, and building for both climbers and families
How to commit to a path even if you don’t know the outcome

Quotes Worth Remembering:

“At a certain point, it’s easier to keep moving forward than to bail.”
“If you're not growing, you're dying—and that applies to people just as much as business.”
“Sometimes the climb you didn’t finish teaches you the most.”

🔗 Links & Resources:

A-Lodge Website
Learn more about Zeke Freeman & Root Architecture: root-ad.com

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

The Growth Formula: How Architects Can Scale from $1M to $10M with Enoch Sears

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0400

Most architecture firms hit a glass ceiling at $1M—so how do you break past that and scale to $10M without burning out?

In this episode, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Enoch Sears, founder of Business of Architecture, to unpack the Smart Practice Method—a framework that helps architects transition from solopreneurs to firm owners with thriving, profitable businesses.

Enoch shares hard-won insights from his journey coaching architects on how to stop being overworked and underpaid, build a team, and implement scalable systems to achieve financial freedom. Whether you’re an architect, developer, or entrepreneur in the real estate and hospitality space, this episode is packed with actionable advice you don’t want to miss.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

The biggest mistakes architects make when trying to grow their firms
Why most firms stall at $1M and the mindset shift needed to break through
The Smart Practice Method—a 4-pillar framework for sustainable firm growth
How to position your firm for high-value projects and premium pricing
The power of delegation: hiring the right people vs. outsourcing efficiently
How to structure your fees to ensure profitability (hint: $200K should be your baseline)
Remote vs. in-house teams: which model is winning today?
How Enoch is building a retreat center in Costa Rica (and what he's learning from it)

02:22 Challenges in Starting an Architecture Firm
09:27 The Smart Practice Method
13:48 Scaling an Architecture Business
28:02 Remote vs. In-House Teams
29:57 The Red Hotel Project: From Architecture Office to Boutique Hotel
30:49 Building a Remote and Integrated Team
31:39 Effective Client Engagement Strategies
33:14 Creating Educational Content and Podcasting
36:34 The Business of Architecture: Consulting, Coaching, and Training
41:18 Delegation Challenges and Overcoming Subconscious Programming
46:45 Spiritual Growth and Internal Work
50:46 Upcoming Projects and Future Plans
53:43 Conclusion and Contact Information

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

The Blueprint for Building Wealth Through Short-Term Rentals with Emanuele Pani

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Radical Hospitality, host Zeke converses with Emanuele Pani, a seasoned real estate expert and CEO of Dulce Vita Vacation Rentals. Emanuele shares his journey from Sardinia, Italy to the U.S. and his success in building a diverse real estate portfolio and managing Airbnb properties. He delves into the essence of creating a clear mental picture, inspired by Gaudi's architectural visions, to achieve personal and professional goals. Emanuel also touches on the importance of mindset, personal development, and surrounding oneself with the right people to foster growth. The discussion addresses practical advice for those looking to break into the short-term rental market and create their own version of La Dulce Vita.

00:16 Emanuel's Journey and Achievements
01:32 Exploring Mediterranean Culture
05:18 Mindset and Personal Development
08:39 The Immigrant Experience and American Dream
13:27 Building a Supportive Community
17:31 Mentorship and Continuous Learning
21:06 The Importance of Deep Knowledge
21:58 Understanding the Concept of 'I Am'
27:25 The Power of Visualization
28:49 Creating a Clear Mental Picture
31:06 Bringing Your Vision to Life
39:00 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

He Left Medicine to Build a $187M Hotel Empire—Here’s How! - Sujay Mehta Interview

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Radical Hospitality, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Sujay Mehta, the entrepreneur behind Bloom Ventures, a company managing over $187 million in hotel assets. Sujay’s journey is anything but ordinary—starting in medical research and addiction rehab before pivoting into boutique hotels and real estate development. He shares how a life-changing spiritual retreat influenced his business approach, why boutique hotels are better than multifamily investments, and the unexpected challenges of hotel development. Tune in to hear insider tips on raising capital, working with hotel brands, and managing a thriving hospitality business while balancing family life.

00:00 – Welcome to Radical Hospitality: Meet Sujay
01:07 – Sujay’s Wildly Diverse Background (Medical, Rehab, Real Estate)
04:45 – A Life-Changing Spiritual Retreat That Changed Everything
10:08 – Why Boutique Hotels Over Multifamily Investments?
16:45 – The Challenges of Running a Hotel vs. Other Real Estate
22:32 – Building a $7M Hotel: Costs, Financing, and Construction
34:15 – The Truth About Hotel Franchise Fees (And How They Get You!)
42:10 – The Rise of Container Hotels: Inside His Next Big Project
51:03 – How To Invest in Hotels & Get Involved with Sujay
56:45 – Where To Follow Sujay & Closing Thoughts

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Custom Homes & ADUs: What’s Next for Denver Real Estate with Jay Feaster of Feaster Realty

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 11:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we sit down with Jay Feaster of Feaster Realty to discuss Denver’s rapidly changing real estate market, the evolution of infill developments, and what’s next for custom home building. From the wild price jumps over the past decade to new trends like ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) and zoning changes, Jay shares his insider knowledge on what drives real estate growth.

We also break down the true costs of building a home, how financing and interest rates are shifting the market, and where the next big real estate opportunities are in Denver. Whether you’re an investor, homebuyer, or just curious about the industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights on the past, present, and future of Denver’s housing market.

00:00 – Introduction & Guest Introduction
02:30 – How Jay Feaster Got Started in Real Estate
08:00 – The Crazy Rise in Denver Home Prices
14:30 – The Role of Investors in Development
21:00 – Why Basements Are Becoming a Thing of the Past
26:00 – The ADU Trend & What It Means for Homeowners
34:00 – Custom Homes vs. Buying Existing Homes
41:00 – Where Are the Next Real Estate Opportunities in Denver?
48:00 – Closing Thoughts & Future Episodes

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Building a 42-story, $250M Skyscraper in Minneapolis: Interview with Minnesota's Top Trained Architect-Turned-Developer - Carl Runck

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Radical Hospitality, host Zeke Freeman sits down with visionary real estate developer Carl Runck, founder of Monarch Development Partners. Carl shares his journey from architecture to development, his role in reshaping Minneapolis’ skyline, and the creative financing and city partnerships that make ambitious projects possible. From luxury high-rises to community-focused developments, Carl breaks down what it takes to build transformative projects and the lessons he’s learned along the way. If you’re interested in real estate, urban development, or just love hearing how cities evolve, this is a must-listen!

00:00 - Introduction to Carl Runk
02:00 - From Architect to Developer: The Big Shift
08:30 - How to Sell Luxury Condos Before Construction Begins
14:45 - The Power of Public-Private Partnerships in Real Estate
21:10 - Inside the $40M High-Rise That Transformed Minneapolis
30:20 - The Secret to Building the Right Team for Major Projects
38:15 - Navigating Market Risks & Unpredictable Challenges
45:00 - Future of Development: What’s Next for Carl Runk?

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

The #1 Mistake CEOs Make—And How to Fix It! - Steve Van Diest

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Join Zeke Freeman as he sits down with Steve Van Diest, an executive coach and business leader with an extraordinary journey through nonprofit leadership, international living, and entrepreneurial success. From running businesses in the sleep industry to guiding CEOs toward wholeness, Steve shares raw and inspiring insights about faith, community, and overcoming personal and professional challenges. Discover how radical hospitality and vulnerability can transform both business and life.

Connect with Steve at: https://go.acumenimpact.com/steve-van-diest

00:00 - Introduction & Guest Overview
00:27 - Steve’s Journey: From Nonprofits to Business Leadership
01:31 - Stories from the Camino de Santiago
03:45 - Couples' Retreats & Strengthening Marriages
08:06 - Community & Leadership in Business
13:17 - Breaking Down Imposter Syndrome
22:50 - Radical Hospitality Defined
30:53 - Balancing Faith, Life, and Business
34:06 - Key Challenges for Entrepreneurs in 2025
35:23 - Final Thoughts: Love, Serve, Grow

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

From $250K in Tech to $6.5M in Real Estate: Gideon Spencer’s Game-Changing Blueprint

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, Zeke Freeman sits down with Gideon Spencer, a tech-turned-real-estate entrepreneur who’s reshaping the boutique hotel industry. With $6.5 million in assets acquired through innovative financing strategies like seller financing and subject-to deals, Gideon shares his unique journey, the power of assembling rockstar teams, and actionable insights for anyone looking to break into real estate or hospitality. From scaling quickly to the importance of creating unforgettable guest experiences, this episode is packed with value.

Follow Gideon at @gideonspencer_ on Instagram!

00:00 - Introduction
00:43 - Gideon’s Journey
04:12 - First Steps in Real Estate
09:10 - Creative Financing Explained
15:45 - Building Rockstar Teams
20:20 - What Makes a Successful Deal
32:07 - Creating Unique Guest Experiences
42:00 - What’s Next for Gideon

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

How to Pull Equity Out of Real Estate Investments

Sat, 18 Jan 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Discover the power of equity and how to grow your net worth through smart real estate investments. Zeke, from Radical Hospitality, breaks down the key concepts of building equity, managing assets, and understanding liabilities to create long-term wealth. Learn how to store your equity in containers that grow, avoid common financial pitfalls, and make your first home the foundation of your financial success.

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

How We Built $1 Million in Equity from a $7,000 Investment on Our Primary Residence [Actual Numbers]

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Podcast, host Zeke Freeman takes you through his family's decade-long journey to transform a modest foreclosure into a thriving real estate portfolio. Learn how a $7,000 initial investment and a lot of hard work turned into $1 million in equity and a sustainable legacy. Zeke shares practical insights, real numbers, and the challenges of building generational wealth in the mountains. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or dreaming of building a legacy, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable tips.

00:00 - Introduction
00:23 - Starting the Journey
00:51 - The Everyday Millionaire Inspiration
01:12 - Building a Family Legacy
03:35 - The Treehouse Project
07:00 - Lessons Learned and Real Numbers
09:55 - From Dream to Reality
11:11 - Closing Thoughts

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Turning a 1,000 Year Old Castle into a Profitable Hotel: Michael Stohler's Journey from Pilot to Investor

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Radical Hospitality Show, host Zeke Freeman dives deep into the fascinating journey of Michael Stohler, co-founder of Gateway Private Equity Group. From his beginnings as a Navy veteran and commercial airline pilot to building a thriving career in real estate and hospitality, Mike shares his invaluable lessons learned along the way. Discover how he transitioned from multifamily real estate to high-return hotel investments, the secrets to structuring successful deals, and his latest boutique hotel project in Spain. Packed with tips, inspiration, and actionable advice for aspiring investors, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in real estate and hospitality.

Connect with Mike via his website (https://www.gatewaype.com/) or listen to his podcast (https://www.therichergeek.com/podcast-page)

00:00 - Introduction to Radical Hospitality
00:07 - Meet Mike Stoler: From Pilot to Real Estate
00:23 - Transitioning to Hospitality: Why Hotels?
01:10 - Key Lessons from Real Estate Failures
02:30 - Strategies for Scaling a Real Estate Portfolio
08:00 - The Unique Challenges of Hotel Investments
20:00 - Spain Boutique Hotel Project: Vision & Strategy
35:00 - Advice for Aspiring Real Estate Investors

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Building Space Hotels: Unique Challenges, Architecture, and Scaling the Business with Tim Alatorre

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 20:00:00 -0500

Explore the incredible world of space habitation design with Tim Alatorre, CEO of Above Space Development Corporation. In this episode, we dive into the vision of building the first luxury space hotel, the technological innovations making space accessible, and how Tim is turning futuristic ideas into tangible realities. From terrestrial architecture to pioneering in orbit, this conversation will leave you inspired about the future of space exploration and hospitality.

To learn more about above, visit: https://abovespace.com/

02:00 - From Earth to Orbit: Transitioning to Space Architecture

08:00 - The Vision for Space Hospitality

15:00 - The Technology Behind Orbital Habitats

23:00 - Funding and Commercial Space Ventures

30:00 - Prometheus and the Space Economy

35:00 - The Future of Space Travel

40:00 - How to Get Involved

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Inside a $29 Million Treehouse Resort Business: Funding, Management, and Bookings (with Ben Wolff)

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0500

In today's episode, I sat down with Ben Wolff, visionary co-founder of Onera and OAC, who has redefined upscale hospitality with unique stays and innovative landscape hotels. Starting in short-term rentals, Ben scaled to managing 200 units before transitioning into groundbreaking projects like Onera Fredericksburg and Wimberley.

We explore:

How Ben leveraged lease arbitrage and short-term rentals to build cash flow.
The development process behind Onera’s luxury landscape hotels.
Challenges with prefabrication, construction, and scaling operations.
Why social media marketing is key to driving direct bookings and increasing ADR.
Tips for entrepreneurs on raising capital, building a team, and crafting unique guest experiences.

0:00 Introduction
5:01 The Beginnings: From Short-Term Rentals to Unique Hotels
20:01 Building Onera: Challenges and Successes
35:01 Scaling and Innovations in Hospitality
50:01 Future Vision and Advice

Connect with Ben Wolff:

LinkedIn: Ben Wolff
Instagram: @iambenwolff
Twitter: @uniquestaysguy

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

From Aviation to Real Estate Mogul: Rich Somers's Story into Boutique Hotels

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In today's episode, I sat down with Rich Sommers, founder of Sommers Capital and host of The Sommers Report podcast. Rich shares his incredible journey from being an air traffic controller to becoming a leading figure in boutique hotel investments. Along the way, he highlights the power of quick decision-making, building complementary partnerships, and creating active income streams for long-term wealth.

This episode is packed with actionable advice for entrepreneurs, real estate investors, and anyone looking to capitalize on opportunities in 2025. Rich also dives into how mentorship and community have played pivotal roles in his success, and why he believes the bar has never been lower for those ready to take action.

To learn more about Rich's story, you can find him on social @rich_somers or his website: https://somerscapital.com/.

00:00:00 - 00:00:10
Introduction: Radical Hospitality Meets Real Estate

00:00:11 - 00:12:00
The Power of Speed and Decision-Making in Business

00:12:01 - 00:20:00
From Air Traffic Control to Real Estate Mogul

00:20:01 - 00:26:00
Mastering Partnerships, Mentorship, and Active Income

00:26:01 - End
2025 Vision: Opportunities in Real Estate and Entrepreneurship

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Building a $400M Hostel Empire: From Airbnb to Hawaiian Hostels

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 20:00:00 -0500

After a chance encounter with a real estate agent, Michael Russell and Nathan St Cyr run two of the highest ranked hostels on the Hawaiian islands. After owning multiple Air BNB short-term rentals, they decided to transition into the big leagues - building out a team and infrastructure to scale their currently $30M portfolio in Hawaii a $400M hostel empire across the US.

To learn more about their real estate playbook, see their accountability tool here: https://www.hotelinvestorplaybook.com/p/accountability-tool/

00:00:00:00 - Welcome and Introduction
Nathan and Michael's journey from real estate investors to hostel operators. The unique $30 million portfolio they’ve built and their ambitious goal to grow a $400 million hospitality company.

00:00:55:14 - Hostel Transformation – $800K to $8M
How they turned an $800K hostel purchase into an $8M valuation through strategic planning during the COVID-19 downturn and leveraging timing and opportunities.

00:06:06:01 - Building the Perfect Partnership
Insights into the complementary roles within their partnership. Nathan’s visionary leadership paired with Michael’s operational expertise, and how that synergy helps them scale effectively.

00:39:36:14 - Designing Hostels for Community and Experience
How intentional design fosters guest interaction and enhances the hostel experience, with examples like smaller kitchens and centralized common areas to encourage socialization.

00:47:00:08 - Scaling Hospitality with Passion and Strategy
Their reflections on the growing demand for community-driven experiences, lessons from the unique stays event, and the future of experiential lodging.

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

From Attorney to Ski Resort STR's to Historic Boutique Hotel Developer: Devin Visciano's Story

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 15:00:00 -0500

Today I sat down with Devin Visciano to discuss his background as an attorney, his surprising transition into developing luxury rental homes near ski resorts, to his most recent project building a boutique hotel in Castle Rock, Colorado. He's a fascinating guest to talk to and putting a lot of hard work into his current project - navigating entitlements, getting permission from the city, finding a good lender, and the building process.

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Crafting Stories in Hospitality: Angela Biddle's Design Journey

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Radical Hospitality, host Zeke Freeman sits down with Angela Biddle, Principal at FK Australia, and a leader in hospitality and interior design. With over 20 years of experience working on transformative hotel projects across the globe, Angela brings invaluable insights into how storytelling, sustainability, and innovation drive the future of hospitality.

From revamping heritage properties like the Sofitel in Sydney to adapting commercial spaces for modern uses, Angela shares the strategies behind creating spaces that captivate guests, engage local communities, and honor the soul of a property. Discover how FK tackles the challenges of adaptive reuse, curates unforgettable guest experiences, and balances aesthetics with operational efficiency.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The Power of Storytelling in Design: How understanding the soul of a property transforms guest experiences.
Reviving Heritage Properties: Behind-the-scenes insights into restoring Sydney's first international luxury hotel.
Food & Beverage Innovation: Why activating hotel spaces with compelling dining options matters.
Sustainability Challenges: Exploring adaptive reuse, embodied carbon, and legislation driving the future of hotel design.
Hospitality Meets Community: How Angela and her team make hotels resonate with locals and visitors alike.
Team Building in Design: Angela’s approach to fostering creativity and collaboration within a world-class firm.

Key Highlights:

The art of balancing nostalgia with modern luxury in hotel refurbishments.
Strategies for creating vibrant public spaces that attract local guests.
Insights into the rising trend of self-check-in and flexible reception concepts.
Navigating challenges of adaptive reuse in aging office and hotel buildings.
How sustainability influences materials, design choices, and project feasibility.

About Our Guest: Angela Biddle is a Principal at FK Australia, specializing in hospitality and interior design. She has worked on major projects worldwide, including boutique hotels, branded residences, and mixed-use developments. With her visionary approach, Angela is reshaping the hospitality industry, one story-driven project at a time.

Connect with Angela:

Email: angela.biddle@fkaustralia.com
Website: FK Australia

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

What is the world's LONGEST honeymoon?

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I sat down with Mike and Anne Howard, the adventurous couple behind HoneyTrek. Known as "two Americans who realized life is short, the world is big, and the value of travel too great to wait another day," they sold everything 12+ years ago and have since journeyed across 80 countries, immersing themselves in diverse cultures and landscapes around the globe.

Mike and Anne are travel experts with a unique specialty in glamping, and they've chronicled their experiences on www.honeytrek.com, captivating an audience of over 400,000 followers. Beyond online content, they’re also authors of National Geographic’s bestselling book Ultimate Journeys for Two and Comfortably Wild, North America’s first travel guide focused on glamping. Their work has earned them accolades, including a Lowell Thomas Journalism Award and the 2024 Pioneer Award from the American Glamping Association.

The Howards are more than just storytellers—they’re industry pioneers. From consulting with glamping businesses to providing their expertise as photographers and writers, they’ve elevated countless glamping projects. Whether you’re dreaming of an epic adventure or looking for travel inspiration, Mike and Anne’s insights are bound to spark your wanderlust. Visit honeytrek.com or follow them at @honeytrek on all major platforms.

Connect with Mike and Anne:

Website: https://www.honeytrek.com/HoneyTrek

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LIDTfq3GNW0

Glamping Consulting and Creative Services: https://www.honeytrek.com/glamping-experts/Our

Glamping Book Comfortably Wild: https://www.honeytrek.com/glamping-book/

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Single-Unit Airbnb's Are Failing - Do THIS Instead To Make Money in Real Estate Investing

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 11:00:00 -0500

I sat down with Blake Dailey, a dynamic figure in the boutique hospitality industry who transitioned from an Air Force officer to a powerhouse in short-term rentals and boutique hotel development. In this episode, Blake shares his journey from his first property investment to building a thriving portfolio of unique hotels, all while navigating the new responsibilities of fatherhood. We dive into the strategies he uses to raise capital, manage renovations, and build high-performing teams. If you're interested in scaling your own real estate ventures or getting into the boutique hotel business, this episode is packed with valuable insights on everything from property management to creating an unforgettable guest experience. Join us to learn how Blake approaches growth, legacy, and the joy of creating spaces that bring people together.

00:00:00 - Life Lessons from Playing Football at the Air Force Academy
00:09:45 - First Hires When Building Your Team
00:23:18 - Should Property Management Be In-House?
00:34:17 - How to Fund Fast Deals

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Don't Hire an Architect Unless You Can Answer THIS Question - Peter Twohy Interview

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 12:00:00 -0400

I sat down to interview Peter Towhy to hear his philosophy in working with clients, the role of the architect in the design process, and how he's using VR to helps clients visualize their final projects.

Peter Twohy, Principal of 2e Architects, is an award-winning residential architect who specializes in designing custom homes. Peter’s home designs focus on elevating the lifestyle and enjoyment his clients have in their home from traditional or modern to the custom aesthetic his clients seek. He believes that the most beautiful home in the world is the one custom designed for you. Each luxury home he designs is unique and tailored to a client’s sensibilities.

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Using Behavioral Science in Hospitality Design with Callie van der Merwe

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 16:00:00 -0400

I'm honored to have Callie Van Der Merwe join me on today's podcast to talk about how his firm uses humans hard-wired psychology to design the most efficient and effective spaces - what color temperature should lighting be, how heavy should chairs be, what angle should walls be. His firm always begins their design process by deeply understanding who is going to use the space, and then begin their process.

You can learn more about Callie Van Der Merwe at his firm's website: https://www.cooop.co/

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

5 Creative Strategies for Making Money in Short Term Rentals in 2024

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 21:00:00 -0400

The 2010's were the Golden Era of STR's and it was easy to make money, but with rising interests rates, new regulations, and competition, making money with STRs is a little harder. Today, I want to present to you five unique strategies and ways to make money in this ever-changing short-term rental market.

00:00 - How I Got Started in Real Estate
05:10 - Short-Term Rental Boom of the 2010's
09:00 - Alternatives to Short-Term Rentals
13:42 - Bed and Breakfasts
15:09 - House Hacks and ADU's
16:40 - Glampgrounds, Treehouses, RV's, etc.
21:09 - Boutique Hotels
24:00 - The Life Real Estate Provides You

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Business & Life Lessons from 500 MILES of Hiking (Colorado Trail)

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Luke Pesce, a local 16 year old adventurer, has accomplished a lot in life. Today, I had the honor of chatting with him about how his journey on the Colorado Trail - an 486 mile trail from Denver to Durango - and what we all can learn from it.

00:00:00 - Why Do The Colorado Trail
00:03:20 - Logistics of the Colorado Trail
00:07:38 - Business Lessons from 500 Miles of Hiking
00:12:25 - Spiritual/Life Lessons from the Colorado Trail
00:16:00 - Luke's Next Big Project

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Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Navigating Entitlements for Glampgrounds

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 15:00:00 -0400

Today, I sat down with Skyler Moore of Modus Real Estate who's launching Lost Fork - Colorado's newest clamping project just an hour from Denver. We talk his unlikely start in real estate, the challenges of finding and building his new project, and what the market looks like moving forward.

Skyler first obtained his real estate license in college while attending the University of Iowa for finance. He moved to Colorado in late 2008 to begin purchasing foreclosed properties. Since then, he has purchased, rehabbed and sold over 100 properties in the Denver market. He co-founded MODUS Real Estate to fill a need in the market for cutting edge marketing and high level customer service. In his free time, Skyler enjoys fly fishing, traveling, golf and spending time in the mountains.

00:00:00 - Getting Into Denver's Real Estate Market
00:04:33 - What is 'Vertical Integration' in Real Estate?
00:06:52 - The Start of Lost Fork Glamping Project
00:10:14 - Is It Better To Build New or Fix/Flip Hospitality Projects?
00:11:54 - Biggest Challenges In Hospitality
00:13:29 - How We Run 'Lost Fork'
00:18:45 - What's Next for Modus

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

The ONLY Way to Make Your Boutique Hotel Profitable

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Today, I sit down with Shawn, a seasoned investor to, about the importance of creating unique experiences in the hospitality industry, providing exceptional and distinctive experiences, challenges and opportunities in scaling such projects, highlighting the need for strong fundamentals and effective management.

From reading real estate books at the public library to cashing his first wholesale check right out of college, Shawn has always been interested in finding the best opportunities in real estate. His desire to learn and achieve the best led him to seek great coaching from mentors and to be a good student. In his 22 years in the industry, Shawn has flipped homes, built a portfolio of long term rentals, attained land development deals, sold high-end luxury resort properties, and now leads the #1 short term rental education company and mastermind group in the world.

Shawn purchased his first vacation rental in 2006 and has not looked back since. The Vodyssey collective portfolio is currently over 1000 properties across the US and includes several international markets as well. He and his team analyze more than 100 properties in various markets across the US and around the world each month; while advising Vodyssey Empire Club mastermind members on each phase of short term rental success. Vodyssey’s goal is to create Lifestyle & Financial Freedom by assisting new and experienced vacation home investors master Acquisition, Management, & Marketing of “Lifestyle Assets.”

00:00 - Creating a Unique Experience
05:08 - Pros and Cons of Cluster Properties
11:28 - Them-ing Your Boutique Hotel
14:25 - What It Takes to Scale
17:44 - What Private Equity Looks For When Buying Your Project
23:54 - The ONLY Way to Overcome an Oversaturated Market
30:17 - Why You Should or Shouldn't Get Into This Space

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join

Top Hotel Broker Shares SECRETS To Successfully Exiting Your Hospitality Project

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 22:00:00 -0400

Today, we're joined by Chris Kilcullen to talk about his story in the hospitality industry, capitalizing on experiential travel, and how you can beat the big-name hotel brands.

Christopher Kilcullen is an industry veteran with 30 years of experience in the hospitality business. Chris has spent time on both sides of the transaction, as SVP of Acquisitions for a REIT he completed over $160 million in transactions for its shareholders following a distinguished career as VP of Development for a major hospitality franchise company completing more than 250 transactions. Chris has built a trusted reputation by understanding the needs of his clients and looking for ways to move difficult transactions to a successful end for all parties involved.

When not working, Chris serves as Co-Founder of a non-profit food truck called Kitchen One for One, serving the homeless and impoverished in the Denver community. Mr Kilcullen is married to his amazing wife, Tyra of 25 years with two children and enjoy cooking with friends and all the joys of life in the Colorado Rockies.

00:00 - Intro
02:48 - Starting A Nightclub Out of College
7:01 - From Selling Suit to Selling Franchises
12:40 - The Rise and Franchises and Online Booking
17:24 - The Rise of Experiential Travel
23:30 - The SECRET To Beating the Big Name Brands
27:07 - Chris' Free Food Truck Serving the Homeless
34:04 - Excellence Will Always Succeed

Zeke Freeman's new book, Radical Hospitality, is coming this September.

The book explores how to build cool stuff, serve a lot of people, and create lasting wealth, and how hospitality can be the vehicle for all three.

Join the waitlist: https://radicalhospitality.life/join