The Boostly Podcast Episode: "The Secret to Running a Scalable STR Business — Smoobu’s Strategy for 2025!"
Host: Mark Simpson
Release Date: June 23, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Boostly Podcast, host Mark Simpson delves deep into strategies for scaling short-term rental (STR) businesses by partnering with industry tools and experts. The spotlight shines on Smooboo, a pivotal platform designed to help hosts secure more direct bookings and reduce reliance on Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) like Airbnb. Joining Mark is Nicholas, the Strategy Partnership Manager at Smooboo, who shares invaluable insights into optimizing rental operations for greater success.

Guest Introduction and Background

Mark begins by welcoming Nicholas to the podcast, setting the stage for an insightful discussion.

Mark Simpson [00:00]:
“Welcome to the Boostly Podcast... Today we're shining the Boostly spotlight on Smooboo. We're joined today by Nicholas who is the strategy partnership manager at Smooboo.”

Nicholas introduces himself, highlighting his transition from the hospitality industry's back-end to a strategic role at Smooboo.

Nicholas [01:31]:
“I'm originally from France with a background in the bar and restaurant service industry. What surprised me most about the short-term rental industry is the freshness of this sector—many hosts still used pen and paper before automation tools like Smooboo transformed their operations.”

His anecdote underscores the transformative impact that modern software solutions can have on traditional practices within the STR market.

The Importance of Direct Bookings

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the criticality of securing direct bookings to ensure business stability and reduce dependency on OTAs.

Mark Simpson [00:40]:
“What kind of mindset or tactic do you hope the Boostly listeners are going to take away from this podcast?”

Nicholas [00:47]:
“It's crucial to get direct bookings and diversify your booking platforms. Relying on just one or two platforms is risky in today's dynamic market.”

Nicholas emphasizes education as a cornerstone of Smooboo’s approach, aiming to empower hosts with the knowledge to effectively leverage direct booking channels.

Nicholas [04:25]:
“We focus heavily on educating hosts about the importance of direct bookings. Many believe it's impossible to compete with OTAs, but with the right tools and strategies, they can significantly increase their direct bookings.”

Maximizing Smooboo’s Potential

Mark and Nicholas explore how Smooboo differentiates itself from other Property Management Systems (PMS) by offering comprehensive tools and educational resources.

Mark Simpson [07:45]:
“What is one mistake that you see, Nicholas, that hosts make a lot of the time and may not realize?”

Nicholas [07:45]:
“Hosts often don't fully utilize the software. Features like dynamic pricing and revenue management tools can drastically improve their competitiveness and profitability, yet many overlook them.”

This highlights the importance of not just adopting technology but also integrating it fully into business operations to unlock its full potential.

Hidden Gems Within Smooboo

Nicholas reveals some of Smooboo’s lesser-known features that can provide hosts with additional benefits.

Mark Simpson [09:54]:
“What hidden gem inside Smooboo is something that people love, but some hosts might not be using at the moment?”

Nicholas [10:22]:
“We have a flexible messaging system where you can set up placeholders not just for guest communication but also for internal reminders. Additionally, our open API allows hosts to customize their experience, such as automating reports or integrating with other tools using AI.”

These features demonstrate Smooboo’s versatility and its capacity to adapt to various host needs, enhancing operational efficiency.

Future Integrations and the Role of AI

Looking ahead, Nicholas discusses upcoming features and the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the hospitality industry.

Mark Simpson [13:10]:
“What are some of the future integrations and things coming along specifically with Smooboo?”

Nicholas [13:10]:
“Our major upcoming project is Smooboo’s dynamic pricing tool, which provides price recommendations synchronized across all major booking platforms. This integration aims to simplify pricing strategies, ensuring consistency and competitiveness.”

He further elaborates on the transformative potential of AI:

Nicholas [17:13]:
“AI is set to revolutionize how we handle reviews, communications, and even content creation. With our open API, hosts can harness AI to automate responses, analyze guest data, and enhance overall efficiency.”

Mark echoes the significance of embracing AI while maintaining the human touch in hospitality.

Mark Simpson [20:36]:
“There's going to be a challenge between automation and the human touch, and it's going to be interesting in the next few years.”

Nicholas [21:31]:
“Automation can free up time, allowing hosts to focus more on personal interactions, like enjoying a glass of wine with guests, thereby enhancing the guest experience.”

Success Traits of Top Smooboo Users

Mark inquires about what sets the most successful Smooboo users apart.

Mark Simpson [14:51]:
“Can you tell us about what the top 1% of users of Smooboo are doing differently?”

Nicholas [14:51]:
“The top 20% of hosts extensively use dynamic pricing and maintain a presence across multiple OTAs. Diversification ensures they’re not reliant on a single platform, safeguarding their business against algorithm changes or platform instability.”

This insight underscores the importance of strategic diversification and the effective use of advanced tools to stay ahead in a competitive market.

Common Mistakes and Best Practices

Nicholas addresses prevalent mistakes hosts make and offers actionable advice to avoid them.

Nicholas [07:45]:
“Many hosts don’t take the time to fully utilize the software. Missing out on features like dynamic pricing can hinder their competitiveness, especially as the market evolves post-COVID.”

He advises hosts to invest time in setting up comprehensive management tools and to continuously monitor and adjust operational costs to sustain profitability.

Community and Support

Smooboo’s commitment to community and support is highlighted as a key factor in its effectiveness.

Nicholas [21:55]:
“We offer a 14-day free trial with no credit card required, tailored specifically for private hosts managing up to 20 properties. Our close partnerships with platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb provide hosts with actionable insights to improve their listings and increase bookings.”

This approach fosters a supportive environment where hosts can learn, share experiences, and grow their businesses collaboratively.

Final Thoughts and Mantra

As the conversation wraps up, Nicholas shares the guiding principles behind his work at Smooboo.

Nicholas [24:22]:
“Listening is paramount. By understanding hosts’ needs and the guest experience, we build tools that address core challenges. Focusing on enhancing the guest experience ensures long-term success for both hosts and their businesses.”

Mark concludes by emphasizing the value of the discussion and encouraging listeners to explore Smooboo’s offerings.

Mark Simpson [23:37]:
“If you're considering trying out a PMS or switching PMS, go and check out Smooboo. Their free trial is available, and they offer resources to help you become a better host.”

Conclusion

This episode of The Boostly Podcast offers a comprehensive exploration of how Smooboo empowers short-term rental hosts to scale their businesses effectively. Through strategic use of technology, education, and a focus on direct bookings, Smooboo provides hosts with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in a competitive industry. Nicholas’s insights into automation, AI integration, and community support present a roadmap for hosts aiming to enhance their operations and guest experiences in the years to come.

Listeners are encouraged to take advantage of Smooboo’s free trial and resources to begin their journey toward mastering direct bookings and building a resilient STR business.

Notable Quotes:

• Nicholas [00:47]:
  “It's crucial to get direct bookings and diversify your booking platforms. Relying on just one or two platforms is risky in today's dynamic market.”

• Nicholas [10:22]:
  “We have a flexible messaging system where you can set up placeholders not just for guest communication but also for internal reminders.”

• Nicholas [14:51]:
  “The top 20% of hosts extensively use dynamic pricing and maintain a presence across multiple OTAs.”

• Nicholas [24:22]:
  “Listening is paramount... Focusing on enhancing the guest experience ensures long-term success for both hosts and their businesses.”

For more insights and strategies on boosting your direct bookings, subscribe to The Boostly Podcast and explore additional resources on the Boostly YouTube channel at boostly.co.uk/youtube.