APRIL 15, 2025

#128: From Corporate Sales to Hospitality Empire with Dawn Cornett

From Cybersecurity Sales to a Life of Purpose: Dawn Cornett’s Hospitality Journey

Ready to break free from the 9-to-5 grind? In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Dawn Cornett—a former corporate sales professional turned short-term rental and boutique hotel mogul. Her story is a shining example of what’s possible when you lead with intention, align with your values, and surround yourself with the right people.

From managing a cozy lake house to owning a portfolio of boutique hotels and retreat centers, Dawn has redefined success on her own terms. Her approach combines strategic investing, values-based hiring, and an unwavering commitment to personal and spiritual growth.

Why Dawn’s Story Resonates Many dream of leaving the security of a traditional job for something more fulfilling—but few actually make the leap. Dawn did. Her journey isn’t just about real estate; it’s about creating a life she genuinely loves. And in this episode, she shares how you can do it too.

HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS:

[00:01] A short introduction about our guest Dawn Cornett and how she got into the short term rental world

[03:31] How Dawn expanded from a single lake house to boutique hotels and retreat centers while staying connected to family

[04:46] Dawn emphasizes investing with intention, choosing locations based on personal connections, lifestyle, and long-term vision

[06:03] Dawn shares how she navigates uncertainty in her journey 

[06:57] What made Dawn choose to transition in asset classes from single family homes into boutique hotels 

[08:29] Dawn shares her journey in expanding her boutique hotel portfolio and her transition into managing and investing in boutique hotels 

[10:25] The challenges and differences Dawn encountered when transitioning from managing single-family homes to managing boutique hotels

[11:36] Dawn shares her approach to finding and retaining loyal cleaning staff for her boutique hotels and the importance of values-based hiring and building a family-like team culture

[15:33] What has been one of the biggest challenges Dawn navigated throughout her journey, and how did she deal with that challenge

[16:46] Dawn shares an experience of struggling to separate from a challenging client who managed six properties

[18:27] Dawn shares the personal and professional decision to separate from her W2 job

[20:54] Dawn offers advice to those considering co-hosting boutique hotels or larger retreat centers

[22:03] The importance of being intentional about what excites you and pursuing personal and spiritual growth

[23:37] Dawn shares her daily routine, which includes meditation, gratitude practice, and self-care

[26:45] Dawn’s next piece of advice for someone starting out in the boutique hotel world

[37:35] How Dawn vets her potential partners

[30:11] The lightning round

Golden Nuggets:

• “If you want to go fast, do it alone. If you want to go far, do it with others. Take secret shortcuts from people who have done it before.”
• “We’re going to be in flow better if we do things that get us excited.”
• “You absolutely have to vet your partners like you’re marrying them.”

Rewrite Your Story with Intention Whether you’re just daydreaming about a different life or ready to make bold moves, Dawn’s story is the permission slip you didn’t know you needed. With intentional living, smart investing, and the right people by your side, anything is possible vacation rental space.

Connect with Dawn

• YouTube: @HospitalityHustle
• Instagram: @dawnofagreatday

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