OCTOBER 29, 2024
#104: Hospitality from the Heart: Jilayne Smith’s Airbnb Guest Experience
A Journey That Inspires
In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Jilayne Smith, a nurse practitioner who found her way into the world of short-term rentals and uncovered a passion she never knew existed — creating unforgettable Airbnb guest experiences.
Jilayne’s story is nothing short of inspiring. She started out by renting her mountain home just once a month, and soon enough, she and her husband were diving into a full renovation of a second property to share with guests more frequently. You’ll hear how her background in nursing has given her a unique edge in hosting, allowing her to bring a genuine, caring touch to every guest who walks through her doors.
From heartfelt moments honouring guests who have experienced loss to the real-life balancing act of working full-time while running her rental business, Jilayne’s story is full of authenticity and passion. You’ll see exactly how her heart-centred approach makes every guest feel like family.
Whether you’re a seasoned host or just taking your first steps in the Airbnb world, this episode is brimming with inspiration to help you create meaningful connections with your guests. So, get comfy and dive in — you’re going to love Jilayne’s story!
Mastering Airbnb Guest Experience with Empathy
Jilayne gives us the inside scoop on how her nursing background influences her hosting approach. It’s all about empathy and personalisation, and Jilayne truly excels at making every guest feel special and at home. She shares how she’s transformed her properties into more than just a place to stay — they’re memorable experiences. And the best part? She’s sharing her best tips on how you can do the same.
The Mindset Behind Exceptional Hosting
One of Jilayne’s standout messages is the power of genuine connection. Her journey into hospitality really took off during the COVID pandemic, when she transitioned from being a nurse practitioner to becoming a dedicated Airbnb host. She talks about the importance of authentic guest communication, personalizing each stay, and creating memories that last a lifetime. These are exactly the kind of insights you need to take your hosting to the next level.
Highlights and Key Points:
Golden Nuggets
- “It is really important never to measure your progress by someone else’s ruler.”
“Being intentional about what you want in your future as an entrepreneur is so incredibly important.”
- “Lean into your uniqueness, but don’t ever let there be a barrier to other people in our space.”
- “I think having a network in that space is so crucial, because you just get to see so many different people’s way of doing something.”
Resources Mentioned
Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST
Website: The Nest Collective
Follow Stacey Duvall on:
Instagram: @thenest_collective
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