In this episode, new host Mark Lumpkin sits down with industry veteran Paul Kromidas, who transformed his career at Airbnb into launching a highly successful short-term rental business.

Paul explains how he overcame “imaginary barriers”—a common mindset among parents and aspiring investors—and embraced bold, calculated risks to build an asset-heavy, cash-flow–rich model. He offers actionable insights on raising capital, balancing host and guest experiences, and leveraging innovative strategies in today’s evolving market.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale your portfolio, Paul’s journey provides a powerful roadmap to achieving long-term success in short-term rentals.

Check out his website here: https://www.summeros.com/

Taylor Jones sits down with Connor Cushman, a sharp short-term rental agent and investor, to explore his innovative "slow burster" strategy—a refined twist on the traditional buy, rehab, rent, refi, repeat model. Connor explains how blending the steady fundamentals of long-term rentals with the high revenue and cash flow of short-term rentals lets you hold a property for a full year of proven performance, thereby transforming equity and opening doors to premium refinancing or sale opportunities.

Drawing on his experiences in North Georgia’s competitive market, he breaks down the importance of smart property selection, strategic amenity upgrades, and keeping an eye on market fundamentals like interest rates and ROI. Whether you’re a budding investor or a seasoned pro looking to 10x your results, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to elevate your STR game.

Join us for Mark Lumpkin’s very first episode as the newest host of the STR Investing Podcast! In this debut, Mark interviews Rachel Vigil, a hands-on short-term rental owner and the founder of Up Close Marketing—to discuss how she bootstrapped her way into buying her first cabin, then expanded into properties in Big Bear and Maui. Rachel shares her secrets on delivering exceptional guest experiences through small, thoughtful touches that lead to stellar reviews and repeat bookings. She also reveals how her new company provides hosts with free, high-quality products to delight visitors.

Tune in as Mark dives headfirst into the world of STR podcasting, gleaning real-life lessons in hospitality, financing, and long-term wealth building from an investor who’s living proof that success in vacation rentals is within anyone’s reach.

Check out her website here: https://www.upclosemktg.com/