
The Hotel Investor Playbook
Welcome to The Hotel Investor Playbook, hosted by real estate investors and hospitality experts Michael Russell and Nathan St Cyr. As the founders of Malama Capital and Howzit Hostels, Michael and Nathan have a wealth of experience in owning and operating boutique hotels, hostels, and other experiential lodging properties. With over $30 million in real estate investments, including short-term rentals, long-term rentals, commercial retail, and hospitality properties, they bring a unique perspective on how to turn passion-driven investments into financial freedom.
In this podcast, they share their roadmap for transitioning from traditional real estate investments to boutique hotels, offering listeners the insights and strategies needed to succeed in this niche market. Whether you're looking to learn about identifying the right property, managing operations, or understanding the financial complexities of boutique hotel ownership, The Hotel Investor Playbook has you covered.
Join Michael and Nathan each week as they document their journey towards building a $400 million real estate-based business and bring you along for the ride. Subscribe now and start turning your real estate investment dreams into reality.
The Hotel Investor Playbook
The Marketing Playbook Every Small Hotel Owner Needs | Steph Weber E44
Think great marketing is only for big hotels with big budgets? Think again.
In this episode, we talk with Steph Weber, a marketing and branding expert who helps boutique hotel and STR owners drive direct bookings. She breaks down how she finds her audience, tells a compelling brand story, and uses limited resources to drive big results.
You’ll learn:
- How to identify your property’s unique selling points
- Simple marketing strategies that work for small hotels and inns
- Why guest experience is your most powerful marketing tool
The mindset shift from “just filling rooms” to building a brand
If you want your property to stand out in a crowded market, this conversation will show you how to do it without wasting money.
Follow and share the Hotel Investor Playbook so more people can learn how to invest in hospitality assets the right way.
About Steph
Steph Weber is a branding strategist, marketing expert, and founder of The Weber Co., where she helps short-term rental owners, boutique hotels, and micro-resorts build memorable brands that drive direct bookings. With over a decade of experience and a track record of helping 100+ businesses scale to six and seven figures, Steph blends creative storytelling with data-driven strategies to increase guest loyalty and revenue. She also owns Cabins on the Cumberland, a 12-cabin, 9-acre riverfront micro-resort in Kentucky, giving her a unique, real-world perspective on what it takes to stand out in a competitive hospitality market. Through her agency, podcast, and own hosting experience, Steph empowers property owners to position their brands for higher rates, repeat guests, and long-term success.
Connect with Steph
Instagram: @stephnweber, @cabinsonthecumberland & @theweberco
Websites: www.theweberco.com and www.cabinsonthecumberland.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stephweberbrandcoach
Connect with Mike and Nate:
Invest with Mike & Nate: malama-capital.com/invest
Submit a deal: https://www.malama-capital.com/deal-submission
Instagram: @the_hotel_investor_playbook
Contact Us: info@hotelinvestorplaybook.com