Épisodes

  • 36. Building a Glamping Brand with Soul: The Story of Walden Retreats
    Jan 1 2026
    Today, we're stepping into the world of Walden Retreats, a breathtaking riverside escape in the Texas Hill Country that reimagines what it means to live well, simply, and with intention. Inspired by Henry David Thoreau's timeless work Walden, this is a place where luxury meets philosophy, and where the modern traveler can pause, breathe, and reconnect with what truly matters. Thoreau spent two years in a cabin by Walden Pond, exploring what it meant "to live deliberately." His reflections on simplicity, self-sufficiency, and harmony with nature became a cornerstone of American thought, and today, that same spirit echoes through the vision of my guest, Blake Smith, founder of Walden Retreats. Blake and his wife have created more than a destination... they've built a living philosophy. A place that reminds us that great hospitality isn't about building the most luxurious property… it's about building the most intentional one. A space where guests aren't just offered comfort, but clarity. Not just an escape, but a return... to themselves, to stillness, to meaning. In this episode, we explore how Blake turned an idea rooted in literature and mindfulness into an extraordinary guest experience. We talk about the power of defining your mission, vision, and values, and how that foundation can shape every decision, from design to guest experience to long-term success. If you've ever wondered how to build a brand that feels as good as it looks, or how to infuse your glamping or retreat business with soul, you're going to love this episode. More Information Blake Smith, Walden Retreat Website: https://waldenretreats.com/ Email: reservations@waldenretreats.com _________ Sarah Riley - Glamping, retreat events, and guest attraction Glamping Academy & Owners Club https://inspiredcourses.com Glamping marketing studio https://inspiredcollectiveltd.com/ __________ The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us info@glampingshow.us
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    47 min
  • 35. From Bare Ground to Welcoming Guests in Just Four Months - A Glamping Owners Story
    Dec 1 2025
    What does it really take to build an outdoor hospitality business from the ground up, and do it in record time… even with a full-time job? In this episode, we sit down with the founders of Nature Nook Acadia, who went from a construction site to hosting their very first guests in less than four months. They share the behind-the-scenes reality: the long days of building, the unexpected challenges, the trade-offs and tough decisions, and the exhilarating moment when the first guests finally arrived. This is a story of determination, resourcefulness, and a vision brought to life at speed… through effective project management and a bit of good old-fashioned luck! If you've ever dreamed of creating your own guest retreat, or you're curious about what happens when passion meets pressure, you won't want to miss this inspirational conversation. More Information: Edoardo Centioni, Nature Nooks Acadia https://naturenooksacadia.com/ https://www.instagram.com/naturenooksacadia/ @naturenooksacadia _________ Sarah Riley - Glamping, retreat events, and guest attraction Glamping Academy & Owners Club https://inspiredcourses.com Glamping marketing studio https://inspiredcollectiveltd.com/ __________ The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us info@glampingshow.us
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    54 min
  • 34. Behind the Scenes at Glamping Show Americas: Lessons, Laughter, and Game-Changing Ideas
    Nov 1 2025
    What really happens when the glamping industry's brightest minds, boldest creators, and most passionate operators come together in one place? In this lively and insightful episode, Sarah Riley and Steph Curtis-Raleigh relive the energy and inspiration of Glamping Show Americas, sharing their favourite moments, key takeaways, and the behind-the-scenes stories you didn't see on stage. From Bolt Farm Treehouse's insider tips and Camp Ferncrest's creative financing breakthroughs, to AI-driven guest experiences and even a few hilarious "what not to do" moments (yes, drones and robotic dogs make an appearance!), this conversation captures the innovation, community, and creativity shaping the future of unique hospitality. Expect laughter, honesty, and ideas you'll want to steal for your own business, all wrapped in the warmth of two friends reflecting on an unforgettable event and what's next for glamping in 2025. Listen if you want to: Learn what's really working for glamping and retreat operators right now Discover new trends in funding, guest experience, and technology Feel re-energised about your own hospitality project Get a sneak peek at what's next for Glamping Show Americas More Information: The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us info@glampingshow.us __________ Steph Curtis-Raleigh Upgrade Publishing and Eco-Resort Network https://www.ecoresort.network/ __________ Sarah Riley - Glamping, retreat events, and guest attraction Glamping Academy & Owners Club https://inspiredcourses.com Glamping marketing studio https://inspiredcollectiveltd.com/ __________ Intro credit: Chris Jeub, Glamping Guy, YouTube Individual credits: Brendan Riley, Marmora Retreat, Kyle - Virgin Islands, Kristy - Okanagan Vallley
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    47 min
  • 33. How Furniture Shapes Connection, Storytelling and an improved customer experience
    Oct 1 2025
    Today, we uncover a detail many overlook, but one that has the power to transform your guest experience... furniture and layout design. My guest, Mike Waring, founder of Mustang Home Goods, blends Japanese joinery, North American architecture, and timeless craftsmanship to create sustainable, ergonomic, and story-driven furniture perfect for glamping sites and boutique retreats. You'll hear: How Mike's journey from the Navy to furniture design shaped his philosophy of "design as an experience." Why conversational spacing and thoughtful layouts build deeper guest connections. How sustainability, craftsmanship, and even the golden ratio can elevate your spaces and your brand. Whether you're launching your very first glamping site or refining a long-standing resort, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical ideas to help you create unforgettable guest moments. And if you're attending The Glamping Show Americas on 29th September, be sure to stop by and meet Mike, who would love to help you design a space that delights your guests. More Information: Mike Waring – Mustang Home Goods https://www.mustanghomegoods.com/ mike@mustanghomegoods.com 505-418-8070 _________ Sarah Riley - Glamping, retreat events, and guest attraction Glamping Academy & Owners Club https://inspiredcourses.com Glamping marketing studio https://inspiredcollectiveltd.com/ __________ The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us info@glampingshow.us
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    47 min
  • 32. Beyond Glamping Industry Data: Designing Travel That Heals, Connects, and Lasts
    Sep 1 2025
    What if the future of travel isn't about going farther, but going deeper? In this thought-provoking episode, we explore the shift from surface-level escapes to soul-nourishing journeys and experiences that reconnect us to people, place, and purpose. Joining me is Whitney Scott, strategist and co-founder of Walden Insights. Whitney helps hospitality leaders navigate toward regenerative intelligence: a forward-thinking approach that weaves sustainability with story, and design with deeper meaning. Together, we unpack what it means to build travel experiences that don't just impress but truly resonate. From redefining luxury to regenerating the land, we explore how hospitality brands can lead with integrity, longevity, and soul. Whether you're building a retreat, evolving your glamping business, or reimagining what your guests really want, this episode will inspire you to create with more intention, and design from the start with the future in mind. More Information: Whitney Scott, Walden Insights https://waldeninsight.com/ Sarah Riley: Startup Support- Glamping Business and Retreat Events - The Glamping Academy https://glamping.academy hosted by https://www.inspiredcoursesvip.com/ The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us info@glampingshow.us
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    58 min
  • 31. Building with Heart: How One Entrepreneur Turned Raw Land into a Soulful Glamping Retreat
    Aug 1 2025
    What if your business could be built with intention, on wild, beautiful land, and still thrive without compromising your values? In this episode, we dive deep into the story of Brendan Riley, the visionary behind Marmora Retreat and Boho-Luxe Glamping in Ontario. A full-time project manager, father of three, and soulful entrepreneur, Brendan shares how he transformed untouched land into a wellness-driven glamping destination. We unpack why glamping became his perfect business model and how crowdfunding became more than just a funding tool. In fact, it's helping him build a community, which is becoming his most valuable investment. But what's the secret to crowdfunding success? Brendan shares his thoughts on this and much more in this episode. If you're dreaming of launching your own site, scaling consciously, or simply want to hear what modern hospitality can look like when built with purpose, this episode is for you. So hit the play button and discover what it really means to create space that heals, inspires, and sustains, while being light on the land, and deeply rooted in intention. More Information: Brendan Riley, Marmora Retreat and Boho-Luxe Glamping https://www.marmoraretreat.ca/ Sarah Riley: Startup Support - Glamping Business and Retreat Events - The Glamping Academy https://glamping.academy hosted by https://www.inspiredcoursesvip.com/ The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us info@glampingshow.us
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    40 min
  • 30. Is Traditional Hospitality SEO Dead? What Glamping Hosts Need to Know Now
    Jul 1 2025
    The digital landscape is shifting... fast! If you've felt like your website traffic is down and you're not sure why, you're not imagining things. AI search, zero-click traffic, and Google's new search overviews are changing how potential guests discover and book their next stay. In fact, website traffic across industries has dropped by 20% and the old rules of SEO just aren't working as they used to. So… is traditional hospitality SEO dead? In this episode, I'm joined by Kenny Ridgell from Ridge Media, a digital marketing strategist who works with leading names in hospitality and knows exactly how small, boutique brands can stay visible (without a massive budget). We're unpacking: What these changes really mean for glamping, retreat and experience-based businesses How to optimise your site for a future shaped by AI And the specific tools and strategies that are working right now for those who want to stay ahead of the curve Whether you're just starting out or you've been in the game a while, this conversation will give you the clarity and confidence to adapt... before your website traffic starts to reduce significantly. Tune in now and future-proof your visibility. More Information: Kenny Ridgell, Ridge Media C: 864-354-6175 | O: 864-230-2546 1565 Laurens Road, Greenville, SC 29607 https://ridgemediallc.com/ Sarah Riley: Glamping Startup Support- Glamping Business and Retreat Events - The Glamping Academy https://glamping.academy hosted by https://www.inspiredcoursesvip.com/ The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us info@glampingshow.us Links mentioned in the episode: Allai - https://www.alliai.com/ Surfer SEO - https://surferseo.com/ Market Muse - https://www.marketmuse.com/ PEEC AI - https://peec.ai/ Go High Level - https://www.gohighlevel.com/ Grok - https://grok.com/ ChatGPT - https://chatgpt.com/ Custom GPT - https://customgpt.ai/
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    50 min
  • 29. The Rise of Third-Party Management in Luxury Outdoor Hospitality: Could It Be the Smartest Move for Your Camp Resort?
    Jun 1 2025
    In this episode of Glamping Business Americas, we're diving into a fast-growing trend that's changing the way luxury camp resorts operate… third-party management. Could handing over a few tasks actually help you grow faster, serve guests better, and protect your sanity? To help us unpack it all, we're joined by Dan Invergo, Director of Business Development at Northgate Resorts. With a proven track record of developing and operating some of the most successful camp resorts in the U.S., Northgate is now rolling out a new third-party management platform, designed to support other operators looking to scale. We cover: What third-party management really means in the outdoor hospitality world How to know when you're ready for a little extra support What separates a good partner from a game-changing one Real success stories from the field The technologies and tools that elevate guest experiences How to maintain heart and soul while streamlining operations Whether you're an independent site owner, an investor, or someone navigating rapid growth, this episode will give you practical tools and a thoughtful perspective to help you decide your next big move. If you've been feeling stretched by the day-to-day operations of your luxury camping site, RV park or camp resort, or you're starting to explore options for a future exit strategy further down the line, this episode offers insights that could transform how you run (and grow) your business. More Information: Dan Invergo | Director of Business Development | Northgate Resorts p: 616.204.9682 e: dinvergo@northgateholdings.com w: www.northgateresorts.com a: 38 Commerce Ave. SW, Suite 200, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Sarah Riley: Startup Advisor - Glamping Business and Retreat Events - The Glamping Academy https://glamping.academy hosted by https://www.inspiredcoursesvip.com/ The Glamping Show Americas, Denver, Colorado https://www.glampingshow.us info@glampingshow.us
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    47 min