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Designed to GlideWell
Designed to GlideWell is a podcast about building a life—and business—by design.
Hosted by husband-and-wife duo Sarah and Ethan Glidewell, this show takes you behind the scenes of what it really looks like to build wealth and freedom through unconventional paths. From buying and building businesses to investing in and designing high-performing vacation rentals, they share the strategies, lessons, and mindset shifts that have shaped their journey.
But this isn’t just about business—it’s about intention.
Each episode explores how to create a life that feels as good as it looks, whether that’s through thoughtful design, smart investments, or redefining what success can be beyond the traditional 9–5. Along the way, they sit down with founders, investors, and creatives who are carving out their own paths through unique opportunities and alternative ways of living.
If you’ve ever felt like there’s more than the default path—this is your invitation to build it.
Designed to GlideWell
The Greatest Struggles of Airbnb Hosts During the Holidays
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In this episode, Emily and Sarah discuss the complexities of managing their Airbnb properties during the holiday season. Emily shares about her stressful Christmas experiences involving a malfunctioning hot tub and guest complaints, highlighting the communication challenges and emotional toll of property management. Sarah recounts her anxiety over zoning regulations and a city council meeting, complicated by their attorney's unexpected absence. They also answer questions from their Instagram!
Christmas Guest Drama (00:02:02)
Communication Challenges (00:06:05)
Managing Property Issues (00:07:19)
Zoning Regulations (00:11:07)
Unexpected Attorney Absence (00:12:20)
Preparing for the Meeting (00:15:01)
City Council Meeting Experience (00:17:40)
City Council Meeting Challenges (00:18:30)
Personal Experiences with Public Speaking (00:19:22)
Navigating Political Relationships (00:20:10)
Planning a Supportive Mixer (00:20:47)
Advice from City Council Members (00:21:12)
Local Property Drama (00:22:02)
Budgeting for Property Renovations (00:24:12)
Gut Instinct vs. Data in Investments (00:29:45)
Cautions on High-Value Property Purchases (00:31:47)
Transparency in Property Renovations (00:33:32)
Industry Challenges for Short-Term Rentals (00:35:29)
The Importance of Hospitality (00:36:30)
Managing Properties from Afar (00:37:27)
Choosing Property Locations (00:38:24)
Different Approaches to Property Management (00:39:26)
Finding Balance in Business (00:40:54)
Maintaining Quality and Standards (00:41:29)
Handling Guest Complaints (00:42:47)
Neighbor Relations and Responsibilities (00:43:44)
Zoning Regulations and Market Impact (00:44:29)
Due Diligence in Property Investment (00:46:56)
Navigating Regulatory Changes (00:48:57)
Airbnb Market Trends (00:52:42)
Caution in Turnkey Investments (00:55:57)
Potential in Poorly Managed Properties (00:56:12)
Buying Non-Lake Houses (00:56:50)
Tourist Destinations in Michigan (01:00:02)
Bachelorette-Themed Properties (01:00:26)
Balancing Friendship and Business (01:02:22)
Understanding Each Other's Work Styles (01:05:04)
Reinvesting Revenue in Properties (01:08:29)
Long-Term Investment Mindset (01:09:40)
Advice for Transitioning from 9 to 5 (01:12:24)
The Importance of Airbnb Skills (01:14:11)
Engagement with Listeners (01:15:08)
Future Podcast Plans (01:16:03)
Encouragement to Rate and Review (01:16:09)
Improving Communication (01:16:18)
Closing Remarks (01:16:21)
Hosted by Ethan Glidewell & Sarah Glidewell
You can view the video & audio version on our Youtube Channel
Thanks for listening!