Cabin Culture

Today we're welcoming Dale Mulfinger, an architect and self-proclaimed "cabinologist" who literally wrote the book on what makes a cabin a cabin. Dale has spent over three decades designing cabins across the upper Midwest, taught university courses on cabin architecture, and authored multiple books including "Cabinology" and "The Family Cabin." His research began when a client asked him to design a cabin and he realized he didn't actually know what distinguished a cabin from a house—so he sent university students into "cabin land" with rolls of film to document 100 cabins and figure out what made some feel more "ca...

Today we talked with Kara from the legendary Alpaca Treehouse in Atlanta, Georgia—a property so unique that it might literally be the only one of its kind in the world. What started with gateway livestock chickens and a treehouse built for wine nights with friends has evolved into something that defies categorization: a bamboo jungle sanctuary in the middle of the city, complete with rescued llamas, alpacas, and guanacos, where dying children find comfort and grieving parents practice yoga.

From accidentally rescuing some of only 200 guanacos in the country to hosting hip-hop music videos and Netflix sh...

Back with our SECOND ever solo episode, that I am still very much anxious about. Am I oversharing? Should I wait until things are finalized? Am I not sharing enough? Are my thoughts unorganized and slightly chaotic? Who knows. But here we are! 

Instagram: @cozyrockcabin

Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051
Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_FgMwAgvORd1IwlH1nlC9g

Back, for another solo episode! This one is ungraceful, bumbling, no clear message (because I don't know myself yet!), but includes all the updates on the past year, our cabin sales, and a potential new exciting adventure...

😬 😬 😬

Instagram: @cozyrockcabin

Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027
Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051
Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_FgMwAgvORd1IwlH1nlC9g

Today we're speaking with Kathleen, a writer and single mother who transformed six acres of Vermont farmland into something much more profound than a business strategy. What began as a practical solution—making the land pay for itself after moving from affluent Marin County to rural Vermont—has evolved into a masterclass in heart-centered hospitality and the radical act of leading with generosity of spirit.

From the community barn raising that erected her yurt to the profound connections she's discovered through hosting strangers, Kathleen's story challenges everything we think we know about successful hospitality. She's created a unic...

Today we're speaking with Chase, who has taken the concept of rapid scaling to a whole new level. In just five years, he's gone from buying his first cabin in Running Springs, California, to owning eight properties across multiple states—all while maintaining a full-time career as a loan officer and raising a family. What started as a weekend retreat they could barely use because it kept getting booked has evolved into a sophisticated development and investment strategy that includes land hacking, private money raising, and even flipping Teslas to fund cabin purchases.

From adding patina to br...

Today I'm chatting with Steph, the force behind North Country Cabin Co., who has been building a Wisconsin lake cabin empire for over a decade. What started as a corporate escape plan and a podcast-inspired lightbulb moment has evolved into four distinctive lake properties and a completely reimagined life centered around what truly fills her up.

From drilling wells that cost double the estimate to managing hot tub maintenance across multiple properties, Steph shares the unglamorous realities that most people don't realize about running cabins. But she also reveals how fostering over sixty dogs taught her about...

I am excited to launch a new format for some of our podcast episodes! I'm calling these 'Anchor Episodes', and they're just me 😬They'll be a bit shorter, and will be a deep dive of some of the ideas/thoughts/concepts that I reference regularly (but briefly) during our interviews with guests. My hope is it will provide some helpful content for regular listeners, as well as a way to share in the future on episodes where we mention these. 

This episode is all about the 'Unicorn, Work Horse and Donkey' business model comparison, the creative genius of A...

Today I'm speaking with Mia, a clinical psychologist who transformed childhood memories of a Maine dairy farm into a healing refuge for her family after profound loss. When Mia and her husband lost their six-and-a-half-year-old daughter Eloise, they discovered that all the therapeutic tools in the world couldn't shield them from devastation—but they could find solace in returning to the place where Mia felt most herself as a child.

Three Sisters Farm isn't just a 1850s rambling farmhouse on eleven acres in mid-coast Maine; it's a testament to the healing power of place and the courage to...

Today we're welcoming Maura, an interior designer who created the Everwoods brand in Ohio's stunning Hocking Hills region. Drawing inspiration from childhood summers at a Wyoming dude ranch, Maura and her husband Tony have built four distinctive cabins that showcase the evolution from rustic log cabins to modern mountain retreats in this hidden Midwest gem. What started as a dream to escape corporate America has become a lesson in brand building, strategic partnerships, and navigating the complexities of hosting both intimate couples and large groups.

From hand-sketching blueprints at their kitchen table to managing two HVAC failures...

Today we're welcoming Mitch, a commercial pilot who turned 90 acres of Maine forest into something truly unique in the short-term rental world: a fly-in cabin experience complete with its own FAA-registered runway. What started as a practical solution for getting his family from Pennsylvania to their beloved Maine quickly evolved into a destination that's capturing the imagination of pilots and non-pilots alike.

From the initial market research in pilot Facebook groups to the "silverware stage" of outfitting a remote A-frame cabin, Mitch shares the realities of building a business around your passion while maintaining a demanding full-time...

Today is a special episode, as it’s only the second one ever recorded IN PERSON. Rick and Charles are the charming inn keepers at The Hideaway Inn in Camden, Maine. We got to visit during our last trip to Maine, and it did NOT disappoint. 

After falling in love with New England during their first visit in 2021, this couple made the bold decision to leave their corporate careers on the West Coast and purchase a historic inn in a town they'd only visited a handful of times. What started as a romanticized dream quickly became reality whe...

Today we're welcoming Ina, a 25-year-old chemist and Airbnb host whose riverside cabin in Concrete, Washington offers breathtaking views of the North Cascades. While many episodes focus on the joys of cabin ownership, today's conversation tackles a scenario that keeps many hosts awake at night: what happens when disaster strikes? Ina shares her harrowing experience of receiving a call that her cabin was on fire after guests checked out without extinguishing candles, and the subsequent seven-month battle with Airbnb's AirCover to receive compensation for the damages. 

From the initial shock and frustration of dealing with defensive guests w...

This episode is from our very first month of the podcast, back in 2023, where we talked with Chris & Pam (the famous Dirt & Glass) about everything from how they got their start (hint: a hike, heartbreak, and an off-grid cabin in New York) to what makes a cabin photo truly stand out. They share insights on the evolution of cabin culture online, the behind-the-scenes process of working with cabin owners, and their deep commitment to not just aesthetics—but to curation, integrity, and connection.

We also chat about the rise of short-term rentals, the importance of standing out as...

Today we're joined by Kitty Costello, a design enthusiast and short-term rental consultant who brings a refreshingly authentic approach to creating spaces that tell a story. After relocating from Silicon Valley to Maine's magical mid-coast in 2022, Kitty has embraced the local culture and channeled her natural design instincts into helping vacation rental owners transform ordinary spaces into memorable experiences.

We'll explore how Kitty and her business partner Jen are reimagining the Airbnb landscape in Maine, one thoughtfully designed property at a time. From her philosophy that "DIY is the holy grail of getting to know yourself" to...

Today we're joined by an amazing couple who embody what it means to create intentional spaces in the mountains of Utah. With over 11 years of hosting experience, they've transformed a treehouse and a 1970s hand-built cabin into magical retreats that offer more than just beautiful design—they create experiences that hold space for life's tender moments.

We'll explore how they discovered these unique properties just steps from their own A-frame home, their philosophy of preservation over new construction, and the delicate balance they've found between real estate development and honoring the character of original spaces.

Th...

Today we're welcoming Laura, a high school principal and passionate cabin owner in the Adirondack Mountains, who brings a uniquely educational perspective to the cabin ownership experience. From her beginnings as a home design blogger to managing two cabins while balancing a demanding career in education, Laura shares valuable insights on finding escape and renewal in mountain retreats.

We'll explore how she transformed a "630 square foot ski chalet box" into a cozy getaway, navigated the unexpected shift when COVID hit just months after her purchase, and eventually expanded to a second A-frame cabin down the street. Laura...

Today we're welcoming Kendra, a real estate agent and A-frame cabin owner in Lake Almanor, California, who brings a uniquely practical perspective to the world of cabin ownership. From her family's deep roots in real estate investment to managing her own A-frame in an HOA-controlled community, Kendra shares valuable insights on the financial realities of cabin ownership in today's market. We'll explore how she transformed her three-level A-frame with strategic renovations, discovered her unexpected guest demographic, and navigates the challenges of operating a seasonal property that's "in the red" despite what AirDNA might suggest.

Whether you're considering...

Today we're welcoming Lynn from Fresh Coast Cabins, whose journey from digital marketing executive to cabin entrepreneur offers a refreshing perspective on placemaking in the wilderness of Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula. From renovating a single rustic cabin to developing a collection of lakeside retreats, a public sauna, and now even a bar and event space, Lynn shares how her passion for creating meaningful experiences has evolved into a thriving ecosystem of hospitality ventures. We'll explore her philosophy that cabin culture is about connecting guests to the unique beauty and heritage of Lake Superior, including the area's deep Finnish roots and...

Today we're welcoming Andy Whitcomb, whose journey from furniture designer to cabin creator offers fresh insights into crafting immersive experiences that reconnect guests with nature. From his early days learning Airbnb hosting in a six-bedroom Seattle house to creating a row of three stunning riverside cabins, Andy shares how his background in design and entrepreneurship has shaped his approach to hospitality. We'll explore his philosophy that cabin culture is about "leaving the fake, superficial world and entering a more real world," and how that belief guides every decision – from foregoing TVs in favor of record players to creating Instagram-worthy mo...

Today we're welcoming Nat Farber, whose journey from NASA's Europa Clipper mission to mountain cabin builder offers a refreshing perspective on the art of slow building. From finding burned land after the Four Mile Canyon Fire to spending ten years crafting his vision, Nat shares how approaching construction as a creative project rather than a race to completion allowed him to build something truly unique. We'll explore how his engineering background influenced his design process, why he chose to test materials on a practice shed first, and how he eventually transitioned from aerospace to full-time building projects.

...

Today we're welcoming Zoe Berghoff, whose journey from glamping property owner to mentor and real estate developer offers a refreshing perspective on creating unique stays that align with your lifestyle. From transforming abandoned log cabins to developing off-grid properties at 8,000 feet, Zoe shares how focusing on quality over quantity has shaped her approach to hospitality. We'll explore why she believes the short-term rental industry is at a pivotal moment, and how hosts can create authentic experiences that stand out in an increasingly crowded market.

Whether you're dreaming of developing raw land, considering your first renovation project, or...

Today we're welcoming Nicole, known online as The Cabin Hunter, whose journey from wedding photographer to cabin specialist offers unique insights into the art of capturing and marketing vacation properties. From photographing over 100 unique properties across the globe to co-founding a property management company, Nicole shares how telling a cabin's story goes far beyond just beautiful photos. We'll explore everything from what to look for when hiring a photographer to the small details that can make or break a guest's experience, and why sometimes the most meaningful shots happen at sunrise or around a carefully staged campfire.

Today we're welcoming Carrie from Roost North Rentals, whose journey from a self-described "failed stay-at-home mom" to the owner of nine successful vacation rentals in Traverse City, Michigan, offers a masterclass in thoughtful growth and systematic hospitality. From her first casual property purchase in 2015 to her latest A-frame renovation and plans for an 18-cottage resort, Carrie shares how creating strong systems and maintaining high standards has allowed her to scale while keeping the personal touch that makes each stay special. We'll explore how she transformed a $75,000 A-frame "disaster" into a stunning retreat, and why sometimes the best business decisions...

Today we're chatting with Alison from Water Camp, whose collection of 1950s fishing cabins on Torch Lake, Michigan, beautifully balances modern comfort with vintage charm. From her thoughtful perspective on embracing imperfection to her three core values of rest, connection, and exploration, Alison shares how authenticity in hospitality often means resisting the urge to make everything perfect. We'll explore how she transformed three aging lakeside cottages into spaces that honor their historic roots while meeting modern expectations, and why sometimes the most memorable stays aren't about luxury - they're about character.

For anyone questioning the balance between...

Today we're welcoming Kelsey and Chris Still of Still Resorts, whose journey from a 95' Georgie Boy Swinger RV to creating two distinct cabin properties in Minnesota is a masterclass in perseverance and creative vision. From their innovative use of 140-year-old reclaimed barn wood to their commitment to preserving the natural landscape, the Stills share how staying true to your vision often means taking the harder path. We'll explore how they transformed challenging pieces of land - including an old mining shelf and a densely forested Lake Superior property - into spaces that honor Minnesota's cabin heritage while reimagining...

Today we're welcoming Ashley from On Cabin Time, who joins us from Porto, Portugal, where she and her husband Kyle are redefining what it means to live adventurously while hosting remotely. From their first nine-month backpacking journey through Southeast Asia to building a stunning cabin in Canada and now hosting guests in both countries, Ashley shares how spontaneity, calculated risks, and a willingness to trust your instincts can lead to extraordinary opportunities.

Whether you're curious about hosting from abroad, wondering how to design a truly unique cabin from scratch, or seeking insight into building systems that allow...

On today's episode features a conversation that reminds us how some of the most inspiring success stories emerge from our greatest challenges. Meet Jennifer, the creative force behind Wisconsin's stunning Pepin Forest Tree House. What began as a dream to build a treehouse during the uncertainty of 2020 evolved into something far more complex – a story of resilience, creative problem-solving, and ultimately, triumph. Despite facing a contractor crisis that left her with little more than a skeleton structure and depleted funds, Jennifer and her husband refused to give up. They sold their car, dipped into retirement savings, and even turned to...

Today we're welcoming Simone, co-owner of three stunning rentals in northern Minnesota and founder of She Hosts consulting. From building her first cabin as a screen porch that evolved into something more, to now helping other hosts navigate their journeys from raw land to profitable properties, Simona brings a unique perspective on intentional hosting. Originally from Brazil, she found herself embracing Minnesota cabin life through love, and together with her partner, has created a collection of timber frame retreats that showcase both craftsmanship and heart.

Whether you're dreaming of building your first cabin, looking to improve your...

Today we're diving into a conversation inspired by Will Guidara's "Unreasonable Hospitality" with Spenser from Fall Branch Falls. On this episode we explore the difference between service and true hospitality, we'll examine what it means to make guests feel truly seen, and how small, intentional decisions can create unforgettable experiences. From paint colors to handwritten notes, we'll discover how thoughtful touches - not just luxury amenities - create the kind of hospitality that guests remember alongside life's biggest moments.

For anyone questioning the balance between automation and authenticity, or wondering how to create experiences that transcend the...

Today we're welcoming Zach, founder of the Behind the Stays podcast and former CEO of Stay Watch, who's here to share some exciting news about the future of boutique hospitality. From his journey documenting unique stays across the country to his recent acquisition by Journey - a new platform aiming to revolutionize how we experience and get rewarded for choosing independent properties - Zach offers invaluable insights into where the industry is headed. We'll explore everything from the tension between traditional hospitality operators and "hobby hosts" to how boutique properties might finally be able to compete with big hotel...

Today's episode is a powerful testament to perseverance and purpose. We're joined by Bri and Dave, the creators of Sweetbriar Ridge in Minnesota, where three geodesic domes offer more than just a unique stay - they provide a sanctuary for healing. As a paramedic and outdoor educator respectively, this couple's journey from vision to reality wasn't just about building a business; it was about creating a space where first responders, veterans, and anyone seeking connection with nature could find peace.

What started as a dream in 2017 evolved into a two-year battle with building inspectors, multiple e...

Today we're welcoming a self-proclaimed "grandma millennial" who's revolutionizing the retreat space in northern Michigan. From her first floating house project to her current ambitious ridge-top development, she brings a refreshing perspective on building without outside investors and doing things her own way. As someone who's flipped houses, built unique properties, and learned to trust her design instincts, she's now embarking on her most ambitious project yet - creating an intentional retreat space where groups can disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature.

For anyone interested in the nitty-gritty of financing creative projects, navigating zoning challenges...

Today we're inviting you into a conversation with Camille, the owner of Camp Hudson Pines in the Adirondacks - a unique property that bridges traditional camping culture with modern cabin experiences. From seasonal RV sites to renovated riverside cabins and luxury glamping tents, Camille has created a space where nature lovers of all comfort levels can find their perfect stay. With a master's degree in children's literature and a thesis on Harry Potter, she brings an unexpected perspective to hospitality, weaving together stories of the property's past while crafting its future.

 For anyone fascinated by the intersection o...

Today we're welcoming the co-owner of Norra Hem, a stunning cliffside cabin on Hornby Island, one of British Columbia's enchanting Gulf Islands. What started as a six-month renovation project turned into a two-year labor of love, transforming a family property into a luxury short-term rental that celebrates local culture and craftsmanship. Our guest shares her journey of building and launching their first rental property on an island that requires two ferry rides just to reach, and how they've created an intentional, immersive experience that honors both the property's family legacy and the island's unique character.

Whether you're...

This episode of the podcast is a bit different, and it's the first time we're doing a thematic episode. Rather than interviewing a cabin host and diving into their story and experience, I have TWO cabin hosts with me (one is a repeat guest, Melissa from Tanglebloom Cabin, and one is a brand new guest, Eman from the Catskill Equestrian Cabin), and together we dive into the theme of contentment. In a world of growth and more doors and scaling and revenue, we're asking ourselves how to know when 'enough is enough'. Is that thing? How do we listen...

On this episode we’re sitting down with Mike Girard, co-owner of the Kingfield Chalet near Sugarloaf Mountain in Maine. Mike will take us through the journey of discovering and purchasing their dream cabin, how they’ve made it both a family getaway and a successful rental property, how sustainability has shaped the choices they’ve made for the cabin and why going eco-friendly is both rewarding and practical.

 If you’re interested in finding the right balance between cabin life, hosting, and making your space more eco-conscious, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

Community...

Today we’re sharing something a bit different… Spenser and I had planned a podcast on Friday to talk about hospitality, and as the time neared it became clear we couldn’t just progress as usual with all that’s happening down here in North Carolina. So while we have lots of friends who host here in the mountains of North Carolina that I would have loved to jump on, we planned this very last minute and had Jandy, from Out of Bound Retreats, jump on so we could pivot and talk about all that’s happened in the past week...

On this episode with chat with John Doessel, the graphic designer and artist behind the IG viral @houselogos. What started as a design for his own house, quickly spread across the internet to famous Frank Lloyd Wright houses, short term rentals, and the perfect gift for your friends and family members. Today we chat about his experience professionally working with passion brands like Porsche, Harley Davidson and Subaru, and how effective branding can evoke emotions around others inanimate objects like houses. So if you've ever been curious about the human behind these catchy designs, well this episode is for...

On this episode of the podcast I get to talk to Lindsey Bro, the human behind the VERY famous Instagram account, @cabinlove. It's hard to know for sure, but I'm 99% positive this is the account that got me hooked on 'cabin porn' as they call it. Featuring some of the coziest, most ideal, cabins worldwide, Lindsey has helped all of us escape our real live through her sharing of these retreats. Perhaps what I love most is the the cabins she features aren't always the fanciest, the most high end, the most unique... they're often just real life cabins...