Episodes
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In this inspiring episode of the Austin Palacios Podcast, we sit down with Lourdes Dominguez — a former tech professional who transitioned into full-time Airbnb co-hosting and real estate investing. Lourdes shares her journey from product manager to entrepreneur, offering raw insight into the emotional and strategic highs and lows of building a business after being laid off from corporate America.
📌 Topics covered:
How getting laid off launched Lourdes into entrepreneurshipLaunching her first Airbnb and scaling from one to 11+ propertiesTransitioning into co-hosting and property managementLeveraging AI and automation to optimize operationsThe pros and cons of arbitrage vs. co-hostingUsing interior design and themed experiences to stand outNetworking, mentorship, and the role of support systems in successThe emotional challenges of starting a business and pushing throughLourdes' goals, mindset, and advice for new entrepreneursNeed help finding clients for your Airbnb Co-Hosting business?
Book a call
👉 https://www.cohostingacquisitions.com/
FREE Co-Hosting Course
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EfApmDDTSQ&list=PLnO_3GYx9nIhGULeB3ygap7RbYFUP90zf
✅ Connect with Austin on Instagram: austin__palacios✅ Connect with Lourdes:
📸 Instagram: @cohostwithstars
💼 LinkedIn: Lourdes Dominguez
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: enchantedstarcohosting.com -
In this episode of The Austin Palacios Podcast, we sit down with Patricia Currid, a former corporate project manager turned real estate investor and short-term rental co-host. Based in New Hampshire with her husband and 7 kids, Patty shares how she built a 30+ property Airbnb management business in under a year — all while prioritizing lifestyle, freedom, and family.
Why Patty left her corporate project management firmHow she started with a tiny home on her farm — and it took offThe importance of creating a unique guest experience (not just lodging)How she built a 30+ property management portfolio in 7 monthsWhy she only takes on homes that meet her quality and design standardsManaging both guest expectations and high-maintenance ownersTransitioning from DIY host to team-based business modelHow she sets rates, plans onboarding fees, and qualifies clientsScaling smart: creating systems and setting boundaries to avoid burnoutLong-term vision: potentially selling the business and living peacefully off-grid
She breaks down her transition from nuclear power plant consulting to rural tiny-home hosting, and how discovering the co-hosting model changed everything. This episode is packed with personal insight, strategy, and lessons from scaling fast and learning on the fly.
🔹 Major Topics Discussed
Need help finding clients for your Airbnb Co-Hosting business?
Book a call
👉 https://www.cohostingacquisitions.com/
FREE Co-Hosting Course
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EfApmDDTSQ&list=PLnO_3GYx9nIhGULeB3ygap7RbYFUP90zf
✅ Connect with Austin on Instagram: austin__palacios
✅ Connect with Patty on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570321378294 -
Missing episodes?
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In this episode of The Austin Palacios Podcast, we’re joined by Eric McCarty, a former engineering director turned full-time short-term rental manager and co-host. Eric walks us through how he built a 15-property Airbnb portfolio—mostly managed remotely—while working a demanding W2 job and raising three young kids.
He shares the tools, systems, mindset shifts, and sales strategies that helped him scale, quit his job, and step into full-time entrepreneurship.
Topics discussed:
Eric’s transition from engineering director to full-time Airbnb co-hostHow he built a 15-property STR portfolio while working a full-time jobThe systems he used early (PriceLabs, PMS, ops tracking) to scale efficientlyManaging properties remotely and building reliable on-the-ground teamsHis 6-month grind to land the first few clients—and what finally workedSales mindset shifts: how not needing the sale led to more conversionsCreating a financial roadmap to confidently leave his W2 jobHow he prices co-hosting services: 20–25% + onboarding feesConnect with Eric on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/3PuttPropertiesLLC
Need help finding clients for your Airbnb Co-Hosting business?
Book a call
👉 https://www.cohostingacquisitions.com/
FREE Co-Hosting Course
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EfApmDDTSQ&list=PLnO_3GYx9nIhGULeB3ygap7RbYFUP90zf
✅ Connect with Austin on Instagram: austin__palacios -
On this episode of The Austin Palacios Podcast, we sit down with Patrick Dowling, a seasoned real estate investor who’s been building wealth through multifamily and commercial properties for over two decades. Patrick shares how he bought his first rental property as a broke college student, grew his portfolio into the millions, and survived the 2008 crash without defaulting — all without using investor money.
This episode is packed with high-level strategy and raw lessons, including:
How Patrick turned a $22K profit on his first deal in 4 monthsWhat really happened to real estate investors during the 2008 collapseHis criteria for identifying undervalued properties with cash flow potentialWhy “smart leverage” and tax strategies like cost segregation are the ultimate wealth toolsHow to scale from small multifamily to massive $20–30M commercial dealsWe also explore how Patrick’s mindset, operations, and market instincts evolved — and why personal branding has now become a surprising growth lever in his career.
👉 Connect with Patrick on Instagram: @pinnaclelifeshift
🚀 Interested in working with him? He even offers to fund your first deal if you qualify and can't find financing!Need help finding clients for your Airbnb Co-Hosting business?
Book a call
👉 https://www.cohostingacquisitions.com/
FREE Co-Hosting Course
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EfApmDDTSQ&list=PLnO_3GYx9nIhGULeB3ygap7RbYFUP90zf
✅ Connect with Austin on Instagram: austin__palacios -
In this episode of The Austin Palacios Podcast, we're joined by Allison Craft, a corporate finance escapee turned successful short-term rental co-host. Allison shares her deeply personal journey — from the loss of her brother and postpartum burnout to discovering the STR tax loophole on YouTube and taking massive, imperfect action.
Allison’s transition from corporate finance to short-term rental co-hosting.Personal motivation behind the career change (loss of her brother, burnout, motherhood).Discovering the STR tax loophole and using it to receive a $56,000 tax refund.Building a real estate business with 16 listings in under a year.Balancing entrepreneurship with parenting and family life.Overcoming fear and perfectionism to take “imperfect action”.Using co-hosting as a low-risk entry point into real estate.Importance of community, mentorship, and masterminds.Strategic use of tax advantages for short-term rental investors.Creating freedom through purpose-aligned business models.
Topics covered:
This is a raw, honest conversation about entrepreneurship, taking risks, and choosing purpose over comfort. If you’ve ever dreamed about quitting your job and starting something meaningful, this is your sign.
🎯 Want to learn more about co-hosting or join our mastermind? Connect with Allison on Instagram: @allison_craft1
Need help finding clients for your Airbnb Co-Hosting business?
Book a call
👉 https://www.cohostingacquisitions.com/
FREE Co-Hosting Course
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EfApmDDTSQ&list=PLnO_3GYx9nIhGULeB3ygap7RbYFUP90zf
✅ Connect with Austin on Instagram: austin__palacios -
In this episode of the Austin Palacios Podcast, Austin sits down with entrepreneur and yacht club founder Michael Lupolover. From a legal career in New York to launching a debt settlement company during the 2008 financial crisis, Lupolover shares his journey to discovering his true passion: luxury hospitality and yachting in Miami. They dive into the evolution of Lupolover's businesses, the birth of Lupo Yacht Club, and how he turned a side hustle into a thriving luxury membership model. Expect insights on entrepreneurship, building systems, hiring talent, and disrupting traditional yacht ownership with an innovative membership approach.
Entrepreneurship & Business BuildingTransitioning from Corporate Law to Business OwnershipFinancial Services & Debt Settlement IndustryCreating Scalable Systems and KPI-Driven LeadershipHospitality and Luxury Lifestyle VenturesThe Yachting Industry & Membership Business ModelsCustomer Retention & High-End Client ExperiencesCovid-19’s Unexpected Impact on the Yacht Rental IndustryMindset Shifts: From Crisis Management to Celebration Facilitation
🧠 Topics Covered:
Need help finding clients for your Airbnb Co-Hosting business?
Book a call
👉 https://www.austinpalacios.com/co-hosting-acquisitions?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaa3m9qTxko27nD6-XXHWbRCM28Js_2ffB5P5JfNhmOTr0M0piAJZ_AnbnY_aem_9hrsCQc_eXcmjhp49mjKaQ
FREE Co-Hosting Course
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EfApmDDTSQ&list=PLnO_3GYx9nIhGULeB3ygap7RbYFUP90zf
✅ Connect with Austin on Instagram: austin__palacios
✅ Connect with Michael on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lupoyachts/
✅Call Lupo Yachts: 305-833-5336 -
In this episode of The Austin Palacios Podcast, Austin sits down with Zac Richman, founder of Launch Vector, a fast-growing e-commerce acquisition firm that buys, scales, and sells Shopify brands. Zac breaks down how his team identifies undervalued e-commerce stores, the exact steps they take to scale them profitably, and how they exit with big returns. He also dives into how they work with capital partners, what a typical deal structure looks like, and how he went from running an ad agency to owning 50+ e-com businesses. If you're curious about alternative investing, entrepreneurship, or buying digital businesses like assets—this episode is packed with insights.
Zac's background in digital marketing and e-commerceTransitioning from agency work to buying and scaling brandsHow Launch Vector identifies and acquires Shopify storesDeal structure, multiples, and due diligenceBenefits of buying vs. building from scratch in e-comWorking with capital partners and structuring win-win dealsROI and cashflow potential of e-commerce brand acquisitionsThe role of subscription revenue in valuationSBA loan usage in the e-com acquisition spaceReal-world examples of student-run brands selling for six figuresOperational challenges of managing a portfolio of 50+ brandsVision for roll-up exits and selling to hedge funds or private equityZac’s supplier trip to China: insights on manufacturing, logistics, and cultureEmerging trends in the e-commerce acquisition landscapeAdvice for entrepreneurs who want to get into e-com investingHow to refer Shopify store deals or invest with Launch Vector
Topics covered:
Need help finding clients for your Airbnb Co-Hosting business?
Book a call
👉 https://www.austinpalacios.com/co-hosting-acquisitions?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaa3m9qTxko27nD6-XXHWbRCM28Js_2ffB5P5JfNhmOTr0M0piAJZ_AnbnY_aem_9hrsCQc_eXcmjhp49mjKaQ
FREE Co-Hosting Course
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EfApmDDTSQ&list=PLnO_3GYx9nIhGULeB3ygap7RbYFUP90zf
✅ Connect with Austin on Instagram: austin__palacios
✅ Connect with Zac on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zacrichman/ -
In this episode of The Austin Palacios Podcast, Austin sits down with Eli Facenda, founder of Freedom Travel Systems, to reveal the hidden strategies behind luxury travel for 90% off using points and miles. They dive into Eli's journey from youth sports travel entrepreneur to mastering the points game, how business owners can leverage their everyday expenses for dream vacations, why most people use points the wrong way, and the surprising tax advantages tied to travel hacking. Plus, they discuss hosting transformational mastermind events around the world, including their recent trip to Japan. If you’re an entrepreneur looking to travel better, smarter, and practically for free — this episode is packed with real, actionable strategies.
Introduction to Eli and Freedom Travel SystemsHow business owners can travel luxury for 90% off using pointsEli’s background: youth sports travel industry to points consultingThe power of leveraging credit card points for dream tripsTax advantages of using points for personal travelBest strategies for using points (and mistakes people make)The importance of choosing the right credit cards based on spending habitsHow to pay for rent, payroll, and other large expenses using pointsCommon traps to avoid: Amazon, gift cards, and poor point redemptionsHow to actually find flight and hotel point deals (flexibility, alerts, assistants)Building a points system tailored to entrepreneurs’ travel goalsInside look at hosting mastermind events (Japan trip experience)Why investing in travel and networking accelerates business growthThe emotional and productivity benefits of taking real vacations as entrepreneursFuture vision for Freedom Travel Systems and premium travel services
Topics covered:
Need help finding clients for your Airbnb Co-Hosting business?
Book a call
👉 https://www.austinpalacios.com/co-hosting-acquisitions?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaa3m9qTxko27nD6-XXHWbRCM28Js_2ffB5P5JfNhmOTr0M0piAJZ_AnbnY_aem_9hrsCQc_eXcmjhp49mjKaQ
FREE Co-Hosting Course
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EfApmDDTSQ&list=PLnO_3GYx9nIhGULeB3ygap7RbYFUP90zf
✅ Connect with Austin on Instagram: austin__palacios
✅ Connect with Eli on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elitravelguy/ -
In this episode of the Austin Palacios Podcast, Austin sits down with Yash Daftary, the founder of Fanbasis — a rapidly scaling platform reshaping how online creators, course sellers, and info-product businesses process payments and build communities. They dive deep into Yosh’s journey from launching celebrity fan experiences to pivoting Fanbasis into a billion-dollar payments and SaaS powerhouse. You’ll hear insider stories about overcoming Stripe shutdowns, building a driven team culture, the rise of 15-year-old entrepreneurs making six figures, and the future of education beyond traditional universities. Plus, Yash shares what keeps him balanced outside of business — and why work-life integration, not balance, might be the new secret to success.
Overview of FanbasisThe Origin Story of FanbasisChallenges with Traditional Payment ProcessorsHow Fanbasis Solves Payment IssuesThe Growth of the Info Product IndustryFanbasis Business Model and DifferentiatorsTeam Building and Company CultureWork-Life Balance and Personal InsightsScaling Fanbasis and Strategic Decision-Making
Topics covered:
Whether you’re building an info product, scaling a coaching business, or just love entrepreneurial stories, this conversation is packed with gold.
Need help finding clients for your Airbnb Co-Hosting business?
Book a call
👉 https://www.austinpalacios.com/co-hosting-acquisitions?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaa3m9qTxko27nD6-XXHWbRCM28Js_2ffB5P5JfNhmOTr0M0piAJZ_AnbnY_aem_9hrsCQc_eXcmjhp49mjKaQ
FREE Co-Hosting Course
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EfApmDDTSQ&list=PLnO_3GYx9nIhGULeB3ygap7RbYFUP90zf
✅ Connect with Austin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austin__palacios/
✅ Connect with Yash on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yashdaftary/ -
In this solo episode, Austin Palacios shares a raw and insightful breakdown of his five-week trip across Asia — from speaking at masterminds in Bali to skiing in Japan — and the surprising personal and business lessons he learned along the way.
Introduction and Apology for InconsistencyRecap of 5-Week Asia TripThe Importance of Travel for Self-Discovery and Business GrowthNetworking, Masterminds, and the Value of High-Level RoomsBiggest Personal and Business Takeaways from the TripImportance of Delegation for Scaling a BusinessBuilding and Training a Strong TeamLessons on Hiring Slow and Building SystemsThe Role of Peace of Mind in Sustained Success
Austin talks about the importance of travel for self-growth, the hidden dangers of scaling too quickly, the power of delegation, building stronger teams, and why true business success is about protecting your peace of mind. He also shares practical takeaways on hiring, creating systems, preventing burnout, and why simplifying your focus can help you grow faster.
Whether you're building your first business or scaling your second, this episode will shift your perspective on what it really means to grow without losing yourself.
Topics covered:
Plans for the Next 90 Days: Delegation, Focus, and Simplicity
Need help finding clients for your Airbnb Co-Hosting business?
Book a call
👉 https://www.austinpalacios.com/co-hosting-acquisitions?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaa3m9qTxko27nD6-XXHWbRCM28Js_2ffB5P5JfNhmOTr0M0piAJZ_AnbnY_aem_9hrsCQc_eXcmjhp49mjKaQ
FREE Co-Hosting Course
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EfApmDDTSQ&list=PLnO_3GYx9nIhGULeB3ygap7RbYFUP90zf
✅ Connect with Austin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austin__palacios/ -
In this episode of The Austin Palacios Podcast, Austin sits down with fitness enthusiast and gym-goer, Jim Molley, to discuss the power of tracking progress, building routines, and finding joy in fitness. Jim shares his personal journey—from setting ambitious goals like hitting 200 pounds to mastering the muscle-up, and even working toward a 315-pound flat bench. The conversation dives into the importance of consistency, avoiding injuries, and using technology to optimize workouts, including how AI tools like ChatGPT are shaping personalized fitness plans. The episode also explores the mindset behind treating the gym as a fun, celebratory part of life, not a chore.
Topics include:
The importance of tracking workout progressSetting and achieving fitness goalsBuilding routines for consistent progressThe role of AI in fitness planningCreating a fun and sustainable gym experienceThe philosophy behind enjoying fitness and staying injury-freeThe role of diet and supplementation in progressConnect with Austin: Instagram
Connect with Greg: Instagram
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In this episode of The Austin Palacios Podcast, Austin sits down with Blake Saunders to explore the power of networking and how it can transform your life and business. Blake shares his journey from being socially anxious to becoming a confident networker, revealing the mindset shifts and actions that helped him break out of his shell. They discuss the importance of in-person connections, why networking events should be fun (not just lectures), and how the right relationships can open doors to incredible opportunities. Plus, Blake shares his best advice on overcoming limiting beliefs and taking action toward success. If you're looking to expand your network and elevate your business, this episode is a must-listen!
Topics Covered:
The difference between online and in-person networkingWhy South Beach and Miami are hotspots for entrepreneursThe importance of networking events beyond just learningHow to build real relationships by having funThe power of getting outside your comfort zoneWhy asking for introductions at events is a game-changerThe value of investing in masterminds, courses, and programsHow to leverage your network for business opportunitiesOvercoming social anxiety and becoming an outgoing entrepreneurBlake’s #1 piece of advice on breaking societal misconceptionsConnect with Austin: Instagram
Connect with Blake: Instagram -
In this episode of The Austin Palacios Podcast, Austin interviews Hailie Maarie. The conversation dives deep into the harmful dynamics of toxic work environments, the false glorification of overworking, and the steps needed to create healthier, more sustainable workplace cultures. It explores how outdated views of productivity impact well-being and offers actionable insights for reclaiming personal time and energy while fostering authentic success. A must-read for anyone ready to prioritize wellness over hustle.
Misconceptions about Middle SchoolSocial and Emotional DevelopmentParent-Child RelationshipsIdentity Formation and Self-DiscoverySchool Environment and AcademicsTechnology and Social MediaStrategies for Parents and Caregivers
Topics include:
Connect with Austin: Instagram
Connect with Hailie: Instagram -
In this episode of The Austin Palacios Podcast, Austin Palacios interviews Wade Houston. We dive deep into how building a genuine relationship with God and seeking guidance—not material things—can unlock your potential. Hear stories of overcoming fear, embracing vulnerability, and finding freedom by living authentically. Plus, learn how personal branding starts with sharing your truth and not just copying trends. If you're ready to align your faith, life, and business, this is the episode for you!
Overcoming fear and limiting beliefsFaith as a foundationAligning with purposeThe power of vulnerabilityTrusting God in businessFreedom from comparisonPrayer and personal growthBuilding a life of impact
Topics include:
Connect with Austin: Instagram
Connect with Wade: Instagram -
In this episode of The Austin Palacios Podcast, Austin Palacios interviews Valentino Di Lorenzo, a former professional soccer player turned mindset coach and entrepreneur. Valentino shares how he overcame fear on the soccer field and transformed those lessons into a framework for building confidence, achieving goals, and thriving in business.
Topics include:
How mindset determines success in sports, business, and life.Why discomfort and uncertainty are the keys to growth.Building habits like visualization, goal setting, and a solid morning routine.Real talk on distractions like drinking and dating, and how to stay focused.The power of surrounding yourself with people who inspire you to level up.If you’re looking to conquer fear, break through limiting beliefs, and create a life of purpose, this episode is a must-listen.
Connect with Austin on Instagram: @austin__palacios
Connect with Valentino on Instagram: @dilorenzosoccermindset
https://dilorenzosoccermindset.com/ -
Tune in as Austin sits down with Michael Chang an investment banker turned Real Estate Investor. He talks about how he started an Airbnb Arbitrage business and left his 80-hour work weeks and a million a year income job to invest in Airbnb's full time.
Connect with Austin: austin__palacios
Connect with Michael: michaelchangbnb -
Tune in as Austin sits down with Alex Smith the founder of Spartan Solar. Alex shares the journey of how he came to found Spartan Solar. How he lost everything through a bad partnership. His experience and key takeaways at an Alex Hormozi event and just overall social norms that he believes society should break free from.
Connect with Austin: austin__palacios
Connect with Alex Smith: Alexhsmith -
Tune in as Austin sits down with Auston a boutique hotel investor in Michigan. Auston breaks down how he got into the space, how he is finding deals and how you can get started investing in hotels as well!
Connect with Austin: austin__palacios
Connect with Auston Cook: austoncook -
Tune in as Austin sits down with Jeff Chisum a loan originator that specializes in short term rentals, as he talks about loan programs that can help you get into investing in STR's.
Connect with Austin: @austin__palacios
Connect with Jeff: @Jeff_chisum_mortgagepro - Show more
