What if standing out in the short-term rental industry isn’t just about the property—but the experience you create?
In this episode, I sit down with Candice Menard, the powerhouse behind Rent It Like a Saint, to explore the transformative philosophy of “Unreasonable Hospitality.” Candice isn’t just managing rentals—she’s redefining modern hosting by crafting heart-centered guest experiences that turn first-time visitors into lifelong fans.
Candice shares her inspiring journey from long-term property management to becoming a visionary in short-term rental hospitality. She breaks down how understanding her ideal guests—hardworking professionals who crave comfort, connection, and care—helped her anticipate needs before they were spoken, setting a new gold standard for guest experience.
We also dive into Travel Like a Saint, her complementary travel service that elevates the guest journey from start to finish. Candice reveals how she blends technology with personal touch through AI-assisted communication, community partnerships, and holistic brand storytelling that keeps guests coming back.
This episode is a must-listen for hosts and entrepreneurs ready to elevate their hospitality game. Candice’s story is a masterclass in business growth, intentional service, and brand differentiation—proving that true success comes from serving with heart, purpose, and a touch of the extraordinary.
HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS:
[01:00] A short introduction about our guest Candice Menard and how did she get into short-term rental business
[02:57] Candice’s approach to embracing unreasonable hospitality and gaining clarity on her ideal guest to elevate the guest experience
[06:24] Candice talks about how an unexpected Airbnb booking helped her discover her ideal guests and shape the future direction of her rental business
[08:42] How Candice brings “unreasonable hospitality” to life by anticipating guest needs through fast communication, personalization, and gratitude
[12:33] Candice explains how she blends AI with human communication to deliver efficient yet personal guest experiences
[15:43] How the idea of “unreasonable hospitality” inspired Candice to expand from Rent It Like a Saint into a full travel service with Travel Like a Saint
[18:35] Candice explains how she promotes Travel Like a Saint across multiple channels and the enthusiastic feedback she’s received from guests
[20:33] Candice details the foundational systems she built within Rent It Like a Saint to free up her time and focus for launching Travel Like a Saint
[23:23] How Candice’ involvement in the Louisiana Travel Summit unexpectedly turned into an opportunity to build stronger ties within her local community
[28:06] Candice offers thoughtful, grounded advice for anyone who wants to infuse the spirit of “unreasonable hospitality” into their business
[32:00] The lightning round
Golden Nuggets:
- “Providing excellent world class customer service is the best way to get those five star reviews.”
- “The most valuable asset you can have in your hosting arsenal is your speed of communications.”
- “Relationships are where referrals come from.”
- “What's important to you, what's important to your guests, find your who's that can make that connection to get your puzzle piece complete. And then, just continue learning and continue making improvements to whatever you are providing.”
- “It's so important to offer the things that really light you up internally, because that energy is going to come through to your guests. It's going to naturally and organically grow your business, instead of you putting a square peg into a round hole.”
- “Whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger; it teaches you how to be resilient and come back.”
Let’s Connect:
Website: https://book.travellikeasaint.com/
https://rentitlikeasaint.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travellikeasaint/
https://www.instagram.com/rentitlikeasaint/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574784428438
https://www.facebook.com/RentItLikeASaint
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