2025 SHORT-TERM RENTAL AWARD FINALISTS
The STRive Short-Term Rental Awards recognise those who have made significant contributions to our industry, setting benchmarks for excellence and inspiring others with their achievements.
Award Categories and Process: We have carefully curated a range of categories to acknowledge the diverse talents within our industry. These include the Impact-Driven Consumer Champion Award, Most Brand or Marketing Campaign Award, Rising Star Award, Exemplary Property Management Company Award, and the Innovative Supplier Impact Award.
The awards process is designed to be inclusive and comprehensive, involving three key stages:
- Stage 1 – Nominations: We invite you to nominate individuals, companies, or startups that have made an indelible impact in the STR industry. Nominations can be submitted via our website until 2nd of February. Self-nominations are also welcome.
- Stage 2 –Public Voting: Following the nomination round, a public vote will determine the top three finalists in each category. This is your chance to support your favourites and have a say in recognising industry leaders. (VOTING IS CLOSED)
- Stage 3 – Judges’ Panel & STRive Attendee Vote: The top three finalists will present their case through a short video to an esteemed panel of judges from various sectors within the STR industry. The judges will evaluate these presentations, accounting for 50% of the final score. The remaining 50% will be determined by attendee votes during STRive. The combined results will determine the winners. (WE ARE ON THIS STAGE NOW)
BE a Part of This Exciting Journey: We encourage you to participate in these awards, either by nominating, voting, or simply spreading the word within your network. This is not just an award; it’s a celebration of the passion, innovation, and hard work that defines our industry.
Learn. STRive. Thrive!
STRIVE AWARDS TOP FINALISTS ARE NOW ON!
The inaugural STRIVE Short-Term Rental Awards mark a significant milestone in celebrating success within the short-term rental industry. These awards are crafted to acknowledge and honor those who exemplify success through innovative practices, outstanding customer service, effective property management, creative marketing strategies, and emerging leadership in the field. These awards encompass the diverse talents and significant contributions that are propelling the short-term rental industry forward and making an impact.
The STRIVE Short-Term Rental Awards ceremony is more than just an awards presentation; it’s a celebration of the industry’s collective achievements and a prime opportunity for professionals to network, share insights, and revel in their shared successes. This gala event promises to be a night of recognition, inspiration, and camaraderie, setting a new benchmark for excellence and innovation in the short-term rental space.
Award Categories:
Consumer Champion Award ⭐
Most Impactful Brand or Marketing Campaign Award ⭐
Rising Star Award ⭐
Exemplary Property Management Company Award ⭐
Innovative Supplier Award⭐
2025 STRIVE AWARD JUDGES
Julie George
CEO, Million Dollar Host
Julie George
CEO, Million Dollar Host
Julie George is the Author of the ‘Million Dollar Host’ which outlines her story and unique STR property management business model that resulted in a portfolio of 130 properties and generated more than $8million income in 3 years. This Australian business woman is now featured in media and on stages globally and is recognised for her contagious energy and enthusiasm.
As one of the most influential names in the Short-Term Rental industry she supports, mentors and inspires thousands of Hosts worldwide. Julie offers consulting, mentoring and facilitates the #1 Global Mastermind Community in the world.
Justin Ford
Director of Short-Term Rental Safety & Certification Programs, Breezeway
Justin Ford
Director of Short-Term Rental Safety & Certification Programs, Breezeway
Justin Ford is the Director of Short-Term Rental Safety & Certification Programs at Breezeway, leading efforts to enhance safety standards across the industry. A recognized expert in rental safety, he educates owners and managers on best practices to protect guests and properties. With years of experience, Justin is dedicated to raising awareness, implementing safety protocols, and driving industry-wide improvements through training, advocacy, and certification programs.
Lisa Peterson
Founder & Director, L’Abode Accommodation
Lisa Peterson
Founder & Director, L’Abode Accommodation
Lisa Peterson is the founder and driving force behind L’Abode Accommodation, with over 13 years of experience in the property management industry. Known for her passion and dedication, Lisa has built a team that values honesty, quality, and exceptional guest experiences.
L’Abode, which began as a personal project to fill the need for high-quality short-term rentals, has grown under Lisa’s leadership into a prominent, values-driven business. When she’s not immersed in work, Lisa enjoys family time, nature, and culinary adventures.
Pete Smith
CEO & Founder, Weekenda and Hunter Valley Villa
Pete Smith
CEO & Founder, Weekenda and Hunter Valley Villa
Since saying goodbye to Corporate Australia after 21 years Weekenda is thriving and growing year on year. We had spent 10 years quietly building this up from a single cabin in Kangaroo Valley to now managing over 170 properties in the Hunter Valley Vineyards, Central Coast, Lake Macquarie and Newcastle.
Dennis Goedheid
Founder & CEO, Casiola Vacation Homes
Dennis Goedheid
Founder & CEO, Casiola Vacation Homes
Dennis Goedheid is the Founder & CEO of Casiola Vacation Homes, a fast-growing vacation rental brand known for its vibrant properties and exceptional guest experiences. With a passion for hospitality and innovation, Dennis has expanded Casiola across multiple destinations, redefining vacation rentals with a seamless blend of technology and personalised service. His leadership continues to drive the brand’s success, setting new standards in the short-term rental industry.
Kate Stinchcombe-Gillies
Owner, Coconut Comms and Kaihanu Lodge
Kate Stinchcombe-Gillies
Owner, Coconut Comms and Kaihanu Lodge
Kate has worked in holiday rentals since 2006, helping to grow Holiday Lettings and then TripAdvisor’s vacation rental offering. She was also a travel industry pundit for the BBC. A seeker of memorable guest experiences with a love of hospitality she's previously run restaurants & ridden pillion across Europe with just pannier to pack! She recently emigrated from the UK to NZ.
Mitchell Price
Executive Committee Member, STRA - Short Term Rentals Asia
Mitchell Price
Executive Committee Member, STRA - Short Term Rentals Asia
Mitchell Price is an Executive Committee Member of STRA – Short Term Rentals Asia and Head of Government Relations at Ario, a global mobility tech company in Singapore. With 15+ years in government, strategic communications, and mobility, he excels in policy development and regulatory strategy. As ASTRA’s inaugural CEO, he led major short-term rental policy reforms, working with Airbnb, Expedia, and Booking.com to drive industry-wide regulatory change.
Rebecca Cribbin
Founder & CEO, Holiday Rental Specialists
Rebecca Cribbin
Founder & CEO, Holiday Rental Specialists
Rebecca Cribbin is the Founder & CEO of Holiday Rental Specialists, a leader in short-term rental management. With over a decade of experience, she specialises in maximising property returns while delivering exceptional guest experiences. Passionate about industry innovation, Rebecca empowers property owners with expert strategies and insights. Her commitment to excellence and growth has positioned her as a trusted voice in the short-term rental space.
Alex Husner
Co-Founder & Host, Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals
Alex Husner
Co-Founder & Host, Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals
Alex Husner is the Co-Founder & Host of Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals podcast and a seasoned vacation rental marketing leader. Formerly CMO at Casago and Condo-World, she led business expansion and direct booking strategies, driving $25M+ in revenue. Now an independent consultant, she helps vacation rental brands grow profitably. A past VRMA board member and Myrtle Beach Chamber Chair, Alex’s podcast ranks in the Top 5% globally and among the Top 30 Hospitality Podcasts.
Steve Schwab
Founder & CEO, Casago
Steve Schwab
Founder & CEO, Casago
Steve Schwab is the Founder & CEO of Casago, a leading vacation rental and property management company. With decades of industry experience, he has built Casago into a trusted brand operating across the U.S. and Mexico. A visionary leader, Steve focuses on innovation, owner success, and exceptional guest experiences. His expertise in scaling businesses and fostering community-driven hospitality has positioned Casago as a top choice for property owners and travellers alike.
Annie Holcombe
Co-Founder & Co-Host, Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals
Annie Holcombe
Co-Founder & Co-Host, Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals
Annie Holcombe is the co-host of Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals, bringing decades of experience in hospitality, marketing, and vacation rentals. A dynamic industry leader, she has worked with top brands to drive growth, build partnerships, and enhance guest experiences. Passionate about advocacy and innovation, Annie shares expert insights on industry trends, leadership, and success in short-term rentals, empowering professionals through storytelling and collaboration.
Mark Simpson
Founder, Boostly
Mark Simpson
Founder, Boostly
Mark Simpson, Founder of Boostly, is on a mission to help one million hospitality owners boost direct bookings, cut commission costs, and maximize profits. Named a "Top 20 Most Influential" in vacation rentals, he's a best-selling author, keynote speaker, and industry leader. Boostly, an award-winning website agency and training platform, has helped property managers generate £50M+ in direct bookings. Follow him for expert insights, free resources, and a proven path to OTA independence.
Tim Rosolio
VP of Vacation Rental Partnerships, Expedia Group
Tim Rosolio
VP of Vacation Rental Partnerships, Expedia Group
Tim Rosolio is the Vice President of Vacation Rental Partnerships at Expedia Group, leading strategic initiatives to support property managers and enhance traveller experiences. With deep industry expertise, he drives innovation, helping partners maximise bookings and stay ahead in the evolving short-term rental market. Passionate about technology and hospitality, Tim plays a key role in shaping the future of vacation rentals through data-driven insights and strong industry collaborations.
Stacey St. John
Founder & Owner, Stacey St. John STR Success Mentor
Stacey St. John
Founder & Owner, Stacey St. John STR Success Mentor
Stacey St. John is the Founder of STR Success Mentor, helping busy professionals achieve financial freedom through real estate. She entered short-term rentals by accident in 2018 and quickly scaled to a multi-7-figure portfolio, transforming properties into thriving vacation retreats. Seeking community, she launched a Facebook group that grew to 55K+ members. In 2020, she founded STR Global Enterprises, uniting businesses with one mission: empowering others to build wealth through real estate.
Brooke Pfautz
Founder & CEO, Vintory
Brooke Pfautz
Founder & CEO, Vintory
Brooke Pfautz is the Founder & CEO of Vintory, the only growth platform dedicated to helping vacation rental managers scale their inventory. A seasoned entrepreneur with deep industry expertise, he built and sold a successful vacation rental company before launching Vintory. Brooke now leverages cutting-edge technology and data-driven strategies to help property managers accelerate growth, streamline acquisition, and achieve long-term success in the competitive short-term rental market.
Patryk Swietek
Owner, The Cohost Company
Patryk Swietek
Owner, The Cohost Company
Patryk Swietek is the Owner of The Cohost Company, managing 85+ short-term rentals for himself and investors. After struggling in the corporate world, he found his passion in vacation rentals, achieving financial freedom through entrepreneurship. Having acquired three management companies, Patryk now helps others escape the 9-to-5 grind and build their own path to success. His mission is to empower aspiring entrepreneurs to take control of their future through short-term rentals.
Steve Trover
CEO, Better Talent
Steve Trover
CEO, Better Talent
Steve Trover is the Founder & CEO of Better Talent, revolutionizing recruitment in the vacation rental industry. With 34 years of business leadership and 28 years in vacation rentals, he has founded 16 companies and served as VRMA President. Steve’s expertise in talent acquisition helps businesses hire and retain top performers. Through Better Talent’s data-driven approach, he ensures companies build high-impact teams, proving that success starts with the right people in the right roles.
Matthew Tesdall
Owner & CEO, Family Time Vacation Rentals
Matthew Tesdall
Owner & CEO, Family Time Vacation Rentals
Matthew Tesdall is the Owner & CEO of Family Time Vacation Rentals, offering premium accommodations across Utah, Idaho, and Central Oregon. With properties near Zion, Bryce Canyon, and top ski resorts, his company caters to families and large groups. A strategic leader with $70M in production, Matthew excels in business development, B2B marketing, and negotiations. His results-driven approach and passion for hospitality create unforgettable experiences in some of the nation’s most stunning destinations.
Tim Mortimer
Founder & CEO, BNB Made Easy
Tim Mortimer
Founder & CEO, BNB Made Easy
Tim Mortimer, Founder & CEO of BNB Made Easy, is dedicated to redefining hospitality for property owners and guests. With a background in farming, sport, education, and travel, he built the company on strong country values, making it a trusted name in short-term rentals. Passionate about regional tourism, he fosters community connections while scaling responsibly. When not working, he enjoys family time, new adventures, and unwinding to country music in a hammock.
Tom Goodwin
CEO, Mountain Laurel Chalets
Tom Goodwin
CEO, Mountain Laurel Chalets
Tom Goodwin is the CEO of Mountain Laurel Chalets, a family-owned vacation rental company serving Gatlinburg for over 52 years. Since 2012, he has upheld its legacy, ensuring long-term success in a competitive market. With expertise in business strategy, branding, and operations, Tom enhances profitability for homeowners while delivering exceptional guest experiences. A problem-solver at heart, he is passionate about revitalizing businesses, communities, and people to maximize their potential.
STRIVE SHORT-TERM RENTAL AWARD CATEGORIES
CONSUMER CHAMPION AWARD
This award honours organisations or individuals in the short-term rental sector who have made a significant impact by consistently prioritising guest needs and enhancing guest satisfaction. It celebrates those who not only meet but exceed expectations, creating a memorable and positive experience for guests, thereby setting a high standard in customer service.
CONSUMER CHAMPION AWARD
This award honours organisations or individuals in the short-term rental sector who have made a significant impact by consistently prioritising guest needs and enhancing guest satisfaction. It celebrates those who not only meet but exceed expectations, creating a memorable and positive experience for guests, thereby setting a high standard in customer service.
BEST MARKETING CAMPAIGN AWARD
This category recognises the brand or marketing campaign within the short-term rental industry that has most effectively and creatively made an impact. It focuses on campaigns that have significantly boosted brand awareness and business growth, whether through innovative social media initiatives, persuasive advertising, or groundbreaking marketing strategies.
BEST MARKETING CAMPAIGN AWARD
This category recognises the brand or marketing campaign within the short-term rental industry that has most effectively and creatively made an impact. It focuses on campaigns that have significantly boosted brand awareness and business growth, whether through innovative social media initiatives, persuasive advertising, or groundbreaking marketing strategies.
BEST PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AWARD
Recognising property management companies in the short-term rental sector that have significantly impacted the industry by providing outstanding service to both guests and homeowners. This award celebrates those who excel in innovation, profitability, and operational excellence in managing short-term rental properties.
BEST PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AWARD
Recognising property management companies in the short-term rental sector that have significantly impacted the industry by providing outstanding service to both guests and homeowners. This award celebrates those who excel in innovation, profitability, and operational excellence in managing short-term rental properties.
BEST SUPPLIER AWARD
This category is for acknowledging a product or service provider to the short-term rental market that has made a substantial impact through innovation. Eligible entries include groundbreaking software, home automation solutions, virtual assistant services, and any tech product that markedly enhances operational efficiency or guest experiences.
BEST SUPPLIER AWARD
This category is for acknowledging a product or service provider to the short-term rental market that has made a substantial impact through innovation. Eligible entries include groundbreaking software, home automation solutions, virtual assistant services, and any tech product that markedly enhances operational efficiency or guest experiences.
RISING STAR ⭐ AWARD
Dedicated to an emerging leader, individual, or startup in the short-term rental industry who has demonstrated considerable potential and impact in a short time. This award shines a light on those who are redefining the industry, be it through innovative business models, technological breakthroughs, exceptional customer service, or trailblazing marketing techniques, thereby making a significant and lasting impact.
RISING STAR ⭐ AWARD
Dedicated to an emerging leader, individual, or startup in the short-term rental industry who has demonstrated considerable potential and impact in a short time. This award shines a light on those who are redefining the industry, be it through innovative business models, technological breakthroughs, exceptional customer service, or trailblazing marketing techniques, thereby making a significant and lasting impact.
BE PART OF THIS EXCITING JOURNEY: We encourage you to participate in these awards, either by nominating, voting, or simply spreading the word within your network. This is not just an award; it's a celebration of the passion, innovation, and hard work that defines our industry.