Casa-Cast

March 10, 2026

The Rise of Mid-Term Rentals: How Furnished Finder Is Changing the Game

<p>In this episode of CasaCast, Steve Schwab sits down with <strong>Jeff Hurst, CEO of Furnished Finder</strong>, to talk about one of the fastest growing segments of the lodging market: <strong>mid-term rentals</strong>.</p><p>Jeff shares his path from leadership roles at HomeAway, Vrbo, and Expedia to leading Furnished Finder, a platform that began by solving a simple problem for traveling nurses and has since grown into a nationwide network of furnished housing for professionals on the move.</p><p>The conversation explores how changing work patterns, housing shortages, and a more mobile workforce are driving demand for <strong>30-day-plus stays</strong>. Healthcare workers, construction teams, corporate travelers, and relocating families increasingly need flexible housing that sits somewhere between a hotel and a traditional lease.</p><p>For property managers and owners, the opportunity is significant. Mid-term rentals can help smooth seasonal dips, diversify booking sources, and bring in reliable guests who stay longer and treat homes more like residents than tourists.</p><p>Jeff and Steve discuss how the model works, why the market is expanding so quickly, and what operators should be thinking about as the line between short-term and longer-stay accommodations continues to evolve.</p>

February 18, 2026

From Family Roots to Franchise Success: Laura Bowers on Excellence in Vacation Rentals

<p>Laura Bowers grew up in the vacation rental business—literally answering reservation phones as a teenager while her mother built one of the Smoky Mountains’ early short-term rental companies. In this episode of CasaCast, Laura joins host Steve Schwab to share her multi-generation journey through the industry, from family-run operations to leadership roles at Vacasa and AvantStay, and now as a Partner Success Manager at Casago.</p><p>Laura breaks down what it truly means to support franchise partners: diagnosing operational pain points, improving systems and processes, coaching teams, and showing up as someone who’s been in the trenches herself. She shares real-world examples of how small operational changes can unlock major efficiencies, why data and systems matter, and how Casago’s ecosystem helps partners build stronger, more resilient businesses.</p><p>The conversation closes with Laura’s personal connection to Casago’s Credo—specifically “E for Excellence”—and her belief that raising standards, taking ownership, and working as a true team are what drive long-term success in this industry.</p><p>A must-listen for franchise partners, operators, and anyone serious about building a sustainable vacation rental business with heart, discipline, and experience.</p>

February 9, 2026

Breezeway Best Practices