Boutique Hotel Secrets Podcast

In this episode, Adam and Micah share the unfiltered reality of renovating a 50-room boutique hotel in Page, Arizona — from a viral mural drawing thousands of visitors to zero finished rooms and a $38,000 mortgage looming on the horizon. In this episode, they open up about the emotional and financial pressure of building in public, navigating contractor delays, investor tax surprises, and what it really means to go all in on a vision you believe in. Affiliate code for Quohttps://get.quo.com/mdvsnezsa1lk Affiliate code for MEWShttps://referrals.mews.com/u0AExnZaConnect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels? Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Adam and Micah sit down with brand designer Kayla Morrill to unpack the full process of building a visual identity for The Wesley — from mood boards and font debates to a final brand kit that's now physically on the walls of their hotel in Page, Arizona. In this episode, they explore why great branding is about evoking emotion, why AI falls short, and what boutique hotel owners should think about before hiring a designer.Connect with Marisa: Find her on Instagram: @marisa.grover Affiliate code for Quohttps://get.quo.com/mdvsnezsa1lk Affiliate code for MEWShttps://referrals.mews.com/u0AExnZaConnect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Adam and Micah sit down with brand designer Kayla Morrill to unpack the full process of building a visual identity for The Wesley — from mood boards and font debates to a final brand kit that's now physically on the walls of their hotel in Page, Arizona. In this episode, they explore why great branding is about evoking emotion, why AI falls short, and what boutique hotel owners should think about before hiring a designer.Connect with Kayla: Find her on Instagram: @winnie.design.co Affiliate code for Quohttps://get.quo.com/mdvsnezsa1lk Affiliate code for MEWShttps://referrals.mews.com/u0AExnZaConnect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Adam and Micah pull back the curtain on the messy middle of hotel ownership — from a tax filing that missed its deadline to a GM confrontation over staff pay that no one saw coming. They also share why they're commissioning a full-building mural in Page, Arizona, and the bold bet they're making that it becomes the most photographed spot in town.Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Adam Walls and Micah Thomas take you behind the scenes of transforming a boutique hotel in Page, Arizona. They dive into the real challenges of the process—from handling returns and managing material overages to finding creative ways to maximize space and elevate the guest experience. Packed with practical insights and hard-earned lessons, this episode is a must-listen for hospitality entrepreneurs looking to turn vision into reality.Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode of the Boutique Hotel Secrets podcast, hosts Adam and Micah, along with guest Rashmi Bhat, discuss the journey of transitioning from short-term rentals to boutique hotel management. They reflect on their experiences, share insights on hiring the right team, implementing effective marketing strategies, and the importance of social media in building a community around their brands. The conversation emphasizes the need for patience in business growth and setting clear goals for the upcoming year.Connect with Rashmi: Find her on Instagram: toastyindian, resohospitality Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Adam and Micah share their journey of transitioning from short-term rentals to owning a hotel. They discuss the challenges faced during the closing process, the importance of understanding lender dynamics, and the necessity of effective communication with contractors. The conversation highlights the significance of teamwork, operational efficiency, and the emotional investment in the property and its staff. They also reflect on the lessons learned throughout their journey and the excitement of what lies ahead as they prepare to close on their first hotel.Find him on Instagram: @joelweigleLoved this Episode?Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode of the Unofficial Boutique Hotel Secrets podcast, hosts Adam and Micah engage with guests Pete Milenkovich and Erich Schick, who share their journey from short-term rentals to boutique hotel ownership. They discuss their backgrounds, the challenges of finding the right deal, and the strategies they are implementing to create a unique boutique experience. The conversation also delves into the importance of understanding the target demographic, decision-making in renovations, navigating financing challenges, and the mindset required for success in the hospitality industry.Connect with Erich & Pete:Find them in Instagram: @erich_rook, @petemilenkovichLoved this Episode?Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this conversation, Jonathan St.Leger discusses the importance of creating opportunities in the real estate market rather than simply waiting for deals to come. He emphasizes the need for creativity in identifying value-add opportunities, whether through ground-up development or enhancing existing assets. Key considerations include zoning, density, and the potential for adding amenities or additional units to maximize property value.Connect with Jonathan:  Find him on Instagram: jon_boy14Loved this Episode?Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode of the Boutique Hotel Secrets podcast, Adam and Micah discuss the journey of transitioning from short-term rentals to boutique hotels, emphasizing the ups and downs of the hospitality industry. They welcome Vincent Harris, who shares his story of moving from a W2 job to full-time entrepreneurship in real estate. The conversation highlights the importance of community, networking, and mindset in achieving success. Vincent discusses his experiences with hotel deals, the emotional attachment to properties, and his vision for the future. The episode concludes with advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and the significance of designing a fulfilling life.Connect with Vincent:  Find him on Instagram:bonanzav35flyerLoved this Episode?Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this conversation, Mark discusses the critical role of direct bookings in the hospitality industry, emphasizing that a significant percentage of these bookings begin with searches on online travel agencies (OTAs) like Airbnb and Booking.com. He highlights the necessity for property owners to be prepared to capture these leads effectively. Furthermore, Mark addresses the risks associated with over-reliance on a single platform, advocating for diversification of income sources to ensure a sustainable business model.Connect with Mark:  Find him on Instagram: @boostlyukLoved this Episode?Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Joel Weigel shares his journey from short-term rentals to building boutique hotels and experiential destinations. Learn how to acquire, operate, and scale properties while creating unforgettable guest experiences.Connect with Joel:  Find him on Instagram: @joelweigleLoved this Episode?Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Isaac Oswaltshares his journey into boutique hotel investing and breaks down how capital, deal structure, and team alignment come together to close successful hotel acquisitions. He explains how investors and banks evaluate deals, why equity can be easier than debt, and the key metrics—like NOI, IRR, and equity multiples—that matter when scaling boutique hotels responsibly.Connect with Isaac: Find her on Instagram: isaacoswalt Loved this Episode?Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Rashmi Bhat shares her journey from restaurants and short-term rentals into scaling boutique hotels. She breaks down hotel management as an entry point, building systems and teams, leveraging relationships, and why patience and saying “no” to most deals drive long-term success. Connect with Rashmi: Find her on Instagram: toastyindian, resohospitality Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Adam  and Micah give a behind-the-scenes update on their boutique hotel renovation in Page, Arizona — navigating contractor delays, a wild on-property incident, and an exciting partnership with the local conservancy tied to the hotel's namesake, John Wesley Powell. They also reflect on the power of building in public and share how authentic social media storytelling is opening unexpected doors for Comeback Hospitality.Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Adam and Micah share raw, unfiltered updates from the renovation trenches—from navigating their first contractor draw that took two weeks instead of two days, to making over 3,600 decisions in just 33 days of ownership. They also announce their new role as official hosts of the Boutique Hotel Secrets podcast and reveal their strategy for a soft opening before the May 1st grand opening.Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Adam and Micah navigate their first $348K construction draw, deal with four flooded hotel bathrooms, confront the reality of maxed-out credit cards versus outsider perceptions of wealth, and explore community partnerships that could transform Page, Arizona's hospitality landscape.Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Adam and Micah share raw, unfiltered lessons from their first week as boutique hotel owners—including a shocking $50,000 WiFi infrastructure surprise they didn't see coming and the reality of keeping a business running while renovating. They pull back the curtain on payroll complications, donating furniture to the Navajo Nation community, and why buying a hotel means buying an active business, not just a property.Connect with Micah: Instagram: micahinvests Tiktok: micahinvests1  Connect with Adam: Instagram: adaminvests1 LinkedIn: adaminvests1 Tiktok: adaminvests1  Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Adam and Micah share the chaotic final days of closing on their first hotel—from raising $100K in an airport in 30 minutes to navigating bank freezes, asbestos discoveries, and holiday deadlines. They reveal what they learned about the property's neglected condition, their plans to transform the worst hotel in Page, Arizona into the best, and how social media is already connecting them with their community.Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Adam and Micah share their journey from zero to $1.2 million raised in just 90 days as they approach closing on the Wesley Hotel, covering everything from navigating SBA lending and courting multiple lenders to discovering the power of building relationships with financial advisors and leveraging bonus depreciation for massive tax benefits.Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Adam Walls and Micah Thomas share their journey raising capital and closing a boutique hotel deal in Page, Arizona. They discuss SBA 7(a) loans, syndicating investors, software and vendor choices, and lessons from a capital-raising conference—including self-directed IRAs and the importance of pitching your story. They also preview their webinar series for aspiring boutique hotel investors and highlight the value of focus and persistence in this process.Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Adam Walz and Micah Thomas share a major milestone in their boutique hotel acquisition as their deal enters the high-stakes phase of going hard with earnest money. They break down the realities of financing challenges, investor conversations, and the persistence required to get a complex hospitality deal to the finish line.Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode Adam and Micah reveal the story behind the name of their first boutique hotel and why branding is such a critical decision for new owners. They share the inspiration behind “The Wesley,” discuss the legacy of John Wesley Powell, and explore how storytelling, SEO, and guest experience shape a strong hospitality brand.Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode Adam and Micah break down a roller-coaster week in their hotel acquisition journey. After facing the potential loss of a key investor, they explore creative financing options, navigate negotiations with the seller, and share insights from an unexpected two-hour call with experienced boutique hotel operators. It’s a candid look at the pressure, persistence, and problem-solving required to close a hotel deal.Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Adam and Micah share a candid look at the highs and lows of raising capital and navigating financing for their boutique hotel project, including unexpected investor challenges and creative strategies like subject-to deals. They reveal honest lessons on mindset, persistence, and handling uncertainty in the boutique hotel world.Connect with Micah:Instagram: micahinvestsTiktok: micahinvests1Connect with Adam:Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this Episode Adam and Micah talk with Courtney Petrovich about how investor-focused design choices impact ADR, operations, and guest experience when moving from short-term rentals into boutique hotels.Connect with Courtney: Instagram: denoridesigns Loved this Episode? Hangout with us. Connect with Micah: Instagram: micahinvests Tiktok: micahinvests1 Connect with Adam: Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, we share our first on-site experience walking a 50-key boutique hotel under contract in Page, Arizona. We break down what inspections look like at scale, lessons from contractors and guest stays, uncovering hidden issues, and how local partnerships, culture, and big-picture vision shape a successful boutique hotel.Loved this Episode? Hangout with us. Connect with Micah: Instagram: micahinvests Tiktok: micahinvests1 Connect with Adam: Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, we share the milestone moment of officially going under contract on our first boutique hotel and what that shift means in real time. We break down the due diligence process, from financing and SBA loans to inspections, contractor bids, and navigating banks without prior hotel experience.Loved this Episode? Hangout with us. Connect with Micah: Instagram: micahinvests Tiktok: micahinvests1 Connect with Adam: Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, we share the milestone moment of officially going under contract on our first boutique hotel and what that shift means in real time. We break down the due diligence process, from financing and SBA loans to inspections, contractor bids, and navigating banks without prior hotel experience.Loved this Episode? Hangout with us. Connect with Micah: Instagram: micahinvests Tiktok: micahinvests1 Connect with Adam: Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb

In this episode, Mike Sjogren shares the story behind building the Boutique Hotel Secrets community and helping STR operators transition into boutique hotel ownership. He discusses the realities of hotel operations, the power of collaboration and masterminds, and how the right deal and team can transform your financial future.Connect with Mike: Find him on Instagram: @mike.sjogrenLoved this Episode? Hangout with us. Connect with Micah: Instagram: micahinvests Tiktok: micahinvests1 Connect with Adam: Instagram: adaminvests1LinkedIn: adaminvests1Tiktok: adaminvests1Thinking about Boutique Hotels?Schedule a call:https://bit.ly/4t1q3bb