Are you ready to break free from the 9-to-5 grind and build a life that truly lights you up? In this episode, I sit down with Dawn Cornett, a powerhouse entrepreneur who left cybersecurity sales to create a thriving short-term rental and boutique hotel empire. Her journey is a testament to the power of intentional living, mentorship, and bold decision-making.
Dawn didn’t do it alone — her story proves that surrounding yourself with the right people can transform your business and unlock opportunities you never imagined.
We dive into the key strategies behind her rapid success—hiring and team-building, scaling smartly, and investing with intention. Whether you’re dreaming of leaving your corporate job or looking to grow your hospitality business, this episode is packed with game-changing insights to help you take bold steps toward your own success.
Don't miss this conversation—it might just change the way you think about your future!
HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS:
[01:00] A short introduction about our guest Dawn Cornett and how she got into the short term rental world
[04:30] How Dawn expanded from a single lake house to boutique hotels and retreat centers while staying connected to family
[05:45] Dawn emphasizes investing with intention, choosing locations based on personal connections, lifestyle, and long-term vision
[07:03] Dawn shares how she navigates uncertainty in her journey
[07:56] What made Dawn choose to transition in asset classes from single family homes into boutique hotels
[09:28] Dawn shares her journey in expanding her boutique hotel portfolio and her transition into managing and investing in boutique hotels
[11:25] The challenges and differences Dawn encountered when transitioning from managing single-family homes to managing boutique hotels
[12:35] Dawn shares her approach to finding and retaining loyal cleaning staff for her boutique hotels and the importance of values-based hiring and building a family-like team culture
[17:48] What has been one of the biggest challenges Dawn navigated throughout her journey, and how did she deal with that challenge
[19:02] Dawn shares an experience of struggling to separate from a challenging client who managed six properties
[20:42] Dawn shares the personal and professional decision to separate from her W2 job
[23:07] Dawn offers advice to those considering co-hosting boutique hotels or larger retreat centers
[24:19] The importance of being intentional about what excites you and pursuing personal and spiritual growth
[25:50] Dawn shares her daily routine, which includes meditation, gratitude practice, and self-care
[28:56] Dawn's next piece of advice for someone starting out in the boutique hotel world
[32:22] The lightning round
[39:45] How Dawn vets her potential partners
Golden Nuggets:
“If you want to go fast, do it alone. If you want to go far, do it with others. Take secret shortcuts from people who have done it before.”
“We're going to be in flow better if we do things that get us excited.”
“You absolutely have to vet your partners like you're marrying them.”
This episode is brought to you by StayFi — the easiest way to grow your direct bookings!
http://stayfi.com/STRSisterhood
Use the code “SISTERHOOD” at checkout for 50% off your first 3 months.
Let’s Connect!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HospitalityHustle
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dawnofagreatday/
Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share!