Can you build a profitable short-term rental business without owning property? In this episode of the Crystal Clear Business Podcast, Crystal sits down with Quentin Rest to discuss short-term rentals, Airbnb optimization, wealth building, fractional hosting, and how entrepreneurs can create cash flow through alternative real estate models. Quentin shares how his company helps property owners maximize revenue while creating opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to enter the vacation rental space without the massive capital requirements traditionally associated with real estate investing. The conversation explores the evolution of Airbnb, the difference between property management and revenue optimization, and why many people should focus on cash flow before focusing on ownership. Quentin breaks down concepts like fractional hosting, business credit, rental arbitrage, and short-term rental optimization while offering practical guidance for people looking to create additional income streams or transition toward greater financial freedom. If you've ever wanted to get into vacation rentals but assumed you needed a large amount of money to get started, this episode may change how you think about the industry.

What does it really take to build a successful business without losing yourself in the process? In this episode of the Crystal Clear Business Podcast, Crystal sits down with Wes Marshburn of North County Tree for a conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, networking, work-life balance, and the lessons that only come through failure and experience. Wes shares his journey from working in tree care to becoming a certified arborist and business owner, along with the mindset shifts that helped him grow both personally and professionally. Crystal and Wes explore why entrepreneurship is more than just a job, how vulnerability creates stronger leadership, and why building meaningful relationships matters just as much as building revenue. They also discuss BNI, client trust, burnout, healthy boundaries, mentorship, emotional resilience, and the importance of creating a business that supports your life instead of consuming it. If you are an entrepreneur trying to grow while staying grounded, this episode delivers practical wisdom and honest perspective.

Today on the Crystal Clear Business Podcast, Crystal sits down with Gerald Lacey II to unpack a journey that runs from the Crenshaw district to the University of Hawaiʻi gridiron—and into purpose-driven tech entrepreneurship. Gerald shares how Where We All Meet (WWAM) aims to be an algorithm-free, privacy-first community platform that encourages authentic meetups, led by local ambassadors and VIP Connects to foster high-trust gatherings. He then introduces Dash Ops, a one-hour local delivery network designed to help small businesses compete by keeping dollars circulating in the neighborhood—along with a philanthropic give-back. Beyond products, Gerald talks mindset: pausing before reacting, leaning into your strengths, and giving teens tangible tools through the Junior Visionary workbook. If you’re building community, launching a local marketplace, or looking for a better way to connect IRL, this conversation delivers a playbook for doing it with love, education, and integrity.