This week marks the final episode of the season  and I’ve saved a very special conversation to close things out.

Over the past months, we’ve gone deep into how people build and grow in the accommodation industry. But this episode is different. It’s personal. It’s reflective. And it’s with someone I have huge admiration for: Ronda Amende, the leader from TimeOut NZ with a rich background in hospitality, events, and people-first leadership.

I’ve always believed that the best hospitality businesses are built on heart, and this week’s episode proves just how powerful that can be. I sat down with Ronda Amende, founder of TimeOut, a charity that offers terminally ill families a break they’ll never forget by connecting them with donated holiday stays. Her story is inspiring, emotional, and a powerful reminder of the human side of what we do in accommodation. The moment I met her, I knew I had to share this conversation with you.

When we talk about success in our industry, we often focus on occupancy rates, automation, or scaling. But what if a quiet act of generosity could have more impact than any marketing campaign? In this episode, we explore how offering unused nights or building compassion into your brand can create lasting value for your guests, your team, your community, and your business.

There’s a huge opportunity in doing good and doing it well. Ronda shares how TimeOut bridges the gap between short-term rental hosts and families in crisis. It’s a giving model that is efficient, scalable, and deeply human. Whether you run a boutique B&B or manage hundreds of listings, this episode will shift how you think about contribution and how kindness can be your greatest brand asset.

What you will learn from this episode:

• How giving back can strengthen your brand and attract loyal guests 🌟
• What a terminal illness teaches us about time, purpose, and perspective 💡
• How to turn vacant nights into meaningful, lasting experiences 🏡
• Why community connection matters in hospitality now more than ever 🤝
• The operational model behind TimeOut and how to get involved 🔄

Ronda Amende currently works with TimeOut and has spent her career across major events, corporate spaces, and guest experience environments. Her work focuses on putting people first building culture, leading teams with clarity, and making space for meaningful inclusion in the workplace. She’s also involved in the STRIVE community, and her presence, energy, and wisdom continue to lift up those around her.

I truly believe listening to this conversation will make you a better host, a better business owner, and a more compassionate contributor to your space. Whether you’re offering five-star service or running a one-bedroom cottage, your unused nights could mean everything to someone else.

It’s not just about giving it’s about belonging to something meaningful. I hope this episode sparks something in you the way it did for me.

📽 Watch the episodes on YouTube here

🎙 Or tune in on Spotify & Apple Podcasts here