Hostel Road Trip Podcast

In this episode of the Hostel Road Trip Podcast, we travel to the mountains of New Mexico to sit down with Stephanie, the founder of Cloudcroft Hostel — a rustic, community-driven mountain hostel perched at 6,700 feet in the heart of the Lincoln National Forest.What started as a solo motorcycle adventure across America in 1994 turned into a lifelong dream. Stephanie bought a dilapidated building on a hillside and spent five years restoring it by hand before opening Cloudcroft Hostel in 2006. Today, it stands as a beloved basecamp for hikers, bikers, and adventure travelers seeking connection and authentic mountain hospitality.In This Episode, We Talk About:How a solo motorcycle trip across America sparked Stephanie’s dream of opening her own hostelThe five-year journey of buying and restoring a rundown building by handWhy she chose the high mountains of New Mexico as the perfect locationCreating a safe, welcoming space especially for solo travelers and women adventurersWhat it really takes to run a small, independent mountain hostel for nearly 20 yearsLessons on community, perseverance, and building something that lastsLocated at 6,700 feet with 28 acres backing directly onto the national forest, Cloudcroft Hostel offers a true mountain escape — just minutes from hiking trails, scenic drives, and White Sands National Park. It’s the perfect basecamp for anyone seeking real connection and adventure in southern New Mexico.This episode is perfect for:Aspiring hostel owners and future foundersTravelers exploring New Mexico and the SouthwestSolo travelers and women adventurersAnyone who loves mountain hospitality and authentic, owner-operated hostelsPeople inspired by stories of perseverance and building a dream from the ground upAbout Cloudcroft Hostel Cloudcroft Hostel is a rustic, intimate, owner-operated mountain hostel in Cloudcroft, New Mexico. Designed for connection and adventure, it welcomes backpackers, hikers, and road-trippers looking for a genuine community experience in the heart of the Sacramento Mountains.🔗 Learn more: https://cloudcrofthostel.com/About Hostel Road Trip Podcast Hosted by Jimmy Black & Bobby Dyer of ITH Hostels, the Hostel Road Trip Podcast highlights inspiring hostels, passionate founders, and the communities shaping the modern hostel movement.🌍 Explore more episodes: www.HostelRoadTrip.com

North Cascades Mountain Hostel | Building a Purpose-Built Mountain Hostel in Winthrop, WashingtonIn this episode of the Hostel Road Trip Podcast, we travel to Winthrop, Washington, to interview Liza and Paul, cofounders of North Cascades Mountain Hostel — a purpose-built mountain hostel located in the Methow Valley near North Cascades National Park.This episode explores how a small, simple hostel in Washington State evolved into a thoughtfully designed, community-driven mountain basecamp serving hikers, climbers, skiers, cyclists, and adventure travelers in the Pacific Northwest.Paul originally started with a modest hostel concept, but together he and Liza made the decision to reimagine and rebuild the space from the ground up. The result is one of the most unique and intentionally designed hostels in Washington, created specifically to foster connection, flow, and shared outdoor experience.In this conversation, we discuss:How the original hostel in Winthrop beganThe challenges of rebuilding and financing a hostel in a mountain townWhat it takes to design a purpose-built hostelCreating community-centered spaces for outdoor travelersLessons learned from transforming a small operation into a respected Pacific Northwest hostelNorth Cascades Mountain Hostel now operates as a year-round adventure basecamp in the Methow Valley, offering access to hiking, skiing, climbing, and outdoor exploration near North Cascades National Park.This episode is ideal for hostel owners, aspiring hostel founders, outdoor hospitality entrepreneurs, and travelers exploring Washington State and the Pacific Northwest.The Hostel Road Trip Podcast is hosted by Jimmy Black and Bobby Dyer of ITH Hostels and features in-depth interviews with hostel founders and travel entrepreneurs shaping the modern hostel industry across North America.Learn more at www.HostelRoadTrip.com

In this episode of the Hostel Road Trip Podcast, we sit down with Rex Baldwin, cofounder of the legendary Green Tortoise Hostel in Seattle, to explore the roots of American hostel culture.Before opening the iconic Seattle hostel near Pike Place Market, Rex and his partner Gardener operated the original Green Tortoise hostel bus, traveling across North America for more than 20 years. What started as a counterculture road trip experience became one of the earliest community-driven backpacker movements in the United States.This conversation dives into the history of hostels in America, the evolution of backpacker culture, and how a traveling bus community eventually became one of the most respected hostels in North America.If you're interested in hostel entrepreneurship, Seattle travel, starting a hostel, or the foundations of community-based travel, this episode offers decades of insight and experience.Topics discussed include:The origins of the Green Tortoise hostel busBuilding community before social mediaLessons from more than 20 years in the hostel industryHow Green Tortoise Seattle became a backpacker landmarkThe evolution of American hostel cultureAdvice for current and aspiring hostel ownersLocated in downtown Seattle near Pike Place Market, Green Tortoise remains one of the most iconic hostels in the Pacific Northwest and a symbol of authentic backpacker culture.The Hostel Road Trip Podcast is hosted by Jimmy Black and Bobby Dyer of ITH Hostels and features conversations with hostel owners, travel pioneers, and leaders shaping the global hostel movement.Learn more at www.HostelRoadTrip.com

In this episode of the Hostel Road Trip Podcast, host Jimmy Black and co-host Bobby Dyer travel to Conway, New Hampshire, to highlight one of New England’s most community-driven hostels — CoHo Conway Hostel.CoHo is known for its warm social atmosphere, adventure-focused travelers, and the powerful idea that defines their culture: “Go Solo, Leave With Friends.” From hikers exploring the White Mountains to solo backpackers searching for connection, CoHo has become a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.🎥 Watch the full video episode on YouTube: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdJRpyQK4IIIn this episode, you’ll learn: • The origin story of CoHo Conway Hostel • Why Conway, NH is a hidden gem for outdoors lovers and backpackers • How CoHo fosters instant community among solo travelers • What makes the White Mountains an adventure hotspot • How independently owned hostels shape authentic travel experiences • Community-building strategies hostel owners use to create memorable staysWhether you're a hostel owner, solo traveler, outdoor adventurer, or lover of unique travel stories, this episode gives an inside look at why CoHo is defining the New England hostel experience.🔗 Learn more about CoHo Conway Hostel: www.cohohostel.com 🌍 Discover more Hostel Road Trip Podcast episodes: www.HostelRoadTrip.comHosted by Jimmy Black Co-host: Bobby Dyer (ITH Hostels)

In this episode of the Hostel Road Trip Podcast, we travel to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to visit Apple Hostels, one of the most iconic and influential hostels on the East Coast. Host Jimmy Black and Bobby Dyer sit down with Marc Desmarais, the owner of Apple Hostels, to explore how this legendary property continues to shape the backpacking community in Philly.Apple Hostels has become the heart of East Coast backpacking — known for its social energy, historic setting steps from Independence Hall, and the unforgettable experiences it creates for travelers from around the world.🎥 Watch the full video version on YouTube: 👉 https://youtu.be/Zz_choF9QeIIn this episode, you’ll learn: • How Apple Hostels became one of the most popular hostels in the United States • Why Philadelphia is a top destination for solo travelers and backpackers • What makes Apple Hostels’ community events and social atmosphere so special • Marc’s journey as a long-time hostel owner and industry leader • Tips for travelers visiting Philadelphia on a budget • The future of hostels on the East Coast and in AmericaIf you’re passionate about hostels, entrepreneurship, or authentic travel experiences, this episode delivers insider knowledge straight from the people shaping the hostel world.🔗 Explore Apple Hostels: https://applehostels.com 🎧 More episodes, stories, and travel inspiration: www.HostelRoadTrip.comFollow us on YouTube for full video episodes, hostel tours, and behind-the-scenes content!

Listen in as we have a conversation with Stephanie Nebhan to hear her story about how her family has owned, operated, and has success at running one of the oldest hotels and hostels in the country. Stephanie is the Manager of the Gardner Hotel & Hostel, and is constantly creating experiences to continue the amazing tradition of her property!Check Availability for your upcoming trip to El Paso at the Gardner Hotel & Hostel in Texas.Episode Recording Date: April, 2025Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:Gardner Hotel & HostelITH HostelsHostel Management ServicesTo hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Listen in as we have a conversion with Hostel operators at the NAHA 2025 Hostel Conference in Playa del Carmen. Join NAHA if you are a hostel operator and want to be more connected within the Hostel Industry.Episode Recording Date: April, 2025Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:NAHAITH HostelsHostel Management ServicesTo hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Listen in as we have a conversation with Matias to hear his story about how he started out as a backpacker and has built the largest hostel brand in Mexico for travelers. Matias is the Founder of Che Hostels and focuses on building an amazing culture and vibe with his Staff to create incredible experiences for their guests. Check availability for your upcoming trip to Mexico at the various locations Che Hostels operates in including: Playa Del Carmen Tulum Holbox Bacalar Merida Valladolid Puerto Escondido Zipolite San Cristobal Episode Recording Date: October, 2024 Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors: Che Hostels ITH Hostels Hostel Management Services To hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Listen in as we have a conversation with Thea Delamater to hear her story about how she got into hostels, managed hostels, cofounded a hostel conference, and built a hostel direct booking platform. Sign your hostel up to join Hostelling.USAttend The Gathering Hostel Conference on Nov. 5-7 in Denver, CO. Visit the Ember Hostel on your next trip to Denver. Episode Recording Date: September, 2024Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:Hostelling.USITH HostelsHostel Management ServicesTo hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Listen in as we have a conversation with Alfie Mckenzie to hear his story about how he pursued his passion of hostels. Alfie now leads the non-profit HI Whistler Hostel, and is constantly creating experiences to make his hostel thrive in the mountains! Check Availability for your upcoming trip to Whistler at the HI Whistler Hostel in British Columbia, Canada. Episode Recording Date: September, 2024 Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors: HI Whistler Hostel ITH Hostels Hostel Management Services To hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Listen in as we have a conversation with Frankie Maduzia to hear his story about how he and his partner J. Charles Griggs followed their hostel desire to bring an adventure hostel to Bend Oregon.Check Availability for your upcoming trip to Bend at the Bunk+Brew Hostel.Episode Recording Date: August, 2024Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:Bunk+Brew HostelITH HostelsHostel Management ServicesTo hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Listen in as we have a conversation with J. Charles Griggs to hear his story about how he and his partner Frankie followed their hostel desire to bring an adventure hostel to Bend Oregon.Check Availability for your upcoming trip to Bend at the Bunk+Brew Hostel.Episode Recording Date: August, 2024Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:Bunk+Brew HostelITH HostelsHostel Management ServicesTo hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Listen in as we have a conversation with Dave Cook to hear his story about how he pursued his passion to create a community-based hostel catering to climbers and adventurers outside the White Mountains National Forest in New Hampshire.Check Availability for your upcoming trip to Rumney at the Barndoor Hostel & CampgroundEpisode Recording Date: August, 2024Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:Barndoor Hostel & CampgroundITH HostelsHostel Management ServicesTo hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Listen in as we have a conversation with Jim to hear the story about how he started his first hostel and continued to build and cultivate magical moments for travelers at multiple hostels for over 4+ decades! Check Availability for your upcoming trip to Portland at the NW Portland Hostel Episode Recording Date: July, 2024 Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors: NW Portland Hostel ITH Hostels Hostel Management Services To hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Listen in as we have a conversation with Ryan to hear the story about how the Monterey Hostel was built and what makes their guest experience so special!Check Availability for your upcoming trip to Monterey at the Monterey HostelEpisode Recording Date: July, 2024Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:Monterey HostelITH HostelsHostel Management ServicesTo hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website Hostel Road Trip

Listen in as we have a conversation with Sara to hear the story about how Hostel Tevere focuses on creating an amazing vibe for Staff and Guests.Check Availability for your upcoming trip to Mad River Valley at the Hostel TevereEpisode Recording Date: September, 2018Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:Hostel TevereITH HostelsCloudbedsHostel Management ServicesTo hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website Hostel Road Trip

Listen in as we have a conversation with Sara to hear the story about how Santa Cruz Hostel focuses on creating an amazing vibe for Staff and Guests. Check Availability for your upcoming trip to Santa Cruz, CA at the Santa Cruz HostelEpisode Recording Date: June, 2024Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:Santa Cruz HostelITH HostelsHostel Management ServicesTo hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website Hostel Road Trip

Listen in as we have a conversation with Diego to hear the story about how Sin City Hostel focuses on setting the vibe right to attract hostel travelers.Check Availability for your upcoming trip to Las Vegas, Nevada at the Sin City HostelEpisode Recording Date: May, 2024Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:Sin City HostelITH HostelsHostel Management ServicesTo hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website Hostel Road Trip

Listen in as we sit down with Michael and Nathan from Howzit Hostels and hear the story of how they created their hostel with no experience and built a Hoscar Award Winning Hostel in the beautiful paradise of Hawaii!Check Availability for your upcoming trip to Maui and Hilo in Hawaii at the Howzit HostelsEpisode Recording Date: May, 2024Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:Howzit HostelsITH HostelsHostel Management ServicesTo hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website Hostel Road Trip

Listen in as we sit down with Maria at the Gaslamp Hostel and hear the story of surviving the pandemic and what is next in 2024 for her hostel in San Diego, CA!With more than 21 years of experience working in hostel management and now managing her own business, Maria tells us about her experience, difficulties and learnings in this market. In addition to pointing out the main differences between managing a business and owning it, it brings the main trends and expectations for 2024, the challenges faced during the pandemic and compares the current moment with social networks and greater ease in finding information about Hostels, compared to the time she started working in this market. In a light and fun conversation, this chat brings a lot of information and knowledge for those who are starting to undertake in this sector. Take advantage of all this knowledge and come with us for another episode of Hostel Road Trip.Check Availability for your upcoming trip to San Diego, CA at the Gaslamp HostelEpisode Recording Date: February, 2024Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:Gaslamp HostelITH HostelsHostel Management ServicesTo hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website Hostel Road Trip