In this episode of Behind the Service, we sit down with Kara Hammes; founder, designer, and host of the Brown County Barn Burner and Tanglewood Hideaway, two beautiful large-group Airbnbs in the heart of Nashville, Indiana.

Kara takes us behind the scenes of running a high-touch, high-impact short-term rental business from the ground up. With no formal background in hospitality, she followed her gut, filled a gap in her community, and created an experience that feels effortless for guests, even when it’s anything but behind the scenes.

We talk about the real work of hosting: managing guest expectations, creating liveable spaces (not just pretty ones), and challenging the myth that short-term rentals are passive income. We also dive into balancing business with family life, navigating guest issues, and the kind of conversations we don’t always hear about in the industry.

This episode is full of laughter, honesty, and insights for anyone curious about what it takes to build something meaningful in the world of lodging.

📍 Connect with Kara:
🏡 Brown County Barn Burner – www.bcbarnburner.com
🏡 Tanglewood Hideaway – www.tanglewoodhideaway.com
📸Social Media Handles: @bcbarnburner & @tanglewood.hideaway

In this episode of Behind the Service, we’re joined by Nick Elliott, better known as The Wine Guy—a certified sommelier, former winemaker, and classically trained chef. Nick brings a refreshing, humble, and down-to-earth approach to wine and hospitality, proving that expert knowledge doesn't have to be intimidating.

From the floor of high-end dining to the world of wine education and travel, Nick shares his journey and offers heartfelt insights that go far beyond pairing notes. His genuine passion for creating positive guest experiences and promoting kindness in the industry leaves a lasting impression—not only for those in hospitality, but for anyone navigating life with empathy and intention.

This episode is full of real talk, personal reflections, and encouragement to make wine (and service) feel more inclusive, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone.

🎧 Whether you're in the hospitality business or just someone who enjoys a great glass of wine, this is one episode you won’t want to miss.

🔗 Connect with Nick Elliott, The Wine Guy:

📧 Email: cheers@thewineguy.vin
🌐 Website: www.thewineguy.vin
🔗 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TheWineGuyNTE

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wine.guy.NTE
👥 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wineloversclubofsandiego
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.real.wine.guy/
🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@realwineguy

In this episode of Behind the Service, we’re joined by the incredibly accomplished Dr. Dominique M. Carson LMP H.C., a licensed massage practitioner, award-winning freelance journalist, public speaker, and former hotel overnight auditor.

From working night shifts in Virginia Beach to writing feature articles and healing bodies through massage therapy, Dr. Carson’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and deep service to others. She opens up about what it was like behind the front desk, how hospitality shaped her path, and why every job matters on the road to purpose.

We explore what it means to align intention with action, the power of customer service, and how even temporary roles can become defining chapters in our journey.

Professional Portfolio: https://dominiquecarson.contently.com/
Twitter: twitter.com/domcarson
Facebook: facebook.com/dmc922
Instagram: instagram.com/domcarson90
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/dominiquemcarson