Kaye Putnam

About Kaye Putnam

Kaye Putnam is the Head of Marketing and Brand Strategy at Freewyld and Freewyld Foundry, where she leads initiatives to increase brand awareness and help STR operators build direct booking engines that reduce dependence on OTAs.

Psychology-Driven Brand Strategy

Kaye brings a unique perspective to marketing in the short-term rental industry. Her approach combines psychology-driven brand strategy with practical marketing tactics that deliver measurable results. She understands that successful STR marketing isn’t just about visibility, it’s about creating emotional connections with potential guests that turn browsers into bookers.

Direct Booking Expertise

One of Kaye’s core focuses is helping STR operators build sustainable direct booking channels. Her strategies include:

Email Marketing Systems: Building lists and nurture sequences converting lookers into bookers
Content Strategy: Showcasing property experiences in compelling ways
Influencer Partnerships: Leveraging creator relationships to drive awareness and bookings
Brand Positioning: Differentiating properties in crowded markets

Marketing Innovation at Freewyld

At Freewyld (the luxury STR brand), Kaye has implemented marketing strategies that have helped make it a top-performing property. Her hands-on experience operating and marketing actual STR properties gives her practical insight into what works in the real world.

STR Marketing Education

Kaye regularly shares her expertise on the Get Paid for Your Pad podcast, covering topics including:

Email Marketing for STRs: Running successful micro-influencer campaigns that generate ROI
Brand Building: Creating brand identity that attracts ideal guests
Direct Booking Optimization: Converting OTA guests into direct bookers

Philosophy on STR Marketing

Kaye believes that the most successful STR operators treat their properties as brands, not just listings. Her approach emphasizes:

“Direct bookings aren’t just about saving on OTA fees, they’re about building a relationship with your guests that turns one-time visitors into lifelong fans.”

Background

Before joining Freewyld Foundry, Kaye built her reputation as a psychology-driven brand strategist, working with entrepreneurs and businesses to clarify their brand positioning and messaging. She brings this expertise to the STR industry, helping operators stand out in an increasingly competitive market.

Her work combines creative marketing thinking with data-driven decision making, ensuring that marketing investments deliver measurable returns.

When not developing marketing strategies, Kaye enjoys exploring unique hospitality experiences and staying current with the latest trends in digital marketing and consumer psychology.