Host Story: A Safe Space in a Red State

July 25 2024

by Lachlan

Meet Rodney & Jake, two Fabul'hosts from buzzing Austin, Texas! For these two, hosting is more than simply offering guests a place to sleep; it's about offering a safe and quiet place for the LGBTQ+ community. A place where people can feel empowered and free to be themselves, comfortable in their own skin. With the current climate in the US, Rodney & Jake believe platforms like misterb&b are all the more vital for ensuring safety while traveling, and we couldn't agree more! Read this fabulous story by these two Fabul'hosts now.

Why did you become hosts on misterb&b?

When we first became hosts, we were busy running 5 companies and were hardly home. After years of transforming our house into a beautiful relaxing space, We thought, “well, someone should be using it:” Around that time, Texas was also seeing a big influx in anti-lgbtq+ legislation and rhetoric, including stories popping up of queer couples being denied stays on mainstream accommodation platforms. This was our confirmation that we would become misterb&b hosts in order to create a safe, quiet space for the LGBTQ+ community. 

What does hosting for the LGBTQ community mean to you?

Everything! Being a safe space in a red state is a must right now for the LGBTQ+ community, and we are happy to be a small part of that. We strongly feel no one should be shamed or pushed aside for who they are, how they look, etc., and we love being that safe space while providing a sparkle of joy through our design! Our goal is to create a space where people feel empowered, free to be themselves, and comfortable in their own skin. 

In your opinion, what attracts guests to Austin in particular?

So many things about Austin are the opposite of what most people think of Texas. It has vibrant, lush landscapes, lots of nature and parks, a fun music and arts scene, and great people. You can basically live outdoors for 9-10 months of the year. For years, Austin has had the reputation of being a relaxed, fun-first city. And even as the city has experienced major growth and change, that sentiment still rings true today.

What is your best memory of a guest?

We have made quite a few great memories! We have had several fantastic guests who have turned into friends that we have visited and stayed with across the country! Learning something interesting about a guest you would never expect is always fun. From finding out they had just finished a garment for an upcoming season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, to learning they were behind some of our favorite TV shows, and wise words of wisdom, you never know what you will learn from someone! We have also stayed in touch with just about every guest who has stayed with us, and we feel that we have really grown for the better because of it! 

Do you feel more involved with the LGBTQ+ community since you started hosting?

Yes! Being involved with misterb&b has also been a great resource for us as hosts to learn about unique LGBTQ+ events in our own city! We also get to learn about LGBTQ+ achievements and challenges across the nation, and worldwide - which has given us the opportunity to become more active within our local community too. It has also given us a new outlook on how great our local community is here in Austin.

Describe your perfect day in Austin

A warm spring or fall day for sure! These are the best types of days in Austin - warm enough to swim in the springs during the day, but cool enough to cozy with a backyard fire in the evenings! 

Waking up to head to the lake and spend the morning at Hippy Hollow, our nude beach, then popping back into town for lunch at Guerros for some tacos and doing some shopping up and down South Congress while stopping by Jo’s Coffee to get an iced turbo and a photo in front of the “I Love You So Much” Mural. Ending the day next to a cozy backyard fire with a drink in hand making s’mores!

When is the best time to visit Austin and why?

Spring (mid March - mid May) and fall (Late September- Early November) are best. All of the plants are out in their full glory, lush wildflower blooms and perfect weather to explore all the greenbelts Austin has to offer. It’s warm enough to enjoy the springs but cool enough in the evening to give you a break from the heat!

How has hosting impacted your life?

For the better! Between meeting guests who have become friends, learning more about the LGBTQ+ community, and creating a safe space that has impacted lives even on a small scale, we feel we have become better people for it! Being a host has been so rewarding, and it has also helped shape how we have been transforming our home and remodeling decisions along the way. 

Give us three reasons why you would recommend hosting on misterb&b 

Easily the connections, new experiences & friends, and creating a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community.

Why should a guest stay with you?

We’ve spent the last seven years crafting our home and yard into a beautiful, fun, lush private oasis while still being central in the city. There is so much to discover and find as you walk through our home and gardens - from the several seating areas to wildlife to the lush native plantings. If you love plants, design, and enjoying the outdoors in private, this is the space for you. And of course, the outdoor shower is a must and ALWAYS a favorite among our guests. We love sharing our space with others and find joy in the discovery and comfort of their stay! 

Loved this? Be sure to check out our dedicated host stories page now to learn more about the wonderful people who make up the misterb&b hosting community.