Founder: Deontae Mack
Business: Vibesbnb
Revenue/Month: $18K
Founders: 3
Employees: 1
Website: projectmiamivibes.com
Location: Miami, Florida, United States 
Founded: 2019

In the competitive short-term rental market, where mainstream giants dominate, Deontae Mack’s Vibesbnb is rewriting the rules by offering cannabis enthusiasts something they can’t find elsewhere—a judgment-free space to enjoy their travel experience. With more than 5,000 bookings completed and monthly revenue ranging from $13,000 to $18,000, the platform is proving that the demand for cannabis-friendly accommodations is not only real but thriving. 

The idea, according to Mack, is rooted in necessity. “You can go to a legal state, buy cannabis, but then what? You can’t just smoke in your hotel room, and even with an Airbnb, you don’t always know if it’s okay. It’s a constant guessing game,” he says. Vibesbnb eliminates that uncertainty by creating an environment where cannabis use is openly accepted and even encouraged. 

For travelers, the platform is a breath of fresh air. Guests can browse through 160 properties spread across states with legal cannabis laws, confident that they won’t have to worry about hidden restrictions or awkward confrontations. “We’re not just giving people a place to stay; we’re giving them peace of mind,” Mack adds. 

The hosts, too, find value in the platform’s approach. Many of them are cannabis enthusiasts themselves, excited to share their knowledge or simply provide a space that feels welcoming. Others are individuals who don’t necessarily partake but see the financial opportunity in catering to this rapidly growing niche. Mack describes the host-guest dynamic as one of mutual respect. “Our hosts aren’t just renting out a space; they’re building a relationship with the people who stay there. That’s why the experience matters so much.” 

Vibesbnb’s model stands out in its clarity and intentionality. Each listing specifies the type of cannabis experience on offer. Some properties are social hubs, where guests can gather with others who share their interests. Others are designed for privacy and relaxation, giving visitors the chance to unwind at their own pace. This range of options has helped the platform attract everyone from casual cannabis users to connoisseurs seeking a more tailored experience. 

“We want people to find their vibe, whatever that looks like,” Mack explains. “Whether that’s enjoying a joint while watching the sunset or meeting new friends over an infused dinner, we’ve created a space where it’s all possible.” 

The numbers reflect the success of that vision. The platform is already generating steady revenue and has built a loyal user base, but for Mack, the business is about more than just numbers. It’s about normalizing cannabis in spaces where it has often been stigmatized, creating a new kind of hospitality that reflects changing attitudes toward the plant. 

Vibesbnb’s growth isn’t just a result of good timing—it’s a direct response to the gaps in the existing travel market. Mack points out that even in legal states, cannabis tourists face constant friction. “There’s a huge disconnect,” he says. “The laws say you can use cannabis, but nobody talks about where. We’re bridging that gap by giving people a clear, safe option.” 

The approach resonates with both hosts and guests. For hosts, it’s a chance to attract an audience they might otherwise miss. For guests, it’s a rare opportunity to book a stay without feeling like they have to tiptoe around their lifestyle. Mack is quick to credit the community for Vibesbnb’s rapid rise. “Our users are our best ambassadors. They tell their friends, they come back for more trips. That organic growth has been incredible to see.” 

With cannabis tourism becoming a booming industry, Vibesbnb is hitting its stride at the perfect time. What began as a solution for cannabis-friendly travel has quickly become a cultural phenomenon, drawing interest from seasoned travelers and newcomers alike. Mack, however, remains focused on the bigger picture: providing a seamless experience for his users. “It’s not just about where you stay; it’s about how you feel while you’re there,” he says. 

Through innovative thinking and an unrelenting focus on its audience, Vibesbnb is reshaping what it means to travel as a cannabis consumer. It’s not just a booking platform—it’s a movement, opening doors for those who’ve long felt left out of the conversation. 

From Spare Room to Six Figures: The Genesis of Vibesbnb 

Sometimes, a groundbreaking business idea begins with a simple question: why isn’t anyone addressing this? For Mack, the answer revealed itself through trial, frustration, and an unexpected demand. Before Vibesbnb became the platform it is today, it was just an updated Airbnb listing—a small change that led to a major shift. 

“I started hosting on Airbnb like a lot of people do, just to make some extra money,” Mack recalls. After earning his degree from Florida International University in 2016, he and his wife turned to the gig economy to stay afloat, working for Uber and Lyft. Renting out their spare bedroom in their Hollywood, Florida apartment seemed like another smart way to bring in extra cash, but it wasn’t paying off as they’d hoped. “We weren’t getting a lot of bookings at first, so I decided to take a chance and put ‘420-friendly’ in the description. That’s when everything changed.” 

Within months, occupancy rates skyrocketed to over 90%. Guests were booking with enthusiasm, leaving positive reviews, and, perhaps most tellingly, sharing a recurring sentiment: relief. “They would tell me things like, ‘Man, I’m so glad I don’t have to hide it here,’ or ‘This is the first place I’ve stayed where I didn’t feel judged.’ That’s when it clicked for me—this wasn’t just about offering a room; it was about meeting a need no one else was addressing,” Mack explains. 

Bridging the Gap in Hospitality 

The shift in his Airbnb’s performance wasn’t just about higher bookings—it revealed a glaring disconnect in the short-term rental market. While cannabis laws were becoming more lenient, hospitality platforms weren’t keeping up. “People would come from out of state, thinking they could enjoy cannabis legally because they were in Colorado or California, but then they’d get to their rental and have no idea if they were allowed to smoke. Some hosts were cool with it; others weren’t. It was inconsistent, and it put people in really awkward situations,” Mack says. 

Mack recognized that both guests and hosts were frustrated. Guests wanted clarity and assurance that their lifestyle wouldn’t be a problem, while hosts needed a platform that explicitly supported cannabis-friendly policies without risking penalties or bad reviews. “That’s when I started thinking, why not build something just for this community?” 

He didn’t have to think long before sharing the idea with his best friend, who saw the same potential. Around this time, Florida’s approval of medical marijuana in 2016 was opening the door to greater acceptance of cannabis statewide. “I saw it as more than just timing—it was part of a shift. Cannabis wasn’t just something you had to do in the shadows anymore. There was a real opportunity to create a space where it was normalized, especially in travel.” 

A New Kind of Hospitality 

Mack’s first step was designing clear guidelines for hosts and guests, ensuring everyone knew what to expect. Rules about where and how cannabis could be consumed—whether vaping inside or smoking outdoors—were spelled out in each listing. But it wasn’t just about rules; Mack wanted to create an experience. “The vibe matters. People aren’t just looking for a place to crash—they’re looking for somewhere they can relax and feel comfortable.” 

He leaned into the cultural aspects of cannabis, branding Vibesbnb as more than a booking platform. “It’s about community,” Mack says. “We call it the ‘Joint Community’ because it’s about connecting people. Guests connect with hosts, but they also connect with the culture.” 

It didn’t take long for his vision to prove itself. By reinvesting his Airbnb earnings, Mack expanded his portfolio to include additional properties. His focus was on creating a consistent experience for cannabis travelers while offering hosts a reliable way to generate income. Over three years, what started as a spare-room listing became a six-figure business. 

The breakthrough came when an investor took notice. Through a mutual connection, Mack met someone from the Empowering People Foundation, a nonprofit focused on community-driven ventures. “He saw what I was doing and told me, ‘This isn’t just a side hustle anymore. You’ve got something bigger here.’” With financial backing and mentorship, Mack had the resources to scale his idea into what is now Vibesbnb—a platform intentionally designed for cannabis-friendly travel. 

What started as a way to solve one couple’s Airbnb struggles has become something much larger: a business that’s rewriting the rules of hospitality and breaking down stigmas along the way. Mack reflects, “It wasn’t just about making money—it was about solving a problem. And once I saw how big the problem was, I knew I had to do something about it.” 

Building a Marketplace for Cannabis Travelers and Hosts 

Creating Vibesbnb meant more than just connecting cannabis-friendly travelers with accommodations—it required crafting a functional and scalable ecosystem to serve both sides of the marketplace. For Mack, the process was equal parts creativity, problem-solving, and constant refinement. Early challenges forced him to reimagine his initial concept and align it with what both guests and hosts truly needed, setting the foundation for what the platform would eventually become. 

“We learned quickly that this wasn’t just about offering a room where people could smoke,” Mack says. “People wanted an experience. They wanted to know what strains were local, where the dispensaries were, and even how they could meet other like-minded travelers. That’s when we realized we had to build something much bigger than just a booking site.” 

Evolving from an Idea to a Full-Scale Solution 

Mack’s first attempt at launching Vibesbnb, under the initial name “420bnb,” struggled to gain traction. The early platform lacked critical features for hosts, such as automated calendar syncing or a seamless way to communicate rules about cannabis consumption. While the enthusiasm was there, the infrastructure wasn’t. Mack credits these early stumbles as being instrumental in refining the business. “Those first setbacks gave us the clarity we needed,” he says. “It wasn’t just about having a cool idea. It was about execution—and that meant listening to our users.” 

To get those insights, Mack and his team surveyed 1,500 cannabis users about what they wanted in a travel platform. The responses were revealing: guests wanted cannabis delivery services, personalized consumption spaces, and a clear set of rules that removed any guesswork. Hosts, on the other hand, needed support navigating short-term rental regulations and wanted insurance options to protect their properties. “We weren’t just solving one problem,” Mack notes. “We were solving two at the same time, for two very different groups.” 

Armed with this feedback, Mack worked with his technical team to build out a more robust platform. They expanded beyond simple accommodations, integrating features like pre-arranged cannabis delivery and lounges for social consumption. For hosts, they focused on making the onboarding process simple while addressing liability concerns. “We knew the Airbnb model worked, but we also knew we had to innovate beyond that,” Mack says. 

Creating Momentum Through Strategic Host Acquisition 

Launching Vibesbnb in Hollywood, Florida, was a turning point for the company. Mack understood that gaining trust among hosts was critical, so he targeted existing super hosts through local Airbnb meetups. At one gathering in Hollywood, over 20 experienced Airbnb hosts signed up after attending a workshop featuring compliance officer Nadine Robinson. “She broke down the regulations and helped these hosts see that cannabis-friendly hosting wasn’t just legal—it was a huge opportunity,” Mack explains. 

This early success allowed Vibesbnb to build credibility within the short-term rental community. Hosts began to see the platform not as a replacement for Airbnb, but as a complementary tool to capture an entirely new audience. “The cannabis-friendly angle made them curious, but it was the tools and support we offered that made them stick around,” Mack says. 

Education became another pillar of Vibesbnb’s strategy. Through the launch of “Mack University,” the platform offered free training for hosts on everything from cannabis hospitality etiquette to maximizing short-term rental profits. The educational content didn’t just empower hosts—it created brand loyalty, as many hosts began referring others to the platform. “We were building more than a user base. We were building a community,” Mack says. 

Insurance and Efficiency: Breaking Down Barriers for Hosts 

One of the most common concerns among potential hosts was the risk of property damage. Early on, damage claims often took weeks to resolve, leaving some hesitant to embrace the platform. Mack tackled this issue head-on by introducing a streamlined insurance claims process that resolved incidents within 48 hours. “Hosts need to know we’ve got their backs,” Mack says. “That’s what separates us from other platforms—they know we’re in their corner.” 

This improvement paid off almost immediately, doubling the platform’s monthly host acquisition rate. By addressing concerns around liability and making the process as frictionless as possible, Vibesbnb was able to position itself as a reliable and host-friendly option for cannabis-friendly rentals. 

Growing Visibility with Smart Advertising and Partnerships 

To further expand Vibesbnb’s reach, Mack leaned on targeted advertising and partnerships. Instead of attempting to replace Airbnb entirely, the platform advertised its listings on Airbnb to draw curious travelers. “We weren’t trying to compete—we were using their traffic to our advantage,” Mack explains. Once guests discovered Vibesbnb through Airbnb, many transitioned to booking directly through the platform. 

At the same time, Mack’s team invested in social media campaigns and influencer marketing to attract younger travelers. They produced video content that highlighted the experience of staying at a Vibesbnb property, from relaxed backyard sessions to stylish, cannabis-themed lounges. “We weren’t just selling stays; we were selling the vibe,” Mack says. 

These efforts culminated in a milestone moment on April 20, 2020, when the platform processed its first mobile app booking. The achievement was proof that Vibesbnb’s approach resonated with its target audience. “That was the day I knew we’d built something sustainable,” Mack says. 

What separates Vibesbnb from its competitors isn’t just its cannabis focus—it’s the way the platform has thoughtfully addressed every aspect of the user experience. From fast insurance claims for hosts to curated travel experiences for guests, Vibesbnb is more than a marketplace. It’s a connection point for people who have long felt underserved in traditional hospitality. “We’re building something that feels authentic, and that’s why people keep coming back,” Mack says. 

Redefining the Cannabis Travel Experience 

As Vibesbnb grows, it’s doing more than scaling a business—it’s shaping the future of how cannabis tourism operates. Under Mack’s leadership, the platform continues to expand its offerings, proving that hospitality is no longer just about where you stay but how the experience connects with your lifestyle. Through cutting-edge technology and innovative collaborations, Vibesbnb is setting a standard for cannabis-friendly travel, offering solutions that resonate with modern travelers and forward-thinking hosts alike. 

“We wanted to create something that went beyond a place to crash,” Mack explains. “It’s about convenience, connection, and creating a seamless experience for cannabis users who are traveling.” To achieve this, Vibesbnb has doubled down on two key areas: enhancing its technological framework and building partnerships that elevate the value of the platform for both guests and hosts. 

Technology as a Gateway 

Central to this evolution is Vibesbnb’s upcoming marijuana hospitality app, built on GDS-certified technology. This isn’t just another travel app—it’s a tailored solution for cannabis users, one that unites booking, experiences, and services in a single platform. The app promises a smoother interface, giving guests access to updated booking options and curated cannabis experiences, all while providing hosts with new tools to manage listings and communicate with travelers. 

“We’re making it easier than ever for both sides to connect,” Mack says. “For guests, they’ll have everything they need at their fingertips—lodging, events, and even cannabis delivery in some markets. For hosts, it’s about simplifying the management process so they can focus on creating memorable stays.” 

The app reflects the company’s commitment to addressing the needs of a modern cannabis traveler. It’s designed for users who want more than functionality—they want to feel catered to. And it’s not just about where they stay; it’s about what they do once they arrive. That’s where Mack’s vision for partnerships plays a pivotal role. 

Expanding Experiences Through Strategic Partnerships 

Recognizing that cannabis travel goes far beyond lodging, Mack has worked to incorporate local experiences into the Vibesbnb ecosystem. Whether it’s a farm-to-table infused dining event or a cannabis yoga session, these curated activities give travelers a way to engage with cannabis culture on a deeper level. “People aren’t just looking to get high. They want to connect with the culture, meet people, and create memories,” Mack says. “We’re providing that through partnerships with local businesses and event organizers.” 

One of the standout collaborations is with Weedsies, a cannabis delivery service, which now offers Vibesbnb users in Miami exclusive access to direct-to-door cannabis products. Guests can order from a menu of curated items and have them delivered directly to their accommodations, regardless of whether they’re staying in a traditional Airbnb or a Vibesbnb property. “This feature is a game-changer for us,” Mack says. “It removes the stress of navigating unfamiliar dispensaries and lets people enjoy their trip without the hassle.” 

The integration of delivery services highlights the platform’s holistic approach. Mack is keen on solving every pain point a cannabis traveler might encounter, from unclear consumption policies to the logistical hurdles of obtaining products in a new city. “The idea is to think ahead for our guests,” he says. “What would make their trip easier, more enjoyable, and truly memorable?” 

Lessons in Leadership 

Behind the scenes, Mack is quick to point out that the journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. He credits the platform’s success to his willingness to learn, pivot, and build a team that shares his vision. “You can’t grow a business in an industry like this without putting yourself out there,” he says. “You’ve got to talk to the right people, learn from their insights, and adapt when the market shifts.” 

Mack’s approach to growth is meticulous and measured, driven by both data and intuition. Every feature, every partnership, and every market expansion is part of a broader strategy. “We don’t just add things for the sake of it,” Mack explains. “Every decision we make is about solving a specific problem or enhancing the experience for our users. If it doesn’t move the needle for our guests or our hosts, we don’t do it.” 

This disciplined approach has kept Vibesbnb ahead of the curve in a space that’s becoming increasingly competitive. By combining cutting-edge technology with real-world usability, Mack and his team have built a platform that feels both accessible and innovative. Whether it’s through partnerships, streamlined host tools, or guest-focused features, Vibesbnb continues to break ground in an industry that is still finding its footing. 

For Mack, the future of cannabis hospitality isn’t just about where people stay—it’s about redefining what hospitality means for a generation that values culture, convenience, and community. As Vibesbnb’s offerings expand, the company is leading the charge in making cannabis travel as simple and enjoyable as any other type of tourism. “We’re just getting started,” Mack says with a smile. “There’s so much more we want to do.” 

Lessons in Resilience: Advice for the Next Wave of Innovators 

The road to building Vibesbnb has been anything but ordinary, and for Mack, it’s that unconventional path that has defined both his business and his leadership style. Breaking into an emerging industry like cannabis tourism required more than just ambition; it demanded a mindset that combined creativity, strategic risk-taking, and the ability to learn from every obstacle. Now, he’s sharing those hard-earned lessons with aspiring entrepreneurs who want to create something that stands out. 

“Building a business is about balancing your passion with practicality,” Mack says. “You can’t just have the vision—you need to know how to execute it, and that comes from understanding the market inside and out.” His advice to those stepping into entrepreneurship is rooted in his own journey: start by identifying a problem others are overlooking, and then commit to solving it in ways no one else is. 

Evolving Without Losing Sight of the Goal 

Mack believes the key to long-term success is learning how to evolve without losing sight of your core purpose. “Your ‘why’ should never change—that’s what drives you. But the ‘how’? That’s what you have to be flexible about,” he says. For Vibesbnb, that meant starting with a simple concept—cannabis-friendly lodging—and letting feedback guide its transformation into a multifaceted platform. 

“Initially, I thought people just wanted a place to stay where they could smoke,” Mack reflects. “But when we started asking our guests what they actually wanted, we realized it went way beyond that. They wanted delivery services, lounges, curated experiences—things I hadn’t even considered at first.” By listening to his audience and adapting the business to meet those broader needs, Mack turned a niche idea into a comprehensive ecosystem for cannabis travelers. 

For other entrepreneurs, he stresses the importance of staying curious and open to surprises. “Don’t assume you know everything. The market will tell you what it wants—if you’re paying attention.” 

The Blueprint for Innovation 

For Mack, being an entrepreneur means bridging gaps and creating solutions where others see roadblocks. “It’s about taking a step back and asking, ‘What’s missing?’ Then having the courage to do something about it,” he says. But courage alone isn’t enough; it takes preparation, networking, and constant education to turn an idea into a business. 

Mack points to his own experience immersing himself in the cannabis and hospitality industries. Whether it was learning about regulatory requirements, attending meetups with Airbnb super hosts, or partnering with service providers like Weedsies, Mack attributes much of Vibesbnb’s success to his ability to connect with the right people. “You have to be out there—talking to experts, building relationships, learning from those who’ve been there before you. That’s how you turn ideas into action.” 

He’s also quick to acknowledge the grind that comes with starting something from scratch. “People see the success, but they don’t see the years of hard work behind it,” Mack says. Building Vibesbnb wasn’t an overnight achievement—it was the result of countless late nights, meticulous planning, and a willingness to embrace trial and error. “There were definitely moments where it felt impossible,” he admits. “But you push through because you believe in what you’re doing.” 

Finding Strength in Balance 

For all the challenges, Mack believes the entrepreneurial journey is one of the most rewarding ways to grow—not just as a business owner, but as an individual. “You learn so much about yourself in the process,” he says. “It forces you to be resilient, to think creatively, and to push past your own limits.” 

The secret, Mack believes, lies in striking the right balance: boldness paired with strategy, vision coupled with flexibility. “You need to dream big, but you also need to be realistic about what it takes to get there,” he explains. Whether it’s diving deep into customer feedback, adjusting the business model, or taking calculated risks, every decision should bring you one step closer to your goal. 

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Mack’s advice boils down to this: solve real problems, stay adaptable, and never lose sight of the bigger picture. “It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being persistent,” he says. “If you’re willing to put in the work and stay open to learning, there’s no limit to what you can build.” 

Success Factors: Why Did Vibesbnb Succeed? 

• Identifying and Addressing an Underserved Market: Mack recognized a significant gap in the hospitality market: cannabis-friendly lodging and experiences. Traditional platforms like Airbnb lacked clarity around cannabis policies, leaving consumers frustrated. By tailoring Vibesbnb to meet the specific needs of cannabis travelers—offering clear rules, judgment-free accommodations, and unique cultural experiences—Mack capitalized on an underserved niche. This sharp market focus was pivotal in differentiating Vibesbnb from competitors. 

• Listening to Feedback and Adapting: A cornerstone of Vibesbnb’s success was Mack’s willingness to recalibrate his approach based on guest feedback. Initially, he assumed that cannabis-friendly lodging alone was enough, but surveys revealed a desire for additional services like cannabis lounges, delivery options, and curated experiences. Mack’s ability to expand the platform beyond a simple booking tool into a comprehensive marketplace showed strategic flexibility, which fueled growth and engagement. 

• Building Trust and Support for Hosts: Hosts are as critical to the platform’s success as its guests, and Vibesbnb focused heavily on their needs. Features like insurance options with quick resolution for property damage, educational initiatives such as “Mack University,” and tools to streamline bookings and guest communication made hosting less risky and more appealing. This emphasis on host support helped build a loyal network of property owners, which strengthened the platform’s foundation. 

• Leveraging Partnerships: Mack strategically partnered with complementary services like Weedsies, which allowed guests to enjoy cannabis delivery directly to their accommodations. Collaborations with event organizers also enabled Vibesbnb to offer curated cannabis experiences, elevating the platform’s value beyond lodging. These partnerships added depth to the guest experience and reinforced the brand as a holistic solution for cannabis travel. 

• Integrating Technology Thoughtfully: The development of a marijuana hospitality app, built with GDS-certified technology, marked a significant step forward in improving the user experience for both guests and hosts. The app’s streamlined design, enhanced functionality, and integration of booking and cannabis-specific services showed Mack’s understanding of how technology could amplify the platform’s appeal and scalability. 

• Strategic Market Launch and Grassroots Engagement: Launching in Hollywood, Florida—a cannabis-friendly region—was a deliberate move that gave the platform early traction. Mack attended local Airbnb meetups, connecting with super hosts and educating them on the opportunity within cannabis hospitality. By addressing hosts’ concerns about legal compliance and offering solutions, Mack gained credibility and rapidly grew Vibesbnb’s host base. 

• Strong Marketing and Visibility Efforts: Rather than competing directly with Airbnb, Mack used the platform as a marketing channel by listing Vibesbnb properties there, effectively capturing traffic from mainstream travelers. Coupled with targeted advertising, influencer-driven campaigns, and video content showcasing the platform’s unique value, Vibesbnb built steady momentum and attracted a loyal user base. 

• Resilience and Entrepreneurial Mindset: Mack’s personal drive and entrepreneurial resilience played an essential role. His ability to learn from setbacks, stay flexible, and push through challenges helped him pivot when necessary. This mindset ensured that Vibesbnb continually evolved in response to both market trends and user needs, keeping it ahead of competitors. 

• Clear Vision Paired with Flexibility: At the core of Vibesbnb’s success was Mack’s unwavering belief in his mission to normalize cannabis within hospitality. While his vision never wavered, his flexibility in execution—whether expanding the platform’s offerings, adjusting to feedback, or embracing new technologies—allowed Vibesbnb to thrive. 

• Commitment to Community Building: Finally, Vibesbnb’s focus on fostering a “Joint Community” for like-minded cannabis users and creating a welcoming space for cultural connection set it apart. By blending hospitality with inclusivity, Mack tapped into the lifestyle-driven needs of his audience, creating a loyal customer base that fuels organic growth. 

Key Lessons to Learn 

1. Start by Solving a Real Problem: Mack’s journey began with identifying an unmet need: cannabis travelers lacked clear, welcoming lodging options. His ability to zero in on this gap—and offer a solution that directly addressed the frustrations of both guests and hosts—laid the foundation for Vibesbnb. Lesson: The best business ideas often come from addressing overlooked or underserved market needs. Identify a problem and focus on solving it better than anyone else. 

2. Be Willing to Listen and Adapt: One of Mack’s smartest moves was conducting surveys with over 1,500 users, uncovering their desire for more than just lodging. By listening to feedback, he expanded Vibesbnb into a full-service cannabis marketplace, integrating experiences, delivery services, and clear rules. Lesson: Success often requires flexibility. Stay open to evolving your idea based on customer insights and changing market conditions. The ability to pivot can turn a good idea into a great business. 

3. Build a Community, Not Just a Customer Base: Vibesbnb didn’t stop at providing lodging—it fostered a “Joint Community,” connecting cannabis enthusiasts with welcoming hosts and cultural experiences. This sense of belonging became a core part of the brand’s value. Lesson: A strong community can be a powerful differentiator. Focus on creating a sense of connection and shared purpose around your product or service. 

4. Take Care of Both Sides of Your Market: As a two-sided marketplace, Vibesbnb had to satisfy both travelers and hosts. By addressing hosts’ concerns with insurance options, education, and streamlined tools, the platform made cannabis-friendly hosting a viable and appealing option. Lesson: In a marketplace business, success hinges on meeting the needs of both your supply (e.g., hosts) and demand (e.g., guests). Neglecting one side can derail growth. 

5. Leverage Strategic Partnerships to Add Value: Mack formed partnerships with companies like Weedsies to provide cannabis delivery services, as well as local businesses to curate cultural experiences. These collaborations made the platform more valuable for users. Lesson: You don’t have to do everything alone. Strategic partnerships can expand your offerings, strengthen your brand, and create a better experience for customers. 

6. Focus on Education and Trust: Mack invested in educating both hosts and guests, offering resources like “Mack University” to teach short-term rental strategies and cannabis hospitality. This focus on education built trust in an emerging, often misunderstood industry. Lesson: In new or stigmatized industries, education is key to building credibility and trust. Provide the resources your users need to feel confident engaging with your product. 

7. Use Technology to Scale and Simplify: The development of Vibesbnb’s app, with features tailored for cannabis travelers and hosts, helped streamline the user experience. Technology became a critical enabler of the platform’s scalability. Lesson: Invest in technology to improve efficiency, enhance user experience, and prepare your business for growth. A strong tech foundation can set you apart from competitors. 

8. Don’t Be Afraid to Start Small and Build: Vibesbnb began as a simple side hustle—a single “420-friendly” Airbnb listing. From there, Mack reinvested earnings, expanded his offerings, and eventually grew the platform into a scalable six-figure business. Lesson: You don’t need massive resources to start. Begin where you are, learn from the process, and build over time. Incremental growth is still growth. 

9. Think Beyond the Transaction: For Vibesbnb, the guest experience went beyond providing a room—it included thoughtful touches like curated events, personalized consumption spaces, and even local cannabis delivery. These features enhanced customer satisfaction and loyalty. Lesson: To stand out, think holistically about your customer’s journey. How can you make their experience with your product more seamless, memorable, or meaningful? 

10. Choose Your Market Timing Wisely: Mack launched Vibesbnb as cannabis laws were becoming more lenient in many states. He capitalized on this cultural shift, creating a platform aligned with the emerging legal cannabis industry. Lesson: Timing can be just as important as the idea itself. Stay attuned to industry trends, cultural shifts, and regulatory changes to position your business at the right moment. 

11. Maintain Resilience and a Growth Mindset: Mack faced challenges along the way, from early missteps in platform design to learning how to manage a growing business. He credits his success to staying adaptable, focused, and willing to learn from failures. Lesson: Entrepreneurship is rarely smooth. Resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning are essential traits for navigating setbacks and sustaining momentum. 

12. Combine Vision with Execution: Mack had a clear vision for normalizing cannabis-friendly hospitality, but he paired that with careful execution—surveying customers, refining the product, and crafting partnerships that aligned with his goals. Lesson: A strong vision is only half the equation. Pair it with strategic, well-thought-out execution to turn your idea into reality. 

13. Use Existing Platforms to Build Your Brand: Instead of immediately competing with Airbnb, Mack listed Vibesbnb properties on the platform to attract cannabis-friendly travelers. This clever use of Airbnb’s visibility helped grow his brand while he built his own infrastructure. Lesson: Don’t hesitate to leverage established platforms to reach your audience. They can be valuable stepping stones as you develop your business. 

14. Build a Brand That Resonates Emotionally: The success of Vibesbnb wasn’t just about functionality; it was about creating a brand that felt authentic to cannabis culture. By tapping into the lifestyle and values of his target audience, Mack built a loyal user base. Lesson: A brand that connects emotionally with its audience can inspire loyalty and word-of-mouth growth. Know your audience, and reflect their values in your branding. 

15. Think Long-Term While Acting Today: Mack’s approach to Vibesbnb was rooted in both short-term agility and long-term vision. While responding to immediate feedback, he never lost sight of his broader goal: to normalize cannabis in hospitality and travel. Lesson: Balance short-term adaptability with long-term vision. Build with the future in mind while making smart, tactical moves in the present. 

Opportunity Matrix 

Founder Background 

Deontae Mack graduated from Florida International University in 2016. He worked in the gig economy (e.g., Uber, Lyft) before turning to short-term rentals as a side hustle. His personal experience hosting travelers shaped his entrepreneurial vision. 

Problem Identification 

Cannabis travelers faced unclear and inconsistent lodging policies on traditional platforms, creating confusion and frustration. Many lacked safe, judgment-free spaces to consume cannabis legally. 

Market Opportunity 

The legal cannabis industry is rapidly growing, with increasing cultural and legal acceptance across multiple states. Cannabis tourism is an emerging segment with high demand but limited specialized options. 

Competitive Landscape 

Competitors like Airbnb dominate general short-term rentals but lack clear cannabis-friendly policies. Few niche platforms cater explicitly to cannabis-friendly lodging and experiences. 

Market Research 

Conducted surveys with 1,500 cannabis users, uncovering demand for cannabis-friendly accommodations, delivery services, curated experiences, and clear consumption rules. 

Business Model 

Two-sided marketplace connecting cannabis-friendly travelers with hosts. Revenue comes from service fees on bookings, additional services (e.g., delivery partnerships), and potentially premium listings or features for hosts. 

Initial Capital  

Started as a self-funded Airbnb side hustle, reinvesting profits into the business. Later gained backing from the Empowering People Foundation to scale operations. 

Product/Service Development 

Initially focused on cannabis-friendly lodging. Expanded offerings to include curated experiences, cannabis delivery (via partnership with Weedsies), and a streamlined mobile app for booking and communication. 

Marketing Strategy  

Leveraged listings on Airbnb to attract cannabis-friendly travelers, created targeted ad campaigns, produced influencer-driven content, and used educational initiatives (e.g., “Mack University”) to onboard hosts. 

Milestones 

• Surpassed 5,000 bookings. 

• Launched mobile app on 4/20/2020. 

• Built a network of 160 properties across multiple states. 

• Partnered with Weedsies for cannabis delivery services. 

• Hosted meetups to onboard over 20 super hosts in Hollywood, Florida. 

Scalability 

High scalability potential due to the platform’s technology and partnerships. The mobile app and marketplace design allow for rapid onboarding of both hosts and travelers, while partnerships like Weedsies add complementary services. 

Potential Risks and Challenges  

• Navigating cannabis-related legal complexities across different states and jurisdictions. 

• Competing against larger platforms with greater resources (e.g., Airbnb). 

• Educating and gaining the trust of both hosts and guests in a stigmatized industry. 

• Addressing potential liability issues, such as property damage or safety concerns, in cannabis-friendly rentals. 

Key Performance Indicators/Metrics 

• Number of bookings. 

• Monthly revenue ($13,000–$18,000 currently). 

• Growth in host network (e.g., number of active properties). 

• Guest satisfaction (e.g., ratings and reviews). 

• User adoption of app features (e.g., bookings through the app, use of delivery services).