Self Storage Insights

Hosted by Ben Shirey

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Jul 2026

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About the show

Welcome to Self Storage Insights, the show where we bring you insights and tips from successful self storage property owners. If you own or manage a self storage property, this podcast is for you!

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60 recent

September 3, 202636 min

Will AI Recommend Your Storage Facility?

In this week’s episode of the Self Storage Insight Podcast, host Ben Shirey sits down with Ben Golden, self storage owner and founder of Revy, to discuss how AI is changing the way potential tenants find self storage facilities. While Google still dominates high-intent searches, AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini are becoming another important way consumers discover businesses—and operators need to understand what information these platforms are using to recommend their facilities.

July 30, 202637 min

Self Storage Exit Playbook

In this week’s episode of the Self Storage Insight Podcast, Ben Shirey sits down with self storage owner Johnny Hastings to break down his Self Storage Exit Playbook after buying, growing, and selling multiple facilities. From deciding when it was time to sell to marketing properties, working with brokers, navigating valuations, and preparing for buyers, Johnny shares the lessons he learned throughout the process. Whether you're planning an exit in the near future or simply want to build a more valuable storage business, this episode offers practical insights every self storage operator can use.

May 27, 202625 min

Dual Pricing Vs. Surcharging Explained

In this week’s episode of the Self Storage Insight Podcast, Ben Shirey and James Shepherd break down the difference between surcharging and dual pricing—and why so many self storage operators are confused about processing fee programs. Learn how facilities are reducing payment costs, improving transparency, and increasing profitability without creating friction for tenants.

April 1, 202626 min

How AI Is Transforming Storage Management

In this week’s episode of the Self Storage Insight Podcast, James Shepherd sits down with Derric Hartzell, an experienced operator managing nearly 2,000 units to explore how artificial intelligence is beginning to reshape self storage. From communication tools to operational workflows, the conversation dives into what AI can realistically handle today—and where it still falls short. The discussion highlights a key shift in how storage should be viewed: not as a passive real estate investment, but as an active, customer-facing business. Daily operations involve constant interaction—calls, payments, reservations, and customer service—and AI is starting to play a role in streamlining many of these touchpoints. For example, automating responses to common tenant needs, integrating phone systems with management software, and using text-based follow-ups can significantly reduce friction while improving the customer experience.

March 5, 202627 min

Self Storage Is More Than Metal Boxes | Operating Like a Real Business

In this week’s episode of the Self Storage Insight Podcast, James Shepherd sits down with leaders from Alaska Mini Storage to discuss why self storage is more than just renting metal boxes—it’s about operating a real business. They share lessons from modernizing outdated systems, transitioning from handwritten records to digital tools, simplifying payments and autopay, improving lien auctions through online platforms, and building a team culture focused on customer experience and sales. Whether you operate a single facility or manage multiple sites, this conversation offers practical insights on leadership, tenant experience, and operational strategies that can improve occupancy and long-term performance.

February 18, 202638 min

Why "More Than Storage" Wins in Today's Market

In this week’s episode of the Self Storage Insight Podcast, James Shepherd talks with Trouper Arnold of Hilltop Storage Solutions to explore how he transformed a traditional storage facility into a community-driven destination. Tune in to hear how customer experience, creative revenue streams, and a focus on building loyalty can increase retention and unlock new growth opportunities in self storage.

December 17, 202528 min

Build vs. Buy: The Real Cost of New Self Storage Construction

In this week’s episode of the Self Storage Insight Podcast, James Shepherd talks with Austin Scroggs of TruSteel Buildings to break down the build-versus-buy decision in self storage. Tune in to hear when new construction can cost significantly less than buying existing, the tradeoffs operators should consider, and how smart planning can set a project up for long-term success.

November 26, 202525 min

Building a Storage Empire: The 27-Facility Blueprint

James Shepherd sits down with Don Tyree, Founder of Family Heirloom Storage, to uncover how he’s built a 27-property, 4,000-unit portfolio through smart acquisitions and hands-on management. Hear how Don blends real estate investing with operational excellence—and why his family-first philosophy drives long-term tenant loyalty and steady returns.

November 12, 202514 min

6 Stats about Storage You Can't Ignore

In Episode 101 of the Self Storage Insight Podcast, James Shepherd breaks down six data points that could redefine your facility's performance in 2026. Tune in to also catch insights into CCStorage's new 2026 feature build: designed to help operators monitor and maximize these metrics.

November 5, 202520 min

Full Circle: 100 Episodes of Self Storage Insight

James Shepherd & Ben Shirey go full circle: looking back at the podcast’s beginnings, celebrating milestones, and exploring how data, automation, and relationships keep the storage industry moving forward.