Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast: Recent Episodes

Vibrant Management

Virtual GM is a podcast made for the modern hotelier, Boutique Hotel owner, VRBO manager, Airbnb administrator, the front desk staff, and anyone living and trying to thrive in the modern hospitality space. This podcast is produced and distributed by Vibrant Management. www.thevibrantteam.com

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No new episode today! Cody and Meagan are hard at work behind the scenes preparing an exciting Season 4 of the Virtual GM Podcast.

We'll be back in the studio with Season 4, Episode 1 on Thursday, September 3rd, and we can't wait to share what's ahead.

In the meantime, we encourage all independent hospitality professionals to join us at this year's Independent Hospitality Show at the Miami Beach Convention Center on September 16th–17th. Be sure to use promo code CODY26 to receive complimentary entry to the show.

https://independenthotelshow.us/

Enjoy the rest of your summer, and we'll see you in September for Season 4!

Follow us on Instagram -
@thevibrantteam
@virtualgmpodcast

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www.thevibrantteam.com

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After 156 episodes and an incredible Season 3 journey, Cody and Meagan are wrapping up the season with a look back at some of their favorite moments, lessons learned, and conversations that shaped the year on the Virtual GM Podcast.

In this special season finale, they reflect on the growth of the show, celebrate reaching 156 episodes, and share their plans to take a short summer break to spend time with their families and enjoy the season with their kids.

While the microphones may be quiet for a few weeks, the break won't last long. The Virtual GM Podcast will return to the studio on Thursday, September 3rd, kicking off Season 4 with fresh conversations, new guests, and more insights for independent hospitality professionals.

Cody and Meagan also highlight the upcoming Independent Hospitality Show taking place September 16th–17th at the Miami Beach Convention Center. If you're planning to attend, be sure to use promo code CODY26 for complimentary entry to the show.

https://independenthotelshow.us/

Thank you to everyone who listened, shared, supported, and joined the conversation throughout Season 3. Enjoy the rest of your summer, and we'll see you in September for Season 4 of the Virtual GM Podcast!

Follow us on Instagram -
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@virtualgmpodcast

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan explore how guest expectations have changed and what boutique hotels can do to exceed them while standing out from larger brands.

🔹 Segment 1: Guests Want Convenience
Convenience has become a baseline expectation. Cody & Meagan discuss why fast response times, mobile check-in, contactless options, and reliable high-speed internet are now essential parts of the guest experience.

🔹 Segment 2: Guests Want Experiences
Travelers are increasingly choosing destinations based on how they'll feel—not just where they'll sleep. Learn why authentic local recommendations, thoughtful design, memorable moments, and share-worthy experiences have become key differentiators for boutique properties.

🔹 Segment 3: Guests Want Flexibility
Modern guests value transparent policies, personalized communication, and the ability to easily connect with your team. Cody & Meagan explain why making guests feel known—not just like another reservation—creates lasting loyalty.

🔹 Segment 4: What Boutique Hotels Can Do Better Than Big Brands
Independent hotels have a unique advantage when it comes to creating genuine hospitality. Cody & Meagan discuss how personal interactions, distinctive design, local partnerships, and emotional connections help boutique properties deliver experiences large brands often struggle to replicate.

Rapid Fire Questions

  • Most underrated guest amenity?
  • One expectation every owner should prioritize this year?
  • One hospitality trend you think is overhyped?

Today's guests aren't simply booking a room—they're searching for convenience, connection, authenticity, and experiences they'll remember long after their trip ends.

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan discuss one of the biggest opportunities for independent hotels in 2026: increasing direct bookings.

OTAs are valuable partners and play an important role in driving visibility and occupancy. But when properties become too dependent on third-party bookings, they often sacrifice profitability, guest relationships, and long-term loyalty. Cody & Meagan share practical strategies boutique hotels can implement to grow direct bookings while maintaining a healthy balance with OTA channels.

🔹 Segment 1: The Hidden Costs of OTA Dependence
Not all booking channels are created equal. Cody & Meagan discuss the hidden costs of relying too heavily on OTAs, including commission expenses, limited guest ownership, reduced loyalty, and fewer opportunities to personalize the guest experience or generate additional revenue.

🔹 Segment 2: Why Guests Book Direct
Guests often choose to book directly when they receive a better overall experience. Learn why clear communication, flexible policies, personalized service, and exclusive perks can encourage travelers to skip third-party booking sites and book directly with your property.

🔹 Segment 3: Easy Wins for Boutique Hotels
Simple improvements can make a big impact. Cody & Meagan cover practical ways to increase direct bookings, including:

  • Creating a faster, more user-friendly website
  • Building an email marketing list
  • Staying connected with past guests
  • Offering simple loyalty incentives
  • Creating unique packages and local experiences

Rapid Fire Questions

  • What's the best direct booking incentive?
  • What's the biggest mistake independent hotels make with their website?
  • What's the most overlooked hotel marketing opportunity?

Direct bookings aren't just about saving commission—they're about building stronger guest relationships, increasing profitability, and creating a more sustainable business for the future.

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Artificial intelligence is transforming hospitality, but independent hotels may have the biggest opportunity of all. In this episode, Cody & Meagan explore how boutique properties can leverage AI to save time, improve operations, enhance guest communication, and compete with larger brands—without sacrificing the personalized experiences that set them apart.

🔹 Segment 1: Why Boutique Hotels Have an Advantage
Independent properties can adapt much faster than large hotel brands. Cody & Meagan discuss why smaller teams are uniquely positioned to implement new technology quickly while continuing to deliver authentic, personalized hospitality.

🔹 Segment 2: Practical AI Uses Today
Discover how hotels are using AI to streamline everyday operations, including:

  • Automated guest messaging
  • Review responses and reputation management
  • Revenue management and pricing recommendations
  • Email marketing and content creation
  • Staff scheduling and operational efficiency

These practical tools help teams spend less time on repetitive tasks and more time creating exceptional guest experiences.

🔹 Segment 3: Where Owners Should Be Careful
AI is a powerful tool—but only when used thoughtfully. Cody & Meagan discuss common mistakes, including over-automating guest communication, relying too heavily on technology, and losing the personal touch that defines boutique hospitality.

Rapid Fire Questions

  • One task every hotel should automate tomorrow?
  • One thing that should always remain human?

AI isn't replacing hospitality—it's enhancing it. The independent hotels that embrace technology while keeping hospitality personal will be the ones that stand out in the years ahead.

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In this episode, Cody welcomes special guest Ryan Negron, Director of Sales and Marketing at X-quic, for a conversation focused on one of the most important decisions hotel owners and operators make: selecting the right vendor partners.

With hundreds of hospitality solutions competing for attention, it can be difficult to separate great products from great marketing. Ryan shares insights from the vendor side of the industry and discusses what the best hospitality partners are doing to help hotels improve operations, guest experience, and profitability.

🔹 What Hospitality Vendors Are Doing Right

Ryan discusses the trends he's seeing among the industry's top-performing vendors:

  • Focusing on measurable results
  • Creating true partnerships instead of simple transactions
  • Solving operational challenges, not just selling products
  • Becoming more consultative in their approach

👉 The best vendors don't just sell solutions—they help hotels achieve outcomes.

🔹 Where Many Vendors Miss the Mark

Not every hospitality solution delivers on its promises.

Cody and Ryan discuss:

  • Overpromising results
  • Focusing on features instead of value
  • Generic sales approaches
  • Lack of ongoing support after implementation

👉 Successful partnerships require more than a great sales presentation.

🔹 How the Most Successful B2B Hotel Partners Are Evolving

The hospitality industry continues to change rapidly, and the strongest vendor partners are evolving alongside it.

Topics include:

  • AI and automation
  • Data-driven decision making
  • Personalized guest experiences
  • Integration between systems
  • Helping hotels do more with leaner teams

🔹 What Hotel Owners and Operators Should Evaluate

Before signing any contract, Cody and Ryan discuss key questions every operator should ask:

  • Will this solution save time?
  • Will it improve guest experience?
  • Can it increase revenue?
  • Is implementation realistic?
  • What support exists after launch?

👉 The right solution should create measurable value—not additional complexity.

🔹 How to Cut Through the Marketing Noise

One of the biggest challenges facing operators today is evaluating vendor claims.

Ryan shares practical advice on:

  • Asking better questions
  • Requesting real-world examples
  • Looking beyond demos
  • Evaluating ROI expectations
  • Identifying long-term partners versus short-term sales pitches

👉 Great decisions come from understanding outcomes, not just features.

🔹 Connect with Ryan Negron

If you'd like to learn more or connect with Ryan:

  • LinkedIn: Ryan Negron LinkedIn Profile
  • Email: ryan.negron@xquic.com
  • Phone: (346) 818-7831
  • Schedule a Meeting: Book Time with Ryan Negron

🔹 Closing Thoughts

Whether you're evaluating technology, operational services, marketing solutions, or guest experience tools, choosing the right partners can have a significant impact on your property's success.

Ryan's insights provide a valuable framework for cutting through the noise and making smarter vendor decisions in today's hospitality landscape.

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In this solo episode, Cody Adent shares why the Independent Hotel Show Miami has become one of the most important events in hospitality—and why every hotel owner, operator, GM, and hospitality professional should consider attending this year.

Whether you're looking for innovative technology, new vendor partnerships, industry insights, or networking opportunities with fellow independent hoteliers, the Independent Hotel Show delivers an experience specifically designed for the independent hospitality community.

🎟️ Use Promo Code: CODY26 for FREE admission

👉 https://independenthotelshow.us/

🔹 Why the Independent Hotel Show Matters

Cody discusses what makes this event different from traditional hospitality conferences:

  • A focus on independent hotels and boutique properties
  • Industry-leading educational sessions
  • Access to innovative vendors and technology providers
  • Networking opportunities with owners, operators, and hospitality leaders
  • Actionable strategies you can immediately implement at your property

🔹 Who Should Attend?

This event is ideal for:

  • Hotel Owners
  • General Managers
  • Virtual GMs
  • Revenue Managers
  • Marketing Professionals
  • Hospitality Vendors
  • Independent Property Operators

Whether you're operating a boutique motel, luxury resort, vacation rental portfolio, or independent hotel, there is valuable content and networking for every hospitality professional.

🔹 What You'll Learn

Topics often include:

  • Revenue Management
  • Direct Booking Strategies
  • Hotel Technology
  • AI in Hospitality
  • Marketing & Branding
  • Guest Experience
  • Operations Best Practices
  • Hospitality Trends

👉 The goal is simple: help independent properties compete and thrive in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

🔹 Additional Resources

Be sure to check out these previous Virtual GM Podcast episodes featuring Independent Hotel Show board members and hospitality leaders discussing the impact of the event:

  • https://www.buzzsprout.com/1992151/episodes/16824683
  • https://www.buzzsprout.com/1992151/episodes/16704057
  • https://www.buzzsprout.com/1992151/episodes/17398696

🔹 Closing Thoughts

Cody wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to invest in themselves and their businesses by attending industry events that inspire innovation and connection.

👉 The relationships you build and the ideas you discover at one event can have a lasting impact on your property's future.

Don't forget to register today and use Promo Code: CODY26 for FREE entry to the Independent Hotel Show Miami.

Follow us on Instagram -
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In this episode, Cody & Meagan discuss one of the biggest competitive advantages in hospitality today: speed of communication.

Guest expectations have changed dramatically. In a world of instant answers, same-day delivery, and real-time updates, travelers expect quick responses before, during, and after their stay. The reality is that many bookings are won simply because one property responded faster than another.

🔹 Segment 1: The Amazon Effect
How modern consumer expectations have reshaped hospitality and why response time often builds guest confidence faster than price discounts.

🔹 Segment 2: Communication Is Revenue
Every unanswered inquiry is a potential lost booking. Cody & Meagan discuss how fast communication directly impacts direct bookings, group sales, and guest conversions.

🔹 Segment 3: Problems Are Inevitable—Response Is Everything
No property is perfect. The difference is how quickly issues are addressed. Guests are often more forgiving of problems than they are of being ignored.

🔹 Segment 4: Technology vs. Hospitality
From guest texting platforms to AI-powered communication tools, technology is helping operators respond faster while still delivering a personal experience.

Rapid Fire Questions

  • Most common communication mistake?
  • Most underrated communication tool?
  • What frustrates guests most?

Speed of communication isn't just customer service anymore—it's a critical part of the guest experience and a powerful driver of bookings, reviews, and loyalty.

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan break down how hotel reviews can become one of the most powerful tools for improving guest experience, operations, and profitability.

Too often, operators focus on ratings alone. The best operators look for patterns, trends, and insights that help them better understand what guests truly value.

🔹 Segment 1: What Guests Actually Remember
Guests often remember small moments more than expensive amenities. Cody & Meagan discuss why communication, personalization, and genuine hospitality leave the biggest impressions.

🔹 Segment 2: Patterns Matter More Than Individual Reviews
Every property gets negative reviews. The key is identifying recurring themes and using reviews as operational data rather than reacting emotionally to individual comments.

🔹 Segment 3: The Reviews Guests Never Leave
Not every unhappy guest leaves a review. Cody & Meagan discuss silent dissatisfaction, repeat guest retention, and why surveys can be just as valuable as public reviews.

🔹 Segment 4: Responding to Reviews the Right Way
Learn how to write review responses that build trust, demonstrate accountability, and leave a positive impression on future guests.

Rapid Fire Questions

  • Most overrated thing guests mention in reviews?
  • Most underrated thing?
  • One metric every operator should monitor weekly?
  • The biggest mistake hotels make when responding?

Reviews aren't just ratings—they're conversations. The hotels that listen closely are often the ones that improve the fastest.

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In this episode, Cody is joined once again by longtime Virtual GM Malissa Baum to tackle one of the most important — and often misunderstood — topics in hospitality today: OTA dependence.

OTAs like Expedia, Booking.com, and Airbnb absolutely provide value. They help hotels gain visibility, drive occupancy, and compete in crowded markets. But when properties become too dependent on third-party bookings, the hidden costs can quietly erode profitability, guest loyalty, and long-term brand value.

🔹 Segment 1: The Obvious Cost — Commissions

The first thing most operators think about:

  • 15–25% commission costs
  • Reduced margins
  • Higher acquisition expenses

🔹 Segment 2: The Hidden Costs Most Hotels Ignore

Loss of Guest Ownership
When a guest books through an OTA:

  • The relationship often starts with the platform—not your property
  • Loyalty becomes harder to build
  • Communication opportunities become limited

👉 You may host the stay—but the OTA owns the customer relationship.

Price-Shopping Behavior
OTA-heavy guests often:

  • Prioritize price over brand loyalty
  • Compare dozens of properties instantly
  • Become easier to lose to competitors

👉 If your only differentiator is price, long-term loyalty becomes difficult.

Operational Pressure
OTA-driven business can create:

  • Last-minute booking surges
  • Forecasting challenges
  • Staffing pressure
  • Housekeeping volatility

👉 Operations teams often feel OTA dependence before ownership notices it financially.

🔹 Segment 3: Why Direct Bookings Matter More Than Ever

Direct bookings create:

  • Better margins
  • Better communication
  • Better personalization
  • Better long-term retention

Cody & Malissa discuss how direct relationships improve:

  • Pre-arrival communication
  • Upselling opportunities
  • Repeat business
  • Guest loyalty

👉 Key Line: The most valuable guest isn’t always the highest ADR guest tonight—it’s the guest who comes back multiple times.

🔹 Segment 4: How Hotels Can Increase Direct Bookings

Practical, realistic strategies operators can implement immediately:

Improve the Website Experience

  • Fast loading
  • Mobile-friendly
  • Easy booking flow
  • Professional photography
  • Transparent pricing

👉 Your website cannot feel harder to use than the OTA.

Give Guests a Reason to Book Direct

Examples include:

  • Flexible cancellation
  • Better room selection
  • Easier communication
  • Returning guest perks
  • Exclusive experiences

👉 It doesn’t always have to mean cheaper.

Focus on Experience & Reputation

The strongest direct booking strategy is still:

  • Great reviews
  • Memorable experiences
  • Strong social presence
  • Consistent service

👉 Guests book direct when they trust the brand—not just the rate.

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n this episode, Cody is joined once again by longtime Virtual GM Malissa Baum for a conversation all about one of the biggest shifts happening in hospitality operations today: using AI in your daily workflow as a Virtual GM.

As operators continue managing more properties, more guest communication, and more moving pieces than ever before, AI is quickly becoming one of the most powerful tools available—not to replace hospitality, but to enhance it.

Cody & Malissa break down how they’re personally using AI to save time, improve guest experience, streamline operations, and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive hospitality landscape.

🔹 Segment 1: Why AI Matters for Virtual GMs

Running properties remotely requires:

  • Speed
  • Communication
  • Organization
  • Consistency

Cody & Malissa discuss why AI has become such a valuable tool for:

  • Managing workload
  • Reducing repetitive tasks
  • Supporting decision-making
  • Creating operational efficiency

👉 Key Insight: AI doesn’t replace hospitality—it creates more time for hospitality.

🔹 Segment 2: Everyday Ways Virtual GMs Use AI

Practical examples of how AI can support daily operations:

  • Drafting guest communication
  • Writing SOPs and operational documents
  • Generating marketing ideas
  • Creating social media content
  • Responding to reviews
  • Brainstorming guest experience improvements

👉 The focus is on using AI as a productivity partner—not a shortcut.

🔹 Segment 3: Where Operators Still Get AI Wrong

Cody & Malissa discuss common mistakes:

  • Over-automating communication
  • Losing brand voice
  • Using AI without human oversight
  • Prioritizing speed over guest connection

👉 Hospitality still has to feel human.

🔹 Segment 4: AI & the Future of Hospitality Operations

Topics include:

  • AI-driven personalization
  • Smarter guest communication
  • Predictive operational tools
  • AI-assisted revenue management
  • The growing role of automation for small teams

👉 Smaller operators now have access to tools that once only large brands could afford.

🔹 Segment 5: Advice for Hospitality Leaders

For operators wanting to start using AI today:

  • Start small
  • Use it consistently
  • Focus on saving time on repetitive work
  • Keep your human touch front and center

👉 Key Takeaway: The best operators will combine technology with intentional hospitality.

🔹 Closing Reflection

Cody & Malissa wrap up by discussing how Virtual GMs are uniquely positioned to benefit from AI tools—and why adaptability will be one of the most important hospitality leadership traits moving forward.

👉 Final Thought: AI won’t replace great hospitality leaders—but leaders who embrace AI may outperform those who ignore it.

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The hotels winning today aren’t just raising rates—they’re using smarter systems, better data, and more strategic decision-making to improve profitability, guest experience, and long-term performance.

Cody breaks down:

  • Why ADR can be misleading
  • What modern revenue management software actually does
  • The biggest mistakes operators still make
  • And how independent hotels can compete without massive corporate revenue teams

🔹 INTRO: Why Revenue Strategy Has Changed

Cody sets the stage:
The days of simply increasing rates during busy weekends and discounting during slow periods are over.

Modern hospitality requires:

  • Faster decision-making
  • Better forecasting
  • Smarter pricing strategies
  • Real-time market awareness

👉 The future belongs to operators who understand both data and guest behavior.

🔹 Segment 1: ADR Is Only Part of the Story

ADR is important—but it’s only one metric.

Cody discusses why operators must also focus on:

  • Occupancy
  • Profitability
  • Channel mix
  • Length of stay
  • Labor efficiency
  • Direct bookings vs OTA dependency

👉 Key Insight: A higher ADR doesn’t matter if profitability suffers.

Topics include:

  • OTA commissions eating into margins
  • Over-discounting during shoulder seasons
  • The long-term value of repeat guests and direct bookings

🔹 Segment 2: What Revenue Management Software Actually Does Today

Revenue management systems (RMS) have evolved dramatically.

Modern platforms analyze:

  • Market demand
  • Competitor pricing
  • Booking pace
  • Local events
  • Historical trends
  • Booking windows
  • Cancellation patterns

👉 Today’s systems help operators become proactive instead of reactive.

Cody explains how RMS technology helps independent hotels:

  • Adjust pricing faster
  • Forecast demand more accurately
  • Reduce emotional pricing decisions
  • Compete with larger brands

👉 Insight: Technology is leveling the playing field for smaller operators.

🔹 Segment 3: The Biggest Mistakes Hotels Still Make

Even with better tools, many operators still fall into common traps:

1. Competing Only on Price
Race-to-the-bottom pricing hurts long-term brand value.

2. Ignoring Guest Segmentation
Different travelers book differently:

  • Weekend leisure guests
  • Weekday business travelers
  • Families
  • Couples
  • Repeat guests

👉 One pricing strategy does not fit everyone.

3. Disconnecting Revenue from Operations
This is one of Cody’s biggest points:
If rates increase aggressively while service quality declines, reviews and guest trust eventually suffer.

👉 Key Line: Revenue management isn’t just pricing—it’s reputation management too.

🔹 Segment 4: Where Revenue Strategy Is Headed Next

The future of hospitality revenue management includes:

  • AI-driven forecasting
  • Personalized pricing
  • Smarter direct booking incentives
  • PMS + CRM + RMS integrations
  • Real-time operational data influencing rates

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In this solo episode, Cody breaks down the top hospitality conferences and networking events every hotel owner, operator, and hospitality professional should have on their radar this year.

Whether you're looking to grow your network, discover new technology, stay ahead of industry trends, or simply surround yourself with other passionate hospitality leaders—these events can completely change the trajectory of your business.

Cody shares where he’ll be, what makes each event unique, and how to maximize the value of attending.

🔹 1. Independent Lodging Congress (ILC)
📍 Jackson, Wyoming
📅 June 23–24

👉 https://ilcongress.com/

ILC has become one of the premier gatherings for independent hospitality leaders, boutique operators, and industry creatives. Cody breaks down why this event stands out:

  • Incredible networking
  • Boutique hotel innovation
  • Forward-thinking conversations
  • High-level independent hospitality operators

👉 If you’re passionate about boutique hospitality, this is a must-attend event.

🔹 2. HITEC 2026
📍 San Antonio, Texas
📅 June 15–18

👉 https://www.hitec.org/

Technology is shaping the future of hospitality faster than ever—and HITEC remains the industry’s leading hospitality technology conference.

Cody shares why HITEC matters:

  • Hotel technology trends
  • AI in hospitality
  • Operations software
  • Revenue and guest experience tools
  • Networking with hospitality tech leaders

👉 This is where you go to see where the industry is heading next.

🔹 3. BITAC Events
👉 https://bitac.net/Event/Calendar

Cody also highlights the growing impact of BITAC events and why they continue to be some of the most valuable networking experiences in hospitality.

What makes BITAC unique:

  • Curated one-on-one meetings
  • High-quality executive networking
  • Real business development opportunities
  • Smaller, more intentional event environments

Cody also shares insight from his experience serving as Master of Ceremonies at multiple BITAC events this year.

🔹 4. Independent Hotel Show Miami
📍 Miami, Florida
📅 September 16–17

👉 https://independenthotelshow.us/

One of the fastest-growing hospitality events in the country, the Independent Hotel Show focuses specifically on boutique, luxury, and independent hotel operators.

Cody discusses:

  • Why independent hospitality is booming
  • The value of the vendor and education experience
  • Why networking at this event feels different

🎟️ Use Promo Code: CODY26 for FREE entry

🔹 Closing Thoughts
Cody wraps the episode by encouraging listeners to invest in themselves and their network.

👉 Sometimes the biggest breakthroughs in hospitality happen outside your property.

Whether you’re an owner, GM, marketer, designer, or supplier—these events are opportunities to:

  • Learn faster
  • Build stronger relationships
  • Stay inspired
  • And grow your business

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan break down one of the most important (and misunderstood) elements in hospitality: what actually makes a stay memorable.

Because here’s the truth:
👉 You can have a clean, nice room—and still be completely forgettable.

The difference? Intentional design and experience.

🔹 Opening Hook: Forgettable vs. Memorable
Cody & Meagan kick things off with a simple question:

👉 What makes a stay stick with you years later?

They explore the gap between properties that simply “do the job” and those that turn into stories guests tell forever.

🔹 Segment 1: What “Memorable” Actually Means
Memorable doesn’t mean expensive. It means:

  • Intentional
  • Thoughtful
  • Emotional

Guests don’t remember features—they remember how a place made them feel.

👉 Key Insight: Feelings > Features.

🔹 Segment 2: The 4 Pillars of a Memorable Stay

Cody & Meagan break down the exact framework:

1. Arrival Moment

  • Parking, entry, first impressions
  • Scent, lighting, flow
  • Contactless—but still personal

👉 This is where expectations are set instantly.

2. The “Wow” Factor

  • Views, design moments, unique features
  • Something guests have to take a photo of

👉 Think: that one moment guests share with everyone.

3. Functional Luxury

  • Great showers
  • Comfortable beds
  • Quality coffee
  • Tech that just works

👉 Luxury today = things working perfectly.

4. Micro Details
This is where great operators win:

  • Hooks in the right place
  • Easy-to-access outlets
  • Thoughtful layouts
  • Frictionless design

👉 Small details create big impressions.

🔹 Segment 3: Where Most Hotels Miss
Cody & Meagan call out common mistakes:

  • Overdesigning but ignoring usability
  • Copying trends instead of understanding guests
  • Inconsistent experiences across rooms

👉 Insight: A beautiful space that doesn’t function well will always disappoint.

🔹 Segment 4: How to Audit Your Property
Simple, actionable advice:

  • Walk your property like a guest
  • Book your own room
  • Look for friction points at every step

👉 The best operators experience their product firsthand.

🔹 Wrap-Up: The Real Takeaway
Cody & Meagan close with a powerful reminder:

👉 Memorable doesn’t mean expensive—it means intentional.

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan dive into one of the most overlooked opportunities in hospitality: the small revenue levers that quietly drive big results.

Everyone talks about ADR and occupancy—but the most successful properties know that real growth comes from maximizing revenue per guest, not just filling rooms.

👉 You don’t need more bookings—you need more value per booking.

🔹 Opening Hook: The Missed Opportunity
“Most hotels are leaving thousands on the table every month… and they don’t even realize it.”

Cody & Meagan set the tone:
This isn’t about raising rates—it’s about unlocking revenue that already exists within your current bookings.

🔹 Segment 1: The Big Idea
The game has changed:

  • Revenue isn’t just room nights anymore
  • Guests expect more than a place to sleep
  • The shift from selling roomsselling experiences + convenience

👉 The properties winning today are thinking beyond the reservation.

🔹 Segment 2: Missed Revenue Opportunities
This is where the real money lives. Cody & Meagan break down practical, proven examples:

  • Early check-in / late check-out monetization
  • Room upgrades (automated vs. manual)
  • Add-ons that actually convert:
    • Romance packages
    • Adventure bundles (think national park tie-ins)
    • Food & beverage partnerships
  • Smarter retail (local goods, grab-and-go, curated items)
  • Pet fees done right (value-driven, not punitive)

👉 Real-world examples from their properties bring these ideas to life.

🔹 Segment 3: The Guest Psychology Side
Why this works:

  • Guests crave convenience
  • They’re willing to pay for curated experiences
  • Presentation matters more than price

👉 Key Insight: It’s not upselling—it’s enhancing the stay.

🔹 Segment 4: Quick Wins for GMs
Simple, actionable steps you can implement immediately:

  • Add 2–3 upsells to your booking flow
  • Train your team to mention upgrades naturally
  • Use pre-arrival emails/texts to offer add-ons

👉 Small tweaks = meaningful revenue lift.

🔹 Wrap-Up: The Real Takeaway
Cody & Meagan close with a powerful reminder:

👉 You don’t need more bookings—you need more value per booking.

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In this episode, Cody sits down with fellow Virtual GM Ali Dockstader, whose story in hospitality runs deep. Growing up in the industry, Ali witnessed firsthand what it takes to build something special—her family founded Cliffrose Lodge in 1989 when she was just three years old.

Years later, when her family opened Watchman Villas in 2017, Ali helped pioneer what we now know as the Virtual GM role—a model that continues to shape modern hospitality operations today.

Ali now oversees operations at The Bungalows at Zion and Edgewater Resort, bringing a unique blend of legacy experience and forward-thinking leadership.

🔹 Segment 1: Growing Up in Hospitality
Ali shares what it was like growing up around hotels and how that early exposure shaped her understanding of:

  • Guest experience
  • Operations
  • What truly makes a property successful

👉 A rare perspective from someone who’s seen hospitality evolve from the inside out.

🔹 Segment 2: Pioneering the Virtual GM Role
When Watchman Villas opened, Ali helped redefine how properties could be operated remotely.

She breaks down:

  • How the Virtual GM role started
  • What made it successful early on
  • Why it’s more relevant now than ever

👉 This isn’t just a trend—it’s a proven model.

🔹 Segment 3: Advice for Future Virtual GMs
Ali shares practical advice for anyone looking to run a property virtually:

  • The systems you must have
  • The mindset required
  • How to lead without being on-site

👉 What separates successful Virtual GMs from the rest?

🔹 Segment 4: The Hardest Part of the Role
Ali gets honest about the challenges:

  • Communication across teams
  • Maintaining standards remotely
  • Balancing flexibility with accountability

👉 Real talk on what people often underestimate.

🔹 Segment 5: Why Hospitality Still Wins
Despite the challenges, Ali shares what she loves most about the industry:

  • Creating meaningful guest experiences
  • Being part of people’s memories
  • The creativity and energy of hospitality

🔹 Segment 6: Rapid Fire — Personal & Professional Insights
Cody wraps with a series of rapid-fire questions:

  • Favorite place to travel ✈️
  • Best hotel she’s ever stayed at—and why
  • Biggest win in her career
  • Biggest loss (and lessons learned)
  • How she defines success today

🔹 Closing Takeaway
Ali’s story is a powerful example of how hospitality is evolving—while still staying rooted in what matters most: people and experiences.

👉 Final Thought: The future of hospitality isn’t just built on tradition—it’s shaped by those willing to rethink how it’s done.

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In this episode, Cody sits down with a very special guest—Malissa Baum, a seasoned Virtual GM who has been part of the team at Vibrant Management for over four years.

Malissa currently oversees operations at two incredible properties: Adobe Desert Boutique Motel and Watchman Villas, giving her a unique perspective on what it really takes to run hospitality operations remotely in today’s world.

This episode is a candid, behind-the-scenes look at the realities, rewards, and lessons of being a Virtual GM in modern hospitality.

🔹 Segment 1: Why the Virtual GM Role Works
Malissa shares her favorite part of being a Virtual GM and why this model is becoming more powerful in today’s hospitality landscape.

From flexibility to scalability, she explains:
👉 What makes this role so unique—and so impactful

🔹 Segment 2: Advice for Aspiring Virtual GMs
Thinking about running your property virtually? Malissa breaks down:

  • The mindset you need
  • The systems that make it possible
  • The habits that separate good from great

👉 What does it really take to succeed remotely in hospitality?

🔹 Segment 3: The Hardest Part of the Job
It’s not all smooth sailing. Malissa gets real about:

  • The challenges of remote leadership
  • Communication gaps
  • Maintaining consistency without being on-site

👉 Honest insight into what most people underestimate about the role

🔹 Segment 4: Love for Hospitality
At the core of it all—why hospitality?

Malissa shares what she loves most about the industry:

  • Creating memorable guest experiences
  • The human connection behind every stay
  • The ability to impact someone’s trip in a meaningful way

🔹 Segment 5: Rapid Fire — Personal & Professional Insights
Cody dives into a series of rapid-fire questions to get to know Malissa on a deeper level:

  • Favorite place to travel ✈️
  • Best hotel she’s ever stayed at—and why
  • Biggest win in her career
  • Biggest loss (and what she learned)
  • How she defines success today

🔹 Closing Takeaway
This episode is packed with real-world insights for anyone interested in:

  • Running properties remotely
  • Scaling hospitality operations
  • Building a career in modern hotel management

👉 Final Thought: The future of hospitality leadership isn’t tied to a desk—it’s built on systems, trust, and perspective.

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan shine a spotlight on an exciting new project: the grand opening of Adobe Desert Boutique Motel.

Opening April 18, this fully reimagined roadside motel represents something bigger than just a renovation—it’s a case study in how thoughtful design, storytelling, and positioning can transform not just a property, but an entire market.

🔹 Opening: Why This Property Matters
Cody & Meagan introduce the project and why boutique redevelopment is one of the most exciting trends in hospitality today.

From a full gut renovation to a complete brand repositioning, this project is about:
👉 Breathing new life into legacy roadside motels
👉 Elevating guest expectations in overlooked markets

🔹 Segment 1: The Location Story
Located in Panguitch, Utah, this property sits in a prime “basecamp” location:

  • Minutes from Bryce Canyon National Park
  • Within driving distance of Zion National Park

Cody & Meagan discuss:

  • The rise of quieter gateway towns
  • Why travelers are choosing charm over crowds
  • The appeal of walkable, authentic small-town experiences

👉 Insight: Today’s travelers are trading busy resort hubs for intentional, peaceful destinations.

🔹 Segment 2: The Vision Behind the Renovation
This property started as a classic mid-century roadside motel—but now:

  • It’s been completely transformed
  • Repositioned from “a place to stay” to “a place to experience.”
  • Designed to be the best property in its market

They break down:

  • How renovation impacts ADR and perception
  • Balancing historical roots with modern design
  • Why investing in design pays long-term dividends

👉 Insight: Great design doesn’t just improve a property—it reshapes demand.

🔹 Segment 3: Design & Guest Experience Philosophy
The design approach is intentional and elevated:

  • Warm, desert-inspired interiors
  • Natural textures and neutral tones
  • Minimal, calming spaces
  • A focus on light, openness, and relaxation

👉 Discussion: Why simplicity is becoming the new definition of luxury

Cody & Meagan explore the balance between:

  • “Instagram-worthy” design
  • And true emotional comfort

🔹 Segment 4: Room Mix & Target Guest
The property is built for modern travelers:

  • King rooms for couples
  • Double rooms for friends
  • Suites for families and groups

Ideal guests include:

  • National park visitors
  • Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts
  • Road-trippers and photographers

👉 Positioned as a stylish basecamp, not a traditional resort

🔹 Segment 5: The Boutique Advantage in Secondary Markets
This is where things get really interesting:

  • Boutique properties are elevating overlooked destinations
  • Guests are willing to pay more for experience and design
  • Strong properties can drive longer stays and repeat visits

Community impact includes:

  • Supporting local businesses
  • Revitalizing Main Street energy
  • Increasing overall destination appeal

👉 Key Idea: One great boutique hotel can lift an entire town.

🔹 Segment 6: The Grand Opening Strategy
A successful opening is about more than occupancy—it’s about momentum.

Cody & Meagan break down:

  • Building buzz through social media and visuals
  • Leveraging influencer stays
  • Creating local partnerships
  • Ensuring operational readiness

👉 From staff training to guest journey scripting—first impressions are everything.

🔹 Closing Reflection
Cody & Meagan wrap with why this project represents the future of hospitality:

  • Smaller

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan tackle one of the biggest shifts happening in hospitality today: the evolution of the General Manager role.

What used to be a primarily operational position has transformed into something much bigger. Today’s leaders aren’t just managing properties—they’re shaping experiences, building brands, and designing how guests feel from the moment they discover a property to long after they check out.

So the question is:
👉 Are General Managers becoming Experience Architects?

🔹 Opening: A Changing Role
Cody & Meagan set the stage by reflecting on how dramatically hospitality leadership has changed over the past 5–10 years.

From their own experience and industry events, they share the moment it became clear:
👉 The GM role isn’t what it used to be.

🔹 Segment 1: The Traditional GM Mindset
They break down the classic GM playbook:

  • Staffing schedules
  • Maintenance oversight
  • Budget management
  • Daily reporting
  • Occupancy targets

Success was measured by:

  • Operational efficiency
  • Cost control
  • Basic guest satisfaction

👉 Insight: The GM used to manage a building.

🔹 Segment 2: The Rise of the Experience Economy
Today’s guests are looking for something entirely different:

  • Emotional escape
  • Memory creation
  • Shareable moments
  • Wellness and connection

Booking decisions are now driven by:

  • Brand story
  • Design and aesthetic
  • Personalization
  • Local immersion

👉 Key Shift: The guest journey starts before arrival and continues after departure.
👉 Operators are no longer selling rooms—they’re designing feelings.

🔹 Segment 3: What an Experience Architect Actually Does
Cody & Meagan define what modern hospitality leadership looks like:

An Experience Architect:

  • Curates the full guest journey (booking → post-stay)
  • Works across marketing, operations, design, and revenue
  • Thinks like a brand builder, not just an operator

Real-world examples include:

  • Scripting arrival moments
  • Designing amenity strategies
  • Creating intentional guest flow
  • Building local partnerships

👉 Insight: Leadership is becoming more creative, strategic, and visionary.

🔹 Segment 4: The Pressure on Modern GMs
With this evolution comes new challenges:

  • Higher owner expectations for performance
  • Increased guest expectations for experience
  • Constant technology decisions
  • Ongoing staffing challenges

👉 Are we asking too much from today’s hospitality leaders?

Cody & Meagan discuss the balance between operational excellence and creative leadership—and the very real risk of burnout.

🔹 Segment 5: How Future Leaders Can Adapt
Actionable advice for the next generation of hospitality leaders:

  • Develop emotional intelligence
  • Learn branding and storytelling
  • Get comfortable with data and tech
  • Lead culture—not just teams
  • Think like an entrepreneur

Practical tips:

  • Spend time in guest spaces
  • Travel with intention
  • Study experiences outside hospitality
  • Stay curious

👉 Key Takeaway: The future GM is part operator, part designer, part strategist.

🔹 Closing Reflection
Cody & Meagan close with a big question:
👉 Will the title “GM” even exist in 10–15 years?

And a powerful reminder:
👉 Hospitality leadership is becoming more human—not less.

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan take you inside one of the most iconic luxury resorts in the world—Waldorf Astoria Grand Wailea. Fresh off their trip to Maui, they break down the full guest experience from arrival to departure, sharing what this property gets right—and what independent operators can learn from it.

This isn’t just a review—it’s a masterclass in luxury hospitality, design, and service execution.

🔹 Opening: First Impressions Matter
Cody & Meagan recap why they chose Maui and this property, and dive into that first “wow” moment.

👉 When did it feel like this place was truly special?
They frame the conversation around luxury expectations vs. reality—and whether the Grand Wailea delivers.

🔹 Segment 1: Arrival + Check-In Experience
From valet to lobby to check-in flow, they unpack:

  • Luggage handling and first touchpoints
  • The power of lobby design and sense of place
  • Welcome moments (and how they set the tone)
  • Efficiency vs. personalization

👉 Key Takeaway: Arrival is storytelling—not just logistics.

🔹 Segment 2: Design & Sense of Place
This property is known for its scale—but it’s the intentional design that stands out:

  • Seamless indoor/outdoor flow
  • Landscaping and visual pathways
  • Hawaiian cultural integration
  • “Instagram-worthy” moments throughout

👉 Boutique hotels may not match the scale—but they can absolutely match the intention.

🔹 Segment 3: Guest Room Experience
Cody & Meagan break down what luxury looks like inside the room:

  • Layout and functionality
  • The importance of view orientation
  • Bedding, bathrooms, and tech touches
  • The lanai (balcony) experience
  • In-room personalization

👉 Hospitality Insight: Luxury today = comfort + emotional escape.

🔹 Segment 4: Amenities & Experience Programming
What makes this property a true destination:

  • Pool experiences (family vs. adult segmentation)
  • Beach setup and access
  • Dining options and positioning
  • Spa, wellness, and retail
  • Activities and on-property programming

👉 Is this a hotel you stay at—or a destination you never leave?

🔹 Segment 5: Service Culture Observations
Service is where luxury is won or lost. They discuss:

  • Staff tone (formal vs. relaxed)
  • Anticipatory service moments
  • Consistency across the property
  • Any service recovery experiences

👉 Audience Takeaway: True luxury is service choreography.

🔹 Closing Reflection
Cody & Meagan wrap with:

  • Would they return—and why
  • Who this property is perfect for
  • One thing independent hotels can learn
  • One thing they would improve

Whether you run a boutique inn or a full-scale resort, this episode will help you see your property through the lens of experience, emotion, and execution.

Website: https://www.grandwailea.com/?SEO_id=GMB-AMER-WA-JHMGWWA&y_source=1_MjA4MzkwOS03MTUtbG9jYXRpb24ud2Vic2l0ZQ%3D%3D

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan recap a huge milestone—Cody’s first time serving as Master of Ceremonies at a BITAC event, kicking things off at BITAC Luxury in Naples, Florida.

Cody shares a behind-the-scenes look at what makes BITAC events so unique in the hospitality space, why they’re so valuable for both operators and vendors, and what you can expect if you ever get the opportunity to attend.

If you’ve ever been curious about BITAC—or wondered if it’s worth your time—this episode breaks it all down.

🔹 Segment 1: First-Time MC Experience
Cody shares what it was like stepping into the MC role for the first time, the energy of the event, and what surprised him most about being on the other side of the experience.

🔹 Segment 2: What Makes BITAC Different
Not your typical conference. Cody & Meagan talk about:

  • The one-on-one meeting format
  • High-quality networking
  • Curated attendees
  • Why conversations actually lead to real business

🔹 Segment 3: What to Expect as an Attendee
Whether you’re a hotel owner, operator, or vendor, Cody breaks down:

  • How the schedule works
  • What the meetings are like
  • How to prepare
  • How to get the most value out of your time

🔹 Segment 4: Upcoming BITAC Events Cody Will Be MC’ing
Cody announces the upcoming events where he’ll be serving as Master of Ceremonies:

  • BITAC® Luxury 2026 | February 22–24, 2026
    📍 Naples Grande Beach Resort | Naples, Florida
  • BITAC® Operations 2026 | April 26–28, 2026
    📍 Luminary Hotel | Fort Myers, Florida
  • BITAC® Casino Resorts 2026 | June 7–9, 2026
    📍 The Phoenician | Scottsdale, Arizona
  • BITAC® Purchasing & Design Summer 2026 | July 12–14, 2026
    📍 JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District | Savannah, Georgia
  • BITAC® Purchasing & Design Fall 2026 | October 25–27, 2026
    📍 La Costa Resort | Carlsbad, California
  • BITAC® Owners Fall 2026 | November 15–17, 2026
    📍 VEA Newport Beach | Newport Beach, California

🔹 Segment 5: How to Get Involved
Interested in attending a future BITAC event as a sponsor or executive? Cody shares how to get connected and why now is the time to get involved.

👉 Learn more about BITAC events:
https://www.bitac.net/

📩 Reach out directly to Cody:
cody@thevibrantteam.com

Whether you're looking to grow your network, discover new partners, or stay ahead in hospitality, this episode gives you a front-row seat to one of the most impactful event series in the industry.

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan are coming to you a little early—because by the time this drops, they’ll just be getting back from Hawaii 🌴. It’s a shorter, focused episode tackling one of the most important (and most misunderstood) topics in hospitality: how to build a hotel website that actually drives bookings.

Your website isn’t just a digital brochure—it’s your best salesperson. You can have the most beautiful property in your market, but if your website doesn’t tell your story clearly, build trust, and guide guests to book direct, you’re leaving serious revenue on the table.

Cody & Meagan break down:

  • Why your website matters more than ever for direct bookings
  • The biggest mistakes hotels make with their sites
  • How a strong website protects you from over-reliance on OTAs
  • What your site needs to do to increase conversion and ADR

To go deeper, we’re linking one of our most popular episodes of all time—our 2022 breakdown on hotel websites. It’s the 5th most downloaded episode ever, with over 400 downloads, and it’s still just as relevant today.

🔁 Throwback Episode to Listen To:
How to Build a Hotel Website
Knowing where to turn to start your hotel website can be really intimidating. You can have the best property in your area and no one will ever know—because your website does a terrible job showing the property. Instead of capturing direct bookings, you lose 20% of revenue to Expedia or Booking.com simply because your site doesn’t convert. This episode walks through how to optimize your boutique hotel website so it sells for you, drives more direct bookings, and supports higher room rates.
👉 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1992151/episodes/10793009-how-to-build-a-hotel-website

If you’ve been thinking about rebuilding your site, improving conversion, or finally taking control of your direct bookings—this is the episode (and throwback) you don’t want to miss.

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In this episode, Cody sits down with Jason Jenkins, Vice President of Sales at Bonafide AI, to unpack one of the most important shifts happening in hospitality today: how artificial intelligence is reshaping exposure, trust, and bookings.

AI isn’t coming—it’s already here. The question is whether hotels will use it to their advantage or get left behind.

Jason and Cody dive into how Bonafide AI is helping hospitality brands cut through the noise, build authentic visibility, and convert attention into real bookings.

🔹 Segment 1: The Real Impact of AI on Hospitality
Jason breaks down how AI is changing the way guests discover hotels, evaluate trust, and make booking decisions. From search behavior to content credibility, this segment sets the foundation for what hoteliers need to understand now.

🔹 Segment 2: Exposure That Actually Converts
Not all visibility is created equal. Jason explains how Bonafide AI helps properties show up in meaningful, trusted places—creating exposure that leads to action, not just impressions.

🔹 Segment 3: Authenticity in an AI-Driven World
With so much automated content online, authenticity matters more than ever. Jason shares how hotels can leverage AI without losing their voice, their story, or their credibility.

🔹 Segment 4: How Hotels Can Start Using AI Today
Cody and Jason close with practical ways operators can begin harnessing AI as a new channel for marketing, distribution, and bookings—without overwhelming their teams.

Whether you’re AI-curious or already experimenting, this episode will help you understand how to use technology thoughtfully, strategically, and profitably in hospitality.

🔗 Learn More & Connect with Jason

Bonafide AI Website:
https://www.bonafide.ai/

Jason Jenkins on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-jenkins/

Email Jason directly:
jason@bonafide.ai

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan explore a major shift shaping modern hospitality: guests care far more about how a place feels than how big it is. As travel becomes more experience-driven, unforgettable moments, emotional design, and intentional details are replacing square footage as the true measure of value.

This episode challenges operators to rethink how they design, market, and deliver hospitality in the experience economy.

🔹 Cold Open: Big or Memorable?
“Would you rather have a huge, generic room—or a tiny, unforgettable one?”
Cody & Meagan debate, laugh, and set the stage for understanding modern travel psychology.

🔹 Segment 1: The Shift in Guest Expectations
Today’s guests are looking for:

  • Story
  • Vibe
  • Aesthetic
  • Memories
  • Shareable moments

They unpack how Instagram, boutique hospitality, and emotional design have reshaped expectations—and answer the question:
👉 What actually makes a place unforgettable?

🔹 Segment 2: Designing Moments, Not Rooms
This segment focuses on how small, intentional details create big emotional impact:

  • Welcome rituals
  • Scent and lighting
  • Textures and materials
  • Curated local touches
  • Micro-luxuries that surprise and delight

👉 What tiny detail makes a guest feel truly special?
Cody & Meagan brainstorm ideas operators can implement immediately.

🔹 Segment 3: Why Small Beats Big
They close by discussing why smaller, intentional spaces often win:

  • Intimacy
  • Thoughtful design
  • Personality over square footage

Closing thought:
👉 Guests remember feelings, not floor plans.

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan pull back the curtain on one of the biggest myths in hospitality: that running a rental is “passive income.” With humor, honesty, and plenty of real-life stories, they break down what guests think operators do all day versus the invisible work that actually keeps properties running.

From last-minute emergencies to emotional labor no one prepares you for, this episode shines a light on the reality behind great hospitality—and why consistency is harder than growth.

🔹 Cold Open: The Illusion
“What do guests imagine we do all day?”
Cue the sunsets, coffee sipping, and magically self-cleaning rooms. Cody & Meagan kick things off with laughs before diving straight into reality.

🔹 Segment 1: The Invisible Work
The work guests never see:

  • Turnovers and tight timelines
  • Maintenance chaos
  • Logistics and coordination
  • Emotional labor
  • Real-time guest problem solving

They share funny emergency stories, last-minute saves, and answer the question:
👉 What’s the hardest part of the job no one ever notices?

🔹 Segment 2: Why Consistency Is Harder Than Growth
Growth looks exciting—but consistency is where operators are tested. This segment covers:

  • Systems and standards
  • Burnout risk
  • Repetition fatigue
  • Scaling without losing quality

👉 Anyone can grow. Very few can stay excellent.

🔹 Segment 3: The Reward Side
To balance it all out, Cody & Meagan talk about why it’s worth it:

  • Guest memories
  • Repeat visitors
  • Emotional wins
  • Meaningful hospitality moments

Closing reflection:
👉 We’re not selling rooms. We’re hosting milestones.

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Spring Break bookings are chaos season—and in this episode, Cody and Meagan break down why. This isn’t normal travel behavior. It’s emotional, urgent, and often stressful. Guests aren’t just booking a room… they’re booking relief.

With an energetic, observational, and practical tone, this episode helps operators understand the psychology behind Spring Break bookings and what actually pushes guests to click “Book Now.”

🔹 Cold Open: Chaos Season Is Here
Cody and Meagan kick things off with light banter and real-life stories about how Spring Break travel feels different from every other season—higher urgency, group dynamics, emotional decision-making, and planning pressure. The stage is set for why this season matters so much.

👉 Key mindset shift: Guests aren’t shopping for features—they’re shopping for peace of mind.

🔹 Segment 1: The Emotional Booking Brain
Spring Break is an emotional purchase, not a logical one.

Cody and Meagan explore what different guests really want:

  • Families want zero stress
  • Parents want predictability and safety
  • Groups want fun and social space
  • Couples want escape and vibe

They dig into questions like:

  • What are guests afraid of getting wrong?
  • What actually ruins a Spring Break trip?
  • What makes parents feel confident hitting “book”?

Operator takeaway:
Remove friction, overcommunicate clarity, and sell confidence—not complexity.

🔹 Segment 2: What Actually Makes Them Book
Framed as a friendly debate, this segment breaks down the real conversion drivers:

  • Sleep comfort
  • Easy food setup
  • Clear location info
  • Photos that tell a story
  • Fast, responsive messaging

Cody and Meagan challenge each other with questions like:

  • What’s the first thing you judge in a listing?
  • Do bad photos instantly kill trust?
  • Do guests care more about beds or kitchens?

The result: practical insights you can apply immediately.

🔹 Segment 3: Why Guests Bounce
They unpack the hidden deal-breakers that quietly destroy conversions:

  • Confusing layouts
  • Unclear sleeping arrangements
  • Surprise fees
  • Parking mysteries
  • Slow or unclear communication

👉 The big takeaway: Conversion = clarity + confidence.

🔹 Closing: Easy Wins Every Property Can Apply
Cody and Meagan wrap with a simple truth:

“Spring Break guests don’t want perfect — they want easy.”

Listeners are encouraged to audit their own listings from a guest’s perspective and remove anything that creates hesitation or stress.

This episode is packed with mindset shifts and quick wins that can immediately improve Spring Break performance—and every peak season after.

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In this episode, Cody and Meagan revisit the heart of what this podcast is all about: being a Virtual GM. With remote operations becoming the norm—not the exception—this conversation is a must-listen for any owner or operator looking to manage smarter, leaner, and more flexibly.

Meagan brings a rare perspective, having served as a Virtual GM since 2020, navigating the hospitality industry through massive change. From pandemic-era pivots to today’s tech-driven workflows, she shares real-world lessons learned and what it truly takes to succeed virtually in 2026.

🔹 Segment 1: What It Really Means to Be a Virtual GM
Cody and Meagan break down the role of a Virtual GM and how it differs from traditional on-site management.

🔹 Segment 2: Lessons Learned Since 2020
Meagan reflects on the biggest operational shifts, guest behavior changes, and leadership lessons that emerged through the most transformative years in hospitality.

🔹 Segment 3: Tools That Make Virtual Management Work
From PMS and messaging platforms to automation and reporting tools, Meagan outlines the most important systems every Virtual GM needs.

🔹 Segment 4: Tips, Tricks & Best Practices for 2026
The episode wraps with actionable insights on communication, accountability, service standards, and how to keep the guest experience seamless—even when managing from afar.

If you’re considering virtual management—or already doing it—this episode delivers the blueprint to run your property efficiently while staying deeply connected to your guests.

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Meagan rejoins Cody for a timely and future-focused conversation on one of the most transformative forces in hospitality: Artificial Intelligence. As guest expectations rise and teams remain lean, AI is quickly becoming a must-have—not a nice-to-have—for properties heading into 2026.

In this episode, Cody and Meagan break down how hoteliers can realistically use AI today—without needing a tech background or massive budget.

🔹 Segment 1: Why AI Matters in Hospitality in 2026
Cody and Meagan discuss why AI adoption is accelerating and how properties that ignore it risk falling behind.

🔹 Segment 2: Using AI in Daily Hotel Operations
From guest communication and content creation to internal workflows, they share practical ways AI can save time, reduce errors, and improve consistency.

🔹 Segment 3: AI-Powered Marketing in 2026
Cody shares exciting insights into how AI can:

  • Improve website conversions
  • Personalize marketing messages
  • Enhance email and paid ad performance
  • Help properties compete with larger brands

🔹 Segment 4: Getting Started Without Overwhelm
They close with advice on how to adopt AI thoughtfully—starting small, staying human, and using AI to enhance (not replace) hospitality.

Whether you’re AI-curious or already experimenting, this episode gives you a clear roadmap for using AI to operate smarter and market better in 2026.

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In this episode, Cody welcomes Audrey Yates, Vice President of Hotel Partnerships at Stash Hotel Rewards, to break down what truly makes loyalty programs work for independent hotels—without sacrificing brand identity or guest experience.

Cody and Audrey dive into how Stash empowers independent properties to compete with big brands by offering meaningful loyalty benefits, driving repeat stays, and increasing direct bookings—while still letting hotels stay true to their unique story.

🔹 Segment 1: What Makes Stash Hotel Rewards Different
Audrey explains how Stash was built specifically for independent hotels, focusing on quality, experience, and alignment—not cookie-cutter points systems.

🔹 Segment 2: Why Loyalty Matters More Than Ever
With rising acquisition costs and increased OTA competition, Cody and Audrey discuss how loyalty programs like Stash help hotels retain guests and strengthen long-term relationships.

🔹 Segment 3: Best Practices for Independent Properties Using Loyalty
From positioning loyalty at check-in to weaving it into digital touchpoints, this segment covers how to maximize Stash’s impact.

🔹 Segment 4: Top 5 Independent Hospitality Events You Should Attend
Cody and Audrey wrap up by sharing their top events for networking, education, and growth in independent hospitality:

  1. Independent Lodging Congress – https://ilcongress.com/
  2. Independent Hotel Show – https://independenthotelshow.us/
  3. AHLA Events – https://www.ahla.com/events
  4. HITEC – https://www.hitec.org/
  5. Boutique & Lifestyle Lodging Association (BLLA) – https://blla.org/

Whether you’re running a boutique hotel, independent resort, or lifestyle property, this episode is packed with insight on loyalty, community, and where to show up in the industry.

Learn more about Stash Hotel Rewards: https://www.stashrewards.com/

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In this episode, Cody sits down with special guest J. Viola, Chief Operating Officer at Hotel Interactive, to pull back the curtain on one of the most impactful event series in hospitality: BITAC.

Cody and J. dive into what truly sets BITAC events apart from traditional conferences—from the highly curated format to the quality of relationships built in the room. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or underwhelmed by large trade shows, this episode explains why BITAC continues to stand out year after year.

🔹 Segment 1: What Makes BITAC Different
J. shares how BITAC’s invitation-only structure, balanced buyer-to-supplier ratio, and intentional networking create meaningful conversations—not badge scanning chaos.

🔹 Segment 2: Why Hospitality Leaders Keep Coming Back
With 88.5% of attendees being first-time participants last year, BITAC continues to attract fresh perspectives while maintaining a high-caliber audience of decision-makers.

🔹 Segment 3: Cody’s Role as Master of Ceremonies
Cody announces his exciting role as Master of Ceremonies for six BITAC events this year:

  • BITAC Luxury
  • BITAC Operations 2026
  • BITAC Casino Resorts 2026
  • BITAC Purchasing & Design Summer 2026
  • BITAC Purchasing & Design Fall 2026
  • BITAC Owners Fall 2026

🔹 Segment 4: Why These Events Matter for Your Career & Business
From owners and operators to vendors and brand leaders, Cody and J. explain why BITAC is one of the most efficient ways to build relationships, source solutions, and stay ahead of industry trends.

If you’re serious about growing in hospitality and attending events that actually move the needle, this episode is a must-listen.

Learn more about BITAC events here: https://www.bitac.net/

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In this episode, Cody and Meagan dive into the powerful world of micro-moments—those small, often overlooked guest interactions that can build lasting loyalty and boost your property’s reputation.

🔹 Segment 1: What the Heck is a Micro-Moment?
Discover what micro-moments really are and why they matter more than ever in hospitality.

🔹 Segment 2: Stories from Real Properties
Cody and Meagan share inspiring examples of micro-moments that made a huge impact on guests and businesses.

🔹 Segment 3: Where Micro-Moments Come From
Understand the origins of these meaningful moments and how your team can spot opportunities to create them.

🔹 Segment 4: How to Implement Micro-Moments Today
Practical tips and strategies you can start using right now to elevate your guest experience and build stronger loyalty.

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Kick off 2026 with Meagan and Cody as they dive into everything you need to start the new year strong in boutique hospitality. This special New Year’s Day episode is all about fresh energy, new goals, and smart upgrades to set your property apart.

🔹 Segment 1: New Year Guest Vibes
Learn what guests are expecting in the new year and how to match those fresh vibes to boost guest satisfaction and bookings.

🔹 Segment 2: Quick Upgrades for a Fresh Start
Simple, actionable upgrades you can make now that will have an immediate impact on your guest experience and property appeal.

🔹 Segment 3: Top 5 Goals for 2026
Meagan and Cody share their personal and professional goals for 2026—and offer inspiration to help you set your own hospitality goals for a successful year.

Whether you’re a boutique inn, a small hotel, or a vacation rental, this episode is your guide to starting 2026 with momentum and purpose.

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In this Christmas-morning episode, Cody & Meagan dive into what makes a stay truly special at the holidays — from guest expectations to festive touches — and wrap things up with their own Christmas movie showdown 🎬.

🎁 What’s Inside:

🔹 Segment 1: What Guests Want for Christmas

  • A warm welcome, cozy ambiance, and thoughtful touches that turn a stay into a holiday memory.
  • How small hotels and rentals can anticipate guest needs during the holidays.

🔹 Segment 2: Holiday Touches Guests Remember

  • Ideas for holiday décor, welcome gifts, seasonal amenities, and atmosphere upgrades that delight without breaking the bank.
  • How to balance festive spirit with comfort and good service.

🔹 Segment 3: Quick Wins for Hosts

  • Easy-to-implement actions: holiday-themed emails, festive check-in gifts, curated guides to local holiday events, holiday-special pricing.
  • Tips to create holiday magic even with limited staff or budget.

🔹 Segment 4: Meagan & Cody’s Top 5 Christmas Movies
They each share their top five holiday films — and a bonus pick — for festive movie night recommendations. Feel free to vote in the comments for YOUR favorite!

Meagan’s Picks:

  1. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever — IMDB
  2. The Santa Clause — IMDB
  3. Home Alone — IMDB
  4. How the Grinch Stole Christmas — IMDB
  5. The Christmas Chronicles — IMDB

Cody’s Picks:

  1. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation — IMDB
  2. The Night Before — IMDB
  3. Jingle All the Way — IMDB
  4. Elf — IMDB
  5. A Christmas Story — IMDB

🎬 Bonus Movie: Die Hard — IMDB

Whether you’re running a boutique inn, a vacation rental, or a hotel — or just love holiday vibes — this episode offers practical tips to create festive magic for your guests. And if you’re in the mood for movie night, we’ve got you covered.

Previous Marketing Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1992151/episodes/16086739-marketing-tips-to-end-the-year-strong

Happy holidays — and may your guests (and your movie night) be merry and bright! ✨

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In this episode, Cody sits down with special guest Walter Peseski
(LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walter-peseski/), Senior Vice President of Asset Management at Garfield Public/Private—one of the most respected firms in the development and public/private partnership space.

With more than 30 million square feet developed, over $11 billion in financing structured, and $2 billion in successful public/private projects, Garfield brings unmatched expertise to how hospitality assets are managed, financed, and optimized.

Walter, a 20-year hospitality veteran with leadership experience at Disney, Hilton, and Wyndham, offers a rare and insightful look into how hotels truly operate behind the scenes—and what owners don’t know they should be asking.

🔹 Segment 1: Why Third-Party Asset Management Matters
Walter explains why most owners aren’t hoteliers—and how a strategic asset manager protects the owner's interests, ensures operational transparency, and asks the hard questions management companies often overlook.

🔹 Segment 2: How Public/Private Partnerships Shape Hospitality
From urban redevelopment to tourism infrastructure, Walter breaks down how these partnerships work, why they matter, and how they’re shaping the next generation of hotel projects.

🔹 Segment 3: Balancing Revenue Growth with Expense Control
A favorite topic: why brands and management companies are often incentivized only around revenue—and how that can hurt profitability. Walter shares how to keep both sides aligned and protect NOI.

🔹 Bonus: Walter’s Top 3 Hilton Properties
To wrap up, Cody asks Walter to share his three favorite Hilton properties to visit for vacation—perfect inspiration for your next trip.

This conversation is packed with insights for hotel owners, general managers, developers, and anyone wanting a deeper understanding of how great hotels stay great.

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan dive into the powerful role storytelling plays in hospitality branding. A great story can turn a stay into an experience—and create lasting emotional connections with your guests.

They break down how to craft a compelling brand story that truly resonates and builds loyalty.

🔹 Segment 1: Why Story Matters
Why do stories stick? Cody & Meagan explain how stories shape guest expectations, create emotional bonds, and differentiate your property in a crowded market.

🔹 Segment 2: What Makes a Brand Story Work
Not all stories are created equal. They cover the key elements that make a story authentic, memorable, and relevant to your target guests.

🔹 Segment 3: Examples from Real Properties
Cody & Meagan highlight inspiring examples, including the Adobe Desert Motel, a standout in storytelling-driven branding. Check them out:

  • Website: adobedesertmotel.com
  • Instagram: @adobedesert

🔹 Segment 4: How to Build Story Into Touchpoints
From website copy to guest interactions, Cody & Meagan share practical tips on weaving your brand story consistently across every guest touchpoint.

Whether you’re launching a new property or refreshing an existing brand, this episode will help you craft a story that sticks.

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan tackle one of the trickiest parts of hospitality—upselling. When done poorly, upselling can feel pushy or “slimy” to guests, but when done right, it can enhance the guest experience and boost your revenue.

Cody & Meagan break down how to make upsells feel natural, helpful, and even welcome—so your guests feel cared for, not sold to.

🔹 Segment 1: What Makes an Upsell Feel Bad
Explore common pitfalls that turn upselling into an annoyance, and why guests reject offers that feel insincere or timed poorly.

🔹 Segment 2: The Helpful Human Approach
Learn how framing upsells as friendly recommendations can build trust and improve guest satisfaction.

🔹 Segment 3: Timing is Everything
Find out when to present upsell opportunities for the best response—from pre-arrival messaging to check-in and beyond.

🔹 Segment 4: How to Implement Today
Get actionable tips on setting up automated pre-arrival texts with curated offers, adding celebration packages, and personalizing recommendations without being “salesy.”

Upselling done right = more revenue + a better guest experience. Guests appreciate thoughtful suggestions—and you’ll love the boost to your bottom line!

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Thanksgiving Special!
In this festive episode, Cody & Meagan celebrate the holiday by going head-to-head in a Thanksgiving Snake Draft to build the best Thanksgiving dish lineup ever.

Meagan drafts: Turkey, Ham, Hand-Made Rolls, Gravy, Broccoli Casserole, Cranberries & Funeral Potatoes.
Cody drafts: Mashed Potatoes, Green Bean Casserole, Brisket, Homemade Mac & Cheese, Salad, Deviled Eggs & Homemade Apple Pie.

Who built the better Thanksgiving plate? Let us know in the comments!

Then, the tradition continues as Cody & Meagan make their Thanksgiving Day football picks:

  • Packers vs Lions: Meagan picks Packers, Cody picks Lions
  • Chiefs vs Cowboys: Meagan picks the Cowboys, Cody picks the Chiefs
  • Bengals vs Ravens: Meagan and Cody both pick Ravens

Kick back, enjoy the holiday, and laugh along as we debate dishes, make predictions, and celebrate another year of gratitude with all of you. Happy Thanksgiving!

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan dive into one of the most mission-critical topics for hotels heading into 2026: Reputation Management. Guest expectations are higher than ever—and reviews now live everywhere, from Google to TikTok to niche travel communities. Whether you're a boutique inn or a full-scale resort, your reputation is your revenue.

Cody & Meagan break down the exact framework Vibrant uses to help properties protect, strengthen, and rebuild trust with guests—no matter what comes your way.

🔹 Segment 1: Where Reputation Lives Now

The landscape has changed. Reviews don’t just sit on Google anymore—they’re on Instagram Stories, Reddit threads, influencer vlogs, and private travel groups. Cody & Meagan outline the new digital “ecosystem of opinion” and what hotels must monitor in 2026.

🔹 Segment 2: The 3R Review Method — Reflect, Reassure, Repair

A simple, powerful formula every hotel can use:

  • Reflect: Acknowledge what the guest experienced.
  • Reassure: Show your commitment to their comfort and care.
  • Repair: Share what you’ve done or will do to fix the issue.

This method helps properties transform even tough reviews into trust-building moments.

🔹 Segment 3: Off-Script Stories

Cody & Meagan dive into real-life examples where teams went off-script—in good ways and not-so-good ways. These stories highlight the impact of human moments, tone, and timing in reputation management.

🔹 Segment 4: Proactive Strategy

You can’t just respond—you must anticipate. This segment explores how to build a proactive plan:

  • Monitoring across platforms
  • Encouraging positive reviews strategically
  • Training staff on service recovery
  • Creating "reputation rituals" that keep quality consistent

Whether you're fighting back from a tough season or looking to elevate an already great reputation, this episode will help you master the trust game in 2026.

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In this special episode, Cody takes a nostalgic (and inspiring!) look back at the most downloaded Vibrant Guest Management Podcast episodes from each of the last four years. From the very first season to the latest breakthroughs in AI, these episodes represent the best conversations, insights, and moments our listeners couldn’t get enough of.

Here are the top picks:

  1. 🏨 Tools You Need to Get Started in Hospitality (July 12, 2022)
    👉 Listen Here
  2. 📈 4 Ways To Boost Your Hotel Advertising with Director of Marketing Leah Roberts (November 27, 2023)
    👉 Listen Here
  3. 🧳 Owner Opportunities: Must-Haves for Building a Successful Property (June 20, 2024)
    👉 Listen Here
  4. 🤖 The Future of Hospitality with AI – Featuring Logan Nicholson of Talsey AI (March 27, 2025)
    👉 Listen Here

Cody reflects on what made each episode stand out—whether it was the actionable takeaways, expert guest insights, or the timeless advice that continues to help property owners level up.

If you’re new to the show, this is the perfect place to start. And if you’ve been with us since the beginning, it’s a chance to revisit the episodes that shaped our journey together.

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Just in time for Halloween, Cody gets spooky and shares his top 5 all-time Halloween movies. These are films that deliver chills, laughs, nostalgia—and a little bit of magic for the season.

Here’s the lineup:

  1. Halloween (1978) — IMDB
  2. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974) — IMDB
  3. Hocus Pocus - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0107120/?ref_=ls_t_1
  4. Halloweentown — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0173886/
  5. Beetlejuice — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094721/

Cody talks about what makes each film special—the scares, the heart, the laughs—and why each holds a spot on their Halloween watchlist. Whether you prefer full horror, family fun, or quirky fantasy, this episode has something for everyone falling under the Halloween moonlight.

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In this episode, Cody breaks down the Top 5 Digital Must-Haves every hotel, resort, and boutique property needs to thrive in today’s hospitality landscape. Whether you’re a small independent inn or managing multiple properties, these digital essentials will help you drive bookings, boost visibility, and stay ahead of the competition.

From building a high-converting website to mastering your review strategy and leveraging paid ads, Cody shares real, actionable steps you can implement today to strengthen your digital presence and grow revenue.

💻 The 5 Digital Must-Haves

  1. Website – Your digital front door. Why design, UX, and speed matter more than ever.
  2. Reviews – How to turn guest feedback into your most powerful marketing asset.
  3. Organic Social – Building brand loyalty through authentic storytelling.
  4. Google Ads – Capturing intent-driven travelers right when they’re ready to book.
  5. Meta Ads – Extending your reach and retargeting guests with precision.

🧭 Key Takeaways

  • The difference between digital presence and digital performance
  • How to prioritize your marketing budget across platforms
  • Mistakes hoteliers make when running ads (and how to fix them)
  • Tools to track success and measure ROI
  • How to create a cohesive brand message across all channels

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In this episode, Cody dives into one of the most exciting and buzzworthy new hotel openings in the country — the highly anticipated Hotel Pontotoc. With its stunning design, rich history, and tagline “Clean Sheets, Shady Past,” this boutique gem in downtown Memphis is redefining what a modern historic property can be.

Cody walks listeners through everything Hotel Pontotoc did right during their launch — from crafting an unforgettable guest experience to building a strong online presence and aligning their brand story with their market.

He also shares actionable tips and tricks every hotelier can use to ensure a smooth and successful opening, no matter the size of their property.

💡 Special Offer: Book now and receive 20% off your stay through the end of the year (minimum 3-night stay). Don’t miss out on experiencing this iconic new property for yourself!

🧭 Key Takeaways

  • The foundational steps to a seamless property opening
  • How to build buzz before your first booking
  • Tips for training staff and ensuring brand alignment from day one
  • What makes Hotel Pontotoc stand out in the boutique space
  • The importance of storytelling in launching a new property

Website: https://hotelpontotoc.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hotelpontotocmemphis/

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In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, Meagan and Cody dive into one of the biggest challenges small properties face: delivering luxury-level service with a lean team. Drawing on Vibrant’s experience managing boutique hotels, they share strategies that prove you don’t need a massive staff to create an unforgettable guest experience.

Here’s what we cover:

  • Segment 1: The Small Team Advantage – why fewer hands can actually create more consistency.
  • Segment 2: High-Impact Guest Moments – identifying and mastering the touchpoints that matter most.
  • Segment 3: Personalization at Scale – making guests feel seen and valued, without extra workload.
  • Segment 4: Extending Service Through Partnerships – leaning on trusted local providers to expand offerings.
  • Segment 5: Leveraging Tech to Save Time – tools that streamline tasks so you can focus on guests.

We wrap up with a 3-Step Action Plan you can start implementing today to wow your guests, even with a two-person team.

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In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, Cody sits down with special guest Moritz von Petersdorff-Campen, Co-Founder & Managing Director of SuitePad
. SuitePad is redefining the in-room guest experience with its award-winning tablet solution, designed to increase engagement, streamline communication, and boost hotel profitability.

Moritz shares the SuitePad story, how it started, where it’s headed, and the tangible impact it can have on your hotel’s bottom line. If you’ve been looking for ways to modernize your guest experience and increase revenue, this episode is a must-listen.

📩 Interested in learning more? Contact Moritz and his team directly at info@suitepad.de

Website: https://www.suitepad.de/en/

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In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, Cody & Meagan tackle one of the least glamorous—but most powerful—tools in hospitality: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). SOPs may not sound exciting, but they are the backbone of consistency, efficiency, and guest satisfaction.

We break it all down:

  • Segment 1: Why SOPs Matter for Small Hotels
  • Segment 2: Where to Start
  • Segment 3: Creating SOPs Quickly
  • Segment 4: Getting Staff Buy-In
  • Segment 5: Avoiding SOP Overload

Whether you’re running a boutique hotel, short-term rental, or managing multiple properties, this episode gives you practical, actionable strategies to streamline your business and save hours every week.

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In this episode, Cody and Meagan reveal Vibrant’s proven secrets to revenue success in boutique hospitality.

  • Segment 1: The Boutique Revenue Mindset – how independent hotels can thrive without competing like the big brands.
  • Segment 2: Hidden Revenue Streams – think late check-out/early check-in fees, in-room add-on packages, and curated experiences that elevate the guest stay.
  • Segment 3: Direct Booking Power Plans – exclusive perks for booking direct, website optimization tips, and how to re-engage past guests with smart email marketing.
  • Segment 4: Seasonal & Event-Based Packages – capitalize on local events, holiday specials, and off-peak retreats to keep revenue flowing year-round.
  • Segment 5: Avoiding the Discount Trap – why deep discounts erode value and what to do instead.

Whether you’re running a boutique hotel, resort, or vacation rental, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to maximize profitability without rushing to slash rates.

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In this fun and travel-packed episode, Meagan and Cody share their all-time favorite vacation spots — the destinations that keep them inspired, relaxed, and always ready for their next adventure. From luxury resorts to scenic escapes, these are the places we can’t stop talking about.

We cover:
🏨 Luxury Resorts We Love — Arizona Biltmore (Website), The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota (Website), Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills (Website), and The Waterfront Beach Resort (Website).
🏞 Nature Escapes — Cougar Ridge (Website) and the serene Priest Lake State Park in Idaho (Website).
🌴 Why We Love Them — From breathtaking views to top-tier hospitality, we share what makes each spot special.
💡 Travel Takeaways — How to choose your next destination and get the most out of your trip.

If you’re looking for your next great getaway or just want to daydream about incredible destinations, this episode is for you.

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In this episode, Cody and Meagan dive into one of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, areas of hospitality — the in-room guest experience. As hotel GMs, creating spaces that guests remember (and rave about) can be the ultimate driver of loyalty and revenue.

We cover:
1️⃣ First, Get the Basics Right — Cleanliness, comfort, and functionality are non-negotiable.
2️⃣ Designing for Emotion, Not Just Looks — How to create rooms that connect on a deeper, more memorable level.
3️⃣ Wellness Is the New Luxury — Why wellness features are no longer an add-on, but an expectation.
4️⃣ Tech That Feels Like Magic — Implementing technology that enhances without overwhelming.
5️⃣ Surprise and Delight — The small, thoughtful touches that make guests feel truly special.
6️⃣ The GM’s In-Room Experience Toolkit — Our curated list of must-haves and best practices for unforgettable stays.

Whether you manage a boutique property, a luxury resort, or anything in between, this episode will give you the strategies and inspiration to turn every room into a guest magnet.

📌 Pro tip — It’s not about how much you spend, but how intentionally you design each moment your guest spends in their room.

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In this episode, Cody and Meagan break down how small hotels can punch above their weight and deliver big-brand guest experiences without bloated costs or layers of management.

We dive deep into:
1️⃣ The Reality of Running Lean — Why small hotels must embrace efficiency to stay competitive.
2️⃣ Core Systems That Create Freedom — The technology stack and operational processes that free you from constant firefighting.
3️⃣ Rethinking Staffing & Guest Service — How to maximize your team’s impact while keeping payroll healthy.
4️⃣ Common Mistakes Small Hotels Make — Pitfalls to avoid when scaling operations or improving service.
5️⃣ The Lean Luxury Roadmap — A practical blueprint for delivering premium experiences with fewer resources.

Whether you’re a boutique inn, an independent resort, or a small hotel looking to compete with the big players, this episode gives you the playbook for running lean, smart, and guest-focused.

📌 Pro tip — These principles aren’t about cutting corners; they’re about cutting waste so you can invest where it matters most: your guests.

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🎙️ Season 3, Episode 4 — Brewing Innovation with Ted Ayliffe, CEO of Coulee Coffee

In this episode, Cody is joined by Ted Ayliffe, the visionary CEO behind Coulee Coffee — a coffee company that’s changing the way hospitality delivers quality, consistency, and an unforgettable guest experience.

Cody and Ted first crossed paths at BITAC Owners earlier this year, and it was immediately clear that Coulee Coffee wasn’t just another coffee brand — it’s a revolutionary product built for hotels, resorts, and any business that values top-tier taste with streamlined operations.

From Coulee’s unique brewing approach to its focus on sustainability and brand experience, Ted shares how his team is helping properties serve a consistently incredible cup of coffee — every single time.

💻 Learn more:

  • Coulee Coffee: couleecoffee.com
  • Instagram: @couleecoffeecompany

🎁 Special Offer for Our Listeners — Use promo code VGM at checkout to receive $40 off your own personal Coulee Coffee device!

☕ If you’re in hospitality and want to elevate your coffee game, you won’t want to miss this one.

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In this episode, Cody shares highlights from his recent hospitality event double-header — kicking things off at BITAC Owners in Tucson, Arizona, held at the stunning JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass, and wrapping up with his first-ever HOTEC at the iconic Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.

These events were packed with incredible people, fresh ideas, and unforgettable experiences that are shaping the future of independent hospitality. But one standout moment? Discovering the coolest coffee company everCoulee Coffee ☕️

From the coffee branding to the taste, Cody was hooked — and that’s why we’re bringing Coulee founder Ted Ayliffe on for Episode 4!

💻 Learn more:

  • BITAC: bitac.net
  • Coulee Coffee: couleecoffee.com
  • Coulee Instagram: @couleecoffeecompany

📍 And be sure to check out these stunning venues:

  • JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass
  • Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

🚨 Episode 4 Preview: Don’t miss our next episode featuring Ted Ayliffe, where we dig into the story behind Coulee Coffee!

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Ever wondered how we’ve managed to consistently produce high-quality podcast content week after week? This week, Cody is pulling back the curtain to reveal the secret sauce behind our success: BlueForm Media 🎥🎬

In this special episode, Cody sits down with Blake Norton, co-founder of BlueForm Media, to talk about the power of content creation, the importance of consistency, and how BlueForm makes it all happen — from editing to publishing to keeping our brand sharp and professional.

BlueForm Media is led by Blake Norton and Mallory Roberts, and they’ve been our production partners from the very beginning. Whether you're just thinking about launching a podcast, creating video content, or leveling up your brand, BlueForm is who you want in your corner.

💡 Thinking of launching your own podcast or video brand?
👉 Reach out to Blake and Mallory at admin@blueformmedia.com

📌 Learn more: blueformmedia.com
📸 Follow them on Instagram: @blueformmedia

🎧 Like, follow, and share this episode with someone who’s ready to tell their story through content.

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We’re back! 🎙️ It’s hard to believe we’re already kicking off Season 3 of the VGM Podcast — and we’re so excited to have you along for the ride. To celebrate, Cody is flying solo in this episode to recap the Top 5 Most Downloaded Episodes from Season 2.

Whether you’re a long-time listener or just joining us, these five episodes were the fan favorites that delivered the most value, insight, and real talk about what it takes to succeed in hospitality. 🎯

Here are the Top 5 Episodes from Season 2:

  1. Owner Opportunities: Must-Haves for Building a Successful Property
    👉 Listen Here
  2. Navigating OTAs: Maximizing Direct Bookings and Understanding Online Travel Agents
    👉 Listen Here
  3. Preparing Your Hospitality Business for Success in 2025
    👉 Listen Here
  4. Financial Foundations: Mastering Budgeting and Cash Flow in Hospitality
    👉 Listen Here
  5. Top Hospitality Events for 2025 & HR Insights with Joe Ruzicka
    👉 Listen Here

This episode is a perfect place to start if you're new to the podcast — and a great refresher if you’ve been with us since day one.

Let’s get this new season started! 💥

🎧 Listen, Subscribe, and Leave a Review — it helps more independent hoteliers find us!

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To close out an incredible Season 2, Cody is flying solo and answering the top 5 questions from our listeners this year:

  1. What were the biggest takeaways or lessons from this season?
  2. What episode or guest had the biggest impact—and why?
  3. What was your favorite part of the season?
  4. What do you hope listeners learn from the VGM Podcast?
  5. What can we expect from Season 3?

It’s been an amazing ride filled with inspiring guests, game-changing tools, and behind-the-scenes moments. 🎧

Thank you to all of our listeners for tuning in, sharing, and growing with us.
Be sure to like, subscribe, and stay tuned—we’ll be back next week with Season 3!

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In this episode, Cody and Meagan pull back the curtain on Vibrant’s proven approach to revenue management—but here’s the catch:
We’re not giving anything away in the show notes.

No teasers. No hints.
If you want to hear how we consistently drive revenue, maximize occupancy, and make strategic pricing decisions across our properties, you’re going to have to hit play.

💡 This episode is packed with real-world advice and tactics that actually work—but only for those who tune in.

🎧 Listen now to hear the exact process that helps our team stay ahead of the curve in a competitive market.

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In this episode, Cody and Meagan break down the six most essential tools every aspiring hotelier, property manager, or vacation rental owner needs to launch and run a successful hospitality business. Whether you're opening your first boutique property or scaling your short-term rental portfolio, this episode covers the foundational systems and services to prioritize.

🔧 The Big Six Tools:

  1. PMS (Property Management System)
    Your central hub for managing bookings, availability, and operations.
    ✅ Our favorites: WebRezPro & ThinkReservations
  2. Messaging Tools
    Communicate clearly and automatically with your guests.
    ✅ Top picks: Akia & Talsey AI
  3. Locks & Access Control
    From keypads to app-based entry, guest access needs to be seamless and secure.
    ✅ There are many great smart lock options—choose one that integrates with your PMS.
  4. OTA Channels (Online Travel Agencies)
    Leverage platforms like Airbnb, Expedia, and Booking.com to drive bookings—but know how to use them wisely to avoid over-dependence.
  5. Website
    Your website is your digital storefront. A custom, mobile-optimized site builds credibility and boosts direct bookings.
    ✅ Need one? We can help—reach out!
  6. Merchant Account / Payment Processing
    You need a trusted merchant processor for secure, reliable guest payments—don’t skimp on this.

🎯 Whether you're just getting started or looking to tighten up your tech stack, this episode delivers a concise, actionable checklist to make sure you’ve got the right tools in place.

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In this exciting episode, Cody sits down with Rick Ueno, the legendary General Manager of W South Beach, to talk all things hospitality, leadership, and the upcoming Independent Hotel Show Miami happening September 17–18 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

🎧 Listen in as Rick shares:

  • His incredible 39-year journey from dishwasher at The Westin Seattle to GM of one of Miami’s most iconic hotels
  • Why he believes the Independent Hotel Show is a must-attend event for anyone serious about boutique and independent hospitality
  • What it means to serve on the IHS Advisory Board and shape the future of the industry
  • Why cultivating a culture of service, style, and sincerity is what sets truly great hotels apart

🏨 About Rick Ueno
Rick is the definition of a hospitality veteran. He:

  • Got his start as a dishwasher
  • Spent 30 years with Westin Hotels & Resorts
  • Now leads the iconic W South Beach as GM
  • Is a passionate advocate for hotel teams, guest experience, and the evolving world of independent hospitality

🎟 Why You Should Attend Independent Hotel Show Miami
Rick and Cody dive deep into:

  • What makes IHS Miami so special: energy, connections, education
  • The value of networking with like-minded hoteliers, designers, and vendors
  • Why independent hoteliers need to show up, speak up, and stand out

🗓️ Register Now: Independent Hotel Show Miami – Sept 17–18
🎁 (Special listener discount code announced during the episode!)

Key Takeaways:
✅ Every hospitality leader has a story—Rick’s is one of perseverance, passion, and purpose
✅ Events like IHS Miami are critical for learning, connecting, and growing
✅ No matter where you start in hospitality, the sky is the limit 🌟

Links & Resources:

  • 🌴 W South Beach
  • 🎟 Independent Hotel Show Miami – Register Here
  • 🎤 Rick Ueno – Speaker Profile

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In this solo episode, Cody dives into one of his favorite parts of the hospitality world: hotel design 🎨🛏️

Fresh off his trip to HD Expo in Las Vegas (link), Cody shares insights, trends, and takeaways from one of the biggest design events in hospitality. Whether you're opening a new property, refreshing a space, or dreaming about your next renovation—this episode is for you.

🏨 Designing with Intention
Cody was joined at the Expo by Jordan Iverson, the visionary designer behind:

  • The Locale Eugene
  • The 505 Eugene

They walked the floor, explored the latest in design trends, and got inspired by:

  • Innovative textures and layouts
  • Sustainable design solutions
  • How to create Instagrammable moments without losing authenticity

🎉 Ran Into Some Friends…
While exploring the show, Cody also connected with the team from the Independent Hotel Show (link)—and guess what?
📢 Registration is OPEN NOW for the 2025 show in Miami!
If you’re in the independent hospitality space, this is one you can’t afford to miss.

💡 Why Hotel Design Matters
Cody wraps up by sharing:

  • Why design is more than “aesthetic”—it’s storytelling and strategy
  • How your space impacts guest satisfaction, reviews, and revenue
  • The top 3 things you should prioritize when designing a boutique or independent hotel

Takeaways:
✏️ Good design = better business
🎯 Design choices should align with your brand and guest experience
📍 Get out to events like HD Expo and Independent Hotel Show to stay inspired

Links & Resources:

  • 🎟 HD Expo
  • 🏨 The Locale Eugene
  • 🏨 The 505 Eugene
  • 📅 Independent Hotel Show Miami – Registration Now Open

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In this very special episode of the Vibrant Voice, Cody and Meagan pull back the curtain on something a little more personal: their relationship—as partners in life and in business.

🎙️ Real Talk:
Running a business together isn't always sunshine and spreadsheets. Cody and Meagan talk about:

  • How they divide and conquer at Vibrant
  • What they’ve learned from working side-by-side every day
  • How they manage boundaries, stress, and wins—both personal and professional

Whether you work with your partner or are just curious how they make it work, this honest conversation is all about balance, boundaries, and building something together.

🎁 BONUS VALUE DROP
Because we know you tune in for takeaways, we’re bringing back one of our most downloaded episodes EVER:

➡️ Expedia & OTA’s – How To Make Them Work In Your Favor

In this bonus replay, Cody breaks down:

  • Why OTAs aren’t the enemy
  • How to make Expedia, Booking.com, and others fuel your direct booking strategy
  • Practical tips to turn visibility into loyalty

📈 If you’ve ever felt frustrated with OTA commissions or how to stand out on those platforms—this is the episode you can’t miss.

💬 Whether you’re tuning in for the relationship realness or a tactical replay that will move the needle in your business—you’ll walk away with something that inspires.

Links & Resources:
🎧 Expedia & OTAs: How to Make Them Work in Your Favor (Original Episode)

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In this episode of the Vibrant Voice, Cody & Meagan dive into one of their favorite hospitality tech tools—Akia—and share all the latest updates and features that are helping hoteliers deliver better guest experiences, streamline operations, and drive more revenue.

💬 What is Akia?
Akia is a guest communication platform built for hospitality. It's designed to help properties communicate with guests via text, streamline check-ins, promote upsells, and create frictionless guest experiences.

🔧 What’s New with Akia?
Here’s what’s got us excited right now:

  1. AI-Powered Messaging Enhancements
    • More intuitive automated responses
    • Smarter upsell triggers
    • Better guest satisfaction tracking
  2. Upsell Marketplace Tools
    • Seamlessly promote upgrades, add-ons, and local experiences
    • Convert guest intent into more revenue with less effort
  3. New Integrations with PMS & CRM
    • Even tighter integration with tools like WebRezPro, ThinkReservations, and more
    • Makes setting up automations smoother than ever
  4. Multi-Property Management Features
    • For those running multiple properties, Akia now makes it easier to manage communication across your portfolio
    • One dashboard, total control
  5. Guest Experience Surveys with Actionable Insights
    • Send mid-stay or post-stay surveys
    • Use responses to drive real-time service recovery and long-term improvement

🎯 Why We Love It
Cody and Meagan talk about how Akia has transformed guest communication at Vibrant properties—from fewer front desk calls to happier guests and more upsell revenue.

💡 Pro Tip: Start using Akia’s automation tools for pre-arrival messages, late check-out offers, or even restaurant reservations—and watch how it changes your operations overnight.

🎧 Tune in now to hear how you can take your guest experience to the next level with Akia—and get inspired to make communication a superpower at your property.

Links & Resources:
🌐 Akia Website

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In this sun-soaked episode of the Vibrant Voice, Cody & Meagan are kicking off summer vibes early by sharing their all-time favorite summer vacation spots. Whether you’re craving coastal luxury, desert relaxation, or a mountain escape, we’ve got the perfect list of destinations that will inspire your next getaway—or give your property some hospitality ideas worth stealing.

🌞 What We Cover in This Episode:
✈️ Hotel Del Coronado – Link
An iconic beachfront resort in San Diego with timeless charm, historic architecture, and serious “summer magic” energy.

🌵 The Arizona Biltmore – Link
A desert oasis with modern luxury and Frank Lloyd Wright vibes. Great pools, epic spa, and full-on resort relaxation.

🏖️ The Waterfront Beach Resort, Huntington Beach – Link
Surf’s up! This oceanfront Hilton brings laid-back luxury and that classic SoCal summer experience.

🌄 Cliffrose Lodge, Zion National Park – Link
Right at the gateway of Zion, this is nature + boutique vibes done right. Perfect for adventurers looking to relax in style.

🌴 The Senna House, Scottsdale – Link
Modern, chic, and right in the heart of Scottsdale—great for pool lounging and walkable fun.

🌲 Whispering Woods Condos, Welches, Oregon – Link
Hidden in the Pacific Northwest, this spot is peaceful, surrounded by forest, and a perfect summer cooldown.

🔥 Whether you're planning your own summer escape or looking for guest experience inspiration to bring to your property, this episode is packed with ideas to elevate hospitality and vacation vibes.

🎧 Tune in now and start dreaming up your perfect summer getaway!

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan dive into Cody’s recent trip to BITAC Sales & Marketing, held at the stunning Fairmont Grand Del Mar in San Diego. From powerful networking moments to cutting-edge discussions in hospitality sales and marketing, Cody shares his key takeaways from this exclusive event.

Then we shift gears to help YOU plan your 2025 hospitality calendar by breaking down the top industry events you absolutely can’t miss this year.

🎙 What We Cover in This Episode:
🏨 Cody’s BITAC Experience – Highlights from the event, key connections made, and why BITAC is a must-attend for hospitality leaders.
🌴 The Fairmont Grand Del Mar – A luxury property that’s just as inspirational as the conference itself.
📅 2025 Hospitality Events You Should Be At:

  1. HD Expo | May 6–8 | Las Vegas
    Learn More
    Design, innovation, and the future of guest experiences.
  2. Independent Hotel Show Miami | Sept 17–18
    Learn More
    A boutique hospitality event packed with curated education and connections.
  3. Utah Tourism Conference | Sept 30–Oct 3
    Learn More
    For anyone with a stake in Utah's booming tourism and hospitality industry.
  4. The Hospitality Show | Oct 26–28
    Learn More
    The ultimate operations-focused event for hoteliers and hospitality professionals.

✨ Whether you're a boutique hotel owner, GM, or in sales & marketing, these events offer unmatched insight and networking. Plus, they’re a ton of fun.

🎧 Listen now to get the inside scoop and start planning your hospitality year right!

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan dive into the best family adventure you can plan this summer—a trip to Cliff Dwellers Lodge! Nestled near Lees Ferry and Horseshoe Bend, this spot offers unparalleled outdoor experiences, breathtaking scenery, and activities the whole family will love.

🎙 What You’ll Discover in This Episode:
🏕 Stay at Cliff Dwellers Lodge – A charming, remote lodge with rustic comfort and incredible views.
🚣‍♂️ Kayak Horseshoe Bend – One of the most breathtaking paddling experiences in the world! Learn how to book your trip and what to expect.
🎣 World-Class Fly Fishing – Cast your line in Lees Ferry, one of the best trout fishing destinations in the country.
🥾 Exploring the Vermilion Cliffs – Hikes, slot canyons, and hidden gems of the Arizona desert.
🌅 The Perfect Summer Getaway – Why this destination checks all the boxes for an unforgettable family trip!

From thrilling outdoor adventures to relaxing in stunning desert landscapes, Cliff Dwellers Lodge offers something for everyone. If you're looking to make incredible memories this summer, this is the place to be!

🌟 Book your adventure today:
🏨 Cliff Dwellers Lodge
🚣 Kayak Horseshoe Bend
🎣 Lees Ferry Fly Fishing

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan dive into the exciting grand opening of Hotel Pontotoc and its signature bar, The Dame, launching April 21st in Downtown Memphis!

🎙 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
🏨 The Story Behind Hotel Pontotoc – A boutique hotel with a rich and storied past, blending historic charm with modern luxury.
🍸 Inside The Dame – The property’s elegant yet rebellious bar, promising a one-of-a-kind cocktail experience.
📍 Why Memphis? – How this location captures the soul of the city, from Beale Street energy to Southern hospitality.
🛎 Bringing History to Life – How Hotel Pontotoc embraces its “Clean Sheets, Shady Past” motto to create a unique guest experience.
🎉 What to Expect on Opening Day – The events, offerings, and why you should book a stay ASAP!

Memphis is getting a new must-visit destination, and we’re here to tell you why Hotel Pontotoc should be on your travel radar!

🌟 Book your stay and experience the perfect blend of past & present at Hotel Pontotoc!

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In this episode, Cody & Meagan break down everything you need to do to ensure your property is ready for guests visiting during Easter and Spring Break. These seasons bring an influx of travelers looking for memorable stays, and it's crucial to be prepared!

🎙 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Creating a Festive Atmosphere – Small touches like Easter decorations, themed welcome gifts, or a Spring Break-ready vibe.
Family-Friendly Amenities – Making sure you have kid-friendly activities, high chairs, cribs, and everything families may need.
Optimizing for Peak Bookings – How to adjust pricing, promotions, and packages to attract both Easter weekend and Spring Break travelers.
Stocking Up on Essentials – Beach towels, sunscreen, extra linens, and all the little details that make guests feel at home.
Event & Activity Recommendations – Highlighting local Easter egg hunts, sunrise services, or Spring Break excursions to enhance your guests’ experience.

With these practical and strategic tips, you’ll be fully prepared to give your guests an unforgettable stay this season!

🚀 Make sure your property is guest-ready for one of the busiest travel times of the year!

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In this episode, Cody sits down with Dina Belon-Sayre, the President of Staypineapple Hotels and fellow Board Member of the Independent Hotel Show Miami, to dive into the future of hospitality, leadership, and industry advocacy.

🎙 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ Dina’s journey in boutique hospitality and how she has shaped Staypineapple’s unique guest experience.
✅ The importance of AHLA (American Hotel & Lodging Association) in shaping policies, supporting hoteliers, and driving industry progress.
✅ What you can expect at the Independent Hotel Show Miami, the must-attend event for boutique and independent hoteliers.
✅ Dina’s leadership philosophy and what it takes to build a memorable hospitality brand.

🏆 Dina has been recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders in Hospitality (2023 & 2024) and was featured on The Boutique Hotelier’s Power List of Industry Titans (2024). Her expertise in guest experience, leadership, and industry mentorship makes this episode a must-listen for hoteliers, entrepreneurs, and hospitality professionals.

🔗 Learn more about:

  • Staypineapple Hotels: https://www.staypineapple.com/
  • AHLA (American Hotel & Lodging Association): https://www.ahla.com/
  • Independent Hotel Show Miami: https://independenthotelshow.us/

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In this episode, Cody sits down with Logan Nicholson, the founder of Talsey AI, to discuss how artificial intelligence is transforming the hospitality industry. Logan launched Talsey AI from the thriving tech hub of Salt Lake City, UT, with a mission to bring the spirit of hospitality into hotel technology. With a background in tech and marketing, he has built a cutting-edge platform designed to enhance both the guest experience and hotelier operations.

🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ How AI is revolutionizing hotel operations and improving guest interactions.
✅ Why online reputation is directly tied to revenue, including eye-opening statistics like:

  • A 1% improvement in online reputation can lead to a 1.49% increase in RevPAR (Revenue Per Available Room).
  • The difference between a 4-star and 4.5-star property? A 35% rate increase!
    ✅ How hoteliers can leverage AI to improve efficiency, automate guest communication, and enhance personalization.
    ✅ What the future holds for AI-driven hotel management and guest engagement.

Logan brings game-changing insights into the power of AI in hospitality and how tools like Talsey AI are helping properties of all sizes increase revenue, improve guest satisfaction, and stay ahead of the competition.

🔗 Learn more about Talsey AI: https://www.talsey.com/

🔗 Connet with Logan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/logannicholson00/

🔗 Email: logan@talsey.com

Banter with Billy
Dive into real, unfiltered conversations with marketing leaders, minus the BS.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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In this episode, Cody and Meagan dive into a brand-new topic for the podcast—maintenance! As the busy season approaches, it’s crucial to ensure your property is in top shape. That’s why they’re breaking down the five most important maintenance tasks to focus on during March Maintenance Madness so your hotel or short-term rental is fully prepped for peak season.

🛠 The 5 Most Important Maintenance Items:
1️⃣ Sinking Fund – Have a reserve set aside for unexpected repairs and ongoing maintenance to avoid costly surprises.
2️⃣ Specialty Services – Schedule essential services like pest control, window washing, landscaping, and HVAC checks to keep your property in pristine condition.
3️⃣ Deep Cleaning – Now’s the time for a full-property refresh, including carpets, upholstery, walls, and hard-to-reach areas.
4️⃣ Room Maintenance – Go through every single unit and check the small but important details like loose bolts, HDMI cables, TV remotes, batteries, and more.
5️⃣ Inspections – Conduct a thorough property walkthrough to catch issues before guests do. Check for leaks, wear and tear, safety hazards, and anything that needs a quick fix before peak season hits.

This episode is packed with actionable insights to help you stay ahead of maintenance issues and ensure your guests have a flawless experience!

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In this episode, Cody and Meagan are thrilled to announce the launch of Vibrant’s newest property, Edgewater Resort! They take you behind the scenes of what it takes to successfully open a hospitality business and the four most important things you need to get right when launching a property.

🚀 The 4 Keys to a Successful Property Launch:
1️⃣ An Incredible Website – Your online presence is your first impression. A fast, user-friendly, and visually stunning website is a must for direct bookings.
2️⃣ The Best PMS (Property Management System) – The right PMS streamlines operations, automates tasks, and maximizes efficiency for both guests and staff.
3️⃣ Guest Communication Flow Tool – Ensuring seamless communication before, during, and after a guest’s stay is crucial for guest satisfaction and repeat bookings.
4️⃣ Integrations That Make Your Life Easier – The best technology stack allows everything to work together smoothly, from revenue management to housekeeping coordination.

If you're launching a new hotel, resort, or short-term rental, this episode is packed with must-know insights to set you up for success!

🌊 Check out Edgewater Resort: EdgewaterResortMI.com

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In this episode, Cody sits down with Anke Graichen, the General Manager of Hyde Beach House in Florida. Anke shares her inspiring journey of building a career in hospitality, working her way through multiple roles to reach the GM position. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to grow in the hospitality industry, Anke’s story is packed with valuable insights and motivation.

Cody and Anke also talk about their shared experience serving on the Board for Independent Hotel Show Miami. This premier hospitality event is a must-attend for industry professionals, featuring over 200 product and service vendors, networking opportunities, and expert panels.

And for our listeners, we’ve got an exclusive special offer—a free registration code to attend the Independent Hotel Show Miami! Tune in to get the details.

Topics Covered:
✅ Anke’s journey from entry-level roles to General Manager
✅ What it takes to grow and succeed in hospitality
✅ Why attending Independent Hotel Show Miami is essential for industry professionals
✅ How to connect with over 200 vendors to elevate your business
Exclusive free registration code for listeners!

Don’t miss this episode! Whether you're building your career or looking for new business opportunities, Anke’s insights and the Independent Hotel Show Miami are game-changers.

Independent Hotel Show: https://independenthotelshow.us/

Hyde Beach House: https://www.hydebeachhousefl.com/

Anke LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anke-graichen-028590185/

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In this episode, Cody is flying solo and diving deep into everything you need to do to prepare for your 2025 season. Success in hospitality doesn’t happen by accident—it’s all about planning, strategy, and execution. Cody shares his top tools, tricks, and insights to ensure your business is set up for a profitable and efficient year ahead.

Topics covered include:
Budgeting for 2025 – How to forecast revenue and expenses effectively.
Marketing Strategy – The must-do’s to boost bookings and grow brand awareness.
Operational Efficiency – The tools and systems to streamline your processes.
Guest Experience – What changes you can make now to improve satisfaction and retention.
Industry Trends – What’s changing in 2025 and how to stay ahead of the curve.

This episode is packed with actionable insights that will help you kick off the new year strong. If you’re looking to maximize profitability, improve operations, and stay competitive in 2025, this is a must-listen!

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In this episode, Cody sits down with Richard Kessler, the visionary Chairman and CEO of The Kessler Collection. With over 50 years of experience in hospitality, Kessler has built a legacy of innovation, luxury, and excellence in hotel development and management.

Kessler’s impact on the industry is undeniable. He previously served as President and Chairman of Days Inns of America and has played a pivotal role in the boutique hotel movement. His passion for historic renovations has brought life to iconic properties like the Casa Monica Resort and Spa in St. Augustine, FL, The Mansion on Forsyth Park in Savannah, GA, and the transformative Plant Riverside District in Savannah. His influence also extends into the launch of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, where he was the first and largest franchise operator in the U.S.

Beyond hospitality, Kessler is deeply involved in philanthropy, supporting causes like the Treutlen House for abused children, the Kessler Reformation Collection at Emory University, and numerous scholarships for visual and performing arts education. His commitment to community and culture has shaped not only his properties but the industry as a whole.

Tune in to hear Richard Kessler’s inspiring journey, insights into hotel development, and his vision for the future of hospitality.

Website: https://www.kesslercollection.com/

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In this episode, Cody sits down with Joe Ruzicka, Director of Business Development at Adams Keegan, Inc. Cody and Joe first connected at BITAC, one of the hospitality industry’s premier networking events. Known for his commitment to the industry, Joe shares his top three hospitality events for 2025 that every professional should attend:

  1. Hunter Hotel Conference: A leading event for hotel investors and developers to connect and share insights. More info here
  2. BITAC: A top-tier event for networking and thought leadership in hospitality. More info here
  3. The Lodging Conference: An iconic event focusing on the hotel industry and beyond. More info here

Beyond events, Joe also gives us his top karaoke song and shares a look into his company, Adams Keegan. As a national HR and employer services provider, Adams Keegan is known for its unique Efficenter® technology platform, designed to customize human capital management solutions from recruitment to retirement. Unlike cookie-cutter software solutions, Adams Keegan delivers personal service by assigning dedicated professionals who partner with clients from sectors like hospitality, healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. With nearly 30 years of experience, Adams Keegan is committed to transforming HR and employer services.

This conversation dives deep into upcoming trends, the value of meaningful conferences, and practical HR solutions to enhance business operations in hospitality.

Connect w/Joe:
Phone: 214-433-7030
Email: Joe.ruzicka@adamskeegan.com
Website: https://www.adamskeegan.com/

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Happy New Year from Cody and Meagan! In this first episode of 2025, Cody and Meagan kick off the year by reflecting on what lies ahead and wishing all their listeners a successful and joyful New Year. They give a sneak peek at some of the exciting guests lined up for the month—episodes 33, 34, and 35 will feature inspiring industry professionals who will share their insights and success stories in hospitality and beyond.

This episode sets the tone for a year of fresh ideas, motivating conversations, and valuable strategies for those in the hospitality space. Join Cody and Meagan as they gear up for a brand new season of tips, stories, and interviews to help elevate your business in 2025. Here’s to growth, inspiration, and plenty of exciting moments in the coming year!

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In this special post-Christmas episode, Cody and Meagan kick back to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Recognizing that work is probably the last thing on listeners' minds on December 26, they keep things light and festive by diving into their favorite holiday films. Cody and Meagan each share their top Christmas movie picks, with classics like Christmas Vacation, Jingle All the Way, Elf, The Night Before, Die Hard, The Santa Clause, and Home Alone making the list. From hilarious scenes and heartwarming moments to holiday mischief, they discuss what makes each movie unforgettable and why these films bring the spirit of the season to life.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy this light-hearted episode as Cody and Meagan reflect on these holiday favorites. Wishing all listeners a joyful holiday season and an exciting start to 2025!

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In this episode, Cody and Meagan dive into actionable marketing strategies to finish the year on a high note. With the episode launching on December 19, 2024, they focus on last-minute tactics that can drive engagement and revenue during the holiday season and set the stage for a strong start to 2025.

They cover topics like setting up holiday promotions and flash sales to attract last-minute bookings, leveraging email marketing to reconnect with past guests, and creating engaging social media content that resonates with holiday travelers. Cody and Meagan also discuss optimizing your property’s website with clear calls-to-action and easy booking flows to maximize conversions, along with using targeted ads for the holiday season on platforms like Google and Meta to reach travelers searching for holiday getaways. Whether you’re looking to fill rooms or build awareness for the new year, this episode offers a practical guide to make the most of your year-end marketing efforts.

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In this episode, Cody and Meagan share their essential toolkit for effectively managing a hospitality business. They discuss the 12 top tools that help streamline operations, enhance guest communication, and boost revenue. From property management systems like WebRezPro and Think Reservations to communication platforms like Mango Voice and Akia, each tool plays a unique role in building a seamless experience for guests and staff alike.

They highlight how using Lynx Locks simplifies access control, while Slack supports team coordination, and how Airbnb’s platform continues to connect properties with a vast audience. Cody and Meagan also explore Talsey AI for operational insights, Stash Rewards to improve guest loyalty, and Gusto for payroll. For strategy and goal tracking, they discuss EOS, and for activity bookings, Flybook is a top pick. As a bonus, they recommend HOVR for content engagement to help make your property’s online presence unforgettable. Get ready to elevate your hospitality game with these must-have tools!

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In this episode, Cody and Meagan guide you through the essential steps to set your hospitality business up for success in 2025. They cover how to start building your annual budget, forecasting both revenues and expenses to ensure your financial roadmap is in place. The episode also dives into creating a powerful annual marketing plan, focusing on promotions, key marketing dates, and the best ways to align with seasonal trends.

They offer expert tips on making informed adjustments based on previous years’ data, setting achievable goals, and implementing flexible strategies to adapt as the year unfolds. Cody and Meagan provide actionable insights on analyzing past performance, identifying new opportunities, and keeping your team aligned on your 2025 objectives. Start the new year prepared, confident, and ready for growth with this step-by-step planning episode.

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In this Thanksgiving episode, Cody and Meagan share a lighthearted conversation as they dive into what would be on their ultimate Thanksgiving plate, from favorite classic dishes to unique must-haves. They express gratitude for their audience and the hospitality community, adding a touch of warmth and celebration to the holiday spirit.

They also share a quick, practical tip for property owners: if you're in need of a last-minute marketing boost, there’s still time to create a simple, effective Black Friday email campaign to send out to past guests. This easy outreach can help drive bookings and remind guests of everything you offer. A few heartfelt wishes and a friendly offer could be just the right combination to bring past guests back for the holidays or the new year. Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving filled with gratitude and good food!

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In this episode, Cody is joined by Nick Bonniksen, Director of Kiln St. George, to talk about the transformative power of sports, resilience, and the dynamic hospitality industry. Originally on the path to a professional baseball career, Nick’s journey took a sharp turn after sports injuries forced him to rethink his future. With no Plan B, Nick started at the front desk of a Marriott and quickly rose through the ranks, proving that determination can turn entry-level beginnings into something extraordinary.

After working in various roles—including Front Desk Manager, Sales Director, and even night auditor during the challenging COVID period—Nick continued to grow. His next move took him to Utah’s Best Vacation Rentals as Sales Director and eventually Regional Manager, where he doubled the company’s revenue. Recognized for his success, he was recruited back to Marriott as General Manager of Wyndgate St. George, where he led the location to a remarkable global ranking of #4 in just three years.

Now at Kiln, a thriving coworking community, Nick hopes to bolster the business ecosystem in Southern Utah. Cody and Nick discuss how his sports background shaped his leadership, how he tackled obstacles, and his goals for Kiln’s latest location in St. George. This episode is filled with insights on the value of perseverance and the rapid growth possible in the hospitality industry with the right mindset.

Connect w/Nick:
Website: https://kiln.com/communities/st-george/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-bonniksen-37280b178/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickbonniksen/
Email: nick.b@kiln.com

Banter with Billy
Dive into real, unfiltered conversations with marketing leaders, minus the BS.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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In this insightful episode, Cody sits down with John Bianchi, the Founder of STR Search, a data-driven mastermind behind over $70M in Airbnb investments across the country. John has successfully helped clients acquire more than 150 cash-flowing Airbnbs, all with a 100% success rate. When he's not analyzing data, John enjoys spending time with his newborn daughter.

This episode dives into the world of Airbnb investing, focusing on how to use data to make smarter decisions and avoid analysis paralysis. John explains how to forecast the annual revenue of potential Airbnb properties and offers tips on identifying the best Airbnb markets for your investment. He also breaks down how to determine which amenities will increase your revenue, and how to safeguard your Airbnb investment during a recession.

Additional topics include building a buy box for your next Airbnb, getting the most out of your investment, and the fundamentals of Airbnb data. John also reveals his “Airbnb Business Blueprint,” offering a step-by-step guide to starting your own Airbnb business from scratch.

Key questions John answers in this episode include:

  • How to beat a looming recession with your Airbnb business?
  • Why do most Airbnbs fail?
  • What is the biggest mistake people make when getting into Airbnbs?
  • How do you give back?

This episode is packed with actionable insights for both seasoned investors and those just getting started in the Airbnb space.

Connect w/John:
Website: https://strsearch.com/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theairbnbdataguy
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/584067645599343
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-bianchi-245608a6/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theairbnbdataguy/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHnwvtvqsfFG2S1d5x5B4HQ

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In this exciting episode, Cody is joined by a special guest, Will Rogers, founder of Dormi.io—a cutting-edge software designed to simplify vacation rental operations. Will shares his incredible entrepreneurial journey, from purchasing a small cleaning company to expanding it nationwide, focusing on commercial and hospitality cleaning.

As Will's business grew, he realized a major gap in the hospitality industry: the need for a streamlined solution to manage operations. That’s where Dormi.io was born. Dormi.io focuses on optimizing vacation rental management, ensuring smooth operations and improved guest experiences. Will shares insights into how his hands-on experience in the cleaning industry led him to develop this innovative software, and how Dormi.io is making a difference for property owners and managers across the country.

In this episode, you’ll also get a glimpse into Will’s personal journey—from being a risk-taker and entrepreneur to building a seven-figure business and starting Dormi.io. He also discusses his faith, family, and the learning experiences that have shaped him as a leader and visionary in the hospitality industry.

Join us as Cody and Will dive deep into the challenges and rewards of growing a service business, the inspiration behind Dormi.io, and the future of hospitality operations.

Website: https://dormi.io/

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In this light and festive Halloween episode, Cody and Meagan are here to wish everyone a Happy Halloween and share some fun, creative ways to make the upcoming holiday season exciting for property owners and guests alike! As we transition into the full holiday season, it's time to start planning how to bring the holiday spirit to your property.

From decorating tips to creating themed experiences for your guests, Cody and Meagan discuss how small touches can make a big impact. Learn how you can transform your property into a cozy, festive getaway for the winter holidays by offering holiday promotions, special packages, and personalized guest experiences that make the season memorable.

In this episode, they also dive into strategies for engaging guests during the holidays—whether it’s through social media contests, seasonal food and drink offerings, or festive activities. These tips will not only help create a more enjoyable stay for your guests but will also enhance your property’s reputation and boost direct bookings as the year comes to an end.

Get ready to celebrate the holidays in style and make this holiday season the best yet for your property!

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In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, Cody and Meagan are excited to talk about one of their favorite properties hitting the market—The Canyons Collection! Located just on the outskirts of Zion National Park, The Canyons Collection offers a rare opportunity for investors and hoteliers looking to own a prime piece of hospitality real estate in one of the most iconic natural settings in the United States. With its strategic location and stunning views, this property is perfect for those looking to enter or expand in the boutique hospitality industry.

The Canyons Collection includes several beautifully designed properties, each offering unique experiences for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. The collection has a proven track record of high occupancy rates, strong guest reviews, and a solid foundation in the market. Cody and Meagan highlight the property’s exceptional value and why they believe it won’t stay on the market for long.

In this episode, the Vibrant Team shares the pitch deck for your review, along with the realtor's contact information. They also discuss what makes this property stand out, how it aligns with trends in hospitality, and why Zion National Park remains one of the top travel destinations for both domestic and international travelers.

If you're in the market for a stunning boutique property in a world-class location, this is your chance! Tune in to learn more about The Canyons Collection, and don't hesitate to reach out for more details.

Contact Info:
Breck Dockstader: 435-680-9891
Email: breck@cliffrosedevelopment.com
Website: https://www.thecanyonscollection.com/
Listing Link & Pitch Deck: https://www.loopnet.com/Listing/The-Canyons-Portfolio-Sale/33435777/

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In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, Cody and Meagan dive into practical, do-it-yourself marketing tips that any property owner can implement—without breaking the bank! Whether you manage a small boutique hotel, a vacation rental, or a larger hospitality business, these simple yet effective strategies can help you boost your online presence and drive more bookings. And the best part? Many of these tactics are either free or very low cost.

Key DIY marketing tips include boosting ads on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to increase your property's visibility and reach. They also discuss how to use Google Smart Campaigns to target potential guests based on their search habits. One of the most exciting strategies is leveraging user-generated content—by inviting creators and influencers to your property, you can get authentic content that resonates with audiences and attracts new guests.

Cody and Meagan also emphasize the importance of writing regular blogs to improve your site's SEO, and they share how using tools like ChatGPT can help create that content quickly and efficiently. Don’t forget the power of email campaigns! Reaching out to past guests using tools like Flodesk or Mailchimp can keep your property top-of-mind for return visits and new referrals.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure about these tools, don’t worry—the Vibrant Team is here to help! Reach out for expert advice or to get help setting up your marketing strategies for success.

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In this episode, Cody and Meagan share exciting news about one of their all-time favorite properties going up for sale—The Dwellings, located just outside Zion National Park. This stunning property offers an exceptional opportunity for those looking to invest in hospitality and real estate. Whether you’re an experienced hotelier or a first-time buyer, The Dwellings is a hidden gem with immense potential that won’t be on the market for long.

Nestled near one of the most visited national parks in the U.S., The Dwellings offers a unique stay experience with breathtaking views and top-tier amenities. Cody and Meagan discuss what makes this property so special and why it’s a dream investment for anyone passionate about hospitality or outdoor adventure. They’ve included a detailed pitch deck in the episode notes, as well as the realtor's contact information, to give potential buyers all the tools they need to act fast.

Don’t miss out on this rare chance to own a slice of paradise near Zion. Tune in to hear Cody and Meagan explain why The Dwellings stands out in the hospitality market and how you can get involved before it’s gone!

Check It Out for Yourself:
Pitch Deck: https://issuu.com/theagencysg/docs/the_dwellings_pitch_deck_8.20.24
Listing: https://www.theagencyre.com/ldp-share/STG/24-253223&t=04.53.34.233514

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In this episode, Cody and Meagan dive deep into the crucial topic of financial management for hospitality businesses. They discuss how mastering your finances is key to transforming your business and ensuring long-term success. With over a decade of experience, the Vibrant team shares their best practices for smart budgeting and financial planning, providing actionable insights to help you stay on top of your business finances.

Cody walks listeners through his tried-and-true methods for setting up business banking, explaining how to create a financial system that works seamlessly. From establishing different accounts for expenses and savings to ensuring smooth cash flow, you'll learn how to organize your finances in a way that supports growth and stability. We also cover essential budgeting practices, such as setting up monthly expense tracking, projecting revenue accurately, and preparing for unexpected financial challenges.

Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out in the hospitality industry, this episode offers practical tips on how to effectively manage your finances, from basic bookkeeping to long-term financial planning. Tune in to discover the strategies you need to elevate your financial game and make your business thrive.

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In this episode, we explore the importance of preparing your hospitality business for the upcoming 4th quarter, one of the busiest times of the year. Cody and Meagan dive into the essential steps for setting your promotions well in advance, including special pricing for key holidays such as Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's.

We discuss how to strategically plan your pricing for both the remainder of 2024 and into 2025, ensuring your property is ready to capture holiday travelers and long-term bookings. You’ll learn tips on how to optimize your website to drive conversions by implementing a compelling call to action that encourages guests to book as soon as they land on your page.

Whether you're managing an independent hotel, a boutique property, or an Airbnb, this episode provides insights on boosting revenue, creating urgency, and setting your property up for success as the year comes to a close. Tune in to make sure your business is ready for the holiday rush!

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In this episode, we dive into Cody’s most recent experience at the BITAC Independent event, held at the beautiful Ritz Carlton in Amelia Island, Florida. BITAC brings together top-level executives from independent properties across the country to discuss the future of hospitality. Cody shares key takeaways from the event, networking opportunities, and the innovative strategies being implemented by leaders in the independent hotel space. Don’t miss the insights from this incredible gathering of hospitality professionals!

Check out more about BITAC: BITAC Independent.

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Podcast Description: Season 2, Episode 16 of the Virtual GM PodcastIn this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, Cody and Meagan Adent from Vibrant Management dive into the critical topic of financial management in the hospitality industry. They share Vibrant’s proven financial process, including the creation of detailed budget sheets for all companies, the use of QuickBooks Online, and the importance of having everything in place for financial planning and success.

The episode emphasizes the significance of timely financial reporting, ensuring end-of-month finances are completed by the 10th of every month. This includes a reconciled budget sheet, Profit & Loss (P&L) statement for the previous month, year-to-date P&L, and the most current balance sheet. Cody and Meagan also offer practical tips on managing cash flow effectively to keep your hospitality business thriving.

Whether you’re a hotel owner, property manager, or involved in any aspect of the hospitality industry, this episode provides essential insights to help you maintain financial stability and achieve long-term success.

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Podcast Description: Season 2, Episode 15 of the Virtual GM Podcast

In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, Meagan and Cody Adent from Vibrant Management highlight the must-attend hospitality events for 2024. With show season kicking off in September and October, these events are crucial for anyone looking to stay ahead in the industry.

We discuss the Independent Hotel Show, your local state tourism conference (like Utah's), the IL Congress, and The Hospitality Show. These gatherings offer incredible opportunities for networking, learning, and discovering the latest trends in the hospitality world.

**Independent Hotel Show USA

Website: Independent Hotel Show USA
Description:** The Independent Hotel Show USA is a premier event designed for luxury and boutique hoteliers. It provides a platform for industry professionals to connect, discover innovative products and services, and gain insights from expert-led sessions. The event is tailored to meet the unique needs of independent hoteliers, offering opportunities for networking and learning from industry leaders.

**Utah Tourism Conference

Website: Utah Tourism Conference
Description:** The Utah Tourism Conference is an annual event that brings together professionals from the tourism and hospitality industry within Utah. It focuses on promoting and enhancing tourism in the state through educational sessions, networking opportunities, and discussions on current trends and challenges. The conference is essential for those looking to stay informed about Utah’s tourism initiatives and connect with key players in the local industry.

IL Congress (International Luxury Hotel Association Conference)
Website:
IL Congress
Description: The IL Congress, organized by the International Luxury Hotel Association, is a global event dedicated to the luxury hotel sector. It offers a platform for hoteliers, hospitality professionals, and suppliers to explore the latest trends, innovations, and best practices in luxury hospitality. The conference features keynote speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, making it a must-attend event for those in the luxury hotel industry.

The Hospitality Show
Website:
The Hospitality Show
Description: The Hospitality Show is a comprehensive event that caters to the broader hospitality industry, including hotels, restaurants, and travel services. It features a wide range of exhibitors, educational sessions, and networking opportunities aimed at helping hospitality professionals stay competitive and informed about the latest industry developments. The event attracts a diverse audience, from hotel owners and operators to marketing professionals and technology providers.

These events are excellent opportunities for professionals in the hospitality industry to network, learn, and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations.

Whether you're a hotel owner, manager, or just passionate about the industry, tune in to get the scoop on these essential events. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management, Virtual GM is your ultimate resource for all things hospitality. Don’t forget to visit our website for more resources and support.

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Podcast Description: Season 2, Episode 14 of the Virtual GM Podcast

In this exciting episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, we are joined by Jason Craparo, CEO & Founder of Hovr, the cutting-edge content delivery software that is revolutionizing the way marketers engage with their audience. Discover how Hovr's patented technology is transforming hospitality websites, driving engagement rates that soar 2000%-4000% above the industry average.

Episode Highlights:

  • Hovr Overview: Learn how Hovr enables marketers to deliver the right content to the right person at the right time, creating "Moments that Matter" on your site. These interactions build engagement and seamlessly guide visitors into your booking flow, eager to book their next stay.
  • Innovative Features: Explore Hovr’s intuitive, no-developer-needed tools that enhance your website by turning any text into an interaction, showcasing your property’s amenities in an immersive and engaging way.
  • Enhanced Analytics: Keep track of your engagement with Hovr’s advanced tracking and analytics suite, helping you optimize content and stay ahead of industry trends.
  • Pathways Feature: Discover how Hovr’s latest feature, Pathways, puts your guests and their content center stage in a mobile-prioritized experience that amplifies conversions.
  • Exclusive Offer: Sign up before the end of August to access all of Hovr’s newest features at a special rate, and start transforming your website immediately.

Special Guest - Jason Craparo: Jason Craparo, the mastermind behind Hovr, shares his journey from becoming the youngest owner/operator for Sonic Drive-In at 21 to founding Hovr. With a BA in Business from the University of Arizona and an MBA from Babson College, Jason’s impressive resume includes numerous leadership awards, board memberships, and guest lectures at Villanova University. His passion for entrepreneurship and innovation shines through as he discusses how Hovr is changing the game for content delivery in the hospitality industry.

Whether you’re looking to boost your website’s engagement or curious about the latest innovations in digital marketing, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice.

Join us for an engaging and informative session, blending business acumen with witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management, Virtual GM is your ultimate resource for all things hospitality. Tune in, elevate your game, and don’t forget to visit us on our website for more resources and support.

**Produced by Vibrant Management – helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world.

Connect w/Jason:**E-Mail: jason@gethovr.com
Website: https://gethovr.com/

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Podcast Description: Season 2, Episode 13 of the Virtual GM Podcast

In this insightful episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, Meagan and Cody Adent from the Vibrant Team dive into the top hospitality industry trends of 2024. From booking pace and booking window dynamics to rate strategy and the ever-evolving role of OTAs like Expedia and Booking.com, this episode is packed with the latest insights you need to stay ahead in the game.

Episode Highlights:

  • Booking Pace: Understanding current booking trends and how they affect your property's operations.
  • Booking Window: Adapting to shifts in how far in advance customers are booking.
  • Rate Strategy: Crafting a competitive pricing strategy that maximizes revenue without sacrificing occupancy.
  • OTA Insights: Navigating the benefits and challenges of working with OTAs in 2024.
  • Marketing Strategy: Implementing effective plans that resonate with today’s travelers.

But that’s not all! We wrap up the episode with 4 Tips to Best Engage Interested Customers:

  1. Compelling Offer: Using pop-ups for length-of-stay promotions to capture attention.
  2. Consistent Contact with Past Guests: Leveraging emails, texts, and return guest promotions to keep your property top of mind.
  3. Retargeting: Utilizing platforms like Meta for retargeting to convert interest into bookings.
  4. Strong Team on Phones: Ensuring your team is equipped to close sales from inquiries, and discussing the value of using a secret shop service like BluePrint Creations to assess and improve phone interactions.

Whether you're a boutique hotel owner, VRBO manager, Airbnb administrator, front desk staff, or anyone in the hospitality industry, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice.

Join us for an engaging and informative session, blending business acumen with witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management, Virtual GM is your ultimate resource for all things hospitality. Tune in, elevate your game, and don’t forget to visit us on our website for more resources and support.

Produced by Vibrant Management – helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world.

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Podcast Description: Season 2, Episode 12 of the Virtual GM Podcast

In this exciting episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, your hosts Meagan and Cody Adent from the Vibrant Team announce Vibrant’s next adventure: buying their own Airbnb! After years of working with various properties and refining their processes, they’re ready to demonstrate the success of their proven strategies with their own investment.

Episode Highlights:

  • Branding: Establishing a cohesive brand identity with colors, typography, and logos.
  • Digital Presence: Creating a custom WordPress website and executing a comprehensive digital marketing strategy (Google, Meta, Organic).
  • Direct Bookings via PMS: Utilizing WebRezPro for efficient property management and direct bookings.
  • Guest Communication: Implementing Akia to streamline communication with guests.
  • OTA Integration: Plugging into platforms like Expedia, Booking.com, Airbnb, VRBO, and TripAdvisor.
  • VOIP Setup: Using Mango Voice to facilitate direct booking calls from customers.
  • Designing the Destination: Crafting a unique and appealing house that becomes a sought-after destination.
  • Call to Actions: Setting up promotions like length-of-stay offers to encourage direct bookings.
  • National Recognition: Leveraging tools like Curacity for broader exposure and recognition.

Join us as we share all these trade secrets and more! But before we can implement our strategies, we need your help to find the perfect location. We invite all our listeners and any realtors out there to tell us: where is the next best-kept secret? Where should Vibrant open its first Airbnb? Let us know in the comments!

Whether you're a boutique hotel owner, VRBO manager, Airbnb administrator, front desk staff, or anyone in the hospitality industry, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice.

Join us for an engaging and informative session, blending business acumen with witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management, Virtual GM is your ultimate resource for all things hospitality. Tune in, elevate your game, and don’t forget to visit us on our website for more resources and support.

Produced by Vibrant Management – helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world.

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Podcast Description: Season 2, Episode 11 of the Virtual GM Podcast

In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, your hosts Meagan and Cody Adent from the Vibrant Team dive into the "Pain Points of Opening a New Property." Fresh from the launch of their newest property, The Central Block in Bend, Oregon, they share invaluable insights and lessons learned from the experience.

Episode Highlights:

  • Website and Branding: Learn the importance of a strong online presence and cohesive branding strategy.
  • Property Management System (PMS): Discover the critical role of an efficient PMS in streamlining operations.
  • Yield Management: Understand the tactics for optimizing room rates and maximizing revenue.
  • Guest Communication: Explore effective communication strategies to enhance the guest experience.
  • Tools like OTA's & TripAdvisor: Get tips on leveraging online travel agencies and review platforms.
  • On-Site and Virtual Management: Compare the pros and cons of on-site versus virtual management.
  • Ad Strategy and More: Gain insights into crafting effective advertising strategies to boost bookings.

Whether you're a boutique hotel owner, VRBO manager, Airbnb administrator, front desk staff, or anyone in the hospitality industry, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice for opening and managing a new property.

Join us for an engaging and informative session, blending business acumen with witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management, Virtual GM is your ultimate resource for all things hospitality. Tune in, elevate your game, and don’t forget to visit us on our website for more resources and support.

Produced by Vibrant Management – helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world.

Check out The Central Block: https://thecentralblock.com/

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Podcast Description: Season 2, Episode 10 of the Virtual GM Podcast

In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, your hosts Meagan and Cody Adent from the Vibrant Team share their family trip experience at the Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort for the 4th of July. As hospitality professionals, it's essential to experience what other properties offer, and this visit provided plenty of insights.

Episode Highlights:

  • The Good: Discover why the Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort is a must-visit, with its stunning location right across the street from the beach, excellent food, and vibrant bars. Meagan and Cody rave about the property, sharing how it contributed to the best 4th of July celebration ever.
  • The Bad: Hear about any areas where the property could improve, offering a balanced perspective on the overall experience.
  • The Ugly: If there were any hiccups or less-than-perfect moments, Meagan and Cody discuss them with their characteristic wit and honesty.

Whether you're a boutique hotel owner, VRBO manager, Airbnb administrator, front desk staff, or anyone in the hospitality industry, this episode provides valuable insights into the guest experience at a top-rated resort.

Join us for an engaging and informative session, blending business acumen with witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management, Virtual GM is your ultimate resource for all things hospitality. Tune in, elevate your game, and don’t forget to visit us on our website for more resources and support.

**Produced by Vibrant Management – helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world.

Book Your Beach Vacation: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/hubwhhf-the-waterfront-beach-resort/
Hilton Waterfront IG:** https://www.instagram.com/waterfrontbeachresort/

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Podcast Description: Season 2, Episode 9 of the Virtual GM Podcast

In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, your hosts Meagan and Cody Adent from the Vibrant Team welcome special guest Audrey Yates, Vice President of Hotel Partnerships at Stash Hotel Rewards. Audrey brings her extensive background in travel and customer service to the show, sharing invaluable insights into how loyalty programs can benefit independent hotels.

Meet Our Guest:

Audrey Yates is the Vice President of Hotel Partnerships with Stash Hotel Rewards, the leading loyalty program for highly rated, independent hotels. With years of experience in travel and customer service, Audrey has excelled in her sales role, creating and cultivating personal relationships while helping Stash partner with the best hotels. When she’s not visiting top independent hotels, Audrey enjoys spending time on her boat at the lake near her home in Washington or shopping at Sephora with her teen daughters.

Discussion Highlights:

  1. The benefits of loyalty programs for independent hotels.
  2. How Stash Hotel Rewards partners with top-rated hotels.
  3. Tips for creating and maintaining strong customer relationships in the hospitality industry.

Whether you’re a boutique hotel owner, VRBO manager, Airbnb administrator, front desk staff, or anyone in the hospitality industry, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice.

Join us for an engaging and informative session, blending business acumen with witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management, Virtual GM is your ultimate resource for all things hospitality. Tune in, elevate your game, and don’t forget to visit us on our website for more resources and support.

**Produced by Vibrant Management – helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world.

Stash Rewards: https://www.stashrewards.com/
Stash IG: https://www.stashrewards.com/
Audrey IG: https://www.instagram.com/audrey2314/
Audrey LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrey-yates-0b5331b4/
Audrey Email: audrey.yates@stashrewards.com

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In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, your hosts Meagan and Cody Adent from the Vibrant Team are joined by special guests Erin Donnelly and Heather Loduca, Co-Founders of Pink Wall Designs. Erin and Heather share their expertise in transforming properties through strategic design and marketing.

Meet Our Guests:

Erin Donnelly brings a wealth of experience from her extensive background in house flipping, property conversions, project management, design, and development. As a licensed realtor, she has exclusive access to market data, enabling her to make informed decisions that enhance the appeal and functionality of each project. Erin's dual proficiency in real estate and design ensures that each investment not only meets but exceeds industry standards.

Heather Loduca expertly fuses marketing insight with design to ensure each property is visually captivating and market-aligned. With a background in marketing, design, real estate investing, and staging, she has produced viral Airbnb’s and set new trends in the short-term rental market, from millions of social media views to celebrity brand partnerships and TV appearances. Heather's ability to blend aesthetics with strategic market positioning makes her an influential figure in the industry.

Discussion Highlights:

  1. How utilizing strategic design in tandem with parallel marketing strategies is the optimal approach for the highest ROI on your hotel.
  2. What marketing your hotel looks like in 2024.
  3. The number one way to drive direct bookings and bypass expensive OTAs.

Whether you’re a boutique hotel owner, VRBO manager, Airbnb administrator, front desk staff, or anyone in the hospitality industry, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice.

Join us for an engaging and informative session, blending business acumen with witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management, Virtual GM is your ultimate resource for all things hospitality. Tune in, elevate your game, and don’t forget to visit us on our website for more resources and support.

**Produced by Vibrant Management – helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world.

Website: https://www.pinkwalldesignsinc.com/ Free Consultation: https://pinkwalldesigns.hbportal.co/public/6638ea12fb86b200259f1284/1-Schedule_an_intro_call
Instagram:** https://www.instagram.com/pinkwalldesigns/

All Business. No Boundaries. The DHL Supply Chain Podcast
Welcome to All Business. No Boundaries, a collection of supply chain stories by DHL...

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, your hosts Meagan and Cody Adent from the Vibrant Team introduce the newest hotel in Hilton's Tapestry Collection, Hotel DeNovo. We believe this stunning property will soon be the number-one Hilton Tapestry hotel in the world. At Vibrant Management, we had the privilege of being the branding agency for this incredible project, and we couldn't be more proud of the results.

Don't miss your chance to book a night at this remarkable property: Visit Hotel DeNovo

Whether you’re a boutique hotel owner, VRBO manager, Airbnb administrator, front desk staff, or anyone in the hospitality industry, this episode is packed with inspiration and expert advice.

Join us for an engaging and informative session, blending business acumen with witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management, Virtual GM is your ultimate resource for all things hospitality. Tune in, elevate your game, and don’t forget to visit us on our website for more resources and support.

Produced by Vibrant Management – helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world.

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In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, your hosts Meagan and Cody Adent from the Vibrant Team share some of the coolest properties they've come across lately. Get ready to be inspired by these unique and captivating locations:

  1. Stay Ombi: Immerse yourself in secluded bliss and find serenity in nature’s embrace. Enjoy a unique stay on board your floating retreat. Visit Stay Ombi
  2. Ambiente Sedona: Discover a stunning landscape hotel in Sedona, Arizona, where luxury meets nature. Visit Ambiente Sedona
  3. Hotel Zazz: Located along the famed Route 66 in the historic Nob Hill district, this colorful experience offers vibrant hues, sweet tunes, secret nightcaps, and sweet dreams. Visit Hotel Zazz
  4. The Local Motel & Shops: Brought to you by the mind of Jordan Iverson, this reimagined roadside boutique motel and shops at 570 Lawrence St in Eugene, Oregon, is close to the University of Oregon, 5th St, and Downtown. Visit The Local Motel & Shops

Whether you’re a boutique hotel owner, VRBO manager, Airbnb administrator, front desk staff, or anyone in the hospitality industry, this episode is packed with inspiration and expert advice.

Join us for an engaging and informative session, blending business acumen with witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management, Virtual GM is your ultimate resource for all things hospitality. Tune in, elevate your game, and don’t forget to visit us on our website for more resources and support.

Produced by Vibrant Management – helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world.

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In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, your hosts Meagan and Cody Adent from the Vibrant Team discuss owner opportunities in the hospitality industry. Whether you're a new owner looking to start your property, interested in hospitality, or already up and running but feeling like you're missing something, this episode is for you.

We reveal the three must-haves for building a new property:

  1. On-site Laundry
  2. On-call Person
  3. Water Features (pool, hot tubs, etc.)

Plus, don’t miss our bonus tip: You need a great website! If you're in need of a website, reach out to us at cody@thevibrantteam.com. Mention you listened to this episode, and we'll give you 25% off your website!

Whether you’re a boutique hotel owner, VRBO manager, Airbnb administrator, front desk staff, or anyone in the hospitality industry, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice.

Join us for an engaging and informative session, blending business acumen with witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management, Virtual GM is your ultimate resource for all things hospitality. Tune in, elevate your game, and don’t forget to visit us on our website for more resources and support.

Produced by Vibrant Management – helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world.

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In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, your hosts Meagan and Cody Adent from the Vibrant Team dive into the pros and cons of Online Travel Agents (OTAs). They explore popular platforms such as Expedia, Booking.com, Airbnb, and VRBO, highlighting the benefits and drawbacks of each.

It's crucial to drive direct bookings for your property because guests who book through an OTA are not fully your customers. Meagan and Cody provide valuable tips and tricks on how to maximize your direct bookings and better understand the role of OTAs in the hospitality industry.

Whether you’re a boutique hotel owner, VRBO manager, Airbnb administrator, front desk staff, or anyone in the hospitality field, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice.

Join us for an engaging and informative session, blending business acumen with witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management, Virtual GM is your ultimate resource for all things hospitality. Tune in, elevate your game, and don’t forget to visit us on our website for more resources and support.

Produced by Vibrant Management – helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world.

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In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, your hosts Meagan and Cody Adent from the Vibrant Team reveal their top three favorite software tools to enhance operations at your property, complete with an invaluable bonus tip! Discover how PMS-WebRezPro, Akia's Text AI Feature, and Lynx Locks can transform your management practices and boost efficiency.

Meagan shares her rich insights and learnings from over three years of managing multiple properties virtually, providing practical advice and strategies.

Whether you’re a boutique hotel owner, VRBO manager, Airbnb administrator, front desk staff, or anyone in the hospitality industry, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice.

Join us for an engaging and informative session, blending business acumen with witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management, Virtual GM is your ultimate resource for all things hospitality. Tune in, elevate your game, and don’t forget to visit us on our website for more resources and support.

**Produced by Vibrant Management – helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world.

WebRezPro: https://webrezpro.com/
Akia: https://www.akia.com/ Lynx Locks:** https://www.getlynx.co/

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In this exciting episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, we take you behind the scenes for a day in the life of a Virtual GM. Join your hosts Meagan and Cody Adent from the Vibrant Team as they delve into Meagan's insights and learnings from over three years of managing multiple properties virtually. Discover the unique challenges and rewards of running a virtual hospitality operation and gain valuable tips and strategies to enhance your own management skills.

But that's not all! Stay tuned until the end of the episode when we present our Boost Bookings segment: 3 Must-Know Phone Tips for Hotels:

  1. Have a Dedicated Phone Line
  2. Answer with Enthusiasm
  3. Utilize Technology

Whether you're a boutique hotel owner, VRBO manager, Airbnb administrator, front desk staff, or simply someone navigating the ever-changing hospitality landscape, this episode is packed with actionable advice and engaging stories.

Join us for an informative and entertaining journey as we blend business insights with witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management, Virtual GM is your ultimate resource for all things hospitality. Tune in, elevate your game, and don’t forget to visit us on our website for more resources and support.

Produced by Vibrant Management – helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world.

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Welcome back to the Virtual GM Podcast! In Season 2, Episode 2, your hosts Meagan and Cody Adent from the Vibrant Team are here to catch you up on everything you've missed since the end of Season 1. We’ve got all the latest updates, insights, and stories to keep you in the loop and ahead of the curve in the hospitality world.

Whether you're a boutique hotel owner, VRBO manager, Airbnb administrator, front desk staff, or just someone trying to navigate the ever-changing landscape of hospitality, this episode is packed with valuable content tailored just for you. Expect expert advice, real-life stories from industry leaders, and innovative strategies to help you thrive.

And that’s not all! Stay tuned until the end of the episode when we reveal our top 3 travel tips:

  1. Plan Ahead
  2. Find the Best Credit Card with Deals
  3. Do Your Research

Join us for a fun and informative journey as we blend business insights with witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management, Virtual GM is your go-to source for all things hospitality. Tune in, elevate your game, and don’t forget to visit us on our website for more resources and support.

Produced by Vibrant Management – helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world.

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In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, we're joined by Nick Horgan, Chief Commercial Officer for Amaze Insights, a seasoned expert in maximizing revenue for hotels, management companies, and brands. Nick's career is a testament to his prowess in leveraging data to drive optimal decision-making and achieve remarkable results in the hospitality industry.

With a background spanning from Newmarket International to Amadeus, Nick has consistently delivered outstanding performance. From personally booking over $160 million in total revenue to earning the title of #1 worldwide revenue producer for multiple consecutive years, Nick's track record speaks volumes. In 2019 alone, he surpassed quotas by an impressive 250%, demonstrating his unparalleled ability to surpass expectations and drive revenue growth.

Throughout his tenure, Nick has continually set and broken records, showcasing his dedication to excellence. From setting company records for highest revenue by a sales representative to consistently exceeding quotas, his impact on revenue generation is undeniable.

Tune in as Nick shares insights gleaned from his extensive experience in Delphi, reporting, sales optimization, revenue management, PACE, and productivity. Whether you're a seasoned hotelier or a newcomer to the industry, Nick's expertise offers invaluable guidance on harnessing the power of data to unlock success in the competitive world of hospitality.

For more information on how Amaze Insights can help your hotels achieve amazing results, reach out to Nick at Nick@amazeinsights.com or connect with him on LinkedIn. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your revenue strategies and propel your hotel to new heights of success.

Connect w/Nick:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-horgan/

David C Barnett Small Business and Deal Making M&A SMB
I discuss buying, selling, financing and managing small and medium sized businesses...
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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Join us in this enlightening episode of Virtual GM as we sit down with the innovative and visionary Reesha Shroff, CEO and Co-founder of Lynx Automation. With over 12 years of experience as a tech-sales engineer and a distinguished education from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Reesha has led Lynx in revolutionizing property automation. This episode dives into the journey of Lynx from its roots in California to its relocation to Tampa Bay, the challenges of startup life, and the future of smart home solutions in the hospitality industry.

What you'll find in this episode:

  • Insights from Reesha on overcoming startup anxiety and founder burnout.
  • Behind-the-scenes of Lynx's relocation and expansion plans.
  • An in-depth discussion on the impact of smart technology in enhancing guest experiences and operational efficiency in hotels.

Don't miss this exclusive conversation with one of the tech industry's leading figures in property automation. Tune in to learn, get inspired, and see what's on the horizon for hotel management and smart technology!

getlynx.com

🔗 Subscribe, Listen, and Share!

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Guys, we had the legend himself, Dr. Peter Ricci on the podcast today. Dr. Ricci is the Head of the Hospitality Management Department at Florida Atlantic University. Dr. Ricci is a hospitality industry veteran with over 20 years of managerial experience in segments including food service, lodging, incentive travel, and destination marketing. While filling the role of hotel general manager for almost a decade, Dr. Ricci served as a part-time educator before entering academia full-time as both a clinical associate professor and administrator.

This one is going to be great!

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Hey everyone,

We're back with another episode and this time we're talking with our Director of Marketing, Leah Roberts, about 4 ways to boost the effectiveness of your hotel advertising.

Leah has a tenured background in digital advertising and is part of why Vibrant Management is able to offer a 5x ROAS to all of our clients.

Let us know what you think!

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Hey everyone, we're back again with our good friend, Jeff Low, the CEO and founder of Stash Hotel Rewards. Jeff is a stud. He took a universal problem that every independent hotel faces and solved it in one easy-to-use solution.

Cody and I get asked all the time - "How do we increase guest loyalty?" or "What's the easiest way to get return guests?". Our answer has always included Stash Hotel Rewards. We hope you enjoy today's episode. Be sure to check out our friends from Stash Hotel Rewards at www.stashrewards.com.

Also, shoutout to their great sales reps, Audrey and Patrick! You guys rock!

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In this week’s episode of Virtual GM, we dive into the crucial topic of maximizing your hotel's revenue during Q4. As the year wraps up, it's essential to leverage unique strategies to boost your bottom line. We'll cover four innovative approaches, including seasonal promotions, leveraging local events, optimizing online presence, and personalized guest experiences. Whether you're a seasoned hotelier or new to the industry, these insights are tailored to help you achieve financial success in the final quarter. Tune in for valuable tips and actionable advice to make your hotel thrive this season!

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In this week's episode of Virtual GM, we are thrilled to have a conversation with Professor AJ Templeton from Southern Utah University (SUU). Prof. Templeton is an esteemed Assistant Professor specializing in Hotel, Resort, and Hospitality Management at the Dixie L. Leavitt School of Business at SUU. With a focus on tourism and events, she also bridges the gap between academic theories and the dynamic world of hospitality management. Our discussion ranges from her insightful journey in academia to how the next generation of hospitality leaders can gear up for the exciting challenges ahead. Her practical experiences, coupled with an academic lens, provide a rich tapestry of understanding for any hotelier looking to expand their knowledge horizon. Don’t miss out on the pearls of wisdom Prof. Templeton has to offer, tune in

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Hey Guys, we're back with another episode from the studio. Today we have an interview with Dennis Nessler, the Editor-In-Chief from the Lodging Magazine and the host of LODGING On Demand Podcast. You can check those episodes out by using the link below -

https://lodgingmagazine.com/lodging-on-demand-podcast-2/

You can also check their site with the link below -

https://lodgingmagazine.com/

Dennis is a legend. He has a long background in hospitality and this is an episode you don't to miss as you plan and make adjustments for 2024. We really get into some great info about hotel trends and what to be on the lookout for.

We hope you enjoy the episode!

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In this episode, we're thrilled to have Matt Ionta, Purchasing Agent at J/Brice Design International, joining us from a newly adorned setting of a renowned hotel, reflecting the impeccable aesthetics J/Brice Design is famed for. Matt, with his profound expertise, navigates the realms of purchasing that brings the envisioned design concepts to life.

His role in procuring the right elements, be it for construction, renovation, or infusing a fresh breath of design, is instrumental in ensuring the final outcome is nothing short of a masterpiece. Our conversation ventures into the core of J/Brice Design's ethos, the meticulous approach towards purchasing, and how it intertwines with the design aesthetics to craft unique, captivating spaces.

Matt unfolds the journey of how a mere concept blossoms into a tangible, inviting ambiance through the lens of purchasing. His narrative sheds light on the synergy between purchasing and design, and how it significantly impacts the guest experience.

Dive into this enlightening episode to explore the fascinating world of hospitality design purchasing with Matt Ionta, and unravel the process that shapes the inviting ambiance of hotels. Tune into the Virtual GM Podcast now!

Website: https://jbricedesign.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-ionta-942a64159/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbricedesign1/

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Join us in this captivating episode, broadcasting live from a recent gem in the Best Western Hotel Group's portfolio, as we sit down with Meegan Gillett, the Production Manager for Best Western Hotel Group. Meegan, with her seasoned expertise, oversees Construction & Renovation, FF&E for Design, decor, and spa, ensuring each element resonates with the brand's ethos and guest expectations.

Her illustrious journey, spanning various projects that epitomize elegance and functionality, showcases her adeptness in marrying construction and design to curate remarkable guest experiences. Our discussion traverses the lanes of her innovative approaches in managing construction and renovation projects, ensuring they align perfectly with the brand's vision and operational excellence.

This episode unveils the meticulous processes behind Meegan's role in orchestrating the decor and spa aesthetics, ensuring a seamless blend of comfort, luxury, and brand identity. Her insights into managing FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment) for design, form a narrative of excellence that many hoteliers aspire to emulate.

Don’t miss this riveting discussion that peels the layers of construction, renovation, and design management in the hospitality sector, offering a glimpse into the world of Best Western through Meegan Gillett’s lens. Tune in to the Virtual GM Podcast to discover the art and science of creating enchanting hotel spaces that promise a memorable guest stay.

Website: https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestwestern/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meeganberner/

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Description: Broadcasting live from the whimsical world of Staypineapple Hotels, we are thrilled to have Mary Kirkpatrick, the Procurement Manager of Staypineapple, on board for an insightful conversation in this episode. Staypineapple, known for its out-of-the-ordinary hotels in extraordinary locations, embodies a unique brand that's as vibrant and welcoming as Mary's personality.

Mary, with her keen eye for detail, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the eclectic charm of Staypineapple is well-reflected in every procurement decision. Her journey in melding procurement strategies with brand aesthetics is nothing short of inspiring.

Our discussion traverses the delightful realm of Staypineapple's brand, shedding light on the hotels they own and manage, and the cool quotient that sets them apart in the hospitality landscape. Mary opens up about the challenges and triumphs in maintaining the quirky brand identity through smart procurement, and how it translates to a memorable guest experience.

As we delve deeper, Mary shares the nuances of how procurement intertwines with brand management and the significant impact it has on Staypineapple's success. The episode is a treasure trove of insights for hoteliers aiming to blend procurement strategies with brand uniqueness.

Join us in this riveting episode as we explore the colorful corridors of Staypineapple's brand journey with Mary Kirkpatrick, and unravel how procurement and brand identity dance in a perfect duet in the hospitality sector. Tune into the Virtual GM Podcast now for a ride through Staypineapple's quirky brand essence and the procurement magic that brings it to life!

Website: https://www.staypineapple.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-fieser-kirkpatrick-75784740/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/staypineapple/

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Today, from the tranquil ambiance of the prestigious Waldorf Astoria in Scottsdale, Arizona, we have the privilege of hosting Michael Osgood, the Vice President of Brand Quality Assurance at Preferred Hotels. This episode delves into the heart of Preferred Hotels' acclaimed loyalty program and the pathway for hotels aspiring to join their esteemed portfolio.

Michael, with his extensive experience in the hospitality sector, has been instrumental in upholding and elevating the brand standards at Preferred Hotels. His meticulous approach to quality assurance plays a crucial role in not only enhancing the guest experience but also in welcoming and supporting hotels into the Preferred Hotels family.

Our conversation unveils the intricate processes and the high standards that are the hallmark of Preferred Hotels. Michael sheds light on how their loyalty program is meticulously crafted to ensure a memorable experience for guests while providing a platform for hotels to thrive and maintain a hallmark of quality.

We further explore the rigorous assessment and the supportive journey that hotels undergo to become a part of the Preferred Hotels portfolio. Michael’s insights are a treasure trove for hoteliers aiming to align with a brand that stands for quality and exceptional guest experiences.

In this illuminating episode, the discussion with Michael Osgood unfolds the essence of brand quality assurance and the symbiotic relationship between Preferred Hotels and its portfolio members. His wealth of knowledge is a guiding light for hoteliers aspiring to excel in a competitive landscape while being part of a distinguished brand.

Tune into this enriching episode of the Virtual GM Podcast to garner invaluable insights on brand quality assurance, loyalty programs, and the prestigious realm of Preferred Hotels. A conversation brimming with knowledge and insights awaits!

Website: preferredhotels.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-osgood-a619622/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preferredhotels/

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Today, we are thrilled to welcome Lorie Komanova, the Director of Procurement and Purchasing at Innisfree Hotels, in a vibrant discussion centered around enhancing guest experiences. Broadcasting live from one of the charming locales managed by Innisfree Hotels, this episode delves deep into the pivotal role procurement plays in curating an exceptional guest experience.

Lorie, with a dynamic career in the hospitality sector, brings a wealth of knowledge and a robust background in procurement and purchasing. Her strategic foresight and meticulous approach in aligning procurement strategies with guest satisfaction have significantly impacted Innisfree Hotels' flourishing reputation.

In our engaging conversation, we unravel the intricacies of how a well-oiled procurement machinery contributes to creating memorable stays for guests. Lorie sheds light on how the right purchasing decisions not only streamline operations but also resonate well with the guests, enhancing their overall experience.

One of the key focal points of our discussion is the innovative strategies Lorie has spearheaded, aimed at ensuring guests feel the warmth and comfort, coupled with a touch of luxury, during their stay at Innisfree Hotels. Her relentless pursuit for quality, coupled with a cost-effective approach, has set a benchmark in the hospitality procurement realm.

Dive into this enlightening episode as we explore the synergy between procurement, operational efficiency, and elevated guest experiences with Lorie Komanova. Her insights are a treasure trove for hoteliers aiming to strike the perfect balance between operational excellence and unparalleled guest satisfaction.

Don't miss this episode full of actionable insights that could be the game-changer in your guest experience strategy. Tune into the Virtual GM Podcast now!

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorie-komanova-6a961098/
Website: innisfreehotels.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innisfreehotels/

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Welcome to Episode 51 of the Virtual GM Podcast! In this special live edition, we are thrilled to have Michael Kaye, Partner at Procure by Design and Director of Design and Procurements at Skyline International Development, as our esteemed guest.

Join us as we delve into the intricate world of hospitality design and procurement with Michael, who brings a wealth of experience from his dynamic journey in the industry. From his early roles as Project Manager and Director of Food and Beverage for downtown hotels to his current influential position, Michael has been instrumental in shaping the essence of numerous iconic properties.

With a meticulous eye for aesthetic detail and a profound understanding of the art of hospitality, Michael has left an indelible mark on Skyline's exceptional hotel portfolio, including The Pantages Hotel Toronto Centre, The Cosmopolitan Toronto Centre Hotel and Spa, Shizen Spa, Eight Wine Bar, and the Discovery Center at Port McNicoll, to name a few.

In this insightful episode, we explore Michael's innovative approach to blending functionality, comfort, and style in his designs, all while ensuring each project surpasses expectations for quality and functionality. We uncover the essence of his design philosophy, where every environment is tailored to the unique preferences and needs of every individual customer.

Tune in to gain exclusive insights into the cutting-edge design elements and premium materials that form the backbone of Michael's unparalleled creations. Recorded live from the historic Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria property, during BITAC Purchasing and Design 2023, this episode promises to be an inspiring exploration of the artistry and vision behind some of the world's most remarkable hospitality projects.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/procurebydesign/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-k-21065813/
Website: https://www.procurebydesign.com/

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Welcome to Episode 52 of the Virtual GM Podcast! Today, broadcasting live from the prestigious Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria property, during BITAC Purchasing and Design 2023. Join us in this riveting episode with our esteemed guest, Jodi Sandler, Senior Design Director at Fontainebleau Development.

Jodi's illustrious career in the world of design spans over a decade, encompassing a diverse range of projects across the globe. From Miami to Hong Kong, she has left an indelible mark on the realms of High-End Multi-Family Residential, Hospitality, Residential Retail, and Restaurant sectors. Her extensive experience in the design and construction process has positioned her as a trailblazer in the industry.

In our discussion, we shed light on the much-anticipated Fontainebleau Las Vegas, set to open its doors on December 13th. Boasting an impressive 67-story structure, a sprawling 6-acre pool complex, and an array of 36 bars and restaurants, this architectural gem is poised to redefine luxury in Las Vegas.

One of the key highlights of our conversation revolves around Jodi's instrumental role in designing the guest rooms at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Her meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to creating immersive and opulent spaces have set a new standard for luxury accommodation. Join us as we unveil the intricate process behind the guest room design, gaining exclusive insights into Jodi's creative vision and the seamless fusion of comfort and extravagance that defines the Fontainebleau experience.

Don't miss out on this exclusive episode where we delve into the convergence of design excellence and unparalleled hospitality at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Tune in now to embark on a journey through the world of luxury, creativity, and innovation with Jodi Sandler on the Virtual GM Podcast!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fontainebleaudevelopment/
Website: https://www.fbdev.com/
Las Vegas Resort: https://www.instagram.com/fontainebleaulasvegas/
Miami Resort: https://www.instagram.com/fontainebleau/
Jodi Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jodibsand/
Jodi LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodi-sandler-asid-7a006b30/

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Welcome to Episode 50 of the Virtual GM Podcast, where we bring you insights from the most influential figures in the hospitality industry. In this milestone episode, we had the privilege of hosting the esteemed Marji Waldman, Principal and President at Stroud Group, joining us live from the prestigious Arizona Biltmore, a renowned Waldorf Astoria property, during the BITAC Purchasing and Design 2023 event.

Marji's journey is nothing short of inspirational. Back in 1987, she embarked on her entrepreneurial odyssey, establishing The Stroud Group in Maryland as a local arm of Stroud Purchasing in Pennsylvania. Initially focused on providing procurement services to properties in the vicinity, Marji's visionary approach led to an expansion of services and clientele, encompassing a diverse array of high-end hotels, casinos, resorts, and 4 to 5-star properties across the global landscape.

Her remarkable success story can be attributed to her unwavering commitment to personalized service, ensuring that each client feels uniquely valued. Marji has consistently gone above and beyond, leveraging her expertise to enhance her clients' properties, fortify their bottom lines, and meet critical deadlines. Notably, her emphasis on leveraging cutting-edge technology has set new industry standards for reporting precision, even while managing an array of large-scale projects.

It's no wonder Entrepreneur Magazine bestowed upon Marji the esteemed title of "Female Entrepreneur of the Year," a testament to her exceptional leadership and groundbreaking contributions to the hospitality industry. Join us as we delve into her incredible journey, explore her unparalleled expertise, and uncover the secrets behind her enduring success in the fiercely competitive world of hospitality procurement. Tune in to gain exclusive insights from a true pioneer and visionary in the field.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestroudgroup/
Website: https://www.stroudgroup.com/
LinkdeIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marji-waldman-18032210/

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Welcome to Episode 50 of the Virtual GM Podcast, where we had the pleasure of hosting the illustrious Liza Koeda, Principal at Cober Koeda. Coming to you live from the Arizona Biltmore, a renowned Waldorf Astoria property at BITAC Purchasing and Design 2023, this episode promises an insightful peek into the world of hospitality design and the art of crafting exceptional spaces.

Liza Koeda brings a unique blend of architectural prowess and interior design finesse, honed through over 15 years of international experience in the realm of hospitality design. Her journey from spearheading hotel projects to crafting opulent residential properties has culminated in the establishment of her brainchild, CoberKoeda, Inc. - a thriving boutique design studio driven by an unwavering passion for unconventional and captivating designs.

Join us as Liza delves into the intricacies of her design philosophy, revealing how her global experiences, unrelenting dedication, and innate creative talent have fostered her continual pursuit of groundbreaking designs. From the genesis of her career to the founding of CoberKoeda, Inc., Liza shares her insights into the art of creating distinct, narrative-driven design stories for every space she encounters.

Discover the true essence of a successful designer's journey through Liza's perspective, as she articulates the exhilarating realization of her design visions materializing into tangible, lived experiences. Tune in to Episode 50 for a compelling conversation that promises to inspire and invigorate your own creative endeavors.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coberkoeda/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liza-koeda-b0609a92/
Website: https://www.coberkoeda.com/

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In Episode 48 of the Virtual GM Podcast, get ready to embark on an exciting journey as our host Spencer Halford & Cody Adent sit down with the renowned industry leader, J. Viola, Chief Operating Officer at BITAC Events. Broadcasting live from the historic Arizona Biltmore, a luxurious Waldorf Astoria property, during the iconic BITAC Purchasing and Design 2023 event, this episode is filled with exclusive insights and revelations.

Join us as J. Viola provides a tantalizing glimpse into the future, revealing the impressive lineup of 15 BITAC events scheduled for 2024. Learn what sets BITAC apart and makes it a paramount experience in the realm of events and hospitality. Discover the magic that transforms attendees into valued members of the BITAC family, fostering an unparalleled sense of community and camaraderie.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of the BITAC experience as we uncover what makes these events truly exceptional. Tune in for an engaging discussion that delves deep into the essence of building lasting industry relationships and fostering meaningful connections.

Connect w/J. Here:

Email: jviola@bitac.net
Website: https://bitac.net/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-viola-12ba5110/

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In the exhilarating Episode 47 of the Virtual GM Podcast, our hosts Cody Adent & Kyle Aldrige, in the midst of the bustling ambiance at the BITACH Purchasing and Design 2023, engages in a captivating conversation with the illustrious Jamess Skunkcap. Join us as we glean insights from Jamess, the esteemed Hotel Housekeeping Manager at the renowned Shoshone Bannock Casino in Fort Hall, Idaho.

Amidst the grandeur of the historic Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria property, Jamess graces our podcast with her profound wisdom and industry expertise. She delves into her deep-seated passion for the hospitality sector, highlighting her favorite travel destination, the vibrant city of Las Vegas. Furthermore, Jamess sheds light on her affinity for the Hilton hotel brand, showcasing her penchant for top-notch service and exceptional guest experiences.

Throughout the episode, Jamess illuminates the quintessential pillars for an impeccable housekeeping team. With her profound experience, she emphasizes the significance of maintaining high cleanliness standards as the cornerstone of any successful hotel operation. Moreover, she emphasizes the importance of going the extra mile to ensure guests' utmost satisfaction, fostering a culture of genuine care and personalized service.

Drawing from her invaluable leadership experience, Jamess underscores the pivotal role of teamwork in fostering a harmonious and efficient work environment. In her profound words, "Teamwork makes the dream work," she encapsulates the essence of collaborative efforts and shared goals within a dedicated housekeeping team.

Tune in to Episode 47 of the Virtual GM Podcast for an enriching and insightful conversation with the remarkable Jamess Skunkcap, where hospitality meets excellence, and every detail matters.

Hotel & Casino: https://shobangaming.com/

BITAC: https://bitac.net/

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Hey everyone, we're back and today we're diving deep into the world of hotel guest loyalty. If you're a hotel owner or GM, you know that guest loyalty is the lifeblood of your business. The experience they have matters—a lot!

What are you doing to keep up with loyalty programs? How's your guest loyalty game? In this episode, we'll break down the top strategies to ensure your guests keep coming back. From personalized experiences to loyalty rewards, we've got you covered.

Don't miss out on expert tips to elevate your loyalty programs and truly connect with your guests. Subscribe now and hit that notification bell so you never miss an episode!

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In this week's episode, Cody and I share insights from our recent Florida trip, focusing on independent hotels. We talk about ways to save money and time in your operations. And yeah, this podcast is still free!

We also dive into local content creation that you can replicate for zero cost. This is especially handy for independent hotel owners looking to elevate their brand. Tune in and get some actionable tips!

We also had the chance to attend the BITAC Independent event, a must-visit for anyone in the independent hotel industry. We walked away with some real gems—practical advice, networking opportunities, and the latest industry trends. If you're an independent hotel owner, you'll want to hear what we picked up there. Don't miss this episode!

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We got the files guys! This is one you've got to listen to. Spencer Halford and Cody Adent visit with Sharmin Dharas of Hotel Zazz, Gabe Garn of Garn Development, Adam Keeshan from Ithaka Hospitality, and Tony Nelson of Zion Wildflower and talk for 25 straight minutes about Independent Hotels and Independent Hospitality. We were so excited about this opportunity and can't wait to catch you guys at the next BITAC! Be sure to checkout BITAC at www.bitac.net

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Hey guys, after getting lots of feedback on the episodes, one thing that came through a lot was the need to talk about rate and revenue management. This episode is almost 40 minutes of practical and applicable ways to increase your ADR, RevPAR all while holding or reducing your Occ. I know it sounds crazy but it's possible! Check it out and lest us know what you think. 

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Hey guys, after getting lots of feedback on the episodes, one thing that came through a lot was the need to talk about rate and revenue management. This episode is almost 40 minutes of practical and applicable ways to increase your ADR, RevPAR all while holding or reducing your Occ. I know it sounds crazy but it's possible! Check it out and lest us know what you think. 

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Hey everyone, we're back with another episode! This time, Spencer and Cody explore 4 spots to advertise your hotel for free. Sounds too good to be true? It's not. These aren't just for the hotel marketing pros; they're no-barrier-to-entry strategies that anyone on your staff can implement. Think of it as adding some extra punch to your Hotel Management and Revenue Growth without draining the budget. No fluff, just practical tips to get more eyes on your hotel.

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Craig Andrews, a professional Entrepreneurial Operating Systems (EOS0 Implementor joins us on today's podcast. Craig has taken us through EOS for nearly the last two years and helped us organize not only our organization but the organization of the properties we manage. 

EOS is used by hospitality professionals worldwide, including our former guest, Thinkreseverations. This tool will 1000% make a direct impact on your business. We truly don't know how we would be operating without it! 

You can see more about Craig and learn more about EOS by visiting the link below - 
https://www.eosworldwide.com/craig-andrews

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THIS IS NOT A DRILL - Sean Cannell, the man who forever changed Vibrant Management, our properties, your properties, and our lives is here on The Virtual GM! If you're new to the show, we've been chatting about our experience at Grow With Video on literally every episode of this podcast. Not joking. Sean is a wealth of knowledge and even applying a mere 10% of his ideas and marketing genius will change the direction of your hotel, STR, and life for the better. For those of you who have been living under a rock, below is more information about our new friend, Sean Cannell.

Sean Cannell is an international speaker, coach, and prolific content creator. His mission is to help 10,000 purpose-driven people create a full-time living with Youtube. As the CEO of Think Media and host of the Think Media Podcast, he is one of today’s leading online video experts and the world’s most-watched YouTube strategist. Sean’s YouTube channels have over 2 million subscribers and his videos have been viewed over 150 million times. Sean has been featured in the “20 Must Watch YouTube Channels That Will Change Your Business” by Forbes.com. After growing a six-figure income as a “tech YouTuber,” he built an eight-figure online video education company that he runs today.

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We're excited to share our latest adventure with you! Join our very own Cody as he takes you through the glittering world of the hospitality industry at "The Hospitality Show" in Las Vegas. While he is the only one hosting this podcast episode, he wasn't alone on this journey. Alongside him were our dynamic team members, Spencer Halford and Kyle Aldridge, bringing their unique insights and experiences to the table.

Organized by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), The Hospitality Show is a premier event in the hospitality sector that unites the best and brightest in the industry from across the globe. It was a whirlwind of learning, networking, and innovation, and we were thrilled to be a part of it.

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to our channel for more updates on Vibrant Management's journey in the world of business and hospitality. Share your thoughts and questions with us in the comments section below - we love hearing from you!

Stay tuned, and stay vibrant!

VibrantManagement #HospitalityShow #AHLA #LasVegas #Business #Networking #HospitalityIndustry

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Hey, hoteliers! Ever wondered, 'Does my independent hotel really need UGC creators?' Well, wonder no more, because your favorite podcast, 'Virtual GM' by Vibrant Management, is here to answer this burning question with our latest YouTube video!

In our signature fun and engaging style, we'll decode the mysterious world of User-Generated Content (UGC). We promise it's not as complicated as it sounds! In fact, it's as simple as your guests clicking, posting, and sharing their experiences with your hotel - easy peasy lemon squeezy, right?

UGC creators are like the superheroes of the digital marketing universe, swooping in to save the day with their fresh, authentic, and relatable content. And guess what? They can do the same for your independent hotel! Our video is jam-packed with reasons why UGC might be the magical marketing potion you didn't know you needed.

We'll take you on a whirlwind tour of real-world success stories, showing you just how game-changing UGC can be. Think of it like a 'before and after' makeover show, but for your hotel's online presence. Exciting, right?

But that's not all! As your trusty Virtual GM, we won't leave you hanging. We'll also share some top-notch tips on how to find and collaborate with the perfect UGC creators for your hotel. Think of it as your treasure map to UGC success.

So, get your popcorn ready and buckle up for a fun-filled ride into the world of UGC creators. Tune in now and let's add a little sprinkle of UGC magic to your independent hotel marketing! Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more hotel industry insider tips and tricks from the 'Virtual GM' team at Vibrant Management."

Remember, when writing descriptions, using a fun and engaging tone can be a great way to connect with your audience and reflect the personality of your brand or show. It's also crucial to end with a call to action, encouraging viewers to engage with your content by liking, sharing, and subscribing.

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Welcome back to Virtual GM, the essential podcast for hotel owners and General Managers seeking to stay informed and ahead in the bustling hospitality industry.

In today's episode, "Hospitality News You Can't Afford To Miss," we explore the latest happenings and trends in the world of hospitality. We shed light on upcoming shows you'll definitely want to mark in your calendar, as well as highlight the independent brands that are making waves in the sector.

At Virtual GM, we recognize the power of knowledge and the importance of learning from those who are pushing boundaries and setting new standards. We dive deep into the journeys of these successful brands, their strategies, and how their innovative approaches are reshaping the landscape of hospitality.

Prepare to uncover the lesser-known facets of the industry and get a heads-up on future events that are poised to leave a significant impact. Whether you're a seasoned hotel owner or a newly minted General Manager, this episode promises to be a treasure trove of insights and inspiration.

Don't forget to subscribe to Virtual GM for your regular dose of hospitality news and insights. Together, let's stay at the forefront of this dynamic industry!

Stay tuned and join us in the pursuit of excellence in hospitality, one episode at a time!

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Hey there, hotel lovers! Welcome back to another episode of 'Virtual GM,' brought to you by the folks at Vibrant Management. This time, it's all about '7 Ways To Optimize Your Guest Experience,' and our main man Spencer Halford is going solo to spill the beans.

Get ready to soak up some serious tips and tricks for cranking up your guest experience game, specifically in the realm of boutique hotels. Spencer's bringing his A-game, sharing some top-notch, practical advice to help you stay ahead in the hospitality scene.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who's got a thing for hospitality. From seasoned GMs to boutique hotel owners, or even those just curious about the industry – we've got you covered!

Remember, an awesome guest experience is what makes your hotel stand out. So, grab a coffee, settle in, and let's get this show on the road!

For more cool stuff, check us out at thevibrantteam.com. Stick with 'Virtual GM' for your regular fix of all things hotels. Catch you in the next episode!

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Welcome to "Virtual GM," the podcast hosted by Spencer Halford and Cody Adent. In this episode, we explore the intriguing world of hotel optimization, focusing on an essential topic for hoteliers: getting the most out of TripAdvisor. Join us as we dive into valuable insights and strategies that leverage the power of this influential platform.

At "Virtual GM," we strive to provide hoteliers with practical guidance to enhance their online presence. In this episode, Spencer and Cody, in collaboration with Vibrant Management, share their expertise on navigating TripAdvisor to stand out amidst the competitive hospitality landscape. Our aim is to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to optimize your hotel's profile and attract more guests.

Discover the significance of curating compelling visuals and crafting engaging descriptions that captivate potential guests on TripAdvisor. We'll explore effective strategies for managing guest reviews, responding thoughtfully, and transforming feedback into opportunities for improvement. Through our discussion, we'll highlight how Vibrant Management's comprehensive approach can help you elevate your hotel's online reputation.

Join us as we dive deep into the intricacies of TripAdvisor optimization. Our free-flowing conversation will uncover techniques to attract more travelers, strengthen your hotel's online presence, and ultimately drive bookings through strategic optimization. We aim to provide you with practical insights that you can implement immediately to make a positive impact on your hotel's performance.

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Welcome to Virtual GM, presented by Vibrant Management, the podcast where we explore the future of independent hotels and provide you with the ultimate solution for success. In this episode, join us as we dive into the insightful conversation between our hosts, Spencer Halford and Cody Adent, and our special guest, Richard Aday, the CEO of ThinkReservations.

At Vibrant Management, we believe in partnering with the best in the industry to offer comprehensive solutions for independent hotels. That's why we are excited to have Richard Aday, the CEO of ThinkReservations, on this episode. ThinkReservations is a leading property management system (PMS) provider, trusted by thousands of hotels worldwide. Their robust PMS offers a wide range of features and functionalities designed specifically for independent hotels, making them an exceptional choice for seamless operations and exceptional guest experiences.

ThinkReservations stands out for its user-friendly interface, powerful reservation management tools, and seamless integration with other hotel systems. Whether it's managing bookings, optimizing rates and availability, or streamlining operations, ThinkReservations empowers independent hoteliers with the tools they need to succeed in today's competitive market. By leveraging their PMS, hoteliers can efficiently manage their properties, enhance guest satisfaction, and drive revenue growth.

Join us as we explore the many benefits of ThinkReservations and how it can transform the way independent hotels operate. Discover why it is considered one of the best PMS options for independent hotels, offering a winning combination of advanced features, reliable support, and a user-centric approach.

If you're an independent hotel owner or manager looking for a powerful PMS to optimize your operations, then ThinkReservations is the perfect fit. Tune in to Virtual GM, presented by Vibrant Management, and get ready to unlock the full potential of your independent hotel with the industry-leading PMS provided by ThinkReservations.

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Welcome to a new episode on our Virtual GM channel! In today's video, we're exploring the intriguing intersection of AI and hospitality with the title "How to Use ChatGPT at Your Hotel: A Guide to AI in Hospitality".

We're excited to bring you an insightful interview with ChatGPT, a state-of-the-art AI language model developed by OpenAI. This episode sheds light on how AI, particularly ChatGPT, can be leveraged to enhance the operations of your independent hotel.

We delve into practical applications, such as utilizing AI for data analysis, improving marketing strategies, streamlining operations, and even enhancing guest experiences. ChatGPT provides innovative tips and suggestions that hoteliers can readily implement to stay at the forefront of this rapidly evolving industry.

This unique dialogue is an eye-opener to the future of the hospitality industry, where AI is no longer a distant dream but a readily available tool. Watch the episode now and let ChatGPT navigate you through the promising opportunities AI presents in hotel management.

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to our channel, Virtual GM, for more transformative insights and expert advice in the world of independent hotels. Let's journey together into the future of hospitality!

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Welcome back to the Virtual GM Podcast, your one-stop resource for insights and advice tailored to hotel owners, general managers, and hospitality management companies.

We're thrilled to welcome a pioneer of the hospitality industry - the CEO and Founder of BITAC Events, Rich Viola! With his vast knowledge and experience, Rich has a wealth of insights about independent hotels and their potential to win big in today's competitive market.

In this exciting episode, we dive deep into the world of independent hotels. Rich shares some of his most effective strategies that independent hoteliers can implement to stay competitive and flourish. From branding to customer service, to maximizing the impact of events like BITAC, it's all in this episode.

So, whether you're a hotel owner, general manager, or part of a hospitality management company, this episode is packed with nuggets of wisdom that can help you navigate today's dynamic hospitality landscape and set your property up for success.

Remember to subscribe to our podcast on your preferred platform to ensure you never miss an episode filled with valuable insights.

Also, don't forget to follow us on Instagram @VirtualGMpodcast for more exclusive content and updates. For more resources and information about how we can help elevate your property, visit us at www.thevibrantteam.com.

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Hotel Owners & GMs: Difficult guests can sometimes be a challenge, right? Learn how to turn challenging situations into opportunities with our latest video: "5-Star Conflict Resolution: Dealing with Angry Guests in Your Hotel".

Join Cody Adent and Spencer Halford from Vibrant Management as they share 4 game-changing strategies to handle tough situations and even keep those difficult guests for future stays. Transform heated moments into opportunities to shine with these key techniques:

✅ The power of empathy: Understanding the guest's perspective 🎭
✅ The art of communication: How to respond effectively 📣
✅ Solution-oriented mindset: Turning problems into possibilities 🚀
✅ The secret sauce: Going the extra mile to win them over 🏅

By mastering these strategies, you can turn any situation around, ensuring your guests feel heard, valued, and ready to book their next stay.

Don't miss out on this chance to elevate your hotel's guest experience. Subscribe to the Vibrant Management channel now and turn on notifications to stay ahead with the latest news, insights, and advice tailored just for hotel owners and GMs like you.

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🏨 Independent Hotel Owners & GMs: Discover the ultimate video marketing tactics with Vibrant Management that will catapult your property's growth and make it the talk of the town! 🌟🚀 In this must-listen podcast episode, Cody Adent and Spencer Halford from Vibrant Management reveal the top 3 proven video marketing strategies that will attract more guests, increase bookings, and skyrocket your hotel's revenue. 💸📈

Join Cody and Spencer as they dive deep into the world of hotel video marketing and uncover the secrets to creating highly-engaging and captivating content that will set your independent property apart from the competition. 🔥🎧

✅ The essential ingredients for a viral hotel video that will drive bookings! 📹💥
✅ How to leverage video testimonials to build trust and credibility! 🌟👥
✅ Creating unforgettable virtual tours that showcase your hotel's unique charm! 🏨🔍

PLUS: Get ready for a bonus section where we discuss innovative promotion ideas for hotel marketing that will help you get the most out of your video content! 🚀🎯

Don't miss this chance to revolutionize your independent hotel's marketing strategy with these insider tips and tricks from Vibrant Management. Subscribe to the Vibrant Management Podcast now and stay ahead of the game with the latest news, insights, and hotel marketing advice, tailored just for hotel owners and GMs like YOU! 🎧🍿

Visit our website for more valuable resources: https://www.thevibrantteam.com/

And don't forget to follow our Instagram @VirtualGMpodcast for exclusive content, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments!

IndependentHotelMarketing #VideoMarketing #VibrantManagement #HotelPromotionIdeas #HotelOwners #HotelManagement #HotelGrowth

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Welcome to another insightful episode of our audio podcast series! In this episode, we're revealing the top 4 mistakes that hotels often make and how you can avoid them to maximize success in the hospitality industry.

➡️ With the guidance of our Virtual GM, you'll discover:

  • The most common pitfalls hotels face and how to overcome them
  • Proven strategies to optimize hotel operations for increased revenue
  • Expert advice on elevating guest experience and boosting customer satisfaction

💡Don't let these common mistakes hold your hotel business back! We'll be diving deep into each mistake, discussing why they occur and providing actionable solutions to help you stay ahead in the competitive hospitality market.

🎧 Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for more exclusive content and insights from our Virtual GM. Stay updated with the latest episodes that can help hotel owners and general managers succeed in the industry!

👍 If you found this episode helpful, please leave us a positive review and share it with fellow hotel owners and general managers who might benefit from this information. We appreciate your support and look forward to helping you achieve success in the hospitality industry.

HotelMistakes #VirtualGM #HotelOperations #HotelOwners #GeneralManagers #HospitalitySuccess #GuestExperience #CustomerSatisfaction

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@thevibrantteam
@virtualgmpodcast

Checkout our website -
www.thevibrantteam.com

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⚠️ ATTENTION Hotel Owners & GMs: Boost your hotel's online presence with these 4 game-changing website fixes that will skyrocket bookings and leave your competitors in the dust! 🚀📈 Don't miss this life-changing podcast episode packed with expert tips and insider secrets to transform your hotel website into a profit machine! 💰🔥

In today's groundbreaking audio episode, we reveal the top 4 strategies that successful hotel owners are using to revamp their websites, attract more guests, and generate massive revenue. Learn from industry leaders how to optimize your website and uncover hidden opportunities to grow your hotel business! 🌟📊

✅ The #1 design mistake that's driving guests away – and how to fix it! 🖥️😱
✅ How to supercharge your website's SEO and rank higher on Google! 🌐🔝
✅ The secret to converting website visitors into loyal guests! 🛎️💼
✅ An exclusive look into our collaboration with SUU hospitality students – and how it's changing the game! 🎓🤝

Don't miss this chance to level up your hotel website and leave your competition in the dust. Subscribe now to the Vibrant Management Podcast and stay ahead of the game with the latest news, insights, and tips from the world of hospitality. Be sure to leave a review and share the podcast with fellow hotel owners, GMs, and decision-makers like YOU! 🎧🍿

HotelWebsiteFixes #VibrantManagement #SUUHospitality #HotelOwners #HotelManagement #SEOforHotels"

Follow us on Instagram -
@thevibrantteam
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Checkout our website -
www.thevibrantteam.com

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🔥 Welcome to another exciting episode of the Virtual GM Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of direct bookings and how they are triumphing over Airbnb in the hospitality industry. We'll explore the reasons behind Airbnb's recent stock decline and how independent hotels are capitalizing on this shift in consumer preference. 🏨

At Vibrant Management, we specialize in managing, consulting, and marketing for independent hotels, and we're here to share our insights and expertise. ✨

📌 In this episode, you'll learn:

  1. The reasons behind Airbnb's stock decline 📉
  2. How direct bookings are gaining popularity 📈
  3. Effective strategies to boost your hotel's direct bookings 💪
  4. Tips to successfully compete with platforms like Airbnb 🥊
  5. Ways to stay ahead in the ever-evolving hospitality landscape 🌐

Don't miss this opportunity to stay ahead in the ever-evolving hospitality landscape. Join us on the Virtual GM Podcast, brought to you by Vibrant Management, and let's transform your independent hotel business together! 🚀

Remember to 🌟 rate, 📣 share, and 💬 comment on our podcast for more tips and insights on running a successful independent hotel.

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"🚨 EXCLUSIVE: Uncover the jaw-dropping future of hospitality in 2023! 🚀💥 Discover mind-blowing innovations, controversial practices, and game-changing trends that are turning the industry upside down. What they don't want you to know will leave you speechless! 😱💼

In this must-watch video, we take you behind the scenes of Vibrant Management, the industry-disrupting powerhouse that's been making headlines all over the globe. Get ready to dive into the heart of the hospitality revolution as our experts reveal their closely-guarded secrets and spill the tea on what's REALLY happening in 2023! 🕵️‍♀️🍵

✅ What mysterious new tech is dominating the industry? 🤖🌐
✅ Which luxury brands are shaking things up with groundbreaking innovations? 🌟🥂
✅ How are the giants of the hospitality world dealing with these shocking changes? 🏨🌪️

You won't believe what we've uncovered in this eye-opening exposé. Subscribe now and hit that notification bell 🔔 so you don't miss out on the latest news and updates from the world of hospitality, brought to you by Vibrant Management. Stay tuned for more jaw-dropping content that will keep you on the edge of your seat! 🎬🍿

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Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast for hotel owners and managers. In this episode, we discuss the top 3 easy ways to enhance the guest experience at your hotel.

As hospitality professionals, we understand that providing a memorable stay for our guests is essential. That's why we're excited to share our top tips for enhancing the guest experience in this must-listen episode.

We'll cover a range of topics in this episode, from the importance of personalized service to creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests. We'll also discuss how to anticipate guest needs and go above and beyond their expectations to create a truly unforgettable stay.

So, whether you're a hotel owner, manager, or just interested in the hospitality industry, this episode is for you. Tune in now to learn how you can take your guest experience to the next level and create lasting memories for your guests. Don't miss out on these simple yet effective tips for enhancing the guest experience!

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Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast for hotel owners and managers. In this episode, we discuss the 5 essential social media updates that every hotel owner needs to know in order to maximize their impact and engagement.

Social media is an ever-changing landscape, and it can be difficult to stay on top of the latest trends and updates. But fear not! We've done the research for you and are excited to share our top tips for staying ahead of the game.

We cover a range of topics in this episode, from leveraging trending audio to get your videos found to using social media analytics to improve your reach and engagement. We'll explain why video isn't as important as it used to be and give you insights on how to use social media to brand your hotel and run successful promotions.

So, whether you're a hotel owner, manager, or just interested in social media, this episode is for you. Tune in now to learn how you can update your social media strategy to reach a wider audience and increase engagement. Don't miss out on these essential tips for social media success!

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Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast for boutique hotel owners and managers. In this episode, we dive deep into Entrepreneurial Operating Systems (EOS), a powerful tool that has transformed the way we manage our hotels.

We discuss how EOS has helped us to streamline our operations, maximize our profits, and accelerate our growth. We cover a range of topics, including how to run effective meetings, avoid pointless ones, and focus on what really matters to your hotel's success.

Running a boutique hotel can be challenging, and that's why we're excited to share this tool with our listeners. By implementing EOS in your hotel management strategy, you can take your business to the next level and achieve success in the competitive hospitality industry.

So, whether you're a boutique hotel owner, manager, or just interested in the hospitality industry, this podcast episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore the power of Entrepreneurial Operating Systems and how it can help you transform your hotel business. Tune in now to learn more!

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Welcome to this episode of the independent hotel podcast where we explore the essential softwares that every independent and boutique hotel should be using. In this episode, Spencer Halford and Cody Adent of Vibrant Management will be your guides, sharing their wealth of knowledge and expertise on the subject.

Vibrant Management is a leading hotel management company that operates throughout North America, and they have seen firsthand the impact these softwares can have on a hotel's revenue, overhead, and guest experience. Join Spencer and Cody as they discuss each of the 4 must-have softwares, explaining their features and benefits, and how they can help hotel owners and managers maximize their profits, reduce overhead, and provide an unforgettable guest experience.

So, whether you're a hotel owner or manager, or just interested in the hotel industry, this episode of the independent hotel podcast is a must-listen. Tune in now to hear the latest on how to revolutionize your hotel business with the help of technology.

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Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast where we take you on a virtual tour of Cougar Ridge's Grand Lodge, a luxurious 5-star property located in the picturesque town of Torrey, UT, managed by Vibrant Management. This episode is a special one as it's very visual and we highly recommend to check it out on our YouTube channel.

As a hotel owner, you understand the importance of providing your guests with a memorable experience, and that's exactly what Cougar Ridge's Grand Lodge offers. We take you through the property and highlight the exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail that has been put into every aspect of the property. From the spacious and well-appointed guest rooms to the state-of-the-art amenities, beautiful outdoor spaces, and dining options available in town or we can cater a meal with a world class chef.

We also talk about the location of the property, next to Capitol Reef National Park, which offers a diverse range of activities for guests to enjoy. And, of course, we cannot forget to mention our expertise as a management company, providing exceptional service and hospitality, and our focus on generating leads and revenue for your property.

We hope you enjoy this audio tour and encourage you to check out the video tour on our YouTube channel to fully experience the beauty of Cougar Ridge's Grand Lodge. And if you're looking for a management company that can help you take your property to the next level, look no further than Vibrant Management.

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Welcome to the exciting world of ChatGPT, a powerful language model created by OpenAI. In this podcast episode, we will be discussing how ChatGPT can help boutique hotel owners to automate their social media presence and customer service. By using ChatGPT, you can save time and improve the overall customer experience, which can help you stand out from the competition and attract more guests.

We will be talking about the ways in which ChatGPT can understand and respond to natural language, which means that it can understand the intent behind customer inquiries and provide relevant, helpful responses. This can make a huge difference in terms of customer satisfaction and can help you stand out from the competition. Additionally, ChatGPT can be used to generate social media posts that are more engaging and personalized, which can help you attract more guests and increase bookings.

Another great feature of ChatGPT is that it can be integrated with other tools and platforms. For example, you can use it in conjunction with a chatbot to provide 24/7 customer service or integrate it with your website to provide instant responses to customer inquiries. This can help you provide an even better customer experience and make it easier for guests to book with your hotel. In this podcast episode, we will be showing you how to set up and use ChatGPT for your boutique hotel, including examples of how it can be used to generate engaging social media posts and personalized responses to customer inquiries. By the end of this episode, you'll have a better understanding of how ChatGPT can help grow your boutique hotel and take your customer service to the next level.

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Welcome to the Vibrant Management podcast! In this episode, we're excited to bring you an interview with Cody Adent, President of Vibrant Management and author of the new book "Winning The Moment."

Vibrant Management is a boutique hotel management and marketing company based in Utah. With a focus on elevating the guest experience and driving profitability for our clients, we have established ourselves as a leader in the industry.

In this interview, Cody sits down with Spencer Halford, VP of Sales & Marketing at Vibrant Management, to discuss the inspiration behind his new book "Winning The Moment." This book chronicles the creation of Vibrant Management and the series of key decisions that have helped shape the company into the success it is today.

As a leader in Utah tourism and hotel management, Cody shares valuable insights and tips on how to run a successful hotel business. Whether you're in the hospitality industry or looking to make a career change, this interview is a must-listen.

We hope you enjoy this interview with Cody Adent and be sure to check out his new book "Winning The Moment" for even more valuable insights on hotel marketing and management. Thank you for listening and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more great content.

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The holiday season is a great time to make your hotel shine! With the right strategies and proper planning, you can turn this slow period of year into an opportunity for success. This video offers four essential tips that will help you bring in more business during the holiday season. From hosting special events to running promotions, discover how you can make the most out of this time and ensure a better holiday season for your hotel. 

Turn your hotel into a festive, inviting place with decorations that fit the season and promote hospitality. From garlands to twinkly lights, there are many ways you can add touches of holiday cheer to your property. Additionally, consider hosting holiday-related events and activities to build relationships with the local community and create a festive atmosphere that will draw in customers. 

The most important part of any successful hotel is customer satisfaction. Show your guests how much you appreciate them by offering special promotions, discounts or packages throughout the holiday season. This will not only attract more business, but it will also help show customers how much you value them and their loyalty to your hotel. 

So what are you waiting for? Watch “4 essentials for an amazing holiday season” today and learn the tips and tricks that can help make this year a successful one!

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In this video, we explore the 3 essentials for running a successful boutique hotel during a slow off-season. We'll take you through the strategies and tips that make all the difference in getting your business ready for the busiest months.

Most boutique hotel owners know how important a successful off-season is, but they don't always know how to make the most of it. Here at Vibrant Management, we specialize in helping hotel owners get their businesses ready for the busiest months and that starts with preparing for a successful off-season.

If you're curious about what strategies help boutique hotels grow during an off-season, then this video is for you. Tune in to learn the 3 essentials for running a successful boutique hotel during their off-season and get your business ready for the busiest months. Don't miss out! Watch now! 

Thanks for watching, and don't forget to like, comment and subscribe to our channel. Until next time!

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What's Happening in Utah Hospitality - November 2022. Join Spencer & Cody as they discuss current events in hospitality in the state of Utah for November 2022.

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If you're an investment property owner, this video is for you! In under 4 months, you can become an Airbnb Superhost by doing 4, simple, easy tasks. But, is AirBnB the best use of your time? 

If you own a property that ends in Resort, Hotel, Motel, or anything like that, what other alternatives do you have to AirBnB? 

PLUS - An update from the Utah Tourism Conference 2022!

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Join Cody & Spencer as we discuss what's happening in some of Utah's most unique and amazing hospitality properties in 2022! 

Vibrant Management is gearing up for great things this year and that certainly includes new properties coming on board. What properties? Listen to discover more! 

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Cody & Spencer talk about Expedia. 

Expedia and other online travel agencies can be a great way to reach new customers and grow your hotel business. However, some hoteliers view Expedia as the "evil empire" because of the high commissions they charge. But is Expedia really that bad? Let's take a look at the pros and cons of using Expedia for your boutique hotel.

On the plus side, Expedia brings in a lot of business. They are one of the largest online travel agencies in the world and have a huge customer base. This means that you can reach a lot more people by listing your hotel on Expedia than you would if you just relied on your own website.

Expedia also has a lot of clout with airlines and other hotel chains. This can be helpful when it comes to negotiating rates and getting discounts on travel.

On the downside, Expedia does charge high commissions - up to 25% in some cases. This can take a big chunk out of your profits. And because Expedia is such a large company, they have a lot of negotiating power when it comes to rates. This means that you may not be able to get the best deal for your hotel if you list it on Expedia.

So, what's the verdict? Is Expedia evil? Maybe not. But should you use them for your boutique hotel? That's a decision that only you can make. Consider the pros and cons carefully before you decide.

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Working in hospitality is always an adventure, but working with boutique properties is always an experience. Join Spencer Halford and Cody Adent as they give a tour of our unique properties and what makes them so special. 

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Cody & Spencer sit down with SUU Hospitality Student and Vibrant Management Social Media Manager, Kyle Aldridge, to discuss the latest trends on Social Media, including TikTok, Reels, and how to grow with video without spending a cent on ads. 

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Cody Adent and Spencer Halford sit down with Vibrant Management Intern Emree Olsen and discuss how we all got into Hospitality. The group discusses unique ways to grow a startup Boutique Hotel, develop its brand, and why that brand matters. 

If you didn't hear, the Euro is now 1 = 1 with the U.S. Dollar! We talk about what that means for European travelers, and how to get more domestic travelers in a year when traveling out of the country is at the top of everyone's mind!

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Welcome to the first episode of Virtual GM! Join Cody Adent, President of Vibrant Management, and Spencer Halford VP of Marketing at Vibrant Management. Vibrant Management was built by generational Hoteliers to manage the #1 Hilton Curio (Cliffrose in Springdale, UT) in the United States, and has grown to be one of the primer management companies in the rocky mountain west. 

This episode covers all the ways you can organically grow your Hotel, Motel, Airbnb, VRBO, or whatever property that you have on the market. 

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Knowing where to turn to start your hotel website can be really intimidating. You can have the best property in your area and no one will ever know, because your website does a terrible job showing the property. Instead of getting a cheap booking on your website, you'll lose 20% of revenue to Expedia or Booking.com because you failed to have a website that can convert your guest. Check out this episode to learn a few ways you can optimize your boutique hotel website so you get more bookings, and have a higher room value because your website is selling for you!