Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

Vibrant Management
  • 5.0 (12)
  • MANAGEMENT
  • UPDATED DAILY

Welcome to Virtual GM, the ultimate podcast for anyone looking to elevate their game in the modern hospitality industry! 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 the hospitality world, this podcast is for you! Each episode is packed with valuable insights, expert advice, and real-life stories from industry leaders and innovators. We'll cover everything from how to effectively market your property and increase bookings, to how to provide top-notch customer service and stand out in a crowded market. But it's not all business - we'll also be having a lot of fun along the way. Expect witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs as we take a fresh and entertaining approach to discussing the hospitality industry. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management - a company dedicated to helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world - Virtual GM is your go-to source for all things hospitality. So, join us, and let's elevate your game! and visit us on our website: www.thevibrantteam.com

  1. 1D AGO

    🎧 Episode 27: The Virtual GM Playbook: Running Your Property from Anywhere in 2026

    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. Follow us on Instagram - @thevibrantteam @virtualgmpodcast Checkout our website - www.thevibrantteam.com

    16 min

  2. JAN 29

    🎧 Episode 26: AI in Hospitality 2026: Smarter Operations, Stronger Marketing

    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 conversionsPersonalize marketing messagesEnhance email and paid ad performanceHelp 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. Follow us on Instagram - @thevibrantteam @virtualgmpodcast Checkout our website - www.thevibrantteam.com

    15 min
  3. 🎧 Episode 25: Loyalty That Works: How Independent Hotels Win with Stash Rewards

    JAN 22

    🎧 Episode 25: Loyalty That Works: How Independent Hotels Win with Stash Rewards

    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: Independent Lodging Congress – https://ilcongress.com/ Independent Hotel Show – https://independenthotelshow.us/ AHLA Events – https://www.ahla.com/events HITEC – https://www.hitec.org/ 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/ Follow us on Instagram - @thevibrantteam @virtualgmpodcast Checkout our website - www.thevibrantteam.com

    27 min
  4. 🎧 Episode 24: Inside BITAC: Why These Hospitality Events Are Unlike Any Other

    JAN 15

    🎧 Episode 24: Inside BITAC: Why These Hospitality Events Are Unlike Any Other

    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 LuxuryBITAC Operations 2026BITAC Casino Resorts 2026BITAC Purchasing & Design Summer 2026BITAC Purchasing & Design Fall 2026BITAC 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/ Follow us on Instagram - @thevibrantteam @virtualgmpodcast Checkout our website - www.thevibrantteam.com

    20 min

  5. JAN 8

    🎧 Episode 23: Leveraging Micro-Moments: Small Touches That Create Big Loyalty

    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. Follow us on Instagram - @thevibrantteam @virtualgmpodcast Checkout our website - www.thevibrantteam.com

    8 min

  6. JAN 1

    🎧 Episode 22: New Year, New Stays: Fresh Starts in Boutique Hospitality

    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. Follow us on Instagram - @thevibrantteam @virtualgmpodcast Checkout our website - www.thevibrantteam.com

    10 min

  7. 12/25/2025

    🎄 Episode 21: Holiday Hospitality & Christmas Movie Showdown

    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: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever — IMDB The Santa Clause — IMDB Home Alone — IMDB How the Grinch Stole Christmas — IMDB The Christmas Chronicles — IMDB Cody’s Picks: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation — IMDB The Night Before — IMDB Jingle All the Way — IMDB Elf — IMDB 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! ✨ Follow us on Instagram - @thevibrantteam @virtualgmpodcast Checkout our website - www.thevibrantteam.com

    13 min

  8. 12/18/2025

    🎧 Episode 20: The Hidden Power of Asset Management — Featuring Walter Peseski of Garfield Public/Private

    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. Follow us on Instagram - @thevibrantteam @virtualgmpodcast Checkout our website - www.thevibrantteam.com

    51 min
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5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Welcome to Virtual GM, the ultimate podcast for anyone looking to elevate their game in the modern hospitality industry! 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 the hospitality world, this podcast is for you! Each episode is packed with valuable insights, expert advice, and real-life stories from industry leaders and innovators. We'll cover everything from how to effectively market your property and increase bookings, to how to provide top-notch customer service and stand out in a crowded market. But it's not all business - we'll also be having a lot of fun along the way. Expect witty banter, relatable anecdotes, and plenty of laughs as we take a fresh and entertaining approach to discussing the hospitality industry. Produced and distributed by Vibrant Management - a company dedicated to helping hoteliers and vacation rental managers thrive in the modern world - Virtual GM is your go-to source for all things hospitality. So, join us, and let's elevate your game! and visit us on our website: www.thevibrantteam.com

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