Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast
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
Episodes
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
- ...
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 perk...
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), an...
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 r...
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.
3...
🎙️ 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 coffe...
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 o...
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 pub...
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 succe...
To close out an incredible Season 2, Cody is flying solo and answering the top 5 questions from our listeners this year:
- What were the biggest takeaways or lessons from this season?
- What episode or guest had the biggest impact—and why?
- What was your favorite part of the season?
- What do you hope listeners learn from the VGM Podcast?
- What can we expect from Season 3?
It’s been an amazing ride filled with inspiring guests, game-cha...
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 tacti...
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:
- PMS (Property Management System)
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 Ho...
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...
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, ...
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...
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 Coro...
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’...
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.
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 cockt...
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