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, 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...
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.
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...
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 an...
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...
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-fri...
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 servi...
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 effect...
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 mo...
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:
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 episod...
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