Navigating OTAs: Maximizing Direct Bookings and Understanding Online Travel Agents

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

#MBA #Business #Vibrant Management #Marketing #Hotel Management #Hotel Marketing #Hotel Operations #Hotel Revenue #Boutique Hotel #Luxury Hotel

1:14:43

Artificial intelligence is evolving at an unprecedented pace—what does that mean for the future of technology, venture capital, business, and even our understanding of ourselves? Award-winning journalist and writer Anil Ananthaswamy joins us for our latest episode to discuss his latest book Why Machines Learn: The Elegant Math Behind Modern AI . Anil helps us explore the journey and many breakthroughs that have propelled machine learning from simple perceptrons to the sophisticated algorithms shaping today’s AI revolution, powering GPT and other models. The discussion aims to demystify some of the underlying mathematical concepts that power modern machine learning, to help everyone grasp this technology impacting our lives–even if your last math class was in high school. Anil walks us through the power of scaling laws, the shift from training to inference optimization, and the debate among AI’s pioneers about the road to AGI—should we be concerned, or are we still missing key pieces of the puzzle? The conversation also delves into AI’s philosophical implications—could understanding how machines learn help us better understand ourselves? And what challenges remain before AI systems can truly operate with agency? If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Sign up for our newsletter at techsurgepodcast.com for exclusive insights and updates on upcoming TechSurge Live Summits. Links: Read Why Machines Learn, Anil’s latest book on the math behind AI https://www.amazon.com/Why-Machines-Learn-Elegant-Behind/dp/0593185749 Learn more about Anil Ananthaswamy’s work and writing https://anilananthaswamy.com/ Watch Anil Ananthaswamy’s TED Talk on AI and intelligence https://www.ted.com/speakers/anil_ananthaswamy Discover the MIT Knight Science Journalism Fellowship that shaped Anil’s AI research https://ksj.mit.edu/ Understand the Perceptron, the foundation of neural networks https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perceptron Read about the Perceptron Convergence Theorem and its significance https://www.nature.com/articles/323533a0…

há cerca de um ano 24:53

MP3•Home de episódios

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.

94 episódios

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

Navigating OTAs: Maximizing Direct Bookings and Understanding Online Travel Agents

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

published há cerca de um ano

MP3•Home de episódios

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.

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

94 episódios

#MBA #Business #Vibrant Management #Marketing #Hotel Management #Hotel Marketing #Hotel Operations #Hotel Revenue #Boutique Hotel #Luxury Hotel

Toate episoadele

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

1
Anke Graichen – Climbing the Ranks in Hospitality & The Independent Hotel Show Miami 16:37

há 7 dias16:37

16:37

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

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

1
Episode 35: Preparing for a Successful 2025 Season 17:41

há 14 dias17:41

17:41

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

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

1
Episode 34: A Legacy of Luxury – Interview with Richard Kessler 29:34

há 28 dias29:34

29:34

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

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

1
Top Hospitality Events for 2025 & HR Insights with Joe Ruzicka 20:50

há 9 weeks20:50

20:50

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: Hunter Hotel Conference : A leading event for hotel investors and developers to connect and share insights. More info here BITAC : A top-tier event for networking and thought leadership in hospitality. More info here 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/ Follow us on Instagram - @thevibrantteam @virtualgmpodcast Checkout our website - www.thevibrantteam.com…

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

1
Happy New Year & A Look Ahead to 2025 11:51

há 10 weeks11:51

11:51

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

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

1
Top 5 Christmas Movies of All Time 13:33

há 11 weeks13:33

13:33

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

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

1
Marketing Tips to End the Year Strong 14:10

há 12 weeks14:10

14:10

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

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

1
12 Days of Christmas with Vibrant Management 31:17

há 13 weeks31:17

31:17

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

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

1
Preparing Your Hospitality Business for Success in 2025 13:16

há 14 weeks13:16

13:16

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

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

1
Thanksgiving Cheers and Last-Minute Black Friday Tips 13:18

há 15 weeks13:18

13:18

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

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

1
From Front Desk to GM - Nick Bonniksen’s Inspiring Journey in Hospitality 1:01:50

há 16 weeks1:01:50

1:01:50

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

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

1
Mastering Airbnb Investments with John Bianchi, Founder of STR Search 26:11

há 17 weeks26:11

26:11

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

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

1
Simplifying Vacation Rental Operations with Will Rogers, Founder of Dormi.io 34:00

há 18 weeks34:00

34:00

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

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

1
Happy Halloween! Spooky Ideas for a Thriving Holiday Season 20:08

há 19 weeks20:08

20:08

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

Virtual GM - A Hotel Management Podcast

1
The Canyons Collection is for Sale – Don’t Miss Out! 25:28

há 20 weeks25:28