🎧 Episode 37: Inside the Virtual GM Role — Lessons from the Front Lines with Malissa Baum

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