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:

1. Independent Lodging Congress – https://ilcongress.com/
   
   
2. Independent Hotel Show – https://independenthotelshow.us/
   
   
3. AHLA Events – https://www.ahla.com/events
   
   
4. HITEC – https://www.hitec.org/
   
   
5. 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/

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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 Luxury
• BITAC Operations 2026
• BITAC Casino Resorts 2026
• BITAC Purchasing & Design Summer 2026
• BITAC Purchasing & Design Fall 2026
• BITAC 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/

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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.

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@thevibrantteam
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Checkout our website -
www.thevibrantteam.com