Virtual GM · 2026-04-23 · 34 min
In this episode, Cody sits down with fellow Virtual GM Ali Dockstader , whose story in hospitality runs deep. Growing up in the industry, Ali witnessed firsthand what it takes to build something special - her family founded Cliffrose Lodge in 1989 when she was just three years old. Years later, when her family opened Watchman Villas in 2017, Ali helped pioneer what we now know as the Virtual GM role - a model that continues to shape modern hospitality operations today. Ali now oversees operations at The Bungalows at Zion and Edgewater Resort, bringing a unique blend of legacy experience and forward-thinking leadership. Segment 1: Growing Up in Hospitality Ali shares what it was like growing up around hotels and how that early exposure shaped her understanding of: Guest experience Operations What truly makes a property successful A rare perspective from someone who’s seen hospitality evolve from the inside out. Segment 2: Pioneering the Virtual GM Role When Watchman Villas opened, Ali helped redefine how properties could be operated remotely.
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