Episodes

  • How Best Western Is Using Social Media to Rewrite Their Brand Story

    How Best Western Is Using Social Media to Rewrite Their Brand Story
    Nov 22 2024
    Every established brand faces a moment when they need to evolve, but what happens when your reputation is deeply rooted in decades of history? For many legacy hotel brands, the challenge isn't just about staying current - it's about completely transforming how people perceive your entire organization. Think about it: when's the last time you made a snap judgment about a hotel brand based on what you thought you knew about them from years ago? Or dismissed a property because of outdated perceptions? In today's digital-first world, changing those perceptions isn't just about renovating properties or updating logos - it's about strategically reshaping your brand story through social media. That's exactly the challenge that Best Western Hotels & Resorts has been tackling head-on. Today, we're joined by someone who's been at the forefront of this digital transformation. Emily Huffer, Social Media Manager at BWH Hotels, is leading the charge in modernizing Best Western's brand perception through innovative social media strategies, creator partnerships, and authentic storytelling. With her background in digital marketing and passion for building genuine community connections, Emily is here to share how they're using social media to write an exciting new chapter in Best Western's story. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Emily Huffer about: 🟣Strategic Brand Evolution - Learn how to systematically transform brand perception through targeted social media initiatives 🟣Content that Converts - Understanding how to create and curate content that bridges the gap between legacy reputation and modern reality 🟣Measuring Perception Change - Practical methods for tracking and quantifying shifts in brand perception through social media metrics Learn more about Emily Huffer Connect with Emily Huffer on LinkedIn Connect with Best Western on IG Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode 💜 Best Western Hotels and Resorts Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo 🧡 Aspire Fiverr We Rate Dogs Aiden World Hotels Hootsuite Hilton Marriott Duolingo LinkedIn Zaria Parvez Christina Lee Plot Girl Power Marketing Future Social Jack Appleby Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/podcasts/hospitality-edition/how-best-western-is-using-social-media-to-rewrite-their-brand-story Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.
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    34 mins
  • Cracking the Code: Essential Platforms for Hospitality Social Media ROI

    Cracking the Code: Essential Platforms for Hospitality Social Media ROI
    Nov 8 2024
    Imagine a world where your hotel's social media presence isn't just a checkbox on your marketing list, but a powerhouse driving bookings, guest engagement, and brand loyalty. Picture your restaurant's Instagram feed not only making mouths water but also filling tables night after night. Envision a digital strategy where every post, every tweet, every reel translates directly into measurable ROI. This isn't just a dream – it's the reality that savvy hospitality brands are creating every day with the right social media tools and strategies. But how do they do it? What are the secrets to turning likes into bookings, followers into loyal guests, and social media buzz into bottom-line results? Today, we're going to crack that code wide open. We'll explore the essential platforms that are revolutionizing hospitality social media. We'll uncover the tools that can transform your digital presence from good to extraordinary. And we'll learn how to measure success in ways that truly matter to your business. To guide us through this digital landscape, we have an expert who's been at the forefront of hospitality marketing for years. Joining us is Eddie Garrison, a digital marketing maestro with a passion for the hospitality industry. Eddie has helped countless hotels and restaurants navigate the complex world of social media, turning online interactions into real-world success stories. From leveraging user-generated content to harnessing the power of emerging platforms, Eddie's insights have helped brands large and small maximize their social media ROI. He's here to share his wealth of knowledge, practical tips, and insider strategies that can elevate your social media game and drive tangible results for your hospitality business. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Eddie Garrison about: 🟣Platform Prioritization: Learn which social media platforms yield the highest ROI for hospitality brands and why. 🟣Tool Mastery: Discover the must-have tools that can streamline your social media efforts and boost your results. 🟣Measurement Matters: Understand the key metrics and analytics tools that truly indicate social media success in the hospitality industry. Learn more about Eddie Garrison Connect with Eddie Garrison on LinkedIn Connect with Eddie Garrison on X Connect with Clover Media on Instagram Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode 💜 Clover Media Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo 🧡 An episode with Glenn Haussman: Marketing That Resonates With Corporate Meeting and Events Audiences An episode with Mike Scott: How to Turn a Crisis Into a Growth Opportunity Adobe Premiere Pro Rush CapCut Video Rama Arri Red camera Sennheiser microphones InShot Filmic Pro Avanti Expedia A free webinar: How to Track Conversions and Revenue from Instagram Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/podcasts/cracking-the-code-essential-platforms-for-hospitality-social-media-roi Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.
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    43 mins
  • Unconventional Social Media: Hospitality Success with Corkscrew Thinking

    Unconventional Social Media: Hospitality Success with Corkscrew Thinking
    Oct 25 2024
    Have you ever found yourself frustrated by social media algorithms that seem to work against you? Or struggled to capture your audience's attention amidst a sea of similar content? What if we told you there's a way to break free from these challenges—to innovate and inspire your social media strategy through unconventional thinking? That's what our guest today, Stefan Pettersson, is here to help with. Stefan is no ordinary marketer. As the co-founder of Gameng—a hub for rebellious, yet purposeful, innovations in sustainable tourism—Stefan challenges the status quo with what he calls "Corkscrew Thinking." His creative, strategic, and often audacious approach to problem-solving has not only empowered destinations and businesses to thrive but also transformed conventional social media practices. Today, Stefan will share how you can apply these radical principles to your own social media marketing efforts in the hospitality industry. So, get ready to unravel the mysteries of Corkscrew Thinking and discover how you can leverage its power to achieve unprecedented success on social media. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Stefan Pettersson about: 🟣Creative Disruption: Learn to identify and eliminate outdated social media strategies that no longer serve your brand. 🟣Engagement Innovation: Discover unconventional tactics to genuinely connect with and empower your audience. 🟣Tech Integration: Understand how to effectively utilize cutting-edge tools and AI to enhance your social media efforts. Learn more about Stefan Pettersson Connect with Stefan Pettersson on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode 💜 Gameng Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo 🧡 Operation Mincemeat Andy Crestodina Filling the Void: How AI Identifies and Closes Content Gaps with Andy Crestodina Visit Sweden The Swedish Number Spark Toro Rand Fishkins Moz ChatGPT Canva Hootsuite Fireflies Claude Gemini How to Turn a Crisis Into a Growth Opportunity Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/unconventional-social-media-hospitality-success-with-corkscrew-thinking Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.
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    33 mins
  • Pinterest Power: Unlocking the Untapped Potential for Hospitality Brands

    Pinterest Power: Unlocking the Untapped Potential for Hospitality Brands
    Oct 11 2024
    In the bustling world of social media marketing, hospitality brands are constantly seeking new ways to stand out and connect with potential guests. While platforms like Instagram and Facebook often take center stage, there's a powerful, yet often overlooked tool in the social media arsenal: Pinterest. Many hospitality marketers might dismiss Pinterest as just another social network, but they're missing out on a goldmine of opportunity. With its focus on visual content, travel inspiration, and planning, Pinterest is tailor-made for the hospitality industry. But why aren't more brands taking advantage of this platform? Today, we're going to dive deep into the world of Pinterest marketing for hospitality brands. We'll explore why this platform is so uniquely suited to hotels, resorts, and other travel-related businesses. We'll uncover strategies for creating compelling content that not only inspires but also drives bookings. And we'll learn how to measure the impact of our Pinterest efforts on our bottom line. To guide us through this Pinterest journey, we have a true social media maven with us today. Peg Fitzpatrick is a renowned author, social media expert, and marketing strategist. She's the co-author of "The Art of Social Media: Power Tips for Power Users" and has recently published "The Art of Small Business Social Media: A Blueprint for Marketing Success." Peg has worked with major brands and is recognized for her expertise in social media strategy, particularly on platforms like Pinterest and Instagram. Her experience as a Kimpton Brand ambassador gives her unique insights into the hospitality industry, making her the perfect guide for our Pinterest exploration today. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Peg Fitzpatrick about: 🟣Visual Storytelling Power: Understand how Pinterest's visual nature aligns perfectly with hospitality marketing, allowing brands to showcase destinations, amenities, and experiences in a compelling way. 🟣Strategic Content Creation: Learn how to create and curate Pinterest content that not only inspires travelers but also drives traffic and bookings to your hospitality brand. 🟣Measurable Impact: Discover methods to effectively measure the ROI of your Pinterest efforts, tying your social media strategy directly to business outcomes in the hospitality industry. Learn more about Peg Fitzpatrick Connect with Peg Fitzpatrick on LinkedIn Connect with Peg Fitzpatrick on Pinterest Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode 💜 PegFitzpatrick.com Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo 🧡 Pinterest for Retail: Social Media Marketing Tactics That Work An ebook: The Art of Social Media: Power Tips for Power Users An ebook: The Art of Small Business Social Media: A Blueprint for Marketing Success Tastypins Bitly links Canva trends.pinterest.com Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/pinterest-power-unlocking-the-untapped-potential-for-hospitality-brands Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.
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    39 mins
  • Overcoming Event Planning Challenges in Hospitality Marketing

    Overcoming Event Planning Challenges in Hospitality Marketing
    Sep 24 2024
    Imagine being a marketer asked to plan an event with little to no experience. It’s a common scenario in the hospitality industry, where brand marketers and social media pros often find themselves navigating unfamiliar terrain. The pressure is high, the stakes are even higher, and the challenges can seem insurmountable. How do you ensure everything runs smoothly? How do you engage attendees and create a memorable experience without prior expertise? Our guests today are here to provide the answers. Ben Couris and Adin Jacobs, the dynamic duo behind Revent, have revolutionized event planning with their innovative app. As co-founders of Revent, Ben and Adin have faced and conquered numerous challenges in the event planning space, and they’re here to share their insights. Today, we’ll dive deep into the common hurdles marketers face when tasked with event planning, and explore practical strategies to overcome them. Ben and Adin will also shed light on how tools like Revent can simplify the planning process, making it easier for marketers to create successful events, even with limited experience. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Ben Couris and Adin Jacobs about: 🟣Strategic Planning: Effective methods and strategies to overcome common event planning challenges. 🟣Tool Utilization: How leveraging technology like Revent can streamline and enhance the event planning process. 🟣Practical Tips: Real-life examples and actionable tips from industry experts to turn hurdles into opportunities. Learn more about Ben Couris and Adin Jacobs Connect with Ben Couris on LinkedIn Connect with Adin Jacobs on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode 💜 Revent Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo 🧡 Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/how-to-overcome-event-planning-challenges-in-hospitality-marketing Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Follow Agorapulse on LinkedIn. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Chief Storyteller at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.
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    23 mins
  • Tourism Marketing Unplugged: Real Challenges, Real Solutions

    Tourism Marketing Unplugged: Real Challenges, Real Solutions
    Sep 10 2024
    Social media marketing for tourism is no walk in the park. Constantly battling to stay relevant and engaging in the fast-paced digital landscape can feel like an uphill climb. The unique blend of promoting destinations, driving sales, and keeping an audience captivated is riddled with challenges. How do you break through the noise? How do you maintain engagement and drive results in an ever-changing industry? The frustration and pressure can be overwhelming, but the good news is, there are proven strategies and solutions to these hurdles. Our guest today is the key to unlocking these solutions. Kevin Furst, the Social Media Manager at Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, has an impressive background in crafting successful social media campaigns and building engaged communities. With experiences spanning from consumer packaged goods to the ski and recreation industry, Kevin has consistently turned challenges into triumphs through creative and innovative solutions. Today, Kevin will share his insights and experiences on navigating the social media challenges in the tourism sector. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Kevin Furst about: 🟣Creative Solutions: Innovative tactics to overcome common social media challenges in the tourism industry. 🟣Community Engagement: Strategies to build and maintain an engaged social media community. 🟣Integrated Campaigns: The importance of cohesive messaging across various marketing channels. Learn more about Kevin Furst Connect with Kevin Furst on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode 💜 Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo 🧡 Asana Tourism Economics Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/tourism-marketing-unplugged-real-challenges-real-solutions Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.
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    28 mins
  • Surviving and Thriving: Potters Resorts’ Expansion in the Face of Adversity

    Surviving and Thriving: Potters Resorts’ Expansion in the Face of Adversity
    Aug 27 2024
    Imagine your entire business turned upside down overnight. The COVID-19 pandemic hit the hospitality industry like a storm, throwing everything into chaos. Guests and staff suddenly faced unprecedented challenges, and businesses had to pivot, innovate, and find new ways to stay afloat. It was a time of fear, uncertainty, and intense pressure. But here's the truth: while the pandemic was a one-of-a-kind event, it won’t be the last time any of us face massive disruptions. Every business, at some point, will encounter hurdles that demand resilience and creative solutions. So, what do you do when your back's against the wall? How do you turn a crisis into an opportunity for growth? Our guest today, Mike Scott, knows exactly how. As the Managing Director of Potters Resorts, Mike led his team through the storm with remarkable innovation and determination. Not only did they weather the pandemic, but they also opened their second fully inclusive resort after 102 years—a move that earned them accolades for resilience and innovation. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Mike Scott about: 🟣Strategic Leadership: Insights into navigating a business through a crisis with clear communication and strategic planning. 🟣Innovative Solutions: Examples of creative and effective solutions that turned challenges into opportunities. 🟣Growth Amidst Adversity: Lessons on leveraging adversity for business growth and achieving excellence. Learn more about Mike Scott Connect with Mike Scott on LinkedIn Connect with Mike Scott on Twitter Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode 💜 Potters Resorts Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo 🧡 Tyler Anderson Casual Fridays John Potter Mailchimp Norfolk Accident Rescue Service Slack Google Docs Google Sheets Zoom Potter's Resorts received awards for resilience and innovation Potters Resorts Community Potters Resorts Facebook page  Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/how-to-turn-a-crisis-into-a-growth-opportunity Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.
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    41 mins
  • Marketing That Resonates With Corporate Meeting and Events Audiences

    Marketing That Resonates With Corporate Meeting and Events Audiences
    Aug 27 2024
    One U.S. city reported a 38% increase year over year in meetings and events. Another big market saw a 22.8% growth as well. Overall, the industry grew nearly 2% and continues to rise. What’s going on with meetings & events and, more importantly, how can hotels and their marketing crews capitalize on this increased demand? What do social media and community managers need to know about this segment of their audience? How are these corporate and business accounts looking at hotels differently than tourists, and how should our marketing messaging shift? That’s what Glenn Haussman is here to help us with. Glenn is the #1 Social Media Influencer in Hospitality. His show No Vacancy has once again been named the #1 industry podcast for 2024 after receiving this honor every year since its inception. Glenn has been quoted in leading publications such as the New York Times, USA Today, Washington Post, Forbes, MSNBC, CNN and Chicago Tribune. He’s even been in the classroom, previously serving for nearly 10 years as an adjunct professor at New York University, teaching classes in Public Relations & Advertising, and Consumer Behavior. And he’s been named one of Top 100 Most Inspirational People in Global Hospitality. Social Pulse Podcast host Mike Allton asked Glenn Haussman about: 🟣The differences between meeting clients and destination clients 🟣What challenges and expectations this audience segment sees 🟣How social media managers can relate to this audience Learn more about Glenn Haussman Connect with Glenn Haussman on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode 💜 No Vacancy News Podcast Episode: Hotel Meetings Biz Soars Learn more about Agorapulse with a free demo 🧡 Margaritaville Seth Godin Nike Hilton Marriott Google IO conference: AI overview feature No Vacancy News on LinkedIn Show Notes & Transcript: https://www.agorapulse.com/blog/corporate-meetings-in-hospitality Brought to you by Agorapulse: the #1 rated social media management solution. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Agorapulse. If you’re interested in being featured on an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike.
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    30 mins