The Modern Marketer Fri, 18 Sep 2026 13:41:33 -0400 https://modernmarketer.buzzsprout.com en-us © 2026 The Modern Marketer yes cfe11093-6062-51f9-9550-2df3c6af1ce4 Eddie Garrison episodic false Welcome to The Modern Marketer Podcast, your go-to destination for the latest news, updates, and proven tactics to elevate your brand’s marketing game. 

Join host Eddie Garrison as he dives into actionable tips, cutting-edge strategies, and innovative approaches designed to help your business grow.


From mastering your marketing strategy, to optimizing it across all verticals, The Modern Marketer delivers the insights you need to stay ahead in today’s fast-paced world.


Tune in and let The Modern Marketer Podcast guide your brand to marketing success!

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Marketing, Business, Email, SEO, AI, AEO, Artificial Intelligence, Marketing Strategy Eddie Garrison https://storage.buzzsprout.com/3omkc0yy16nwgcmccj277n25pzun?.jpg The Modern Marketer https://modernmarketer.buzzsprout.com Eddie Garrison You’re Doing SEO Wrong: Why Ranking Isn’t the Real Goal Anymore You’re Doing SEO Wrong: Why Ranking Isn’t the Real Goal Anymore For years, SEO has been about one thing: getting your website to rank higher on Google. But search is changing, and the brands winning visibility are thinking far beyond rankings.

In this episode, we explore why SEO is evolving from optimizing individual web pages to building a brand that can be discovered, understood, trusted, and recommended across the entire search ecosystem.

From Google and traditional search to AI tools, reviews, social platforms, podcasts, and third-party websites, your customers are discovering brands in more places than ever.

We’ll break down what this shift means for your SEO strategy, why brand authority and credibility matter more, and how businesses can build a stronger digital presence that works across both traditional and AI-powered search.

Because the future of SEO isn't just about ranking.

It's about becoming the brand that search engines, AI systems, and your customers recognize as the answer.

]]> For years, SEO has been about one thing: getting your website to rank higher on Google. But search is changing, and the brands winning visibility are thinking far beyond rankings.

In this episode, we explore why SEO is evolving from optimizing individual web pages to building a brand that can be discovered, understood, trusted, and recommended across the entire search ecosystem.

From Google and traditional search to AI tools, reviews, social platforms, podcasts, and third-party websites, your customers are discovering brands in more places than ever.

We’ll break down what this shift means for your SEO strategy, why brand authority and credibility matter more, and how businesses can build a stronger digital presence that works across both traditional and AI-powered search.

Because the future of SEO isn't just about ranking.

It's about becoming the brand that search engines, AI systems, and your customers recognize as the answer.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-19828216 Fri, 18 Sep 2026 13:00:00 -0400 872 full false The AI Adoption Framework Every Executive Should Follow The AI Adoption Framework Every Executive Should Follow Everyone is talking about AI, but most organizations are approaching AI adoption backward. They’re buying tools, giving employees access, and hoping transformation follows.

It doesn’t.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, Eddie Garrison breaks down a practical six-step AI adoption framework designed to help executives move beyond experimentation and turn AI into a real business advantage.

You’ll learn how to:

• Start with business problems instead of AI technology
• Identify the areas where AI can create the greatest impact
• Establish practical AI governance and guardrails
• Train employees to use AI effectively in their roles
• Measure business outcomes instead of vanity metrics
• Continuously optimize your AI strategy as the technology evolves

The biggest AI advantage won’t come from having access to the latest tools. Almost everyone has access to them.

The advantage will come from knowing how to implement AI better.

If you’re an executive, business owner, CMO, or marketing leader trying to figure out what AI adoption should actually look like inside your organization, this episode gives you a practical framework to start with.

The question isn’t, “Which AI tool should we buy?”

It’s: “What business problem are we trying to solve?”

That’s where effective AI adoption begins.

]]> Everyone is talking about AI, but most organizations are approaching AI adoption backward. They’re buying tools, giving employees access, and hoping transformation follows.

It doesn’t.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, Eddie Garrison breaks down a practical six-step AI adoption framework designed to help executives move beyond experimentation and turn AI into a real business advantage.

You’ll learn how to:

• Start with business problems instead of AI technology
• Identify the areas where AI can create the greatest impact
• Establish practical AI governance and guardrails
• Train employees to use AI effectively in their roles
• Measure business outcomes instead of vanity metrics
• Continuously optimize your AI strategy as the technology evolves

The biggest AI advantage won’t come from having access to the latest tools. Almost everyone has access to them.

The advantage will come from knowing how to implement AI better.

If you’re an executive, business owner, CMO, or marketing leader trying to figure out what AI adoption should actually look like inside your organization, this episode gives you a practical framework to start with.

The question isn’t, “Which AI tool should we buy?”

It’s: “What business problem are we trying to solve?”

That’s where effective AI adoption begins.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-19713710 Thu, 27 Aug 2026 16:00:00 -0400 1137 full false The Biggest AI Mistakes Businesses Are Making Right Now The Biggest AI Mistakes Businesses Are Making Right Now Podcast Description

Everyone is talking about AI, but most businesses are making the same costly mistakes.

In this episode, Eddie Garrison breaks down the biggest AI adoption mistakes organizations are making today and explains why simply using more AI tools doesn't guarantee better results. From treating AI like a magic solution to overlooking employee training and losing your brand's unique voice, you'll learn how to avoid the common pitfalls that prevent AI from delivering real business value.

Discover why successful companies focus on strategy before technology, how human oversight remains essential, and what it takes to build an AI-powered organization that drives measurable results instead of just generating more content.

Whether you're a business owner, executive, marketer, or team leader, this episode will help you develop a smarter approach to AI adoption that improves efficiency, strengthens decision-making, and creates a lasting competitive advantage.

In this episode, you'll learn:

  • Why AI can't fix broken business strategies
  • How to balance automation with human expertise
  • Why chasing every new AI tool hurts productivity
  • The importance of training your team for AI success
  • How to preserve your brand voice in the age of AI
  • The metrics that actually matter when measuring AI success

Stop experimenting with AI for the sake of experimentation. Start using it as a strategic business advantage.

]]> Podcast Description

Everyone is talking about AI, but most businesses are making the same costly mistakes.

In this episode, Eddie Garrison breaks down the biggest AI adoption mistakes organizations are making today and explains why simply using more AI tools doesn't guarantee better results. From treating AI like a magic solution to overlooking employee training and losing your brand's unique voice, you'll learn how to avoid the common pitfalls that prevent AI from delivering real business value.

Discover why successful companies focus on strategy before technology, how human oversight remains essential, and what it takes to build an AI-powered organization that drives measurable results instead of just generating more content.

Whether you're a business owner, executive, marketer, or team leader, this episode will help you develop a smarter approach to AI adoption that improves efficiency, strengthens decision-making, and creates a lasting competitive advantage.

In this episode, you'll learn:

  • Why AI can't fix broken business strategies
  • How to balance automation with human expertise
  • Why chasing every new AI tool hurts productivity
  • The importance of training your team for AI success
  • How to preserve your brand voice in the age of AI
  • The metrics that actually matter when measuring AI success

Stop experimenting with AI for the sake of experimentation. Start using it as a strategic business advantage.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-19489289 Mon, 13 Jul 2026 16:00:00 -0400 495 full false How to Write Value Propositions That Turn Visitors Into Customers How to Write Value Propositions That Turn Visitors Into Customers Most businesses struggle to explain why customers should choose them. Instead of communicating real value, they rely on generic phrases that fail to inspire action.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, Eddie Garrison breaks down the anatomy of a high-converting value proposition and explains why clear messaging is one of the most powerful drivers of conversions. You'll learn the biggest mistakes businesses make, the four essential elements every value proposition should include, and a simple framework you can use to rewrite your messaging today.

Whether you're updating your website, creating a landing page, or refining your brand positioning, this episode will help you craft messaging that resonates with your audience and motivates them to take action.

In This Episode:

• What a value proposition really is and why it matters
• The biggest messaging mistake businesses make
• The four components of a compelling value proposition
• Real examples of weak versus strong messaging
• A simple formula you can use to write your own value proposition

If you're ready to make your marketing clearer, stronger, and more persuasive, this episode is for you.

]]> Most businesses struggle to explain why customers should choose them. Instead of communicating real value, they rely on generic phrases that fail to inspire action.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, Eddie Garrison breaks down the anatomy of a high-converting value proposition and explains why clear messaging is one of the most powerful drivers of conversions. You'll learn the biggest mistakes businesses make, the four essential elements every value proposition should include, and a simple framework you can use to rewrite your messaging today.

Whether you're updating your website, creating a landing page, or refining your brand positioning, this episode will help you craft messaging that resonates with your audience and motivates them to take action.

In This Episode:

• What a value proposition really is and why it matters
• The biggest messaging mistake businesses make
• The four components of a compelling value proposition
• Real examples of weak versus strong messaging
• A simple formula you can use to write your own value proposition

If you're ready to make your marketing clearer, stronger, and more persuasive, this episode is for you.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-19412722 Sun, 28 Jun 2026 09:00:00 -0400 450 full false Creating Messaging That Matches Customer Awareness Levels Creating Messaging That Matches Customer Awareness Levels Why do some marketing campaigns generate results while others fall flat, even when the product, service, or offer is strong?

The answer often comes down to one critical factor: whether your message matches your audience's level of awareness.

In this episode, we explore the five stages of customer awareness and how they influence buying decisions. You'll learn why speaking to customers who aren't ready to buy can hurt conversions, how to create content that resonates at every stage of the buyer journey, and how to align your messaging with what prospects need to hear next.

Topics covered include:

• The five levels of customer awareness
 • Why marketing messages fail to connect
 • How to create content for each stage of the buyer journey
 • Matching marketing channels to customer intent
 • Creating calls to action that drive higher conversions
 • Practical examples you can apply to your own marketing strategy

Whether you're a business owner, marketer, agency leader, or entrepreneur, this episode will help you create more relevant messaging, improve engagement, and move prospects from awareness to action.

Key Takeaway:
The best marketing doesn't start with what you want to say. It starts with understanding what your customer is ready to hear.

]]> Why do some marketing campaigns generate results while others fall flat, even when the product, service, or offer is strong?

The answer often comes down to one critical factor: whether your message matches your audience's level of awareness.

In this episode, we explore the five stages of customer awareness and how they influence buying decisions. You'll learn why speaking to customers who aren't ready to buy can hurt conversions, how to create content that resonates at every stage of the buyer journey, and how to align your messaging with what prospects need to hear next.

Topics covered include:

• The five levels of customer awareness
 • Why marketing messages fail to connect
 • How to create content for each stage of the buyer journey
 • Matching marketing channels to customer intent
 • Creating calls to action that drive higher conversions
 • Practical examples you can apply to your own marketing strategy

Whether you're a business owner, marketer, agency leader, or entrepreneur, this episode will help you create more relevant messaging, improve engagement, and move prospects from awareness to action.

Key Takeaway:
The best marketing doesn't start with what you want to say. It starts with understanding what your customer is ready to hear.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-19304525 Sat, 06 Jun 2026 10:00:00 -0400 595 full false How to Find Your Real Competitive Advantage How to Find Your Real Competitive Advantage Most businesses think their competitive advantage is price. They're wrong.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, we break down one of the most common misconceptions in business and marketing: the belief that lower prices create a stronger competitive position.

You'll learn why competing on price often leads to shrinking margins, weaker customer loyalty, and a never-ending race to the bottom. More importantly, you'll discover what actually makes customers choose one business over another.

We explore the three most sustainable sources of competitive advantage:

• Why specialization makes you easier to choose
• How a unique perspective can separate you from competitors
• The role proof plays in building trust and accelerating buying decisions

If you're tired of competing on price and want to build a business that stands out for the right reasons, this episode will help you identify and strengthen the advantages that competitors can't easily copy.

Key Takeaways:

  •  Why price is rarely a true competitive advantage 
  •  The difference between positioning and pricing problems 
  •  How specialization increases perceived expertise 
  •  Why unique perspectives create memorability 
  •  The importance of proof in building trust and preference 
  •  How to become the obvious choice in your market 

Listen now and discover how to create a competitive advantage that drives long-term growth and profitability.

]]> Most businesses think their competitive advantage is price. They're wrong.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, we break down one of the most common misconceptions in business and marketing: the belief that lower prices create a stronger competitive position.

You'll learn why competing on price often leads to shrinking margins, weaker customer loyalty, and a never-ending race to the bottom. More importantly, you'll discover what actually makes customers choose one business over another.

We explore the three most sustainable sources of competitive advantage:

• Why specialization makes you easier to choose
• How a unique perspective can separate you from competitors
• The role proof plays in building trust and accelerating buying decisions

If you're tired of competing on price and want to build a business that stands out for the right reasons, this episode will help you identify and strengthen the advantages that competitors can't easily copy.

Key Takeaways:

  •  Why price is rarely a true competitive advantage 
  •  The difference between positioning and pricing problems 
  •  How specialization increases perceived expertise 
  •  Why unique perspectives create memorability 
  •  The importance of proof in building trust and preference 
  •  How to become the obvious choice in your market 

Listen now and discover how to create a competitive advantage that drives long-term growth and profitability.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-19234329 Mon, 25 May 2026 09:00:00 -0400 500 full false How to Prioritize Marketing Channels With a Limited Budget How to Prioritize Marketing Channels With a Limited Budget In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, Eddie Garrison breaks down how businesses can prioritize the right marketing channels when budgets, time, and resources are limited.

With so many platforms competing for attention, many brands fall into the trap of trying to do everything at once, leading to inconsistent messaging, wasted spend, and weak results. This episode explores how to cut through the noise and focus on the channels that actually drive growth, engagement, and revenue.

You’ll learn:

  •  How to identify the marketing channels that deserve your investment 
  •  Why focus beats being everywhere 
  •  The difference between vanity metrics and real business impact 
  •  How to align your marketing strategy with customer behavior 
  •  Which channels create long-term leverage and sustainable growth 
  •  A simple framework for making smarter marketing decisions with limited resources 

Whether you’re a business owner, marketing leader, or entrepreneur trying to maximize results without overspending, this episode will help you build a more focused and effective marketing strategy.

Listen now and learn how to make your marketing work smarter, not louder.

]]> In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, Eddie Garrison breaks down how businesses can prioritize the right marketing channels when budgets, time, and resources are limited.

With so many platforms competing for attention, many brands fall into the trap of trying to do everything at once, leading to inconsistent messaging, wasted spend, and weak results. This episode explores how to cut through the noise and focus on the channels that actually drive growth, engagement, and revenue.

You’ll learn:

  •  How to identify the marketing channels that deserve your investment 
  •  Why focus beats being everywhere 
  •  The difference between vanity metrics and real business impact 
  •  How to align your marketing strategy with customer behavior 
  •  Which channels create long-term leverage and sustainable growth 
  •  A simple framework for making smarter marketing decisions with limited resources 

Whether you’re a business owner, marketing leader, or entrepreneur trying to maximize results without overspending, this episode will help you build a more focused and effective marketing strategy.

Listen now and learn how to make your marketing work smarter, not louder.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-19149854 Sat, 09 May 2026 12:00:00 -0400 464 full false The 4 Layers of a Complete Marketing System The 4 Layers of a Complete Marketing System Most businesses aren’t struggling because they aren’t doing enough marketing. They’re struggling because their marketing is incomplete.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, we break down the 4 essential layers of a complete marketing system and why missing just one can keep your results inconsistent, unpredictable, and stuck.

You’ll learn how to move beyond random tactics and start building a structured system that actually drives growth.

Inside this episode:

  • Why “busy” marketing often leads to little or no growth
  • The 4 layers every high-performing marketing system must have
  • How to identify where your current strategy is breaking down
  • What to fix first to create more consistent leads and conversions
  • How to turn your marketing into a scalable, predictable engine

If your marketing feels scattered, inconsistent, or underperforming, this episode will give you the clarity and structure you’ve been missing.

It’s time to stop guessing and start building a system that works.

]]> Most businesses aren’t struggling because they aren’t doing enough marketing. They’re struggling because their marketing is incomplete.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, we break down the 4 essential layers of a complete marketing system and why missing just one can keep your results inconsistent, unpredictable, and stuck.

You’ll learn how to move beyond random tactics and start building a structured system that actually drives growth.

Inside this episode:

  • Why “busy” marketing often leads to little or no growth
  • The 4 layers every high-performing marketing system must have
  • How to identify where your current strategy is breaking down
  • What to fix first to create more consistent leads and conversions
  • How to turn your marketing into a scalable, predictable engine

If your marketing feels scattered, inconsistent, or underperforming, this episode will give you the clarity and structure you’ve been missing.

It’s time to stop guessing and start building a system that works.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-19047797 Mon, 20 Apr 2026 14:00:00 -0400 487 full false How to Build a Marketing Strategy That Actually Connects to Revenue How to Build a Marketing Strategy That Actually Connects to Revenue Most marketing strategies don’t fail because of poor execution. They fail because they were never tied to revenue in the first place.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, Eddie Garrison breaks down how to build a marketing strategy that moves beyond activity and directly drives business growth. This is a practical, no-fluff approach to aligning marketing with what actually matters: pipeline, conversions, and revenue.

You’ll learn why the disconnect between marketing and sales is the root cause of underperformance, how to shift from tactics to true strategic thinking, and why starting with revenue math changes everything. Eddie walks through how to reverse engineer your funnel, prioritize high-impact channels, and eliminate distractions that dilute results.

He also covers the metrics that actually matter, why vanity metrics are misleading, and how to build a system that compounds over time instead of relying on one-off campaigns.

If your marketing feels scattered, inconsistent, or disconnected from real business outcomes, this episode will give you a clear framework to fix it.

]]> Most marketing strategies don’t fail because of poor execution. They fail because they were never tied to revenue in the first place.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, Eddie Garrison breaks down how to build a marketing strategy that moves beyond activity and directly drives business growth. This is a practical, no-fluff approach to aligning marketing with what actually matters: pipeline, conversions, and revenue.

You’ll learn why the disconnect between marketing and sales is the root cause of underperformance, how to shift from tactics to true strategic thinking, and why starting with revenue math changes everything. Eddie walks through how to reverse engineer your funnel, prioritize high-impact channels, and eliminate distractions that dilute results.

He also covers the metrics that actually matter, why vanity metrics are misleading, and how to build a system that compounds over time instead of relying on one-off campaigns.

If your marketing feels scattered, inconsistent, or disconnected from real business outcomes, this episode will give you a clear framework to fix it.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-18958751 Fri, 03 Apr 2026 13:00:00 -0400 378 full false What to Fix First When Your Marketing Stops Working What to Fix First When Your Marketing Stops Working If your traffic looks normal but revenue is dropping, this episode will help you stop reacting and start diagnosing so your marketing can scale efficiently again.

Host Eddie Garrison breaks down what businesses should actually fix first when marketing performance drops.

When leads slow down, most teams react by adding more tactics. More ads, more content, more platforms. But activity rarely solves the problem because the issue is usually not effort. It is friction inside the system.

This episode walks through a clear diagnostic framework to identify the real constraint before changing campaigns. You will learn how to determine whether the problem is demand, visibility, conversion, offer clarity, or follow up, and why fixing them in the wrong order increases acquisition costs.

Instead of guessing, you will understand how to trace the customer path from discovery to decision and repair the exact point where momentum breaks.

]]> If your traffic looks normal but revenue is dropping, this episode will help you stop reacting and start diagnosing so your marketing can scale efficiently again.

Host Eddie Garrison breaks down what businesses should actually fix first when marketing performance drops.

When leads slow down, most teams react by adding more tactics. More ads, more content, more platforms. But activity rarely solves the problem because the issue is usually not effort. It is friction inside the system.

This episode walks through a clear diagnostic framework to identify the real constraint before changing campaigns. You will learn how to determine whether the problem is demand, visibility, conversion, offer clarity, or follow up, and why fixing them in the wrong order increases acquisition costs.

Instead of guessing, you will understand how to trace the customer path from discovery to decision and repair the exact point where momentum breaks.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-18722297 Sat, 21 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0500 477 full false How to Turn Your Google Business Profile Into a Lead Machine How to Turn Your Google Business Profile Into a Lead Machine In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, host Eddie Garrison breaks down one of the fastest and most overlooked ways businesses can generate real marketing results without increasing ad spend or waiting months for SEO to work.

If your marketing feels slow, expensive, or invisible, your Google Business Profile may be the missing link.

Eddie walks through a practical, no-fluff strategy for turning a Google Business Profile into a high-intent growth asset that drives calls, website visits, and local visibility quickly. You’ll learn why this channel delivers faster wins than most marketing tactics, how small optimizations can create immediate momentum, and which features have the biggest impact on trust and conversions.

This episode covers:
 • Why Google Business Profile captures ready-to-buy demand
 • The fastest visibility levers most businesses ignore
 • How categories, services, photos, and reviews influence rankings and trust
 • Simple ways to reduce friction and increase conversions
 • How consistency compounds results over time

Whether you’re a local business owner, marketer, or growth leader, this episode provides a clear, actionable framework for getting quick wins where intent is highest.

No hype. No heavy tech. Just smart, modern marketing that works.

]]> In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, host Eddie Garrison breaks down one of the fastest and most overlooked ways businesses can generate real marketing results without increasing ad spend or waiting months for SEO to work.

If your marketing feels slow, expensive, or invisible, your Google Business Profile may be the missing link.

Eddie walks through a practical, no-fluff strategy for turning a Google Business Profile into a high-intent growth asset that drives calls, website visits, and local visibility quickly. You’ll learn why this channel delivers faster wins than most marketing tactics, how small optimizations can create immediate momentum, and which features have the biggest impact on trust and conversions.

This episode covers:
 • Why Google Business Profile captures ready-to-buy demand
 • The fastest visibility levers most businesses ignore
 • How categories, services, photos, and reviews influence rankings and trust
 • Simple ways to reduce friction and increase conversions
 • How consistency compounds results over time

Whether you’re a local business owner, marketer, or growth leader, this episode provides a clear, actionable framework for getting quick wins where intent is highest.

No hype. No heavy tech. Just smart, modern marketing that works.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-18644408 Sun, 08 Feb 2026 14:00:00 -0500 463 full false Customer Engagement Strategy: How to Build Relationships That Drive Growth Customer Engagement Strategy: How to Build Relationships That Drive Growth With acquisition costs rising and trust in traditional advertising declining, brands can’t afford to rely on constant new traffic. The advantage today comes from retention, loyalty, and lifetime value. 

Host Eddie Garrison walks through what a true customer engagement strategy looks like, how to map it across the entire customer lifecycle, and the practical systems that turn one-time buyers into long-term advocates.

You’ll learn:

  • What customer engagement actually means (beyond email and social)
  • How retention outperforms acquisition financially
  • The 5 stages of the engagement lifecycle
  • Tactical plays like lifecycle campaigns, onboarding optimization, proactive support, and community building
  • The metrics that matter — and the vanity metrics to ignore
  • Common mistakes that quietly increase churn

If you want fewer one-and-done customers and more repeat buyers, referrals, and predictable revenue, this episode gives you the blueprint.

Because modern growth isn’t about shouting louder — it’s about building relationships that last.

]]> With acquisition costs rising and trust in traditional advertising declining, brands can’t afford to rely on constant new traffic. The advantage today comes from retention, loyalty, and lifetime value. 

Host Eddie Garrison walks through what a true customer engagement strategy looks like, how to map it across the entire customer lifecycle, and the practical systems that turn one-time buyers into long-term advocates.

You’ll learn:

  • What customer engagement actually means (beyond email and social)
  • How retention outperforms acquisition financially
  • The 5 stages of the engagement lifecycle
  • Tactical plays like lifecycle campaigns, onboarding optimization, proactive support, and community building
  • The metrics that matter — and the vanity metrics to ignore
  • Common mistakes that quietly increase churn

If you want fewer one-and-done customers and more repeat buyers, referrals, and predictable revenue, this episode gives you the blueprint.

Because modern growth isn’t about shouting louder — it’s about building relationships that last.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-18605084 Sun, 01 Feb 2026 12:00:00 -0500 526 full false Why 37% of Consumers Now Start With AI Instead of Google Why 37% of Consumers Now Start With AI Instead of Google Search is no longer just a tool. It is becoming the decision layer between people and brands.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, host Eddie Garrison breaks down new research showing that 37% of consumers now begin their searches with AI instead of Google and why this shift is redefining SEO, brand visibility, and how buying decisions are formed.

You’ll learn how AI is replacing traditional search as the first point of discovery, why users prefer AI-driven answers over link-based research, and how this changes the entire customer journey, from awareness to purchase. Eddie explains the rise of “answer optimization,” the growing importance of brand consistency and authority across the web, and the new competitive risk facing companies that rank well but fail to influence AI recommendations.

This episode also outlines practical steps brands can take to remain visible and credible in an AI-first world, including how to position your company clearly, strengthen authority beyond backlinks, and ensure your brand is understood by the systems increasingly shaping consumer decisions.

If your growth strategy still assumes Google is the starting point, this conversation will challenge that assumption and show you where the next real advantage is forming.

]]> Search is no longer just a tool. It is becoming the decision layer between people and brands.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, host Eddie Garrison breaks down new research showing that 37% of consumers now begin their searches with AI instead of Google and why this shift is redefining SEO, brand visibility, and how buying decisions are formed.

You’ll learn how AI is replacing traditional search as the first point of discovery, why users prefer AI-driven answers over link-based research, and how this changes the entire customer journey, from awareness to purchase. Eddie explains the rise of “answer optimization,” the growing importance of brand consistency and authority across the web, and the new competitive risk facing companies that rank well but fail to influence AI recommendations.

This episode also outlines practical steps brands can take to remain visible and credible in an AI-first world, including how to position your company clearly, strengthen authority beyond backlinks, and ensure your brand is understood by the systems increasingly shaping consumer decisions.

If your growth strategy still assumes Google is the starting point, this conversation will challenge that assumption and show you where the next real advantage is forming.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-18566528 Sun, 25 Jan 2026 13:00:00 -0500 517 full false Little Treat Culture: How Everyday Moments Build Real Loyalty Little Treat Culture: How Everyday Moments Build Real Loyalty In an era of AI, automation, and hyper-optimized customer journeys, brand loyalty is no longer built through big campaigns or flashy experiences. It’s built in the quiet moments in between.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, host Eddie Garrison explores the rise of “little treat” culture, the small, human-centered interactions that make customers feel understood, respected, and valued. From thoughtful onboarding and frictionless design to empathetic error handling and timely insights, these micro-moments are reshaping how trust and memory are formed in modern brands.

You’ll learn:

  • Why large campaigns are losing their influence on loyalty
  • How AI raises expectations but doesn’t create emotional connection
  • What “little treat” moments look like inside real customer experiences
  • Why memory is becoming the most important conversion metric
  • How to design systems that feel human, not mechanical

If your brand is optimized but forgettable, this episode will challenge how you think about differentiation, customer experience, and long-term growth.

Because in an AI-driven world, human moments are the currency of loyalty.

]]> In an era of AI, automation, and hyper-optimized customer journeys, brand loyalty is no longer built through big campaigns or flashy experiences. It’s built in the quiet moments in between.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, host Eddie Garrison explores the rise of “little treat” culture, the small, human-centered interactions that make customers feel understood, respected, and valued. From thoughtful onboarding and frictionless design to empathetic error handling and timely insights, these micro-moments are reshaping how trust and memory are formed in modern brands.

You’ll learn:

  • Why large campaigns are losing their influence on loyalty
  • How AI raises expectations but doesn’t create emotional connection
  • What “little treat” moments look like inside real customer experiences
  • Why memory is becoming the most important conversion metric
  • How to design systems that feel human, not mechanical

If your brand is optimized but forgettable, this episode will challenge how you think about differentiation, customer experience, and long-term growth.

Because in an AI-driven world, human moments are the currency of loyalty.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-18526902 Sun, 18 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0500 577 full false Smarter Audiences Are Being Shaped by Synthetic Data Smarter Audiences Are Being Shaped by Synthetic Data Audiences aren’t just getting smarter — they’re being simulated.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, Eddie explores how synthetic data is fundamentally changing the way brands understand customers, test strategies, and make decisions.

What happens when every company can model markets, predict outcomes, and optimize campaigns before spending a single dollar? The answer isn’t just better marketing,  it’s a new set of risks, including false confidence, competitive sameness, and the erosion of strategic judgment.

You’ll learn:

  • What synthetic data actually is and how it differs from traditional analytics
  • Why simulations can create the dangerous illusion of certainty
  • How widespread AI tools are leading to “optimized sameness” across industries
  • Why human judgment is becoming the most valuable competitive advantage
  • How strategy is shifting from finding answers to choosing trade-offs
  • Why the future of marketing belongs to brands that prioritize interpretation over prediction

This episode is a must-listen for founders, CMOs, strategists, and marketing leaders navigating an era where intelligence is abundant, but clarity is rare.

]]> Audiences aren’t just getting smarter — they’re being simulated.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, Eddie explores how synthetic data is fundamentally changing the way brands understand customers, test strategies, and make decisions.

What happens when every company can model markets, predict outcomes, and optimize campaigns before spending a single dollar? The answer isn’t just better marketing,  it’s a new set of risks, including false confidence, competitive sameness, and the erosion of strategic judgment.

You’ll learn:

  • What synthetic data actually is and how it differs from traditional analytics
  • Why simulations can create the dangerous illusion of certainty
  • How widespread AI tools are leading to “optimized sameness” across industries
  • Why human judgment is becoming the most valuable competitive advantage
  • How strategy is shifting from finding answers to choosing trade-offs
  • Why the future of marketing belongs to brands that prioritize interpretation over prediction

This episode is a must-listen for founders, CMOs, strategists, and marketing leaders navigating an era where intelligence is abundant, but clarity is rare.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-18487973 Sun, 11 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0500 560 full false 5 Signals Already Reshaping How Brands Will Win in 2026 5 Signals Already Reshaping How Brands Will Win in 2026 While many teams are still focused on visibility, content volume, and short-term optimization, the real growth battle is moving upstream. AI agents are influencing purchase decisions, large language models are determining which brands get recommended, and trust is being evaluated by systems long before a human ever compares options.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, Eddie breaks down the five signals already reshaping how brands will win in 2026 and why most marketing strategies are quietly falling behind.

You’ll learn how AI is shifting from creative output to creative intelligence, why synthetic data is making audiences appear smarter, and how small, human moments of value are becoming the real drivers of loyalty in an AI-mediated world.

This episode is a strategic wake-up call for modern marketers, founders, and brand leaders who want to stay relevant as influence, discovery, and decision-making are redefined.

If you’re still optimizing for yesterday’s playbook, this conversation will challenge how you think about growth, authority, and what it truly means to be chosen in 2026.

]]> While many teams are still focused on visibility, content volume, and short-term optimization, the real growth battle is moving upstream. AI agents are influencing purchase decisions, large language models are determining which brands get recommended, and trust is being evaluated by systems long before a human ever compares options.

In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, Eddie breaks down the five signals already reshaping how brands will win in 2026 and why most marketing strategies are quietly falling behind.

You’ll learn how AI is shifting from creative output to creative intelligence, why synthetic data is making audiences appear smarter, and how small, human moments of value are becoming the real drivers of loyalty in an AI-mediated world.

This episode is a strategic wake-up call for modern marketers, founders, and brand leaders who want to stay relevant as influence, discovery, and decision-making are redefined.

If you’re still optimizing for yesterday’s playbook, this conversation will challenge how you think about growth, authority, and what it truly means to be chosen in 2026.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-18434427 Tue, 30 Dec 2025 20:00:00 -0500 609 full false What McDonald’s AI Ad Disaster Teaches Every Marketer What McDonald’s AI Ad Disaster Teaches Every Marketer In this episode of The Modern Marketer, host Eddie Garrison breaks down the McDonald’s AI Christmas ad controversy and why it matters to every marketer experimenting with AI today.

After intense backlash over unsettling visuals, tone-deaf holiday messaging, and accusations of “AI slop,” McDonald’s quietly pulled the ad from official channels. But this wasn’t an AI failure, it was a marketing one.

Eddie dives into what McDonald’s got wrong, how creative direction and emotional misalignment fueled the backlash, and what the brand could have done differently. More importantly, he shares practical lessons marketers can apply right now to avoid similar mistakes when using AI in advertising.

If you’re exploring AI-driven creative, managing brand trust, or navigating high-stakes campaigns, this episode is a must-listen.

]]> In this episode of The Modern Marketer, host Eddie Garrison breaks down the McDonald’s AI Christmas ad controversy and why it matters to every marketer experimenting with AI today.

After intense backlash over unsettling visuals, tone-deaf holiday messaging, and accusations of “AI slop,” McDonald’s quietly pulled the ad from official channels. But this wasn’t an AI failure, it was a marketing one.

Eddie dives into what McDonald’s got wrong, how creative direction and emotional misalignment fueled the backlash, and what the brand could have done differently. More importantly, he shares practical lessons marketers can apply right now to avoid similar mistakes when using AI in advertising.

If you’re exploring AI-driven creative, managing brand trust, or navigating high-stakes campaigns, this episode is a must-listen.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-18395053 Sun, 21 Dec 2025 14:00:00 -0500 531 full false The AI Visibility Layer: Why SEO + PPC Will Never Be the Same The AI Visibility Layer: Why SEO + PPC Will Never Be the Same AI has officially changed the rules of digital visibility and most marketers are still playing last decade’s game.

In this deep-dive episode, Eddie Garrison breaks down the new three-layer visibility ecosystem where SEO, PPC, and AI work together… and where AI-generated answers are quickly becoming the most influential visibility channel of all.

If you care about search, ads, content, branding, or digital strategy, this episode is essential listening.

Because the brands that adapt to the new AI visibility layer won’t just get seen… they’ll get chosen.

Tune in and future-proof your marketing strategy.

]]> AI has officially changed the rules of digital visibility and most marketers are still playing last decade’s game.

In this deep-dive episode, Eddie Garrison breaks down the new three-layer visibility ecosystem where SEO, PPC, and AI work together… and where AI-generated answers are quickly becoming the most influential visibility channel of all.

If you care about search, ads, content, branding, or digital strategy, this episode is essential listening.

Because the brands that adapt to the new AI visibility layer won’t just get seen… they’ll get chosen.

Tune in and future-proof your marketing strategy.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-18312463 Sun, 07 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0500 733 full false Unlocking 50% Brand Lift with Media Synergy Unlocking 50% Brand Lift with Media Synergy Want a 50% lift in brand performance? This episode breaks down new research analyzing 1,000+ campaigns, and reveals why pairing traditional media with digital channels consistently drives massive results.

You’ll learn the best-performing channel combinations, how brands like Walmart are winning with cross-channel synergy, and a simple framework to make your next campaign work harder without spending more.

Perfect for marketers who want smarter strategy, not bigger budgets.

]]> Want a 50% lift in brand performance? This episode breaks down new research analyzing 1,000+ campaigns, and reveals why pairing traditional media with digital channels consistently drives massive results.

You’ll learn the best-performing channel combinations, how brands like Walmart are winning with cross-channel synergy, and a simple framework to make your next campaign work harder without spending more.

Perfect for marketers who want smarter strategy, not bigger budgets.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-18225826 Thu, 20 Nov 2025 14:00:00 -0500 432 full false The 5 Steps to Winning Search in the Age of AI The 5 Steps to Winning Search in the Age of AI In this episode, Eddie breaks down the seismic shift happening in search, discovery, and digital visibility.

Half of all Google searches now end with AI-generated summaries. That means your customers are getting answers without ever visiting a website, maybe even yours. Ranking #1 is no longer the finish line. It’s just the entry ticket.

In each episode, Eddie guides you through the new search landscape, where SEO meets AEO, GEO, and AI-powered content strategy. You’ll learn how to:

• Be Found by search engines
• Be Chosen by AI assistants
• Be Cited by generative models
• Be Scaled using intelligent content systems
• Be Dominant across the entire digital ecosystem

This is where marketers, founders, creators, and brand leaders come to understand what’s changing, what matters now, and how to stay visible when the algorithms shift again tomorrow.

If you want your brand to be the one discovered, recommended, and trusted in the new AI-first world…

You’re in the right place.

]]> In this episode, Eddie breaks down the seismic shift happening in search, discovery, and digital visibility.

Half of all Google searches now end with AI-generated summaries. That means your customers are getting answers without ever visiting a website, maybe even yours. Ranking #1 is no longer the finish line. It’s just the entry ticket.

In each episode, Eddie guides you through the new search landscape, where SEO meets AEO, GEO, and AI-powered content strategy. You’ll learn how to:

• Be Found by search engines
• Be Chosen by AI assistants
• Be Cited by generative models
• Be Scaled using intelligent content systems
• Be Dominant across the entire digital ecosystem

This is where marketers, founders, creators, and brand leaders come to understand what’s changing, what matters now, and how to stay visible when the algorithms shift again tomorrow.

If you want your brand to be the one discovered, recommended, and trusted in the new AI-first world…

You’re in the right place.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-18154721 Sat, 08 Nov 2025 10:00:00 -0500 615 full false Will Your Brand Survive the AI Search Revolution? Will Your Brand Survive the AI Search Revolution? AI search isn’t coming, it’s here! And it’s rewriting the rules of visibility. In this episode of The Modern Marketer, Eddie breaks down new research from Search Engine Land showing that 90% of businesses fear losing SEO visibility as AI-driven search engines like ChatGPT and Gemini take over how people discover brands.

Learn why traditional SEO is evolving into GEO — Generative Engine Optimization, what it means for your brand’s online presence, and the concrete steps marketers can take right now to stay visible in AI-generated answers and summaries.

If ranking #1 on Google used to be the goal, this episode will show you why recognition, not just rankings, is the new metric that matters.

]]> AI search isn’t coming, it’s here! And it’s rewriting the rules of visibility. In this episode of The Modern Marketer, Eddie breaks down new research from Search Engine Land showing that 90% of businesses fear losing SEO visibility as AI-driven search engines like ChatGPT and Gemini take over how people discover brands.

Learn why traditional SEO is evolving into GEO — Generative Engine Optimization, what it means for your brand’s online presence, and the concrete steps marketers can take right now to stay visible in AI-generated answers and summaries.

If ranking #1 on Google used to be the goal, this episode will show you why recognition, not just rankings, is the new metric that matters.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-18091834 Tue, 28 Oct 2025 15:00:00 -0400 455 full false Why Traditional Customer Personas Are Dead and What to Do Instead Why Traditional Customer Personas Are Dead and What to Do Instead In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, host Eddie Garrison calls out the outdated, cookie-cutter customer avatars that marketers are still clinging to and reveals what you should be doing instead. If your current customer persona isn’t helping you write better copy, create stronger offers, or connect on a human level—it’s time for a change. Whether you're a marketer, entrepreneur, or brand strategist, this episode will help you ditch the fluff and build a persona you’ll actually use one that transforms your messaging and drives real results. Tune in now and learn how to market to the person, not the profile.

]]> In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, host Eddie Garrison calls out the outdated, cookie-cutter customer avatars that marketers are still clinging to and reveals what you should be doing instead. If your current customer persona isn’t helping you write better copy, create stronger offers, or connect on a human level—it’s time for a change. Whether you're a marketer, entrepreneur, or brand strategist, this episode will help you ditch the fluff and build a persona you’ll actually use one that transforms your messaging and drives real results. Tune in now and learn how to market to the person, not the profile.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-17373430 Sat, 21 Jun 2025 10:00:00 -0400 668 full false Beyond the Bot. What Marketing Agencies Offer That AI Can’t Replace Beyond the Bot. What Marketing Agencies Offer That AI Can’t Replace In a world where tools like ChatGPT can write your captions, generate ad copy, and crank out blog posts in seconds, many business owners are asking: Do I even need a marketing agency anymore? In this episode, host Eddie Garrison goes beyond the bot to unpack the real reason why human-led marketing still reigns supreme, especially when strategy, creativity, and emotional connection are at stake.  If you’ve been tempted to let AI run the show, this episode will reframe the conversation and show you how humans and machines can work together to create something truly impactful.

]]> In a world where tools like ChatGPT can write your captions, generate ad copy, and crank out blog posts in seconds, many business owners are asking: Do I even need a marketing agency anymore? In this episode, host Eddie Garrison goes beyond the bot to unpack the real reason why human-led marketing still reigns supreme, especially when strategy, creativity, and emotional connection are at stake.  If you’ve been tempted to let AI run the show, this episode will reframe the conversation and show you how humans and machines can work together to create something truly impactful.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-17297216 Sat, 07 Jun 2025 14:00:00 -0400 1024 full false Customer Journey vs. Buyer Journey – Why You Need to Understand the Difference Customer Journey vs. Buyer Journey – Why You Need to Understand the Difference In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, host Eddie Garrison breaks down one of the most overlooked but critical distinctions in marketing today: the Customer Journey versus the Buyer Journey. Too often, businesses focus all their energy on getting the sale, ignoring what happens after the purchase. But modern marketing doesn’t stop at conversion. It starts there. Whether you're a marketer, business owner, or creative professional, this episode will change the way you think about your brand’s relationship with its audience, from the first click to lifelong advocacy.

]]> In this episode of The Modern Marketer Podcast, host Eddie Garrison breaks down one of the most overlooked but critical distinctions in marketing today: the Customer Journey versus the Buyer Journey. Too often, businesses focus all their energy on getting the sale, ignoring what happens after the purchase. But modern marketing doesn’t stop at conversion. It starts there. Whether you're a marketer, business owner, or creative professional, this episode will change the way you think about your brand’s relationship with its audience, from the first click to lifelong advocacy.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-17259131 Sat, 31 May 2025 17:00:00 -0400 607 full false The Power of Creative Packaging: Why It Matters More Than Ever The Power of Creative Packaging: Why It Matters More Than Ever In a world where consumers are constantly bombarded with choices, it’s no longer enough for your product to simply be good—it has to look good too. And that’s where creative packaging comes in. Often overlooked as just a functional necessity, packaging is actually one of the most powerful marketing tools at your disposal. Whether you're selling cosmetics, food, tech gadgets, or artisan candles, your packaging can make or break a customer’s first impression. Done right, it’s an experience—one that delights the senses, communicates your brand values, and builds lasting loyalty.

]]> In a world where consumers are constantly bombarded with choices, it’s no longer enough for your product to simply be good—it has to look good too. And that’s where creative packaging comes in. Often overlooked as just a functional necessity, packaging is actually one of the most powerful marketing tools at your disposal. Whether you're selling cosmetics, food, tech gadgets, or artisan candles, your packaging can make or break a customer’s first impression. Done right, it’s an experience—one that delights the senses, communicates your brand values, and builds lasting loyalty.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-17191844 Mon, 19 May 2025 16:00:00 -0400 422 full false Healthcare Marketing & Branding Trends Guide Healthcare Marketing & Branding Trends Guide In this episode of The Modern Marketer, Eddie Garrison dives deep into the top healthcare marketing and branding trends shaping 2025 and beyond. From the rise of hyper-personalized experiences and purpose-driven brands to the power of omnichannel strategies and emotionally intelligent design, this episode breaks down exactly what healthcare organizations need to do to stay relevant, human, and connected in a rapidly evolving landscape. Whether you're running a private practice, managing a specialty clinic, or leading a multi-location health system, this episode delivers actionable insights. The future of healthcare is personal, purposeful, and patient-centered—and the brands that lead with heart will win. Tune in and get inspired to reimagine your approach to healthcare marketing in 2025.

]]> In this episode of The Modern Marketer, Eddie Garrison dives deep into the top healthcare marketing and branding trends shaping 2025 and beyond. From the rise of hyper-personalized experiences and purpose-driven brands to the power of omnichannel strategies and emotionally intelligent design, this episode breaks down exactly what healthcare organizations need to do to stay relevant, human, and connected in a rapidly evolving landscape. Whether you're running a private practice, managing a specialty clinic, or leading a multi-location health system, this episode delivers actionable insights. The future of healthcare is personal, purposeful, and patient-centered—and the brands that lead with heart will win. Tune in and get inspired to reimagine your approach to healthcare marketing in 2025.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-17135243 Sat, 10 May 2025 10:00:00 -0400 611 full false The State of Social Media: What’s Dominating and What’s Declining The State of Social Media: What’s Dominating and What’s Declining As we turn to 2025, understanding social media trends is crucial for businesses and marketers aiming to reach the right audience on the right platforms. The latest data from Pew Research provides valuable insights into how social media is evolving, highlighting some shifts in user preferences.

]]> As we turn to 2025, understanding social media trends is crucial for businesses and marketers aiming to reach the right audience on the right platforms. The latest data from Pew Research provides valuable insights into how social media is evolving, highlighting some shifts in user preferences.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-16391960 Mon, 06 Jan 2025 15:00:00 -0500 412 full false The Problems of Running Your Own Digital Marketing The Problems of Running Your Own Digital Marketing The importance of a strong online presence for hospitality brands cannot be overstated. From attracting new guests to building long-term relationships with repeat customers, digital marketing is crucial for success. However, many hospitality brands face the dilemma of whether to handle their digital marketing in-house or outsource it to professionals. While taking on the task yourself might seem cost-effective, it’s essential to weigh the potential challenges. In this episode, we’ll explore the common problems hospitality brands encounter when running their own digital marketing and why it may not always be the best solution.

]]> The importance of a strong online presence for hospitality brands cannot be overstated. From attracting new guests to building long-term relationships with repeat customers, digital marketing is crucial for success. However, many hospitality brands face the dilemma of whether to handle their digital marketing in-house or outsource it to professionals. While taking on the task yourself might seem cost-effective, it’s essential to weigh the potential challenges. In this episode, we’ll explore the common problems hospitality brands encounter when running their own digital marketing and why it may not always be the best solution.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-16141239 Wed, 20 Nov 2024 11:00:00 -0500 489 full false Comparing the Cost of Hiring a Digital Marketing Agency vs. Going Solo in Hospitality Marketing Comparing the Cost of Hiring a Digital Marketing Agency vs. Going Solo in Hospitality Marketing In today's competitive hospitality industry, effective digital marketing is crucial for driving bookings, enhancing guest satisfaction, and maintaining a strong online presence. But as a hospitality brand, how do you decide whether to handle your digital marketing in-house or hire a specialized agency? This guide will help you understand the costs associated with both options, allowing you to make an informed decision.

]]> In today's competitive hospitality industry, effective digital marketing is crucial for driving bookings, enhancing guest satisfaction, and maintaining a strong online presence. But as a hospitality brand, how do you decide whether to handle your digital marketing in-house or hire a specialized agency? This guide will help you understand the costs associated with both options, allowing you to make an informed decision.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-15964286 Mon, 21 Oct 2024 14:00:00 -0400 456 full false The Benefits of Partnering with a Marketing Agency for Your Hospitality Business The Benefits of Partnering with a Marketing Agency for Your Hospitality Business In the fast-paced world of hospitality, where guest satisfaction and operational efficiency are paramount, time is your most valuable asset. Running a hotel, resort, or any other hospitality business involves a multitude of tasks that extend far beyond simply providing a room or a meal. Marketing your business effectively is one of those crucial tasks—but it's also one that can consume a lot of time and resources. This is where partnering with a marketing agency that specializes in the hospitality industry can make all the difference.

]]> In the fast-paced world of hospitality, where guest satisfaction and operational efficiency are paramount, time is your most valuable asset. Running a hotel, resort, or any other hospitality business involves a multitude of tasks that extend far beyond simply providing a room or a meal. Marketing your business effectively is one of those crucial tasks—but it's also one that can consume a lot of time and resources. This is where partnering with a marketing agency that specializes in the hospitality industry can make all the difference.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-15736765 Wed, 11 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0400 477 full false Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Partnering with a Hospitality Marketing Agency Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Partnering with a Hospitality Marketing Agency As a hospitality business—whether you’re a hotel, restaurant, bar, or transportation company—partnering with an outside marketing agency can be a game-changer for your brand. It can boost your visibility, drive more bookings, and free up your time to focus on providing top-notch service to your guests. But before diving into a partnership, it's essential to have a clear understanding of what to expect. Here are the top 10 questions you should ask before working with an outside marketing agency.

]]> As a hospitality business—whether you’re a hotel, restaurant, bar, or transportation company—partnering with an outside marketing agency can be a game-changer for your brand. It can boost your visibility, drive more bookings, and free up your time to focus on providing top-notch service to your guests. But before diving into a partnership, it's essential to have a clear understanding of what to expect. Here are the top 10 questions you should ask before working with an outside marketing agency.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-15721501 Mon, 09 Sep 2024 12:00:00 -0400 582 full false What Is a Hospitality Marketing Agency? What Is a Hospitality Marketing Agency? In today’s episode, we’re exploring a vital topic for anyone involved in the hotel industry: the role and impact of a hospitality marketing agency. Whether you’re a seasoned hotelier or just starting out, understanding how these agencies can elevate your online presence and drive more direct bookings is essential. So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s dive into the world of hospitality marketing.

]]> In today’s episode, we’re exploring a vital topic for anyone involved in the hotel industry: the role and impact of a hospitality marketing agency. Whether you’re a seasoned hotelier or just starting out, understanding how these agencies can elevate your online presence and drive more direct bookings is essential. So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s dive into the world of hospitality marketing.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-15657476 Wed, 28 Aug 2024 12:00:00 -0400 751 full false How Hotels Can Use Word of Mouth to Their Advantage How Hotels Can Use Word of Mouth to Their Advantage Word of mouth remains a powerful influence on consumer decisions, especially in the hospitality industry. Despite misconceptions, businesses can exert some control over this phenomenon.

Consumers tend to choose your brand over others when they perceive it as popular among their peers. Additionally, prioritizing the satisfaction of existing customers can turn them into brand ambassadors, spreading positive word of mouth.

Let's delve deeper into the concept of word of mouth and its significance in the hospitality sector.

]]> Word of mouth remains a powerful influence on consumer decisions, especially in the hospitality industry. Despite misconceptions, businesses can exert some control over this phenomenon.

Consumers tend to choose your brand over others when they perceive it as popular among their peers. Additionally, prioritizing the satisfaction of existing customers can turn them into brand ambassadors, spreading positive word of mouth.

Let's delve deeper into the concept of word of mouth and its significance in the hospitality sector.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-15583189 Mon, 19 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400 467 full false Overcoming the Fear of Letting Go: How to Successfully Partner with a Marketing Agency for Your Hospitality Brand Overcoming the Fear of Letting Go: How to Successfully Partner with a Marketing Agency for Your Hospitality Brand As a hospitality brand, you've poured time, energy, and passion into building your business. Your marketing efforts have been a direct reflection of your brand’s voice and identity. So, the thought of handing over the reins to an outside marketing agency can be daunting. You might worry that an external partner won't truly understand your brand or that you'll lose control over the direction of your marketing strategy.

But hiring an outside marketing agency doesn’t mean losing control of your brand’s voice or strategy. Instead, it’s about gaining a team of experts who can elevate your marketing efforts and bring fresh perspectives that can drive growth.

]]> As a hospitality brand, you've poured time, energy, and passion into building your business. Your marketing efforts have been a direct reflection of your brand’s voice and identity. So, the thought of handing over the reins to an outside marketing agency can be daunting. You might worry that an external partner won't truly understand your brand or that you'll lose control over the direction of your marketing strategy.

But hiring an outside marketing agency doesn’t mean losing control of your brand’s voice or strategy. Instead, it’s about gaining a team of experts who can elevate your marketing efforts and bring fresh perspectives that can drive growth.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-15569855 Mon, 12 Aug 2024 11:00:00 -0400 400 full false Using Hotel Rewards Programs to Drive Bookings Using Hotel Rewards Programs to Drive Bookings In the fiercely competitive hospitality industry, hotels are constantly seeking innovative ways to attract guests and drive bookings. One strategy that has proven to be both effective and mutually beneficial is the implementation of hotel rewards programs. These programs offer a plethora of advantages for both guests and hoteliers, creating a win-win scenario. In this episode, we’ll delve into the numerous benefits of using hotel rewards programs to drive bookings.

]]> In the fiercely competitive hospitality industry, hotels are constantly seeking innovative ways to attract guests and drive bookings. One strategy that has proven to be both effective and mutually beneficial is the implementation of hotel rewards programs. These programs offer a plethora of advantages for both guests and hoteliers, creating a win-win scenario. In this episode, we’ll delve into the numerous benefits of using hotel rewards programs to drive bookings.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-15116628 Wed, 22 May 2024 10:00:00 -0400 466 full false Responding to Customer Reviews in the Hospitality Industry Responding to Customer Reviews in the Hospitality Industry In the ever-evolving landscape of the hospitality industry, where customer satisfaction is paramount, the significance of online reviews cannot be overstated. Whether positive or negative, customer reviews play a crucial role in shaping the reputation of hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality establishments. In this episode, we go over one aspect that often gets overlooked, the importance of responding to every review, a practice that can profoundly influence customer perception and loyalty.

]]> In the ever-evolving landscape of the hospitality industry, where customer satisfaction is paramount, the significance of online reviews cannot be overstated. Whether positive or negative, customer reviews play a crucial role in shaping the reputation of hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality establishments. In this episode, we go over one aspect that often gets overlooked, the importance of responding to every review, a practice that can profoundly influence customer perception and loyalty.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-14820720 Wed, 03 Apr 2024 11:00:00 -0400 651 full false Sun, Fun, and Occupancy: Strategies for Summer Hotel Success Sun, Fun, and Occupancy: Strategies for Summer Hotel Success Seasons have long been known to influence travel patterns, with the ebb and flow of travelers directly impacting hotel occupancy rates. From avoiding extreme weather conditions to seeking specific destinations based on seasonal preferences, travelers' decisions play a crucial role in shaping the hospitality landscape. In this episode, we'll explore eight strategies tailored to make your establishment stand out amidst the summer rush.

]]> Seasons have long been known to influence travel patterns, with the ebb and flow of travelers directly impacting hotel occupancy rates. From avoiding extreme weather conditions to seeking specific destinations based on seasonal preferences, travelers' decisions play a crucial role in shaping the hospitality landscape. In this episode, we'll explore eight strategies tailored to make your establishment stand out amidst the summer rush.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-14780908 Wed, 27 Mar 2024 14:00:00 -0400 487 full false Marketing Your Restaurant on Instagram Marketing Your Restaurant on Instagram Food holds a significant position in the lives of individuals, encompassing cherished culinary delights, preferred dining establishments, and vibrant locales for savoring drinks and social interactions. The quest for delectable experiences ranks high among people's priorities, motivating them to share their culinary journeys, style choices, and preferred dining destinations. Instagram capitalizes on the capabilities of smartphone technology, serving as a platform that encourages its members to share their visual narratives through photos and short videos. In this episode, I'll go over some tips and tactics on how you can market your restaurant on Instagram.

]]> Food holds a significant position in the lives of individuals, encompassing cherished culinary delights, preferred dining establishments, and vibrant locales for savoring drinks and social interactions. The quest for delectable experiences ranks high among people's priorities, motivating them to share their culinary journeys, style choices, and preferred dining destinations. Instagram capitalizes on the capabilities of smartphone technology, serving as a platform that encourages its members to share their visual narratives through photos and short videos. In this episode, I'll go over some tips and tactics on how you can market your restaurant on Instagram.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-14731803 Wed, 20 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0400 703 full false Mastering the Art of Hotel Newsletter Marketing Mastering the Art of Hotel Newsletter Marketing In the vast sea of newsletters, I subscribe to many but engage with only a select few. The common culprits behind my disinterest are newsletters that are either irrelevant or, worse, downright boring. I don't mean to sound rude, but if your newsletter isn't capturing my attention, it's time to reevaluate your approach. The same holds for hotels diving into email marketing efforts. Many put in hours of effort but see minimal results. Fear not, for there are solutions, and mastering the art of hotel newsletter marketing is not as daunting as it may seem.

]]> In the vast sea of newsletters, I subscribe to many but engage with only a select few. The common culprits behind my disinterest are newsletters that are either irrelevant or, worse, downright boring. I don't mean to sound rude, but if your newsletter isn't capturing my attention, it's time to reevaluate your approach. The same holds for hotels diving into email marketing efforts. Many put in hours of effort but see minimal results. Fear not, for there are solutions, and mastering the art of hotel newsletter marketing is not as daunting as it may seem.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-14646699 Mon, 11 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0400 895 full false Connecting in Orlando - Insights on Traveler Relationships with Guest Crystal Morrell Connecting in Orlando - Insights on Traveler Relationships with Guest Crystal Morrell On this episode of the Marketing Hospitality podcast, I’m joined by Crystal Morrell, a sales executive for Marriott International here in Orlando Florida at the Sheraton Lake Buena Vista property. We discuss her new role in Orlando after recently celebrating her one-year anniversary with this property and the role connections play in hospitality in the massive travel market of Orlando, Florida,

**Sheraton Lake Buena Vista and Marriot Hotel are registered trademarks of Marriott International. The views and comments expressed by the host and guest do not reflect those of Marriott International.

]]> On this episode of the Marketing Hospitality podcast, I’m joined by Crystal Morrell, a sales executive for Marriott International here in Orlando Florida at the Sheraton Lake Buena Vista property. We discuss her new role in Orlando after recently celebrating her one-year anniversary with this property and the role connections play in hospitality in the massive travel market of Orlando, Florida,

**Sheraton Lake Buena Vista and Marriot Hotel are registered trademarks of Marriott International. The views and comments expressed by the host and guest do not reflect those of Marriott International.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-14646022 Thu, 07 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0500 1252 full false The Psychology Behind Successful Hotel Marketing The Psychology Behind Successful Hotel Marketing The hospitality industry thrives on human interaction, and every touchpoint, from guest interactions at the front desk to crafting compelling marketing messages, is a testament to the deep connection between hotels and their guests. In this intricate dance of communication and service, psychology emerges as a silent yet powerful partner, influencing guests' minds and behaviors. In this episode, we'll delve into the indispensable role psychology plays in hotel marketing, exploring how it shapes effective strategies and elevates the overall guest experience.

]]> The hospitality industry thrives on human interaction, and every touchpoint, from guest interactions at the front desk to crafting compelling marketing messages, is a testament to the deep connection between hotels and their guests. In this intricate dance of communication and service, psychology emerges as a silent yet powerful partner, influencing guests' minds and behaviors. In this episode, we'll delve into the indispensable role psychology plays in hotel marketing, exploring how it shapes effective strategies and elevates the overall guest experience.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-14548410 Mon, 26 Feb 2024 11:00:00 -0500 347 full false Outsourced Hotel Marketing: What’s Best for Your Hotel? Outsourced Hotel Marketing: What’s Best for Your Hotel? In the competitive landscape of the hospitality industry, effective marketing is crucial for hotels to thrive. One crucial decision accommodation businesses must make is whether to manage their marketing efforts in-house or to outsource them to specialized agencies. Each approach comes with its own set of advantages, and in this episode, we'll explore five compelling reasons why outsourcing your hotel marketing might be the key to unlocking success.

]]> In the competitive landscape of the hospitality industry, effective marketing is crucial for hotels to thrive. One crucial decision accommodation businesses must make is whether to manage their marketing efforts in-house or to outsource them to specialized agencies. Each approach comes with its own set of advantages, and in this episode, we'll explore five compelling reasons why outsourcing your hotel marketing might be the key to unlocking success.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-14516505 Mon, 19 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0500 380 full false 8 Strategies to Increase Repeat Guests at Your Hotel 8 Strategies to Increase Repeat Guests at Your Hotel As the hospitality industry evolves, retaining guests becomes more crucial than ever. According to a survey by eMakreting Associates, a staggering 68% of guests won't return if they feel unappreciated, making guest relationships a pivotal aspect of a thriving hotel business. In this episode, we explore effective strategies to foster loyalty and increase repeat guests, providing insights for hotels, B&Bs, and restaurants alike.

]]> As the hospitality industry evolves, retaining guests becomes more crucial than ever. According to a survey by eMakreting Associates, a staggering 68% of guests won't return if they feel unappreciated, making guest relationships a pivotal aspect of a thriving hotel business. In this episode, we explore effective strategies to foster loyalty and increase repeat guests, providing insights for hotels, B&Bs, and restaurants alike.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-14452153 Mon, 12 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0500 422 full false Leveraging the Power of Email Marketing for Transportation Companies Leveraging the Power of Email Marketing for Transportation Companies In the fast-paced world of transportation, effective communication is the key to success. As technology continues to evolve, transportation companies are finding innovative ways to connect with their audience, and one tool stands out – email marketing. Let's explore the myriad benefits that make email marketing a game-changer for transportation companies.

]]> In the fast-paced world of transportation, effective communication is the key to success. As technology continues to evolve, transportation companies are finding innovative ways to connect with their audience, and one tool stands out – email marketing. Let's explore the myriad benefits that make email marketing a game-changer for transportation companies.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-14415017 Mon, 05 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0500 472 full false The State of Hospitality The State of Hospitality I recently attended an event here in Orlando presented by the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association focusing on the state of hospitality. This event reviewed stats, data, and insights from some of the leaders in the hospitality industry. Where these insights may be focused on the Orlando region, they can easily be extrapolated to your region as it focuses on the hospitality and tourism industry as a whole.

]]> I recently attended an event here in Orlando presented by the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association focusing on the state of hospitality. This event reviewed stats, data, and insights from some of the leaders in the hospitality industry. Where these insights may be focused on the Orlando region, they can easily be extrapolated to your region as it focuses on the hospitality and tourism industry as a whole.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-14368915 Mon, 29 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0500 938 full false 5 Benefits Restaurants Can Gain by Harnessing Social Media 5 Benefits Restaurants Can Gain by Harnessing Social Media In the ever-evolving landscape of 2024, restaurant owners find themselves navigating a dynamic environment where social media marketing has become a guiding light, illuminating new avenues for growth and customer engagement. The immediacy of shared dining experiences and the swift evolution of culinary trends have elevated social media to an indispensable asset for the food industry. 

]]> In the ever-evolving landscape of 2024, restaurant owners find themselves navigating a dynamic environment where social media marketing has become a guiding light, illuminating new avenues for growth and customer engagement. The immediacy of shared dining experiences and the swift evolution of culinary trends have elevated social media to an indispensable asset for the food industry. 

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-14328867 Tue, 23 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0500 349 full false Attract More Guests With Content Aimed At Travelers in Unexpected Moments Attract More Guests With Content Aimed At Travelers in Unexpected Moments Your property is a haven for guests who meticulously plan their visits months in advance. These familiar faces are the backbone of your business – dependable, expected, and predictable. They've followed your carefully crafted digital marketing path, exploring your website, researching local activities, and immersing themselves in the amenities your property offers. But what about those potential guests who fall outside your conventional marketing channels?

]]> Your property is a haven for guests who meticulously plan their visits months in advance. These familiar faces are the backbone of your business – dependable, expected, and predictable. They've followed your carefully crafted digital marketing path, exploring your website, researching local activities, and immersing themselves in the amenities your property offers. But what about those potential guests who fall outside your conventional marketing channels?

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-14328148 Wed, 17 Jan 2024 13:00:00 -0500 300 full false 5 Tips for Leveraging Email Campaigns for Hotels 5 Tips for Leveraging Email Campaigns for Hotels The hotel industry is one of the world’s most valuable markets, bringing in over $600 billion each year. For hoteliers, the question is — how do you get a chunk of that pie? After all, competition is fierce, and hotels in cities and towns worldwide compete for business every day.

One way to beat the competition is to launch a comprehensive email marketing strategy. Stats show that hotel email marketing campaigns get an average open rate of around 22.48% with a 1.61% click-through rate.

In this episode, I'll go over five tactical and easy-to-implement social media content strategies for hotels looking to use email marketing to drive more bookings from past guests.

]]> The hotel industry is one of the world’s most valuable markets, bringing in over $600 billion each year. For hoteliers, the question is — how do you get a chunk of that pie? After all, competition is fierce, and hotels in cities and towns worldwide compete for business every day.

One way to beat the competition is to launch a comprehensive email marketing strategy. Stats show that hotel email marketing campaigns get an average open rate of around 22.48% with a 1.61% click-through rate.

In this episode, I'll go over five tactical and easy-to-implement social media content strategies for hotels looking to use email marketing to drive more bookings from past guests.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-14320732 Tue, 16 Jan 2024 13:00:00 -0500 220 full false Navigating the Future: Hospitality Marketing Trends for 2024 Navigating the Future: Hospitality Marketing Trends for 2024 In the ever-evolving landscape of the hospitality industry, adopting the right marketing strategy is paramount for long-term success. As businesses strive to attract customers, optimize revenue, and build recognition and trust, staying abreast of the latest trends is crucial. However, challenges persist, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitating a nuanced approach to understanding and implementing hospitality marketing trends in 2024.

]]> In the ever-evolving landscape of the hospitality industry, adopting the right marketing strategy is paramount for long-term success. As businesses strive to attract customers, optimize revenue, and build recognition and trust, staying abreast of the latest trends is crucial. However, challenges persist, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitating a nuanced approach to understanding and implementing hospitality marketing trends in 2024.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-14236276 Tue, 02 Jan 2024 14:00:00 -0500 507 full false 3 Tips to Improve Your Copywriting Immediately 3 Tips to Improve Your Copywriting Immediately In this episode of The Marketing Pilot we unravel the secrets to improving your conversion rates. We're doing a deep dive into the world of copywriting and how a few simple tweaks can transform your copy into a conversion machine.

]]> In this episode of The Marketing Pilot we unravel the secrets to improving your conversion rates. We're doing a deep dive into the world of copywriting and how a few simple tweaks can transform your copy into a conversion machine.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-13591106 Thu, 14 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0400 614 full false The Importance of Culturally Competent Marketing The Importance of Culturally Competent Marketing In today's globalized world, marketing has evolved into a complex and diverse field. No longer limited by geographical boundaries, businesses now have the opportunity to reach consumers from various cultural backgrounds. This shift has highlighted the importance of culturally competent marketing, where companies adapt their strategies to resonate with diverse audiences. Let's explore why this approach is essential in today's marketplace.

]]> In today's globalized world, marketing has evolved into a complex and diverse field. No longer limited by geographical boundaries, businesses now have the opportunity to reach consumers from various cultural backgrounds. This shift has highlighted the importance of culturally competent marketing, where companies adapt their strategies to resonate with diverse audiences. Let's explore why this approach is essential in today's marketplace.

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-13550887 Thu, 07 Sep 2023 15:00:00 -0400 503 full false Beyond the Posts on Social Media Beyond the Posts on Social Media In this episode, we're diving into a fascinating topic that affects nearly everyone in the modern world: social media. We all know about posting photos, sharing updates, and staying connected, but have you ever considered that social media is so much more than just those things?

]]> In this episode, we're diving into a fascinating topic that affects nearly everyone in the modern world: social media. We all know about posting photos, sharing updates, and staying connected, but have you ever considered that social media is so much more than just those things?

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-13535091 Tue, 05 Sep 2023 15:00:00 -0400 587 full false Building a Successful Digital Marketing Strategy Building a Successful Digital Marketing Strategy In this episode, we're diving into a topic that's crucial for businesses of all sizes: the importance of a comprehensive digital marketing strategy. We'll be covering everything from social media and lead generation to landing pages and email marketing campaigns. So, if you're looking to take your online presence to the next level, you're in the right place. Let's get started!

]]> In this episode, we're diving into a topic that's crucial for businesses of all sizes: the importance of a comprehensive digital marketing strategy. We'll be covering everything from social media and lead generation to landing pages and email marketing campaigns. So, if you're looking to take your online presence to the next level, you're in the right place. Let's get started!

]]> Eddie Garrison Buzzsprout-13505666 Thu, 31 Aug 2023 12:00:00 -0400 1611 full false