Episodes
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In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Avi Goren, co-founder and CEO of Marqii, shares insights from analyzing over 200,000 customer reviews across multiple restaurant brands. With experience spanning from local pizzerias to enterprise-level restaurant tech, Avi reveals how the right review response strategy can transform customer feedback into a powerful marketing asset.
Topics discussed in this episode:
1️⃣ Leverage menu data for improved local SEO performance
2️⃣ Scaling digital presence across multiple locations
3️⃣ Review response management and automation
4️⃣ Use review responses as a marketing and SEO tool
5️⃣ Techniques for turning negative reviews into business opportunities
ResourcesConnect with Avi Goren on LinkedIn.Learn more about Marqii.
Other shout-outsGregorys Coffee (Featured success story, grew from 20 to 50+ locations)Breads Bakery (Example of category ownership)DIG (Growing brand, now 50+ locations)Polvos (Austin Tex-Mex spot)Levain Bakery (Mentioned for their customer support strategy)
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In today's digital age, are you maximizing every channel to drive local business growth? In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Sai Alluri, co-founder and CEO of Momos, shares insights on multi-channel local marketing gained from his extensive experience in the restaurant tech space. Drawing from his work with over 5,000 restaurants across 10 countries, Sai reveals how businesses can create a powerful digital presence that converts online engagement into real-world revenue.
Topics discussed in this episode:
1️⃣ Optimize your Google Business Profile for maximum visibility
2️⃣ Leveraging social media platforms effectively for local business discovery
3️⃣ The modern customer journey from digital discovery to in-store visits
4️⃣ Measuring marketing ROI at the local level
5️⃣ Using customer feedback and surveys to drive business improvements
ResourcesConnect with Sai Alluri on LinkedIn.Learn more about Momos.
Other shout-outsHopdoddy Burger BarBaskin Robbins
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Episodes manquant?
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Ever wondered how local businesses thrive in a world of big brands? The secret lies in community-driven marketing. In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Christin Marvin, a seasoned restaurant executive coach with nearly two decades of hospitality experience, shares invaluable insights on leveraging local connections for business growth. From fine dining to food halls, Christin unpacks strategies that turn community engagement into a powerful marketing tool.
Topics discussed in this episode:
1️⃣ Community partnerships for effective local marketing
2️⃣ Strategies for successful co-marketing
3️⃣ Aligning marketing content with the actual customer experience
4️⃣ Engaging customers at local events
5️⃣ Segmenting your audience for more targeted marketing
ResourcesConnect with Christin Marvin on LinkedIn.Check out Christin’s website to learn more about her solutions.Listen to an episode of the No Hesitations Restaurant Leadership Podcast.Listen to Eric Knott’s episode on the Local Marketing Lab podcast about being the mayor.
Other shout-outsSnooze AM EateryPolidori SausageFirst WatchBetter Than ProvisionsOlivia (restaurant in Denver)Danny MeyerGolden MillEatDenver
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Can a simple photo of your meal help feed those in need and boost your restaurant’s bottom line? In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Andrew Glantz, founder and CEO of GiftAMeal, reveals how restaurants can achieve growth with social responsibility. Andrew shares innovative strategies that not only give back to the community but also drive customer loyalty and increase revenue.
Here are some topics discussed in the episode around increasing restaurant growth with social responsibility:
How to implement a giving-back program in restaurantsImpact of social responsibility on customer behavior and loyaltyIntegrating social impact initiatives with existing marketing effortsCommunicate your brand’s social impact to customersAuthenticity in corporate social responsibility efforts
ResourcesConnect with Andrew Glantz on LinkedIn.Learn more about GiftAMeal.
Other shout-outsBrands working with GiftAMeal: Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken, Pizza Factory, Gong Cha bubble tea, Groucho’s Deli, HopCat, Sal’s Pizza, Starbird Chicken, Fuzzy’s, Taco Shop, Jimmy John’s, TGI Fridays, Andy’s Frozen Custard, and Scooters CoffeeIntegrations with GiftAMeal: Olo, Thanx, Lunchbox, Ovation, and Tattle
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Are you ready to take your local marketing strategy to the next level? In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, restaurant executive coach and author Monte Silva shares his powerful “create connect collaborate” approach to business growth. With over 25 years of hospitality experience, Monte unveils marketing tactics that have helped countless businesses thrive in the new economy.
Here are some topics discussed in the episode around “create connect collaborate”:
Effective guerrilla marketing techniques for local businessesImportance of community engagement in marketingBalancing virtual and in-person marketing strategiesLeverage personal branding to boost business successProduct quality before heavy marketing investment
ResourcesConnect with Monte Silva on LinkedIn.Learn more about Monte Silva’s coaching services.Check out Monte’s book “Shift Happens: 7 Proven Strategies to Help Your Restaurant Crush the New Economy“.Listen to an episode of the Restaurant Success Club podcast.
Other shout-outsShawn Walchef: Follow for great examples on how to tell your brand’s story.Christian Fischer: Helped Monte publish his book. Follow Christian to learn more about how he helps people write their own book!Maverick Theory: Consulting talent agency for restaurants.Josh Ashton: Canada’s Restaurant Guy, helped Monte launch his podcast.
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In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, we explore a crucial question: How can businesses stay top of mind in local markets? Erin Levzow, a marketing veteran with over 20 years of experience across brands like Museum of Ice Cream, Freebirds, and Wingstop, shares her insights. From digital strategies to community partnerships, Erin unpacks the essential tactics for dominating your local market and driving growth.
Key topics discussed in the episode:
Effectively use digital marketing channels for local businessesUnderstanding your local audience and marketEngaging content that resonates with local customersLeveraging partnerships with local organizationsData integration in enhancing customer communication
ResourcesConnect with Erin Levzow on LinkedIn.Learn more about Museum of Ice Cream.Follow Rev Ciancio for other content around restaurant marketing.
Other shout-outsKendra Scott for a great partnership with Museum of Ice Cream.Book It program with Pizza Hut — excellent example of local marketing.Raising Canes for their field and local marketing team.
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Are you leaving money on the table by overlooking catering opportunities? In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Kelly Grogan, co-founder of Crumbs, shares invaluable local catering strategies to grow your restaurant. With over 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry, Kelly unveils how catering can be a game-changer for local businesses, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and personalized marketing approaches.
Here are some topics discussed in the episode around local catering strategies:
Create an effective catering menu that’s distinct from your regular offeringsPackaging and presenting catering orders to maximize impactLeveraging existing customers to grow your catering businessBuilding personal relationships with potential catering clientsUse your restaurant’s physical space to promote catering services
ResourcesConnect with Kelly Grogan on LinkedIn.Learn more about Crumbs.
Other shout-outsGeoff Alexander and Gregg Majewski for examples on how to do catering right.McAllister’s Deli for their catering services and packaging.Sabrina Jenkins at PDQ Chicken for their catering services.Troy Hooper for hosting a pickleball tournament at Restaurant Leadership Conference.
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Are you ready to become the “mayor of the mile” in your local market? In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Sam Stanovich, Senior VP of Development and Alliances at Big Chicken, shares his recipe for dominating your local market. With over 25 years of hospitality experience, Sam dishes out practical strategies to transform your business into a community cornerstone.
Here are some topics discussed in the episode around being the mayor of the mile:
Effective community engagementHow to collaborate with local businesses for mutual benefitLeveraging chamber of commerce membershipsThe value of supporting local causes and charitiesCreate impactful content without a big budget
ResourcesConnect with Sam Stanovich on LinkedIn.Find a Big Chicken location near you.Learn more about the ServSafe Alchohol program.Watch Tim Sweetman’s episode on the Local Marketing Lab.Check out RIP Medical Debt.
Other shout-outsCJ from Dog Haus for fun competition of hot dogs vs chicken.Firehouse Subs for their great involvement in the community.Jeff Mauro, the Sandwich King, for advice on persistence when it comes to video content.Zack Oates from Ovation for sponsoring the dog vs chicken showdown.Shawn Walchef for encouraging video content on social.
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How can local businesses effectively manage their online and offline reputation? In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Shereen Qumsieh, co-founder and CEO of Akira, shares her insights on mastering reputation management for local businesses. With over 20 years of experience in the tech space, Shereen dives into the critical aspects of turning data into actionable insights, responding to customer feedback, and maintaining accurate business listings.
Here are some topics discussed in the episode around mastering your online and offline reputation:
Present data as actionable insights rather than overwhelming numbersResponding to both positive and negative online reviewsSoliciting direct customer feedback before it becomes an online reviewThe “Goldilocks zone” for Google reviews and why it mattersAccurate business listings in online reputation
ResourcesConnect with Shereen Qumsieh on LinkedIn.Learn more about Akira.
Other shout-outsMichael Beck from Popcorn GTM.
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What makes a restaurant (or business) unforgettable? In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Christian Fischer, a seasoned chef and hospitality expert with over 35 years of experience, shares insights on how to improve customer experience with authentic hospitality. From his journey as a French-trained chef to becoming a consultant and author, Christian unveils the secrets behind creating memorable dining experiences that keep customers coming back.
Here are some topics discussed in the episode around how to improve customer experience with authentic hospitality:
Create authentic dining experiences that resonate with customersImportance of specialization in menu design and restaurant conceptTurning culinary skills into diverse business opportunitiesThe value of staying true to your roots and background in businessAdapt to changing customer expectations in the hospitality industry
ResourcesConnect with Christian Fischer on LinkedIn or on his website.Check out the Disruptive Chef Entrepreneur Podcast.Listen to the episode with Chef Adam Lamb.Learn more about the Culinary Executive Mastermind.If you want to write a book, take Christian’s course.
Other shout-outsJason Berkowitz for hilarious and amazing stories.
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Are you struggling to balance value offerings with premium items in your restaurant? In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Rev Ciancio, a 20-year veteran of the restaurant industry and head of revenue marketing at Branded Strategic Hospitality, reveals the power of the barbell marketing strategy for restaurant growth. Rev shares invaluable insights on leveraging technology, enhancing customer experience, and implementing innovative marketing tactics to drive revenue in today’s competitive landscape.
Here are some topics discussed in the episode:
Implementation of a successful barbell marketing strategyEffective use of gated WiFi for customer data acquisitionComprehensive restaurant techPersonalization in customer interactionsTips for increasing customer lifetime value (LTV) and average order value (AOV)
ResourcesConnect with Rev Ciancio on LinkedIn.Check out Rev’s restaurant, Handcraft Burgers and Bew.Learn more about Branded Hospitality Ventures and Yeah! Management.Sign up for Rev’s weekly newsletter.
Other shout-outsGregg Majewski for his marketing expertise.Condado Tacos for their marketing targeting.Ferazzoli’s Italian Kitchen for excellent customer experience.
Restaurant techVivaSpot – gated WifiToast – POS (Point of Sale)MailChimp – email and CRMBikky – CDP (Customer Data Platform)Marqii – online listings and reputation managementOvation – guest feedbackSpendgo – customer loyaltyGuru Club – reward customers for posting on InstagramByte – ordering kiosks
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Are you struggling to stand out on social media amidst the constant noise and competition? In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Jonny Fowler, VP of Business Development at American Financial Network, shares his proven strategies to master social media through organic growth and powerful local impact.
Jonny, a 25-year veteran in the mortgage industry, has cracked the code on leveraging social platforms to build an engaged following and drive real business results. In this value-packed conversation, he reveals the secrets to creating content that the algorithms love, building meaningful connections within your local community, and overcoming common fears that hold people back from social media success.
Here are some topics discussed in the episode around how to master social media:
How to create compelling, organic social media contentLeveraging local businesses in your marketing effortsImportance of consistency in social media postingOvercoming fear and self-doubt in content creationPower of short-form video content
ResourcesConnect with Jonny Fowler on LinkedIn.Learn more about American Financial Network.Follow Gary Vaynerchuk for expert social media tips.
Other shout-outsListen to Get involved. Engage locally. Be the Mayor. with Eric Knott, COO at PDQ Restaurants.Frank Gray and Brian Stevens for teaching Jonny how to “do video”.Tony Robbins for pushing others to overcome their fears.Dan Habib for excellent video content around real estate, mortgage, and crypto.
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In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, we explore the powerful connection between effective training, exceptional hospitality, and repeat customers with Jason Berkowitz, a hospitality veteran and founder of Arrow Up Training. With over two decades of experience spanning more than 50 restaurant openings, Jason shares invaluable insights on how businesses can boost repeat customers with training and create memorable guest experiences. His unique blend of psychology-backed management techniques and creative problem-solving offers a fresh perspective on cultivating customer loyalty in the hospitality industry and beyond.
Here are some topics discussed in the episode:
The difference between service and hospitalityStrategies for implementing effective training programsTips for improving order accuracy in takeout and deliveryMethods to enhance employee retention and satisfactionBuilding strong relationships with guests
ResourcesConnect with Jason Berkowitz on LinkedIn.Learn more about Arrow Up Training.
Other shout-outsFollow Shawn Walchef and Troy Hooper on LinkedIn for tips on digital hospitality.Check out Tocaya Organica, modern Mexican food with locations in Arizona and California.Ronan for excellent marketing, training, and hospitality.
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Can you transform your local business in 90 days or less? In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Amber Martinez, Brand President and Operating Partner at JEM Wellness Brands, reveals how she’s done just that throughout her 25-year career in the fitness-wellness industry. She unpacks powerful strategies to transform your local business through grassroots marketing, community engagement, and innovative partnerships.
Here are some topics discussed in the episode around transforming your local business:
Consistent messaging across multiple marketing channelsHumanizing your brand through social media and community engagementLow-cost, high-impact local marketing tactics for immediate implementationTurn existing customers into powerful brand advocatesTechniques for building strategic local business partnerships
ResourcesConnect with Amber Martinez on LinkedIn.Learn more about JEM Wellness Brands.Find a Crunch fitness location near you.Watch the episode with Allison Rand from YouFit Gyms.
Other shout-outsJamie Esslinger and Emily Gentry on the JEM Wellness marketing team.Whole Foods for great community involvement and local partnership.
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Are you tired of lackluster loyalty programs that fail to boost customer spending? In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Matt Smolin, co-founder and CEO of Hang, reveals how next-gen loyalty programs are revolutionizing customer engagement. With a background in finance and a passion for problem-solving, Matt shares groundbreaking insights on creating loyalty experiences that drive real results, including the potential for 3X higher customer spend.
Here are some topics discussed in the episode around next-gen loyalty programs:
The limitations of traditional, points-based loyalty programsHow to create engaging, gamified loyalty experiencesThe importance of personalizationStrategies for connecting loyalty across multiple channelsUsing machine learning to optimize rewards and offers
ResourcesConnect with Matt Smolin on LinkedIn.Learn more about Hang, a brand loyalty and membership platform.
Other shout-outsBoba Guys, Roam Burgers, and Ulta Beauty for their successful loyalty programs.
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Ever wondered what it takes to become a true hospitality hero in today’s dynamic market? In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Michael Beck, co-founder and CRO of Popcorn GTM, shares his 30-year journey through the hospitality industry. With a unique blend of culinary expertise and technology, Michael unpacks innovative strategies for driving local growth and building authentic connections in the restaurant world. From AI-powered customer feedback analysis to creative community engagement, this episode is packed with actionable insights for becoming a hospitality hero.
Here are some topics discussed in the episode around driving local growth as a hospitality hero:
The importance of community building in B2B and B2C marketingLeverage AI for practical marketing applications in restaurantsInnovative ways to use NFTs and digital assets for brand engagementThe power of authenticity and shared values in marketingBalancing technology and human touch in hospitality marketing
ResourcesConnect with Michael Beck on LinkedIn.Learn more about Popcorn GTM.Listen to an episode of Morning, Sam. Morning, Ralph.
Other shout-outsZack Oates, CEO of OvationShawn Walchef, Owner of Cali BBQJeremy Julian, Host of the Restaurant Technology Guys PodcastAshwin Kumlani, CEO of JUICERDevour, online ordering platform with NFTs
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In today’s fast-paced digital world, how can mortgage professionals stand out in their local markets? This episode of the Local Marketing Lab features Jarrett Stanley, the award-winning CMO of Nationwide Mortgage Bankers, who shares his two decades of experience in crafting meaningful local connections. From innovative lead capture techniques to long-term relationship-building strategies, Jarrett unveils the secrets to dominating your local mortgage market.
Here are some topics discussed in the episode around building meaningful local connections:
Strategies for building meaningful local connectionsProviding value beyond just selling mortgagesLeverage technology to streamline lead capture and nurturingStaying compliant with new FCC/TCPA regulationsTips for creating authentic, value-driven marketing content
ResourcesConnect with Jarrett Stanley on LinkedIn.Learn more about Nationwide Mortgage Bankers.Check out the new FCC updates regarding the TCPA rules for lead generation.Watch the FCC webinar with Eric Troutman.
Other shout-outsToby Harris, co-founder at Movement MortgageGary Vaynerchuk: Follow for great marketing tips and adviceShant Banosian, mortgage broker at Guaranteed RateRob Jayne, chief production manager at Nationwide Mortgage Bankers
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Discover how creating consistent content to drive social engagement can transform your local marketing strategy. In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Dustin Owen, Vice President of East Division Sales at Waterstone Mortgage and host of the Loan Officer Podcast, shares his wealth of knowledge in the mortgage industry. With over 20 years of experience, Dustin reveals how content creation and social engagement have been pivotal in building strong client relationships and driving business growth. His insights offer a fresh perspective on leveraging digital strategies to enhance local marketing efforts in the competitive mortgage space.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Leveraging your circle of influence for business growthEffective strategies for online networking and personal brandingCreating consistent, valuable contentUtilizing CRM systems for managing client relationships and marketing effortsBuilding trust through an authentic online presence
ResourcesConnect with Dustin Owen on LinkedIn.Learn more about Waterstone Mortgage.Check out The Loan Officer Podcast and the loan officer coaching community.
Other shout-outsRocket MortgageUse the Scotsman Guide to find loan originators.Follow Jordan Nutter from NFM Lending for ideas to generate leads on TikTok.Check out Jennifer Beeston from Guaranteed Rate for excellent YouTube content.Follow Amir Syed for TikTok content and his coaching company.
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Have you ever wondered why most restaurant customers never return after their first visit? It’s a staggering reality that around 70% of diners are one-time visitors, severely impacting profitability and growth. In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Hamed Mazrouei, CEO of Milagro, Utiliko, and Vivant, unveils the secret to boosting profits: delivering a VIP customer experience through data-driven personalization.
Here are some topics discussed in the episode around delivering a VIP customer experience:
The importance of customer retention for restaurant profitability and overcoming thin marginsStrategies for effective communication with customers, including personalization and VIP treatmentThe role of technology in streamlining operations and enabling better customer experiencesThe value of customer data for targeted marketing and communicationThe significance of basic elements like recognizing and using customers’ names
ResourcesConnect with Hamed Mazrouei on LinkedIn.Learn more about Milagro.Check out Vivant and Utiliko.
Other shout-outsStake 48 — providing a VIP experience for Hamed.
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In this episode of the Local Marketing Lab, Michael Ungaro, CEO of San Pedro Fish Market, shares his journey of transforming a small family-owned seafood shop into a $30 million restaurant empire. With over 40 years of industry experience, he unveils innovative local marketing tactics to boost sales, emphasizing the power of storytelling, community involvement, and adaptability in driving business growth.
Here are some topics discussed in the episode around local marketing tactics to boost sales:
The power of storytelling and building a brand identity to connect with customersCreative local marketing tactics like direct mail, community involvement, and business partnershipsAdapting operations and pivoting the business model during challenging timesLeveraging PR, social media, and a web series to amplify the brand storyOvercoming the “big corporation” perception as a local, family-owned business
ResourcesConnect with Michael Ungaro on LinkedIn.Learn more about San Pedro Fish Market.Check out King of Fish.Stop by Brouwerij West brewery.Order a tray of shrimp from San Pedro Fish Market on GoldBelly.
Other shout-outsPort of Los Angeles Lobster FestToast and me&u for allowing San Pedro Fish Market to succeed with their restaurant reservations and ordering.Shawn Walchef for great video content and telling stories about your brand.
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