Podcasts about loyalty programs

American Express has rolled out new limited-time bonuses on two of its ultra premium cards, AIR MILES has officially entered a new era with Blue Rewards, and Neo Financial has revamped its premium cards. Here's everything Canadian rewards collectors need to know in our weekly loyalty rewards and credit card newscast.

The popular 30% transfer bonus from RBC Avion Rewards to British Airways Executive Club is back and it opens up some incredibly cheap flight redemption options for Canadians! In this podcat we look at how you can potentially fly to Dublin for only 20,000 points round trip, Fiji for 24,000 points one way and other destinations for fewer points than you may expect. All this and more in our weekly loyalty rewards and credit card newscast.

Send us Fan MailWhen most people think about loyalty programs, they likely think about the ones that are designed for consumers — gift cards, travel points, credit card rewards, and other perks that brands use to deepen their relationship with their members.  CarltonOne is a Canadian technology company that provides the platform powering these types of programs for roughly 200 clients in financial services, technology, automotive, healthcare, the restaurant industry and more. But the company also provides the infrastructure for loyalty programs that might sometimes get overlooked: those that are designed to recognize and reward employees.  Whether it's recognizing employees for years of service, reaching performance goals or other reasons, these programs are vital to helping companies reduce employee churn and increase engagement among their workforce, according to Melanie Corasaniti, Vice President of Client Success at CarltonOne.

Why do so many loyalty programs fail… even when businesses pour time, money, and effort into them? Sara Burks breaks down the biggest reasons most loyalty programs don't actually create loyal customers — and why discounts, points, and punch cards often attract the wrong buyers instead of building long-term relationships. You'll learn: Why discount-based loyalty programs often fail The biggest mistakes boutiques make with rewards systems How to create a loyalty experience customers actually remember Why your boutique should stop copying everyone else This helps explain what really keeps customers coming back: experience, connection, trust, and making your best customers feel truly valued. Join The Boutique Hub  ____________________________ Ashley Alderson: Instagram     The Boutique Hub: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | TikTok | YouTube

We take a closer look at the new record high welcome bonuses being offered on RBC Avion credit cards and whether these offers are worth jumping on. We also discuss the latest changes to Air Canada Aeroplan that is a devaluation for some members and share how you can enter for a chance to win a return flight for two with Harbour Air. All this and more in our weekly loyalty rewards and credit card newscast..

We take a first look at the United MileagePlus Neo World Elite Mastercard and the Tangerine Rewards World Elite Mastercard to determine where they fit in the current market. We also cover how Scotiabank Gold American Express Card cardholders can receive complimentary Hilton status and discuss the new partnership between WestJet Rewards and Petro-Canada. All this and more in our weekly loyalty rewards and credit card newscast.

In this episode, we talk to Mark Sage. Mark is a Writer and Strategist who explores the Psychology behind loyalty and how brands can earn it. He's got bags of practical experience in multiple markets, having worked on Nectar in the UK and Yuu Rewards in Hong Kong, from where he joined us for this podcast. External resources:Mark's Medium Writing - CLICK HEREAudio-Visual assets:Imagery: Photo by Matthew Brodeur on UnsplashMusic: Hot Thang by Daniel Fridell. CLICK HEREMusic: Sunday Morning Blues by Rymdklang Soundtracks. CLICK HERE

Talking Freddie Awards and so much more with Ed Pizzarello Episode 77: Show Notes Note: Video versions are on Youtube and Spotify In this episode, we sit down with Ed Pizzarello to dive deep into the evolving landscape of loyalty programs, Freddie awards (don't forget to go to vote.freddieawards.com to make sure your voice is heard!), and the latest shifts in Las Vegas. From maximizing your miles to uncovering affordable Sin City gems, we offer a comprehensive look at the travel industry. This is a wide ranging discussion that even includes navigating the streets of Hong Kong and Taipei, airline fleet innovations, and the inevitable tangents of gold that we love to take.. Key Points From This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the Freddie Awards 01:47 The History and Importance of the Freddie Awards 04:04 Voter Dynamics and Brand Loyalty in the Freddie Awards 06:14 Regional Voting Trends and Airline Perceptions 08:31 The Value of Loyalty Programs Across Regions 09:57 The Legacy of Sir Freddie Laker 12:17 The Impact of Points and Miles on Travel 13:52 Redemption Ability and Airline Value Changes 15:55 The Evolution of Miles and Points Programs 18:03 The Shift in Airline Preferences 19:30 The Best Loyalty Credit Cards Today 21:39 Maximizing Value from Loyalty Programs 23:43 Expectations in Family Travel 24:14 Trends in the Freddie Awards and Loyalty Programs 28:22 The Evolution of Loyalty Programs 31:53 The K-Shaped Economy and Its Impact on Travel 37:43 Vegas Trends: The Changing Landscape 57:46 Reinventing Vegas: Affordability and Culinary Delights 58:43 Exploring Culinary Delights in Vegas 01:02:39 Reflections on Hong Kong's Changing Atmosphere 01:24:49 United Airlines Innovations and Fleet Improvements 01:27:50 Premium Economy Experience and Customer Comfort 01:31:18 Demand for Premium Seats and Catering Quality 01:38:17 Customer Loyalty and Airline Business Strategies —---------------- Key Topics for Episode Discussion Post: The History and Importance of the Freddie Awards The Evolution of Airline and Hotel Loyalty Programs Vegas Trends: The Changing Landscape, Affordability, and Hong Kong's Shifting Atmosphere Cultural Insights and Comparative Travel: Taipei vs. Hong Kong United Airlines Innovations, Fleet Improvements, and the Passenger Experience Airline Business Strategies: Loyalty Programs and Credit Card Value Keywords: Pizza in Motion, Miles to Go Podcast, Freddie Awards, loyalty programs, Vegas trends, miles and points, Freddie Awards, airline loyalty, hotel programs, Vegas affordability, travel hacking, loyalty industry insights Travel, Airlines, Hong Kong, Taipei, Vegas, Airline Fleet, Loyalty Programs, Cultural Insights 

In this special episode of Let's Talk Loyalty & Loyalty TV, we introduce The World's Largest Loyalty Programs™, a first-of-its-kind global report exploring the scale, reach, and influence of the biggest loyalty initiatives in the world.Created through a year of expert collaboration, authors Paula Thomas, Laurent Guinand, and Rich Long reveal the brands building extraordinary customer communities with memberships reaching into the hundreds of millions.In this episode, you'll:Discover which are the largest loyalty programs on the planetDiscover the ONLY program in the world which boasts over half a BILLION membersFind out the 10 programs with over 200 million members eachPlus uncover an amazing list of brands with over 100 million members eachIf you're passionate about loyalty like we are, this is an episode you won't want to miss.DOWNLOAD this landmark industry publication—bringing together deep industry experience and a shared passion for loyalty at scale.This episode is sponsored by Capillary Technologies and hosted by Megan (Sherrell) Fiorendino.Show Notes:1) The World's Largest Loyalty Programs™3) Paula Thomas4) Laurent Guinand5) Rich Long

Episode 423 of The VentureFizz Podcast features Sasha Hoffman, Partner at Remus Capital. I first met Sasha over ten years ago, when she was the Chief Operating Officer at Piaggio Fast Forward. VentureFizz helped cover the launch of Gita, the cargo carrying robot named Gita. Thus, this interview was long overdue and I was excited to interview Sasha as her career has been so prolific. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:46 Tips For Creating High Impact, Curated Events 17:33 Sasha's Background 20:59 Career Path: From Finance to Startups 22:09 Experience at Goldman Sachs 22:14 Joining Startup - Plastiq 26:03 Sasha's Time at Piaggio Fast Forward 29:09 Navigating Challenges During COVID at Uber 33:05 Insights on Loyalty Programs and User Retention 37:27 Transitioning to Venture Capital and Investing 40:42 The Future of AI and committing to Voice AI 44:02 Remus' "Say, See, Do" Thesis 45:14 Thoughts on OpenClaw and AI 49:19 EquipmentShare IPO and the Overall Market 51:00 Angel Investing 53:14 How to Get Started as an Angel Investor? 56:06 Balancing Work and Having Fun Traveling 01:01:01 Resources for travel deals and incentives This podcast is brought to you by one of the strongest longtime supporters of the local startup ecosystem, Silicon Valley Bank, a division of First Citizens Bank. With more than 1,500 bankers and relationship advisors and $44B in loans as of Q4 2025 – SVB delivers expert guidance, specialized products and a team that knows the innovation economy inside and out. Learn more at SVB.com.

Cruise loyalty programs can feel confusing — and many travelers wonder if it's really worth staying loyal to one cruise line just to earn perks. In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, Ken sits down with cruise expert Lola Vassiliadis of Cruise Holidays of Oakville and Lawrence Park to break down how cruise loyalty programs actually work in the real world. Together they explore: • How loyalty programs work on Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas • When loyalty perks start to deliver real value • Why some cruisers stay loyal — and why others don't • How cruise line “family” relationships can let you carry status between brands • Practical advice for choosing the right cruise strategy for your travel style If you've ever wondered whether cruise points really matter — or whether they should influence your next cruise choice — this episode will help you decide.

We take a closer look at the changes coming to Rogers Red Mastercard including new annual spending caps on accelerated earn rates, boosted cash back at partner merchants and the introduction of a business card. We also cover the latest welcome bonuses on the Marriott Bonvoy American Express cards and discuss WestJet Rewards enhanced interline capabilities that provide more earning and redemption options. All this and more in our weekly loyalty rewards and credit card newscast.

"The brands we work with are making up to 5% of their revenue from resale. Our model is peer-to-peer, so customers are buying and selling from each other via the brand's own marketplace."Lydia Hartley, Co-Founder, Continue.About this podcast:Discover how Continue is helping brand-owned resale improve the way ecommerce businesses approach customer retention, loyalty and control over their secondary markets. This episode dives into the commercial opportunities, technology and strategies behind implementing resale seamlessly within your brand ecosystem.Key discussion points:The rapid growth and scale of resale platforms like Vinted, eBay and Depop, and why brands need to pay attention.How resale can drive up to 5% of revenue through repeat purchase and customer engagement.The power of resale for building emotional loyalty and community within brand ecosystems.Ways to integrate resale into loyalty programs, including exclusive marketplaces for VIP members.The importance of authenticating products and protecting consumers from counterfeit or poor quality items.Strategies for launching resale platforms quickly and effectively, with real examples.Addressing concerns about cannibalisation and margin erosion with credible data.The role of storytelling, digital marketing and community engagement in successful resale launches.Technical setup, including Shopify and Magento.Chapters:[00:35] Introduction to Marketplace Commerce and Resale[03:02] Understanding Resale Platform Benefits & Market Opportunity[08:55] Resale as a Retention Tool[14:42] Debunking Cannibalisation Myths[20:21] Integrating Resale into Loyalty Programs[26:12] Building Trust and Moderating Bad Actors[32:49] Challenges and Risks in Implementing Resale Strategies[35:05] Effective Launch Strategies for Resale Platforms[40:55] Customer Service and Brand Consistency[42:58] Shipping Mechanisms in Resale Platforms

In the episode, we talk to Gianfranco Cuzziol. Gianfranco is a CRM and Personalisation Advisor, Speaker,  Author, Consultant and Educator.  He's worked both client and agency side, leading global CRM for brands like Aesop. We talk about CRM dos and don'ts, the role of AI and his recently launched CRMBA – a Mini MBA designed for CRM and Loyalty practitioners.As an added extra, if you use the code "RobV20" you'll get 20% off when you sign up for it. External resources:CRMBA Website - CLICK HEREAudio-Visual assets:Imagery: Photo by Matthew Brodeur on UnsplashMusic: Hot Thang by Daniel Fridell. CLICK HEREMusic: Sunday Morning Blues by Rymdklang Soundtracks. CLICK HERE

Everyone has a loyalty program, but very few brands actually create loyalty. In this episode of OFFBounds, Paula Macaggi sits down with Noah Goldberg from Loblaw Companies Limited to unpack what it really takes to build one of the most widely used programs in the world. As the leader behind PC Optimum, with nearly 16 million members, Noah shares how loyalty operates at scale and why it goes far beyond points and discounts.The conversation explores the shift from rewarding transactions to rewarding engagement, and how digital behavior has become the foundation of modern loyalty programs. It also dives into the complexity behind creating a simple customer experience, the role of first-party data and retail media, and how AI will change the way customers interact with loyalty in the future.

we take a closer look at the new partnership between WestJet Rewards and Triangle Rewards that allows Canadians to earn twice on single purchases. We also cover the transition of AIR MILES to Blue Rewards starting June 1st and discuss the addition of fuel surcharges on award flights with Porter Airlines. All this and more in our weekly loyalty rewards and credit card newscast.

On today's podcast episode, we discuss whether Walmart and Target were ever truly competing on the same promise of mass retail, or whether they were solving different consumer needs all along. We also explore the differences in their loyalty program strategies and consider whether their recent success has been driven more by business models or by execution. Listen to the discussion with Vice President of Content and host Suzy Davidkhanian, Principal Analyst Sky Canaves, and Analyst Rachel Wolff.   Get more insights like these with our free, industry-leading newsletters covering advertising, marketing, and commerce. Sign up at emarketer.com/newsletters Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/emarketer/ For sponsorship opportunities contact us: advertising@emarketer.com For more information visit: https://www.emarketer.com/advertise/ Have questions or just want to say hi? Drop us a line at podcast@emarketer.com For a transcript of this episode click here: https://www.emarketer.com/content/podcast-walmart-vs-target-retail-strategy-loyalty-programs-whats-driving-success-reimagining-retail © 2026 EMARKETER   Rokt helps marketers reach high-intent customers in the Transaction Moment™—when they're actively completing a purchase online. Powered by AI and first-party data, Rokt Ads connects your brand with over 400 million global shoppers and delivers outcomes you can count on. Learn more at rokt.com/emarketer to get started today.

This episode is sponsored by Phaedon.Download their 2026 research paper on Humanizing Loyalty here now.Today we are re-publishing back one of our most popular episodes as our planned episode has been delayed for technical reasonsThis re-released episode features Evert de Boer, Managing Partner at On Point Loyalty and CEO of Fidivo, sharing key takeaways from his book “Loyalty Programs and the Currency Effect” and his perspective on loyalty in the travel sector.Hosted by Aaron Dauphinee.Show Notes:1) Evert de Boer2)Fidivo3)On Point Loyalty5) Loyalty Programs and the Currency Effect: A Comprehensive Guide to Realizing the Power of Points – By Evert de Boer & Xiao Yao Chin6) A Perfect Spy: A Novel - Book Recommendation 7) Connemara: A Novel - Book Recommendation8) German Summer Book (but only available in Dutch) - Book Recommendation

As ChatGPT pulls back on native in-app checkout, malls becomemainstream again. Is agentic commerce ready for primetime, or are consumers seeking more analog experiences? PLUS: Dick's Sporting Goods' loyalty loop that turns steps into spending power, and a dystopian new platform that rents out humans for AI agents that can't operate in the physical world. Everything old is new again. Granny's Favorite Store Goes to TikTok Shop Key takeaways: ChatGPT is stepping back from native in-app checkout, but the commerce protocol it built with Stripe lives on 77% of shoppers prefer clicking through to a website over buying directly via AI The mall remains a societal favorite third space, even as stores become shoppable content studios (just ask John Lewis) Dick's Sporting Goods' movement-linked rewards program is quietly building one of retail's stickiest loyalty ecosystems, making it a viable competitor to AI apps "Rent-a-Human" platforms signal a strange new frontier: AI agents outsourcing tasks to people in “meatspace” In-Show Mentions: How 2,000 consumers used AI to shop Gen Z Is Going to the Mall Again — WSJ Rent-a-Human Join us at Shoptalk Spring 2026! Associated Links: Check out Future Commerce on YouTube Check out Future Commerce Plus for exclusive content and save on merch and print Subscribe to Insiders and The Senses to read more about what we are witnessing in the commerce world Listen to our other episodes of Future Commerce Have any questions or comments about the show? Let us know on futurecommerce.com, or reach out to us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. We love hearing from our listeners! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Technology has long shaped how people order meals, but in 2026, loyalty programs are becoming a primary factor driving engagement. As customer discretionary spending tightens, competition is tense and loyalty is increasingly fragile in this industry. Findings from the Payments Intelligence report January 2026: How Restaurants Are Adapting to Digital Expectations. The Report documents an industry recalibration driven by leaner household budgets. Less frequent dining out and a customer base that now expects speed, personalization, and consistency as baseline requirements. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we talk to Ian Reeves. Ian is the Managing Director of Flourish CRM, an independent, specialist CRM agency with offices in both Bristol in the UK and Dubai, where they create award-winning campaigns for clients like Nissan and Samsung.We talk about how an agency like his is, if you'll pardon the obvious pun, flourishing in the febrile world of huge holding companies like Omnicom and WPP and a martech sector that is undergoing extraordinary change. External resources:Flourish website - CLICK HEREAudio-Visual assets:Imagery: Photo by Matthew Brodeur on UnsplashMusic: Hot Thang by Daniel Fridell. CLICK HEREMusic: Don't Lie by Will Harrison. CLICK HERE

"No-code is getting a lot better, and there's a lot of tools. No-code tools will soon start to drive personalisation and dynamic content. That's going to take off pretty quickly."Navigating Ecommerce Technology Trends.In the latest episode of our podcast, James and Paul share their views on how emerging technologies are reshaping the industry. From AI-driven content generation to dynamic personalisation and integrated loyalty programs, this episode offers helpful insights for anyone working in ecommerce.What you'll get:How the latest ecommerce trends are impacting which technologies ecommerce teams are investing in.Practical advice for adapting your tech stack to leverage AI and personalisation for better customer experiences.The challenges and opportunities in delivering smarter CRM and loyalty strategies.Explanation of the vendors ecommerce teams are turning to to help improve their ability to execute.Chapters:[00:30] Emerging Ecommerce Trends and Tech Priorities[03:30] AI in Content Generation and Product Data Management[06:00] AI Governance and Data Compliance[08:50] Dynamic Content and Personalisation in Ecommerce[12:20] The Evolution of CRM and Loyalty Programs[25:00] Data Analytics and Marketing Tracking AccuracyUnderstanding these trends can help you make informed decisions on where to focus your budget and how to enhance your CX.We hope you find it useful.

The episode opens with a sweeping look at the biggest retail stories shaping January. Amazon dominates the headlines again, this time with the closure of all Amazon Fresh grocery and Go stores and a renewed reliance on Whole Foods and online grocery. At the same time, Amazon is laying off tens of thousands of employees, part of a broader wave of cuts across retail and adjacent industries, including UPS, Home Depot, and Nike. The hosts explore whether this is a post-pandemic correction, an AI-driven efficiency shift, or an early signal of bigger structural change.The news turns to Saks Global's bankruptcy, in which most Saks off-price stores will be shut down. This is expected to benefit rivals like Nordstrom Rack and Bloomingdale's Outlet. Earnings signals offer a mixed outlook: LVMH posts weaker results, reinforcing concerns that luxury's recovery will be uneven, while Starbucks shows early signs of traction with traffic growth and the return of tiered loyalty rewards.The second half features an energetic, insight-rich discussion with fellow NRF Top Voices Billy May, Brooklinen's CEO, and David J Katz, EVP and CMO, Randa Apparel, recorded live in the Narvar podcasting studio on the NRF Big Show show floor in New York. Together, they explore how consumer behavior is changing, why value is now deeply contextual, and how trust has become the most fragile currency in retail. They discuss pricing strategy in an era of tariffs, geopolitical risk, and algorithmic pricing, warning that transparency and clarity matter more than ever.The group dives into AI reality—what's working, what's hype, and why AI should be treated as a power tool, not a decision-maker. They examine leadership in the post-COVID era, arguing that execution, speed, and disciplined focus now define winning organizations. Don't miss these rapid-fire takes on rising retailers and the future of the department store—listen now and join the conversation to stay ahead in retail's next chapter.The conversation then shifts to the week's remarkable stories. highlighting the staggering scale of AI investment, including Anthropic's rumored $350 billion valuation and Amazon's possible $50 billion stake in OpenAI. Michael reflects on growing wealth concentration in the U.S. and many developed countries, noting the economic and social implications. Looking around the corner, Steve unpacks TikTok's shifting algorithms, political influence concerns, and TikTok Shop's move to force sellers into its proprietary logistics network—changes that could reshape social commerce. About UsSteve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling author of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the NRF as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025 and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

Join the discussion with Beth McCoy, CEO of CORA Loyalty, on CORA Group's recent survey of over 2,000 adults that found the top factor influencing which credit card Americans choose is Loyalty and rewards programs (50%). Rewards won out ahead of convenience (38%), credit limit (36%), fees (32%), interest rate (32%), and security / fraud protection (31%). We dive deep into comprehensive loyalty programs, and share actionable insights into how FI's can turn this consumer interest into revenue-driving banking relationships.Send us a textPresented by Remedy ConsultingFor more information on BankTalk:BankTalk WebsiteSubscribe to BankTalk NewsRemedy Consulting WebsiteRemedy LinkedInTo speak on the BankTalk Podcast, please email us.

Enjoy this special feed drop of our sister show 'In This Economy?!'One of the original travel rewards programs in the Canadian market is getting a major rebrand.Air Miles, which has been around since 1992, will soon be called Blue Rewards, as owner BMO refreshes the brand to highlight that it's about more than just travel. At the same time, a longtime Air Miles partner, Shell, is making a move of its own—joining the Scene+ program operated by Scotiabank.Host Mike Eppel speaks to Patrick Sojka, founder of RewardsCanada.ca which is a Canadian loyalty rewards database, to break down what these changes mean for consumers, and take a broader look at the more than 180 loyalty brands competing for Canadians' attention. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

Eleven successful founders reveal their exact playbooks for 2026. Discover AI commerce strategies, slow content that converts, gamified loyalty tips, and community-first growth tactics. Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

In this episode, we explore how to fix loyalty programs that rely too much on discounts. Jed Strong, the Enterprise Sales Director at Adjoe, explains how brands can move past simple transactions. He shares how "rewarded engagement" allows customers to earn points by playing mobile games instead of just spending money.Jed breaks down how this strategy helps brands stay relevant every day without hurting their profit margins. He also discusses why modern loyalty needs to be fun and how to build a deeper connection with customers through their phones.Topics discussed in this episode:  Why traditional loyalty programs often fail How to stay top-of-mind between purchasesHow rewarded engagement builds durable bonds What makes points-earning feel too difficult How mobile games fuel new loyalty habits Why game studios fund your customer rewards Why over-discounting hurts your bottom line Links & Resources Website: https://adjoe.io/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jedstrong/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adjoe.io/Get access to more free resources by visiting the show notes athttps://tinyurl.com/szue9yy3______________________________________________________ LOVE THE SHOW? HERE ARE THE NEXT STEPS! Follow the podcast to get every bonus episode. Tap follow now and don't miss out! Rate & Review: Help others discover the show by rating the show on Apple Podcasts at https://tinyurl.com/ecb-apple-podcasts Join our Free Newsletter: https://newsletter.ecommercecoffeebreak.com/ Support The Show On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EcommerceCoffeeBreak Partner with us: https://ecommercecoffeebreak.com/partner-with-us/

This week on the Boxoffice podcast, presented by AgileTix, co-hosts Daniel Loria and Rebecca Pahle cover the latest industry news and discuss the end-of-year box office performance. In the feature segment, Rebecca Pahle speaks with Shane Burkett (Director of Strategic Marketing) and Tanya Key (Senior Account Executive) of Agile Ticketing on the many ways in which technological solutions can help turn the occasional cinemagoer into a loyal customer.Give us your feedback on our podcast by accessing this survey: https://forms.gle/CcuvaXCEpgPLQ6d18 What to Listen For00:00 Intro 03:00 2025 Box Office Ends at $8.87B and Misses $9B Goal04:38 Disney Crosses $6B as Avatar: Fire and Ash Hits $1B05:15 Zootopia 2 Becomes the Top Hollywood Release Ever in China06:07 Avatar's Domestic Decline and International Strength08:07 Strong Start to 2026 Despite a Slower January Slate13:00 Agile Ticketing Interview Begins16:06 The Rise of Event Programming and Custom Cinema Experiences24:07 Loyalty Programs and Data-Driven Patron Engagement33:18 Pre-Ordering Concessions and Reducing In-Theater Friction36:02 Episode Wrap-Up and What's Next

Note: The video of this episode can be found on Youtube or Spotify Summary In this episode of Travel Stories, hosts Tom Kim and Trevor Mountcastle welcome Gary Leff, of View From the Wing and the Freddie Awards to the show. We discuss memorable experiences in travel, the evolution of airline loyalty programs, the changing landscape of airline upgrades, and the impact of status on travel experiences. The conversation also delves into family travel, personal travel stories, and the value of travel experiences. Gary shares his insights on the future of airline loyalty programs and emphasizes the importance of enjoying the journey rather than cramming everything into one trip. Key Points From This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Travel Stories and Guest Background 03:07 Memorable Experiences at Frequent Traveler University 05:46 The Evolution of Airline Loyalty Programs 09:01 The Changing Landscape of Upgrades and Entitlement 11:54 The Shift in Value Proposition for Frequent Flyers 14:29 The Future of Loyalty Programs and Personalization 17:30 Recognition and Emotional Connections in Loyalty Programs 20:23 Gamification and Customer Engagement Strategies 29:51 Navigating Credit Card Value and Offers 37:49 The Future of Co-Branded Credit Cards 54:31 Traveling with Family: A New Perspective 01:00:24 Shifting Travel Preferences and Experiences 01:03:14 Traveling with Kids: Strategies and Challenges 01:09:58 Memorable Travel Experiences: Stories from the Road 01:15:02 The Value of Travel: Understanding Different Cultures 01:21:08 Reflections on Travel: The Good and the Bad 01:25:33 Favorite Travel Deals: A Look Back at Opportunities

70% saying loyalty programs help manage their costs and the power of a good loyalty program goes even further as loyalty perks can inspire a shift in dining choices by consumers with 25% saying that they would switch to a less preferred restaurant for better loyalty perks with 50% comparing loyalty offers before deciding where to eat. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We're here to wish you a very happy New Year! We hope you're ringing in the new year in good health and looking forward to what's ahead in 2026. As people are setting goals and making resolutions, we're re-running an episode today on the future of motivation. Last year, we sat down with Szu-chi Huang, an expert in motivation. She explained how science is changing our understanding of goal-setting and achievement, and offered a few tricks you can try when you feel stuck. We hope you'll tune in again today and pick up a few insights on how to sustain enthusiasm for your goals over time.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: ​​Szu-chi HuangConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces Szu-chi Huang, a professor of Marketing at Stanford GSB.(00:02:13) Studying MotivationSzu-chi shares what led her to study motivational science.(00:02:45) Defining MotivationMotivation as the drive to close the gap between current and ideal self.(00:03:39) The Science of MotivationStudying motivation through behavioral and neurological data.(00:04:30) Why It Matters in BusinessHow motivation science applies to leaders, teams, and customers.(00:05:21) The Motivation FrameworkThe strategies needed in order to stay motivated over time.(00:06:24) Journey vs. Destination MindsetThe different mindsets needed throughout the stages of motivation.(00:08:03) Motivating Kids to Choose HealthyCollaborating with UNICEF to study what motivates children.(00:09:37) Gamified Coupons in PanamaA study using gamified coupons to influence children's food choices.(00:13:08) Loyalty Programs as MotivationHow customer reward programs act as structured goal journeys.(00:15:29) Progress Versus PurposeThe different incentives needed in each stage of loyalty programs.(00:17:11) Retirement Saving LessonsHow financial institutions apply motivational science to long-term goals.(00:19:54) Motivation in Social ContextThe role of social connections in goal pursuit and sustaining motivation.(00:21:20) Support vs. Competition in Shared GoalsThe benefits and drawbacks of sharing goal journeys with others.(00:24:52) Designing Apps for MotivationHow redesigning user interfaces can help users stay motivated.(00:26:02) AI as a Motivation CoachUsing AI to personalize feedback across all stages of goal pursuit.(00:28:50) Starting and Sustaining a GoalPractical strategies for launching and sustaining a goal.(00:30:59) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From hotels to fast food restaurants, more companies are luring consumers to sign up for loyalty programs in exchange for points, discounts and other deals. But according to two former FTC officials, loyalty programs have devolved into “data-harvesting machines” that track what we buy and even how much we're willing to pay. And the financial benefits tend to fall far short of the initial promise. We talk to Sam A.A. Levine and Stephanie Nguyen about how loyalty programs exploit consumers, how California is fighting back and how we can stay alert to the pitfalls. Their recent paper is called “The Loyalty Trap: How Loyalty Programs Hook Us with Deals, Hack Our Brains, and Hike Our Prices.” What consumer loyalty programs do you use, and have you ever felt used… by them? Guests: Samuel A.A. Levine, former director, Bureau of Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission - senior fellow, Center for Consumer Law & Economic Justice, UC Berkeley Law School Stephanie Nguyen, former chief technologist, Federal Trade Commission - senior fellow, Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Loyalty reward programs in automotive are overdue for modernization. Drawing from his experience in the fuel industry, a space that perfected customer loyalty, Scott Armstrong explains how dealerships can build reward programs that truly drive retention and repeat business.Global Dealer Solutions offers a network of high-performance providers while remaining product agnostic. Knowing which tools to deploy makes a big difference. Having a trusted adviser; priceless. Schedule your complimentary consultation today. https://calendly.com/don-278. BE THE 1ST TO KNOW. LIKE and FOLLOW HERE www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketinghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/@fixedopsmarketingGet watch and listen links, as well as full episodes and shorts: www.fixedopsmarketing.com/wtfJoin Managing Partner and Host, Russell B. Hill and Charity Dunning, Co-Host and Chief Marketing Officer of FixedOPS Marketing, as we discuss life, automotive, and the human journey in WTF?!#podcast #automotive #fixedoperations

Send us a textBlings, a global company headquartered in New York, New York, is using patented AI-powered MP5 technology to help companies create personalized, interactive videos that connect with customers in real-time. The platform pulls in live data to create each video and customize loyalty offers and gamified experiences, engaging customers and boosting conversion for clients. Loyalty 360 spoke with Yonatan Schreiber, CEO and co-founder of Blings, about how this AI-powered personalized video is reshaping loyalty programs and customer experience. 

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.Today I dig into what customer loyalty really means and why so many programs miss the mark. Loyalty is not about discounts. It is about access, recognition, and the feeling of being valued. I break down how small moments of surprise and genuine connection can drive more repeat visits than any points system. If you want your guests to come back more often and spend more when they do, these strategies will help you build relationships that last. TakeawaysLoyalty should be about access, not just perks.Recognition is key to building emotional equity.Surprise elements in loyalty programs enhance customer engagement.Creating thresholds in loyalty fosters a sense of belonging.Handwritten notes can significantly improve customer relationships.Loyalty programs should focus on privilege rather than discounts.Emotional economics can drive customer loyalty effectively.Regulars should feel special through personalized experiences.Surprise and delight can differentiate your restaurant from competitors.Tracking changes in loyalty strategies can reveal valuable insights.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Hospitality Insights01:26 Rethinking Customer Loyalty05:48 Creating Emotional Connections with GuestsIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

In this engaging conversation, Tony and Alex explore the world of travel and cruising, delving into Alex's travel origins, favorite destinations, and money-saving tips. They discuss the evolving landscape of cruising, the importance of loyalty programs, and the debate surrounding the authenticity of cruising as a form of travel. Alex shares insights on hidden gems in the U.S., the impact of new trends in cruising, and his thoughts on the future of travel. The conversation is filled with valuable advice and personal anecdotes, making it a must-listen for travel enthusiasts. See the video version of the epsiode here: https://youtu.be/ISUHZzofTc8 Chapters 00:07 The Journey Begins: Alex's Travel Origin Story 04:41 Top Travel Destinations: Exploring the World 07:52 Bucket List Adventures: Future Travels Await 09:22 Money-Saving Travel Tips: Travel Smart 13:46 The Passport Debate: Travel Accessibility 16:13 Hidden Gems: U.S. Travel Recommendations 18:48 Cruising vs. Real Travel: A Debate on Experiences 21:41 Cruise Line Loyalty Programs: Worth It? 22:51 The Power of Loyalty Programs 25:49 Psychology Behind Loyalty and Brand Affinity 28:31 Cruising Preferences and Experiences 32:54 The Rise of Private Islands in Cruising 36:56 Short Cruises: A New Trend in Cruising 40:53 Evolution of the Cruise Experience 43:57 Future Trends in Cruising Copyright La Lido Loca 2025

Canada is very well known for its coalition loyalty programs and proprietary programs that expand earn and redemption opportunities through strong partnerships. RMG Loyalty, nearing its 25th year, specializes in small business loyalty solutions and manages partnerships that link SMBs to major rewards programs. Specifically, they have managed SMB programs for the AIR MILES rewards program and More Rewards, which has extended the earning opportunities for members of these programs.Kate Booth is the President of RMG Loyalty and she has been instrumental in creating successful customer programs, consumer and small business, for RMG Loyalty's clients. We will get her perspective on the value of B2B/SMB loyalty programs and how consumer programs can benefit from an integrated strategy that considers both consumers and small business owners.Hosted by Aaron DauphineeShow notes:1) Kate Booth2) RMG Loyalty3) AIR MILES rewards program4) More Rewards5) Book recommendations: The Science of Scaling

Getting people through the door is hard, but getting them to keep coming back? That's where most bar owners drop the ball. Discounts might feel like the move, but they're quietly killing your margins and not building real loyalty. This episode breaks down a smarter, cheaper way to lock in regulars by actually making them feel seen, no gimmicks, no stamp cards. We're talking real talk on recognition, retention, and how to use your POS data to turn first-timers into lifers.If you want your bar to feel like their bar, this is the one to listen to.What You'll Learn:

In this episode, we're continuing the conversation from part two of our Female Founder Forum with three incredible founders—Gabrielle Hudson (Onyx Medical Esthetics), Lauren Grandanetti (Sunday Skin), and Morgan Kraut (MK Esthetics). Together, we're diving deeper into what it really takes to design, price, and scale a membership program that drives loyalty, profitability, and lasting impact. We're talking about the systems, strategies, and mindset shifts that transform memberships from a discount plan into a true growth engine for your business. You'll hear how these women built models that elevate their brands, empower their teams, and create meaningful, long-term relationships with their patients. If you're ready to refine your program, or finally launch one that works, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to do it right. In this episode, we discuss: How to price and position your memberships to protect your margins How to train your team to sell with confidence and authenticity The psychology behind exclusivity and premium positioning Real-world lessons from top-performing medspa owners The key metrics to track to ensure membership success Resources → Join the Fierce Factor Society → Follow Kaeli on Instagram: @kaeli.lindholm Additional Ways to Connect: Book a Discovery Call: Ready to scale with intention? Let's map out your next strategic move. KLC Consulting Website Kaeli on LinkedIn

In this special episode of The Fierce Factor Podcast, I'm bringing you Part 1 of our Female Founder Forum, where I sat down with three powerhouse women in aesthetics—Lauren Grandanetti of Sunday Skin, Morgan Kraut of MK Esthetics, and Gabrielle Hudson of Onyx Medical Aesthetics—for a raw, unfiltered conversation about building loyalty programs that actually work. We're talking about the truth behind memberships, what makes patients stay loyal, and how to design programs that build community, protect your margins, and grow recurring revenue without discounting your value. This conversation is packed with strategy, real-world examples, and honest reflections from women who are leading 6- and 7-figure businesses while staying deeply connected to their purpose. In Part 1, we dive into: Why loyalty starts with relationships, not rewards The balance between exclusivity and accessibility How to price memberships for profit and retention What it really means to build a brand people belong to If you've ever questioned whether membership programs are right for your practice—or how to make them truly work—this episode is for you. Stay tuned for Part 2 next week, where we'll unpack team alignment, selling with confidence, and scaling loyalty programs sustainably. Resources → Join the Fierce Factor Society → Follow Kaeli on Instagram: @kaeli.lindholm Additional Ways to Connect: Book a Discovery Call: Ready to scale with intention? Let's map out your next strategic move. KLC Consulting Website Kaeli on LinkedIn

Oisin O'Connor is the CEO and co-founder of Recharge, the leading subscription management platform powering 75% of all Shopify subscriptions. Under his leadership, Recharge has become a critical infrastructure partner for over 30,000 brands, reaching 100 million subscribers and $100 million ARR.In this episode of DTC Pod, Oisin pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to win with subscriptions in today's DTC landscape. He shares insider strategies for subscriber growth, optimizing retention, and leveraging Recharge's newest AI-powered tools to minimize churn. Oisin also shares specific benchmarks every brand should measure, real-world examples of subscription funnels that convert, and actionable experiments operators can run to unlock long-term profitability and scale.Episode brought to you by StordInteract with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:1. Evolution of subscriptions in physical product e-commerce2. How to spot and create product-market fit 3. Differentiators that set Recharge apart from early competitors4. The compounding power of subscriptions for long-term growth5. Unit economics, LTV vs CAC, and why retention is king6. What best-in-class subscription brands do differently7. Optimizing conversion funnels for subscriber growth8. Subscription benchmarks: churn rates, retention, and second order metrics9. Reducing churn with data, cancellation flows, loyalty, and rewards10. Automations and integrating Recharge with supply chain and 3PL operations11. Leveraging AI Concierge for customer retention and support12. Evolving customer experience and the need for seamless subscription management13. How Recharge guides merchants with data, support, and innovation14. Experiments and mistakes founders make launching subscription brandsTimestamps00:00 Oisin's background, founding story, and early agency experiments04:06 The rise of Shopify and the breakthrough with Recharge05:19 The subscription model: initial skepticism and quirky early adopters06:47 Technical challenges in enabling subscriptions on Shopify09:00 First major subscription brand success story10:15 Compounding growth through subscriptions11:36 Legacy brands and decades-long customer retention13:06 Building DTC businesses with sustainable unit economics14:37 Lessons from TV advertising history and the narrowing of scalable models16:29 Key traits of successful subscription businesses17:09 Product, recurring need, and conversion strategy18:27 Understanding subscriber value and optimizing acquisition19:26 Retention: keeping customers post-acquisition  19:52 High-performing brands and funnel design20:05 Subscription by default, offers, upsells, and cross-sells21:39 Conversion tactics from PDP to post-checkout22:38 Benchmarks for healthy churn and retention23:06 How top brands reduce churn and track performance24:58 Recharge tools: analytics, cancellation flows, Klaviyo integration26:41 Rewards and automations to boost retention27:33 Automate flows for backend fulfillment and logistics28:20 Launching AI SMS concierge for subscriber experience29:40 Reducing customer service friction and delighting shoppers32:15 Customer experience as a core differentiator34:04 The competitive subscription landscape: Recharge's position35:41 Product innovation, support, and actionable guidance37:16 Data-driven product innovation and merchant success38:04 The future of subscription, retention, and platform innovation40:38 Biggest mistakes founders make with subscriptions41:58 Experiments founders should run with Recharge42:58 Where to connect with Oisin for advice and mentorshipShow notes powered by CastmagicPast guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more.  Additional episodes you might like:• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook• ​​​​#243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands-----Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?Check out our newsletter here.Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internetOlivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplementCastmagic - AI Workspace for ContentFollow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!DTCPod InstagramDTCPod TwitterDTCPod TikTokOisin O'Connor - Co-Founder and CEO of RechargeBlaine Bolus - Co-Founder of CastmagicRamon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic

Hometown Radio 10/24/2025 4p: Ingrid Pires teaches us about cruise ship loyalty programs

Want to learn more about Vodyssey or start your STR journey. Book a call here:https://meetings.hubspot.com/vodysseystrategysession/booknow?utm_source=vodysseycom&uuid=80fb7859-b8f4-40d1-a31d-15a5caa687b7In this episode of the Vacation Rental Revolution Podcast, Shawn Moore and Jake Shehee discuss the significance of mentorship in business, the essentials of crafting an effective property bio for vacation rentals, and the importance of customer loyalty programs. They also engage in a debate about the necessity of having a mentor, exploring various perspectives on the topic. The conversation is rich with insights on property management, marketing strategies, and the value of transparency in building trust with guests.FOLLOW US:https://www.facebook.com/share/g/16XJMvMbVo/https://www.instagram.com/vodysseyshawnmoorehttps://www.facebook.com/vodysseyshawnmoore/https://www.linkedin.com/company/str-financial-freedomhttps://www.tiktok.com/@vodysseyshawnmooreChapters00:00:00 Intro00:06:05 Crafting an Effective Property Bio00:18:09 Loyalty Programs and Customer Retention00:23:49 The Mentor Debate: Do You Need One?

Kim Sutherland has 14 different email addresses. She doesn't suggest you do the same, but she does think a lot about fraud in her job as the Global Head of Fraud & Identity at LexisNexis Risk Solutions. As a follow-up to the last episode, Caleb and Kim discuss the various dimensions and the growing prevalence of reward point / loyalty fraud. SponsorsRoutable - http://ohmyfraud.promo/routable(00:00) - Introduction and CPE Opportunity (00:26) - Meet Kimberly Sutherland from LexisNexis (01:43) - Listener Reviews and Feedback (04:07) - Conversation with Kimberly Sutherland Begins (06:06) - Understanding Loyalty Points and Fraud (22:13) - Synthetic Identity Fraud (29:57) - Insider Threats in Loyalty Programs (32:26) - Imagining Fraud to Prevent It (34:39) - Detection and Prevention Strategies (36:20) - Understanding Digital Risk (42:45) - Fraud Databases and Shared Intelligence (45:24) - Responding to Fraud Incidents (53:57) - The Role of Government in Fraud Prevention (59:49) - Future of Fraud and Prevention Technologies (01:02:01) - Ongoing Challenges in Identity Verification (01:03:39) - Conclusion and Credits HOW TO EARN FREE CPEIn less than 10 minutes, you can earn NASBA-approved accounting CPE after listening to this episode. Download our mobile app, sign up, and look for the Oh My Fraud channel. Register for the course, complete a short quiz, and get your CPE certificate.https://www.earmark.app/Download the app:Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.appLearn More About LexisNexishttps://risk.lexisnexis.com/ CONNECT WITH KIMLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ksutherland365 CONNECT WITH CALEBLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calebnewquist/Email us at ohmyfraud@earmarkcpe.com

Send us a textIn this episode, Todd and Jen are joined by Hello Hair Co. stylists, Brooke and Tori, for a special Q&A session. Instead of the usual format, the team flips the script—Brooke and Tori bring questions gathered from fellow stylists, salon groups, and their own experiences.From dress codes and business cards to cancellation policies and side hustles. An honest conversation, some strong opinions, and practical advice for salon owners and stylists navigating today's industry.Key TakeawaysDress Codes & Professionalism: Why some salons use all-black dress codes, and how freedom of expression can attract the right clientele.Business Cards vs. Digital Presence: The shift from traditional marketing tools to Google, Instagram, and automated client touchpoints.Loyalty Programs & Discounts: Why discounts often hurt more than they help — and why hospitality and surprise gestures build stronger loyalty.Cancellation Policies: The pitfalls of blanket cancellation rules and why people-first flexibility creates stronger long-term relationships.Side Hustles & Weddings: Why stylists' outside opportunities aren't a threat — and how integrity matters most.Levels & Promotions: Moving beyond old-school level systems to individualized growth, flexible raises, and price-point transparency.Team Culture & Retention: Why trust, communication, and respect for work–life balance keep teams strong over time.Timestamps[00:00] Intro: Todd, Jen, Brooke & Tori set the stage[01:00] Opening takes: goal setting, patience in learning, music licensing, and the realities of beauty school[07:00] Salon culture: why communication with leadership matters[10:00] Dress code debates: all black vs. individuality, professionalism, and jeans in the salon[17:00] Business cards in 2025: helpful or outdated?[22:00] Loyalty programs, discounts, and why hospitality wins[31:00] Cancellation policies: people-first vs. rigid enforcement (which never happens if we're being honest)[38:00] Time off, flexibility, and building a supportive culture[42:00] Side hustles and weddings: where ownership should (and shouldn't) step in[47:00] Level systems: old-school approaches vs. modern individualized growth[58:00] Final Q&A: taking back past employees and protecting team culture[01:04:00] Wrap-upLinks and Stuff:Our Newsletter Mentoring InquiriesFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website

Steve Dennis and Michael LeBlancs analyze the week's most impactful retail developments: a U.S. appeals-court ruling that may require massive Trump era tariff refunds  new India duties; fast-moving shifts in de minimis thresholds; and mounting pressure on global supply chains, small businesses, and retailers alike. They analyze how these disruptions will disrupt importers like Tapestry and Lululemon, and shift the retail earnings divide—even as consumer confidence wavers and labor issues—like ICE raids—further muddy the waters.In the featured interview with two visionary luxury executives: Amit Kaswani, Chief Omnichannel Officer at Chalhoub Group, and Stacie Henderson Capece Minutolo, Chief Marketing Officer Americas at Tod's Group. Amit outlines Chalhoub's omnichannel-first game plan, including end-to-end logistics and loyalty ecosystems that reach millions—backed by AI-powered personalization, predictive analytics, and conversational commerce tools. He emphasizes how customer experience, augmented by technology, is a differentiator, not a replacement for human interaction.Stacie shares Tod's strategy in the Americas, targeting high net worth clients and next-gen shoppers through experiential storytelling, cultural relevance, and digital scale. She references campaigns like "Italian Diaries," where in-person luxury activations generate exponential online impressions. She also discusses Tod's AI governance framework—a cross-functional task force merging marketing, e-commerce, finance, and customer service to ensure innovation is purposeful and aligned.As both guest leaders gear up to speak at Shoptalk Luxe, which runs 27–29 January 2026 at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi, luxe.shoptalk.com+1, they tease the frameworks, case studies, and strategies they'll be presenting on global luxury, loyalty, and AI innovation.The episode closes with Michael and Steve spotlighting standout moments: GLP-1 weight-loss drug innovations, Google's Nano Banana image-generation tool, and the looming U.S. interest rate decision, crippling shutdown threats, and Simons' opening in Toronto's Eaton Centre, replacing Nordstrom. About UsSteve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling authro of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada's Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fourth year in a row, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer. If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.

In this conversation, Mike Petrella, Managing Director of Strategic Partnerships at Kinective Media by United Airlines, discusses his journey in the advertising and media industry, the establishment of Kinective Media, and its role in transforming traveler commerce. He highlights the importance of partnerships, customer choice, and the use of data and AI to enhance the travel experience. The discussion also covers the unique aspects of the commerce media network and how it engages with affluent travelers. Takeaways Mike Petrella has a rich background in media and advertising.Connective Media is the first traveler media network. The network aims to enrich traveler journeys through personalized experiences. Partnerships are crucial for expanding the offerings of Mileage Plus. Data privacy is a top priority in handling traveler information. AI is being utilized to enhance customer interactions and experiences. The average traveler spends significant time engaging with content during their journey. Kinective Media targets affluent individuals with tailored advertising The platform offers omnichannel access to travelers across various touchpoints. Creating a personalized journey is essential for customer loyalty. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kinective Media and Mike Petrella 02:03 Mike's Journey to United Airlines 04:55 Building Kinective Media from Scratch 06:09 Understanding the Commerce Media Network 08:43 Engaging Advertisers and Brands 11:21 Partnerships and Customer Choice 13:56 Loyalty Programs and Consumer Journey 15:10 Utilizing Data for Targeting 18:39 The Role of AI in Enhancing Travel Experience The Refresh News: September 8:Google's Antitrust “Win,” Epsilon SSP Backlash, and Perplexity Pauses Ads This episode of The Refresh breaks down the week's biggest stories in advertising and tech regulation. Google escaped the harshest remedies in its long-running search antitrust trial, with the court declining to force a Chrome or Android spinoff or ban payments to partners like Apple and Samsung. Meanwhile, media buyers are taking a closer look at Publicis-owned Epsilon SSP, with some blocking it entirely due to transparency concerns. And in the AI space, Perplexity has pulled back on its ad experiments, raising bigger questions about how generative search can—or should—be monetized. Judge Mehta's ruling spared Google from structural breakups or bans on partner payments, requiring only limited data sharing and oversight for six years. Generative AI competition from OpenAI, Microsoft, Meta, and Perplexity influenced the court's belief that search competition is evolving without harsher remedies. Google maintains dominance with 65–70% of global browser share and around 40% of ad spend coming from paid search. Media buyers discovered they were funneling spend through Publicis-owned Epsilon SSP via reselling, sparking data leakage and conflict-of-interest concerns. Perplexity scaled back its ads after advertiser pushback, highlighting the lack of clear value, measurement, and final product structure in AI-driven ad formats. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Nate Kennedy, former VP of Global Brand Marketing at Horizon Hobby, joins host Kailin Noivo to dig deep into the future of loyalty programs and what most brands are still getting wrong. Nate shares lessons from two decades in ecommerce, from building Select Blinds into a DTC success story to leading Horizon Hobby's marketing evolution. He unpacks how discount-heavy programs create unintentional class divides, why emotional and experiential rewards resonate more with Gen Z and millennials, and how brands can design loyalty systems that actually make customers want to stick around.

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I talked about why we need to rethink loyalty programs in the hospitality industry. To me, loyalty isn't about handing out discounts—it's about creating emotional connections with our guests. I shared how designing programs that reward status and access, rather than just transactions, can help restaurant owners build a real sense of belonging. I also touched on how important it is to involve our team in these programs and why they can serve as powerful marketing tools to boost both engagement and sales.Takeaways:Most restaurant owners think they need more guests.Profit isn't random, it's engineered.Loyalty isn't transactional. It's emotional.Discounts don't build loyalty, identity does.Your loyalty program should sell, not just retain.Engagement trumps size every day.Make loyalty a part of service, not a side hustle.Your team is the engine.Audit your current program.Reward it with a feeling of belonging.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Hospitality Insights01:20 Rethinking Loyalty Programs04:43 Building Emotional Connections with CustomersIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.