Podcasts about seasonal entertainment source

In this episode WrestleHorror hosts, Donnie Hoover and "Meathook" Jim Millspaugh talk with Philip Hernandez. Phillip is the Editor-in-chief at Haunted Attraction Network, CEO at Gantom Lighting, and publisher of Seasonal Entertainment Source Magazine. Listen in as Philip shares some great stories, and knowledge, with the guys about the world of haunted house attractions, lighting, haunt acting, editing Scott Swensons new book, "The 13 Commandments of Haunting", and much more.   Stay connected to Philip Hernandez: - Facebook: Philip Hernandez's Facebook - Instagram: instagram.com/haunted_attractions - Website: hauntedattractionnetwork.com - Website: seasonalentertainmentsource.com - Website: gantom.com - Podcast: soundcloud.com/hauntedpod   Stay connected to WrestleHorror: - Subscribe to the WrestleHorror newsletter - https://bit.ly/344on8A - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wrestlehorror/ - YouTube: http://bit.ly/2kfvVAT - Instagram: https://instagram.com/wrestlehorror - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrestlehorror - Twitter: https://twitter.com/wrestlehorror  - Website: http://www.wrestlehorror.com Copyright 2019-2020 - WrestleHorror Podcast

"An attraction is most effective when it follows a path, when it takes guests on a journey. The story determines an attraction’s physical layout, character development, and technical design. It also points the way for clever marketing, merchandising, and branding. This book gives you the tools to develop a story and to use that story as a blueprint for your attraction's development." -Follow The Story Book     Buy this book on amazon $9.99   In this podcast episode, we ask Scott Swenson all the different ways that you can use your attraction's back story and why it's important today more than ever.   If you are a Haunted Attraction that has never used a back story with your theme and sometimes you feel that something is missing from the overall experience, creating a unique story around your characters may just be what you need to take your attraction to the next level.   Today's attraction customer wants more than just a scary walk-through; they're looking for memorable moments, a story they can tell their friends, and an evolving theme that changes each year. Creating a back story immerses your attendees in a world that they will remember and come back to see what happens with your characters next time.   Follow the Story: What's inside this podcast   Why having a story behind your attraction is important. Your guests will remember it. You can plan your entire theme around it. It can save you time and money by doing it. How to use your story in your marketing. Using your main characters in your advertising and following the story will help your attendees have a better experience which will make it an easy choice to come back to your attraction for more story. Simple ways to start your story right now. You don't have to change up everything. Here are a few simple and low-cost ways to start weaving your story throughout your haunted attraction, no matter what stage of operations you're in. What makes great Haunted Attractions great. The attractions that understand where their stories are evolving can stay ahead of the game. They can plan easier for next season, have off season events around their story, and save money by using materials they already have. Large or small...you can start using your back story to help make your attraction better.   Where to find Scott Swenson   Scott's website: Scott Swenson.com Get "Follow the Story" Book: Buy this from Amazon Meet Scott and get your book signed: Midsummer Scream   What people are saying about Follow the Story   “Scott provides a much-needed jolt of storytelling energy in a compact, readable form. This is a true ‘blood and potatoes’ approach to the many facets of haunted-attraction storycraft, which should help any designer ensure they’re taking full advantage of the tools at their disposal.”—David Ruzicka, Co-Artistic Director for JFI Productions   "Scott is a true master architect of immersive horror experiences, using the classic tools of story and conflict to create blueprints for some of the most influential (and some of my all-time favorite) haunted attractions ever. This guide is mandatory reading for experiential designers of themed attractions."—Scott Simmons, Creative Director, ScareHouse and The Basement    Buy this book on amazon $9.99   People who helped make this book:   Author: Scott Swenson   For over 30 years, Scott Swenson has been bringing stories to life as a Writer, Director, Producer and Performer. His work in Theme Park, Consumer Events, Live Theater and Television has given him a broad spectrum of experiences. Co-creator and Creative Leader for the first 15 years of the “Howl-O-Scream” event at Busch Gardens Tampa, during which time he wrote and implemented over 50 haunted houses, shows and scare zones.   Foreword: Ted Dougherty   Ted Dougherty, has created projects for Halloween events in Southern California including Knott’s Scary Farm, Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor, & Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights. His specialties focus on themed entertainment and immersive/multi-sensory environments through creative storytelling, production and direction.   Publisher: Philip Hernandez     Philip Hernandez is a freelance writer, speaker, producer, and marketer specializing in Seasonal Attractions. Since 2014 Philip has published Seasonal Entertainment Source magazine (SES), a quarterly print publication. Philip operates the Haunted Attraction Network (HAN), the largest global media entity for the haunted attraction industry.     Cover Artist: Doug Schaefer   Doug Schaefer has been creating effects, props, masks and artwork for haunted attractions, theme parks and collectors for over 30 years. By day Doug designs and builds effects, puppets and illusions at Robot Monkey Lab, Inc (VFXcreates.com). And on evenings and weekends Doug makes even more monsters, in his home studio (ArtGuyDesigns.com), creating a variety of horror and creature art.

Content Marketing is one of the most misunderstood tactics, and we explain it all in this episode.“Content marketing is a strategic marketing approach focused on creating and distributing valuable, relevant, and consistent content to attract and retain a clearly defined audience — and, ultimately, to drive profitable customer action.In short, instead of pitching your products or services, you are delivering information that makes your buyer more intelligent. The essence of this content strategy is the belief that if we, as businesses, deliver consistent, ongoing valuable information to buyers, they ultimately reward us with their business and loyalty.”-By Content Marketing InsWhy do it?Customer InformationCustomer RetentionThe History of Content Marketing: https://youtu.be/9OHgMMpGLzk John Deere & The Furrow Magazine: https://youtu.be/rbKvoKeu4vcGetting Started Guide: https://contentmarketinginstitute.com/getting-started/Examples:PC Gamer/Razer “The Complete Guide to PC Gaming”: https://www.pcgamer.com/introducing-the-complete-guide-to-pc-gaming/Ideas of Order Magazine made by Redbird for California Closets: https://www.ideasoforder.com/OK Go - The One Moment - made by Morton Salt: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvW61K2s0tA MasterThis made by Liberty Mutual: http://www.jackmorton.com/work/building-content-driven-customer-loyalty-breakthrough-liberty-mutual/2018 Oscar winner animation short film | dear basketball: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziUc0OCDmoUConsult QD by Cleveland Clinic: https://consultqd.clevelandclinic.org/ Restaurant and Attraction Magazines in hotel rooms are usually created by tourism boardsAirBNB Magazine and Trip Guideshttps://www.airbnb.com/things-to-dohttps://www.airbnb.com/magazineMeasuring Content MarketingHow do you find our if your target market is learning something from your content?Content and Website ViewsBrand SearchesSearch Engine RankingEmail Sign UpsPurchases by remarketing.End of Show Zest Enlight Marketing App - https://zest.is/enlight Seasonal Entertainment Source: https://haunted.typeform.com/to/k9CEOz

Content Marketing is one of the most misunderstood tactics, and we explain it all in this episode. “Content marketing is a strategic marketing approach focused on creating and distributing valuable, relevant, and consistent content to attract and retain a clearly defined audience — and, ultimately, to drive profitable customer action. In short, instead of pitching your products or services, you are delivering information that makes your buyer more intelligent. The essence of this content strategy is the belief that if we, as businesses, deliver consistent, ongoing valuable information to buyers, they ultimately reward us with their business and loyalty.” -By Content Marketing Ins Why do it? Customer Information Customer Retention The History of Content Marketing: https://youtu.be/9OHgMMpGLzk John Deere & The Furrow Magazine: https://youtu.be/rbKvoKeu4vc Getting Started Guide: https://contentmarketinginstitute.com/getting-started/ Examples: PC Gamer/Razer “The Complete Guide to PC Gaming”: https://www.pcgamer.com/introducing-the-complete-guide-to-pc-gaming/ Ideas of Order Magazine made by Redbird for California Closets: https://www.ideasoforder.com/ OK Go - The One Moment - made by Morton Salt: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvW61K2s0tA MasterThis made by Liberty Mutual: http://www.jackmorton.com/work/building-content-driven-customer-loyalty-breakthrough-liberty-mutual/ 2018 Oscar winner animation short film | dear basketball: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziUc0OCDmoU Consult QD by Cleveland Clinic: https://consultqd.clevelandclinic.org/ Restaurant and Attraction Magazines in hotel rooms are usually created by tourism boards AirBNB Magazine and Trip Guides https://www.airbnb.com/things-to-do https://www.airbnb.com/magazine Measuring Content Marketing How do you find our if your target market is learning something from your content? Content and Website Views Brand Searches Search Engine Ranking Email Sign Ups Purchases by remarketing. End of Show Zest Enlight Marketing App - https://zest.is/enlight Seasonal Entertainment Source: https://haunted.typeform.com/to/k9CEOz

NEWS/Quick-Takes: The Halloween season is starting much earlier than usual and the Theme Park Halloween landscape is shifting to keep pace. See Festival del Terror at 6 Flags Mexico, the early Cedar Point opening of HalloWeekends, and Knott’s. Follow news from the Haunted Attraction Network for more Halloween updates. Six Flags Great America located just outside of Chicago is hoping to increase job applicants by offering a free ticket for anyone that interviews. Main Topic: Marketing’s Role In Recruiting - Support HR Department Create recruiting content while filming assets for consumers Utilize social media, both paid and organic, to get the word out and recognize employees through social media. (Disney does a great job with the “Every Role Is A Starring Role”) Offer incentives to current employees and returning employees. Facebook Jobs - https://www.facebook.com/business/learn/facebook-page-post-jobs Wrap-Up: Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com Visit MarketingYourAttraction.com for blog posts and an archive of past episodes. Jack The Ripper Virtual Reality Haunted House at HollowZone.com Subscribe to the podcast and leave a review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player.

NEWS/Quick-Takes:The Halloween season is starting much earlier than usual and the Theme Park Halloween landscape is shifting to keep pace.See Festival del Terror at 6 Flags Mexico, the early Cedar Point opening of HalloWeekends, and Knott’s. Follow news from the Haunted Attraction Network for more Halloween updates.Six Flags Great America located just outside of Chicago is hoping to increase job applicants by offering a free ticket for anyone that interviews.Main Topic:Marketing’s Role In Recruiting - Support HR DepartmentCreate recruiting content while filming assets for consumersUtilize social media, both paid and organic, to get the word out and recognize employees through social media. (Disney does a great job with the “Every Role Is A Starring Role”)Offer incentives to current employees and returning employees.Facebook Jobs - https://www.facebook.com/business/learn/facebook-page-post-jobs Wrap-Up:Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com Visit MarketingYourAttraction.com for blog posts and an archive of past episodes.Jack The Ripper Virtual Reality Haunted House at HollowZone.comSubscribe to the podcast and leave a review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player.

NEWS/Quick-Takes: Amazon has YouTube envy: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-08-15/amazon-wants-twitch-to-be-a-youtube-competitor?mod=djemCMOToday Theme Park Announcements: Canada’s Wonderland Six Flags Magic Mountain Carowinds Scary Farm Skullcandy creates live concert series as part of content marketing push “Consumers today, young consumers are very savvy, and they’re very savvy about paid influencers. Obviously, we’re a commercial entity, and of course we want to sell headphones, but we want the music to be pure,” Klodnicki said. Of course, Skullcandy can — and does — retarget attendees and viewers with more commercial advertisements after the fact. Skullcandy spends the majority of its marketing budget on digital ads. Unlike Apple and Bose, it doesn’t buy TV or print ads.” https://digiday.com/marketing/skullcandy-creates-live-concert-series-part-content-marketing-push/ Secrets of the Wicker Man at Alton Towers revealed “Filmed over several months, the documentary follows the team as they complete construction of Wicker Man, a family thrill-ride with a huge sculpture at its heart that appears to burst into flames as the ride rushes through it. As the resort was preparing to open the attraction to the public, senior members of the Alton Towers team revealed to the documentary how important the success of the £16 million ride is, as they strive to rebuild trust with visitors following the incident on The Smiler in 2015 which saw two young women, Leah Washington and Vicky Balch, lose a leg.” https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/burton/alton-towers-channel-4-wicker-1882935 Main Topic: Upcharging How can you charge your guests more and make them feel like they are getting a much better value than guests spending less? How can you create that value? Airbnb Story: What does an 10 star experience look like? https://mastersofscale.com/brian-chesky-handcrafted/ Wrap-Up: Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com Visit MarketingYourAttraction.com for blog posts and an archive of past episodes. Subscribe to the podcast and leave a review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player.

NEWS/Quick-Takes:Amazon has YouTube envy: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-08-15/amazon-wants-twitch-to-be-a-youtube-competitor?mod=djemCMOToday Theme Park Announcements:Canada’s WonderlandSix Flags Magic MountainCarowindsScary FarmSkullcandy creates live concert series as part of content marketing push“Consumers today, young consumers are very savvy, and they’re very savvy about paid influencers. Obviously, we’re a commercial entity, and of course we want to sell headphones, but we want the music to be pure,” Klodnicki said. Of course, Skullcandy can — and does — retarget attendees and viewers with more commercial advertisements after the fact. Skullcandy spends the majority of its marketing budget on digital ads. Unlike Apple and Bose, it doesn’t buy TV or print ads.”https://digiday.com/marketing/skullcandy-creates-live-concert-series-part-content-marketing-push/Secrets of the Wicker Man at Alton Towers revealed“Filmed over several months, the documentary follows the team as they complete construction of Wicker Man, a family thrill-ride with a huge sculpture at its heart that appears to burst into flames as the ride rushes through it. As the resort was preparing to open the attraction to the public, senior members of the Alton Towers team revealed to the documentary how important the success of the £16 million ride is, as they strive to rebuild trust with visitors following the incident on The Smiler in 2015 which saw two young women, Leah Washington and Vicky Balch, lose a leg.”https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/burton/alton-towers-channel-4-wicker-1882935 Main Topic:UpchargingHow can you charge your guests more and make them feel like they are getting a much better value than guests spending less? How can you create that value?Airbnb Story: What does an 10 star experience look like?https://mastersofscale.com/brian-chesky-handcrafted/Wrap-Up:Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com Visit MarketingYourAttraction.com for blog posts and an archive of past episodes.Subscribe to the podcast and leave a review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player.

NEWS/Quick-Takes: This 18+ Horror-Themed Campground Is The Most Disturbing Place To Go Camping: https://www.narcity.com/ca/on/toronto/travel/this-18-horror-themed-campground-near-toronto-is-the-most-disturbing-place-youll-ever-go-camping Six Flags launches loyalty program: https://www.marketwatch.com/press-release/six-flags-launches-preeminent-new-loyalty-program-2018-08-15 Main Topic: Groupon/GoldStar Discounting Often necessary on slower days. Build the margin into your price. Make a discounting plan before you begin. You don’t want to be reactive (IE numbers are low, so we’ll reduce price). There’s not getting around that school and work nights are tough for our audiences. Nobody wants to feel like they spent more than they had to. Audiences come to expect something is listed on Groupon/Goldstar. Thus, it’s both an advantage and a disadvantage. Our recommendation? Build those margins into the plan from the beginning and form relationships with discount sites ahead of time. That way, when it is needed, you can pull the lever. Those sites are a last resort. Don’t forget to negotiate with the sites and try to add value on your own platforms first. Can you add value to your channels first? IE buy a ticket get a free food item, etc. If the added value doesn't work, try a targeted discount. Keep this discreet if possible. Wrap-Up: Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com Visit MarketingYourAttraction.com for blog posts and an archive of past episodes. Subscribe to the podcast and leave a review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player.

NEWS/Quick-Takes:This 18+ Horror-Themed Campground Is The Most Disturbing Place To Go Camping: https://www.narcity.com/ca/on/toronto/travel/this-18-horror-themed-campground-near-toronto-is-the-most-disturbing-place-youll-ever-go-campingSix Flags launches loyalty program:https://www.marketwatch.com/press-release/six-flags-launches-preeminent-new-loyalty-program-2018-08-15 Main Topic:Groupon/GoldStar DiscountingOften necessary on slower days. Build the margin into your price. Make a discounting plan before you begin. You don’t want to be reactive (IE numbers are low, so we’ll reduce price). There’s not getting around that school and work nights are tough for our audiences. Nobody wants to feel like they spent more than they had to. Audiences come to expect something is listed on Groupon/Goldstar. Thus, it’s both an advantage and a disadvantage.Our recommendation?Build those margins into the plan from the beginning and form relationships with discount sites ahead of time. That way, when it is needed, you can pull the lever. Those sites are a last resort.Don’t forget to negotiate with the sites and try to add value on your own platforms first.Can you add value to your channels first? IE buy a ticket get a free food item, etc.If the added value doesn't work, try a targeted discount. Keep this discreet if possible.Wrap-Up:Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com Visit MarketingYourAttraction.com for blog posts and an archive of past episodes.Subscribe to the podcast and leave a review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player.

NEWS/Quick-Takes: Empty Malls - https://digiday.com/marketing/online-retailers-using-empty-mall-spaces-test-products/ The Science of Storytelling - https://marketingland.com/the-science-of-storytelling-245561 The Expanding Market: “DXB Entertainments saw the number of visitors to Dubai Parks and Resorts rise 48% during the second quarter and 46% during the first half of 2018. International guests accounted for 38% of visitors during the first half, while annual pass holders made up 25% of visits.” Another Reason to Monitor your Brand: “A post on a Facebook page called 'Six Flags Club' has been shared over 100,000 times with over 40,000 comments. The post writes that every single person who shares and comments within the next 12 hours will get 4 free Six Flags tickets. Western Mass News confirmed with a spokesperson for Six Flags Wednesday night that the page is not associated with the amusement park. We're told Six Flags is working with Facebook to try and take the post down.” Peter Weishar is UCF’s new professor of themed entertainment design. Main Topic: SEO for Beginners Step 1 - Keyword Research Think about what keywords guests will use to find your attraction. Make sure to think about general categories and other terms that the general public might use. For example, not just haunted house, but also haunted maze, Halloween things to do, etc. Step 2 - Setup your site correctly Don’t put your text into images on your website. Make sure you have at least 150 - 300 words on each part of your page and you naturally include the keywords a few times in that text. Google factors in how mobile friendly your website is and how long it takes to load. Make sure to compress the images. Google Webmasters Program: https://www.google.com/webmasters Plug-In for Wordpress -> Yoast SEO: https://yoast.com/wordpress/plugins/seo/ Step 3 - Get other websites to link to your site: Social Media Platforms Community Event Calendars Contact your local Visitor Bureaus and ask them to promote you on their website Partner Pages Local Bloggers, Newspapers, other media outlets Attraction Directories, search “Things To Do” Where to go next? Creating a blog. Adding more content onto your site. Writing guest blog posts for other blogs and linking back to your site. Using keyword tools like Moz.com: https://moz.com/explorer/ https://moz.com/free-seo-tools https://moz.com/beginners-guide-to-seo Wrap-Up: Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

NEWS/Quick-Takes:Empty Malls - https://digiday.com/marketing/online-retailers-using-empty-mall-spaces-test-products/ The Science of Storytelling -https://marketingland.com/the-science-of-storytelling-245561 The Expanding Market:“DXB Entertainments saw the number of visitors to Dubai Parks and Resorts rise 48% during the second quarter and 46% during the first half of 2018. International guests accounted for 38% of visitors during the first half, while annual pass holders made up 25% of visits.”Another Reason to Monitor your Brand:“A post on a Facebook page called 'Six Flags Club' has been shared over 100,000 times with over 40,000 comments. The post writes that every single person who shares and comments within the next 12 hours will get 4 free Six Flags tickets. Western Mass News confirmed with a spokesperson for Six Flags Wednesday night that the page is not associated with the amusement park. We're told Six Flags is working with Facebook to try and take the post down.”Peter Weishar is UCF’s new professor of themed entertainment design. Main Topic:SEO for BeginnersStep 1 - Keyword ResearchThink about what keywords guests will use to find your attraction. Make sure to think about general categories and other terms that the general public might use. For example, not just haunted house, but also haunted maze, Halloween things to do, etc.Step 2 - Setup your site correctlyDon’t put your text into images on your website. Make sure you have at least 150 - 300 words on each part of your page and you naturally include the keywords a few times in that text.Google factors in how mobile friendly your website is and how long it takes to load. Make sure to compress the images. Google Webmasters Program: https://www.google.com/webmasters Plug-In for Wordpress -> Yoast SEO: https://yoast.com/wordpress/plugins/seo/ Step 3 - Get other websites to link to your site:Social Media PlatformsCommunity Event CalendarsContact your local Visitor Bureaus and ask them to promote you on their websitePartner PagesLocal Bloggers, Newspapers, other media outletsAttraction Directories, search “Things To Do” Where to go next?Creating a blog. Adding more content onto your site. Writing guest blog posts for other blogs and linking back to your site. Using keyword tools like Moz.com: https://moz.com/explorer/ https://moz.com/free-seo-toolshttps://moz.com/beginners-guide-to-seo Wrap-Up:Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

The hosts walk through best practices for working with marketing, creative, and media buying agencies for your attraction.NEWS/Quick-Takes:Physical products are more valuable than digital products - https://www.adweek.com/brand-marketing/how-can-marketers-deal-with-an-oversaturated-digital-space-turn-back-to-physical-products/ Expansion of Dollywood: “The "new land," a $37 million investment, was the theme park's largest capital investment ever.”https://www.wbir.com/article/news/local/dolly-parton-announces-plans-for-new-dollywood-area-set-to-open-in-2019/51-580078465Snapchat Story Ads - https://forbusiness.snapchat.com/blog/introducing-story-ads-a-new-way-to-showcase-your-brand-or-product-in-discover/ “With one tap, Snapchatters can jump into a collection of 3-20 Snaps and dive deeper into your new fashion collection, movie release, suite of products, and more.”Main Topic:Ad Agencies - Help businesses execute marketing strategies and they range from full service to boutique. Think of them as an extension to your marketing department, which differs from contractors because they have support systems in place. Full-Service, Creative vs. Consultant vs. Media Buying vs. Smaller Specialities (Social Media, PR, etc.)Pros: They help reduce cost because you get the benefit of their expertise without needing to hire. Additionally, they provide an infrastructure for those that do not want to manage a piecemeal team. It’s a benefit for smaller companies until you’re large enough to make your own worth it (Disney). For example, Universal uses multiple agencies for different campaigns.Advice:Try to avoid lengthy contracts. Agencies try to get you to sign a longer contract, but try to take it project by project.Costly retainers. Retainers can be high, and be aware that an agency has many clients; they’re not always working on your attraction.Some will charge an hourly wage and others charge a fee on top of the spend. Example, for $10,000 spent on Google ads, they will take 10% added on top. The agency manages the ads so you don’t have to worry.Craft your RFP and outline exactly what you need.What’s campaign distribution?What specifically do you need?Sit down with at least 5-10 agencies; treat this like hiring employees (both in terms of testing and in terms of cultural fit).It’s OK to wait if you don't find a good fit.There are three broad functions to cover: Media Buy/Placement, Campaign Strategy, and Creative. Wrap-Up:Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

The hosts walk through best practices for working with marketing, creative, and media buying agencies for your attraction. NEWS/Quick-Takes: Physical products are more valuable than digital products - https://www.adweek.com/brand-marketing/how-can-marketers-deal-with-an-oversaturated-digital-space-turn-back-to-physical-products/ Expansion of Dollywood: “The "new land," a $37 million investment, was the theme park's largest capital investment ever.” https://www.wbir.com/article/news/local/dolly-parton-announces-plans-for-new-dollywood-area-set-to-open-in-2019/51-580078465 Snapchat Story Ads - https://forbusiness.snapchat.com/blog/introducing-story-ads-a-new-way-to-showcase-your-brand-or-product-in-discover/ “With one tap, Snapchatters can jump into a collection of 3-20 Snaps and dive deeper into your new fashion collection, movie release, suite of products, and more.” Main Topic: Ad Agencies - Help businesses execute marketing strategies and they range from full service to boutique. Think of them as an extension to your marketing department, which differs from contractors because they have support systems in place. Full-Service, Creative vs. Consultant vs. Media Buying vs. Smaller Specialities (Social Media, PR, etc.) Pros: They help reduce cost because you get the benefit of their expertise without needing to hire. Additionally, they provide an infrastructure for those that do not want to manage a piecemeal team. It’s a benefit for smaller companies until you’re large enough to make your own worth it (Disney). For example, Universal uses multiple agencies for different campaigns. Advice: Try to avoid lengthy contracts. Agencies try to get you to sign a longer contract, but try to take it project by project. Costly retainers. Retainers can be high, and be aware that an agency has many clients; they’re not always working on your attraction. Some will charge an hourly wage and others charge a fee on top of the spend. Example, for $10,000 spent on Google ads, they will take 10% added on top. The agency manages the ads so you don’t have to worry. Craft your RFP and outline exactly what you need. What’s campaign distribution? What specifically do you need? Sit down with at least 5-10 agencies; treat this like hiring employees (both in terms of testing and in terms of cultural fit). It’s OK to wait if you don't find a good fit. There are three broad functions to cover: Media Buy/Placement, Campaign Strategy, and Creative. Wrap-Up: Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

NEWS/Quick-Takes:Alien: Descent vs. The Void Midsummer Scream: A great convention chuck full of marketing examples for attractions. All the attractions in the Southern California area participate and each is a great example of attractions connection with guests at conventions. Track the hashtag online to see some of the examples. Six Flags brought a scare zone, scare actors, and hosted a main stage announcement panel. ​Main Topic:Yelp and TripAdvisor Review Websiteshttps://hbr.org/2018/02/study-replying-to-customer-reviews-results-in-better-ratings “Harvard Business Review found that when hotels start responding, they receive 12% more reviews and their ratings increase, on average, by 0.12 stars. While these gains may seem modest, TripAdvisor rounds average ratings to the nearest half star: A hotel with a rating of 4.26 stars will be rounded up to a 4.5, while a hotel with 4.24 stars will be rounded down to a 4. Therefore, even small changes can have a significant impact on consumers’ perceptions.”Why? “If the consumer notices a manager responding to past reviews, they might decide not to leave a trivial or unsubstantiated negative review, to avoid a potentially uncomfortable online interaction with the manager. Once hotels started responding, they experienced a sharp drop in the rate of short negative reviews. And while longer negative reviews still cropped up, these reviews often contained constructive feedback that could be useful to managers trying to make changes.”Example of how to handle hecklers: https://tim.blog/2018/07/16/aisha-tyler/Tips:Encourage reviews, but focus on one platform at a time (one CTA). Make sure you have a dedicated team member to managing feedback and reviews.De-escalate the situation and remove them from the public view as soon as possible.Assign responses to someone who is trained is guest service and knows how to handle these situations and resolve them.Wrap-Up:Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

NEWS/Quick-Takes: Alien: Descent vs. The Void Midsummer Scream: A great convention chuck full of marketing examples for attractions. All the attractions in the Southern California area participate and each is a great example of attractions connection with guests at conventions. Track the hashtag online to see some of the examples. Six Flags brought a scare zone, scare actors, and hosted a main stage announcement panel. ​ Main Topic: Yelp and TripAdvisor Review Websites https://hbr.org/2018/02/study-replying-to-customer-reviews-results-in-better-ratings “Harvard Business Review found that when hotels start responding, they receive 12% more reviews and their ratings increase, on average, by 0.12 stars. While these gains may seem modest, TripAdvisor rounds average ratings to the nearest half star: A hotel with a rating of 4.26 stars will be rounded up to a 4.5, while a hotel with 4.24 stars will be rounded down to a 4. Therefore, even small changes can have a significant impact on consumers’ perceptions.” Why? “If the consumer notices a manager responding to past reviews, they might decide not to leave a trivial or unsubstantiated negative review, to avoid a potentially uncomfortable online interaction with the manager. Once hotels started responding, they experienced a sharp drop in the rate of short negative reviews. And while longer negative reviews still cropped up, these reviews often contained constructive feedback that could be useful to managers trying to make changes.” Example of how to handle hecklers: https://tim.blog/2018/07/16/aisha-tyler/ Tips: Encourage reviews, but focus on one platform at a time (one CTA). Make sure you have a dedicated team member to managing feedback and reviews. De-escalate the situation and remove them from the public view as soon as possible. Assign responses to someone who is trained is guest service and knows how to handle these situations and resolve them. Wrap-Up: Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

NEWS/Quick-Takes:Theme Park WiFi - http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-theme-park-wifi-20180720-story.htmlReviews of Comic-Con Activations including escape rooms: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/jack-ryan-walking-dead-san-diego-comic-con-activation-hits-misses-1128727 TEA Masters: http://www.inparkmagazine.com/tea-masters-call-for-nominees/Nine Ways To Build Brand Relationships With Teens On Social Media: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2018/07/21/nine-ways-to-build-brand-relationships-with-teens-on-social-media/#580c7517324bSix Ways You Can Use Yoga Principles In Your Social Media Marketing: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2018/07/20/six-ways-you-can-use-yoga-principles-in-your-social-media-marketing/#3d453d6a4639​Main Topic:Digital vs. Traditional Marketing for big and small attractionsUnderstand the difference between Mass Marketing and Direct Selling; most traditional marketing is mass marketing.As always, you must understand your market.Crossing The Chasm has a great definition of ‘market’ as “a set of customers who have similar needs/wants and ref each other.”Toggling between mass marketing and direct selling will depend on your market and the ability you have to reach a tipping point within that market.Marketing is only useful if it can maintain a market.The Marketing FunnelTop: Cold leads go inBottom: ConversionDigital marketing is at the bottom and Traditional is at the top.You begin with general awareness and work them down.Targeting Rating Points (TRPs): The percentage of the audience you’re targeting will be reached and the frequency. You must run a full campaign (5-7 times); otherwise, you’ll have no impact. Wrap-Up:Leadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFFFree Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

NEWS/Quick-Takes: Theme Park WiFi - http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-theme-park-wifi-20180720-story.html Reviews of Comic-Con Activations including escape rooms: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/jack-ryan-walking-dead-san-diego-comic-con-activation-hits-misses-1128727 TEA Masters: http://www.inparkmagazine.com/tea-masters-call-for-nominees/ Nine Ways To Build Brand Relationships With Teens On Social Media: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2018/07/21/nine-ways-to-build-brand-relationships-with-teens-on-social-media/#580c7517324b Six Ways You Can Use Yoga Principles In Your Social Media Marketing: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2018/07/20/six-ways-you-can-use-yoga-principles-in-your-social-media-marketing/#3d453d6a4639 ​ Main Topic: Digital vs. Traditional Marketing for big and small attractions Understand the difference between Mass Marketing and Direct Selling; most traditional marketing is mass marketing. As always, you must understand your market. Crossing The Chasm has a great definition of ‘market’ as “a set of customers who have similar needs/wants and ref each other.” Toggling between mass marketing and direct selling will depend on your market and the ability you have to reach a tipping point within that market. Marketing is only useful if it can maintain a market. The Marketing Funnel Top: Cold leads go in Bottom: Conversion Digital marketing is at the bottom and Traditional is at the top. You begin with general awareness and work them down. Targeting Rating Points (TRPs): The percentage of the audience you’re targeting will be reached and the frequency. You must run a full campaign (5-7 times); otherwise, you’ll have no impact. Wrap-Up: Leadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFF Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

Picking Partners: How To Evaluate Sponsorship OpportunitiesNEWS/Quick-Takes:Elevating Moments Into Lasting Memories article: http://bradjashinsky.com/memorable-moments-themepark-attraction/Live stream from a roller coaster: http://bradjashinsky.com/live-stream-roller-coaster/ Changing The Game: Socialize Founder Akanksha Goel On The Evolution Of Her Digital Media Agency: https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/316645Explanation of strategy: “Goel reveals its strategy to be something she calls “ART + SCIENCE.” “ART stands for thumb-stopping creative,” she says. “In a region where people spend so much time on mobile, a brand’s content/message/story needs to stand out while their audience is scrolling. Our creative team specializes in creating this content that is built for the mobile newsfeed. SCIENCE stands for innovative media, harnessing the power of real-time social data to target audiences with military precision, allowing our personalized messages to be seen by the right people, at scale– driving measurable business growth for clients.”How museums are attracting new audiences with creative ways to enhance guests’ well-being: http://www.iaapa.org/news/funworld/funworld-magazine/cover-story---namaste---july-2018 Alton Towers set for major expansion with 102 'camping pods': https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/alton-towers-set-major-expansion-14887771 “each pod will have a double bed and two singles, as well as electricity, with communal shower and toilet blocks elsewhere.”Disney World holiday plans include Toy Story Land, 'Up' showhttp://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/theme-park-rangers-blog/os-et-disney-christmas-toy-story-land-20180709-story.htmlFacebook Tests New Info Labels for Branded Content Partnershipshttps://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/facebook-tests-new-info-labels-for-branded-content-partnerships/527783/​Main Topic:Evaluating Sponsorship OpportunitiesMake sure you vet them properly:Media Kit - Are they giving you real numbers? Distribution?Website- Is it updated, responsive, good meta, etc?What is their social presence like? Are people reacting?Referrals - Who else has worked with them and what did they say?Make sure they truly reach the market you’re targeting.Focus on your call to action and simplify the steps.Tie it back to your ‘why’ so that it is coherent.Don’t forget to think outside of the box; good partners are always responsive.Understand this takes more work.Is the team excited to work with you?Problem versus the ‘Potential’ mindset.Brad’s examples:Foodbeast.Crypt TV.Wrap-Up:Leadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFFFree Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

Picking Partners: How To Evaluate Sponsorship Opportunities NEWS/Quick-Takes: Elevating Moments Into Lasting Memories article: http://bradjashinsky.com/memorable-moments-themepark-attraction/ Live stream from a roller coaster: http://bradjashinsky.com/live-stream-roller-coaster/ Changing The Game: Socialize Founder Akanksha Goel On The Evolution Of Her Digital Media Agency: https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/316645 Explanation of strategy: “Goel reveals its strategy to be something she calls “ART + SCIENCE.” “ART stands for thumb-stopping creative,” she says. “In a region where people spend so much time on mobile, a brand’s content/message/story needs to stand out while their audience is scrolling. Our creative team specializes in creating this content that is built for the mobile newsfeed. SCIENCE stands for innovative media, harnessing the power of real-time social data to target audiences with military precision, allowing our personalized messages to be seen by the right people, at scale– driving measurable business growth for clients.” How museums are attracting new audiences with creative ways to enhance guests’ well-being: http://www.iaapa.org/news/funworld/funworld-magazine/cover-story---namaste---july-2018 Alton Towers set for major expansion with 102 'camping pods': https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/alton-towers-set-major-expansion-14887771 “each pod will have a double bed and two singles, as well as electricity, with communal shower and toilet blocks elsewhere.” Disney World holiday plans include Toy Story Land, 'Up' show http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/theme-park-rangers-blog/os-et-disney-christmas-toy-story-land-20180709-story.html Facebook Tests New Info Labels for Branded Content Partnerships https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/facebook-tests-new-info-labels-for-branded-content-partnerships/527783/ ​ Main Topic: Evaluating Sponsorship Opportunities Make sure you vet them properly: Media Kit - Are they giving you real numbers? Distribution? Website- Is it updated, responsive, good meta, etc? What is their social presence like? Are people reacting? Referrals - Who else has worked with them and what did they say? Make sure they truly reach the market you’re targeting. Focus on your call to action and simplify the steps. Tie it back to your ‘why’ so that it is coherent. Don’t forget to think outside of the box; good partners are always responsive. Understand this takes more work. Is the team excited to work with you? Problem versus the ‘Potential’ mindset. Brad’s examples: Foodbeast. Crypt TV. Wrap-Up: Leadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFF Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

How do you set Prices for your attraction? Pricing is expensive or cheap depending on who you are targeting, therefore, framing & testing is critical.NEWS/Quick-Takes:California Data Privacy Law Passes“The bill -- AB 375, or the California Consumer Privacy Act -- turns the tech world's business model on its head by letting regular internet users ask for the data a company has collected on them and whom the data has been sold to. That alone could be eye-opening for consumers. Most people understand their online activity is being tracked for targeted advertising, but we don't have a broad understanding of what data's being used. The bill will take effect at the beginning of 2020.”Facebook/Twitter now publicly show all ads a brand is running“Every Facebook Page carries a new button called “Info and Ads.” That new section will display the ads the Page is currently running across Facebook, Instagram, Messenger and Facebook’s partner network. Facebook also will have a button to report each ad. Facebook also will publicly share more information about Pages. Pages will display changes to their names along with the date they were created. Facebook said it plans to add more information in the coming weeks.”Pinterest is Growing Faster than Twitter and Snapchat, and Offers Significant OpportunitiesPinterest may not be growing at the rate the company had once anticipated, but the platform is expanding, with new data showing that the app is now closing in on 250 million monthly active users, up from the 200 million it reported back in September.https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/pinterest-is-growing-faster-than-twitter-and-snapchat-and-offers-significa/524417/Main Topic:Pricing Your AttractionConsider: Are you a Value or Luxury Play?Have you tested pricing through digital A/B tests, etc.?Examples:Pricing is expensive or cheap depending on who you are targeting, therefore, framing & testing is critical.Pat Flynn - Testing your product before the product is built.Use the contrast principle.Stay away from predictions; people are terrible at predictions. Always offer tiers.Find out your optimal capacity; you can make a fatal mistake if you misjudge your capacity. Whatever you think the capacity will be, divide it in half and price from there. Wrap-Up:Leadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFFFree Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

How do you set Prices for your attraction? Pricing is expensive or cheap depending on who you are targeting, therefore, framing & testing is critical. NEWS/Quick-Takes: California Data Privacy Law Passes “The bill -- AB 375, or the California Consumer Privacy Act -- turns the tech world's business model on its head by letting regular internet users ask for the data a company has collected on them and whom the data has been sold to. That alone could be eye-opening for consumers. Most people understand their online activity is being tracked for targeted advertising, but we don't have a broad understanding of what data's being used. The bill will take effect at the beginning of 2020.” Facebook/Twitter now publicly show all ads a brand is running “Every Facebook Page carries a new button called “Info and Ads.” That new section will display the ads the Page is currently running across Facebook, Instagram, Messenger and Facebook’s partner network. Facebook also will have a button to report each ad. Facebook also will publicly share more information about Pages. Pages will display changes to their names along with the date they were created. Facebook said it plans to add more information in the coming weeks.” Pinterest is Growing Faster than Twitter and Snapchat, and Offers Significant Opportunities Pinterest may not be growing at the rate the company had once anticipated, but the platform is expanding, with new data showing that the app is now closing in on 250 million monthly active users, up from the 200 million it reported back in September. https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/pinterest-is-growing-faster-than-twitter-and-snapchat-and-offers-significa/524417/ Main Topic: Pricing Your Attraction Consider: Are you a Value or Luxury Play? Have you tested pricing through digital A/B tests, etc.? Examples: Pricing is expensive or cheap depending on who you are targeting, therefore, framing & testing is critical. Pat Flynn - Testing your product before the product is built. Use the contrast principle. Stay away from predictions; people are terrible at predictions. Always offer tiers. Find out your optimal capacity; you can make a fatal mistake if you misjudge your capacity. Whatever you think the capacity will be, divide it in half and price from there. Wrap-Up: Leadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFF Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

There is no easy answer to which platform you should choose, but here’s a guide to follow! NEWS/Quick-Takes: Instagram TV is pulling us ever closer to a future full of tall videos https://www.popsci.com/instagram-tv-is-pulling-us-ever-closer-to-future-full-tall-videos “Everyone spends time on Instagram,” he said. “Every single person is always on Instagram. When you go to YouTube, you’re actively looking for something. Instagram, you’re waiting in line and it’s like, let me just go waste some time.” https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/21/style/instagram-igtv.html Tours and Activities Sector Still Faces Challenge of Moving Bookings Online (I thought this could be an interesting conversation about last-minute bookings for seasonal events) https://skift.com/2018/06/12/tours-and-activities-sector-still-faces-challenge-of-moving-bookings-online/ Main Topic: Social Media Starter Kit There is no easy answer. Here are a few things to try: Register your name at least on everything to keep it (yelp, facebook, and Google my business). Maintain consistency on platforms (keywords, logo, name spelled the same, etc). Family targets: Facebook/IG Younger: Snapchat/IG Twitter: Reporters and professionals LinkedIn: B2B / Business Development Understand why you are using the platform. Answer these questions: What are we trying to get from the platform? Awareness Engagement Authority Leads Sales Business Development Traditional Media Customer Service Who specifically are we trying to engage? Why do people use social media? To stay in touch with friends To stay up to date with current events To fill u spare time To find Entertaining Content General Networking Because of Social Groups To Share Photos or Videos To Research/ Find Products to Buy Wrap-Up: Leadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFF Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

There is no easy answer to which platform you should choose, but here’s a guide to follow!NEWS/Quick-Takes:Instagram TV is pulling us ever closer to a future full of tall videoshttps://www.popsci.com/instagram-tv-is-pulling-us-ever-closer-to-future-full-tall-videos“Everyone spends time on Instagram,” he said. “Every single person is always on Instagram. When you go to YouTube, you’re actively looking for something. Instagram, you’re waiting in line and it’s like, let me just go waste some time.”https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/21/style/instagram-igtv.htmlTours and Activities Sector Still Faces Challenge of Moving Bookings Online (I thought this could be an interesting conversation about last-minute bookings for seasonal events)https://skift.com/2018/06/12/tours-and-activities-sector-still-faces-challenge-of-moving-bookings-online/Main Topic:Social Media Starter KitThere is no easy answer.Here are a few things to try:Register your name at least on everything to keep it (yelp, facebook, and Google my business).Maintain consistency on platforms (keywords, logo, name spelled the same, etc).Family targets: Facebook/IGYounger: Snapchat/IGTwitter: Reporters and professionalsLinkedIn: B2B / Business DevelopmentUnderstand why you are using the platform.Answer these questions:What are we trying to get from the platform?AwarenessEngagementAuthorityLeadsSalesBusiness DevelopmentTraditional MediaCustomer ServiceWho specifically are we trying to engage?Why do people use social media?To stay in touch with friendsTo stay up to date with current events To fill u spare timeTo find Entertaining ContentGeneral NetworkingBecause of Social GroupsTo Share Photos or VideosTo Research/ Find Products to BuyWrap-Up:Leadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFFFree Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

Just imagine the look on your team’s face when you receive that extra media coverage!How would you feel if your next media event makes a difference? Combining some recent experience from Great America’s new roller coaster with pointers from “The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters” by Priya Parker (https://amzn.to/2ymtJ0E), we offer up a checklist for more meaningful media mentions.NEWS/Quick-TakesBarkBox cuts Facebook spending in favor of traditional channels“Smart companies will always be looking to find eyeballs in other places at lower costs.”https://digiday.com/marketing/barkbox-cuts-facebook-spending-favor-traditional-channels/ Warner Bros. crackdown puts Dark Mark over Potter festivals"It's almost as if Warner Bros. has been taken over by Voldemort, trying to use dark magic to destroy the light of a little town," said Sarah Jo Tucker, a 21-year-old junior at Chestnut Hill College, which hosts a Quidditch tournament that coincides with the annual suburban Philadelphia festival.https://www.nwitimes.com/entertainment/warner-bros-crackdown-puts-dark-mark-over-potter-festivals/article_d7a32e32-f532-5e97-b655-897089fa6a3e.html Curated Graduation List from Audible: “The speech you wish your commencement speaker had made”https://www.audible.com/ep/s/audiobooks-graduationMain Topic: Media EventsBrad’s event at Great America and launching their new rollercoaster.When should you do a media event? What is the correct size?Think about the end result and work backward.Example: Great America knew it was a large event and easy to pitch. Versus the VR event Knott’s held, which needed a smaller group because more one on one time was required. Knott’s was able to walk each person through the experience.One on one works great for exclusives when you need to explain history or details. Should you do a large event, small groups or one-on-one?“The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters” by Priya ParkerBook link: https://amzn.to/2ymtJ0E -We reduce gatherings to the things and not the people.Focus first on the purpose- the real purpose.A category is not a purpose. Exclude people who don't fit the purpose. -Think about the size: 6, 12-15, 30, 150.-Don't be a chill host.-Manage the transition into the gathering passageway /usheringThen she fell: attendees first seated in a reception area and given an elixir/keys -The opening & endingDon't open with logistics & never end on logistics.If you need logistics, do it as the 2nd to last rather than the last.Add a Thank You: honor them!Recall your purpose.What is your exit line?Wrap-UpLeadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFFFree Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

Just imagine the look on your team’s face when you receive that extra media coverage! How would you feel if your next media event makes a difference? Combining some recent experience from Great America’s new roller coaster with pointers from “The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters” by Priya Parker (https://amzn.to/2ymtJ0E), we offer up a checklist for more meaningful media mentions. NEWS/Quick-Takes BarkBox cuts Facebook spending in favor of traditional channels “Smart companies will always be looking to find eyeballs in other places at lower costs.” https://digiday.com/marketing/barkbox-cuts-facebook-spending-favor-traditional-channels/ Warner Bros. crackdown puts Dark Mark over Potter festivals "It's almost as if Warner Bros. has been taken over by Voldemort, trying to use dark magic to destroy the light of a little town," said Sarah Jo Tucker, a 21-year-old junior at Chestnut Hill College, which hosts a Quidditch tournament that coincides with the annual suburban Philadelphia festival. https://www.nwitimes.com/entertainment/warner-bros-crackdown-puts-dark-mark-over-potter-festivals/article_d7a32e32-f532-5e97-b655-897089fa6a3e.html Curated Graduation List from Audible: “The speech you wish your commencement speaker had made” https://www.audible.com/ep/s/audiobooks-graduation Main Topic: Media Events Brad’s event at Great America and launching their new rollercoaster. When should you do a media event? What is the correct size? Think about the end result and work backward. Example: Great America knew it was a large event and easy to pitch. Versus the VR event Knott’s held, which needed a smaller group because more one on one time was required. Knott’s was able to walk each person through the experience. One on one works great for exclusives when you need to explain history or details. Should you do a large event, small groups or one-on-one? “The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters” by Priya Parker Book link: https://amzn.to/2ymtJ0E -We reduce gatherings to the things and not the people. Focus first on the purpose- the real purpose. A category is not a purpose. Exclude people who don't fit the purpose. -Think about the size: 6, 12-15, 30, 150. -The opening & ending Don't open with logistics & never end on logistics. If you need logistics, do it as the 2nd to last rather than the last. Add a Thank You: honor them! Recall your purpose. What is your exit line? Wrap-Up Leadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFF Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

The hosts discuss tracking versus email list retargeting and the best examples for using each at your attraction.“Retargeting ads are a form of online targeting advertising and are served to people who have already visited your website or are a contact in your database.” NEWS/Quick-TakesWhen: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect TimingBook by Daniel H. PinkBrad’s take: The book is a quick read that I didn’t completely enjoy, but there were some valuable takeaways. The chapter about the importance of endings was interesting and directly applied to attractions. “Endings are very important. Several studies have shown that experiences are judged by their ending. Peaks and endings are most prominently remembered. Just look at Yelp and TripAdvisor reviews. Signaling an ending can make people appreciate things more. For example, in a chocolate taste test, participants enjoyed the last chocolate more when told it was the last chocolate, even though it was exactly the same as the other chocolates. How can you make your attraction’s finale extra special?”THE VOID Expansion (9 locations opening. Total of 17 globally)Great article in FunWorld - http://www.iaapa.org/news/funworld/funworld-magazine/feature---into-the-void---june-2018Brand attractions taking over!“THE GUINNESS Storehouse in Dublin is the most visited attraction in Ireland during a record year, tourism figures reveal. More than 1.7 million people looked round the home of Ireland's most famous stout in 2017, according to Fáilte Ireland's annual list of Ireland's most popular visitor attractions.”https://www.irishnews.com/news/2018/06/09/news/guinness-storehouse-in-dublin-is-the-most-visited-attraction-in-ireland-during-a-record-year-for-tourist-industry-1351468/Instagram Rolls Out '@Mention Sharing', a New Way Share Stories Contenthttps://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/instagram-rolls-out-mention-sharing-a-new-way-share-stories-content/525264/Facebook's 3D Posts are Coming - Here's What They'll look Like“the new 3D posts will provide a level of depth to posted images, and will respond when you scroll past or angle your phone.”https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/facebooks-3d-posts-are-coming-heres-what-theyll-look-like/525332/ A perfect follow-up to our influencer show:3 Ways to Determine if an Influencer’s Impact Is Real or Fake.It's sometimes hard to tell if followers are bought or genuine.https://www.adweek.com/brand-marketing/3-ways-to-determine-if-an-influencers-impact-is-real-or-fake/Wrap-UpLeadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFFFree Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

The hosts discuss tracking versus email list retargeting and the best examples for using each at your attraction. “Retargeting ads are a form of online targeting advertising and are served to people who have already visited your website or are a contact in your database.” NEWS/Quick-Takes When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing Book by Daniel H. Pink Brad’s take: The book is a quick read that I didn’t completely enjoy, but there were some valuable takeaways. The chapter about the importance of endings was interesting and directly applied to attractions. “Endings are very important. Several studies have shown that experiences are judged by their ending. Peaks and endings are most prominently remembered. Just look at Yelp and TripAdvisor reviews. Signaling an ending can make people appreciate things more. For example, in a chocolate taste test, participants enjoyed the last chocolate more when told it was the last chocolate, even though it was exactly the same as the other chocolates. How can you make your attraction’s finale extra special?” THE VOID Expansion (9 locations opening. Total of 17 globally) Great article in FunWorld - http://www.iaapa.org/news/funworld/funworld-magazine/feature---into-the-void---june-2018 Brand attractions taking over! “THE GUINNESS Storehouse in Dublin is the most visited attraction in Ireland during a record year, tourism figures reveal. More than 1.7 million people looked round the home of Ireland's most famous stout in 2017, according to Fáilte Ireland's annual list of Ireland's most popular visitor attractions.” https://www.irishnews.com/news/2018/06/09/news/guinness-storehouse-in-dublin-is-the-most-visited-attraction-in-ireland-during-a-record-year-for-tourist-industry-1351468/ Instagram Rolls Out '@Mention Sharing', a New Way Share Stories Content https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/instagram-rolls-out-mention-sharing-a-new-way-share-stories-content/525264/ Facebook's 3D Posts are Coming - Here's What They'll look Like “the new 3D posts will provide a level of depth to posted images, and will respond when you scroll past or angle your phone.” https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/facebooks-3d-posts-are-coming-heres-what-theyll-look-like/525332/ A perfect follow-up to our influencer show: 3 Ways to Determine if an Influencer’s Impact Is Real or Fake. It's sometimes hard to tell if followers are bought or genuine. https://www.adweek.com/brand-marketing/3-ways-to-determine-if-an-influencers-impact-is-real-or-fake/ Wrap-Up Leadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFF Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

Your listener challenge: Explain what you do in one sentence using a Character, a Problem, a Plan, & vision of Success. Using pointers from “Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen” by Donald Miller (available here: https://amzn.to/2kOGSFY) we discuss the importance of explaining the whole story to your customers. Send us your one-liners for a chance to be featured on the show! Email: philip@gantom.com Subscribe to show notes: www.marketingyourattraction.com NEWS 1. AT&T Shape Conference at Warner Bros. (Entertainment/Technology/VR/AR) -Red Hydrogen Holographic Phone -Brent Bushnel from Two-Bit Circus Presentation (Launching 50,000 square foot Micro-Amusement Park in LA later this year) Brad’s takeaways from Two-Bit’s Presentation: Scalability and immersion are opposing forces. Future Successful Experiences will be immersive, out-of-home, social, intuitive and as a bonus meaningful. Videos will eventually be posted at: https://shape.att.com 2. Mary Meeker’s Annual Internet Trends Report General Partner at Kleiner Perkins https://www.recode.net/2018/5/30/17385116/mary-meeker-slides-internet-trends-code-conference-2018 Advertising Slides: 96 - 99 Household Spending Slide 132: Spending on Entertainment is slightly decreasing Leadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFF Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

Your listener challenge: Explain what you do in one sentence using a Character, a Problem, a Plan, & vision of Success.Using pointers from “Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen” by Donald Miller (available here: https://amzn.to/2kOGSFY) we discuss the importance of explaining the whole story to your customers.Send us your one-liners for a chance to be featured on the show!Email: philip@gantom.comSubscribe to show notes: www.marketingyourattraction.comNEWS1. AT&T Shape Conference at Warner Bros. (Entertainment/Technology/VR/AR)-Red Hydrogen Holographic Phone-Brent Bushnel from Two-Bit Circus Presentation (Launching 50,000 square foot Micro-Amusement Park in LA later this year)Brad’s takeaways from Two-Bit’s Presentation:Scalability and immersion are opposing forces. Future Successful Experiences will be immersive, out-of-home, social, intuitive and as a bonus meaningful.Videos will eventually be posted at: https://shape.att.com 2. Mary Meeker’s Annual Internet Trends ReportGeneral Partner at Kleiner Perkinshttps://www.recode.net/2018/5/30/17385116/mary-meeker-slides-internet-trends-code-conference-2018 Advertising Slides: 96 - 99Household Spending Slide 132: Spending on Entertainment is slightly decreasingLeadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFFFree Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

People buy the products they can understand the fastest. The hosts discuss simplifying concepts and campaigns using principles from “Make it Stick” and “Building a Story Brand.” Make it Stick: https://amzn.to/2xm6xPn Building a Story Brand: https://amzn.to/2IV9U5h News -Pew Research Center report about social media usage: http://www.pewinternet.org/2018/03/01/social-media-use-in-2018/ -PDF on Top Email Subject Lines from Ask Formula: https://s3.amazonaws.com/ask-warming/Email-Subject-Line-Samples-FINAL.pdf?inf_contact_key=28ca53e19865bdb14bbbf48866e1d73cee94d3f3ef24fd570c0716b71686a8a4 -The Eureka Springs City Advertising and Promotion Commission gave Halloween City $4,000 for marketing efforts: http://www.lovelycitizen.com/story/2513061.html -“Decorating Disney: Halloween” will be part of “31 Days of Halloween.” https://www.disneyabcpress.com/freeform/pressrelease/breaking-news-from-freeforms-2018-upfront-presentation/ -Excellent article on influencers: https://www.fairobserver.com/culture/social-media-influencers-marketing-twitter-facebook-instagram-news-51421/ -Tour companies experimenting with Halloween packages: https://www.gadventures.com.au/trips/draculashalloweenpartyintransylvania/EQHH/ -Wired’s How Social Media Became a Pink Collar Job: “The assumption was that these jobs were extensions of what people would be doing for fun anyway.” https://www.wired.com/story/how-social-media-became-a-pink-collar-job/ -Twitter introduces new US election candidate labels & launches its Political Campaigning Policy: https://marketingland.com/twitter-introduces-new-us-election-candidate-labels-launches-its-political-campaigning-policy-241017 -FTC Guide -> https://www.ftc.gov/tips-advice/business-center/guidance/ftcs-endorsement-guides-what-people-are-asking Leadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFF Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com Subscribe to show notes: www.marketingyourattraction.com

People buy the products they can understand the fastest. The hosts discuss simplifying concepts and campaigns using principles from “Make it Stick” and “Building a Story Brand.”Make it Stick: https://amzn.to/2xm6xPnBuilding a Story Brand: https://amzn.to/2IV9U5hNews-Pew Research Center report about social media usage: http://www.pewinternet.org/2018/03/01/social-media-use-in-2018/-PDF on Top Email Subject Lines from Ask Formula: https://s3.amazonaws.com/ask-warming/Email-Subject-Line-Samples-FINAL.pdf?inf_contact_key=28ca53e19865bdb14bbbf48866e1d73cee94d3f3ef24fd570c0716b71686a8a4-The Eureka Springs City Advertising and Promotion Commission gave Halloween City $4,000 for marketing efforts: http://www.lovelycitizen.com/story/2513061.html-“Decorating Disney: Halloween” will be part of “31 Days of Halloween.” https://www.disneyabcpress.com/freeform/pressrelease/breaking-news-from-freeforms-2018-upfront-presentation/-Excellent article on influencers: https://www.fairobserver.com/culture/social-media-influencers-marketing-twitter-facebook-instagram-news-51421/-Tour companies experimenting with Halloween packages: https://www.gadventures.com.au/trips/draculashalloweenpartyintransylvania/EQHH/-Wired’s How Social Media Became a Pink Collar Job: “The assumption was that these jobs were extensions of what people would be doing for fun anyway.” https://www.wired.com/story/how-social-media-became-a-pink-collar-job/-Twitter introduces new US election candidate labels & launches its Political Campaigning Policy: https://marketingland.com/twitter-introduces-new-us-election-candidate-labels-launches-its-political-campaigning-policy-241017-FTC Guide -> https://www.ftc.gov/tips-advice/business-center/guidance/ftcs-endorsement-guides-what-people-are-askingLeadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFFFree Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com Subscribe to show notes: www.marketingyourattraction.com

We explore press kit essentials and media pitches. Subscribe for expanded show notes: www.marketingyourattraction.com Leadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFF Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

The hosts discuss the value of local business partnerships. News: Google Duplex, Skorr, AI Influencers.Leadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFFFree Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com Subscribe to show notes: www.marketingyourattraction.com

We explore press kit essentials and media pitches.Subscribe for expanded show notes: www.marketingyourattraction.comLeadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFFFree Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com

The hosts discuss the value of local business partnerships. News: Google Duplex, Skorr, AI Influencers. Leadership Symposium: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-attraction-leadership-symposium-2018-registration-45141589710?aff=0a3e2d60b4 Use ‘GANTOMINSIDER’ for $30 OFF Free Subscription to Seasonal Entertainment Source: http://seasonalentertainmentsource.com Subscribe to show notes: www.marketingyourattraction.com