After Hours Buzz

In this conversation, Toni Caracciolo shares her remarkable journey through the marketing and attractions industry, reflecting on how her early experiences shaped her career and leadership style. She discusses the importance of building fully integrated marketing strategies, why strong data should guide creative decisions, and how understanding the guest experience is central to effective storytelling. Toni opens up about launching major attractions, navigating the challenges of evolving audiences, and developing a unified brand voice across large teams. She also highlights the role mentorship played in her growth, the power of cross-functional collaboration, and why adaptability is essential in a constantly shifting marketing landscape.

• All strong marketing plans begin with a clear situation analysis.
• Objectives must be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
• Effective strategy requires deeply understanding target audiences and crafting message pillars.
• Tactics need clearly defined actions, owners, and timelines.
• Marketing is a living, breathing system that must be continuously optimized.
• Data should inspire creativity, not limit it.
• Cross-functional teamwork is crucial when building and launching large marketing campaigns.
• Mentorship can fundamentally shape a marketer’s career trajectory.
• Great leadership comes from communication, listening, and empathy.
• Long-term success requires honoring work-life balance and knowing when to reset.

00:00 — Introduction to Marketing Strategies

07:27 — Toni’s Professional Journey

10:55 — Building a Unifying Brand Voice

19:40 — Launching New Attractions

24:14 — Redefining Audience Connections

32:51 — Overview of Falcons Beyond

43:30 — Exploring Non-Alcoholic Refreshments

44:27 — Building a Full-Funnel Marketing Plan

46:45 — The Evolution of Marketable Experiences

50:31 — The SauceTech Framework for Marketing Plans

54:15 — The Importance of Cross-Functional Collaboration

58:29 — The Role of Marketing in the Experience Economy

01:01:34 — Turning Objectives into Actionable Tactics

01:04:13 — Balancing Data-Driven Insights with Creativity

01:07:20 — The Necessity of Pivoting in Marketing Plans

01:11:27 — Mentorship and Leadership in Marketing

Summary

In this episode of After Hours Buzz, we sit down with Kyle Sturley from the Greater Orlando Sports Commission to unpack the strategy, teamwork, and behind-the-scenes coordination that power some of Central Florida’s biggest sporting events.

Kyle shares her professional journey in the sports industry and offers a clear look at what it takes to market major events, collaborate across multiple counties, and strengthen Orlando’s position as a leading sports destination. She discusses the importance of communication, relationship building, and community engagement, along with the long-term planning required to bring high-profile sports moments to life in Orlando.

From celebrating women in sports through the Women in Sports Luncheon to recognizing the unsung heroes who make major events possible at The Sporties, Kyle highlights the people, processes, and partnerships that shape Orlando’s sports ecosystem. She also shares valuable insights into the future of sports tourism and the exciting initiatives on the horizon for the region.

Takeaways

• Kyle Sturley shares her journey to becoming VP of Marketing at the Greater Orlando Sports Commission.
• Orlando’s unique position as a sports destination due to its theme parks, venues, and overall infrastructure.
• The role of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission in driving economic impact through sports events.
• Insights into the bidding process for major sports events in Orlando.
• The importance of collaboration among stakeholders and building strong relationships within the sports community.
• Kyle emphasizes the need for adaptability and flexibility in sports marketing.
• The growing impact of youth sports, especially volleyball and soccer, on the local sports landscape.
• The importance of recognizing and celebrating the individuals who work behind the scenes to make events successful.

Chapters

00:00 The Bourbon Break: Getting to Know Kyle

03:12 Kyle's Journey into Marketing and Sports

04:53 The Role of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission

06:15 Growth and Evolution in Sports Marketing

08:36 Event Management and Collaboration Challenges

11:14 Marketing Strategies for Sports Events

14:07 Behind the Scenes of Event Bidding

16:31 Lessons Learned from Event Management

29:51 Lessons from Early Events

35:11 Building Relationships in the Sports Industry

35:57 International Experience and Sports

36:33 Orlando's Unique Sports Landscape

40:58 Popular Sports in Orlando

45:09 Collaboration Across the Sports Community

46:52 Signature Events: Celebrating Women in Sports

53:25 Future of Sports in Orlando

Summary

In our first-ever solo episode of After Hours Buzz, we’re introducing Wine Down Wednesday — a new series where Grace Elizabeth pours a glass and dives into the latest trends, insights, and stories shaping the marketing world.

In this episode, Grace discusses the latest updates in digital marketing, focusing on Meta's Andromeda update. She shares her personal experience with wine and transitions into the significant changes in Meta's advertising platform. The conversation covers the importance of creative diversification, the new AI-driven ad system, and the necessary adjustments advertisers must make to adapt to these changes. Grace emphasizes the need for a simplified account structure and the future of advertising on Meta, encouraging listeners to embrace the new strategies for success.

Struggling with Meta Ad performance? Book a free strategy session today: https://meetings.hubspot.com/grace143

Learn more about Social Media Advertising. Explore our business page for more insights and strategies: https://www.chatterbuzzmedia.com/social-media-advertising/

Takeaways

• Meta's biggest platform update since 2019 is Andromeda.
• Andromeda is Meta's new ad retrieval system.
• Creative diversification is crucial for effective advertising.
• Meta recommends having 20 new ad concepts per week.
• The future of advertising is focused on creative portfolios.
• Consolidating campaigns is essential for success.
• The AI will optimize ad delivery based on user behavior.
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Chapters

00:00

Wine Wednesday: A Toast to New Beginnings

02:52

Meta's Andromeda Update: A Game Changer in Advertising

07:51

Understanding Andromeda: The New Ad Retrieval System

12:40

Creative Diversification: The Key to Success

19:46

Adapting to Change: Strategies for Advertisers

In this episode, Adeta Gayah, Senior Director of Social Media and Content at Visit Orlando, shares her inspiring journey from early innovations in hospitality marketing to leading large-scale destination campaigns that connect with audiences around the world. She dives into how authenticity, emotional storytelling, and cultural awareness fuel meaningful engagement, and how the lines between influencer marketing and content creation continue to evolve.

Adeta also highlights Visit Orlando’s most impactful initiatives, from the 20th anniversary of Magical Dining to the Gen Z–driven City Break campaign, while offering a forward-looking perspective on how AI, creativity, and community will shape the future of tourism marketing.

• Adeta Gayah’s 15+ year marketing journey shows the power of adaptability and lifelong learning.
• Emotional storytelling remains the foundation of authentic digital engagement.
• True innovation often emerges from solving unexpected challenges.
• Artificial intelligence is redefining how marketers create, analyze, and connect.
• Cultural awareness is key to building campaigns that resonate globally.
• Successful influencer marketing starts with clarity: clear goals, audiences, and expectations.
• Social listening provides the data needed to make emotionally intelligent decisions.
• Magical Dining continues to elevate Orlando’s culinary scene while giving back to local charities.
• Reaching diverse audiences strengthens both community connection and brand impact.
• Visit Orlando’s City Break campaign redefines how destinations engage Gen Z travelers.
• Great leaders inspire by providing a clear vision and empowering their teams to bring that vision to life.

00:00 – Introduction to Adeta Gayah and Her Journey

03:56 – Innovations in Marketing: Early Career Insights

07:44 – Cultural Adaptation in Marketing Campaigns

12:06 – Building Authentic Online Communities

16:02 – Influencer Marketing vs. Content Creation

19:48 – Defining Influencers and Content Creators

23:57 – Strategies for Successful Influencer Campaigns

27:58 – Challenges and Best Practices in Influencer Marketing

32:21 – Understanding Social Listening and Its Impact

35:49 – Celebrating 20 Years of Magical Dining

40:32 – Targeting Diverse Audiences for Visit Orlando

45:14 – Navigating Post-COVID Visitor Trends

49:43 – The Future of Travel Marketing with AI

52:15 – Spill it

Summary

In this episode of After Hours Buzz, host Grace Urwin sits down with Colin Van Exel, founder of Ecxelerated Sales Solutions and a veteran sales leader with decades of experience guiding Fortune 500 companies and SMBs. Together, they explore The Buyer’s Journey, discussing how businesses can move prospects from awareness to advocacy while building trust and driving sustainable growth.

Colin explains the common pitfalls companies face when trying to scale, why asking the right discovery questions matters, and how to create a revenue engine that delivers consistent results. He also shares his perspective on leadership, strategy, and the tools that help teams perform at their best.

In this conversation, Colin dives into:

• Defining the five stages of the Buyer’s Journey and why they matter
• How to spot bottlenecks and inefficiencies in your sales funnel
• The role of servant leadership in building trust and effective teams
• Essential tools, KPIs, and metrics for scaling sales
• Why understanding customer problems is the key to consistent growth

Chapters

00:00

Introduction and Personal Insights

05:22

Ty Temel's Marketing Journey

10:57

Lessons from Google Ads Experience

17:37

Google Ads Strategies and Metrics

21:46

Industry Insights and Best Practices

26:17

Optimizing Campaigns for Cost Efficiency

30:07

Patience in Google Ads Management

31:56

Essential Tracking for Google Ads

33:44

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Google Ads

35:28

Navigating Google Ads Campaign Structures

39:57

Strategies for Local vs. National Campaigns

43:47

Top Tips for Successful Google Ads

46:42

The Importance of CRM in Marketing

48:36

Future Trends in Google Ads

Summary

In this episode of After Hours Buzz, host Grace Urwin engages with Ty Temel, a seasoned expert in Google Ads and digital marketing. They discuss Ty's journey from a college student running ads for friends to becoming a senior paid media manager at Google. Ty shares valuable insights on the importance of data tracking, effective Google Ads strategies, and the evolving landscape of digital marketing. The conversation also touches on the challenges of various industries in PPC advertising and the significance of retargeting for brand awareness. Ty emphasizes the need for patience and strategic planning in running successful Google Ads campaigns, while also highlighting future trends in the industry.

In this conversation, Ty dives into:

• Breaking down the essentials of building high-performing Google Ads campaigns
• Explaining the difference between campaign strategies for local vs. national businesses
• Unpacking the power of retargeting and customer intent
• Sharing why patience and long-term thinking are critical when it comes to success
• Covering emerging trends like Performance Max and the shift toward exact match keywords

Chapters

00:00

Introduction and Personal Insights

05:22

Ty Temel's Marketing Journey

10:57

Lessons from Google Ads Experience

17:37

Google Ads Strategies and Metrics

21:46

Industry Insights and Best Practices

26:17

Optimizing Campaigns for Cost Efficiency

30:07

Patience in Google Ads Management

31:56

Essential Tracking for Google Ads

33:44

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Google Ads

35:28

Navigating Google Ads Campaign Structures

39:57

Strategies for Local vs. National Campaigns

43:47

Top Tips for Successful Google Ads

46:42

The Importance of CRM in Marketing

48:36

Future Trends in Google Ads

Summary

In this episode of After Hours Buzz, Grace Urwin sits down with Dwayne Kent, founder of The Ark Network Group, to unpack why video is the #1 marketing tool businesses should be leveraging today.

What started as a response to the challenges of the job market has evolved into a brand that helps entrepreneurs show up with clarity, confidence, and strategy—especially on camera. From navigating a rebrand to launching impactful video campaigns, Dwayne shares how The Ark is helping businesses cut through the noise and build lasting trust.

In this conversation, Dwayne dives into:

• How The Ark evolved from networking events to a full-service business support model
• Why video storytelling creates emotional impact and drives real results
• Tips for building brand trust through authentic, consistent video content
• How to level up your video strategy in 2025—even with AI and DIY tools in the mix
• What marketers often miss about video distribution and client communication
• The future of The Ark and how it's scaling to become a household name

Whether you’re camera shy or content-savvy, this episode is packed with insights on how video can move your business forward—one frame at a time.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Technical Setup

01:29 Dwayne Kent's Journey and Achievements

03:27 The Evolution of ARC's Services

06:07 Rebranding and Strategic Shifts

08:21 The Emotional Impact of Business Decisions

10:07 The Importance of Video in Business

12:43 Video Marketing Trends and Strategies

15:20 Understanding Client Needs in Video Production

17:41 Trends in Social Media and Video Marketing

20:57 The Importance of Distribution

22:59 The Role of AI in Video Production

24:39 Lessons from Client Projects

29:15 Future Aspirations and Brand Transformation

Links & Resources:

• Want to connect with Dwayne? Find him on LinkedIn: Dwayne Kent

Summary

On this episode of After Hours Buzz, we’re pouring a glass and getting candid with home builder marketing expert Anna Almirall.

Anna brings a refreshing take on what it really takes to stand out in today’s competitive housing market. From blending digital and traditional strategies to weaving storytelling into every community launch, she shares smart, practical insights that even the biggest builders can learn from.

In this conversation, Anna dives into:

• Why floorplans are only part of the story—and how to lead with lifestyle and emotion
• How marketers can align with sales teams without the usual chaos
• The importance of video content (and why done is better than perfect)
• The evolving role of AI and how it’s shaping buyer engagement
• How to measure real marketing impact and prep for what’s next in the industry

Grab a glass of Sauvignon Blanc and settle in. This episode is a toast to smarter strategy, clearer messaging, and building marketing foundations that actually convert. 🍷

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Home Builder Marketing Insights

02:31 Anna's Journey in Home Builder Marketing

05:30 The Importance of a Balanced Marketing Mix

08:11 Analyzing Marketing Strategies for Home Builders

10:28 Successes and Failures in Marketing Campaigns

12:05 The Role of Video Content in Marketing

13:03 Competing with Larger Builders

14:59 The Importance of Community Storytelling

15:44 Measuring Marketing Success

18:07 The Impact of AI on Content Development

19:38 Evolution of Home Building Marketing

21:55 Challenges in the Home Building Industry

23:44 Preparing for New Developments

24:04 Understanding Consumer Demographics

25:18 Digital vs. Traditional Marketing Strategies

26:43 Coaching Junior Marketers

29:12 Trends and Innovations in Home Builder Marketing

30:48 Staying Ahead in Marketing Trends

32:36 Final Tips for Marketing Success

Links & Resources:

• Want to connect with Anna? Find her on LinkedIn: Anna Almirall

Learn more about Home Builder Marketing and how you can elevate your strategy.

• To learn more about home builder marketing services, visit our website: Chatter Buzz Home Builder Marketing
• To get in touch with our experts, book a free strategy session here: Book Meeting

Pour yourself a bourbon and settle in. This episode of After Hours Buzz is serving up sharp insights with a splash of AI. We sat down with Matt Deaton, Chief Growth Officer at Devsu, to talk about how his team is dragging legacy systems into the modern age and mixing artificial intelligence into the marketing space. From his early passion for sales to the future of account-based marketing (ABM), Matt drops some wisdom on how to grow your business and career with intention, data, and a little experimentation.

Takeaways

• Why Devsu is passionate about modernizing outdated tech and how that powers better marketing.
• How AI is shaking up development, personalization, and sales strategies.
• Why data storytelling matters more than dashboards.
• The real reason ABM is beating traditional lead gen.
• Matt’s career tip of the year: be curious, be valuable, and play the long game.

Chapters

00:00 Work-Life Balance and Remote Work Challenges

01:51 Introduction to DevSoup and Its Services

05:22 Matt Deaton's Professional Journey

15:25 Sales and Marketing Strategies Evolution

19:05 The Art of Storytelling in Data

22:48 AI in Marketing and Sales

30:12 The Shift from Traditional Lead Generation to ABM

40:57 Measuring Success in ABM Strategies

44:12 The Secret to Career Advancement: Relentless Curiosity

Links & Resources:

• Learn more about Devsu and their mission: https://devsu.com/
• Want to connect with Matt? Find him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattdeatonmba/ or Email Matt at [email protected]

Learn more about ABM Marketing and how you can elevate your B2B Marketing Strategy

• To learn more about Account Based Marketing. Visit our website:https://www.chatterbuzzmedia.com/account-based-marketing-agency/
• To get in touch with our experts, book a free strategy session here: https://meetings.hubspot.com/grace143?uuid=470de0e3-0873-428b-b1bf-5f81e1bd1124

Summary

In this episode of After Hours Buzz, Grace and Bernadette Mural Boesch sip on margarita mocktails and dive into a conversation all about creativity, community, and the magic that happens when those two worlds collide. Bernadette shares her journey from graphic designer to community engagement leader at OUC – The Reliable One, and how she’s using design and storytelling to build real connections across the city.

They chat through everything from leading creative teams and budgeting for bold ideas to staying curious in the face of challenges. If you are interested in meaningful marketing, creative strategy, and a little happy hour inspiration, you’ll love this episode.

Takeaways

• Bernadette's journey into graphic design started in her early college career.
• She transitioned to community engagement to explore new growth opportunities.
• Creativity is essential in marketing and community engagement.
• Overcoming negative feedback can fuel determination and success.
• Curiosity should guide leadership and problem-solving.
• Budgeting for creative projects requires business knowledge and flexibility.
• Building a creativity bank is crucial for generating ideas.
• Networking and community involvement enhance creative growth.
• AI is transforming the creative landscape and marketing strategies.
• Rebranding creative teams can shift perceptions from service to strategic partners.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and First Guest

01:37 Grace's Journey into Graphic Design

09:44 Transitioning to Community Engagement at OUC

16:19 The Role of Creative Marketing in Community Engagement

21:57 OUC's Commitment to Creativity and Community Impact

24:47 Evolution of Creative Processes at OUC

26:53 Navigating the Business Side of Creativity

31:12 The Art of Selling Feelings Through Design

34:21 Fostering Creativity in a Structured Environment

37:10 Building a Creative Community and Networking

43:43 The Impact of AI on Creative Marketing

49:03 Budgeting and Cost-Saving Strategies in Creative Projects

51:59 Leading with Curiosity: A Key to Effective Management

To learn more about how OUC – The Reliable One supports community engagement: https://www.ouc.com/community/commitment/

Need creative design support from the industry's best? Book a discovery call today: https://www.chatterbuzzmedia.com/