Build It

The podcast discusses building value for long-term success through emotional connections, market research, and branding. Dave, John and Nik decode pricing strategies and fan reactions, optimizing ticket prices for events. Insights on enhancing ticket value perception and strategies for season ticket sales are also explored, along with casual banter and a soccer club startup advertisement.

3 Takeaways

•Understanding customer value is crucial for effective pricing strategies.

•Enhancing customer experience through unique offerings can improve value perception.

•Market research and tailored pricing strategies are essential to meet audience preferences.

Deep Dives

Valuing the Product and Establishing Pricing Strategy

The podcast discussion delves into the importance of accurately assessing the value of a product or service in order to establish an effective pricing strategy. It emphasizes that value perception can be influenced by both tangible and intangible factors, such as the emotional experience offered to customers. By focusing on understanding what customers find valuable and engaging in dialogue with them, businesses can tailor their pricing and offerings to meet consumer preferences.

Enhancing Customer Experience and Perceived Value

The podcast highlights the significance of enhancing customer experience to increase perceived value, especially in the context of a soccer club. It suggests innovative approaches, like offering exclusive experiences or benefits alongside ticket purchases, to add value for customers. By providing unique and memorable experiences, clubs can differentiate themselves, build stronger relationships with fans, and attract more supporters.

Differentiation in Pricing and Adding Experiential Value

The discussion underscores the importance of differentiation in pricing strategies to maximize perceived value. By offering tiered pricing structures or special incentives for early purchases, businesses can create a sense of exclusivity and increase appeal. Additionally, incorporating experiential elements, like unique events or collaborations, can further enhance the value proposition for customers.

Understanding Market Dynamics and Unique Audience Preferences

The podcast emphasizes the need to understand market dynamics and tailor pricing and offerings to specific audience preferences. It highlights the diverse nature of audience segments and how unique demographics may require different pricing approaches. By conducting market research and engaging with customers, organizations can adapt their strategies to align with market needs and enhance overall value perception.

Building Sustainable Business Models and Community Engagement

The discussion touches on the significance of building sustainable business models while fostering community engagement. It stresses the importance of long-term sustainability, which may involve evaluating pricing structures and revenue sources. By actively engaging with the community, understanding local dynamics, and offering value-driven experiences, businesses can create a lasting impact and establish strong relationships with their audience.

Sarah Levinger, a Consumer Behavior Strategist, discusses the power of perspective and long-term brand building, the importance of connections and attentional bias, the psychology of marketing and branding, understanding generational differences in marketing, and expanding the market and creating a different experience.

Big shout out to our special guest co-host on this episode, Ashely.

Key Takeaways

Zach Fisher joined us to talk about Year 2 with AFC Colombia, their merger with Missouri Reign, and the Midwest Premier League's announcement of intention to move toward a tiered structure

https://afccomo.com/afc-columbia-and-missouri-reign-announce-merger-to-elevate-soccer-in-mid-missouri/

https://midwestpl.com/2030-plan-the-mwpl-announces-new-league-vision/

Michael Hitchcock has a soccer problem. It's not a bad thing. It's definitely a Good Thing. He likes to start soccer clubs. He's very good at it too.

Learn more about his story, his vision, and his ethos. Find out how he invests in local talent to embed the club in the community and leans on his vast network to fill the gaps in expertise.

And if that's not enough, he's just opened the Pro/Rel Soccer shop.

Join Nik & John in conversation with Chicago soccer stalwart and pioneer of walking soccer, George Gorecki. The gents talk through George's time with his club, as part of Chicago's storied National Soccer League, and the merger with the Metropolitan Soccer League, before diving into the exciting world of walking soccer. You'll get the history, the growth, and the possibilities, all in one hour!

Find George and his friends here

Learn more about walking soccer here and here.

In this episode, hosts Nik and John are joined by special guest Jimmie Martin, host of the Bluegrass Soccercast podcast.

The three dive into the Kentucky soccer scene, discussing the pro, semi-pro, amateur, and college teams in the state. Jimmie provides an overview of the different leagues and clubs, including Louisville City FC, Lexington Sporting Club, and Bowling Green FC.

They compare the fan experiences, stadium environments, and community outreach efforts of the various teams. Jimmie highlights some of the standout marketing and promotions he's seen local clubs implement.

The hosts also explore the connections (or lack thereof) between the pro clubs, colleges, youth clubs, and local semi-pro sides. They debate how to best promote the "pyramid" and grow the game in communities through cross-promotion.

On the podcasting side, they dissect how to build an audience, monetize through sponsorships, and balance club-specific vs. wider soccer coverage. Jimmie outlines his production schedule and social media strategy for the Bluegrass Soccercast.

Check out the Bluegrass Soccer Show when you're done.

And if you like what we're doing (why wouldn't you?) buy us a coffee.

In this episode, we speak with Brad Seymour, President of the Windy City Bulls, the G League affiliate of the Chicago Bulls. Brad shares his insights on running a successful minor league basketball franchise, including how they approach ticket sales, promotions, partnerships, and creating a great fan experience.

Key topics discussed:

We feel like there is much to be learned from Brad's time in minor league sports, and you'll gain useful insights into engaging fans, corporate partners, and the local community. Tune in to hear Brad's minor league sports wisdom!

Founder and managing director of Harpost Football Club, Johnny Freeston is our guest today as we discuss the club's history and its success. We touch on the challenges of running the club daily and the secret sources for its success. Freeston, who has led the club to over a dozen trophies and championships, emphasizes the club's goal of fostering community and providing opportunities for players to develop. Then we discuss the importance of culture and advice for non-league soccer clubs in making an impact on the pitch and beyond.