Evolution of the Social Media Revolution and How to Future-Proof Your Efforts | with Seth Bridges
Brand to Fan Show Ep19
On this episode Seth Bridges joins Lauren to discuss the latest trends on LinkedIn and how companies can use the platform to showcase their culture and values. Tune in to learn how to attract potential customers and employees by building affinity with your audience.
Episode 19:
Welcome to episode 19 of the Brand to Fan Show, where we delve into the captivating world of fandom, uncovering its profound impact on brands and the fans they strive to connect with. In this episode, we embark on a fascinating journey through social media's evolution and fandom's unwavering allure.
As I have come to understand, fandom is not an irrational or abnormal phenomenon. It is the most natural way to assimilate into groups and support things that resonate with us. As I reflected on my enlightening conversation with Ron Tite, he emphasized the normality of fandom and how it aligns with our innate desire for connection. This realization resonated deeply, reminding me that my passion for fandom and fan studies has been a lifelong pursuit.
During my college years, as finals loomed, I questioned the traditional path of pursuing an MBA. The prospect of diving into business strategy, finances, and economics lacked the compelling force to ignite my passion. At that moment, I yearned for something more that would truly drive me forward. I imagined there was an alternate universe of study of fandom, a captivating fusion of sociology, technology, theory, culture, and American history. The idea of studying this amalgamation was enthralling, even though I ultimately didn't pursue a formal post-graduate degree in fan studies.
Nevertheless, my career journey has intertwined with exploring and examining fandom at every turn. I zigged and zagged as fan engagement became a calling card in my career. This podcast, the Brand to Fan Show, embodies my passion for unpacking concepts like customer experience, the nature of fandom, community-building, and empowering individuals within organizations.
This episode brings you a thought-provoking conversation with Seth Bridges, the COO and co-founder of Rival IQ. Seth and I have shared a professional relationship for over eight years, partnering on various endeavors and collaborating on data-driven marketer webinars. Our discussion dives into the evolution of social media, exploring its current landscape and how it intertwines with the Brand to Fan philosophy. As you listen, you'll witness the seamless integration of Brand to Fan principles even before the podcast's official launch. It is a testament to the core beliefs and values that drive this show.
On the other side of this enlightening conversation, I invite you to reach out and share your favorite episode, memorable guest, or impactful takeaway from our remarkable journey spanning 19 episodes (yay!). Your insights and experiences hold immense value, and I would be thrilled to hear from you. Contact me by emailing brandtofan at teaguefc.com or find us on Instagram @TeagueFC to join the conversation.
“Showing up every day in a relatable way is way more effective for building an actual connection.”
The Guest: Seth Bridges
Seth Bridges is the co-founder and COO of Rival IQ. The social media analytics platform gives marketers around the globe the insights and data they need to benchmark their performance. Seth lives in Seattle with his wife and three boys.
WHERE TO FIND SETH:
With Lauren on the Rival IQ Social Audit Course
Connect with Seth on LinkedIn
TL;DL (too long; didn’t listen)
My key takeaways from Episode 18 with Seth Bridges
The evolution of social media is heightening the importance of fandom.
Companies can use LinkedIn to showcase their culture and values, amplify employee content, and build affinity with their audience. LinkedIn offers more than media and content options on company pages, such as videos, polls, and stickers.
Future-proofing social media involves understanding audience needs and building connections through relatable content.
Investing in fundamental marketing pieces is crucial, focusing on human-to-human connections and personalized brand messaging.
Inspiring brands like the National Park Service, US Army Core of Engineers, and US Consumer Product Safety Commission create exceptional social media content despite being unexpected sources.
Marketers must create high-quality content to stand out in their audience’s newsfeeds and compete in social media.
In this Episode (Time Stamps):
[00:00:02] Brand to Fan podcast explores the fandom phenomenon.
[00:06:35] LinkedIn trends: spotlight culture and engage employees.
[00:12:22] Build fans, not just followers, for success.
[00:17:51] "Unlikely brands inspire with creative social media."
Show Credits
Brand to Fan Show is produced by Teague FC and supported by FanWagn
Audio production by Bryan Griggs / Griggs Production
Producers: Kimberly Voorhis, Ashley Ruiz and Carrie Hellbusch
Video Editing by Garrett Teague
AI assistance from Pictory.AI and CastMagic
And I’m your host, Lauren Teague.
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