Get Up and Scale Podcast

What makes women say yes to one experience and scroll past another? In this episode of Get Up And Scale, we're joined by Madison and Shauna from The Batch App, a leading marketplace for bachelorette parties and group experiences, to unpack how women discover, evaluate, and book experiences—and what operators can do to stand out. From the rise of at-home hibachi and drag brunches to the importance of video, social proof, and emotional language, this conversation is packed with real examples and conversion-driving insights. We explore why women plan trips around "hero experiences," how small wording changes can dramatically impact bookings, and why personality-driven, interactive entertainment is dominating the group travel space. If you market to women, sell group experiences, or want to improve your conversion rates, this episode delivers practical, immediately applicable takeaways. Topics include: Experience design for female buyers Content and imagery that actually convert Social proof and pricing psychology Emerging trends in group travel and entertainment How platforms like Batch "Batch-ify" listings to increase bookings Learn what women want—and how to build experiences they can't stop talking about. 👉 Learn more about Batch at letsbatch.com

In this packed reunion episode, the hosts dive deep into what’s been going on behind the scenes—including big acquisitions, marketing experiments, and the ever-evolving impact of AI on the tour industry.   💥 Topics Covered: TourScale’s acquisition of Cruisin’ Tikis and integrating 45+ locations Kai's strategy for managing change with nervous franchisees (yes, even overlapping markets!) Justin’s conversation with Gary Vee and the “create pain” philosophy for business alignment The unstoppable rise of AI tools like ChatGPT and how it’s already shifting traffic and customer behavior Why experiential businesses might be the most future-proof segment out there Kai's bold vision: making Cruisin’ Tikis a household name What Airbnb’s new app and OTA platforms mean for tour operators S easonal pivots, off-season marketing tactics, and the power of hyper-local adaptation Ending tradition?  A surprise cameo from Kai’s son, August, with a new signature outro: “Dad, it’s dinner time!”

In this packed reunion episode, the hosts dive deep into what’s been going on behind the scenes—including big acquisitions, marketing experiments, and the ever-evolving impact of AI on the tour industry.   💥 Topics Covered: TourScale’s acquisition of Cruisin’ Tikis and integrating 45+ locations Kai's strategy for managing change with nervous franchisees (yes, even overlapping markets!) Justin’s conversation with Gary Vee and the “create pain” philosophy for business alignment The unstoppable rise of AI tools like ChatGPT and how it’s already shifting traffic and customer behavior Why experiential businesses might be the most future-proof segment out there Kai's bold vision: making Cruisin’ Tikis a household name What Airbnb’s new app and OTA platforms mean for tour operators S easonal pivots, off-season marketing tactics, and the power of hyper-local adaptation Ending tradition?  A surprise cameo from Kai’s son, August, with a new signature outro: “Dad, it’s dinner time!”

In this insightful episode, hosts Justin Buzzi, Kai Kaapro, and Brett Ridenour sit down with Dustin Miller to explore how his platform Conversion Assist is helping tour operators turn missed opportunities into booked tours using cutting-edge automation and CRM systems. You’ll hear how smart businesses are recovering lost revenue by automatically texting missed calls, customizing email flows for repeat guests, and engaging customers with real-time messaging. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at AI call routing, voice bots, and how to optimize your post-tour journey for maximum reviews and retention. If you're running a busy tour company, this episode will show you how to work smarter—not harder. 🎯 Visit https://conversionassist.me to learn more.

In this insightful episode, hosts Justin Buzzi, Kai Kaapro, and Brett Ridenour sit down with Dustin Miller to explore how his platform Conversion Assist is helping tour operators turn missed opportunities into booked tours using cutting-edge automation and CRM systems. You’ll hear how smart businesses are recovering lost revenue by automatically texting missed calls, customizing email flows for repeat guests, and engaging customers with real-time messaging. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at AI call routing, voice bots, and how to optimize your post-tour journey for maximum reviews and retention. If you're running a busy tour company, this episode will show you how to work smarter—not harder. 🎯 Visit https://conversionassist.me to learn more.

In this interview, Ryan Lloyd takes us behind the scenes of his success, sharing the story of how the Pedal Tavern concept started, the hurdles of expanding to new cities, and the key factors that have kept the business thriving. Ryan also talks about the future of his business, the impact of growing a lifestyle brand, and what it takes to keep that spark alive as an entrepreneur.

In this interview, Ryan Lloyd takes us behind the scenes of his success, sharing the story of how the Pedal Tavern concept started, the hurdles of expanding to new cities, and the key factors that have kept the business thriving. Ryan also talks about the future of his business, the impact of growing a lifestyle brand, and what it takes to keep that spark alive as an entrepreneur.

Cameron Clark talks about how his journey in the tourism industry has shaped his approach to scaling businesses with a human-first mindset. Learn the strategies and values behind his growing ventures, from Alaska to San Francisco Bay, and why people matter more than profits. Find Cameron on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameronclark/

Cameron Clark talks about how his journey in the tourism industry has shaped his approach to scaling businesses with a human-first mindset. Learn the strategies and values behind his growing ventures, from Alaska to San Francisco Bay, and why people matter more than profits. Find Cameron on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameronclark/

Join us as we sit down with Ryan O’Grady, the CEO of Fotaflo, who’s spent 17 years working with tour and activity operators to transform how businesses engage their customers. Ryan shares the origin story of Fotaflo, from filming adventure TV shows around the globe to building a company that’s revolutionizing tourism marketing. Discover why giving away media can drive more referrals, repeat customers, and long-term revenue than traditional photo sales—and how Ryan’s insights can help any experience-based business thrive in the digital age.

Join us as we sit down with Ryan O’Grady, the CEO of Fotaflo, who’s spent 17 years working with tour and activity operators to transform how businesses engage their customers. Ryan shares the origin story of Fotaflo, from filming adventure TV shows around the globe to building a company that’s revolutionizing tourism marketing. Discover why giving away media can drive more referrals, repeat customers, and long-term revenue than traditional photo sales—and how Ryan’s insights can help any experience-based business thrive in the digital age.

In the kick-off episode of Season 2 of the Get Up and Scale podcast, hosts Brett Ridenour, Justin Buzzi, and Kai Kaapro discuss their experiences and growth over the past year. They highlight the challenges and successes they faced, particularly during the busy conference season. The hosts delve into the new systems they've implemented, including an innovative customer relationship management (CRM) system designed to enhance the customer journey before and after bookings. They also provide a preview of exciting projects for 2025, including creating a comprehensive back-office solution for their franchisees that covers marketing, customer service, and bookkeeping. The episode is filled with enthusiasm and anticipation for the upcoming year, underlining the core values of working hard, scaling businesses, and continuous improvement.

In the kick-off episode of Season 2 of the Get Up and Scale podcast, hosts Brett Ridenour, Justin Buzzi, and Kai Kaapro discuss their experiences and growth over the past year. They highlight the challenges and successes they faced, particularly during the busy conference season. The hosts delve into the new systems they've implemented, including an innovative customer relationship management (CRM) system designed to enhance the customer journey before and after bookings. They also provide a preview of exciting projects for 2025, including creating a comprehensive back-office solution for their franchisees that covers marketing, customer service, and bookkeeping. The episode is filled with enthusiasm and anticipation for the upcoming year, underlining the core values of working hard, scaling businesses, and continuous improvement.

In this episode of Get Up and Scale, we’re joined by Pete Kootsikas, an entrepreneur who has built a multi-faceted tour and activity empire. From launching one of the first party bike businesses in Nashville to branching into boats, retail, and even transitional housing, Pete’s story is one of diversification, persistence, and innovation. Recorded live at the Arival Conference, Pete shares the highs and lows of scaling his businesses, including how he navigated unexpected challenges like a bankrupt pontoon supplier and the Nashville tourism boom. He also dives into lessons learned, such as the importance of respecting employees, adapting to market needs, and just trying new ideas—even if they fail. Whether you’re an established operator or just starting out, Pete’s journey is filled with actionable insights and inspiring anecdotes for anyone looking to scale their business.

In this episode of Get Up and Scale, we’re joined by Pete Kootsikas, an entrepreneur who has built a multi-faceted tour and activity empire. From launching one of the first party bike businesses in Nashville to branching into boats, retail, and even transitional housing, Pete’s story is one of diversification, persistence, and innovation. Recorded live at the Arival Conference, Pete shares the highs and lows of scaling his businesses, including how he navigated unexpected challenges like a bankrupt pontoon supplier and the Nashville tourism boom. He also dives into lessons learned, such as the importance of respecting employees, adapting to market needs, and just trying new ideas—even if they fail. Whether you’re an established operator or just starting out, Pete’s journey is filled with actionable insights and inspiring anecdotes for anyone looking to scale their business.

In this special live episode from the Arival Conference, we chat with Travis Vaughan, co-founder and CEO of TourBase. Travis shares how his company empowers tour operators and entrepreneurs to build their own online travel agencies (OTAs) with a localized, personal touch. We dive into the journey of TourBase, from its origins in Alaska to expanding franchises across the U.S. and Caribbean, and discuss the challenges and opportunities in scaling a travel-tech business. Discover how TourBase is reshaping the travel industry by supporting operators with cutting-edge tech, streamlined marketing strategies, and a franchise model that emphasizes local expertise. Whether you’re a tour operator, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about innovative travel solutions, this episode is packed with insights. Learn more about TourBase at TourBase.com and join us in exploring the future of curated travel experiences!

In this special live episode from the Arival Conference, we chat with Travis Vaughan, co-founder and CEO of TourBase. Travis shares how his company empowers tour operators and entrepreneurs to build their own online travel agencies (OTAs) with a localized, personal touch. We dive into the journey of TourBase, from its origins in Alaska to expanding franchises across the U.S. and Caribbean, and discuss the challenges and opportunities in scaling a travel-tech business. Discover how TourBase is reshaping the travel industry by supporting operators with cutting-edge tech, streamlined marketing strategies, and a franchise model that emphasizes local expertise. Whether you’re a tour operator, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about innovative travel solutions, this episode is packed with insights. Learn more about TourBase at TourBase.com and join us in exploring the future of curated travel experiences!

In this episode, Justin and Brett dive deep into the world of social media advertising, revealing why boosting posts is only scratching the surface. They discuss the power of the Meta Ads Manager, how to properly target customers, and strategies to boost your return on ad spend. Whether you’re just starting with paid ads or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers insights you won’t want to miss! Hosts: Justin Buzzi (CEO of Get Up and Go Kayaking) & Brett Ridenour (Director of Technology & Marketing at TourScale)  Key Topics Discussed: Why boosting posts isn’t enough for effective social media advertising. Breaking down Meta’s Ads Manager for Facebook and Instagram ads. Essential targeting strategies: who, what, when, and where of ads. The difference between prospecting and retargeting campaigns. How to leverage customer data for better ad performance. Setting up conversion tracking for maximum ROI. Practical tips for improving creative content in ads. Managing ad budgets and understanding important metrics.

In this episode, Justin and Brett dive deep into the world of social media advertising, revealing why boosting posts is only scratching the surface. They discuss the power of the Meta Ads Manager, how to properly target customers, and strategies to boost your return on ad spend. Whether you’re just starting with paid ads or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers insights you won’t want to miss! Hosts: Justin Buzzi (CEO of Get Up and Go Kayaking) & Brett Ridenour (Director of Technology & Marketing at TourScale)  Key Topics Discussed: Why boosting posts isn’t enough for effective social media advertising. Breaking down Meta’s Ads Manager for Facebook and Instagram ads. Essential targeting strategies: who, what, when, and where of ads. The difference between prospecting and retargeting campaigns. How to leverage customer data for better ad performance. Setting up conversion tracking for maximum ROI. Practical tips for improving creative content in ads. Managing ad budgets and understanding important metrics.

Join us for an engaging episode with Spencer Finch, founder of Mad Moose Rentals & Tours and a partner at RISE Executive Partners. Spencer discusses the challenges and triumphs of scaling an adventure tourism business, transitioning from hands-on operations to strategic growth, and the innovative methods he uses to optimize sales and manage seasonal fluctuations. Get insights on creating impactful sales teams, leveraging reviews for marketing, and using creative strategies to stay ahead. Perfect for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to scale and succeed. Don’t miss out! Spencer Finch on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-finch-36a3445b/ Rise Executive Partners on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@riseexecutivepartners/