Shows
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp. 28 From Missed Calls to Booked Tours: Dustin Miller on Scaling Smart w/ Conversion AssistIn 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 to...2025-05-2055 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp. 27 Scaling Fun Businesses with Ryan LloydIn 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.2025-02-2516 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp 26. People Over Profit: Insights from Cameron ClarkCameron 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/2025-02-1219 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp. 25 Ryan O'Grady On Why Giving Away Photos is the Secret to Scaling Your Tourism BusinessJoin 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.2025-01-2216 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp. 24: CRM Talk, Goals for 2025, and Season 2 Begins!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...2024-12-1743 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp 23. Pete Kootsikas on Scaling Big with Trial and GrowthIn 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 r...2024-12-1119 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp. 22 DIY OTA? Travis Vaughan on Turning Ideas into BusinessesIn 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...2024-12-0519 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp. 21 Mastering Meta Ads: Boost vs. Ads Manager – What Really WorksIn 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 enoug...2024-09-1827 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp. 20 Boost Your Tourism Business with Spencer Finch’s Google My Business HackJoin 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-36a3...2024-08-071h 02
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp 19. From Overwhelm to Organized: Effective Time Management TipsHow do you currently manage your time, and are you truly making the most of your day? In this episode of the Get Up and Scale podcast, hosts Kai Kaapro, Justin Buzzi, and Brett Ridenour dive deep into one of the most crucial aspects of running a business: time management. They share their personal experiences, favorite tools, and practical tips for managing tasks effectively. Whether you’re a solopreneur juggling multiple roles or a leader looking to optimize your team’s efficiency, this episode is packed with insights to help you get things done and grow your busi...2024-08-0131 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp 18. How Business Operators Adapt to Climate HurdlesIn this episode of Get Up and Scale, hosts Kai Kaapro, Justin Buzzi, and Brett Ridenour dive into two pressing issues facing business operators today: weather-related challenges and the complexities of marketing funds. The team discusses how unpredictable weather, particularly heavy rains in the Midwest, impacts boating businesses, sharing insights from a small boating shop in Oshkosh and their own franchisees. They also tackle the ongoing legal battle between Bojangles and its franchisees over the transparency of their marketing fund. Tune in to hear expert advice on weatherproofing your business and managing marketing funds effectively. WE DO...2024-07-2417 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp 17. Exploring Private Equity and Franchising in TourismWelcome to the Get Up and Scale Podcast with hosts Kai Kaapro and Justin Buzzi. In this episode, we dive into the latest news in the tourism industry, with a primary focus on private equity's growing interest in franchising. We examine why franchising is less prevalent in tourism, discuss the potential for replication in various types of tours, and consider both the challenges and advantages of converting existing businesses into franchises. The hosts also analyze successful strategies from leading franchises like Crumbl Cookies and discuss the impact of technology on making franchising more efficient. Finally, they explore the opportunities...2024-07-1618 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp 16. The Six Stages of Franchisee-Franchisor RelationshipIn this episode, we dive into the story of Zoom Room, a dog training franchise that faced significant challenges early on. We explore their initial mistakes, such as picking wrong franchisees and growing without a plan, which led to a two-year moratorium on sales. With a new CEO, strategic improvements, and a focus on unit economics, the franchise rebounded, expanding from 10 to 45 locations. Source: https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises/these-5-brands-are-conquering-the-franchise-industry-at/467126 We also discuss the six stages of the franchisee-franchisor relationship, addressing common struggles and the importance of financial performance and support systems in nurturing...2024-07-1010 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp 15. Damn Good Advice: Franchising Q&A with Jonathan BreinesIn this episode of Get Up and Scale, hosts Kai Kaapro, Justin Buzzi, and Brett Ridenour sit down with Jonathan Breines, the business owner of Damn Good Beer Bus, to delve into the world of franchising. Jonathan, ready to franchise his thriving beer tour business, asks insightful questions about franchising strategies, market potential, and the importance of robust systems and processes. Kai and Justin share their experiences and advice on how to scale effectively, the significance of knowing your market, and the challenges and rewards of the franchising journey. Tune in to gain v...2024-07-0256 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp 14. Optimizing Tour Design for Memorable Experiences with Kelsey TonnerIn this episode of the Get Up and Scale podcast, hosts Kai Kaapro, Justin Buzzi, and Brett sit down with Kelsey Tonner from Guest Focus, a tour business coaching practice that has helped over 2,000 tour operators from 75+ countries since 2015. Kelsey shares his journey from being a tour guide in the Canadian Rockies to becoming a renowned tour business coach. They delve into the secrets of creating memorable and profitable tour experiences through Kelsey’s Unforgettable Product Pyramid, the importance of understanding and targeting your ideal guest, and effective strategies for scaling a tour business. Whether yo...2024-06-271h 08
Awkward Watersport Guys PodcastScaling Success: Watersport Entrepreneurs Kai Kaapro and Justin Buzzi On Building Their Podcast Launch - Episode #152Greg & Kevin chat with Kai Kaapro (Tourscale) and Justin Buzzi (Get Up And Go Kayaking) as they embark on launching their new podcast focused on franchising and scaling.[SPONSORS] - This show is sponsored by ConversionAssist, Take My Boat Test, and WaveRez.Show Links:Website: https://www.watersportpodcast.comFacebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/awgpodcastFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1155418904790489Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awg_podcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3TSseuv2wdIYO5nuviZSwQ 2024-06-191h 00
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp 13. Douglas Quinby on Segmenting Customers and Embracing TechnologyIn this episode of the Get Up and Scale podcast, hosts Justin Buzzi, Kai Kaapro, and Brett sit down with Douglas Quinby, a key figure in the tourism industry and counterpart to Bruce from Arrival. Douglas brings a wealth of information as they delve deep into the dynamics of the tourism industry, including OTA (Online Travel Agency) trends, customer segmentation, and market strategies. They explore the importance of understanding different customer cohorts and discuss the technological advancements that are shaping the future of tourism. Douglas also shares his outlook for the remainder of the year, offering valuable i...2024-06-181h 12
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp 12. Brennen Bliss on Future-Proofing Your Travel BusinessIn this episode of the Get Up and Scale Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Brennen Bliss, CEO of Propellic, an SEO agency renowned for its expertise in the travel industry. Brennen has an impressive track record, starting with humble beginnings and growing into a leader in digital marketing. Join us as we delve into Brennen’s journey and explore the latest trends and strategies in SEO and paid media for travel and tourism businesses. Key topics include: • SEO Fundamentals: Understanding the core aspects of SEO, including content strategy, technical SEO, and authority building. • I...2024-06-1357 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp 11. Crafting a Franchise: Inside City Brew Tours with Chad BrodskyIn Episode 11 of the Get Up and Scale Podcast, Kai and Justin welcome Chad Brodsky, founder of City Brew Tours and CBT Group. Chad started City Brew Tours back in 2008 and has since grown it into a thriving franchise business. Join us as we delve into Chad’s journey, from starting a brewery tour in Burlington, Vermont, to expanding across multiple cities, and his recent foray into kid-focused scavenger hunts with Kid Crawl. Key topics include: • Starting Out: Chad shares how the Great Recession and a love for craft beer sparked the idea for City Brew Tours.2024-06-071h 00
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp 10. Tourism Trends and Predictions for 2024In Episode 10 of the Get Up and Scale Podcast, Kai, Justin, and Brett dive deep into the current market conditions for tourism experience operators in 2024. They discuss their observations from the first half of the year and share actionable strategies to prepare for the future. Key topics include: Market Performance: Justin shares how his business has seen a remarkable 13.7% year-to-date growth despite industry-wide reports of a soft year. Economic Factors: The team explores the unpredictable economic environment, inflation's impact, and how different segments of the tourism industry are affected. Marketing Innovations...2024-05-2835 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp 9. Building the Ultimate Party Platform with Mike PetrakisJoin us on the Get Up And Scale podcast where hosts Kai Kaapro, Justin Buzzi, and Brett Ridenour dive into the entrepreneurial journey of Mike Petrakis, the Founder and CEO of Batch. Mike shares the story behind Batch, a groundbreaking platform that is revolutionizing the way groups plan and book unforgettable experiences. From launching in six new cities in Q1 2024 to creating seamless party planning processes, Mike’s journey is packed with insights and inspiration for anyone looking to scale their business. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode offers valuable lessons on growth, in...2024-05-2152 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp 8. Greg Fisher: Digital Disruption in TourismIn this electrifying episode of "Get Up and Scale," join us as we catch up with our good friend, Greg Fisher, the visionary co-founder and CEO of Tripshock and WaveRez. From his early days managing a hotel to steering two of the tourism industry’s most impactful companies, Greg’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Dive deep into the story of how Tripshock revolutionized the Florida Panhandle's tourism scene, transforming it into a hub for thrilling boat tours and seamless adventure bookings. Hear firsthand about the challenges Greg faced and the innovative solutions that propelled his companies to the...2024-05-011h 05
Get Up and Scale PodcastEp 7. The Intersection of Travel & The Internet with Bruce RosardJoin us on this episode of "Get Up and Scale" as we sit down with the eminent Bruce Rosard, a titan in the tourism and activity industry with over four decades of transformative contributions. With a career that spans the advent of the internet in travel to mentoring budding entrepreneurs through TechStars, Bruce shares his unparalleled insights into the evolution of tourism, the impact of technology, and his personal journey through the industry. Dive deep into a conversation filled with wisdom, anecdotes, and forward-thinking ideas that will inspire both industry veterans and new entrants alike.2024-04-1959 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEP 6. Kevin O'Neil Explains How Experience and Partnerships Are Key to Scaling BusinessesIn this episode of "Get Up and Scale," join us as we explore the multifaceted world of Kevin ONeil, a dynamic entrepreneur whose ventures span from the high seas of Florida's water sports scene to the digital domain of boater education. Kevin, the force behind Destiny Water Adventures and TakeMyBoatTest.com, shares his journey into the software as a service (SaaS) industry, specifically within the water sports sector. With a wealth of experience from B2C businesses, he dives deep into the sales, management, and operational strategies that have fueled his success. Kevin's backstory is nothing short of fascinating—a...2024-04-101h 00
Get Up and Scale PodcastEP 5. The American Dream: Brian Cain and the Growth of Crawl EntertainmentIn this energizing episode of "Get Up and Scale" hosts Kai Kaapro, Justin Buzzi, and Brett Ridenour had the pleasure of sitting down with the ever-ambitious Brian Cain from Crawl Entertainment Group. Brian, a true entrepreneur at heart, shared his journey from launching his pub crawl in New Orleans five years ago to scaling his business to four cities, including an international leap into London. Our conversation traversed the early days of face-to-face sales, the challenges of opening up in new cities, and Brian's current endeavors in strategizing for future expansions and considering his exit plan. Check...2024-04-021h 01
Get Up and Scale PodcastEP 4. Annual Review Essentials: Metrics, Marketing, and Making Customers StickIn this engaging episode of the Get Up and Scale podcast, join hosts Kai Kaapro and Justin Buzzi, along with Brett, as they dive deep into the essentials of conducting effective annual business reviews. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for entrepreneurs and business owners alike, focusing on the bedrock of any successful business: understanding and optimizing key metrics. The trio kicks things off by discussing the importance of email marketing campaigns, revealing strategies to make the most of your customer lists. They don't stop there; the conversation naturally evolves into building and maintaining customer...2024-03-2145 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEP 3. Augmented Reality Tours, QR Codes, and Creative MarketingIn this episode, we dive deep into the confluence of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and innovative marketing strategies, unveiling how these technologies are reshaping the landscape of business and leisure. Discussing the expansive potential of VR in enhancing virtual tours and social experiences, we explore the forefront of digital innovation. Additionally, we delve into the realm of creative marketing, discussing the role of QR codes in engaging customers, the strategic use of social media, and the emerging importance of personalized content creation in fostering brand loyalty and driving growth. This episode is a journey through the latest...2024-03-2146 min
Get Up and Scale PodcastEP 1. Justin and Kai’s Story of Scaling UpHow do you transform a local venture into a multi-unit powerhouse? What strategies can elevate your small business to a franchise model? How does consumer behavior, especially of Gen Z, reshape the future of business? Get the answers and more from the first episode of 'Get Up and Scale.' Dive into an engaging session with hosts Kai Kaapro and Justin Buzzi, as they unravel the secrets of business growth and adaptation. Packed with real-world experiences, this episode is a must-listen for every aspiring entrepreneur. You won’t want to miss this special edition featuring Kai K and Justin, where...2024-03-121h 01
Get Up and Scale PodcastEP 2. Scaling Success: The Franchise BlueprintIn this episode, we dive into the intricate world of franchising as a powerful tool for business growth. Justin Buzzi, founder of Get Up and Go Kayaking, and Kai Kaapro, founder of Tourscale, share their personal journeys towards choosing franchising as their strategy for expansion. They explore the significance of developing a strong business culture, the process of hiring the right team, and the critical steps in creating efficient operational processes. This discussion is not limited to current or prospective franchise owners but extends valuable insights to any business owner looking to scale, especially those considering opening multiple locations...2024-03-1251 min