Imagine going from rocking out on stage in Japan to crushing it behind a computer screen in Canada! Well, that's my wild ride, and boy, it's been one heck of an adventure. Let me take you back to where it all began...
Back in the mid-2000s, I was in the prime of my life as the lead singer of a rock band. We weren't selling out stadiums, but we were jamming and having a blast. Japan was our launching pad—or so we thought. But fate had other plans. Our dreams of becoming rock legends didn't quite pan out as we had hoped. Little did we know that this setback would sow the seeds for something even grander.
Fast forward to 2016, I found myself back in the Great White North armed with a psychology degree, a love for music, and a knack for making things happen. That's when I kicked off Fresh Crowd, a social media marketing company dedicated to helping small businesses shine online. The idea was simple: blend the essence of rock stardom—high engagement, authenticity, and killer performance—to turn businesses into local heroes.
My big break came with a shawarma joint called Osmows. With 20 franchises under their belt, they had a bold goal: to double that in less than two years. The challenge was electrifying, and I sensed an opportunity to work my marketing magic.
We kicked off by crafting captivating videos that captured the heart of Osmows. We showcased their mouthwatering shawarmas, the vibrant vibe of their eateries, and, most importantly, the inspiring tale of their owner, Sam Osmow. From a small shawarma shack in Ontario, Sam had grown his business into a food franchise sensation.
Our game plan honed in on boosting local buzz in areas welcoming new Osmows franchises. We launched targeted social media blitzes that highlighted the unique flavors of Osmows' dishes and the brand's unwavering dedication to quality and community. The videos struck a chord with audiences, and before we knew it, Osmows was a household name.
We didn't stop there. Customer testimonials, giveaways, and buzzing community events solidified a strong, loyal fan base. The response was phenomenal. In a blink, Osmows had gone from 20 to 50 franchises, turning shawarmas from niche eats to community staples.
The success of this campaign wasn't just about slinging shawarmas; it was about narrating a journey that struck a chord with people. Sam Osmow's rise from humble shop owner to a franchising champ inspired many.
As Osmows soared, their demands evolved. They eventually outgrew our agency, not due to dissatisfaction but because they needed a bigger playing field. Osmows went on to sponsor the Toronto Raptors and Canada's soccer squad. It was clear I couldn't score them the Raptors, so they found someone who could.
Seeing Osmows reach such heights was a blend of pride and wistfulness. It affirmed that effective digital marketing and genuine storytelling are forces to be reckoned with—something I've always championed. This journey reinforced a lesson that remains at the core of my marketing ethos: authenticity sells. Just like Osmows' ascent, products and brands woven with genuine tales, crafted with love and fervor, are the ones that truly resonate. They are the gems worth investing in.
Through it all, I've discovered that digital marketing is more than peddling a product. It's about spinning a tale, crafting an experience, and forging connections. Whether it's through a shawarma, a cold brew, or a revolutionary service, the principles remain the same.
So here I stand, an ex-rockstar turned digital marketing maestro, empowering businesses to own the digital realm. It may not be the life I dreamed of, but it's a life I cherish. Like my days on stage, each campaign is a show, each client a chance to conjure magic.
🔮 Jason Hunt
🌟 Digital Marketing Expert, Former Rockstar, Believer in Authentic Vibes & Stellar Engagement 🎶
Ready to rock your online presence? Hit me up for a discovery call and let's make marketing magic happen! 🚀✨
Co Founder of Merged Media & Co Owner of Chatello.ai
He is the co-founder of Merged Media, an award-winning digital marketing agency specializing in AI-powered strategies. A sought-after speaker and educator, Jason teaches "Leading Change in Digital Tourism" at George Brown College and has presented at major events like Affiliate World and AdWorld. From his unique journey as a Japanese rockstar to building a successful agency, Jason combines creativity and innovation to help businesses worldwide scale their growth and achieve transformative marketing results.