Building Human Connection in Hospitality Marketing: A Conversation with Scott Eddy
In the latest episode of Moments That Matter, Hovr CEO and Founder Jason Craparo sat down with Scott Eddy, a globally recognized travel entrepreneur, to talk about the future of hospitality, storytelling, and the relationships that drive success. What followed was an honest and energetic discussion on why connection has never mattered more for brands in travel and hospitality.
The Power of Personal Branding
Scott’s journey is anything but traditional. From stockbroker to global traveler to one of the most influential voices in hospitality, his career is a masterclass in reinvention. He credits his success to showing up authentically and building personal connections.
“People don’t buy from companies, they buy from people,” Scott explained. “Your brand is only as strong as the relationships you build. If you’re not willing to put yourself out there, you’re missing the biggest opportunity to connect.”
For hotel marketers, this is a reminder that the people behind the property are as important as the property itself. Guests want to know your story, your team, and your values before they decide to book.
Storytelling as Strategy
Jason and Scott both emphasized that storytelling is no longer a nice-to-have. It is the backbone of modern marketing. Travelers are bombarded with choices. A well-crafted story cuts through the noise and creates emotional connections that drive bookings.
Scott pointed out that static websites and bland promotions rarely leave a mark. Instead, video and authentic narratives give travelers a reason to stop scrolling and start imagining themselves in your space. Jason added that this is exactly why Hovr exists — to help brands turn stories into interactive experiences that don’t just inspire, but convert.
Relationships Over Transactions
One of the strongest themes in the conversation was the importance of playing the long game. Scott has built his network over decades by prioritizing people over transactions. That philosophy aligns closely with what we see across hospitality: properties that nurture long-term trust and loyalty outperform those chasing quick wins.
Jason noted that technology can be a bridge, but it must be used with intention. Tools like Hovr are designed to make content engaging, but the human element is what makes the difference. “Technology is there to amplify your story,” Jason said. “It doesn’t replace the need for real connection.”
Why This Matters for Hospitality Leaders
For hoteliers and destination marketers, the message is clear. In a crowded marketplace, the winning strategy is rooted in authentic storytelling and relationship-building. Video is the most effective medium to communicate that story, and when made interactive, it becomes a powerful driver of engagement and revenue.
Scott left listeners with a simple challenge: stop hiding behind logos and start showing up as people. In the end, travelers don’t just remember a property — they remember the people who made them feel something.
✅ Key Takeaway: The future of hospitality belongs to brands that lead with authenticity, embrace storytelling, and use tools like Hovr to create connections that convert.
