Welcome back to the Hospitality Strategy Lab Podcast! In this episode, host Jason Littrell sits down with Kyle and Rachel Ford and takes you behind the scenes of the Ford Media Lab, a trailblazing visual intelligence agency that's redefining content creation for the spirits and hospitality industry. he conversation dives into the fast-evolving world of AI-generated visuals, exploring how brands—big and small—are using cutting-edge tools to tell their stories authentically, even on a budget. If you’ve ever wondered how today’s top bars and restaurants are staying ahead in a crowded digital marketplace, or how you can leverage AI to craft cinematic content without a Hollywood budget, this is the episode for you. The discussion covers everything from the real impact of AI on brand storytelling, to practical tools and tips for hospitality operators who want to enhance their social presence and boost guest engagement. Whether you’re curious about automating content, keeping up with the latest visual trends, or simply looking for inspiration to break out of the traditional marketing playbook, you won’t want to miss these insights. Get ready to rethink what’s possible for your brand, as the HSL crew breaks down the future of content in hospitality—where creativity meets technology, and authentic storytelling has never been more accessible. 00:00 "Accessible High-Quality Content Creation" 06:24 "AI and Authenticity in Hospitality" 08:24 Creative Cocktail Menu Innovations 13:35 "AI Tools for Content Creation" 15:22 Democratizing Content for Hospitality Brands 19:02 Animating Brand Character Realistically 22:17 "Real? Nah, Make It Effective!" 27:14 AI Revolutionizing Photography & Video 30:30 "AI Enhances Video Creation" 33:02 "AI Enhances Authentic Creativity" AI content creation, hospitality marketing, spirits industry, visual intelligence agency, AI-generated visuals, hybrid content, product photography, brand storytelling, luxury lifestyle marketing, budget-friendly digital assets, restaurant/bar promotion, cinematic commercials, Sora app, consumer media priming, authenticity in marketing, automating content, character development, AI avatars, brand ambassadors, generative engine optimization (GEO), search engine optimization (SEO), photo animation tools, Luma Dream Machine, Gemini image generation, social media management, TikTok/Reels strategy, venue photography, AI-enhanced cocktail menus, timely digital campaigns, competitive branding, future of hospitality content