In this episode of Meeting of the (Strong) Minds, we welcome John Lynch, WTRF’s Digital Manager and the mastermind behind some of the most engaging local content in the Ohio Valley. From Snow Fish and the infamous Wheeling Christmas Parade posts to playful social media debates, John has built a unique brand voice that keeps audiences entertained and engaged.

Before John joins us, Eric and the team break down how brands can develop a true, authentic social media voice, and share some of their favorite brands that have mastered the art of engagement.

What We Discuss in This Episode

• How brands like Wendy’s, Duolingo, and WTRF create a distinct social media voice
• The Snow Fish origin story and why it became a local sensation
• Why humor and personality are key to building community engagement
• The Wheeling Christmas Parade post that went viral out of spite
• The Pittsburgh vs. Ohio Valley debate – is Pittsburgh really part of the Ohio Valley?
• How AI-powered characters like Delay the Dolphin and Snowy the Snake are changing local news
• John’s take on when humor and professionalism clash – and how to handle backlash

John shares his insights on what makes digital content stick, how to spark conversations online, and why taking creative risks is essential for brands today. Whether you’re a small business owner, a marketing pro, or just someone who loves great social media, this episode is packed with insights and laughs.

Connect with John Lynch & WTRF

• WTRF Website: wtrf.com
• WTRF Facebook: facebook.com/WTRF7News

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