Christmas week on The RTO Show Podcast feels a little like stepping into a cozy “behind-the-scenes” control room, where the lights are warm, the stories are real, and the creative process gets unpacked without the fluff. In this episode, host Pete Shau sits down with Stephen Stough of EssToo Creative to talk about what makes video content work, especially for rent-to-own (RTO) businesses trying to win attention in a crowded feed.
Stough’s path to creative work didn’t start with cameras. He shares how a long career rooted in military intelligence and problem-solving eventually translated into production, storytelling, and helping organizations communicate clearly. That background shows up in the way he approaches content: with structure, intention, and a willingness to adapt when the moment delivers something unexpectedly good.
RTO Video Marketing Strategy that Actually Works
A recurring theme is simple: if you want people to keep watching, you need a hook that “stops the scroll.” Stough explains that the best hook isn’t always the biggest stunt. It’s often the right idea, tailored to the audience, delivered with commitment, and matched to the talent on camera. Whether it’s a funny concept, an awkward-but-perfect character moment, or a heartwarming message, the goal is to invite viewers in instead of just “shoving product.”
They also dig into what separates strong content from “we filmed something… technically.” Planning matters. What’s in the frame matters. And Stough calls out the common mistakes that quietly wreck otherwise decent videos: harsh lighting, backlit talent in shadow, dated signage, and especially bad audio.
One standout practical takeaway: audio is king. Stough recommends investing in a simple mic setup that plugs into a phone, because viewers will tolerate imperfect video, but they’ll abandon bad sound fast. That advice lands squarely in the real-world lane for stores balancing tighter budgets while still needing marketing that performs.
If you’re trying to stretch dollars without shrinking impact, this conversation is a solid reminder that RTO video marketing strategy is less about fancy gear and more about clarity, planning, and making content people actually want to watch.
Listen to the full episode of The RTO Show Podcast, proudly sponsored by APRO, on Spotify or watch it on YouTube.
