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<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>digitalhub US</title> <atom:link href="https://swnsdigital.com/us/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://swnsdigital.com/us/</link> <description>grab news, use news</description> <lastBuildDate>Wed, 20 Nov 2024 16:19:18 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2</generator> <image> <url>https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/cropped-favicon-32x32-2-32x32.png</url> <title>digitalhub US</title> <link>https://swnsdigital.com/us/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>How do parents squash holiday travel stress?</title> <link>https://swnsdigital.com/us/2024/11/how-do-parents-squash-holiday-travel-stress/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[DigitalHubUSA]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 22 Nov 2024 13:01:39 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Travel & Motoring]]></category> <category><![CDATA[traveling]]></category> <category><![CDATA[USA-ONLY]]></category> <category><![CDATA[parent]]></category> <category><![CDATA[parenting]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[travel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[travelers]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Welch’s Fruit Snacks]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://swnsdigital.com/us/?p=71072</guid> <description><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-tatianasyrikova-3934000-768x225.jpg" width="768" height="225" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Tyler Schmall // SWNS NEWS COPY Three and a half hours into holiday travel with their kids is when “peak stress” hits parents, according to new research. The survey of 2,000 parents with kids aged 5–12, who have traveled for the holidays with their child in the last year, looked at the highs (and […]</div>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-tatianasyrikova-3934000-768x225.jpg" width="768" height="225" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Tyler Schmall // SWNS <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/qd6rgezpw7mvemk3tvoza/ANsWZQZvlH57iCnrPdPxs4E?rlkey=9bcjy900typqc2eadbp6shhmu&st=m7tka70t&dl=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NEWS COPY</a> Three and a half hours into holiday travel with their kids is when “peak stress” hits parents, according to new research. The survey of 2,000 parents with kids aged 5–12, who have traveled for the holidays with their child in the last year, looked at the highs (and lows) of traveling with little ones during the end of the year. Parents report being most stressed just over three and a half hours into their trip — but 12% said their stress peaks in the first hour. Where is this stress coming from? Parents said that keeping their kids entertained is the most demanding aspect of holiday vacation (64%). Following that, dealing with temper tantrums (46%), trying to find bathrooms (43%) and hearing “are we there yet?” from the backseat (40%) were all found to be the top stressors for parents. In fact, 28% would rather listen to nothing but “Baby Shark” for the entire trip rather than deal with traveling with a screaming child. And 13% said getting a root canal sounds like a more pleasant experience. Commissioned by <a href="https://url.avanan.click/v2/___https:/welchsfruitsnacks.com/___.YXAzOmFibWM6YTpvOmQ5NjE4MWQwNWFkZGY1OTM4N2ExMzFiZWVkMzE0N2U1OjY6MWViZTo4YWQ2OTMxYTViMDMzY2VhMmFmZmJkOWZhMjY2YWVlZjYxMzJjNjk0MjU2MDVjZTE2MjM5ZTQzNjYyMDVkOGQxOnA6VDpO" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Welch’s Fruit Snacks</a> ahead of their FruitSide Assistance campaign, and conducted by Talker Research, the survey revealed that despite the stress and difficulties, 93% of parents said traveling with their little ones is still completely worth it. And in good news, nearly nine in 10 parents feel much more prepared to travel with their children this year compared to years past. Planning ahead is key — the average parent has their travel itinerary completely set in stone over two months (2.3) before they hit the road. “During the busy upcoming travel season, when highways are jam packed, and cars are bumper to bumper, parents know delays, boredom and tired kids can turn holiday magic into a test of endurance,” said Jason Levine, Chief Marketing Officer at PIM Brands, the makers of Welch’s Fruit Snacks. “We wanted to help these families by giving out kits including everything needed to handle kids’ on-road travel mishaps.” Eighty-three percent of respondents said the key to a successful holiday with your kids is a robust roster of snacks. This might be due to parents using snacks to prevent temper tantrums (78%) — stopping those stress-inducing meltdowns from occurring. But snacks can be good for kids and parents alike: 80% of respondents have eaten the snacks they packed for their children when traveling. Regardless of who’s eating them, fruit snacks (73%), cookies (64%) and cheese puffs (50%) were revealed to be the big three snacks parents absolutely must have on a trip. What should you look out for when picking out these crucial snacks? According to parents, individual packaging is the most important thing to look out for (63%). Snacks that are easily transportable (60%), not messy (59%) and don’t need to be refrigerated (59%) are also key. With the goal of ensuring travelers have easy access to snacks, Welch’s FruitSide Assistance will be available for a limited time, on I-95 between New York City and Boston, the 5 Freeway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, and Interstate 55 between Chicago and St. Louis. Included within the kits the van will be handing out are coloring activities and games, a blanket, a phone charger, a fruit-shaped squishy toy and fruit snacks. Alongside having snacks on hand throughout the trip, many parents (61%) reported that they tend to get less strict about rules in order to keep their kids happy. Seventy-seven percent said they give them more screen time than normal, with 62% letting them indulge in more junk food. Alongside that, 61% of parents said bedtimes go completely out the window, too. And while six in 10 parents agreed that traveling with their kids is the most stressful part of the entire holiday season, that doesn’t mean they’re not trying to be meticulous about planning to make the journey as smooth as possible. According to the data, the average parent plans to spend $911 on everything related to travel this holiday season — from gas to lodging to snacks for their children. “We know travel can be unpredictable, so our goal is to help families stay happy along the way. It is our way of spreading joy, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination,” said Levine. ADVICE FROM PARENTS ON HOW TO TRAVEL WITH KIDS LIKE A PRO (*Responses edited for clarity) <ul> <li>“Be flexible. Things will go wrong. That’s okay.”</li> <li>“Be patient.”</li> <li>“Make sure that they’re happy. Give them plenty of snacks and electronics!”</li> <li>“Be prepared for meltdowns. Pack healthy snacks and their favorite toys.”</li> <li>“Make a flexible plan. Decide how much you think your young child can handle in a day, and then plan a little bit more, but with the understanding that it’s fine if you don’t get to all of it.”</li> <li>“Always keep one surprise thing in your bag as a token for your kids to behave well during the trip. It can be a toy or a game.”</li> <li>“The calmer you are, the calmer they will be. Act like it's normal.”</li> <li>“Don't sweat the small stuff. Babies will cry, toddlers will melt down, tweens will pout and teens will ignore everyone. It's just a part of life.”</li> <li>“Go with the flow.”</li> </ul> Survey methodology: Talker Research surveyed 2,000 parents of children aged 5–12 who have traveled for the holidays with their child in the last year; the survey was commissioned by Welch’s Fruit Snacks and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Nov. 6 and Nov. 12, 2024. We are sourcing from a non-probability frame and the two main sources we use are: <ul> <li>Traditional online access panels — where respondents opt-in to take part in online market research for an incentive</li> <li>Programmatic — where respondents are online and are given the option to take part in a survey to receive a virtual incentive usually related to the online activity they are engaging in</li> </ul> Those who did not fit the specified sample were terminated from the survey. As the survey is fielded, dynamic online sampling is used, adjusting targeting to achieve the quotas specified as part of the sampling plan. Regardless of which sources a respondent came from, they were directed to an Online Survey, where the survey was conducted in English; a link to the questionnaire can be shared upon request. Respondents were awarded points for completing the survey. These points have a small cash-equivalent monetary value. Cells are only reported on for analysis if they have a minimum of 80 respondents, and statistical significance is calculated at the 95% level. Data is not weighted, but quotas and other parameters are put in place to reach the desired sample. Interviews are excluded from the final analysis if they failed quality-checking measures. This includes: <ul> <li>Speeders: Respondents who complete the survey in a time that is quicker than one-third of the median length of interview are disqualified as speeders</li> <li>Open ends: All verbatim responses (full open-ended questions as well as other please specify options) are checked for inappropriate or irrelevant text</li> <li>Bots: Captcha is enabled on surveys, which allows the research team to identify and disqualify bots</li> <li>Duplicates: Survey software has “deduping” based on digital fingerprinting, which ensures nobody is allowed to take the survey more than once</li> </ul> It is worth noting that this survey was only available to individuals with internet access, and the results may not be generalizable to those without internet access. </div>]]></content:encoded> <enclosure url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-tatianasyrikova-3934000.jpg" length="184717" type="image/jpg" /> <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-tatianasyrikova-3934000.jpg" width="1276" height="374" medium="image" type="image/jpeg"> <media:copyright>digitalhub US</media:copyright> <media:title></media:title> <media:description type="html"><![CDATA[]]></media:description> </media:content> <media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-tatianasyrikova-3934000-768x225.jpg" width="768" height="225" /> </item> <item> <title>Which state has the best holiday bakers?</title> <link>https://swnsdigital.com/us/2024/11/which-state-has-the-best-holiday-bakers/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[DigitalHubUSA]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 21 Nov 2024 13:28:58 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Food & Drink]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Holidays]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[USA-ONLY]]></category> <category><![CDATA[baking]]></category> <category><![CDATA[festivities]]></category> <category><![CDATA[food]]></category> <category><![CDATA[holiday]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Pillsbury Baking]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[winter]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://swnsdigital.com/us/?p=71066</guid> <description><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-nicole-michalou-6062014-768x347.jpg" width="768" height="347" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Megan Broussard // SWNS NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC Kansas residents are the nation’s most passionate holiday bakers, racking up over 18 hours of holiday baking time during the festive season. The results emerged in a survey of 5,000 Americans, split evenly across all 50 states, that examined holiday baking trends, habits and […]</div>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-nicole-michalou-6062014-768x347.jpg" width="768" height="347" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Megan Broussard // SWNS <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/cyvzg4mddqnhz1zaix7sv/ADHWqklqR3bw_BzoOgY0R8A?rlkey=pd9m9xjnv01j63tlodjhk5jo7&st=xo336d1f&dl=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC</a> Kansas residents are the nation’s most passionate holiday bakers, racking up over 18 hours of holiday baking time during the festive season. The results emerged in a survey of 5,000 Americans, split evenly across all 50 states, that examined holiday baking trends, habits and approaches this year. <iframe id="_ytid_58515" width="640" height="360" data-origwidth="640" data-origheight="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/smPHJ-I-okU?enablejsapi=1&autoplay=0&cc_load_policy=0&cc_lang_pref=&iv_load_policy=1&loop=0&modestbranding=0&rel=1&fs=1&playsinline=0&autohide=2&theme=dark&color=red&controls=1&" class="__youtube_prefs__ no-lazyload" title="YouTube player" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen data-no-lazy="1" data-skipgform_ajax_framebjll=""></iframe> It found that those in The Sunflower State said they’ll spend 18 hours and 36 minutes in the coming weeks — over four hours longer than the national average (14 hours and 12 minutes). Tennessee boasts the most confident bakers when it comes to whipping up holiday treats. Respondents were asked to rate their skillset out of 10, and Tennesseans gave themselves a 7.4, the highest score in the country. The most humble bakers reside in California and Wisconsin, both states scoring their baking prowess at a modest 5.9.<a href="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Taste-Of-The-Holiday--scaled.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-71067" src="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Taste-Of-The-Holiday--scaled.jpg" alt="" width="386" height="1569" srcset="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Taste-Of-The-Holiday--scaled.jpg 630w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Taste-Of-The-Holiday--74x300.jpg 74w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Taste-Of-The-Holiday--252x1024.jpg 252w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Taste-Of-The-Holiday--768x3119.jpg 768w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Taste-Of-The-Holiday--378x1536.jpg 378w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Taste-Of-The-Holiday--504x2048.jpg 504w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Taste-Of-The-Holiday--750x3046.jpg 750w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Taste-Of-The-Holiday--1140x4630.jpg 1140w" sizes="(max-width: 386px) 100vw, 386px" /></a> Commissioned by <a href="https://www.pillsburybaking.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pillsbury Baking</a> and conducted by Talker Research, the survey also examined the popularity of giving baked goods as gifts this holiday. Forty percent of Americans, regardless of the state in which they reside, said they are giving baked goods as gifts this year — with those in Montana (52%) most likely to be doling out homemade treats as presents, the most of any state. Receiving baked goods goes down well — 62% of respondents said this was the best gift to get. And it's especially well-received in Virginia, where 72% of respondents agreed they're the top gift. “It’s touching to see holiday baking cherished as a tradition across the country,” said Eric Mills, marketing director for Pillsbury Baking. “We’re honored to be part of these festive moments — from gifting cookies to loved ones to baking brownies for cozy movie nights, creating treats together is one of the sweetest ways to celebrate the season.” Fifty-six percent of West Virginians describe their kitchens as “chaotic” during the festive season, as compared to the national average of 45%. South Carolinians are most likely to play holiday music while baking, while Texans are the most likely to dance. The biggest gingerbread house-builders are residents of Utah, while Minnesotans were most likely to check out a holiday bake sale in person this year. The holiday magic gets into the ingredients, too, with seven in 10 respondents saying holiday-themed treats always seem to taste better than normal ones. When it comes to America’s favorite holiday treat, the country is split. Twenty-two states opted for pies as their most preferred holiday treat, while 17 states said cookies are their festive goody of choice. Four states were tied evenly between pies and cookies, while three states chose cheesecake. Oregon was split between pies and fudge. Thirty-four percent of Americans also still leave baked treats for Santa, and of those who do, cookies were the most popular choice for St. Nick. When it comes to holiday treats this year, respondents crowned the snowman as the best shape to eat (44%), followed closely by gingerbread men (42%) and candy canes (41%). “It’s heartwarming to see holiday baking traditions resonate with new generations, eager to recreate the festive memories they grew up with,” added Mills. “There's such joy to be found in baking together, and we’re proud to help keep these traditions alive in a way that brings families together to create new memories in the holiday kitchen.” HOLIDAY BAKING AWARDS 2024 <ul> <li>Biggest cookie decorators — Kentucky</li> <li>Biggest eggnog drinkers — Vermont</li> <li>Biggest gingerbread house builders — Utah</li> <li>Most likely to go to a bake sale — Minnesota</li> <li>Roast the most chestnuts — Massachusetts</li> <li>Most likely to bake for a shelter or charity — New Jersey</li> <li>Thinks they can taste holiday magic the most — Hawaii and Illinois</li> <li>Thinks cookies in the shape of holiday trees taste better than circular — California</li> <li>Most likely to take cookies to a neighbor — Utah</li> <li>Says eating holiday treats makes them feel more festive — Iowa and Minnesota</li> <li>Most dedicated bakers — Kansas</li> <li>Most confident bakers — Tennessee</li> <li>Most humble bakers — California and Wisconsin</li> <li>Gift baked goods this holiday season — Montana</li> <li>Most excited to receive baked goods as gifts — Virginia</li> <li>Most likely to play holiday music while baking — South Carolina</li> <li>Most likely to dance while baking — Texas</li> <li>Most likely to swear by a secret ingredient — Georgia and Mississippi</li> <li>Most likely to say they’ve passed off store-bought treats as homemade — Georgia</li> <li>Most likely to describe their kitchens as chaos — West Virginia</li> </ul> Survey methodology: Talker Research surveyed 5,000 Americans (state-by-state); the survey was commissioned by Pillsbury Baking and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Oct. 24 to Nov. 1, 2024. We are sourcing from a non-probability frame and the two main sources we use are: <ul> <li>Traditional online access panels — where respondents opt-in to take part in online market research for an incentive</li> <li>Programmatic — where respondents are online and are given the option to take part in a survey to receive a virtual incentive usually related to the online activity they are engaging in</li> </ul> Those who did not fit the specified sample were terminated from the survey. As the survey is fielded, dynamic online sampling is used, adjusting targeting to achieve the quotas specified as part of the sampling plan. Regardless of which sources a respondent came from, they were directed to an Online Survey, where the survey was conducted in English; a link to the questionnaire can be shared upon request. Respondents were awarded points for completing the survey. These points have a small cash-equivalent monetary value. Cells are only reported on for analysis if they have a minimum of 80 respondents, and statistical significance is calculated at the 95% level. Data is not weighted, but quotas and other parameters are put in place to reach the desired sample. Interviews are excluded from the final analysis if they failed quality-checking measures. This includes: <ul> <li>Speeders: Respondents who complete the survey in a time that is quicker than one-third of the median length of interview are disqualified as speeders</li> <li>Open ends: All verbatim responses (full open-ended questions as well as other please specify options) are checked for inappropriate or irrelevant text</li> <li>Bots: Captcha is enabled on surveys, which allows the research team to identify and disqualify bots</li> <li>Duplicates: Survey software has “deduping” based on digital fingerprinting, which ensures nobody is allowed to take the survey more than once</li> </ul> It is worth noting that this survey was only available to individuals with internet access, and the results may not be generalizable to those without internet access. </div>]]></content:encoded> <enclosure url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-nicole-michalou-6062014.jpg" length="240231" type="image/jpg" /> <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-nicole-michalou-6062014.jpg" width="1276" height="577" medium="image" type="image/jpeg"> <media:copyright>digitalhub US</media:copyright> <media:title></media:title> <media:description type="html"><![CDATA[]]></media:description> </media:content> <media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-nicole-michalou-6062014-768x347.jpg" width="768" height="347" /> </item> <item> <title>Fantasy football struggle? Most give up before week 10</title> <link>https://swnsdigital.com/us/2024/11/fantasy-football-struggle-most-give-up-before-week-10/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[DigitalHubUSA]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 21 Nov 2024 13:01:12 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category> <category><![CDATA[USA-ONLY]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fans]]></category> <category><![CDATA[football]]></category> <category><![CDATA[game]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Progressive]]></category> <category><![CDATA[sport]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker Research]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://swnsdigital.com/us/?p=71058</guid> <description><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-jean-daniel-2570139-768x511.jpg" width="768" height="511" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Tyler Schmall // SWNS NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC Thriving or hanging in there when it comes to your fantasy football team? Week 10 of the NFL season sees the most people finally give up, according to new research. A new survey of 2,000 Americans who play fantasy football conducted a health check […]</div>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-jean-daniel-2570139-768x511.jpg" width="768" height="511" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Tyler Schmall // SWNS <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/syc9rtl036mk69zv3qi1w/ACq47QwCL-oPWAZri2d_E_4?rlkey=6aumej5mxrkaav20mt6yrymqx&st=z95hk9rq&dl=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC</a> Thriving or hanging in there when it comes to your fantasy football team? Week 10 of the NFL season sees the most people finally give up, according to new research. A new survey of 2,000 Americans who play fantasy football conducted a health check on how managers are currently coping as they pursue personal and strategic glory. If you’re still playing, you’re doing better than the 16% of managers who already quit as of Week 6. <iframe id="_ytid_73032" width="640" height="360" data-origwidth="640" data-origheight="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WqN-vQup5I0?enablejsapi=1&autoplay=0&cc_load_policy=0&cc_lang_pref=&iv_load_policy=1&loop=0&modestbranding=0&rel=1&fs=1&playsinline=0&autohide=2&theme=dark&color=red&controls=1&" class="__youtube_prefs__ no-lazyload" title="YouTube player" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen data-no-lazy="1" data-skipgform_ajax_framebjll=""></iframe> A further 59% said they are “hanging in there” but still hope they can flourish as the season progresses, while 31% say they’re currently among the leaders of their league and chasing victory. The poll, conducted by Talker Research on behalf of <a href="https://www.progressive.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Progressive Insurance</a>, found that Week 7 is the average for managers to quit. Week 10 is the most deadly to players in terms of quitting in a single week. A staunch 56% said they never give up.<a href="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Fantasy-Backup-Plan-scaled.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-71059" src="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Fantasy-Backup-Plan-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="391" height="1492" srcset="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Fantasy-Backup-Plan-scaled.jpg 671w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Fantasy-Backup-Plan-79x300.jpg 79w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Fantasy-Backup-Plan-537x2048.jpg 537w" sizes="(max-width: 391px) 100vw, 391px" /></a> For those throwing in the towel, underperforming players (37%) and injuries (30%) were two of the biggest nails in their managerial coffins. The average fantasy player regrets three draft choices (2.6), with 69% of all respondents already having to thrust their backup choices into starting roles. Overall, only 33% of first-round draft picks are performing as well as expected — and one in five are underwhelming or already on the IR. “Even the best-laid game plans can get sidelined, whether on the road, in your home or even in your fantasy football league,” said Sade Balogun, senior business leader of brand experience at Progressive Insurance. “Much like in real life, having a good backup plan is critical.” Results also pinpointed huge amounts of effort and preparation that goes into a person’s fantasy football career — the average manager dedicates 4.5 hours a week to their line up selections, researching players and planning their strategies. Over the course of a full 18-week season, assuming they don’t quit, the typical fantasy manager racks up 81 hours or the equivalent of 10 full working days dedicated to their fantasy football dreams. If more evidence of dedication was needed, incredibly, one in three fantasy football managers (35%) would rather win their league than have their favorite NFL team win the big game. The average league buy-in was found to be a cool $60, but the average respondent is still up when it comes to their fantasy finances. According to the results, the average fantasy football enthusiast has spent $1,014.5 in their life on fantasy leagues but has only won $1,205.6 — giving them a marginal profit of nearly $200. And where there are fantasy winners, there are also fantasy losers — one of the time-honored traditions of playing fantasy football is having an embarrassing punishment for those who finish dead last. One in five respondents have participated in a league with punishments, with seven percent of the panel actually receiving the penalties. The survey asked respondents to reveal what their punishment was and found a slew of hilarious, and downright embarrassing, responses. One respondent said they had to put on a bikini and walk down the street in the middle of a cold winter day, while another had to shave their head completely bald. Another respondent had to treat the winner of the league to an expensive dinner three separate times. Win or lose, respondents are split on how much skill you really need in fantasy — 31% of respondents say it’s more skill-based, but 23% say it’s more luck than anything else. “Fantasy football success is not solely about having the best draft. It’s about the ability to pivot and implement backup plans when faced with challenges,” said Balogun. “Right when players are about to throw in the towel on their season, it’s the perfect moment to call in for backup, and we’re excited to give struggling teams a second chance at a winning season with our Fantasy Backup Plan sweepstakes.” FUNNIEST FANTASY FOOTBALL LAST-PLACE PUNISHMENTS (Responses edited for clarity) <ul> <li>“I had to buy dinner for everybody else in the league while wearing an outfit of their choosing.”</li> <li>“I had to eat five raw eggs.”</li> <li>“I had to dress up like a maid and host a party with friends and family present.”</li> <li>“I had to treat the winner to dinner three times.”</li> <li>“I had to wear a bikini and walk down the street on a cold winter day.”</li> <li>“I had to buy everybody beer for a week.”</li> <li>“I had to post something embarrassing on my social media accounts.”</li> </ul> Survey methodology: Talker Research surveyed 2,000 people who participate in fantasy football; the survey was commissioned by Progressive and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Oct. 4 and Oct. 11, 2024. We are sourcing from a non-probability frame and the two main sources we use are: <ul> <li>Traditional online access panels — where respondents opt-in to take part in online market research for an incentive</li> <li>Programmatic — where respondents are online and are given the option to take part in a survey to receive a virtual incentive usually related to the online activity they are engaging in</li> </ul> Those who did not fit the specified sample were terminated from the survey. As the survey is fielded, dynamic online sampling is used, adjusting targeting to achieve the quotas specified as part of the sampling plan. Regardless of which sources a respondent came from, they were directed to an Online Survey, where the survey was conducted in English; a link to the questionnaire can be shared upon request. Respondents were awarded points for completing the survey. These points have a small cash-equivalent monetary value. Cells are only reported on for analysis if they have a minimum of 80 respondents, and statistical significance is calculated at the 95% level. Data is not weighted, but quotas and other parameters are put in place to reach the desired sample. Interviews are excluded from the final analysis if they failed quality-checking measures. This includes: <ul> <li>Speeders: Respondents who complete the survey in a time that is quicker than one-third of the median length of interview are disqualified as speeders</li> <li>Open ends: All verbatim responses (full open-ended questions as well as other please specify options) are checked for inappropriate or irrelevant text</li> <li>Bots: Captcha is enabled on surveys, which allows the research team to identify and disqualify bots</li> <li>Duplicates: Survey software has “deduping” based on digital fingerprinting, which ensures nobody is allowed to take the survey more than once</li> </ul> It is worth noting that this survey was only available to individuals with internet access, and the results may not be generalizable to those without internet access. </div>]]></content:encoded> <enclosure url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-jean-daniel-2570139.jpg" length="102047" type="image/jpg" /> <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-jean-daniel-2570139.jpg" width="1280" height="851" medium="image" type="image/jpeg"> <media:copyright>digitalhub US</media:copyright> <media:title></media:title> <media:description type="html"><![CDATA[]]></media:description> </media:content> <media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-jean-daniel-2570139-768x511.jpg" width="768" height="511" /> </item> <item> <title>These are the travel trends that shaped 2024</title> <link>https://swnsdigital.com/us/2024/11/these-are-the-travel-trends-that-shaped-2024/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[DigitalHubUSA]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 20 Nov 2024 13:01:06 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Travel & Motoring]]></category> <category><![CDATA[traveling]]></category> <category><![CDATA[USA-ONLY]]></category> <category><![CDATA[road trip]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[travel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[travelers]]></category> <category><![CDATA[trip]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://swnsdigital.com/us/?p=71051</guid> <description><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-lukas-vanatko-2184847-4687919-768x384.jpg" width="768" height="384" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Vanessa Mangru-Kumar // SWNS NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC Two-thirds of Americans either met or exceeded their 2024 travel goals, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults who have traveled within the past year revealed that while 43% traveled just as much as they planned to over the last 12 […]</div>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-lukas-vanatko-2184847-4687919-768x384.jpg" width="768" height="384" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Vanessa Mangru-Kumar // SWNS <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/1zp5983ivvru7p1vs29gw/AKDiFz8RcWQZSTx1Hqc1APs?rlkey=j8c2p2i6a51qteo1xzk0vzajq&st=n30jockj&dl=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC</a> Two-thirds of Americans either met or exceeded their 2024 travel goals, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults who have traveled within the past year revealed that while 43% traveled just as much as they planned to over the last 12 months, 23% actually exceeded that goal. <iframe id="_ytid_95225" width="640" height="360" data-origwidth="640" data-origheight="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pNI3L2DAjwo?enablejsapi=1&autoplay=0&cc_load_policy=0&cc_lang_pref=&iv_load_policy=1&loop=0&modestbranding=0&rel=1&fs=1&playsinline=0&autohide=2&theme=dark&color=red&controls=1&" class="__youtube_prefs__ no-lazyload" title="YouTube player" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen data-no-lazy="1" data-skipgform_ajax_framebjll=""></iframe> The survey examined the travel choices, habits and trends that defined their 2024 trips and preferences that will shapeshift the 2025 travel season. The average American traveler took three trips in 2024, two of which were well-planned at least a month in advance, with the other being spontaneous.<a href="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2024-2025-Travel-Trends.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-71052" src="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2024-2025-Travel-Trends.jpg" alt="" width="388" height="1417" srcset="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2024-2025-Travel-Trends.jpg 701w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2024-2025-Travel-Trends-82x300.jpg 82w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2024-2025-Travel-Trends-421x1536.jpg 421w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2024-2025-Travel-Trends-561x2048.jpg 561w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2024-2025-Travel-Trends-1140x4162.jpg 1140w" sizes="(max-width: 388px) 100vw, 388px" /></a> For each trip this year, respondents spent an average of $1,532 when traveling alone; this price tag was slightly higher when vacationing with others: $1,598. This totals about $4,600 spent on all vacations in 2024. Conducted by Talker Research for <a href="https://clubwyndham.wyndhamdestinations.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Club Wyndham</a>, the survey found that in taking a closer look at 2025, seven in 10 travelers are planning to continue their adventures and travel just as much, if not more. To achieve their 2025 travel goals, half of the respondents have money saved up for traveling next year, averaging $2,515; one in seven have over $5,000 saved up for future trips. “With Americans planning to travel just as much or even more in 2025 despite rising travel costs, accessibility and affordability are more important than ever,” said Annie Roberts, senior vice president of club and owner services, Club Wyndham. “For travelers prioritizing value, timeshares provide a lifetime of vacations in spacious multi-bedroom accommodations, which is something you just can’t experience at a traditional hotel.” After their trips this year, these experienced travelers know what they like. Almost twice as many respondents prefer to drive to vacation destinations than fly (40% vs. 26%). Road trips were the most popular form of travel in 2024 (40%), along with slow travel (traveling without a plan) (22%) and multi-generational family trips (traveling with several generations of family) (21%). In fact, road trips are still topping the charts and are set to be amongst the hottest travel trends for 2025 with 34% of travelers reporting they are planning to take one. Microcations (trips that are four days or less) will also continue to be popular in 2025, as 17% plan to take a quick trip. The theme of traveling with family will also carry over into 2025, as a majority of American travelers plan to prioritize taking a family vacation in the next year (61%). Similarly, nearly half of the respondents said the person they’ll mostly travel with in 2025 is their partner (46%). As a result, solo travel will be slightly less popular next year than in 2024 (14% vs. 18%), but is still the second-most favored option. Home-away-from-home travel (18%) and off-season travel (17%) are rising trends and will increase in popularity. “The anticipated rise of home-away-from-home travel in 2025, along with the continued interest in trends like road tripping and multi-generational travel, demonstrate that Americans want to prioritize comfort, adventure and connection while on vacation with their loved ones next year,” added Annie Roberts from Club Wyndham. Looking more specifically at where they’ll go, a quarter of Americans are more interested in traveling near their home (24%), as 60% believe they have not seen enough of the cities or attractions throughout the United States. When they chose where to vacation in 2024, the factors that held the most importance were the destination itself (53%), cost (48%) and the experiences or activities available (30%). In 2025, priorities have shifted slightly; cost will be the driving factor (52%), with destination coming second (49%). A majority of those surveyed prefer to have something to look forward to by spacing their trips out throughout the year (58%), but nearly a third revealed that they like to do the bulk of their travel during a certain time period (28%). According to travelers, the most popular months for travel in 2025 will be June (28%) and July (27%), while others will look to travel in colder months like March (16%) or December (15%). Those who indicated that they would travel in one of the common off-peak months said that weather plays a major factor (42%), along with traveling for celebrations (28%). Avoiding crowds was also a big reason for choosing to travel in the off-season (27%). For 30%, the next vacation is just around the corner, as they revealed plans to take their first trip before spring. POPULAR TRAVEL TRENDS FOR 2025 <ol> <li>Road trips — 34%</li> <li>Slow travel — 24%</li> <li>Home-away-from-home (visiting somewhere that offers the comforts of home in a new destination) — 18%</li> <li>Multi-generational family trips — 18%</li> <li>Off-season travel — 17%</li> <li>Microcations (trips that are four days or less) — 17%</li> <li>Immersive travel (having intimate, local interactions and authentic cultural experiences) — 16%</li> <li>“Experience economy” (Visiting a location because of the experiences, not the destination) — 15%</li> <li>Solo travel — 14%</li> <li>Staycations (traveling very close to home) — 13%</li> </ol> Survey methodology: Talker Research surveyed 2,000 people who have traveled within the past year; the survey was commissioned by Club Wyndham and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Sept. 27 and Oct. 7, 2024. We are sourcing from a non-probability frame and the two main sources we use are: <ul> <li>Traditional online access panels — where respondents opt-in to take part in online market research for an incentive</li> <li>Programmatic — where respondents are online and are given the option to take part in a survey to receive a virtual incentive usually related to the online activity they are engaging in</li> </ul> Those who did not fit the specified sample were terminated from the survey. As the survey is fielded, dynamic online sampling is used, adjusting targeting to achieve the quotas specified as part of the sampling plan. Regardless of which sources a respondent came from, they were directed to an Online Survey, where the survey was conducted in English; a link to the questionnaire can be shared upon request. Respondents were awarded points for completing the survey. These points have a small cash-equivalent monetary value. Cells are only reported on for analysis if they have a minimum of 80 respondents, and statistical significance is calculated at the 95% level. Data is not weighted, but quotas and other parameters are put in place to reach the desired sample. Interviews are excluded from the final analysis if they failed quality-checking measures. This includes: <ul> <li>Speeders: Respondents who complete the survey in a time that is quicker than one-third of the median length of interview are disqualified as speeders</li> <li>Open ends: All verbatim responses (full open-ended questions as well as other please specify options) are checked for inappropriate or irrelevant text</li> <li>Bots: Captcha is enabled on surveys, which allows the research team to identify and disqualify bots</li> <li>Duplicates: Survey software has “deduping” based on digital fingerprinting, which ensures nobody is allowed to take the survey more than once</li> </ul> It is worth noting that this survey was only available to individuals with internet access, and the results may not be generalizable to those without internet access. </div>]]></content:encoded> <enclosure url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-lukas-vanatko-2184847-4687919.jpg" length="217367" type="image/jpg" /> <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-lukas-vanatko-2184847-4687919.jpg" width="1275" height="638" medium="image" type="image/jpeg"> <media:copyright>digitalhub US</media:copyright> <media:title></media:title> <media:description type="html"><![CDATA[]]></media:description> </media:content> <media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-lukas-vanatko-2184847-4687919-768x384.jpg" width="768" height="384" /> </item> <item> <title>Why boomers enjoy learning new skills</title> <link>https://swnsdigital.com/us/2024/11/why-boomers-enjoy-learning-new-skills/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[DigitalHubUSA]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:01:29 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Education]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[USA-ONLY]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Duolingo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[education]]></category> <category><![CDATA[generations]]></category> <category><![CDATA[learning]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker Research]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://swnsdigital.com/us/?p=71043</guid> <description><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-divinetechygirl-1181233-768x513.jpg" width="768" height="513" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Marie Haaland // SWNS NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC The majority of baby boomers love to learn new things, but they think they’re too old to actually do so, according to new research. The survey of 2,000 Americans, split evenly by generation, revealed that although 74% of boomers said they “love” learning new […]</div>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-divinetechygirl-1181233-768x513.jpg" width="768" height="513" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Marie Haaland // SWNS <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/7kmag468rh2w22br9gwr7/AGBSNl1zP3rDzDQs4Z-3Qw4?rlkey=6nou7r938xf78fw2f859om772&st=5xrks0yd&dl=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC</a> The majority of baby boomers love to learn new things, but they think they’re too old to actually do so, according to new research. The survey of 2,000 Americans, split evenly by generation, revealed that although 74% of boomers said they “love” learning new things, and six in 10 find that learning something new is more rewarding now than when they were younger, they still think they are too old to actually learn new skills. <iframe id="_ytid_93414" width="640" height="360" data-origwidth="640" data-origheight="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZnEZjB7Ma74?enablejsapi=1&autoplay=0&cc_load_policy=0&cc_lang_pref=&iv_load_policy=1&loop=0&modestbranding=0&rel=1&fs=1&playsinline=0&autohide=2&theme=dark&color=red&controls=1&" class="__youtube_prefs__ no-lazyload" title="YouTube player" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen data-no-lazy="1" data-skipgform_ajax_framebjll=""></iframe> The sentiment of being “too old to learn” was reinforced across generations, with respondents pinpointing 26 years old as the best age to learn something new. In contrast, the survey found that 43% of respondents — across generations — believe they’re more successful in learning new things at their current age, versus when they were younger.<a href="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/How-many-languages-do-you-speak.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-71047" src="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/How-many-languages-do-you-speak.png" alt="" width="402" height="2166" /></a> This is due to things like being more patient (42%), learning because they want to and not because they need to (30%) and having more time (29%). Commissioned by <a href="https://www.duolingo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Duolingo</a> and conducted by Talker Research, the survey revealed that Americans want to learn new things, but they’re holding themselves back. “Learning doesn’t stop as we age,” said Bozena Pajak, VP of Learning & Curriculum at Duolingo. “While younger learners may have a speed advantage, adults benefit from rich life experience, greater knowledge and strong problem-solving abilities. Studies also show that learning new skills, like a language, can help delay cognitive decline and boost memory. We see learners of all ages thrive — reinforcing that it’s never too late to keep growing.” One skill that respondents are interested in learning is a new language — 26% of Americans surveyed, regardless of age, are currently working to pick up a new language. For these respondents, they cited supporting their cognitive health (27%) — keeping their brain sharp as they age — as one of the top motivators for learning a new language. Other top motivators include cultural interest (31%), travel (27%) and communicating more effectively (27%). Despite the benefits that respondents may see in learning a new language, the number of people actively working on this skill varied greatly by generation. Almost half of Gen Z (45%) is studying another language, while only 8% of baby boomers said the same. Despite those stark differences, the survey found that Americans are almost equally as interested in learning another language, regardless of their age. Results found 33% of Gen Zers, 41% of millennials, 46% of Gen X and 40% of baby boomers would like to learn another language. So, what’s holding them back? Lack of time, perceived difficulty, not knowing where to start and not having anyone to practice with ranked highest across generations. In this increasingly globalized world, language skills have a wide range of benefits for learners of all ages. And for those who are only confident in one language, it leaves them feeling limited in the places they can travel (21%) and left out of conversations with multilingual friends and family (18%), while others also worry they’re not as smart as other people who can speak multiple languages (16%). “While learning evolves as we age, older adults adapt well to new methods and often excel in connecting new knowledge to their experiences, which can enhance memory retention and understanding,” said Pajak. “Using physical or visual aids like handwritten notes or visual mnemonics can also enhance learning through a multi-sensory approach. “While some may feel less comfortable with technology, studies show that embracing digital tools can provide immense benefits by offering personalized, adaptive learning experiences. We encourage older learners to capitalize on their patience and life experience while embracing the learning strategies that work best for their needs.” WHY ARE RESPONDENTS WORKING TO LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE? <ul> <li>I have an interest in other cultures — 31%</li> <li>I want to keep my brain sharp as I age — 27%</li> <li>I want to visit the country where this language is spoken — 27%</li> <li>I want to better communicate with those around me (neighbors, community members, co-workers, clients, etc.) — 27%</li> <li>It’ll be beneficial for me professionally to speak this language — 24%</li> <li>I want to understand foreign media (movies, TV shows, sports, music, etc.) — 21%</li> <li>I learn languages as a hobby — 21%</li> </ul> RESPONDENTS WHO ARE ONLY CONFIDENT IN ONE LANGUAGE SAID . . . <ul> <li>I feel limited in the places I can travel to/am comfortable traveling to — 21%</li> <li>I feel left out of conversations with multilingual friends and family — 18%</li> <li>I worry I’m not as smart as other people who can speak multiple languages — 16%</li> <li>I’ve had a funny misunderstanding with someone who speaks another language — 16%</li> <li>I feel limited in the media I can consume — 16%</li> <li>I feel like a “dumb American” — 12%</li> <li>I feel excluded or detached from my culture and heritage — 9%</li> </ul> Survey methodology: Talker Research surveyed 2,000 Americans (split evenly by generation); the survey was commissioned by Duolingo and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Oct. 8–14, 2024. We are sourcing from a non-probability frame and the two main sources we use are: <ul> <li>Traditional online access panels — where respondents opt-in to take part in online market research for an incentive</li> <li>Programmatic — where respondents are online and are given the option to take part in a survey to receive a virtual incentive usually related to the online activity they are engaging in</li> </ul> Those who did not fit the specified sample were terminated from the survey. As the survey is fielded, dynamic online sampling is used, adjusting targeting to achieve the quotas specified as part of the sampling plan. Regardless of which sources a respondent came from, they were directed to an Online Survey, where the survey was conducted in English; a link to the questionnaire can be shared upon request. Respondents were awarded points for completing the survey. These points have a small cash-equivalent monetary value. Cells are only reported on for analysis if they have a minimum of 80 respondents, and statistical significance is calculated at the 95% level. Data is not weighted, but quotas and other parameters are put in place to reach the desired sample. Interviews are excluded from the final analysis if they failed quality-checking measures. This includes: <ul> <li>Speeders: Respondents who complete the survey in a time that is quicker than one-third of the median length of interview are disqualified as speeders</li> <li>Open ends: All verbatim responses (full open-ended questions as well as other please specify options) are checked for inappropriate or irrelevant text</li> <li>Bots: Captcha is enabled on surveys, which allows the research team to identify and disqualify bots</li> <li>Duplicates: Survey software has “deduping” based on digital fingerprinting, which ensures nobody is allowed to take the survey more than once</li> </ul> It is worth noting that this survey was only available to individuals with internet access, and the results may not be generalizable to those without internet access. </div>]]></content:encoded> <enclosure url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-divinetechygirl-1181233.jpg" length="131805" type="image/jpg" /> <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-divinetechygirl-1181233.jpg" width="1279" height="854" medium="image" type="image/jpeg"> <media:copyright>digitalhub US</media:copyright> <media:title></media:title> <media:description type="html"><![CDATA[]]></media:description> </media:content> <media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-divinetechygirl-1181233-768x513.jpg" width="768" height="513" /> </item> <item> <title>Many Americans doing more good deeds to make up for 2024</title> <link>https://swnsdigital.com/us/2024/11/many-americans-doing-more-good-deeds-to-make-up-for-2024/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[DigitalHubUSA]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:01:06 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[USA-ONLY]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Avocado Green Mattress]]></category> <category><![CDATA[good]]></category> <category><![CDATA[good deeds]]></category> <category><![CDATA[lifestyle]]></category> <category><![CDATA[personalities]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker Research]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://swnsdigital.com/us/?p=71037</guid> <description><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-ketut-subiyanto-4246264-768x361.jpg" width="768" height="361" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Marie Haaland // SWNS NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC Four in 10 Americans are actively doing more good deeds before the end of 2024 — to make up for the rest of the year. A new survey of 2,000 general population Americans revealed that 43% are using the end of the year to compensate […]</div>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-ketut-subiyanto-4246264-768x361.jpg" width="768" height="361" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Marie Haaland // SWNS <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/67bbvcmrqfrjqtme3572t/ALgGLIXW5UyHwFnYPLJcHIE?rlkey=84hanoue4epceoavdyinp67f6&st=rwmvtgn1&dl=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC</a> Four in 10 Americans are actively doing more good deeds before the end of 2024 — to make up for the rest of the year. A new survey of 2,000 general population Americans revealed that 43% are using the end of the year to compensate for the rest of 2024, increasing their good deeds like volunteering or donating. <iframe id="_ytid_20262" width="640" height="360" data-origwidth="640" data-origheight="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cduHEmtVlHc?enablejsapi=1&autoplay=0&cc_load_policy=0&cc_lang_pref=&iv_load_policy=1&loop=0&modestbranding=0&rel=1&fs=1&playsinline=0&autohide=2&theme=dark&color=red&controls=1&" class="__youtube_prefs__ no-lazyload" title="YouTube player" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen data-no-lazy="1" data-skipgform_ajax_framebjll=""></iframe> Commissioned by <a href="https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com/?srsltid=AfmBOop3Qj2k28G0airrTnd4TeJ5HfAaZ6R7qHtTivCDkQPGWSM8GHlJ" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Avocado Green Mattress</a> and conducted by Talker Research ahead of Giving Tuesday, the survey revealed younger generations were more likely to say this — despite also reporting having done more good throughout the year than older generations. Fifty-nine percent of Gen Z and millennial respondents are doing good as we approach 2025, to make up for the rest of the year — compared to 37% of Gen X and baby boomers surveyed.<a href="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Giving-Tuesday-scaled.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-71038 " src="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Giving-Tuesday-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="387" height="1282" srcset="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Giving-Tuesday-scaled.jpg 773w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Giving-Tuesday-91x300.jpg 91w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Giving-Tuesday-309x1024.jpg 309w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Giving-Tuesday-768x2544.jpg 768w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Giving-Tuesday-464x1536.jpg 464w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Giving-Tuesday-618x2048.jpg 618w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Giving-Tuesday-750x2484.jpg 750w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Giving-Tuesday-1140x3776.jpg 1140w" sizes="(max-width: 387px) 100vw, 387px" /></a> But Gen Z and millennial respondents were more likely to report having done good deeds within their community (60%) and the world as a whole (50%) That’s compared to Gen X and baby boomers surveyed, where only 47% of whom said they did as much good as they wanted to within their community or the world (38%) this year. Results also revealed that a fifth (19%) of younger generations gave themselves an “A” for the amount of good they’ve done so far in 2024 — versus 10% of older respondents. Regardless, the survey looked at what held people back from doing more good throughout the year. Financial constraints (45%), health issues (34%) and time limitations (25%) were the biggest barriers for respondents looking to give back and do good — but others were also worried about the impact of their actions. And this was more common with younger respondents — 42% of Gen Z and millennials admitted feeling like their actions are too small to make a difference in the world, compared to 25% of Gen X and boomers surveyed. But as one respondent shared, when asked about the best thing they did in 2024, “Sometimes, it’s the small stuff, like checking in with a co-worker who seems down or helping someone figure out a solution. You might not realize the impact right away, but later, it clicks that maybe that small act brightened their day.” “Even a small deed can have such an incredible ripple effect,” said Julie Murphy, Director of Digital Media at Avocado Green Mattress. “Sometimes all someone needs is a little reminder that many of us have so much to give!” From now to the end of the year, respondents plan to spend over an hour per day — eight hours a week — on pursuits of “good.” And for 44%, that includes participating in Giving Tuesday this year. When asked what drives them to give back to their community, respondents highlighted the satisfaction of giving (47%), a sense of purpose (43%) and wanting to make the world a better place (40%). Thirty-eight percent of respondents said it’s easier to do good at the end of the year, with holidays like Giving Tuesday — but 85% also recognize that it’s important to give back throughout the year, not only ahead of the holidays. “The end of the year can be hectic,” said Laura Scott, Director of Brand Marketing at Avocado Green Mattress. “So although it's a great time to do good and give back, making it a priority all year long can help ensure it doesn't get overlooked when there's so much else going on.” WHAT MOTIVATES RESPONDENTS TO GIVE BACK TO THEIR COMMUNITY? <ul> <li>Satisfaction of giving — 47%</li> <li>A sense of purpose — 43%</li> <li>Wanting to make the world a better place — 40%</li> <li>Emotional well-being — 33%</li> <li>Community connection — 23%</li> <li>Showing my children how to support their community — 19%</li> <li>A concern for responsible, ethical practices in my community — 18%</li> <li>Physical health benefits — 12%</li> <li>Skill development — 8%</li> <li>Networking opportunities — 7%</li> </ul> Survey methodology: Talker Research surveyed 2,000 general population Americans; the survey was commissioned by Avocado Green Mattress and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Oct. 23–28, 2024. We are sourcing from a non-probability frame and the two main sources we use are: <ul> <li>Traditional online access panels — where respondents opt-in to take part in online market research for an incentive</li> <li>Programmatic — where respondents are online and are given the option to take part in a survey to receive a virtual incentive usually related to the online activity they are engaging in</li> </ul> Those who did not fit the specified sample were terminated from the survey. As the survey is fielded, dynamic online sampling is used, adjusting targeting to achieve the quotas specified as part of the sampling plan. Regardless of which sources a respondent came from, they were directed to an Online Survey, where the survey was conducted in English; a link to the questionnaire can be shared upon request. Respondents were awarded points for completing the survey. These points have a small cash-equivalent monetary value. Cells are only reported on for analysis if they have a minimum of 80 respondents, and statistical significance is calculated at the 95% level. Data is not weighted, but quotas and other parameters are put in place to reach the desired sample. Interviews are excluded from the final analysis if they failed quality-checking measures. This includes: <ul> <li>Speeders: Respondents who complete the survey in a time that is quicker than one-third of the median length of interview are disqualified as speeders</li> <li>Open ends: All verbatim responses (full open-ended questions as well as other please specify options) are checked for inappropriate or irrelevant text</li> <li>Bots: Captcha is enabled on surveys, which allows the research team to identify and disqualify bots</li> <li>Duplicates: Survey software has “deduping” based on digital fingerprinting, which ensures nobody is allowed to take the survey more than once</li> </ul> It is worth noting that this survey was only available to individuals with internet access, and the results may not be generalizable to those without internet access. </div>]]></content:encoded> <enclosure url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-ketut-subiyanto-4246264.jpg" length="236847" type="image/jpg" /> <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-ketut-subiyanto-4246264.jpg" width="1276" height="600" medium="image" type="image/jpeg"> <media:copyright>digitalhub US</media:copyright> <media:title></media:title> <media:description type="html"><![CDATA[]]></media:description> </media:content> <media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-ketut-subiyanto-4246264-768x361.jpg" width="768" height="361" /> </item> <item> <title>Research reveals this year’s Thanksgiving festive food trends</title> <link>https://swnsdigital.com/us/2024/11/research-reveals-this-years-thanksgiving-festive-food-trends/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[DigitalHubUSA]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 18 Nov 2024 13:01:50 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Food & Drink]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Holidays]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[USA-ONLY]]></category> <category><![CDATA[food]]></category> <category><![CDATA[hosted]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Thanksgivin]]></category> <category><![CDATA[The Honey Baked Ham Company]]></category> <category><![CDATA[turkey]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://swnsdigital.com/us/?p=71031</guid> <description><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-tima-miroshnichenko-5591234-768x327.jpg" width="768" height="327" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Joseph Staples // SWNS NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC According to a new study, one in five Americans plan to host friends and family for the first time ever this holiday season. The study of 2,000 U.S. adults who celebrate the winter holidays found 42% plan to host in the upcoming months — […]</div>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-tima-miroshnichenko-5591234-768x327.jpg" width="768" height="327" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Joseph Staples // SWNS <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/l7ynoqd9xqklx5kzcyz4j/ALopc3APAtGTCFPfWlPvZcU?rlkey=7lmoeqotihsnfjn8vhg3lgl6w&st=6gnnu9im&dl=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC</a> According to a new study, one in five Americans plan to host friends and family for the first time ever this holiday season. <iframe id="_ytid_67012" width="640" height="360" data-origwidth="640" data-origheight="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mV1VrPTtY-o?enablejsapi=1&autoplay=0&cc_load_policy=0&cc_lang_pref=&iv_load_policy=1&loop=0&modestbranding=0&rel=1&fs=1&playsinline=0&autohide=2&theme=dark&color=red&controls=1&" class="__youtube_prefs__ no-lazyload" title="YouTube player" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen data-no-lazy="1" data-skipgform_ajax_framebjll=""></iframe> The study of 2,000 U.S. adults who celebrate the winter holidays found 42% plan to host in the upcoming months — 19% of whom have never hosted before.<a href="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Now-thats-what-I-call-a-new-tradition.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-71032 " src="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Now-thats-what-I-call-a-new-tradition.png" alt="" width="338" height="1531" srcset="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Now-thats-what-I-call-a-new-tradition.png 565w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Now-thats-what-I-call-a-new-tradition-66x300.png 66w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Now-thats-what-I-call-a-new-tradition-226x1024.png 226w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Now-thats-what-I-call-a-new-tradition-339x1536.png 339w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Now-thats-what-I-call-a-new-tradition-452x2048.png 452w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Now-thats-what-I-call-a-new-tradition-1140x5161.png 1140w" sizes="(max-width: 338px) 100vw, 338px" /></a> Commissioned by <a href="https://www.honeybaked.com/home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Honey Baked Ham Company</a> and conducted by Talker Research, the survey found 59% consider hosting guests a tradition of theirs. An additional 41% actually prefer creating new traditions instead of following old, established ones. More than half of Americans (52%) also said food plays a big role in developing their traditions. While most see turkey as the most “traditional” food for the holidays (92%), 49% said they’d prefer to serve ham as an alternative on Thanksgiving. In fact, 73% said ham would likely be a main dish for them throughout the holiday season. “The best traditions are created through serving delicious, memorable food to your guests,” said Tripp McLaughlin, Chief Marketing Officer, The Honey Baked Ham Company. “We encourage hosts to continue to put food front and center at all of their gatherings this holiday season.” The study also revealed exactly what it takes to be a “good” host. Seven in 10 believe it means keeping things informal, inviting guests to wear whatever they want. Similarly, 73% believe it’s important to have the “perfect” food menu for guests and 60% said they prepare multiple versions of meals to accommodate guests with different dietary needs. One-fifth claimed to have “mastered the art” of hosting, feeling extremely confident in their abilities. Another 47% said they mostly know what they’re doing, but improvise when they need to. Respondents were also asked how their traditions develop. A third (31%) said their new traditions tend to develop by accident or coincidence. Meanwhile, 18% can’t remember how new traditions begin, and 15% have tried to replicate a tradition they’ve seen someone else partake in on social media or entertainment. “Hosting family and friends is becoming a growing trend among people, and it’s clear that people are beginning to master what it takes to be the perfect host,” continued McLaughlin. “Being a good host means establishing a space for yourself and for guests that is accommodating and welcoming with food at the heart of the experience.” Survey methodology: Talker Research surveyed 2,000 Americans who celebrate winter holidays; the survey was commissioned by The Honey Baked Ham Company and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Oct. 22 and Oct. 27, 2024. We are sourcing from a non-probability frame and the two main sources we use are: <ul> <li>Traditional online access panels — where respondents opt-in to take part in online market research for an incentive</li> <li>Programmatic — where respondents are online and are given the option to take part in a survey to receive a virtual incentive usually related to the online activity they are engaging in</li> </ul> Those who did not fit the specified sample were terminated from the survey. As the survey is fielded, dynamic online sampling is used, adjusting targeting to achieve the quotas specified as part of the sampling plan. Regardless of which sources a respondent came from, they were directed to an Online Survey, where the survey was conducted in English; a link to the questionnaire can be shared upon request. Respondents were awarded points for completing the survey. These points have a small cash-equivalent monetary value. Cells are only reported on for analysis if they have a minimum of 80 respondents, and statistical significance is calculated at the 95% level. Data is not weighted, but quotas and other parameters are put in place to reach the desired sample. Interviews are excluded from the final analysis if they failed quality-checking measures. This includes: <ul> <li>Speeders: Respondents who complete the survey in a time that is quicker than one-third of the median length of interview are disqualified as speeders</li> <li>Open ends: All verbatim responses (full open-ended questions as well as other please specify options) are checked for inappropriate or irrelevant text</li> <li>Bots: Captcha is enabled on surveys, which allows the research team to identify and disqualify bots</li> <li>Duplicates: Survey software has “deduping” based on digital fingerprinting, which ensures nobody is allowed to take the survey more than once</li> </ul> It is worth noting that this survey was only available to individuals with internet access, and the results may not be generalizable to those without internet access. </div>]]></content:encoded> <enclosure url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-tima-miroshnichenko-5591234.jpg" length="150005" type="image/jpg" /> <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-tima-miroshnichenko-5591234.jpg" width="1276" height="543" medium="image" type="image/jpeg"> <media:copyright>digitalhub US</media:copyright> <media:title></media:title> <media:description type="html"><![CDATA[]]></media:description> </media:content> <media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-tima-miroshnichenko-5591234-768x327.jpg" width="768" height="327" /> </item> <item> <title>How would you grade your marriage proposal?</title> <link>https://swnsdigital.com/us/2024/11/how-would-you-grade-your-marriage-proposal/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[DigitalHubUSA]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 15 Nov 2024 13:01:48 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Dating & Relationships]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[USA-ONLY]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blue Nile]]></category> <category><![CDATA[couple]]></category> <category><![CDATA[lifestlye]]></category> <category><![CDATA[marriage]]></category> <category><![CDATA[proposal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker Research]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://swnsdigital.com/us/?p=71019</guid> <description><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-pavel-danilyuk-6549788-768x325.jpg" width="768" height="325" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Megan Broussard // SWNS NEWS COPY Just 39% of Americans gave their marriage proposals an “A+”, according to new research. A new survey of 2,000 engaged or married Americans examined modern proposal traditions and asked respondents to grade their engagements based on how successful they felt it went. Results found that just two in […]</div>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-pavel-danilyuk-6549788-768x325.jpg" width="768" height="325" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Megan Broussard // SWNS <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/z0swb3jclt9y7ilzbirmm/ACMyKH1Uv8ww5i56tA9o1yU?rlkey=dbpy1fczqclfwidncpv91rid5&st=5xv7atyd&dl=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NEWS COPY</a> Just 39% of Americans gave their marriage proposals an “A+”, according to new research. A new survey of 2,000 engaged or married Americans examined modern proposal traditions and asked respondents to grade their engagements based on how successful they felt it went. Results found that just two in five couples would give their engagements a perfect score, with the rest having some notes. The average respondent graded their engagements an A-, but 29% said their expectations were simply not met. Just 50% said they wouldn’t change anything if they could do their proposal all over again. Conducted by Talker Research on behalf of <a href="https://goto.bluenile.com/c/1307668/2178794/8660" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Blue Nile</a>, results also showed that the average person would change two things about their proposal. When asked what those things would be, one in 10 said they would change their ring, while 35% said they’d change the location of the proposal. Another 18% said they would change how the proposer actually delivered the ring. Surprisingly, only 36% of respondents said their partner actually got down on one knee. Thirty percent said the “three months’ salary” rule — the idea that the person proposing should spend about three months of their salary on the engagement ring — is officially outdated, with the results showing that over half of the respondents did not follow the three-month rule when they bought their ring. Respondents are also trusting their instincts when it comes to picking something their partner would like — the majority (68%) did not shop for their ring together. “Proposals are evolving,” said a spokesperson for Blue Nile. “We’ve seen lab grown diamond and gemstone engagement rings grow in popularity. However, the most important thing to remember when creating the perfect proposal is that the ring should be a reflection of your unique love story.” Data from the survey also shows social media use as a dividing factor among couples and different generations. One in four Gen Z (24%) and millennial (24%) engagement pics and videos are on social media within an hour of the proposal. The most common diamond selection was revealed to be princess cut and round brilliant, and the most common metals were white gold and yellow gold. “It’s exciting to see how proposal trends change with each generation,” said a spokesperson for Blue Nile. “Mixed metals and maximalist styles are highly sought after right now. Still, finding the right ring is a very personal thing and remains a beautiful way to visually represent a lifelong commitment.” TOP 5 THINGS COUPLES WOULD CHANGE ABOUT THEIR ENGAGEMENTS <ul> <li>Location (35%)</li> <li>Delivery – e.g. getting down on one knee, sitting down, standing up, etc – (18%)</li> <li>Friends and Family Involvement (16%)</li> <li>Weather (15%)</li> <li>Words partner said (13%)</li> </ul> Survey methodology: Talker Research surveyed 2,000 women; the survey was commissioned by Blue Nile and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Oct. 16 and Oct. 24, 2024. We are sourcing from a non-probability frame and the two main sources we use are: <ul> <li>Traditional online access panels — where respondents opt-in to take part in online market research for an incentive</li> <li>Programmatic — where respondents are online and are given the option to take part in a survey to receive a virtual incentive usually related to the online activity they are engaging in</li> </ul> Those who did not fit the specified sample were terminated from the survey. As the survey is fielded, dynamic online sampling is used, adjusting targeting to achieve the quotas specified as part of the sampling plan. Regardless of which sources a respondent came from, they were directed to an Online Survey, where the survey was conducted in English; a link to the questionnaire can be shared upon request. Respondents were awarded points for completing the survey. These points have a small cash-equivalent monetary value. Cells are only reported on for analysis if they have a minimum of 80 respondents, and statistical significance is calculated at the 95% level. Data is not weighted, but quotas and other parameters are put in place to reach the desired sample. Interviews are excluded from the final analysis if they failed quality-checking measures. This includes: <ul> <li>Speeders: Respondents who complete the survey in a time that is quicker than one-third of the median length of interview are disqualified as speeders</li> <li>Open ends: All verbatim responses (full open-ended questions as well as other please specify options) are checked for inappropriate or irrelevant text</li> <li>Bots: Captcha is enabled on surveys, which allows the research team to identify and disqualify bots</li> <li>Duplicates: Survey software has “deduping” based on digital fingerprinting, which ensures nobody is allowed to take the survey more than once</li> </ul> It is worth noting that this survey was only available to individuals with internet access, and the results may not be generalizable to those without internet access. </div>]]></content:encoded> <enclosure url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-pavel-danilyuk-6549788.jpg" length="151337" type="image/jpg" /> <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-pavel-danilyuk-6549788.jpg" width="1279" height="542" medium="image" type="image/jpeg"> <media:copyright>digitalhub US</media:copyright> <media:title></media:title> <media:description type="html"><![CDATA[]]></media:description> </media:content> <media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-pavel-danilyuk-6549788-768x325.jpg" width="768" height="325" /> </item> <item> <title>Study finds people daydream about vacation more in the winter</title> <link>https://swnsdigital.com/us/2024/11/study-finds-people-daydream-about-vacation-more-in-the-winter/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[DigitalHubUSA]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 15 Nov 2024 13:01:23 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Holidays]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Travel & Motoring]]></category> <category><![CDATA[USA-ONLY]]></category> <category><![CDATA[holiday]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[travel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[travelers]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vacation]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://swnsdigital.com/us/?p=71022</guid> <description><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-fr3nks-356808-768x352.jpg" width="768" height="352" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Talker Staff // SWNS NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC The average American thinks about some place they would rather be for at least 40 minutes per day, according to new research. That’s according to a new survey of 2,000 Americans that looked at how long Americans spend thinking about their next vacation. From […]</div>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-fr3nks-356808-768x352.jpg" width="768" height="352" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Talker Staff // SWNS <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/dnh7b3pjneonsrffttv4v/AJI-Wh_ovTpZpN-pcpP1TR8?rlkey=h60712aaedbe8uqp5jykj1n6e&st=725n2yis&dl=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC</a> The average American thinks about some place they would rather be for at least 40 minutes per day, according to new research. That’s according to a new survey of 2,000 Americans that looked at how long Americans spend thinking about their next vacation. <iframe id="_ytid_91921" width="640" height="360" data-origwidth="640" data-origheight="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pG5JHsWxJDs?enablejsapi=1&autoplay=0&cc_load_policy=0&cc_lang_pref=&iv_load_policy=1&loop=0&modestbranding=0&rel=1&fs=1&playsinline=0&autohide=2&theme=dark&color=red&controls=1&" class="__youtube_prefs__ no-lazyload" title="YouTube player" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen data-no-lazy="1" data-skipgform_ajax_framebjll=""></iframe> From researching destinations to going down travel-related rabbit holes on social media, results showed people accumulate 4.7 hours a week on average dreaming of far-flung places. The survey conducted by Talker Research on behalf of <a href="https://www.cheapcaribbean.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CheapCaribbean Vacations</a> found that, for some, that 40-minute figure goes up in winter by 16% (46 minutes per day) thinking about being on vacation or fantasizing about adventures. What goes into that fantasy thinking time? Respondents cited 21 minutes of travel vlog watching and 25 minutes on other social media content based on destinations and travel each week.<a href="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Longing-for-Escape-scaled.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-71023" src="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Longing-for-Escape-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="387" height="1300" srcset="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Longing-for-Escape-scaled.jpg 762w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Longing-for-Escape-89x300.jpg 89w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Longing-for-Escape-305x1024.jpg 305w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Longing-for-Escape-457x1536.jpg 457w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Longing-for-Escape-609x2048.jpg 609w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Longing-for-Escape-750x2522.jpg 750w" sizes="(max-width: 387px) 100vw, 387px" /></a> When you also factor in 22 minutes of weekly research the average respondent says they do towards tickets and pricing and the 26 minutes of talking to friends and family about going somewhere else the weekly escapism total reaches nearly five hours, or more than two full working days per month. “Taking a break is essential for everyone’s well-being,” says Michael Lowery, head of global consumer business at CheapCaribbean Vacations. “A true escape from your everyday life — even for just a few days — can work wonders. All-inclusive resorts make it easy to disconnect from the pressures of reality and reconnect with yourself or loved ones, offering a seamless, one-stop getaway where everything is taken care of. From the planning to the relaxation, it’s an effortless path to paradise.” And does this dreaming of exotic locations or far away adventure ever encroach on our work lives? It certainly does. When those who were employed were asked to estimate how much of their last work week they spent thinking about travel, 2.3 hours was the average response — or one full work day per month. So do thoughts of vacation, warmer climates and adventure help or hinder our approach to work? Close to half (46%) said they find it motivating to think about travel goals and trips or destinations while working, while a fifth (19%) said it’s less motivating. Motivation or not, does the average worker feel wanderlust impacts their performance? Of those employed within the survey, 36% said their work and productivity suffers in the winter because they’re daydreaming of vacation. Americans are also definitely prepared to follow those travel dreams — 63% of respondents would happily trade their winter season at home if it meant they could go somewhere tropical instead. That might be why the average respondent says they complain about their local weather three times per week. And, perhaps as an attempt to cope, if they can’t get to their fantasy location, people still like to look at pictures of their dream spot — 45% have a tropical picture, beach picture or warm weather photo somewhere at home whether that’s a screensaver on their computer, a framed picture or their phone wallpaper. No surprises that the beach tops the list of destinations or trips we think about the most, followed by road trips, mountains and dreams of island-hopping. “Often, the hardest part of vacation planning is deciding where in the world to plant your beach chair,” said Dana Studebaker, vice president of marketing of consumer brands at CheapCaribbean Vacations. “Some of my favorite beaches are in Cancún, Jamaica and Aruba. We’re lucky to have so many beautiful resorts at our fingertips ready to support visitors for a beach vacation of their dreams.” TOP 10 LOCATIONS AMERICANS DREAM OF <ol> <li>Beach</li> <li>Roadtrip</li> <li>Mountain</li> <li>Island hopping</li> <li>Camping</li> <li>Adventure</li> <li>Theme parks</li> <li>Cultural/historical</li> <li>Festival/event</li> <li>Culinary/food</li> </ol> TIME PER WEEK THINKING ABOUT VACATION = 4.7 hours per week Including… <ul> <li>Watching travel vlogs - 21 mins</li> <li>Other destination travel content - 25 mins</li> <li>Researching ticket prices, costs - 22 mins</li> <li>Talking to friends and family about going somewhere - 26 mins</li> </ul> Survey methodology: Talker Research surveyed 2,000 Americans; the survey was commissioned by CheapCaribbean Vacations and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Sept. 20 and Sept. 23, 2024. We are sourcing from a non-probability frame and the two main sources we use are: <ul> <li>Traditional online access panels — where respondents opt-in to take part in online market research for an incentive</li> <li>Programmatic — where respondents are online and are given the option to take part in a survey to receive a virtual incentive usually related to the online activity they are engaging in</li> </ul> Those who did not fit the specified sample were terminated from the survey. As the survey is fielded, dynamic online sampling is used, adjusting targeting to achieve the quotas specified as part of the sampling plan. Regardless of which sources a respondent came from, they were directed to an Online Survey, where the survey was conducted in English; a link to the questionnaire can be shared upon request. Respondents were awarded points for completing the survey. These points have a small cash-equivalent monetary value. Cells are only reported on for analysis if they have a minimum of 80 respondents, and statistical significance is calculated at the 95% level. Data is not weighted, but quotas and other parameters are put in place to reach the desired sample. Interviews are excluded from the final analysis if they failed quality-checking measures. This includes: <ul> <li>Speeders: Respondents who complete the survey in a time that is quicker than one-third of the median length of interview are disqualified as speeders</li> <li>Open ends: All verbatim responses (full open-ended questions as well as other please specify options) are checked for inappropriate or irrelevant text</li> <li>Bots: Captcha is enabled on surveys, which allows the research team to identify and disqualify bots</li> <li>Duplicates: Survey software has “deduping” based on digital fingerprinting, which ensures nobody is allowed to take the survey more than once</li> </ul> It is worth noting that this survey was only available to individuals with internet access, and the results may not be generalizable to those without internet access. </div>]]></content:encoded> <enclosure url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-fr3nks-356808.jpg" length="238323" type="image/jpg" /> <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-fr3nks-356808.jpg" width="1279" height="587" medium="image" type="image/jpeg"> <media:copyright>digitalhub US</media:copyright> <media:title></media:title> <media:description type="html"><![CDATA[]]></media:description> </media:content> <media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-fr3nks-356808-768x352.jpg" width="768" height="352" /> </item> <item> <title>From shopping to travel, here’s how Americans are planning for the holidays</title> <link>https://swnsdigital.com/us/2024/11/from-shopping-to-travel-heres-how-americans-are-planning-for-the-holidays/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[DigitalHubUSA]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 14 Nov 2024 13:01:45 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Holidays]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Travel & Motoring]]></category> <category><![CDATA[traveling]]></category> <category><![CDATA[USA-ONLY]]></category> <category><![CDATA[holiday travel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Motel 6]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Talker Research]]></category> <category><![CDATA[travel]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://swnsdigital.com/us/?p=71015</guid> <description><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-olly-716421-768x373.jpg" width="768" height="373" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Livy Beaner // SWNS NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC It’s official, the top three markers that the holiday season is in full swing include hearing festive music on the radio (20%), seeing or hearing the first holiday ad (13%) and when it’s dark before 5 p.m. (11%). A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults […]</div>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-olly-716421-768x373.jpg" width="768" height="373" title="" alt="" /></div><div>By Livy Beaner // SWNS <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/qvo37upe1h96pxx8ovtx0/AFiIiBGnoDq_3Y8fTEkRKhw?rlkey=tvjpml5utbc51x0m5y4s1o9sg&st=3qj4h9nd&dl=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC</a> It’s official, the top three markers that the holiday season is in full swing include hearing festive music on the radio (20%), seeing or hearing the first holiday ad (13%) and when it’s dark before 5 p.m. (11%). A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults who celebrate the winter holidays revealed that almost one-third (31%) are commencing the season early and 67% started celebrating in one way or another as early as September. <iframe id="_ytid_60867" width="640" height="360" data-origwidth="640" data-origheight="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iFA0G8nWcZQ?enablejsapi=1&autoplay=0&cc_load_policy=0&cc_lang_pref=&iv_load_policy=1&loop=0&modestbranding=0&rel=1&fs=1&playsinline=0&autohide=2&theme=dark&color=red&controls=1&" class="__youtube_prefs__ no-lazyload" title="YouTube player" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen data-no-lazy="1" data-skipgform_ajax_framebjll=""></iframe> Many Americans have already purchased (61%) and planned (55%) their gifts, as well as purchased decor (46%) or watched holiday movies (43%). While 46% are embracing the holiday season earlier to get better deals, 45% simply want this to be the best holiday season yet.<a href="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/tis-The-Season-To-Start-Planning-scaled.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-71016 " src="http://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/tis-The-Season-To-Start-Planning-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="405" height="1407" srcset="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/tis-The-Season-To-Start-Planning-scaled.jpg 737w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/tis-The-Season-To-Start-Planning-86x300.jpg 86w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/tis-The-Season-To-Start-Planning-295x1024.jpg 295w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/tis-The-Season-To-Start-Planning-768x2669.jpg 768w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/tis-The-Season-To-Start-Planning-442x1536.jpg 442w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/tis-The-Season-To-Start-Planning-589x2048.jpg 589w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/tis-The-Season-To-Start-Planning-750x2606.jpg 750w, https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/tis-The-Season-To-Start-Planning-1140x3962.jpg 1140w" sizes="(max-width: 405px) 100vw, 405px" /></a> Conducted by Talker Research on behalf of <a href="https://www.motel6.com/en/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Motel 6</a>, the survey explored planning timelines for this holiday season, and results found that one in ten are booking and budgeting later than in years past. Nearly two-thirds of those Americans (64%) admitted that planning later for the holiday season is causing them additional stress. Financial constraints (39%), the potential for better deals and prices (35%) as well as family dynamics (19%) are the leading factors in this delayed planning. In years past, Americans planned their holiday winter travel an average of three weeks in advance. “When it comes to getting into holiday season mode, it seems that many Americans’ hearts say ‘yes,’ but their wallets say ‘no.’ It’s no secret that this time of year brings joy and togetherness, but when paired with high-stress levels and costs, the reason for the season is diminished,” said Julie Arrowsmith, president and CEO of G6 Hospitality, parent company of Motel 6 and Studio 6. “Planning ahead and scouring for the best deals and discounts can alleviate some of this stress and encourage Americans to indulge in the best parts of the most wonderful time of the year.” This year, 64% of Americans will be traveling for the holidays, with more than half of those (51%) getting to their destination by car rather than flying (13%). Those travelers are planning to do so because their destination is close by (46%), they like driving (40%) or because it’s cheaper than flying (26%). In fact, nearly two in five (39%) even have an “assigned seat” in the car when traveling with their family. And at the end of the day, 80% of drivers believe that road trips to your destination make the whole travel experience more enjoyable. Half of travelers (50%) note that their favorite holiday traditions include visiting or traveling to see family and friends. Because of this, it’s no surprise that more than half (63%) of those traveling for holiday celebrations visit the same place year after year rather than somewhere new. When traveling for the holidays, a little more than a quarter (26%) typically stay at a hotel or motel. More than half of Americans otherwise usually stay at a family member’s (52%) home, but this can lead to challenging sleeping arrangements due to too many people in the house (30%). In years past, crowded homes have also resulted in sleeping on the floor (26%) or making do with the couch (22%). This may be why the average American seeks alone time less than a day (19.6 hours) into a family trip. “There’s just something comforting and nostalgic about packing into the family car with a trunk filled with gifts and casseroles and road-tripping to your holiday celebrations. It’s no surprise we are seeing an uptick in this trusted travel choice this year given the current environment,” said Arrowsmith. “After all the fun and delicious meals, we know travelers want a reliable, affordable and comfortable place to rest, no matter the destination.” Survey methodology: Talker Research surveyed 2,000 Americans who celebrate a winter holiday; the survey was commissioned by Motel 6 and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Sept. 18 to Sept. 20, 2024. We are sourcing from a non-probability frame and the two main sources we use are: <ul> <li>Traditional online access panels — where respondents opt-in to take part in online market research for an incentive</li> <li>Programmatic — where respondents are online and are given the option to take part in a survey to receive a virtual incentive usually related to the online activity they are engaging in</li> </ul> Those who did not fit the specified sample were terminated from the survey. As the survey is fielded, dynamic online sampling is used, adjusting targeting to achieve the quotas specified as part of the sampling plan. Regardless of which sources a respondent came from, they were directed to an Online Survey, where the survey was conducted in English; a link to the questionnaire can be shared upon request. Respondents were awarded points for completing the survey. These points have a small cash-equivalent monetary value. Cells are only reported on for analysis if they have a minimum of 80 respondents, and statistical significance is calculated at the 95% level. Data is not weighted, but quotas and other parameters are put in place to reach the desired sample. Interviews are excluded from the final analysis if they failed quality-checking measures. This includes: <ul> <li>Speeders: Respondents who complete the survey in a time that is quicker than one-third of the median length of interview are disqualified as speeders</li> <li>Open ends: All verbatim responses (full open-ended questions as well as other please specify options) are checked for inappropriate or irrelevant text</li> <li>Bots: Captcha is enabled on surveys, which allows the research team to identify and disqualify bots</li> <li>Duplicates: Survey software has “deduping” based on digital fingerprinting, which ensures nobody is allowed to take the survey more than once</li> </ul> It is worth noting that this survey was only available to individuals with internet access, and the results may not be generalizable to those without internet access. </div>]]></content:encoded> <enclosure url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-olly-716421.jpg" length="252838" type="image/jpg" /> <media:content xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-olly-716421.jpg" width="1277" height="621" medium="image" type="image/jpeg"> <media:copyright>digitalhub US</media:copyright> <media:title></media:title> <media:description type="html"><![CDATA[]]></media:description> </media:content> <media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://swnsdigital.com/us/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pexels-olly-716421-768x373.jpg" width="768" height="373" /> </item> </channel> </rss>