In a moment of uncertainty; one may catch a familiar aroma of a childhood toy, turn the channel to reruns of a beloved TV show, or suddenly want a meal of only comfort foods that evoke warm memories once tucked away in the back of your mind. Spencer Barrett, ’13, built a substantial following on social media platforms by creatively tapping into nostalgia, using throwback content and references that resonate deeply with viewers’ cherished memories from the past.

Barrett, a Lancaster, Kentucky, native, began his platform in 2020, when many found solace connecting with people through social media. “For the most part it was finding those connections anywhere you could and doing it online was THE way to do that,” said Barrett.

Online communities began discussing the past and what was nostalgic to them, and the content quickly became popular throughout all social media platforms. Barrett started posting his own nostalgic content in hopes of connecting people. His platform now has more than 200,000 followers and 3 million likes.

“It became its own series and grew into everything from movies you forgot about, to the songs or TV shows you forgot about,” said Barrett. “It unlocked something for people to watch an old commercial or a theme song from a show. You realize all these people have those vivid memories too.”

Barrett’s ability to connect with audiences online extends seamlessly into his professional role as senior digital manager for A&W Restaurants. Barrett began his career at A&W Restaurants soon after graduating with a bachelor’s in public relations from EKU. He is responsible for A&W’s content planning and creation and presence on all social media platforms.


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