4. From Tourist to Resident Influencer: Corey Wagner's Journey to Gatlinburg

For the Love of Gatlinburg

In the podcast episode featuring Corey Wagner, listeners are introduced to his remarkable journey from tourist to local influencer in Gatlinburg. Corey, originally from Lima, Ohio, first visited Gatlinburg in 2011 with his family after a long hiatus from traveling. They stayed at Zoders Hotel, a historic recommendation from his wife, and enjoyed their trip so much that they extended their stay from three to four nights. This initial visit sparked an annual tradition of returning to Gatlinburg, with Corey bringing his son back for the first time after he turned ten in 2013. Over the years, they continued to explore the area, often visiting multiple times each year.

Around 2015-2016, Corey launched the Facebook group Gatlinburg Now, which has grown to 159,000 members. Initially starting with a WordPress blog, he transitioned to Substack to share his insights on local attractions, restaurant reviews, and community news. His content is characterized by authenticity and honesty, as he avoids sponsored posts and focuses on providing genuine recommendations.

In August 2023, Corey made the decision to move to Gatlinburg after an unsuccessful attempt to relocate to Knoxville. He faced challenges such as housing scarcity and affordability issues due to high demand for vacation rentals. Currently, he lives within walking distance of his job at Anakeesta's Great Outdoors Trading Company, where he interacts with thousands of visitors daily, providing them with valuable information about local attractions.

Living in Gatlinburg presents its own set of challenges for Corey. He has had to learn how to navigate heavy tourist traffic and adjust his daily routines around peak times. Housing shortages have led many employees to commute from distant areas, making affordable living a significant concern.

Corey's content creation strategy emphasizes providing useful and honest information for visitors. He engages with his followers both online and in person while maintaining authenticity in his interactions. He shares insights on how visitors can make the most of their time in Gatlinburg, recommending early morning activities for fewer crowds and encouraging exploration beyond typical tourist spots.

Throughout the episode, Corey shares unique stories and memorable posts about local wildlife and community interactions while maintaining integrity in his reviews. The host expresses appreciation for Corey's contributions to the Gatlinburg community, while Corey conveys gratitude for the support he receives from locals and visitors alike. Overall, Corey's transition from frequent visitor to dedicated resident and influencer embodies the vibrant spirit of Gatlinburg, showcasing its charm and welcoming nature.