Why a 4.8-Star Rating Beats a Perfect 5.0 (And Other Review Secrets)

Trust isn’t just a marketing buzzword—it’s the foundation of every successful brand. But how do you measure it? How do you build it? And how can businesses turn trust into a real competitive advantage? In this episode of Branded, host Ben Kaplan sits down with Dana Bodine, VP of Marketing at Trustpilot, to explore how brands can leverage customer reviews as more than just testimonials—they’re a powerful intelligence tool that shapes reputation, drives conversions, and builds long-term credibility.Ben and Dana dive into:  Why trust scores matter more than you think—and how just a 0.1% increase can boost conversion rates by 8x The psychology of reviews—why customers actually trust a 4.8-star rating more than a perfect 5.0 The real impact of responding to customer feedback (even negative reviews can become your biggest asset!) How Trustpilot is shaping brand perception in industries like finance, insurance, and e-commerce The fine line between using reviews for marketing and ensuring authenticity If you’re in marketing, branding, or business growth, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Because in today’s world, trust isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must-have.