Rod Ponce is a dynamic social media strategist with a fascinating twist—his expertise in game theory, honed during his time at The Centre of Peace and Conflict at the University of Toronto. With a Bachelor’s in Peace & Conflict Studies and an MBA specializing in digital technology management from Royal Roads University, Rod seamlessly blends his deep understanding of human behavior with his passion for technology, helping brands forge stronger, more meaningful connections online.
Rod is the mastermind behind BHIVE™ Nectar and BHIVE™ Social Media Labs, both of which evolved from MiCasita® Media Group, a Toronto-based online advertising agency he founded in 1998. With over 15 years of hands-on experience in online business development and communication, Rod has dedicated himself to reimagining the role of social media in professional networking.
Founded in 2016, BHIVE™ Nectar is Rod's brainchild, born from his desire to help service-based professionals leverage their social media networks in a smarter, more meaningful way. Unlike traditional marketing platforms, Nectar emphasizes fostering genuine conversations within existing networks, building relationships and trust that naturally lead to referrals. As Rod often says, “Staying top of mind with your network is key in referral marketing. This insider focus is what makes Nectar clever and effective.”
Central to BHIVE™ Nectar is what Rod and his team call the “Affinity Effect”—the emotional bond that forms when people connect over shared interests. By reinforcing these connections within internal networks, Nectar helps create relationships that transcend superficial ads or traditional marketing efforts. The outcome? Stronger professional ties, more meaningful engagements, and a network that works organically for its members.
Rod’s vision for BHIVE™ Nectar is clear: to help professionals create authentic dialogue, stay top of mind, and build a network that truly matters. At BHIVE™ Social Media Labs, his leadership continues to guide brands towards more human-centered social media strategies, ensuring that online connections are more than just business—they’re built on trust, shared interests, and genuine engagement.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about Rod and the ethos behind BHIVE™ Nectar. Here’s to building something great together!