This conversation with Seth Godin explores the difference between strategy and tactics, why most brands confuse the two, and how true marketing is about the product and story itself—not just promotion. Seth unpacks how systems shape behaviour, often invisibly, and how founders can break or reframe those systems to create new opportunities.

The episode dives into the idea of customer traction and feedback loops—how the right audience, story, and channel can make or break a product. Seth illustrates with examples from Patagonia, Dyson, Apple, Prince Spaghetti, Tony’s Chocolonely, Innocent Drinks, and Scharffen Berger Chocolate—showing how successful brands win by embedding meaning, status, and culture into their strategy, not just chasing tactics.

Creativity and consistency are also central themes: Seth argues professionals “ship” every day, rather than waiting for inspiration, citing musicians and artists like Miles Davis, Rolling Stones, David Bowie, and Patti Smith. He frames origin stories as self-fulfilling—founders must choose a productive story that drives them forward.

At its core, the episode is about seeing differently: spotting the hidden systems we operate in, distinguishing tactics from strategy, and building stories that compound over time. The conversation blends behavioural economics, culture change, and practical examples into a playbook for founders who want to grow brands that matter.

StephCast T 11-4-25