How to Build a Brand That Actually Stands Out | Matt Ackermann

In this episode of JUST PRESS RECORD, host Matt Zeigler welcomes back Matt Ackermann, Chief Brand Officer at Integrated Partners, for an insightful discussion on brand building and storytelling. Triggered by a clip featuring David Burkus ( @DavidBurkus ) and Kit Huffman, the conversation explores how to develop memorable brands that stand out in a sea of sameness. From storytelling fundamentals to strategic brand development, Ackermann shares his unique VCR (Vision, Capability, Reach) framework and explains why understanding your audience is crucial for brand success.Topics Covered:

The challenge of standing out versus blending in when building brands

The fundamentals of storytelling and why they remain constant across platforms

Understanding your audience before creating contentThe VCR framework: Vision, Capability, and Reach for brand development

Creating effective through-lines in your content

How to balance tension and resolution in storytelling

The importance of taking time for reflection and perspective

Why identity is emergent rather than an emergency

Using top-down and bottom-up approaches in content creation