#24: Pass/Fail—Breaking Down the Best and Worst in Branding
Jun 16, 2025
Dive into the world of branding where messaging can either build trust or shatter it. Explore Shedeur Sanders' bold comments and the fine line between confidence and arrogance in sports branding. Discover the shift towards employee-generated content and how it enhances authenticity. Learn why user-generated reviews carry more weight than company messages, along with inventive strategies that engage audiences. This discussion uncovers the secrets to creating compelling content that resonates and drives connection.
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Shedeur Sanders' Messaging Fail
Shedeur Sanders' draft comments showed arrogance that alienated decision-makers and hurt his draft position.
His words suggested selfishness and control rather than team value, damaging trust with NFL teams.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Confidence Is About Value
Confidence must focus on delivering clear value to others, not just self-promotion.
Messaging should show how you benefit the team or customer, not just boost your ego.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Use Provocative Messaging Wisely
Provocative brand messaging can be highly effective if it grabs attention and resonates with the right audience.
Know your target market's language and values to use bold messaging that stands out meaningfully.
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Messaging can make or break a brand. Whether you're launching a campaign, building a personal brand, or responding in real time, what you say and how you say it matters. One wrong sound bite can sink your credibility, while one clear, compelling message can unlock massive opportunity. The stakes are high, and yet most people treat messaging like an afterthought. So how do you know if your message is building trust or breaking it?
In this new “Pass/Fail” segment, Don and Kyle grade recent moments in marketing and culture through the lens of what worked and what flopped. They dig into Shedeur Sanders’ controversial NFL draft comments, the bold branding of Liquid Death, and the rise of user and employee-generated content. You’ll learn why arrogance isn’t confidence, what makes provocative branding effective, and how to turn your messaging into a trust-building asset. Listen in to learn what great messaging sounds like and how to avoid a fail.
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Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.ai 