
Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.ai
Welcome to Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.ai. Have you ever wondered why some brands, trends, or products become massive successes while others fade away? That’s exactly what this podcast explores. Hosted by Donald Miller, creator of the StoryBrand Framework, and co-hosted by Kyle Reed, each episode dives into the strategies behind the world’s biggest wins, breaking them down into clear, actionable insights you can use to create your own success.
Discover how to craft clear and effective messaging that works for your business at StoryBrand.ai.
Latest episodes

38 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 41min
#25: Annie F. Downs—The Strategy Behind Her Breakthrough Personal Brand
In this insightful discussion, bestselling author and speaker Annie F. Downs shares her journey of building a personal brand rooted in authenticity and honesty. She emphasizes that success comes from being real, not just having a polished image. Annie reveals the importance of consistency, discovering a 'controlling idea,' and balancing personal sharing with social media presence. Listeners will appreciate her advice on transforming everyday moments into engaging content and navigating the tension between personal interests and audience expectations.

36 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 28min
#24: Pass/Fail—Breaking Down the Best and Worst in Branding
Discover how messaging shapes brand perception and builds trust. The hosts grade impactful marketing moments, from bold branding in the beverage industry to a controversial NFL draft statement. Learn why confidence needs a touch of humility in branding and the power of user-generated content. They explore the risks of provocative messaging and how engaging audiences with reality show-style campaigns can enhance credibility and connection. Tune in for insights on turning messaging into a trust-building tool!

79 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 46min
#23: Dadville—The New Rules of Being a Great Dad
Join musicians and co-hosts of Dadville, Dave Barnes and John McLaughlin, as they redefine modern fatherhood. They candidly share personal anecdotes that highlight the evolving role of dads in family dynamics. The conversation dives into the power of words in parenting, emphasizing how positive messaging fosters children's self-esteem. Additionally, they tackle the delicate task of nurturing daughters' self-worth and the need for deep connections over mere problem-solving. It's a refreshing look at what it truly means to show up as a father.

47 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 25min
#22: Seizing the Moment—Lessons from Nike’s Viral Scheffler Ad
Explore how brands can capture attention through real-time marketing. The discussion focuses on Nike's viral campaign featuring Scotty Scheffler and contrasts it with Skechers’ missed chance during a pivotal NBA moment. Learn the art of leveraging cultural moments and addressing consumer angst while staying authentic. Discover how effective communication and intentional marketing strategies can turn fleeting attention into lasting engagement, making your brand impossible to overlook.

46 snips
May 26, 2025 • 37min
#21: Slate—Why This $20K Truck Is Getting All the Attention
Discover how a $20K electric truck is shaking up the market with its vibrant and relatable messaging. The hosts dive into Slate's inventive marketing approach, emphasizing fun and affordability over technical jargon. Learn how understanding customer frustrations can drive compelling differentiation in a crowded landscape. They also discuss tactical strategies for engaging potential buyers and crafting memorable campaigns. Uncover the secrets behind Slate's viral success and how messaging clarity can turn customers into advocates.

79 snips
May 19, 2025 • 25min
#20: Snipd—What Your Brand Name is Really Saying to Customers
Naming a product might seem easy, but it can make or break your brand. Discover why clever names can confuse customers and why instant clarity is king. Learn about the podcast app Snipd as a case study, highlighting the importance of clear messaging. Explore the 'curse of knowledge' that can cloud communication and get practical tips for creating effective taglines. The hosts share anecdotes and marketing insights that underscore how a simple shift can lead to irresistible branding.

36 snips
May 12, 2025 • 23min
#19: Magic Spoon—How One Tagline Dethroned Sugar and Disrupted a $65B Industry
Discover how Magic Spoon revolutionized the cereal industry with a clever tagline that highlights the battle against sugar. The podcast reveals the art of clear messaging and storytelling, positioning health-conscious parents as allies against sugary breakfast options. Learn innovative marketing strategies for small businesses that focus on public relations and resonating messaging. Explore how identifying the 'villain' can reshape your branding approach, making your product an irresistible solution in today's market.

58 snips
May 5, 2025 • 38min
#18: Southwest—The Genius of ‘Bags Fly Free’ and What Happened When It Changed
Southwest Airlines built a loyal customer base with its 'Bags Fly Free' promise, but recently faced backlash after changing this core messaging. The discussion uncovers the importance of clear communication and how even iconic brands can falter. As Southwest navigates brand challenges amidst competition, the need for adaptability in messaging becomes crucial. The podcast explores the dynamics of customer loyalty, emphasizing that businesses must maintain transparency, especially during changes, to keep trust intact.

13 snips
Apr 28, 2025 • 30min
#17: Annoying Ads—The Dumbest Campaigns That Won Your Attention and Made Millions
Discover the surprising success behind some of the most annoying ads in history. The podcast delves into campaigns like HeadOn and Chia Pet, highlighting how simplicity and repetition lead to unforgettable marketing. Learn how these bizarre strategies captured attention and boosted sales, proving that clarity often outshines creativity. The hosts discuss the pitfalls of abandoning effective messaging and the magic of novelty products, showing that even the simplest ideas can make a huge impact in the crowded advertising landscape.

64 snips
Apr 21, 2025 • 40min
#16: Airbnb—The Brilliant Strategy Behind Their New Messaging Campaign
Airbnb's latest messaging strategy captivates by tackling the common frustrations of travelers. The hosts examine the power of clear and focused communication, emphasizing how precise messaging can boost customer engagement. Insights are shared on leveraging the StoryBrand framework to clarify what your business solves. They also discuss the significance of effective taglines and the emotional connections that set Airbnb apart from competitors. The conversation highlights the balance between aspirational and practical messaging in capturing audience interest.