

Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.ai
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.
Discover how to craft clear and effective messaging that works for your business at StoryBrand.ai.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 15, 2025 • 37min
#37: Slate—Why This $20K Truck Is Getting All the Attention (RE-RELEASE)
Discover the secrets behind the viral success of a $20,000 customizable electric truck. The discussion highlights the importance of engaging messaging that resonates with customers rather than focusing solely on competition. Learn how relatable narratives and humor can effectively position brands against pricier alternatives. Strategies for standing out in saturated markets are explored, emphasizing the value of understanding customer needs and developing a unique selling proposition. Get ready to discover how to create a message that truly connects!

9 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 30min
#36: Annoying Ads—The Dumbest Campaigns That Won Your Attention and Made Millions (RE-RELEASE)
Discover the strange success of annoying ads like 'HeadOn' and the Chia Pet that captured attention with simplicity and repetition. Learn how the infamous George Foreman Grill rode the wave of nostalgia while promoting health trends. Clear communication in branding proves more effective than polished creativity, reshaping how businesses should approach marketing. The hosts share insights on making marketing messages unforgettable, emphasizing that simplicity can lead to outrageous success.

57 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 41min
#35: Annie F. Downs—The Strategy Behind Her Breakthrough Personal Brand (RE-RELEASE)
In this conversation with Annie F. Downs, a bestselling author and speaker known for her heartfelt authenticity, listeners explore the essence of crafting a personal brand. Downs shares her journey, emphasizing that genuine connections outperform flashy marketing strategies. The discussion covers the balance between sharing personal stories and staying professional, the importance of consistency, and how everyday experiences can inspire content creation. Discover how to build trust and create a message that resonates deeply with your audience.

51 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 23min
#34: Magic Spoon—How One Tagline Dethroned Sugar and Disrupted a $65B Industry (RE-RELEASE)
Discover how Magic Spoon flipped the cereal market on its head by positioning protein as the hero and sugar as the villain. Learn about the power of a compelling tagline that captures consumer interest and deepens brand connection. Explore the innovative strategies behind their rise, targeting health-conscious parents and disrupting a $65 billion industry. This insightful discussion reveals how to reframe your brand's competition and effectively communicate your product's value in a crowded market.

65 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 25min
#33: Snipd—What Your Brand Name is Really Saying to Customers (RE-RELEASE)
Discover the challenges of creating a product name that resonates effectively with consumers. The hosts examine the clever yet confusing name 'Snipd' as a case study for branding. They delve into the 'curse of knowledge' and how it hampers clear communication, offering practical tips to enhance messaging. Learn strategies for transforming potential negatives into brand strengths, and the importance of crafting customer-centric clarity for better engagement and revenue. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone looking to sharpen their brand's message!

48 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 38min
#32: Southwest—The Genius of ‘Bags Fly Free’ and What Happened When It Changed (RE-RELEASE)
Explore Southwest Airlines' branding brilliance and the fallout from their decision to end the 'bags fly free' policy. Discover how this change has impacted customer trust and brand identity. The discussion dives into the challenges of communicating sensitive changes in the airline industry while emphasizing the necessity of clear, engaging messaging. Learn about the importance of loyalty, customer understanding, and effective communication strategies in fostering lasting relationships and successfully navigating market shifts.

33 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 40min
#31: Airbnb—The Brilliant Strategy Behind Their New Messaging Campaign (RE-RELEASE)
The discussion delves into Airbnb's innovative messaging campaign, highlighting how it cleverly addresses the frustrations of cramped hotel stays. It emphasizes the importance of clarity in marketing and the need for businesses to pinpoint the specific problems their customers face. The speakers unpack strategies for effectively communicating with diverse audiences, from hosts to travelers. They also explore the significance of impactful taglines and innovative tools for enhancing storytelling in marketing, ensuring brands connect meaningfully with their target customers.

77 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 33min
#30: AI with Jay Owen—How Smart Businesses Use It Without Losing the Human Touch
Jay Owen, founder of AI with Jay, shares insights on integrating AI without sacrificing creativity or human connection. He discusses how business owners can navigate the fast-paced world of AI, emphasizing the importance of trust and authenticity in messaging. The conversation covers practical tools for enhancing productivity, the balance between automation and personal touch, and how AI can serve as a creative partner. Owen encourages a mindset shift toward embracing AI's potential while retaining the core values of personal engagement.

72 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 29min
#29: Infomercials—What OxiClean & Shamwow Can Teach Us About Messaging That Sells
Infomercials are more than just cheesy; they master clarity and urgency. Hosts dissect the iconic pitches of OxiClean and ShamWow, revealing how dramatic language and bold storytelling hook audiences. The importance of addressing consumer objections and using relatable scenarios is emphasized. Learn why cleverness takes a backseat to clarity in messaging. Discover how effective calls to action drive sales and create billion-dollar brands, turning even a towel into a must-have item.

52 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 43min
#28: John Mark McMillan—How to Make Promotion a Part of the Creative Process
John Mark McMillan, a seasoned musician and songwriter with over 20 years in the industry, shares his insights on merging art with business while maintaining authenticity. The discussion covers the challenges of promoting creativity without feeling like a sellout. John explores the importance of emotional connections in music and effective communication in marketing. He emphasizes the balance of control and surrender in songwriting, revealing how vulnerability can lead to impactful art that resonates deeply with audiences.