
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

30 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.

60 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.

68 snips
Apr 14, 2025 • 34min
#15: Morning Routines—The NEW Way To Create A Morning Routine In 2025
Discover fresh approaches to crafting an effective morning routine tailored for 2025. Learn why traditional routines often fail and how to reverse-engineer your day for success. The importance of intentionality, simplicity, and rhythm is highlighted, ensuring your routine truly reflects your life goals. Hear insights on adapting to life changes while maintaining productivity, and find out what practical strategies work best for high-performers. This conversation is perfect for anyone looking to redefine their mornings without the excess.

38 snips
Apr 7, 2025 • 33min
#14: Simplicity—Why a “Less Is More” Approach Can Make Anything More Effective
Overcomplication is a common pitfall for brands and leaders. Clarity is essential for engagement and decision-making. The discussion highlights how structured frameworks and storytelling enhance communication. Through examples like 'Top Gun Maverick' and NFL narratives, the power of simplicity shines. There's also a lively debate on college football versus the NFL, revealing insights into brand loyalty. Ultimately, the value of an uncomplicated approach is emphasized for business success and community connection.

16 snips
Mar 31, 2025 • 23min
#13: Marriage—The Truth About What Makes Love Work Long-Term (ft. Johnnyswim)
Marriage is a beautiful yet complex journey that requires intention and resilience. The musical duo shares their personal experiences, revealing how love can evolve through trials like health challenges and career stresses. They discuss the importance of vulnerability, communication, and mutual support in deepening connections. Humor and honesty abound as they reflect on their unique love story and the transformative power of marriage, highlighting the balance between creative expression and enduring commitment.

38 snips
Mar 24, 2025 • 40min
#12: Nostalgia—The Hidden Force That Makes Brands Feel Iconic
Explore the captivating power of nostalgia and how it rewrites our memories, turning stressful past moments into cherished ones. Learn about its role in personal connections and emotional well-being, and how businesses effectively harness it to create deeper bonds with customers. Discover the importance of intentionality in crafting lasting memories, as well as the strategic use of nostalgic storytelling in branding. From childhood tunes to pop culture gems, nostalgia shapes our identities and influences consumer behavior in remarkable ways.

30 snips
Mar 17, 2025 • 34min
#11: Starbucks—The Brand that Changed How the World Drinks Coffee
The conversation kicks off with coffee habits and their quirky effects on daily life. It then dives into Starbucks' groundbreaking impact, transforming coffee from a mere beverage into a cultural phenomenon. The discussion highlights Howard Schultz’s visionary leadership that redefined coffee shops as community hubs. Listeners will discover how Starbucks shaped social interactions and created a unique experience, along with debates about its current relevance and enduring influence in American culture.

20 snips
Mar 10, 2025 • 29min
#10: Reality TV—Why We're Obsessed with Chaos (And What It's Actually Doing to Our Brains!)
Reality TV captivates millions, blurring the lines between real and scripted chaos. Producers craft narratives that hook viewers through drama and conflict. The podcast dives into the psychological effects of this genre, including its influence on social media and politics. It explores how reality TV rewires our expectations and attention spans, while also providing insight into using its storytelling techniques for personal branding. The allure of compelling personalities and authentic storytelling is essential for deeper audience connections.

23 snips
Mar 3, 2025 • 39min
#9: Michelin Star—How a Tire Company Created the Most Prestigious Award in Food
Discover how a tire company became the gold standard for fine dining with the Michelin Star. The hosts explore the intense pressure chefs face in their pursuit of culinary excellence. They share personal dining experiences, contrasting upscale restaurants with unassuming local gems. Learn about the evolution of the Michelin Guide and the high stakes of running a Michelin-starred establishment. The conversation highlights the art of food critique and the personal journeys behind both chefs and critics, blending humor and insightful storytelling.
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