GOOD THINKING

What really happened at Cannes 2025? We break down the brand experiences that mattered—and the ones that fell flat. From Pinterest’s immersive takeover to Google’s elusive events, here’s our full recap with real talk, real insights, and everything we wish brands knew.THIS WEEK’S EPISODE:* 02:01 — Pinterest brought their brand to life 88 ways when most didn’t do 1—and won.* 08:37 — Female Quotient wins for most actionable takeaways.* 14:03 — COLLINS House managed the one thing lacking everywhere else: atmosphere.* 20:19 — TikTok’s team wins for best understanding of guest experience.* 24:38 — Canva did 3 things very right: visual identity, swag & gatherings.* 28:09 — LinkedIn was dialed in. And packed it with a brand’s best friend: good staff.* 32:35 — Brands & Culture became our de facto hub—something desperately needed.* 35:49 — Yahoo’s team built something very cute. But it lacked one crucial thing.* 38:25 — Sports Beach was a popular destination. But they had a plan for it.* 39:56 — Marriott had the right talent. But they misunderstood the assignment.* 42:29 — Brand Innovators continues to crush it. But dear lord, that logo.* 45:15 — BCG wins for the lowest ceilings in the history of all events.* 47:09 — Goals House: the coolest crowd and chillest vibe came together over impact.* 49:09 — Sunday Dinner gathered and bonded people—no small feat.* 50:50 — Google, the impossible hard ticket. But why?* 52:10 — Thrads: Young guns with a Rolls-Royce and a robot dog.* 54:09 — Inkwell winning with an important message.* 55:42 — A few quick thoughts on Substack. Invisible yet there.* 57:05 — The hottest ticket: the closed-door sessions.* 58:10 — Kirsten tells us about judging Young Lions* 59:08 — Little notes on Amazon, Tubi, Snap Meta, DoorDash, and more.* 01:02:20 — 10 hot takes on what needs to happen next year.ABOUTChris and Kirsten are the founders of IN GOOD CO, a consultancy that ignites challenger brands with fearless and proactive positioning.Chris writes a weekly newsletter for +15K subscribers that shares the best-of-the-best on culture, trends, marketing, etc. What she's dropping to friends on Slack or finding useful in meetings with brands | Follow her on SubstackPS. If you prefer Apple, Spotify, or YouTube you can listen there too. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ingoodco.substack.com

In this episode, we chat with Hilary Dubin and Caroline Vasquez Huber, the founders of Jones, about how they’re re-imagining the healthcare space (spoiler: they consider themselves a wellness & beauty brand). And along the way, we get into some of our favorite topics: shame (a topic we also tackled in a recent episode with strategist and cultural futurist, Jasmine Bina), gratitude, and vulnerability.Jones is building a suite of cessation products, from mints to an app, but it’s bigger than that. They are re-defining what it means to be a Quitter. And giving us a great example of how healthcare is changing.Huge thanks to Caroline and Hilary for chatting. Give Jones a follow on Instagram and TikTok. And if you happen to be looking to quit, this is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of resources:* The benefits of quitting vaping.* The science behind Jones' app.* And the ultra taboo question: Will I gain weight?ABOUTHosted by Chris Danton and Kirsten Ludwig, this show cuts through the noise, pulling sharp insights from across retail, tech, F&B, wellness, travel, sports, beauty, and more. No silos, no fluff—just the most relevant trends and strategies shaping business today.Subscribe to the best brand and marketing on YouTube and to GOOD THINKING on Substack to get the sharpest insights delivered every week.PS. If you prefer Apple, Spotify, or YouTube, you can listen there too. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ingoodco.substack.com

Robbie Bent and his 4 co-founders didn’t just build a wellness brand—they've built an emotional experience people cry in (literally).In this episode, we go deep on the origin and evolution of Othership: how it went from backyard ice baths to a multisensory space where people breathe, feel, and transform.We talk about building a 100-year brand, the power of consistent design, why vulnerability is a strength, and how Othership became a space for everyone—not just the “wellness elite.” Whether you’re building a business, a community, or a category, this one’s packed with insights.Skip to the bits you fancy:01:54 — BACKYARD BATHS // Othership’s journey begins in a backyard, with a few baths. 04:00 — SAUNA LOVE STORY // How a sobriety journey and a Valentine’s Day date turned into an emotional wellness movement. 11:04 — SCIENCE NOT SPIRITUALITY // We chat about why the language brands use is critical. 12:12 — EMOTIONAL GYMS // A future where emotional wellness classes are as normal as SoulCycle—Robbie’s 100-year vision. 16:54 — VULNERABILITY FOR ALL // It’s not just tech bros crying in saunas. But why that diversity is a good thing. 20:43 — BRICK & MORTAR BATTLES // The unseen complexity of scaling a business that has walls. 25:05 — EVERY DETAIL MATTERS // Custom scents, audio, even receipts—why obsessive brand execution is the the secret to success. 29:15 — THE SECRET SAUCE // The one big lesson every brand can learn from Othership’s journey. 30:37 — FRIENDSHIP FIRST // How to make a 5-founder model work. How co-founding with your partner and friends can work—if you're willing to do the hard stuff. 37:07 — QUICK FIRE STARTS // Robbie answers our lightning round. 46:32 — THE BIG TAKEAWAYS // Kirsten and I get into our big takeaways from the conversation.ABOUTChris and Kirsten are the founders of IN GOOD CO, a consultancy that ignites challenger brands with fearless and proactive positioning.Chris writes a weekly newsletter for +14K subscribers that shares the best-of-the-best on culture, trends, marketing, etc. What she's dropping to friends on Slack or finding useful in meetings with brands | Follow her on SubstackAny missing links, check the Substack! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ingoodco.substack.com

This week, we’re breaking down the wildest, weirdest brand campaigns making noise — and what they say about where marketing is headed. From a tween tantrum turned Toblerone ad to OpenAI’s cringe-core collab with Jony Ives, we’ve got thoughts.Skip to the bits you fancy!04:31 — TOBLE MELTDOWNA tween tantrum goes viral in an airport. Turns out to be a Toblerone ad. Smart or triggering? We get into it.13:15 — HELI DELIVERYElf airdropped skincare to a sailor mid-ocean. Fun. But did it make sense?20:22 — PURE GOLDWhen a sugar-drink giant tried to block PureSport’s activation at a half-marathon, they pivoted. It was brilliant. Here’s the LinkedIn post we mention.25:15 — AI TATTOOSThis Cybersmile campaign is unsettling, powerful, unforgettable — exactly as intended. This might be the best use of AI imagery I’ve seen yet.32:01 — OPEN CRINGESo many people loved the AI-heavy OpenAI Jony Ives launch video/photo. We had other feelings.41:32 — CHUCKMATESChicken Shop Date’s Amelia joined forces with Converse for ‘Chuckmates’, a dating show where shoes are the first impression.45:13 — TOMATOES RISINGHigh fashion goes playful with Loewe’s giant tomato hot air balloon. The luxury brand that dares to be witty and weird — and pulls it off.ABOUTChris and Kirsten are the founders of IN GOOD CO, a consultancy that ignites challenger brands with fearless and proactive positioning.Chris writes a weekly newsletter for +14K subscribers that shares the best-of-the-best on culture, trends, marketing, etc. What she's dropping to friends on Slack or finding useful in meetings with brands | Follow her on SubstackAny missing links, check the Substack! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ingoodco.substack.com

In this engaging discussion, Jasmine Bina, a brand strategist and cultural futurist, explores the uncharted territory of shame in branding. She highlights how reframing narratives can empower brands and their consumers. Topics include redefining menopause from stigma to strength, the cultural implications of debt and obesity, and the demand for brands that embrace honesty over mere vibes. Jasmine also dives into the complexities of identity in a changing world and the pressing need for brands to create deeper meaning in their connections.

Discover the intriguing shift of 'friction as the new luxury,' where intentionally slow experiences signify care and quality. Brands are embracing challenges and curated interactions over the ease of modern technology. Dive into the evolving definitions of wellness and the complexities of AI in personal spaces. Explore the rising demand for meaningful, emotional consumer experiences that prioritize authenticity. This episode challenges conventional views on luxury and wellbeing, advocating for deeper connections both online and offline.

Substack is the new shiny penny in brand marketing—but done wrong, it can do more harm than good. In this episode, we get into how brands can actually use it well: what’s working, what to watch out for, and what too many are getting wrong. We’re talking strategy, good examples, and the insights everyone seems to be searching for. Skip to the bits you fancy. 03:01 What’s Substack? // A primer on the platform reshaping content and brand engagement. Who’s Nailing It? // The brands making Substack work—and those that aren't. 12:03 American Eagle x Casey Lewis // How AE's collaboration with a Substack OG is redefining brand partnerships. 14:53 Hinge’s 5-Part Tease // Exploring 'No Ordinary Love' and the power of a limited series. 17:56 Loeffler Randall’s Founder-Led Take // Jessie Randall's personal Substack and the rise of founder-led content. 20:59 Must-Haves and Must-Nots // The do's and don'ts for brands venturing into Substack. 39:53 Who’s Reading // Understanding your audience and delivering real value. 46:45 The Basic Basics // From welcome letters to cross-posting—Substack fundamentals. 52:04 Takeaways, Insights, and Nuggets // Key lessons and actionable insights for brand strategists.If you read this and liked it, that little heart is there for that. The algo and I appreciate it.PS. If you prefer Apple, Spotify, or YouTube you can listen there too.ABOUT:Chris and Kirsten are the founders of IN GOOD CO, a consultancy that ignites challenger brands with fearless and proactive positioning.Chris writes a weekly newsletter for +14K subscribers that shares the best-of-the-best on culture, trends, marketing, etc. What she's dropping to friends on Slack or finding useful in meetings with brands |Follow her on Substack This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ingoodco.substack.com

In this inaugural series episode 'HOW GOOD GETS GOOD', we talk to Moot, a new model for youth hospitality. A membership club created by teenagers, for teenagers. We talk about why Moot started, the enormous appetite from tweens, teens, and parents for spaces like this, and what other brands should know about building for the oft misunderstood Alpha.Hit the links to skip to what strikes your fancy!03:04 — What is Moot and why teens (and parents) are desperate for it.06:08 — Meet Cheryl and Paul, the founders of Moot.07:07 — Why society fears Alphas. But shouldn’t.10:58 — Are sanctioned spaces inherently uncool?17:20 — How Moot designed their space with teens.22:00 — Parents hold the purse strings. Teens hold the influence. You need both.24:47 — Trust your audience. Give them respect and they’ll give it right back.28:42 — Advice for brands? No shock. It’s all about vibe.31:08 — Brand partnership opportunities & not mollycoddling teens.USEFUL LINKSMeet Moot, a new model for youth hospitality. A membership club created by teenagers, for teenagers.Website | InstaABOUT THE PODCASTChris and Kirsten are the founders of IN GOOD CO, a consultancy that ignites challenger brands with fearless and proactive positioning.Chris writes a weekly newsletter for +14K subscribers that shares the best-of-the-best on culture, trends, marketing, etc. What she's dropping to friends on Slack or finding useful in meetings with brands | Follow her on SubstackPPS. If you like this, I write a newsletter for 14K subscribers on the best-of-the-best on trends, marketing, and culture—everything I’m dropping to friends on Slack or finding useful in meetings with brands. Get GOOD THINKING in your inbox weekly with the link in my bio. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ingoodco.substack.com

This special edition of GOOD THINKING WEEKLY unpacks the 5 big lessons we learned on our inaugural live GOOD THINKING NYC TOUR. If you haven’t read the letter, it’s a good one. But rather than recapping the letter, we unpack our most important takeaways from the day.Hit the links to skip to what strikes your fancy!05:58 — The biggest themes from the tour—what kept showing up.12:06 — Intentionality is the new baseline. The best brands are doing more.18:07 — Why the consumer journey still matters—and where most brands miss.23:56 — Retail as an experience lab: who’s getting creative, and how.28:08 — From tiny touches to full-on immersion: experience wins.30:13 — What today’s consumers expect (hint: it’s not just convenience).32:30 — Pop-ups, collabs, and why they still work when done right.36:20 — Retail’s AI era is here. It’s not about automation—it’s about brand.43:27 — Respect your consumer. If you don’t, someone else will.54:45 — IRL is having a moment. Smart brands are showing up in person.Missing the letter this all ties back to? This way.Chris and Kirsten are the founders of IN GOOD CO, a consultancy that ignites challenger brands with fearless and proactive positioning.Chris writes a weekly newsletter for +14K subscribers that shares the best-of-the-best on culture, trends, marketing, etc. What she's dropping to friends on Slack or finding useful in meetings with brands | Follow her on Substack This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ingoodco.substack.com

Hi all,Welcome back to our weekly companion podcast to the Sunday letter. We get deeper into the big hits across every category. And unpack them further.I’m playing with the formatting of these podcast emails to see if we like them better. Let me know what you think!Hit the links to skip to what strikes your fancy!* 2:20 — Why pricing isn’t just about affordability anymore—it’s about perception.* 7:32 — First Rounds On Me: the dating app that opened a café. IRL is booming.* 11:40 — Heineken’s anti-phone stunt (but can they make it really happen?)* 15:50 — Minecraft’s movie moment, Gen Alpha zone, and why brands are missing it.* 19:28 — Retailers using Close Friends as a loyalty tool.* 29:37 — Shopify’s approach to AI was a messy message. It didn’t have to be.* 30:30 — Atlanta Hawks are now a content company too.* 33:28 — Exosomes, salmon sperm, and skincare that’s pushing limits.* 35:35 — Proper Hotels wants locals in the sauna—it’s smart.* 39:18 — LeBron’s Barbie moment and why it matters, especially now.* 42:51 — Mystery cups, chocolate drops, and fun in a feed-first world* 43:51 — Stüssy’s consistency and mastering multigenerational influence.Missing the letter this all ties back to? This way:https://ingoodco.substack.com/p/minecraft-made-an-experiential-movieChris and Kirsten are the founders of IN GOOD CO, a consultancy that ignites challenger brands with fearless and proactive positioning.Chris writes a weekly newsletter for +14K subscribers that shares the best-of-the-best on culture, trends, marketing, etc. What she's dropping to friends on Slack or finding useful in meetings with brands | Follow her on Substack This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ingoodco.substack.com