Marketing Made Simple

Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life.   Hopefully you're getting a chance to recharge this summer—but that doesn’t mean you have to lose momentum. Fall is just around the corner, and before you know it we’ll be heading into the final stretch of the year. That’s why (for just a couple more weeks) we’re rereleasing several of our high-impact episodes— designed to give you clarity, sharpen your message, attract the right customers, and ultimately drive more revenue, so you’re not stuck playing catch-up when it matters most!     --   In crowded markets, being different isn’t enough. You have to communicate how you’re different. Too many businesses blend in because they focus on what the competition is doing instead of what customers actually care about. You might offer better pricing, better service, or a better product, but if you don’t say it clearly, it won’t matter. Messaging that stands out starts with understanding what your audience hates about the current options and then owning the opposite. The brands that win don’t just have better products. They have better words. So how do you find the message that sticks?   In this episode, Donald Miller and Kyle Reed unpack the viral product launch of Slate, a new affordable and customizable electric truck. They analyze the messaging strategy behind Slate’s viral launch video, and how the brand positioned itself against high-priced vehicles with a fun, customer-focused message. Listen in and learn how to build a controlling idea that creates clarity and focuses on what customers really want.   --   Click HERE to find a StoryBrand certified marketing coach to help you grow your business!   Unlock the power of a framework that works—the StoryBrand Framework at StoryBrand.ai. It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at StoryBrand.ai.   Learn how to make your marketing and messaging work using a proven framework in the updated book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0. Order it now on Amazon  or wherever you buy books!   Watch the Slate ad HERE for yourself.

Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life.     Hopefully you're getting a chance to recharge this summer—but that doesn’t mean you have to lose momentum. Fall is just around the corner, and before you know it we’ll be heading into the final stretch of the year. That’s why (for just a couple more weeks) we’re rereleasing several of our high-impact episodes— designed to give you clarity, sharpen your message, attract the right customers, and ultimately drive more revenue, so you’re not stuck playing catch-up when it matters most!     --   Most people try to make their marketing polished, clever, or inspirational. But in the end, clarity beats creativity every time. In fact, some of the most “annoying” ads in history made hundreds of millions of dollars simply because they were impossible to ignore. They weren’t beautiful, they weren’t clever, but they were unforgettable. So why do so many businesses avoid this approach? Because we assume our customers want sophistication, when what they really need is a message that’s crystal clear and easy to remember. If your ad gets ignored, it doesn’t matter how gorgeous it is.   In this week’s episode, hosts Donald Miller and Kyle Reed discuss the genius behind annoying marketing campaigns like HeadOn, Chia Pet, and the George Foreman Grill. You’ll learn why these seemingly ridiculous ads worked, how they used repetition and simplicity to dominate attention, and what you can take away to sharpen your own message. Tune in to learn how to make your marketing stick no matter how simple (or obnoxious) it may seem.   --   Click HERE to find a StoryBrand certified marketing coach to help you grow your business!   Unlock the power of a framework that works—the StoryBrand Framework at StoryBrand.ai. It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at StoryBrand.ai.   Learn how to make your marketing and messaging work using a proven framework in the updated book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0. Order it now on Amazon  or wherever you buy books!

Annie F. Downs, a bestselling author and podcast host renowned for her authentic voice, discusses the art of building a relatable personal brand. She emphasizes that real connections stem from honesty, not just polished images. The conversation navigates the delicate balance between vulnerability and professionalism, exploring how personal stories can enhance audience engagement. Insights on mental well-being for creators and the power of storytelling in fostering community are also shared, making her strategies both practical and inspiring.

Discover how a cereal brand transformed the market by focusing on storytelling and messaging, rather than just the product itself. Magic Spoon's clever tagline and health-conscious narrative struck a chord, dethroning sugar in the process. Learn the secrets behind effective product naming, innovative branding, and the impactful use of public relations for small businesses. This discussion highlights how fresh marketing strategies can disrupt industries and resonate with consumers, creating strong connections in a crowded space.

Discover how the innovative app Snipd uses AI to elevate podcast listening and community engagement. The hosts tackle the 'curse of knowledge,' offering tools to improve brand communication by focusing on customer perspectives. Learn the art of transforming negatives into positives in branding while stressing the need for clarity in messaging. With compelling examples, they showcase how small businesses can thrive with clear, straightforward brand messaging that resonates in a competitive landscape.

This discussion dives into how Southwest Airlines revolutionized travel with their 'Bags Fly Free' policy, highlighting the brand's clever messaging. It explores the repercussions of altering such a core message and how customer loyalty can be impacted. The hosts emphasize the importance of effective communication, especially during policy changes. They analyze innovative marketing strategies and customer experiences that can maintain trust. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in enhancing marketing and the need for transparency in messaging.

Discover how Airbnb's latest messaging campaign successfully addresses common travel frustrations and captures audience attention. The hosts delve into effective brand messaging strategies, emphasizing the importance of clarity and understanding customer needs. They analyze the balance of ease and trust in Airbnb's communications, critiquing previous taglines while showcasing the significance of tailored marketing approaches. Practical insights from the StoryBrand framework provide listeners with actionable tips to enhance their own brand messaging.

Jay Owen, founder of AI with Jay and a StoryBrand certified agency owner, dives into the world of AI and its impact on small businesses. He discusses how to embrace AI without sacrificing creativity, offering practical strategies for integrating it as a creative partner. Jay highlights the importance of personal relationships in a tech-driven landscape, emphasizing that while AI can enhance efficiency, it cannot replace human connections. Listeners will discover tools and mindsets essential for thriving in this rapidly evolving environment.

Dive into the world of infomercials with insights from the iconic OxiClean and ShamWow pitches. Discover how clarity, drama, and urgency in messaging can captivate audiences. Learn about the art of exaggeration and how specific, targeted communication enhances product appeal. The hosts analyze the rapid-fire presentation styles that drive sales and build trust with viewers. Uncover effective techniques that can transform your marketing strategies, making your message resonate even amidst distractions.

Join musician and songwriter John Mark McMillan, who brings over 20 years of experience and 10 albums, as he delves into the art of authentic promotion. He discusses the struggle of sharing art without feeling like a sellout and the emotional connections that music fosters. John shares insights on merging creativity with business, emphasizing vulnerability and storytelling in engaging audiences. Discover how he navigates the dynamic between artistic freedom and audience connection, ultimately leading to a genuine impact.