

Embracing Marketing Mistakes
Prohibition PR
Welcome to the world's number one podcast on Marketing Mistakes by Prohibition PR. This podcast is specifically for senior marketers determined to grow their brands by learning from real-world screw ups.Each week, join hosts Chris Norton and Will Ockenden, seasoned PR professionals with over 45 years of combined experience, as they candidly explore the marketing failures most marketers would rather forget. Featuring insightful conversations with industry-leading marketing experts and value-packed solo episodes, the show tries to uncover the valuable lessons from genuine marketing disasters and, crucially, the tips and steps you need to take to avoid them.Chris and Will bring practical experience from founding the award-winning PR agency Prohibition PR, where they have successfully guided top brands to significant growth through PR strategy, social media, media relations, content marketing, and strategic brand-building.Tune in to turn f*ck ups into progress, mistakes into lessons, and challenges into real-life competitive advantages. Well, we hope so anyway.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 30, 2024 • 1h 2min
Walmarting Across America Failure and other hot influencer marketing lessons with former Ogilvy CEO Marshall Manson
Unlock the secrets of thriving in a volatile media world with Marshall Manson. This episode promises a goldmine of insights as we navigate audience engagement's transformation in the wake of Google and social media's evolving roles. Discover strategic nuggets on marketing approaches and the rise of misinformation, learning how brands can pivot to stay pertinent as the market churns ceaselessly.Step into the realm of leadership within the communications universe and witness the power of CEOs and executives as pivotal online voices. Marshall Manson, with his illustrious career traversing Edelman, Ogilvy, and Brunswick, illustrates the compelling blend of authenticity and expertise that fuels today's digital discourse. The Edelman Trust Barometer's latest findings serve as a backdrop, spotlighting the gravitation towards trust in relatable figures against the fading influence of traditional corporate voices. Our conversation delves into the strategic importance of leadership teams as critical conduits for strengthening brand narratives and the potential risks and rewards hinged to their personal branding.The episode wraps with a candid examination of the "Walmarting Across America" PR fiasco and its enduring lessons for the sphere of influencer marketing. We go behind the curtain of strategies that stumble and the ethical dilemmas they stir, providing a real-time learning experience from campaigns that missed the mark. Moreover, Marshall imparts the wisdom of learning from past mistakes, pushing boundaries, and the importance of transparency in pioneering new digital terrains. Tune in for an episode brimming with compelling stories and strategic wisdom, arming you with the know-how to craft your message to resonate with your audience through the shifting media landscape.Follow Marshall:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marshallmanson/ Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Apr 23, 2024 • 21min
What Made Stanley’s Rebrand a Perfect Fit for Gen Z?
Discover the secret behind Stanley's shift from your grandpa's thermos to the must-have accessory gracing the hands of Gen Z, as Victoria from Prohibition joins us for a revealing chat. We unpack the strategic pivot that saw this classic American brand turn its durable beverage containers into viral sensations, tapping into the unquenchable thirst for the latest and greatest in hydration fashion. As we sip on success stories and cringeworthy marketing mishaps, you'll get a taste of the real, raw, and sometimes ridiculous world of branding and influencer marketing.Laugh along with Victoria and ourselves as we reminisce about our own professional blunders, from a first-day fiasco to Instagram mishaps that could have spelled disaster. This episode isn't just about pointing fingers; it's a toast to the power of authenticity, owning your mistakes, and the resilience needed to bounce back stronger. Join us as we celebrate Stanley's mastery of the social media game and the creation of a culture that's as robust as the products they sell, all while keeping our own PR goofs in check. Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Apr 16, 2024 • 46min
How Did a Data-Driven Algorithm Almost Derail a Marketing Project at Hillary’s?
Join Vicki Murphy and me, Chris Norton, as we swap tales from the working life of marketing with Chris McKay, Head of Brand Engagement at Hillary's. Chris shares his initial steps into the professional world right out of university the thrills of working with iconic brands, and the crucial lessons that only failure and hands-on experience can teach.Step into the nostalgia-fueled Ministry of Sound era with us as we trip down memory lane, reminiscing over legendary dance DJs and digital marketing mishaps. Hear Chris McKay's unfiltered stories of navigating the complex and often unpredictable world of influencer marketing, where authenticity and humour can turn a partnership into a game-changer. We dissect the strategic intricacies of brand communication, emphasising the importance of knowing your audience, leveraging data analytics, and why sometimes, the best strategy is to lean on your team's collective genius.Give us a follow, share your own marketing mishaps, and join us for more unscripted insights on Socially Unacceptable, where we keep it real and our marketing stories are anything but ordinary.Follow Chirs McKay:X: https://twitter.com/imchrismckay LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/imchrismckay/ https://www.hillarys.co.uk/ Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Apr 9, 2024 • 20min
What Made Dunkin’s Campaign with Ben Affleck a Cultural Phenomenon?
In this episode of Campaign Crunch we dissect Dunkin's strategic pivot from donuts to coffee. Our spirited conversation will reveal how Ben Affleck's Boston roots and his genuine love for the brand stirred up a local flavour that New Englanders couldn't resist. We're looking into its brand extension risks and rewards, and serving up the importance of cultural connections in marketing—all with our usual splash of terrible humour.Switch gears with us as we tackle the glitz and glamour of Super Bowl ads, questioning if the hefty price tag is really worth the spectacle. Dunkin's star-studded commercials and social media finesse provide the perfect case study for a multifaceted approach to increasing brand awareness. And for a taste of something a little different, we tease an upcoming segment with our guest Katie, who offers a glimpse into her marketing mistake regarding reality TV influencers. The 'DunKings' Superbowl ad Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Apr 2, 2024 • 43min
The Perils of Auto-Reminders: What I Learned from Sending Hundreds of People the Wrong Date
Ever wondered how to catch the eye of a marketer with your marketing? That's exactly what we try to unravel with Natalie Davidson from Prolific North, the digital powerhouse steering through the currents of non-London agency growth. Together, we peel back the curtain on the vibrant explosion of creativity in the North of England, where agencies are rewriting the playbook with authenticity and bold storytelling. Natalie reveals the strategic manoeuvres behind Prolific North's rebranding success and how they're mastering the art of engaging with a savvy demographic on social media.Strap in as we navigate the evolving landscape of the northern UK marketing industry, where cities from Birmingham to Scotland are capturing the attention of major brands with their untapped creative potential. Rounding off our exciting episode with a touch of glamour and camaraderie, we venture behind the scenes of industry awards and the pivotal role they play in fostering a sense of community. We share a laugh over event planning escapades and the growth of Prolific North's LinkedIn community, while showing the power of customer engagement and original content in the marketing space. Tune in for stories of perseverance, humour, and invaluable insights that will arm you with the knowledge to navigate the marketing mayhem, whether you're part of a small team or leading the charge on innovative strategies. X: @ProlificNorthLinkedIn: /prolificnorthInstagram: @prolific_northWebsite: prolificnorth.co.uk Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Mar 26, 2024 • 15min
How Did Norwich City FC and Samaritans Create a Viral Mental Health Campaign?
This episode of Campaign Crunch takes a heartfelt turn with Emily Moult from our team at Prohibition, who guides us through the stirring Norwich City FC and Samaritans collaboration. This campaign is a masterclass in achieving social impact through storytelling, proving that a video with a modest budget can still pack an emotional punch. Learn how simplicity in messaging can spark crucial conversations about men's mental health.As seasoned pros in social media and public relations, we're not just here to talk shop—we're here to share the kind of insights and inspirations that ignite creativity within our team. Emily's account of how the campaign navigated the delicate theme of suicide prevention and urged action through its narrative is a testament to the power of marketing with a conscience. So, brace yourself for a session that's rich in learnings and laden with the kind of practical wisdom that could transform your brand's approach to meaningful marketing. Join us for a special 15-minute journey into the heart of campaign storytelling.Norwich City x Samaritans video Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Mar 19, 2024 • 59min
The Santa Claus Crisis: Greg Matusky’s Most Unbelievable PR Fail
Imagine uncovering the secret strategies that have revolutionised public relations in the AI era—tune in for a whirlwind tour through the trials and triumphs of brand image management. Our guest, Greg Matusky, CEO of Gregory FCA, a Top 40 US PR Agency, brings a treasure trove of knowledge from his three-decade tenure in PR. Greg shares some amazing F*ck Ups on the show including when his client decided to change their story mid-broadcast interview to a tale about walking away from the Devil. He tells another story about how he deliberately lost Santa Claus and it became a national story for all the wrong reasons.Greg guides us through the seismic shifts AI has sparked in crafting narratives and the irreplaceable human touch that still drives the heart of storytelling. This journey isn't just about embracing change; it's a masterclass in balancing technology with the timeless art of communication.We dissect the role of automated media training, brainstorming sessions that start with AI-generated sparks, and surprisingly, what the concept of "v-tirement" could mean for our future. From the unveiling of RightRelease.com to the subtle finesse required in managing high-profile events, our stories run the gamut from preventing potential PR crises to the wisdom of sharing difficult news upfront. Each narrative is a puzzle piece in the grand picture of the evolving PR landscape.We wrap up with predictions about AI's corporate governance, the potent mix of junior staff ingenuity with AI tools, and the legal intrigue surrounding platforms like ChatGPT. Whether you're a seasoned PR guru or simply intrigued by the fusion of AI and human creativity, this episode promises to leave you with a fresh perspective on the power of storytelling in the digital age. Join us for an exploration that's as insightful as it is entertaining, where every lesson learned carves a path toward innovation. Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Mar 12, 2024 • 59min
How to perfect your pitch with Lord Sugar's PR Guru - Andrew Bloch
Ever wondered what it takes to work through a truly successful partnership between a marketing agency and its clients? Join us as marketing guru Andrew Block, an expert behind agency mergers and with a rich history at FrankPR, offers his goldmine of expertise. Discover the secrets to understanding the real business challenges behind a brief and how the simple act of asking 'why' can set you apart in a crowded field. Andrew also delves into his vital role as a matchmaker for brands and creative agencies, drawing from his unique experiences with Lord Sugar and The Apprentice winners to provide a rare glimpse into the high-stakes world of public relations.Get ready for an interesting chat through some of the most out there agency pitches you'll ever hear about. From boardroom transformations to the critical importance of leaving a memorable impression, we unpack the essence of creativity in marketing. Hear about pitches that soared and those that plummeted, and learn why resilience and the ability to embrace the unexpected are crucial in this fast-paced industry. And for those in the thick of navigating the complex market dynamics, Andrew sheds light on the current hurdles agencies face, from profitability challenges to the art of crafting efficient briefs. We also talk through the trending surge in mergers and acquisitions, which might just point to an industry on the rise. Plus, don't miss the powerful narrative of a marketing campaign's brush with disaster and the lessons in humility and resilience that turned it all around. This episode isn't just about the highs and lows of PR—it's a masterclass in adapting, surviving, and thriving in the ever-evolving realm of agency relationships.Twitter: @andrewblochLinkedIn: Andrew BlochWebsite: www.andrewbloch.co.uk Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Feb 27, 2024 • 1h 4min
How to Navigate SEO and Online Reputation Management with Gerry White
Ever wondered how the digital marketing landscape continually evolves and what it takes to stay ahead? Prepare to gain invaluable insights as we sit down with Gerry White, the VP for Growth at Mirador, whose knowledge in SEO and analytics is extensive. From the juicy details of SEO controversies to the progression of a web design enthusiast to an industry-leading strategist, Gerry's stories will not only entertain but educate you on the nuances of an effective digital presence.Diving headfirst into the world of online reputation management, we unpack strategies that can make or break a brand's online image. Gerry illuminates the significance of SEO, digital PR, and responsive customer feedback loops and the team discuss a cruise line company as a shocking case study. You'll learn how Mirador's innovative practices encourage positive customer interactions, and the clever use of tools to manage reviews and foster growth. Plus, we don't shy away from the darker side of SEO, discussing the ethical quandaries faced in the industry and sharing a few laughs over some digital marketing blunders that remind us to stay humble.This conversation then takes a technical twist as we tackle how AI is revolutionizing content generation and the importance of maintaining a human touch amidst the rise of algorithms. Gerry imparts his wisdom on protecting your brand from the perils of negative SEO tactics and the importance of meticulous audience research for effective marketing. So, buckle up for a ride through the highs and lows of digital marketing, replete with anecdotal gold and strategies that will arm you for success in the digital arena. Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Feb 20, 2024 • 36min
Threads, AI, and the LinkedIn Boom: Social Media Trends 2024
Get ready for an in-depth exploration of the pivotal social media trends shaping brand strategy in 2024! In this episode, we delve into three game-changing trends revolutionizing the digital landscape and empowering brands to stay ahead of the competition.AI in Social Media Advertising: Discover how artificial intelligence is revolutionising social media advertising, enabling brands to target and engage with their audience more effectively than ever before.The Rise of Podcasting: Explore the burgeoning influence of podcasting in the social media sphere and learn how brands can leverage this medium to connect with their audience in new and impactful ways.New LinkedIn Developments: Gain insights into the latest developments on LinkedIn and how brands can harness these advancements to amplify their professional presence and network with industry leaders.Expert Insights: Industry experts share their perspectives on harnessing these trends to elevate brand visibility and engagement in the dynamic landscape of social media.Practical Tips: Get actionable strategies for integrating AI in social media advertising, podcasting, and new LinkedIn developments into your brand's social media strategy to drive growth and relevance in 2024. Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube