Cover Brand

Thinking about moving your brand upmarket? This episode is a masterclass in how luxury actually works. Ethan Decker and Christy O’Connor explore what separates premium and luxury brands from the rest, how affluent customers think and behave, and why white-glove service is as much about systems as it is about personal attention.You’ll learn how luxury brands signal value through design and behavior, why personalization beats automation when it’s done right, how AI can support high-touch experiences behind the scenes, and when a full rebrand is worth the risk. Ideal for founders, consultants, marketers, and service businesses looking to elevate their brand without losing credibility—or their minds.Main TopicsThe difference between mid-market, premium, and luxury price tiersPsychographics of luxury and super-premium customersWhy luxury brands increase value instead of discountingThe “luxury playbook” used by brands like Hermes, Gucci, and Louis VuittonBrand “body language” and why visuals communicate before wordsHigh-touch service vs automation (and where AI actually helps)Preference management, personalization, and bespoke experiencesGift-driven purchasing and couple dynamics in luxury buyingWhen to renovate a brand vs tear it down and rebrandBrand equity as “home equity”: don’t destroy what still has valueWhy memorability beats differentiation in most marketsBrands, Examples & References MentionedHermès – Luxury retail playbookGucci – Premium brand experience standardsLouis Vuitton – Luxury retail signalingBugatti – Ultra-luxury brand cuesBalenciaga – Fashion luxury aestheticsMichelin-Star Restaurants (e.g., Frasca Food & Wine, Boulder) – High-touch service examplesLa-Z-Boy – Brand equity and thoughtful rebrandingCoca-Cola – Market penetration exampleVolkswagen Touareg – Naming and memorability cautionary taleSaturday Night Live – Luxury advertising parody (playbook recognition)Luxury isn’t about being louder or fancier—it’s about making people feel understood, remembered, and cared for. The systems do the work so the experience feels effortless.Subscribe to Cover Brand for more insights into the world of branding and marketing. Share this episode with a friend who could benefit from these strategies, and head over to appliedbrandscience.com to dive deeper into the principles of brand science. Your success starts here!Castmagic and Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brand people love novelty.Buyers… not so much.In this episode of Cover Brand, Ethan sits down with Sebastian Hidalgo, co-founder of Durindal, to talk about why some brands endure while others keep tripping over their own “fresh ideas.”The conversation opens with AC/DC (as all serious brand conversations should), and the famous Angus Young quote about having 13 albums that sound exactly the same. Which, it turns out, is one of the clearest explanations of brand consistency you’ll ever hear.From there, Ethan and Sebastian connect the dots between music, memory, and market reality—why brands that “stay in their lane” are easier to remember, easier to buy, and harder to replace. They also dig into defense tech, B2B branding, and why credibility is built through repetition, not reinvention.This episode is a reminder that most branding mistakes don’t come from doing too little—they come from changing too much.Main TopicsWhy AC/DC is secretly a branding masterclassConsistency vs. creativity (and why it’s a false tradeoff)What marketers misunderstand about “getting bored” with their own brandHow credibility is built in defense tech and other high-stakes B2B categoriesWhy brands don’t need to surprise people—they need to be recognizableThe danger of confusing internal fatigue with external wear-outBrands, Tools & References MentionedAC/DC — the accidental case study in brand consistencyCoca-Cola — no one complains it tastes the same every yearDurindal — Sebastian Hidalgo’s defense tech consulting firm - https://www.durindal.com/Cover Brand Covers Playlist (Spotify) https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6h4QzTqrtn9DIAPvdn1iCIWho This Episode Is ForBrand leaders tempted to “refresh” things that are already workingB2B and defense tech marketers navigating trust-driven categoriesAnyone who’s ever said, “We need something new” without being able to explain whyFinal TakeawayIf people recognize your brand, you’re doing something right.If they’re bored of it… that might just be you.Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most brands spend a fortune polishing what customers see.Very few think about what customers hear.In this episode of Cover Brand, Ethan sits down with Shez Mehra—DJ turned multisensory troublemaker—to unpack why sound is one of the most overlooked (and most powerful) tools in branding.From marble bathrooms with zero acoustic privacy to forgettable ads no one is watching, Shez and Ethan make the case that sound isn’t decoration. It’s strategy.And spoiler alert: most brands are leaving massive value on the table.Main TopicsHow a DJ career became brand strategySound is how brands make people feelThe most neglected moments matter mostWhy most ads are technically “fine” and strategically invisibleCategory sameness can be a trapStanding out doesn’t mean being loud.Sonic branding isn’t just for adsBrands, tools & references mentionedRaina — multisensory sound and music design for physical spacesHonk Mobile — parking app example of thoughtful sound UXNokia ringtone — proof that repetition + sound = memoryArby’s — “We have the meats” as sonic branding done rightDomino’s — great ads, forgotten slogan (because silence)Disney — line design as part of the experienceIf you want people to remember your brand when they’re not looking at it, you’d better think about how it sounds.Castmagic and Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most marketing teams are still trying to choose sides: brand or performance, creativity or data, vibes or dashboards.That’s adorable. And wildly inefficient.On this episode of Cover Brand, I sit down with Casey Hill of Do What Works to unpack how demand actually gets created, why SEO is still misunderstood, and how A/B testing at massive scale reveals what marketers think works versus what actually does.We dig into why common forms of social proof often backfire, how attribution models oversimplify human behavior, and why buyers don’t experience marketing in funnels—they experience it like real people with context, memory, and skepticism.This is a shop-talk episode for anyone who’s tired of chasing short-term wins that quietly erode long-term growth.Main TopicsWhy brand and performance aren’t opposites (they’re roommates)How DoWhatWorks analyzes thousands of real A/B tests across major brandsWhat SEO really does (and doesn’t do) for demand creationWhy common social proof elements (logo bars, star ratings, badges) often lose testsThe danger of cheap signals vs. costly, credible proofAttribution models vs. how humans actually decideWhy removing “best practices” sometimes improves conversionHow personalization and relevance beat generic “impressive” brandingExamples & Case Studies DiscussedJotform — removing third-party review badges improved performanceDropbox — logo bars tested and removed despite “impressive” clientsClay — logo bars linked to detailed case studies performed betterSpotify — full homepage rebrand testingSage — industry- and company-size-based homepage personalizationHotels.com — experimentation and trust signal optimizationAt-scale testing references: Nike, Disney, Netflix, NFL, MLBResources & ReferencesDoWhatWorks (Casey’s company & testing platform): https://www.dowhatworks.ioDoWhatWorks Insights & Research: https://www.dowhatworks.io/blogDoWhatWorks Newsletter (Substack): https://dowhatworks.substack.comCasey Hill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseyhillWayback Machine (Web Archive) — historical website versions: https://web.archive.orgReview & Social Proof Platforms Referenced:G2 — https://www.g2.comCapterra — https://www.capterra.comTrustpilot — https://www.trustpilot.comBook Referenced: Influence by Robert CialdiniCover Brand Spotify Playlist (cover songs mentioned on the show): https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6h4QzTqrtn9DIAPvdn1iCI?si=tr1zrnnBSaqif-xmEIpaZQWho This Episode Is ForFounders wondering why growth stalls the second spend slowsMarketers stuck between “brand people” and “performance people”SEO leaders tired of being treated like technical supportAnyone suspicious that “best practices” are mostly just habits with good PRFinal TakeawayYou don’t optimize your way into being remembered.You build memory—and then performance finally has something to stand on.Castmagic and Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ready to make your brand stand out in a noisy market? This episode is packed with strategies for entrepreneurs and marketers looking to build unforgettable brands. Matteo Schaffner shares the journey of launching "Minga," a freeze dried fruit brand rooted in Latin American community and sustainability, while Ethan Decker delivers science-backed insights on what makes brand identity truly memorable. Learn the secret to choosing distinctive names, colors, and packaging, and why having a backstory powers internal brand culture. Ideal for founders, brand strategists, and anyone looking to add unique value to a commodity product. Listen for practical examples, creative brainstorming, and expert branding advice that can take your project from idea to iconic.Optimize your brand for recognition and recall, discover how being different can be your strongest asset, and get inspired by real-world stories of brand innovation.Main Topics:The importance of brand identity ("Big B" vs "Little B" brand)The process and challenges in building a consumer brand from raw materialsFreeze dried vs dehydrated fruit: differentiating your productHow to choose standout brand names, logos, and colorsMaking your packaging do the heavy lifting in retail and online environmentsWhy your brand backstory matters—and who it’s really forDistinctiveness vs relevance: Defying category conventions for brand successReal-world branding examples (Starbucks, Geico, Apple, Theo, Panda Cheese)Practical advice for testing and refining brand elements in marketLinks to Additional Resources:Cover Brand Spotify Playlist – Featuring cover songs mentioned on the podcastTheo Chocolate – Example chocolate brand discussedAll the Things You Are history.If you’re launching a new consumer brand or refreshing your current identity, this episode is a must-listen! Apply these insights to stand out from competitors and build lasting customer recognition. Curious about how brand science can transform your business? Visit appliedbrandscience.com for deeper dives and resources. Subscribe to Cover Brand for more insights into the world of branding and marketing. Share this episode with a friend who could benefit from these strategies, and head over to appliedbrandscience.com to dive deeper into the principles of brand science. Your success starts here!Castmagic and Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you grow a medical practice that stands out—while staying true to your values and meeting untapped patient needs? In this episode, Ethan Decker and Krista Michener dive deep into the business and branding of integrative health. Krista reveals how she evolved AHP Integrative Health from a self-pay clinic for uninsured communities to a sought-after healing destination for chronic Lyme and more. She and Ethan unpack actionable strategies for marketing in a niche medical field, the power of segmentation and targeting, and why modeling your business after cross-industry examples can accelerate your growth. If you’re a healthcare provider, entrepreneur, or anyone looking to scale purposefully, this episode will give you the tools and confidence to market smarter, build your tribe, and design a business you love. Listen for practical insights you can implement right now to grow your service-based brand, clarify your positioning, and future-proof your operations.Main Topics Covered:How AHP Integrative Health blends alternative and traditional medicineKrista’s shift from affordable care to integrative healing—rooted in her local Amish and farmer communitiesManaging growth: Stopping marketing, hiring challenges, and scaling responsiblyMarketing strategies for niche medical practices (chronic Lyme expertise, multi-state reach)Leveraging business models from other industries (the “white label” approach)How to find and connect with mentors to model your business on successOutsourcing and “buying back your time” so you can focus on your strengthsOvercoming limiting beliefs—owning your value as a providerActionable next steps for medical entrepreneurs and business ownersLinks to Additional Resources:AHP Integrative HealthBooks Mentioned: Buy Back Your Time by Dan MartellInternational Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS)Business Model Inspiration: What is White Labeling? (Investopedia)Ready to create a more impactful, sustainable brand? Reflect on your business model, reach out to an industry mentor, and start taking small steps toward your vision today. If you enjoy the episode, share your favorite insight on social and tag us!Subscribe to Cover Brand for more insights into the world of branding and marketing. Share this episode with a friend who could benefit from these strategies, and head over to appliedbrandscience.com to dive deeper into the principles of brand science. Your success starts here!Castmagic and Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you a service-based business or financial advisor looking to break through to your next level of growth—without losing what makes your work special? This week's episode of Cover Brand is for you. Debbie Huttner of Pearl Wealth joins Ethan Decker for a candid conversation about growing a high-trust business through reputation, authenticity, and the courage to simply ask for referrals from delighted clients. Discover how “branding” extends far beyond logos and colors—it's woven into every interaction, every touchpoint, and every reputation-building move you make. You’ll learn actionable strategies for leveraging your existing community, getting comfortable with outreach, and how subtle brand cues can elevate your premium service. Whether you’re aiming to attract high-net-worth clients or simply want to scale your impact, this episode delivers mindset shifts and practical tactics to help you succeed.Main Topics Covered:The real definition of branding—and why it’s more than your logoTurning your reputation into a powerful growth engineHow to leverage events, thought leadership, and simple outreach as effective marketing (without ever running a traditional ad)Moving beyond “asking feels awkward”—scripted steps to successfully ask for referralsTactics for integrating the right “brand touches” into your client experience, from office ambiance to giftingBuilding ambitious (even “impossible”) growth goals—and breaking past hesitation to reach themLinks to Additional Resources:Pearl Wealth: Learn more about Debbie Huttner’s award-winning servicesThe Science of Scaling: The book referenced by Debbie on setting ambitious goalsReady to transform your reputation into rocket fuel for your business? Start by getting clear on your unique value—and take the next step to ask for those game-changing referrals. Want extra tips? Reach out at pearlwealth.net or connect with us via appliedbrandscience.com!Subscribe to Cover Brand for more insights into the world of branding and marketing. Share this episode with a friend who could benefit from these strategies, and head over to appliedbrandscience.com to dive deeper into the principles of brand science. Your success starts here!Castmagic and Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When it comes to branding and marketing, are you getting lost in the latest TikTok craze or AI-generated hype? Or are you focused on the tried-and-true fundamentals that actually move the needle? In this must-listen episode, brand strategist Jonathan James joins Ethan Decker to unravel the science behind what makes brands truly memorable—and what you should STOP wasting your time on.You’ll learn the difference between "Big B" brand and "little b" brand, why video testimonials can supercharge your growth, and how leveraging social proof transformsskeptical buyers into loyal fans. From product strategy and pricing to champagne-fueled relationship-building, discover the essential branding moves you need to master in today’s complex landscape.Whether you're leading a startup, scaling a mid-size company, or just want to get smarter about branding, this episode delivers actionable brand science you can use now to boost trust, credibility, and sales.Main Topics CoveredTimeless branding principles vs. fleeting marketing trendsThe power of social proof & video testimonials in sales and brand trust"Big M" marketing vs. "little m" marketing—what really drives growth?Brand reputation: Why delivery trumps flashy adsHow likability and storytelling can win you more businessPersonal branding: Using unique “calling cards” to stand out (champagne, chocolate & more)Tactical vs. strategic branding: Adapting to different business sizes and stagesHow word-of-mouth and earned media still outperform traditional commsLinks to Additional ResourcesHybrency — Explore Jonathan James' strategic consulting servicesChampagne Strategy Podcast —Jonathan James' podcast on business, branding, and of course, champagneBook: "Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion" by Robert CialdiniTony’s Chocolonely — The chocolate brand referenced in the episodeReady to level up your brand with strategies that actually work? Take action now: audit your website for genuine social proof, revamp your client proposal process with testimonials, or pick a “signature” detail that sets you apart (just like champagne or chocolate!). And if your team is ready for real brand science training, visit appliedbrandscience.com for resources and more.Subscribe to Cover Brand for more insights into the world of branding and marketing. Share this episode with a friend who could benefit from these strategies, and head over to appliedbrandscience.com to dive deeper into the principles of brand science. Your success starts here!Castmagic and Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ready to separate branding fact from fiction? In this lively, insightful episode, Ethan Decker and special guest Charles Swann—founder of Forage—cut through the industry hype around AI, hyper-personalization, and what consumers actually want from brands. Learn the science behind authentic connections, why hyper-personalized ads might be hurting instead of helping, and the timeless power of marketing that speaks to values without over specification. Discover actionable strategies for creating content that resonates, stands out, and earns real trust in crowded digital spaces.If you want to boost your brand’s impact, avoid common pitfalls, and future-proof your marketing with both the latest tools and timeless truths, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss.Bullet Points of Main TopicsThe classic and emotional power of cover songs (Johnny Cash’s "Hurt" and what makes a cover sticky)Introduction to Forage, a next-gen AI tool for social listening and cultural insightWhy AI and hyper-personalization often miss the mark with real consumersThe myth of "hyper-personalized ads" and what audiences truly valueThe power imbalance between brands and consumers in data usageAuthenticity: why it’s more important than ever in the age of AI and influencer marketingCommunity-level vs. individual-level brand targeting strategiesPractical examples of marketing missteps and successes—from influencers to merch to Super Bowl adsKey lessons on human cognition, intention, and the science of brand trustHow to build brands that people want to engage with (and why most people still block ads)Links to Additional ResourcesCover Brand Covers playlist on Spotify – Listen to all the cover songs discussed in each episodeletsforage.com – Learn more about Forage, Charles Swann’s culture and brand insights platformCharles Swann on LinkedIn – Follow for insights and updatesTheory of Presentation of Self in Everyday Life by Erving GoffmanAre you ready to ditch tired marketing strategies and bring authentic, science-backed methods to your branding? Listen now to level up your understanding, connect with your audience like never before, and turn every interaction into a brand-building moment.Subscribe to Cover Brand for more insights into the world of branding and marketing. Share this episode with a friend who could benefit from these strategies, and head over to appliedbrandscience.com to dive deeper into the principles of brand science. Your success starts here!Castmagic and Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever struggled to find the balance between hard data and creative intuition in your marketing decisions? In this episode of Cover Brand, Ethan Decker sits down with Daniel Rauchwerger, a Miami-based marketing strategist, to unpack one of the industry’s most timely dilemmas: when to trust your gut and when to rely on data. Together, they examine how expertise is built, why even so-called “experts” need to keep testing their instincts, and how embracing uncertainty can fuel better campaigns and brand growth. If you want to sharpen your decision-making and build healthier brand strategies, this conversation is packed with insights you can put into practice today.Main Topics Covered:The search for creativity: How Daniel’s song quest mirrors the marketer’s journeyData vs. gut: Why confidence and certainty drive marketing choicesTraining your instincts: Developing expertise and avoiding intuition trapsLessons from campaign successes (and failures)Navigating risk in a competitive healthcare marketUnpredictability in branding: Why marketing is harder than rocket scienceHow to balance evidence and experimentation in ad campaignsPractical advice for young marketers entering the industryLinks to Additional Resources:Cover Brand Cover Songs Playlist on SpotifyMarketersJudgmentAboutDBAs.pdfMarketersIntuitionAdEffectiveness-Hartnett2016.pdfBook: "Everything is Obvious" by Duncan J. WattsReady to build brand strategies on solid ground? Listen now to discover actionable ways to strengthen your instincts and leverage data for smarter marketing decisions. Check out the resources and start balancing your creative gut with evidence that delivers results.Subscribe to Cover Brand for more insights into the world of branding and marketing. Share this episode with a friend who could benefit from these strategies, and head over to appliedbrandscience.com to dive deeper into the principles of brand science. Your success starts here!Castmagic and Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you obsessed with finding the perfect tagline for your business—or not sure if you even need one? Join branding expert Ethan Decker and guest Jenny Desmond, founder of Vive Mas Tours, for an energetic conversation about what makes a tagline work. Discover why most taglines fail, which literary tricks make phrases stick, and how to create messaging that your audience will actually use to describe your brand. Jenny shares the specific branding challenges she faced while expanding from Cuba to Colombia, and Ethan gives actionable advice for creating a tagline that not only explains your business but inspires word-of-mouth. Tune in and walk away with a toolkit of creative, fun, and scientific branding solutions designed to make your company unforgettable.Main Topics Covered:The importance (and limitations) of taglines in brandingKey elements that make a tagline memorable and effectiveBranding challenges of expanding into new markets (Cuba to Colombia)Targeting a niche audience—travel for 55+ adventurersUsing literary devices (rhyme, alliteration, couplets) to craft sticky taglinesReal-world examples of famous taglines (FedEx, Taco Bell, Arby’s, Band-Aid)Why getting feedback from real customers is essential to messagingCreative brainstorming tips for developing your brand’s taglineBalancing explanation and creativity in messagingEncouragement to test and revise taglines with your audienceLinks to Additional Resources:Vive Mas Tours – Learn more about Jenny's cultural and birdwatching toursArby’s “We Have the Meats” Campaign – Iconic tagline inspirationReady to create a tagline that truly works for your business? Share your favorite takeaways from this episode and brainstorm your next big tagline. Invite real customers to join the process—and remember, sometimes all it takes is a mojito and a fresh playlist to spark your best ideas.Subscribe to Cover Brand for more insights into the world of branding and marketing. Share this episode with a friend who could benefit from these strategies, and head over to appliedbrandscience.com to dive deeper into the principles of brand science. Your success starts here!Castmagic and Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you struggling to make your brand stand out in today’s noisy digital landscape? Join Ethan Decker and guest Laura Diral as they dive into the art and science of brand salience—how to rise above the competition and capture attention, even if your product isn’t flashy. Laura shares firsthand experience managing social media for an IT company and her surprising inspiration from fashion brands. Ethan provides actionable tips for B2B marketers, including using entertainment, humanized content, and sticky creative ideas to create memorable campaigns. If you want to learn how to turn your social media and content strategy into a powerful vehicle for awareness and recall, this episode will inspire you to think differently—and start seeing results. Perfect for marketers, entrepreneurs, and anyone in need of a salience boost!Main Topics Covered:Why brand awareness and salience are essential for growthRethinking the traditional marketing funnel in the age of content overloadCreative approaches to stand out in B2B industriesBorrowing strategies from fashion and entertainment to make brands “sticky”The importance of consistency in branding elements (logo, color, character)Using opposites and humor as memorable campaign ideasBalancing relevance and memorability in marketing communicationsBuilding brand equity over timeLinks to Additional Resources:Geico’s Gecko Campaign – Example mentioned in the showMissoni Official Site – Fashion as inspirationReady to elevate your brand? Put these creative ideas into action to boost your brand’s salience and turn awareness into long-term success. Experiment with memorable content and consistent branding, and don’t be afraid to borrow from outside your industry. For more inspiration, visit appliedbrandscience.com and join our community of brand builders.Subscribe to Cover Brand for more insights into the world of branding and marketing. Share this episode with a friend who could benefit from these strategies, and head over to appliedbrandscience.com to dive deeper into the principles of brand science. Your success starts here!Castmagic and Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the On Brand season finale, contestants pitch campaigns for Therabody, rebranding the percussive massage gun for a broader audience beyond athletes. The challenge: make it “edgy, fun, and for everyone.” The result: creative panic, moaning sound effects, and a few genuinely insightful lessons about audience, positioning, and tone.Ethan and Laura break down what this episode teaches about the messy intersection of art and science in branding—how clarity beats cleverness, how risk creates attention, and how even the best ideas can wobble when the brief (or the nerves) go sideways.Main Topics Covered:When “edgy” really means “please get attention without scaring us”How Theragun became Therabody—and why names matterWhat happens when contestants mix two good ideas into one messy pitchWhy funny ≠ effective (and how tone changes brand meaning)Sonic branding: why your tagline has to be heard, not just readThe tension between creative freedom and client controlWhy Bianca’s stress-relief concept worked—and what it teaches about universalityFinal thoughts on the On Brand season: what TV got right (and wrong) about marketingPremium Stickiness Award:“Stress Will Find a Way Out.”A clever, human truth—stress will find an outlet. It’s just better if it’s a massage gun, not your coworker’s laptop.Tune in for the finale episode of Cover Brand Covers On Brand, where Ethan and Laura mix brand science with a splash of reality TV chaos. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and send your favorite campaign from the season to info@appliedbrandscience.com for a shot at some Applied Brand Science merch.Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com#TeamBianca #TeamRyan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Curious about how the world’s most buzzworthy trends explode overnight—or why your brand messaging sometimes falls flat? In this episode of Cover Brand, Evante Daniels joins host Ethan Decker for a thought-provoking exploration of brand science and the hidden forces driving success in today’s marketing landscape. Unpacking real-world examples—from Kelly Clarkson’s powerhouse covers to the seismic shifts in DEI and ESG—Evante reveals how intention, context, and even our nervous systems shape the popularity and effectiveness of brands.Whether you’re a marketer, business owner, or trend-watcher, you’ll learn how to go beyond “guesswork” by applying data-driven, neuroscience-backed strategies to your campaigns. Discover why understanding context is crucial, how cultural trends cascade through networks, and how to create unforgettable, human-centric brand experiences. Perfect for anyone ready to elevate their impact and harness the science behind what truly moves people.Main Topics:Why Kelly Clarkson’s cover of Billie Eilish’s “Happier Than Ever” goes viral—lessons in audience connection and vocal powerThe explosive rise (and retreat) of DEI and ESG in business: tracing cultural shifts through neuroscience and trend analysisInside Seeqer: Applying intelligence, quantum physics, and human factors to brand strategyHow context—not just content—determines which ideas and campaigns succeedThe power of nervous system entrainment: synchronizing experiences for supercharged brand engagementRedesigning events and ads with neuroscience—how “the vibe” trumps traditional messagingTactical tips: creating brand experiences that foster community, joy, and lasting influenceLinks to Additional Resources:Seeqer: Intelligence FirmEvante Daniels on LinkedInBlackRock ESG Integration StatementReady to transform your brand strategy with science, context, and that “it factor” that sparks real connection? Dive into this episode to learn how you can decode trends, leverage neuroscience, and build messaging that resonates—body and mind. Don’t miss Evante’s insider tips to make your brand unforgettable!Subscribe to Cover Brand for more insights into the world of branding and marketing. Share this episode with a friend who could benefit from these strategies, and head over to appliedbrandscience.com to dive deeper into the principles of brand science. Your success starts here!Castmagic and Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do you do when your client wants a viral digital series—but actually just wants expensive commercials? This week, Ethan and Laura break down On Brand Episode 7, where KitchenAid challenges contestants to create a digital campaign for their new KitchenAid Go cordless appliances. The duo explores the brand science behind product positioning, the power (and peril) of iconic products, and why understanding your audience and occasion matters more than any brief.They dive into how brand storytelling can go wrong when clients confuse entertainment with advertising, how pressure stifles creativity, and what KitchenAid’s “No Cords Attached” challenge teaches marketers about staying grounded in audience truth.Main Topics Covered:The double-edged sword of iconic products like the KitchenAid stand mixerWhy “cordless” isn’t always the benefit you think it isThe difference between occasions and demographics when defining a marketHow to handle clients who ask for what they don’t actually wantThe danger of confusing brand storytelling with product placementWhy psychological safety beats panic for creative performanceThe art of winning over clients (without “pushing back”)When good ideas die because the client or culture isn’t readyWhat Jennifer Garner taught us about brand fluency and the value of a good spokespersonPremium Stickiness Award: “Unplugged and Unleashed.”It wasn’t the perfect pitch, but it nailed the insight: freedom is the fantasy. Even when your product’s power source changes, your story still has to plug into something human.Tune in for a lesson in brand briefs, client psychology, and the fine line between “digital series” and “expensive ads.” Subscribe to Cover Brand wherever you get your podcasts, and follow this special On Brand mini-series as Ethan and Laura decode the weird, wild world of reality TV marketing.Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com#TeamBianca #TeamPyper Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ready to turn your creative skills into a thriving business? In this episode of Cover Brand, host Ethan Decker chats with multi-talented musician and vocal coach Amy Biondo about personal branding, crafting a unique market position, and strategies that make your service irresistible to high-end clients.Discover why selling an experience is more powerful than selling a product, how to identify and own your perfect "occasion," and what you can borrow from the world’s luxury brands—even if you’re a small-scale performer, service provider, or entrepreneur. Amy reveals the branding challenges and wins from her own career (including a clever approach to set apart her duo), while Ethan digs deep into marketing psychology, tiered positioning, and creating word-of-mouth magic. Whether you’re a musician, creative, or freelancer, you’ll walk away with practical steps to help you become the go-to name in your niche.Main Topics CoveredKeys to crafting an irresistible personal or business brand“Vibe marketing” and selling experiences – not just servicesDeciding on a niche and using “occasion-based” marketingBranding lessons from luxury brands and high-end hospitalityCreating client-focused messaging to spark imagination and bookingsNaming, logos, and promotional strategies that stickBuilding word-of-mouth and making it easy for fans to share your storyLinks to Additional ResourcesCoverBrand Covers – Official Spotify Playlist (For all cover songs mentioned on the podcast)Amy Biondo’s Website & MusicInspired to elevate your brand? Start by mapping out the key occasions or experiences that make your work unique, then identify what high-end brands are doing and “steal their playbook.” Step into your premium positioning, create a simple and powerful handout, and ask your happiest clients to spread the word. Subscribe to Cover Brand for more insights into the world of branding and marketing. Share this episode with a friend who could benefit from these strategies, and head over to appliedbrandscience.com to dive deeper into the principles of brand science. Your success starts here!Castmagic and Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when you’re tasked with “making the Doughboy relevant again”? In this episode, Ethan and Laura unpack the Pillsbury challenge from On Brand, where contestants must introduce the classic mascot to a “new generation of bakers.” The duo dives deep into the science of brand mascots—what makes them memorable, how they evolve, and why some (like the Duolingo Owl) thrive by going full chaos while others play it too safe.They also explore how brand characters work as mental shortcuts in consumer brains, why over-sanitizing your mascot kills storytelling, and what happens when a brief asks for “everything, everywhere, all at once.”Main Topics Covered:The brand science of mascots: consistency, storytelling, and emotional cuesWhy old mascots can (and should) appeal to young audiencesThe risk and reward of killing—or reviving—your mascot (RIP Mr. Peanut)The importance of giving characters character—conflict, flaws, and stakesDuolingo Owl vs. Doughboy: chaos vs. comfortWhen briefs go rogue: the danger of asking for a “small activation” that’s secretly a global campaignThe perils of bad focus groups and why marketers shouldn’t count votes in a room of 10“New generation of bakers”—what that really means (and doesn’t)How “There’s Dough Place Like Home” rebrands nostalgia for modern audiencesPremium Stickiness Award: “There’s Dough Place Like Home.”Simple, nostalgic, and just clever enough to work. It’s not reinvention—it’s reinforcement. Proof that even 60-year-old mascots can stick if you give them a little story and a lot of heart.Tune in for a deep dive into brand mascots, modern marketing myths, and the fine art of keeping your brand fresh without throwing out what makes it lovable. Subscribe to Cover Brand wherever you get your podcasts—and keep following our On Brand mini-series for more reality TV, real lessons, and just the right amount of brand nerdiness.Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is showing your brand’s “behind the scenes” essential to business success—or just a passing trend? On this episode of Cover Brand, host Ethan Decker sits down with Bishop Fox’s Michele Blazier and Arissa Kirkland for a lively discussion at the crossroads of authenticity, professionalism, and marketing effectiveness. They dive into real-world examples, from Taylor Swift’s unfiltered album documentaries to the disciplined polish of iconic brands like Nike and Prada.If you’re wondering whether your company should pull back the curtain and get real with your audience, you’ll gain actionable insight on what works (and what doesn’t!) for B2B and B2C brands alike. This episode will help you determine when to leverage raw, human storytelling versus when to maintain a refined, polished image—plus how to test what feels right for your customers. Tune in to learn how to make your brand both memorable and trustworthy.Main Topics CoveredThe pros and cons of behind-the-scenes content for brandsAuthenticity vs. professionalism: Striking the right balanceAre “unfiltered” moments a must-have or a marketing lever?Real-world brand case studies: Taylor Swift, Nike, Salesforce, Prada, FentyHow to decide if less-polished content fits your brand and audienceThe importance of getting feedback and testing new content formatsThe role of consistency and authenticity in brand marketingKey marketing “laws” and “levers” to help your business growLinks to Additional ResourcesBishop FoxTaylor Swift – Folklore DocumentaryNike’s 2023 Super Bowl AdSalesforce BrandingReady to level up your brand strategy? Try experimenting with authentic, behind-the-scenes content—and measure your audience’s response. Think about where your brand sits on the spectrum between raw storytelling and polished professionalism, then test what resonates. Want expert help? Head over to appliedbrandscience.com to dive deeper into proven brand science principles!Subscribe to Cover Brand for more insights into the world of branding and marketing. Share this episode with a friend who could benefit from these strategies, and head over to appliedbrandscience.com to dive deeper into the principles of brand science. Your success starts here!Castmagic and Descript used to create drafts and then editing with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s On Brand breakdown, Captain Morgan’s marketing team throws down one of the toughest challenges yet: make a Super Bowl campaign that will go viral nearly a year in advance. Ethan and Laura dive into why this kind of brief sets creatives up for chaos, and how understanding your audience—what they drink, where they watch, and how they connect—makes all the difference.They also break down brand science lessons around distinctiveness, consistency, and creative stretch:Why Captain Morgan’s mustache might not be as iconic as they think (but could be)How viral marketing myths still haunt brand teamsThe psychology of “big ideas” that expand across channels and cultureAnd what makes a campaign truly sticky—not just loud.Main Topics Covered:Why “make it viral” is a creative nightmareHow research (or lack of it) shapes good briefsThe reality of Gen Z drinking habits and media behaviorUnderstanding brand assets: what’s truly distinctive vs. what’s wishful thinkingHow the best ideas grow “legs” and evolve across touchpointsLessons from Captain Morgan, Diageo, and KFC on risk, timing, and creativityPremium Stickiness Award: “Captain… Morgan.”A simple, shoutable call-and-response that anyone can play—fun, familiar, and flexible. Sometimes the stickiest ideas are the ones you already know how to do.Listen for a crash course in briefs, branding, and the beautiful disaster of trying to go viral on purpose. Subscribe to Cover Brand wherever you get your podcasts, and keep following the On Brand mini-series as we turn marketing chaos into brand science clarity.Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com#TeamFreeze #TeamMustache Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vanity metrics like follower counts and impressions might make your digital dashboards sizzle, but do they actually move your brand forward? In this episode of Cover Brand, host Ethan Decker and guest Crys Kelly dive deep into the challenges marketers face when clients get fixated on the wrong data. Learn how to distinguish between “traps” (easy but useless metrics) and “treasures” (harder-to-measure, game-changing insights). Discover Ethan’s psychologically savvy “Data Grid” framework, proven tactics for gently persuading stakeholders, and creative ways to make the shift stick. Whether you’re a brand manager, marketer, or agency partner, this episode will help you cut through the noise and champion data that truly makes a difference.Main Topics Covered:Brian Justin Crumb’s cover of Alanis Morissette’s “Uninvited” and what makes musical crossovers magicalCrys Kelly’s experience connecting brand data and strategy in the agency worldWhy brands often chase vanity metrics—and the pitfalls of focusing on impressions or follower countsThe “Data Grid” framework: Tools, Treasures, Traps, and TeasesHow to persuade clients and colleagues to value meaningful metrics over vanity statsPsychological approaches and playful tactics (like the “Fabio of Metrics”) to reframe conversations around dataThe power of relatable brand role models in shifting KPI focusAdvice for agency and brand teams to align on what really mattersLinks to Additional Resources:Who Gives a Crap – The Brand Mentioned in This EpisodeRead more about Stephen Covey’s 2x2 MatrixRory Sutherland on Behavioral Science in MarketingCover Brand Playlist on SpotifyTraps & Treasures Matrix Ready to move your brand (or your clients) beyond vanity metrics and into growth that matters? Listen in for practical frameworks and real-world examples you can start using today! Want a copy of Ethan’s Data Grid? Go to appliedbrandscience.com for resources, visuals, and tools to guide your strategy meetings.Subscribe to Cover Brand for more insights into the world of branding and marketing. Share this episode with a friend who could benefit from these strategies, and head over to appliedbrandscience.com to dive deeper into the principles of brand science. Your success starts here!Castmagic and Descript used to create drafts and then edited with human eyes, ears and hands. Produced by BiCurean.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.