The MadMen Pod
Welcome to MadMen, the podcast where we dive headfirst into the wild world of up-and-coming brands that are shaking things up! We celebrate the rebels, the disruptors, and fearless innovators who are flipping the script and rewriting the rules of branding. We’re gonna separate the studs from the duds, the winners from the losers, and give you the inside scoop on what makes these brands tick. Each episode, we chat about the latest brand sensations, their bold moves, calculated risks and the magic that happens when they step out of the box. Whether you’re a marketing maven, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just a curious soul, MadMen is your backstage pass to the world of brand building. We’re serving up tantalizing insights, thought-provoking stories, and a truckload of inspiration for those who dare to dream big. Get ready to discover the trailblazer brands who are turning heads, raising eyebrows, and leaving an indelible mark on the world.
Episodes
6 days ago
6 days ago
This week on the podcast, we delve into "Rebrands Due to Social Pressures," highlighting significant changes organizations have made in response to evolving societal values. The episode focuses on the recent rebrand of Boy Scouts to Scouting America, aiming for greater inclusivity. We discuss other impactful rebrands, including Aunt Jennie's, Eskimo Pie's transition to a more culturally sensitive brand identity, and L’Oréal's decision to remove terms like “whitening” from their products to promote racial equality. Join us as we explore how these brands have navigated the pressures and the implications of their actions. Plus, we'll touch on highlights from the Met Gala.
Monday May 06, 2024
EPS 41: Marketing trends & refreshes: bumble, Umax App, not beer, liquid IV
Monday May 06, 2024
Monday May 06, 2024
Navigating New Horizons: Brand Movements and Refreshes
In this week's episode, we explore the dynamic shifts in the marketing landscape and the rejuvenation of brand identities. Our discussions are segmented into three insightful parts:
Segment 1 - Brands on the Move: Dive into what's currently trending in the marketing world. From the intriguing Umax app to Zillow's engaging Bluey ad and the strategic pivot of Hollister from brick-and-mortar to online, we cover a spectrum of brands making significant moves. We also delve into the influential power of reviews with a look at MKBHD's take on Humane & Fisker Ocean.
Segment 2 - Recent Brand Refresh: We analyze and share our thoughts on the latest brand refreshes that are reshaping perceptions and reinvigorating consumer interest. Discover the transformations of Bumble, Liquid IV, and the transition from Lifetime Fitness to simply Lifetime, along with other notable refreshes.
Segment 3 - In-Person vs. Online Engagement: In this discussion, we assess the shifting strategies of companies as they navigate the balance between online presence and in-person engagements. This segment focuses on how both B2C and B2B entities are adapting to a world where physical presence is becoming increasingly valued alongside digital interactions.
Join us as we unpack these developments, providing unique insights into how brands are adapting, transforming, and thriving in today's fast-evolving market.
Monday Apr 29, 2024
Ep 40: crafting your own lane | Airbnb, Tesla, lululemon
Monday Apr 29, 2024
Monday Apr 29, 2024
Pioneers of Innovation: Crafting Markets from Scratch
In this compelling episode dive into the fascinating world of 'Category Creation.' Join our hosts as they unravel stories of brands that didn't just enter the market—they created it! From Lululemon's yoga pants revolutionizing fitness wear to Tesla's charge into electric vehicles, discover how these companies shaped consumer culture and established thriving markets where none existed.
Episode Highlights:
Yoga Pants by Lululemon: How Lululemon turned athletic wear into a lifestyle statement.Electric Dreams by Tesla: Tesla's bold venture into making electric cars a mainstream choice
The Energy Burst by Red Bull: Detailing how Red Bull created and dominated the energy drink market.
Chilling Innovation by Plunge: Delve into how Plunge is making waves with its cold plunge tubs.
As we explore these groundbreaking innovations, learn about the strategies these pioneers used to create demand, captivate early adopters, and scale their ventures into global phenomena. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and insight into the art of creating a category!
Monday Apr 22, 2024
Eps 39 - Earth Day, Sustainability in brands, Social Impact and Greenwashing
Monday Apr 22, 2024
Monday Apr 22, 2024
Rooted in Green: Unpacking Sustainability in Marketing
In this Earth Day special, we delve deep into how brands are integrating sustainability into their DNA and the broader implications beyond environmental stewardship. Join Sameer, Adeel, and Salim as they explore compelling examples of companies making a real impact, and scrutinize those whose efforts might not be as green as they appear.
What's Inside:
Sustainability in Brand DNA: Discover how companies like Patagonia, Fab Brick, and Microsoft are embedding eco-conscious practices into the core of their business strategies, setting benchmarks for industry peers.
Social Sustainability: We go beyond the environment to discuss how brands like Ben & Jerry’s, Lego, and Airbnb are addressing social sustainability, championing community initiatives, and fostering inclusive practices that contribute to societal well-being.
Eco-Fails: A critical look at brands accused of greenwashing. We examine Amazon, H&M, and Volkswagen to understand where companies may fall short in their eco-friendly promises, shedding light on the thin line between marketing and reality.
This episode strips back the green facade to reveal the true colors of sustainability in marketing. Tune in as we start with Sameer's introduction, immediately diving into how these brands are crafting a more sustainable future or merely painting a greener picture.
Monday Apr 15, 2024
Monday Apr 15, 2024
In this week’s episode of we delve into the latest headlines that are shaping the business and tech landscapes. From Google’s strategic acquisition of HubSpot to the economic impact of the recent eclipse, we cover the biggest stories in "What’s Trending." We analyze the fallout from Trump Social's challenges and discuss the creative and possibly controversial new tagline from Papa John’s, "Better get you some." Plus, we look into which brands capitalized on the eclipse event to boost their visibility and impact.
In our "Up and Coming Brands" segment, we spotlight innovative companies making waves across industries. We take a closer look at Frida Uncensored, a bold initiative tackling reproductive health education, explore the eco-conscious fashion offerings of Tender Co., and dive into the unique world of Gentle Monster, a brand redefining style with its avant-garde eyewear.
Wrapping up with "Market Insights," we shift focus to the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence. Amidst all the buzz, we break down what AI tools like ChatGPT and Adobe Firefly really offer to businesses and consumers today, providing a clearer understanding of their capabilities and potential.
Tune in to gain valuable insights and stay ahead in the ever-evolving worlds of marketing and technology. Don’t miss out as we explore these dynamic topics, shedding light on how they're reshaping industries and consumer experiences.
Monday Apr 08, 2024
Eps37: Brand Battlegrounds: Art of rivalry in marketing
Monday Apr 08, 2024
Monday Apr 08, 2024
In this episode titled "Brand Battlegrounds: The Art of Rivalry in Marketing," we take a thrilling dive into the world of iconic brand rivalries that have captivated consumers and shaped the marketing landscape. Opening with Sameer taking his shot at the run of show, we embark on a journey through the competitive spirit that drives these brands to creative excellence and strategic brilliance.
Highlights Include:
A deep dive into the classic cola war: Coke vs Pepsi. This segment explores the storied history, memorable campaigns, and strategic maneuvers that have defined this legendary rivalry.
Quick Hits:
Dunkin vs Starbucks: A caffeinated battle for morning dominance.
BMW vs Mercedes: The luxury automotive feud where innovation meets prestige.
McDonald’s vs Burger King: Fast food giants clash over burgers and brand identity.
Apple vs Microsoft: The tech titans' rivalry that shaped the computer industry.
Chick-fil-A vs Popeyes: A mouthwatering face-off in the chicken sandwich war.
This episode distills the essence of what makes a brand rivalry not just a fight for market share but a rich narrative of innovation, identity, and consumer engagement. Tune in to "Brand Battlegrounds" for an insightful exploration of marketing's most dynamic duels.
Monday Apr 01, 2024
Monday Apr 01, 2024
We are calling this Adeel's Comeback Episode. This week, we dive into stories of companies with incidents either in their control or out of their control that genuinely impacted their company, including which ones came out on top and which didn't—a lesson on crisis management.
Segment 1 - Unfortunate AssociationCoronavirus & Corona BeerSierra MistAyds Candy and AIDS (1970s)
Segment 2 - Celebrities/Brands who made a successful comeback after bad PRTylenol in 1982Dominos in 2009Tiger Woods
Segment 3 - Tone Deaf ExecutionUnited Airlines dragging Balenciaga & ChildrenPepsi and Kendall Jenner Ad
Segment 4 - Ideas to give Brands/Celebrities for a ComebackColin KaepernickWill SmithBud Light
Monday Mar 25, 2024
Monday Mar 25, 2024
Season 2 is here and this week Salim’s takeover the episode with 3 segments.
What’s trending
Predicting the winners
Market insights
In What’s Trending segment we talk about micro trends like Trader Joe’s mini tote bags, Stanley Cups; we discuss the rise in women’s soccer and the market potential and last we discuss how Starbucks cancels the CMO role.
In the predict winner section we talk about which brands will win March Madness
Lastly we discuss what’s more important branding or demand generation.
Thursday Feb 22, 2024
Thursday Feb 22, 2024
Apple goes all in with MLS, making Beats the official audio partner of the MLS. Quick-hit recaps of cool Valentine's Day campaigns. Mental health issues are on the rise, and the target is social media.
Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
The MadMen recap an eventful Super Bowl with takes on the best and worst ads, and why Super Bowl ads are always worth it. Disney invests in Epic Games to get Mickey & Friends on Fortnite. Live Sports channels are consolidating into a single platform... just like cable?
What the hell are we thinking?
We love talking about branding, campaigns, ads, and marketing, and we don't have enough friends to talk to about this.