Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.ai

StoryBrand.ai
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Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.ai

Welcome to Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.ai. Have you ever wondered why some brands, trends, or products become massive successes while others fade away? That’s exactly what this podcast explores. Hosted by Donald Miller, creator of the StoryBrand Framework, and co-hosted by Kyle Reed, each episode dives into the strategies behind the world’s biggest wins, breaking them down into clear, actionable insights you can use to create your own success. Discover how to craft clear and effective messaging that works for your business at StoryBrand.ai.

  1. 12 HRS AGO

    Michelin Star—How a Tire Company Created the Most Prestigious Award in Food

    The Michelin Star is a restaurant rating system so powerful that a single star can launch careers, change cities, and even break chefs. So what makes one restaurant just “good” and another Michelin-worthy? The path to earning a Michelin Star isn’t just about making great food—it’s about precision, consistency, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. But why do these stars hold so much weight?   Today’s episode pulls back the curtain on the fascinating world of Michelin Stars. Hosts Don and Kyle explore how a tire company unexpectedly shaped the fine dining industry, why chefs dedicate their lives to earning (or desperately holding onto) these elusive stars, and what truly sets Michelin-caliber restaurants apart. Along the way, they share their own experiences—from unassuming hole-in-the-wall joints to world-famous dining rooms—and break down whether the chase for a star is worth the sacrifice. Listen in for a compelling look at the prestige, pressure, and obsession that fuel the Michelin Star legacy.   --   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 Amazonor wherever you buy books!

    39 min

  2. FEB 24

    Amazon—The Crazy Business Strategies that Rewired Our Brains and Changed Shopping Forever

    Amazon didn’t just change how the world shops—it rewired our brains. Suddenly, driving to a store for light bulbs feels like a huge chore. Need cat food? Click. New coffee maker? Click. A hat with antlers for your Halloween costume? It’ll be at your door by 5 p.m. Love it or hate it, Amazon’s success lies in its relentless focus on the customer. It turned convenience into an art form. The real question is: how did they pull it off, and what can we learn from them?   In today's episode, Donald Miller and Kyle Reed dissect the magic (and madness) behind Amazon’s rise. From Jeff Bezos’s obsession with customer experience to why two-pizza teams might be the secret to innovation, they explore what makes Amazon unstoppable. Tune in to find out how one company reshaped retail, rewrote the rules of business, and filled your house with way too many cardboard boxes.   --   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!

    41 min

  3. FEB 17

    Comedians—The Science and  Strategy Behind the Funniest People on Earth

    Making people laugh looks effortless, but behind every joke is an incredible amount of work and strategy. Great comedians deliver far more than entertainment—they offer a masterclass in human connection. They say the things we’re afraid to say, challenge cultural norms, and turn life’s absurdities into something we can laugh at. The best comedians have the power to shape culture and influence how we see the world. So, what makes them so effective?   In this episode, Donald Miller and Kyle Reed dive into the craft, psychology, and business behind comedy. From Jerry Seinfeld’s relentless perfectionism to Nate Bargatze’s strategic rise, they uncover what makes comedians great, why their jokes land, and how they build massive audiences. Whether you’re a casual fan or a stand-up junkie,tune in to learn how comedy transforms the everyday into something unforgettable.   --   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!

    38 min

  4. FEB 10

    Valentine’s Day—The Surprising Economics and Evolution of Love’s Biggest Day

    Every February 14th, millions of people rush out to buy heart-shaped chocolates, overpriced roses, and mass-produced cards, turning Valentine’s Day into a global cash grab. But how did a once obscure tradition become a billion-dollar industry? Whether you adore the holiday or roll your eyes at its commercialism, one thing is certain—it works. So, what makes this day so powerful, and why do we keep celebrating it year after year?    In this week’s episode, hosts Donald Miller and Kyle Reed explore the unexpected history of Valentine’s Day, from its ancient pagan roots to its modern commercial dominance. They unpack the psychology behind our grand romantic gestures and why the greeting card and chocolate industries owe their success to one man’s brilliant idea. Tune in to discover how romance, commerce, and culture combined to create love’s biggest day.   --   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.   Building a StoryBrand 2.0 is now available! Make your marketing and messaging work with the StoryBrand framework—and you can do that with the updated version of the book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0, now available!   In a world filled with constant, on-demand distractions, it’s harder than ever for businesses to cut through the noise and connect with their customers. Building a StoryBrand 2.0 equips you with the proven, perfected StoryBrand framework, giving you the tools to clarify your message and effectively engage your audience.   This updated edition, Donald Miller deepens the original teachings with new insights and cutting-edge tools to transform how you communicate your unique value, helping your business stand out and grow. Order Building a StoryBrand 2.0 now on Amazon or wherever you buy books!

    34 min

  5. FEB 3

    Stories—The Survival Tool Hardwired into Every Human

    Every day, we’re surrounded by stories—on social media, in conversations, and even in our own heads. But have you ever stopped to wonder why stories are so powerful? They connect us, help us make sense of the world, and have been humanity’s most effective tool for survival. But how do they work their magic, and what happens when they’re used to manipulate rather than inspire?   In this episode, hosts Donald Miller and Kyle Reed break down why stories are more than just entertainment—they’re a survival mechanism hardwired into our brains. You’ll learn how storytelling influences everything from personal relationships to cult-like movements. Listen in to discover why stories are the key to living a more meaningful and intentional life.   --   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.   Building a StoryBrand 2.0 is now available! Make your marketing and messaging work with the StoryBrand framework—and you can do that with the updated version of the book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0, now available!   In a world filled with constant, on-demand distractions, it’s harder than ever for businesses to cut through the noise and connect with their customers. Building a StoryBrand 2.0 equips you with the proven, perfected StoryBrand framework, giving you the tools to clarify your message and effectively engage your audience.   This updated edition, Donald Miller deepens the original teachings with new insights and cutting-edge tools to transform how you communicate your unique value, helping your business stand out and grow. Order Building a StoryBrand 2.0 now on Amazon or wherever you buy books!

    39 min

  6. JAN 27

    Football—Why It Became America’s Favorite Ritual

    Football has a powerful grip on its fans, but have you ever stopped to think about why it works so well? Football has a remarkable history of uniting friends and families across generations. From the build-up to game day and the epic rivalries to the emotional highs-and-lows of every play, football delivers both the thrill of competition and the comfort of community. But what actually makes it so captivating?   In this week’s episode, hosts Donald Miller and Kyle Reed are joined by Will Guidara, bestselling author of Unreasonable Hospitality and devoted Bills fan, to unpack the mechanics of football’s success. From its masterful storytelling structure to its role as a modern-day tribal tradition, they explore why football continues to dominate in a world of endless entertainment options. Tune in for insights that’ll deepen your appreciation for the sport—even if you only watch the Super Bowl for the snacks and half-time shows.    --   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.   Building a StoryBrand 2.0 is now available! Make your marketing and messaging work with the StoryBrand framework—and you can do that with the updated version of the book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0, now available!   In a world filled with constant, on-demand distractions, it’s harder than ever for businesses to cut through the noise and connect with their customers. Building a StoryBrand 2.0 equips you with the proven, perfected StoryBrand framework, giving you the tools to clarify your message and effectively engage your audience.   This updated edition, Donald Miller deepens the original teachings with new insights and cutting-edge tools to transform how you communicate your unique value, helping your business stand out and grow. Order Building a StoryBrand 2.0 now on Amazon or wherever you buy books!

    34 min

  7. JAN 20

    Thought Leaders—How Innovative Thinkers Build a Following and Shape Modern Culture

    Thought leaders influence the way we see the world, solve problems, and make decisions. But what makes someone a true thought leader? Are they original thinkers with unique worldviews, or can they be curators sharing their opinions and amplifying others’ ideas? With the rise of social media, it’s harder than ever to tell the difference. So how can we separate the trailblazers from those simply echoing the ideas of others?   In this week’s episode, hosts Donald Miller and Kyle Reed unpack the art of thought leadership. They break down what sets true thought leaders apart, why their ideas stick, and how they inspire action on a deeper, almost tribal level. You’ll also learn the 3 steps to take if you want to become a thought leader yourself! Listen in and learn what makes thought leaders so influential and why their ideas catch fire.   --   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.   Building a StoryBrand 2.0 is now available! Make your marketing and messaging work with the StoryBrand framework—and you can do that with the updated version of the book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0, now available!   In a world filled with constant, on-demand distractions, it’s harder than ever for businesses to cut through the noise and connect with their customers. Building a StoryBrand 2.0 equips you with the proven, perfected StoryBrand framework, giving you the tools to clarify your message and effectively engage your audience.   This updated edition, Donald Miller deepens the original teachings with new insights and cutting-edge tools to transform how you communicate your unique value, helping your business stand out and grow. Order Building a StoryBrand 2.0 now on Amazon or wherever you buy books!

    25 min

  8. JAN 13

    Top Gun Maverick—The Strategy Behind Its Billion-Dollar Success

    Some movies capture lightning in a bottle, but few soar as high as Top Gun: Maverick. With $1.4 billion in global earnings and record-breaking attendance post-pandemic, this film didn’t just work—it dominated. But why? Was it the nostalgia, the perfectly executed hero’s journey, or the relentless determination of its star, Tom Cruise? At a time when theaters struggled, Maverick reminded us why blockbuster films exist. It delivered spectacle, heart, and a story that resonated across generations.   In this episode of Why That Worked, Donald Miller and Kyle Reed dissect the secrets behind Top Gun: Maverick's explosive success. From Tom Cruise’s strategic career moves to the timeless storytelling formulas that shaped the film, they reveal the mechanics that made it a cultural and financial phenomenon. Tune in to learn how this movie became a masterclass in grabbing people’s attention and how its lessons apply far beyond Hollywood.   --   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.   Building a StoryBrand 2.0 is now available! Make your marketing and messaging work with the StoryBrand framework—and you can do that with the updated version of the book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0, now available!   In a world filled with constant, on-demand distractions, it’s harder than ever for businesses to cut through the noise and connect with their customers. Building a StoryBrand 2.0 equips you with the proven, perfected StoryBrand framework, giving you the tools to clarify your message and effectively engage your audience.   This updated edition, Donald Miller deepens the original teachings with new insights and cutting-edge tools to transform how you communicate your unique value, helping your business stand out and grow. Order Building a StoryBrand 2.0 now on Amazon or wherever you buy books!

    31 min
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Welcome to Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.ai. Have you ever wondered why some brands, trends, or products become massive successes while others fade away? That’s exactly what this podcast explores. Hosted by Donald Miller, creator of the StoryBrand Framework, and co-hosted by Kyle Reed, each episode dives into the strategies behind the world’s biggest wins, breaking them down into clear, actionable insights you can use to create your own success. Discover how to craft clear and effective messaging that works for your business at StoryBrand.ai.

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