Slightly Off-Brand

Theresa Goodwin
  • 5.0 (8)
  • MARKETING

Slightly Off-Brand examines how companies build or undermine their brand through the choices they make. We dig into the connection between strategy, value, and performance, and uncover why the smallest moves often matter the most.

Episodes

  1. 5D AGO

    Humanizing Brands in an AI-Driven World

    In this episode, we talk about why being human still matters in a world increasingly shaped by AI. We explore how branding has evolved, why authenticity is no longer optional, and where AI can either support or undermine real connection. At the core of the conversation is trust, how brands earn it through honest storytelling, emotional engagement, and showing up consistently, even as marketing continues to change. Key Takeaways: Humanizing brands fosters trust and connection with audiences.AI is reshaping how brands communicate, but authenticity is crucial.Brands should focus on empathy and emotional engagement.Storytelling is key to humanizing a brand's image.AI can enhance efficiency but should not replace human touch.Authenticity in advertising is essential for brand reputation.Brands must be cautious of AI's potential to create inauthentic content.Building a community around a brand enhances customer loyalty.Consistent voice and tone across channels build brand trust.

    28 min

  2. 12/01/2025

    The Zohran Mamdani Campaign Design

    In this episode of Slightly Off Brand, hosts Frances Dimaranan and Erin Mawhorter-Rasler discuss the innovative campaign of Zohran Mamdani, the newly elected New York mayor. They explore how his campaign broke traditional norms through bold visual design, authentic messaging, and a deep connection to the city's culture. The conversation highlights the importance of aligning brand visuals with messaging and the impact of authenticity in political branding. Key Takeaways: Zohran Mamdani's campaign design was bold and eye-catching.The campaign broke traditional political design norms.Authenticity in branding is crucial for audience connection.Visual identity should reflect the culture of the audience.Mamdani's campaign used everyday New York imagery effectively.The campaign's messaging was prioritized over personal branding.Custom typography and design elements made the campaign memorable.Competitor campaigns lacked the same level of authenticity.Understanding the target audience is key to successful branding.Differentiation in branding can lead to greater audience engagement.

    20 min

  3. 10/21/2025

    When Brands Get Real: The Power of Authenticity on Social Media

    In this episode, the Boldthink team explores the growing demand for authenticity in social media and what it reveals about a brand’s culture. They discuss how companies can build meaningful customer relationships, use humor thoughtfully, and align messaging with their internal values. The conversation also addresses the challenges of navigating political and social issues, the risks of silence, and the role employees play in shaping brand reputation.

    35 min

  4. 10/02/2025

    American Eagle’s Backlash: Lessons in Cultural Awareness

    In this episode, the Boldthink team discuss the controversial American Eagle campaign featuring Sydney Sweeney, exploring the backlash it received due to perceived racist undertones, over-sexualization, and brand misalignment. They analyze the implications of virality in marketing, comparing it to other successful campaigns like Gap's collaboration with Katseye. The conversation emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness, audience perception, and the need for brands to test their creative strategies with diverse groups to avoid misinterpretation and maintain long-term trust. Key takeaways American Eagle's campaign faced backlash for perceived racist undertones.The use of puns in marketing can lead to misinterpretation.Perception of a campaign can differ significantly from its intended message.Brands must align their campaigns with their core audience's values.Virality does not always translate to positive brand perception.Testing creative campaigns with diverse audiences is crucial.Short-term buzz should not compromise long-term brand trust.Cultural awareness is essential in marketing strategies.Successful campaigns resonate with their target audience.Brands should avoid double meanings related to sensitive topics. Links: Forbes Article American Eagle Ad: Has Great Genes American Eagle Ad: My Jeans are Blue Katseye x Gap: Milkshake Jeans Ad

    27 min

  5. 09/19/2025

    Cracking the Barrel: Biscuits, Backlash, and Brand Strategy

    Cracker Barrel’s logo change stirred up more than just gravy. We dig into what went wrong, what could come next, and why skipping strategy is always a recipe for brand backlash. Join us as we serve up insights on nostalgia, audience engagement, and the fine line between modernizing and alienating your core fans.

    32 min
  • 5 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Slightly Off-Brand examines how companies build or undermine their brand through the choices they make. We dig into the connection between strategy, value, and performance, and uncover why the smallest moves often matter the most.

Information

  • Creator
    Theresa Goodwin
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    5
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Slightly Off-Brand
  • Show Website
    Slightly Off-Brand