The Secret Stuff of Successful Super Bowl Ads

It's not entertainment, tugged heartstrings, or humor—it's distinctiveness

Feb 13 • Austin Franke

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2026 Super Bowl Ads - Winners and Losers

My controversial picks for the best and worst Super Bowl ads of this year.

Feb 9 • Austin Franke

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November 2025

Where "Meaning-Free Distinctiveness" Jumped the Shark

The Ehrenberg-Bass Institute takes their prescription too far. Here's what brands can do instead.

Nov 18, 2025 • Austin Franke

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I’m Writing a Book: Show The Duck—The Hidden Power of Distinctiveness to Grow Brands

Here's a sneak peek.

Nov 10, 2025 • Austin Franke

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A Cringe 90s Icon: The "Free Money" Guy

What Matthew Lesko can teach marketers.

Nov 4, 2025 • Austin Franke

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October 2025

The Wild Branding History Of: Horror Films

Explore the origin stories of distinctive brand assets in Halloween classics. No Spoilers!

Oct 14, 2025 • Austin Franke

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The Wild Branding History of: Pringles

The Story Behind Pringles’ Name, Mascot, and Memorable Marketing

Oct 8, 2025 • Austin Franke

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September 2025

NEW: What The Duck!

Explore the origin stories of the weirdest—and most iconic—brand names, assets, & campaigns

Sep 12, 2025 • Austin Franke

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The One Thing AI Can’t Generate: Distinctiveness

In a world of generative sameness, distinctiveness will decide who survives.

Sep 9, 2025 • Austin Franke

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August 2025

Why Branding Bullsh*t Never Dies.

What brand designers, unsuspecting clients, and design influencers gain from branding bullsh*t.

Aug 6, 2025 • Austin Franke

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June 2025

Creative Awards Don’t Build Brands.

At this year's Cannes Lions awards, agencies will win applause and clients will lose effectiveness.

Jun 16, 2025 • Austin Franke

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Boring Ads Can Be Effective Too.

Cringe personal injury lawyers are on to something.

Jun 4, 2025 • Austin Franke

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