Marketing Made Simple

Every week on Marketing Made Simple, you'll get practical tips to make your marketing easy and make it work!

Why That Worked #16: Airbnb—The Brilliant Strategy Behind Their New Messaging Campaign 04/23/2025

Why That Worked #16: Airbnb—The Brilliant Strategy Behind Their New Messaging Campaign Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life. We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the or following wherever you listen to podcasts. Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked! -- If your marketing isn’t working, it’s probably because you’re not talking about the right problem. Most businesses struggle to identify the most compelling issue their customer is trying to solve. They either talk about too many things or pick a problem that’s too vague. When that happens, customers stop listening. But when you finally address the problem that makes your customers say “yep, that’s me!”, sales start to climb. That's what Airbnb just nailed with their new messaging campaign. So, how do you figure out the exact problem your business solves in a way that drives real results? In this episode, Don and Kyle break down Airbnb’s latest messaging campaign and why it hits the mark so effectively. They unpack the brilliance behind how Airbnb redefined the problem it solves and how you can apply the same strategy to your own business. You’ll learn a simple way to clarify the problem your customer actually cares about and how to build an effective messaging campaign around it. Listen in for strategic tips on how to get sharper messaging and more customer engagement. -- Unlock the power of a framework that works—the StoryBrand Framework at . It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at . Learn how to make your marketing and messaging work using a proven framework in the updated book, . Order it now on or wherever you buy books! /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/36224125

Why That Worked #15: Morning Routines—The NEW Way To Create A Morning Routine In 2025 04/16/2025

Why That Worked #15: Morning Routines—The NEW Way To Create A Morning Routine In 2025 Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life. We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the or following wherever you listen to podcasts. Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked! -- If you followed every piece of advice out there about your ideal morning routine, you'd probably spend eight hours every day doing mindfulness excercises and supplements and journaling and workouts and cold plunges and more. But morning routines can be both easy AND effective if you identify the right mission for your life. In this episode, Kyle Reed and Donald Miller break down a new way to approach your morning routine—one that actually fits the demands of 2025. Whether you’re a high-performing entrepreneur, a working parent, or just trying to get your act together before 9am, this conversation is packed with practical strategies, unexpected insights, and a fresh mindset shift. You’ll learn: • Why most morning routines fail (and what to do instead) • How to reverse-engineer your day for better mornings • The role of intention, simplicity, and rhythm in a sustainable routine • What Kyle and Don are doing differently this year—and why it’s working If you’ve struggled with consistency, motivation, or just hate mornings altogether, this episode will help you build a routine that serves your real life—not some influencer’s highlight reel. -- Unlock the power of a framework that works—the StoryBrand Framework at . It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at . Learn how to make your marketing and messaging work using a proven framework in the updated book, . Order it now on or wherever you buy books! If you're tired of feeling unproductive and unmotivated, get clarity on your life goals and supercharge your productivity by visiting for your free planner! /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/36103940

Why That Worked #14: Simplicity—Why a “Less Is More” Approach Can Make Anything More Effective 04/09/2025

Why That Worked #13: Marriage—The Truth About What Makes Love Work Long-Term (ft. Johnnyswim) 04/02/2025

Why That Worked #13: Marriage—The Truth About What Makes Love Work Long-Term (ft. Johnnyswim) Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life. We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the or following wherever you listen to podcasts. Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked! -- Relationships can be beautiful, but they’re also complicated. From the outside, it’s easy to assume great marriages happen by luck or chemistry. But the reality? Every relationship faces storms—health challenges, career stress, personal struggles—and most couples aren’t equipped to weather them. Without the right mindset and tools, it’s easy to drift apart or fall into survival mode. So how do couples not just stay together, but grow closer—even through the hardest seasons of life? In this week’s episode, Don and Kyle sit down with musical duo Johnnyswim (Abner Ramirez and Amanda Sudano) to unpack what makes their marriage work. From tour bus living to health challenges and creative careers, Abner and Amanda share how they’ve stayed united—and transformed—through it all. Tune in to hear their honest take on commitment, communication, and the real purpose of marriage. -- Unlock the power of a framework that works—the StoryBrand Framework at . It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at . Learn how to make your marketing and messaging work using a proven framework in the updated book, . Order it now on or wherever you buy books! /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/35891180

Why That Worked #12: Nostalgia—The Hidden Force That Makes Brands Feel Iconic 03/26/2025

Why That Worked #11: Starbucks—The Brand that Changed How the World Drinks Coffee 03/19/2025

Why That Worked #11: Starbucks—The Brand that Changed How the World Drinks Coffee Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life. We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the or following wherever you listen to podcasts. Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked! -- If someone told you in the ’90s that people would happily pay $5 for a cup of coffee, you probably would’ve laughed. Before Starbucks, coffee was just… coffee. It wasn’t an experience, a ritual, or a “third place” between home and work. So how did one company transform a simple commodity into a global phenomenon? The rise of Starbucks wasn’t just about caffeine—it was about community, habit-building, and a relentless pursuit of consistency. In this episode, hosts Don and Kyle dive into the fascinating story of Starbucks, breaking down how a small Seattle coffee shop grew into a 35,000-location empire. They explore the visionary leadership of Howard Schultz, the brand’s impact on American culture, and how Starbucks managed to make coffee both an addiction and an experience. Plus, they debate whether Starbucks is still as great as it once was—or if its best days are behind it. Listen in for a deep dive into what made Starbucks work. -- Unlock the power of a framework that works—the StoryBrand Framework at . It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at . Learn how to make your marketing and messaging work using a proven framework in the updated book, . Order it now on or wherever you buy books! /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/35580455

Why That Worked #10: Reality TV—Why We're Obsessed with Chaos (And What It's Actually Doing to Our Brains!) 03/12/2025

Why That Worked #10: Reality TV—Why We're Obsessed with Chaos (And What It's Actually Doing to Our Brains!) Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life. We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the or following wherever you listen to podcasts. Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked! -- Reality TV is everywhere, and whether you love it or hate it, you can’t deny it’s addictive. Millions of people tune in daily to binge-watch strangers argue, compete, or fall in love on camera. But reality TV isn’t “real” at all—it’s carefully crafted chaos, designed to keep you hooked. Producers manipulate stories, stir up conflict, and edit scenes to make the drama irresistible. But beyond the entertainment, what’s it actually doing to our brains? In this episode, hosts Donald Miller and Kyle Reed break down why reality TV works—and why we can’t look away. They explore the psychology behind our obsession with drama, the tricks producers use to keep us engaged, and how reality TV has shaped everything from social media to politics. Plus, they reveal the surprising ways it’s rewiring our attention spans and expectations of real life. Tune in for a revealing look at the power (and the price) of reality TV. -- Unlock the power of a framework that works—the StoryBrand Framework at . It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at . Learn how to make your marketing and messaging work using a proven framework in the updated book, . Order it now on or wherever you buy books! /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/35580180

Why That Worked #9: Michelin Star—How a Tire Company Created the Most Prestigious Award in Food 03/05/2025

Why That Worked #9: Michelin Star—How a Tire Company Created the Most Prestigious Award in Food Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life. We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the or following wherever you listen to podcasts. Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked! -- 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 . It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at . Learn how to make your marketing and messaging work using a proven framework in the updated book, . Order it now on or wherever you buy books! /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/35568065

Why That Worked #8: Amazon—The Crazy Business Strategies that Rewired Our Brains and Changed Shopping Forever 02/26/2025

Why That Worked #8: Amazon—The Crazy Business Strategies that Rewired Our Brains and Changed Shopping Forever Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life. We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the or following wherever you listen to podcasts. Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked! -- 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 . It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at . Learn how to make your marketing and messaging work using a proven framework in the updated book, . Order it now on or wherever you buy books! /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/35435600

Why That Worked #7: Comedians—The Science and Strategy Behind the Funniest People on Earth 02/19/2025

Why That Worked #7: Comedians—The Science and Strategy Behind the Funniest People on Earth Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life. We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the or following wherever you listen to podcasts. Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked! -- 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 . It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at . Learn how to make your marketing and messaging work using a proven framework in the updated book, . Order it now on or wherever you buy books! /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/35336365

Why That Worked #6: Valentine’s Day—The Surprising Economics and Evolution of Love’s Biggest Day 02/12/2025

Why That Worked #6: Valentine’s Day—The Surprising Economics and Evolution of Love’s Biggest Day Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life. We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the or following wherever you listen to podcasts. Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked! -- 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 . It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at . 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 or wherever you buy books! /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/35224380

Why That Worked #5: Stories—The Survival Tool Hardwired into Every Human 02/05/2025

Why That Worked #5: Stories—The Survival Tool Hardwired into Every Human Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life. We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the or following wherever you listen to podcasts. Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked! -- 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 . It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at . 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 or wherever you buy books! /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/35154655

Why That Worked #4: Football—Why It Became America’s Favorite Ritual 01/29/2025

Why That Worked #4: Football—Why It Became America’s Favorite Ritual Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life. We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the or following wherever you listen to podcasts. Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked! -- 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 . It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at . 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 or wherever you buy books! /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/35059670

Why That Worked #3: Thought Leaders—How Innovative Thinkers Build a Following and Shape Modern Culture 01/22/2025

Why That Worked #3: Thought Leaders—How Innovative Thinkers Build a Following and Shape Modern Culture Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life. We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the or following wherever you listen to podcasts. Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked! -- 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 . It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at . 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 or wherever you buy books! /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/34945645

Why That Worked #2: Top Gun Maverick—The Strategy Behind Its Billion-Dollar Success 01/15/2025

Why That Worked #2: Top Gun Maverick—The Strategy Behind Its Billion-Dollar Success Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life. We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the or following wherever you listen to podcasts. Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked! -- 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 . It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at . 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 or wherever you buy books! /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/34858730

Why That Worked #1: Frameworks—The Invisible Structure Behind Every Great Idea 01/08/2025

Why That Worked #1: Frameworks—The Invisible Structure Behind Every Great Idea Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life. We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the or following wherever you listen to podcasts. Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked! -- Whether you realize it or not, frameworks structure the world around us. They help us make decisions faster, simplify complex processes, and are the reason so many bestselling books and billion-dollar businesses succeed. Without clear frameworks, progress can feel chaotic and goals seem unattainable. So, why are frameworks so effective, and how can you create one to make life and business simpler? In this debut episode of Why That Worked, hosts Donald Miller and Kyle Reed dive into the art and science of frameworks. They break down why frameworks are the driving force behind countless world-changing ideas and reveal how thought leaders, entrepreneurs, or anyone aiming for more clarity can leverage them. Listen in and discover how to turn your ideas into actionable frameworks that inspire success. Unlock the power of a framework that works—the StoryBrand Framework at . Trusted by thousands of businesses to create clear, effective messaging, it’s your turn to put it to work. Go to to have it write your marketing and messaging assets for you! -- 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 or wherever you buy books! /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/34760560

Why That Worked PREVIEW—A New Podcast You Can’t Miss 12/30/2024

#188: Our Final Episode of Marketing Made Simple—A Celebration of Gratitude and Growth 12/25/2024

#188: Our Final Episode of Marketing Made Simple—A Celebration of Gratitude and Growth All good stories must come to an end. After 3 incredible years of helping you create clear marketing that works, this is the final episode of the Marketing Made Simple Podcast. But instead of a somber goodbye, we’re closing this chapter with full hearts and deep gratitude — for you, our Hero Makers. To help us close this last episode with wisdom and joy, we welcome back longtime friend, StoryBrand facilitator, and gratitude expert Christy Kern. Christy shares how the practice of gratitude can transform your life, both personally and professionally. You’ll learn how gratitude can coexist with grief, why it’s a practice (not a personality trait), and how to make it a daily habit. J.J. and April also take time to reflect on their journey as hosts, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, favorite memories, and offering one final challenge that could change the way you approach life and business. But more than anything, this episode is a celebration of you — the Hero Maker. Thank you for every download, every review, every bit of feedback, and every moment you’ve shared with us. You made this possible. And for that, we are forever grateful! -- Starting January 6, 2025, the former Business Made Simple Podcast feed will become home to an exciting new show: Why That Worked – Presented by , hosted by Donald Miller. It’s been an honor providing you with the tools and frameworks to help make your marketing easy and make it work, and this new podcast will continue giving incredible value with actionable insights you can immediately apply. Make sure to follow the former Business Made Simple feed so you don’t miss a single episode of Why That Worked starting January 6, 2025! CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/34594985

#187: 5 Minute Marketing Challenge—Be the Guide Your Customers Need 12/18/2024

#186: 5 Minute Marketing Challenge—Solve Your Customer’s Problems 12/11/2024

#185: 5 Minute Marketing Challenge—What Do My Customers Want? 12/04/2024

#184: Talkin’ Shop—How Clear Messaging Unlocks Growth for Complex Tech Brands 11/27/2024

#183: Talkin’ Shop—The Counterintuitive Way to Thrive in Crowded Industries 11/20/2024

#182: Talkin’ Shop—Why Your Nonprofit's Message Isn’t Connecting (And How to Fix It) 11/13/2024

#182: Talkin’ Shop—Why Your Nonprofit's Message Isn’t Connecting (And How to Fix It) Nonprofit leaders work hard and care deeply, but sometimes their message isn’t clear enough to get people excited and involved. The stories are powerful, and the mission is strong, but the message can get lost. It’s a frustrating reality for nearly every marketer involved in the nonprofit sector. So how do you communicate your vision in a way that gets your donors, volunteers, and supporters to rally behind you and make a real impact? In the newest episode of our Talkin’ Shop series, J.J. Peterson and April Sunshine Hawkins bring in StoryBrand Certified Guides Natasha Paradeshi and Christian Hinojosa, of , to break down how to transform nonprofit messaging. You’ll learn how to create multiple brand scripts that speak directly to your different audiences—whether it’s your board, your volunteers, or your donors—so they feel seen, valued, and inspired to act. Plus, discover the power of ethical storytelling and why tapping into hope, vision, and strategic clarity is the game changer your nonprofit needs. Even if you’re running a for-profit business, these insights will challenge you to rethink how you engage your audience. Tune in and learn how clear messaging can turn your mission into a movement that changes lives. Contact StoryBrand Certified Guides Natasha Paradeshi and Christian Hinojosa directly at or . -- Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast! CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: /episode/index/show/marketingmadesimple/id/33902337

#181: Talkin' Shop—The Power of Being Your Authentic Self in Coaching (And Why Buzzwords Just Get in the Way) 11/06/2024

#180: Talkin' Shop—Simple Tricks to Own the Top Spot in Local Search Results 10/30/2024

#179: Talkin' Shop—How to Leverage Your Unique Edge Without Confusing Your Customers 10/23/2024

#178: How to Work with Your ADHD to Boost Focus and Productivity 10/16/2024

#177: Why “Both-And” Thinking is the Future of Leadership 10/09/2024

#176: Ian Cron—What Does Your Enneagram Reveal About Your Marketing Style? 10/02/2024

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