MOCK, the podcast

Join Don and Rob as they dive into the fascinating world of brand evolution and transformation. This episode uncovers the stories behind iconic companies like Netflix and Amazon, tracing their journeys from humble beginnings to industry giants. With a blend of humor and insight, they discuss how these brands have reshaped their identities and the market. From unexpected pivots to strateg...

In this captivating episode, Don and Rob explore the compelling dynamics of community decisions and the art of persuasion. As the holiday season unfolds, they tackle the hot topic of short-term rentals and how communication styles can influence outcomes. From assertive dialogues to the nuances of neighborhood debates, discover how voices can shape the landscape of our communities. Join u...

In this engaging episode, Don and Rob dive into the fascinating world of "One Hit Wonders"—those iconic products that have stood the test of time with just a single offering. From the Snuggie to Sriracha, and even the legendary WD-40, discover how these brands have captured the hearts and wallets of consumers worldwide. Join us as we explore the stories behind these single-product succes...

Don and Rob dive into the world of RFPs (Request for Proposals), unraveling the complexities and quirks of agency life. They share candid insights on the love-hate relationship with RFPs, discussing how these proposals shape business strategies and client relationships. From the art of crafting responses to the thrill of winning new business, they reveal the nuances of navigating this es...

Don and Rob take a nostalgic journey through the history of MOCK, the agency, reflecting on the creative campaigns and projects that have defined their success. They explore the evolution of their business, discussing standout moments and the innovative strategies that have set them apart. From groundbreaking client collaborations to the challenges of the ever-changing industry, they rev...

Don and Rob take a nostalgic journey through the aisles of Toys 'R' Us, reminiscing about the magic of childhood hobbies. They explore the resurgence of RC cars and model building, discussing how these pastimes have evolved over the years. From the thrill of assembling intricate models to the joy of racing remote-controlled cars, they reveal how these activities continue to captivate ent...

Don and Rob dive into the unexpected world of viral fame, recounting Rob's trampoline mishap that skyrocketed to internet stardom. They explore the dynamics of viral content, the role of platforms like TikTok, and the unpredictable nature of online fame. From personal anecdotes to marketing insights, they reveal how a simple video can capture the world's attention and what it means for c...

Don and Rob delve into the world of advertising deception, exploring the Reese's Halloween controversy and its implications. They discuss how packaging can mislead consumers, the legal battles that ensue, and the broader impact on consumer trust. From candy to cereal, they reveal how our perceptions are shaped by clever marketing and what it means for brand integrity.

Chapters

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Don and Rob dive into the art of the pivot—how unexpected turns can redefine a project. From a bold creative vision to a complete transformation, they explore the challenges and triumphs of adapting on the fly. Discover how flexibility and innovation lead to success in the ever-evolving world of design.

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Intro
• (00:00:49) - Project Overview
• (00:03:40) - Des...

In this captivating episode, Don and Rob delve into the intricate world of family-owned businesses—those enduring enterprises that have thrived through generations. From the iconic Ford to the local Orkin, and even the legendary Anheuser-Busch, uncover how these companies have maintained their legacy while navigating modern challenges. Join us as we explore the dynamics of family-run fir...

In this compelling episode, Don and Rob tackle the intriguing issue of AI detection in education, sparked by a recent incident involving a student's essay. Join them as they unravel the complexities of AI tools, the challenges of modern-day plagiarism accusations, and the importance of critical thinking in today's fast-paced world. With a mix of personal anecdotes, thoughtful analysis, a...

In this thought-provoking episode, Don and Rob delve into the intriguing realm of "Robots Fighting Robots"—a captivating exploration of AI's impact on our daily lives. From the classroom to the creative industries, and even the ethical dilemmas posed by AI detection tools, discover how technology is reshaping our world. Join us as we unravel the complexities of AI's role in education, de...

In this episode of MOCK the Podcast, Don and Rob pull back the curtain on the art of brand development, demystifying the world of private label products and sharing the creative journey behind the Atlanta Cup 2025's striking "fiery peach" logo. Listeners hear candid takes on why brands like Kirkland and Girl Scout cookies spark so much intrigue, and get a hands-on look at how packaging, ...

In this episode of MOCK the Podcast, Don and Rob take listeners behind the scenes of branding a major tennis event—the Atlanta Cup—sharing how design and energy converge to revive tennis in Atlanta for one unforgettable night. The hosts candidly discuss the creative process, from initial client presentations and exploratory logo concepts to using local Atlanta identity (the peach, the "A...

In this episode of the podcast, Don and Rob go behind the scenes on the fast-paced journey of launching a new client project, unraveling how a simple cold call transforms into a full-scale business venture. They dig into the adrenaline and complexities of rapid branding, reflect on the creative hurdles, and reveal the decision-making process when real deadlines push the limits of efficie...

In this episode of MOCK the Podcast, Don and Rob explore the evolving dynamics of client-agency relationships in advertising. They discuss the importance of trusting agency expertise, contextual thinking in design decisions, and the challenges of creating custom solutions for each client. Through candid conversation, they share tips on fostering creativity, collaboration, and effective c...

In this episode of MOCK the Podcast, Don and Rob get candid about creativity in the age of AI—exploring how emerging technologies are transforming our work, reshaping industries, and presenting ethical dilemmas that make us question the future. From anxieties over machines surpassing human intelligence to the shifting landscape of content creation and advertising, they unpack what teachi...

In this episode of MOCK the Podcast, Don and Rob get personal about brand loyalty—what makes us stick with certain brands for decades, and what finally makes us switch. From changing sneaker brands after 25 years to lifelong favorites in guitars and cars, they unpack how our early experiences and emotional connections shape the brands we trust and love.

Episode Transcript

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