Brand Builder Lab

Brand Builder Lab

Brand Builder Lab is the podcast for marketers, entrepreneurs, creators, and leaders who want to build brands that matter. Produced by Columbia University lecturer and brand strategist Kai D. Wright, this show offers a weekly dose of creativity applied strategically with inspiration, insights, and resources. Each episode breaks down proven strategies from the Brand Builder Lab newsletter on LinkedIn, exploring topics like cult branding, creative effectiveness, storytelling, and personal branding. Explore more at BrandBuilderLab.com

Episodes

June 16, 2025 6 mins

In this episode, we explore how building genuine emotional connections drives brand growth and longevity in today's turbulent market. Data shows emotion-driven brands see 3x greater lift, double the profitability, and grow value 2.5x faster than competitors focused solely on product features.

Listen to hear more about what's shaping fast-growing brands:

  • Since 2000, over half of Fortune 500 companies have disappeared, pr...
Mark as Played

In this episode, we dig into how navigating your career is like driving a car – you need a clear destination to avoid burning fuel but going nowhere. 

Inspired by the Brand Builder Lab newsletter, this discussion on why the secret to standing out isn't just talking about your past accomplishments but clearly articulating the future you want to build.

Listen to get tips on the following:

  • Understanding the broader landscape usi...
Mark as Played

In this episode, we tell you why being safe, boring, or bland as a brand is a common mistake, and how to avoid creating a brand strategy that lacks emotional connection. 

We'll discuss the following:

  • Brand strategy often hides behind checklists and design elements (logos, colors, fonts) instead of creating emotional connections
  • True branding is about building communities of superfans who feel something for your brand, not jus...
Mark as Played

In this episode, we unlock powerful personal branding strategies from industry experts to help you make your brand shine. 

With more than 1,000 new people surpassing the one-million-follower mark on social media each month, and over a million people now having over a million social media followers, growing an audience is no longer the measure of a strong personal brand. 

Listen to hear how to stand out in the noise in a way that reso...

Mark as Played

In this episode, get the five most significant marketing and branding stories making headlines this week, from major leadership changes to technological breakthroughs that are reshaping the industry landscape. 

  • PepsiCo appoints Mark Kirkham as new CMO for US beverages, signaling potential strategic shifts in response to changing consumer preferences
  • Three BBDO offices merge to form West BBDO, creating an integrated agency powerho...
Mark as Played

In this episode, we explore Kai D. Wright's "culture-ethics pressure test" for communications, campaigns, and content. The three-part framework helps brands connect with communities authentically and ethically. This powerful approach gives marketers a way to check if their community engagement efforts are genuine, impactful, and culturally resonant.

Take some time today and think about how these principles apply to wh...

Mark as Played

In today's fast five, the Brand Builder Lab breaks down five critical marketing and branding stories transforming how brands connect with audiences. From gaming industry strategies to AI-powered advertising tools, we explore the shifts that marketing professionals need to understand to stay competitive in today's rapidly evolving landscape.

  • GTA VI's strategic marketing approach demonstrates exceptional brand loyal...
Mark as Played

We break down the top five marketing and branding stories making headlines right now, from major leadership changes at TikTok to luxury brands entering Formula One racing. These insights help you navigate the rapidly changing marketing landscape with clarity and strategic direction.

  • TikTok's leadership shuffle signals potential changes in advertising strategy and brand partnerships
  • AI use in marketing video content has more ...
Mark as Played

Why are careers winning over cuddling? In this episode of Brand Builder Lab, we unpack the reasons behind Harris Poll's recent discovery that 61% of individuals would rather job hunt than go on a date. 

Hear how the creator economy and longevity mindset are shaping the future of work, increasing the economic value of personal brands.  

Get a sneak peek at the ACE method for personal transformation, inspired by Arthur Ashe. 

Wheth...

Mark as Played

What do Peloton, Liquid Death, Crocs, and Duolingo all have in common? In this episode of Brand Builder Lab, we unpack the secret sauce behind cult brands—the ones that go way beyond product to spark deep emotional connection and community. 

From sonic branding and unique lingo to rituals, visual identity, and even shared enemies, we break down the patterns that turn customers into superfans. 

You’ll hear real-world examples, fresh i...

Mark as Played

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