Slightly Off-Brand

When does personal speech become professional risk? In this episode of Slightly Off-Brand , we unpack the tension between personal expression and professional identity in the age of social media. Using real cases, we explore how one post can ripple into reputational damage, legal questions, cultural division, and financial consequences. We discuss why privacy settings are not real protection, how...

Every year brings new platforms, new tools, and new marketing “must-dos.” But the brand shifts that actually matter rarely come from trends alone. They come from changes in behavior, economics, and expectations. In this episode, Theresa, Erin, and Frances break down the brand trends shaping 2026 and why the smartest brands are doing less, not more. We talk about the rise of AI content, why short-f...

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 con...

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...

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, an...

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 th...

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.