The Right Hype Podcast

The May 2026 Dispatch discusses the acquisition of Everlane by Shein, Zara's evolving brand strategy, and The Right Rooms. This episode explores trust in fashion, brand credibility, and industry innovation. Follow On Substack: https://righthype.substack.com/publish/home

The Right Hype is a platform that identifies where hype is accumulating, where trust is eroding, and how to build brand relevance that lasts. This episode introduces a series called The Strategist's Eye, which delves into the skills of a strategist who works with creatives. The series covers topics such as insights, taste, and judgment, providing a framework for strategic thinking and problem-solv...

This episode explores a core shift in branding from spectacle to legibility, emphasizing the importance of clarity over creativity and arguing that brands must define their role in consumers' lives to foster loyalty and belief in an oversaturated market where attention is fleeting. For more, follow on Substack: https://righthype.substack.com/publish/home

This episode introduces the idea of the Post-Hype Consumer, a demographic that has become disillusioned with brands that prioritize speed and hype over authenticity and trust. Gavon emphasizes that these consumers are not anti-consumption but are instead cautious buyers who seek brands that resonate with their values and beliefs. They are influenced more by community and shared experiences than by...

Gavon discusses the challenges brand builders face in the post-hype economy, emphasizing the importance of trust and judgment over speed. He introduces the concept of the The Trust Gap™, which highlights the disconnect between visibility and belief in marketing. Through case studies of brands like e.l.f and Urban Decay, he illustrates how misaligned marketing strategies can erode consumer trust. U...

Gavon introduces the new season, focused on cultural intelligence, exploring the implications of cultural saturation and the post-hype economy. He emphasizes the importance of understanding risk and opportunity in branding, moving beyond mere visibility to build lasting cultural relevance. The episode outlines the structure for the upcoming season, including discussions on the state of hype, the t...

In this episode of The Right Hype, Gavôn Owen and Jordan Lewis covered a variety of engaging topics, primarily focusing on the intersection of fashion, culture, and personal branding. Jordan Lewis is a Houston native and the creative force behind J Alexandra Designs. She is known for her commitment to quality and timeless fashion, advocating for sustainable practices over fast fashion. For her ret...

In this conversation, Ana Andjelic and Gavon discuss the ongoing changes in the fashion industry, with a particular focus on the recent appointments of creative directors and their impact on brand identity and consumer engagement. They explore the balance between heritage and modern creativity, the evolving role of creative directors, and the importance of business strategy in the luxury fashion s...

In this episode of The Right Hype, host Gavôn Owen and guest Ana Andjelic discuss the significant changes in the fashion industry, focusing on the appointment of new creative directors at major fashion houses like Chanel, Gucci, Dior, and Givenchy. They explore the impact of these changes on the industry, the balance between maintaining brand heritage and introducing modern creativity, and the bro...

In this episode, Jenn Nguyen, co-founder of Lookbook AI , joins Gavon to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the fashion industry . They break down the impact of generative AI on fashion design, e-commerce, and digital modeling , and discuss how technology is reshaping creative direction, sustainability, and representation . Jenn shares firsthand insights on maintaining emotional d...

Zaira and Gavon met at Redscout, a boutique brand agency, after Zaira decided to pivot into brand strategy. Together, they reflect on their experiences guiding clients through transformational journeys, finding creativity, and the importance of self-promotion. They also touch on personal style, fashion trends, and the redefinition of luxury. To connect with Zaira, you can find her at her new ventu...

Chad Howell is a Context Planner at Translation and goes by Roscoe Marketing on Instagram. In this conversation, we discuss the finesse of navigating the NYC agency universe and the hard decisions we have to make about our careers. Chad also discusses his expertise in sports, a huge source of cultural inspiration, and the nature of social media, from personal branding to emerging subcultures. Don’...

Gavôn Owen sits down with Phil Perkovic, the director of brand and partnerships at Shinola, to hear how we energized a sleepy watch brand with The J Dilla Watch Project. Phil shares insights into the creative process, the challenges of pitching the project, and the profound impact it has had on both the brand and the community. Chapters: Introduction to Phil Perkovic: 0:00 - 2:30 Phil's Early Life...

In this conversation, Zachary Mallard shares his journey from founding Empire Apothecary to becoming a leader in experiential marketing with Alchemia Projects . As a serial entrepreneur with humble beginnings, Zachary understands how to find a gap in the market and make a point when a passion is calling. This episode is packed with insights for aspiring marketers in the experiential space on worki...

In this episode, Gilah Elul , a brand builder and co-founder of Muri Lelu , a luxury cannabis beauty brand, discusses her journey in the beauty industry and her favorite products and rituals. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring founders, emphasizing the need for unique perspectives and authentic engagement in today's entrepreneurial landscape. Listeners will gain insights into building cu...

This episode looks at the intersection of creativity and productivity, explores the challenges of overthinking, and stresses the importance of quality over quantity. Follow us on Instagram and Substack . References mentioned: Slow Productivity Breaking the Mold

In this episode of The Right Hype podcast, host Gavon sits down with Prince Adams, a Brooklyn-based creative and founder of Nue Noir , a platform amplifying diverse voices in art, fashion, and culture. His experiences remind you that you have to hustle in New York to make your goals a reality. From his relentless determination and manifesting, his trajectory is a testament to how many black creato...

Influencer marketing has evolved from transactional to creator-led relationships. In this episode, Gavon discusses the evolution of influencer marketing into creator-led brands, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and community. He identifies the characteristics of successful creators and provides practical tips and insights on how creators can gain control of and build their brand through...

In this engaging conversation, Gavôn interviews Daniel Cherry (DC), an SVP at Adidas, diving into his background, career trajectory, and thoughts on how to be an effective leader. DC shares his opinions on storytelling principles shaping the creative landscape, as well as the role community plays when starting a creative endeavor. Whether you are an entrepreneur or climbing the corporate ladder, D...

Trends shape the world around us, but who decides what rises and what fades? In this episode, Gavon unpacks the framework of change in fashion and culture, breaking down the hierarchy of trends and the delicate balance between leading and following. Creativity and community are at the heart of the industry, but the true impact comes from knowing when to trust your instincts and when to ride the wa...

Gavôn discusses Target's recent decision to pull back on a few of its commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). He explores the implications of this decision on the brand's reputation and relationship with consumers, particularly marginalized communities. The discussion highlights the conflict hidden within 'woke' marketing, performative gestures of cultural activism, and the potentia...

In part two of his interview, Nick Valenti discusses the importance of staying connected in the creative industry, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and immersion in various cultures. He highlights trends in brand partnerships, particularly the convergence of heritage and new brands, and the significance of intentionality and purpose in branding. Valenti also touches on the role of craf...

In part one of his interview, Nick Valenti, CEO and Head of Strategy at Mādin, shares his journey as a serial entrepreneur. He gives his perspective on the role of a CEO, how he built a creative team, and working at the intersection of culture and branding, particularly in the context of F1. Nick emphasizes the importance of storytelling, the significance of intentionality in design and strategy,...

Rebranding is not just about logos and colors; it's about storytelling. From wiping your social media clean to the rollout, every moment should build anticipation and excitement. It is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. Gavon shares his 3-step process for a successful rebrand and his personal rebrand journey. Chapters 00:00The Importance of Rebranding 03:29Steps to a Successful...

Ana is a widely read columnist, public speaker, and the World's Most Influential CMOs by Forbes. She earned her Doctorate in Sociology and Masters in Media Studies, and she’s held the Chief Brand Office position at fashion brands such as Rebecca Minkoff, Banana Republic, and Esprit. In this engaging conversation, Gavon interviews Ana Andjelic, a renowned strategy executive and author. She discusse...