When most people think about branding, they immediately think: logo, colors, fonts. But that's only scratching the surface.

This is the first episode in our branding miniseries, and we're starting with the foundation: what branding actually is (and what it isn't). We're breaking down the difference between brand identity (the visual stuff) and brand messaging (how you communicate), why most people jump straight to visuals, and what happens when your beautiful design doesn't match your messaging.

We're also sharing examples of brands that get it right–like Oatly, Ritz Carlton, and Southwest Airlines–and walking you through practical exercises you can do today to start building or refining your brand strategy. Whether you're starting from scratch or wondering if your current branding is working, this episode will help you understand what a cohesive brand really looks like.

Topics We Cover

• The Jaguar rebrand controversy and why it missed the mark
• What people think branding is vs. what it actually is
• The difference between brand strategy, brand identity, and brand messaging
• Why every business has a brand (whether they realize it or not)
• Common misconceptions about branding
• Why branding isn't just for big companies
• Why a logo alone doesn't make a strong brand
• Why people jump straight to visuals (and why messaging should come first)
• Why consistency is what makes brands memorable
• Where to start if you want to improve your brand today
• The Pinterest "brand room" exercise (Joanna's favorite branding activity)
• Why you should start with strategy before visuals

Time Stamps

00:43 – The Jaguar rebrand controversy

01:47 – What people think branding is

02:49 – What is branding really?

04:24 – Explaining branding in simple terms

06:28 – Do all businesses have a brand?

06:58 – Misconception: Branding is just for big companies

07:31 – Misconception: Branding is just a logo

08:23 – Misconception: Good visuals = strong brand

09:22 – Why people jump straight to visuals

10:11 – Businesses with good design but confusing messaging

11:13 – Branding terminology: Brand voice

11:50 – Branding terminology: Brand identity

12:34 – Should messaging or visuals come first?

13:41 – Can two brands have similar visuals but different audiences?

15:07 – Brands with really strong messaging

16:48 – Instantly recognizable brands

20:20 – Why consistency matters

21:09 – Visual consistency vs. experience: Which creates loyalty?

22:00 – Where to start improving your brand today

27:10 – Start with strategy

Links & Resources Mentioned

Joanna's web design studio: Joanna Moss Creative — custom Showit websites & Website in Two Weeks: joannamoss.com

Dianna's copywriting studio: Rise Copy Co. — website & launch copy for creative women in business: risecopyco.com

Kate Putnam Brand Identity Quiz — Find your brand archetype and get direction for your visual identity: kayeputnam.com/brandality-quiz/