This week's Marketing Brief is a spicy one. Two brands stole the spotlight—one for all the wrong reasons, and one for doing absolutely nothing (on purpose).

Poppi's influencer vending machine stunt sent the internet into a full meltdown. Were the flashy $25K vending machines a brilliant marketing move, or did they scream tone-deaf excess? We're breaking down both sides of the debate—and how Olipop swooped in and stole the narrative.

Meanwhile, Duolingo pulled off the cheapest, most effective marketing play of the week. Their beloved green owl "died" (RIP Duo), and suddenly, everyone—from fans to rival mascots—was mourning the loss. The result? Millions of views, sky-high engagement, and proof that owning the news cycle beats chasing it.

One brand spent a fortune, the other spent nothing. Both got people talking. But which one really won?

Hit play to find out. Then tell me where you stand—team Poppi or team Olipop? Let's debate it on IG: @theAmandaShuman

LINKS:

Read the full Poppi controversy story

Duolingo's Death