Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life.

 

We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the StoryBrand YouTube Channel or following Why That Worked wherever you listen to podcasts.

 

Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked!

 

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Some movies capture lightning in a bottle, but few soar as high as Top Gun: Maverick. With $1.4 billion in global earnings and record-breaking attendance post-pandemic, this film didn’t just work—it dominated. But why? Was it the nostalgia, the perfectly executed hero’s journey, or the relentless determination of its star, Tom Cruise? At a time when theaters struggled, Maverick reminded us why blockbuster films exist. It delivered spectacle, heart, and a story that resonated across generations.

 

In this episode of Why That Worked, Donald Miller and Kyle Reed dissect the secrets behind Top Gun: Maverick's explosive success. From Tom Cruise’s strategic career moves to the timeless storytelling formulas that shaped the film, they reveal the mechanics that made it a cultural and financial phenomenon. Tune in to learn how this movie became a masterclass in grabbing people’s attention and how its lessons apply far beyond Hollywood.

 

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Unlock the power of a framework that works—the StoryBrand Framework at StoryBrand.ai. It's like having the world’s best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at StoryBrand.ai.

 

Building a StoryBrand 2.0 is now available! Make your marketing and messaging work with the StoryBrand framework—and you can do that with the updated version of the book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0, now available!

 

In a world filled with constant, on-demand distractions, it’s harder than ever for businesses to cut through the noise and connect with their customers. Building a StoryBrand 2.0 equips you with the proven, perfected StoryBrand framework, giving you the tools to clarify your message and effectively engage your audience.

 

This updated edition, Donald Miller deepens the original teachings with new insights and cutting-edge tools to transform how you communicate your unique value, helping your business stand out and grow. Order Building a StoryBrand 2.0 now on Amazon or wherever you buy books!

Exciting news, Hero Makers! We’re sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life.

 

We’re only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the StoryBrand YouTube Channel or following Why That Worked wherever you listen to podcasts.

 

Now, enjoy this week’s episode of Why That Worked!

 

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Whether you realize it or not, frameworks structure the world around us. They help us make decisions faster, simplify complex processes, and are the reason so many bestselling books and billion-dollar businesses succeed. Without clear frameworks, progress can feel chaotic and goals seem unattainable. So, why are frameworks so effective, and how can you create one to make life and business simpler?

 

In this debut episode of Why That Worked, hosts Donald Miller and Kyle Reed dive into the art and science of frameworks. They break down why frameworks are the driving force behind countless world-changing ideas and reveal how thought leaders, entrepreneurs, or anyone aiming for more clarity can leverage them. Listen in and discover how to turn your ideas into actionable frameworks that inspire success.

 

Unlock the power of a framework that works—the StoryBrand Framework at StoryBrand.ai. Trusted by thousands of businesses to create clear, effective messaging, it’s your turn to put it to work. Go to StoryBrand.ai to have it write your marketing and messaging assets for you!

 

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Building a StoryBrand 2.0 is Now Available Make your marketing and messaging work with the StoryBrand framework—and you can do that with the updated version of the book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0, now available!

 

In a world filled with constant, on-demand distractions, it’s harder than ever for businesses to cut through the noise and connect with their customers. Building a StoryBrand 2.0 equips you with the proven, perfected StoryBrand framework, giving you the tools to clarify your message and effectively engage your audience.

 

This updated edition, Donald Miller deepens the original teachings with new insights and cutting-edge tools to transform how you communicate your unique value, helping your business stand out and grow. Order Building a StoryBrand 2.0 now on Amazon or wherever you buy books!

BIG NEWS! Starting January 6, 2025, the Business Made Simple Podcast feed will become home to an exciting new show: Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.ai, hosted by Donald Miller, creator of the StoryBrand framework.

 

Have you ever wondered why some brands, trends, or products become massive successes while others fade into obscurity? That’s exactly what this podcast will explore. Each week, Donald Miller, creator of the StoryBrand framework, and co-host Kyle Reed uncover the strategies behind the world’s biggest wins, breaking them down into clear, actionable insights you can use to create your own success.

 

Here's this preview, you'll hear Don and Kyle dive into “Why Frameworks Work.” From the StoryBrand Framework to recipes for baking bread, frameworks are everywhere, and they’re the backbone of success. Start learning what makes them so effective and how to create and use frameworks to elevate your own business.

 

Don’t miss this new way to think about success—and how to achieve it. Follow the former Business Made Simple Podcast feed so you don't miss a single episode of Why That Worked  – Presented by StoryBrand.ai, starting Monday, January 6th, 2025!

 

Go to StoryBrand.ai and join the waitlist to get immediate access to the app when it launches January 14, 2025.

All good stories must come to an end. After 3 incredible years of helping you create clear marketing that works, this is the final episode of the Marketing Made Simple Podcast. But instead of a somber goodbye, we’re closing this chapter with full hearts and deep gratitude — for you, our Hero Makers.   To help us close this last episode with wisdom and joy, we welcome back longtime friend, StoryBrand facilitator, and gratitude expert Christy Kern. Christy shares how the practice of gratitude can transform your life, both personally and professionally. You’ll learn how gratitude can coexist with grief, why it’s a practice (not a personality trait), and how to make it a daily habit.   J.J. and April also take time to reflect on their journey as hosts, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, favorite memories, and offering one final challenge that could change the way you approach life and business. But more than anything, this episode is a celebration of you — the Hero Maker. Thank you for every download, every review, every bit of feedback, and every moment you’ve shared with us. You made this possible. And for that, we are forever grateful!   --  

Starting January 6, 2025, the former Business Made Simple Podcast feed will become home to an exciting new show:

Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, hosted by Donald Miller. 

It’s been an honor providing you with the tools and frameworks to help make your marketing easy and make it work, and this new podcast will continue giving incredible value with actionable insights you can immediately apply. Make sure to follow the former Business Made Simple feed so you don’t miss a single episode of Why That Worked starting January 6, 2025!

 

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

Marketing that truly connects starts with understanding your customer’s journey—and knowing how to show up as their guide. As part of our replay of last year’s 5 Minute Marketing Challenge, we’re revisiting one of the most powerful concepts in the StoryBrand framework to help you bring clarity and confidence to your messaging.       In this replay of episode #128, Dr. J.J. Peterson and co-host April Sunshine Hawkins show you how to step into the role of guide for your customers. You’ll discover practical tips for connecting with your customers' needs while positioning your expertise as the solution they can trust. Even better, you’ll learn how to keep your marketing authentic and focused, all in under 5 minutes.       This is the last replay in the series before we close out the Marketing Made Simple Podcast next week with a heartfelt and special final episode. We’re so grateful to have been part of your journey, and we can’t wait to share one more conversation to inspire and equip you for what’s next. Don’t miss it!   --  

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

As the holidays bring a whirlwind of demands, it’s easy to lose sight of what your customers really need. That’s why we’re replaying one of our most popular episodes from last year’s 5 Minute Marketing Challenge! This series is all about quick, actionable strategies to simplify your marketing and stay impactful—even when life feels chaotic.

 

In today’s replay of episode #127, Dr. J.J. Peterson and co-host April Sunshine Hawkins unpack the key to making your marketing resonate: identifying the problems your customers face. By exploring the external, internal, and philosophical challenges your customers experience, you’ll learn how to position your product or service as the solution they’ve been searching for.

 

Whether it’s your first time or you’re revisiting this as a refresher, this episode will help you create meaningful, problem-solving marketing that keeps your business moving forward.

 

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CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

As the holiday season ramps up, maintaining clear and impactful marketing becomes more important than ever. That’s why we’re bringing back one of our most powerful series: the 5 Minute Marketing Challenge! Originally released last year, this series is designed to help you cut through the noise with simple, actionable tips you can implement in just minutes.

 

In today’s replay of episode #126, Dr. J.J. Peterson and co-host April Sunshine Hawkins guide you through the first step: crafting a clear message that connects with your customers and positions you as the trusted guide they’re looking for. Using the proven strategies of the StoryBrand framework, you’ll discover how to stay focused and effective—even during the busiest time of the year.

 

Whether you’re hearing this for the first time or revisiting it as a refresher, this episode lays the foundation for creating impactful marketing that drives real results.

 

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Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!

 

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

Tech companies often struggle with the same challenge—making their complex solutions simple to understand. When customers can’t grasp how a product solves their problem, even the most innovative ideas can fall flat. How do you balance clarity and sophistication to attract buyers without sacrificing the technical depth that sets you apart?

 

In this episode of Talkin’ Shop, J.J. and April sit down with StoryBrand Certified Guide Kelly Sjol to discuss how she helps tech companies clarify their messaging to stand out in a crowded market. Drawing from her expertise in SaaS, Kelly shares how the StoryBrand framework transforms tech founders' messaging into clear, compelling stories that engage both buyers and users. Whether you’re a founder of a SaaS company or just tackling a complex product, tune in to learn how clear communication can be your biggest growth driver.

 

Contact StoryBrand Certified Guide Kelly Sjol directly at MarketingMadeSimple.com/Kelly-Sjol.

 

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Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!

 

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

In competitive industries, it’s all too easy for great businesses to fade into the background. When everyone is saying the same thing, customers have a hard time sussing out who can actually help them. That's why the real challenge isn’t just being good at what you do—it’s making sure people know you’re the best choice for solving their specific problem. Are you clearly showcasing what sets you apart? If not, your customers might never find you.

 

In the next episode of our Talkin’ Shop series, J.J. and April sit down with Sarah Cook, a former naturopathic clinician turned StoryBrand Certified Guide. She shares practical strategies for standing out in a crowded market—especially in competitive industries like health and wellness. Learn why niching down to a specific problem is the key to differentiation, and how to shift your messaging to highlight the unique way you solve your customer's pain points. Tune in for actionable tips on positioning yourself effectively, so you can raise your flag and attract the right audience!

 

Contact StoryBrand Certified Guide Sarah Cook directly at MarketingMadeSimple.com/WellnessWriter.

 

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Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!

 

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

Nonprofit leaders work hard and care deeply, but sometimes their message isn’t clear enough to get people excited and involved. The stories are powerful, and the mission is strong, but the message can get lost. It’s a frustrating reality for nearly every marketer involved in the nonprofit sector. So how do you communicate your vision in a way that gets your donors, volunteers, and supporters to rally behind you and make a real impact? 

 

In the newest episode of our Talkin’ Shop series, J.J. Peterson and April Sunshine Hawkins bring in StoryBrand Certified Guides Natasha Paradeshi and Christian Hinojosa, of Solace Media, to break down how to transform nonprofit messaging. You’ll learn how to create multiple brand scripts that speak directly to your different audiences—whether it’s your board, your volunteers, or your donors—so they feel seen, valued, and inspired to act. Plus, discover the power of ethical storytelling and why tapping into hope, vision, and strategic clarity is the game changer your nonprofit needs. Even if you’re running a for-profit business, these insights will challenge you to rethink how you engage your audience. Tune in and learn how clear messaging can turn your mission into a movement that changes lives.

 

Contact StoryBrand Certified Guides Natasha Paradeshi and Christian Hinojosa directly at MarketingMadeSimple.com/Solace or Solace.Media.

 

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Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!

 

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand