This week’s #tellthetruths video features a brand name that’s not exactly subtle. Coma Inducer is a comforter brand that goes full tilt on humor—and in a sea of soft, safe-sounding bedding names, it stands out in all the right ways. Turns out, being a little outrageous can be a smart move when the category is a bit sleepy.
Names With No Filter
From time to time I see nonprofits that lean into sass, playfulness, and personality in their names—and I am here for it!
Two quick example highlighted in this #tellthetruths video:
🧦 Sox Box (yes, I said it backwards—no, I’m not re-recording it)
👙 I Support the Girls (and wait until you see that logo—you guys know I focus just on names in these videos, but this one is… memorable.)
If you’ve seen any other nonprofit names that ditch the formality and reserve to go bold, drop them in the comments—I’d love to see more!
Does This Brand Suck: Gimlet Media?
We’ve got thoughts.
This week’s #tellthetruths video takes on a podcast name that left us… raising an eyebrow.
Is it clever? Is it confusing? Is it trying a little too hard to impress the word nerds? Watch the verdict and let me know if you’re buying it—or skipping the episode.
Battle of the Brands: Duolingo vs. Babbel
Which name speaks your language? BrandTrue’s Madison is team Babbel and I’m team Duolingo (and it’s closer than you might think).
In this week’s #tellthetruths video, I break down what makes these two brand names tick—and ask YOU to cast the deciding vote.
Watch, then drop your pick in the comments. Let the language lessons begin!
When is Naughty Nice
Being provocative isn’t always a problem—in some categories it can be your best strategy. If bold language aligns with your brand and connects more deeply with the right people, then losing a few others might be a price worth paying.
The ones who turn away were never your audience, anyway!
Simple Beats Clever A Lot of The Time
We all love a clever name—but sometimes, dumb as two rocks gets the job done.
This week’s #tellthetruths video is a love letter (or maybe a wake-up call?) to the names that just say what they are. Simple. Clear. Strategic.
Give it a watch—you’ll see what I mean.
Does This Name Suck: LoveShackFancy?
Normally, a name this maximalist, frothy, and extra would have me running for cover. But for this maximalist, frothy, and extra brand? It’s perfect.
LoveShackFancy isn’t my vibe—but that’s the point. A great name isn’t about what I like; it’s about what fits. And this one fits like a ruffled, floral-print glove.
Watch this #tellthetruths video to see why I think this name is just right—even if it’s not for me.
Does This Brand Suck… Sneex?
Sarah Blakely built an empire with Spanx, a name that snaps with energy. But her new high-heeled sneaker line, Sneex? Let’s just say… we think it sux.
Why? Because it’s a little too sneaky. A name should tell you something about WHY you need the product, and this one misses the stilleto point. Watch this #tellthetruths video to see whether you agree!
Branding vs. Marketing
The difference between Branding and Marketing isn’t that complex, but it’s not that simple, either. If it were, people wouldn’t ask us about it all the time.
So in this #tellthetruths video Rebeca takes a stab at it.
Check it out, then let us know what you think.
