We usually treat mixed messages as a poor way of communicating. But brand names that contain a pinch of negativity, or even an idea opposite the one you’d expect, have been very popular for some time now. Why is that? Why do they work? Check out this #tellthetruths video to hear Rebeca’s unscientific (yet somehow also scientific) pet hypothesis on how this works. Then weigh in with your own theory!
A Name Is An Asset
Not enough people think of brand names as financial assets, with independent worth, such as can be sold or licensed separate from a business. But they are and should be valued as such. This #tellthetruths video shares a great example of a name that will now live on after the brand it started with has died. Do you have any similar examples?
Does This Name Suck: LOVESAC
This is my favorite type of DTNS video: when the answer isn’t completely clear-cut. (Maybe that’s why I sing in this one!). Initially, I was convinced that this furniture brand’s name sucked. Since then, I’ve learned more about the brand’s heritage that makes the analysis a bit more complex. Check out this #tellthetruths video and then weigh in with your own take.
Names That Are Fun To Say
We often talk about names that are fun to say, and it’s not too hard to recognize when a name falls into that category. But describing what makes this so is a little harder.
In this “tell the truths” video, Rebeca takes you through some elements that make names more fun.
The Brand Name Story That Just Isn’t True
We’re here to debunk one of the most common stories about naming that you hear running around out here on lying, little feet. It’s the famous story of the Chevy Nova’s name and it’s FALSE!
How To Completely Screw Up a Brand Name
Step right up to learn what to do! We share because we care! Okay, what we really want is for you to learn what NOT to do by hearing this case study of a truly muddled brand strategy leading to a spectacularly unhelpful brand name.
Taylor Swift and The Power of Brand Authenticity
I often write here about how beneficial it is for brands to take authentic, strong stances. And I’ve got an incredible new case in point to share with you guys!
Descriptive Names
Does it make more sense for a product to have a descriptive name than it does for a brand? Some people believe that it does, but I think it’s never that simple.
Portfolio Strategy: Paypal and Venmo
Have you ever wondered why different brands doing the same thing are sometimes owned by the same parent company? It’s all about a portfolio strategy that allows them to serve the whole market better with multiple brands.









