Before I ever knew “advertising” existed, I was that enormously annoying child that asked “Why?” far too often. Why did Mom shop at the stores she shopped at? Why did we always go grocery shopping on Friday evenings? Why did we drink Pepsi in a geographic location that referred to soda or cola as Coke? At the heart of all these questions was what motivates people to make the decisions they make? Are these conscious or unconscious actions? 

The reason I was fascinated by advertising, marketing, and brand management is that there is this inexact science out there that is always trying to answer these questions and an infinite amount more. Advertising isn’t just making a commercial or selling a product, it’s making brands relevant in culture. That’s why this simple video struck a chord with me. Project Stranger is a trust-based project intended to capture people’s honesty through an organic experience. 

In the end, that’s what advertising is: a conversation starter. This might not be selling a product, but when it comes down to it, what we say says a lot about us. Organic experiences like this are fascinating because it’s simply as easy as handing someone a camera, along with a little faith, that will unlock many truths. 

Goodby, Silverstein & Partners succeeded where so many (literally, MANY) have failed before: capturing the elegance of the athletes while showcasing the passion and intensity of the sport for the WTA (Women’s Tennis Association). The video above is one of seven :30 spots created for the campaign. Sex certainly sells, but generally offers a fleeting memory. GSP avoided this cliche pitfall and hopefully lends a hand in recapturing support for the sport. 

Well done!

Sometimes you stumble across something so captivating you’re silent throughout it’s entire duration. This Nike Snowboarding video featuring Laura Hadar definitely achieves that … so I’ll shut up about it and let you enjoy. 

Last night Google launched a commercial for Google Chrome that prominently featured Dan Savage’s ‘It Gets Better’ campaign. What better stage to promote anti-gay bullying than Glee, eh? Brands such as Levis and Absolut have been longtime LGBT supporters through financial contributions, internal policies, and of course advertisements. Google’s act was kind, brave, and concisely described in the commercial’s tagline: “The web is what you make of it.” Here’s to hoping brands continue to make the most of their global reach because when people unite to fight a cause, anything really is possible. 

— @leeclowsbeard

— Donny Deutsch 

“Come on everyone, let’s pony!!”

Air New Zealand continues the eccentric hysteria with their new in-flight safety video featuring Richard Simmons. Previous antics for the airline have included suggestive squirrels, a cougar contest, and some naughty nekkid airline attendants. With such lines as “Stretch and slide, yeah, you’re a girraffe” this is one in-flight feature that is sure to excite even the most sour of travelers. 

But seriously, I will preach it until the day I die: The world needs more weird. HALLELU!

Dear Quiznos,

WTF?????

Truly,

Millij

Muscle Milk (by way of Pereira & O’Dell) Presents: The You, Your Awesome Body And You Show. Ryan Braun Edition.