flux branding

First Tuesday | July 2025


A journal of the ever-changing state of change in the branding world.

July 2025  | Edition 175



PERSONAL NOTE

Rebellion to Radiance.

With July 4th approaching, I’ve been reflecting on independence—not just as a holiday, but as a mindset. We’re living through a time of profound change, with national identity and so much else in Flux. Yet, since our nation’s founding, rebellion and the courage to challenge the status quo have been part of our DNA.

That same spirit fuels brilliance. When we resist conformity and boldly express what makes us unique, we create the foundation for originality—the very thing that helps us stand out and make a lasting impact.

In times of uncertainty, it’s independence and authenticity that helps brands radiate and build trust. As you celebrate this week, consider where independence and originality show up in your brand. Sometimes the bravest step toward brilliance is simply embracing what makes you different.

Happy Fourth. Happy First Tuesday.

//jamie

JULY ESSAY



NEW ESSAY: The Brilliance Blueprint

> Learn how brilliant brands are engineered. 

What separates memorable brands from those that fade away? This month’s featured essay introduces the Brilliance Blueprint—a practical, science-backed framework for building brands that truly shine. Drawing on neuroscience and proven strategy, the Brilliance Blueprint demonstrates that brand brilliance isn’t a matter of luck; it’s the result of an intentional, engineered process that reduces risk and delivers lasting value.

The Brilliance Blueprint: 4 Essential Phases

  • Mining: Unearth authentic strengths through research, audits, and real-world discovery.
  • Angles: Define strategic direction by sharpening story, values, promises, and audience focus.
  • Facets: Express the brand across identity, digital touchpoints, collateral, merchandising, and experiences.
  • Radiance: Activate the brand’s presence via media, campaigns, customer experience, culture, and ongoing stewardship.

This is Part 2 of a special 5-part series forming the foundation for the forthcoming book, Brilliant. Each installment delivers actionable insights and fresh thinking to help leaders create brands that are not just seen—but chosen and cherished.

Part 1: Wired for Wonder lays the foundation, exploring the instinctual basis for our ability to recognize brilliance— and how it’s contributed to the survival of the human species.

As this series evolves into the new book, your input is invaluable. Was this framework clear, helpful, or useful for your work? We’d love to hear from you!

Please share your thoughts—your feedback will help shape Brilliant into the most practical and inspiring resource it can be.

Read the essay >


SPOTLIGHT

Azero Steelhead

What was once Baja Trout is now Azero Steelhead– a bold rebrand for a company transforming the future of seafood. This Ensenada based aquaculture company came to us with a breakthrough product and a powerful story. We gave them the brand to match.
Take A Look >


INSPIRATION

Bold Symbols, Lasting Stories:

What State Flags Teach Us About Great Design  We’re highlighting a few standout flags and what they can teach us about visual identity, clarity, and creative storytelling.

Let Your Flag Fly >


PODCAST

Lead With your Brand

Jamie joins Jayzen to share insights on the Branding process. Listen in for a great discussion about how to apply Jamie’s IDEA method, that he has developed for some of the top brands, on your own personal brand.

The Podcast >


STUDIO NOTE FROM TONIA

When we were kids, savoring summer came naturally. The long break was built around the simple joy of the season. As we mature, that ease tends to fade. While taking the summer off may no longer be realistic, we can still be intentional about embracing the season. I’m planning plenty of beach days this year. What’s will you do to make the most of your summer?


WHO ARE YOU

Take the Quiz!

Curious to discover the personality of your Brand? Take our 6 question quiz and receive a FREE report full of valuable insights to help connect with your customers.

Are you a LOVER?

2025 Flux Branding, All Rights Reserved.

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