👋 Hey friends, it’s BJ Bueno here.
First off—welcome to all the new readers joining our Cult Branding community! I’m really glad you’re here. Every once in a while, I like to take it back to where this whole journey started for me: my first book, The Power of Cult Branding.
It’s wild to think it’s been over 20 years since this book came out. And yet, the ideas inside are still helping brands (big and small) turn customers into passionate, loyal fans.
So if you’re new to the concept of “cult branding” or just wondering what all the fuss is about, this post is for you.
So… what IS The Power of Cult Branding?
Great question.
This book started with a simple question:
Why do some customers tattoo brand logos on their bodies… while others barely remember where they shopped last week?
The answer?
It’s not about price. Or convenience. Or even product quality.
It’s about belonging.
It’s about identity.
It’s about how a brand makes people feel—about themselves, their values, and their community.
The Power of Cult Branding is a deep dive into what makes brands like Harley-Davidson, Apple, Vans, and Oprah more than just businesses. They’re movements. They’re tribes. They’re part of people’s lives.
What You’ll Learn in the Book
This book is practical and personal. You’ll find case studies, frameworks, and tons of real-world stories. But most importantly, you’ll learn:
✅ Why traditional marketing often fails—and what to do instead
âś… How to discover and serve your Brand Lovers
âś… The 7 Golden Rules shared by every Cult Brand
âś… How to build emotional bonds that go way beyond transactions
âś… Why your customers want to join, not just buy
âś… What it really means to put your customers first
This isn’t a “how to go viral” book. It’s a “how to build something meaningful and lasting” book.
The 7 Golden Rules of Cult Branding (A Sneak Peek)
Just to give you a taste, here are the 7 big takeaways:
- Customers want to be part of a group that’s different
- Cult Brand leaders are courageous (they zig when others zag)
- Cult Brands sell lifestyles—not just products
- They listen deeply to their best customers
- They build communities, not just companies
- They’re radically inclusive and open
- They draw strength from opposition and champion personal freedom
Why This Book Still Hits Home Today
In a world of algorithms, short attention spans, and endless ads, The Power of Cult Branding reminds us of something deeply human:
People crave connection.
They want to be seen, heard, and valued.
And they will go out of their way to support brands that make them feel that way.
That’s what Cult Branding is all about.
If your team is exploring how to apply these ideas—whether through a workshop, retreat, or deep-dive strategy session—reach out. This book has been the launchpad for some incredible brand transformations.
📩 Let’s connect: [email protected]
Here’s to building brands people believe in.
– BJ