brandivate marketing

08/17/2026

Every unanswered email, ignored text, or avoided conversation creates something most of us never think about: work for someone else. In this week’s brandivate , Bill Petrie explores a phrase he heard while finalizing a Promocations event and how it shifted his view on the importance of making sure no one is left guessing when communicating.

The burden of uncertainty usually falls on someone else.Most days, I have difficulty remembering where I left my keys or, even worse, what I was going to do when I walk into the kitchen. I suppose that's simply part of aging, that slight forgetfulness. However, every once in a while, someone says so...

08/14/2026

Here at the offices of The Final Note, we've always been amazed at the lead singers who also happened to be wizards on the guitar. In that spirit, we want to know who is the best dual threat in the world of music.

Our vote goes to Lindsey Buckingham. Being a lead singer is a full-time gig, but so is being a world-class guitarist. Somehow, Buckingham managed to do both at the same tine. What always amazed us is that he never seemed to sacrifice one for the other. His fingerstyle guitar playing is incredibly intricate, rhythmic, and instantly recognizable, yet he's delivering lead vocals on songs like Go Your Own Way, Second Hand News, Big Love, and Tusk without ever missing a beat. That's a combination of talent that very few musicians have ever possessed. Sure, there are bigger names and guitar players with more flash, but when you combine songwriting, lead vocals, and innovative guitar work, Buckingham doesn't nearly get the credit he deserves.

Now, we turn the microphone over to you: who's your pick for the best lead singer/guitar player in rock history?

08/14/2026

Heck yes, it’s time for Ep. 83 of the Between 2 Brands with your host, Bill Petrie! In today’s “opening shot,” Bill talks about the Advertising Specialty Institute Counselor Awards in Chicago and the importance of recognizing the individuals and companies that were honored. After that, he’s joined by the fabulous Maria Corpuz, founder and owner of Bel Merch. During a fascinating conversation they discussed how her background in slinging tour merch helped shape her views on the industry, the inspiration behind her company name, why distributors should be scheduling activations now, and even a deep discussion on the greatness that is Arrested Development. Trust us, this is one episode you do not want to miss!

HUGE thanks to our pals over at Shepenco for sponsoring this fine broadcast. For 90 years – and four generations of family ownership – they have defined stability by caring about the success of their distributor partners. Head over to shepenco.com to start your next project today!

HUGE thanks to our pals over at SHEPENCO for sponsoring this fine broadcast. For 90 years – and four generations of family ownership – they have defined stability by caring about the success of their distributor partners. Head over to shepenco.com to start your next project today!Heck yes, it’...

08/10/2026

We’re constantly encouraged to move faster, answer more quickly, keep pushing, and otherwise stay “busy.” This week’s brandivate explores a simple line from a centuries-old sonnet that Bill Petrie hasn’t been able to shake, and the lessons he took from it.

Sometimes, the greatest breakthroughs happen when we stop chasing them.Sometimes, a phrase or sentence just sticks with you. It doesn't matter where you heard it or who wrote it. It settles in your mind and tends to resurface when you least expect it. That's exactly what happened to me with a line f...

08/07/2026

While the lead singer generally garners the attention when it comes to vocals, there are some truly astounding background singers that can elevate a song from good to an instant classic. With that in mind, we want to hear your thoughts on the best backing vocals in a rock song.

We debated on this one quite a bit, but landed on "Gimme Shelter" by the Rolling Stones and, more specifically, Merry Clayton. The vast majority of backing vocals support the song, but Merry Clayton did something completely different. When she steps up to the microphone, she didn't harmonize with Mick Jagger as much as she elevated the song into something unforgettable. Her voice is raw, emotional, urgent, and so powerful it makes you stop what you're doing to listen. While we are on record not being big Rolling Stones fans, this is one of those performances that remind you that they were smart enough to know when to share the spotlight. In this instance, it made the song timeless.

So, there you have it, Final Note Fan. Drop your thoughts in the comments below on the best backing vocals in a rock song!

08/07/2026

You know it’s time for Ep. 82 of the Between 2 Brands with Bill Petrie! In this week’s Opening Shot, Bill brings back an edition of “industry quick hits,” including two folks partnering to do some wonderful things for earthquake victims in Venezuela. Then he is joined by the owner of CoasterStone | Buttons Galore, Mr. David Glenn. During their conversation they talk about trends in branded merchandise, a framework for evaluating acquisitions, and being intentional about creating opportunities for people with differing abilities. It’s an honest, candid conversation and one we know you’ll enjoy.

BIG thanks to our pals over at Seven Sourcing for sponsoring this fine broadcast. When you’re ready to be the partner your clients want – one that delivers unique, custom, and bespoke branded merch designed exclusively for them – reach out to Russ and his team at [email protected].

BIG thanks to our pals over at Seven Sourcing for sponsoring this fine broadcast. When you’re ready to be the partner your clients want – one that delivers unique, custom, and bespoke branded merch designed exclusively for them – reach out to Russ and his team at [email protected] kn...

08/03/2026

Being agreeable can help you fit in, but having the courage to share your perspective is what helps you stand out. In this week's brandivate , Bill Petrie reflects on the first sale every professional needs to make.

Before anyone else will believe in your perspective, you have to trust that you've earned one.As much as I don’t like to admit it, I’ve been hard-wired to be a people pleaser from the day I was born. Part of it was that I avoided confrontation, part of it was that I didn’t want to disappoint o...

07/31/2026

Last week in this space we discussed the guitar intro that blew us away. So, it makes sense this week to debate the most iconic guitar solo outro, which is precisely what we will do.

Our choice is "Who's Crying Now" by Journey. While "Don't Stop Believin'" tends to get the most love on the Escape album, "Who's Crying Now" is flat-out a better song. The lyrics tell a better story, the melody is stronger, and that guitar solo outro by Neal Schon is absolutely next level. It's one of those solos that instantly becomes an earworm for the rest of the day, which is completely fine by us. Sure, there are some more obvious contenders, but we challenge you to take another listen this this absolutely delicious solo before you share your pick.

Okay, Final Noters, drop your choice in the comments below!

07/31/2026

It’s Friday and time for Ep. 81 of the Between 2 Brands with your host, Bill Petrie. In the Opening Shot, Bill shares a “Billatorial” about the proliferation of AI trends and the problems of marketers relying too heavily on all things AI. Then he welcomes the Chief Marketing Officer of Promotional Products Association International (PPAI), Melissa Ralston to the podcast to talk about her industry journey, marketing trends, communicating value, and the brand refresh of PPAI – and what’s to come in the future. It’s a truly insightful conversation and one we think you’ll enjoy.

HUGE Thanks to our friends over at Bel Promo for sponsoring this fine broadcast. When you’re looking for the lowest minimums, deepest inventory, 5-star and A+ service – you know you can BEL Promo that!

HUGE Thanks to our friends over at BEL Promo for sponsoring this fine broadcast. When you’re looking for the lowest minimums, deepest inventory, 5-star and A+ service – you know you can BEL Promo that!It’s Friday and time for Ep. 81 of the Between 2 Brands with your host, Bill Petrie....

07/27/2026

In a world obsessed with visibility, what if the real goal isn't being the most well known? In this week's brandivate , Bill Petrie explores why becoming the first call is a far more meaningful measure of success.

What the “Wrecking Crew” can teach us about becoming indispensable.Unless you’re a complete music nerd like I am, there’s a pretty good chance you've never heard of the Wrecking Crew. Even so, I’d be willing to bet you’ve certainly heard their music. For those not aware, the Wrecking Cre...