Why Authenticity is the Secret Ingredient in Great Licensing

When a licensing deal really works, it’s not because of star power or nostalgia alone. It’s because it feels right. In this episode of Born to License, I dive into the one ingredient that separates forgettable partnerships from truly great ones: authenticity.

Join me in a New York City boardroom as I walk a top advertising agency through iconic campaigns featuring He-Man, Buddy the Elf, and Donatello from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - each one a masterclass in getting the details right. From voice casting to character behaviour to the smallest design elements, every choice matters.

We’ll cover:

• Why authenticity makes or breaks a licensing campaign

• Real-world examples of campaigns that got it right

• The hidden details that audiences instantly notice

• How to ensure licensed characters enhance your brand - not distract from it

If you’ve ever wondered what makes a licensed ad, product, or experience truly resonate, this episode reveals the answer.

🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform—and remember, audiences know when it’s not real.

🎙 Born to License – Hosted by David Born

🔹 Learn More about Born to License

🔹 Follow David on LinkedIn

🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #AuthenticityInAdvertising

👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!

📩 Contact: [e-mail]

🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

🎙 Born to License – Hosted by David Born

🔹 Learn More about Born to License

🔹 Follow David on LinkedIn

🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships

👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!

📩 Contact: [e-mail]

🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!