Mini: The Return of HBO Max

About this episode

What do you call a streaming service that can’t sit still? Apparently, HBO Max… again.

In this Soul & Science mini-episode, Jason unpacks why the HBO brand is once again reclaiming its name, and what this says about brand equity, consumer sentiment, and the fine art of knowing when to walk it back. From Gap to Tropicana to the Twitter-that-shall-not-be-named, some branding detours are better left reversed.

Key Takeaways:
✅ Don’t mess with strong brand equity—especially when it’s called “HBO.”
✅ A reversal doesn’t have to be a failure if you own it.
✅ Smart brands listen, learn, and even laugh with their customers.

Backtracking isn’t always a step back. Sometimes, it’s just better branding.

Brought to you by Mekanism.