The Power of Storytelling in Advertising: A Tale of Two Ads
by Bob Froese • Founder & CCO
October 29, 2025

The Power of Storytelling in Advertising: A Tale of Two Ads
In the fast-paced world of digital advertising, where six-second ads and data metrics reign supreme, I recently stumbled upon are freshing reminder of the timeless power of storytelling. It came in the form of two contrasting ads: a minute and a half commercial from one of the world's largest advertisers and an over two-minute ad from one of the smallest.
These ads weren't just a series of images and slogans; they were stories, narratives that captured the essence of the brands they represented. They didn't just aim to sell a product; they sought to connect, to resonate, to evoke emotion. And they succeeded brilliantly.
Watching every second of these ads, I was reminded of MayaAngelou's profound words: "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."These ads made me feel something. They transcended the traditional boundaries of advertising and ventured into the realm of art, of human connection.
This experience led me to ponder a crucial question for all brands: What does your brand feel like? In an era where data and metrics are often the primary focus, it's easy to forget the human element, the emotional connection that truly defines a brand. Yes, the six-second ad with solid data metrics has its place, but does it leave a lasting impression? Does it make people feel something?
The contrast between the two ads I watched was stark, yet it highlighted a fundamental truth in advertising and branding. People crave stories. They seek connection. They want to feel something. And when a brand can deliver that, when it can make people feel, it transcends the clutter of the marketplace and creates a lasting bond with its audience.
So, as we navigate the complex landscape of modern advertising, let's not forget the power of storytelling. Let's remember that at the end of the day, it's not just about the data or the duration of the ad.It's about the story we tell and the emotions we evoke. That's what people will remember. That's what will define our brand.
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