The So What | Artemis Ward | Substack

The So What

We’re Olivia, Ryan, Quinten, Chris, and Colin—the writers behind The So What. We get to the “so what” of cultural moments: why they matter and what brands should do next. By day, we work at Artemis Ward, an independent creative agency in DC and NYC.

Welcome to The So What.

May 19•Artemis Ward

When Exaggeration Is the Ethos

Through exaggerated fashion and marketing, Street Grandma’s founders help the brand navigate today’s “cool recession.”

23 hrs ago•Chris Maier

What the Knicks and J.Lo can teach us about human connection

Why a summer of sports is really a story about identity, connection, and the brands paying close enough attention to notice.

Jun 16•Colin Moffett

If It Sucks...Hit Da Bricks!!

How the slippy mindset answers our subscription fatigue.

Jun 9•Quinten Rosborough

Thirst Trapped by Amazon

And now a word from our sponsors (whether you like it or not).

Jun 3•Ryan Weicht

Your FYP Is a TV Network Now

What The 4 in the 5 tells us about rising stars, episodic content, and the new rules of audience loyalty.

May 26•Olivia DuCharme

We Know Why We’re Here

For Leetha Filderman at PopTech, success and purpose are intertwined.

May 12•Chris Maier

Stop Cooking, Start Hosting

A lesson on being a durable brand.

May 5•Colin Moffett

How Much UGC is Too Much UGC?

We optimized live events for sharing. Now we’re losing the point of showing up.

Apr 28•Quinten Rosborough

Kick the Bad Ad-itude

Try speaking to everyone and you won’t say anything worthwhile.

Apr 22•Ryan Weicht

Don't Do Extra

On doing the most, going too hard — oh, and our new campaign featuring Keke Palmer.

Apr 14•Olivia DuCharme

Brand Success Is an Emotional Matter

VML’s Walter Geer III taps into emotional truths to connect brands and audiences.