192. The New Rules of Brand–Consumer Trust: What LinkedIn, Disney & Ralph Lauren Just Made Impossible to Ignore

Consumers today aren’t just buying products — they’re buying alignment, transparency, cultural fluency, and trust. And trust has officially become one of the most powerful growth marketing levers a brand can pull. In this episode, Sonia Thompson — inclusive growth and customer experience strategist — breaks down what three real-world stories from LinkedIn, Disney, and Ralph Lauren reveal about the new rules of brand–consumer trust and how they directly impact growth, loyalty, and long-term revenue. From algorithmic bias to cultural accuracy to identity-centered storytelling, these case studies show exactly why frictionless, values-led, inclusive marketing isn’t optional anymore — it’s a competitive advantage. You’ll learn: Why trust is now a core growth metric and a deciding factor in customer acquisition and loyalty How Disney’s Moana backlash demonstrates the business impact of cultural accuracy and responsible creative decisions What Ralph Lauren’s evolution teaches us about identity-driven brand building and long-term growth Why LinkedIn’s algorithmic bias debate highlights the rising expectations around responsible AI and inclusive design How representation, transparency, and cultural fluency shape modern customer experience The specific behaviors today’s consumers reward — and the ones that create friction, backlash, and brand erosion If you want to build a frictionless growth engine that resonates with today’s identity-led, culturally connected consumers, this episode gives you the clarity and direction you need for 2026 and beyond. The LinkedIn post and article referenced from LinkedIn staff - https://www.linkedin.com/posts/sakshirjain_putting-members-first-testing-and-measuring-activity-7397384012421451776-M7A8/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAADoGrYBxCncTQK1uoD5k0MgXOrx3330CMI