Ever wonder how brands keep things fresh and exciting? Let’s get into it! 👀 This week, we’re highlighting some badass moves—from quirky app updates to fashion-forward collaborations and community spaces that are shaking things up. If you’re into marketing, branding, and building connections, you’ll want to stick around for this one. #WeLoveToSeeIt
Duolingo's Playful Icon Updates

If you’ve ever used Duolingo, you know their green owl mascot, Duo, can be passive-aggressively hilarious. Recently, we’ve noticed the app has taken its mascot to new heights by altering its icon based on how long it’s been since you last opened the app. Haven't checked in for a while? Duo will get increasingly desperate (and comical), reminding you of your language goals in a fun, non-invasive way.
This clever feature and marketing highlights the impact of using playful engagement to drive accountability. By creatively altering its app icon, Duolingo turns a small, often overlooked detail into a powerful tool that boosts user retention through humor and personalized interaction. This is peak gamification and personalized marketing finest, showing how deeply psychology (more specifically behavioral engagement) drives effective marketing strategies.
Poppi x LaQuan Smith at New York Fashion Week

Next up, let’s dive into the game-changing partnership between Poppi and LaQuan Smith during New York Fashion Week (NYFW). Poppi, the innovative prebiotic soda brand, joined forces with renowned fashion designer LaQuan Smith to unveil their new “cherry cola” flavor at this iconic event. This collaboration seamlessly blends style and wellness, demonstrating how Poppi is elevating its brand by aligning with trendsetting figures like Smith.
But it’s more than just the glamor of the runway; this partnership exemplifies how brands can strategically enter high-profile spaces and engage in meaningful, community-driven collaborations. By staying true to their health-conscious roots while embracing fashion-forward sensibilities, Poppi showcases how businesses can strike the perfect balance between purpose and style. This resonates deeply with audiences who value both wellness and representation, proving that thoughtful brand partnerships can create impactful connections in the marketplace.
With Poppi and LaQuan Smith leading the way, we see a fresh approach to marketing that prioritizes community, wellness, and style—essential elements that today’s consumers are looking for.
Sole Folks: A Community Hub in Leimert Park
Now, let’s shine a spotlight on Leimert Park, where Sole Folks is making waves by empowering local designers and creatives. More than just a retail space, Sole Folks serves as a vibrant community hub that uplifts Black and Brown designers, providing them with a platform to showcase their work and grow their businesses. This dynamic space has transformed into a creative epicenter in Leimert Park, fostering entrepreneurial talent and promoting economic equity.
For nonprofits and brands dedicated to community service, Sole Folks exemplifies the powerful impact of investing in the people around you. They’re not just selling clothes; they’re cultivating an ecosystem where creatives can thrive and give back to the community. This initiative showcases how retail spaces can act as vital hubs for local talent, driving long-term positive change and fostering a sense of belonging.
With Sole Folks leading the charge, we see a model for community-driven success that emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and empowerment—essential ingredients for sustainable growth whether local or global.
The Power of Community & Collaboration
Whether it’s Duolingo’s playful user retention tactics, Poppi’s chic collaboration with LaQuan Smith, or Sole Folks’ unwavering support for local designers, the common thread here is community. At the heart of all these movements is the goal of bringing people together, supporting one another, and creating spaces—virtual or physical—where everyone can thrive.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this blog post! How do you see community-building within marketing?
At The Asé Group, we’re all about empowering nonprofits and community-centered organizations that lift others up. We love seeing brands and initiatives that break the mold while staying true to their mission. These inspiring stories push us to think outside the box and find fun ways to bring people together, strengthen communities, and build meaningful connections.
Whether you’re part of a nonprofit, a brand, or a community leader, there are so many exciting ways to creatively engage your audience and make a real difference. Let’s chat about how we can elevate your brand through purposeful partnerships and community-focused strategies. Reach out to us today to reimagine impact and restrategize growth together.
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