My First Car: The Storytelling Engine Behind SPEED Channel's Brand Promos
Back in my days as Director of On-Air Promotion at SPEED Channel, my team and I lived and breathed motorsports. Our mission? To create promos that revved up excitement and drove viewers straight to the heart of racing and car culture.
From high-octane races and in-depth news shows to reality series and even the occasional movie night, we had our hands full, ensuring each program got its time in the spotlight. Sure, not every show could have a grand promo spectacle, but we poured our creativity into generating buzz and drawing in the crowds. It was intense, it was thrilling, and I loved it.
But beyond the race to attract viewers, the network promos—the brand stories- fueled my passion. These weren’t just calls to tune in; they were crafted experiences that celebrated the essence of SPEED. We’d often unleash sizzle reels bursting with rapid-fire edits and electrifying music, all in the name of brand love.
Yet, amidst this high-speed world, I found a different gear. Early into my tenure, an idea sparked: What if we tapped into something universal that transcended the thrill of speed? So, I asked the people around me a simple question: "Tell me about your first car."
You’ve already begun telling me your story if you're reading this. Because if you drive, you have a My First Car story to tell.
This wasn't just any question. It was a key turning the ignition of nostalgia, awakening memories that connected everyone in the SPEED universe. Everyone had a story; every story was a tiny love affair with a machine symbolizing freedom—a rite of passage. Whether a polished gem or a rust bucket held together by dreams and duct tape, it represented more than just a car. It was the vehicle that introduced them to the grand adventure of life.
These stories became more than promos; they were personal journeys, shared passions, and the collective heartbeat of our viewers. They didn't just support our brand—they were the essence of what we stood for.
Looking back, it wasn’t just about promoting what was coming up on the channel. We created a community, and whether that was a celebrity, a race car driver, or a person on the street, all were welcome. It was about kindling the spirit of SPEED, one cherished memory at a time. And isn’t that what great storytelling is all about?
At HAMLIN Creative, we understand your brand's story is more than a story you tell. It's felt. It's experienced. It's driven by the moments that define us. So, let's shift gears and create content that sells and tells a story as timeless as that first ride.
Ready to take the wheel with your brand's story? Let HAMLIN Creative be your co-pilot. Contact us, and let's cruise down memory lane together, creating content that captures hearts as swiftly as it captures views.
Oh and of course…here’s my story. My First Car: a 1978 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible, passed down from my dad to my brother, and finally to me. Despite countless miles, a hole in the floorpan, minimal heating, no air conditioning, and a quirky top, this Beetle was my ticket to freedom. It had its quirks: a sticky accelerator, an unpredictable electrical system, and windshield wipers that smeared the pitted windshield when it rained. But behind the wheel of this 48-horsepower legend, I was the king of the road, embarking on adventures, feeling invincible. Among the many cars I've owned, each with their own stories, this Beetle remains special. It's still in the family, a lasting testament to My First Car.
