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For the Culture by Marcus Collins: Building Brands That Mean Something
The phrase “culture is everything” gets tossed around a lot. But For the Culture by corporate strategist Marcus Collins brings real depth to the conversation. Drawing on stories from brands like Beyoncé, Apple, and Nike, Collins shows that when your brand can foster culture, shared meanings, norms, and identity, it transcends marketing.
Culture as a Meaning-Making System
Collins defines culture as a system that shapes what we do, how we see the world, and why we care. Unlike company perks or slogans, culture exists when people feel it, live it, and bring it into conversations with others.
From Academic to Accessible
What makes For the Culture truly stand out is how grounded and readable it is, especially for a book that tackles complex ideas like identity, belonging, and human behavior. Marcus Collins has a background in both academia and high-level brand strategy, and you can feel that depth. But instead of writing like a professor, he writes like a practitioner, someone who's been in the room where decisions are made, but also understands how ideas translate into action.
Collins draws from a wide range of sources; psychology, cultural theory, business strategy. But he distills everything into simple, usable insights. Whether he's discussing why certain movements catch fire, how cultural norms shape buying decisions, or what it really means to create loyalty, it all feels instantly applicable to brand building. You’re not just reading about culture, you’re learning how to become an active participant in shaping it around your business.
The book is full of real-world examples, from massive global brands to smaller grassroots moments, that help illustrate how culture works across different contexts. And while it’s incredibly informative, it never feels abstract. Collins connects every insight to a human experience, which makes it easier to see how you can apply the same thinking to your own business, no matter the size.
For the Culture doesn’t just give you a marketing toolkit, it gives you a mindset shift. It reminds you that successful brands aren’t built through catchy slogans or clever tactics alone. They’re built when people feel like they’re part of something, when they see themselves reflected in your mission and feel invited to take part in it. That’s what makes this book a must-read for any entrepreneur or brand builder who wants to do more than just make noise, they want to make meaning.
How It Speaks to Entrepreneurs
Reading this felt like a playbook for creators. Whether you're launching a coaching business, digital product, or service brand, For the Culture shows you how to build systems, rituals, and language that cultivate belonging, not just transactions. It taught me to think beyond audience demographics, and toward collective identity.
Is It Worth Reading?
This is a strong yes for anyone ready to build beyond funnels and feel like they're creating something that lasts. If you want to go beyond “engagement” metrics and build a community that sticks, Collins’ insights will stretch you and energize your strategy.
Where to Buy
Available in hardcover, paperback, ebook, and audiobook.
Book Club Note
This month at Gillian Sarah, we’re exploring For the Culture, sharpening our understanding of brand identity and community. If you're also seeking to enrich personal connection, head to My Life From Home, where The Art of Gathering is our lifestyle pick for building heart-centered gatherings. Two books, one cohesive mission: building intentional belonging in business and life.
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FAQ – For the Culture
No, it’s perfect for solopreneurs, coaches, and creators building brands.
Both! Real-world examples paired with digestible strategies and models.
Not at all. Collins writes accessibly, with energy and clarity.
Yes, it shifts the lens from “customers” to “culture-makers” and community builders.
Final Thoughts
For the Culture shifted how I plan programs, write copy, and build engagement. It helped me view branding as collective meaning-making, and that's the shift many of us need right now.
I’d love to hear: what does culture feel like in your brand? Share your reflections below.
Here’s to building with intention, integrity, and community.
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