Christian Stein, founder and president of Stone Owl Consulting, a strategic consulting firm focused on helping brands create a better future has nearly 30 years in the game. Christian launched Stone Owl in 2022 to focus on upstream strategy and business problem-solving for brands. “We’re not an ad agency; we’re a strategic consulting partner,” he explains. We look at Stone Owl’s unique approach to building brand preference, the advantages of being independent, and why Christian believes simplicity and focus can unlock immense value for brands and marketers.
What is Stone Owl Consulting and its Mission?
Stone Owl Consulting is a strategic partner specializing in upstream brand strategy and problem-solving for businesses. Unlike traditional agencies, they focus on building brand preference—helping brands achieve long-term success by identifying clear goals and addressing blind spots. Their mission is to elevate C-suite leaders out of the weeds, enabling them to see both the forest and the trees.
What are Stone Owl’s Core Strengths?
Stone Owl’s top strengths include being agenda-free, allowing them to focus on solving client problems without the pressure to produce ads. Their streamlined approach helps simplify overwhelming C-suite challenges by focusing on one goal—building brand preference. Additionally, they emphasize speed and efficiency, offering clients value without unnecessary delays or inflated costs.
Additionally, Resin Labs leverages the insights of Gen Z and Gen Alpha to help brands connect authentically with younger audiences and drive brand preference.
Why is Independence Important for Stone Owl?
Being independent allows Stone Owl to approach problems with agility and without a pre-determined advertising agenda. This flexibility opens doors to more meaningful conversations with CMOs and other executives, enabling them to identify and address deeper business challenges beyond traditional ad solutions. Independence empowers them to prioritize the client’s agenda rather than a production goal.
Why Should Brands Work with Stone Owl?
Brands should work with Stone Owl because they bring clarity and focus to complex challenges. Their unique ability to “see the forest and the trees” helps them develop strategies that prioritize brand preference, which translates into real business results—whether it’s driving sales, reducing churn, or enhancing customer loyalty.
How Does Stone Owl Approach Talent?
Stone Owl operates with a flexible and lean talent model, pulling in specialized experts as needed for each project. This approach ensures clients receive tailored expertise without paying for excess headcount. Their global talent network spans creative and strategic professionals, with a special emphasis on engaging younger generations like Gen Z and Gen Alpha for specific needs.
Weirdos, Misfits or Underdogs?
Christian proudly identifies Stone Owl as underdogs. This allows them to operate as a wild card, offering clients fresh perspectives and alternative solutions that might not be found within traditional agency structures. They thrive on challenging conventions and delivering unexpected yet effective results.
Who Would Christian Stein Like to Say Hi To?
Christian would love to connect with marketers who feel overwhelmed or want to simplify their strategies. He’s particularly interested in brands like Peloton and Adobe, admiring their innovation while recognizing areas for growth. He’s eager to share insights and help brands uncover potential blind spots that could unlock new opportunities.
What’s a Product or Idea Christian Wishes Would Make a Comeback?
Christian highlights the Polaroid camera as an example of a product with timeless appeal. With tactile experiences and nostalgia becoming increasingly valuable, Polaroid—and even disposable cameras—represent opportunities for reinvention. He also nostalgically wishes for the return of the social media platform Path, appreciating its simplicity and intimate user experience.
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Doug Zanger is the founder and editor-in-chief of Indie Agency News. He is also the founder of the Creative Bohemian consultancy, lives in the Pacific Northwest and is insufferable about it.
