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Making great Super Bowl ads: Our expert talks strategy, pressure and innovation

Advertising expert Chuck Borghese joins our Ask the Experts podcast to discuss the strategy, creative process and high stakes behind Super Bowl commercials.

Henry Gorsuch, '26 | February 5, 2025

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A visiting professional in µÛÍõ»áËù’s E.W. Scripps School of Journalism and managing director of NEXT‽, OHIO's student-run advertising agency, Chuck Borghese has seen a lot during his career in advertising. For our latest podcast episode, he shares stories and insights—from his early days as a copywriter to working on major campaigns. Borghese explains the high stakes of Super Bowl ads, where companies spend millions not just for airtime but to create a lasting impact.

A graphic for the Super Bowl ads episode of the Ask the Experts podcast, with a photo of Chuck Borghese smiling at the camera

Borghese breaks down the months-long creative process, starting with agency pitches in August and leading up to the final product in February. Some brands stick to their usual messaging, while others take risks to grab attention, citing and their from the late nineties as classic examples. He also talks about how understanding an audience is key to making an ad that sticks with people long after the game ends.

With advertising shifting toward digital platforms, Borghese points to the growing role of social media in Super Bowl marketing. He recalls the viral , proving that a simple idea can be just as powerful as a big-budget production. Despite changes in the industry, he says the Super Bowl remains a prime opportunity for brands willing to take creative risks while staying true to their message.