Leading with Lori

Leading with Lori Merch Drop? You Bet Your Branded Football It Is.

Written by Lori G. Brown | April 1, 2025 at 3:15 PM

Here’s the thing…

When I started Leading with Lori, I had no intention of becoming a lifestyle brand. 

And yet—here we are.  A balloon with my face on it.  A tote bag featuring me, holding a water bottle featuring me, because subtlety is overrated.  A football, because why not fumble in style?

Yes, it is official: the Leading with Lori Lifestyle Collection™️ has dropped.

Let’s take a quick tour through your next favorite leadership accessories:



Real* Testimonials from Imaginary Fans:

“The gummy bears tasted like resilience and lemon.”

A Very Real Influencer

“This merch line made me 17% more effective in meetings. Coincidence? Probably.”

Someone Who Definitely Exists

“I saw the tote bag and immediately promoted myself.”

– Unverified, but we love the energy

This whole merch drop is obviously fake (unless someone really wants it…), but here is what is real:

If you cannot laugh at yourself, you are missing half the point of leadership.  The best leaders do not just own their story.  They also own the weird moments, the awkward pivots, the idea that maybe—just maybe—a balloon could be part of their brand.

So happy April Fools, friends.  No bears were harmed.  No merch will be shipped.  But if you do want the football… let’s talk.

Your turn—what ridiculous item should we “launch” next year?

Be bold. The weirder, the better.  See you at the merch table… or in the comments.

Gratefully,