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View looking out of mountains.
Experience more with an unforgettable session with Johnny Cupcakes as he leads an invigorating leadership discussion on building brand loyalty. Join us for this complimentary event to delve deeper into creating memorable experiences and inspiring innovation. Kickstart your morning with a networking breakfast on us.

Thursday, October 23, 2025
8:45 AM (Breakfast available beginning at 8 AM)
UNC Asheville, Ingles Mountain View Room
Sherrill Center/Kimmell Arena
Parking is available in Lot P9, P11, and P12. All vehicles must register for parking.

 
If you dream of inspiring cult-like brand loyalty—the kind that involves mile-long queues and even permanent tattoos—Johnny Cupcakes is for you. The founder of the world-renowned tee-shirt brand Johnny Cupcakes, Johnny’s known for helping other people create blueprints for the unexpected sprinkles — giving people more than what they’re expecting. This recipe helps build brand loyalty, create memorable experiences, and inspire innovation.

With global bakery-themed T-shirt pop-up shop openings, thousands of customers with his logo tattooed on themselves, people who camp out for his products, and high-profile collaborations with giants such as The Simpsons, Power Rangers, and Nickelodeon, Johnny was named America’s #1 Young Entrepreneur by Business Week, Top Innovator in Retail by The Boston Globe, and featured in INC magazine as the CEO of one of the world’s fastest growing independent businesses. 

Despite being in one of the most difficult product categories to stand-out in, and a founder of a brand when he was just 19 years old, Johnny’s solution to his business challenges was to create such a unique brand experience that his customers would loyally line-up around the block, time and time again, just to be able to sport his logo on their clothing. 

Since then, through his talks and creative consulting, Johnny has shared his strategies with clients that include Apple, L’Oreal, Disney, IBM, Audi, Harvard University, Wieden+Kennedy, Marriott, and P&G.

Also a TEDx speaker, Johnny has been featured in media such as MTV, NPR, Forbes, WIRED, Newsweek, and as a case study in several branding and business books.

The event is free but space is limited. Please RSVP using the form below by Friday, October 9, 2025.