Insider Interviews: Media and Marketing Pros

You know those screens at a bar or gym that catch your eye and actually make you pay attention in a noisy environment? Chances are you’ve seen Atmosphere TV. So, I spoke with the company’s Chief Revenue Officer, Ryan Spicer, to find out how they’re managing to capture and confirm attention, and why it’s one of the most interesting ad-supported media plays happening right now. Ryan came up through Viacom and Turner, but his real origin story starts on a soccer pitch. (Yes, I asked him about going from the pitch to the TV pitch — and yes, he’s stealing that line.) But apropos to our conversation he walked away from established media for a startup bet on a simple but brilliant insight: nobody ever walked into a bar and asked them to put on a muted episode of Law & Order. Atmosphere was built to fix that. We get into the full value proposition of “TV for your eyes, not for your ears” that’s made in three-minute, visually arresting loops across 30 channels. He scored a win in my first “Pitch Me. Pinch Me.” segment, doing a great job explaining how they’re capturing 10 million viewers a night in their built for OFF-the-couch moments. His “pitch” was backed up by Media Science that did an eye-tracking study to deliver proof points. I was intrigued enough by that to put them in an article I wrote recently for MediaVillage. You’ll learn how their targeting capability can geo-fence an ad to within seven miles of a retail location, and why their timing. Hint: Ryan explains this era as The Great Reconnection, with people actively seeking out more in-person experiences after years of heads-down, hyper-personalized digital isolation. Ryan also gives brands some real, practical advice on creative — what works, what works better, and why the bucket debate (is this CTV? is this OOH?) is the wrong conversation entirely. It’s an upbeat 30-minutes that even explains Ryan’s appreciation for Turkish food. But another reason to listen? You might get the Insider’s scoop on their next strategic move. (Okay, it has to do with why Atmosphere is a natural fit within retail media networks since they’re reaching consumers who are already out and already deciding, not just browsing from the couch.) Key Moments: 00:00 – From the pitch to the TV pitch 00:27 – What is Atmosphere TV? CTV IRL explained 02:38 – 60,000 bars, restaurants, and gyms can’t be wrong 03:06 – Ryan’s origin story: from pro soccer to chasing a feeling 09:02 – Debut of the “Pitch Me. Pinch Me.” segment 10:06 – The founding insight: nobody asked a bar to show a muted Law & Order 12:00 – Geo-targeting within 7 miles of a retail location 12:57 – The Great Reconnection: why people are seeking out in-person experiences 15:00 – Channels built for off-the-couch environments 15:45 – Proof of concept: why distracted bar crowds are actually watching and MediaScience results 17:43 – Creative advice: what works and what works better 21:10 – Measurement: foot traffic, receipt data, ROAS and case studies 24:25 – The bucket debate: stop asking if it’s CTV or OOH 25:30 –Atmosphere’s next strategic move 29:29 – Best coaching advice for work or team work Connect with Ryan Spicer and Atmosphere TV LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-spicer-8189b43/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atmospheretv/ Connect with E.B. Moss and Insider Interviews: With Media & Marketing Experts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mossappeal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insiderinterviews Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InsiderInterviewsPodcast/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@insiderinterviews If you enjoyed this episode, follow Insider Interviews, share with another smart business leader, and leave a comment on @Apple or @Spotify… or a tip in my jar!: https://buymeacoffee.com/mossappeal!

Podcasting got a seat at the grown-up’s table at South by SouthWest for the first time, smack in middle of Women’s History Month. So Insider Interviews captured content from three women also making strides in media, during Podcast Movement Evolutions. I spoke with these media powerhouses at The Podcast Academy / Sounds Profitable co-sponsored booth to talk about building: businesses, communities, the future of media itself…and building up women everywhere. Learn from: the co-founder of a startup modernizing how print and out-of-home are bought and sold,a global communications CEO who has built her career on making messaging move people,and one of the new forces behind podcasting’s growing presence itself. Mach on Modernizing “Premium” Media for a New Era Beth Mach, Co-Founder & COO of Spacely Media, introduces the first transactional marketplace for premium media — giving print, out-of-home, and venue advertising the digital infrastructure it’s never had. “Buying in those channels today still looks like it did 20 years ago — lots of PDFs, lots of phone calls. Spacely closes that gap.” Their platform replaces friction with functionality, and dashboards instead of PDFs. Like Neil Vogel, in my recent episode with the People, Inc. CEO, Mach is bullish on magazines and makes the case for why brands are coming back to these channels. She also explains why credibility wins the room when you’re raising money. It shouldn’t be different as a female founder. But… “Every founder meets skepticism. When you are female, it adds another layer — especially when the room has historically looked a little different.” — Beth Mach Lund on Messaging to and for Humans Wendy Lund, Global CEO of Allison Worldwide and returning Insider Interviews guest (exactly one year later!), reflects on her path from women’s health advocacy to leading a global agency — and what she’s building now. Her path ran from a master’s in women’s history to nonprofit marketing, to running a global agency. With her move to Global CEO of Allison Worldwide and Vice Chair of health at parent company Stagwell, Wendy described her enthusiasm for Allison’s strengths, across campaigns, media/influencer, and experiential. She reinforces the importance of listening, purpose-driven work, and addressing ongoing inequities in women’s health and mental health. “My favorite value has always been belonging. Do your customers feel like they’re part of something? To me, that is so sticky.” Her advice for building brand love in a fragmented media world is deceptively simple: be real, and build belonging. She’s also clear-eyed about the disconnect between how much we talk about innovation — and how much attention women’s health actually gets: “AI is on the tip of everybody’s tongue — but at the end of the day, it’s also steeped in emotion. And we’re 51% of the population. That means we should get 51% of the attention.” — Wendy Lund DeMellier Sounds Like an Inspiration Molly DeMellier, Head of Communications at Sounds Profitable, gives an insider’s scoop on the organization helping shape podcasting’s growing presence at SXSW and beyond. She points to the combined strengths of the co-founders: Bryan Barletta’s (“terrifying”) encyclopedic industry brain and Tom Webster’s research engine, along with her own expanding role shaping panel strategy, supporting retainer clients, and helping partners amplify their stories. Molly describes Sounds Profitable place in podcasting as building community and connection through events, networking, research, and partner support, emphasizing that “Podcasting is really taking off and it’s the people that power it.” But, noting the industry’s representation gap, takes her role seriously when working on events like Podcast Movement, pondering “who do I put on stage that’s going to inspire that next person” to know they can see themselves podcasting. And she closes with something that sticks: her belief that women shouldn’t have to choose between...

I found a smiling Buddha medallion on the sidewalk on my way to the Uber, and I believed it was a sign it would be a good trip. Then I got in the car and discovered my fellow passenger was Nir Eyal — behavioral designer, Stanford lecturer, and bestselling author with a new book to promote at SXSW: “Beyond Belief.” We were both headed for the same flight. I, of course, invited him to record a podcast episode and he invited me into the United Club lounge record there! I believed in my good fortune, and belief systems turned out to be the focus of Nir’s work. “We like to say that you’ll believe it when you see it — but in fact, that’s not true. The opposite is true: you see it when you believe it.” — Nir Eyal What I captured in 20 minutes was a masterclass in consumer psychology from one of the most cited thinkers in behavioral design. And a lot of fun. Nir’s first book, “Hooked”, gave marketers and product builders a framework for engineering repeat engagement. Yup, he explains his four-step model that of why users keep returning to things like Facebook, Duolingo, Slack, and even my beloved Starbucks. His follow-up, “Indistractable,” tackled the flip side: how to protect your own focus in a world engineered to steal it. And his new third book makes the case that advertising’s most powerful function isn’t awareness or recall. It’s actually shaping what using a product feels like. Or tastes like. Nir backs this up citing a Stanford fMRI study where participants tasted the exact same wine twice — once labeled cheap, once labeled expensive. Of course they rated the “expensive” pour as tastier, and brain scans confirmed they were genuinely experiencing more pleasure. The implication for marketers is significant: brand belief doesn’t just influence what consumers say about a product — it rewires how they perceive it in real time. As Nir puts it, “we are creating the experience, just as we’re creating the coffee and the cup.” We also get into distraction and focus ( — territory that’s directly relevant to anyone managing teams, creative output, or their own attention. Nir draws a clean line between traction (any action that moves you toward what you planned to do) and distraction (anything that doesn’t) — and gave me a HUGE a-ha understanding about the common assumption that multitasking is counterproductive. You’re going to want to learn about the distinction between single-channel and multi-channel multitasking. It’s how high performers and even distracted performers like me, can structure their time. (Nir shares his personal system for consuming long-form reading; it’s a practical tactic worth stealing.) This conversation was unplanned, unscripted, and recorded forty minutes before boarding a flight. That it delivered this much useful thinking on marketing, behavioral design, consumer psychology, and focus is a testament to how deeply Nir has thought about all of it — and, okay, maybe to the Buddha medallion. Key Moments: 00:00 How a serendipitous ride to the airport turns into an impromptu bonus episode with author Nir Eyal 01:34 Nir’s background: behavioral designer, Stanford lecturer, and author of three books on habits, distraction, and belief 02:16 The Hooked framework: the four-step model behind every habit-forming product — and how to apply it 03:45 Beyond Belief: why advertising’s real job is shaping experience, not just building awareness 06:07 The Stanford fMRI wine study: proof that brand belief changes consumer perception at a neurological level 07:50 What marketers consistently underestimate: the experience loop of belief, anticipation, and confirmation 08:15 Facts vs. beliefs: a distinction with major implications for messaging and brand strategy 09:08 The one condition a product must meet before habit formation is even possible 12:45 Traction vs. distraction: a framework for reclaiming focus — and why the difference isn’t the behavior 14:11 Why planned downtime isn’t distraction — and how to stop...

CTV advertising may come with its share of acronyms and moving parts, but about 70% of advertisers say they plan to increase their investment in it, according to the latest industry survey from Premion. Blake Hebert, Premion’s Sr Dir. of Publisher Operations, isn’t surprised by that momentum. But he also knows marketers still face challenges like complexity. In Ep. 49, he talks about where the medium stands today—and how Premion is helping simplify the path for local and mid-market advertisers. Blake, who just welcomed baby #2, returned to work to help introduce Premion’s baby #4 — that latest CTV survey done with Advertiser Perceptions. And no one’s crying about this one: only 1% of respondents said they expect to decrease their CTV budgets. With a rare perspective from being hands on across the buy side and sell side, from agency life at RPA to roles at Hulu and SpotX/Magnite, Blake now has a front-row seat to what’s coming from publishers and platforms. He shares those insights back with internal teams and advertisers to make the CTV landscape easier to navigate. And with us in this conversation. What advertisers are learning, and what Blake explains particularly well, is that success in CTV isn’t just about shifting dollars into streaming. It’s about understanding how consumers actually watch content today. He was spot on: “Consumers don’t decide to watch linear or stream; they just watch…. And they’re not just in one place. I’ll watch Amazon Prime and then flip back over to my Hulu app.” So, advertisers have to be spot on everywhere, too, which is exactly why marketers are increasingly planning around “total TV” or converged video strategies instead of separating traditional television and streaming into different buckets. Of course, this new world can feel like a maze. Fragmentation, walled gardens, and measurement challenges are still very real issues. Blake walks us through how platforms like Premion try to simplify that complexity by aggregating inventory across multiple streaming partners and layering in data that helps advertisers reach audiences efficiently. They’re especially focused on supporting local and mid-market advertisers who can now enjoy similar strategies and tactics as the big holding company agencies. Another takeaway is about targeting. In digital advertising, the instinct is often to target audiences down to the smallest possible segment. But Blake makes the case that hyper-targeting can sometimes backfire, or just lose some efficiency, especially in smaller geographic markets. His advice? Balance precision with scale. If you pile on too many audience filters, you may end up shrinking your available audience more than you intended. We also spend time talking about a topic that seems unavoidable in every media conversation right now: AI. Blake’s view is pragmatic and optimistic, particularly for local advertisers who may not have access to large creative or analytics teams. So, he says: “The sooner you can embrace it and understand how to use it as a tool, the better you’ll be in the long run.” In fact, he sees #AI helping smaller businesses build creative, optimize campaigns, and generate insights in ways that used to require a lot more resources. But, like taking on CTV, the world has changed! We also touch on a few trends that may shape the next phase of CTV advertising, like the growing importance of live sports in streaming environments to new opportunities emerging around gaming and smart TV engagement. The good news for me? Blake called in from his hometown of Austin, which is the home of SXSW. Pair that with his work as president of the local Austin chapter of the American Advertising Federation and I may be very well connected for the GSD&M party and more! I know people who know people. And now we all know a little more about CTV. To keep up with the fast-changing world of TV advertising, get the insider scoop in 30 minutes flat on what’s working in CTV right now and how...

This bonus episode of Insider Interviews: With Media & Marketing Pros came together super spontaneously at On Air Fest in Brooklyn, where podcasters, creators, and technologists gathered recently to talk about the future of audio and, no spoiler alert, the future of AI. After a keynote session that talked about living WITH machines by keeping humanity present I had to grab Baratunde Thurston and Terry Rice to keep talking about how creators, entrepreneurs, (and parents) are navigating exactly that. Both of these conversations landed on the same core idea as my previous episode with Jack Myers: The real differentiator won’t be the machines—it’ll be the humans using them. Baratunde Thurston, author, speaker, comedian, and “thought leader of interdependence,” has been thinking about this balance for years and created his podcast Life with Machines to really explore that. As he asks: How do we live well with technology, instead of just enduring it? Living Well with Tech per Baratunde He’s experimenting with AI directly in his own creative process—even creating an AI character named “Blair” as a kind of co-producer on his show. But he’s also clear that there’s a line between assistance and authorship. #AI can help with research, feedback, or execution. But the deeper creative work, like ideas, voice, perspective, still needs to come from a human. “There’s something slower and messier about crafting things yourself—but there’s also a pride of creativity that I want to maintain.” Baratunde, and not surprisingly after him Terry Rice, also raised an issue that’s only going to become more important: authenticity. As generative AI content becomes harder to identify, the industry may need new ways to verify that a real person is behind what we’re seeing, hearing, or reading. Some technologists are already exploring ideas like “proof of humanity.” But Baratunde’s take was refreshingly simple: “I think the thing we’re going to trust the most is this: I feel you. We’re sharing the same air.” (He grabbed my arm to illustrate, saying “THIS is what matters.”) In other words, real-world presence and connection may become even more valuable in a digital ecosystem increasingly filled with synthetic content. My second conversation was with Terry Rice, entrepreneur, speaker, and host of The Signal, a podcast designed to help entrepreneurs cut through the noise and focus on practical strategies for growing their businesses. Terry uses AI in his own workflow, like generating prep guides before interviews (which I wish I had done for these spontaneous chats!) or organizing research. He also got so inspired by his kids that he built a way to help parents, with a way to build their own app for their kids! Trust me, you have to listen and hear what he did. But he made an important distinction: the value isn’t letting AI do all the thinking. It’s knowing what good looks like. “The real skill isn’t producing every answer yourself—it’s recognizing when something is good and when it isn’t.” That was one of those lightbulb emoji comments. It’s also a mindset that he’s already teaching his kids. In fact, his ten-year-old daughter summed it up in a way that might be the most useful rule for all of us navigating AI right now: “It’s okay to fight with AI.” Out of the mouths of (this generation’s) babes. Question it. Push back. Refine the answer. Through lines? AI will absolutely change how content gets made and how businesses operate. But creativity, judgment, curiosity—and yes, a little humanity—are still very much part of the equation. And for now at least, that’s something machines can’t replicate. (But props to Chat GPT for helping me summarize some of this brilliance!) Key Moments: 01:36 – Baratunde Thurston on the philosophy behind Life with Machines 02:40 – Experimenting with AI as a co-producer 03:20 – Where creators should draw the line with AI 06:43 – The emerging concept of “proof of humanity” 07:55 – Why...

Jack Myers has been sharing observations and insights about media longer than some platforms have even existed. I used to study his “Jack Myers Report,” when I started in cable and it was actually the first faxed newsletter. Then fast forward a decade or two and I became the first Managing Editor of Jack’s next successful communications platform: Media Village! Its thousands of articles, interviews, and executive insights now serve as a living history of the business. That was where I created my first podcast…and fast forward another decade and Jack has his own podcast now, too… and has authored some seven books! But DON’T fast forward through this half hour of gems from Jack that will inform and inspire you about how we may not really BE in a “technology-first era.” Jack acknowledges he can relate to Don Quixote as some might think he’s “tilting at windmills” in fighting the perception that humanity will prevail in our tech-focused world. Why? Because Jack has seen and understands the through line of it across generational changes…and as a strategy. In this episode — and in fact in his own show with Tim Spengler, called Lead Human — we talk about what it means to be “human first” in a technology-accelerated era. We topline what empathetic leadership, performance culture, and how organizations are recalibrating as they navigate AI. He and Tim go deep on those topics, so check it out. In what Jack calls a human-recalibrated era, he’s seeing a shift from “people first” as a cultural slogan to “people first” as a performance strategy — embedded into compensation, collaboration models, and operating systems. “It’s not about how much content we produce, but how thoughtfully we decide what deserves to exist and be amplified.” But now that we’re both in podcasting how does this Media Ecologist see it as a business model? He explains the tension between programmatic advertising and authenticity, and why speed — in content, in media, in AI — may be the most overrated metric in the room. And yes, we cover his latest reinvention: a historical fiction novel, a forthcoming science fiction trilogy, and what writing fiction reveals about understanding the human condition. At the end, I ask Jack what he hopes the media industry embraces more of — and less of — in the years ahead. His answer is less sentimental than you might expect, and more structural than most pundits are willing to articulate. This conversation spans decades of media evolution — from fax machines to AI voice replication — but it ultimately comes down to one idea: Speed without judgment is just noise. Key Highlights: 01:34 – What “human first” really means in media. 02:17 – Just the fax… the start of tracking generational shifts. 05:18 – Media Village: The house that Jack built – on relationships and thought leadership 09:44 – How good listening led to a podcast — first for E.B., now for Jack 12:02 – Launching a leadership podcast in the AI era and how empathy is a performance strategy 19:32 – Technology-first or a time for human recalibration. 23:50 – The future of podcast monetization 28:32 – His pivot to fiction (or is it?!) in The Kissinger Conspiracy 32:17 – Media’s inflection point. More responsibility. Less addiction to speed. Think ecosystem — not silos. Connect with Jack Myers: Jack Myers The Jack Myers Report Connect with E.B. Moss and Insider Interviews: With Media & Marketing Experts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mossappeal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insiderinterviews Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InsiderInterviewsPodcast/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@insiderinterviews Substack: Moss Hysteria Please follow Insider Interviews, share with another smart business leader, and leave a comment on @Apple or @Spotify… or a tip in my jar!: https://buymeacoffee.com/mossappeal! THANK YOU for listening!

A couple of years ago, I recorded an episode with Marketing Architects’ tech and marketing leads in a hotel room at CES. Three people. One bed. Good content… questionable ergonomics. Fast forward to now: better audio setups, better posture, and an even clearer picture of why Marketing Architects has built such a strong reputation as an all-inclusive agency—one that genuinely challenges how TV has always been planned, bought, and measured. Aaron Lange, now CTO, helped build Marketing Architects from the ground up to operate differently. Instead of carving up responsibilities across multiple vendors, they do it all—analytics, creative, media buying, and measurement—inside one connected system. “All inclusive for us means we do everything for our brands—from analytics and creative to media buying and attribution measurement.” — Aaron Lange The goal isn’t control for control’s sake; it’s accountability, speed, and performance you can actually learn from. That philosophy led directly to Annika, their proprietary AI-powered buying platform. Aaron described Annika not as software, but almost as a living system: “She’s making decisions every 15 minutes based on traffic spikes, orders, or anything else that we want to feed her.” That feedback loop—test, learn, optimize, repeat—is core to how they invest media dollars today. Nikki Erkkila, VP of Media Partnerships, brings that technology into the real world, working closely with broadcasters, streamers, and platform partners. What stood out to me is how grounded her perspective is (perhaps due to her 20-years of yoga practice after work!), especially in an era obsessed with automation. Despite all the tech, she reminded me that “partnerships and relationships are really the baseline of it.” Nikki described today’s media environment this way: “TV is just TV now. We’re really breaking down those silos from ‘we’re just watching broadcast, or we’re just watching cable, or we’re just watching streaming’ when you’re watching television now.” — Nikki Erkkila That perspective drives how Marketing Architects plans TV advertising, too: across streaming, national, local, linear—it’s one ecosystem. Audiences don’t think in silos, so media plans shouldn’t either, or compete for budget. We also talk about how AI is changing creative development, especially by speeding things up. Testing happens faster, creative can be adjusted more easily, and messaging can be more localized without losing the emotional storytelling that makes TV effective in the first place. I liked that Marketing Architects’ creative team calls itself “creative engineers,” because it signals that they know when AI helps, and when human judgment matters more. Seems Nikki and Aaron do too. Our sports talk is timely too (beyond Aaron explaining his passion for volleyball.) With the Super Bowl and Olympics upon us, live sports are a huge reminder of why TV still matters—big moments, shared viewing, real attention. But how people watch those moments now is fragmented, fluid, and often platform-agnostic. So, one of the big takeaways here is that planning has to reflect that reality, instead of forcing audiences into outdated buckets. If you’re an advertiser, an agency leader, or anyone trying to make TV work harder, this episode offers practical ideas on how to think about TV as one ecosystem, how to let performance guide decisions without stripping out emotion, and how to build systems that can adapt as viewing habits shift. Key Moments: 00:02:09 – Why Marketing Architects was built to challenge how TV was “always done” 00:02:33 – What “all-inclusive agency” really means 00:04:03 – Nikki introduces Annika and real-time media decisioning 00:05:40 – Aaron on why Annika updates every 15 minutes 00:06:21 – Aaron’s entrepreneurial background and tech mindset 00:08:19 – Why relationships still matter in modern media partnerships 00:09:19 – “TV is TV now”: breaking down linear vs. streaming silos 00:11:38 – How AI is...

It’s a fast but mighty 20 minute bonus episode of Insider Interviews! Took my “she-cam” on another* spontaneous journey through the Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2026) to speak with six different women, of six different tech and media areas. They provided first-hand insights on #AI, content, and advertising. These industry leaders span audio, advertising and age tech, sports, streaming, and out of home, so there’s really something for everyone! Quick coverage bites include: • A snippet about ‘Vobble,’ an interactive audio device that lets kids build stories; MY sound didn’t do it justice, but your kid might love it IRL (and you might love it as a bedtime story aid!) • A walk through the innovations for better health and aging in place via the Age Tech Collaborative from AARP, thanks to their VP of Startup Programming, Amelia Hay. A la this being an episode with all women in tech and media, as Amelia said of the Collaborative: “We have over 200 startups in the collaborative, and probably 40% are women founders… I think we’re really pushing that envelope and putting our stake in the ground in technology.” (PS: did I mention I’d love that sleep-helper AND the hearing-helping eyeglasses from EssilorLuxotica on display there?!) • I got a lesson in the history of ad innovations and how to apply “Changemaker” thinking, from Brightline (and SustainChain) founder, and now author, Jacqueline Corbelli, who I call “the doyenne of interactive advertising!” A simple summary of “changemaker” playbook is what Jacquie has done her entire career: “Think about what you want and go further…” • A chat with the dual founder of Sports Studio, Inc. and Rasenberger Media, Cathy Rasenberger , illuminated how her freshman streaming platform is scoring distribution wins, perhaps because it’s appropriately named “Free Live Sports“?! Cheers to them for “aggregating more free sports content than any other platform… We’re democratizing sports for all the fans.” • Stacy Minero, newly named CMO of Outfront Media, and Erin Harris, Head of Fluency Sales for SiriusXM, explain changes in their now UNtraditional mediums and how they each are leveraging AI to power creative and efficient DOOH advertising and audio content, respectively. Erin noted that, “We still see the strongest performance with human voice, but we’re extremely excited about AI in terms of helping us find little levers to pull, to make things more personal.” And as Stacy added: “There’s a huge opportunity for AI to unlock productivity, especially in the area of post-production… to do some of the grunt work so that people can focus on the fun work.” We say, “YES!” Don’t miss out on learning from each of these powerhouse women and their compelling companies. *And don’t miss my last full episode — also captured at CES — with executives in audio, video and brand marketing! Connect with E.B. Moss and Insider Interviews: With Media & Marketing Experts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mossappeal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insiderinterviews Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InsiderInterviewsPodcast/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@insiderinterviews Substack: Moss Hysteria Please follow Insider Interviews, share with another smart business leader, and leave a comment on @Apple or @Spotify… or a tip in my jar!: https://buymeacoffee.com/mossappeal! THANK YOU for listening!

If you work in media, marketing, or advertising, you know this tension: Screens dominate. Measurement has lagged. And it’s harder to answer questions like “Where does attention really happen?” and “What actually moves people…and how do I prove it?” This episode offers some answers, from three executives I spoke with at CES 2026. Though we talk about the newest cool tools (it IS the largest consumer tech show), these conversations explore how media works when it follows consumers from the couch to the car, in stores, in culture, and across audio—and how measurement is finally catching up to meaning. Learn what’s working now and what’s coming next, according to: Jim Riley, President of Stingray U.S., explains how audio, ambient TV, karaoke, and in-car experiences are converging—and how their effort to connect these environments creates value for brands, platforms, and consumers alike. From FAST channels to automotive dashboards, Jim shares how following people across screens (and beyond them) is reshaping media strategy. (And don’t miss an archival image of Jim making music “back in the day” himself!) Kimberly Hairston-Hicks, CMO of Sanofi’s Gold Bond, brings a powerful brand perspective rooted in authenticity and cultural relevance. She talks candidly (and I sing) about letting go of control, redefining success beyond impressions, and building partnerships based on shared values—showing how human connection and business results don’t have to be at odds. Hint: They paired perfectly with celebrity Chelsea Handler over shared values and love of the product! (And learn why Kimberly wears a “cape,” and owes a debt of gratitude to women who help women!) Jennifer Louie Oon, SVP of Sales at DAX US, closes the loop with a look at audio advertising today—and why its moment is now…especially when brands can reach markets or audiences other platforms or apps often miss. She explains how DAX is solving for that, along with measurement tools that can finally demonstrate audio’s impact in real time and the power of advertisers still having presence in screen-free moments. (And find out why old school Legos really grabbed her during the world’s largest tech show!) Get some practical thought starters on audio advertising, brand authenticity, media measurement, and human-centered marketing—without the jargon or hype…and with a little bit of singing and laughs! Key Moments & Time Codes 00:00–01:22 — Why this episode connects audio, TV, brand marketing, and ad tech 03:29–04:43 — Why karaoke is becoming a serious media business Jim Riley explains how Stingray turned a universal behavior—singing in the car—into a gamified, social, and monetizable experience across TVs and automotive dashboards. 05:40–06:20 — From couch to car to checkout Jim outlines Stingray’s vision for linking TV, in-car audio, and retail media—following consumers across environments and tying media exposure to real-world action. 08:02–08:37 — When advertising doesn’t belong everywhere A candid discussion on why karaoke stays ad-free, how premium experiences are monetized differently, and what “everybody wins” actually looks like in practice. 12:44–13:20 — “Let it go” as a marketing strategy Kimberly Hairston-Hicks shares why perfection is the enemy of progress—and how letting go of control creates stronger brands and better outcomes. 18:19–20:29 — Authenticity beats star power Kimberly breaks down the Gold Bond–Chelsea Handler partnership, revealing why shared values—not celebrity size—drive cultural relevance and real KPIs. 21:01–22:11 — When impressions aren’t the point anymore A reframing of success: why cultural moments, memory, and longevity matter just as much as raw reach—and how brands should measure that. 26:07–27:25 — Beauty, confidence, and showing up fully A powerful, personal exchange on how products—and leadership—can change how people feel about themselves, from the boardroom to daily life. 35:07–36:05 — Audio measurement finally...

Privacy is one of those topics everyone knows they should understand better—right up until it becomes urgent. Headline: it’s urgent. That’s exactly why I wanted Richy Glassberg, CoFounder / CEO of SafeGuard Privacy, on the show: to tackle what may be the most complex challenge marketers face: privacy compliance at scale. Richy brings big credibility to the conversation. You’ll hear the stories of a career that included helping launch CNN.com and its digital business, co-founding the IAB, and building an advertising infrastructure still used across the industry. He likes to build things. And we’re the better for it. Because he’s THE person to help explain why privacy laws aren’t just legal issues—they’re structural ones. And why, if you work in marketing, advertising, media, or tech, these laws apply to you whether you realize it or not. “These laws don’t care what kind of digital advertising you do. They ask one question: ‘do you have data on a consumer, and what are you doing with it?’” Richy breaks down what regulators are actually asking, why enforcement is picking up, and why brands are now responsible not only for themselves, but for their entire partner ecosystem. “Privacy doesn’t have to slow growth. If you standardize it, make it auditable, and prove it once, it becomes a competitive advantage.” What I appreciate most about Richy’s approach is that it’s practical, and empathetic. He understands the values and the limitations of AI. He knows human attorneys need to be involved. He has made sure that SafeGuard is nimble and building systems that make compliance auditable, efficient, and—yes—actually helpful to growth, even when the rules keep changing. We also talk about: Why inboxes listed on privacy policies are now enforcement targets How standardization saved digital advertising once before…and why it’s key to compliance now Where AI fits into privacy workflows (and where it shouldn’t) Why proving compliance matters more than promising it If privacy still feels abstract or overwhelming, this conversation will give you clarity—and probably a healthy nudge to check a few things you’ve been meaning to look at. Speaking of healthy, I’m so honored to have Richy on for 23 million additional reasons: he is also a founding force behind BreastCancer.org, (did we mention they are matching donations through December?) It’s now one of the most recognizable, trusted, peer-reviewed health information sites in the world. Richy put his powers to use, from grabbing the URL to creating the revenue streams that are the foundation for its viability and ability to serve more than 20 million women globally, and counting. Richy Glassberg works in a world defined by discretion and safeguards, yet remains an open book—grounded in purpose, devoted to his wife and best friend Katy, loyal to his Jack Russells, disciplined through 30 years of training in Shorin-Ryu Karate, and committed to making privacy compliance clearer, calmer, and more human. Key Moments: 00:00 – Why privacy compliance has become a business risk CMOs can’t ignore 4:10 – How data privacy laws impact all forms of digital advertising 8:55 – How Richy’s sneakers explain privacy really well 12:40 – Why brands are now responsible for vendors…and their vendors’ vendors 17:05 – What enforcement really looks like (and why it’s accelerating) 22:30 – How standardization turns compliance into a competitive advantage 26:15 – Using AI to assist privacy teams without replacing legal judgment 30:45 – From building CNN.com to how a pixel protected Ted Turner’s business 34:50 – The origins of BreastCancer.org and why it’s the work Richy’s most proud of 39:10 – Putting digital to good while keeping the open internet viable 41:55 – What’s next at SafeGuard Privacy Connect with Richy Glassberg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richy-glassberg-49a915 Visit SafeGuard Privacy for more resources: http://www.safeguardprivacy.com Connect with E.B. Moss and Insider...

Peter Jones, who heads up Revenue at Premion, returns to Insider Interviews (see Ep 38) to educate us on the shifts in local TV advertising in a streaming-first world -- and how small businesses can compete with national brands, with greater access to sports inventory, and why measurement actually matters! Learn what "context" really means for advertisers (spoiler: consumers don't experience media in silos), how the collapse of some Regional Sports Networks has created opportunities for local advertisers, and why "smart curation" is more than an industry buzzword. But it’s not just the small business that needs to adapt: it’s agencies and brands, too. Peter breaks down what full-funnel capabilities now available to SMBs—from maxing out brand awareness across Premion's 210 DMAs, to measurable sales transactions, tapping 1st and 3rd party data. And, as we gear up for playoff sports, he reminds us how technology has leveled the playing field and that local advertisers can get in the game, too! So, sports puns are pervasive in Episode 44 since part of our conversation is about Premion’s new(ish) programmatic options to enable more inventory for all in live sports. Talk about a “game changer...!” Understand how local car dealerships and furniture stores can now leverage the same targeting, data, and attribution tools that Fortune 500 companies use, all while reaching their specific communities with precision. But for everyone, it's key to understand the importance of creative in driving outcomes, and omnichannel strategies (because yes, we're all scrolling during halftime), and why advertisers need to embrace data-driven decisions over personal platform preferences. "The first thing to realize is that big tech has leveled the playing field for local advertisers..." Whether you're a media buyer, agency leader, or local business owner trying to navigate the CTV landscape, this conversation delivers practical guidance on inventory, data, and measurement—the three pillars every advertiser should evaluate when choosing a CTV partner. Bottom line? The local advertising opportunity in streaming TV has never been bigger—but only for those willing to adapt, measure outcomes over impressions, and follow consumers wherever they are. Key Highlights [01:15] CTV’s double-digit growth, challenges and opportunities for advertisers [02:14] What Premion does – Nine years of helping local advertisers navigate CTV [03:33] Leveling the playing field – Educating SMBs on using the same tools as national brands [05:25] Challenges and Strategies for Outcomes in Omnichannel Advertising [08:26] Tools and tactics – First-party data, pixels, attribution, and what SMBs need to track [10:48] The role of creative – Sequential messaging, AI tools, and "message to market match" [12:52] How Premion’s programmatic access to sports inventory is opening doors for local advertisers [15:39] Smart Curation Explained and Full Funnel Options in 200+ markets [20:22] The dynamic nature of live sports – Why planning can be tricky but opportunity is massive [21:45] What to look for in a CTV partner – Hint: Inventory, data, measurement (plus the TAG seal of approval!) [23:41] Emerging Trends and AI in Advertising Connect with Peter Jones and Premion Connect with E.B. Moss and Insider Interviews: With Media & Marketing Experts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mossappeal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insiderinterviews Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InsiderInterviewsPodcast/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@insiderinterviews If you enjoyed this episode, follow Insider Interviews, share with another smart business leader, and leave a comment on @Apple or @Spotify… or a tip in my jar!: https://buymeacoffee.com/mossappeal!

Neil Vogel, CEO of People Inc., has done something remarkable in an industry that's been writing its own eulogy for years. He's made legacy media look relevant and publishing thrive. As the head of America's largest magazine publisher—home to People, Travel & Leisure, Better Homes & Gardens and more—he's navigated one of the most turbulent periods in magazine, let alone media, history with a perspective that's refreshingly unsentimental and, frankly, bullish on publishing. The Mindset That Matters What becomes clear quickly is that Neil operates from a different premise than a lot of industry vets. Neil Vogel, CEO, People Inc. He doesn't see change as something to fear or fight. Instead, he sees it as the operating environment: "We're going to happen to things. Things are not going to happen to us." It's a subtle shift, but it changes everything about how you approach strategy. He also refuses to accept the tired narrative that media is dying. "Media is a fantastic business," he told me. "People are on media more now than ever before, and there's more money being spent against media in various ways." The problem isn't media; it's when companies cling to old business models instead of adapting the execution while keeping the core mission intact. The Search Reality Check One of the sharpest insights from our conversation centered on the collapse of search dominance. When Dotdash was independent, 70 percent of traffic came from search. That was their "mall." But the mall blew up. Search traffic dropped to 30 percent of total traffic over time. The expected outcome? Disaster. What actually happened, thanks to Neil's approach? Total traffic grew. They built. They diversified into direct traffic, email, social platforms, Apple News, and owned properties like recipe lockers. The key lesson: "We're not entitled to search traffic, just like we're not entitled to Facebook traffic. You have to earn it." The People Magazine Blueprint The restructuring of People, Inc. offers a masterclass in letting go of control. Before, one print editor-in-chief made every decision across every platform. But these days he wondered how a print editor could understand everything and all platforms, like TikTok. They couldn't. So they decentralized. Execs like Charlotte Triggs now set the brand direction—the ethos that drives all teams—and then fully independent editorial teams handle the magazine, website, Apple News, the app, and yes, Instagram and TikTok. There's no forced repurposing. Each platform team creates natively for their audience. The result: People grew from six or seven million daily visitors to ten million, with explosive growth on social. The Data-Driven Philosophy Neil's Wall Street background shaped how People Inc. approaches analytics, but he's careful not to let math override instinct, noting: "If you don't make stuff people love, it doesn't matter what your math says." The real insight is this: strategic ad placement and clean design mean you can generate more revenue with fewer intrusions on the audience. Better experience. Better margins. That's the math he wants to do. The Bigger Picture What makes this conversation valuable is that Neil isn't selling a complicated theory. He's demonstrating a mindset: stay forward-looking, embrace change, remain unsentimental, and never stop making things people genuinely want. Key Moments and Highlights 00:38 From Dotdash to acquiring Meredith: becoming America's largest publisher 01:25 Why media remains a fantastic business despite industry pessimism 04:15 The search shift: 70% dependence became 30%, yet total traffic grew 06:29 Restructuring People magazine with independent platform teams and no forced repurposing 09:41 Data and creative working together: how math serves, not dictates, content decisions Connect with E.B. Moss and Insider Interviews: With Media & Marketing Experts LinkedIn: https://www.

What’s the potential and current impact of AI for the creative industries? I spoke with Joaquin Cuenca, co-founder and CEO of Freepik, about their suite of AI tools and their role in enhancing human creativity. And, Alexia Adana, Creative Director at Edelman, who elaborates on how she combines AI with human creativity for clients and her own artistic endeavors. Enjoy, and please share this episode - out just in time for #InternationalPodcastDay! Joaquin emphasizes that AI should be seen as a supportive tool to elevate creative processes, rather than a replacement for human creators. He argues, 'We are the sum of our experiences. And that makes us unique.' He explains the benefits of Freepik's tools for reducing the time needed to execute creative ideas... but stresses the irreplicability of humans based on our individuality, even as AI continues to advance. Basically, AI is a tool for creators, not a replacement, because AI cannot replicate unique human experiences. Following this, Alexia highlights the significance of human artistry and personal storytelling in using AI tools to generate immersive and engaging experiences. She points out “in the world of copyright with AI you have to show human authorship. So if you're creating a story or a film that's a hundred percent generated by AI, you can't copyright or trademark that. So, I'm documenting my whole process – showing where it's from my vision, it's from my sketches.” The conversation concludes with the vision of a synergistic future where AI tools enhance creative processes without devaluing the human touch. Key Moments: 02:11 The Role of AI in Creativity 03:19 Human Uniqueness vs. AI 04:47 FreePik's AI Tools and Their Impact 08:56 Copyright and Legalities in AI 14:31 Future of Jobs...and Creativity in the AI Era 15:38 Voiceover Job Reclaimed from AI 16:21 Regionalizing Ads with AI 17:16 Alexia Adana journey from Footlocker to Edelman 20:51 Microsoft sAI Project at Edelman 27:08 BloomChild: An Artist's AI Journey 30:16 The Future of Human-Generated Art Links: Freepik Alexia Adana Connect with E.B. Moss and Insider Interviews: With Media & Marketing Experts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mossappeal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insiderinterviews Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InsiderInterviewsPodcast/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@insiderinterviews If you enjoyed this episode, follow Insider Interviews, share with another smart business leader, and leave a comment on @Apple or @Spotify… or a tip in my jar to help me tip my producer, Jim Mullen!: https://buymeacoffee.com/mossappeal!

How can mentoring lead to a whole new career? How do dinner conversations and AI come together to drive entrepreneurship? How are some people changing the world as they change gears? Talk about REINVENTION! Well, I did. Meet two more honorees of the Folio: awards named to the Hall of Fame, in this "two-fer" episode on Doug Olson and David Adler, both of whom have gone from being presidents of publishing companies to reinventing themselves...and parts of the industry. First up: Doug Olson. Doug went from a career in the tech side to the publishing side, ultimately running Meredith Magazines (think: "Time," "People," "Better Homes & Gardens"...) to NOW hangin’ with the digital natives doing bling-meets-social media, as Co-CEO of "Bomb Party," with its TikTok-famous jewelry reveals! Bet you didn't see THAT coming. Creating Partnerships He discusses the evolution of Meredith, its major acquisitions, the partnership he headed with Walmart, and how Meredith navigated its own transition -- adding digital to print media. "Reveals" on TikTok Doug also describes his transition to #BombParty, a thriving and unique jewelry company that uses social media to engage customers. Then there's David Adler. I cannot even keep track of all the ways David has reinvented himself: from launching a magazine on DC society back in the 70s, which he sold 10 years later for a handy profit -- and is now turning those archival images into songs and content! I kid you not. But wait, there's more. He helmed big PR shops, but is perhaps best know for founding one of the best magazines on events, called "BizBash." And now? SO MUCH -- from recently launching an online events mag, "GatheringPoint.news" to yet another startup. gatheringoint.news He highlights how he is an unabashed #AI acolyte and explains how it has revolutionized his latest ventures, supporting creative storytelling and increased efficiency. But David is also stopping to smell "The Roses", making the most of his author father's legacy by helping enable that current box office hit! from "The Roses" Like roses themselves, these guests exemplify the concept of 'perennials,' described by David as individuals who continuously evolve and remain curious, regardless of generational labels. Their stories illustrate the importance of adaptability, lifelong learning, and embracing new technologies in media or just for mental well-being! KEY MOMENTS: 00:00 Meet Doug Olson and David Adler 02:44 Doug Olson: From Tech to Media Mogul to... 05:36 The Better Homes & Gardens / Walmart Omnichannel Strategy 08:03 The Future of Print Publications 11:20 Golfing or Jewelry? Doug Olson's New Venture: Bomb Party 14:56 David Adler: A Perennial Journey Through Media 19:55 Adler on AI and Innovation 24:09 Washington Insider, A Big Screen Legacy and MORE Current Projects Please add a "like" or share this episode to encourage MORE "reinventionists!" And see you at the Folio: Hall of Fame 10/6. Here's Doug's info: LinkedIn Bomb Party Here's David's info: LinkedIn Managing Director- Living Room Labs (start-up) Founder- BizBash www.bizbash.com Author- Harnessingserendipity.com Partner- AdlerEntertainmentTrust.com Owner- Dossierhistoricalphotos.com Connect with E.B. Moss and Insider Interviews: With Media & Marketing Experts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mossappeal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insiderinterviews Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InsiderInterviewsPodcast/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@insiderinterviews If you enjoyed this episode, follow Insider Interviews, share with another smart business leader, and leave a comment on @Apple or @Spotify… or a tip in my jar to help me tip my producer, Jim Mullen!: https://buymeacoffee.com/mossappeal!

A spontaneous chat at Podcast Movement 2025 turned into 15 minutes of pure gold when Peter Ferioli explained how podcasts can now be interactive, with Pantheon joining forces with Spooler Media to lead the way. And to be wow'd at a conference that regularly features the best and the brightest in podcasting, this really stood out. Peter explains Pantheon's effort at launching music-oriented podcasts, netting maybe 10 listeners on day. He and his other partners were not inclined to quit their day jobs. But then when Spotify entered podcasting, suddenly everyone searching for artists was discovering their content alongside the music. Pantheon Podcasts And Pantheon went on to becoming one of the world's biggest music podcast networks with 150 shows featuring top-tier bands like Metallica. The real turning point -- and where things get exciting? Peter's now pioneering interactive podcasting with Spooler, a platform created by former Apple Podcasts and Megaphone executives. This isn't just another tech upgrade; it's completely reimagining what audio content can be...and do. But thanks to a combo of new tech enablements from large language models anticipating conclusions to voice recognition and more, the team has raised the bar on what's possible. Try out the beta version of what the team has dubbed a "Podcast Puzzle" and try a brain game! Walks and Talks They're enabling everything from choose-your-own-adventure stories that adapt to your location in real-time, to walks through decades of San Francisco with The Grateful Dead, and even talks with Benjamin Franklin using his complete writings. As I proudly punned to Peter, it's "electrifying!" Peter's Take: Compared to how Video has evolved, Audio has stayed the same... Til now. "You have audiobooks, podcasts, music and radio. They're all passive forms of audio... So in this world that we're trying to build out these interactive podcasts... You can ask a voice assistant for the weather. With an interactive podcast can create a story about the weather, even bring in real location data and create a personal narrative around it for you." Key Moments: [03:00] Early podcasting reality check: 10 listeners after a year of detailed work [04:30] Breaking the "sacred" podcast feed rules with multi-genre content [04:46] How Spotify's entry transformed music podcast discovery [07:35] Interactive podcasting revolution with Spooler FM explained [13:36] Mind-blowing AI conversations with Benjamin Franklin [14:28] Real-world application: Grateful Dead puzzle experience in San Francisco Don't miss the app Peter mentions: try Links interactive puzzle at podcastpuzzle.com. And speaking of keeping your mind sharp for puzzles, thanks to More Labs for sponsoring, with 25% off their Morning Recovery, Liquid Focus and Dream Well "tonics" at morelabs.com with code INSIDER. Stay sharp! Use "Insider" at morelabs.com for 25% off! Resources: Peter Ferioli - LinkedIn Pantheon on Spotify Hit Replay the game Connect with E.B. Moss and Insider Interviews: With Media & Marketing Experts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mossappeal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insiderinterviews Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InsiderInterviewsPodcast/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@insiderinterviews Enjoyed this free episode? My Tip Jar: https://buymeacoffee.com/mossappeal Kind comments, reviews and shares are equally welcome.

What do glassblowing, fintech, and plastic-free diapers have in common? One brilliant disruptor: Jim McKelvey. I had the privilege of interviewing Jim McKelvey, the award-winning, Amazon-beating polymath who co-founded Square (now Block) with Jack Dorsey. But calling him just a fintech entrepreneur or a computer scientist would be like calling Leonardo da Vinci just a painter. This man defies categorization in the most fascinating way possible. "I'm a guy that's had no focus for 30 years," Jim told me with characteristic humility. "I am a transport category pilot. I'm a professional glass artist with industrial designs in MoMA and the Smithsonian. I'm a computer scientist. I was on the Federal Reserve and used to vote on interest rates. That was fun. I built the hardware for Square, which we now call Block. I've started a bunch of other companies...Ugh. Look, basically, what I do is I build tools." His "lack of focus" has actually been his superpower, creating a truly unique lens on innovation, branding, and problem-solving that most specialists simply can't achieve. From Frustration to Billion-Dollar Solutions Our conversation revealed how Jim transforms everyday frustrations into industry-changing innovations. The Square story began with something as mundane as being unable to accept American Express at his glass studio. That simple pain point sparked a billion-dollar disruption that fundamentally changed mobile payments forever. Jim shared his methodology for spotting opportunities hiding in plain sight and building products that resonate deeply with audiences. More importantly, he explained how he predicts business disasters before they happen – and his track record is impressive! Hint: his accurate predictions about Southwest Airlines and other major corporate meltdowns, made it into his book "The Innovation Stack" years before its current challenges. Then he shares how and why brand associations can make or break a company (hello, Bud Light disaster. Listen for how that motivated his current project, PwrScore.ai.) The Art of Taking Calculated Risks What struck me most about Jim was his fearless approach to high-risk, high-impact projects. "I work on projects that are right now, sort of long shots because I'm in a position where I can take a long shot," he explained. "I've made way, way more money than I ever expected. My wife and I have taken the giving pledge, so we're gonna give all the money away, but in the meantime, I can take crazy risks." That's not just talk – Jim and his wife have literally committed to giving away their entire fortune for the betterment of the world. It's a level of commitment to pro-social behavior that's both inspiring and rare in today's business landscape. Two Game-Changing Projects You Need to Know About Jim pulled back the curtain on his current ventures, and they're both fascinating for completely different reasons. First is PwrScore, a that tool that measures and assesses brand resonance and compatibility using AI to minimize research bias and enhance brand capabilities through better data. The kicker? He's giving it away for free. Yes, really. This isn't some limited trial – it's a genuinely useful tool that most companies would charge thousands for, and Jim is just handing it out because he believes it can help businesses make better decisions. PwrScore.ai The second project might sound unusual, but it could change the world: plastic-free diapers. "Diapers last for a thousand years and they become these horrible microplastics that are bad for the world, and I just thought it could be possible to do it without plastic. So I've been working on it for five years with a team. We're this close to a breakthrough..." Think about it – billions of diapers end up in landfills every year, taking centuries to decompose and creating environmental havoc. If Jim cracks this code, the sustainability impact could be massive.

Thanks to The Podcast Academy, Ti King and I got to attend #PopCon with the intention of evangelizing podcasting (and the Academy, of course! See links for joining, below.) After I got used to the costumed attendees of PopCon, and fan-girled a few anime voice talents and celebrities on site, I got down to business and led a panel of podcasting experts on how to create, market, and monetize a podcast. Guests include Brittany Bigelow of Bigelow Creative, Dawn-Michelle Lewis of Salutations Media, filmmaker and podcast host Vergie Rodriguez, and James Starace of Focus 360/Creator Square. We covered strategies for podcast concept development, the value of niche topics and micro-influencers, technical execution, and effective marketing strategies. The panel also explained their monetization techniques, from securing brand partnerships to leveraging subscriber models. The whole PopCon event was eye-opening, by the way, with more people lined up to meet the faces behind their favorite voices than the known faces playing TV characters! Ti, who graciously captured the video of the panel, Vergie and I also won Best Podcast awards from the organization! Ti King, E.B. Moss - Podcast Award Winners Next year, we're looking forward to a day dedicated to #podcasting, but for now, take advantage of the wisdom captured by this panel of pros on Making, Marketing, and Monetizing Podcasts! 01:12 Meet the Panelists 02:31 Debating the Definition of a Podcast 04:02 Starting Your Own Podcast 07:46 Technical Tips for Podcasting 12:49 Marketing Your Podcast 16:54 Monetizing Your Podcast 21:15 Navigating the Podcast Advertising Options 22:02 Challenges with Brand Associations and Advertisers 23:36 More Monetization Strategies for Podcasts 24:40 Understanding Podcast Ad Placements and Effectiveness 25:32 The Value of Micro Podcasts and Audience Engagement for Brands 29:19 Subscription Models and Additional Revenue Streams 30:43 Leveraging Press and Visibility for Podcast Growth 34:22 Branding and Consistency in Podcast Production 38:18 Practical Tips for Podcast Launch and Growth 40:42 Best Practices Wrap up Links/Connections: Follow, Connect & Share the Love The Podcast Academy Connect with E.B. Moss and Insider Interviews: With Media & Marketing Experts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mossappeal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insiderinterviews Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InsiderInterviewsPodcast/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@insiderinterviews If you enjoyed this episode, follow Insider Interviews, share with another smart business leader, and leave a comment on @Apple or @Spotify… or a tip in my jar to help me tip my producer, Jim Mullen!: https://buymeacoffee.com/mossappeal!

The first time I heard voices I thought I was losing my mind. AI-generated voices, that is. Because I couldn't believe how "real" they sounded. Listen to the intro to this episode and tell me what YOU think. Then find the little samples of producer Jim Mullen's voice later in this episode! I'm still wrapping my head around all that is possible -- and all that has changed in the world of content creation and media production. That's exactly why I knew I had to bring together two of the most credentialed producers I know to talk about what's really happening behind the scenes with AI in our industry. The Real vs. The AI - A Producer's Perspective Jim Mullen (Mullen Media) and Yossi Kimberg are the real deal – we're talking Seinfeld, Food Network, Super Bowl halftime shows, and decades of work on Lorne Michaels shows. These guys aren't just talking theory; they're actually using these tools in production right now. AI-Generated Yossi Kimberg AI-Generated Jim Mullen What Really Struck Me Yossi's journey into AI started by making masterful still images with Leonardo, as in Leonardo.AI. As he put it: "The idea that text generates an image was beyond imagination. I was just amazed by it." But then he progressed to motion, face-swapping himself into different editing scenarios (find those in this episode, too!), and even bringing children's artwork to life. But learn what happened next that was "a bridge too far" for one particular client. Now, while Yossi's moved on to scripted motion videos all AI-generated, Jim's been experimenting with ElevenLabs for voiceovers, though he hit a hilarious snag on a project about a lack of libraries: "I couldn't get the bot to say 'desert'. It kept saying, New York City has book desserts." Not so funny to me, because once it learns contextual pronunciations, my gigs doing voiceover will dry up like a desert. (Note: I found out just today while producing this episode that I literally lost a job to an AI-generated voice. True story.) The Uncomfortable Truth Both producers agree we're not just approaching a tipping point – we're already there. Yossi believes that within 2-3 years, even the very role of managing AI might become obsolete. The technology is learning to be funny, dramatic, and emotional without human instruction. Jim pointed out something that made my stomach drop: if you can create an entire commercial with AI actors and voices (which is already happening), you eliminate hair and makeup artists, grips, gaffers, location scouts – entire production crews become unnecessary. As such, we talked about the fear factor. You know how I feel about voiceovers. Though AI helped me immensely in honing these show notes. But it's not just job displacement we're facing; it's questioning our creative thumbprint and what makes us uniquely human in this process. Plus... Copyright and Ownership Minefield We touched on some fascinating legal territory that's still being sorted out. Yossi mentioned reading legal briefs about using copyrighted images in AI training, and the emerging trend of celebrity estates licensing deceased stars' likenesses for AI projects – Steve McQueen's estate is apparently leasing his character for AI-generated content. The whole landscape of intellectual property, name-image-likeness rights, and even the ability to deny you said something ("I didn't say that, it was AI") creates a complicated web that we're all navigating in real time. (I recommend taking a listen to the brilliant Robert Tercek who allays some of those legal fears in this Insider Interviews episode from last year: https://bit.ly/Insider21-Shapiro-Tercek .) The Human Pushback But here's what gives me hope: Yossi shared how his client loved his AI-enhanced children's artwork until clients pushed back, saying it wasn't authentic to what the kids actually created. They pulled back some of the AI elements. It reminded us of the vinyl comeback – sometimes we crave imperfection and...

In 10 quick but memorable minutes I'm sharing my observations and experiences with marketing strategies I had close encounters with over the recent Memorial Day weekend. From an innovative Fresh Direct pop-up, to a Rosé Soirée in the Hamptons with missed promotional opportunities, these are my thoughts on some effective ...and ineffective ... marketing tactics. And I borrow from one of the 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing, by brilliant marketing strategist, Jack Trout. First, learn how my friend Joanne (who happens to be Jack Trout's daughter) and I popped into a pop-up for Fresh Direct. We were in pursuit of coffee but got a surprise stimulating conversation with the interim CMO, instead: Jackson Jeyanayagam. He explained their strategy was to build awareness for their new delivery service and display the quality of their products "IRL." Fresh Direct PopUp store Learn which of the 22 immutable laws Jackson was aiming to apply; and the overlap with he, that law and AB InBev! Then, we had a blast sampling 20 kinds of rose', but can we remember which one we preferred -- to buy again? Blame the drinking, sure, but I think it was more the missed marketing opportunities at the Soiree. (TWO really stood out, though, which you can read about in my new Substack Newsletter, "Moss Hysteria"!) Then, I popped over the next day -- back in NYC -- to check out Cognitiv AI's pop-up at Grand Central, promoting mental health and positive news. It was a blooming success. Learn why. Overall, great experiences that showed how valuable experiential marketing can be! Key Moments: 00:32 Fresh Direct Pop-Up 03:17 The Importance of Branding and Communication 04:27 Applying Lessons from Ries & Trout's "The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing" 05:54 Event Marketing: The Rosé Soirée 09:31 Memorable Marketing: Cognitive AI Pop-Up 10:17 Get More in my NEW Newsletter, "Moss Hysteria" on Substack Please Follow, Connect & Share the Love of Insider Interviews: With Media & Marketing Experts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mossappeal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insiderinterviews Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InsiderInterviewsPodcast/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@insiderinterviews Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/mossappeal.bsky.social If you enjoyed this episode, please share with another smart business leader, give me five stars... and leave a comment on @Apple or @Spotify or on @YouTube. Or a tip in my jar to help me tip my producer, Jim Mullen!: https://buymeacoffee.com/mossappeal!

It's two exclusive conversations in one episode! During the recent #possible2025 conference in Miami* I conducted two short insider interviews that were long on advertising industry insights. Peter Jones, VP of Revenue at Premion, explained why local advertising is booming, the importance of data-driven strategies, and how omnichannel measurement is revolutionizing campaign attribution Then, Sheila Marmon, Founder and CEO of Mirror Digital discussed the $6.8 trillion buying power of diverse audiences, digital innovation for inclusive marketing, and why brand are best served by connecting with multicultural consumers. Take a listen (or, watch/listen via YouTube ) and you'll understand a couple of powerful market forces reshaping advertising today: the renaissance of local advertising and the still key need for inclusive audience reach. With local advertising projected to reach $33 billion this year (growing at 16% year-over-year), Peter shares how Premion -- an industry-leading CTV/OTT ad platform with directly-sourced inventory from 125+ premium publishers -- helps advertisers make data-driven decisions that prioritize "outcomes over impressions." Learn also how local and regional advertisers can leverage the same sophisticated targeting and measurement capabilities previously available only to national brands. Did you know they are "TAG Platinum" certified? That, combined with their company approach to business, means all their inventory is brand safe. Peter also teased a pretty impressive case study of a restaurant chain is measuring direct sales impact from their advertising campaigns right off transactions. In the second segment, Sheila introduces us to the company she runs, "Mirror Digital," which has pioneered connecting brands with diverse audiences across digital platforms for over 13 years. She breaks down the misconception that multicultural audiences are "niche," (um, 43% of the pop is NOT niche!), and their combined $6.8 trillion in buying power – larger than the GDP of any European or Latin American country -- should be pretty enticing to ANY brand advertiser! Oh, and remember, that other little "niche," WOMEN, drive 80% of household purchasing decisions. It might be why Mirror Digital has worked with major brands like General Motors, Verizon, and Amazon. (I did a great interview back in 2021 with Cadillac CMO Melissa Grady Dias and we talked a little more about their approach to inclusivity, which is DEFINITELY still important, despite our political climate.) Here are some of the key moments: [00:00:29] Peter Jones introduces Premion's focus on local markets and helping regional agencies with scaled buying power [00:01:19] Why local advertising is having its moment and impressive projections for 2025 [00:03:05] The three key factors advertisers need today: inventory, data, and measurement [00:09:28] Jones' mantra of "outcomes over impressions" in advertising strategy [00:11:07] How a restaurant chain measures direct sales transactions from Premion advertising [00:14:52] Sheila Marmon on Mirror Digital's mission of connecting brands with inclusive audiences [00:15:22] Why diverse audiences aren't "niche" (and their $6T (yes, a "T") in buying power) Follow, Connect & Share the Love Connect with Peter Jones: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonespeter/ and visit Premion: https://premion.com/ Learn about Mirror Digital and Sheila Marmon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheila-marmon-0398074/ Connect with E.B. Moss and Insider Interviews: With Media & Marketing Experts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mossappeal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insiderinterviews Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InsiderInterviewsPodcast/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@insiderinterviews Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/mossappeal.bsky.social If you enjoyed this episode, follow Insider Interviews, share with another smart business leader,