The IAB UK Podcast

Fans, Communities & Culture: advertising beyond the game 24.06.2026 22min

In the first episode of our summer sports mini-series, we dive into how major sporting events like the World Cup have evolved into cultural moments that extend far beyond the final whistle.Host James Chandler is joined by Matt Eschert, Head of Industry at Reddit, Imogen Blackwood, Business Director at Publicis Media, and Paul Lowrey, Director of Solutions Marketing & Enablement at GumGum, to explore how fans engage with sport across social platforms, communities, creators and group chats.Together, they discuss why some of the most memorable moments happen away from the action itself, how fandom is becoming more accessible to new audiences, and why participation, conversation and community are increasingly shaping the sports experience.The conversation also looks at how brands are adapting to this changing landscape, from understanding fan sentiment and audience mindset to finding authentic ways to show up during major sporting moments without simply capitalising on them.Whether you're interested in sport, media, culture or advertising, this episode explores what modern fandom looks like and why the biggest opportunities often exist beyond the game itself. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Live from SXSW: a conversation with Sir Martin Sorrell 10.06.2026 18min

In this special episode of the IAB UK Podcast, recorded live from SXSW London, James Chandler is joined by Sir Martin Sorrell for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of advertising, media and technology.As one of the industry's most influential figures, Sir Martin shares his perspective on the trends reshaping the marketing landscape, from the rapid rise of AI and changing consumer behaviours to the evolving relationship between brands, platforms and agencies.Together, they discuss the opportunities and challenges facing businesses today, how marketers can navigate an increasingly complex media environment, and what the industry needs to do to remain competitive in an era defined by innovation and disruption.Recorded live at SXSW London, this episode offers a candid look at where advertising is heading next, and the forces that will shape its future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Beyond the Funnel: how Snapchat is evolving for brands and audiences 03.06.2026 29min

In this episode of the IAB UK Podcast, James Chandler is joined by Jake Thomas, UK General Manager at Snap Inc., to explore how Snapchat has evolved from its early beginnings into a platform that plays a growing role across the entire customer journey.They discuss the biggest misconceptions that still persist about Snapchat, the unique company culture that helps shape decision-making at Snap, and how the platform has adapted alongside its audience over time.Jake also shares his perspective on the future of the marketing funnel, why Snapchat is often underestimated as a performance channel, and how innovations in augmented reality and AI-powered lenses are creating new opportunities for brands to engage audiences in more creative and meaningful ways.From changing audience behaviours to major life milestones and purchase decisions, the conversation explores how brands can show up authentically on Snap and what the platform’s future priorities reveal about the next chapter of digital advertising. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rebranding KISS: inside Bauer Media’s bold new vision for audio 27.05.2026 14min

In this episode of the IAB UK Podcast, James Chandler is joined by Anne-Marie Lavan, CMO at Bauer Media, to unpack the recent rebrand of one of the UK’s most recognisable audio brands: KISS.From refreshed visuals and unique identities across each KISS channel to the development of a new audio language and a high-profile launch event, the rebrand marks a major evolution for the brand.Anne-Marie shares the strategic thinking behind the transformation, the challenge of balancing individuality with a cohesive masterbrand, and how the team ensured the changes resonated beyond just aesthetics. They also discuss the future of audio branding, the role of live experiences in launching a new identity, and the moments that made the whole project feel like a success.Plus, a look at what this rebrand signals for the future of audio brands more broadly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Trust Factor: why quality media matters more than ever 20.05.2026 15min

Trust has become one of the advertising industry’s biggest talking points, but what does it actually mean in practice for brands, publishers and audiences?In this episode of the IAB UK Podcast, Alex Kozloff sits down with Imogen Fox from The Guardian and Theo Luke from The Trade Desk to unpack the relationship between media environments, trust and advertising effectiveness. Together, they explore new research into how context influences the way advertising is received, remembered and believed, and discuss why premium publishers continue to play a critical role in building stronger connections between brands and consumers.From the commercial value of quality journalism to the tension between scale and responsibility, the conversation examines what it really means for brands to “show up well”, and why trusted environments can drive better outcomes for advertisers.Whether you’re a marketer, media planner or publisher, this episode offers practical insight into why trust and context should be central to every advertising strategy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SXSW London: AI, creativity & the power of convergence 13.05.2026 22min

In this episode of The IAB UK Podcast, James is joined by Cecilia Morelli, Director of Marketing at SXSW London, to explore how one of the world’s most influential festivals is making the leap from Austin to Europe.From the challenges of launching in a new market to the core idea of 'convergence', where tech, music, film, business and innovation collide, the conversation unpacks what makes SXSW such a unique cultural and creative event.They also discuss how AI is influencing every discipline represented at the festival, how SXSW is using audience 'excitement points' to evolve the event experience year on year, and what attendees can expect from this year’s line-up of speakers and sessions.Whether you’re attending for the first time or simply curious about the future of creativity and innovation, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the thinking shaping SXSW London. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Open Web Surgery: Live from The Last Thursday Club 06.05.2026 25min

Recorded live at the IAB’s Last Thursday Club, this special episode of Open Web Surgery brings together leading voices from across the industry to explore the evolving role of the open web.Hosted by IAB’s Pat Hann, the discussion features Joel Livesey (The Trade Desk), Samara Hocihara (The Telegraph) and Max Gold (the7stars), offering a mix of brand, publisher and platform perspectives. Together, they unpack the realities of today’s digital ecosystem — from the challenges facing the open web to the opportunities for collaboration, innovation and growth.Expect candid conversation, practical insight and a clear view of how different parts of the industry are thinking about what comes next. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Rise of Retail Media: what comes next? 29.04.2026 20min

In this episode of the IAB UK Podcast, we explore the rapid rise of retail media, and why it’s become one of the most important areas of innovation in digital advertising.What began as sponsored product listings and shopper marketing has quickly evolved into something much broader: an ecosystem built on first-party data, customer trust and closer proximity to purchase, with the ability to demonstrate real-world outcomes.Host James Chandler is joined by Olivia McCullagh, IAB UK’s Retail Media Lead, to unpack what’s driving this growth and how retail media is expanding beyond its performance roots. Together, they discuss how the opportunity grows across on-site, off-site, in-store and emerging channels like CTV, and what this means for brands, retailers and agencies.The conversation also looks at the challenges ahead, from standards and transparency to measurement and planning, and what the industry needs to address if retail media is to unlock larger, longer-term investment.If you’re looking to understand where retail media is heading next, and what will separate the leaders from the rest, this episode offers a clear and practical view of the market. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The New Wave of Cruise: from perception to performance 22.04.2026 26min

Host James Chandler is joined by Andy Harmer OBE, Managing Director of the Cruise Lines International Association, and Robertina Tompa, Head of Cruise at Mail Metro Media, to unpack what’s driving this shift and why cruise is becoming an increasingly important growth area for publishers.The conversation looks at how storytelling is helping to reposition the category, with a focus on Mail Metro Media’s Ship Shape series, and why putting entertainment and editorial thinking first is key to building trust with audiences.We also explore what “good” publisher storytelling looks like in practice, how success is measured when the goal is changing perceptions rather than driving immediate conversion, and why video is playing a growing role alongside audio in content strategies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Sound-On Era: how audio is winning attention 15.04.2026 22min

In this episode of the IAB UK Podcast, we explore Spotify’s latest research, The Sound On Era, and what it reveals about how people are engaging with audio today.Host James Chandler is joined by Jenny Haggard to unpack the key findings, from the role of trust and personalisation to how “taste” shapes the way ads are delivered and received. Together, they discuss why advertisers may need to rethink audio’s place in the media mix, and what a strong audio strategy looks like in practice.If you’re looking to better understand attention, engagement and the future of audio, this episode breaks down what The Sound On Era means for advertisers today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Earning Trust in a Sceptical Age: Trusted Advertising 08.04.2026 28min

In this episode of the IAB UK Podcast, we’re joined by Matt Bourn from the Advertising Association to explore the themes behind his new book, Trusted Advertising: How to Harness the Value of Trust in Your Brand.As trust becomes an increasingly important, and complex, part of the advertising landscape, we unpack how it has evolved over time, what’s shaping consumer attitudes today, and why context, creativity and environment all play a role in building (or eroding) trust.From the rise of creator marketing to the impact of AI, the conversation looks at how trust operates across the entire ecosystem, and what advertisers should be thinking about if they want to earn and maintain it.We also discuss the role of industry standards, the challenges of digital environments, and the one key takeaway brands should consider when it comes to building trust in a rapidly changing world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Outcomes Measurement: Live from The Last Thursday Club 01.04.2026 26min

Recorded live at IAB UK’s Last Thursday Club, this episode of the IAB UK Podcast dives into one of the industry’s biggest topics: measurement.Bringing together expert voices from across the industry, the conversation explores how measurement is evolving, the challenges advertisers are facing today, and what better, more meaningful measurement looks like in practice.Tune in for a candid, in-the-room discussion capturing the energy and insight of the Last Thursday Club. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can we get better at measuring outcomes for audio? 27.03.2026 25min

In the third and final episode of this IAB UK Podcast mini-series, produced in partnership with Global, we turn to one of the biggest questions facing the industry: how should we measure the impact of audio?As outcome measurement becomes standard across digital advertising, audio is often assessed using frameworks not built for the medium. This raises important questions about how audio is valued, what success really looks like, and whether a focus on easily measurable metrics risks overlooking its true impact.Host James Chandler is joined by Sarah Gale (Director of Insight, Data and Outcomes at Global) and Dan Innes-Taylor (Senior Insight and Outcomes Manager) to explore how Global is rethinking measurement for audio, from moving beyond clicks and short-term metrics to better understanding audio’s role across the full funnel in omnichannel campaigns.Together, they unpack what more effective measurement could look like, and what advertisers should consider when evaluating audio’s contribution to campaign success. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Audio Meets Video: introducing Global Studios 25.03.2026 27min

In the second episode of this special IAB UK Podcast mini-series, produced in partnership with Global, we continue our exploration of the forces shaping the future of advertising and media in the UK.This episode focuses on Global’s move into integrated video and content experiences, following the launch of Global Studios and its investment in The Overlap Network. We unpack what these developments signal at a strategic level, and how they reflect a broader shift towards content, communities and fandom-driven engagement.Host James Chandler is joined by Tony McAllister (Commercial Director for Social Video at Global) and Farhann Cachra (Commercial Strategy Director at Global) to discuss why communities, particularly in sport, are such powerful spaces for connection, how brands can move beyond reach to build deeper relationships with audiences, and what this means for the evolving role of audio, video and content-led advertising in the UK. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to tap into the unique power of communities 23.03.2026 23min

In this first episode of a special mini-series from the IAB UK Podcast, produced in partnership with Global, we explore the work shaping the future of advertising and media in the UK.This episode focuses on the power of communities, and what it really means to connect with audiences in a more human way. Drawing on insights from Global and MG OMD’s Belonging in Britain research, we unpack how people across the UK are finding identity, connection and belonging through shared passions, interests and experiences.At a time when audiences are often reduced to demographics, this research offers a more nuanced perspective, revealing why communities are such powerful spaces for engagement, and what that means for brands.Host James Chandler is joined by Ailsa Mackenzie (Global) and Samantha Redmond (MG OMD) to discuss what the research tells us about modern Britain, why the picture may be more optimistic than headlines suggest, and how advertisers can move beyond one-to-one targeting to engage communities in more meaningful ways.You can download the Belonging in Britain 2026 Key Insights here - https://www.mgomd-belonginginbritain.com/belonging-in-britain-2026 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Live from Leadership Summit 2026: Part 2 20.03.2026 31min

The IAB UK Leadership Summit is where some of the industry’s most senior leaders come together to step away from the day-to-day and tackle the big questions shaping the future of digital advertising. From AI and innovation to trust, leadership and the changing media landscape, it’s two days of honest conversation, bold thinking and fresh perspective.In this special episode of The IAB UK Podcast, we went live from the Summit, speaking to a host of industry leaders, speakers and attendees to capture the energy, ideas and debates happening on the ground.It was so bumper, we’ve split it into two parts.In Part One, you’ll hear from Amelia Torode (Ogilvy), Shaun Betts (Omnicom), Parmy Olson (Bloomberg), Nick Buckley (The Coca-Cola Company) and Tom Standage (The Economist), sharing their perspectives on leadership, innovation and the forces shaping our industry.In Part Two, we’re joined by Ugo Monye (broadcaster and former rugby player), Liz Jones (Conker), Julia Clement (Nielsen) and double Olympic gold medallist Lizzy Yarnold, bringing fresh perspectives on performance, storytelling, resilience and partnership.Expect sharp insights, candid reflections and a real sense of where the industry is heading next, straight from the people shaping it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Live from Leadership Summit 2026: Part 1 18.03.2026 45min

The IAB UK Leadership Summit is where some of the industry’s most senior leaders come together to step away from the day-to-day and tackle the big questions shaping the future of digital advertising. From AI and innovation to trust, leadership and the changing media landscape, it’s two days of honest conversation, bold thinking and fresh perspective.In this special episode of The IAB UK Podcast, we went live from the Summit, speaking to a host of industry leaders, speakers and attendees to capture the energy, ideas and debates happening on the ground.It was so bumper, we’ve split it into two parts.In Part One, you’ll hear from Amelia Torode (Ogilvy), Shaun Betts (Omnicom), Parmy Olson (Bloomberg), Nick Buckley (The Coca-Cola Company) and Tom Standage (The Economist), sharing their perspectives on leadership, innovation and the forces shaping our industry.In Part Two, we’re joined by Ugo Monye (broadcaster and former rugby player), Liz Jones (Conker), Julia Clement (Nielsen) and double Olympic gold medallist Lizzy Yarnold — bringing fresh perspectives on performance, partnership, resilience and leadership.Expect sharp insights, candid reflections and a real sense of where the industry is heading next, straight from the people shaping it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inside Reddit: a conversation with Jen Wong 11.03.2026 27min

In this special episode, we sit down with Jen Wong, Global COO (Reddit), to explore the remarkable transformation of one of the internet’s most influential platforms.Over the past eight years, Jen has played a pivotal role in shaping Reddit’s evolution, from a community-led forum network into a scaled global platform with a rapidly growing advertising business and a renewed focus on brand safety, measurement, and partnerships.In a wide-ranging conversation, we discuss how Reddit has balanced growth with authenticity, the challenge of monetising community-driven spaces, and what makes Reddit fundamentally different from other social platforms. Jen also shares insights into Reddit’s approach to advertisers, the rise of interest based communities, and how the platform is positioning itself for the next era of the internet.From culture and community to commerce and creativity, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Reddit has redefined its place in the digital ecosystem, and what comes next for the internet’s self-proclaimed “front page.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adspend Report 2025: UK’s digital ad market reaches £40.5bn 03.03.2026 17min

In this episode of the IAB UK podcast James is joined by Elizabeth Lane (IAB UK) and Jeff Youssef (Oliver Wyman), to unpack the latest findings from the AdSpend report - the official measure of the UK digital advertising market.Produced by the IAB UK Insights team and in partnership with Oliver Wyman, AdSpend provides the industry’s definitive view of where digital ad investment is flowing. This year’s report breaks spend down across Platform, Retail Media, Video:TV+, Publishing and Audio, offering a clear picture of the market’s health and direction.If you want to understand where the UK digital ad market is heading, and what it means for your strategy, this episode is for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Live from unBoxed London 2026: Innovative new AI agents and how to utilise Amazon Ads DSP 25.02.2026 22min

This special episode is recorded live from unBoxed London 2026, James Chandler (IAB UK) is joined by Jenny Liu (Amazon Ads) to unpack the latest innovation from Amazon Ads, the Creative Agent.Asad Khan (VodafoneThree) also joins James, to talk about how Amazon Ads DSP has evolved into a powerful programmatic solution. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.