The IAB UK Podcast

Programmatic has never been more powerful, or more complex.Recorded live at Last Thursday Club, this episode brings together Ollie Chadwick (AdsWizz), Layla Soufi (Vistar Media) and Ben O’Mahoney (Ocado Ads) to explore where programmatic really stands today, and what needs to change for it to work better for marketers.The conversation looks at how programmatic has expanded far beyond display into CTV, audio and retail media, why fragmentation and transparency remain real challenges, and how automation and AI can support better decision-making - not just faster buying.A candid, in-the-room discussion on the realities of programmatic today, and what the next phase needs to deliver. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the IAB UK podcast, we’re joined by Tony and Jill from IAB Tech Lab, recorded during their visit to the UK for Techtonic, IAB UK’s flagship ad-tech event.Coming shortly after the launch of the Tech Lab’s Agentic AI Roadmap at CES, the conversation explores what agentic AI means in practical terms and what it signals about how advertising is evolving. Tony shares the thinking behind the roadmap, who across the ecosystem should be paying attention, and how it connects with wider Tech Lab initiatives such as CoMP, focused on publisher engagement with LLMs.Jill brings a connected TV and premium video perspective, drawing on her work across TV+, the CTV Ad Portfolio, and ECAPI, and discusses the opportunity ahead if the industry aligns - as well as what still needs to mature for CTV to reach its full potential.Together, they reflect on the pace of change across AI, CTV, measurement and privacy, and where standards make the biggest difference in reducing friction, building trust, and helping the industry move faster. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Get a head start on 2026 with this special episode of The IAB UK Podcast, recorded live at November's Last Thursday Club. James Chandler is joined by an agency all star line up: Richard Kirk, Chief Strategy Officer at EssenceMediacom UK; Lucy Smith, Head of Search and Ecommerce at JAA Media; and Rosalie Shakir, Strategy Director at the7stars, to explore what will really matter for marketers in the year ahead.From the pull between performance and brand building to how AI is reshaping search, the trio dig into the trends that count. They also unpack plural media, why communities and culture are becoming central to planning, how sustainability and inclusivity can move from box ticking to business critical, and why better insight, measurement and share of voice data are top of their Christmas lists.If you'd like to be in the audience for our next live recording, you can sign up for future Last Thursday Club get togethers right now at iabuk.com/events Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Netflix has released its latest Still Watching 2025 research, exploring how audiences stream, discover new content and build their fandoms. In this episode, James speaks to Brogane Colclough, Netflix’s Head of Measurement in the UK, to unpack the findings. They discuss why attention on streaming platforms is so strong, how mood shapes viewing choices, what fans want from brands, and how advertisers can measure success on Netflix Ads today. Get the full 'Still Watching 2025' report here: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/netflix_still-watching-a-new-global-report-from-activity-7386760745184813056-bIJ_ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What really makes Gen Z tick? In this episode, IAB UK’s Tom Stevens digs into LADbible Group’s new Youth Codebook - the biggest-ever study of Gen Z in the UK - with LADbible Group's Director of Marketing Mike Walsh and Research & Insights Manager Lili Donald.From identity and wellness to finance and AI, this generation is curious, confident and far more grounded than stereotypes suggest. Tom, Mike and Lili explore what brands and agencies can take away from the findings, how to build authentic connections with Gen Z, and why comfort, convenience and content now define modern youth culture.Get hold of the full report here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSepKmUTehciRVFfxpm-fEprxHlrmdqtYpljAmQcFBBxmwOLoA/viewform Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As signal loss scrambles the digital ecosystem, data curation is stepping in to restore clarity and control. Recorded live at IAB UK’s October Last Thursday Club, this episode explores how smart curation can help advertisers navigate a post-cookie world - unlocking access, improving transparency and driving stronger results.Hosted by the IAB’s Head of Ad Tech, Chloe Nicholls, this episode features expert insight from Pubmatic's Mark Williams, OpenX's Rowena Taylor and Azerion's George Evans.Check out all IAB UK's events, including Last Thursday Club events at iabuk.com/events Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 2 of our special miniseries with YouTube, we turn our focus to the biggest screen in the home - the TV.Host James Chandler is joined by Dyana Najdi, Managing Director at Google Advertising, and Alex Glover, Managing Director of Programmatic at Brainlabs and co-author of new Unified CTV Whitepaper, 'Unified CTV: The Power of Broadcaster Content'.Together, they explore how Connected TV has transformed viewing habits, what “Unified CTV” means for advertisers navigating fragmented platforms, and how smarter planning can reduce wasted impressions and reach real audiences.It’s a must-listen for marketers looking to make sense of the evolving TV+ landscape and discover how brands can build truly connected campaigns.Listen, comment, and subscribe, and head over to the IAB UK YouTube channel to watch this episode in full.Read the Brainlabs and YouTube whitepaper here: https://www.brainlabsdigital.com/future-of-ctv-advertising/Sources:https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-52376022https://www.endersanalysis.com/reports/viewing-trends-2024-broadcasters-decline-slowshttps://digiday.com/future-of-tv/future-of-tv-briefing-ctv-advertisers-fail-to-reach-80-of-households/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The IAB UK Podcast, James kicks off a special two-part miniseries in partnership with YouTube. In Episode 1, he’s joined by Roya Zeitoune, YouTube’s Head of Culture & Trends for EMEA, to explore how YouTube went from a simple clip of “Me at the zoo” to becoming a global cultural phenomenon.They unpack how creators have reshaped entertainment, music and sport; discuss what brands can learn from authentic creator collaborations; and explore the latest YouTube tools helping marketers stay culturally connectedTwenty years on, YouTube sits at the epicentre of culture and the lessons for brands have never been clearer.Listen, comment, and subscribe to make sure you don't miss Episode 2 of this IAB UK Podcast x YouTube miniseries.__Sources: https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/107048-first-video-to-receive-one-billion-viewshttps://www.searchenginejournal.com/seo/meet-search-engines/https://www.youtube.com/trends/report/According to a survey conducted by Kantar, 78% of surveyed viewers in the United Kingdom agree that YouTube has the most trusted creators and 78% agree that YouTube has the most trusted creator content, outperforming the average of other online platforms (60%), which includes Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.Google/Kantar, Future of Video, n=1006 YouTube viewers, n=2180 weekly video viewers 18-64 (UK), fielded from (3/13/25-4/7/25). Competitive set includes 10 market competitors: Linear TV, Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Now TV, Apple TV+, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat.https://bangeri.com/2025/01/28/the-science-behind-gen-zs-love-for-engaging-brand-communitiesAccording to a survey conducted by Kantar, 78% of surveyed viewers in the United Kingdom agree that YouTube has the most trusted creators and 78% agree that YouTube has the most trusted creator content, outperforming the average of other online platforms (60%), which includes Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. Google/Kantar, Future of Video, n=1006 YouTube viewers, n=2180 weekly video viewers 18-64 (UK), fielded from (3/13/25-4/7/25). Competitive set includes 10 market competitors: Linear TV, Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Now TV, Apple TV+, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat.https://www.edisonresearch.com/youtube-is-the-preferred-podcast-listening-service/https://www.buzzsprout.com/blog/podcast-statistics Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded just hours before Amazon Ads’ Upfront at The Outernet, this episode takes you behind the scenes of the event to hear about some of the highlights from those most closely involved. First up, James chats to David Amodio, Head of Video Sales Specialists for Northern Europe at Amazon Ads, about how their Upfronts have evolved, what brands can expect from this year’s show, and how Amazon is blending entertainment, innovation and advertising in new ways. Afterwards, he’s joined by Jodie Locking, Head of Digital Marketing at Morrisons, ahead of her appearance on stage, to explore how the supermarket is partnering with Amazon - including a brilliant partnership with Clarkson’s Farm - to create campaigns that deliver for both Amazon's and Morrisons' customers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We wrap up our week of Superfront specials with Nectar360. James Chandler is joined by Tom Priestman, Director of Client Services, to talk about the rapid rise of retail media and how Nectar360 is putting customers at the heart of their approach. From leveraging Sainsbury’s and Argos data to unlocking shopper insights, Tom explains how Nectar360 helps brands connect with audiences in smarter and more effective ways.This episode gives a preview of what to expect at Nectar360’s Upfront session at Media Upfronts, 14-15 October, where retail media, data-driven strategies and customer obsession will take centre stage.🎟️ See Nectar360 – and all our Superfront partners – at Media Upfronts. Book your ticket today at iabuk.com/upfronts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On day four of our special Superfront series, James Chandler is joined by Bauer Media's George Butler. With household names spanning radio, publishing and digital, Bauer Media is home to some of the UK’s most influential media brands. In this episode, George gives us a taste of what Bauer will showcase at their Upfront – from the power of audio to the importance of trusted environments and engaging storytelling.The conversation highlights how Bauer continues to innovate across platforms, and why their content and audiences remain so valuable for advertisers looking to build meaningful connections.🎟️ Don’t miss Bauer’s session at Media Upfronts 14-15 October at Protein Studios in Shoreditch – secure your place at iabuk.com/upfronts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Halfway through our Superfront partner series, James Chandler sits down with Lena Arbery, Director of Destinations, Travel and Growth, EMEA at Tripadvisor – the world’s most trusted travel guidance platform. They discuss how Tripadvisor helps millions of people plan, book and dream about their next adventure, and what that means for advertisers looking to connect with audiences at key decision-making moments.From evolving traveller behaviour to new opportunities for brands to inspire and engage, Lena previews what Tripadvisor will bring to their Media Upfront session (taking place 14-15 October at Protein Studios in Shoreditch) and why retail, travel and lifestyle marketers should be paying close attention.🎟️ Join Tripadvisor and all our partners at Media Upfronts – book now at iabuk.com/upfronts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode two of our Media Upfronts Superfront spotlight series, James Chandler is joined by Josh Partridge, VP & Managing Director, EMEA Sales at Spotify. Together, they dive into how Spotify continues to connect brands with audiences through the power of audio and culture. From innovative formats to data-driven storytelling, Josh explains what makes Spotify unique in helping advertisers tune into the moments that matter most to listeners.With IAB Media Upfronts taking place 14-15 October at Protein Studios in Shoreditch, Josh also shares how Spotify is thinking about the future of digital audio, creativity and brand building on the world’s biggest music and podcast streaming platform.🎟️ Be there for Spotify’s Upfront at Media Upfronts – get your ticket at iabuk.com/upfronts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ahead of Media Upfronts, taking place 14-15 October at Protein Studios, we’re kicking off a special week of podcasts with our five Superfronts podcasts, starting today with Global. James Chandler is joined by Tom Streetley, Director of DAX Audio, to explore how audio continues to evolve as a powerful medium for advertisers. From brand-new research on the role of mood and mindset, to the launch of Global’s cross-device tool, Tom shares how Global are combining the emotional impact of sound with the precision of digital.Expect insights on podcasting, radio, music streaming and gaming, plus a glimpse of what makes this year’s Global Upfront a must-see.🎟️ Don’t miss Global live at Media Upfronts – book your ticket now at iabuk.com/upfronts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special live episode of the IAB UK Podcast, we bring you into the room at The Last Thursday Club, our monthly networking event, where the focus was Retail and Entertainment: The Next Era of Retail Media.Live from IAB HQ in Covent Garden, our Retail Media Lead, Liv McCullagh, was joined by Paul Hackwell (Amazon Ads UK), Farah Souhail (TikTok) and Ash White (dentsu) for a lively panel discussion exploring how retail media is evolving from being performance-driven to becoming richer, more engaging, and often more entertaining.From shifting consumer behaviour and personalisation to brand engagement, measurement and the future of live shopping, this conversation covers it all.Sign up for future Last Thursday Clubs at iabuk.com/events Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season 18 of The IAB UK Podcast kicks off with the latest Digital Adspend results. Host James Chandler is joined by Elizabeth Lane, IAB UK’s Head of Insight, and Jeff Youssef, Partner at Oliver Wyman, to unpack the findings from the first half of 2025. With Oliver Wyman newly on board as Adspend partner, this edition brings fresh depth to the UK’s most authoritative digital advertising study – including forecasts for the rest of this year and beyond. Expect data, analysis and industry context to help you navigate the months ahead. Members can access the full Digital Adspend H1 report at iabuk.com/adspend Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the fifth and final episode of ‘Futurescape: 2030 & beyond’, we look at how AI and wearable tech are reshaping everything from brand discovery to the way people experience the world around them. By 2030, AI will be embedded in search, shopping and recommendations, while wearables – from smart glasses to biometric clothing – will make interactions frictionless, intuitive and deeply personal. James Chandler, IAB UK’s Chief Strategy Officer, is joined by Phil Rowley, Head of Futures, OMG UK, and Shruti Dube, UK Country Director, Meta. Together, they discuss why AI should be seen as augmentation, not replacement – an “extension of our brains” that removes friction from daily life – and how advertisers can prepare for a future where discovery may rely on AI agents making decisions on consumers’ behalf. From conversational interfaces to Ray-Ban Meta glasses generating some of the best-performing ads, they explore why experimentation is key, why trust will be critical when dealing with more intimate data and how AI can free marketers to focus on creativity while machines handle the heavy lifting. Plus, there’s debate on whether wearables will finally cross the adoption tipping point – and what that means for brand storytelling. Listen now or watch via our YouTube: https://youtu.be/4M-Ot4YoG_o Explore Futurescape: https://www.iabuk.com/futurescape Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the fourth episode of ‘Futurescape: 2030 & beyond’, we tackle retail media – the fastest-growing area of digital advertising – and explore why the traditional marketing funnel could be obsolete by 2030. As platforms, publishers and broadcasters evolve into full-service commerce ecosystems, retail media is becoming a “spider diagram” at the centre of planning, blurring the lines between brand building and conversion. James Chandler, IAB UK’s Chief Strategy Officer, is joined by Claire Trbovic, Group Business Director: Incubation Hub, SMG, and Simon Andrews, Founder & Publisher, FIX Newsletter. They discuss everything from cross-retail measurement to immersive in-store experiences – including why data from the ‘long tail’ of retailers could be the key to future success, how brands can collaborate without losing their distinctiveness and why access to diverse data sets will transform planning. From digital screens turning supermarkets into experience destinations to the challenges of balancing commercial growth with positive customer experiences, this episode takes you inside the opportunities and growing pains of a retail-first media world. And yes, even cheese gets a mention – as a surprising example of how cross-retail brand visibility could work in practice. Listen now or watch via our YouTube: https://youtu.be/8Y9UhbJq748 Explore Futurescape: https://www.iabuk.com/futurescape Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the third episode of ‘Futurescape: 2030 & beyond’, we explore how stereotypes about age are breaking down – and what that means for advertisers by 2030. From festival-loving 40-somethings to Gen Z living at home but splurging on designer handbags, people’s behaviours and priorities are no longer predictable by life stage. And with older audiences redefining ageing, holding more spending power, and expecting brands to act responsibly on issues like sustainability, traditional targeting just doesn’t cut it. James Chandler, IAB UK’s Chief Strategy Officer, is joined by Lisa Boyles, Head of Go To Market and Media, giffgaff, and Kristie Naha-Biswas, Global Head of Media and Digital Marketing, Karo Healthcare. Together, they discuss why the obsession with youth marketing overlooks where real income potential sits, how five generations will need to co-exist in the workplace and why values-led targeting will be crucial as consumer expectations shift. From cash-rich Gen Zers selling clothes on Vinted to older consumers expecting brands to promote healthy tech habits, this episode reveals why advertisers need to think beyond demographics – and how planning for 2030 means understanding values, behaviours and need states, not just age. Listen now or watch via our YouTube: https://youtu.be/u59AKkYXMEM Explore Futurescape: https://www.iabuk.com/futurescape Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the second episode of our podcast mini-series ’Futurescape: 2030 & beyond’, we turn our attention to how tapping into communities - large and small - provides advertisers with a powerful way to authentically speak to consumers. It’s already happening, and by 2030, our Futurescape study shows that resonating with micro-communities will sit at the centre of smart planning as Gen Z’s values-led approach gains ground and Gen Alpha’s media habits enter the fray. So, from gaming to social platforms, how is the way people come together, connect and co-create reshaping how advertisers show up, be part of the conversion, and stay relevant?  To explore this, James Chandler, IAB UK’s Chief Strategy Officer, is joined by Sabrina Francis, Strategy Partner at the7stars, and Chris Bailes, EMEA Senior Sales Director at Activision Blizzard Media. Together, they delve into how community dynamics are shifting across digital platforms, what it takes to show up meaningfully, and why brands need to think long-term if they want to build lasting connections. From values-led planning to the rise of fandom marketing, the conversation reveals the power of communities to drive real impact when brands take the time to understand, respect and invest in them.  Listen now or watch via our YouTube: https://youtu.be/1UXYOVYXp2A Explore Futurescape: https://www.iabuk.com/futurescape Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.