The Media Odyssey

Happy holidays from The Media Odyssey podcast! We're regifting this episode where hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro sit down with Dhar Mann, one of the most successful independent creators in the world, to unpack what it really means to build an owned-and-operated media empire in the age of platforms. With over 70 billion views across social media, Dhar has mastered the art of storytelling at scale without relying on traditional Hollywood systems.In a sharp, insightful conversation, Dhar shares the mechanics behind his studio’s meteoric rise, the values that drive his content, and why creators should think like CEOs. From data-driven production to brand-safe storytelling, this episode offers a rare look into what it takes to succeed at the intersection of commerce, creativity, and community.Key Takeaways:1. Dhar Mann Studios Operates Like a Scalable, Independent Media CompanyDhar built his studio from scratch with full vertical integration: in-house scripting, production, post, and distribution. Producing more than 100 episodes a year with over 100 full-time employees, he’s proving that creator-led companies can compete with and outperform traditional studios.2. Storytelling is Engineered for ImpactThe key to Dhar’s success is emotional storytelling. Every script is optimized through data, test reads, and feedback loops. His team analyzes performance daily, adjusts thumbnails, titles, and narrative arcs in real time and shoots with Shorts and long-form in mind across YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, and beyond.3. Brand Safety Doesn’t Mean BoringDhar Mann’s content is deeply family-friendly and advertiser-safe, which makes it attractive to brands. But it’s not sanitized—it tackles real issues like bullying, poverty, and prejudice through emotionally resonant narratives that audiences connect with.4. Platform Diversification is StrategicFrom Facebook and YouTube to Snapchat, TikTok, and even theatrical releases, Dhar doesn’t rely on one platform. His team adapts content formats to fit algorithmic behaviors—using Shorts for reach and long-form for retention and monetization.5. Creators Should Think Like CEOs Dhar’s biggest advice to creators: treat your channel like a business. Build teams, invest in infrastructure, understand your audience, and create repeatable systems. Virality is nice—but building a long-term, sustainable operation is the real win.Thank you Dhar Mann for joining the pod!LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dharmann/Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/Newsletters:Marion Ranchet - https://marionranchet.substack.com/Evan Shapiro - https://eshap.substack.com/ (00:00) - Introduction and Welcome (00:35) - Creators at Cannes Lion (01:21) - Dhar Mann's Backstory (01:55) - The Hero's Journey in Storytelling (03:28) - From Struggles to Success (04:19) - Transition to Content Creation (04:56) - Accidental Filmmaking (11:21) - Scaling Up and Staying Scrappy (19:39) - Economic Model and Community Focus (22:02) - Balancing Mission and Economics (22:36) - Exploring Ad-Supported and SVOD Models (22:54) - YouTube's Dominance and Competitors' Strategies (25:36) - Ownership and Analytics in Content Creation (27:27) - The Power of Community and IP (28:18) - Partnership with Samsung and Production Speed (34:24) - Future Opportunities and Nonfiction Content (38:00) - Advice for Aspiring Creators (43:20) - Concluding Thoughts and Final Reflections

Public service media isn’t outdated, instead, it’s fighting for relevance, trust, and survival in a fractured global information ecosystem.Welcome back to The Media Odyssey Podcast. In this episode, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet sit down with Raney Aronson-Rath, Executive Producer of Frontline and Editor-in-Chief of Documentaries at GBH, for a conversation on the future of public media. From political pressure and funding cuts to platform expansion and audience trust, the discussion explores why public broadcasters must be everywhere audiences are without sacrificing journalistic integrity.Through Frontline’s transformation into a broadcast-plus-streaming powerhouse, the episode examines how YouTube, social video, theatrical releases, and global distribution have become essential tools for sustaining factual storytelling in an era of misinformation and declining institutional trust.Key Takeaways: 1. Public Media’s Survival Depends on Platform Expansion, Not RetrenchmentPublic broadcasters can no longer rely solely on linear TV. To stay relevant and trusted, they must meet audiences on YouTube, social platforms, streaming, and in theaters. They need to be wherever public conversation is happening.2. YouTube Is Additive, Not Cannibalistic for Public Service MediaFrontline’s experience shows that YouTube doesn’t replace broadcast audiences. In fact, YouTube extends reach over time, attracts younger viewers, and builds long-tail viewership that linear TV alone cannot sustain.3. Streaming Requires a Long-Term Mindset ShiftUnlike broadcast’s appointment viewing, streaming rewards longevity. Frontline films often grow for years, accumulating millions of views with high watch time, forcing teams to think beyond premiere-night metrics.4. Community and Trust Are the Core Competitive AdvantagesPublic media’s strength isn’t scale but credibility. Building engaged, thoughtful communities around factual content is essential in a media ecosystem flooded with misinformation.5. Short-Form Is Editorial, Not Promotional To reach younger audiences, Frontline treats social video and shorts as a serious journalistic format with its own language instead of marketing cutdowns of long-form work.6. Global Distribution Is Both a Mission and a StrategyWith one-third of Frontline’s audience outside the U.S., platforms like YouTube enable public media to reach global audiences including countries where traditional broadcasters refuse to air critical journalism, but where audiences need to see it most.7. Public Media Must Be Everywhere Both In Person and OnlineFrom YouTube to theaters to festivals, Frontline Features reflects a belief that storytelling is more powerful when audiences can experience it both collectively and individually.8. The Cost of Absence Is Being Replaced by Worse InformationIf trusted public media doesn’t fill digital spaces, misinformation will. The choice isn’t whether to engage platforms like YouTube, it’s whether to leave them to actors with lower standards.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcastThank you, Raney Aronson-Rath for joining the pod!Raney Aronson-Rath: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raney-aronson-0343aa8/Frontline: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontline-pbs/Headshot credit: Michael Buckner/Deadline (00:00) - Introduction to the Media Odyssey Podcast (00:09) - Public Media Under Pressure (00:55) - BBC Controversy and Public Trust (02:58) - Challenges Faced by Public Broadcasters (04:02) - Public Media Funding Issues (04:47) - The Role of Public Media in Democracy (05:59) - Public Broadcasting in the US (07:25) - Embracing Digital Platforms (09:13) - Introducing Raney Aronson from Frontline (11:16) - Frontline's Digital Transformation (15:43) - Impact of YouTube on Frontline's Reach (23:56) - Simultaneous Broadcast and Streaming Strategy (26:22) - The Evolution of PBS Viewership (27:10) - Leadership and Digital Expansion (28:08) - Global Reach and YouTube Strategy (29:05) - Commitment to Journalistic Standards (31:14) - Frontline Features and Theatrical Impact (34:18) - Challenges in Documentary Distribution (39:42) - International Co-Productions and Self-Distribution (43:44) - The Importance of Public Media

Media is not shifting, it’s revealing which predictions actually mapped the year and which trends will define what comes next.Welcome back to The Media Odyssey Podcast! In this special “Predictions Wrapped” episode, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet revisit the forecasts they made a year ago and grade themselves on accuracy. They discuss YouTube’s explosive rise on CTV, Netflix’s unexpected innovation, creator-driven cultural dominance, the slow grind of CTV fragmentation and more. They break down the bets they nailed and the ones that missed the mark.The conversation also surfaces the biggest forces shaping 2025: global broadcaster collaboration, a reshaped M&A landscape, a creator economy that has become central to mainstream media, and an AI boom that is both overhyped and quietly transformative behind the scenes.Key Takeaways: 1. YouTube’s Transformation Into the No. 1 TV Channel Was the Prediction of the YearEvan’s call that YouTube would finally be recognized as true television proved spot-on: it became the #1 TV channel in the U.S. for months, dominated industry conversation, and strengthened global partnerships.  Lean-back YouTube viewing is now mainstream.2. Netflix Proved More Open and Innovative Than ExpectedMarion’s prediction that Netflix needed to evolve beyond its walled garden came true through major deals with TF1, Spotify, creators, and new M&A exploration. The company is clearly signaling a shift toward becoming a broader entertainment hub.3. 2025 Really Was the Year of the CreatorCreator-led programming defined industry conversations everywhere from MIPCOM to Cannes Lions. Big media invested heavily in creator partnerships and creators like MrBeast built full-blown media empires. Creators are sitting at the center of the cultural and business agenda.4. Some Big Bets Didn’t MaterializeMarion’s expectation of an aggressive, high-stakes fight among CTV operating systems didn’t happen. Instead, the space stagnated: incremental partnerships, UI improvements, and slow expansion replaced the “vicious competition” anticipated.5. AI Was Both Boringly Effective and Wildly OverhypedEvan’s call that AI would be simultaneously underwhelming and inflated proved true. The real impact was invisible backend optimization at major tech companies, while valuations, hype cycles, and consumer expectations outpaced real-world product maturity.6. Broadcasters in Europe Became More Collaborative Than EverMarion’s prediction about unprecedented cooperation among European broadcasters wasn’t just correct, it overperformed. With TF1 and Netflix, FranceTV and Prime Video, Sky and ITV, and MFE’s acquisitions, 2025 became a landmark year for cross-border, cross-platform partnerships.7. M&A Defined the Year and Will Shape 2025 Even MoreEvan’s expectation of massive consolidation was validated by Paramount and Skydance, NBCUniversal and Omnicom Media Group, MFE, the WBD bidding saga, and political forces now influencing dealmaking. The industry’s next chapter will be written through mergers rather than standalone growth.8. The Job Market Was Worse Than Expected and Still Getting TougherThe darkest but most accurate prediction: 2025 saw more media layoffs by October than all of 2024. With more M&A ahead, layoffs are expected to continue, making reinvention, networking, and career resilience essential for 2025.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Check out the full Substacks grading all of last year's predictions:Evan Shapiro - https://eshap.substack.com/p/youtube-is-tv Marion Ranchet - https://www.streamingmadeeasy.com/p/my-2025-predictions-the-mbappe-reportThe Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcast (00:00) - Introduction and Podcast Overview (01:07) - Grading Predictions: YouTube's Dominance on TV (04:16) - Grading Predictions: Netflix's Innovations (09:32) - Grading Predictions: The Rise of the Creator Economy (19:16) - Grading Predictions: AI's Impact and Future (25:14) - Grading Predictions: European Broadcasters' Collaborations (30:10) - Media Landscape Predictions (30:49) - Mergers and Acquisitions Impact (31:57) - Corporate America and Government Influence (33:11) - European Media Market Shifts (34:53) - Streaming Services and Consolidation (40:36) - Ad-Supported Streaming Future (45:15) - Job Market Challenges in Media (46:33) - Advice for Facing Job Loss (53:28) - Reflecting on Predictions and Future Plans

Hollywood isn’t just consolidating, it’s entering a new era where politics, regulation, and financial pressure determine who survives.Welcome back to The Media Odyssey Podcast! In this emergency episode, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet break down the stunning news that Netflix has emerged as the leading bidder for Warner Bros. Discovery’s studio and streaming divisions. They unpack why the offer makes financial sense, why it’s already triggering political backlash, and how the deal could reshape theatrical windows, global streaming strategy, and the balance of power in Hollywood.Key takeaways: 1. Netflix’s Bid Makes Financial Sense but Faces Political TurbulenceWhile Netflix’s all-cash offer is firm on the numbers, political reaction (especially in California) creates real uncertainty about whether the deal can actually close.2. California Is the Biggest Obstacle, Not Classic Antitrust LawState officials argue the acquisition would hurt jobs and local production, making Sacramento a more immediate threat to approval than Washington.3. A Deal Would Accelerate Hollywood’s Shift Toward BlockbustersIf Netflix gains WBD’s film assets, mid-budget movies and secondary franchises risk being sidelined in favor of tentpole IP and global retention drivers.4. Max’s International Launch Is Colliding With Merger ChaosWBD’s major European rollouts are happening at the worst possible moment, creating instability for teams and confusion around the service’s future.5. Even in the Best Case, the Path Ahead Is Long and PainfulHearings, investigations, and political battles would dominate the next year — and Netflix leadership would be pulled deep into the process.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcast (00:00) - Introduction and Current Events (00:20) - Breaking News: Netflix Acquires Warner Bros. Discovery (01:10) - Controversy and Reactions (03:32) - Deal Approval Challenges (04:26) - Financial and Consumer Implications (05:02) - Regulatory and Political Hurdles (08:05) - Potential Outcomes and Industry Impact (08:48) - Speculations on Future Leadership (10:11) - International Launch and Timing Issues (11:09) - Impact on Studio and Theatrical Business (16:40) - The Future of Independent Films (17:41) - Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

Modern media isn’t just transforming, it’s rebuilding itself around fandom, experimentation, and platform-native storytelling.Welcome back to The Media Odyssey Podcast! In this episode, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet sit down with Holly Graham, Chief Commercial Officer, and Ben Arnold, SVP of Commercial Operations, of Little Dot Studios, one of the most influential digital operators in global entertainment. With more than 1,000 channels across YouTube, FAST, TikTok, and social platforms, plus a massive network of owned brands, Little Dot has become a blueprint for how media companies build fandom, monetize digital ecosystems, and reinvent themselves for a two-way, audience-driven world.From Gordon Ramsay’s 13-year rise into a digital-first global brand to Prime Video’s fandom-led multi-IP strategy, Holly and Ben break down why scale, creative experimentation, and audience listening now outperform legacy programming instincts. They also show why digital success requires trust, patience, and a willingness to let creators and fans shape how IP lives across platforms.Key Takeaways:1. Fandom Is the Strategy, Not the OutputLittle Dot builds everything around fandom, treating it as the engine that drives reach, creativity, and long-term engagement. Their teams are staffed with true super-fans who understand the language, culture, and behavior of each IP, making authenticity the core ingredient of every channel they run. This approach transforms digital from a promotional outlet into a genuine community hub.2. YouTube Has Become Television on CTVTwo-thirds of Little Dot’s YouTube viewing now happens on connected TVs, turning long-form uploads, compilations, and multi-episode drops into lean-back viewing experiences. For audiences, YouTube isn’t competing with television anymore because it is television, except that it also offers personalization, lower ad loads, and a two-way feedback loop that traditional TV never did.3. Scale and Experimentation Outperform PlanningWith more than 1,000 channels, Little Dot’s scale gives them platform intelligence no single studio can build alone. They test formats, edits, lengths, narrative styles, and platform behaviors in real time, learning faster than legacy teams who rely on strategy decks instead of iteration. The Little Dot belief: you won’t think your way into success, you test your way into it.4. Letting Go Is a Competitive AdvantageHolly and Ben emphasize that brands must have the courage to let creators interpret their IP and fans influence direction. The companies that win are those willing to invite new voices into the ecosystem and trust experts who understand platform culture. Transformation only happens when studios stop over-engineering and start collaborating.5. Monetization Is a Flywheel, Not a Single Revenue StreamAds matter, but they’re only one part of the business. Little Dot helps partners build revenue holistically from subscriptions and watch-time to fandom-driven merch, licensing, gaming skins, and cultural relevance that boosts performance across TV, streaming, and social. Digital becomes the funnel that powers the entire IP ecosystem, not merely a place to chase views.6. Patience and Persistence Beat ViralityDigital success isn’t instant; rather, true growth comes from long-term audience development, consistent experimentation, and evolving strategy over years, not weeks. Many of Little Dot’s partnerships last a decade because real transformation requires time, trust, and a steady willingness to learn.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcastLittle Dot Studios - https://www.linkedin.com/company/little-dot-studios-limited/ Holly Graham - https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-graham-ba616b104/?originalSubdomain=uk Ben Arnold - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benoarnold/  (00:00) - Introduction and Episode Overview (00:32) - Insights from the International Emmys (02:51) - The Importance of Fandom in Modern Media (04:18) - Challenges in Media Transformation (07:29) - Introducing Little Dot Studios (07:59) - Little Dot Studios' Approach to Digital Platforms (09:07) - Scaling and Monetizing Content (14:06) - The Role of Fandom in Content Strategy (26:01) - Gordon Ramsay's Digital Transformation (26:43) - Strategic Content Evolution (27:36) - Engaging with Fandoms (31:00) - Prime Video's Multi-Fandom Strategy (32:04) - YouTube's Creator-Centric Approach (36:21) - Monetization Strategies and Challenges (41:01) - Advice for Traditional Studios (42:43) - The Importance of Patience and Trust (48:03) - Closing Thoughts and Reflections

Global media isn’t just transforming, it’s reorganizing itself around fandom, creators, and direct-to-audience ecosystems.Welcome back to The Media Odyssey Podcast! In this special episode from MIPCOM Cannes, Evan Shapiro sits down with Pedro Pina, VP of YouTube in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, and Jasmine Dawson, SVP of Digital at BBC Studios, for a panel on BBC Studios’ success on YouTube and how traditional media and creator platforms are rewriting the rules of international entertainment. From YouTube’s rise as a global television network to BBC Studios’ creator-native reinvention, Pedro and Jasmine reveal why the next era of growth will be driven by companies that think and act like creators.The conversation unpacks how YouTube fuels global fandom, how BBC Studios turned brands like Bluey, BBC Earth, and Top Gear into multi-format ecosystems, why audience-first strategy now beats commissioner-first strategy, and how experimentation is becoming the most valuable competency in modern media.Key Takeaways:1. Fandom Is the New Distribution StrategyBBC Studios no longer thinks about audience in terms of reach, but in terms of fandom. YouTube has become a hub for building that fandom globally, which in turn boosts performance everywhere else: CTV, streaming partners, traditional broadcast, consumer products, and even e-commerce.2. YouTube Isn’t Replacing TV, It’s Expanding ItThe panel debunks a persistent myth: YouTube doesn’t cannibalize TV. BBC Earth and Bluey grow viewership across broadcast and streaming as their YouTube fandom grows. It’s incremental, not competitive, where YouTube acts as a widening funnel for premium IP.3. The Audience Is the Buyer, Not the CommissionerEvan frames the shift perfectly: the market’s new “buyer class” is the consumer themselves. Instead of pitching to gatekeepers, studios can reach fans directly, monetize them in dozens of ways, and use feedback loops to continuously experiment, refine, and grow.4. Hiring Creators Is a Competitive Advantage And a Necessity BBC Studios has creators in leadership roles and runs a formal “Creators in Residence” program. Creators bring real-time instincts for platform behavior, format experimentation, and data fluency that traditional media teams simply do not have.5. Success Requires a Mindset Shift: From Push to PullLegacy media is built on push distribution: make a show, send it out, wait for ratings. YouTube is a pull ecosystem driven by community, watch time, and algorithmic reinforcement. The only way to “win” the algorithm is to deeply understand and serve your audience.6. Experimentation Beats PerfectionBoth Pedro and Jasmine emphasize the same principle: experiment constantly. A/B test, try new formats, abandon what doesn’t work, scale what does. YouTube lowers the cost of experimentation and speeds up learning if companies embrace it and approach YouTube analytics as data scientists.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcastPedro Pina - https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-pina-06a413/?originalSubdomain=uk Jasmine Dawson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminesdawson/  (00:00) - Welcome and Introduction (00:37) - YouTube's Presence at MIPCOM (01:10) - Exploring the YouTube-BBC Studios Partnership (06:02) - Case Study: BBC Earth on YouTube (08:38) - The Creator Economy and Audience Engagement (13:31) - Practical Insights and Strategies (20:03) - Challenges and Opportunities in the Digital Era (25:22) - Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Sports fandom isn’t just evolving, it’s becoming one of the most powerful engines of modern storytelling and audience engagement. Welcome back to the Media Odyssey Podcast! This week, hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro sit down with Jen Kavanaugh, SVP of Marketing and Media for the Philadelphia Eagles, for a masterclass in how today’s most successful teams build culture, narrative, and multi-generational fandom. From global expansion to creator-style content production, Jen reveals why the Eagles have become one of the most influential brands in sports and a case study for every marketer navigating the attention economy.The conversation unpacks how the Eagles turned their locker room into a lovable ensemble cast, how they measure true fan connection, why global fandom is redefining American football, and how sports franchises are becoming full “cinematic universes” that live far beyond game day.Key Takeaways:1. Fandom as a 365-Day RelationshipJen explains that Eagles fandom is multi-generational, emotional, and deeply cultural which gives the team both a privilege and a responsibility. Fans want access, intimacy, and storytelling year-round, not just on Sundays. The Eagles’ strategy centers on “giving fans the keys to the kingdom,” fueled by trust, organizational support, and a culture that prioritizes openness and connection.2. Building a Global, Culturally Fluent BrandThe Eagles’ reach now extends far beyond Philadelphia, with fan-development programs across Australia, Ghana, New Zealand, and Brazil. Rather than relying on football knowledge alone, the team connects through music, fashion, food, creators, and personality-driven storytelling to reach global audiences through cultural touchpoints that transcend the sport itself.3. The Eagles’ Locker Room as a Cinematic UniverseThe Eagles’ content ecosystem rivals a scripted series: recurring characters, running jokes, ensemble dynamics, and emotionally resonant moments. Importantly, the biggest stars (like Jalen Hurts) aren’t the constant leads. Instead, the team spotlights personality-rich players who thrive on-camera. This creator-style storytelling has also spawned spin-offs like New Heights, Not Gonna Lie, and The Exciting Mics, proving how culture and chemistry generate new franchises organically.4. Engagement, Not Vanity Metrics, Drives SuccessFor Jen, the key metric is time spent: a measure of depth, not just reach. With more than 1 million hours watched on YouTube this season alone, the Eagles track comments, repeat engagement, and emotional connection, using these signals to fuel new content ideas. Passion (even in losses) matters. Apathy is the real enemy.5. The Rise of Female Fandom and Platform-Specific StorytellingFemale fans are becoming some of the sport’s most vocal superfans, reshaping what fandom looks like. Jen’s team tailors content to different communities and platforms: TikTok for optimism and personality, YouTube for longer storytelling, Instagram for cultural moments. The result: broader reach, more diverse audiences, and new fandom behaviors emerging in real time.6. Lessons for Entertainment: Connection Over PromotionJen closes with a universal takeaway: whether sports, streaming, or traditional TV, fans want connection, not just marketing. Storytelling, personality, and cultural alignment matter far more than promos or tune-in messaging. The most successful brands build deep emotional ecosystems that keep fans engaged—even when the product itself (a season, a game, a show) isn’t going their way.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcastThank you Jen Kavanaugh for joining the pod!Jen Kavanaugh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenkavanagh/ 

The line between Hollywood and the creator economy is disappearing…Tubi is leading the charge.Welcome back to the Media Odyssey Podcast! In this episode, hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet are joined by Rich Bloom GM, Creators Program & EVP, Business Development at Tubi, to unpack how the Fox-owned streaming service is redefining the creator economy and the very meaning of “creator media.” With over 100 million monthly users, a 95% on-demand model, and a growing library of creator-driven programming, Tubi is blurring the line between traditional entertainment and creator-led storytelling.The conversation explores how Tubi is empowering creators to become full-fledged media startups by giving them creative control, ownership, and distribution on a major ad-supported platform. From collaborations with Kevin Hart’s Hartbeat, Kinigra Deon, and Joey Graceffa, to ESHAP's own upcoming creator-led film Skit, the episode reveals how Tubi is building an entirely new bridge between Hollywood and the creator economy.Key Takeaways:1. Tubi’s Creator Strategy Redefines the Streaming ModelWhile most streamers are trimming costs, Tubi is investing in a creator-first ecosystem that values experimentation and agility over legacy production cycles. Rich Bloom’s new division sits at the center of that vision, building products and programs specifically for creators rather than simply licensing content.2. From “Licensing Creators” to “Partnering with Creators”Tubi’s approach goes beyond one-off deals. The company now co-develops original and exclusive content with creators, providing funding, marketing, and creative freedom without Hollywood’s notorious “rounds of notes.” Projects like SafeSpace (KevOnStage), Bald Brothers, and Escape the Night (Joey Graceffa) reflect a new hybrid of creator autonomy and professional polish.3. Fast Turnaround, Real OwnershipCreators at Tubi can move from greenlight to launch in as little as three months, a pace unthinkable in traditional TV. In exchange for an exclusive window, they retain IP ownership and share in revenue with a structure that incentivizes both creative and financial success.4. Fandom and Niche Power Drive Tubi’s GrowthTubi embraces the “rabbit holes of fandom” that others fear. Its algorithm surfaces niche genres and creator content alongside Hollywood films, encouraging viewers to flow freely between the two. The result: higher retention, younger audiences (55% Gen Z and millennial), and deeper engagement across its 300,000-title library.5. Advertising with AuthenticityAs an AVOD pioneer, Tubi combines low ad loads (4–6 minutes of advertising per hour) with precise targeting. Brands are already showing strong interest in the new “Creatorverse,” where curated creator content offers premium inventory with built-in communities and authentic engagement, a sweet spot for advertisers seeking trust and scale.6. A New Independent Era: “Skit” and BeyondEvan and Rich also announce the launch of Skit, a creator-led indie comedy premiering exclusively on Tubi. Made for just $65,000, it represents the new generation of creator-driven storytelling with small teams, big ideas, and direct fan relationships. Both hosts liken the movement to the independent film revolution of the 1990s, positioning Tubi as a catalyst for a new creator-powered renaissance.Thank you Rich Bloom for joining the pod!Rich Bloom: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ribloom/ Tubi: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tubi-tv/ Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcast (00:00) - Introduction to The Media Odyssey Podcast (00:31) - The Melding of Traditional Media and the Creator Economy (02:37) - Tubi's Unique Approach to Media (03:42) - Interview with Rich Bloom from Tubi (04:01) - Tubi's Creator Program and Its Impact (05:42) - Tubi's Audience and Content Strategy (08:17) - Success Stories and Future Projects (10:40) - Working with Professional Creators (19:38) - Tubi's Competitive Edge and Distribution (24:49) - Advertising Strategies and Creator Opportunities (27:02) - New Series and Creator Content (29:54) - Elevated Production and Creator Authenticity (33:25) - Exclusive Creator Projects and Marketing (40:46) - Future Plans and Creator Integration (42:31) - Question of the Week: Hollywood and Creators (45:24) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The rules of media have changed and the user is now in charge. Welcome back to the Media Odyssey Podcast! In this live episode presented with PreciseTV, Evan Shapiro breaks down the shift from the gatekeeper era of top-down media control to the new user-centric era, where audiences, not executives, dictate what succeeds. Using his signature “media cartographer” maps and data-driven storytelling, Evan unpacks how Big Tech overtook traditional media, how generational shifts are transforming consumption habits, and why the creator economy is now the true center of cultural power.From the “churn apocalypse” in streaming to YouTube’s dominance on the TV screen, he shows why brands and publishers must abandon vanity metrics and embrace fandom, engagement, and community as the real measures of success. The conversation, featuring voices from Angel Studios, BBC Studios, and the PreciseTV audience, delivers both sharp insight and practical direction for anyone trying to navigate the new media landscape.Key Takeaways:1. Big Tech Has Taken Over Media and the User Holds the RemoteEvan traces how Apple and Alphabet have become the “remote controls of our lives,” controlling nearly 100% of the smartphone market. Yet while tech companies provide the infrastructure, the audience now makes the decisions. The power dynamic has flipped and media is no longer pushed from the top down; it’s driven from the user up.2. The Fear of Finding Out Is Media’s Existential CrisisMany legacy executives, Evan argues, are paralyzed by a fear of finding out — unwilling to face the data showing that audience habits and demographics have permanently shifted. Millennials and Gen Z now make up nearly 70% of the global population and the majority of the workforce. Still, many companies make decisions using outdated “farming-era” metrics like 18–49 demos that no longer reflect reality.3. Streaming’s “Churn Apocalypse”The streaming boom has turned into a churn crisis. In 2024, SVODs added 174 million subscribers but lost 148 million — a revolving door that Evan calls “a shitty business.” Serial churners (users who sign up and cancel three or more services a year) now represent 40% of new subscribers. Even as Pay TV collapses, streaming platforms are discovering that infinite choice creates fragile loyalty.4. YouTube Is Television, and It’s WinningYouTube now commands a larger share of total TV viewing than Disney, NBCUniversal, and Paramount combined. 73% of its viewing time is on content 30 minutes or longer, proving that long-form thrives on digital platforms. YouTube has become the bridge between younger and older audiences as the only platform uniting both ecosystems of media consumption.5. From the Creator Economy to the “Affinity Economy”Evan introduces the concept of the Affinity Economy: a world where success is measured not by scale but by passion, community, and fandom. Examples include Angel, where 1.5 million members greenlight projects, and BBC Studios, which redefined KPIs to measure engagement, and loyalty instead of raw views. In this model where fandom is the new currency, the Key Passion Index replaces the outdated Key Performance Indicator.6. Why Brands Must Follow the Fans In a closing exchange with the audience and PreciseTV, Evan emphasizes that brands must “go where the hearts are.” YouTube and creator-led ecosystems provide better data, transparency, and engagement than traditional CTV. Fear, generational and institutional, remains the main barrier. The solution: invest in platforms where the audience actually lives, build communities, and stop chasing metrics that only make quarterly reports look good.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcast (00:00) - Introduction and Audience Engagement (00:09) - The Evolution of Media Mapping (01:31) - Big Tech's Dominance in Media (04:05) - The User-Centric Era (05:35) - Generational Shifts and Media Consumption (09:33) - The Streaming Service Dilemma (12:40) - The Fragmented Media Landscape (15:04) - The Rise of YouTube and Creators (24:39) - Inoxtag: The Mr. Beast of France (25:10) - Angel: Community-Driven Content (27:34) - Dhar Mann: Scripted Content Giant (28:36) - The Power of Cross-Platform Content (30:34) - Measuring Passion in the Affinity Economy (35:33) - Brand Engagement and Fandom (39:29) - Navigating the Creator Economy (46:26) - Future of Media and Technology

When billion-dollar deals make more noise than sense, who really wins?In this episode of The Media Odyssey podcast, hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro pull back the curtain on the relentless cycle of media mergers and acquisitions where massive buyouts, strategy, and political agendas collide. With characteristic humor and precision, they trace how decades of dealmaking have reshaped, and even broken, the entertainment business, from Hollywood to Europe.The conversation spans the latest shake-ups at Warner Bros. Discovery, Paramount, Netflix, and Apple, while examining Media For Europe’s pan-European expansion and Canal+’s global ambitions following its merger with MultiChoice. Marion and Evan unpack who’s really benefiting from consolidation, who’s losing creative control, and why the next phase of M&A might look very different — with tech platforms turning into studios.It’s a look at how Wall Street, ego, and geopolitics are driving an industry that’s learning, the hard way, that scale doesn’t always mean success.Key Takeaways:1. Wall Street Keeps Breaking MediaDecades of consolidation, from Fox–Disney to Warner Bros.–Discovery, have destroyed more value than they’ve created. “Growth through merger” remains a Wall Street fantasy, enriching executives and bankers while hollowing out creative culture and long-term strategy.2. Warner Bros. Discovery May Be Next on the BlockReports suggest Warner Bros. Discovery could split its assets, separating HBO Max and the studio from legacy cable channels. Potential buyers include Paramount, Netflix, and Apple. Netflix could be the best cultural fit, but Apple has the money and global intent to make the boldest move.3. The Ellisons’ Expanding Power Raises New QuestionsWith Skydance now owning Paramount, Evan warns that David and Larry Ellison are amassing outsized influence. If future acquisitions extend to TikTok or CNN, their reach could reshape how global audiences receive news and entertainment, a sign of how family dynasties are replacing traditional media conglomerates.4. Europe’s Consolidation Wave Gains SteamMarion highlights Media for Europe’s (MFE) takeover of ProSiebenSat.1 and its bid to form a pan-European broadcast giant spanning Italy, Spain, and Germany. The ambition: to counterbalance U.S. streamers with continental scale. But both hosts warn that the cultural cost will be a more uniform, less diverse creative market.5. Canal+ and MultiChoice Signal Global AmbitionCanal+’s purchase of MultiChoice expands its footprint into 70 countries, blending African and European pay-TV operations. Beyond the operational complexity, Canal+’s digital strategy of streaming-first, global in scope is a rare model of smart transformation amid the M&A chaos.6. The Next Wave: Platforms Buying StudiosEvan predicts the next M&A era will flip the script: platforms acquiring studios. Streamers like Netflix or Apple may target production powerhouses such as Banijay or Lionsgate to control their own pipelines. After years of financial engineering, this could mark a shift toward owning creativity instead of just distributing it.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcast (00:00) - Introduction and Opening Remarks (00:19) - Gambling and Vegas Anecdotes (01:08) - Mergers and Acquisitions Overview (01:45) - Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount (05:32) - Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery Rumors (07:42) - Apple and Amazon's Potential Moves (14:11) - Private Equity and Saudi Investment Fund (16:40) - European Media Mergers and Acquisitions (20:24) - Global Media Competition (21:25) - Regulatory Challenges in Media Mergers (22:53) - Impact of Media Consolidation (28:00) - Gaming Industry Mergers and Acquisitions (31:43) - Canal+ and MultiChoice Merger (36:33) - Future of Media Production and Acquisitions

The new buyer isn’t Netflix, it’s the audience. Live from MIPCOM 2025, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet sit down with Filmhub CEO Alan d’Escragnolle and Vortex Media CEO Justin Rebelo to unpack how independent producers and distributors are reinventing the film business for the creator economy.Recorded at the first-ever The Media Odyssey Podcast live show at MIPCOM, this episode explores how companies like Filmhub are helping producers reach global audiences across AVOD, TVOD, and YouTube “Free with Ads;” and why the future of indie film depends on creators learning to sell directly to viewers, not just to buyers.Key Takeaways:1. A New Kind of Buyer: The AudienceYouTube’s first major presence at MIPCOM signaled a seismic shift: it’s no longer about pitching to networks or streamers, but learning to engage audiences directly. Evan calls this the “B2C revolution” of entertainment, and Filmhub is one of the companies enabling it by connecting rights holders directly to millions of viewers on platforms like Tubi and YouTube.2. Filmhub’s Distribution RevolutionAlan d’Escragnolle breaks down how Filmhub helps creators and distributors license hundreds of films per month through automation, encoding, and royalty tech — cutting out the old, slow, one-deal-at-a-time system. By managing AVOD, TVOD, and FAST distribution at scale, Filmhub gives small producers global reach without the middlemen.3. The YouTube “Free with Ads” OpportunityYouTube’s Free with Ads tier, available in select countries, has become a powerful new home for premium films and TV. Filmhub is one of just a few distributors authorized to place titles there, where CPMs are higher and content appears in a dedicated “Film & TV” section. It’s a way for indie titles to live alongside, and compete with, traditional TV content.4. The Indie Film Playbook Is ChangingJustin Rebelo shares firsthand examples, including his own collaboration with Evan A 90s Christmas and Shapiro’s new microbudget feature Skit, proving that small films can now thrive through smart digital distribution. With lower costs and creator-style marketing, it’s possible to make and monetize films again without waiting for a streamer’s greenlight.5. Power to the CreatorsBoth guests agree: the days of waiting for gatekeepers are over. Whether it’s a $50,000 horror hit (Dream Eater) or a YouTube discovery, creators who control their IP, budgets, and release strategy have the real leverage. As d’Escragnolle puts it: “You don’t entertain anyone by leaving content on a shelf.”Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcastAlan d’Escragnolle - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alandescragnolle/ Filmhub - https://www.linkedin.com/company/filmhub/ Justin Rebelo - https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-rebelo-8553bb142/ Vortex Media -  https://www.linkedin.com/company/vortexmediainc/ 

Who really runs the media world now — creators, corporations, or algorithms?In this episode of the Media Odyssey Podcast, hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet unpack the newly released Creator Ecosphere Map, a first-of-its-kind visual of the entire creator economy, created in partnership with Shira Lazar (What’s Trending) and InfluencerMarketing.Ai. Recorded just after MIPCOM, they explore how creators, brands, and traditional media now share the same ecosystem — and what the data reveals about who actually drives engagement, fandom, and revenue online.From TikTok to Substack, YouTube to Patreon, the hosts break down what EQ (Engagement Quality) really means, why followers don’t equal fans, and how new creator-led studios like Whalar, Filmhub, and Dropout are quietly building the next generation of media companies. Key TakeawaysMapping the Creator UniverseThe Creator Ecosphere Map charts the full scope of the creator economy, from platforms, to studios, agencies, and tools, for the first time in one place. The Creator Ecosphere Map tracks not only follower counts but EQ (Engagement Quality), revealing who actually moves audiences to act.Followers do not equal FansThe data shows a massive gap between reach and resonance. While megastars like Khaby Lame boast billions of views, creators like Billie Eilish drive exponentially higher engagement. Shapiro calls EQ “the difference between followers and fandom” — a key metric for understanding real influence and avoiding wasted ad spend.The Platform ParadoxTikTok and YouTube dominate scale, but engagement varies wildly. YouTube’s average EQ sits around 0.1%, while creators like MrBeast outperform entire media conglomerates thanks to community-driven engagement. Meanwhile, legacy brands like ESPN or Nike still treat social as marketing, not programming and it shows in their red (low-EQ) metrics.The Creator Economy Goes CorporateThe line between creator and company is vanishing. Platforms like Patreon and Substack prove that creator media can sustain real businesses, while independent studios like Dropout and First We Feast rival Hollywood models with strong IP and loyal communities. Even legacy broadcasters must eventually “lean in” or risk irrelevance.No One-Size-Fits-All StrategyThe map underscores that there’s no single best platform. Every creator or brand must build where their audience already lives. Marion suggests a “rule of three” strategy (LinkedIn, Substack, YouTube/Podcast) as a sustainable model, while Shapiro stresses that success in media now means asking better questions, not chasing every trend.View the full Creator Ecosphere: https://open.substack.com/pub/eshap/p/the-ecosphere-is-here?r=10qe8j&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=falseInterested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcast (00:00) - Introduction and Hosts (00:33) - Creator Economy at MCOM (00:56) - Interviews and Collaborations (02:26) - Mapping the Media Universe (03:30) - Data Collection and Analysis (05:24) - Engagement Metrics Explained (10:31) - YouTube and Platform Comparisons (15:43) - Podcasting and Creator Economy (18:43) - Introduction to Substack and Creator Media (19:39) - The Rise of Influential Creators (20:17) - Engagement Quality and Market Indicators (20:41) - Corporate vs. Personality-Led Media (21:37) - Brands on TikTok and Social Media Strategies (22:44) - Monetizing Video Content (24:51) - The Role of Community Platforms (25:46) - Expanding the Map: New Platforms and Metrics (28:39) - Choosing the Right Platforms for Growth (32:21) - Employment Opportunities in the Creator Economy (34:52) - Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

What happens when a niche fandom becomes a global streaming powerhouse?In this episode of the Media Odyssey Podcast, hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet sit down with World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, the creative minds behind RuPaul’s Drag Race, and a streaming empire built on fandom. They explore how World of Wonder transformed drag culture into an international media brand spanning 17 territories, while redefining what “community-first” streaming looks like in the era of algorithmic sameness.The conversation dives into how WOW thrives outside traditional Hollywood logic through owning its IP, embracing global fandoms, and turning social engagement into subscription loyalty. The founders share how RuPaul’s Drag Race became a template for modern, participatory media and how WOW’s next frontier lies in audience-driven global storytelling that stays defiantly weird.Key Takeaways:1. From Subculture to Global BrandWorld of Wonder built its empire by championing authenticity over mass appeal. Instead of chasing algorithms, they built a streaming platform for passionate fans—and let those fans drive expansion into over a dozen localized Drag Race editions worldwide.2. DTC Before DTC Was CoolLong before YouTube or Netflix, WOW pioneered a direct-to-consumer model on Manhattan Cable in the early 1990s—building a loyal audience through raw, participatory storytelling that bypassed traditional TV gatekeepers. That same spirit lives on in WOW Presents Plus, which now connects millions of subscribers directly to the creators and culture they love.3. The Power of Ownership and Community WOW’s success comes from owning its IP and nurturing a direct-to-fan relationship. By combining strong brand identity, event culture, and social storytelling, the company has created a flywheel that sustains both fandom and revenue across platforms and formats.4. Streaming Against the Grain While major platforms chase scale, WOW proves that specificity is the new mainstream. Their model rooted in community, creativity, and unapologetic individuality shows how small, focused streamers can thrive even as the broader industry consolidates.5. A Blueprint for Creator-Led MediaBailey and Barbato’s approach blurs the line between creator and audience. By empowering talent and fans alike, WOW Presents Plus anticipates a media future where participation, not programming, drives value.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcastFenton Bailey - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fenton-bailey-4270204/Randy Barbato - https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-barbato-866a1146/World of Wonder - https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-of-wonder/ (00:00) - Chapter 1 (00:00) - The Origins of Drag Race (01:14) - Meeting the Founders of World of Wonder (01:59) - The Early Days: Film School and Beyond (03:58) - Starting World of Wonder (06:10) - From Public Access to Channel 4 (10:19) - The Rise of RuPaul (17:36) - Creating Drag Race (23:08) - International Success and Adaptations (30:56) - The Early Days of Newsletters and Online Communities (31:21) - The Rise of RuPaul's Drag Race and Direct-to-Consumer Strategy (32:33) - The Genesis of WOW Presents Plus (35:11) - Challenges and Successes of WOW Presents Plus (37:28) - New Projects and Collaborations (48:56) - Advice for Producers and the Future of Media (58:43) - Conclusion and Gratitude

Jimmy Kimmel is at the center of the conversation where politics, free speech, and billion-dollar mergers collide.In this episode of the Media Odyssey Podcast, hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet unpack the dramatic suspension and reinstatement of Jimmy Kimmel—a flashpoint that highlights the collision of politics, regulation, and the crumbling power of broadcast TV. Shapiro explains the FCC’s limited authority, why Chair Brendan Carr’s threats crossed constitutional lines, and how Disney’s rapid cave-in to political pressure triggered a fierce backlash.The discussion broadens to late-night’s decline, the chilling precedent for free speech in U.S. broadcasting, and the looming wave of media consolidation involving Paramount, Warner Bros Discovery, and possibly Netflix. Marion draws contrasts with Europe’s regulatory environment, where broadcasters face different pressures but free expression is protected in opposite ways.Key Takeaways:The Kimmel Affair and FCC OverreachKimmel was suspended after discussing how MAGA has used activist Charlie Kirk’s killing for political gain, despite committing no FCC violation. Shapiro details how FCC Chair Brendan Carr, who is aligned with Project 2025 and pending affiliate mergers, used threats to coerce Disney and affiliates into action. The result: a blatant clash between politics and the First Amendment, costing Disney billions in market value before Kimmel’s reinstatement.Broadcast’s Dying GripThe controversy underscored how fragile broadcast TV has become. Kimmel’s late-night audience is under 2 million, dwarfed by his YouTube reach—and by Joe Rogan’s podcast empire. Shapiro argues that Kimmel and others should abandon dying formats and embrace direct-to-consumer platforms where free speech and financial upside are greater. Marion warns that it is not an easy, overnight transition. Media Oligarchs and ConsolidationThe hosts connect Kimmel’s ordeal to broader maneuvers by billionaires like Larry and David Ellison, whose influence over FCC approvals and mergers (Paramount-Skydance, Warner Bros Discovery) shows how free speech is increasingly transactional. Late-night hosts like Colbert and Oliver may be next in line as consolidation reshapes who controls the cultural narrative.Europe’s Contrasting PathMarion highlights how European regulators tackle misconduct differently—punishing hosts who spread disinformation or incite harm, rather than silencing dissent. The comparison underscores a widening gap: in the U.S., politics is shrinking the space for speech on broadcast, while in Europe, regulation is trying to protect it.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcast (00:00) - Introduction and Episode Overview (01:05) - Jimmy Kimmel Controversy Explained (03:43) - FCC Regulations and Enforcement (08:40) - Impact and Backlash (11:24) - Comparisons with Other Media Figures (16:36) - Jimmy Kimmel's Return and Future Speculations (22:55) - Broader Implications on Free Speech (24:34) - Controversial TV Hosts and Their Impact (26:52) - Success Stories of Media Personalities (31:02) - The Future of Public Broadcasting (32:26) - Media Mergers and Acquisitions (41:28) - The Decline of Broadcast TV (47:01) - Concluding Thoughts on Media Evolution

In this episode of the Media Odyssey Podcast, hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet record live from IBC with Simon Farnsworth (ITV) and Adde Granberg (SVT), two CTOs (or as they call it, “Chief Transformation Officers”) reshaping European public broadcasting. The conversation explores how legacy broadcasters can adapt to a digital-first, fragmented world while facing off against trillion-dollar tech giants.They discuss the shift from “doing digital” to “being digital,” how generative AI and cloud-based workflows can unlock beyond-human-scale production, and the biggest challenge broadcast is facing is mindset. Both guests stress that the real battle is cultural, not technical: broadcasters must abandon outdated standards, embrace platforms like YouTube and TikTok, and put audience needs, not legacy processes, at the center.Key Takeaways:From Tech to TransformationFor Farnsworth and Granberg, a CTO’s role is less about gadgets and more about changing mindsets—translating the power of technology to boards and teams, and shifting organizations from “doing digital” to truly “being digital.”Cloud, AI, and Beyond-Human ScaleGenerative AI, cloud production, and 5G enable content creation and distribution at scales humans can’t manage alone. From using AI to cast Love Island more efficiently, to producing Sweden’s iconic Vasaloppet ski race with drones over 5G, both ITV and SVT show how tech can cut costs, lower carbon footprints, and improve the creative product.Break the Walled GardensToo many broadcasters still cling to the idea that their own platform is the only destination. Farnsworth argues that distribution on YouTube, TikTok, and even Disney+ is additive, not cannibalistic—and essential to reaching younger audiences.Mindset Over StandardsThe biggest barrier isn’t tech, it’s culture. Both CTOs stress the need to ditch outdated broadcast standards and industry obsessions with hardware, replacing them with audience-first, software-driven, cross-platform strategies. Without this shift, public broadcasters risk irrelevance.Collaboration or DeclineEurope’s broadcasters must collaborate more deeply, from projects like Freely in the UK to shared production and distribution tools. Competing with “death stars” like Google, Amazon, and TikTok requires pooling resources, not building new silos.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcastSimon Farnsworth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-farnsworth-26521253/ Adde Granberg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/addegranberg/?originalSubdomain=se  (00:00) - Introduction to Media Odyssey Podcast (00:08) - What is IBC? (00:56) - Marianne's IBC Experience (01:36) - Generational Divide in Media (04:59) - The Affinity Economy (06:15) - Redefining Broadcasting (07:35) - Introduction to Whale TV (08:03) - Whale TV's White Label Journey (09:44) - The Shift to Streaming (11:39) - Whale TV's Business Model (19:48) - Whale TV Plus Explained (21:59) - Advertisers and Connected TV Challenges (22:32) - Whale TV's Unique Advertising Opportunities (23:59) - Emerging Advertising Categories (25:34) - Balancing User Experience and Monetization (26:03) - Innovative Ad Formats (29:25) - Global Reach and Collaboration (30:56) - Industry Challenges and Future Directions (36:41) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In a special episode recorded live from IBC in Amsterdam, the Media Odyssey Podcast brings together hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet with Whale TV’s Teresa Lopez and Chris Hock. Once a white-label operating system hidden inside millions of TVs, Whale TV has rebranded and stepped into the spotlight. The discussion dives into the shifting economics of TV hardware, why operating systems are now the key battleground for audience attention, and how Whale TV’s profit-sharing model, Whale TV Profit Sharing, offers a different path than big tech rivals.The group also explores broader industry themes—from Europe’s need for greater collaboration, to the generational divides slowing change, to the critical role of user experience in Connected TV.Key Takeaways:From White Label to Global BrandFormerly known as Zeasn, Whale TV powered tens of millions of smart TVs without consumers even knowing. With 44M monthly active TVs worldwide, Whale TV has rebranded to claim its space, offering not just a Connected TV OS but also Whale TV Plus, a FAST service integrated directly into the home screen.Whale Profit Sharing (WPS)Instead of charging TV makers upfront, Whale TV gives its OS away for free and shares revenue on the backend. OEM partners get cash bounties upfront and recurring revenue streams as advertising and subscriptions flow in. This partnership model contrasts sharply with big tech’s “take it all” approach.Advertising at the Heart of the Living RoomWhale TV positions the TV home screen, and the living room as a whole, as the most valuable real estate in media. With innovative ad formats—pause ads, L-shapes, and integrated discovery units—it promises advertisers premium inventory without breaking the viewer experience. Categories from luxury goods to QSRs are already leaning in.4. Collaboration vs. FragmentationBoth hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro and Whale TV execs stress that the industry suffers from too many competing OS platforms and a lack of collaboration. Whether across generations, broadcasters, or tech providers, success will depend on cooperation, shared standards, and smarter creative—not just piling on new players.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcastTeresa Lopez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresa-alonso-l%C3%B3pez-4a22bb94/Chris Hock: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrishock/Whale TV: https://www.linkedin.com/company/whaletv/ (00:00) - Introduction to Media Odyssey Podcast (00:08) - What is IBC? (00:56) - Marianne's IBC Experience (01:36) - Generational Divide in Media (04:59) - The Affinity Economy (06:15) - Redefining Broadcasting (07:35) - Introduction to Whale TV (08:03) - Whale TV's White Label Journey (09:44) - The Shift to Streaming (11:39) - Whale TV's Business Model (19:48) - Whale TV Plus Explained (21:59) - Advertisers and Connected TV Challenges (22:32) - Whale TV's Unique Advertising Opportunities (23:59) - Emerging Advertising Categories (25:34) - Balancing User Experience and Monetization (26:03) - Innovative Ad Formats (29:25) - Global Reach and Collaboration (30:56) - Industry Challenges and Future Directions (36:41) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

After raising $55M in commitments in just 18 days, Angel is ringing the bell on Wall Street and the three founding brothers come on this special episode of The Media Odyssey Podcast for the first time ever! In this episode, hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet sit down with the Harmon brothers—Neal, Jeff, and Jordan, founders of Angel—to explore how they’ve turned an outsider’s vision into one of the most disruptive forces in global entertainment. What started as a family-driven mission to create values-based content has evolved into a studio powered by its audience, financed by its community, and structured to give creators a fairer share of success.The conversation unpacks Angel’s radically different approach to greenlighting, where fans—not executives—decide which films and series move forward. It dives into how the studio has managed to outperform industry peers at the box office without relying on nine-figure budgets, and how its data-driven distribution gives it a marketing edge even the majors haven’t built. Along the way, the Harmons share why they believe cinema is still central to culture, how Angel is preparing to go public under ticker ANGX, and what a future of truly community-owned media could look like.Key Takeaways: TakeawaysTakeawaysGoing Public TodayAngel officially lists under ticker ANGX, marking a major milestone in its journey from a community-funded experiment to a fully public studio. This IPO signals not just growth, but the next step in building a media company owned and guided by its audience, with a model that blends traditional box office, streaming, and fan-driven funding.From Fans to GatekeepersAngel’s 1.5M+ Guild members vote on which projects get made, flipping the Hollywood power structure on its head. This audience-led model ensures that projects are chosen by the very people most likely to support them, resulting in a slate that consistently resonates and drives strong audience scores.Sustainable Box Office HitsWith $416M in box office revenue from just 12 films, Angel is outperforming competitors like A24 on a per-film basis. Instead of chasing tentpole blockbusters, they’ve built a strategy around steady, profitable “base hits” in the $5M–$30M range—proof that community support and precision marketing can rival studio scale.A Fairer Deal for CreatorsAngel offers filmmakers a two-thirds profit share, transparent reporting, and no hidden fees. By rejecting Hollywood’s opaque accounting and Netflix’s cost-plus model, Angel has created an environment where efficiency is rewarded and creators share directly in the upside of their work.Data as a SuperpowerThrough direct integrations with 90% of U.S. exhibitors, Angel gets real-time box office data—something no other studio has secured. This allows them to target only the audiences most likely to engage, cutting waste and maximizing impact. It’s a technological edge that turns limited budgets into outsized results.TMO listeners can receive 20% off Angel's subscription streaming service! http://www.angel.com/TheMediaOdysseyRead much more about Angel HERE. Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcastNeal Harmon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nealharmon/Jeff Harmon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreyharmon/Jordan Harmon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanharmon/ (00:00) - Introduction to the Media Odyssey Podcast (00:12) - Spotlight on Angel (00:35) - Marion's First Encounter with Angel (00:51) - The Future of Independent Film (01:30) - How Angel Came to the Podcast (02:08) - Meet the Founders of Angel (02:50) - The Origin Story of Angel (04:14) - From Marketing to Media: The Early Days (08:05) - Crowdfunding and Community Building (10:00) - The Angel Guild and Audience Involvement (11:03) - Innovative Fundraising and Distribution Strategies (18:04) - Building a Tech-Driven Media Platform (20:03) - Empowering Employees and Encouraging Innovation (24:37) - The Wisdom of the Guild: Audience-Driven Content (29:59) - Box Office Success and Data-Driven Decisions (35:07) - The Importance of Theaters in Cultural Conversations (35:57) - The Power of Community in Cinema (36:27) - Theater vs. Streaming: A Unique Experience (37:33) - Angel's Release Strategy (38:30) - Subscription and Membership Benefits (39:29) - Series and Future Projects (41:41) - Going Public: The Journey and Vision (51:19) - Innovative Filmmaking Model (58:14) - International Expansion and Future Plans (01:03:07) - Conclusion and Reflections

Welcome back to the Media Odyssey Podcast!In the first episode of Season 2, hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro return from summer break to unpack the biggest stories shaping the media landscape on both sides of the Atlantic. They cover everything from NBCUniversal’s cable spin-off and MSNBC rebrand, to European consolidation led by MFE and ProSiebenSat.1, and the growing dominance of YouTube on TV screens. They also examine Roku’s pivot into subscription video and debate who should take the reins as Channel 4’s next CEO.Key Takeaways:1. NBCUniversal’s Strategy VacuumEvan critiques Comcast/NBCUniversal’s decision to spin off cable networks into a new entity, Versant, and rebrand MSNBC as “MSNow”—calling it mismanaged, brand-confusing, and emblematic of leadership by “nepo babies” failing upwards. He recalls their costly misstep with The Office and Netflix, underscoring the company’s lack of coherent long-term strategy.“Nepo baby” is shorthand for industry leaders who inherit power or rise through connections rather than merit. In this case, Evan points to executives like Comcast CEO Brian Roberts as examples of privilege trumping strategy.2. The “Kill List” Era of Media LayoffsAt Paramount, new president Jeff Shell used the term “kill list” to describe a planned round of 3,000 layoffs. Evan calls this emblematic of poor leadership, where executives fail upward while employees bear the brunt of their mistakes. Marion and Evan stress that professionals must prepare for disruption by owning their personal brands on platforms like LinkedIn and being ready to pivot careers.3. European Media Consolidation AcceleratesMarion highlights MFE’s (Media for Europe) successful bid to take majority control of ProSiebenSat.1. This move positions MFE as a pan-European broadcaster across Italy, Spain, and Germany. While cultural differences and political scrutiny present execution challenges, the consolidation trend mirrors moves in the U.S. and could expand further to markets like the UK and France.4. YouTube’s Growing Share of TV ViewingYouTube now accounts for 13.5% of all U.S. television viewing, surpassing Disney and closing in on broadcast combined. In the UK, BARB’s first YouTube channel measurement shows Peppa Pig leading, with MrBeast also ranking high. The hosts debate whether YouTube should be seen as “TV” and stress that broadcasters must adapt and embrace YouTube as a distribution and monetization platform rather than resisting it.5. Roku Experiments with Subscription VideoRoku has launched a low-cost $3 SVOD alongside its free Roku Channel, a diversification play as advertising headwinds grow. The hosts note that much of the content overlaps with free offerings, raising questions about strategy, but agree it reflects the need for multi-revenue models in today’s market.6. Who Should Lead Channel 4?With CEO Alex Mahon stepping down, Marion and Evan propose successors ranging from internal candidate Jonathan Allan to YouTube leaders Pedro Pina and Alison Lomax, as well as BBC’s Jasmine Dawson. Their picks emphasize the need for a digital-native, next-generation leader to future-proof Channel 4.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/The Media Odyssey Podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-media-odyssey-podcast (00:00) - Introduction to Season Two (00:03) - Summer News Highlights (00:57) - YouTube's Rising Dominance (01:33) - Channel Four's Leadership Vacancy (02:07) - Welcome Back to the Media Odyssey Podcast (02:46) - Summer Break Recap (03:29) - Upcoming Events and Presentations (05:24) - Exciting Season Ahead (06:17) - MSNBC Rebranding Discussion (14:52) - European Media Consolidation (21:22) - YouTube's Television Impact (25:17) - YouTube TV's Impact on Traditional Networks (25:41) - Predictions for YouTube's Future Dominance (26:17) - The Role of YouTube in the Media Ecosystem (28:18) - Barb's Measurement of YouTube Channels (31:54) - Challenges and Opportunities for Advertisers on YouTube (37:11) - Roku's Evolution and Strategy (40:20) - Speculations on Channel 4's Next CEO (45:42) - Podcast Wrap-Up and Future Plans

Some quotes are memorable because they’re insightful, others because they come on a tin coffee cup.Welcome to the season finale of The Media Odyssey Podcast, where hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro close out season one by sharing their last favorite clips – and the behind-the-scenes stories that came with them. From public spats with self-aware CEOs to surprising platform performance data and perfectly ripe metaphors, this episode is both a celebration of what they’ve learned and a preview of what’s next.A sendoff for a season that redefined how we think about creators, broadcasters, platforms, and the future of television.Key Takeaways:1. Trade Desk’s OS Play Was the Curveball of the YearMarion and Evan revisit their early skepticism about The Trade Desk’s Ventura OS – a move that felt like a left-field land grab. But after a live episode at StreamTV with Ventura chief Matthew Henick, Marion admits she’s convinced. The takeaway: even the boldest tech plays can make sense when they challenge broken systems.2. CBC Proved YouTube and Public Broadcasting Can CoexistPaul McGrath of CBC shares how prioritizing long-form YouTube content not only grew audience and watch time, but surprisingly lifted engagement on their owned streaming service. His key stat: 20% of their content (20+ mins) now drives nearly half of total usage.3. Connected TV Is Fueling Long-Form GrowthWith up to 50% of CBC’s watch time now coming from connected TVs, the myth that YouTube means short-form is unraveling. Long-form is thriving, especially in living room contexts—and for public broadcasters, it’s creating younger, distinct audiences.4. The Loch Ness Monster of Cannibalization Isn’t RealPaul McGrath debunks the long-standing fear that publishing full episodes on YouTube cannibalizes streaming services. The data showed the opposite: cross-platform release boosted both. As Evan puts it, “Everyone talks about it, but no one’s ever seen it.”5. FAST in Europe Has Hit Peak RipenessIn a metaphor that instantly stuck, Ryan Afsha of LG Ads likens the European FAST market to an avocado: “Not yet, not yet, not yet... eat me now, too late.” According to him, 2025 is the sweet spot for content owners and advertisers alike. The window is open and the ecosystem is aligned.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/Newsletters:Marion Ranchet - https://marionranchet.substack.com/Evan Shapiro - https://eshap.substack.com/ (00:00) - Introduction and Welcome (00:46) - Favorite Clips of the Season (01:25) - Trade Desk Controversy (03:05) - Matthew Hannick's Perspective (08:07) - Paul McGrath and CBC's Digital Transformation (10:13) - Impact of Long-Form Content on YouTube (14:10) - Cannibalization Myth Debunked (17:57) - Final Thoughts and Season 2 Teaser

On this special episode of The Media Odyssey Podcast, hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro discuss their favorite moments from Season 1. Evan and Marion select standout clips that capture the biggest themes, surprises, and insights from across the year. It’s a thoughtful, high-energy wrap-up on the state of media through the lens of prediction, collaboration, tech disruption, and creator evolution.This isn’t just a recap, it’s a snapshot of the tectonic shifts reshaping the global content economy, from bundling to content discovery to fandom as KPI.Key Takeaways:1. Europe Is Driving Media InnovationIn a moment of validation for Marion’s early prediction that 2024 would be the year of France, the episode revisits a conversation with Bedrock CEO Jonas Engwall. His vision of a shared pan-European tech platform reflects a new path forward: regional collaboration and infrastructure investment over a singular SVOD champion.2. Bundling Is the New Normal, but Not Just for VideoBango’s Anil Malhotra explores how telcos, retailers, and even social media apps are bundling subscriptions in new, creative ways. Gen Z is paying not just for Netflix, but also for AI tools and retail. The subscription economy is no longer just about entertainment; it’s a trillion-dollar convergence.3. Discovery Fatigue Is Real—and FixableContent discovery is one of the industry’s most overlooked problems. Calle Sjönell of Swipefinder shares a startling stat: 20 minutes spent searching per streaming session, with 20% of users giving up entirely. Fixing discovery isn’t a UI tweak—it’s central to retention, monetization, and consumer loyalty.4. Traditional Studios Must Think Like CreatorsThe BBC’s Jasmine Dawson breaks down how a legacy studio can reorient KPIs toward fandom, not views. Alongside creator Amelia Dimoldenberg, she illustrates how creators and institutions alike must evolve together and adopt flexible metrics, platform-specific content, and pure-play IP strategies.5. Media Alignment, Not ChaosDespite the perceived chaos of streaming, Marion and Evan argue that we’re entering a phase of settling and strategic realignment. From France Télévisions teaming with Amazon to platform consolidations and retail bundling, the market is moving from fragmentation to formation.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/Newsletters:Marion Ranchet - https://marionranchet.substack.com/Evan Shapiro - https://eshap.substack.com/ (00:00) - Introduction and Season Highlights (00:36) - Jazz and Podcasting Chemistry (01:11) - Reflecting on the Season (02:11) - Diverse Perspectives and Guest Contributions (03:07) - Favorite Episodes and Clips (06:22) - European Media Innovations (17:58) - Content Discovery Challenges (24:58) - Creator Economy Insights (29:45) - Conclusion and Next Episode Tease