#mediasnack

In this episode of #MediaSnack WINNERS, Tom Denford is joined by Fredrik Borestrom, President of the International Advertising Association (IAA) and a trusted voice in the global media and marketing community. With over 25 years of leadership experience at LinkedIn, Microsoft, and AOL, Fredrik brings a sharp, international perspective on the future of marketing.Tom and Fredrik explore what the rest of the world can learn from Nordic markets — some of the most tech-forward and transparent media landscapes anywhere. They also dig into the gaps in measurement and why trust in the agency model is eroding. Fredrik shares his vision for developing the next generation of industry leaders and why local insights still matter more than ever, even in an AI-driven, global marketplace.Learn more about IAA Global: https://iaaglobal.org Want to stay ahead in media? Visit https://www.idcomms.com Follow ID Comms on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/id-comms/

The media agency landscape has entered a true Red Ocean moment — consolidation, chaos, and disruption everywhere you look. The Omnicom–IPG merger is approaching the finish line, Dentsu is dealing with a damaging cyber breach, Publicis is surging ahead thanks to aggressive AI investment, and WPP just bet $400M on Google to catch up. The stakes have never been higher for marketers deciding who to trust with their media, their data, and their future.In this episode of #MediaSnack, Tom and David break down the latest power shifts — from agency M&A to the AI arms race — and explain what this means for brands. They outline how advertisers can protect themselves from data-security risks, avoid being collateral damage during massive agency restructures, and ensure that AI and technology actually drive growth instead of adding complexity.Most importantly, they reveal the critical clauses every marketer needs in their agency contracts to safeguard first-party data and limit legal liability. If your agency touches y

In this episode of #MediaSnack WINNERS, Tom Denford is joined by Greg Stuart, CEO of MMA Global and one of the most influential figures in modern marketing. Greg has led two of the industry’s biggest trade association turnarounds—the IAB and now MMA—growing revenues, expanding global influence, and reshaping how CMOs and marketers elevate their impact.They explore the legacy-shaping initiatives Greg has spearheaded, from co-founding multi-touch attribution to writing the digital viewability standard, and why he believes marketers are still “destroying value at epic proportions” by executing media strategies poorly. Greg also opens up about the challenges facing CMOs today, the opportunities in AI, and why learning and applying new technologies is now the ultimate career differentiator.Learn more about MMA Global: https://www.mmaglobal.comWant to stay ahead in media? Visit https://www.idcomms.comFollow ID Comms on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/id-comms/

With Dentsu exploring a sale of its international business and Horizon teaming up with Havas in a new joint venture, the industry faces a pivotal moment. Job cuts, private equity interest, and consolidation are reshaping the second tier of holding companies — raising urgent questions for advertisers about stability, talent, and future-proof operating models.In this episode of #MediaSnack, Tom and David unpack what these moves signal for the future of the agency landscape. They explore why Dentsu’s divestment could open the door to radical new ownership models, what the Horizon–Havas partnership really means, and how advertisers can cut through AI “noise” to focus on the decisions that matter most. Plus, they share practical steps for brands to ask sharper questions, renegotiate smarter terms, and adapt to the shifting market.Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to the “Love Boat”: breakups & hookups 03:12 – Dentsu explores a sale of its international business 09:45 – Who might buy Dentsu? Private equity, consulting

Cindy Rose has officially stepped in as WPP’s new CEO at a pivotal moment for the world’s largest marketing services group. With the company’s share price down 50% since last year, mounting debt, and talent challenges, the stakes couldn’t be higher. But with her tech-driven background at Microsoft, Disney, and Virgin, Cindy brings fresh operational expertise — and potentially a bold blueprint to reinvent WPP’s future.In this episode of #MediaSnack, Tom and David unpack what Cindy’s leadership could mean for advertisers, agencies, and the broader media landscape. They explore whether WPP can transform into a more agile, AI-powered powerhouse — or if this is a setup for a future acquisition. Plus, they share actionable advice for brands on how to renegotiate agency terms and future-proof their operating models in this shifting environment.Timestamps 00:00 – Cindy Rose takes the helm at WPP 04:10 – Why WPP is vulnerable — and undervalued 09:32 – Can Cindy drive real transformation? 15:05 – Breaking silos and reb

In this episode of MediaSnack WINNERS, Tom Denford sits down with Sorin Patilinet, PepsiCo’s Global Marketing Effectiveness Lead and author of Marketing Effectiveness: Applying Marketing Science for Brand Growth. Sorin shares his mission to elevate marketing's role in the boardroom by challenging narrow definitions of effectiveness and showing how real impact extends far beyond media ROI. Drawing on his 20-year career at Mars and now PepsiCo, he explains how brands can build stronger marketing organizations through rigorous measurement, cross-functional alignment, and analytical confidence—not just creativity.They discuss the current state of marketing effectiveness, how AI is shaping analytics, and why understanding consumers matters more than obsessing over CPMs. Sorin also reflects on his legacy at Mars, the need for advertiser voices in industry discourse, and offers advice for future marketing leaders.Get Sorin’s Book: Marketing Effectiveness: Applying Marketing Science for Brand Growth https://www.

In this episode of #MediaSnack Winners, Tom Denford sits down with Terence “Terry” Kawaja, Founder & CEO of LUMA Partners, the digital media M&A advisory firm famous for the LUMAscape. With over $300 billion in deal experience, Terry shares how he built a category-defining business at the intersection of media, marketing, and technology—offering strategic advice with a blend of deep industry insight and sharp humor.They explore the three-tier landscape of AI adoption, the return of M&A activity after a three-year trough, and what separates successful companies from the pretenders. Terry also shares why psychology matters more than finance in dealmaking, how to spot real innovation in a sea of hype, and why America’s “innovation flywheel” is its biggest comparative advantage.#MediaSnack is presented by ID Comms, the global media consultancy helping brands achieve better media results.Find Terry Kawaja on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terencekawaja/Learn more about LUMA Partners: https://www

Tom and David map the future of the global media agency landscape, asking a provocative question: who will survive the coming consolidation? With Omnicom poised to acquire IPG and Accenture lurking in the shadows, the industry is entering what they call a “red ocean”—an era of brutal competition, strategic mergers, and existential decisions.In this special episode of MediaSnack, they dissect the business models of the Big Three (Omnicom, WPP, Publicis), challenge the strategic positioning of smaller players like Stagwell and Havas, and predict whether Accenture might make a bold acquisition play that reshapes the category entirely. From platform power plays to exclusive content deals with brands like NFL and Netflix, Tom and David make sharp predictions for the next 12 months—and the next five years.In this conversation, you’ll hear:What the Omnicom–IPG deal signals about agency consolidationWhy WPP may be undervalued—and a prime targetHow principal-based buying is reshaping agency business modelsWhat smaller

Cindy Rose is stepping in as WPP’s new CEO — and with the holding group’s share price at a 16-year low and recent client losses piling up, this isn’t just a leadership change — it’s an inflection point. Tom and David break down what her appointment really signals: a shift toward AI-led operational transformation — and what that means for creativity, agencies, and advertisers alike. Drawing from their inside knowledge of WPP, they explore whether Rose can leapfrog the competition or if this is simply a safe, stabilizing move for a leaking ship. In this episode, you’ll hear: What Cindy Rose’s hiring really says about WPP’s future Why “leapfrog time” means moving beyond catch-up strategy The legacy of Mark Read and where he fell short What’s at stake for agencies in a red ocean landscape A candid look at whether creativity will still matter in an AI-led WPP #MediaSnack is presented by ID Comms, the global media consultancy helping brands achieve better media results. Want to stay ahead in media? Visit https://ww

Back from the Croisette, Tom shares his first-hand takeaways from Cannes Lions 2025 with David. While the festival had all the usual glamor and platform presence, this year’s true themes came down to three A’s: Appreciation for the power of community, a renewed focus on Agencies and their evolving role, and the real-world applications (and noise) surrounding AI. Together, they unpack what stood out, what fell flat, and what media leaders should really be paying attention to as the second half of the year kicks off.00:00 – Setting the Stage: Why Cannes Still Matters03:32 – Appreciation: The Role of Creativity and Craft07:29 – Agencies: Still Central to Media’s Future13:48 – AI: From Sizzle to Substance18:15 – Final Reflections and What Comes Next#MediaSnack is presented by ID Comms, the global media consultancy helping brands achieve better media results.Related links:The New Vibe: Cannes 2025 and the Evolving Landscape of Agency and AI https://www.idcomms.com/blog/the-new-vibe-cannes-2025-and-the-evolving-lan

In this special #MediaSnack episode, Tom Denford and David Indo revisit one of their boldest predictions: the WPP 2.0 Playbook. Originally recorded when Mark Read stepped in as CEO, the episode laid out a proposed restructure of WPP’s sprawling agency network. Now, with major changes finally underway—including the retirement of the GroupM brand—Tom and David break down what they got right, where they missed, and what it all means for media leaders today. It’s a rare moment of reflection in an industry that’s always sprinting forward—plus insight into how the same themes now shape the Omnicom-IPG merger and the future of agency holding companies.Watch the original WPP 2.0 Playbook episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSdrpMylNrEHow to Navigate Media Chaos and Come Out Ahead: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXT0eLAI4KAWhy a Renegotiation Might Be Your Next Winning Move: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWR5nZkgndM#MediaSnack is presented by ID Comms, the global media consultancy helping brands achieve better

In this episode of #MediaSnack MEETS, Tom Denford and Mark Ritson discuss: The state of media and advertising today—and why marketers are getting it wrong The power of consistency and why sticking with what works beats chasing the new Why too much change is killing marketing effectiveness #MediaSnack is presented by ID Comms, the global media consultancy helping brands achieve better media results.Mark Ritson Mini MBA: https://mba.marketingweek.com/?cmpid=... Want to stay ahead in media? Visit https://www.idcomms.com/ Follow ID Comms on LinkedIn:   / id-comms  

As the Omnicom-IPG merger continues to reshape the media landscape, Tom Denford and David Indo return with critical insights for advertisers. In this episode of #MediaSnack, they explore how the traditional agency model is shifting from service to sales, and why advertisers need to rethink their media strategies now. They break down how to update contracts, renegotiate for better value, and protect agency relationships in a post-merger world. In the How to Win segment, they reveal how even big brands are losing competitive advantage by relying on outdated media auditing and platform-driven results, and what smart marketers must do to take control, boost outcomes, and future-proof their investments.00:14 – How Not to LoseWhy media agencies are moving from service to salesWhat advertisers must renegotiate in 2025 contractsHow to protect your brand’s talent and agency relationships10:05 – How to WinWhy big spenders are seeing small resultsThe three hidden risks hurting media performanceHow smarter audit strategi

In this episode of #MediaSnack Meets, Tom Denford sits down with Vinny Rinaldi, VP of Media and Marketing Technology at The Hershey Company, where he oversees media planning, buying, martech, and digital innovation across one of the world’s most iconic brand portfolios. Vinny shares what it takes to build a high-performing, forward-thinking media function inside a modern CPG organization—and why success comes down to aligning media strategy with real business goals. They explore the biggest challenges facing marketers today, from the myth of cheap reach to the need for effectiveness-focused measurement. Vinny also reflects on taking the leap from agency to client-side leadership, shares advice on patience and curiosity, and explains why redefining partnerships will be key to the industry's future. 00:30 – Meet Vinny Rinaldi 01:04 – What Vinny Does at Hershey 03:17 – How to Succeed in Modern Media 07:31 – Big Challenges in Media Today 09:49 – Solve Business Problems, Not Media Problems 10:45 – Leadership

As the media industry braces for the impact of the Omnicom-IPG merger, advertisers face a shifting landscape filled with both risk and opportunity. In this episode of #MediaSnack, Tom and David unpack the real implications of the merger—whether you're with Omnicom, IPG, or any other agency group. They introduce a practical four-quadrant framework to help advertisers understand where they stand and what actions to take. Then, in the How to Win segment, they tackle why brands need to shift their thinking from chasing cheap media to prioritizing quality and effectiveness—and how to stress-test your agency relationships and audit practices to make smarter media decisions in 2025 and beyond.01:04 – How Not to LoseWhat the Omnicom-IPG merger means for advertisers of all typesA strategic framework for navigating uncertaintyWhy most advertisers should renegotiate—not pitch12:04 – How to WinHow to avoid the hidden costs of cheap mediaModern media audit strategies that actually workWhy effectiveness—not discount—i

In this episode of #MediaSnack Meets, Tom Denford sits down with DJ Perera, Chief Media Officer at the Ad Council, the nonprofit behind some of the most iconic social impact campaigns in the U.S. With a background in both agency and corporate media, DJ brings a unique perspective to what it takes to build high-impact, message-driven campaigns in today’s evolving media environment. She shares insights on navigating the shift from commercial to purpose-driven media, how to drive results with donated inventory, and what media leaders can learn from the nonprofit world. DJ also reflects on the launch of Love Your Mind World—an innovative mental health campaign on Roblox—and offers thoughtful advice on leadership, change, and finding joy in the work. 00:00 - DJ’s Role at the Ad Council02:14 - Career Highlights and Big Wins 03:55 - Challenges in the Media Industry 05:23 - Leadership and Career Advice 06:46 - Outside the Office 07:32 - Looking Ahead #MediaSnack is presented by ID Comms, the global media consultancy

The biggest media deal in a decade is here—Omnicom’s proposed $13 billion acquisition of IPG—and it’s set to reshape the industry. In this episode of #MediaSnack, Tom Denford and David Indo break down what this consolidation means for advertisers, agencies, and media buying power. With exclusive insights from a private meeting with Omnicom and IPG leadership, they unpack the risks, opportunities, and strategies advertisers should consider as the industry braces for change. Plus, in our #MediaSnack Meets segment, marketing legend Mark Ritson shares his no-BS take on why marketers are addicted to change, why it’s hurting them, and what they should do instead.01:15 - How Not to Lose    -What the Omnicom-IPG merger means for advertisers and media buying power    -Key regulatory hurdles and potential industry ripple effects    -What non-Omnicom/IPG clients should be doing right now12:50 - How to Win    -How brands can leverage industry consolidation for better deals    -Key negotiation strategies in a competitive

#MediaSnack is BACK and better than ever with #MediaSnack WINNING ✨Tom and David are returning to share the next evolution of our podcast, designed to help you stay ahead, make smarter decisions, and, most importantly, win in media.Each episode, we'll break it down into three key segments:

Evan Shapiro, Owner and Media Cartographer at ESHAP, joins Tom this week to unpack his biggest insights, challenges, and advice for media teams in 2025.--Links:Follow Evan on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/ --Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe to #MediaSnack for more insights and actions for more effective media.Don’t forget to leave a review and follow us to stay updated with the latest episodes.

MediaSnack’s most anticipated episode is BACK for 2024!Tom and David review this year’s 10 biggest moments in media and predict what’s to come for brands and agencies in 2025.--LinksWhat the Omnicom-IPG Merger Means for Advertisers: https://www.idcomms.com/blog/what-the-omnicom-ipg-merger-means-for-advertisers--Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe to #MediaSnack for more insights and actions for more effective media.Don’t forget to leave a review and follow us to stay updated with the latest episodes.