Explore every episode of the podcast The IAB UK Podcast

Gaming is part of mainstream culture, but what will it take for media plans to catch up? In the first of two episodes recorded at IAB UK’s Gaming Upfronts, Robert Jeromson speaks to Overwolf and ESL FACEIT Group about the opportunities for brands to connect with audiences through play.

First, Overwolf’s Nathan Lindberg, VP of Brand Partnerships, explores the world of PC gaming, from the creators building mods and in-game tools to the audience insights helping advertisers challenge outdated stereotypes. He discusses how brands can support experiences players value and find their audiences within gaming.

Then, ESL FACEIT Group's Dominic Grant, Director of Advertising Sales EMEA & Veronica Stevenson, Advertising Sales Lead, share why listening, consistency and trust matter when engaging esports communities. With DHL’s partnership as a case study, the conversation explores how brands can become part of gaming culture and turn community connections into business results.

From rewarding players to building long-term partnerships, this episode asks how advertisers can earn their place in gaming.

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As AI reshapes digital advertising, can the industry turn greater automation into better business outcomes? In episode six of the Ad Tech Podcast, Adlook’s Luca Filardo joins us to discuss what the next chapter of programmatic could look like.

Drawing on experience across both the buy and sell sides, Luca explores how AI is changing contextual targeting, streamlining campaign management and blurring the boundaries between DSPs and SSPs. He makes the case for a simpler, more connected advertising ecosystem that helps the open web compete with walled gardens, with effectiveness at its centre.

We also discuss the potential of agentic buying, where human judgement and relationships remain essential, and what Luca’s move from the UK to the US has revealed about working across markets.

Plus, the team unpacks the implications of Apple’s browser changes for publishers and identity solutions, and explores how IAB Tech Lab’s Trusted Server initiative could give publishers greater control over their advertising infrastructure.

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Commerce media has become one of the fastest-growing areas of digital advertising, but is it time to think bigger?

In this episode of the IAB UK Podcast, James Chandler is joined by Denise Breslin, IAB UK's new Commerce Media Lead, and David Fieldhouse, Commerce, Media & Innovation Lead at WPP Media, to discuss why the industry is moving beyond the term retail media and embracing the broader opportunity of commerce media.

Together they explore how first-party transactional data is opening up new opportunities far beyond traditional retail, with sectors including travel, finance and marketplaces all becoming powerful commerce media players. They discuss the challenges of fragmentation, the need for better measurement and standards, and why the convergence of brand and commerce is changing the way advertisers think about media investment.

The conversation also looks ahead to the role AI will play in commerce media, from predictive modelling and agentic shopping to the growing importance of data collaboration. Plus, they consider where the UK sits on the global stage, why London continues to drive innovation, and what the next 12 months could hold for one of advertising's fastest-evolving disciplines.

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The UK digital advertising market reached £21.2 billion in the first half of the year, but the biggest story isn't just how much was spent, it's where that investment is going and what it says about the future of advertising.

In this episode of the IAB UK Podcast, James Chandler is joined by Adam Edelshain, VP of Client Services at Media Sense, and IAB UK's Elizabeth Lane, Head of Insights, to unpack the latest IAB UK Digital Adspend report. Together they explore the trends shaping today's market, from the continued rise of retail media and the rapid growth of TV+, to the increasing dominance of programmatic advertising and why digital investment continues to grow despite ongoing economic pressures.

The conversation also looks ahead to what a £50 billion UK digital advertising market could look like by 2027, how AI is changing not only the way campaigns are created and optimised but also the way people discover and choose products, and why the boundaries between channels are becoming increasingly blurred. If you want to understand where digital advertising is heading next, this episode offers an insightful look beyond the headline figures.

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AI isn't just making advertising smarter—it's making it simpler.

In this episode of the IAB UK Ad Tech Podcast, Alex is joined by Tom Laband, CEO & Co-founder of Adsquare, and Luc Benyon, Head of Marketing, to explore how AI is transforming audience intelligence, campaign planning and media activation. From conversational interfaces that replace complex workflows to AI-powered audience modelling built around the IAB Audience Taxonomy, they discuss how technology is helping advertisers spend less time navigating platforms and more time making informed decisions.

Plus, the team rounds up the latest developments in ad tech, including AMP 3.0, Amazon's latest AI announcements, conversational advertising and what the rise of agentic technologies could mean for the future of programmatic advertising.

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After a decade of ranking the world’s Best Cities, Time Out welcomed Intrepid Travel as the franchise’s first commercial partner. What made it the right match, and what can other brands learn from their approach?

James Chandler is joined by Hazel McGuire, Chief Marketing Officer at Intrepid Travel, and Gareth Thomas, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Time Out, to explore how the collaboration came together and what each organisation brings to the relationship.

From choosing partners with shared values to protecting editorial independence, they discuss the decisions behind the partnership, the role of personal relationships and how to build lasting commercial value.

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What does digital advertising’s £175 billion contribution to the UK economy look like beyond the headlines?

James Chandler is joined by Sinead Coogan Jobes, Head of Policy & Public Affairs at IAB UK, and Neil Ross, Partner and Head of Practice for Tech, Media and Telecoms at Public First, to explore the Powering Growth report.

From helping small businesses find customers to supporting growth across the UK’s regions, they discuss how digital advertising creates economic value and the barriers preventing businesses from making the most of it. They also examine AI’s role in the industry’s evolution and how creator marketing, retail media and TV+ could open up new opportunities.

Looking ahead to 2035, the conversation explores the report’s possible growth paths and what government and industry should prioritise to realise digital advertising’s potential.

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AI is changing the way advertisers discover, package and optimise inventory, but what does that actually mean for buyers, publishers and the wider ad tech ecosystem?

In this episode of the IAB UK Ad Tech Podcast, Pat is joined by Alexandra Balashoiu, Chief Product Officer at OneTag, to unpack the next evolution of programmatic curation. Together they explore how AI is helping move curation beyond simple inventory packaging and towards outcome-driven decisioning, where real-time signals, media quality and advertiser objectives work together to deliver better campaign performance. 

Plus, Pat, Joe & Alex round up the latest ad tech news, discussing Amazon DSP's adoption of VAST 4, the growing importance of creative identifiers, and the role creators are playing in helping AI companies build trust with audiences. 

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AI is reshaping every corner of advertising, but what does that mean for the publishers whose content underpins the open web?

In this episode of the IAB UK Ad Tech Podcast, Pat is joined by Damon Reeve, CEO of Ozone, to explore how AI is changing the ad tech landscape and the role publishers will play in its next chapter.

Together they discuss the industry's biggest AI conversations, Ozone's approach to innovation, and why ensuring publishers remain at the heart of the ecosystem is essential as advertising continues to evolve. The conversation explores how technology can unlock new opportunities while protecting the value of trusted, premium content, and why collaboration across the industry will be critical in building an AI-powered future that benefits everyone.

Plus, Alex and Joe round up the latest developments from across the ad tech industry.

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Personas have long been a cornerstone of marketing, but AI is fundamentally changing how they're built, understood and activated.

In this episode of the IAB UK Ad Tech Podcast, Pat is joined by Joe Mountford, Director Of Insights at Crimtan, to explore how AI is redefining audience modelling. Together they discuss the evolution from traditional survey-based personas to AI-powered audience intelligence built on real-time behavioural signals, omnichannel data and statistical modelling. 

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In the inaugural episode of the New Ad Tech Podcast, the team explores the technology and industry developments moving digital advertising forward.

Cadi Jones, SVP, EMEA at Index Exchange, joins the podcast to unpack containerisation, sell-side decisioning and Index Cloud. She explains how bringing custom algorithms and optimisation closer to supply can reduce latency, unlock greater scale and improve cost and carbon efficiency. Cadi also considers why this represents a structural change for programmatic advertising, potentially as significant as the arrival of header bidding, and shares the curiosity, scepticism and human judgement needed to navigate an increasingly AI-powered industry.

Plus, the team discusses some of the recent headlines capturing the attention of the ad tech world, including the release of IAB Tech Lab's AAMP 2.3 and TIME's new plan to show ad to robots.

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In this special season finale, we look back on Season 19 of the IAB UK Podcast, from conversations on agentic AI, retail media and creator marketing to trust, audio innovation, measurement and cruise media.

We also revisit some of the season’s standout moments, including recording live from SXSW London and going behind the scenes at Spotify and Snapchat. Plus, we look ahead to Season 20, launching later this year from IAB UK’s brand-new in-house studio, where episodes will be available to watch as well as listen to.

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In the second episode of the IAB UK Podcast’s summer sports two-parter, we look at how brands can win the moments that matter during one of the biggest cultural events in the world: the World Cup.

Host James Chandler is joined by Andy Baker, Head of Strategy at Footballco, JT Tesfamariam, Content Sales Lead at YouTube, and Emma Newman, Chief Revenue Officer at PubMatic, to explore what it takes for advertisers to stay relevant across a tournament where attention can shift quickly and the conversation extends far beyond the match itself.

With the World Cup expanding to 48 teams, a new round of 32, 104 matches and a longer tournament window, the opportunity for brands is bigger, but so is the competition for attention. This episode looks at how advertisers can balance long-term planning with real-time responsiveness, and why the moments around the game, from creator content and watch-alongs to memes, highlights and cultural conversation, are becoming just as important as the live action.

Together, the guests discuss how younger audiences are engaging with sport through creators and digital personalities, how non-sponsor brands can still show up meaningfully, and how digital media is opening up new ways to tap into major sporting moments without relying solely on official sponsorship.

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In the first episode of our summer sports mini-series, we dive into how major sporting events like the World Cup have evolved into cultural moments that extend far beyond the final whistle.

Host James Chandler is joined by Matt Eschert, Head of Industry at Reddit, Imogen Blackwood, Business Director at Publicis Media, and Paul Lowrey, Director of Solutions Marketing & Enablement at GumGum, to explore how fans engage with sport across social platforms, communities, creators and group chats.

Together, they discuss why some of the most memorable moments happen away from the action itself, how fandom is becoming more accessible to new audiences, and why participation, conversation and community are increasingly shaping the sports experience.

The conversation also looks at how brands are adapting to this changing landscape, from understanding fan sentiment and audience mindset to finding authentic ways to show up during major sporting moments without simply capitalising on them.

Whether you're interested in sport, media, culture or advertising, this episode explores what modern fandom looks like and why the biggest opportunities often exist beyond the game itself.

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In this special episode of the IAB UK Podcast, recorded live from SXSW London, James Chandler is joined by Sir Martin Sorrell for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of advertising, media and technology.

As one of the industry's most influential figures, Sir Martin shares his perspective on the trends reshaping the marketing landscape, from the rapid rise of AI and changing consumer behaviours to the evolving relationship between brands, platforms and agencies.

Together, they discuss the opportunities and challenges facing businesses today, how marketers can navigate an increasingly complex media environment, and what the industry needs to do to remain competitive in an era defined by innovation and disruption.

Recorded live at SXSW London, this episode offers a candid look at where advertising is heading next, and the forces that will shape its future.

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In this episode of the IAB UK Podcast, James Chandler is joined by Jake Thomas, UK General Manager at Snap Inc., to explore how Snapchat has evolved from its early beginnings into a platform that plays a growing role across the entire customer journey.

They discuss the biggest misconceptions that still persist about Snapchat, the unique company culture that helps shape decision-making at Snap, and how the platform has adapted alongside its audience over time.

Jake also shares his perspective on the future of the marketing funnel, why Snapchat is often underestimated as a performance channel, and how innovations in augmented reality and AI-powered lenses are creating new opportunities for brands to engage audiences in more creative and meaningful ways.

From changing audience behaviours to major life milestones and purchase decisions, the conversation explores how brands can show up authentically on Snap and what the platform’s future priorities reveal about the next chapter of digital advertising.

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In this episode of the IAB UK Podcast, James Chandler is joined by Anne-Marie Lavan, CMO at Bauer Media, to unpack the recent rebrand of one of the UK’s most recognisable audio brands: KISS.

From refreshed visuals and unique identities across each KISS channel to the development of a new audio language and a high-profile launch event, the rebrand marks a major evolution for the brand.

Anne-Marie shares the strategic thinking behind the transformation, the challenge of balancing individuality with a cohesive masterbrand, and how the team ensured the changes resonated beyond just aesthetics.

They also discuss the future of audio branding, the role of live experiences in launching a new identity, and the moments that made the whole project feel like a success.

Plus, a look at what this rebrand signals for the future of audio brands more broadly.

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Trust has become one of the advertising industry’s biggest talking points, but what does it actually mean in practice for brands, publishers and audiences?

In this episode of the IAB UK Podcast, Alex Kozloff sits down with Imogen Fox from The Guardian and Theo Luke from The Trade Desk to unpack the relationship between media environments, trust and advertising effectiveness. Together, they explore new research into how context influences the way advertising is received, remembered and believed, and discuss why premium publishers continue to play a critical role in building stronger connections between brands and consumers.

From the commercial value of quality journalism to the tension between scale and responsibility, the conversation examines what it really means for brands to “show up well”, and why trusted environments can drive better outcomes for advertisers.

Whether you’re a marketer, media planner or publisher, this episode offers practical insight into why trust and context should be central to every advertising strategy.

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In this episode of The IAB UK Podcast, James is joined by Cecilia Morelli, Director of Marketing at SXSW London, to explore how one of the world’s most influential festivals is making the leap from Austin to Europe.

From the challenges of launching in a new market to the core idea of 'convergence', where tech, music, film, business and innovation collide, the conversation unpacks what makes SXSW such a unique cultural and creative event.

They also discuss how AI is influencing every discipline represented at the festival, how SXSW is using audience 'excitement points' to evolve the event experience year on year, and what attendees can expect from this year’s line-up of speakers and sessions.

Whether you’re attending for the first time or simply curious about the future of creativity and innovation, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the thinking shaping SXSW London.

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Recorded live at the IAB’s Last Thursday Club, this special episode of Open Web Surgery brings together leading voices from across the industry to explore the evolving role of the open web.

Hosted by IAB’s Pat Hann, the discussion features Joel Livesey (The Trade Desk), Samara Hocihara (The Telegraph) and Max Gold (the7stars), offering a mix of brand, publisher and platform perspectives. Together, they unpack the realities of today’s digital ecosystem — from the challenges facing the open web to the opportunities for collaboration, innovation and growth.

Expect candid conversation, practical insight and a clear view of how different parts of the industry are thinking about what comes next.

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In this episode of the IAB UK Podcast, we explore the rapid rise of retail media, and why it’s become one of the most important areas of innovation in digital advertising.

What began as sponsored product listings and shopper marketing has quickly evolved into something much broader: an ecosystem built on first-party data, customer trust and closer proximity to purchase, with the ability to demonstrate real-world outcomes.

Host James Chandler is joined by Olivia McCullagh, IAB UK’s Retail Media Lead, to unpack what’s driving this growth and how retail media is expanding beyond its performance roots. Together, they discuss how the opportunity grows across on-site, off-site, in-store and emerging channels like CTV, and what this means for brands, retailers and agencies.

The conversation also looks at the challenges ahead, from standards and transparency to measurement and planning, and what the industry needs to address if retail media is to unlock larger, longer-term investment.

If you’re looking to understand where retail media is heading next, and what will separate the leaders from the rest, this episode offers a clear and practical view of the market.

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Host James Chandler is joined by Andy Harmer OBE, Managing Director of the Cruise Lines International Association, and Robertina Tompa, Head of Cruise at Mail Metro Media, to unpack what’s driving this shift and why cruise is becoming an increasingly important growth area for publishers.

The conversation looks at how storytelling is helping to reposition the category, with a focus on Mail Metro Media’s Ship Shape series, and why putting entertainment and editorial thinking first is key to building trust with audiences.

We also explore what “good” publisher storytelling looks like in practice, how success is measured when the goal is changing perceptions rather than driving immediate conversion, and why video is playing a growing role alongside audio in content strategies.

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In this episode of the IAB UK Podcast, we explore Spotify’s latest research, The Sound On Era, and what it reveals about how people are engaging with audio today.

Host James Chandler is joined by Jenny Haggard to unpack the key findings, from the role of trust and personalisation to how “taste” shapes the way ads are delivered and received. Together, they discuss why advertisers may need to rethink audio’s place in the media mix, and what a strong audio strategy looks like in practice.

If you’re looking to better understand attention, engagement and the future of audio, this episode breaks down what The Sound On Era means for advertisers today.

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In this episode of the IAB UK Podcast, we’re joined by Matt Bourn from the Advertising Association to explore the themes behind his new book, Trusted Advertising: How to Harness the Value of Trust in Your Brand.

As trust becomes an increasingly important, and complex, part of the advertising landscape, we unpack how it has evolved over time, what’s shaping consumer attitudes today, and why context, creativity and environment all play a role in building (or eroding) trust.

From the rise of creator marketing to the impact of AI, the conversation looks at how trust operates across the entire ecosystem, and what advertisers should be thinking about if they want to earn and maintain it.

We also discuss the role of industry standards, the challenges of digital environments, and the one key takeaway brands should consider when it comes to building trust in a rapidly changing world.

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Recorded live at IAB UK’s Last Thursday Club, this episode of the IAB UK Podcast dives into one of the industry’s biggest topics: measurement.

Bringing together expert voices from across the industry, the conversation explores how measurement is evolving, the challenges advertisers are facing today, and what better, more meaningful measurement looks like in practice.

Tune in for a candid, in-the-room discussion capturing the energy and insight of the Last Thursday Club.

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In the third and final episode of this IAB UK Podcast mini-series, produced in partnership with Global, we turn to one of the biggest questions facing the industry: how should we measure the impact of audio?

As outcome measurement becomes standard across digital advertising, audio is often assessed using frameworks not built for the medium. This raises important questions about how audio is valued, what success really looks like, and whether a focus on easily measurable metrics risks overlooking its true impact.

Host James Chandler is joined by Sarah Gale (Director of Insight, Data and Outcomes at Global) and Dan Innes-Taylor (Senior Insight and Outcomes Manager) to explore how Global is rethinking measurement for audio, from moving beyond clicks and short-term metrics to better understanding audio’s role across the full funnel in omnichannel campaigns.

Together, they unpack what more effective measurement could look like, and what advertisers should consider when evaluating audio’s contribution to campaign success.

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In the second episode of this special IAB UK Podcast mini-series, produced in partnership with Global, we continue our exploration of the forces shaping the future of advertising and media in the UK.

This episode focuses on Global’s move into integrated video and content experiences, following the launch of Global Studios and its investment in The Overlap Network. We unpack what these developments signal at a strategic level, and how they reflect a broader shift towards content, communities and fandom-driven engagement.

Host James Chandler is joined by Tony McAllister (Commercial Director for Social Video at Global) and Farhann Cachra (Commercial Strategy Director at Global) to discuss why communities, particularly in sport, are such powerful spaces for connection, how brands can move beyond reach to build deeper relationships with audiences, and what this means for the evolving role of audio, video and content-led advertising in the UK.

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In this first episode of a special mini-series from the IAB UK Podcast, produced in partnership with Global, we explore the work shaping the future of advertising and media in the UK.

This episode focuses on the power of communities, and what it really means to connect with audiences in a more human way. Drawing on insights from Global and MG OMD’s Belonging in Britain research, we unpack how people across the UK are finding identity, connection and belonging through shared passions, interests and experiences.

At a time when audiences are often reduced to demographics, this research offers a more nuanced perspective, revealing why communities are such powerful spaces for engagement, and what that means for brands.

Host James Chandler is joined by Ailsa Mackenzie (Global) and Samantha Redmond (MG OMD) to discuss what the research tells us about modern Britain, why the picture may be more optimistic than headlines suggest, and how advertisers can move beyond one-to-one targeting to engage communities in more meaningful ways.

You can download the Belonging in Britain 2026 Key Insights here - https://www.mgomd-belonginginbritain.com/belonging-in-britain-2026

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The IAB UK Leadership Summit is where some of the industry’s most senior leaders come together to step away from the day-to-day and tackle the big questions shaping the future of digital advertising. From AI and innovation to trust, leadership and the changing media landscape, it’s two days of honest conversation, bold thinking and fresh perspective.

In this special episode of The IAB UK Podcast, we went live from the Summit, speaking to a host of industry leaders, speakers and attendees to capture the energy, ideas and debates happening on the ground.

It was so bumper, we’ve split it into two parts.

In Part One, you’ll hear from Amelia Torode (Ogilvy), Shaun Betts (Omnicom), Parmy Olson (Bloomberg), Nick Buckley (The Coca-Cola Company) and Tom Standage (The Economist), sharing their perspectives on leadership, innovation and the forces shaping our industry.

In Part Two, we’re joined by Ugo Monye (broadcaster and former rugby player), Liz Jones (Conker), Julia Clement (Nielsen) and double Olympic gold medallist Lizzy Yarnold, bringing fresh perspectives on performance, storytelling, resilience and partnership.

Expect sharp insights, candid reflections and a real sense of where the industry is heading next, straight from the people shaping it.

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The IAB UK Leadership Summit is where some of the industry’s most senior leaders come together to step away from the day-to-day and tackle the big questions shaping the future of digital advertising. From AI and innovation to trust, leadership and the changing media landscape, it’s two days of honest conversation, bold thinking and fresh perspective.

In this special episode of The IAB UK Podcast, we went live from the Summit, speaking to a host of industry leaders, speakers and attendees to capture the energy, ideas and debates happening on the ground.

It was so bumper, we’ve split it into two parts.

In Part One, you’ll hear from Amelia Torode (Ogilvy), Shaun Betts (Omnicom), Parmy Olson (Bloomberg), Nick Buckley (The Coca-Cola Company) and Tom Standage (The Economist), sharing their perspectives on leadership, innovation and the forces shaping our industry.

In Part Two, we’re joined by Ugo Monye (broadcaster and former rugby player), Liz Jones (Conker), Julia Clement (Nielsen) and double Olympic gold medallist Lizzy Yarnold — bringing fresh perspectives on performance, partnership, resilience and leadership.

Expect sharp insights, candid reflections and a real sense of where the industry is heading next, straight from the people shaping it.

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In this special episode, we sit down with Jen Wong, Global COO (Reddit), to explore the remarkable transformation of one of the internet’s most influential platforms.

Over the past eight years, Jen has played a pivotal role in shaping Reddit’s evolution, from a community-led forum network into a scaled global platform with a rapidly growing advertising business and a renewed focus on brand safety, measurement, and partnerships.

In a wide-ranging conversation, we discuss how Reddit has balanced growth with authenticity, the challenge of monetising community-driven spaces, and what makes Reddit fundamentally different from other social platforms. Jen also shares insights into Reddit’s approach to advertisers, the rise of interest based communities, and how the platform is positioning itself for the next era of the internet.

From culture and community to commerce and creativity, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Reddit has redefined its place in the digital ecosystem, and what comes next for the internet’s self-proclaimed “front page.”

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In this episode of the IAB UK podcast James is joined by Elizabeth Lane (IAB UK) and Jeff Youssef (Oliver Wyman), to unpack the latest findings from the AdSpend report - the official measure of the UK digital advertising market.

Produced by the IAB UK Insights team and in partnership with Oliver Wyman, AdSpend provides the industry’s definitive view of where digital ad investment is flowing. This year’s report breaks spend down across Platform, Retail Media, Video:TV+, Publishing and Audio, offering a clear picture of the market’s health and direction.

If you want to understand where the UK digital ad market is heading, and what it means for your strategy, this episode is for you.

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This special episode is recorded live from unBoxed London 2026, James Chandler (IAB UK) is joined by Jenny Liu (Amazon Ads) to unpack the latest innovation from Amazon Ads, the Creative Agent.

Asad Khan (VodafoneThree) also joins James, to talk about how Amazon Ads DSP has evolved into a powerful programmatic solution.

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Retail and commerce media are growing fast, from retailer networks to shoppable formats across social, video and TV, but with that growth comes new complexity for marketers.

In this episode, we're joined by Tom Richards, SVP of Global Product at MiQ, to explore how audiences now move seamlessly between watching, browsing and buying, often all at once, and why this shift is making the traditional funnel feel increasingly outdated. We unpack what it really means to plan in a channel-agnostic way, why fragmentation and silos have become the bigger challenge than unlocking new channels, and how interoperability is becoming essential for brands trying to drive performance and build long-term growth.

We also look at the role AI can play as connective tissue across retail, digital and CTV data in helping marketers make better decisions, optimise campaigns more effectively, and unlock greater creative agility while activity is still live.

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Programmatic has never been more powerful, or more complex.

Recorded live at Last Thursday Club, this episode brings together Ollie Chadwick (AdsWizz), Layla Soufi (Vistar Media) and Ben O’Mahoney (Ocado Ads) to explore where programmatic really stands today, and what needs to change for it to work better for marketers.

The conversation looks at how programmatic has expanded far beyond display into CTV, audio and retail media, why fragmentation and transparency remain real challenges, and how automation and AI can support better decision-making - not just faster buying.

A candid, in-the-room discussion on the realities of programmatic today, and what the next phase needs to deliver.

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In this episode of the IAB UK podcast, we’re joined by Tony and Jill from IAB Tech Lab, recorded during their visit to the UK for Techtonic, IAB UK’s flagship ad-tech event.

Coming shortly after the launch of the Tech Lab’s Agentic AI Roadmap at CES, the conversation explores what agentic AI means in practical terms and what it signals about how advertising is evolving. Tony shares the thinking behind the roadmap, who across the ecosystem should be paying attention, and how it connects with wider Tech Lab initiatives such as CoMP, focused on publisher engagement with LLMs.

Jill brings a connected TV and premium video perspective, drawing on her work across TV+, the CTV Ad Portfolio, and ECAPI, and discusses the opportunity ahead if the industry aligns - as well as what still needs to mature for CTV to reach its full potential.

Together, they reflect on the pace of change across AI, CTV, measurement and privacy, and where standards make the biggest difference in reducing friction, building trust, and helping the industry move faster.

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Get a head start on 2026 with this special episode of The IAB UK Podcast, recorded live at November's Last Thursday Club. James Chandler is joined by an agency all star line up: Richard Kirk, Chief Strategy Officer at EssenceMediacom UK; Lucy Smith, Head of Search and Ecommerce at JAA Media; and Rosalie Shakir, Strategy Director at the7stars, to explore what will really matter for marketers in the year ahead.

From the pull between performance and brand building to how AI is reshaping search, the trio dig into the trends that count. They also unpack plural media, why communities and culture are becoming central to planning, how sustainability and inclusivity can move from box ticking to business critical, and why better insight, measurement and share of voice data are top of their Christmas lists.

If you'd like to be in the audience for our next live recording, you can sign up for future Last Thursday Club get togethers right now at iabuk.com/events

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Netflix has released its latest Still Watching 2025 research, exploring how audiences stream, discover new content and build their fandoms. In this episode, James speaks to Brogane Colclough, Netflix’s Head of Measurement in the UK, to unpack the findings. They discuss why attention on streaming platforms is so strong, how mood shapes viewing choices, what fans want from brands, and how advertisers can measure success on Netflix Ads today.

Get the full 'Still Watching 2025' report here: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/netflix_still-watching-a-new-global-report-from-activity-7386760745184813056-bIJ_

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What really makes Gen Z tick? In this episode, IAB UK’s Tom Stevens digs into LADbible Group’s new Youth Codebook - the biggest-ever study of Gen Z in the UK - with LADbible Group's Director of Marketing Mike Walsh and Research & Insights Manager Lili Donald.

From identity and wellness to finance and AI, this generation is curious, confident and far more grounded than stereotypes suggest. Tom, Mike and Lili explore what brands and agencies can take away from the findings, how to build authentic connections with Gen Z, and why comfort, convenience and content now define modern youth culture.

Get hold of the full report here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSepKmUTehciRVFfxpm-fEprxHlrmdqtYpljAmQcFBBxmwOLoA/viewform

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As signal loss scrambles the digital ecosystem, data curation is stepping in to restore clarity and control. Recorded live at IAB UK’s October Last Thursday Club, this episode explores how smart curation can help advertisers navigate a post-cookie world - unlocking access, improving transparency and driving stronger results.

Hosted by the IAB’s Head of Ad Tech, Chloe Nicholls, this episode features expert insight from Pubmatic's Mark Williams, OpenX's Rowena Taylor and Azerion's George Evans.

Check out all IAB UK's events, including Last Thursday Club events at iabuk.com/events

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In Episode 2 of our special miniseries with YouTube, we turn our focus to the biggest screen in the home - the TV.

Host James Chandler is joined by Dyana Najdi, Managing Director at Google Advertising, and Alex Glover, Managing Director of Programmatic at Brainlabs and co-author of new Unified CTV Whitepaper, 'Unified CTV: The Power of Broadcaster Content'.

Together, they explore how Connected TV has transformed viewing habits, what “Unified CTV” means for advertisers navigating fragmented platforms, and how smarter planning can reduce wasted impressions and reach real audiences.

It’s a must-listen for marketers looking to make sense of the evolving TV+ landscape and discover how brands can build truly connected campaigns.

Listen, comment, and subscribe, and head over to the IAB UK YouTube channel to watch this episode in full.

Read the Brainlabs and YouTube whitepaper here: https://www.brainlabsdigital.com/future-of-ctv-advertising/

Sources:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-52376022

https://www.endersanalysis.com/reports/viewing-trends-2024-broadcasters-decline-slows

https://digiday.com/future-of-tv/future-of-tv-briefing-ctv-advertisers-fail-to-reach-80-of-households/

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This week on The IAB UK Podcast, James kicks off a special two-part miniseries in partnership with YouTube. In Episode 1, he’s joined by Roya Zeitoune, YouTube’s Head of Culture & Trends for EMEA, to explore how YouTube went from a simple clip of “Me at the zoo” to becoming a global cultural phenomenon.

They unpack how creators have reshaped entertainment, music and sport; discuss what brands can learn from authentic creator collaborations; and explore the latest YouTube tools helping marketers stay culturally connected

Twenty years on, YouTube sits at the epicentre of culture and the lessons for brands have never been clearer.

Listen, comment, and subscribe to make sure you don't miss Episode 2 of this IAB UK Podcast x YouTube miniseries.

__

Sources: 

1. https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/107048-first-video-to-receive-one-billion-views
2. https://www.searchenginejournal.com/seo/meet-search-engines/
3. https://www.youtube.com/trends/report/
4. According to a survey conducted by Kantar, 78% of surveyed viewers in the United Kingdom agree that YouTube has the most trusted creators and 78% agree that YouTube has the most trusted creator content, outperforming the average of other online platforms (60%), which includes Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.
5. Google/Kantar, Future of Video, n=1006 YouTube viewers, n=2180 weekly video viewers 18-64 (UK), fielded from (3/13/25-4/7/25). Competitive set includes 10 market competitors: Linear TV, Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Now TV, Apple TV+, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat.
6. https://bangeri.com/2025/01/28/the-science-behind-gen-zs-love-for-engaging-brand-communities
7. According to a survey conducted by Kantar, 78% of surveyed viewers in the United Kingdom agree that YouTube has the most trusted creators and 78% agree that YouTube has the most trusted creator content, outperforming the average of other online platforms (60%), which includes Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. Google/Kantar, Future of Video, n=1006 YouTube viewers, n=2180 weekly video viewers 18-64 (UK), fielded from (3/13/25-4/7/25). Competitive set includes 10 market competitors: Linear TV, Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Now TV, Apple TV+, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat.
8. https://www.edisonresearch.com/youtube-is-the-preferred-podcast-listening-service/
9. https://www.buzzsprout.com/blog/podcast-statistics

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We wrap up our week of Superfront specials with Nectar360. James Chandler is joined by Tom Priestman, Director of Client Services, to talk about the rapid rise of retail media and how Nectar360 is putting customers at the heart of their approach. From leveraging Sainsbury’s and Argos data to unlocking shopper insights, Tom explains how Nectar360 helps brands connect with audiences in smarter and more effective ways.

This episode gives a preview of what to expect at Nectar360’s Upfront session at Media Upfronts, 14-15 October, where retail media, data-driven strategies and customer obsession will take centre stage.

🎟️ See Nectar360 – and all our Superfront partners – at Media Upfronts. Book your ticket today at iabuk.com/upfronts

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On day four of our special Superfront series, James Chandler is joined by Bauer Media's George Butler. With household names spanning radio, publishing and digital, Bauer Media is home to some of the UK’s most influential media brands. In this episode, George gives us a taste of what Bauer will showcase at their Upfront – from the power of audio to the importance of trusted environments and engaging storytelling.

The conversation highlights how Bauer continues to innovate across platforms, and why their content and audiences remain so valuable for advertisers looking to build meaningful connections.

🎟️ Don’t miss Bauer’s session at Media Upfronts 14-15 October at Protein Studios in Shoreditch – secure your place at iabuk.com/upfronts

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Halfway through our Superfront partner series, James Chandler sits down with Lena Arbery, Director of Destinations, Travel and Growth, EMEA at Tripadvisor – the world’s most trusted travel guidance platform. They discuss how Tripadvisor helps millions of people plan, book and dream about their next adventure, and what that means for advertisers looking to connect with audiences at key decision-making moments.

From evolving traveller behaviour to new opportunities for brands to inspire and engage, Lena previews what Tripadvisor will bring to their Media Upfront session (taking place 14-15 October at Protein Studios in Shoreditch) and why retail, travel and lifestyle marketers should be paying close attention.

🎟️ Join Tripadvisor and all our partners at Media Upfronts – book now at iabuk.com/upfronts

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In episode two of our Media Upfronts Superfront spotlight series, James Chandler is joined by Josh Partridge, VP & Managing Director, EMEA Sales at Spotify. Together, they dive into how Spotify continues to connect brands with audiences through the power of audio and culture. From innovative formats to data-driven storytelling, Josh explains what makes Spotify unique in helping advertisers tune into the moments that matter most to listeners.

With IAB Media Upfronts taking place 14-15 October at Protein Studios in Shoreditch, Josh also shares how Spotify is thinking about the future of digital audio, creativity and brand building on the world’s biggest music and podcast streaming platform.

🎟️ Be there for Spotify’s Upfront at Media Upfronts – get your ticket at iabuk.com/upfronts

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Ahead of Media Upfronts, taking place 14-15 October at Protein Studios, we’re kicking off a special week of podcasts with our five Superfronts podcasts, starting today with Global. James Chandler is joined by Tom Streetley, Director of DAX Audio, to explore how audio continues to evolve as a powerful medium for advertisers. From brand-new research on the role of mood and mindset, to the launch of Global’s cross-device tool, Tom shares how Global are combining the emotional impact of sound with the precision of digital.

Expect insights on podcasting, radio, music streaming and gaming, plus a glimpse of what makes this year’s Global Upfront a must-see.

🎟️ Don’t miss Global live at Media Upfronts – book your ticket now at iabuk.com/upfronts.

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In this special live episode of the IAB UK Podcast, we bring you into the room at The Last Thursday Club, our monthly networking event, where the focus was Retail and Entertainment: The Next Era of Retail Media.

Live from IAB HQ in Covent Garden, our Retail Media Lead, Liv McCullagh, was joined by Paul Hackwell (Amazon Ads UK), Farah Souhail (TikTok) and Ash White (dentsu) for a lively panel discussion exploring how retail media is evolving from being performance-driven to becoming richer, more engaging, and often more entertaining.

From shifting consumer behaviour and personalisation to brand engagement, measurement and the future of live shopping, this conversation covers it all.

Sign up for future Last Thursday Clubs at iabuk.com/events

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