Welcome to Agency Business.

This week, Olivia and Brian record in person for the first time with Doug Zanger, founder of Indie Agency News, a growing platform built to help independent agencies increase visibility and confidence. A former radio producer and trade journalist, Doug shares how his background shaped the creation of Indie Agency News, which is now more than 300 members strong. Doug explains why confidence should be every agency’s most important KPI.

Doug explains how the platform supports agencies with tools like First Pass, which helps optimize press, awards, and messaging, and why language rooted in solutions rather than services can change how marketers perceive value. The group also discusses the rise of partnerships among indie shops, how AI fits into Doug’s workflow, and why he says technology should always serve people—not replace them.

In News of the Week:

Subscribe to the Agency Business newsletter for episode notes and analysis. It’s free and drops every Monday.

Reach Out

Agency Business features agency CEOs and financial decision-makers alongside third party experts including agency pitch consultants. We are always accepting pitches, and are particularly interested in hearing from women and leaders of color.

📬 Pitch a guest or inquire about sponsorships:

📩 Brian at brian@madisonandwall.com

📩 Olivia at olivia@fusionfrontmedia.com

Follow Madison and Wall and FusionFront Media on LinkedIn for updates.

Explore Our Other Podcasts:

📊 The Madison and Wall Podcast – Brian opens up about his latest work — plus crucial economic, financial, and industry trends.

🎬 Screen & Sponsor – Olivia & VaynerMedia's Jessie Holder explore how brands are shaping Hollywood.

Ep 258: Judd Apatow

We Might Be Drunk

Late Night, Stand-up Specials, and the Six-Minute Sprint

The AI-powered Podcast Player