

Ep. 85 Instinct Meets Innovation: A Conversation with Matt Black
Jun 27, 2025
Matt Black, an ad operations expert with a background in 3D animation and visual effects, shares his insights into the dynamic world of ad tech. He discusses the significant role of gut instinct in advertising, balancing intuition with data for better outcomes. Matt believes AI will optimize processes, yet human insight remains irreplaceable. His passion for collaboration shines through as he emphasizes creating supportive environments that value diverse perspectives, ultimately aimed at helping families through meaningful work in the industry.
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Matt's Journey to Ad Tech
- Matt Black's career started in 3D animation before he discovered ad tech via ad trafficking at a startup.
- His diverse background in web development and creative fields helped him find unconventional solutions in ad ops.
AI as a Tool, Not Replacement
- AI will bring efficiencies and save time but won't fully replace human insight in ad optimization.
- The complexity of KPIs and campaign mechanics means hands-on involvement remains essential.
Power of Gut Instinct
- Gut instinct plays a crucial role in ad ops beyond data-driven decisions.
- Sometimes minor tweaks without extensive data can yield successful outcomes based on experience.