The Aperiam Podcast

If You’re Not Using AI in Dev, You’re Already BehindAI is now a standard part of software development—at least for Aperiam’s portfolio. Every single company we surveyed is already using it. But only 9% have formal policies in place.In our latest Aperiam Podcast, Joe Zawadzki and Corey Ferengul dive into what that tells us—and what it doesn’t. They cover:The real impact of AI on developer productivityWhy vibe coding is more than a trendHow tools like Cursor are reshaping prototypingThe rise of agents as business infrastructureAnd why some execs are treating AI like 100 enthusiastic ninth gradersThey also dig into what’s next: the governance gap, the changing role of the executive, and whether 2025-born companies are structurally advantaged in an AI-native world.Listen and let us know: How are you rolling out AI in your company? Are you a player-coach or still watching from the sideline?

On the latest episode of the Aperiam Podcast, Corey Ferengul and Joe Zawadzki are joined by Erica Chriss to unpack why “attention” is more than a buzzword—it's continuing to become the new currency of advertising.They cover: What attention metrics really mean Why omni-channel chaos demands a normalized metric How attention bridges brand, performance, and publisher value Where AI helps (and where it doesn’t—yet)If you care about outcomes, creative quality, or modern measurement, this episode is worth your full attention.

Jay Friedman, the former CEO of Goodway Group and now a strategic advisor, dives into the evolution of marketing agencies in a world driven by AI. He discusses the impact of AI on agency roles and the need for brands to adapt their partnerships. The conversation also critiques influencer marketing, advocating for data-driven decisions. Additionally, Jay emphasizes the importance of maintaining corporate culture while integrating AI, ensuring organizations attract top talent while maximizing productivity in the modern landscape.

Tylynn Pettry, VP of Data Science at Chalice, specializes in custom algorithms and AI microservices tailored for marketers. She shares insights on the evolution from generic algorithms to precision decision engines. The conversation explores the importance of assessing algorithm readiness and the pitfalls of inclusion/exclusion lists. Tylynn also discusses the innovative realm of containerized real-time bidding and the necessity of validating AI outputs to avoid costly mistakes in advertising.

Danilo Toro, a Partner at Aperiam with a background at P&G, Amazon, and Uber, shares invaluable insights on modern marketing. He highlights what CMOs will prioritize in 2025 beyond just AI technology. The discussion reveals how understanding the 'job to be done' is crucial for startups pitching to brands. Danilo emphasizes the need for startups to integrate themselves into broader ecosystems and discusses the growing importance of merging media and creative supply chains for effective marketing strategies.

Imagine launching an AdTech company from scratch! Dive into ideas like closed-loop attribution and innovative influencer marketing solutions. From the promise of AI-driven advertising formats to the increasing need for orchestration platforms, the hosts tackle the gaps in today’s market. Discover the transformative power of influencers and the intricacies of media buying, especially in the competitive landscape of Connected TV. It’s a thought-provoking discussion on the future of advertising technology and the opportunities waiting to be seized!

Joe and Corey give their thoughts on this year's Cannes Lion conference and unpack the many retail media announcements.  From Amazon’s partnerships with Roku and Disney to the rise of verticalized commerce stacks, it’s clear: retail media is no longer a niche—it’s the connective tissue of modern advertising.We explore:Was AI the only theme in Cannes?Whether "retail media" is still a useful termThe role of AI in empowering indie agenciesHow marketers should rethink audience, measurement, and branding in an outcomes-driven worldWhy every company is becoming an ad businessIf you’re trying to make sense of the chaos, this one's for you.

In this engaging discussion, Erica Chriss, an expert debater on advertising and marketing, tackles the pivotal topic of cookie deprecation. She and her co-debater, Joe Zawadzki, explore whether this shift is a crisis or an opportunity for innovation in digital identity management. The conversation dives into the tug-of-war between consumer privacy and convenience, the rise of retail media networks, and the industry's struggle to adapt amidst infrastructure changes. With plenty of insights for marketers, the debate is both timely and thought-provoking.

In this engaging discussion, a debate unfolds over whether cookie deprecation marks a crisis or a spark for innovation. The conversation delves into the evolving advertising landscape and its impact on entrepreneurship. Listeners gain insights into the vital nature of understanding market dynamics and building trust in business. The role of artificial intelligence in shaping modern strategies is highlighted, showcasing its importance in fostering efficient operations and customer solutions. This mix of perspectives promises valuable takeaways for CMOs and investors alike.

Dive into the captivating world of M&A in AdTech, where the cyclical market dynamics reveal surprising strategies. Discover why being prepared matters, even if you're not ready to sell. Learn how founders can weave compelling narratives while aligning visions with investors. Enjoy humorous anecdotes that capture the essence of long-term partnerships over fleeting acquisitions. Finally, explore the emotional intricacies of leading a team through mergers and the vital role of communication in these high-stakes transitions.