The WARC Podcast

Cathy Taylor, U.S. Commissioning Editor at WARC, brings her expertise on attention measurement to the discussion. She dives into the evolution of attention metrics and their importance in media strategies. Cathy highlights the shortcomings of viewability as a quality standard and shares insights on how attention data is reshaping planning and buying practices. She also emphasizes the need for a hybrid approach to measure attention effectively and reveals how real-life applications, like Halion's test, have led to significant improvements in ad performance.

The first episode in a three-part series exploring the most important trends influencing global consumers. WARC's Rica Facundo talks to Michael Patent, founder and president of the Culture Group and Emmanuel Sabbagh, Chief Strategy Officer TBWA\ Asia. Discussing the re-emergence of live events, and the rising temperatures across Asia Pacific.Stay up-to-date with the latest marketing and advertising news with our free daily newsletter.

Wayne Blodwell, Co-founder and CEO of Impact Media, and Sascha Eder, CEO of NewtonX, delve into the evolving landscape of programmatic advertising. They discuss Google's cookie policy reversal and the industry's unpreparedness for change. The conversation highlights the critical need for transparency in programmatic and the alarming rise of AI-driven fraud. Both guests stress the importance of sustainability in ad practices, proposing that quality measures can reduce carbon emissions while maintaining effectiveness in a walled garden versus open web debate.

Ana Andejelic, former chief of brand for Espirit, and Suzanne Powers, founder of Powers Creativity, dive into Nike's journey in performance marketing. They explore the intricate balance between brand building and direct-to-consumer strategies, highlighting failures and successes. The conversation touches on the importance of retail feedback and cohesive marketing strategies for brand consistency. They also discuss Nike's evolving messaging, contrasting its inclusive past with a more selective branding approach, revealing deeper cultural influences at play.

WARC’s David Tiltman, Alex Brownsell and Celeste Huang talk about three key points from the latest Global Ad Trends report on in-game advertising. Discussing gaming ad-spend, the complexity of the gaming ecosystem and what needs to be done for brands to devote a higher share of budget to in-game advertising. Stay up-to-date with the latest marketing and advertising news with our free daily newsletter.

Cheryl Calverley, founder of The Den, and Harriet Kingaby, co-chair of the Conscious Advertising Network, dive deep into the world of Generation Alpha. They discuss the unique characteristics of this generation and the urgent responsibilities marketers face in their advertising practices. The guests highlight the impact of targeted ads on mental health and the need for ethical engagement strategies. They propose measures for brands to create genuine connections with Gen Alpha while emphasizing the importance of protecting children's rights in the digital landscape.

The discussion features insights on the judging process behind the Creative Effectiveness Lions at the Cannes Festival. Key themes include ambition, bravery, and the importance of cultural resonance in campaigns. Standout examples from McDonald's and a delivery app showcase global impact through simplicity and boldness. The conversation highlights successful low-budget campaigns tied to events like the World Cup. Additionally, the power of adaptable strategies in branding is emphasized, with innovative approaches transforming consumer engagement.

Lydia Amoah, a consumer insights contributor, Cass Naylor from Outvertising advocating for diversity, and Ndu Uchea from Word On The Curb discussing cultural media issues dive deep into the impact of diverse audiences on consumer behavior. They highlight the significant spending power of minority groups and the commercial risks brands face by ignoring these markets. The conversation also tackles the need for authenticity in LGBTQIA+ branding and the dangers of 'rainbow washing,' urging brands to genuinely engage with diverse communities for real change.

WARC Asia's managing director Rica Facundo and India editor Biprorshee Das talk about three key takeaways from the latest India Spotlight getting festive marketing right. Discussing the pre-festival build up phase, the commercialisation of the festive season and inclusivity in your festive marketing. Stay up-to-date with the latest marketing and advertising news with our free daily newsletter.

Alejandro Fieccone leads brand strategy for Dove Men+Care at Unilever, while Gary J. Nix is the chief strategist behind Brandarchist. They dive into the crisis of masculinity and how advertising can reshape perceptions. Topics include the need for brands to break away from outdated masculine stereotypes and the importance of inclusivity in marketing. They also discuss the impact of social media on young boys' views of masculinity and the challenge brands face in maintaining authenticity in their messaging.