AdTechGod Pod

In this engaging discussion, Kelly McMahon, SVP at LG Ad Solutions and a dynamic leader in the ad tech sphere, shares her journey from marketing to her role in connected TV. She dives into the evolution of CTV and the transformative impact of AI on advertising experiences. Kelly highlights the necessity of adapting to change, focusing on consumer behavior, and enhancing measurement practices. Relationships are crucial in this fast-paced industry, and Kelly believes that with every challenge comes a new opportunity for growth.

Rob Wilk, Yahoo's Chief Revenue Officer with a robust 30-year background in advertising, dives deep into Yahoo's cultural revival and the integration of AI in ad solutions. He shares insights from his early career and highlights the importance of personal connections in the industry. Rob also emphasizes brand loyalty and the joy found in advertising, viewing AI as a tool for enhancing creativity rather than a threat. His reflections on teamwork and positivity outline a vibrant future for Yahoo and the advertising landscape.

AdTechGod interviews Vitaly Pecherskiy, CEO of StackAdapt, discussing the company's recent funding of $235 million, its innovative approach to advertising technology, and the importance of company culture.Vitaly shares insights on how StackAdapt aims to accelerate growth for its clients through their core pillars of Solutions, Automation and Experience while maintaining a focus on responsible advertising practices.TakeawaysStackAdapt focuses on accelerating growth for its customers.The company culture is shaped by every employee's actions.AI and automation are key areas of investment for StackAdapt.StackAdapt aims to be a growth technology platform, not just a DSP.The company has a diverse customer base across various industries.Funding will be used for research, development, and global distribution.Vitaly emphasizes the importance of customer acquisition as a fundamental truth.StackAdapt's approach is to be distinctly unique in creating value.The company is not overly concerned with competitors, focusing instead on self-improvement.Future product launches are planned to enhance StackAdapt's offerings.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Market Texture and Upcoming Events01:00 Vitaly Pecherskiy and StackAdapt Overview06:49 Funding and Future Plans for StackAdapt10:50 Company Culture and Employee Engagement15:04 Automation, AI, and Responsible Advertising18:57 Vision for the Future and Competitive Landscape Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dave Simon, Vice President of Sales at Viant, shares his journey from media buyer to a key player in programmatic advertising. He discusses the challenges the industry faced during the pandemic, emphasizing the need for adaptability. The conversation dives into how AI and connected TV (CTV) are revolutionizing advertising, highlighting the importance of identity and privacy in a cookie-less world. Dave also stresses the significance of human connections in ad tech and the continuous learning required to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving landscape.

David Cohen, CEO of the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB), joins AdTechGod to wrap up the 2025 IAB ALM event in Palm Desert. We discuss the highlights of the conference, including the potential for a national data privacy law, the creative revival driven by generative AI, and the rise of multiple identity solutions. You’ll also find out why sustainability and DEI are more critical than ever and learn how the IAB is helping marketers tackle today’s toughest privacy challenges. Finally, David shares where the next IAB ALM gatherings will be held, so you can start planning.TakeawaysAI is fundamentally changing media buying and measurement.The advertising industry must diversify its strategies post-cookie.Regulatory challenges are increasing with state-specific privacy laws.A national data privacy law could simplify compliance for advertisers.Creativity in advertising is being revitalized by generative AI.The future of advertising will involve multiple identity solutions.Sustainability and DEI are critical issues that need attention.The IAB is actively working on tools to help the industry navigate privacy laws.San Antonio will be the new host city for IAB ALM in 2027 and 2028.The advertising industry must adapt quickly to changing consumer behaviors.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Advertising Landscape01:29 AI's Impact on Media Buying and Creativity07:01 Navigating Cookie Deprecation and Identity Solutions10:08 Regulatory Challenges in Advertising16:02 Future of the IAB ALM and Industry Trends Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host AdTech God speaks with Mark McEachran, Senior Vice President of Product Management at Yieldmo. They discuss Mark's journey in the ad tech industry, the importance of building and innovation, and the challenges faced in product management. Mark shares various insights , the impact of privacy regulations, and the future of cross-media advertising. The conversation highlights the transformative experiences Mark has had at various companies, particularly at Rubicon Project, and reflects on the legacy of cookies in digital advertising.TakeawaysMark's journey in ad tech began in the early 2000s.Building products in ad tech is both challenging and rewarding.Transformative experiences at Rubicon Project shaped Mark's career.The ad tech landscape is evolving with blurred lines between buy and sell sides.Innovation is crucial in a competitive market.Privacy regulations are a significant challenge for product managers.Cross-media advertising presents new growth opportunities.The legacy of cookies is still felt in the industry.Mark emphasizes the importance of household targeting in the future.Collaboration and transparency within teams lead to better outcomes.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ad Tech and Mark McEachran01:18 Mark's Journey in Ad Tech04:45 The Joy of Building in Ad Tech08:09 Transformative Experiences at Rubicon Project10:41 Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Ad Tech15:57 Challenges in Product Management and Innovation19:13 Future Growth Opportunities in Cross-Media Advertising26:23 Reflections on Industry Changes and the Cookie's Legacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In my conversation with Jennifer Q. Chen, President and Chief Revenue Officer at Connatix, we explore her path in the ad tech industry, examine what Connatix’s recent merger with JWP (JW Player) means for the video and technology space, and discuss key topics such as adtech fundamentals, AI-powered content discovery, and the importance of community.Jenn shares insights on finding happiness in a fast-paced work environment and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the advertising space.Takeaways The merger of Connatix and JW Player is a significant development in the ad tech industry. Jenn Chen's journey from banking to ad tech highlights the diverse paths into the industry. Understanding the fundamentals of ad tech is crucial for success as a revenue leader. The community in the ad tech space is supportive and collaborative. AI is transforming content discovery but also presents challenges for traditional publishing. The future of advertising lies in contextual and creative data strategies. Mergers and acquisitions are a constant in the ad tech landscape. Finding joy in work is essential, even in a fast-paced environment. The evolution of video technology is reshaping advertising strategies. Change is the only constant in the ad tech industry. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Ad Tech Landscape02:14 Jenn Chen's Journey in Ad Tech06:51 The Merger of Connatix and JW Player10:28 Understanding the Ad Tech Ecosystem12:46 The Evolution of Video Technology15:51 Future Opportunities in Advertising19:29 The Role of AI in Content Discovery23:27 Community and Longevity in Ad Tech27:17 Finding Happiness in a Fast-Paced Industry Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anna Bager, President and CEO of the Out-of-Home Advertising Association of America, shares insights from her international journey in the OOH industry. She discusses the digital transformation and programmatic advertising shaping the future of OOH. Anna highlights the industry's resilience during the pandemic, emphasizing the effectiveness and brand safety of OOH ads. She underscores the importance of cultural adaptation in the U.S. market and addresses misconceptions that hinder understanding of this vital advertising avenue.

Sam Bloom, Head of Partnerships at PMG, is a third-generation advertiser passionate about innovation in the ad tech space. He delves into the crucial role of transparency in building trust with clients while discussing his family's legacy in the industry. Sam emphasizes the transformative potential of Connected TV and the evolving dynamics of brand-consumer relationships. He also highlights the impact of stringent privacy regulations and the necessity for creative solutions to navigate the ad landscape's future.

Inderpreet Sandhu, Head of CTV Platforms and Ecosystems at Google, has over 13 years of experience in ad tech. He shares his unconventional journey into the industry, emphasizing the importance of understanding the publisher's perspective. Inderpreet highlights YouTube's growing dominance and innovative ad formats that enhance user engagement. He discusses the positive trends in ad tech and the significance of community and continuous learning for career growth. Collaboration is key in navigating the evolving landscape of advertising technology.