In this conversation, the hosts dive into the evolving landscape of advertising, focusing on how AI is set to transform the open web. They dissect strategies for early-stage startups, from building brand presence to navigating product-market fit, humorously likening it to an unmistakable experience. The significance of CEO buy-in and effective storytelling is underscored as essential ingredients for success. They also discuss the shift from traditional marketing to social media, emphasizing the importance of first-party communication in modern business growth.

Matt Newcomb, Regional Director for North America and the UK at Azerion, shares his insights on mergers and acquisitions in the ad tech world. He discusses strategies for CEOs to ensure a favorable exit, revealing secrets from his own experience at InSkin Media. The conversation dives into integrating companies post-merger and the transformative role of AI in ad tech. Newcomb also reflects on the emotional challenges of M&A negotiations and how relationships with key leaders are crucial for success. Plus, some light-hearted banter about future nursing home visits adds humor to the discussion.

Eric and Joe discuss the three things you need to do to maximize the impact of a product launch or press announcement by analyzing the success of two launches last week: Scope3's AI products and Aperiam 2.0. Plus, Eric can't sit with Joe at lunch, and Eric is hoarding modernist wooden elephants.

Jonathan Moffie, CEO of Streamr and former ad tech leader at AppLovin, joins the discussion on transforming connected TV advertising for SMBs. He sheds light on the balance between performance and skepticism in the ad tech realm. Moffie emphasizes how AI can streamline ad creation, making it more accessible for smaller businesses. Personal branding's power on social media is also explored, showcasing how one’s online presence can rival traditional marketing. The conversation dives into maintaining content quality amidst the proliferation of AI-generated posts.

Dan Pantelo, Founder and CEO of Marpipe, shares his inspiring journey from near-collapse during the Silicon Valley Bank crisis to a powerful comeback. He discusses the importance of rejecting an acquisition offer and how dynamic product ads are shaping the future of performance advertising. The conversation dives into the transformation of creative processes and the rise of new advertising channels beyond traditional platforms. With humor and insight, Dan highlights the challenges of balancing creativity and technology in the ever-evolving ad landscape.

Dan Rosenberg, Founder and CEO of Octane11, brings his insights on B2B marketing measurement and practical experiences from his tenure at MediaMath. He emphasizes the importance of data integration and standardization for effective marketing strategies. The discussion highlights the challenges startups face in balancing measurement with actionable execution, and the need for flexibility. Rosenberg also shares innovative hiring practices and the role of remote work in building strong team dynamics. He stresses the value of community and networking in enhancing business success.

Eric Franchi and Joe Zappa talk about the the formula for generating more attention, where we are in the adtech hype cycle, the time Joe got denied a $650/month raise, and weeks where decades happen.

Dive into a lively debate between the Outcomes Era and the Quality Era in digital advertising. Erez Levin offers insights on what truly defines an outcome, challenging traditional models. The conversation highlights the shift from branding to measurable outcomes, emphasizing the hurdles advertisers face in a changing landscape. Expect a clash of ideas on the importance of media quality versus profit-driven metrics. The hosts spice things up with colorful metaphors, likening the debate to a boxing match, making complex topics engaging and accessible.

Michael Bishop, co-founder and CTO of OpenAds, an innovative AI-driven ad tech startup, shares insights on the future of advertising. He discusses how AI can personalize ads in real time, challenging traditional models like Google’s. The conversation highlights the massive opportunity within AI-driven search ads and the critical need for brands to rethink ad metrics. Bishop also explores the entrepreneurial mindset needed to tackle significant opportunities, urging tech founders to embrace bold visions that can create societal change.

Soren Larson discusses the future of AI and its impact on customer experiences. The conversation highlights the limitations of first-party data for personalization and the significance of user consent. They explore the evolving role of AI in advertising and the challenges faced by startups in a tech-driven landscape. Humor emerges as they compare Miami and Los Angeles, adding a light touch to their insightful dialogue on data privacy and the transformative potential of AI in enhancing consumer interactions.