The Media Odyssey

In this episode of The Media Operator, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet sit down with Paul McGrath, Senior Director of Entertainment Strategy and Audience Development at CBC, to explore how Canada’s public broadcaster is navigating the shift from linear to digital media. Paul shares the inside story of CBC’s strategic pivot toward YouTube as a major distribution and engagement platform. From launching CBC Gem to building out a portfolio of 50+ YouTube channels, McGrath explains how his team grew total watch time by 65%, with long-form content (20+ minutes) accounting for nearly half of total usage despite being only 20% of the uploads.

Key takeaways:

• CBC’s test-and-learn approach to windowing content across platforms
• Why fears of YouTube cannibalizing CBC Gem proved unfounded
• The data-backed “flywheel strategy” that drives younger audience reach and monetization
• CBC’s collaboration with YouTube and their evolving FAST and OTT revenue model

Thank you Paul McGrath for joining the pod! 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/pfmcgrath/

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• (00:00) - Introduction and Myth Busting
• (00:58) - Welcoming the Special Guest: Paul McGrath
• (01:30) - Understanding CBC's Strategy and Operations
• (03:01) - Funding Model and Streaming Focus
• (03:59) - The YouTube Strategic Bet
• (06:58) - Challenges and Concerns: Cannibalization
• (09:47) - Implementation and Initial Steps
• (11:50) - Content Strategy and Publishing
• (15:30) - Analyzing the Results and Impact
• (28:18) - Future Plans and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The Media Odyssey, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet travel to Lyon, France to sit down with Bedrock CEO Jonas Engwall to explore how European broadcasters are quietly leading a streaming transformation. From free, ad-supported platforms to collaborative infrastructure, the trio unpacks why Bedrock’s tech backbone is helping legacy media compete with global giants — and why Europe’s streaming future may lie in radical cooperation over direct competition.

For more on Bedrock...
https://bedrockstreaming.com/

Thank you Bedrock CEO Jonas Engwall for joining this week's pod!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonas-engwall/?originalSubdomain=fr

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• (00:00) - Introduction and License Fee Discussion
• (00:28) - Welcome to the Media Odyssey Podcast
• (00:45) - European Streaming Landscape
• (02:37) - Public Broadcasting vs. Commercial Streaming
• (03:49) - Challenges and Innovations in European Streaming
• (05:13) - The Role of Local Broadcasters
• (10:55) - Generational Shifts and Streaming Habits
• (22:18) - Importance of User Experience in Streaming
• (23:13) - Introducing Jonas and Bedrock Streaming
• (23:53) - Evolution of Streaming Content in Europe
• (25:10) - The Birth of Bedrock
• (27:05) - Challenges and Strategies for European Broadcasters
• (29:37) - The Bedrock Platform: A Unified Approach
• (33:00) - Collaborative Innovation and Growth
• (38:29) - Future of Pan-European Streaming
• (47:42) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Is Digital Still A Safe Bet?
From economic uncertainty to the rise of connected TV, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet predict a more cautious, data-driven Upfronts season where flexibility trumps tradition. With brands holding back big commitments, digital giants like YouTube, Meta, and Amazon stand to gain as safer, more measurable bets.Evan forecasts a continued move away from chunky upfront deals in favor of platforms that offer agility and proven ROAS. The Media Odyssey welcomes Ioanna Protogiannis (Sr. Director, Measurement and Reporting Solutions at LG Ad Solutions) who highlights the growing importance of first-party data, smart segments, and real-time measurement in campaign planning.

Thank you Ioanna Protogiannis for joining this week's pod!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ioanna-protogiannis/

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Newsletters:
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• (00:00) - Introduction and Debate Teaser
• (00:28) - Welcome to The Media Odyssey
• (00:36) - Discussing the Upfront Season
• (01:33) - Spotter's Unique Approach
• (02:09) - Spotter's Focus on Creators
• (02:48) - YouTube as the New TV
• (05:13) - Advertising Trends and Strategies
• (10:54) - The Role of Big Tech in Advertising
• (15:32) - The Upfront Buying Process
• (18:49) - Locking in Prices and Tent Pole Programming
• (20:06) - The Historical Context of Upfronts
• (21:17) - Predictions for the Ad Economy
• (25:13) - Interview with Ayana Proteges
• (25:39) - The Role of Data in CTV Advertising
• (28:34) - The Importance of Third-Party Partnerships
• (37:10) - The Future of Measurement and AI in Advertising
• (39:33) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In Episode 14 of The Media Odyssey, Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro conduct a deep dive on the evolving strategies of Canal+ and Comcast. Canal+ stands out for its global expansion—especially in Asia and Africa—despite challenges with high content costs and navigating a digital shift. Comcast, on the other hand, is facing broadband stagnation and controversy over its decision to spin off low-margin cable networks into a new company, raising concerns about long-term growth. Both companies reflect the broader struggle of legacy media adapting to a user-driven, digital-first world. Check out this week's episode to hear more! 

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• (00:00) - Introduction and Strategic Advice
• (00:28) - Welcome to the Media Odyssey Podcast
• (01:07) - Case Study: Canal Plus
• (01:46) - Canal Plus: Global Reach and Growth
• (03:58) - Canal Plus: Revenue and Profit Analysis
• (05:38) - Challenges and Digital Transformation
• (10:10) - Case Study: Comcast
• (11:53) - Comcast: Revenue and Profit Breakdown
• (12:31) - Comcast: Spin-off Strategy
• (21:03) - Comparing Canal Plus and Comcast
• (23:49) - Conclusion and Viewer Engagement

In this episode of The Media Odyssey podcast, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet dive into the frustrating user experience of streaming platforms and the growing crisis in content discoverability. With insights on interface design, consumer behavior, and the rise of super apps, Marion and Evan explore how platforms like Roku and Amazon are the new gold standard in the entertainment landscape. In a very special segment, guest Calle Sjönell introduces Swipefinder, a Tinder-style app that helps users find what to watch faster—while unlocking new monetization opportunities for streamers.

To learn more about Swipefinder - https://www.swipefinder.com/

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• (00:00) - Introduction and Podcast Welcome
• (00:30) - Nerding Out on User Interface and Experience
• (01:03) - Panel Discussion Insights and Data
• (02:19) - Consumer Frustrations with Streaming Services
• (03:32) - App Usage and Viewing Habits
• (05:53) - Linear vs On-Demand Viewing
• (13:09) - The Role of AI in Media
• (15:27) - Monetizing the Home Screen
• (17:54) - Introducing Swipe Finder with Callie Chanel
• (20:15) - Introduction to Swipe Finder
• (20:19) - How Swipe Finder Works
• (20:52) - User Experience and Features
• (21:49) - White Label Product for Streamers
• (22:06) - Revenue Opportunities with Swipe Finder
• (26:14) - Business Model and Integration
• (27:58) - Expanding Swipe Finder to Other Markets
• (31:46) - The Future of Entertainment Platforms
• (35:12) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this FIRST EVER live recorded episode of The Media Odyssey at MIP London, Evan and Marion dive into the evolving landscape of the content economy, the impact of streaming giants pivoting towards sports, shifts in streaming investment, and the growing influence of AVOD and FAST platforms. They also welcome Ryan Afshar (VP, Publishers & Platforms at LG Ad Solutions) for a deep dive into the FAST ecosystem and how television manufacturers like LG are reshaping the way audiences discover and consume content.

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In this episode of "Chatting at SXSW", Evan Shapiro speaks with Lydia Daly, EVP, Head of Advertising Research and Insights at Paramount, about how brands navigate the rapidly evolving cultural landscape. Daly's team studies audience behaviors, market trends, and cultural shifts to help advertisers make informed, data-driven decisions. She highlights the increasing velocity of cultural change, where trends emerge and disappear quickly, making it challenging for brands to determine when and how to engage. Daly emphasizes that brands must develop social listening capabilities, understand trend cycles, and establish clear brand guidelines to navigate this fast-moving space effectively. She also notes that partnering with established content creators or platforms can help brands stay relevant without taking on the full burden of trend management alone.

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• (00:00) - Introduction and Guest Introduction
• (00:22) - Role and Responsibilities at Paramount
• (01:29) - Audience Insights and Cultural Trends
• (02:03) - Generational Studies and Creative Strategy
• (03:11) - Velocity of Culture and Brand Adaptation
• (04:15) - Brand Strategies and Social Listening
• (05:24) - Understanding Trends and Signals
• (06:23) - Importance of Brand Guidelines
• (07:03) - Working with Publishers and Content Creators
• (07:38) - Panel Discussion and Closing Remarks

In this episode of "Chatting at SXSW", Evan Shapiro interviews Ruth Berry, President of Global Partnerships & Zoo 55 at ITV Studios, about the network's evolving content strategy. Berry explains how ITV Studios, which operates in 13 markets with 60 production companies, is adapting to changing viewer habits by expanding into digital platforms through Zoo55, ITV’s digital studio. Zoo55 helps repurpose existing content—like Love Island, Hell’s Kitchen, and River Monsters—to reach new, younger audiences on platforms such as YouTube, gaming, and FAST channels. She highlights how audiences now consume long-form content in non-traditional ways, with YouTube on connected TVs becoming a significant distribution method. Berry also emphasizes the importance of experimenting with digital engagement, noting that ITV's approach is to "test and learn" without fear of cannibalizing traditional television viewership. This strategy allows ITV to maximize the value of its content while staying ahead of industry shifts.

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Mike Sid (Senior Business Acceleration Office at Ateliere) joins Evan Shapiro at SXSW 2025!  The conversation touches on the evolving media landscape, emphasizing how creators must adapt to multi-platform distribution and fast-paced content demands. Ateliere helps do just that. Mike Sid highlights how Ateliere’s technology enables both small creators and large production companies to improve workflow efficiency, reduce costs, and accelerate content delivery. Their tools allow remote collaboration, real-time editing, and rapid content turnaround, making professional-grade production more accessible. 

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• (00:00) - Introduction and Event Overview
• (00:29) - Introducing Atelier and Its Products
• (00:40) - Live Production Revolution
• (01:30) - Simplifying Content Distribution
• (01:59) - Empowering Creators with Atelier
• (03:00) - Professional Grade Production for All
• (03:33) - Customization and Flexibility in Production
• (04:06) - Panel Discussion Preview
• (05:14) - Reality TV and Modern Content Challenges
• (07:05) - Remote Production Innovations
• (08:10) - Conclusion and Thanks

On this episode of "Chatting at SXSW", Evan Shapiro sits down with Steve Bagdasarian, Chief Commercial Officer of Comscore. They discuss the shift from traditional broadcast measurement to cross-platform, the increasing role of programmatic advertising and psychographic-based targeting, as well as the evolving landscape of media measurement and advertising, focusing on multi-currency vs. multi-measurement models and how Comscore differentiates itself with its granular, locally-driven measurement approach.

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• (00:00) - Introduction and Guest Introduction
• (00:18) - Role and Responsibilities of a Chief Commercial Officer
• (00:57) - Measurement and Cross-Platform User-Centric View
• (01:12) - Panel Discussion on User-Centric Era
• (01:22) - CommScore's Differentiation in the Market
• (01:31) - Future of Measurement and Media Buying
• (03:26) - Granular Data and Programmatic Media
• (03:46) - Market Intelligence and Future Predictions
• (05:44) - Optimization and Personalization in Media
• (07:00) - Investment Strategies for Upfronts and New Fronts
• (07:45) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of "Chatting at SXSW", Evan Shapiro speaks with Nicki Sheard, CEO of Brands and Licensing at BBC Studios, about how the company monetizes its vast content library globally. Sheard highlights the success of Bluey, which was the most-streamed TV show in the U.S. in 2024 and has grown into a massive franchise with consumer products, stage shows, a movie in development, and upcoming integration into Disney parks. BBC Studios strategically distributes its brands, including Doctor Who, Top Gear, and BBC Earth, across multiple platforms—linear TV, streaming, social media, and YouTube, where it now has 90 active channels. Sheard discusses how digital-first content can fuel traditional broadcast deals and how multi-platform exposure is essential for building lasting franchises. While some kids' brands originate online and transition to traditional media, she notes that long-term success still depends on content quality and authenticity.

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• (00:00) - Introduction and Guest Introduction
• (00:17) - Role and Responsibilities at BBC Studios
• (00:49) - Exploring BBC Brands and Bluey's Success
• (02:06) - Bluey's Distribution and YouTube Strategy
• (03:52) - Building a Global Brand
• (04:35) - Challenges in Children's Media
• (05:16) - Future of Kids' Brands and Conclusion

HOW IS BUNDLING RESHAPING MEDIA TODAY?
In this episode of The Media Odyssey, hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet dive deep into the world of subscription bundling with special guest Anil Malhotra, co-founder of Bango. They explore how the digital subscription economy is evolving, why consumers are increasingly turning to indirect subscription bundles, and how bundling can drive brand loyalty and lower churn rates. From streaming services to AI tools and retail subscriptions, Anil shares fascinating insights from Bango’s latest research report, Subscriptions Assemble, revealing key trends shaping the bundle economy. Learn more about how telcos, retailers, and even social media platforms are becoming key bundlers, and why the "digital vending machine" is revolutionizing the way subscriptions are managed.

Check out Bango's, "Subscription's Assemble" HERE (tap to go).

Anil Malhotra (Co-Founder, Bango):
Anil is responsible for Bango’s global marketing activities and partnerships with app store, OEMs and global network operators. Anil has extensive experience of creating successful partnerships between fast-moving innovators and major market players. Before co-founding Bango, Anil developed global partnerships for Cyberlife Technology, one of Europe’s leading computer games technology developers, which resulted in the licensing of the company’s AI technology to the world’s leading games publishers including Warner and Hasbro. Before that he worked with Bango Exec Chair Ray Anderson at IXI, establishing a technology called X.desktop as the global user interface standard for networked computers.

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• (00:00) - Introduction to Subscription Bundling
• (00:32) - Welcome and Guest Introduction
• (00:59) - Bango's Expertise in Subscription Bundling
• (02:03) - The Evolution of Subscription Services
• (05:45) - Case Studies: Successful Bundling Examples
• (09:28) - Consumer Behavior and Research Insights
• (18:08) - Global Trends and Future of Bundling
• (32:50) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

WHAT ARE THE METRICS THAT MATTER NOW?
Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet dive into cross-platform measurement, the top priority for ad buyers in 2025 and a growing challenge worldwide. They explore how fragmented data, inconsistent standards, and a lack of collaboration between broadcasters and platforms are making it harder to track audiences across TV, streaming, mobile, and more. The conversation highlights why standardized, transparent measurement is critical for advertisers and the industry’s future. They debate whether having multiple competing measurement systems sparks innovation — or just adds confusion — as the media landscape rapidly evolves.

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• (00:00) - Introduction and Greetings
• (00:33) - Special Episode Announcement
• (00:38) - Importance of Cross-Platform Measurement
• (00:49) - U.S. Data Insights
• (01:29) - European Perspective on Measurement
• (02:14) - Big Data Solutions for TV Measurement
• (03:27) - Streaming vs. Broadcast TV
• (05:33) - Four-Screen Viewing in the UK
• (07:19) - Challenges in Cross-Platform Measurement
• (11:08) - Future of TV and Digital Advertising
• (23:57) - Conclusion and Farewell

On this special episode of The Media Odyssey, hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet sit down with Tony Marlow, Chief Marketing Officer at LG Ad Solutions, to explore the ongoing transformation of television advertising. They dive into The Big Shift—how consumer habits moved from traditional TV to streaming and the growing acceptance of ad-supported content.

Tony shares insights from LG Ads' latest research, highlighting that not only do most viewers use ad-supported streaming, but many actually prefer it. The conversation touches on shoppable TV, CTV ad targeting, and the role of AI in advertising, along with the psychological principles that influence consumer behavior.

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00:00 Welcome Tony Marlow / The Big Shift in Advertising
12:17 The Home Screen as a Launchpad
23:02 The Future of Shoppable TV and AI in Marketing

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DISNEY, GOOGLE & SPOTIFY, OH MY
Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro dissect Disney, Alphabet/YouTube, and Spotify’s 2024 earnings, exploring Disney's struggle for streaming profitability, digital ad trends, YouTube as TV-first platform, and Spotify’s surprise turnaround.

TMO listeners receive a 100£ discount when they register for MIP London using the promo code:  MLONDAUOVIS-C
Click HERE to get your ticket to the show TODAY!

Sources:
Disney QE
Spotify QE
Google QE

00:00 - Introduction 
00:30 - MIP London Announcement
02:24 - Disney
13:47 - YouTube & Alphabet (Google)
26:56 - Spotify
39:14 - Closing Remarks & Final Thoughts

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FLY, EAGLES FLY!
After an electric Super Bowl victory, Marion and Evan return to their mics to explore how streamers like Netflix and Amazon are shifting to mass-market content in a bid to capture advertising dollars—raising the question of, "Are streamers becoming the new traditional broadcasters?" With insights into the challenges of live sports streaming and the evolving strategies of media giants, this episode is all about the way we watch our teams.

TMO listeners receive a 100£ discount when they register for MIP London using the promo code:  MLONDAUOVIS-C
Click HERE to get your ticket to the show TODAY!

« According to the declarative study, 37% of those who watched Ligue 1 this season did so illegally, via pirate streams broadcast via IPTV, encrypted messaging services such as Telegram, social networks, websites... Even more strikingly, 27% of those who illegally watch the French Football Championship have started doing so since this season. »

Since we recorded, DAZN shared their latest results and posted a 830M operating loss. Len Blavatnik injected another 827M$ into DAZN. Profitability feels like a distant future

WATCH THE VIDEO POD ON OUR YOUTUBE - https://youtu.be/gcKfiFjy6ok

00:00 Cold Open and Introduction
00:43 Super Bowl Victory and Episode Overview
01:08 Shoutout to Los Angeles and World Central Kitchen
01:52 Basketball Talk and Personal Stories
02:52 Impact of Sports Rights on Streaming
04:57 Netflix and the Changing Content Landscape
11:34 Streamers Shifting to Traditional TV Models
14:09 Sports Bundles and Market Fragmentation
19:01 Fragmentation in Media and Sports Broadcasting
20:14 The Impact of Streaming on Traditional Broadcasting
22:07 Technical Challenges in Streaming Major Events
26:08 The Rise of Women's Sports
32:05 The Financial Viability of Sports Streaming Services
36:05 Piracy and Pricing Issues in Sports Broadcasting
36:53 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook

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BROADCASTERS x YOUTUBE

In this special episode of The Media Odyssey, Evan and Marion welcome their first-ever guest, Matt Risley, Managing Director of 4Studio at Channel 4. Channel 4 has made a bold shift in its approach to YouTube—transforming it from a marketing tool to a primary broadcast and monetization platform. Matt shares - in an exclusive for The Media Odyssey - insights and data on how the network tested, adapted, and expanded its YouTube presence, the challenges faced, and the data-driven results that followed. YouTube strategy for traditional media, with a particular focus on public service media and broadcasters.

Check out Channel 4's creator-led Youtube channel HERE!

TMO listeners receive a 100£ discount when they register for MIP London using the promo code:  MLONDAUOVIS-C
Click HERE to get your ticket to the show TODAY!

WATCH THE VIDEO POD ON OUR YOUTUBE - https://youtu.be/78okh1F5-A0

Channel 4’s social audiences thrive, driven by YouTube and Channel 4.0

Channel 4 led British broadcasters’ embrace of social in 2024, as YouTube audiences for full episodes of hit shows such as First Dates, Murder Case: Digital Detectives and Grand Designs swelled by more than two-and-a-half times (+169% year on year).

Newly released data for 2024 highlights Channel 4’s social leadership: its main YouTube channel saw higher average views per video than equivalent channels from the BBC, ITV and Channel 5, as well as more views than ITV, Sky and Channel 5. Channel 4 News also drove higher average views per video on YouTube than ITV News and Sky News*.

The success helped Channel 4 amass more than 2.3 billion views across its social output in 2024, up 5.5% year on year, driving it towards the aim in its Fast Forward strategy of growing social views.

The data also reveals the success of Channel 4’s strategy to reach young viewers via YouTube, with views of full episodes up 169% year-on-year, surpassing 110 million organic views in the UK. Hit shows included Gogglebox and First Dates, drawing in 4.3 and 2.9 million views respectively, while its Channel 4 Documentaries channel drove interest from viewers with series such as Murder Case: Digital Detectives (4.2 million views), 60 Days On The Estates(2.7 million views) and To Catch A Copper (2.5 million views).

Digital-first youth brand Channel 4.0 serves original digital content across YouTube and social platforms. It enjoyed a stellar year in 2024, with a doubling (+99% year on year) in growth across all social platforms - driven by series including Harry Pinero’s Worst In Class (8.4 million UK views), Minor Issues (7.9 million UK views) and Tapped Out (3.1 million UK views).

Among all Channel 4 social platforms, TikTok - across the seven niche, genre-specific channels it now operates - posted the biggest annual audience growth with an 81% rise from 2023. Married At First Sight UK was one of big successes with multiple videos driving millions of views, including the series teaser earning 14.5 million UK views. This clip from 24 Hours in A&E drove 5.5 million UK views while 24 Hours in Police Custody pulled in 3.6 million UK views.

Matt Risley, Managing Director, 4Studio, said: “Today’s news highlights Channel 4’s leadership on social, as we lead the way in extending the reach of public service media to digital natives, while delivering against our Fast Forward targets. The data also highlights the unique appeal of Channel 4’s social expertise to brands: driven by world-class content from our Commissioning team, unrivalled social expertise from 4Studio, Channel 4 Sales’ ability to match brands’ storylines to a social audience, plus the capability of our distribution team to curate innovative platform partnerships.”

Sacha Khari, Channel 4’s Head of Digital Commissioning, said: “In just two years, we’ve built a huge global fan base for British-made original content across YouTube and social platforms, delivering quality entertainment and factual programming wherever our viewers choose to watch. Growing this digital network has created incredible opportunities for my team to collaborate with UK producers, creators and brands - bringing Channel 4 values and award-winning content to young audiences. I’m excited to share more in the coming months about how we’re building on this success.” 

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Newsletters:
Marion Ranchet - https://marionranchet.substack.com/
Evan Shapiro - https://eshap.substack.com/

• (00:00) - Introduction and Overview
• (00:33) - Welcoming the First Guest
• (00:48) - YouTube Strategy for Traditional Media
• (02:50) - Channel 4's YouTube Transformation
• (06:18) - Experimentation and Data-Driven Decisions
• (06:50) - Monetization and Sales Strategy
• (11:06) - Audience Engagement and Content Strategy
• (28:29) - Future Plans and Upcoming Reports
• (29:12) - Conclusion and Upcoming Events

TMO listeners receive a 100£ discount when they register for MIP London using the promo code:  MLONDAUOVIS-C
Click HERE to get your ticket to the show TODAY!

In this episode of The Media Odyssey, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet tackle the latest in media and tech. They dive into the TikTok controversy and future ownership possibilities. The duo also unpacks Netflix’s Q4 earnings, discussing subscriber growth, the rise of creator-led content, and the company’s evolving ad business. Could Netflix acquire TikTok? Finally, Evan and Marion will be recording their first live podcast recording at the inaugural MIP London!

WATCH THE VIDEO POD ON OUR YOUTUBE - https://youtu.be/ab6mmqBmcAw

Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8

Connect with us on Linkedin:
Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/
Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/

Newsletters:
Marion Ranchet - https://marionranchet.substack.com/
Evan Shapiro - https://eshap.substack.com/

• (00:00) - Introduction and Hosts
• (00:59) - TikTok Controversy
• (04:19) - Social Media Rants
• (08:10) - Potential Buyers of TikTok
• (12:23) - Netflix Earnings Report
• (18:55) - Advertising Market Insights
• (19:54) - Netflix's Transparency Issues
• (21:34) - Impact of Live Sports on Netflix
• (24:09) - Netflix's Audience and Acquisition Strategies
• (26:30) - WWE and Netflix's Retention Strategy
• (30:18) - Future Prospects and Challenges for Netflix
• (32:38) - Upcoming Live Podcast Announcement

Place your bets! FUBO-HULU ante up in the battle of streaming. Will ROKU cash out and sell? Will Apple ROLL THE DICE and hit the table? Who's ALL IN and who's BLUFFING? 

Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet delve into the steaming pot of mergers and acquisitions in media. They'll explore the motivations, consequences, and implications of the latest deals shaping the industry. Today, the stakes have never been higher.

Marion's Substack, Streaming Made Easy goes PREMIUM! Each week, Streaming Made Easy aims to equip you with insights and analysis that deepened your understanding of the European Streaming Video Landscape always with an eye on what was happening internationally. As listeners of this podcast, you can get Streaming Made Easy Premium for a year at 149.99€ (instead of 179.99€) here:  https://marionranchet.substack.com/themediaodyssey

WATCH THE VIDEO POD ON OUR YOUTUBE - https://youtu.be/tEy7AQirDCQ

Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8

Connect with us on Linkedin:
Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/
Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/

Newsletters:
Marion Ranchet - https://marionranchet.substack.com/
Evan Shapiro - https://eshap.substack.com/

• (00:00) - Introduction and Compliments
• (00:43) - Discussing the Fubo-Hulu Merger
• (02:45) - Disney's Strategic Moves
• (05:43) - International Implications of the Merger
• (08:12) - Vivendi and Canal Plus Spin-Off
• (10:39) - Challenges in Mergers and Acquisitions
• (14:07) - Advertising Agency Mergers
• (19:02) - Apple's Potential Acquisitions
• (19:16) - Roku's Market Position and Future
• (20:00) - Impact of Mergers and Acquisitions on Jobs
• (22:15) - Apple's Content Strategy and Warner Bros. Discovery
• (24:48) - Gaming Industry Mergers
• (26:57) - European Broadcasting and Telco Mergers
• (30:07) - Public Service Broadcasters in the UK
• (37:09) - Conclusion and Announcements

2025 is about In-Game Ads & The Creator Economy. McDonalds, Chick-fil-a and Duolingo are the Creators we never knew we needed.

Tune in for PART 2 of Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet's bold predictions for the media landscape in 2025. They explore the rise of brands as creators, AI's growing role in the industry, and the increasing demand for live content. Evan and Marion discuss everything from AI to the evolution of advertising in games and the Creator Economy's impact on traditional media. Plus, our hosts dive into the challenges facing connected TV and what it will take to thrive in the fast-paced world of streaming.

WATCH THE VIDEO POD ON OUR YOUTUBE - https://youtu.be/5fWOQzr4Pbk

Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8

Connect with us on Linkedin:
Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/
Marion Ranchet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionranchet/

Newsletters:
Marion Ranchet - https://marionranchet.substack.com/
Evan Shapiro - https://eshap.substack.com/

• (00:00) - Introduction and Predictions Overview
• (01:00) - Brands as Creators
• (03:34) - AI in Advertising and Licensing
• (09:40) - The Rise of Live Content
• (13:51) - Gaming Ads and the Future of Advertising
• (17:59) - The Creator Economy Takes Over
• (21:15) - Connected TV and OS Wars
• (23:54) - Conclusion and Future Format