Ep. 100 The Future of Ad Tech & Agencies: AI, Giving Back, Walled Gardens & People-First Innovation

In our milestone 100th episode of the AdTechGod Podcast, we’re diving into three big themes: the future of ad tech, the power of giving back, and where agencies are headed next.
Segment 1 kicks off with industry legends Ari Paparo and Terence Kawaja. They break down how AI, automation, and consolidation are reshaping digital advertising—and what the booming creator economy means for authenticity and growth.
Segment 2 takes a different turn, with Tom Deierlein, Heidi Browning, and Peter Naylor sharing the incredible story behind the TD Foundation. It’s a nonprofit supporting families of wounded warriors and fallen heroes, proving how small donations and industry support can drive real impact.
Segment 3 looks ahead to the agency world. Lauren Wetzel (Infosum/WPP) and Sam Bloom (PMG) talk about everything from navigating walled gardens and evolving business models to building people-first cultures in an AI-driven era.
To my listeners, sponsors, and friends: thank you. Hitting 100 episodes is a huge milestone for me, and I couldn’t have done it without your support.
Segment 1 – The Future of Ad Tech
00:00 – Celebrating 100 Episodes of AdTechGod Podcast
01:48 – The Impact of AI on Ad Tech
05:22 – Consolidation in the Ad Tech Industry
08:59 – Challenges for Publishers in the AI Era
12:17 – The Future of Live Advertising
15:25 – Opportunities in the Creator Economy
18:59 – Navigating Authenticity in Content Creation
Segment 2 – Giving Back: The TD Foundation
22:21 – Celebrating Milestones and Giving Back
23:53 – The Birth of the TD Foundation
28:22 – Personal Stories and Impact
31:49 – Real-Life Case Studies
36:01 – Challenges and Call to Action
39:05 – Corporate Involvement and Community Support
Segment 3 – The Future of Agencies
42:21 – The Future of Agencies
45:40 – Navigating Walled Gardens & Data Challenges
49:55 – Evolving Business Models in Advertising
56:44 – Building a People-Centric Agency Culture
62:21 – Celebrating 100 Episodes & Looking Ahead
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices