Shows
The Media OdysseyEARNINGS SEASON: AMAZON, ROBLOX, & MOREAmazon invests $200 billion in AI, Roblox pays out $1 billion to creators, and Spotify's ad sales decline. Welcome to another episode of The Media Odyssey Live!In this live earnings coverage episode, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet break down results from Amazon, Roblox, Sony, and Spotify. The conversation reveals a massive AI spending race across Big Tech, the dramatic shifts happening in gaming away from traditional consoles, and the ongoing struggles of audio advertising. Rather than celebrating growth numbers, the hosts examine what the investments and losses actually mean for each company's long-term strategy and...
2026-02-1238 min
The Media OdysseyGOOGLE & DISNEY EARNINGS BREAKDOWNGoogle crushes expectations even as YouTube slows, and Disney names a CEO to distract from its numbers. Welcome to The Media Odyssey Live!In this live earnings coverage episode, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet break down Google and Alphabet’s Q4 2025 wins and Disney's less positive performance. The conversation reveals surprising shifts in where advertising dollars are flowing, with mobile and social platforms capturing growth that once went to traditional video platforms. Rather than celebrating wins, the hosts dig into what the numbers actually reveal about maturing products, shifting consumer behavior, and the growing ch...
2026-02-0532 min
The Media OdysseyAPPLE, META, & MICROSOFT EARNINGS BREAKDOWNApple, Microsoft, and Meta — with a quick detour into Comcast — have all reported earnings, and we’re breaking it down. Welcome back to The Media Odyssey podcast. In this episode, Evan and Marion ask the big question: why did the market cheer some results and punish others, even when the numbers looked strong?The conversation dives into iPhone surprises, AI spending anxiety, advertising dominance, and what all of this says about where big tech and media are headed next.Key Takeaways:1. Apple: iPhone to the Rescue (Again)Apple posted a better-than-expected quarte...
2026-01-3045 min
The Media OdysseyTHE CREATOR BILL OF RIGHTSThe Creator Economy has 1.5 million creators, billions in revenue, and… zero worker protections. Welcome back to The Media Odyssey Podcast!In this episode, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet sit down with Shira Lazar, founder of What's Trending and a pioneer in the creator economy. The conversation covers Shira's journey from early vlogger at CBS News to building a digital media brand covering internet culture, and dives deep into her current work on the Creator Bill of Rights and mental health advocacy for creators through her organization Creators 4 Mental Health. Rat...
2026-01-2954 min
NonDē UprisingEp 007 - Marion Ranchet on *The State of European Media*Marion Ranchet currently runs Streaming Made Easy and co-hosts The Media Odyssey Podcast. With 20 years of experience in the industry, she advises streamers, distribution platforms, and technology vendors on how to launch and grow in Europe.In Episode #007 of NonDē Uprising, Marion Ranchet offers lessons to Americans from the European cinema ecosystem. She discusses the importance of localization, France’s four-month theatrical window, and why Cineville works despite the failure of Moviepass. Get full access to NonDē Uprising at nondeuprising.substack.com/subscribe
2026-01-2222 min
The Media OdysseyGOOGLE, APPLE, HBO MAX, NETFLIX, RTL & SKY: NEW YEAR, BIG CHANGES!Google officially beat Apple and HBO Max is conquering Europe. Welcome back to The Media Odyssey Podcast! In this episode, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet focus on two media milestones that didn’t get the attention you expect: Google officially surpassing Apple in scale, and HBO Max’s long-awaited launch across key European markets. Rather than treating these as isolated news items, the conversation explains why both moments matter and what they reveal about platform economics, global strategy, and competitive positioning.The episode is a reality check on how quick...
2026-01-2248 min
The Media OdysseyBREAKING DOWN NETFLIX Q4Netflix’s earnings beat expectations, but the numbers reveal a business increasingly reliant on optics, pricing, and financial engineering rather than underlying engagement growth.In this live earnings breakdown episode of The Media Odyssey Podcast, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet analyze Netflix’s latest quarterly results, separating headline wins from structural concerns. While revenue, profit, and subscriber figures all came in strong, deeper engagement metrics tell a more cautious story. The conversation focuses on growth rates, viewing hours, ad revenue contribution, and the financial implications of Netflix’s proposed Warner...
2026-01-2135 min
The Media OdysseyIS 2026 MEDIA'S DARK AGES?CES isn’t about gadgets anymore, but who controls the interface between audiences, data, and distribution.Welcome back to The Media Odyssey Podcast! From CES, Evan Shapiro and Alan Wolk, Co-Founder and Lead Analyst of TVREV, unpack what this year’s show revealed about the future of media, entertainment, and technology while expanding on their predictions for 2026. Beyond the hype of AI demos and hardware announcements, the conversation centers on power shifts: who owns how we get information, who controls discovery, and which companies are quietly positioning themselves as the n...
2026-01-1542 min
VCASTL'écran de TV contre-attaque avec Marion Ranchet et Emmanuel CregoYouTube sur la télé, alliances inédites entre chaînes et plateformes, nouveaux usages, nouveaux modèles publicitaires, sport et attention fragmentée… dans cet épisode de VCAST, Jérôme Badie échange avec Marion Ranchet et Emmanuel Crego pour décrypter les grandes mutations en cours.Un épisode pour comprendre :pourquoi l’écran TV redevient stratégiquecomment YouTube, Netflix ou Amazon redessinent les règlesce que ces mouvements changent pour les marques, les médias et la publicitéHost : Jérôme Badie
2026-01-1443 min
The Media OdysseyWHO WILL WIN 2026?The media industry isn’t heading for a clean recovery but bracing for another year of pressure, recalibration, and structural change.Welcome back to The Media Odyssey Podcast with a special thanks to Spectrum Reach! In this first part of their 2026 predictions, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet lay out what the coming year will likely bring for media, technology, and entertainment. They cover ongoing layoffs, fragile ad markets, the rise of global distribution strategies, and a new phase of AI-driven discovery. 2026 will test which companies have truly adapted and which are still relying on ou...
2026-01-0851 min
The Media OdysseyREGIFTED: THE CTO PLAYBOOK FOR SURVIVING FRAGMENTATIONHappy New Year from The Media Odyssey podcast! We're regifting this episode hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet recorded live from IBC with Simon Farnsworth (ITV) and Adde Granberg (SVT), two CTOs (or as they call it, “Chief Transformation Officers”) reshaping European public broadcasting. The conversation explores how legacy broadcasters can adapt to a digital-first, fragmented world while facing off against trillion-dollar tech giants.They discuss the shift from “doing digital” to “being digital,” how generative AI and cloud-based workflows can unlock beyond-human-scale production, and the biggest challenge broadcast is facing is mindset. Both guests stress that t...
2026-01-0145 min
The Media OdysseyREGIFTED: TURNING STRUGGLE INTO SCALE WITH DHAR MANNHappy holidays from The Media Odyssey podcast! We're regifting this episode where hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro sit down with Dhar Mann, one of the most successful independent creators in the world, to unpack what it really means to build an owned-and-operated media empire in the age of platforms. With over 70 billion views across social media, Dhar has mastered the art of storytelling at scale without relying on traditional Hollywood systems.In a sharp, insightful conversation, Dhar shares the mechanics behind his studio’s meteoric rise, the values that drive his content, and why cre...
2025-12-2547 min
The Media OdysseyFRONTLINE PUTS PBS ON YOUTUBEPublic service media isn’t outdated, instead, it’s fighting for relevance, trust, and survival in a fractured global information ecosystem.Welcome back to The Media Odyssey Podcast. In this episode, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet sit down with Raney Aronson-Rath, Executive Producer of Frontline and Editor-in-Chief of Documentaries at GBH, for a conversation on the future of public media. From political pressure and funding cuts to platform expansion and audience trust, the discussion explores why public broadcasters must be everywhere audiences are without sacrificing journalistic integrity.Through Frontline’s tran...
2025-12-1848 min
The Media OdysseyGRADING 2025: WERE WE RIGHT?Media is not shifting, it’s revealing which predictions actually mapped the year and which trends will define what comes next.Welcome back to The Media Odyssey Podcast! In this special “Predictions Wrapped” episode, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet revisit the forecasts they made a year ago and grade themselves on accuracy. They discuss YouTube’s explosive rise on CTV, Netflix’s unexpected innovation, creator-driven cultural dominance, the slow grind of CTV fragmentation and more. They break down the bets they nailed and the ones that missed the mark.The conver...
2025-12-1157 min
The Media OdysseyBREAKING NEWS: Netflix x WBDHollywood isn’t just consolidating, it’s entering a new era where politics, regulation, and financial pressure determine who survives.Welcome back to The Media Odyssey Podcast! In this emergency episode, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet break down the stunning news that Netflix has emerged as the leading bidder for Warner Bros. Discovery’s studio and streaming divisions. They unpack why the offer makes financial sense, why it’s already triggering political backlash, and how the deal could reshape theatrical windows, global streaming strategy, and the balance of power in Hollywood.Key...
2025-12-0621 min
The Media OdysseyFANDOM > AUDIENCEModern media isn’t just transforming, it’s rebuilding itself around fandom, experimentation, and platform-native storytelling.Welcome back to The Media Odyssey Podcast! In this episode, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet sit down with Holly Graham, Chief Commercial Officer, and Ben Arnold, SVP of Commercial Operations, of Little Dot Studios, one of the most influential digital operators in global entertainment. With more than 1,000 channels across YouTube, FAST, TikTok, and social platforms, plus a massive network of owned brands, Little Dot has become a blueprint for how media companies build fando...
2025-12-0452 min
The Media OdysseyBBC STUDIOS + YOUTUBE A PARTNERSHIP CASE STUDYGlobal media isn’t just transforming, it’s reorganizing itself around fandom, creators, and direct-to-audience ecosystems.Welcome back to The Media Odyssey Podcast! In this special episode from MIPCOM Cannes, Evan Shapiro sits down with Pedro Pina, VP of YouTube in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, and Jasmine Dawson, SVP of Digital at BBC Studios, for a panel on BBC Studios’ success on YouTube and how traditional media and creator platforms are rewriting the rules of international entertainment. From YouTube’s rise as a global television network to BBC Studios’ creator-native reinvention, Pedro and Jasmine reveal why the ne...
2025-11-2628 min
The Media OdysseyFLYING WITH THE EAGLESSports fandom isn’t just evolving, it’s becoming one of the most powerful engines of modern storytelling and audience engagement. Welcome back to the Media Odyssey Podcast! This week, hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro sit down with Jen Kavanaugh, SVP of Marketing and Media for the Philadelphia Eagles, for a masterclass in how today’s most successful teams build culture, narrative, and multi-generational fandom. From global expansion to creator-style content production, Jen reveals why the Eagles have become one of the most influential brands in sports and a case study for every marketer navigating the att...
2025-11-2046 min
The Media OdysseyTUBI PUTS CREATORS IN THE SPOTLIGHTThe line between Hollywood and the creator economy is disappearing…Tubi is leading the charge.Welcome back to the Media Odyssey Podcast! In this episode, hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet are joined by Rich Bloom GM, Creators Program & EVP, Business Development at Tubi, to unpack how the Fox-owned streaming service is redefining the creator economy and the very meaning of “creator media.” With over 100 million monthly users, a 95% on-demand model, and a growing library of creator-driven programming, Tubi is blurring the line between traditional entertainment and creator-led storytelling.The conversation explores how Tubi is empowe...
2025-11-1349 min
The Media OdysseyTHE AFFINITY ECONOMY: A MASTERCLASSThe rules of media have changed and the user is now in charge. Welcome back to the Media Odyssey Podcast! In this live episode presented with PreciseTV, Evan Shapiro breaks down the shift from the gatekeeper era of top-down media control to the new user-centric era, where audiences, not executives, dictate what succeeds. Using his signature “media cartographer” maps and data-driven storytelling, Evan unpacks how Big Tech overtook traditional media, how generational shifts are transforming consumption habits, and why the creator economy is now the true center of cultural power.From the “...
2025-11-0650 min
The Media OdysseyWHO WILL BUY DISCO BROS?When billion-dollar deals make more noise than sense, who really wins?In this episode of The Media Odyssey podcast, hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro pull back the curtain on the relentless cycle of media mergers and acquisitions where massive buyouts, strategy, and political agendas collide. With characteristic humor and precision, they trace how decades of dealmaking have reshaped, and even broken, the entertainment business, from Hollywood to Europe.The conversation spans the latest shake-ups at Warner Bros. Discovery, Paramount, Netflix, and Apple, while examining Media For Europe’s pan-European expansion and Canal+’s global ambi...
2025-10-3045 min
The Media OdysseyWHY YOU'RE NOT GETTING FILM DISTRIBUTIONThe new buyer isn’t Netflix, it’s the audience. Live from MIPCOM 2025, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet sit down with Filmhub CEO Alan d’Escragnolle and Vortex Media CEO Justin Rebelo to unpack how independent producers and distributors are reinventing the film business for the creator economy.Recorded at the first-ever The Media Odyssey Podcast live show at MIPCOM, this episode explores how companies like Filmhub are helping producers reach global audiences across AVOD, TVOD, and YouTube “Free with Ads;” and why the future of indie film depends on creators learning to sell directly to viewers...
2025-10-2630 min
The Media OdysseyWHY YOU'RE NOT GETTING FILM DISTRIBUTIONThe new buyer isn’t Netflix, it’s the audience. Live from MIPCOM 2025, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet sit down with Filmhub CEO Alan d’Escragnolle and Vortex Media CEO Justin Rebelo to unpack how independent producers and distributors are reinventing the film business for the creator economy.Recorded at the first-ever The Media Odyssey Podcast live show at MIPCOM, this episode explores how companies like Filmhub are helping producers reach global audiences across AVOD, TVOD, and YouTube “Free with Ads;” and why the future of indie film depends on creators learning to sell directly to viewers...
2025-10-2330 min
The Media OdysseyBREAKING DOWN THE CREATOR ECOSPHEREWho really runs the media world now — creators, corporations, or algorithms?In this episode of the Media Odyssey Podcast, hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet unpack the newly released Creator Ecosphere Map, a first-of-its-kind visual of the entire creator economy, created in partnership with Shira Lazar (What’s Trending) and InfluencerMarketing.Ai. Recorded just after MIPCOM, they explore how creators, brands, and traditional media now share the same ecosystem — and what the data reveals about who actually drives engagement, fandom, and revenue online.From TikTok to Substack, YouTube to Patreon, the hosts break down wh...
2025-10-1639 min
The Media OdysseyMEET THE MINDS BEHIND RUPAUL'S DRAG RACEWhat happens when a niche fandom becomes a global streaming powerhouse?In this episode of the Media Odyssey Podcast, hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet sit down with World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, the creative minds behind RuPaul’s Drag Race, and a streaming empire built on fandom. They explore how World of Wonder transformed drag culture into an international media brand spanning 17 territories, while redefining what “community-first” streaming looks like in the era of algorithmic sameness.The conversation dives into how WOW thrives outside traditional Hollywood logic through owning its IP, em...
2025-10-0959 min
The Media OdysseyHOW DISNEY KILLED BROADCAST WITH KIMMELJimmy Kimmel is at the center of the conversation where politics, free speech, and billion-dollar mergers collide.In this episode of the Media Odyssey Podcast, hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet unpack the dramatic suspension and reinstatement of Jimmy Kimmel—a flashpoint that highlights the collision of politics, regulation, and the crumbling power of broadcast TV. Shapiro explains the FCC’s limited authority, why Chair Brendan Carr’s threats crossed constitutional lines, and how Disney’s rapid cave-in to political pressure triggered a fierce backlash.The discussion broadens to late-night’s decline, the chilling precedent for free s...
2025-10-0251 min
The Media OdysseyWTF IS A MEDIA CTO TODAY?In this episode of the Media Odyssey Podcast, hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet record live from IBC with Simon Farnsworth (ITV) and Adde Granberg (SVT), two CTOs (or as they call it, “Chief Transformation Officers”) reshaping European public broadcasting. The conversation explores how legacy broadcasters can adapt to a digital-first, fragmented world while facing off against trillion-dollar tech giants.They discuss the shift from “doing digital” to “being digital,” how generative AI and cloud-based workflows can unlock beyond-human-scale production, and the biggest challenge broadcast is facing is mindset. Both guests stress that the real battle is cultural, no...
2025-09-2545 min
The Media OdysseyIS WHALE TV TV'S BEST KEPT SECRET?In a special episode recorded live from IBC in Amsterdam, the Media Odyssey Podcast brings together hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet with Whale TV’s Teresa Lopez and Chris Hock. Once a white-label operating system hidden inside millions of TVs, Whale TV has rebranded and stepped into the spotlight. The discussion dives into the shifting economics of TV hardware, why operating systems are now the key battleground for audience attention, and how Whale TV’s profit-sharing model, Whale TV Profit Sharing, offers a different path than big tech rivals.The group also explores broader indus...
2025-09-1841 min
The Media OdysseyHOW ANGEL IS REVOLUTIONIZING ENTERTAINMENTAfter raising $55M in commitments in just 18 days, Angel is ringing the bell on Wall Street and the three founding brothers come on this special episode of The Media Odyssey Podcast for the first time ever! In this episode, hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet sit down with the Harmon brothers—Neal, Jeff, and Jordan, founders of Angel—to explore how they’ve turned an outsider’s vision into one of the most disruptive forces in global entertainment. What started as a family-driven mission to create values-based content has evolved into a studio powered by its audience, financed...
2025-09-111h 09
The Media OdysseyNEPO PRINCES, KILL LISTS, AND C4 SUCCESSIONWelcome back to the Media Odyssey Podcast!In the first episode of Season 2, hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro return from summer break to unpack the biggest stories shaping the media landscape on both sides of the Atlantic. They cover everything from NBCUniversal’s cable spin-off and MSNBC rebrand, to European consolidation led by MFE and ProSiebenSat.1, and the growing dominance of YouTube on TV screens. They also examine Roku’s pivot into subscription video and debate who should take the reins as Channel 4’s next CEO.Key Takeaways:1...
2025-09-0447 min
The Media OdysseySEASON 1 FINALESome quotes are memorable because they’re insightful, others because they come on a tin coffee cup.Welcome to the season finale of The Media Odyssey Podcast, where hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro close out season one by sharing their last favorite clips – and the behind-the-scenes stories that came with them. From public spats with self-aware CEOs to surprising platform performance data and perfectly ripe metaphors, this episode is both a celebration of what they’ve learned and a preview of what’s next.A sendoff for a season t...
2025-07-3121 min
The Media OdysseyOUR TOP PODCAST MOMENTS SO FAROn this special episode of The Media Odyssey Podcast, hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro discuss their favorite moments from Season 1. Evan and Marion select standout clips that capture the biggest themes, surprises, and insights from across the year. It’s a thoughtful, high-energy wrap-up on the state of media through the lens of prediction, collaboration, tech disruption, and creator evolution.This isn’t just a recap, it’s a snapshot of the tectonic shifts reshaping the global content economy, from bundling to content discovery to fandom as KPI.Key Takeaways:
2025-07-2430 min
The Media OdysseyREDEFINING CREATORS with Dhar MannWelcome to a new episode of The Media Odyssey Podcast, where we explore the people and ideas reshaping the media landscape. Hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro sit down with Dhar Mann, one of the most successful independent creators in the world, to unpack what it really means to build an owned-and-operated media empire in the age of platforms. With over 70 billion views across social media, Dhar has mastered the art of storytelling at scale—without relying on traditional Hollywood systems.In a sharp, insightful conversation, Dhar shares the mechanics behind his studio’s meteoric rise, the valu...
2025-07-1747 min
The Media OdysseyCHANGING TV ON YOUTUBE with Pedro PinaWelcome to a special edition of The Media Odyssey Podcast from the Croisette at Cannes Lions! Hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro sit down with Pedro Pina, Vice President of YouTube EMEA, for a sharp and forward-looking conversation about creators, monetization, and YouTube’s role in the evolving media landscape. As YouTube celebrates its 20th anniversary, the platform is no longer just a distribution tool—it’s a full-fledged ecosystem reshaping how content is created, monetized, and valued.Pina shares candid insights on how YouTube is adapting to the needs of both creators and legacy media players, what’s...
2025-07-1038 min
The Media OdysseyTHINKING LIKE A CREATOR with BBC Studios, Amelia Dimoldenberg, Kiell Smith-BynoeWelcome to a special edition of The Media Odyssey Podcast from the buzzing beachfront of Cannes Lions! Hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro explore the collision of traditional media, streaming giants, and the creator economy in an environment buzzing with brand activations and bold narratives. With viewership migrating to digital but ad dollars lagging behind, the episode dives into how media organizations are rethinking measurement, monetization, and storytelling.They’re joined by three influential voices leading that transformation: Jasmine Dawson, SVP Digital at BBC Studios; Kiell Smith-Bynoe, actor on Ghosts and digital-native performer; and Amelia Dimoldenberg, cr...
2025-07-0344 min
The Media OdysseyMEASURING CANNES LIONSWelcome to a special edition of The Media Odyssey Podcast from the heart of the Croisette at Cannes Lions! Hosts Marion Ranchet and Evan Shapiro dive into the evolving mood and key narratives emerging from the industry’s most vibrant gathering. From linear TV’s staying power in Europe to the acceleration of addressable advertising and first-party data, they set the stage for a candid, high-energy conversation on the state of the market.Joining them are two major voices shaping media’s future: Dan Callahan, newly appointed SVP and CRO at Spectrum Reach, and Dave Campanelli, Presid...
2025-06-2626 min
The Media OdysseyDISSECTING STREAMING: Live from StreamTVEvan and Marion take The Media Odyssey Podcast live at Stream TV's Media Universe Summit, joined by two special guests shaking up the content discovery game. Matthew Henick of Ventura TV OS, revealed how Ventura is building a new kind of CTV OS: one that puts transparency, user experience, and publishers first. Then Alan d’Escragnolle, CEO of Filmhub, showed us what a true distribution machine looks like, connecting indie creators and major studios alike to over 100 territories and thousands of licensing deals, with hits like Bounce Patrol leading the charge.From the chaos of...
2025-06-1941 min
The Media OdysseyCHATTING AT GEMA: Emmanuelle Lacaze | Gédéon CommunicationsIn this episode of "Chatting at GEMA", Marion Ranchet interviews Emmanuelle Lacaze, President and Owner of Gédéon Communications, about television design, the Olympics, and innovative collaboration. Lacaze explains how Gédéon Communications, a design agency known for its work on media branding in France and internationally, contributed to the rise of television design with new ways of thinking about creativity and concept. Lacaze also speaks to how Gédéon Communications was responsible for designing the 2024 Paris Olympic emblem as well as their elaborate pitch strategy and the five-year-long process of preparing for the Opening Ceremony. ...
2025-06-1719 min
The Media OdysseyCHATTING AT GEMA: Unai Iparragirre | EITBIn this episode of "Chatting at GEMA", Marion Ranchet interviews Unai Iparragirre, Head of Channels & OTT at EITB, the public broadcaster in the Basque Country, about being able to adapt to a changing landscape, brave content, and the intersection of public service and entertainment. Iparragirre explains the importance of EITB beyond entertainment to preserve the Basque culture, identity, and language while serving the Basque community across the globe. EITB’s I Need Help, a series about the mental health challenges teenagers faced as a result of the COVID pandemic, underlines Iparragirre’s commitment to public service and social responsibility while...
2025-06-1719 min
The Media OdysseyCHATTING AT GEMA: Pierluigi Colantoni | RAIIn this episode of "Chatting at GEMA", Marion Ranchet interviews Pierluigi Colantoni, Creative Director at RAI, Italy’s national broadcasting company, about creative packaging, branding and promotion, and the growing role of data in media. Colantoni speaks to how data informs creative decisions and the delicate balance between creative instincts and data while warning that data may become too central and rising concerns over privacy. Colantoni highlights the importance of sincerity and localization in creative processes, especially in the age of AI, and what can be lost in the race for efficiency. Pierluigi Colantoni is t...
2025-06-1713 min
The Media OdysseyWRAPPING H1 2025 IN MEDIAThis week on The Media Odyssey Podcast, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet roll up their sleeves to recap the tumultuous first half of 2025. From mass layoffs at Disney, ITV, and Warner Bros. Discovery to a sports rights meltdown in Europe, they dig into the biggest media headlines of the season, and what they truly reveal about the state of the business. Evan and Marion dissect the difference between strategy and reactive chaos, while highlighting where leadership is stepping up, or falling apart.They also explore the rising relevance of public service broadcasters, the challenges of entering new...
2025-06-1225 min
The Media OdysseyTRANSFORMING MEDIA WITH AIAI: fear it or figure it out? This week on The Media Odyssey Podcast, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet sit down with David Rudnick, CTO of LG Ad Solutions, to unpack how artificial intelligence is reshaping connected TV, from creative optimization to real-time personalization. They tackle big questions: Is AI replacing jobs or removing the boring parts? How can marketers catch viewers in their moments of interest? And what happens when your content strategy is as adaptive as your audience?From “cutting the fat” to building trust in algorithms, this episode breaks down the hype and the hope...
2025-06-0545 min
The Media OdysseyOPTIMIZING IP ON SOCIALThis week on The Media Odyssey podcast, Evan and Marion join to delve into the fast-evolving world of digital content distribution, with a behind-the-scenes look at one of YouTube’s most powerful enablers: Merzigo. Joining the show is Dilip Bala, SVP & GM of Merzigo U.S., to unpack how the company helps IP owners—from broadcasters to studios—unlock serious revenue and global reach through platform-specific strategy, content optimization, and data-driven localization.From reviving old dramas with fresh life to proving that YouTube can actually boost TV ratings, this episode is packed with surprising insights and real-world case s...
2025-05-2939 min
The Media OdysseyBREAKING ADS w/ Dan CallahanThis week on The Media Odyssey Podcast, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet reunite to tackle one of the hottest debates in advertising: Which ads actually work—and why? Joined by Dan Callahan, GVP of National Advertising Sales at Spectrum Reach, they dive deep into the evolving world of addressable advertising, the rise of zero-party data, and why transparency and performance now rule the media landscape. From the addressable table of elements, to the return of the bundle, and the future of targeting, this episode is a must-listen for folks looking to understand today's must-have strategy in ad sales....
2025-05-2254 min
The Media OdysseyPIVOTING CAREERS IN MEDIA with Jazz Pitcairn and Katrina CraigwellDouble duty! This week, Evan sits down with Katrina Craigwell, head of products at JP Morgan Chase, and acclaimed writer/director Jazz Pitcairn to discuss building resilient careers, making bold pivots, and the power of curiosity, networks, and hustle in a rapidly shifting industry.Whether you’re looking to make a career transition, advance in your current field, or just stay ahead of the curve, Katrina and Jazz offer actionable advice to help you thrive in today’s fast-paced world. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on how to turn challenges into opportunities and keep your care...
2025-05-1536 min
The Media OdysseyKIDDING ABOUT TV with Jo RedfernJo Redfern, a kids media veteran and Founder of Futrhood Media, joins the pod this week for a deep dive into the future of youth content and the evolving business models shaping it. From launching Peppa Pig and leading BBC Children’s brands to advising global sports leagues and creators, Jo brings decades of frontline insight into the radical transformation of how young audiences engage with content. They unpack the rise of YouTube and Roblox, the creator economy’s growing dominance, and why IP owners must now think like marketers, developers, and distributors across every platform. Learn why...
2025-05-0830 min
The Media OdysseyWAGING THE CTV OS WARS with Alan WolkIn this episode of The Media Odyssey, host Marion Ranchet welcomes Media Analyst and TVREV Co-Founder Alan Wolk for a deep dive into the ever-evolving Connected TV landscape. Marion and Alan dissect the current lull in CTV innovation, the strategic missteps of new entrants like The Trade Desk, and the rising competition among legacy OS manufacturers, big tech players, and fast-growing indie platforms like Titan and TiVo. They also explore how fast channels, contextual advertising, and shoppable TV are shaping the industry's future—and why measurement, monetization, and buyer confusion remain major hurdles. From Roku’s platform revenue power play...
2025-05-0133 min
The Media OdysseyTESTING & LEARNING: The CBC Case StudyIn this episode of The Media Odyssey, 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...
2025-04-2438 min
The Media OdysseySTREAMING EUROPEIn 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...
2025-04-1753 min
The Media OdysseyPREDICTING THE UPFRONTSIs 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...
2025-04-1040 min
egta's Expert Series38 - Marion Ranchet on US vs. Europe viewing trends, YouTube & broadcasters' relations, and the future of bundles.Expert Series with Marion Ranchet on US vs. Europe viewing trends, YouTube & broadcasters' relations, and the future of bundles - Join us as we sit down with Marion Ranchet as she explores key shifts in media, from differences in streaming trends between Europe and the US, to broadcasters’ evolving relationship with YouTube, the strategic potential of bundling services, and what’s next for media innovation—highlighting both risks and exciting opportunities in a fast-changing landscape.
2025-04-0827 minegta's Expert Series38 - Marion Ranchet on US vs. Europe viewing trends, YouTube & broadcasters' relations, and the future of bundles.Expert Series with Marion Ranchet on US vs. Europe viewing trends, YouTube & broadcasters' relations, and the future of bundles - Join us as we sit down with Marion Ranchet as she explores key shifts in media, from differences in streaming trends between Europe and the US, to broadcasters’ evolving relationship with YouTube, the strategic potential of bundling services, and what’s next for media innovation—highlighting both risks and exciting opportunities in a fast-changing landscape.
2025-04-0827 min
The Media OdysseyTAKING A CLOSER LOOK AT: Comcast & Canal+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! Int...
2025-04-0327 min
The Media OdysseyFIXING TV'S UXIn 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...
2025-03-2740 min
The Media OdysseySIZING THE CONTENT ECONOMY - Live from MIP London!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.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on...
2025-03-2031 min
The Media OdysseyCHATTING AT SXSW: Mike Sid | AteliereMike 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. Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shap...
2025-03-1608 minThe Media OdysseyCHATTING AT SXSW: Lydia Daly | ParamountIn 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...
2025-03-1608 minThe Media OdysseyCHATTING AT SXSW: Ruth Berry | ITV StudiosIn 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...
2025-03-1609 minThe Media OdysseyCHATTING AT SXSW: Steve Bagdasarian | ComscoreOn 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.Interested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect with us on Linkedin:Evan Shapiro - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshap-media-cartographer/Marion Ranchet...
2025-03-1608 minThe Media OdysseyCHATTING AT SXSW: Nicki Sheard | BBC StudiosIn 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 ch...
2025-03-1607 min
The Media OdysseySUPER BUNDLINGHOW 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, an...
2025-03-1334 min
The Media OdysseyMEASURING TV TODAYWHAT 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.Interested in sponsorship? https...
2025-03-0626 min
Marketing, Media & Adtech🎙️ The ADOTAT Show Special: “Metrics Don’t Matter” – The Game Show Edition!Welcome to Metrics Don’t Matter, the high-energy, no-holds-barred game show where adtech veterans and media moguls battle through trivia, slogans, and live challenges—because who needs meaningful KPIs when you can just make ‘em up as you go?First up, Marion Ranchet, the Swiss Army knife of the streaming world. She’s cut through the labyrinth of SVOD, AVOD, and FAST markets with the precision of a surgeon and the flair of a French auteur. As the mastermind behind Western Europe’s streaming expansion, she’s here to prove that cracking Europe isn’t as simple as slapping a...
2025-03-0324 min
The Media OdysseyYOUR BRAIN ON ADVERTISINGOn 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 th...
2025-02-2731 min
The Media OdysseyEARNINGS SEASONDISNEY, GOOGLE & SPOTIFY, OH MYMarion 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-CClick HERE to get your ticket to the show TODAY!Sources: Disney QESpotify QEGoogle QE00:00 - Introduction 00:30 - MIP London Announcement02:24 - Disney 13:47 - YouTube & Alphabet (Google)26:56 - Spotify 39:14 - Closi...
2025-02-2040 min
The Media OdysseySPORTING LIFEFLY, 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-CClick HERE to get your tick...
2025-02-1341 min
The Media OdysseyOVERCOMING FEAR OF FINDING OUT WITH CHANNEL 4BROADCASTERS 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 an...
2025-02-0634 min
The Media OdysseyWHY NETFLIX WILL STOP REPORTING SUBSTMO listeners receive a 100£ discount when they register for MIP London using the promo code: MLONDAUOVIS-CClick 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 inaugu...
2025-01-3037 min
The Media OdysseyMERGING AHEADPlace 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 E...
2025-01-2341 min
The Media OdysseyPREDICTING 2025 MEDIA (PART 2)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...
2025-01-1627 min
The Media OdysseyRECAPPING CES 2025: BONUS EPISODEMartha & Mergers & Media, Oh My! From the market maneuvers of Fubo and Disney to Evan's presentation alongside Martha Stewart and much much more. In this BONUS EPISODE, Marion and Evan chat all things CES. WATCH THE VIDEO POD ON OUR YOUTUBE - https://youtu.be/yoRsQk15ryAInterested in sponsorship? https://forms.gle/2LCWfX2HBNT8mtpx8Connect 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...
2025-01-1412 min
The Media OdysseyPREDICTING 2025 MEDIA (PART 1)Is YOUTUBE the new GOLD STANDARD of Entertainment? The Hard Bundle Strikes Back? Is JAKE PAUL the new BRAD PITT? This two-part discussion kicks off with hosts Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet's first 5 predictions of 2025, covering major trends and shifts in the ever-evolving and choppy seas of the media industry. From YouTube's growing dominance on television screens to Netflix's evolving strategies, to the rise of hard bundles in streaming, and to the future of collaboration between broadcasters and tech giants - Evan and Marion explore the innovations, partnerships, and consumer behaviors of the future. With insights fr...
2025-01-0929 min
The Media OdysseyWRAPPING 2024 MEDIAIn the inaugural episode of The Media Odyssey, Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet delve into the evolving dynamics of the global media landscape. With Evan representing the U.S. perspective and Marion providing insights from Europe, this podcast explores the intersections and contrasts of media trends on both sides of the Atlantic. In this episode, Evan and Marion review and rate their media predictions for 2024. Marion elaborates on her forecast regarding European broadcasters' increasing adoption of AVOD (Ad-supported Video on Demand) and FAST (Free Ad-supported Streaming Television) hubs, such as “M6’s collaboration with Pluto TV, JOIN’s extensive AVOD c...
2025-01-0231 min
Beyond the StreamWho’s watching in 2030? Building the viewer persona of the very near future with Marion RanchetIn this episode of Beyond the Stream – the Founder and Managing Director of The Local Act Consultancy – she sits down with host Edward Norton to discuss the future of TV in Europe. She covers topics like current and possible future trends that may inform who’s watching in 2030, and how businesses in the OTT market can remain relevant to viewers, culminating in the persona of the typical viewer of the very near future.
Beyond the Stream is a monthly podcast brought to you by Simplestream. Join us, and learn how consumer behaviour is changing across different sectors – and how...
2024-02-1437 min
Kids Media Club PodcastExploring the World of FAST Channels with Media Expert Marion RanchetIn this latest episode of the Kids Media Club podcast, hosts Andy and Emily dive into the world of FAST channels (Free Advertiser-Supported Streaming TV) with media expert and consultant Marion Ranchet. They discuss the rise of FAST channels, the benefits of this new streaming option, and the impact it has on traditional TV. Ranchet also shares her insights on the future of streaming TV and how it will shape the entertainment industry. Tune in to this informative and engaging episode to learn all about FAST channels and what they mean for the future of media consumption.
2024-01-3038 min
The Amp PodcastThe streaming shift: Exploring the rise of FAST channelsIn this special edition of The Amp Podcast, Executive Director Richard Broughton sits down with Valerio Motti, VP of FAST Channels at Fremantle, Marion Ranchet, founder of The Local Act Consultancy, and Ampere's Dan Monaghan, to discuss all things FAST (that's free, ad-supported streaming TV). We discuss the origins of this new service, what content works best on a FAST channel, and the challenges facing this industry going forward. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-08-3135 min
StreamTime SportsNetflix in on live rights and Apple to create the Spotify of sports… prediction timeOn this week's episode of the StreamTime podcast hosts, Nick Meacham and Chris Stone, share some of their bold predictions for 2023 alongside guests Steve McCaskill and Marion Ranchet.
• Bengals heartbreak and Fight Club - (0:15)
• SportsPro Ignition - (7:38)
• 2023 Bold Predictions - (12:19)
• Netflix will partner with DAZN - (16:56)
• The UK 3pm black rule will end - (19:34)
• We have reached subscription fatigue - (24:09)
• Viaplay will supplant Eurosport across pan-Europe - (27:30)
• The NBA will offer a streaming only package for bidders - (31:47)
• Apple or Roku will create a Spotify moment in sports - (36:00)
• Lean in experiences w...
2023-02-0146 min
StreamTime SportsWhat are FAST channels and what opportunities will they create for sport?
SportsPro chief executive Nick Meacham and community lead Chris Stone are joined by Marion Ranchet, founder and managing director of The Local Act Consultancy, for a deep dive into FAST channels.
Ranchet, who offers consultancy services to companies launching OTT video services, explains precisely what a FAST – or free ad-supported streaming television – channel is, and highlights how the model differs from advertising-based video on demand (AVOD).
Then, the trio consider the opportunities the FAST approach presents for the sports industry, what organisations should do when setting up their own FAST channels, and whether the model could even...
2022-08-0354 min