The Media Leader

News analysis, opinion and insight for media and advertising professionals

Media lessons from Mr 305

Differentiation is found in new spaces or where people are genuinely engaged and paying attention. Just ask 22,141 people wearing bald caps, white shirts and black ties for Pitbull, says David Wilding.

Before you optimise for AI, answer this: Why should it choose you?

The IAB is right that every discipline has a role. However, capability without a defined script simply encourages best-guess execution, writes Paul Evans.

TML and AMI to deliver Challenger Stage at The Future of Media London

18 industry leaders will form an advisory board to shape a dedicated programme for independent agencies and challenger brands.

Has podcasting reached saturation point? Seven specialists weigh in

In the final instalment of this three-part series examining the future of podcasting, The Media Leader spoke to industry experts about whether the medium has reached its peak, and what impact future regulation might have.

The fight marketers can’t afford to lose

Jonathan Knowles is right that capitalising marketing isn’t a silver bullet. But that doesn’t mean marketers should stop making the argument, writes Rob Beevers.

The Media Leader

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Opinion

James Dunaj

Regulations on HFSS in-store promotions have prompted brands to develop media strategies that align messaging with each channel’s rules. The numbers show it’s working, writes James Dunaj.

Raymond Snoddy

Ray Snoddy heralds another journalistic investigation but finds The Times wanting in its reporting of the listener figures for its own radio station.

Simon Carr and Laura Smith-Collins

CEPs give brand and performance teams the same commercial target, measurement framework, and moment to act. They are the first credible bridge between the two disciplines.

Data Snapshot

Data-led charts from across the UK media landscape

Find out more about the UK's most comprehensive aggregator of media data.

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The Future of Media Manchester 2026 is the region's premier event bringing together media planners, strategists, and buyers to explore the biggest challenges and opportunities shaping the commercial media landscape. Hosted by The Media Leader, the event features expert speakers, thought-provoking debates and research-led sessions designed to spark honest conversations about where the industry is heading. Taking place at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester on 17 September, the event will bring together 600+ industry professionals and 40+ speakers for a full day of insight, discussion and networking. Attendees can expect sharp debates, fresh perspectives and valuable connections with senior leaders across the media ecosystem — making it a must-attend for anyone looking to stay ahead of the industry’s next chapter.
17 September 2026

News analysis, opinion and insight for media and advertising professionals

Media lessons from Mr 305

Differentiation is found in new spaces or where people are genuinely engaged and paying attention. Just ask 22,141 people wearing bald caps, white shirts and black ties for Pitbull, says David Wilding.

Before you optimise for AI, answer this: Why should it choose you?

The IAB is right that every discipline has a role. However, capability without a defined script simply encourages best-guess execution, writes Paul Evans.

TML and AMI to deliver Challenger Stage at The Future of Media London

18 industry leaders will form an advisory board to shape a dedicated programme for independent agencies and challenger brands.

Has podcasting reached saturation point? Seven specialists weigh in

In the final instalment of this three-part series examining the future of podcasting, The Media Leader spoke to industry experts about whether the medium has reached its peak, and what impact future regulation might have.

The fight marketers can’t afford to lose

Jonathan Knowles is right that capitalising marketing isn’t a silver bullet. But that doesn’t mean marketers should stop making the argument, writes Rob Beevers.

The Media Leader

Opinion

HFSS promo ban doubles down interest on omnichannel advertising

Revelations and under reporting of RAJAR at The Times

We finally found a strategy to connect brand and performance

Industry News

July box office climbs 35% as The Odyssey becomes biggest film of the year

AMRAs add six categories including Denise Turner award

What makes a great audio ad? Authenticity, the 95% rule, and knowing when to leave the AI alone – AudioTrack at 10

ITV reports ‘solid’ H1 in first results since Sky deal announcement

Government urged to block BBC podcast advertising plans

Rajar Q2 2026: A record 51m people listen to UK radio each week

Rajar Q2 2026: Heart Breakfast growth stalls but remains most popular commercial breakfast show

Rajar Q2 2026: Top Takeaways

Data Analysis

Has Origin failed?

Mapping the UK agency landscape

The industry is calling it cross-media. It’s not

Campaign ROI is maximised when audio gets 25% of spend, finds Radiocentre report

Data Snapshot

Podcast Ad Promo Position Plays A Part In Perception

The ad-vantages of streaming

Our next event

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The Future of Media Manchester 2026