Kaizo Live – reflecting on US media, trends and challenges

Catch up on our last Kaizo Live, where we were joined by our US Worldcom partners to discuss insights into the media, emerging trends, challenges and opportunities the past two years have presented.

Kaizo Director Steph Macleod led our panel consisting of Roger Hurni, Managing Partner and Chief Creative Officer at Off Madison Avenue, Matt Kucharski, President at Padilla, and Stefan Pollack, President and CFO at The Pollack Group. See below their key learning points and watch for more insights:

Polarised US news agenda: The panelists discussed the divisive news cycle, where they have been advising clients to contribute in a meaningful and authentic way to the media. The change in media relations has been noted, where it is no longer forced and paid for, but now more focussed on earned media which is seen as more helpful and honest.

Unexpected challenges: Our partners are no strangers in overcoming a challenge. Leadership becoming more comfortable with not having all the answers has been a reoccurring one. There has been a fundamental mindset shift on how leadership need to communicate amid an uncertain environment, with the ability to showcase vulnerability and flexibility being more preferred.

Emerging issues and agency services: Panellists unanimously agree that they have seen employees across the market challenging their employers to take a public stand on social issues such as racism, climate change and access to healthcare, which has created uneasiness in boardrooms. Previously, companies were content in being inoffensive and apolitical, however now silence is more damaging, thus clients are seeking advice on the best way to genuinely and sensitively speak out.

On a personal note, our partners expressed their deep gratitude to their team during this turbulent period and are delighted to see that resourcefulness and collaboration comes from all different directions within the agency. When change is experienced and people understand the long-term purpose with support from leaders, it is seen as more energising, where resilience and agility flourishes naturally.

Catch the full episode, hosted by Kaizo Director Steph Macleod, here which was filmed in September 2021. Browse our previous episodes here.