Shib Mathew

Quicker, smarter and less costly - all that tech is supposed to be. Slowly chipping away at the time and value concept of remuneration. Step in the right direction? I think so - embrace to reinvent...... #digitalcreative #creative #agencymodels #AI #holdcos

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One of the many reasons we will rely on Creators (or Influencers / Curators... etc) to guide our decisions is that economic agency has a much higher risk-reward when it's outsourced to people who 'know what they're talking about'. It's always been this way. Remember travel agents? No matter how much of a proud independent thinker you are and how broad your leadership decisions, it's highly likely you still outsource decisions and motivations for fitness, food preparation, location / route / transport, gift selection, and so on. The scope of our personal decision-making actually narrows as accessibility to experts expands; perhaps by choice, perhaps by apathy. This is perfectly normal and always has been (I think). 'Creators curating choices' shouldn't surprise us.

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Need a podcast for the weekend? Well here are two absolute belters: 1. Uncensored CMO hosted by Jon Evans has become a firm favourite and the latest episode with Greg Hahn is terrific. The co-founder of Mischief @ No Fixed Address asks the question "What would you do if you weren't afraid?" Think about it. Greg explains how fear plays a big role in our decision making and stops us from doing what we should be doing. 2. Plus check out the latest from the ministers of marketing mirth at ...Gasp! and their Call to Action® podcast. Mimi Turner of LinkedIn's B2B Institute explains why 'Brand' matters more than ever in B2B marketing. Giles Edwards you're spoiling us! #podcasts #marketing #fear #brand

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Great to see a platform like Exactly.ai raise seed capital to work with artists and creators, not against them The tech enables users to create their own image generation model, trained on their own work IMO, the platforms that prioritise ethical data collection and collaboration with experts in their fields will win the AI race. Ethics and responsibility are absolutely critical as we build out this tech, not just because ~it is the right thing~ but because we want to create better, not garbage. Story here: https://lnkd.in/eP64p_BC Speedinvest #tech #ai #creativity

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TikTok 🤝 Antler Social Last time Shahriyar, Jess and I chatted, we had a big old debate about posting cadence on the platform. Surprisingly, Shah was keen to meet up with us again for some more debates (but this time with a cheeky spot of lunch) 🤭 We shared insights, ideas and opportunities - discussing ways we can push both TikTok and Antler to new heights from different angles 🚀 TikTok has always been so welcoming to collaborations and feedback. We absolutely love the chance to connect properly - it's an honour to be heard and play a teeny part in the TikTok journey 🦌 PS. if you wanna chat about how you can seize the TikTok opportunities...hit me up in the DMs 💬 #tiktokagency #tiktok #tiktokmarketing #tiktoktips #tiktokstrategy

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We’re moving out of the studio. Not clickbait - and more on that in due course… BUT! We're offering a MASSIVE 61% discount on all White Cyc Studio bookings between now and August 20th, 2024. It's because we are currently at 161 Donald Street - and the accountants suggested a 161% discount was not quite sustainable... so 61% it is! It’s been a wonderful 6 years on Donald Street, but I’m so ready for the next chapter of what (and where) BTP will be. So if you need a space for photography, video or just an empty wide void - you know where you need to go (for the next three months at least!). Drop a comment below if you're interested in booking a date between now and the end of August! Dry hire only - if you're looking to engage us for production support too, additional costs will be quoted for on a case-by-case basis. Full day bookings only (and access between 9am-5pm only). Flat rate. Subject to studio availability. Only valid until the 20th of August, 2024. #whitecyc #studiohire #movingout

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What a horrible thing to have happened at Pixar, one of the greatest storytelling companies of all time. Layoffs are part of running a business but it's still quite shocking that even Pixar's product is struggling to be sustainable. I'm not in the industry so I don't know why this is happening but if I had to guess I would wager that these are big external threats for Pixar: 👀 people not watching and paying for movie-length experiences in the same way 👀 🌏 cheaper talent from around the world has become undeniable; they are so cheap and so good you cannot NOT use them, and also 🌏 💻 remote work has become so relevant and efficient that the competitive advantage an employee has by physically being in the same city as the studio is shrinking 💻 📱 People may not care so much about technical quality anymore? I hate saying this and I hope I'm wrong about this but people's tastes when it comes to consuming media (especially young people) have shifted to prefer short-form media, and they can tolerate, and sometimes even prefer media with lower TECHNICAL quality. Technical quality is EXPENSIVE. 📱 🫧 the tech boom meant that there was a lot of money going around and many big companies expanded too much and overhired. In trying to also fight the streaming wars, Disney leaned too much into hiring new people and now they have to be let go. 🫧 What's the last Pixar movie you watched? Coco was the last one I saw (and it's very very good).

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Episode 8 of the D2C Diaries with myself and Olly is now live!🤖💡 This episode we dive into all things AI in creative, answering the questions; ➡ Is AI causing issues with authenticity? ➡Will AI need to be regulated by the ASA in the near future? ➡Is AI the future of creative testing and optimisation? 🚀 We also cover: ➡Takeaways from the DTC agency dinner sponsored by Triple Whale ➡Inspiration vs stealing? ➡Pushing the boundaries on high-production ASMR creatives ➡Creative trends: Founder stories and podcast-style ads Let us know what you think of the episode! Links in the comments

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Culture. It’s the heartbeat of MAD Social, and as I transition from an operations-focused founder to a CEO with a visionary lens, I’m realising the power of culture more than ever. From day one, I’ve been clear with our team: there are two non-negotiables. Get things done on time. Get things done well. The how, where, and when have always been up to them, empowering flexibility and creativity. Inspiration strikes from the most unexpected places. Recently, borrowing from The Agency and the wisdom of Mauricio Umansky, we added two more rules to our ethos: Don’t be an A**hole. Have fun! This cultural evolution helps us create an environment where every team member feels valued, understood, and motivated. #culture #companyculture #socialagency #marketingagency

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There's an interesting paradox at the heart of the #tiktok US ban story. It's about a platform designed for telling news in seconds, yet the complexity of the case requires significant space and time to cover it. (The latest episode of BBC Newscast does a decent job of providing a topline analysis, and needs c.30mins to do so.) It's a good reminder that social media should not come at the expense of traditional media, and short form copy is no replacement for long form #thoughtleadership.

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As a group, we don’t define our target market anymore. And, as controversial or as ridiculous as that may sound, it’s because they’ve become such an integral part of us; so embedded in how we design, operate and imagine the brands we deliver, they naturally evolve into what we need them to be. And that’s refreshing. It’s refreshing to be able to recognize what we’re good at; what we know, and be confidant enough to trust that we can lean on them as part of who we are. As the long term partners we value the most. Because, as a group, we’re no longer finding we’re designing venues. Instead, we’re finding we’re conceptualising experiences. Ones that are emotionally lead, purposeful in their offerings and relationship driven. Experiences that aren’t just exclusive to one venue, but transpire into others, bringing our guest along as a brand ambassador themself. Because, whilst we have lead by the vision of creating the moments people live for for over a decade, our understanding of you, our core guest, making those experiences matter is what’s really at the heart of our success. The Boujee Boot Sale at So Much Trouble makes our consumer the brand ambassadors, giving them a place to sip and shop one another’s vintage and pre-loved luxuries. And our bespoke brunch crawl personalizes our venue with an exclusive chauffeured party bus between each stop. And I think that’s what makes us different; what’s changing the way brands are built. You, our customer, lead them.

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Real Talk. Episode two. Out now. This time Nickii and Alex are joined by Parallax founder James Hall and our resident IMA expert, Director of Tech Jack Sails. They discuss the role of AI in the creative industry. Hear from James and Jack as they: - Debunk misconceptions and fears about AI replacing people - Explore how AI can enhance your role - The importance of a well-crafted prompt And much more…links to listen below: Spotify – https://lnkd.in/eUS3Jv7j Apple Podcasts - https://lnkd.in/eyK_-dWQ #RealTalk #AI #AIExpert #AIinCreative #IndustryInsights

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Here's a handy reminder of what's expected of a Creative Director. My A to Z guide is not comprehensive; I cover more details when coaching people, but this is a good start. ⚡ ⚡ ⚡ ⚡ ⚡ ⚡ ⚡ ⚡ ⚡ ⚡ ⚡ My 'HOW TO BE A CREATIVE DIRECTOR WITHOUT SUCKING AT IT' Coaching Course starts on June 26 - there are 2 spots left. Sign up before the end of June 17 for a 10% discount. Message me or comment for more details. #creativedirector #creativecoach #advertising

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Being a small business owner for both PLEB Magazine and my digital consultancy has shown me the reality behind the headlines... Here are the lessons that have made a real difference: ✨ Quality over Quantity Numbers are great, but genuine connections? Priceless. At PLEB, I’ve seen that authentic relationships with brands and collaborators are where the real impact happens. Focus on those, and the numbers will follow. 💡 Stick to Core Values, Even as You Expand As entrepreneurs, it’s easy to get pulled in every direction. But staying true to your brand’s core values is what keeps you memorable. For PLEB, it’s all about sustainability and artistry, and every project aligns with these principles. ⏳ Time Is Everything Productivity isn’t about cramming in more; it’s about making time for what truly matters. I focus my energy on projects that move the needle for my business, and that help to make an impact beyond it. 🤝 Supporting others as it's a good thing to do Supporting others is the secret to building a strong network. PLEB has become a platform for emerging voices in sustainable artistry, and the relationships we’re building are creating something far bigger than a magazine. If you’re working to grow a brand with authenticity, sustainability, and innovation at its core, I’d love to connect. Let’s chat about your journey and explore how we can support each other. 🔔 I am Naomi Follow me for insights on: - Launching sustainable product collections - The art of digital storytelling - Building a values-driven business #business #entrepeneur #leadership

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"Father’s car is a Jaguar* / And he drives it rather fast / Castles, farms and draughty barns / We go charging past..." It doesn't sound quite like an elocution lesson when my Northern tones say it, but a super well-known phrase all the same. Jaguar. The solid, reliable, stable, slightly-stuck-in-time car brand that is loved by [insert 'appropriate' audience here] up and down the country. You've been stuck under a rock this week if you haven't seen, and read, the onslaught of opinions on the 'new era begins' teasers out there. So many people sharing their thoughts on the how, what, why, when and who of Jaguar. How could they? What were they thinking? Why have they done this? When will it make sense? Who do they think they are? We want different... but not that different. Hmmm... I've read posts about articles on it being too woke. Comments about it being abhorrent. Insights into perhaps it's just a rouse. Critiques on the 'r' being the shape of a leaping cat. Some people even saying it's wonderful. What I do know is Jaguar certainly has people talking about them. And that's clever stuff. I'm sitting with bated breath to see how it evolves. So far, it's a bright, bold, inclusive move to make... a million miles from its perception. Is is a complete rebrand? Is it a bespoke campaign? The launch of an incredible car? The shaking off of a perception? The shaking up of the car industry? We don't know. Yet. So hold tight. Let's see what happens. All will hopefully be revealed. The next stage will be unveiled at Miami Art Week on 2 December, including the debut of Jaguar's Design Vision Concept. https://lnkd.in/e8y2YZ_b * Finally - for what it's worth - my Dad's car was a Ford Cortina Ghia in the 70s – a stunning light blue metallic with a black vinyl roof that used to belong to Emlyn Hughes – now surely that's far cooler than a Jag-u-arrrrr…

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Simon Cowell’s hunt for the next big boy band is on, but this time, auditions are just a QR code scan away. Dream of becoming a pop idol? Simon Cowell, the music mogul behind hit-making bands such as One Direction, has begun a new challenge of discovering the next worldwide boy band sensation. But instead of going through the traditional, high-profile format, he used QR code technology to fast-track auditions and expedite recruitment efforts.   The 64-year-old judge promoted his new show by posting reels on Instagram. The video featured a billboard with the messages “Simon needs you,” “Future megastars wanted for new boy band,” and a QR code that housed full details about the competition.   Scanning the code leads to an online portal where budding performers can submit personal details and performance portfolios. In his pursuit of pop music gold, this unique approach shows the promising capability of QR codes to be a captivating spectacle and Cowell’s strategic understanding of the modern talent landscape.   He believes there is a gap in the market for a band that can win over hearts and dominate the charts like One Direction did. Let’s be honest: Who doesn’t want to be the next Harry Styles or Zayn Malik? “I would pray to find a band as good as One Direction and to find the records as good as they made. There are so many factors involved to make a band successful all over the world,” Cowell said to a PA news agency.   Cowell is not hoping lightning will strike twice, but he’s definitely throwing his energy into this search next to QR codes, which are doing their part in increasing the pool of talented singers.   Aspiring performers worldwide can showcase their vocal prowess and charisma with the ease of their smartphones, potentially launching their careers from their bedrooms or local music studios.   There’s no guarantee this plan will work. After all, One Direction was a one-of-a-kind crew. But Cowell’s a betting man, and he’s willing to roll the dice on finding the next group of talented men who can make teenage hearts swoon.   How do you think this will go? Will this be a hit? Let us know what’s on your mind below!

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"Many agencies and consultants will tell you they want to be a bolt-on to your team, but Big Black Door walk the walk. They are good people, incredibly experienced and they have captured that rare art of making the very complex work simple, effective and accessible." That's how one of our recent clients described working with us. As a Marketing Director, you’re inevitably balancing multiple projects, and we know there’s always that one — the one you know could make a real impact—that’s delayed because your team is stretched too thin. At Big Black Door, we seamlessly extend your team, bringing the expertise and resources you need to get that critical project across the finish line. Imagine having the support to turn your vision into reality, without adding to your already packed schedule. Book your FREE 30-minute consultation today and let’s discuss how we can help you deliver on your annual ambitions, effortlessly. Click below to schedule your no strings call!

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Last week Grace Beverley launched her new AI Talent Agency Retrograde and I’ve enjoyed reading the different views on this platform. We knew that an AI business was coming so it’s no surprise that there are mixed opinions about it… From a brand perspective, I’m intrigued to see how this new tool will work. It’s interesting that the founders have said that Talent Agencies “currently apply a one-size fits all model to content creators” as my experience negotiating Talent partnerships has shown the complete opposite. I really value building relationships with Talent Managers and working together to build the best possible outcome for both the client and the Talent - losing that personal touch, and not being able to have a real conversation I think could cause frustration from brand side. It is however, an exciting new move for Talent, particularly with the rise of UGC creators and brands understanding the value of micro and nano creators, it will be a great tool for them to negotiate deals when they don’t have management. However, they’ll still need to do the work to pitch themselves to brands. I think Retrograde is an exciting new move for social, but one that should be used as a supporting tool and not as a replacement for Talent Managers. I’m looking forward to negotiating my first deal with an AI Talent Manager, I think …😅 #aibusiness #creatoreconomy #talentagency #influencermarketing #socialmedia

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