#34: Anthropology, Independence, and Growth at Kelly Scott Madison, with President Chad Maxwell

Welcome to Agency Business. This week, co-hosts Brian and Olivia are joined by Chad Maxwell, president of Kelly Scott Madison (KSM).Maxwell’s path into advertising started in anthropology, a background that still informs how he runs KSM today—both in understanding consumers and in building culture inside the agency. He shares how that perspective shapes hiring, talent development, and client strategy.We also discuss:How the agency balances independence with partnerships in creative and technology.The role of geography in staffing and client relationships.Why Chad emphasizes relationships over spend thresholds in navigating platform support.Plus, in News of the Week:Dentsu’s international struggles and layoffs.Globant’s slowdown and what it could mean.S4 Capital’s odd and short-lived talks with One Equity Partners.Subscribe to the Agency Business newsletter for episode notes and industry analysis. It's free and comes out every Monday.Reach OutAgency Business features agency CEOs and financial decision-makers alongside third party experts including agency pitch consultants. We are always accepting pitches, and are particularly interested in hearing from women and leaders of color.Email us!📩 Brian at [email protected]📩 Olivia at [email protected] Madison and Wall and FusionFront Media on LinkedIn for updates.Explore Our Other Podcasts:📊 The Madison and Wall Podcast – Brian opens up about his latest work — plus crucial economic, financial, and industry trends.🎬 Screen & Sponsor – Olivia & VaynerMedia's Jessie Holder explore how brands are shaping Hollywood.