How Hearst Networks UK Is Building a Scalable Social Video Strategy

Sam Pearson, Digital Commissioning Editor at Hearst Networks UK, joins Justin Crosby to reveal how the broadcaster is reshaping its digital-first strategy across platforms like YouTube, Facebook, TikTok and AVOD. From breakout social formats like History Crush and Unbreakable to monetising archive content and launching purposeful true crime programming, Hearst is evolving with the audience. We go behind the scenes on the company’s commissioning strategy, platform experimentation, and what success looks like for digital-first originals. Sam also shares insights on creator partnerships, brand-funded video, and the role of test-and-learn in today’s content economy. 🎧 This episode is essential listening for anyone working in social video, digital commissioning, or the future of factual content. Sign up for The Drop newsletter Enrol on the TellyCast Digital Bootcamp Buy tickets for the Digital Content Forum Subscribe to the TellyCast YouTube channel for exclusive TV industry videos Follow us on LinkedIn Connect with Justin on LinkedIN TellyCast videos on YouTube TellyCast website TellyCast insta TellyCast Twitter TellyCast TikTok