the7stars' Owner: Being a media indie in 2026 – Jenny Biggam

Today’s guest is Jenny Biggam, Owner of the7stars – and one of the most respected voices in independent media. With 20 years at the helm of the UK’s largest independent media agency, she offers a clear and compelling view of what it really means to stay independent in a market obsessed with scale.She explains how only a purely fee-based model creates true neutrality, why transparency isn’t a slogan but a structural choice, and how partnership sits at the heart of everything the agency does. From working collaboratively with platforms and consultancies, to building creative capability inside a media agency, Jenny shares how the7stars has evolved while staying true to its beliefs. The conversation also explores AI, career acceleration, client in-housing and the risks of agencies describing themselves as ‘platforms’. It’s an optimistic, grounded look at where media agencies are heading and why talent, culture and commercial clarity still matter most.HIGHLIGHTS:[03:33] What partnership really means[08:03] The reality of proprietary media [10:32] Platforms as partners[14:00] Pitching against the giants[19:22] Feedback over flip flopping[25:16] A melting pot of skills[27:20] AI in creative development[29:51] The inverted pyramid shift[33:45] Agencies as platforms explained[36:45] Clients in-housing[39:15] Talent drives renewalMORE ABOUT JENNY:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jenny-biggamWebsite: the7stars.co.ukHOST SOCIALS:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/robinbonnTwitter: twitter.com/robonnMORE ABOUT CO:DEFINERY:Website: codefinery.comBook: Market of OneMentioned in this episode:Get Co:definery's diagnostic questionnaireIs your agency  really as differentiated as you think? And have you fully embraced the commercial disruption that AI is bringing? To find out, take five minutes to complete Co:definery's diagnostic questionnaire. It's quick, free, and thought provoking, and you get a tailored report with practical guidance for sharpening your competitive edge. Visit codefinery.com/dq