The Message

The Campaign team of David Brown, Chris Powell, and Lauren Johnson recount their (mostly) relaxing holiday break, before diving into the big industry news stories that caught their attention during the first week back. The holding companies went to CES to show off their new AI products—a likely signal about where agencies will be focused in the year ahead. In terms of brand plays closer to home, Rogers is encouraging young Canadians to put down their phones; Tim Hortons just signed its first Olympic Team Canada sponsorship; and WealthSimple maintains its reputation for unique and engaging advertising that is atypical for financial services. Finally, the team shares one of their own big plans for 2026: expanded social marketing and creator economy coverage.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell, and new senior reporter Lauren Johnson review recent news headlines including the Ontario government's much-publicized anti-tariff ad, a new leadership appointment at LG2, and an inspiring run by the Toronto Blue Jays that had brands in a post-season tizzy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sara Koonar launched Platform Media to bring fairness, transparency, and storytelling to the creator economy when it was still an emerging industry. In this episode, she talks about what’s changed (and what hasn’t) in creator-brand partnerships, and the tools and systems she’s built to challenge the status quo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aleah Balas talks about her experience leaving agency work to go freelance and launching her own consultancy, as well as what it takes to land coverage for clients in under-the-radar sectors.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As senior reporter Emma Johnston-Wheeler wraps up her time at Campaign Canada, she reflects with David Brown and Chris Powell–her marketing jedis–about everything she's learned in her two years in the advertising industry.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Lucus Dato, Supervisor, Communications Design at Initiative Media, about what drew him to media planning, and how he goes above and beyond in role. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Noah Faigal, account supervisor at Lifelong Crush about how account management is sometimes under-appreciated in the industry and why It shouldn’t be, as well as why creativity is at the core of his agency’s wellness approach. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Soames Lovett-Darby, recent graduate of the final cohort of the M2T rotational marketing program, about his internship experience and how he's approaching the job search. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell, and Emma Johnston-Wheeler review stand out news headlines including the closure of Toronto’s Miami Ad school, and reflect on interesting Canadian creative like Rethink’s steamy plays for Doritos and Dame. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with American Marketing Association Toronto mentor and mentee pair, Chris Gregory, Manager at Magna Exteriors manager & Adjunct Professor Chris Gregory Mediahub Worldwide account manager Emily Maniquet, about their experience in the career accelerator program. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell, and Emma Johnston-Wheeler reflect on new creative from Tinder and Sleep Country, share observations from this year’s Cannes festival, and consider the implications of recent leadership changes at Snap Canada, X, and WPP. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Insights for emerging professionals: how brands can better connect with conscious consumers, according to Public Inc.'s Conscious Consumer Report. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Campaign’s editors from around the world come together after the Lions festival for the final episode of the Campaign Cannes global podcast in partnership with Ocean Outdoor.We review the festival and talk about the work that won, the big trends that emerged, the first year of Campaign House and the best parties.Gideon Spanier (far left), the UK editor-in-chief of Campaign, hosts the podcast and is joined by Maisie McCabe, editor of Campaign UK, David Brown, co-editor of Campaign Canada, and Luz Corona, editor of Campaign US.Further reading about the work and stories on this podcast:WPP, DDB and Publicis Conseil win creative company, network and agency of year at Cannes Lions 2025Channel 4 and L’Oréal Paris scoop Film Lions Grands PrixPublicis Conseil lands Titanium Grand Prix for Axa campaign helping women escape abuseGreat work should swim against the current, creative chiefs say Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Campaign’s editors from around the world come together at Campaign House at the Lions festival for the second episode of the Campaign Cannes global podcast in partnership with Ocean Outdoor.Gideon Spanier, the UK editor-in-chief of Campaign, hosts the podcast and is joined by Maisie McCabe, editor of Campaign UK, Nikita Mishra, editor of Campaign Asia, Chris Powell, co-editor of Campaign Canada, and Luz Corona, editor of Campaign US.We talk about the buzz at the midway point during the festival, including the first Grand Prix winners, how the awards juries reach their decision and speculation about the search for a new WPP chief executive, plus we discuss some of our favourite sessions at Campaign House, our dedicated venue at Canopy by Hilton.Further reading about the work and stories on the podcast:Arthur Sadoun: Agencies should be ‘optimistic’ not ‘scared’ about futureLaura Jordan Bambach, Vicki Maguire and Kay Hsu at Cannes: ‘Lack of diversity can shut down incredible ideas’Scrutiny over media trading will be a top story in next year, Campaign editors sayVaseline’s “Vaseline Verified” by Ogilvy Singapore wins Health & Wellness Lions Grand PrixRimas Music’s “Tracking bad bunny” by DDB Latina Puerto Rico wins Entertainment Lions for Music Grand Prix Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Campaign’s editors from around the world come together ahead of the Lions festival for the first episode of the Campaign Cannes global podcast in partnership with Ocean Outdoor.We preview the festival and talk about the work we want to win, the mood in the ad industry and Campaign House – our exciting new venue at Cannes. Gideon Spanier (centre in picture), the UK editor-in-chief of Campaign, hosts the podcast and is joined by Maisie McCabe, editor of Campaign UK, Nikita Mishra, editor of Campaign Asia, David Brown, co-editor of Campaign Canada, and Luz Corona, editor of Campaign US.We also discuss why Arthur Sadoun, the chief executive of Publicis Groupe and a speaker at Campaign House on day one of the festival, has called for the industry to take a “different” approach at Cannes this year and the introduction of new “safe zones” at the festival.Further reading about the work and stories on this podcastKFC “Believe in Chicken” by Mother LondonChannel 4 “Considering What?” by 4CreativeApple TV+ “Severance in Grand Central” by Kamp GrizzlyKFC “Uncle KFC’s Rice Bowl” by Wolf BKKIKEA “U Up?” by RethinkMaple Leaf “Look for the Leaf” by NFA Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown and Emma Johnston-Wheeler reflect on Campaign Canada’s recent In-Housing summit, in which several industry experts took to the stage to explore the growing interest in in-housing, the benefits (and challenges) of taking more work in-house, evolving models and the impact of AI.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with American Marketing Association Toronto mentor and mentee pair, Furlani Foods VP marketing Ashley Bast, and Nestle assistant marketing manager Lindsay Tohana, about their experience in the career accelerator program.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown and Emma Johnston-Wheeler discuss the latest examples of Canadian patriotism in advertising, as well as the winner of the second annual Campaign Cup. Pivoting to industry news, they discuss WPP’s latest merger, and a newly launched creative agency, followed by reflections on awards show season and a look ahead to Cannes.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with marketing advisor, brand strategist, and founder of The Good Growth Company Daniel Francavilla, about teaching advertising courses, building a personal brand, and leveraging AI for thought leadership.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell and Emma Johnston-Wheeler discuss examples of new creative that build on previous campaign history, take a look at GroupM’s recent move to a single P&L, and break down Campaign’s state of the pitch research. They also remind listeners of an extension for applications to the second annual 30 under 30 list. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Métis entrepreneur Keenan Beavis reflects on his career after receiving the 2025 Young Indigenous Entrepreneur Award from the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell and Emma Johnston-Wheeler discuss a significant new role, timely creative for the NHL playoff season, and POCAM’s latest Visible & Vocal study. They also dive into a conversation about wellness and screen time, prompted by a recent campaign for Telus by Rethink, and invite submissions to Campaign Canada’s second annual 30 under 30 list. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Norissa Samuels, the first creator partnerships lead for Snapchat in Canada, about finding success in a role that didn’t exist when she began her career, and how creators can best use the Snap platform. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Courage creative directors Jesse Wilks and Gerardo Agbuya about falling in love with advertising, and utilizing their shared passion to find success in the industry.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell and Emma Johnston-Wheeler review some noteworthy creative, discuss a significant change in senior leadership, and take a look at more ‘Canada’ themed content amidst ongoing border tensions with the US. They also share their favourite picks in the first round of the Campaign Cup. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with senior Account Manager at Middle Child, Rebecca McLaren about all that’s involved in the PR role, what she wishes others knew about PR, and her advice for those looking to break into the field.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 David Brown, Chris Powell and Emma Johnston-Wheeler review recent industry moves and take a look at new creative including a playful billboard showdown, and more Canadian identity ads. They consider the efficacy of these ads in response to the U.S. trade war, and reflect on the final results of the inaugural power list. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with VP of Marketing at Quill Inc & CoHost, Alison Osborne, who was awarded the CMA’s 2024 Achievement in Marketing. She talks about her journey of launching her own agency as a student, the learnings of being her own boss vs an employee, and the importance of networking and community.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Telus senior marketing manager Ida Chiara Guida, about her immigrant experience and transitioning client side, understanding how new Canadians consume media, and the best ways to engage with this audience.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell and Emma Johnston-Wheeler review the recent news that the federal government has reversed its Meta news ban, and take a look at new creative including the Super Bowl and Terry Fox. They also discuss the influx of advertising from brands espousing their Canadian identities as border tensions persist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Cossette copywriter Nadine El-Whidi about working in advertising in Québec; the different culture, and the challenges that present when adapting national campaigns. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell and Emma Johnston-Wheeler review movements in senior leadership, and take a look at recent creative including two big annual campaigns from prominent brands. They also discuss rising sentiments of patriotism in response to U.S. tariff threats and industry concerns in the wake of Meta’s policy changes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Fela film director/photographer LeSean Harris about what to expect as a director when you transition into the commercial industry; pitching and learning how to work with an advertising team. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell and Emma Johnston-Wheeler review the most prominent news to come out of 2025 thus far, including a big move for Christine Saunders, and a McDonalds hockey showdown. They also share opinions about mandated office days, and Meta’s ‘free speech’ era.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Ray Creative agency copywriter Rebecca Benjamin about moving to Atlanta Canada for work and why it’s actually really lovely. She shares insights about networking, opportunities for young creatives, and work-life balance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell and Emma Johnston-Wheeler review a surprising change in leadership at Leo Burnett and a big account win for PHD Canada, Jaguar’s Type 00 concept car and Tylenol's DJ treatment, and recent efforts to hold big tech accountable.  Articles discussed: https://www.campaigncanada.ca/article/1898225/leo-burnett-names-angus-tucker-interim-ccohttps://www.campaigncanada.ca/article/1898546/tim-hortons-awards-media-phd-canadahttps://www.campaigncanada.ca/article/1898548/jaguars-contentious-rebrand-finally-gets-its-car-moment-questions-remainhttps://www.campaigncanada.ca/article/1898549/tylenol-partners-dj-duo-cold-medicine-coolhttps://www.campaigncanada.ca/article/1898223/canadas-big-media-goes-openai-ottawa-targets-google (main discussion)  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Wunder creative directors Mike Postma and Stephen Flynn about creating attention grabbing work with small budgets, standing up against the awards show system to maintain high creative standards, and consistently punching above one’s weight.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell and Emma Johnston-Wheeler review a handful of significant executive changes, take a look at a new AI generated ad by Coca-Cola, discuss Campaign’s upcoming Power List, and debate the effectiveness of influencer marketing. Articles mentioned in main discussion: https://www.campaigncanada.ca/article/1896798/band-aid-taps-content-creators-reinterpret-its-famous-jinglehttps://www.campaigncanada.ca/article/1889690/hyundai-partners-content-creators-show-off-redesigned-tucson https://www.campaigncanada.ca/article/1896622/taylor-swift-helping-toronto-music-school-again Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Fuse Create creative strategist, Emily Farrugia, about the outdated perception that advertisers have to stick to one speciality, the influence of social and AI on agency operations, and emerging crossover responsibilities.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell and Emma Johnston-Wheeler reflect on a change in leadership at WPP as well as layoffs at Publicis, ruminate on a new tagline for Buckley's, and discuss an influx in recent car ads made for a younger demographic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Campaign 30 under 30 winner, No Fixed Address VP, Strategy Thomas Wilkins about the experience strategist role, what it is and why it takes a more empathetic look at the customer, and how experience strategists and brand strategists can work together.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell and Emma Johnston-Wheeler reflect on a big account win for Courage, muse on clever creative, and take a deep dive into the Ontario Cannabis Store's new awareness campaign featuring a fake illegal dispensary. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Campaign 30 under 30 winner, Dentsu Creative copywriter Karishma Wadia, about learning Canadian culture as a newcomer, networking with zero cultural context, and helping brands better understand the immigrant experience.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Campaign 30 under 30 winner, Lifelong Crush art director Andee Kintanar, about finding queer and BIPOC mentors and community within the industry, understanding DEI, and balancing a social media presence with a professional identity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell and Emma Johnston-Wheeler review significant industry changes as of late, discuss the current landscape of banking ads, and introduce a new survey to gather data about the state of pitching in Canada. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Campaign 30 under 30 winner, Kruger marketing manager Natasha Ramsinghani, about demystifying the perception that you should be job ready as soon as you graduate, embracing failure, and balancing an active personal life with work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell, and Emma Johnston-Wheeler discuss a major appointment notice for the industry, recent evolutions in Subway's marketing, the ongoing influence of nostalgia, and the PWHL's six new brand identities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Johnston-Wheeler chats with Campaign 30 under 30 winner, Courage ACD/Writer Matt Miller about keeping up with internet culture, creating reactionary content out of ephemeral concepts like "Brat," and moving fast enough to stay relevant. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell, and Emma Johnston-Wheeler take a look at innovative creative in the food industry, ponder the moral considerations ensuing from X's GARM lawsuit, and dismantle the newest internet buzz word. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Brown, Chris Powell and Emma Johnston-Wheeler break down the new Omnicom group, react to reactionary tech outage ads as well opportune pop culture moments, and delve into the marketing initiatives around the Paris Olympic Games. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.