Agency Alchemy
Delve into the dynamic world of modern advertising agencies. Join us as we sit down with top agency executives to uncover the secrets behind their success and explore how they’re navigating the ever-evolving advertising landscape. From innovative strategies to emerging trends, each episode offers invaluable insights into what it takes to thrive in today’s competitive market.
LATEST EPISODES
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Ideas With Consequences — Leeann Leahy on Leading an Independent Agency Into Its Next Chapter
What does it take to build a nationally competitive agency from Portland, Maine — and keep it independent for 33 years? -
Scott Shamberg on Private Equity, Independence & Building MileMarker for the Mid-Market Moment
Private equity has reshaped agency land—but the story is more nuanced than headlines about roll-ups and margin pressure. -
Ellis Verdi on Why Great Creative Hasn’t Changed — and Why “Silly” Is the Enemy
Ellis Verdi, co-founder of DeVito/Verdi, unpacks nearly 40 years of independent agency leadership, creative conviction, and cultural impact. -
The Power of the Pair — How Lisa Nichols and Gary Fawcett Built a 30-Year Creative Partnership at TBWA\MCR
In this episode of Agency Alchemy, we sit down with Lisa Nichols and Gary Fawcett, joint ECDs at TBWAMCR, to unpack nearly three decades of working side-by-side as a creative team. -
Wondersauce: The Agency Built for Acceleration featuring Co-Founder and CEO John Sampogna
Wondersauce Co-Founder and CEO John Sampogna shares the secrets behind scaling fast, keeping talent inspired, and staying ahead with AI and emerging tech. -
Moonlighting to the Mainstage: Sam Piliero on Reinventing Media Buying for Challenger Brands
Sam Piliero, founder of The Moonlighters, joins Agency Alchemy to share how he’s shaking up media buying for challenger brands. -
Adam Biddle on GH05T: Reinventing Social Strategy for the Corporate World
Adam Biddle explores how a career that started in music marketing—working with legends like Black Sabbath—evolved into leading one of the most forward-thinking social-first agencies in the corporate space. -
From Briefs to Belief — How Mādin is Reframing the Creative Playbook
Nick shares why creative constraints breed innovation, how hospitality thinking inspires immersive brand experiences, and why owning the influencer layer is the new frontier. -
Shared Vision, Singular Impact: How Pablo is Redefining Agency Leadership – with Harriet Knight and Hannah Penn
Pablo’s Joint Managing Directors unpack what it truly means to lead with humility, structure an agency for speed and soul, and why sharing a leadership role has been their secret weapon. -
Imagining the Future: How Creativity Powers B2B Strategy at The Frameworks
James shares how imagination and creativity drive real business transformation—from branding and content strategy to AI-powered tools. -
From Fandoms to Global Franchises: Inside the Americanization of Sport with Canvas Worldwide’s Paul Woolmington
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a data-driven strategist, this episode explores why sports are no longer just entertainment—they’re an economic and cultural force.