AdsWizz https://www.adswizz.com/ Connecting the digital audio advertising ecosystem Tue, 20 May 2025 13:10:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://www.adswizz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/cropped-site-logo-32x32.png AdsWizz https://www.adswizz.com/ 32 32 Tuning Into Tomorrow: Reflections On The Future of Audio and Entertainment 2025 https://www.adswizz.com/tuning-into-tomorrow-reflections-on-the-future-of-audio-and-entertainment-2025/ Tue, 20 May 2025 13:04:17 +0000 https://www.adswizz.com/?p=14853 If you work in audio in the UK, The Future of Audio and Entertainment is a must-attend. It brings together over 450 professionals from top agencies, advertisers, and media owners to talk openly about the realities of running audio campaigns and where the industry is headed next. As presenters for AdsWizz, we took things a […]

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]]> If you work in audio in the UK, The Future of Audio and Entertainment is a must-attend. It brings together over 450 professionals from top agencies, advertisers, and media owners to talk openly about the realities of running audio campaigns and where the industry is headed next.

As presenters for AdsWizz, we took things a step further this year. It wasn’t just about getting people excited about buying audio. We showed how brands can unlock their full potential by buying programmatically.

Audio Is Everywhere and It’s Deeply Personal

One of the most powerful things about audio is how effortlessly it fits into everyday life. Whether it’s a morning news briefing, an evening podcast, or a workout playlist, audio is there throughout the day. It doesn’t interrupt or compete for attention—it just fits naturally.

That presence gives brands a unique opportunity to engage with people in personal, meaningful ways. You’re not forcing a message into a scroll. You’re entering a space where people are actively listening, and in the case of podcasts, where they are leaned in and open to suggestions or learning about something new.

During our presentation, we shared a few data points that stood out:

  • 70% of people in the UK listen to digital audio weekly
  • Digital audio reach has grown 43% since 2018
  • The average listener spends 2 hours and 34 minutes a day with digital audio

Despite high levels of engagement, audio still lags behind other media channels when it comes to ad spend. It makes up 21.4% of media time but receives only 9% of digital ad budgets. That gap points to a clear opportunity. Buying audio programmatically is one of the smartest and most efficient ways to close it.

The Value of Programmatic Audio

We focused our session on how programmatic advertising brings efficiency, flexibility, and smarter targeting to the audio space. It’s more than automating delivery, it’s about elevating the entire campaign experience for both brands and listeners. When used effectively, programmatic audio gives advertisers a way to connect in ways that are timely and relevant, without disrupting the listening experience.

The advantages are clear:

  • Targeting based on real-time behavior, context of the podcast the listener is tuning in to, and demographics like age/gender
  • Optimization throughout the campaign based on performance insights
  • Delivery across streaming music, podcasts, and digital radio
  • You leverage Dynamic Creative Optimization (DCO) to personalize messages to fit the moment and format

Bringing It to Life With Bwin

To illustrate how this all works in practice, we shared a recent case study in partnership with Bwin, a leading sports betting brand. The objective was to boost brand recognition among podcast listeners in Germany during the Euros. 

Our team used programmatic tools to target people who regularly tuned into sports podcasts, as well as any podcast that was talking about the Euros, whether it be a news or comedy or sports podcast. The ads featured upbeat music, clear messaging, and repeated brand mentions, all tailored to resonate with Bwin’s audience. This campaign showed that with the right mix of creative, context, and targeting, audio can deliver strong, measurable impact.

The results were significant:

  • A 20-point lift in brand awareness across the exposed audience
  • A 15-point lift among individuals who regularly attend live sporting events

What We Heard on the Ground

After our session, audience members came up to continue the conversation, making it clear that audio is earning a bigger seat at the table in media strategy discussions.

Several themes came up repeatedly:

  • Surprise at how advanced programmatic audio has become
  • Curiosity around scaling campaigns across multiple markets
  • Interest in new creative formats and smarter measurement models

What Comes Next

The future of audio is already here. With engaged listeners and proven technology, brands are ready to create more meaningful experiences. We’re proud that AdsWizz is helping lead the way, as both a sponsor of this event and a trusted partner to those shaping what comes next. Thank you to everyone who joined us. We’re excited to keep the conversation going.

Ready to take your audio strategy to the next level? Reach out to our team to explore how programmatic audio can elevate your campaigns.

by Lindsay Lynch & Rowan Hamill, Business Development Directors

 

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]]> AdsWizz Is Certified With IAB Podcast Measurement 2.2 https://www.adswizz.com/adswizz-is-certified-with-iab-podcast-measurement-2-2/ https://www.adswizz.com/adswizz-is-certified-with-iab-podcast-measurement-2-2/#respond Fri, 16 May 2025 13:35:51 +0000 https://www.adswizz.com/?p=14843 We’re excited to share that AdsWizz has been certified under the IAB Podcast Measurement Guidelines, Version 2.2. This reflects the successful completion of a thorough audit, confirming that our measurement practices continue to meet the highest industry standards. What Is the IAB Podcast Measurement Certification? The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) is a global organization that helps […]

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]]> We’re excited to share that AdsWizz has been certified under the IAB Podcast Measurement Guidelines, Version 2.2. This reflects the successful completion of a thorough audit, confirming that our measurement practices continue to meet the highest industry standards.

What Is the IAB Podcast Measurement Certification?

The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) is a global organization that helps define the rules and best practices for digital media and advertising. Its Podcast Measurement Certification ensures that platforms like ours follow consistent, standardized methods when measuring things like podcast downloads, listener activity, and ad impressions.

In short, it’s a mark of quality that gives everyone in the podcasting space—advertisers, publishers, creators, and listeners—greater confidence in the data they rely on.

Why Certification Matters to Advertisers and Publishers

It builds trust. Whether you’re running a podcast, buying ad space, or analyzing campaign performance, IAB certification means the numbers you see from AdsWizz are not only accurate but also aligned with industry-wide standards.

It future-proofs your growth. The podcast industry continues to evolve rapidly. By staying up to date with the latest IAB guidelines, we make sure our tools and reporting evolve with it—so you can grow confidently.

Accurate, standardized data unlocks major benefits:

  • Improved credibility: Certified data boosts confidence with buyers and partners, positioning podcast publishers as reliable and professional.
  • Attracting premium advertisers: Demonstrating real audience engagement makes it easier to command higher CPMs and build stronger relationships.
  • Optimized performance: Advertisers can measure and improve campaigns; publishers can fine-tune strategies for better results.
  • Greater transparency: Trustworthy metrics help everyone understand what’s really working, removing guesswork from the equation.
  • Stronger audience insights: Precise data reveals listening habits and engagement patterns, informing content and ad strategies.
Beyond the Badge

Achieving IAB Podcast Measurement Certification Version 2.2 wasn’t just about meeting a checklist—it was about validating the integrity of our data at every level. From how we define a download to how we attribute ad impressions, every step of our methodology was tested against the latest IAB standards. The result: Measurement you can rely on, backed by proven processes.

More importantly, this certification reinforces what we stand for: delivering transparent, consistent insights that help the entire podcasting ecosystem thrive. Whether you’re a publisher expanding your reach or a brand maximizing ROI, you can move forward with confidence, knowing your decisions are grounded in trusted data.

  • Curious about how IAB certification works and why it matters? Visit the IAB Tech Lab to explore the Podcast Measurement Certification Program.
  • Let us know if you’d like to dive deeper into how these updates benefit your business or creative.

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]]> https://www.adswizz.com/adswizz-is-certified-with-iab-podcast-measurement-2-2/feed/ 0 Why Programmatic Audio Should Be Part of Your Media Strategy https://www.adswizz.com/why-programmatic-audio-should-be-part-of-your-media-strategy/ Tue, 13 May 2025 13:09:19 +0000 https://www.adswizz.com/?p=14840 Programmatic audio is gaining serious traction, transforming how brands reach and engage listeners, writes Rowan Hamill, Director of Business Development at AdsWizz. The momentum is fast and only accelerating. This is just the beginning. With its distinct advantages, programmatic audio is quickly becoming a core pillar of the digital marketing landscape.

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]]>

Programmatic audio is gaining serious traction, transforming how brands reach and engage listeners, writes Rowan Hamill, Director of Business Development at AdsWizz. The momentum is fast and only accelerating. This is just the beginning. With its distinct advantages, programmatic audio is quickly becoming a core pillar of the digital marketing landscape.

Read More

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]]> Revolutionize Your Audio Ads With Enhanced Future Episode Targeting and Forecasting https://www.adswizz.com/revolutionize-your-audio-ads-with-enhanced-future-episode-targeting-and-forecasting/ https://www.adswizz.com/revolutionize-your-audio-ads-with-enhanced-future-episode-targeting-and-forecasting/#respond Wed, 30 Apr 2025 00:48:00 +0000 https://www.adswizz.com/?p=14762 In today’s world of digital audio, where listeners’ preferences evolve at the speed of a swipe, advertisers and publishers face a challenge: How can they maximize campaign effectiveness and monetization while staying nimble in their strategies?  Enter Phase II of future episode targeting and forecasting, the next step in revolutionizing the way we approach podcast […]

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]]> In today’s world of digital audio, where listeners’ preferences evolve at the speed of a swipe, advertisers and publishers face a challenge: How can they maximize campaign effectiveness and monetization while staying nimble in their strategies? 

Enter Phase II of future episode targeting and forecasting, the next step in revolutionizing the way we approach podcast advertising. This enhanced capability enables publishers and advertisers to fine-tune their campaign targeting with greater precision and forecast opportunities more accurately, ensuring that every ad hits the mark.

Here’s a deep dive into what’s new and why it matters!

The Evolution From Phase I to Phase II

Let’s rewind to April 2024. That’s when Phase I first laid the groundwork for automating episode creation and scheduling, enabling publisher campaigns to target future podcast episodes directly. 

Phase II takes the baton and sprints ahead. No matter the cadence—weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or uneven (yet predictable cadences) like binge drops—publishers now have access to accurate forecasting and seamless targeting, all backed by improved synchronization between Simplecast and AudioServe. This means fewer workarounds, greater flexibility, and a whole lot less guesswork.

What’s New in Phase 2
  • Real-time syncing across platforms: Changes to a show’s release schedule, whether it’s a delayed episode, bonus content, or a canceled series, are automatically reflected in AudioServe. This synchronization ensures campaign traffickers are always working with the most accurate data.
  • Forecasting for all publishing cadences: Gone are the days when only weekly releases could be accurately forecasted. Now, each scheduled episode’s forecast is tailored to the show’s unique traffic patterns. This means that even the quirkiest of publishing schedules get the same level of precision.
  • Enhanced forecasting for returning shows: Shows coming back from a hiatus? Phase II preserves up to 18 months of historical, compositional data to deliver useful and accurate forecasts, even after long breaks.
  • A control switch for data accuracy: This new feature is a game-changer. It allows inventory managers to disconnect from the scheduler temporarily if data reliability is in question. Once accuracy is restored, the toggle can be flipped back on, realigning forecasts and targeting with the show’s actual schedule.

Why It Matters

Imagine running a campaign that relies on hitting the sweet spot of your audience’s attention, only to find out the show you’re targeting has shifted its release schedule. Or worse, it’s gone on hiatus! The enhancements in Phase II eliminate these pain points by providing tools that adapt in real-time, ensuring every campaign is as effective as possible.

For Publishers
For Advertisers
  • Better planning: Smart, data-driven forecasts eliminate guesswork and optimize inventory by adapting to each show’s release cadence and audience behavior.
  • Less manual intervention: Automation handles the complexities of irregular publishing schedules.
  • More precise targeting: Future episodes are ready to target the moment they’re scheduled, no matter the cadence.
  • Improved ROI: Accurate forecasts lead to better campaign planning and allocation of resources.
  • Seamless campaign adjustments: The real-time syncing ensures campaigns stay relevant even when schedules change.

Use Cases: Real-World Scenarios

To better understand Phase II improvements, let’s look at a few common scenarios:

  • Canceled episode: Targeting and forecasting quickly adjust to reflect any changes, minimizing the disruption to campaign trafficking.
  • Delayed episode: Forecasting updates automatically to reflect the new release date, minimizing disruption to campaigns.
  • Returning show: A beloved series comes back after a year-long hiatus. Thanks to historical episode data preservation, forecasts remain reliable, ensuring publishers can jump back into action without delay.

The Future Ahead

The latest update to episode targeting and forecasting is here, and it’s changing the game for podcast advertising. With real-time syncing paired with advanced forecasting, we’re unlocking possibilities like never before. Publishers now have the tools to push boundaries, crafting campaigns that are not only more innovative but also more impactful than ever.

The future of podcast advertising is here—and it’s looking brighter than ever. Ready to see it in action?

by Jason Clift, Senior Manager, Product

 

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]]> https://www.adswizz.com/revolutionize-your-audio-ads-with-enhanced-future-episode-targeting-and-forecasting/feed/ 0 Why Smart Marketers Are Doubling Down on Digital Audio https://www.adswizz.com/why-smart-marketers-are-doubling-down-on-digital-audio/ Fri, 25 Apr 2025 13:36:10 +0000 https://www.adswizz.com/?p=14809 Take a look at this new piece in The Drum by Garrison Dua, VP of Demand, North America! In 2024, US digital audio ad spend reached $7.12bn, a 6.8% increase from the year before, according to eMarketer. If digital audio isn’t part of your media strategy, you’re leaving opportunity on the table. At AdsWizz, I’ve […]

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]]>

Take a look at this new piece in The Drum by Garrison Dua, VP of Demand, North America!

In 2024, US digital audio ad spend reached $7.12bn, a 6.8% increase from the year before, according to eMarketer. If digital audio isn’t part of your media strategy, you’re leaving opportunity on the table.

At AdsWizz, I’ve seen this transformation firsthand. With automation, AI, dynamic creative, and privacy-safe targeting, audio has become one of the most agile and measurable tools in a marketer’s toolkit.

Read More

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]]> How to Win in the New Era of Digital Audio Advertising https://www.adswizz.com/how-to-win-in-the-new-era-of-digital-audio-advertising/ Tue, 22 Apr 2025 16:36:24 +0000 https://www.adswizz.com/?p=14783 Audio advertising is moving faster than ever, and the brands that embrace these changes are the ones seeing the biggest wins. With the rise of audio adtech, advertisers have more tools than ever to connect with audiences in impactful ways.  With all this innovation, where should advertisers focus, what trends are shaping digital audio, and […]

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]]> Audio advertising is moving faster than ever, and the brands that embrace these changes are the ones seeing the biggest wins. With the rise of audio adtech, advertisers have more tools than ever to connect with audiences in impactful ways. 

With all this innovation, where should advertisers focus, what trends are shaping digital audio, and how can brands make the most of it?

To answer these questions, I sat down with Garrison Dua, VP of Demand at AdsWizz, to explore how advancements in audio adtech are transforming the industry and what advertisers should expect in the near future. 

Programmatic Audio Delivers Scale, Efficiency, and Personalization

How has programmatic audio advertising evolved, and what role does AdsWizz play in this transformation?

Garrison: Programmatic audio has grown exponentially, enabling advertisers to scale and optimize campaigns in real time. By leveraging automation, dynamic ad insertion (DAI), and host-read ads, brands can reach audiences in more engaging and efficient ways.

 

Additionally, advancements in AI-driven targeting and real-time bidding have further empowered advertisers to fine-tune messaging and maximize ROI. With increased personalization and seamless cross-platform integration, programmatic audio has become a vital part of any digital strategy aimed at connecting with today’s audiences.

Contextual and Privacy-First Targeting Are Redefining Relevance

What trends in audience targeting are shaping the future of audio advertising?

Garrison: We’re seeing a major shift toward first-party data and contextual targeting. At AdsWizz, 60% of our targeting dimensions are contextual, allowing advertisers to reach listeners based on mood, location, and even weather. This kind of hyper-relevant messaging enhances engagement while maintaining consumer trust.

 

Advancements in AI-driven contextual analysis are refining targeting precision, ensuring ads are both relevant and timed for maximum impact. As third-party cookies disappear, brands are turning to these advanced methods to engage consumers in a more meaningful, compliant way.

 

As brands navigate this terrain, they’re rethinking not just who they reach, but how they say it and when it hits. Dynamic creative optimization (DCO) and Synthetic Voice are reshaping audio advertising, allowing real-time testing of variations in tone, length, and calls to action. Combined with real-time inventory data from custom DSP dashboards, this agile, data-driven approach accelerates testing, cuts costs, and confirms audio as a high-performing channel.

Anonymized Data and Predictive Audiences Enable Safe Personalization

With privacy regulations tightening, how is AdsWizz ensuring advertisers can still deliver personalized campaigns?

Garrison: Privacy is a top priority. AdsWizz enables brands to maintain personalization without compromising user trust by leveraging anonymized data and predictive audiences. Through partnerships with behavioral intelligence firms, anonymized data helps predict audience demographics and preferences while ensuring personal information is never collected.

 

Comscore Predictive Audiences technology uses AI-driven models to segment and engage users in a privacy-safe manner, replacing traditional identifiers with data-backed insights.

 

To future-proof audience targeting, AdsWizz integrates with UID2 and ID5, ensuring advertisers can continue reaching their audiences in a cookieless world. Additionally, data clean rooms are providing a secure way to analyze and activate insights while maintaining transparency and compliance with privacy regulations.

Omnichannel Audio Is Breaking the Screen Barrier

How is the integration of audio with video and social media changing the digital advertising landscape?

Garrison: The lines between audio, video, and social media are blurring. Podcasts are often consumed on video platforms, and we’re seeing brands lean into this shift. By combining interactive audio ads with dynamic video placements, advertisers can create truly omnichannel experiences. Tools like second-screen retargeting and AudioPixel help unify these touchpoints—driving measurable outcomes, maintaining user privacy, and delivering personalized engagement across every screen.

AI, Automation, and Open Ecosystems Are Leading the Way

What’s next for AdsWizz and the broader audio adtech industry in 2025 and beyond?

Garrison Dua: Automation and AI will continue to drive efficiency, making campaigns smarter and more responsive. Programmatic podcast advertising is set to explode, and open ecosystems will gain traction over walled gardens. At AdsWizz, we’re focused on helping advertisers and publishers stay ahead of these shifts with cutting-edge tools that maximize engagement, brand safety, and monetization opportunities.

The Future of Audio Advertising: Smarter, More Personalized, and Already Here

After talking with Garrison, it’s clear that audio advertising is entering a new era, driven by automation, personalization, and seamless omnichannel integration. Brands that embrace programmatic innovation and privacy-first solutions will be the ones capturing audience attention in the most meaningful ways. With AdsWizz leading the charge, the future of digital audio isn’t just promising; it is already here.

Want to Dive Deeper into the Future of Audio Adtech? 

by Daniel Einhorn, Senior Manager, Content Marketing

 

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]]> AdsWizz Global Publisher Summit Recap https://www.adswizz.com/adswizz-global-audio-publisher-summit-recap/ Thu, 03 Apr 2025 16:35:50 +0000 https://www.adswizz.com/?p=14604 The AdsWizz Global Publisher Summit brought together industry leaders, innovators, and experts to explore what’s next for digital audio monetization. From AI-driven personalization and programmatic breakthroughs to privacy-focused identity solutions, the summit was a front-row seat to the advancements shaping digital audio in 2025 and beyond. For publishers, the insights shared were more than just […]

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]]> The AdsWizz Global Publisher Summit brought together industry leaders, innovators, and experts to explore what’s next for digital audio monetization. From AI-driven personalization and programmatic breakthroughs to privacy-focused identity solutions, the summit was a front-row seat to the advancements shaping digital audio in 2025 and beyond.

For publishers, the insights shared were more than just ideas—they served as a roadmap for success in the fast-moving world of audio advertising.

DAY 1
The Future of Digital Audio Monetization
Highlighted the rapid growth of digital audio, emphasizing collaboration, ad optimization, and programmatic expansion to drive industry innovation and revenue.
READ RECAP
DAY 2
The Future of Data and Measurement
Focused on refining measurement, improving ad quality through adtech innovations, and maximizing publisher monetization via data-driven strategies and customer success initiatives.
READ RECAP

 

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]]> AdsWizz Global Publisher Summit Recap Day 1 https://www.adswizz.com/adswizz-global-audio-publisher-summit-recap-day-1/ Thu, 03 Apr 2025 16:02:04 +0000 https://www.adswizz.com/?p=14606 The first day of the AdsWizz Global Publishers Summit showcased digital audio’s rapid growth and the power of collaboration in driving monetization. Industry leaders examined key trends shaping 2025, from enhanced ad optimization to programmatic expansion and first-party data strategies. The summit delivered a clear message: Innovation and partnerships are essential to unlocking digital audio’s […]

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]]> The first day of the AdsWizz Global Publishers Summit showcased digital audio’s rapid growth and the power of collaboration in driving monetization. Industry leaders examined key trends shaping 2025, from enhanced ad optimization to programmatic expansion and first-party data strategies. The summit delivered a clear message: Innovation and partnerships are essential to unlocking digital audio’s full potential.

AdsWizz’s Approach to Product Development and Innovation

Before diving in, let’s take a step back and consider the bigger picture. Digital audio is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and with that growth comes new challenges and opportunities. As publishers navigate an increasingly complex landscape—balancing audience engagement, revenue growth, and ad quality—having the right tools in place is more critical than ever.

AdsWizz remains committed to developing cutting-edge solutions that empower publishers to scale, optimize, and future-proof their audio businesses:

  • Smarter: Optimized ad delivery enhances listener experience.
  • More scalable: Streamlined revenue management simplifies operations.
  • More effective: Continuous innovation unlocks new monetization opportunities.
Recent Innovations at AdsWizz
  • 260+ new features improving programmatic efficiency, data solutions, and podcast monetization
  • Supply chain transparency enhancements that combat fraud and ensure brand safety
  • Streaming and podcast monetization tools optimize audience targeting

As digital audio continues to expand, AdsWizz remains focused on helping publishers stay ahead—scaling their platforms, maximizing revenue, and driving innovation across the entire ecosystem.

The Power of Collaboration in Growing Digital Audio Monetization

Anne Frisbie

Anne Frisbie, SVP of Global Business Development at AdsWizz, opened the summit with a clear message: The future of audio is here—and it’s only getting bigger. With listeners streaming and tuning into podcasts more than ever, scaling and optimizing digital audio advertising is critical.

AdsWizz by the Numbers
  • 16B monthly dynamically inserted audio ad impressions powered by AdsWizz technology
  • 4B monthly audio impressions sold via third-party DSPs
  • 2B monthly AdsWizz Marketplace audio impressions
  • 550M monthly podcast downloads on Simplecast
  • 40M podcast episodes transcribed for brand safety & contextual audience support

“AdsWizz is deeply committed to building a global platform—an open and independent platform for audio designed for the future. This isn’t just about technology; it’s about what we can achieve with that technology when we come together as a community. Many of you have been instrumental in taking our solutions to market, proving that digital audio isn’t just growing—it’s transforming. And as we continue to innovate, your role in that journey is more crucial than ever.”

Market Trends and Predictions

Scott Walker

Scott Walker, Chief Ad Revenue Officer at SiriusXM, took the stage to guide publishers and advertisers through this evolving landscape, highlighting six key trends shaping digital audio in 2025 and beyond.

Media Consumption is Changing
  • Shift to digital audio accelerates: Listeners continue moving from traditional radio to on-demand streaming and podcasts.
  • Podcast hosts are omnichannel influencers: Beyond audio, they engage audiences via video, social, and live events.
  • AI is redefining advertising: From real-time optimization to advanced personalization, AI-driven campaigns are the future.
Privacy at the Forefront
  • Identity, data, and media convergence: With third-party cookies vanishing, first-party data and AI-driven insights are taking center stage.
  • Transparency is non-negotiable: Fraud prevention, domain validation, and invalid traffic (IVT) monitoring are now industry standards.
A New Era
  • Evolving audio measurement: Advertisers demand holistic measurement, capturing both brand awareness and conversions.
On AI’s Critical Role in Digital Audio Advertising

“AI is fundamentally changing the way we all work. We all go through our day-to-day and deal with a ton of really clunky workflows—we’re in and out of systems, spreadsheets, software programs, etc. But if we can leverage some of the more agentic or operator-type AI technologies, that can fundamentally change the way that we all work and free up time for higher-order work that is more creative, that is pushing the industry forward.”

Maximizing Publisher Success in the Programmatic Audio Revolution

Brian Gilbert and Jerome Camerlynck

Brian Gilbert, VP of Marketplace Operations, and Jerome Camerlynck, Director of Ad Product at AdsWizz discussed why programmatic audio is outpacing traditional ad buying.

The Current Climate
  • Digital audio ad spend is projected to reach $12.6B by 2025.
  • 32+ DSPs (including Amazon DSP) are integrated with AdsWizz.
  • Programmatic revenue is growing 3X faster than direct sales.
What’s Driving Programmatic Growth?
  • Real-time deal syncing between AudioMax SSP and AudioServe
  • Advanced bid health analytics for smarter monetization strategies
  • Supply chain transparency with sChain validation

“Programmatic is accelerating. Year-over-year growth in programmatic has outpaced direct sales, with a threefold increase compared to direct. But this isn’t just about shifting budgets from direct to programmatic—it’s about net-new investment, with new advertisers and brands embracing programmatic.” –Brian Gilbert

Programmatic Audio In Action: Insider Secrets & Best Practices for Success

Bardo Flores, Bob Hunt, Josh Rothman, and Brian Gilbert

A panel of audio experts, moderated by Brian Gilbert, explored key trends and strategies in programmatic audio and podcasting. The discussion featured Bardo Flores, Senior Director of Global AdTech Operations at Acast; Josh Rothman, SVP & GM of Global Advertising at TuneIn; and Bob Hunt, Senior Director of Audio at Hearts & Science. The group emphasized audio’s growth potential, its role in authentic connections, and the need for transparency, accurate measurement, and client-focused success metrics.

  • Acast’s programmatic transformation: Shifting from direct sales to programmatic-first strategies opened doors to new advertisers and advanced targeting.
  • TuneIn’s automation advantage: By leveraging connected devices and deep data insights, TuneIn proved the impact of audio on engagement at scale.
  • Hearts & Science’s frequency-first strategy: Prioritizing transparency, frequency management, and client-specific metrics ensured programmatic campaigns delivered measurable success.
On the Power of Audio

“We started with direct sales and built our foundation there, but we’ve been invested in programmatic since 2017. Over time, buyers have become more educated and comfortable with podcasting, opening doors that didn’t exist before. We’re now maximizing revenue by joining more marketplaces, onboarding DSPs, and aligning closely with both buyer and seller needs. It’s not just about strategy—it’s about evolving our tech, partnerships, and measurement to meet growing demand and expand the opportunity.” –Bardo Flores

Winning the Podcast Game: Applying Our Decades of Audio Experience for Growth

Molly Ponzo

Molly Ponzo, VP of Ad Product at AdsWizz, led a session on leveraging AdsWizz’s streaming audio expertise to drive podcast growth and monetization. With 500M global listeners and 4.47M active podcasts, the industry is booming. As audience engagement continues to rise, podcast ad spend is expected to reach $4.46B in 2025.

New Features for Expanding Podcasts

To help publishers and advertisers capitalize on this growth, AdsWizz recently introduced new tools and features designed to improve monetization.

  • Advanced targeting: Improved audience segmentation using demographics, language, and content context
  • Forecasting & delivery optimization: Advanced tools to enhance ad placement accuracy and campaign performance
  • Simplified host-read workflows: Automation to streamline host-read ad execution, reducing manual effort
  • Predictive pacing & manual adjustments: Ensuring ad pacing aligns with audience behavior and advertiser goals
  • Contextual genre, language, and explicit episode enhancements: Improved player classification for better content categorization and ad relevance
AdsWizz is Ioneering the Future of Audio
  • Platform unification: Seamlessly integrating Simplecast CMS with AdsWizz monetization tools for a unified experience
  • Omnichannel support: Expanding podcast capabilities to support multiple formats and distribution channels
  • Expanding content types: Growth in long-form episodic content, short clips, highlights, and subscription-based offerings like early access and live content
  • Advanced targeting & reporting: Leveraging RSS + GUID data for more precise ad targeting and audience insights
  • Forecasting & delivery optimization: Enhancing competitive separation, ad sequencing, and roadblocking strategies
  • IAB Podcast Measurement v2.2 certification: Strengthening standardization and accuracy in podcast ad measurement
On the Podcast Audience Shift

“Gen Z is set to surpass millennials in time spent listening this year—a significant shift in audio consumption. Back in 2020, the average podcast listener spent around 30 to 35 minutes per day tuning in, consuming roughly six episodes per week. Fast forward to 2024, and that engagement has surged to an average of 54 minutes per session, with listeners consuming eight podcasts per week. This growth presents an opportunity for publishers to expand their reach among a young, diverse, and highly influential audience.”

Maximizing Monetization: Strategies for Podcast Success

Martha Canseco, Karin Kessler, Rob Timony, and Will Donato

Moderated by Will Donato, Account Director at AdsWizz, the panel featured Martha Canseco, Senior Manager of Ad Operations at The New York Times; Rob Timony, Senior Vice President of Commercial Advisory at Bauer Media Audio; and Karin Kessler, Vice President of Strategy & Content at Seven.One. The discussion explored key trends in programmatic audio and podcast advertising, emphasizing its rapid evolution, the opportunities it creates, and the need for better measurement and advertiser education.

  • Balancing ad formats: A mix of host-read ads, dynamic insertion, and sponsorships maximizes revenue while maintaining a strong listener experience.
  • Programmatic growth: Once met with hesitation, programmatic is now unlocking new budgets, particularly from international advertisers.
  • Content and ad team collaboration: Strong coordination is crucial, especially for manual, highly effective host-read ads.
  • Data and measurement challenges: Privacy restrictions and limited data require better measurement, research, and transparency to educate advertisers.
  • Future trends: AI-driven targeting, video integration, and improved measurement will define the next phase of podcast advertising.
On Audio as a Competitive Advertising Channel

“I think it’s about having open and clear lines of communication with podcasters. When we onboard a new podcaster, we figure out the advertisers they’d like to work with and set category blocks early so that we don’t see hiccups down the line. Even with dynamically inserted Host Reads, we work closely with the podcaster to ensure they’re happy with the advertiser and how the proposed message is integrated. Building trust with our Podcasters is key.” –Rob Timony

Unlocking Digital Audio’s Full Potential: Data & Identity in a Privacy-First World

   
Jason Bauer                                                             Rob Quintiliani

Rob Quintiliani, Senior Director of Ad Product at AdsWizz, and Jason Bauer, VP of Audience Data Operations, addressed key industry challenges, including privacy shifts, a fragmented ecosystem, and the increasing complexity of audio advertising. They also showcased AdsWizz’s cutting-edge solutions, helping publishers and advertisers balance personalization, compliance, and monetization.

  • Navigating industry challenges: Adapting to evolving privacy regulations and ecosystem fragmentation ensures compliance, streamlines operations, and enhances ad performance, particularly in podcast advertising.
  • Harnessing data & identity solutions: First-party data, clean rooms, and contextual targeting enable privacy-compliant, scalable, and precise audience segmentation.
  • Advancing targeting strategies: Mood-based, predictive, and location/weather-based targeting drive engagement, improve conversions, and optimize campaign performance.
  • Maximizing AdsWizz innovations: Seamless first-party data onboarding and identity solutions enhance audience reach, simplify integration, and boost revenue.
  • Driving monetization growth: Enhanced targeting and identity solutions contribute to a 14% eCPM uplift and a 6% bid rate increase, driving greater profitability.
  • Preparing for the future: Expanding universal IDs and audience insights will sustain ad effectiveness and compliance amid ongoing industry changes.
On the Rapid Evolution of Advertising Technology

“Every day, new innovations are changing how we approach advertising, from automation to AI-driven targeting. What seemed impossible just a year ago is now a reality and the opportunities to improve efficiency and drive monetization are growing exponentially.” –Rob Quintiliani

Smarter Data, Bigger Impact: How Publishers are Driving Audio Growth and Revenue

Allan Venn,Charlie Brookes, Seth Freudenburg, Rob Quintiliani, and Jason Bauer

Moderated by Rob Quintiliani and Jason Bauer, this panel featured Allan Venn, Digital Adtech Director at SCA; Charlie Brookes, Chief Revenue Officer at Bauer Media & Octave and Seth Freudenburg, Vice President of Audience Platform at TelevisaUnivision. The discussion covered key topics, including data-driven advertising, audience targeting, privacy challenges, and the evolving role of programmatic audio.

  • First-party data boosts CPMs: Mandatory sign-ins raise ad rates, with UK publishers seeing a £5 increase per 1,000 impressions.
  • Niche targeting grows: Tools such as NumberEight SDK track real-time user behavior for precise ads.
  • Contextual ads remain key: GDPR-compliant strategies use device data to predict user needs.
  • Sales teams must adapt: Simplified taxonomies and training are crucial for streaming, podcasts, and smart speakers.
  • Audio ads evolve with data: Cross-device targeting and pre-built segments enhance execution and engagement.

“The yield difference, certainly in the UK, that we got by putting 1st party data over audio is significant. We saw CPM’s rise with this first-party data solution so it’s definitely worth the effort, but it is complex, you have to iterate, and you have to surround yourself with technology and people who understand how to use it.” –Charlie Brookes

We’re Not Done

  • Click here for Day 2 of the AdsWizz Global Publisher Summit!
  • Want to maximize your digital audio monetization? Contact AdsWizz to explore the latest innovations.

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]]> AdsWizz Global Publisher Summit Recap Day 2 https://www.adswizz.com/adswizz-global-audio-publisher-summit-recap-day-2/ Thu, 03 Apr 2025 16:01:02 +0000 https://www.adswizz.com/?p=14635 Day 2 of the AdsWizz Global Publisher Summit focused on refining measurement and customer success. Experts tackled media mix modeling, fair valuation of audio, and collaboration to drive growth. The takeaway? Audio’s impact is growing, and the industry is doubling down on data-driven strategies. Adtech Unplugged: Straight from the AdsWizz Product Experts The AdsWizz product […]

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]]> Day 2 of the AdsWizz Global Publisher Summit focused on refining measurement and customer success. Experts tackled media mix modeling, fair valuation of audio, and collaboration to drive growth. The takeaway? Audio’s impact is growing, and the industry is doubling down on data-driven strategies.

Adtech Unplugged: Straight from the AdsWizz Product Experts

The AdsWizz product experts panel—Molly Ponzo, VP, Ad Product; Franz Bernstein, VP, Ad Product; Jerome Camerlynck, Director, Ad Product; and Rob Quintiliani, Senior Director, Ad Product—shared their strategic vision for ad product development. They stressed customer-centric approaches, scalable solutions, AI innovation, and transparent collaboration with publishers.

  • Customer-driven development that ensures products genuinely solve real customer problems, driving higher adoption and satisfaction.
  • Balance and scalability enable AdsWizz to effectively serve diverse publisher needs efficiently, reducing custom work and speeding up delivery.
  • Ad quality improvements through AI, transcription, and synthetic voice technology, enhancing ad relevance and listener experience while reducing manual work and ensuring brand safety.
  • Publisher collaboration continuously integrates real-time publisher feedback into product development, builds stronger partnerships, and ensure relevant and impactful innovations.

“At its core, our job is to make sure that we build the right capabilities, the right tools for all of you to monetize and grow your businesses—connecting really the dots between the right ads for the right users at the right time.” –Franz Bernstein

Proving Audio’s Worth: Making Media Models Work for Audio

Joe Macarak, Director of Measurement Partnerships at SiriusXM, discussed mmm media mix modeling (MMM) in audio. He highlighted data integration challenges that undervalue audio, stressing a shift to agile modeling for accurate measurement. He emphasized collaboration to improve data quality and ensure fair valuation.

  • Challenges with current MMM: Audio is often undervalued due to simplistic models and limited data.
  • Shift to agile modeling: Evolving from basic MMM (“bad”) to agile (“better”) and holistic market mix modeling (“best”).
  • Granular data is essential: Daily impression-level data improves accuracy and ensures fair budget allocation.
  • Industry-wide collaboration: Partnering with modeling firms and groups like IAB helps standardize data delivery and elevate audio’s role.
  • Advocacy and education: Educating clients and agencies on audio’s long-term brand impact beyond short-term ROI.

“The quality of data we feed into MMM models today will define audio’s future. If we deliver better, more precise data, we shift from being undervalued to getting our fair share of investment.”

Getting Audio & Podcasts on the Media Plan

Joe then welcomed Matt Shapo, Director of Digital Audio and Video at IAB, to the stage to discuss the impact of MMM on audio ads. Together, they emphasized the need for better data, cross-channel collaboration, and advertiser education to enhance audio’s representation. They highlighted how outdated measurement methods contribute to underinvestment and explained how emerging technology and strategic partnerships are driving more accurate measurement and increased ad spend.

  • Industry collaboration: An IAB working group was created to align audio with MMM frameworks and ensure fair measurement. 
  • Underinvestment in audio: Many advertisers assume audio is hard to measure, leading to lower budget allocations despite its effectiveness. 
  • Data quality and measurement gaps: Audio often gets grouped incorrectly with other media, misrepresenting its impact and ROI. 
  • Refining education: The conversation around MMM must evolve from general measurement education to technical data accuracy and integration. 

“The new frontier is making sure that the inputs are right. It’s no longer just about proving audio’s value—it’s about ensuring audio is properly measured so we can unlock its full potential.” –Matt Shapo

Customer First: Driving Engagement, Value, and Satisfaction

Kate Vitt, Vice President of Product Operations & Customer Success at AdsWizz, and Mircea Jianu, Senior Director of Global Customer Support, wrapped up the event with a session on customer success strategies aimed at boosting engagement, value, and satisfaction. They emphasized investments in support infrastructure, proactive engagement, tailored solutions, and data-driven insights to enhance service quality.

  • Comprehensive support model: The AdsWizz team has built a 360-degree customer support structure integrating technical account managers, solution engineers, programmatic operations, and audience data teams to provide specialized assistance. 
  • Expanding customer education & knowledge resources: The knowledge base has been expanded in the past year, and engagement nearly doubled, ensuring customers have on-demand access to best practices and troubleshooting. 
  • Leveraging net promoter score (NPS) for continuous improvement: Feedback from NPS surveys directly shapes priorities, including platform updates, support enhancements, and summit content. 
  • Proactive & tailored customer success approach: Customers receive more customized support, including product managers and support teams joining QBRs, ensuring a more strategic and personalized experience. 
  • Enhancing product usability & support tools: The team is reimagining every customer touchpoint from onboarding to troubleshooting, integrating real-time assistance and automation tools to streamline issue resolution. 

“Customer success is built on strong partnerships and excellent products that truly meet market needs. We’re committed to evolving alongside you, ensuring every interaction adds value to your business.” –Kate Vitt

Next Steps: Get Involved and Stay Ahead!

The AdsWizz Global Publisher Summit highlighted the transformative power of digital audio in modern advertising. From breakthroughs in programmatic technology to innovations in podcast monetization, the audio landscape continues its meteoric climb. Leading this evolution, AdsWizz continues to empower publishers to drive the future of audio—bolder, smarter, and more influential than ever.

Want to maximize your digital audio monetization? Contact us to explore the latest innovations.

 

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]]> How Brand Safety Can Make or Break Your Digital Audio Ad Strategy https://www.adswizz.com/how-brand-safety-can-make-or-break-your-digital-audio-ad-strategy/ Mon, 31 Mar 2025 14:21:36 +0000 https://www.adswizz.com/?p=14720 Confidence in digital advertising comes from control—control over where ads run, how they perform, and whether they align with brand values. As audio advertising surges in popularity, advertisers and agencies seek greater transparency, stronger brand safety measures, and more refined tools to combat fraud and ensure their message reaches the right audience in suitable environments. […]

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]]> Confidence in digital advertising comes from control—control over where ads run, how they perform, and whether they align with brand values. As audio advertising surges in popularity, advertisers and agencies seek greater transparency, stronger brand safety measures, and more refined tools to combat fraud and ensure their message reaches the right audience in suitable environments.

Why Brand Safety is Essential

As audio publishers embrace advanced adtech and brand safety solutions, advertisers can reach their target audiences with confidence—without compromising security or content suitability. This evolution is transforming digital audio into a more dynamic and impactful medium for advertisers.

As Franz Bernstein, VP of Ad Product at SiriusXM Media & AdsWizz, explains in The State of Audio Adtech Report 2025, ensuring ads appear in the right environments is key to fostering deeper, more authentic connections between brands and listeners:

“We’re redefining audio as a versatile and powerful pillar of digital engagement. It’s no longer just about delivering ads—it’s about reaching listeners wherever they are with personalized, contextually relevant, and privacy-first experiences. By adapting to audience environments and prioritizing brand safety, audio now fosters deeper, more authentic connections—turning every moment into an opportunity for meaningful impact.”

This shift toward privacy-first, contextually relevant experiences is only possible when advertisers have control over where their ads appear. Without strong safety measures, ads risk being placed alongside misaligned or inappropriate content, undermining both trust and effectiveness.

Key Benefits of Brand Safety
  • Brand safety ensures ads appear in contextually appropriate environments.
  • Advanced verification tools help brands reach real, engaged audiences.
  • Real-time transparency allows advertisers to monitor ad placements and performance.

Why Advertisers Are Demanding More Control

The stakes are high for brands investing in digital audio. Unlike other media, audio often delivers intimate, one-on-one engagement with listeners, making alignment with brand values even more critical. However, traditional brand safety measures—such as broad keyword blocking or avoiding entire content categories—have often limited advertisers’ reach.

With more comprehensive brand safety solutions available, brands can confidently place ads in contextually relevant environments that support both brand image and campaign performance.

Next-Generation Audio Adtech: Transparency and Protection

Cutting-edge audio adtech is giving advertisers unprecedented control, providing real-time transparency into where ads are running and how they’re performing. These features eliminate guesswork, ensuring campaigns reach real, engaged audiences.

  • Instant tracking: Advertisers see real-time data on ad placements and performance.
  • Fraud prevention: Invalid Traffic (IVT) filtering helps block bots, fake traffic, and fraudulent domains before they cause harm.
  • Smarter targeting: Improved contextual intelligence ensures ads appear in brand-safe environments without restricting reach.

By purchasing inventory through secure marketplaces like the AdsWizz Marketplace, advertisers can connect with verified audiences, protecting both their ad budgets and brand reputation.

The Future of Audio Advertising is Built on Trust

With growing brand safety solutions, real-time transparency, and advanced fraud prevention, advertisers no longer have to choose between security and scale. The rise of real-time verification, suitability controls, and bot filtering is fueling greater confidence, allowing brands to invest in audio with trust and precision.

Why This Matters for Advertisers
  • More secure placements: Ads appear in suitable, fraud-free environments.
  • Higher engagement: Reaching real audiences leads to better campaign performance.
  • Stronger brand reputation: Avoiding unsafe placements enhances trust and credibility.

As the industry continues to evolve, these advancements are making digital audio one of the most reliable, effective, and impactful advertising channels today.

Want to Dive Deeper into the Future of Audio Adtech? 

Download The State of Audio Adtech Report 2025 for the latest insights on brand safety, transparency, and the innovations shaping digital audio.

by Catalin Georgescu, Senior Product Marketing Manager

 

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