Today’s guest is Jared Belsky, Co-Founder and CEO of Acadia – the hugely successful digital marketing and analytics agency. This is a masterclass in optimism, principled leadership and long-term thinking. Jared shares why bravery and belief sit at the heart of great leadership, from taking outspoken ethical stances, to building an agency designed to nurture future CEOs.
We explore how Acadia has deliberately moved away from the boom-and-bust model that afflicts so many agencies, instead embracing more sustainable economics and intelligent specialization that doesn’t rely on a single vertical sector. Jared also offers a refreshingly positive view of the next generation, arguing they’re the most empowered yet, particularly when genuinely supported with thoughtful use of AI and automation.
HIGHLIGHTS:
[02:09] Where Acadia came from
[04:41] Integrity in media buying
[08:51] Stay profitable while doing good
[11:50] Agencies as teaching platforms
[17:29] Embracing economic diversity
[21:12] The mid-market thesis
[23:01] Saying "No" to P&G
[27:37] Living the values
[30:31] Empowering the team with technology
[33:23] Three trends reshaping media
