?? The Creativ Brief: The Confidence Curve

In order to grow, one has to stretch.??

I write this post while surfing the Peruvian coast in the early mornings and wrapping up our last full week of work in the evenings.?

When one attempts something new, be it personal or professional there’s always a learning curve.?

Compounding the difficulty is what I like to call a confidence curve. Is the growth this new skill will require worth the effort?? What are my chances of success?? How likely am I to fail??

In order to combat confidence curves, I find it helpful to break a new endeavor into small pieces. One climbs a mountain a step at a time.?

For surfing progression starts in the white water foam, then one gradually increases wave size and power as confidence in one’s skills build.? 5 years ago I started in white water.? Today I ripped a 6 foot wave that rose above my head.?

Growth is incremental, gradual.? Stretch too much at once and one is likely to snap. Incremental accomplishments will build confidence to tackle the next challenge.?

To become a giant, grow little by little.?

3 Stories Dominating Media and Tech Headlines

Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) has announced a restructuring plan to separate its operations into two divisions: "Streaming & Studios" and "Global Linear Networks."

This reorganization aims to isolate the declining cable TV segment from the more profitable streaming and studio businesses, potentially setting the stage for future strategic opportunities such as mergers or spinoffs.

Why it matters: Media conglomerates are increasingly streamlining operations to navigate the evolving digital landscape and position themselves for future mergers and acquisitions.

The U.S. Supreme Court is set to consider TikTok's bid to halt a federal ban that could force the platform out of the American market. This comes after the government cited national security concerns over TikTok's Chinese ownership, pushing for its divestiture or potential prohibition.

Why it matters:? The outcome could set a major precedent for how tech platforms with global ownership operate in the U.S., impacting digital media, advertising strategies, and the regulation of international technology companies.

The media and entertainment industry is undergoing significant transformation, with five key trends projected to shape its future by 2025. These trends include the convergence of digital and traditional media, the rise of personalized content experiences, the increasing importance of data analytics, the expansion of direct-to-consumer models, and the growing focus on sustainability and social responsibility.

Why it matters: Understanding these developments is crucial for industry stakeholders to navigate the evolving landscape and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Creativ Spotlight - 1stAveMachine x Urban Outfitters Holiday Campaign

1stAveMachine’s Laurence “Baz” Morais directed this Urban Outfitters “Happy LOLidays” commercial spot.

Check it out HERE!!

Stat of the Week - Major Digital Media Challenges for US Publishers and Platforms

US digital media publishers and platforms are grappling with significant challenges heading into 2025, as highlighted by a September 2024 study from Integral Ad Science and YouGov.

Key concerns include ads appearing alongside risky content or misinformation (29%), difficulties with contextual targeting (29%), monetizing both with and without social platforms (29%), and achieving scaled audience extension (29%).

These issues underscore the growing complexity of balancing brand safety, effective ad placement, and revenue generation in an evolving digital ecosystem dominated by shifting consumer behaviors and regulatory scrutiny.

One Fun Thing - Advertising Holiday Memes

Advertisers are famously self-aware. Here’s some of our favorite advertising holiday memes to brighten your day. Courtesy of Adweek, DigitalChadertising, and AgencyProbs.