In this week's episode of the podcast, we chat to analyst Ian Whittaker and ask him the question - 'Is YouTube TV?'

This question prompts a deep dive into channel fragmentation, advertising revenue, the creator economy, and the centrality of Kids content within the current battle between legacy media and social media.

It's a fun, no hold bars, discussion, so grab a tea and sit back and enjoy.

Oh and a small disclaimer - as Ian always says, none of the opinions expressed here constitute investment advice! :-)

In this episode, we dive deep into Roblox as a game-changing platform for brand engagement and immersive content creation. Our guest, Nate Spell, CEO of Barrier4, reveals how his team evolved from producing trailers to building interactive experiences for top brands like Netflix and Nickelodeon—all within the Roblox ecosystem.

• We explore how brands are moving beyond traditional ads, using gameplay as storytelling and Roblox as a long-term engagement strategy. From licensing opportunities to community-driven development, this episode unpacks the new frontier of digital marketing and interactive media.

• Roblox is transforming digital marketing—shifting from a novelty to a core strategy for audience engagement.
• Barrier4's journey: From a niche magazine to a major Roblox content studio serving global brands.
• Gameplay meets brand storytelling: Why integrated, interactive narratives drive deeper user connections.
• Roblox as a platform for IP growth: Opportunities for both emerging and established franchises.
• Community-first strategies: Why successful brands treat Roblox as a living ecosystem, not just a campaign.
• Licensing potential: Explore how brands can tap into and collaborate with Roblox’s vast creator community.

As the media industry transforms at lightning speed, how do iconic events like MIPCOM and MIPJunior stay ahead of the curve?

In this episode, we sit down with Lucy Smith (Entertainment Division Director, RX France; Director of MIPCOM) and Carole Ollardissen (Content & Conference Manager, MIPCOM & MIPJunior) for an insider look at how the world’s leading entertainment markets are evolving to meet the demands of a shifting industry — from the rise of streaming to the explosion of the creator economy.

Together, Lucy and Carole discuss the strategic changes coming to MIPJunior 2025, its deeper integration with MIPCOM, and how both events are designed to fuel connection, innovation, and opportunity in an increasingly competitive and global content space.

🔍 In this episode:

• Lucy’s 20-year journey through media transformation — from the DVD era to the streaming age
• Why MIPCOM and MIPJunior are more relevant than ever in 2025
• How the events are tackling the biggest challenges in kids and family content
• Major format changes at MIPJunior 2025, including:
• Physical integration with MIPCOM (no longer separate venues)
• Smarter, dedicated matchmaking tools
• Stronger alignment with broader MIPCOM initiatives
• New YouTube partnership and a focus on the creator economy
• Why MIPJunior is no longer just the “room where it happens” — it’s a collaborative launchpad for the future of kids content

Whether you’re developing IP, distributing content, building partnerships, or navigating the digital-first world of kids media, this episode offers an essential preview of what to expect at MIPCOM 2025 — and why it remains the beating heart of global entertainment deal-making.