Beyond the Basics: First-Party Data and Contextual Targeting in Action

The key isn’t just knowing what someone likes—it’s understanding when and how to deliver a message that resonates and creates meaningful connections. Instead of relying on broad strokes, brands and publishers today should harness first-party data and contextual intelligence to create and deliver hyper-targeted, privacy-compliant ad experiences. 

For example, it’s now possible to combine location targeting with weather insights for an even more focused and personal approach. If it’s a rainy day in a specific neighborhood, food delivery apps can reach listeners staying in, while auto service brands can target regions hit by storms with reminders for repairs or checks. By tapping into real-world context, audio ads don’t just show up at the right time—they actually make sense in the moment, feeling more like helpful tips and less like background noise.

Why First-Party Data is More Valuable than Ever

With more users opting out of traditional tracking, first-party data has become the gold standard for delivering relevant ads—without compromising privacy. Brands and publishers that leverage their own data—such as listening behavior, purchase history, and preferences—can deliver personalized messages without relying on third-party cookies.

And the impact is clear:

• 71% of brands, agencies, and publishers are expanding their first-party data strategies, moving away from their historically heavy reliance on third-party audiences.
• Brands adopting personalization have grown by 50%, with budgets increasing by 29% in 2024 compared to the previous year.
• Culturally relevant ads generate a 156% greater emotional impact, according to a study by MAGNA Media Trials and SiriusXM Media, “Challenging the ‘One & Done’ Approach: Connecting Culturally Through Digital Audio.

The best part? With first-party data, publishers regain control of all online interactions across their content. At the same time, brands can use highly relevant touchpoints for their messaging, making it a win-win for both parties. 

Contextual Targeting is Refining the Moment, Not Just the Audience

Having data is just the first step—what really matters is how you put it to work. A great ad should feel like a natural part of the experience, not something that disrupts it. Think about it: Delivering an ad for a sunrise yoga retreat to listeners streaming a meditation playlist can hit all the right notes–and feel downright serendipitous. Contextual targeting has evolved far beyond simply aligning ads with general content categories. Modern platforms now ensure ads fit the content but also the listener’s mindset and environment. With 60% of targeting dimensions on AdsWizz’s platform already contextual—based on impressions run on the platform—it’s clear that hyper-relevant messaging is the new norm.

This is where contextual targeting truly shines, allowing brands to craft hyper-relevant ads that feel seamless, timely, and genuinely useful to listeners.

Mood-based targeting

Music sets the tone for how people feel—whether that’s pumped up, chilled out, or somewhere in between. Studies show that during stressful periods, listeners actively turn to music as a coping mechanism, reinforcing the idea that audio content is deeply tied to emotional states. The AdsWizz mood library has over 60 million songs across nine mood segments, including one called Angsty—because sometimes you just need to embrace the vibe. Imagine someone blasting some Metallica, the last thing they want is a bubbly ad for cherry-flavored lipgloss. The right ad at the right time doesn’t just resonate—it respects the mood.

Weather-based targeting

Weather shapes moods, cravings, and shopping decisions. A cold, rainy Friday evening? Perfect for a cozy comfort food delivery ad. A high UV index? A well-timed reminder to grab that sunscreen. And when temperatures drop at higher altitudes, it’s the ideal moment to nudge listeners toward warm sweaters or ski boots.

Our platform updates live weather data every 60 minutes, ensuring ad messaging aligns with real-time conditions. By staying relevant in the moment, brands can personalize their approach and maximize impact—because no one wants to hear about ice-cold lemonade when they’re snowed in.

Location-based targeting

Location targeting isn’t just about hitting a city or zip code anymore—it’s about meeting listeners exactly where they are. You wouldn’t find an ad for snow boots useful when you’re sweltering at an outdoor summer concert, now would you? Our platform goes beyond standard geographic targeting with precision tools that let advertisers reach people down to a concert venue, a student campus, or even a vintage fair. With real-time data, location-based targeting makes ads feel appropriate and, most importantly, valuable. 

Podcast Contextual Targeting

Not all podcast listeners are created equal. Some are crunching finance news, others are knee-deep in true crime, and a select few are fully committed to the art of artisanal sourdough. But here’s the thing—just because someone’s tuning into a day-trading podcast doesn’t mean they’re not shopping for hiking boots.

Through our partnership with Comscore, we go beyond podcast genres to match consumer preferences with real behavioral insights. With over 300 audience segments spanning TV viewership, gaming habits, life stages, and more, you’re not just casting a wide net—you’re dropping your line exactly where the right listeners are biting.

Bringing It All Together: Smarter, More Relevant Audio Ads

The days of one-size-fits-all audio advertising are over. The real magic happens when first-party data meets contextual targeting, creating privacy-friendly, high-impact campaigns that actually make listeners pay attention—without feeling like an interruption.

The brands winning in 2025 and beyond won’t be the ones using contextual targeting at a surface level—they’ll be the ones refining it, using it dynamically, and making every impression count. If you’re not already embracing these strategies, now is the time to start.

Ready to Take Your Audio Advertising to the Next Level?

Download The State of Audio Adtech Report 2025 for more exclusive insights on the latest trends and strategies shaping the future of digital audio.

by Alexandra Ilie, Senior Product Marketing Manager

The post How First-Party Data and Contextual Targeting Are Transforming Audio Ads in 2025 appeared first on AdsWizz.

On February 11, 2025, AdsWizz Audio Days Milan brought together brands, agencies, and media professionals to explore the rapidly evolving world of digital audio advertising. Featuring market-shaping data, bold discussions, and real-world case studies, the event served as a launchpad for the future of digital audio.

If you missed out, don’t worry. We’ve got all the highlights right here!

State of the Union

 

Digital Audio Market Trends

Italy is emerging as a European leader in digital audio consumption and its fast-growing digital audio market presents a massive opportunity for brands to connect with highly engaged audiences. Andrea Lamperti, Senior Advisor at Osservatorio Internet Media, and Francesco Paolo Tarallo, Head of Partnerships and Business Development at Mediamond, took the stage to explore the key trends driving this rapid shift.

• Podcast listening has surged, with more brands investing in original podcast content to drive engagement.
• AI-driven ad personalization is making audio campaigns more precise than ever.
• With third-party data disappearing, privacy-focused targeting is becoming essential.

How Digital Audio Supercharges Multichannel Marketing

Brands that overlook audio in their marketing strategies risk losing engagement and conversions. Modern marketing isn’t about choosing between channels—it’s about seamless integration for a connected customer experience.

Moderated by Giuseppe Accardo, Senior Sales Manager at AdsWizz, this panel explored how digital audio enhances multichannel strategies, making campaigns more engaging and data-driven. The discussion reinforced that audio is no longer a standalone medium—when integrated effectively, it amplifies a brand’s entire marketing mix.

Paolo Artioli, Head of Audio at Dentsu; Sebastiano Vissani, Head of Digital Audio at OMD; and Riccardo Tacchetto, Digital Project & Campaign Manager at Officina.Tech then shared insights on how brands can leverage audio alongside other digital channels to improve engagement and maximize advertising impact.

• Digital audio boosts brand recall and engagement when paired with video, social, and display.
• Programmatic audio is unlocking hyper-targeted, personalized ad experiences.
• First-party data is now a critical asset for brands looking to maximize ad effectiveness.

Digital Audio Innovation in Action: Corona’s Game-Changing Audio Campaign

Nothing showcases the power of digital audio better than real-world success stories. AdsWizz’s Giuseppe Accardo and Nelsi Xhemalaj, Campaign Manager, Tangoo Media, took the audience through Corona’s groundbreaking campaign, which used geo-targeted audio ads to deliver real-time surf reports. 

The session demonstrated how dynamic creative optimization (DCO) is transforming personalized advertising, proving that well-timed, data-driven audio ads can create hyper-personalized experiences that deeply resonate with audiences.

• 751,000 real-time surf reports turned into engaging ad experiences.
• Geo-targeting ensured ads reached only listeners within 15km of key beaches.
• A 2% increase in brand relevance showed the power of contextually relevant, dynamic creative.

The Optimal Use of Data and Targeting: Smarter Ads, Better Engagement

As consumer expectations evolve, brands that ignore data-driven audio advertising risk falling behind. With AI and first-party data shaping the future of marketing, those who adapt now will gain a critical edge. In an era of advertising saturation, precision targeting, and real-time personalization are essential to breaking through the noise. 

Moderated by Alexandre Obino, Senior Director of Client Strategy at AdsWizz, this session explored how AI-driven insights and audience segmentation are transforming ad relevance in digital audio. Francesco Paolo Tarallo, Head of Digital Marketing at Mediamond; Christina Pianura, CEO of Audioboost; and Fabio Rastelli, Head of Digital Audio at Teamradio shared their expertise on how brands can leverage data to maximize ad effectiveness and audience engagement.

• Real-time personalization is creating audio ads that feel natural and relevant.
• Behavioral and contextual targeting are driving stronger engagement and performance.
• Voice-activated ads are paving the way for interactive, hands-free brand engagement.

Digital Evolution Between Podcasts and New Audio Ecosystems

Podcasts provide authentic, long-form engagement, making them a powerful tool in an era of fragmented attention. No longer just another media format, they have become a cornerstone of modern marketing. Fausto Amorese, Director of Marketing at Radio24, shared the latest data on podcast growth and offered insights on how brands can harness this rapidly expanding medium to build deeper connections with their audiences.

• 620+ podcasts are created every month, according to Radio 24 podcasts available on its website, app, and major on-demand platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music.
• 8.5 million monthly listening sessions show sustained engagement, based on a combination of websites, apps, and third-party platforms.
• 19 million+ monthly audio ad impressions prove brands are doubling down on podcast ads.

Measuring Audio’s Real Impact: Brand Lift & Attribution

With advanced attribution tools, brands can now track engagement, conversions, and overall campaign performance with unprecedented precision. Measuring the impact of audio ads has long been a challenge, but innovations in attribution are changing that. AdsWizz’s Giuseppe Accardo and Alexandre Obino showcased how brands like Mazda and Kraken are leveraging AudioPixel and Veritonic to measure campaign effectiveness and prove ROI.

• Mazda’s campaign increased website visits by 293%.
• Kraken’s podcast ads boosted brand awareness by 17%.

Navigating the Sonic Identity Space

Privacy regulations are constantly evolving, requiring the industry to push beyond its comfort zone to stay innovative. Moderated by Morgane Peron, Director of Audience Data Operations at AdsWizz, this panel explored how organizations address privacy, compliance, and industry-wide collaboration to provide customer-centric solutions for publishers, buyers, and demand-side platforms. The discussion highlighted the importance of leveraging technology partners for streamlined compliance.

The panel featured Leone Fossati, Head of Solutions at UTIQ; Francesca Gabaglio, Addressable Strategy and Audience Lead at Kinesso; Davide Rosamilia, Vice President of Product at ID5; and Tommaso Scudiero, Lead Associate Account Director at The Trade Desk. Together, the group led an engaging conversation on privacy, technology, and omnichannel strategies for reaching audiences across multiple devices.

• Continued collaboration in the industry will be key to providing advanced strategies with 100% compliance to allow various partners (publishers, buyers, demand side) to achieve their goals.
• As audiences continue to engage in multiple ways across multiple devices, fully compliant, unified strategies are necessary to reach larger audiences across different channels and target at scale.
• First-party data is more important than ever. We need to create and maintain an environment that makes data transmission a seamless, fully compliant, and efficient experience on all sides.

Reflecting on AdsWizz Audio Days Milan 2025

AdsWizz Audio Days Milan 2025 showcased just how fast digital audio is evolving—and the opportunities it’s creating for brands, agencies, and publishers alike. From DCO to data identity solutions and podcast storytelling, one thing is clear: Audio is no longer just a supporting player in marketing—it’s leading the conversation. The future of audio is now—are you listening?

A huge thank you to all the speakers, panelists, and attendees who made AdsWizz Audio Days Milan 2025 an unforgettable experience.

by Aimi Knowling, Senior Manager, Sales Marketing

What’s Next?

• Want to dive deeper into AdsWizz Audio Days Milan 2025? Check out the presentation slides here.
• Looking to take your audio strategy to the next level? Reach out today and see how our platforms can enhance your campaigns!
• Stay tuned for upcoming events, content, and innovations from AdsWizz. Don’t forget to sign up for Frequency, our monthly newsletter. 
• Did you know we released a new industry report? Download The State of Audio Adech Report 2025.

The post AdsWizz Audio Days Milan 2025 Recap appeared first on AdsWizz.

Check out this latest piece published in The Drum by Daniel Einhorn, Senior Manager, Content Marketing!

With digital audio advertising spending in North America projected to hit $9 billion by 2028, the medium’s rapid expansion and disruptive potential are undeniable. Audio is no longer just growing; it has become a transformative force in how brands connect with audiences.

The post How Audio Advertising is Redefining Marketing in 2025 (and Beyond) appeared first on AdsWizz.

What Is Multicultural Targeting in Digital Audio?

Multicultural targeting is an advertising tool and a bridge to authentic relationships with diverse audiences. It enables advertisers to go beyond traditional demographics, using custom audience segments to deliver messages that reflect the culture, passions, and identity of their listeners.

Here’s how it works:

• Custom campaigns: Tailor messages by leveraging data on music genres, content language, and behavioral patterns.
• Trusted networks: Access one of the most diverse networks of premium publishers, ensuring messages reach the right audiences in spaces they trust.
• Predictive personas: Target specific segments, such as “Black/African-American” or “Hispanic,” to refine campaigns and improve relevance.

Why Multicultural Audiences Matter for Advertisers

In today’s diverse media landscape, advertisers have a unique opportunity to connect with multicultural audiences. Studies reveal that 78% of Black podcast listeners are more likely to purchase products advertised on podcasts hosted by Black creators, while 76% of Hispanic listeners feel pride and empowerment from positive media representation. Additionally, 45% of Asian listeners favor brands that feature culturally relevant ads, highlighting the importance of authentic messages in reaching these influential groups.

How AdsWizz Connects Brands with Diverse Audiences

AdsWizz combines advanced targeting capabilities with deep audience insights, allowing advertisers to deliver campaigns that truly connect.

Here’s how:

• Music genres: Target audiences based on their favorite genres, such as hip-hop, pop, or Latin music.
• Content language: Create ads in English, Spanish, or bilingual formats to connect authentically.
• Behavioral data: Align campaigns with passions like sports, cooking, or beauty.
• Predictive personas: Use predefined personas for precise targeting, ensuring relevance.
• Geo-targeting: Optimize reach with census-based data or focus on key urban centers

Top Publishers for Multicultural Campaigns

AdsWizz has formed partnerships with a diverse range of premium publishers, enabling advertisers to connect with audiences in trusted and culturally relevant spaces. From community-focused podcasts to global music platforms, advertisers can leverage powerful tools to amplify their messages across high-impact channels. Notable partners include the Spanish Broadcasting System, Entravision, TelevisaUnivision, SoundCloud, and Audiomack, ensuring a broad and effective reach for brand campaigns.

The Benefits of Multicultural Targeting in Programmatic Audio Ads

Multicultural targeting offers measurable advantages that go beyond impressions:

• Cultural relevance: Show audiences they are understood and celebrated with ads tailored to their identity.
• Enhanced engagement: Ads that feel personal inspire action and loyalty.
• Premium inventory: Access diverse publishers to ensure messages reach the ideal audience.
• Reduced waste: Make impressions count and protect your ad spend with precise targeting.

Why Multicultural Targeting is a Must-Do (Not a Nice-to-Have)

Today’s audiences expect more than generic advertising—they seek authenticity, cultural relevance, and meaningful connections. With AdsWizz’s multicultural targeting, brands can craft campaigns that celebrate diversity, embrace culture, and amplify voices. 

• Ready to elevate your campaigns? Download our Advanced Targeting in Digital Audio Advertising eBook today and discover how to create ads that truly resonate, making every impression count.
• Looking to connect with us directly? Reach out today!

by Eric Loughridge, Associate Director, Global Marketing

The post Engage Diverse Audiences in Digital Audio with Multicultural Targeting appeared first on AdsWizz.

Check out this latest piece published in The Drum by Garrison Dua, VP of Demand, North America!

Digital audio is a powerful bridge, allowing brands to forge meaningful connections with consumers. Thanks to advances in streaming technology and the meteoric rise of podcasts, audio has transformed into an engaging medium that allows brands to connect with audiences more authentically and relevantly than ever before. Half of podcast listeners report engaging more deeply with a brand’s sound identity than with its visual presence, and 58% consider sound elements more memorable – underscoring audio’s unique ability to foster deeper, lasting engagement.

By embracing immersive, interactive, and personalized audio strategies, brands can shift from passive messaging to rich, two-way conversations that deeply resonate with listeners. This shift goes beyond embracing a new advertising channel – it’s about creating impactful experiences that leave lasting impressions and foster deeper consumer engagement. So, let’s discover how audio innovations are transforming digital marketing and how your brand can harness its full potential.

The post How Audio Innovation is Redefining Brand-Consumer Connections appeared first on AdsWizz.

AdsWizz’s enhanced Second Screen Retargeting goes beyond simply delivering ads—it creates engaging, influential ad experiences. Combining the immersive power of audio ads with the eye-catching appeal of display ads, this cutting-edge solution extends brand reach, makes messages memorable, and delivers tangible, measurable outcomes.

Why Second Screen Retargeting is a Big Deal

Imagine this: A listener hears a captivating audio ad while streaming a favorite playlist. Minutes later, they see a visually striking display ad reinforcing that same message while scrolling through their favorite app. That’s the beauty of second screen retargeting—it meets an audience where they are, across devices and platforms, keeping brand voice top-of-mind.

With AdsWizz’s enhanced solution, you can:

• Double the impact by creating a one-two punch of audio and display ads.
• Leave a lasting impression through reinforced messaging across screens.
• Drive action with personalized, precise retargeting that inspires clicks and conversions.

How Does It Work? Precision Meets Power

We get it—marketing isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why our second-screen retargeting provides options to tailor campaigns to advertiser goals. Whether aiming for precision or scale, we’ve got it covered.

• Same device delivery: Keep it personal by targeting users directly on the device where they first heard an audio ad. It’s perfect for maximizing recall.
• Same household delivery: Expand reach by delivering follow-up ads across devices in the same household. It’s a brilliant way to engage a broader audience while staying relevant.

Simplify. Amplify. Protect.

Managing audio with display campaigns has never been easier, or more effective. Here’s how we ensure campaigns shine:

• All-in-one management: Forget juggling multiple platforms. With AdsWizz, everything happens in one place—your single source of truth for campaign management and reporting.
• Actionable insights: Don’t just run campaigns—optimize them. Our unified reporting shows what’s working (and what’s not) so it can be tweaked and adjusted for even better results.
• Safety first: We take brand safety seriously. Our platform blocks ads from appearing in unsafe environments with a vetted list of over tens of thousands of domains. Brand integrity is always protected.

Why Audio Campaigns Deserve This Boost 

Retargeting isn’t just a nice-to-have anymore—it’s essential. Attention spans are shorter than ever, and second-screen retargeting ensures ad messages cut through the clutter.

Still need convincing? Consider this:

• Campaigns using second-screen retargeting have quadrupled the impact of display-only ads. 
• You’ll get a 360° view of performance metrics, from click-through rates to real-time delivery stats.
• It’s a win-win for marketers and customers alike—ads are seen, heard, and remembered.

What Does Enhanced Second Screen Retargeting Mean for You?

Say goodbye to forgettable campaigns. Enhanced second-screen retargeting transforms passive listeners into engaged buyers, making every ad dollar count and delivering results that can be measured. Ready to take your campaigns to the next level? Your audience is listening, and now they’ll be watching, too.

For more details, publishers can explore the AudioServe Knowledge Base, and advertisers can find everything they need in AudioMatic. Not an AdsWizz partner yet? Visit our Contact Us page to learn more.

by Catalin Georgescu, Senior Product Marketing Manager

The post Boost Your Audio Advertising Campaigns with Enhanced Second Screen Retargeting appeared first on AdsWizz.

One standout innovation we cover is location targeting—a strategy that redefines accuracy in audio advertising. By honing in on specific audiences at the perfect time and place, location targeting empowers brands to deliver ads that truly resonate. This cutting-edge approach turns hyper-local advertising from concept to reality, driving real-world impact.

Why Location Targeting is a Game Changer

Location matters. Our surroundings influence our needs, interests, and even our moods. With location targeting, brands can place themselves right at the center of these scenarios, making digital audio ads feel like a natural part of the listener’s environment.

Using advanced geolocation tools is ideal for brands that want to optimize ad spend by focusing on specific audiences at key moments and locations.

How Brands Can Leverage Location Targeting for Maximum Impact

• Events and venues: Targeting listeners around specific points of interest, like stadiums, convention centers, or concert halls, is a win for brands promoting events, merchandise, or nearby dining options. Reach sports fans with exclusive offers as they arrive at the stadium or concert-goers with limited-time merch discounts post-show.
  
• Localized promotions: Running a sale in a particular neighborhood or store? Location targeting lets brands share real-time offers with people nearby, driving foot traffic exactly where you want it. For example, a coffee chain can reach listeners on their morning commute, promoting a breakfast special available only at select local branches.
  
• Tourism and travel: As people explore new places, location targeting allows travel agencies, hotels, or local attractions to highlight nearby experiences. Visitors to a popular tourist destination can hear ads about scenic tours, local events, or cultural spots to check out, creating memorable, actionable moments.
  
• Contextual relevance: Combine location targeting with weather and mood insights for an even more relevant approach. If it’s a rainy day in a specific neighborhood, food delivery apps can reach listeners staying in, while auto service brands can target regions hit by storms with reminders for repairs or checks.
  

Benefits of Location Targeting

• Increased relevance: Targeting specific places allows brands to address the immediate needs and interests of listeners, making ads more effective and memorable.
  
• Cost efficiency: By focusing on key areas, brands can maximize their budget, ensuring that a message reaches the people most likely to take action.
• Enhanced engagement: Listeners are more likely to engage with ads that align with their immediate surroundings or activities, leading to higher recall and conversions.
  

Get Started with Location Targeting

With AdsWizz’s location targeting, brands can connect with audiences where and when it matters most, sharing messages that genuinely resonate. Whether driving foot traffic, packing a local event, or amplifying brand awareness in key areas, location-based digital audio ads are an innovative solution brands need, and they are here to stay as a cornerstone of modern audio advertising.

• Ready to dive more into advanced location targeting? Download our latest eBook on advanced targeting and start planning your next hyper-local campaign with AdsWizz today!
• Have questions or looking to connect with us directly? Reach out today!

by Daniel Einhorn, Senior Manager, Content Marketing

The post Amplify Your Audio Ads with Location Targeting appeared first on AdsWizz.

Why Weather Targeting Works So Well

Weather influences how people feel, make decisions, and ultimately, what they buy. Imagine a rainy day—perfect for a cozy evening at home. Now, picture a sunny day; it’s ideal for shopping, outdoor plans, or grabbing an ice-cold drink. With weather targeting, a brand can match its message to these natural behaviors, reaching people exactly when its product or service is most relevant.

This feature uses live data from trusted sources, updating every 60 minutes for real-time accuracy. Whether it’s rain, snow, high temps, or UV index levels, advertisers can zero in on specific weather conditions, ensuring their campaigns resonate while minimizing wasted ad spend.

How to Use Weather Targeting for Maximum Impact

Weather targeting in digital audio is incredibly versatile:

• Retail and seasonal promotions: Clothing brands can promote winter coats to listeners in cold climates, while summer brands can spotlight swimwear and sunscreen during warm, sunny days.
• Food delivery and convenience services: Delivery apps can reach listeners on rainy or snowy days, reminding them they can enjoy their favorite foods from the comfort of home.
• Home improvement and auto services: Brands offering repairs or maintenance can target audiences after extreme weather, providing timely reminders for storm repairs or car checks.

The Benefits of Weather Targeting in Digital Audio Advertising

Incorporate weather targeting into your digital audio strategy to ensure ads deliver the right message at the perfect moment, offering unique advantages that enhance relevance and engagement:

• Increased relevance: Ads that mirror a listener’s current environment feel more natural and connected.
• Cost efficiency: Targeting specific conditions reduces wasted impressions, meaning ads reach listeners at the right time, boosting conversion rates.
• Higher engagement: Ads that reflect what listeners are experiencing right now have higher engagement, recall, and interaction rates.

Make Your Campaigns Unforgettable with Weather Targeting

Weather targeting takes digital audio ads to the next level by delivering timely, relevant messages that engage listeners when they’re most likely to act. Ready to make your campaigns more impactful and cost-effective? Start using weather targeting today and connect with your audience like never before, rain or shine!

• Download the AdsWizz eBook, Advanced Targeting in Digital Audio Advertising, to discover how it and other advanced strategies can help your campaigns resonate.
• While AdsWizz’s weather targeting is enhancing engagement with contextually relevant messaging, our partnership with data firm NumberEight is transforming audience targeting with ID-less advertising, balancing precision and privacy to deliver innovative podcast solutions. Read more here.
• Do you have more questions and want to connect with us directly? Visit our Contact Us page to learn more.

by Hannah Nardone, Manager, Sales Marketing at SiriusXM Media

The post Supercharge Digital Audio Ads with Weather Targeting appeared first on AdsWizz.

Through a series of engaging panels and dynamic discussions, attendees walked away armed with fresh insights on how to supercharge campaign performance and expand their media strategies.

So, let’s break down each panel discussion and the must-know takeaways that are set to redefine the future of digital audio.

Opening Remarks to Set the Stage for Digital Audio’s Future

Speaker: Ollie Chadwick, AdsWizz, Regional Director, UK & Ireland, AdsWizz

The day began with a welcome from Ollie Chadwick, who outlined AdsWizz’s evolution and its role in shaping the digital audio landscape. He highlighted the steady rise of digital audio adoption in the UK and emphasized the growing importance of programmatic audio, noting its ability to reach audiences more effectively and cost-efficiently compared to traditional media.

Panel 1: Innovation and Testing in Audio

Moderator: Rowan Hamill, UK & Ireland, AdsWizz

• Wayne Bishop, Global Client Lead, Unilever
• Ridhi Jogia, Director AV Implementation, Essence Mediacom
• Alice Baines, Media Planning Business Director, OMD

The first panel, led by Rowan Hamill, examined how innovation is driving digital audio forward. The panelists highlighted the underutilized potential of programmatic audio, noting that despite strong engagement, it still receives limited marketing investment due to budget constraints.

• An underserved market opportunity: Even with digital audio’s rapid growth, brands continue to allocate less investment to it compared to video or social media. This session underscored the opportunity to gain market share by positioning audio as a key medium.
• Barriers to experimentation: Panelists pointed out that rigid budget structures limit opportunities for audio testing. They stressed that greater agency support and education could empower brands to invest confidently in innovative audio strategies.

Panel 2: Beyond Branding for Campaigns

Moderator: Lindsay Lynch, Director of Business Development, International, AdsWizz

• Brandon Lutz, Head of Offline & New Media, Miro 
• Andy Goldsmith, CEO, Adelicious
• Kat Bean, Head of Media, Wake the Bear
• Howard Bareham, Co-Founder, Trisonic

In the second session, moderated by Lindsay Lynch, the focus shifted to how brands can expand podcast advertising beyond traditional branding efforts to drive direct response outcomes. Panelists shared insights on how audio ads can connect with niche audiences and deliver measurable results, making audio a valuable tool for performance-based campaigns.

• Case study – Miro’s success in brand awareness: Brandon Lutz from Miro shared their recent experience using audio ads to drive an increase in brand awareness among key decision-makers in UX, marketing, and engineering roles. This case study illustrated how podcasts effectively communicate brand stories to targeted, high-intent audiences without requiring host-read formats.
• Diverse use cases for audio: Panelists discussed how brands can utilize data-driven audio ads for various objectives, from lead generation to customer acquisition. They emphasized the flexibility of programmatic audio to adapt to specific campaign goals, including B2B and B2C contexts.

Panel 3: Digital Audio in the Wider Media Mix

Moderator: Ollie Chadwick, AdsWizz, Regional Director, UK & Ireland, AdsWizz

• Thomas Balaam, Audio Trading Director, Mindshare UK
• Michael Bayston, VP Adtech Solutions, Acast
• Isobel Langley, Head of Agency, GroupM Nexus
• Patrick Dolan, Head of Audio & Display, the7stars

The final session explored how digital audio enhances multi-channel campaigns, with Ollie Chadwick leading a discussion on its role in broader media strategies.

• Audio as an amplifier: Panelists emphasized audio’s role as an amplifier, especially when paired with visual media like connected TV (CTV). The conversation touched on how combining programmatic audio with digital video can result in higher engagement and brand recall.
• Audience-driven strategy: Audio allows brands to reach audiences throughout the day across various touchpoints—whether during a morning jog, while commuting, or as they wind down in the evening. This flexibility makes audio a powerful tool for reaching consumers at different points in their journey.
• A cost-effective channel: With a lower CPM than many visual formats, audio offers a cost-effective way to increase reach and frequency within broader campaigns. This point resonated strongly with attendees, showcasing audio as a valuable channel in an increasingly budget-conscious media landscape.
• Digital audio’s versatility: Digital audio’s adaptability makes it an ideal complement to traditional media, providing unique advantages for brands aiming to diversify their media spend while engaging audiences in more immersive and meaningful ways.

Skip Ahead with AdsWizz

Audio Days London brought together digital audio’s leading voices and highlighted AdsWizz’s role in driving the digital audio industry forward and empowering brands to reach new heights.

Stay tuned for updates on our next Audio Days event, or contact us today if you wish to advance your audio strategy!

by Aimi Knowling, Senior Manager, Sales Marketing

The post Audio Days London Recap appeared first on AdsWizz.

Key Insights from this Episode

Privacy by Design: Redefining Audience Engagement

With growing privacy regulations, the industry faces an urgent need for alternative ways to understand audiences. Emma explained that NumberEight’s approach is rooted in “privacy by design,” shifting from traditional identifiers (IDs) to cohort-level targeting that respects user anonymity. This strategy is integrated across all of NumberEight’s solutions, including affinity audiences, which provides demographic data at scale for podcasting; advanced behavioral, which uses mobile sensory information to create a dynamic picture of user preferences and habits; and contextual data, which helps understand the digital environment users are in.

“We’re moving away from one-to-one identifiers and adopting a more fluid approach to audience engagement,” Emma shared, underscoring the need for scalable, privacy-friendly methods that remain flexible even as regulatory landscapes evolve.

Live Moments: Real-Time Targeting Based on User Behaviors

Emma introduced the idea of live moments—data points representing what users do in real-time, whether they’re commuting, relaxing at home, or working out. By analyzing these signals, advertisers can deliver more relevant, timely ads that align with users’ current needs and state of mind, creating what she describes as “right message, right moment” advertising.

This approach is particularly potent in digital audio and podcasting, where listeners are often in environments conducive to focused engagement. For example, automotive brands have leveraged in-vehicle life moments to reach users while they’re on the road, resonating with listeners during moments of receptivity.

A Privacy-First Future is Possible—But There’s Work to Do

As Emma noted, the conversation around privacy-centric advertising is well underway, where leading marketers and technologists converge. However, widespread adoption is still in its early stages, and brands are just beginning to feel comfortable making the shift.

One major barrier is the FOMU effect Emma describes—not the typical fear of missing out, but the “fear of messing up”. With so much at stake, brands are hesitant to risk experimenting with unproven techniques, even though the alternative is missing out on innovative privacy-first solutions. Emma suggests that rather than investing in a single approach, brands should diversify their solutions and test various models to reduce reliance on outdated identifiers.

Why Podcasts Are Digital’s ‘Next Big Thing’ in Ad Spend

Despite the rapid growth in podcast consumption, ad spending in this format has not yet matched its rising listenership. However, podcasts are on the brink of revolutionizing ad spend, especially as they adopt more standardization in data availability, activation, and reporting. Emma noted that once podcasts can offer a similar ease of activation as other digital media, the gap between audience growth and ad spend will likely close.

Combining Data and Storytelling to Create Deeper Connections

Beyond the technical aspects of data targeting, Emma emphasizes the importance of storytelling. At NumberEight, the team is constantly looking for ways to harness behavioral, affinity, and contextual data to tell stories that resonate with audiences on a human level. By leveraging deterministic data—data that is live, accurate, and reflective of real-world behavior—advertisers can create authentic connections that evolve with the listener’s journey.

“Data is an art,” Emma reflected, underscoring the value of approaching data not just as a series of points, but as elements of a broader narrative that speaks directly to each user’s unique experiences and preferences.

Building a Multi-Channel, Diversified Data Strategy

Emma recommends that advertisers move away from relying on any single solution, advocating instead for a multi-channel approach that integrates ID-based and ID-less data sources. By building a waterfall structure where various data types work together, brands can future-proof their advertising strategies against potential changes in data availability or regulatory compliance. This approach allows brands to adapt to fluctuations, ensuring that as some data types phase out or become restricted, others can fill the gap. 

Cross-Channel Learning and Behavioral Targeting

Emma outlined her vision for NumberEight’s ongoing work in cross-channel learning, where insights from one platform—like gaming or streaming—are applied to enhance targeting on another, such as digital audio. This cross-pollination of data insights enables more refined and effective targeting, helping advertisers get the most out of their ad spend by sharing new insights across all their channels. In a market where media consumption is increasingly diverse, leveraging data across platforms is essential for advertisers to reach audiences wherever they may be listening, watching, or engaging.

A Path Forward with Privacy and Performance in Harmony

The journey toward a more privacy-friendly future in digital audio is full of opportunity but requires bold innovation and adaptability. By embracing ID-less targeting, weaving in compelling storytelling, and harnessing cross-channel insights, brands can build genuine connections—without compromising user trust. The time to act is now because the brands that dare to innovate will lead the way.

Tune-In For More AdsWizz Updates

• Discover how AdsWizz’s partnership with NumberEight brings cutting-edge, privacy-compliant targeting to podcast advertising.
• Tune into Frequency: The Official AdsWizz Podcast to see how AdsWizz is redefining audio advertising.
• Reach out to us today to amplify your podcast advertising, reach more listeners, and drive results!

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