Unlocked with Austin and Elizabeth

Episode 11: Unlocked with Austin & Elizabeth, featuring Paul Brenner

In this episode of Unlocked, we dive into one of the hottest questions of 2026: Why has in-store retail media growth stalled despite representing where 85% of purchases actually happen? Paul Brenner [https://www.linkedin.com/in/pabrenner/], SVP, Global Retail Media and Partnerships at In-Store Marketplace [https://www.linkedin.com/company/instoremarketplace/], reveals how organizational silos and inconsistent metrics are holding back the channel that should be driving the most impact for retail media networks. Drawing from proprietary research and real-world client stories, this conversation explores why he thinks that measurement matters less than you think, how one retailer achieved 10x growth through process changes alone, and what it takes to bridge the gap between digital innovation and in-store reality. See the full report here. [https://instoremarketplace.com/resource_post/in-store-media-has-a-measurement-problem-just-not-the-one-you-think/] Tune in to this episode as we explore: (00:00) Why attribution made in-store more compelling than radio (04:09) How COVID accelerated in-store retail media adoption (08:27) The organizational challenge between merchants and RMNs (12:20) Why in-store measurement differs from digital targeting (15:13) Consistent metrics matter more than perfect measurement (17:08) How omnichannel studies drive 10x revenue growth (19:57) Behind the scenes organizational feuds at major retailers (22:22) Moving from 1% to 3% contribution margin expectations (24:01) Why patience beats technology in two-year sales cycles (25:29) The survival kit essential for retail media executives

Episode 10: Unlocked with Austin & Elizabeth, featuring Claire Wyatt

In this episode, Claire shares her journey through retail media, insights on industry growth, and her efforts to build community and standards in the space. Discover her perspectives on AI, career advice, and the future of retail media.

Episode 9: Unlocked with Austin & Elizabeth, featuring Kiri Masters

In this episode of Unlocked, Kiri Masters, a leading voice in retail media, shares her journey from banking to founding an Amazon marketing agency. She discusses the evolution of retail media, the impact of AI on content creation, and the changing landscape of consumer behavior. Kiri emphasizes the importance of storytelling in marketing and the need for collaboration in the retail media space. The conversation also touches on career insights and the value of platforms like LinkedIn for industry professionals.

Episode 8: Unlocked with Austin & Elizabeth, featuring Drew Cashmore

Join Austin, Elizabeth & Drew Cashmore as they unpack the evolution of retail media, from the rise of Walmart Connect to the forces redefining modern advertising. This episode explores how digital innovation, brand strategy, and growing standardization are shaping the future of commerce. A must-listen for marketers, brands, and anyone navigating the next wave of retail media.

Episode 7: Unlocked with Austin & Elizabeth, featuring Amie Owen

In this episode of Unlocked, hosts Austin Leonard and Elizabeth Donovan engage with Amie Owen, a veteran in the retail media industry. They explore the evolution of retail media, the importance of consumer behavior, and the role of data in shaping marketing strategies. Amie shares her insights on innovation, experimentation, and the need for brands to adapt to changing consumer habits. The conversation emphasizes the significance of having a clear North Star for retail media networks and the necessity of simplifying strategies to stay relevant in a fast-paced industry.