Unraveling Beano: Diversity, Marketing, and Personal Journeys in Publishing

Saj Merali and the Journey of Modern Publishing

Explore the future of publishing in this episode I Found Myself in Publishing with Saj Merali, CEO of the PPA (Professional Publishers Association). Saj shares exclusive insights into how the PPA, representing over 200 members from global brands to independents, is leading the industry’s transformation from traditional formats to a dynamic, multi-platform approach. We discuss the PPA’s NextGen board, where emerging voices drive innovation through projects setting new standards and talent-boosting campaigns. Saj also addresses the balance between trust and technology in an era of misinformation, touching on AI, shifting algorithms, and consumer expectations. Whether you're a seasoned publisher or new to media, tune in to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving field!  ____________________________ Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram [https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=85fda83db1cade7cfd4357e2a7fbf44ce54de1c979cb1acac8329fc741c8603aJmltdHM9MTczMTM2OTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=1b08bce5-f70e-66ed-3374-a8dcf6776765&psq=instagram.com%2fppa_live&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaW5zdGFncmFtLmNvbS9QUEFfTGl2ZS8&ntb=1] for the latest updates. * Explore more real stories and a career in publishing: findyourselfinpublishing.com [http://findyourselfinpublishing.com] * Discover the work of the PPA: ppa.co.uk [http://ppa.co.uk] * Connect with us: linkedin.com/company/ppa [http://linkedin.com/company/ppa] Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!

Unraveling Beano: Diversity, Marketing, and Personal Journeys in Publishing

In this episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, Gift Egbedi, Brand Marketing and Communications Manager at Beano Studios, shares his journey from living in Nigeria and working in digital ad operations, to his pivotal role in shaping Beano's marketing strategy. Gift discusses his connection to the character Dangerous Dan, his commitment to diversity in storytelling, and his passion for engaging young talent as part of the PPA Next Gen Board. From transitioning from finance to creative marketing to navigating age-appropriate messaging, Gift offers insights into the vibrant world of brand marketing within a children’s brand. Tune in to explore the dynamic opportunities in publishing and the innovation driving Beano’s legacy forward.  ____________________________ Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram [https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=85fda83db1cade7cfd4357e2a7fbf44ce54de1c979cb1acac8329fc741c8603aJmltdHM9MTczMTM2OTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=1b08bce5-f70e-66ed-3374-a8dcf6776765&psq=instagram.com%2fppa_live&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaW5zdGFncmFtLmNvbS9QUEFfTGl2ZS8&ntb=1] for the latest updates. * Explore more real stories and a career in publishing: findyourselfinpublishing.com [http://findyourselfinpublishing.com] * Discover the work of the PPA: ppa.co.uk [http://ppa.co.uk] * Connect with us: linkedin.com/company/ppa [http://linkedin.com/company/ppa] Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!

Leadership and Change in Modern Publishing

In this episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, Beth Crane, Affiliate Director at Immediate Media, shares her journey in affiliate marketing, discussing her role on the PPA NextGen board and her innovative approach to tackling industry challenges like AI and promoting diversity. Beth reflects on her transition from agency work, leading a dynamic team, and fostering brand partnerships, all while embracing a coaching-focused approach to team development at Immediate. She also offers a forward-thinking vision for publishing, advocating for diversified, multi-channel strategies that extend beyond SEO to connect audiences through trusted brand formats like video and podcasts. For aspiring professionals, Beth’s story is a testament to the power of curiosity, adaptability, and a growth mindset in a fast-evolving industry.  ____________________________ Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram [https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=85fda83db1cade7cfd4357e2a7fbf44ce54de1c979cb1acac8329fc741c8603aJmltdHM9MTczMTM2OTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=1b08bce5-f70e-66ed-3374-a8dcf6776765&psq=instagram.com%2fppa_live&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaW5zdGFncmFtLmNvbS9QUEFfTGl2ZS8&ntb=1] for the latest updates. * Explore more real stories and a career in publishing: findyourselfinpublishing.com [http://findyourselfinpublishing.com] * Discover the work of the PPA: ppa.co.uk [http://ppa.co.uk] * Connect with us: linkedin.com/company/ppa [http://linkedin.com/company/ppa] Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!

Navigating the Publishing Landscape Through Change

In this episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, Rebecca Taylor, Commercial Content Editor at William Reed Business Media, shares her journey from her first published story to winning industry awards. Drawing from her background in psychology and marketing, Rebecca discusses her approach to creating impactful content, balancing hybrid work, and tackling industry challenges with the PPA Next Gen Board. She reflects on overcoming health challenges, fostering collaboration, and championing inclusivity, offering a forward-looking perspective on the role of technology and AI in enhancing creativity within the publishing world. Whether you're a publishing veteran or a newcomer, tune in for Rebecca’s insights on thriving in this dynamic field.  ____________________________ Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram [https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=85fda83db1cade7cfd4357e2a7fbf44ce54de1c979cb1acac8329fc741c8603aJmltdHM9MTczMTM2OTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=1b08bce5-f70e-66ed-3374-a8dcf6776765&psq=instagram.com%2fppa_live&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaW5zdGFncmFtLmNvbS9QUEFfTGl2ZS8&ntb=1] for the latest updates. * Explore more real stories and a career in publishing: findyourselfinpublishing.com [http://findyourselfinpublishing.com] * Discover the work of the PPA: ppa.co.uk [http://ppa.co.uk] * Connect with us: linkedin.com/company/ppa [http://linkedin.com/company/ppa] Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!

Harnessing AI and Digital Transformation in Publishing

In this episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, Nav Pal, Studio Manager at Haymarket Media Group, shares her inspiring journey from academia to publishing, blending creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit to make her mark in podcast production. A key member of the PPA Next Gen Board, Nav discusses initiatives like a jargon buster and job board to promote diversity and inclusion, reflecting on her experiences as a person of colour in the industry and her insights into mental resilience. As an Emerging Talent award-winner, Nav explores how AI and digital transformation are reshaping publishing, illustrating how passion and curiosity can forge impactful, fulfilling careers in this dynamic field. Tune in for Nav’s fresh perspective on innovation and inclusivity in publishing. ____________________________ Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram [https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=85fda83db1cade7cfd4357e2a7fbf44ce54de1c979cb1acac8329fc741c8603aJmltdHM9MTczMTM2OTYwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=1b08bce5-f70e-66ed-3374-a8dcf6776765&psq=instagram.com%2fppa_live&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaW5zdGFncmFtLmNvbS9QUEFfTGl2ZS8&ntb=1] for the latest updates. * Explore more real stories and a career in publishing: findyourselfinpublishing.com [http://findyourselfinpublishing.com] * Discover the work of the PPA: ppa.co.uk [http://ppa.co.uk] * Connect with us: linkedin.com/company/ppa [http://linkedin.com/company/ppa] Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!