- Consumers-Content-Connections Evangelist: Built his career around understanding why consumers trust certain content sources, how they make decisions, and how they create communities through shared opinions π±
- Community Platform Transformer: Leading Sundial's evolution from traditional publishing to experiential convening power, creating festivals and platforms where communities connect and refill their energy π
- Media Evolution Veteran: Navigated through Ziff Davis, Conde Nast, programmatic ad space, AT&T's Time Warner acquisition, and GroupM North America CEO role, always chasing the same mission π
- Curated Content Prophet: Predicts the trend toward micro-influencers and trusted sources as consumers seek WhatsApp groups and curated feeds over content saturation π
- Trust-Your-Instincts Advisor: Would tell his younger self to trust his curiosity more, believing his early reads on culture and trends were "spot on," but he sometimes dampened them β‘
Moment Maker: How Kirk McDonald Transformed Publishing Into Community Convening Power π₯
Kirk McDonald spent his career chasing consumers, content, and connections across major media companies, but now has surprising predictions about where the industry is heading. His approach to transforming Sundial and advice about trusting instincts reveal insights you won't expect.
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