The Short Story Is

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Mar 2026

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About the show

Introducing 'The Short Story Is,' a podcast where we explore the expanding world of dentsu and the transformative power of human creativity! Join us as we meet the teams from our global network who are at the forefront of all things growth — AI, emerging technology, behavioural research, brand philosophies, societal change and more.

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22 recent

March 4, 202624 min

The Future of Agencies with Dentsu Creative's Chief Future Officer

What does the future of agencies actually look like when creativity, media, and technology fully converge? In this conversation with Amy Thorne, Dentsu Creative US’s Chief Future Officer, we unpack how the role of agencies is evolving beyond campaigns and toward living brand systems. We talk about why the pitch-to-campaign model is breaking down, how AI is reshaping the client–agency relationship, what “greatness” really means in an AI-enabled world, and why burnout, speed, and relevance have become critical measures of success. From redefining big ideas to building future-ready operating systems, this is a candid look at how agencies can deliberately design what comes next – rather than simply react to it.

December 9, 202530 min

Human Imagination In The Age Of AI

Has our imagination reached its limits?In the latest episode of The Short Story Is, Chris Bower, Managing Director of Business Transformation Consulting, dentsu APAC, explores how AI is reshaping creativity, and why imagination isn’t fading, but evolving.From rethinking how innovation happens to finding new ways for humans and AI to collaborate, Chris shares how dentsu’s IQ Studio blends human insight, data and technology to fuel creativity and transformation.Because the future doesn’t belong to those who move fastest; it belongs to those who ask better questions. Listen now.

November 26, 2025Episode 519 min

Inside The Angry Birds Universe: the global transmedia phenomenon taking over your screens

How does a simple mobile game grow into one of the world’s most recognizable entertainment franchises? In this episode, we sit down with Eeva, Head of Brand Operations, and Hanna, VP of Transmedia at Rovio, to explore the evolution of Angry Birds into a global IP that spans films, animation, games, licensing, education platforms, and a remarkable 96% brand awareness worldwide.Eva and Hanna share how Rovio scaled a single game into multiple story universes, what it takes to maintain brand consistency across so many touchpoints, and how a fandom that started 15 years ago continues to grow, diversify, and shape creative decisions today. They discuss the strategic thinking behind partnerships—from entertainment to unexpected categories like insurance—and how cultural translation and non-verbal storytelling make Angry Birds universally understood.We also get into the lighter side of the lore, including the question everyone asks but no one answers: what actually happens to the pigs when they pop?With a new feature film, new games, and continued expansion across platforms, Angry Birds remains a compelling case study in transmedia worldbuilding and long-term brand stewardship. Tune in for a candid, insightful look behind the scenes of a global phenomenon.

July 31, 2025Episode 424 min

Being Boring Is Expensive: Creativity in the Algorithmic Era

In this special Cannes Lions episode of The Short Story Is, we explore what it takes to cut through the noise in the middle of the algorithmic era. Joined by experts from Dentsu and Meta, we unpack why being boring is more expensive than ever, how brands are shifting from interrupting attention to earning it, and why creators are no longer just content machines—but cultural interpreters with real influence.From long-form TikToks to sassy Sour Patch replies, this conversation dives deep into how brands can stay relevant by putting culture at the center, embracing AI + PI (people intelligence), and building long-term creator partnerships. If you're still planning media by reach alone, this one's for you.

July 14, 2025Episode 413 min

Redefining Design in a World of AI: Adobe x dentsu | The Short Story Is LIVE at Cannes Lions

How is design evolving in the age of AI - and what does that mean for creative professionals? In this special edition of The Short Story Is, we sit down with Alejandro Chavetta, Executive Creative Director at Adobe, to explore how creativity, technology and identity intersect.Together, we discuss:- The evolving role of the designer in a democratized design landscape- Why giving everyone access to design tools strengthens (not threatens) creative work- How AI is reshaping creative processes without replacing the human touch- The importance of personal creative rituals in staying sharp as a leader& more!Watch Now: https://youtu.be/ZJkyRUkaS0k

March 31, 2025Episode 429 min

"Not Just A Game" with Ad Council, The Gang & dentsu on Roblox

What do you get when a nonprofit, a global ad agency, and a top ‪@Roblox‬ dev studio walk into a game? Something completely different — and kind of groundbreaking. In this episode of The Short Story Is, we explore the making of "Love, Your Mind World", a first-of-its-kind Roblox experience that’s not about leveling up or battling bosses, but about helping teens take care of their mental health. We’re joined by three of the driving forces behind this innovative collaboration: - Laurie Keith, VP of Emerging Media & Technology at the Ad Council- Marcus Holmström, CEO of The Gang- Magali Huot, SVP, Global Gaming Strategy at dentsu Together, they unpack how this project flips the script on traditional gameplay — mixing quests, emotional storytelling, and guided meditations from ‪@headspace‬ into a feel-good, do-good digital world. Hit play to hear how it all came together, why it matters, and why the most powerful games might be the ones that don’t feel like games at all.#roblox #gaming #videogames #teen #mentalhealth #technology #innovation

November 22, 2024Episode 216 min

Gaming is Culture — Brent Koning, EVP of dentsu Gaming

In this episode of The Short Story Is, we sat down with Brent Toning, EVP of dentsu gaming—or, as we like to call him, the "Chief Gamer" at dentsu. Fresh off the release of their State of Gaming 2024 report, we dove into some of the most eye-opening stats and stories it uncovered. From the massive scale of the gaming industry to redefining what it means to be a “gamer” (hint: it’s not just what you think), and what qualifies as gaming, this episode is packed with it all. Whether you're a gaming pro or still wondering why this space matters, there’s something here for you. It’s full of insights that’ll make you rethink how gaming fits into culture, entertainment, and even marketing. #InnovatingtoImpact #dentsu #gaming #gameplay #culture

October 3, 2024Episode 129 min

The Future of Anime: NFTs, Community & Innovation

Join us for the premiere episode of Season 2 of The Short Story, featuring special guests Sayoko Baba and Norio Hayashi, producers at the Business Design Centre of dentsu Japan. In this episode, they dive into the fascinating world of anime, sharing their insights as key figures behind our latest anime collaboration with Chiru Labs for the Azuki project, an innovative NFT platform. Discover how this unique anime was crafted using NFTs from the Azuki community, highlighting the intersection of technology and creativity in the anime industry. Sayo and Norio also discuss the rich roots of anime and its evolving future, exploring the endless possibilities that lie ahead for this beloved medium. Don’t miss out! #InnovatingtoImpact #dentsu #anime #azuki #nft

August 27, 2024Episode 1420 min

The philosophy behind driving brands, with Abbey Klaassen and Phil Gaughran — Live at Cannes Lions 2024

In this episode of The Short Story Is, we chat with Abbey Klaassen and Phil Gaughran from Dentsu Creative US about the core philosophy driving their brand. Discover how Dentsu Creative's integrated, end-to-end approach is redefining the advertising landscape. Abbey and Phil share their insights on how their innovative strategies foster growth, drive creativity, and enhance collaboration to achieve exceptional results.#marketing #creativity #advertising #BusinessStrategy #AI

July 23, 202412 min

Episode 13: Magali Huot - Live at Cannes Lions 2024

"Today, everybody is a Gamer!" Tune in as we sit down with Magali Huot, VP of Global Gaming Strategy at Dentsu! In this new episode of The Short Story Is, we explore the vibrant and fast-paced world of gaming and uncover how brands can enter gaming spaces with purpose, and create meaningful connections with some of the most passionate and loyal fans. #gaming #roblox #games #advertising #agency