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From the rise of immersive consumer experiences to the enduring brand-building power of athletes, marketing’s biggest trends are set to collide in Austin for SXSW 2025. The SXSW Panel Picker is now LIVE – and you can vote now to ensure several Stagwell agencies, including 72andSunny, Allison, ARound, Assembly, Code and Theory, Crispin, GALE, Kettle, Movers+Shakers, National Research Group, and The Harris Poll, make it to the stage. 

Read through the proposals below and cast your votes today! It takes less than ten seconds:

  • Click through the links to each panel
  • Create an account
  • Click the UP vote in the top right portion of each panel page to vote.

Voting closes on August 18. See you in Austin!

 

Today’s Athlete is a Brand’s Best Megaphone

Stagwell

with WNBA and NFL/The Volume

VOTE HERE.

Between the rise of F1, flag football and pickleball, changes in the NIL landscape, and the growth of women’s sport, the sporting universe now represents a larger and more diverse pool of fans. This equates to a big opportunity for brands who know how to play the game. To connect authentically, brands are working with athletes – cultural trendsetters with their own brands and media presence – to uncover creative new ways of working together. With anecdotes from Cannes Lions’ buzziest event, Sport Beach, hear from the brands who have seized the power of sport, and the athletes helping them win.

Inside a Marketing Network’s ‘Shark Tank’ Competition

Stagwell Marketing Cloud

with Digiday

VOTE HERE.

With constant advances in AI and data, companies need to innovate at breakneck speed to stay competitive. Stagwell is the only marketing holding company to run its own startup incubator, “Shark Tank,” a competition inviting 13,000 staff to pitch and secure up to $1M for transformative marketing software.

Prior winners SmartAssets, ARound, PRophet, WonderCave and Harris Brand Platform are all fully funded and active businesses.

Join Stagwell Marketing Cloud leaders, Digiday, and the 2024 “Shark Tank” winner as they discuss embedding innovation into your operations.

Mastering the Journey to Premium Branding

Allison

with Samsung, IHG, and Driscoll’s

VOTE HERE. 

Becoming a premium brand isn’t just a goal—it’s a journey full of strategic pivots and visionary steps. Many brands aim to elevate their status and create a lasting impact, but few truly understand what it takes. Join us for an in-depth session where leading brand marketers reveal the top strategies for transforming into a premium powerhouse. We’ll explore the unique journeys of innovators in technology, hospitality, and food & beverage. This session will highlight actionable tactics to enhance product quality, leverage captivating storytelling, deliver unforgettable customer experiences, and execute strategic marketing. Discover how these essential elements can make the premium journey possible and remarkably successful.

The Global Marketers Meet Up

Allison

with Samsung

VOTE HERE.

Join us at the Global Marketer Meet Up at SXSW 2025, where senior executives and marketing professionals explore the dynamic landscape of global marketing. Discover innovative strategies for reaching target audiences and achieving objectives across diverse industries and markets. Network with peers worldwide, gain insights from leading experts and discuss successful marketing campaigns that transcend borders. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your global game with new connections, hear diverse perspectives, and have fun strategizing for international success. See you there!

Unlocking Boardrooms for Women & BIPOC Leaders

Allison

VOTE HERE.

In 2021, the SEC enacted NASDAQ’s Board Diversity Rule, requiring listed companies to report board diversity statistics or explain non-compliance. Progress has been slow due to low board turnover and extended searches for suitable talent. This panel will explore board dynamics to help women and BIPOC leaders identify opportunities and shape their board value propositions. Hear from experts on public, private, and non-profit boards, and gain practical insights to unlock the boardroom for women and BIPOC candidates.

Magical Realities: AR Massive Multiplayer Experiences

ARound

with Skydance Interactive

VOTE HERE.

Join us to dive into the transformative potential of augmented reality in massive multiplayer experiences. We will look at real-life activations with high-profile brands at SoFi Stadium with the RAMS. Discover strategies for designing cooperative play and social features that foster belonging and teamwork. Discuss methods for integrating real-life loot boxes with physical prizes to boost player engagement and brand activations. Plus, we’ll tackle technical challenges in AR MMOs and explore future innovations to ensure sustainable growth in the AR landscape.

(re)New(ed) Kid on the Block: Reinventing Heritage Brands

Assembly x 72andSunny

with General Motors and Fossil Group

VOTE HERE.

Can heritage brands still be the new kid on the block? Absolutely. In a rapidly evolving market, staying relevant means more than just holding onto history—it’s about reinvention, innovation, and bold new moves. In this panel, industry leaders and creative masterminds from top heritage brands share their secrets to staying fresh and exciting in today’s fast-paced world. Learn how these brands leverage their rich histories while embracing cutting-edge strategies to captivate new audiences and retain loyal customers.

They Ain’t Dead Yet: Tapping into the “Forgotten” Generation

Assembly x NRG

with Dotdash Meredith and AARP

VOTE HERE.

Think the “Forgotten” Generation is out of the game? Think again. This panel will bring together agency powerhouses and visionary brand leaders to unveil the untapped potential of this overlooked demographic, Generation X. Discover why brands can no longer afford to ignore the buying power and influence of the generation that still rocks the boat. Our expert panelists will dive into innovative strategies, compelling case studies, and cutting-edge campaigns that have successfully engaged this savvy audience.

Living Billboards: Athletes in the Social Media Era

Assembly

with Peloton, NFL, and SHE Media

VOTE HERE.

Athletes have become influential figures not only in sports but also as brands in their own rights, particularly through social media. This panel will discuss the transformation of athletes into marketable entities, the dynamics of athlete-brand partnerships, the impact of social media on athlete endorsements, and ethical considerations surrounding personal branding and sponsorship deals. An interesting topic on the evolving landscape where athletes navigate between personal authenticity and commercial appeal in the digital age.

A Day Late and a Dollar Short: Regulators vs. Political Ads

Assembly

with Axios and MiQ

VOTE HERE.

Since Barack Obama’s unprecedented use of the internet to power his 2008 campaign, the shift towards digital media in political advertising has been stark – with an estimated $4B to be spent in the 2024 election cycle. Unfortunately, government regulators have not updated disclosure requirements to meet this new normal – exposing tremendous vulnerabilities to the American electoral system, especially in an era of nearly unlimited money in campaigns. With advancements in AI and other AdTech sure to change political campaigns forever, it remains to be seen whether regulators can keep up.

Content Creation and Content Reality ​- The Joy of Social

Assembly x Movers + Shakers

with Peloton and Carelon Behavioral Health

VOTE HERE.

In today’s digital age, the term “content” has evolved beyond its traditional meanings. Originally synonymous with satisfaction and happiness, it now predominantly refers to the material produced and consumed in media. This panel delves into the dual role of content: as a medium for creation and as a catalyst for spreading positivity, empathy, and joy in the media landscape. ​By exploring the intersection of content creation and happiness in media, this session aims to inspire creators, industry professionals, and audiences alike to harness the power of media for good.

Is it too Late? Mastering Investments at Every Life Stage

Assembly

with She Wolfe of Wall Street, Investopedia, and PulteGroup

VOTE HERE.

This panel brings together financial experts and innovative marketers from leading brands to reveal how to conquer financial hurdles and master investments at every life stage. From fresh graduates to seasoned professionals, and those nearing retirement, this session will arm you with the tools and inspiration to turn hesitation into action.

Game On: Immersive Advertising, Brands, and Entertainment

Assembly

with Activation Blizzard Media, Lenovo, and Odeeo

VOTE HERE.

Delve into the evolving landscape where gaming intersects with advertising and entertainment. This panel will discuss how brands are leveraging gaming platforms to reach audiences through immersive and integrated advertising strategies. This includes taking a deep diver into successful brand partnerships with gaming companies, effective monetization models within games, the impact of in-game advertising on user experience, and the future trends shaping this dynamic industry.

Future Shock Therapy: Revolutionizing How We Measure Minds

Code and Theory

with Adobe and ETS

VOTE HERE.

What if learning wasn’t something that ended after high school or college? What if culture positioned education as an always-on pursuit? For centuries, we’ve trapped human potential in one-dimensional metrics—numbers, tests, and static assessments. But in an unpredictable world where tomorrow’s jobs and industries are anyone’s guess, how do we prepare for the unknown? The answer: future readiness; a revolution in how we identify and nurture talent. This panel smashes old models and embraces a lifelong learning approach, ensuring every individual’s potential is recognized and cultivated.

No Eulogy Necessary: What News and Media Can Teach Us All

Code and Theory

with Inc. Magazine and Cosmopolitan

VOTE HERE.

The internet was supposed to kill the media and publishing industry. So was social media. And tech. And now AI is too. But this so-called ‘dying’ industry has shown incredible resilience, leveraging technology and innovation to stay alive, and even thrive exponentially. News, media and publishing today offer a reflection and guide to what all modern businesses face — changes in technology, consumer behavior, revenue and monetization, and in cultivating talent. This panel will be led by a trio of media, editorial and digital leaders with more 20 years of experience across 200 newsrooms.

Kayfabe Meets Commerce: Brands As Characters in Culture

Code and Theory x Crispin

with YETI and Heir

VOTE HERE.

In a landscape flooded with brands vying for attention, embracing “Kayfabe” from WWE might be the ultimate game-changer. Kayfabe, the art of staying in character, isn’t just for wrestlers — it’s the secret sauce for your brand’s persona. Think Tom Hanks’ nice-guy image or Liquid Death’s irreverent branding. In WWE, as in today’s culture, you choose your character or the world chooses for you. This panel explores the wild parallels between wrestling’s scripted realities and modern branding strategies, plus how to harness kayfabe to drive commerce.

Say What?!? The generational social media marketing playbook

Crispin

with Target and Conde Nast

VOTE HERE.

If you asked 4 generations: your grandma, your mom, your older sister or your niece about what a certain slang term means they likely wouldn’t all have the same answer. Social media platforms have shaped new language, leading to more slang words with shorter life cycles. Every generation develops its own unique vernacular, from Millennial Cringe Slang to Gen Z Pookie and no cap Gen Alpha – it’s not your fault if you don’t understand some of the digital slang. But now, since these dialects span multiple offline generations, how can brands speak to them authentically online all at once?

Want Equity For Women in Sports? Stop Overlooking Gaming

GALE

with MilkPEP and TBC

VOTE HERE.

Brands, fans, and networks are clamoring to join the groundswell around women in sports, but there’s a space that’s been largely ignored in the conversation: gaming and esports. Despite women making up nearly half of all gamers, they only represent 5% of professional gamers – with none in the top 500 earners – and still face significant harassment in this space. It’s time to stop ignoring women in gaming when elevating women in sports. Join popular Twitch streamer @ThePeachCobbler to discuss this issue and leaders from top brands to hear the steps they’re taking to help drive change.

AR & eCommerce: Bridging Digital and Physical Retail Experiences

Kettle

VOTE HERE.

Augmented Reality (AR) is revolutionizing retail, offering customers more immersive experiences that bridge the gap between online and in-store shopping. Brands are using AR and additional technologies to create Virtual Try-On experiences on their e-commerce sites, mobile apps, and retail environments to build connections and conversions with their active and prospective customers. Hear from digital agency Kettle on how they are leading transformations for many of their clients including e.l.f. Cosmetics, Warby Parker, and more.

The Power of Play: Why to Think Like a Child

Kettle

with Stapelstein

VOTE HERE.

Forbes 30-under-30 Stephan Schenk created one of the most well known children’s brands in Germany. However, when it came to expanding into the US, rather than studying the US adult buyer, insight into the child help Stefan and Kettle understand how to market and position the brand for the US success. From developing the product to positioning it for expansion, Stephan and Brian share how embracing their inner children, decoding the art of play and looking for insight in untraditional ways helped them build a brand positioning and road forward for Stapstein’s US expansion.

Harnessing Consumer Passions: Turning Cultural Moments into

NRG x Assembly

with Snap Inc. and Screenvision Media

VOTE HERE.

In today’s fast-paced world, consumer passions are a powerful force driving engagement and loyalty. And the way consumers are engaging with their passions is changing. How can brands effectively harness these passions to forge deep emotional connections with their audience through shared passions and interests? This panel brings together thought leaders and strategic leaders from across Snap and award-winning market agencies to explore the art of turning cultural moments in entertainment into peak moments for brands. We will share insights from new research to show the significance of passions.

The Changing Face of Childhood

NRG

with Young Storytellers

VOTE HERE.

In the last decade, the experience of growing up has transformed dramatically. The rise of streaming and social media, alongside the omnipresence of tablets and smartphones, have reshaped family dynamics and how young people navigate the world. So, how does Gen Alpha’s childhood differ from that of previous generations? And what impact will this have on future storytellers? Join NRG experts and Young Storytellers practitioners as we explore the profound effects of these cultural and technological shifts, and unpack the future of storytelling through the eyes of the next generation.

Unleashing Brand Fandom: Turning Fans into Advocates

NRG

with Mattel, Paramount Pictures, and the NBA

VOTE HERE.

In an era where everything is social—from media to retail—fans don’t just consume; they advocate. Whether it’s a championship team, a new movie franchise, or the season’s hottest toy, fandom can be a double-edged sword if not approached authentically. For leading brands, data and insights are essential to navigating the complexities of the increasingly fragmented fan landscape. Drawing on the latest fan research from NRG, this panel brings together industry leaders from Mattel, Paramount, and the NBA to discuss how to win trust with fan communities across mediums.

Redefining Masculinity: Evolving Depictions On Screen

NRG

with Center For Scholars and Storytellers

VOTE HERE.

Is masculinity in crisis? Alarming research reveals that men under 25 struggle to find positive role models in media they consume—a fact which can have serious repercussions for their mental health and sense of personal identity. In this session, NRG unpacks the media’s moral and social responsibility to present positive role models that reflect the true diversity of the modern male experience. Discover how industry leaders and storytelling experts from UCLA are forging a new path forward, showcasing multi-faceted visions of masculinity that can effectively resonate with Gen Z and Gen Alpha.

How Culturally Relevant is Your Brand?

The Harris Poll x Movers + Shakers

VOTE HERE.

Join John Gerzema, CEO of The Harris Poll, and Geoffrey Goldberg, CCO at Movers+Shakers, as they share critical insights from a brand new Index focused on helping brands achieve cultural relevance amongst Gen Z. They’ll detail what is important to know when engaging with this growing generation of spenders who hold progressive digital first values and demand radical inclusivity, transparency, and accountability from brands.

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