AI, Identity, and the Fight to Keep the Web Worth Visiting
About the podcast
AI is reshaping digital advertising, from how people move across the web to how creative gets made and which Ad Tech pipes actually matter. In this episode, Scott joins Vijay to unpack what’s changing and what still holds true. They explore how LLMs are shifting user behavior, the risks and potential of ads inside AI tools, and why vertical video and embedded bots might drive the next wave of publisher value. Scott also breaks down the real story behind curation, explains why CPMs don’t tell the full picture, and shares what publishers should focus on instead. It’s a clear, engaging conversation for anyone trying to keep up with where AI is taking the ad tech world next.
About the guest
Scott Messer is the Founder of Messer Media and a longtime publisher advocate known across the industry as the "AdTech Therapist".
With over 15 years of experience spanning ad operations, monetization strategy, SEO, and programmatic infrastructure, Scott has advised everyone from media companies to retail media networks and early-stage ad tech ventures. Before launching Messer Media, he led revenue and publishing operations at Leaf Group and served as SVP of Media, building a portfolio of over 40 owned-and-operated sites. He’s also held advisory roles at TrueData, The Arena Group, and Lockr. Whether it’s identity, curation, or AI, Scott brings rare clarity to the most complex corners of ad tech.
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