Today’s most successful brands are doing more than advertising around culture, they’re building it. From premium experiences to free streaming, social ecosystems to creator partnerships, brands are increasingly acting like entertainment platforms designed to meet audiences where they are. This conversation brings together leaders across luxury, media, and technology to explore how brands are moving beyond one-off campaigns to build repeatable content ecosystems, remove barriers to engagement, and create stories audiences actually return to. What does it take to evolve from advertiser to entertainment brand?
Stern is AVP of Brand Strategy and Investments at DIRECTV, leading sponsorship strategy, brand social media, and go-to-market initiatives. His experience includes launching international OTT platforms, developing partnership programs with every major sports league, and driving customer acquisition and retention. Previously at WBD Sports, Discovery, AT&T, and top global agencies, he has contributed to campaigns generating $1B+ in annual revenue.
Alice Ma
Co-Founder & CEO, Mad Realities
Alice Ma is the co-founder and CEO of Mad Realities, she has built a new model for social-first entertainment, creating viral hit shows like Shop Cats, Hollywood IQ, Proof of Love, and Keep the Meter Running. Mad Realities has raised $6 million in funding and pioneered a system that moves faster than traditional media. She was named to Forbes 30 Under 30 for her work building the company. She previously helped raise $53 million in seven days as part of ConstitutionDAO, demonstrating the power of internet-native communities. Alice graduated from UC Berkeley, studying Political Economy, Computer Science, and Arabic, and speaks up to eight languages, giving her a unique global perspective on culture and engagement.
Suzanne Lindbergh
Global Head of Social Media & Influencer, Intuit
Emmy Liederman
Moderator (EMARKETER)
Emmy Liederman is an analyst on the Media Team at EMARKETER. Prior to joining EMARKETER, she was the editorial lead at #paid and a reporter at Adweek, where she covered advertising, marketing, and the creator economy.