In this episode of The Speakeasier, Asad and Shilpa delve into their recent experiences at the Cannes Lions Festival. They discuss the prevalence of AI in the creative industry, Shilpa's personal experience tackling hip pain while strolling along the Croisette, and the intriguing meditation session led by an AI-version of Deepak Chopra. The conversation also touches on the evolving nature of the advertising and marketing industries, comparing past and present focus areas, from the significance of earned media to the rise of content creators. They explore how AI could either enhance or detract from authentic creativity. The hosts also reflect on the inclusivity and changing dynamics within the festival, including the shift from heavy drinking to more health-conscious activities such as run clubs. The episode concludes with a thoughtful discussion on the future trends in marketing and advertising, highlighting the return to experiential and authentic engagements.
In this episode of the 'Speakeasier', hosts Asad and Shilpa dive into their experiences at the Cannes Lions Festival. Shilpa shares her thoughts on attending Cannes for the first time, discussing highlights such as a panel with Deepak Chopra and AI-facilitated meditation. The discussion shifts to the impact of AI on the advertising industry and its potential to handle tedious tasks, while preserving the need for human creativity. The hosts also touch on the inclusivity of Cannes, the role of content creators, and the evolving industry norms around DEI and drinking culture. Concluding with reflections on the future of the festival, they emphasize the potential rise of quiet, experiential engagements over traditional digital interactions.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:28 Word Association Game
01:13 First Impressions of Cannes
02:13 AI and Its Impact
08:32 Nostalgia and Content Creation
12:57 Cultural Appropriation and Authenticity
15:22 Reflections on Cannes Experience
17:09 Questioning Brand Involvement in Rituals
17:49 Nostalgia and Early Brand Influences
18:36 The Evolution of Media Consumption
19:21 Trust and Misinformation in Institutions
20:16 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Challenges
22:08 Experiences at Cannes: Fringe vs. Core Events
24:26 Inclusivity and Representation at Cannes
27:21 Future Trends and Changing Norms
33:53 Concluding Thoughts and Future Episodes