Thinking Out Loud

The evolution of technology is changing the way consumers engage with content. On Thinking Out Loud, Vicki Lins hosts conversations with today’s media and entertainment leaders. Each episode explores different perspectives on strategy, innovation, creativity and marketing.
Episodes
Episodes



Friday Aug 08, 2025
Fandom Is the Strategy: Why AMC Networks Doubles Down on Superfans
Friday Aug 08, 2025
Friday Aug 08, 2025
In today’s saturated content market, capturing attention is no longer enough, brands must earn participation. In this episode, host Vicki Lins sits down with AMC Networks’ CMO Kim Granito to explore how the company turns fandom into a strategic asset. From franchise-building to cross-platform engagement, Kim reveals how AMC Networks blends data, instinct, and premium storytelling to create brand experiences that drive growth, reduce churn, and strengthen value for AMC Networks and an expanding array of commercial partners.



Friday Jun 20, 2025
BritBox: Sharp Strategy, British Charm and Finding the Edge
Friday Jun 20, 2025
Friday Jun 20, 2025
Diana Pessin, the marketing leader behind BritBox and host Vicki Lins discuss how BritBox is redefining British television for audiences globally through data-driven decisions to understand viewer preferences, the influence of fandom, how cultivating a passionate viewer base can drive engagement and brand loyalty, and innovative strategies that drive subscriber growth.
Outrageous, the hit BritBox Original, is now playing and exemplifies the kind of bold programming fueling the platform’s success.



Monday Dec 02, 2024
From Studio to Stream: The New Wave of Entertainment Technology
Monday Dec 02, 2024
Monday Dec 02, 2024
Guest Erick Opeka, President & Chief Strategy Officer at Cineverse, details the cutting-edge strategies shaping the future of entertainment. Erick breaks down Cineverse’s role as a full-service entertainment studio, their groundbreaking technology platform that’s revolutionizing content management, and the use of AI to optimize business. Tune in for Erick’s insights on the streaming-forward evolution of the industry and Cineverse’s vision for the future.



Friday Nov 08, 2024
How Anime’s Unique Storytelling Captivates a New Generation
Friday Nov 08, 2024
Friday Nov 08, 2024
In a media landscape overflowing with choices, anime shines through with its distinct storytelling style that strongly resonates with audiences—especially Gen Z and Gen Alpha. Guest Gita Rebbapragada, Crunchyroll, and host Vicki Lins explore anime's compelling narratives and uncover why this genre creates such profound emotional connections. Discover how anime's storytelling is a powerful gateway to engage a loyal and expanding fanbase across media channels.



Friday Jun 07, 2024
The Engagement Equation: Navigating Choice Overload for Viewer Success
Friday Jun 07, 2024
Friday Jun 07, 2024
Columbia Business School Professor Sheena Iyengar is a leading expert in the study of choice. In this episode, host Vicki Lins delves into how the explosion of streaming services and the era of Peak TV have provided consumers with an unprecedented array of options, often leading to decision paralysis and choice overload. Together, they explore the paradox of choice and discuss ways to validate consumers’ decisions to keep them coming back.



Friday Apr 19, 2024
Marcien Jenckes, President of Xumo, on Engaging Audiences and Innovation
Friday Apr 19, 2024
Friday Apr 19, 2024
Guest, Marcien Jenckes, president of Xumo shares insights into their holistic approach aimed at captivating audiences and monetizing content through advertising. Xumo's strategy spans the distribution of streaming devices, collaborations with TV manufacturers, and the expansion of FAST channels. Their swift adoption underscores the platform's appeal and effectiveness in addressing the dynamic demands of consumers and operators alike, making Xumo a leader in transforming the streaming experience.



Friday Jan 12, 2024
Friday Jan 12, 2024
Guest Kristin Dolan, CEO of AMC Networks, explores the dynamic trajectory of AMC Networks. Kristin shares her expertise in navigating the ever-changing media landscape by utilizing new technology, data, and information to engage diverse audiences through innovative distribution methods. Gain valuable perspectives on the challenges posed by content saturation and the influence of consolidation on media brands. Discover the success of the “AMC+ Picks on Max” programming experience, an impactful marketing partnership that not only commanded viewership but also fueled acquisition on AMC+. Join Kristin as she provides a sneak peek into the thrilling future of AMC Networks amid the ever-evolving media landscape.



Friday Dec 01, 2023
Friday Dec 01, 2023
Stephanie Fried, CMO of Fandom, reveals the behind-the-scenes strategies that have elevated Fandom to a global enthusiast hub. Learn about successful collaborations and how Fandom is reshaping the landscape of interactive fan experiences. This episode delves into cultivating engagement, leveraging fan-driven content for unique marketing opportunities, and exploring the dynamic intersection of community building and marketing. Explore Fandom's impactful partnerships with media and entertainment companies and how they foster a mutually beneficial relationship for fans and the industry.