Episode
Acadia's CEO & Co-Founder: How principles are good for business – Jared Belsky
- Published
- Feb 3, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 2311
- Processing state
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- https://the-immortal-life-of-ag.captivate.fm
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Summary
Today’s guest is Jared Belsky, Co-Founder and CEO of Acadia – the hugely successful digital marketing and analytics agency. This is a masterclass in optimism, principled leadership and long-term thinking. Jared shares why bravery and belief sit at the heart of great leadership, from taking outspoken ethical stances, to building an agency designed to nurture future CEOs. We explore how Acadia has deliberately moved away from the boom-and-bust model that afflicts so many agencies, instead embracing more sustainable economics and intelligent specialization that doesn’t rely on a single vertical sector. Jared also offers a refreshingly positive view of the next generation, arguing they’re the most empowered yet, particularly when genuinely supported with thoughtful use of AI and automation. HIGHLIGHTS: [02:09] Where Acadia came from [04:41] Integrity in media buying [08:51] Stay profitable while doing good [11:50] Agencies as teaching platforms [17:29] Embracing economic diversity [21:12] The mid-market thesis [23:01] Saying "No" to P&G [27:37] Living the values [30:31] Empowering the team with technology [33:23] Three trends reshaping media MORE ABOUT JARED: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jaredbelsky HOST SOCIALS: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/robinbonn Twitter: twitter.com/robonn MORE ABOUT CO:DEFINERY: Website: codefinery.com Book: Market of One Mentioned in this episode: Get Co:definery's diagnostic questionnaire Is your agency really as differentiated as you think? And have you fully embraced the commercial disruption that AI is bringing? To find out, take five minutes to complete Co:definery's diagnostic questionnaire. It's quick, free, and thought provoking, and you get a tailored report with practical guidance for sharpening your competitive edge. Visit codefinery.com/dq