News & Views

PR Hits & Misses: February

Corporate sustainability, brand reputation, and crisis comms all hinge on one thing: credibility. PR professionals know that bold promises make headlines, but only real impact earns trust. And in today’s news era - where algorithms dictate narratives and audiences crave authenticity, getting it right is more challenging than ever. So, who nailed it this month, and what’s missed the mark? Our team gives their analysis on February’s hits – and misses – below. Hits INEOS’ NZ Rugby Sponsorship Exit INEOS made headlines with its decision to scale back its $30M sponsorship of New Zealand Rugby, citing high energy costs and carbon taxes in Europe. Despite legal action from NZ Rugby, INEOS presented a strong argument, framing the move as a strategic economic decision considering industry-wide challenges. Takeaway: Economic realities shape sponsorships - brands must justify shifts in investment with transparency and foresight. Doner Kebab Path to Net Zero As the UK is urged to act on net zero – and skip two kebabs’ worth of meat a week, The Climate Change Committee (CCC) outline a pathway to net zero, including reducing meat consumption and phasing out gas boilers. The CCC’s recommendations emphasise systemic policy changes over extreme individual sacrifices. Public support for climate action is strong, but clarity and leadership from policymakers are crucial. Takeaway: Climate strategies need a balance of clarity from policy makers to maintain public trust and engagement with government-led actions. Placing the steps needed into incremental, and relatable bites like kebabs drive public engagement (and headlines). ALDI’s ‘X-Rated’ Plush Toy Sparks Debate An ALDI plush dog toy went viral in Australia due to a rather unfortunate pocket-and-bone design placement, leaving shoppers in stitches. Some called it an oversight, but given ALDI’s history of viral oddities, this felt more like a clever stunt to drive engagement. The toy quickly sold out, proving controversy (even playful) can be a winning PR strategy. Takeaway: Humour and virality can turn minor blunders into brand wins - if handled carefully. Misses Companies Back Down on Sustainability Commitments Many large companies have scaled back renewable investments and Net Zero commitments, sparking backlash from environmental groups, the public, and some investors. The move risks alienating eco-conscious stakeholders and contradicting previous promises. Takeaway: Striking a balance between financial performance and sustainability is key to maintaining credibility and trust. Over-promising and then reneging will never win hearts or minds. Culture Crisis Allegations of toxic workplace culture, including sexual harassment and racism has rocked several UK businesses recently. Sadly, to many of these businesses have offered up weak responses that failed to show genuine accountability and understanding, leaving their brand’s reputation vulnerable. Takeaway: Addressing workplace misconduct requires transparent and decisive action from leadership to rebuild trust and protect the company’s reputation. Notable mentions Authenticity as Currency With deepfake tech and misinformation on the rise, audiences are sceptical of polished PR narratives. Brands that embrace transparency and unscripted engagement are winning trust. The Role of Journalism in a Digital-First World Traditional journalism remains vital for in-depth reporting but must evolve with digital consumption habits through multimedia storytelling. February’s news landscape was a mixed bag of strategic wins and notable missteps. The key takeaway? Credibility and authenticity are paramount. As brands navigate the complexities of public perception, those who prioritise genuine impact over flashy promises will ultimately earn lasting trust.

Two Little Blue Pools

Our recent shoot for Stella McCartney took us to the picturesque countryside of Tuscany, Italy. We were there to make a film about Stella’s iconic Falabella bag – one inspired by her childhood, surrounded by nature and her love for the planet and all of its creatures. We landed in Florence at lunchtime and immediately set off to the green hills in a minivan, driven by our brilliant fixer Luca. The sun was dipping, and we needed B roll, fast. On the wish list; a beautiful sunset piercing through low, creamy orange and powder pink clouds – maybe throw in a bird or two as well. We spent a good hour driving up twisty mountain roads, location scouting out of the window for Tuscan trees and dramatic views of the landscape we were leaving behind us as we climbed. In hindsight, up is definitely the wrong way to go when you’re chasing a sunset. Our only hope now was to find some water, something low and reflective so we could still capture the palette that the sky was offering. During a dizzying downwards journey, we each whipped out the maps app on our phones and found what looked like a body of water at the foot of the mountains. Two little blue pools. Could this be it? The sky was burning and we needed to get there 10 minutes ago. But with a bit of local knowledge from Luca and the right sort of exhausted but adventurous spirit from the crew, we sped down the mountains, windows down, chins up. We came to a halt at the little red pin served up by Google Maps and were welcomed to the most beautiful, tranquil turquoise river I think I’ve ever seen. We all looked at each other, stunned at the beauty of what we just found, and paused for a moment of silence letting the trickles of the water pass over the rocks and too, the sound of it through our ears. It was a welcome relief. We made it – we found our spot. We spent the last moments in the light of the day shooting everything we could conjure up and feast our eyes on; handbags hung on branches, sun rays through corn fields, ripples made by throwing stones into frame, and slow zooms in to the purple haze painting the sky front of us. It was that curiosity, of the two little blue pools, that led us to a location of dreams, resulting in gorgeous visuals we could use in the edit. I won’t tell you if they made the cut or not. Balancing curiosity and efficiency is a constant challenge as a Producer. Personally, I am forever battling with my passion for impactful aesthetic and the need to deliver on time and on budget. It’s a delicate dance. But it’s moments like this that fuel me to recognise the need to prioritise curiosity. When I allow myself the space to think more creatively, the results can often be surprising – and sometimes, quite good too. And what we get in the end, isn’t just some shots for a film – what we get are moments and memories. Ones that I know I will remember, for the rest of my life.

How Do You Inspire Positive Change?

Answer: It depends on the context. End of article. Thanks for reading. Follow me (John Power) on LinkedIn for more insights. You’re done. … Hold up. Before you go - yes, every context is different, and we should be careful with sweeping generalities (“only a Sith deals in absolutes”). But still… what ARE the general principles for making change happen? You Want Change You’ve probably flicked on the news and wondered: How do we drive real change? Maybe you’re thinking about personal growth - starting with the “man (or woman) in the mirror”. Maybe you’re looking at how to lead change in your workplace. Let’s suppose you’re a leader in a company. There’s a lot you need to do to stay competitive and relevant. You want to improve the brand. You want to integrate AI. You want to build a more positive culture. You want to change something - let’s call this "THE CHANGE." THE CHANGE will improve ROI. It will be a game-changer. It will enhance your reputation, team kudos  – and if it goes well – maybe what you take home. So, how do you make it happen? Your Choice... You have three options - each requiring different levels of energy, commitment, and strategic thinking. Option 1 – You Send an Email You’re a leader, right? You just need to give the word. After all, your staff are 100% engaged and 100% aligned. They’re a well-oiled machine. As predictable as an app update - tell them, and it’s done. You craft a company-wide message. Your team reads it, understands it, and immediately shifts from the old way to the new way. THE CHANGE is complete. You pat yourself on the back. Wouldn’t that be nice? You stop daydreaming. If only it were that easy… You remind yourself that, despite your best efforts, like most UK companies, only 10% of your staff are actually positively engaged. Option 2 – A Classic Transformation You pull together everything you know about change management. You structure a three-phase plan. It looks systematic. It looks strategic. It feels right - like something a major consulting firm would propose. Your ex-consultant colleagues gives it a once-over and nods approvingly. You’re tuned into the fact that people might need a bit of encouragement with the change. So, your plan includes a communication line across the bottom of every slide (because, of course, comms are important). What’s more, you’ve included a manager focus group to gauge employee sentiment. You’ve thought about people. Tick. Good job. Let’s fast-forward. At first, it seems to work. Employees are excited. Change is happening! Then, three months in…Things look eerily familiar. Promises remain unfulfilled. Multiple interpretations of THE CHANGE emerge. Conflicting messages surface, unresolved. Employees are pulled in different directions. THE CHANGE is stalling. Best intentions only get you so far. McKinsey research shows that 70% of transformations fail - leading to colossal wastage of $2.3 trillion. And you won’t yet yours fail. You decide to take a different approach. Option 3 – A Human-Centric Transformation Campaign Before launching anything, you check in with one person. Not a leader. Not a cheerleader. Someone on the ground. Someone who isn’t a manager. Meet Cynical Simon - your high-performing, ultra-reliable, yet unfailingly sceptical employee. If THE CHANGE can win Simon over, you’re onto something. You’ve heard about ADKAR, a framework that has helped 900+ companies over 10 years drive successful transformations. This might be the thing to help win-over Simon. ADKAR is an acronym for Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability and Reinforcement. 1. Create Awareness To get people on board, they first need to be aware - not just of THE CHANGE, but why it matters. You craft a story - a compelling, repeatable, crystal-clear narrative. Then, you spread the message - not just through emails, but everywhere. Teaser trailers in Teams channels Posters on the back of toilet doors Recurring visual cues that keep the change top-of-mind Cynical Simon’s response: “Sure, whatever!” But then… he notices something different. This isn’t another one-off flash in the pan. The messaging is consistent. It’s kept up. Maybe - just maybe - it’ll be different this time… How did you tackle awareness? You gathered key players in one room. A facilitator helps draw out a short story from many long monologue interpretations of what’s going on. You mapped key concerns, psychological barriers, and time constraints. You anticipated resistance and factored in real human behaviour. It takes time, but eventually you build out a 4-sentence story that acts as a North Star for the whole campaign. 2. Create Desire Now that people know about THE CHANGE, they need to care. You focus on what’s in it for them. You share stories, not directives. You use a mix of creative assets - videos, podcasts, posters, and quotes. You launch with a high-impact film that captures the essence of THE CHANGE. Cynical Simon’s response: “Sure, whatever!” But… something clicks. For the first time, he relates to the people talking about THE CHANGE. They’re not just leaders in suits. They’re like him. And, huh… some of this actually sounds useful. How did you tackle desire? You spent time with creatives who mapped out an empathy map of feelings to create and curate experiences to unlock desire. You shaped moments that candidly addressed the challenges in a way that felt authentic - but a little bit inspiring. You signalled the cognitive load of the change but made sure it was all about what was in it for them – particularly the time savings. 3. Create Knowledge Once people are motivated, you remove all friction. A hub which is a one-stop-shop that houses resources, playbooks, and FAQs. No gatekeeping. No buried documents. Just clear, immediately actionable guidance. Cynical Simon’s response: “Like I said...whatever.” But hang on… some of the content is immediately applicable. He bookmarks the site. How did you tackle knowledge? You spent a lot of time with colleagues already engaged with THE CHANGE. You mapped out the zone of proximal development – the things that people don’t know but will be the next step for people. You find the bright spots of current success and package it into digestible nuggets for others. 4. Create Ability People don’t learn by watching PowerPoints. They learn by doing. You introduce a flipped classroom approach. You provide real-life scenarios for practice. You foster social learning - people hear from peers they trust, not just leaders. Cynical Simon’s response: “Fine. I’ll give it a go.” When he tried it – the abstract ideas become real. And when Simon remembers this day, he won’t just have muscle memory – he remembers one of his colleagues who he admires talking about one of the ideas. This memory will help him out with an upcoming challenge. How did you do tackle ability? You used strategic communications to gain support from to all levels of the organisation. They had support from the people they report into that made them feel psychologically safe to go. People were told about the pre-work – and short videos made it actually seem fun. Everyone bought in to the training because pilots were done until it was proven to be an intervention that shifted the needle. 5. Reinforce the Change Work is busy. A single initiative won’t stick unless it’s reinforced consistently. You create internal influencers who advocate for THE CHANGE. You provide branded assets to make sharing easy. You introduce a simple campaign hashtag - a subtle yet persistent nudge. Cynical Simon’s response: “Mate - you seen this?” He posts his own testimonial. He shares what’s actually helped him. He is now ‘Superuser Simon’. His colleague, Cynical Sahira sees what he’s saying ... and gets curious... How did you tackle reinforcement? You created internal influencers who could reinforce the message. Simple templates, questions and hashtags mean that it’s easy to join the campaign and champion everything in it. People like Simon are nudged back to the website multiple times, discussing it with his manager and weaving the skills into his goals. The result? It sticks. What’s more, because you’ve got THE CHANGE right – you haven’t just unlocked your ROI and some war stories for your CV. You’ve created organisational resilience in the face of the next change. Because real change isn’t just about one wave - it’s about building a company that embraces an ocean of change. So What? Obviously, you care about Simon (even if he can be a bit prickly). So you create a human-centric transformation campaign – and reap the rewards. Want help making this happen? At Mediazoo, we do this every day. We’ve helped companies inspire real, lasting change - and we’ve won 200+ industry awards for it. If you want a partner who knows how to inspire positive change, let’s have a cuppa. Happy change-making. 🚀

The Red Line Campaign

Sexual harassment in the workplace isn't just a compliance issue – it's a cultural crisis that demands immediate action. That's why we at Mediazoo have developed 'The Red Line', a transformative campaign that goes beyond traditional training to create lasting behavioural change. Why Now? The statistics are stark: 97% of women aged 18-24 have experienced sexual harassment, according to UN WOMEN UK. Perhaps even more troubling, 96% didn't report it, believing nothing would change. With October's Worker Protection Act now legally requiring employers to provide sexual harassment training, the moment for meaningful change has arrived. "Having spent over 20 years in production, I've witnessed and experienced countless instances of sexual harassment," says Liz Robinson, Managing Director of our Creative Studio. "That's why it is vital for Mediazoo to lead the way by delivering best practice when it comes to building safe and inclusive workplace cultures." Beyond Compliance: A New Approach 'The Red Line' represents a fundamental shift in how organisations address sexual harassment. Launched during Sexual Abuse and Violence Week, our campaign lays crucial foundations for preventing sexual violence by targeting one of its core roots. "The Red Line is all about getting rid of the ambiguity, calling out sexual harassment for what it is and not excusing it through culture or banter," explains Jodi Summer Williams, Creative Director. "It's about taking a clear, firm stand against it. Drawing it bright and saying - 'here is the line and we aren't going to tolerate anyone crossing it.'" A Two-Pronged Strategy for Real Change Our approach combines powerful awareness-raising with comprehensive education: Striking Campaign Materials: Including an impactful launch film, posters, and personal testimonials that highlight sexual harassment as a universal workplace issue Interactive Learning Module: Built with cutting-edge technology and designed for customisation across different sectors and organisational contexts "It was important to us to have a two-pronged approach," Williams notes, "in order to really achieve the behavioural shift that is so needed - both raising awareness through a striking poster series and film, and educating through interactive digital training." Taking a Stand Recent high-profile cases across industries demonstrate that many organisations still struggle to address sexual harassment effectively. As Liz Robinson emphasises, "I feel it's vital for us to have a strong position in this area, not only as a business for our colleagues but also in the creative sector where we know that sadly, these kinds of behaviours have been tolerated and swept under the rug for far too long." By combining storytelling, behavioural science, and established methodology, we're pioneering innovative approaches that drive real change. 'The Red Line' isn't just another training programme – it's a commitment to creating safer, more respectful workplaces for everyone. Want to learn more about implementing 'The Red Line' in your organisation? Visit https://hub.mediazoo.tv/red-line for more information about the campaign and complementary access to the launch film during February and March, or email [email protected] direct.

Mediazoo Named PRWeek's Number 1 Internal Communications Agency

Mediazoo has once again secured the number one spot as the leading Internal Communications agency in PRWeek’s Top 150 2024 list, marking another year of excellence following our top position in 2023. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to delivering powerful and innovative internal communications that drive real engagement and behaviour change. Internal Communications continues to be a vital force in transformation campaigns, helping businesses navigate change and strengthen employee engagement. Over the past year, we’ve played a crucial role in driving initiatives across key areas such as Consumer Duty, DEIB, ESG, and HR technology adoption, ensuring companies can communicate effectively and create meaningful connections with their workforce. A major shift we’ve observed is the increasing demand for personalised content, mirroring the way employees consume media in their daily lives. As hybrid working has become the norm, organisations are turning to internal social media, podcasts, and employee advocacy to enhance engagement. The need for diverse, targeted content is growing, with formats ranging from dynamic video storytelling to interactive Yammer discussions and customisable social media assets. This award is a testament to our incredible team and clients, whose trust and collaboration have enabled us to push boundaries in the world of internal communications. We look forward to another year of creating compelling content that empowers organisations and inspires positive change.

One Film. Two Grand Prix. Twelve Golds.

Media Zoo's powerful film about vulnerable customers claimed the Grand Prix at the New York Film Awards, triumphing over hit series 'Peaky Blinders' in a stunning industry upset. What began as a brief for a 30-minute eLearning module transformed into an emotionally charged film that has garnered international acclaim, including six Gold awards at Cannes and six at the New York Film Awards. "During our discovery phase, we heard a phone call that stopped us all in our tracks," recalls Media Zoo's Strategy Director. "Listening to that 11-minute recording of a stroke survivor trying to pay his bills, being repeatedly blocked by security protocols - it was heartbreaking. I remember saying to the client, 'Just let people listen to this call - anyone who listens will instantly want to be part of the solution." The client's vision for new learning content led to an even more impactful approach. The resulting film reconstructs the customer's journey, following them from hospital rehabilitation to isolated days at home, capturing the mounting frustration of unpaid bills and unsuccessful attempts to access their account as the orignal call provides the heartbreaking jeopardy. "We wanted to show the human cost of rigid processes," says the film's director. "Every frame was carefully crafted to help colleagues understand the real impact of their decisions on vulnerable customers' lives." The film forms the cornerstone of a broader cultural change programme, supported by innovative elements including 'Gogglebox-style' recordings of colleague reactions and facilitated discussions. Since its launch, it has become a catalyst for service improvement initiatives across the organisation. "What makes this win particularly special is that we weren't trying to create award-winning content," notes Media Zoo's CEO. "We were trying to create lasting change. The fact that it's been recognised alongside major entertainment productions shows the power of authentic storytelling in business communications." The campaign has already driven significant improvements in vulnerable customer service metrics and continues to be used as a benchmark for empathy-led customer service training across the financial sector.

An Irishman, a gorilla and a manuscript walk into a bar

It wasn’t exactly like that, but it wasn’t far off. I was sitting at an awards ceremony in 2023 where our CreativeStudio had been shortlisted, and we were in with a very good chance of coming home with some hardware. I was in a great place, projects were running well, we were winning great work, and this night was a celebration. Sitting in an SLT sandwich, my CEO to my left, my MD to my right and a very senior client opposite, we were chatting about brands, sponsorship, who’s doing it well and setting the world to rights. In between the free pouring Malbec and the call of our agency peers over the pulpit, I got hit with a bombshell. The client, incredibly focused, looked right at me and challenged me to, “Find the Media Zoo logo for me in this program. You guys are a title sponsor…” Caught off guard and instantly embarrassed, I couldn’t find it. I couldn’t separate our logo from a sea of logos on a sheet. Not great. So that was the trigger. But not to be too trigger happy, I knew it needed testing and qualifying. Overlooking the processes we go through with clients when doing work for ourselves is a trap many agencies fall into, and one that we wanted to avoid. I joined this business in late 2022 at a time of rapid growth and an updated brand refresh had just happened. I didn’t want this to be a me thing. Redoing an entire business’ brand proposition, strategy and visual identity is not an easy task nor one to be taken lightly. I knew there was a desire among the business, but it was also met with fatigue and disbelief. “Do we really need to change?” was a common question and it took me a while to find the right response. From testing internally and externally, it was a resounding yes in secret but nobody wanted to say it aloud. Enter the Irishman. Fast forwarding to today. We are about to launch the brand and I’m writing this entry about 5 days before it makes its way into the world. Every brand has a story, but not every story is told well. Nine months ago, we looked inward and saw a gap between who we were and how we presented ourselves to the world. Our mission to inspire positive change felt as sharp as ever, but our visual identity didn’t quite carry the same weight. It was time for a change, and not just a superficial one. This was about creating something that truly reflected the soul of Mediazoo: who we are, what we stand for, and the future we’re building. What followed was a journey of discovery, collaboration, and creativity. The Design Studio is a team I’m incredibly proud of. I love our work, the ethos of our people and the diversity of thought within the team. A small but vibrant community of incredible creatives, each person on the team expressed interest in shaping the future of the agency, “for the last time”. That’s a promise I made them which I plan to keep. Over the course of nine months, we listened to feedback, gathered insights, defined our direction, and poured our energy into crafting a brand identity that feels bold, meaningful, and unmistakably ours. It’s a statement of purpose. This wasn’t about trends. It wasn’t about a quick fix. This was about depth. It was about asking the right questions and refusing to settle for anything less than a brand that feels alive with meaning. The process started with listening. Brand audits, focus groups, and surveys revealed the truth: while our storytelling work is celebrated, our brand wasn’t carrying the same impact. It wasn’t distinctive enough. It didn’t quite reflect the energy and ambition we bring to every project. That realisation sparked something big: a commitment to building a brand that speaks as powerfully as the stories we tell. From there, we began the work of definition. We brought teams together, workshopped ideas, and honed our identity into something we could all stand behind. This wasn’t just about words or visuals — it was about getting to the heart of what drives us. We reached out to every single team in the business to gain their perspective. I wanted opinions from everyone. When I made it up to the first floor from our studio I was met by the minds of the Transformation team. Transformation sits at the core of everything we do, and that’s where our some our best work emerges. It’s deceptively simple but deeply resonant: transformation driven by the fusion of art and science, guided by the lenses of people and purpose, and realised through storytelling. It’s a beautiful thing and that team is made up of experts who I hold in massively high regard and have learned a lot from. I wanted to embody some of their thinking to interrogate this project from end to end. Enter the gorilla and the manuscript. The creative process was where the ideas really came to life. We explored, tested, and refined. From reimagined gothic blackletter typography that nods to our journalistic roots and the familiar kah-klunk of the printing press, to the "M" motif inspired by the quiet strength of a gorilla in a staunch stance, every detail was chosen with intent. The gorilla, with its calm power and resilience, became a perfect metaphor for how we approach our work — making a meaningful impact without shouting for attention. The typography, meanwhile, bridges tradition and modernity, celebrating the foundations of storytelling while embracing the possibilities of the digital age. The “M” is a custom addition, and a graphic interpretation caught somewhere between gothic blackletter and a classic sans serif. And then there’s the colour palette — a vibrant mix of Purple Haze, Ultra-violet, Signal Red, and Golden-hour, balanced by the grounding simplicity of off-black and off-white. These emotional cues, chosen to reflect the energy, trust, and creativity that define Mediazoo. Every element tells its own story, but together, they create a brand that feels cohesive, bold, and unmistakably ours. I couldn’t help but squeeze in some of the familiarity of home in there too. Note: Isle. Of course, a brand is more than just a logo and a colour scheme. It’s a living, breathing system. We made sure this identity wasn’t just beautiful but practical, flexible, and ready to live across everything we do. We tested and refined it through collaboration, making sure it worked for every team, every project, and every touchpoint. This wasn’t just about the destination; it was about the journey. From workshops and sketchbooks to feedback loops and prototypes, every step brought us closer to something that feels true. What we’ve created is a reflection of our mission to inspire positive change, not just in how we look but in how we show up in the world. The refreshed Mediazoo is a statement of who we are and a promise of who we’re becoming. It’s rooted in our foundations but built for a digital age. It’s about bold ideas and meaningful actions. It’s about transformation, not for its own sake, but to create something better. Because at the end of the day, that’s what we’re here for: to tell stories that matter, to connect people and purpose, and to make an impact that lasts. This is a commitment to keep evolving, to keep pushing ourselves to be better, and to keep leading with the belief that storytelling can change the world. So now it’s the start of 2025 and when award season rolls around I will be sitting at those tables with my head high and my heart full knowing that beyond me or my team, this entire agency got behind the new direction and has firmly cemented the Mediazoo name and brand as leaders in our industry with the sole focus of inspiring positive change.

Peak Creativity

Suppose an accountant entered a world of creatives – and was trying their best to keep up. What would they do? That was me (John Power) 5 years ago. True to my trade, I kept an ‘account’ of what helped me. I then put it into the following 1000 word ‘immersive essay’. Hopefully it will help you. Imagine that you’re on top of a mountain. The air is crisp and a cool wind whips your coat around you. It’s late morning. Suddenly the Sun breaks free of some little fluffy clouds - illuminating a landscape of possibilities for miles around you. But, what’s more, you see something else… your ideas taking form in the air around you – fizzing and crackling with their own energy. Your slightest whim becomes a dreamlike vision in the air around you. You feel unstoppable. You’re not just at the top of a mountain. You’re in a state called ‘Peak Creativity’. Can we ever truly reach this peak? Maybe not. But maybe… Part 1: Conditions – Preparing for the Climb Before you even set out for the mythical ‘Peak Creativity’, check yourself. Are you ready? Imagine that you are in the doorway of your house. You wouldn’t climb a mountain in your pyjamas, right? You wouldn’t set off on an empty stomach. You need some hot porridge, a coffee and some gear. The same goes for creativity. There are pre-requisites. • Inspire yourself: Immerse in art, nature, or novelty. Satisfy your appetite… and then some! • Take care of yourself: Prioritize physical and mental wellbeing—sleep, eat, and rest. • Create a suitable environment: Clear distractions. Surround yourself with what fuels you. • Make time: Creativity needs space to breathe. Don’t rush it. Protect it. • Gather what you need: Whether it’s information, paintbrushes or self-raising flour. • Build your team: A diverse, bonded team – aligned on a mission, works wonders. (Conditions are everything you do to prepare yourself for getting creative.) Without these, we are unprepared, lost – and end up going home early. From Einstein to Agatha Christie, great minds have a tip that can help. Like many tips, it bears repeating, even if you know it. Something that can feed your curiosity, offer a change of pace. You can probably guess what’s coming… So, zip up your coat. Tie up your bootlaces. It’s time to step out into the fresh air, and … that tip? Go for a walk. Part 2: Concepts – Finding Seeds of Ideas Imagine you’ve set off. You’re walking a woodland trail, and a kaleidoscope of nature unfolds around you. Sunlight dances through the trees – scattering among ferns, mushrooms and bark. The soft earth beneath your feet seems to whisper of new connections. You spot something small in the underbrush. An acorn. Simple, unassuming, yet brimming with potential. That’s how ideas begin. Small. Quiet. Modest. The best seeds come from cross-pollination: when two different plants meet, they create something entirely new—stronger, more vibrant, more adaptable. It’s the same with ideas. When concepts collide—sometimes from vastly different worlds—they blend and evolve into something extraordinary. There are different ways to do this: • Combine ideas: What happens when you blend two unrelated things? • Use brainstorming exercises: Try Crazy 8s, Morphological Analysis, Innovation Frameworks, or Design Thinking. There are a myriad reliable creative idea creation techniques that suit a range of different scenarios – solo/group, big/small, problems/expression. • Ask questions: Why? What if? How might we? (It might seem obvious, but you can reliably create new ideas by applying proven creative techniques to starts ideas.) If you do this, you’ll end up stuffing your backpack with acorns. You look up and see the craggy peak loom ahead of you. In your pocket you squeeze an acorn that seems particularly potent. Part 3: Craft – Tools to Scale the Mountain Real talk - why does every creative project have a… valley of misery halfway through? Imagine you’re facing a sheer cliff face. It’s impenetrable. You’re stuck. A voice on the wind seems to whisper ‘ideas are useless if you don’t finish them’… You really don’t feel like you’re going to finish this. And then... you see something unexpected… A ladder. Simple. Practical. Right there when you thought all hope was lost. It’s not magic. But using it makes everything feel so much better. You gain height. You advance. You’re back on track. Thank goodness for the trail blazers who create tools and techniques that others can use to get from A to B. These can help you polish an idea – where it’s colour grading or playtesting, crafts enhance your work. There are ideas in every discipline that make scaling the mountain possible. Some of the most useful ladders I’ve found are… • Storytelling: The Hero’s Journey helps structure complex narratives. • Game Design: Iterating on ludeme combinations can rapidly enhance a game idea. • Art and Design: Colour theory and gestalt principles can that deepen your expression. • Improv: The “Yes, and …” principle keeps ideas flowing. • Behavioural Science: Psychological principles – like the IKEA effect can guide behaviour. (Crafts are the reliable techniques help you finish an idea. We can get these from outside of our lane. E.g. at Mediazoo I learn craft techniques from the different departments) When you use these ladders, something strange and interesting happens. You start to combine and cross pollinate the models. Your ideas get richer and you end up not just climbing ladders – but transcending paradigms and creating new ones. That’s when you stop following the route laid out for you and start carving your own path. When you’ve climbed a few ladders and put in the hard work. You look down and realise that your little acorn is a sapling. The End? When you finish an idea. It’s as though the world stops around you. Take a deep breath. Wiggle your toes. You’ve made it. It feels good to be up here doesn’t it? You reflect on how you got yourself ready, you found new things and new paths to elevate them. You can see the forests and crags of challenges you’ve overcome. You can squint back at your tiny house – miles away. So many steps taken. Hang on - is that … another .. higher peak up ahead?

We Achieved Gold Strategic Provider Accreditation by CLO100

Media Zoo is thrilled to announce that we are the first learning provider to be awarded the prestigious Gold Strategic Provider accreditation by CLO100. This landmark achievement cements our position at the forefront of innovation in learning and development. What Does the Gold Accreditation Represent? This gold accreditation is a testament to our unwavering dedication to delivering excellence across every aspect of our work. It highlights our commitment to: Strategic Alignment: Ensuring that all learning solutions are closely aligned with our clients' business goals. Collaboration and Communication: Excelling in building strong partnerships and maintaining open, effective communication channels. Innovation: Pioneering cutting-edge training solutions that push boundaries and engage audiences. Impact: Consistently achieving measurable results that drive meaningful business outcomes. Gratitude to Our Clients We owe this incredible milestone to the support and trust of our clients. At Media Zoo, we are inspiring positive change through our commitment to innovation and excellence. Their willingness to provide feedback and share insights on the impact of our solutions has been invaluable. Together, we’ve proven that strategic, innovative learning solutions can create real, lasting, and inspiring positive change. Discover the Journey to Gold Want to learn more about how we achieved this milestone? Discover more insights in Learning News: https://learningnews.com/news/clo100/2024/media-zoo-celebrate-excellence-in-learning-with-gold-strategic-learning-provider-accolade

AI Training at Mediazoo: Empowering Creativity and Innovation

In a world increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence, the question is no longer “if” but “how” businesses will adapt. At Mediazoo, we’ve taken a proactive approach by training our entire team to leverage AI safely and effectively—not just as a tool, but as a transformative partner in creativity and storytelling. Why AI, and Why Now? Our conversations with clients and industry leaders have revealed a consistent theme over the last two years: everyone is trying to define their relationship with AI. Businesses are eager to harness its potential but uncertain about the path forward. This moment presents a unique opportunity for us. By capturing Mediazoo’s journey with AI authentically, we can inspire others to embrace these the technology thoughtfully and keep people at the heart of their strategies. AI Driven by Creativity AI isn’t just a technological advancement; it’s a creative amplifier. When combined with the ingenuity of our team, it can: Streamline repetitive tasks, giving us more time to focus on big ideas. Uncover deeper insights from data to inform strategies. Open up new avenues for innovation, allowing us to create more compelling, impactful content. But with this potential comes uncertainty. It’s natural to feel apprehensive about adopting new tools and processes. That’s why we’ve prioritised not just skill-building but also building our “uncertainty tolerance”, through awareness, knowledge building and empowerment. This resilience empowers us to navigate this transformative period with confidence. Training for Everyone Our AI training program has ensured that every member of the Mediazoo team feels equipped to use AI creatively and effectively. Key topics covered included: Building AI assistants: Using AI to streamline workflows and enhance personal productivity. Selecting suitable base models: Choosing the right AI tools for specific tasks. Developing effective prompts: Crafting clear instructions to get the best results from AI. Integrating specialised knowledge: Leveraging external tools while safeguarding data and privacy. This comprehensive approach has made AI a seamless part of our processes, enhancing rather than replacing the human touch that defines Mediazoo. Safeguarding Trust Behind the scenes, we’ve implemented robust measures to protect our data, our clients, and our team. AI offers incredible opportunities, but it’s vital to prioritise security and ethical use. By taking these precautions, we’re not only protecting ourselves but also setting a standard for responsible AI adoption in our industry. Leading the Way At Mediazoo, we believe in the power of AI driven by creativity. This isn’t about replacing human ingenuity—it’s about elevating it. By embracing these tools, we’re poised to lead the industry with innovation, authenticity, and heart. Our journey with AI is well underway, and we’re excited to bring our clients and partners along for the ride. Together, we can shape a future where technology and creativity go hand in hand, driving meaningful change and inspiring stories that resonate. If you have questions or ideas about how we can leverage AI even further, don’t hesitate to reach out at [email protected]. Watch this space for AI innovation and product news in the new year. Let’s make this transformation a shared adventure.

5 Wins from 5 Nominations at the EVCOM Awards!

What does it feel like to win 5 awards in one incredible night? Media Zoo celebrated an extraordinary achievement:  5 wins from 5 nominations at the EVCOM (Event & Visual Communication Association) Awards! Here’s the breakdown: • Gold for Diversity and Inclusion for our work with Lloyds Banking Group • Silver and 2 Bronze for the same impactful project with Lloyds • Gold for Best Agency Culture of the Year Our work with Lloyds Banking Group set out with a powerful aim: to inspire the continued adoption of an inclusive mindset, regardless of role. Through emotional and thought-provoking films, we empowered colleagues to reflect and act. The feedback speaks volumes: 💬 “The ONLY bank training course in 34 years with the group that totally stopped me in my tracks and moved me.” 💬 “This is the most powerful training I have ever seen regarding inclusivity.” With nearly 65,000 colleagues trained and a 4.5/5 rating, this project is a shining example of how empathy and innovation can create meaningful impact. Winning Best Agency Culture of the Year reflects who we are as an organisation. As Liz Robinson, our Managing Director of Creative Studio, said: “Many people across the agency have worked so hard to make Media Zoo a kind, inclusive, inspiring and joyful place to work — this award is testament to that.” To our extraordinary team and visionary clients: thank you for helping us to inspire positive change every step of the way. For more info please get in touch at [email protected].

Watch on demand | Epidemic of Disengagement: Storytelling for Change

Inspiring positive change starts with story and strategy. Stories motivate people, and we are 12x more likely to remember stories than stats alone. That’s why we place storytelling at the heart of transformation – it’s the key to driving engagement and lasting change. Discover how storytelling and behavioural insights can transform your internal comms campaigns in our free on-demand webinar, The Epidemic of Disengagement: Storytelling for Change. Join our expert speakers, Catherine Anderson, Associate Director of Social Media & Internal Communications, and Tala Kassabji, Strategic Comms Production Manager, as they share their insights on how to combat disengagement with the power of storytelling. Key Topics Covered: Positive Change through Storytelling: Learn how telling the right stories can drive positive change within your organisation. Boosting Engagement: Find out how developing compelling stories and placing your people at the heart of your transformation campaigns can significantly enhance engagement. Employee Support During Change: Discover ways to help your employees navigate change and why successful transformations prioritise people over processes. Bespoke Scenarios: Understand the value of using true-to-life, bespoke scenarios in storytelling to make communications more relatable and impactful. Integrated Strategies: Learn how to develop a robust strategy and apply a narrative wrapper with authentic storytelling insights. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to gain actionable insights into how storytelling can transform your internal communications and drive success. Watch the webinar on demand now and take the first step towards positive change within your organisation. Read more

Watch on demand | People Over Process: How Human-Centric Transformation Guarantees Engagement

In today’s fast-paced business environment, transformation is no longer optional — it’s a necessity. With enterprises changing more rapidly and frequently than ever before, maintaining a competitive edge requires businesses to embrace transformation as a critical part of their strategy. However, the journey is fraught with challenges: up to 70% of transformation programmes fail. What’s going wrong? In 2022 alone, the average employee experienced 10 planned enterprise changes, yet resistance to change and disengagement remain pervasive. While organisations often focus on processes and technology, the human element — arguably the most crucial factor — is frequently overlooked. Without engaging and empowering the people at the heart of these programmes, success can feel unattainable. But what if there was a better way? Join Yasmine, a multi-award-winning professional and a recognised leader in the fields of DEIB and organisational culture, as she reveals the secret to unlocking transformation success. In this on-demand webinar, Yasmine will guide you through human-centric strategies to navigate change with engagement, empathy, and effectiveness. What You’ll Learn: The Meaning of Human-Centric Transformation: Discover what it means to put people at the heart of your change initiatives and why it matters. Understanding Failure in Transformation: Uncover the common pitfalls that cause up to 70% of transformation programmes to fail. Best Practices for People-Centric Change: Learn actionable strategies to engage your workforce and ensure their buy-in. Practical Tips for Leaders: Gain tools and insights to champion human-centric transformation initiatives within your organisation. Why You Should Watch Transformation is about more than new tools and updated processes. It’s about inspiring and empowering people to embrace change and contribute to the journey. By focusing on the human element, you can drive sustainable, meaningful transformation — and Yasmine will show you how. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a proven expert in the field. Watch the webinar on demand and take the first step toward a future where transformation is not just a goal, but a success story. Watch now

Watch on Demand | Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Compliance

At Mediazoo, we’re passionate about compliance learning. It’s not just a box to tick — it’s an opportunity to redefine learning, celebrate purpose, and make a real difference. In our media-rich webinar, our Strategy Director, Pete Ashcroft, explores how advancements in AI and our award-winning compliance solutions are transforming Mandatory Learning. Now available to watch on demand, this webinar is your gateway to understanding the future of compliance training. Why Compliance Matters Compliance is essential for protecting individuals, organisations, and society as a whole. However, outdated methods, like the ‘sheep dip’ approach, no longer meet the needs of modern learners. It’s time to embrace scalable, personalised learning that creates ‘sticky’ content — content that engages, inspires, and makes an impact long after the training ends. What You’ll Learn In this engaging webinar, Pete Ashcroft dives into how organisations can: Understand Adaptive Learning: Discover the benefits of tailoring training to individual needs. Harness the Power of Storytelling: Build a strong compliance culture through compelling narratives. Apply Logic to Competence and Confidence: Use advanced techniques to assess learner capabilities. Leverage AI-Powered Content: Explore how AI revolutionises compliance training. Personalise with Data Insights: Gain deeper understanding of your learners through advanced analytics. Shape the Future of Behavioural Experiences: Create meaningful interactions that resonate. Our Creative Compliance Approach Our expertise in storytelling through documentary and drama has helped some of the world’s largest organisations in heavily regulated industries achieve compliance success. By blending behavioural science, creativity, and cutting-edge technology, we craft content that not only satisfies regulators but engages and inspires learners. Celebrating Purpose: Compliance training should celebrate your organisation’s purpose and the role each individual plays in preventing bad actors. Engaging Audiences: Our training taps into emotional peaks and needs, ensuring learners feel connected and invested. Transforming Mandatory Learning: From custom simulations to quick wins using rapid tools, our solutions make compliance training consistent, simplified, and even enjoyable. Our Solutions Cover Fighting Financial Crime Anti-Bribery & Corruption Data Protection & GDPR AI Compliance Consumer Duty Vulnerable Customers Health and Safety Conduct Cyber Security Whistleblowing We also specialise in transforming your existing suite of mandatory modules into engaging, learner-focused experiences. Don’t Just Tick a Box — Beat a Drum Our Creative Compliance strategy turns mandatory training into an opportunity for innovation. By respecting the learner’s time and connecting them to the human stories behind regulations, we ensure compliance content is not only painless but impactful. Watch On Demand Today Ready to transform your approach to compliance? Watch the webinar on demand to explore how AI, storytelling, and advanced data insights can make compliance training a cornerstone of your organisation’s success. Read more