In this episode of the LOOP Podcast, Ryan and Richard discuss various topics ranging from the viral sensation of Punch the Monkey to the evolving landscape of marketing, particularly the shift towards influencer marketing as highlighted by Unilever's recent strategies. They explore the implications of AI on consumer behaviour and marketing practices, as well as the future of jobs in an increasingly automated world.

This week on The Big Thing, Ryan and Richard wade into the strange new world where AI and celebrity culture collide.

From A-listers selling the rights to their own image, to fully AI-generated influencers like Neuro-sama building real fanbases, we unpack what it means when fame no longer requires a human behind it. If your likeness can be licensed, cloned or automated… who actually owns you?

We also get into the increasingly uncomfortable idea behind the “dead internet theory” — the notion that much of what we see online isn’t human at all. Are we already scrolling through feeds powered more by algorithms than people? And does it even matter if the content still entertains us?

This week on The Big Thing, Richard and Ryan pull apart the biggest ads from the Super Bowl and ask the question everyone in marketing is thinking: were they actually any good?

From celebrity overload to AI-assisted production, we look at what worked, what felt lazy, and what a £7m media slot really buys you in 2026. We chat through standout moments, including the Amazon Alexa spot featuring Chris Hemsworth and debate whether star power and nostalgia are replacing proper creative thinking.

In this episode of the LOOP Podcast, Ryan is trying his hardest to get Richard and Liam to bump heads on the design industry. They explore whether AI is helping or hindering junior designers, the importance of prompting in design and how AI is reshaping the culture. Their conversation also touches on the ethical implications of using AI in client work and the future of design as AI continues to evolve. Come find out if Ryan got his wish of pitting the two designers against each other

In this episode, Ryan and Richard discuss various predictions and trends for 2026, focusing on the evolution of marketing, the continued rise of social media shopping and the impact of AI on search engines and influencer marketing. They also delve into the significance of major sporting events like the Super Bowl and the World Cup, and how these will shape advertising strategies. Additionally, they explore the potential of synthetic influencers and the cultural impact of the highly anticipated release of Grand Theft Auto 6.

In this festive episode of the LOOP Podcast, Ryan and Richard dive into the spirit of Christmas, sharing their personal experiences and reflections on holiday traditions, Christmas ads, and the nostalgia that surrounds the festive season. They discuss the ups and downs of Christmas celebrations, the impact of advertising on holiday sentiments, and the shift in dynamics as they transition into adulthood and take on hosting responsibilities. The conversation also touches on favourite Christmas movies, songs, and the realities of family gatherings during the holiday season.

We're drowning in messages but starved of meaning

In this episode, Ryan and Richard sit down with Nick Clemmow, LOOPs Operations Director. Just a week before he heads off on paternity leave to talk about how communication has changed in the post-COVID, AI-powered world.

They get honest about what “Ops” actually means, how agencies rebuilt their workflows after lockdown, and why AI is changing not just how we make creative work, but how we talk to each other.

Expect banter about Slack pings, bad briefs, digital burnout, and a soon to be dad perspective on future leadership.

In part 2 of Episode 6 of The Big Thing, Liam and Ryan delve into the future of gaming, discussing upcoming releases like GTA 6 and the Steam console. They explore the impact of technological advancements on gaming experiences and the role of storytelling in games. They also touch on upcoming movie 'Marty Supreme' and the bizzare marketing tactics being used