Ask Skip

Skip breaks down why broadcast TV still commands the largest share of political ad spending, with $5.6 billion projected for 2026 versus CTV's $2.7 billion. Favorable pricing, established buying relationships, and predictable execution keep broadcast ahead, putting pressure on CTV…

Skip examines why Netflix's new content chief, Peter Rice, faces accountability for business outcomes beyond his control. With roughly $20 billion in annual programming spending and years of inherited commitments, Rice's success depends on marketing, product, pricing, and advertising decisions,…

Skip calls for clear labeling when paid placement influences what viewers see or hear on TV home screens. Clear disclosure protects viewer trust and gives streamers cleaner attribution across paid, editorial, algorithmic, and negotiated exposure.

Skip examines how AI-powered TV discovery is turning recommendations into premium inventory, making accurate metadata, entitlements, and deep links critical to winning visibility before paying for placement.

Skip examines how mid-sized streamers can navigate TV operating systems that increasingly control discovery, distribution, and customer acquisition. The key is understanding where they have leverage, what they’re giving up, and whether the economics ultimately drive profitable growth.

Skip argues that sports exclusivity deserves a premium only when the buyer covers the value lost from reduced reach, sponsorship exposure, and fan acquisition. Emerging properties may benefit more from broad distribution, while established events can better monetize scarcity.

Skip explains how Disney can use Disney+ to drive more value across parks, cruises, merchandise, games, and ESPN without turning the app into a storefront for the entire company. The bigger opportunity is “one fan, one account,” using shared customer…

Ask Skip argues that DTC only works when owning the customer generates more value than distributors, bundles, licensing, or free streaming. Versant shows the tradeoff by launching MS NOW at $7.99 while keeping USA Sports focused on linear, advertising, partnerships,…

Ask Skip argues that high churn isn’t necessarily a problem for niche streamers if subscriber lifetime value still exceeds acquisition and reacquisition costs. The real risk comes when replacing or retaining customers costs more than the margin they generate.

Skip argues streaming services shouldn't chase daily usage unless extra sessions improve retention, ad revenue, or willingness to pay. The better metric is how long a service can go between meaningful moments of value before churn risk rises.