Entertainment has never been more dynamic or fragmented. Consumers have endless choices for how and where they engage with content, from streaming services to cinema, television, gaming, and beyond.
Warner Bros. Discovery Rebecca Kent, svp of global transformation, joins host Matt Britton to discuss the company’s approach to personalization, data-driven insights, and future-proofing its iconic IP—from HBO to Harry Potter—in an ever-changing media landscape.
“It’s interesting to look at how we can link customers across business units,” she says on the podcast. “We’re very much in our infancy here, but I’m very interested in how we can use customer data at the fire.”
With deep expertise in business transformation, media strategy, and emerging technology, Rebecca is helping shape the future of entertainment by integrating data, technology, and content to create next-generation viewing experiences.
Tune in to The Speed of Culture podcast as Rebecca Kent unpacks the future of entertainment, the power of personalization, and how Warner Bros. Discovery is shaping the next era of storytelling.
Key takeaways:
[04:14] Entertainment on Your Terms — The days of one-size-fits-all content are over. Whether audiences want ad-free streaming, live TV, or the full cinematic experience, Warner Bros. Discovery is letting them decide. Rebecca explains how WBD is shifting from dictating how content is consumed to empowering audiences with real choices—because in today’s media landscape, convenience and control matter as much as quality.
[05:24] Ad-Supported Streaming Is No Longer a Trade-Off — Consumers are opting for ad-supported streaming models to keep costs down, and WBD is making those ads feel less like interruptions and more like enhancements. With innovations like shoppable ads on Max, brands can now engage viewers in ways that feel natural and relevant—turning passive watching into interactive experiences. As streaming evolves, companies that make advertising feel additive rather than disruptive will win the trust (and attention) of audiences.
[09:21] Data Is the New Currency of Fandom — Fandom isn’t just about what people watch, it’s about how they engage across platforms. Rebecca focuses on how Warner Bros. is leveraging cross-platform data to create deeper, more personalized fan experiences, connecting the dots between streaming, retail, live events, and more. If a Game of Thrones fan also shops for DC Comics merch or visits a Harry Potter theme park, WBD ensures relevant, meaningful interactions that strengthen their connection to the brand.
