Ad Infinitum S3E11 - When the Helmets Come Off: Kraig T. Kitchin at CAO Summit 2025

Want better insights into the chaotic world of podcasting? You need to hear from the audio experts, who’ve returned from their hiatus to discuss all things CAO Summit 2025.

The world’s only podcast solely dedicated to audio ads is back! Presenting Ad Infinitum Season 3, Episode 11: “When the Helmets Come Off—Kraig T. Kitchin at CAO Summit 2025”

Host Stew Redwine (Executive Creative Director, Oxford Road) welcomes back Hall of Fame legend Kraig T. Kitchin (Senior Strategic Advisor for Oxford Road) to break down their biggest takeaways from July’s event.

“[The CAOs] brought their best material and they didn’t hold back vulnerabilities of the goods, the bads, and the uglies of what it is they do.” – Kraig T. Kitchin (Senior Strategic Advisor for Oxford Road & Bonafide Audio Legend)

Collaborators, Not Competitors: One magical part of the CAO Summit? The attendees – some of the biggest names in podcast advertising – were honest about their successes and challenges. Fierce competitors took off their game faces and helmets and became vulnerable–sparking breakthroughs for all attendees. The lesson? Mutual success in our industry can grow the pie for all.

Audio’s Built-In Edge: What makes podcasting talent different? Their ability to manage two vastly different roles: the entertainer and the authentic salesperson. Since the days of radio, audiences have been comfortable with hosts playing dual roles, which has proven to be a strength for the medium. However, to maintain the effectiveness of ads, podcasting should also look to radio as a cautionary tale. Oversaturate the content with ads, and you will lose the audience. CAOs, when you’re buying ads, keep an eye on ad load. For best performance, we recommend no more than 10%.

Use AI to  Be More Human: At an event where in-person interactions, vulnerability, and authenticity reigned, one question echoed throughout the halls: how do you reconcile the human touch with the growing power of AI in creative? Stew lays out the cure: “The antidote to the fear of AI is caring.” AI can do a lot of work, but it can’t care for you. For the most potent creative, care for your audience, and your product shines through. However you choose to integrate AI into your work, it should always center on humans. The hosts, your audience, your partners, and your own creative sensibilities. Ensure that any AI elements facilitate deeper connections for you, rather than trying to replace them.

Want more views from the top of the (CAO) Summit? Tune in to the full episode here: