As traditional advertising models evolve, monetization is moving directly into the storytelling process. New tools are helping creators and brand partners collaborate earlier in the development of programming — identifying placement opportunities, reducing IP and brand risk, and connecting on-screen moments directly to commerce and audience engagement.

This session also explores the growing importance of transparency in brand integration and commercial storytelling — ensuring audiences understand when messaging is sponsored, how partnerships are structured, and how authenticity is maintained in a rapidly expanding content ecosystem.

Moderator: Marie Bahl, CMO, Uptempo

Speakers:

Mark Belinsky, CEO, Playste
Sophia Xing, CEO, Plot Party

Location: Startup Theater