Podcast
Build a Better Agency Podcast
Hosted by Drew McLellan · EN
Scale and grow your agency with better clients, invested employees, and a stronger bottom line, with Drew McLellan.
42episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 505 Navigating 2025 Agency Trends with Drew and Danyel Newcom McLellan
Jun 9, 202501:03:43Tap to summarizeWelcome to a special solocast episode of Build a Better Agency! In this midyear trend report, hosts Drew McLellan and Danyel Newcom McLellan dig deep into the evolving landscape facing agency owners in 2025. Leveraging data, global industry perspectives, and hands-on agency experience, Drew and Danyel break down what’s really impacting agencies right now and what to keep your eye on as the year unfolds. This episode covers the biggest drivers reshaping the agency world—from economic and political disruptions to shifting client and employee expectations. Drew and Danyel explore findings from the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, including the global “crisis of grievance,” and detail the unique opportunities and obligations business leaders face as the most trusted type of institution. They reveal how financial trends, M&A activity, and even compensation expectations are shifting, providing a realistic look at growth, profitability, and future planning. You’ll also hear a candid analysis of client dynamics and new business trends: increased buyer skepticism and demand for transparency, shorter contract terms, and the rising importance of social proof and niche expertise in attracting and retaining accounts. Internally, the episode explores changing workforce norms, a renewed focus on employee development and mental health, and innovative staffing strategies to increase agility and resilience. Rounding out the conversation, Drew and Danyel highlight where agencies are finding success—including the explosive impact of AI, new roles like creative technologists, the resurgence of retro campaigns, and the growing power of influencer and creator marketing. Whether you’re preparing your agency for exit, acquisition, or simply striving to thrive during uncertain times, this action-packed episode provides practical, actionable insights to help you build a stronger, more sustainable business. Don’t miss the chance to regroup, refocus, and get energized for what’s ahead! A big thank you to our podcast’s presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They’re an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Navigating economic and political uncertainty in agency operations Building and maintaining trust with clients and employees Shifting trends in agency growth, profitability, and M&A activity The rising importance of transparency and authenticity with clients Harnessing outside validation and social proof for new business Leveraging innovation, partnerships, and flexible team structures Embracing AI and data-driven insights as core agency strengths
Transcribe →EP 469: What agency leaders want and need from agency owners with Del Esparza
Sep 30, 2024Tap to summarizeAgency leaders have some of the most important roles in the agency. They’re key team members supporting the agency owner in the agency’s day-to-day operations and taking on roles that allow the agency owner to focus on business development and other key tasks. The truth is, it can be a lonely position. As agency owners, we need to consistently work on being more supportive to these key leaders — whether they’re our COO, creative directors, department heads, account leads, or even the company president. These positions are mission-critical and will support the long-term growth and success of the agency all the way to its succession. So naturally, it’s our job to create opportunities for growth, career development, and constructive feedback that support our agency leaders to be better at their jobs. This episode is a great one to sit down with your agency leaders and go through the different points we discuss so you can learn what opportunities you and your agency leaders can create together for their continued growth and development. A big thank you to our podcast’s presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They’re an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Which agency leader positions typically qualify for leadership peer groups Why Del found value in sending his agency leaders to peer groups at least twice per year How agency peer groups help agency leaders feel less lonely in their positions Why money isn’t always the solution to keeping agency leaders happy The value of mentoring and coaching leaders, and how to structure time for it How to give your agency leaders more autonomy in their roles The importance of workshops, peer groups, and other leadership training opportunities Helping your agency leaders grow in their roles within the agency How agency leaders want feedback presented to them
Transcribe →