I Found Myself in Publishing Mon, 09 Mar 2026 06:12:24 -0400 http://findyourseflinpublishing.com en-gb © 2026 Professional Publishers Association Ltd yes a04173ef-3062-528e-9148-722aaf684286 PPA episodic false I Found Myself in Publishing is more than a podcast—it's an invitation into the creative pulse of an industry reshaping how we connect, inform, and inspire. Join the PPA Next Gen Board's dynamic young leaders as they share their unique, candid stories of navigating the publishing world. From unexpected career pivots to innovative problem-solving, these future-focused voices reveal what it takes to make an impact in a field that’s constantly evolving.

Tune in to explore the ground breaking ideas shaping magazine media and discover why the PPA, representing over 300 businesses and thousands of brands, is a driving force behind the industry’s digital transformation. Each episode goes beyond the traditional publishing narrative, delving into how technology, adaptability, and ambition are redefining the future of content.

If you're ready to challenge your perceptions of publishing or find your place in a vibrant and intellectually stimulating world, I Found Myself in Publishing is the perfect place to start. Listen, subscribe, and see where a career in publishing might lead you.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) PPA https://storage.buzzsprout.com/oe9lk8ude1mqvhvbegu3kj4uxbx0?.jpg I Found Myself in Publishing http://findyourseflinpublishing.com Saj Merali and the Journey of Modern Publishing Saj Merali and the Journey of Modern Publishing Explore the future of publishing in this episode I Found Myself in Publishing with Saj Merali, CEO of the PPA (Professional Publishers Association). Saj shares exclusive insights into how the PPA, representing over 200 members from global brands to independents, is leading the industry’s transformation from traditional formats to a dynamic, multi-platform approach. We discuss the PPA’s NextGen board, where emerging voices drive innovation through projects setting new standards and talent-boosting campaigns. Saj also addresses the balance between trust and technology in an era of misinformation, touching on AI, shifting algorithms, and consumer expectations. Whether you're a seasoned publisher or new to media, tune in to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving field! 

____________________________

Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!


]]> Explore the future of publishing in this episode I Found Myself in Publishing with Saj Merali, CEO of the PPA (Professional Publishers Association). Saj shares exclusive insights into how the PPA, representing over 200 members from global brands to independents, is leading the industry’s transformation from traditional formats to a dynamic, multi-platform approach. We discuss the PPA’s NextGen board, where emerging voices drive innovation through projects setting new standards and talent-boosting campaigns. Saj also addresses the balance between trust and technology in an era of misinformation, touching on AI, shifting algorithms, and consumer expectations. Whether you're a seasoned publisher or new to media, tune in to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving field! 

____________________________

Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!


]]> PPA Buzzsprout-15999146 Mon, 03 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000 1337 1 7 full false Unraveling Beano: Diversity, Marketing, and Personal Journeys in Publishing Unraveling Beano: Diversity, Marketing, and Personal Journeys in Publishing In this episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, Gift Egbedi, Brand Marketing and Communications Manager at Beano Studios, shares his journey from living in Nigeria and working in digital ad operations, to his pivotal role in shaping Beano's marketing strategy. Gift discusses his connection to the character Dangerous Dan, his commitment to diversity in storytelling, and his passion for engaging young talent as part of the PPA Next Gen Board. From transitioning from finance to creative marketing to navigating age-appropriate messaging, Gift offers insights into the vibrant world of brand marketing within a children’s brand. Tune in to explore the dynamic opportunities in publishing and the innovation driving Beano’s legacy forward. 

____________________________

Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!


]]> In this episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, Gift Egbedi, Brand Marketing and Communications Manager at Beano Studios, shares his journey from living in Nigeria and working in digital ad operations, to his pivotal role in shaping Beano's marketing strategy. Gift discusses his connection to the character Dangerous Dan, his commitment to diversity in storytelling, and his passion for engaging young talent as part of the PPA Next Gen Board. From transitioning from finance to creative marketing to navigating age-appropriate messaging, Gift offers insights into the vibrant world of brand marketing within a children’s brand. Tune in to explore the dynamic opportunities in publishing and the innovation driving Beano’s legacy forward. 

____________________________

Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!


]]> PPA Buzzsprout-15999166 Mon, 20 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000 1920 1 3 full false Leadership and Change in Modern Publishing Leadership and Change in Modern Publishing In this episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, Beth Crane, Affiliate Director at Immediate Media, shares her journey in affiliate marketing, discussing her role on the PPA NextGen board and her innovative approach to tackling industry challenges like AI and promoting diversity. Beth reflects on her transition from agency work, leading a dynamic team, and fostering brand partnerships, all while embracing a coaching-focused approach to team development at Immediate. She also offers a forward-thinking vision for publishing, advocating for diversified, multi-channel strategies that extend beyond SEO to connect audiences through trusted brand formats like video and podcasts. For aspiring professionals, Beth’s story is a testament to the power of curiosity, adaptability, and a growth mindset in a fast-evolving industry. 

____________________________

Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!


]]> In this episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, Beth Crane, Affiliate Director at Immediate Media, shares her journey in affiliate marketing, discussing her role on the PPA NextGen board and her innovative approach to tackling industry challenges like AI and promoting diversity. Beth reflects on her transition from agency work, leading a dynamic team, and fostering brand partnerships, all while embracing a coaching-focused approach to team development at Immediate. She also offers a forward-thinking vision for publishing, advocating for diversified, multi-channel strategies that extend beyond SEO to connect audiences through trusted brand formats like video and podcasts. For aspiring professionals, Beth’s story is a testament to the power of curiosity, adaptability, and a growth mindset in a fast-evolving industry. 

____________________________

Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!


]]> PPA Buzzsprout-15999160 Mon, 06 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000 1922 1 2 full false Navigating the Publishing Landscape Through Change Navigating the Publishing Landscape Through Change In this episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, Rebecca Taylor, Commercial Content Editor at William Reed Business Media, shares her journey from her first published story to winning industry awards. Drawing from her background in psychology and marketing, Rebecca discusses her approach to creating impactful content, balancing hybrid work, and tackling industry challenges with the PPA Next Gen Board. She reflects on overcoming health challenges, fostering collaboration, and championing inclusivity, offering a forward-looking perspective on the role of technology and AI in enhancing creativity within the publishing world. Whether you're a publishing veteran or a newcomer, tune in for Rebecca’s insights on thriving in this dynamic field. 

____________________________

Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!


]]> In this episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, Rebecca Taylor, Commercial Content Editor at William Reed Business Media, shares her journey from her first published story to winning industry awards. Drawing from her background in psychology and marketing, Rebecca discusses her approach to creating impactful content, balancing hybrid work, and tackling industry challenges with the PPA Next Gen Board. She reflects on overcoming health challenges, fostering collaboration, and championing inclusivity, offering a forward-looking perspective on the role of technology and AI in enhancing creativity within the publishing world. Whether you're a publishing veteran or a newcomer, tune in for Rebecca’s insights on thriving in this dynamic field. 

____________________________

Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!


]]> PPA Buzzsprout-15999192 Mon, 23 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000 1766 1 6 full false Harnessing AI and Digital Transformation in Publishing Harnessing AI and Digital Transformation in Publishing In this episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, Nav Pal, Studio Manager at Haymarket Media Group, shares her inspiring journey from academia to publishing, blending creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit to make her mark in podcast production. A key member of the PPA Next Gen Board, Nav discusses initiatives like a jargon buster and job board to promote diversity and inclusion, reflecting on her experiences as a person of colour in the industry and her insights into mental resilience. As an Emerging Talent award-winner, Nav explores how AI and digital transformation are reshaping publishing, illustrating how passion and curiosity can forge impactful, fulfilling careers in this dynamic field. Tune in for Nav’s fresh perspective on innovation and inclusivity in publishing.

____________________________

Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!


]]> In this episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, Nav Pal, Studio Manager at Haymarket Media Group, shares her inspiring journey from academia to publishing, blending creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit to make her mark in podcast production. A key member of the PPA Next Gen Board, Nav discusses initiatives like a jargon buster and job board to promote diversity and inclusion, reflecting on her experiences as a person of colour in the industry and her insights into mental resilience. As an Emerging Talent award-winner, Nav explores how AI and digital transformation are reshaping publishing, illustrating how passion and curiosity can forge impactful, fulfilling careers in this dynamic field. Tune in for Nav’s fresh perspective on innovation and inclusivity in publishing.

____________________________

Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!


]]> PPA Buzzsprout-15999189 Mon, 09 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000 1776 1 5 full false Insights from an Award-Winning Journalist Insights from an Award-Winning Journalist In this episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, award-winning reporter Maliha Shoaib from Vogue Business shares her journey through journalism, championing diversity, inclusion, and sustainability in today’s media landscape. As a PPA Next Gen Board member, Maliha discusses how young voices are making publishing more inclusive, reflecting on her start in a pivotal competition at Vogue Business and the challenges of balancing journalistic integrity with innovation. She explores the pressures journalists face, the importance of feedback, and the role of supportive company culture in growth. Maliha offers insights into how AI, social media, and new subscription models are reshaping journalism, highlighting adaptability and authenticity as essential in an ever-evolving field. Tune in for Maliha’s perspective on thriving in modern publishing. 

____________________________

Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!


]]> In this episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, award-winning reporter Maliha Shoaib from Vogue Business shares her journey through journalism, championing diversity, inclusion, and sustainability in today’s media landscape. As a PPA Next Gen Board member, Maliha discusses how young voices are making publishing more inclusive, reflecting on her start in a pivotal competition at Vogue Business and the challenges of balancing journalistic integrity with innovation. She explores the pressures journalists face, the importance of feedback, and the role of supportive company culture in growth. Maliha offers insights into how AI, social media, and new subscription models are reshaping journalism, highlighting adaptability and authenticity as essential in an ever-evolving field. Tune in for Maliha’s perspective on thriving in modern publishing. 

____________________________

Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!


]]> PPA Buzzsprout-15999171 Mon, 25 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +0000 1917 1 4 full false Behind the PPA Next Gen Board with Gareth Pritchard Behind the PPA Next Gen Board with Gareth Pritchard In the debut episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, Gareth Pritchard, Operations Director at the PPA, introduces host Shez Iqbal, an industry veteran who began in B2B magazine publishing. Gareth highlights the PPA’s transformative Next Gen Board initiative, aimed at empowering young, diverse voices to shape the industry’s future. Together, Gareth and Shez discuss how this program is redefining standards, nurturing talent, and fostering a more inclusive publishing landscape. This episode sets the stage for the series, sharing inspiring stories from leaders and other passionate figures shaping publishing with purpose.

____________________________

Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!


]]> In the debut episode of I Found Myself in Publishing, Gareth Pritchard, Operations Director at the PPA, introduces host Shez Iqbal, an industry veteran who began in B2B magazine publishing. Gareth highlights the PPA’s transformative Next Gen Board initiative, aimed at empowering young, diverse voices to shape the industry’s future. Together, Gareth and Shez discuss how this program is redefining standards, nurturing talent, and fostering a more inclusive publishing landscape. This episode sets the stage for the series, sharing inspiring stories from leaders and other passionate figures shaping publishing with purpose.

____________________________

Thank you for tuning in to I Found Myself in Publishing, brought to you by the PPA, the UK’s association for magazine and specialist media publishers. We hope you enjoyed this episode. A big thanks to our editor, Nav Pal, for making us sound great, and to our host, Shez Iqbal, for guiding us through today’s conversation. Special thanks to Gift Egbedi, who provided the music for our intro and outro.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. You can find us on all major platforms and follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

Thanks again for listening, and we’ll see you next time!


]]> PPA Buzzsprout-15999151 Sat, 16 Nov 2024 22:00:00 +0000 506 1 1 full false