Mike Shields

Mike Shields is one of the most recognized independent journalists and analysts covering the intersection of advertising technology, media, and digital business. He is best known as the founder of Next in Marketing, a newsletter and media property that delivers sharp, insider-level analysis on programmatic advertising, streaming, retail media, and the broader AdTech ecosystem. His work is essential reading for C-suite executives, investors, and practitioners navigating the rapidly shifting digital advertising landscape. Shields built his reputation over more than two decades at some of the most prestigious media outlets in the industry. He served as a senior reporter and editor at Business Insider covering advertising and media, and previously held roles at The Wall Street Journal and Adweek, where he developed deep sourcing and expertise across the buy side, sell side, and technology layers of the advertising industry. His reporting has consistently broken news and shaped industry narratives around major platform shifts, M&A activity, and emerging business models. Through Shields Strategic Consulting and the Next in Marketing newsletter, Shields has transitioned into an influential independent voice, combining journalism, consulting, and thought leadership. He is a sought-after speaker at major industry conferences including Cannes Lions, Advertising Week, and CES, and regularly appears as a commentator on media and AdTech trends. His ability to translate complex technology and business dynamics into accessible, actionable insights has made him a trusted resource across the advertising and media investment communities.

Last updated May 30, 2026 by the ATDb Editorial Team