143: [BEST OF] Why advertising MUST entertain with Paul Feldwick.

It’s been 5 years since Call to Action® captured our first of what’s now over 140 heroes and allies from the industry front lines to have a chin-wag with. To celebrate, we’re rereleasing a choice cut of our favourite episodes as part of a ‘Best Of’ series. 



In 2021, baited by a Bedouin birthing blanket, we caught big thinker and bestselling author, Paul Feldwick. 



The man behind one of our favourite all time ad campaigns, Paul worked at the legendary agency BMP on some of Britain’s most famous brands for over 30 years.



Paul talks to us on tonnes of topics, including BMP, being the world’s worst account manager, clowns, talking to real people, what brands can learn from Snow White, Jeremy Bullmore, PT Barnum, fame, shame, purpose, Mrs Brown’s Boys, whether ads need to be "liked", Martin Boase, and a whole lot more. 



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Check out his website 

Follow Paul on LinkedIn

We implore you to read both of his fabulous books:  

Why Does the Pedlar Sing? 

Anatomy of Humbug 

And here’s that famous Barclaycard ad with Rowan Atkinson 



Timestamps

(01:58) - Quick fire questions

(07:20) - Paul's early career and transition to account planning

(11:24) - Importance of entertaining advertising

(17:29) - Discussion on fame in advertising

(24:35) - The history of advertising and its impact on creativity

(29:33) - The moral implications of advertising and the need for entertaining content

(35:32) - Question on creative thinking in advertising and overcoming shame for fame

(41:36) - Balancing likability and fame in advertising campaigns

(47:07) - Pertinent posers 



Paul’s book recommendations are: 

How Brands Grow by Byron Sharp 

Building Distinctive Brand Assets by Jenni Romaniuk 



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