Last Week Tonight with John Oliver: Native Advertising

A few weeks ago, John Oliver spoke about corporate influence in the media on his show “Last Week Tonight.” As someone with a traditional PR background, the separation of church vs. state (or separation of editorial vs. advertising) is something I have a strong opinion about. For example, if I’m trying to get coverage for one of my brands in a magazine, but the editor has to go in another direction because of an advertiser, it puts me in a position where I am not able to succeed for my client. It’s not right! But when it comes to native advertising, I feel differently. I don’t have a problem when companies find creative ways to offer sponsored content. In fact, it has become a part of what I do as I believe it’s the future of the industry, and I think the general public is smart enough to know what they are reading. This was a touchy subject over dinner with friends the other night – what do you think?