Playback Pioneers
In an industry where the only constant is change, the Playback Pioneers Podcast is your backstage pass to the minds and moments shaping the future of video. Evolving from 5V Video’s annual Playback Pioneers Report, this podcast takes the conversation further—giving a platform to the people, companies, and communities defining tomorrow’s playback experience. Each episode brings together industry leaders to explore the challenges and opportunities that are reshaping how the world watches. From solving streaming’s toughest technical hurdles to the business strategies driving innovation, we want to uncover the real stories behind the technology and the visionaries making it happen.
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Episodes
Thursday Apr 24, 2025
Thursday Apr 24, 2025
In this episode of Playback Pioneers, host Tommy Flanagan sits down with industry heavyweight Thierry Fautier, (Former VP of Video Strategy at Harmonic, and MD of Your Media Transformation) for a wide-ranging and candid conversation about the state of streaming. From reflections on two decades of transformation in video tech to sharp takes on AI, UHD, and the messy middle of CDN evolution, nothing is off the table. Together, they break down the real blockers to progress in the streaming world - and what needs to change. With a healthy dose of insight, honesty, and humour, this episode offers a front-row seat to the minds shaping the future of media.
00:00 – Welcome to Playback Pioneers5V Video's Josh Seeley opens up the conversation introducing Tommy and Thierry.
08:48 – 20 Years in the Stream: Thierry’s JourneyThierry reflects on his two-decade-long career, lessons learned, and how staying relevant means constantly reinventing yourself.
15:36 – Compression Tech: The Unsung HeroThe pair dive into how advances in compression have quietly powered the streaming boom—and where it's headed next.
20:43 – Live Sports: Why It’s Still a Tech HeadacheThey unpack the chaos of live sports streaming, latency nightmares, and why innovation here is still so tough.
27:04 – UHD, AI & the Road AheadA frank chat about AI’s role in the future of UHD. Is it helping or just adding buzzwords?
32:36 – Advertising in 2025: Smarter or Creepier?From smarter targeting to ethical concerns, they explore where digital advertising is heading, and who benefits most.
39:12 – CDNs & Live: What Needs to Change?The evolution of content delivery networks and the crucial role of edge computing come into focus.
44:25 – Time to Let Go: Tech Trends That Need RetiringNot every innovation is worth keeping, Tommy and Thierry share what trends they’d like to leave behind.
51:16 – Quickfire Qs & Lighter MomentsJosh returns to wrap up the session with some quick-fire questions.
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Behind every breakthrough in video, there’s messy, honest and unfiltered stories. So, we’re going to help tell them.Introducing our brand new initiative. The Playback Pioneers podcast🎤 – the podcast that passes the mic to the people, companies, and communities shaping the future of playback experiences.No generic talking points. No polished PR spin. Just raw, real conversations between the people solving streaming’s biggest challenges and pushing the limits of playback technology.Born from our Playback Pioneers Report, this podcast flips the script—with a 'Pass the Baton' format where each guest becomes the next host. Every episode brings a fresh voice, new energy, and exclusive insights. All facilitated by our very own Joshua SEELEY.Hosts and guests who are already passing the baton: 🎤 Tommy Flanagan (Faultline) → Thierry Fautier⬇️➡️🎤 Thierry Fautier → Benjamin Schwarz (Greening of Streaming)⬇️➡️🎤 Ben Schwarz → Bleuenn Le Goffic (Accedo.tv)⬇️And, that's just the start.More hosts and guests will be announced very soon.EPISODE 1 LAUNCH - 24.4.25