Jon Yaged, CEO of Macmillan Publishers: Reaching Modern Readers and Leading in a Changing Publishing Landscape

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Previously titled “Jon Yaged on Growing a Book Company, Reaching Modern Readers, and Leading in a Changing Publishing Landscape” — renamed by the publisher on Sep 1, 2026

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Recorded31 Mar 2026

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Show notes

This week, Jessica sits down with Jon Yaged, CEO and longtime publishing leader, to explore how books, reading habits, and consumer expectations are evolving in a rapidly changing world. With experience leading major book organizations through growth and transformation, Jon shares a grounded perspective on what it takes to keep reading relevant in an era defined by constant distraction and shifting attention. Jon explains how successful book companies think beyond individual titles and instead focus on building lasting relationships with readers. He walks through the realities of scaling a modern publishing business, from understanding changing consumption patterns to creating experiences that meet readers where they are. He also reflects on the role of leadership in balancing commercial performance with the deeper mission of fostering curiosity, learning, and long term engagement. The conversation also explores how technology, distribution, and audience behavior are reshaping the industry, and why adaptability has become a core requirement for publishers and leaders alike. Jon shares insights on building teams that can operate through uncertainty, staying focused on the customer, and continuing to invest in books as a meaningful and enduring medium. About Jon Yaged Jon Yaged is Chief Executive Officer of Macmillan Publishers. Jon previously served as President, Macmillan Publishers, and President & Publisher, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group. During his tenure as CEO and President, the company recorded the highest revenue and operating income in its history. Over the course of his 20-year career in children’s publishing, Jon oversaw the publication of many bestselling books while working with critically acclaimed, award-winning authors and illustrators, including Katherine Applegate, Leigh Bardugo, Angeline Boulley, Eoin Colfer, Taye Diggs, Shane W. Evans, Jimmy Fallon, Jules Feiffer, Jonas Brothers, Demi Lovato, Marissa Meyer, Rick Riordan, Mo Willems, and Gene Luen Yang. Jon is passionate about fostering publishing programs that reflect the communities in which we live. He is committed to leading a company that invests in its employees by creating a culture of collaboration, mentorship, inclusion, and innovation. Jon began his publishing career at The Walt Disney Company, reaching the level of Vice President, US Publisher, Disney Book Group. He also served as Chief Operating Officer of a social media marketing company and, before joining Disney, he practiced entertainment and technology law. Jon currently serves on the Boards of the Association of American Publishers, National Book Foundation, and National Coalition Against Censorship. He has a JD from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the George Washington University. Jon lives with his family in New York City. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonyaged/ Website: https://us.macmillan.com/ Host: Jessica Kriegel Website: jessicakriegel.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jessicakriegel Instagram: @jess_kriegel Culture Partners Website: culturepartners.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/culturepartners

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