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The Madison Avenue Field GuideA field guide to marketing & advertising, by Brandon Mina

GlossaryCTV, Video & AudioFirst-in-Pod (Pod Position)

CTV, Video & Audio

First-in-Pod (Pod Position)

The first ad slot in a commercial break, often sold at a premium because it captures attention before viewers tune out.

By Brandon MinaCEO, BrandPilot AIUpdated November 2026

Short answer

First-in-pod is the first ad slot in a commercial break or streaming ad pod. It is often sold at a premium because it reaches viewers before they switch channels, skip, or lose attention as the break continues. Pod position more generally describes where an ad sits within a break, influencing its price and impact.