We demonstrate using both structural and magnetic analyses that an antiferromagnetic MnRu intermediate layer can simultaneously increase the anisotropy constant and reduce the intergranular exchange coupling of a ${\text{CoPtCr-SiO}}_{2}$ recording layer. The anisotropy constant of ${\text{CoPtCr-SiO}}_{2}$ is increased by an exchange coupling with the adjacent antiferromagnetic MnRu intermediate layer. Additionally, the MnRu layer leads to better ${\text{SiO}}_{2}$ segregation within the recording layer which then weakens intergrain exchange coupling. While the enhanced grain isolation leads to a reduction in the activation volume, a potential loss in thermal stability is avoided due to the enhanced anisotropy.