On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with the one and only Nitti Beatz, a foundational figure in Atlanta's music scene. Nitti takes us back to his roots, from his gospel radio upbringing with his mother to learning seven instruments by ear. He recounts the early days of Atlanta hip-hop, being inspired by local legends like Mr. Cool, and his big break producing tracks for 8-Ball. Nitti pulls back the curtain on the creation of the multi-platinum hit "It's Goin' Down" for Young Joc, sharing the creative process and the lessons learned about the industry. This conversation is packed with insights on the importance of music quality, branding, mentorship from figures like Jermaine Dupri and Diddy, and his passion for developing the next generation of artists. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, we’re kicking it with Angela Watts, the visionary behind Atlanta Fashion Week. Angela saw the potential for ATL to be more than just a hub for music and culture—she knew it could be a global fashion hotspot too. So, she built a platform that highlights everything from streetwear to high fashion. Fast forward over a decade, and Atlanta Fashion Week is pulling in designers, brands, and fashion lovers from around the world. Tap in as Angela breaks down how she turned her vision into one of ATL’s biggest fashion events, what it really takes to make it in the fashion game, and where she sees the future of Atlanta’s fashion scene heading.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, dives into the franchise hustle with Randy Hazelton, CEO of H&H Hospitality. Randy reveals how he went from flipping real estate to running Shake Shacks, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Sweetwater Brewhouses in major airports. He breaks down the difference between building concepts from scratch versus leveraging franchises, and why the latter can be a shortcut to success. This conversation is packed with insights on funding, private equity, and the overlooked opportunities in boring businesses.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, host Brandon Butler sits down with Ryan Cameron, the unmistakable Voice of Atlanta, to break down his journey from intern to media legend. He shares how he built a lasting career, stayed relevant, and why Atlanta’s culture thrives on reinvention. We talk betting on yourself, staying present, and the power of collaboration—plus some wild stories from his radio days. Packed with laughs, wisdom, and real talk—this is one you don’t want to miss!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, we sit down with Melissa Proctor, Chief Marketing Officer of the Atlanta Hawks, to explore her inspiring journey from a high school intern to a trailblazing executive. Melissa shares the unconventional path that led her to the C-suite, proving that success isn’t always a straight line. We dive into how she overcame challenges as a Black woman in sports, balanced motherhood with her demanding career, and used culture and authenticity to drive innovation. Melissa also reveals her strategies for shaping the future of fandom and inclusivity within the Hawks organization. Whether you’re looking for career inspiration, leadership insights, or just an incredible story of resilience and vision, this episode is packed with lessons that will leave you ready to take your own leap of faith.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Kelvin Collins, Vice President of Economic Development at the Atlanta BeltLine, to explore how the BeltLine has become more than a trail. Collins breaks down how it’s connecting 45 neighborhoods, sparking billions in investment, and creating opportunities for small businesses, artists, and everyday Atlantans. From affordable shipping container storefronts to preparing entrepreneurs for global events like the World Cup, this episode highlights the BeltLine as both Atlanta’s front porch and its billion-dollar future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Michael Barclay II, Chief Events and Experience Officer at Sundial Media, to break down the massive machine behind Essence Fest, AfroPunk, and BeautyCon. Barclay shares how Essence Fest became more than concerts, growing into a conference, marketplace, and cultural touchstone driving over $350 million in economic impact for New Orleans. He also opens up about his journey from Def Jam college rep to leading some of the biggest cultural festivals in the world. Listeners will learn the truth about what it costs to stage massive events, how brands and partners really work behind the scenes, and why patience and community-building are non-negotiable for long-term success.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Terri Lee, President and CEO of Atlanta Housing, to explore what the future of affordable housing looks like in one of America’s fastest-growing cities. They discuss the challenges of rising rents, the opportunities in public-private partnerships, and how housing serves as the foundation for thriving communities. Terri shares her vision for equity, innovation, and sustainability in building homes that truly open doors for Atlanta families.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, dives into the story of how Black Spades turned a classic card game into a thriving culture brand. From learning manufacturing lessons in Shenzhen to testing product demand through Kickstarter, this episode shows what it takes to build a business rooted in authenticity. Mackey breaks down the power of sampling before scaling, the grind of overseas trips, and why cultural trust beats big budgets every time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Brandon Chubb, former NFL player and founder of Do Not Disturb Wellness. Chubb breaks down how he’s taking pro-athlete-level recovery practices like sauna, cold plunge, and massage and making them accessible to the public. The conversation dives into the business model behind wellness memberships, the cultural shift toward recovery as lifestyle, and why Atlanta is the perfect home for this new wave of wellness.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with DJ, producer, and cultural curator Jeremy Avalon to explore how parties can become platforms. Jeremy shares the story behind The Groove, the R&B experience that has lasted nearly a decade, and why building community around music is just as important as the music itself. From filling cultural gaps in Atlanta to securing sponsorships and turning nightlife into a business, Jeremy breaks down what it takes to transform creativity into sustainability.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Dr. Kevin James, the president responsible for the extraordinary resurgence of Morris Brown College. Dr. James shares the gripping story of how he led the Atlanta-based HBCU from bankruptcy and lost accreditation back to national recognition. From his audacious decision to pursue the presidency, to rallying alumni, partners like Arthur Blank, and the AME Church, Dr. James reveals the strategy and resilience behind the rebirth of this historic institution. He also dives into his philosophy of "no excuses," team-building insights, and why he believes preparation is the key to overcoming impossible challenges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with media powerhouse Dawn Montgomery to discuss how she's mastered the elusive art of going viral. Dawn shares her journey from modeling to journalism, revealing the intentional strategies and authenticity behind her most talked-about moments. From valuing her work and pivoting careers to leveraging cultural insights, Dawn breaks down exactly what it takes to turn buzz into lasting business success.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Michael MacDonald, the behind-the-scenes architect of Earn Your Leisure and Invest Fest, to share the real story of how it all came together. Michael opens up about his early hustle designing flyers, the pivotal equity deal that taught him the power of residual income, and the bold moves that helped EYL grow into a global brand. He also breaks down the business strategy behind EYL University, the Mac Pack legacy project, and why Invest Fest has become the Black Friday for entrepreneurs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Playboy Tre and B Rich, hosts of Atlanta’s hottest sports podcast, The Waterboyz Show. They dive into the real struggles and triumphs of being Atlanta sports fans, revealing how they've turned that passion—and pain—into a powerhouse podcast. Hear the behind-the-scenes stories of their journey, how their entertainment background shaped their unique style, and why the city has fully embraced their authentic take on sports.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, talks with financial strategist Nicole Garner Scott about breaking down the myths that keep people from true financial empowerment. Nicole shares her journey from PR powerhouse to financial expert, revealing the common misconceptions about wealth, generational financial literacy, and why cultural narratives around money often keep communities stuck.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From humble beginnings in Milwaukee to building one of the South’s most respected hip-hop platforms, Spitty shares how he turned a camera, a porch, and a passion for storytelling into a full-scale media business. He opens up about working with legends like Young Dolph and Snoop Dogg, surviving the pandemic, and stepping out from behind the camera to become a voice of the culture. This is a masterclass in consistency, vision, and staying true to the streets.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with CJ and Kelli Stewart to break down how they’re using baseball to build character, confidence, and cultural pride in Black youth. From turning $40,000 into a million-dollar mentorship program to creating coaching certifications that heal generational trauma, they’re transforming more than just talent. The Stewarts share real talk on pricing your value, showing up with purpose, and building community through sports. This is a masterclass in what it means to lead with love—and legacy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Curtis Daniel III to uncover the real story behind Patchwerk Studios, the legendary recording space that helped shape the sound of the South. Curtis breaks down how he built a world-class studio without outside backing, earned trust across the music industry, and stayed relevant for 30 years. From working with Outkast and Jeezy to running a studio with zero debt and 26 employees, Curtis shares game for creatives and business owners alike. He also opens up about the importance of standards, customer service, and raising the bar, not lowering it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, talks with J-Bizz about what it truly takes to create authentic content that resonates and goes viral. J-Bizz shares insights from his journey—from growing up in Richmond, Virginia, to becoming a cultural force in Atlanta—detailing how consistency, creativity, and community connection led to his breakthrough moments. He breaks down the secrets behind leveraging culture, content, and personal authenticity to build a thriving multifaceted brand.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.