The Business of Talent

In this episode, the hosts discuss the impact of AI on the creator economy, separating hype from genuine change. They delve into popular AI tools currently used by creators, how these technologies are integrated into workflows, and the importance of audience connection and authenticity in an AI-driven landscape. They explore the benefits and pitfalls of various AI applications, ranging from content generation to competitive analysis, and emphasize the necessity for creators to develop unique skills to stay ahead. The discussion also touches on the future of AI in content creation, the potential business impacts, and strategies for leveraging AI without sacrificing artistic integrity.00:00 Introduction: The AI Revolution for Creators00:22 Exploring the AI Toolbox for Creators01:26 AI in Action: Real-World Use Cases02:27 Competitive Analysis and Strategy with AI04:27 Content Ideation and Custom AI Models09:10 The Hype vs. Reality of AI Tools15:32 The Business Impact of AI on Content Creation29:30 Future-Proofing Your Creative Career with AI34:53 Conclusion: Embracing AI in the Creative Process

Jordan and Sam reconnect to discuss recent updates in their lives and their return to the show. Highlights include Jordan buying an apartment in New York City and Sam working on big projects for Usher. They discuss the evolving role of AI in the creator economy and the impact of Rolling Stone's 25 Most Influential Creators of 2025 list. They also delve into a new media funding platform, Waterfall, that promises to shake up traditional film and TV funding models by offering fans and investors more power. The episode concludes with a discussion on how AI will shape content creation and what it means for the authenticity of creators.00:00 Reunion and Catching Up00:54 Big Life Updates01:51 The Evolving Creator Economy02:46 Rolling Stone's Influential Creators of 202511:44 Waterfall: A New Era in Film and TV16:02 AI's Impact on the Creator Economy28:41 Conclusion and Future Plans

Jordan and Sam delve into Publicis's recent $150 million acquisition of Captivate, an influencer marketing company known for its extensive creator network and advancements in affiliate marketing technology. Their discussion highlights the shifting landscape of ad spending, as revenue increasingly moves from traditional formats to user-generated content platforms, accelerating the growth of the creator economy. They also examine strategic moves by major brands, such as MLB, which signal a broader trend of investments in this space. Additionally, the conversation explores how traditional media can stay competitive by collaborating directly with individual creators, reflecting on the opportunities and challenges this evolution presents.00:00 Morning Catch-Up00:13 Weekend Adventures01:06 Exciting Industry News01:45 Publicis' Strategic Moves03:58 The Future of Advertising08:39 MLB's Strategic Investment08:52 The Rise of Creator Platforms10:01 Traditional Media's Response

In this episode, we dive into the evolving landscape of media with a focus on short form content and the economics behind it. Hosts discuss the rise in revenue from YouTube Shorts, new platforms like TTIKR, and the impact of podcasting giant PodX acquiring Lemonada. Discover how creators are navigating these changes, monetizing content, and the implications for the future of digital media. Plus, insights on the importance of repurposing long-form content into shorts and the potential of superfan platforms.00:00 The Evolution of Short Form Content00:25 Catching Up01:47 Diving into Recent Industry News02:03 YouTube Shorts Revenue Milestone03:15 Strategies for Creators: Long Form vs. Short Form08:41 TTIKR: A New Creator-First Platform09:43 Discussion on TTIKR Potential Impact17:00 Podcast Industry Insights and Acquisitions18:44 Celebrity-Driven Podcasts vs. Emerging Talent23:31 Closing Thoughts

Exploring Spotify's $100M Payouts, YouTube's Creator Partnership Hub, and Rich Paul's New Venture!In this episode, we dive into the latest news in the podcasting and creator economy landscape. We discuss Spotify's impressive $100 million payout to podcasters in Q1 2025 and its continued growth in video podcasting. YouTube's new Creator Partnership Hub, which aims to simplify collaborations between brands and creators, is also covered. Finally, we explore Rich Paul's and Paul Rivera's new media venture, Homecoming, focused on video podcasts at the intersection of sports, business, and culture. Join us for an in-depth look at these exciting developments!00:00 Intro00:48 Spotify's Massive Podcast Payouts08:22 YouTube's New Creator Partnership Hub12:50 Rich Paul's New Sports Media Investment18:24 Closing Thoughts

Sam and Jordan discuss the significant deal that filmmaker Ryan Coogler has secured for his new movie, 'Sinners.' The deal includes highly unusual points such as final cut rights, first dollar gross, and ownership rights reverting to Coogler after 25 years. These terms represent a monumental shift in power dynamics for filmmakers, especially for those from marginalized communities. They also delve into historical precedents, highlighting similar deals by directors like Christopher Nolan and Tyler Perry, and discuss the broader implications for the future of filmmaking and creative ownership in Hollywood.00:00 Introduction00:20 Casual Catch-Up and Setting the Scene00:54 Deep Dive into Ryan Coogler's Deal04:07 Historical Precedents and Comparisons04:46 Creative Control and Industry Dynamics13:35 Impact on Future Filmmakers19:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This episode delves into the importance of diversifying income streams for creators, featuring a discussion on Epic Gardening's acquisition of Modern Farmer. The hosts also review Q1 2025's surge in creator economy funding and analyze how recent tariffs imposed by President Trump are impacting creator-led businesses. Finally, they explore the shift in creators identifying as entrepreneurs, as highlighted by Kajabi's 2025 State of Creator Commerce report.00:00 Introduction and Diversifying Income Streams00:16 Catching Up: Personal Updates01:27 Episode Overview and Listener Engagement02:02 Epic Gardening Acquires Modern Farmer09:37 Q1 2025 Creator Economy Funding Surge14:07 Impact of 2025 Tariffs on the Creator Economy17:49 Creators Embracing Entrepreneurship19:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Business of Talent Podcast, the hosts delve into the remarkable journey of Emma Chamberlain and her successful venture, Chamberlain Coffee. Starting as a YouTube influencer, Emma leveraged her online presence to build a $50 million valuation coffee brand. The conversation covers her early beginnings, the growth of Chamberlain Coffee, overcoming challenges, and key lessons for content creators looking to launch their own brands. The episode emphasizes authenticity, strategic growth, and the importance of building a strong team to turn influencer success into a sustainable business.00:33 Casual Catch-Up and Upcoming Events01:17 Spotlight on Indo Warehouse02:34 Deep Dive into Emma Chamberlain's Success04:23 Emma Chamberlain's Journey and Business Blueprint12:14 Challenges and Growth of Chamberlain Coffee26:03 Current State and Future of Chamberlain Coffee29:47 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Business of Talent Podcast, hosts Jordan and Sam explore innovative ways to monetize content and support creators. They dive into the recent developments surrounding Cam Newton's new creator studio in Atlanta and its potential impact on underrepresented voices. The episode also covers Fixated securing $13 million to enhance creator monetization and management, and India's $1 billion commitment to boost its creator economy. Tune in to understand the evolving landscape of media, talent, and entertainment, and how these changes are redefining business strategies.00:57 Cam Newton's New Creator Studio08:38 Fixated's $13 Million Funding Round14:06 India's $1 Billion Investment in Creator Economy17:53 Closing Remarks and Next Episode Teaser

In this episode of the Business of Talent Podcast, hosts Jordan and Sam are joined by special guest Isabel Li, a seasoned expert in influencer marketing and social strategy. Isabel has led successful campaigns for brands like Spotify, Netflix, HBO Max, and Target. The conversation dives into the key aspects of running impactful influencer marketing campaigns, setting strategic goals, and the importance of aligning creative content with influencers' authentic styles. Isabel also shares insights into selecting the right creators, avoiding common mistakes, and maximizing ROI. The episode offers a holistic view of influencer marketing, blending business objectives with creative freedom.00:29 Meet Our Special Guest: Isabel Li01:34 Diving into Influencer Campaigns03:21 Setting Clear Goals and KPIs05:22 Successful Strategies and Campaigns09:57 Creative Planning and Execution13:13 Common Mistakes in Influencer Marketing16:18 Building Relationships with Influencers17:43 The Impact of Collaboration on Creative Output18:10 Expanding Influencer Roles Beyond Social Media18:41 Building Long-Term Relationships with Influencers19:30 The Evolution of Influencer Selection in the Music Industry21:40 Manual Research vs. Influencer Software25:37 Balancing Macro and Micro Influencers27:30 Effective Marketing Tactics and Common Pitfalls29:38 The Value of Influencer Relationship Management31:17 A Viral Success Story: Spotify Wrapped Campaign33:31 Favorite Tools for Influencer Reporting and Analysis34:33 Influencer vs. Creator: What's in a Name?35:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Business Talent Podcast, hosts Jordan and Sam discuss the rise of talent-led brands and their potential long-term viability. They explore market shifts driven by technological advancements that have made it easier to create content and build audiences. Highlighting successful ventures like Logan Paul and KSI's Prime and Kim Kardashian's Skims, alongside flops like Travis Scott's Cacti, they analyze key factors for success in this space. The conversation delves into the importance of product market fit, reducing key man risk, and long-term business fundamentals, while also weighing if this trend represents a sustainable business model or just a transient bubble.00:00 Introduction and Warm-Up00:50 Overview of Talent-Led Brands02:23 Market Shifts and Technology Impact09:33 Case Study: Prime by Logan Paul and KSI13:25 Key Man Risk and Brand Sustainability19:15 Success Factors for Talent-Led Brands23:51 Final Thoughts and Personal Favorites27:54 Conclusion and Sign-Off

In this episode of the Business of Talent Podcast, hosts Jordan and Sam delve into the latest trends and significant investments in the media and talent sectors. They discuss Fox Corporation's acquisition of Red Seat Ventures, Publicis Groupe's strategic purchase of BR Media Group, and Carlyle's noteworthy investment in Entertainment 360. The conversation explores the implications of these moves for creators, traditional media companies, and the shifting dynamics of content consumption. They emphasize the importance of creating and owning intellectual property in the evolving marketplace and tease exciting updates for their own ventures.00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks00:23 Weekly Updates and Personal News01:07 Podcast Overview and Main Topics01:58 Carlisle's Investment in Entertainment 36009:51 Publicis Acquires BR Media Group16:07 Fox Corporation Acquires Red Seat Ventures24:38 Concluding Thoughts and Next Week's Preview

In this episode of the Business of Talent Podcast, hosts Jordan and Sam dive into the evolving landscape of the creator economy, emphasizing the growing significance of niche content creators and creator-led businesses. They discuss Slow Ventures' $60 million fund aimed at investing in niche creators, touching on the challenges and opportunities presented by algorithm-driven platforms and creator burnout. The episode also analyzes key insights from Patreon's State of Create report and celebrates MrBeast's groundbreaking success with his unscripted show on Amazon Prime Video, setting a new paradigm for creators in traditional media.01:00 Trends in the Creator Economy01:32 Slow Ventures' Investment in Niche Creators03:00 Challenges and Opportunities for Creators07:43 Patreon's State of Create Report14:40 MrBeast's Impact on Unscripted Shows17:05 Conclusion and Sign-Off

In this episode of the Business of Talent Podcast, hosts Sam Hysell and Jordan Williams dive into 11 surprising statistics about the creator economy. They discuss the rapid growth projections for the industry, the increasing influence of brand collaborations, and the evolving landscape for content creators. They highlight key insights such as the rise of creator-led brands, the dominance of short-form videos, and the varied categories of creators. They also touch on the potential for a middle class of creators and the significance of authentic endorsements. This episode provides a data-driven look at the current state and future trends of the creator economy.00:00 Introduction and Overview00:22 Welcome to the Talent Podcast00:52 11 Shocking Stats About the Creator Economy01:18 Stat 1: Creator Economy Growth Projections05:23 Stat 2: Rapid Expansion of the Creator Economy06:29 Stat 3: Blockbuster Agency Acquisition09:56 Stat 4: Brand Investments in Creators12:26 Stat 5: Who Are the Creators?15:22 Stat 6: Gen Z's Preference for Influencers17:34 Stat 7: Creator-Led Brands19:45 Stat 8: Power of Celebrity Endorsements22:46 Stat 9: Audience Size23:57 Stat 10: Top Creator Categories25:42 Stat 11: Dominance of Short Form Videos27:38 Conclusion and Closing Remarks

In this episode of the Business of Talent Podcast, hosts dive into an engaging conversation with Mike Boyd from Gary Vaynerchuk's (Gary Vee) VaynerX. They discuss Boyd's journey in the music industry, including his transition from managing artists to becoming the head of music at VaynerX. Boyd shares stories about discovering and supporting emerging talent like Tierra Whack and Gunna, as well as his experience with music-related campaigns for brands such as Budweiser and K-Swiss. Special guest Guy joins the dialogue to discuss his collaboration with VaynerX and his aspirations for 2025. The episode explores the intersection of music, marketing, and cultural influence, highlighting the potential impact of artist-brand partnerships.00:00 Introduction and Special Guest01:47 Mike Boyd's Journey and Role at VaynerX04:15 Evolution of VaynerMusic06:52 Campaigns and Artist Relations10:39 Brand Partnerships and ROI20:04 The Power of Influencers in Marketing20:46 Success Stories: VaynerX and Custom Music22:23 The Cultural Influence of Hip Hop27:15 Identifying and Supporting Emerging Talent33:26 Special Guest: Guy's Journey with VaynerX36:46 Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Excitement38:15 Closing Remarks and Reflections

In this episode of the Business of Talent Podcast, hosts Sam and Jordan are joined by Tiffany Kelly, the founder and CEO of Curastory. They discuss the transformative impact of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) for student-athletes, the future of influencer media, and how creators can better monetize their content.  Tiffany shares her journey from being a sports analytics associate at ESPN to creating Curastory, a platform enabling creators to monetize across their social profiles. The episode’s news segment also covers Chamath Paliapatiya's investment in Mr. Beast and the NFL's new program granting former players access to official footage. With insights into programmatic advertising and creator growth strategies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of the creator economy. 00:00 Introduction to NIL and Creator Economy 00:18 Welcoming the Audience and Introducing the Podcast 00:50 Special Guest: Tiffany Kelly of Curastory 02:05 Weekly News Segment: Mr. Beast's Series A Funding 07:22 NFL's Access Pass for Legends 12:46 Brand Safety and Creator Autonomy 17:51 Interview with Tiffany Kelly: ESPN to Curastory 31:23 Early Partnerships and VC Funding 33:36 Starting with Sports in the Creator Economy 36:47 Navigating Advertiser Demand 37:40 The Evolution of the Creator Economy 41:03 Data and Analytics in Advertising 45:47 Exploring B2B Creators 47:31 Hot Takes and Final Thoughts

In the first episode of the Business of Talent Podcast, hosts Jordan and Sam are joined by special guest Caleb Simpson. Caleb is widely recognized as the 'apartment guy' with over 13M followers across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Caleb shares insights from his journey from a tennis trainer to a viral content creator, discussing the nuances of working with brands, leveraging different platforms, and the importance of maintaining authenticity. The episode also covers trending news such as TikTok's ban, Instagram and Substack’s incentive programs for creators, and the role of podcasts and democratized media in the recent 2024 elections.00:00 Introduction00:42 Special Guest: Caleb Simpson02:31 Substack & Instagram Creator Incentives09:47 Podcasts & The 2024 Election15:39 Caleb’s Journey to Internet Stardom27:23 Brand Partnerships & Content Strategy35:10 Knowing When to Pivot37:49 Monetizing Content40:09 The Art of Short-Form Video Editing45:17 Balancing Creativity & Branding46:33 Growth Strategies & Viral Content54:38 Hot Takes & Final Thoughts

We’re back! Join Sam Hysell & Jordan Chude Williams as they return after a hiatus with a special announcement… The Music Business Podcast is coming back with Season 2, The Business of Talent.Catch up with the hosts as they reflect on what’s happened in the past couple of years and dive into what’s coming with Season 2. Get ready for weekly episodes, which include guest interviews and news segments focused on how talent, media and the creator economy are redefining how businesses are built and scaled.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Comeback01:29 Personal Updates: Marriage and Career Growth05:05 Sam's Journey with NOX Media & nft now11:05 Season 2: The Business of Talent13:10 The Evolving Creator Economy19:29 What to Expect25:35 Conclusion and Future Episodes

After 124 episodes, we are switching it up. We're putting a nice, big red bow on Season 1. Thank you all so much for the incredible support over the past 2 years and we are so so thankful for the amazing community that now surrounds the podcast and everything it stands for.This is our opportunity to reimagine and continue to level up how we operate, the conversations we have, the potential to organise events and come back like never before.BRB on September 23rd.Don't be a stranger. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of the Music Business Podcast, we invite Alexander Fruchter aka DJ RTC. Born and raised in Chicago's Hyde Park neighborhood, he has been a mainstay in Chicago’s Hip Hop community as a DJ, journalist, and label owner for close to 20 years. Fruchter is the founder of the significant underground Hip Hop blog rubyhornet, an accomplished DJ, and an Associate Professor of Instruction at Columbia College Chicago. Fruchter is the founder of the indie Hip Hop label, Closed Sessions, and was recognized by the Chicago Tribune as a “Chicagoan of the Year” in 2016. He is a graduate of Indiana University, and currently lives in Humboldt Park. His most recent writing can be found at LL Cool’s Rock The Bells.Today, we talk about founding Closed Sessions and writing for rubyhornet in the height of the blog era, what today's music industry can learn from it when it comes to community building, branding, and more. This is a fun, informative episode and a moment nostalgia for anyone that was a part of the blogging community in the early 2010s. Even if you weren't, you'll get an idea of what it brought to today's industry by the episode's conclusion.Leave a review and join us in our discord via our Patreon at https://musicbusinesspodcast.com/community to discuss the episode with Sam, Jordan, and the Music Business Podcast community. Follow us on IG at @musicbusinesspodcast for additional content and clips from this episode and past episodes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.