How I Built This with Guy Raz Patreon: Jack Conte and Sam Yam
Jan 11, 2021
Jack Conte, a musician from the band Pomplamoose, and Sam Yam, a seasoned software engineer, share their journey in creating Patreon. They discuss the struggles artists face in monetizing their work, especially with the rise of streaming services. The duo highlights the revolutionary crowdfunding model that connects creators directly to fans. Their reflections on early ventures, the challenges of launching the platform, and the balance between free speech and content moderation provide a fascinating glimpse into entrepreneurship in the creative sector.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Pomplamoose's Rise
- Jack Conte and Natalie formed the band Pomplamoose in 2009.
- Their cover of Beyonce's Single Ladies gained millions of views, boosting their YouTube channel.
Popularity vs. Profitability
- Online popularity doesn't guarantee financial stability, especially after intermediaries take their cut.
- Jack Conte aimed to find a sustainable way for artists to earn without relying on major labels.
Early Creative Interests
- Jack Conte was fascinated with puppetry and animation, while Sam Yam enjoyed programming.
- Both had a passion for music, which led to them becoming roommates at Stanford.