
Trapital
Trapital is where technology meets culture. Hear breakdowns on the most important trends in tech, media, and entertainment. Trapital founder Dan Runcie and various guests break down the moves that shape the rest of society. Learn more
Latest episodes

4 snips
Aug 5, 2024 • 47min
StubHub: The Complicated World of Reselling Tickets
Tati Cirisano, an expert from MIDiA Research, dives deep into the complex world of StubHub, revealing its intriguing 25-year history. They discuss the platform's influence on the ticket resale market and its challenges, including legal battles with the New England Patriots and the ethical dilemmas of pricing. The chat highlights StubHub’s current IPO ambitions versus market realities and explores the regulatory hurdles facing the industry. It's a rollercoaster of insights on ticketing and fan experiences!

Jul 29, 2024 • 50min
50 Cent: From Trolling to Triumph
Zack O'Malley Greenburg, a former Forbes journalist known for his insights in the entertainment industry, joins to uncover the dynamic journey of 50 Cent. They discuss his evolution from a tough upbringing and early mixtapes to becoming a cultural and business powerhouse. The conversation dives into the significance of rivalries, such as his with Jay-Z, and explores his revolutionary Vitamin Water deal that reshaped celebrity investments. Ultimately, they highlight how 50 Cent's unique blend of calculated humor and authenticity has defined his enduring success.

Jul 8, 2024 • 37min
Who Wins When There's More Music Than Ever?
Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, Coco Jones, and Victoria Monet are talented artists redefining the music scene. They discuss how non-superstar artists are thriving in a saturated market, focusing on sustained effort over momentary fame. The conversation dives into the impact of streaming and AI on artist strategies and revenue models. Also featured are the unique roles of platforms like SoundCloud in uplifting emerging musicians, along with the necessity of engaging fanbases through authentic connections in a fragmented music landscape.

Jun 28, 2024 • 45min
Quincy Jones: One of Ones
We're introducing a new series in Trapital called One of Ones! We'll break down some of the most important moguls and executives in music, media, and entertainment.Our first one is on Quincy Jones. We discuss how his upbringing shapes his strategy in business, his leadership style compared to Motown founder Berry Gordy, Michael Jackson, two truths and a lie, and more.This episode is presented by State Farm, the home for your small business needs. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.Make sure you check out Chartmetric Stat of the Week.

Jun 21, 2024 • 32min
Arena Tours: The Art and Science Behind Sold Out Shows
Akin Aliu, CAA agent specializing in artist touring, joins to discuss the post-pandemic touring landscape and the economics of arena shows. They delve into the role of artists, managers, agents, promoters, and venues in shaping tour success. Topics include venue selection, pricing strategies, estimating demand, festival impact, and building long-term success in the music industry.

Jun 14, 2024 • 36min
Why Now Is The Best Time to Be An Artist
Peter Sinclair, BeatBread's expert, discusses why it's the best time to be an artist, challenges of being a superstar, impact of Spotify and DSPs, importance of great producers, and struggles of being the bigger artist in the music industry.

Jun 7, 2024 • 37min
A24 Wants to Evolve, But Can it Maintain its Brand?
Delving into A24's evolution from indie distributor to powerhouse studio, tackling challenges of big investments and maintaining brand mystique. Discussing lean back vs lean in content consumption myth and targeting specific audiences. Exploring future paths for A24 in filmmaking and talent attraction with standout films like 'Hereditary' and 'Euphoria'.

May 31, 2024 • 30min
Why Top Artists Stick with Major Labels
Top artists like Drake and Kanye West choose major labels due to artist-friendly licensing deals. The evolving music industry landscape offers more flexibility and independence for artists. Learn about the dynamics, challenges, and benefits of working with major record labels.

May 24, 2024 • 32min
The Generative AI Music Sweepstakes
Guest Tati Cirisano from MIDiA Research discusses the booming market for generative music, questioning data training and rights holders compensation. They explore the impact of generative AI music on the industry, highlighting customization options and copyright concerns. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by music startups, legal implications in AI music development, and the evolving role of creators in using AI tools for music creation.

May 17, 2024 • 35min
Why NPR Tiny Desk Is Still a Phenomenon
The podcast discusses how NPR Tiny Desk has helped artists like Usher, Tank and the Bangas, and T-Pain. It breaks down the show's dynamics, success metrics, impact on the music industry, and future potential. The episode also explores the possibility of Mariah Carey performing on Tiny Desk.