

The Media Machine
Johanna Salazar
The Media Machine is where media, business, and innovation intersect. Hosted by industry veteran Johanna Salazar, the podcast explores the future of content, technology, and entertainment through the lens of four key pillars:
Process – The strategies, tools, and systems shaping media production and distribution.
Profits – The business models, investments, and revenue streams driving the industry.
People – The creators, executives, and changemakers redefining the landscape.
Planet – The impact of media on culture, society, and sustainability.
Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. Whether you’re an industry insider or an innovator looking to break in, this podcast is your playbook for navigating the media machine.
Process – The strategies, tools, and systems shaping media production and distribution.
Profits – The business models, investments, and revenue streams driving the industry.
People – The creators, executives, and changemakers redefining the landscape.
Planet – The impact of media on culture, society, and sustainability.
Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. Whether you’re an industry insider or an innovator looking to break in, this podcast is your playbook for navigating the media machine.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 16, 2025 • 24min
From TikTok to Career Pivots: Essential Advice for Creators and Innovators
Season 1 of The Media Machine brought powerful advice from media leaders, creators, and innovators. In this special highlights episode, discover essential lessons on branding, career pivots, and thriving in the next era of content. From the importance of strategic content development, to embracing platforms like TikTok for promotion, and leveraging data for tailored user experiences - we cover it all. The conversation delves into the shifting landscape of advertising, emphasizing the value of authenticity and multiculturalism in business. We share how to equip young talent with necessary skills without traditional degrees, the significance of resilience and adaptability in career pivots, and advice for creatives looking to own their IP or launch their brands. This episode features interview highlights from Julie Kellman Reading, Leslie Arredondo, Nicki Sun, Evan Shapiro, Ken Gibbs Jr., Peter Blacker, Rebeca Ricoy, Alex Grady, Kevin Flores, Simon Leslie, and Michael Tanzer. In this episode we revisit: Nicki Sun advises to treat yourself like a brand & how to prepare all content through a marketing perspective. Rebeca Ricoy shares that if you want to be promoted you should never be indispensable - your team should be able to function smoothly if you were out for a month. Kevin Flores encourages career professionals to “be open to disrupting ourselves” and how to approach mid-career pivots. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Business Strategy - The Ubiquity of Sales 00:38 Introduction: Key Lessons from Season One 01:17 Common Mistakes and Best Practices for Creators 02:07 The Power of TikTok and Social Media Strategies 03:34 Monetization and the Creator Economy 05:47 Radical Collaboration in Media 08:06 Leveraging Data for Content Creation 10:06 Attracting and Retaining Talent 15:58 Career Pivots and Transferable Skills 21:17 Empowerment and Advice for Creators 23:29 Conclusion, Final Thoughts and Credits CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar and Mia Vinciguerra. This episode was edited by Adriana Saravia and Mia Vinciguerra. Our show art was designed by Gabriel Pareja. This episode features music, graphics and visuals from Envato Elements. WEBSITE LINK https://mediamachinepodcast.com SOCIALS LINKS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast PODCAST LINKS Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-media-machine/id1805996037 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/66NrkMVorc47Ov6qDsvfwn Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/d9671a97-b026-45a5-8cf0-1e389f052b9e/the-media-machine YOUTUBE @TheMediaMachinePod ABOUT THE PODCAST This is The Media Machine - where media, business and innovation intersect. Host Johanna Salazar will explore the future of content, technology, and entertainment through the lens of four key pillars - process, profits, people and planet. Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. #MediaBusiness #PodcastHighlights #InnovationInMedia #ContentStrategy #TheMediaMachinePodcast #MediaMachine #TheMediaMachinePodcast #MediaMachinePodcast #JohannaSalazar #JulieKellmanReading #LeslieArredondo #NickiSun #EvanShapiro, #KenGibbsJr. #PeterBlacker #RebecaRicoy #AlexGrady #KevinFlores #SimonLeslie #MichaelTanzer #TikTok #Youtube #LawandOrder

Sep 9, 2025 • 23min
From Deepfakes to Trust: The Best of AI and New Tech
Season 1 of The Media Machine explored how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping content, trust, and the business of media. This special compilation brings together the most insightful conversations on generative AI, deepfakes, syntehtic media, shoppable TV, and the future of storytelling. Discover how AI will transform business processes, content creation, and trust in media. Industry experts discuss innovative tools, shoppable TV, and the profound implications of AI on legal systems and content production. Dive into the conversation about the evolution of our interaction with technology and the exciting future ahead. This episode features interview highlights from industry experts Cathy Hackl. Soribel Feliz, Luis Salazar, Larry Jones, Sean Atkins, Peter Blacker, Alan Wolk and Alex Grady. In this episode we revisit: Soribel Feliz explains the pros and cons of AI- it can give us superpowers but can also spread misinformation and disinformation. Luis Salazar outlines the new era of deep fake synthetic media. Larry Jones walks us through how he created ADLAR Studio - where immersive AI meets fine art SHOW NOTES 00:00 AI's Next Frontier 00:18 Welcome to The Media Machine 00:40 Introduction to Season One Highlights: AI/New Tech 01:17 Generative AI: Pros and Cons 03:12 AI in Media Production 06:30 The Impact of Deepfakes 10:43 ADLAR Studio: Innovations in Fine Art and AR 12:59 AI in Content Creation and Distribution 20:39 Unity in Education 22:33 Final Thoughts and Credits CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar and Mia Vinciguerra. This episode was edited by Adriana Saravia and Mia Vinciguerra. Our show art was designed by Gabriel Pareja. This episode features music, graphics and visuals from Envato Elements. WEBSITE LINK https://mediamachinepodcast.com SOCIALS LINKS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast X/Twitter: @themediamachinepod PODCAST LINKS Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-media-machine/id1805996037 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/66NrkMVorc47Ov6qDsvfwn Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/d9671a97-b026-45a5-8cf0-1e389f052b9e/the-media-machine YOUTUBE @TheMediaMachinePod ABOUT THE PODCAST This is The Media Machine - where media, business and innovation intersect. Host Johanna Salazar will explore the future of content, technology, and entertainment through the lens of four key pillars - process, profits, people and planet. Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. #MediaBusiness #PodcastHighlights #InnovationInMedia #ContentStrategy #TheMediaMachinePodcast #JohannaSalazar #CathyHackl #SoribelFeliz #LarryJones #SeanAtkins #Peter Blacker #AlanWolk #AlexGrady #GenAI #AI #DeepFakes #CSI #ADLAR #Unity

Sep 2, 2025 • 23min
From The Daily Show to Duolingo: The Best of Season 1
This season we explored how media is being redefined by AI, bold business moves, and powerful stories of resilience. In this special highlights episode, revisit the most impactful insights from The Media Machine Season 1. The episode covers diverse topics such as how younger audiences are redefining media, the challenges and opportunities in AI integration, and the importance of transitioning to new media consumption ecosystems. Featuring highlights from industry experts Doug Herzog,Rebeca Ricoy, Simon Leslie, Cathy Hackl, Soribel Feliz, Larry Jones, Evan Shapiro, Ken Gibbs, Alan Wolk, Stuart Snyder, Sean Atkins and Amanda Sapp, this episode sets the stage for an even more impactful Season 2. In this episode we revisit: Evan Shapiro discussing younger audiences' impact Rebecca McCoy on Duolingo's viral success Simon Leslie with his football club's community focus. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Introduction to Media Evolution 00:39 Introduction into Season One Highlights 01:34 Creating a Unique Show Format - The Daily Show 03:18 Dua Lipa and Duolingo's Viral Moment 04:28 Simon Leslie: Building an Authentic Football Club 05:45 Cathy Hackl’s Coined Term “Direct to Avatar” & A New Era 06:27 AI's Impact on the Labor Force 10:34 Ken Gibbs Jr. on The Future of Content Consumption 15:51 Evan Shapiro’s “Great Media War” 18:56 Personal Stories and Reflections - Amanda Sapp 21:41 Conclusion, What's Next and Credits CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar and Mia Vinciguerra. This episode was edited by Adriana Saravia and Mia Vinciguerra. Our show art was designed by Gabriel Pareja. This episode features music, graphics and visuals from Envato Elements. WEBSITE LINK https://mediamachinepodcast.com SOCIALS LINKS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast X/Twitter: @themediamachinepod PODCAST LINKS Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-media-machine/id1805996037 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/66NrkMVorc47Ov6qDsvfwn Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/d9671a97-b026-45a5-8cf0-1e389f052b9e/the-media-machine YOUTUBE @TheMediaMachinePod #MediaBusiness #PodcastHighlights #InnovationInMedia #ContentStrategy #TheMediaMachinePodcast

Aug 19, 2025 • 44min
Stuart Snyder on Building a Billion-Dollar Network: From Rick and Morty to WWE
In the season one finale of The Media Machine, Johanna Salazar sits down with veteran media executive Stuart Snyder, former President of Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Boomerang, and WWE. Together, they unpack decades of creative risk, cultural influence, and business reinvention across television, streaming, live events, and Broadway. Snyder shares what it took to greenlight shows like Rick and Morty, Adventure Time, and Steven Universe, and how creative instinct, timing, and team culture fueled Cartoon Network’s rise into a billion-dollar powerhouse. He opens up about leading the WCW-to-WWE acquisition, championing The Clone Wars, and why live entertainment continues to be a timeless force. The conversation also touches on Stuart’s current ventures - from producing Broadway hits like Hell’s Kitchen, Suffs, and Water for Elephants, to owning the beloved Beal’s Lobster Pier in Maine - and what he sees next for content, culture, and connection in a post-cable world. In this episode we discuss: How Rick and Morty was greenlit The mindset behind billion-dollar leadership What it takes to sustain a hit The future of unscripted, live events, and streaming Why he still bets on live experiences Reinventing across industries, from network president to Broadway producer SHOWS NOTES 00:00 The Importance of Creative Team Excitement 00:52 Introduction to Stuart Snyder 02:16 Stuart's Diverse Career Path 04:40 The Beal's Lobster Pier Story 08:12 Creative Instincts and Spotting Potential 11:33 Scaling Businesses in the Media Industry 14:40 Challenges in Today's Media Landscape 17:29 Industry Consolidation and Future Trends 21:06 Exploring New Ventures in Sports 22:39 Content Acquisition Strategies 24:27 The Clone Wars Acquisition 27:04 Wrestling Acquisition and WCW 32:31 Live Entertainment Evolution 35:37 Broadway Ventures 39:58 Future Projects and Personal Insights 41:28 Conclusion and Contact Information CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar and Mia Vinciguerra.This episode was edited by Adriana Saravia. Our show art was designed by Gabriel Pareja. This episode features music, graphics and visuals from Envato Elements. WEBSITE LINK https://mediamachinepodcast.com SOCIALS LINKS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast PODCAST LINKS Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-media-machine/id1805996037 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/66NrkMVorc47Ov6qDsvfwn Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/d9671a97-b026-45a5-8cf0-1e389f052b9e/the-media-machine YOUTUBE @TheMediaMachinePod ABOUT THE PODCAST This is The Media Machine - where media, business and innovation intersect. Host Johanna Salazar will explore the future of content, technology, and entertainment through the lens of four key pillars - process, profits, people and planet. Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. #MediaMachine #TheMediaMachinePodcast #MediaMachinePodcast #JohannaSalazar #StuartSnyder #SnyderMediaGroup #Beal’sLobsterPier #CartoonNetwork #AdultSwim #Boomerang #AdventureTime #RickandMorty #StevenUniverse #RegularShow #Terminator2 #JamesCameron #CinemaParadiso #StarWars #TheCloneWars #HowToTrainYourDragon #Dreamworks #RinglingBrothers #Hell’sKitchen #WaterforElephants #Suffs #TheExorcist #WCW #WWE #FeldEntertainment #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast

Aug 12, 2025 • 44min
From FAST to AI, Sports, and the Streaming Shake-Up: Alan Wolk on the Future of TV
In this insightful conversation, Alan Wolk, co-founder and lead analyst at TVREV, discusses the rise of AI in shoppable TV and how it changes traditional viewing experiences. He explores the evolution of ad-supported streaming, coining the term FAST, and highlights the shift from linear TV to streaming, especially among sports fans. Wolk offers predictions on the future of sports streaming, the role of data in media creation, and the balance between privacy concerns and innovative advertising techniques. His anecdotes shed light on the complexities of today’s media landscape.

Aug 5, 2025 • 38min
AI vs. Truth: Luis Salazar on Deepfakes, Data, and the Legal Battle for Media Integrity
In this episode of The Media Machine Podcast, host Johanna Salazar dives into the legal challenges surrounding AI, deepfakes, and data privacy with veteran trial lawyer and strategist, Luis Salazar. The conversation delves into the complexities of defining deepfakes legally, the role of AI in creating fabricated evidence, and the dangers of diminishing trust in media and legal systems. Luis also highlights his involvement in data privacy and the development of Rule 707, which aims to govern AI-generated evidence. The discussion covers the profound impacts of AI on media, legal precedents like the 23andMe case, and the importance of building robust protections for creators and consumers alike. They wrap up with insights on balancing technological advancements with ethical considerations and practical steps creators can take to protect their work in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Don't miss this deep discussion on the intersection of technology, law, and media. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Introduction to Deep Fakes and Legal Challenges 00:41 Introducing The Media Machine Podcast & Legal Expert, Luis Salazar 01:47 The Legal Landscape of AI and Synthetic Media 02:56 The Impact of Deep Fakes on Trust and Society 08:59 Legal Protections and Rule 707 12:03 Consumer Data Privacy and 23andMe Case 23:08 Luis' Lawgile Method in Law and Technology Adoption 27:48 Future Trends and Legal Considerations 32:54 Personal Reflections and Closing Thoughts 35:51 Conclusion, Social Plugs & Credits WEBSITE LINK https://mediamachinepodcast.com SOCIALS LINKS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast X/Twitter: @themediamachinepod PODCAST LINKS Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YOUTUBE @TheMediaMachinePod ABOUT THE PODCAST This is The Media Machine - where media, business and innovation intersect. Host Johanna Salazar will explore the future of content, technology, and entertainment through the lens of four key pillars - process, profits, people and planet. Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. #MediaMachine #TheMediaMachinePodcast #MediaMachinePodcast #JohannaSalazar #LuisSalazar #SalazarLaw #ColeSchotzPC #23andMe #Deepfake #Rule707 #LawgileMethod #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast

Jul 29, 2025 • 43min
From HBO to NASA+: How Rebecca Sirmons Built an Emmy-Winning Streaming Platform
In this episode of The Media Machine, host Johanna Salazar sits down with Rebecca Sirmons, General Manager of NASA+. Rebecca shares her inspiring journey from working with major networks like HBO, Netflix, and El Rey Network to leading NASA's global streaming platform. She highlights her mission to bring captivating space stories to the forefront, including Emmy-winning content like Cosmic Dawn and The Color of Space. Discover how Rebecca's background in storytelling, technology, and leadership is transforming NASA Plus into a hub for live space walks, documentaries, and educational content. Learn about her strategic partnerships with Netflix and Amazon Prime and the challenges of broadcasting live from space. This episode offers a deep dive into the intersection of media, innovation, and public service, emphasizing the importance of making space content accessible to all generations. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Introduction to NASA's Vision 00:40 Meet Your Host: Johanna Salazar 00:59 Introducing Rebecca Sirmons 01:31 Rebecca's Journey and Achievements 05:04 The Heartbeat of NASA+ 08:15 Building NASA+ 10:53 Challenges and Innovations 15:38 Content Strategy and Partnerships 21:21 Leadership Insights & Lessons 23:38 Learning from Small Networks and Mentorship 24:03 Rebecca’s Leadership Style and Career Highlights 29:04 The Future of Live Space Content 32:23 Technical Challenges of Space Broadcasting 35:34 Encouraging Creative Collaborations with NASA 38:18 Distribution and the Role of AI in NASA 40:04 Upcoming Projects, Social Plugs & Credits CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar and Mia Vinciguerra.This episode was edited by Adriana Saravia. This episode features music, graphics and visuals from Envato Elements. WEBSITE LINK https://mediamachinepodcast.com SOCIALS LINKS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast X/Twitter: @themediamachinepod PODCAST LINKS Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YOUTUBE @TheMediaMachinePod ABOUT THE PODCAST This is The Media Machine - where media, business and innovation intersect. Host Johanna Salazar will explore the future of content, technology, and entertainment through the lens of four key pillars - process, profits, people and planet. Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. #MediaMachine #TheMediaMachinePodcast #MediaMachinePodcast #JohannaSalazar #RebeccaSirmons #NASA+ #NASA #Netflix #Amazon #Artemis #CosmicDawn #GoddardSpaceFlightCenter #TheColorofSpace #FarOut #BillNyeSavestheWorld #Tubi #Kanopy #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast

Jul 22, 2025 • 51min
The Business of Being a Creator: A Master Class with Nicki Sun
In this episode of The Media Machine, host Johanna Salazar sits down with Nikki Sun, a multifaceted creator, producer, and media entrepreneur. Nikki shares her journey from starting as a student journalist to becoming a trusted voice in the creator economy. The discussion covers six key chapters: 1. Building your Creator Identity 2. The Business Behind the Content 3. Advocacy and Purpose 4. Innovation and infrastructure 5 Scaling a Creator Business 6. Podcasting Evolution. Nikki also offers valuable insights on leveraging brand partnerships, tech tools for creators, the importance of self branding, and advocating for representation and creator rights. Nikki emphasizes the necessity of purpose-driven content, collaboration, and continuous learning. She also provides practical advice on managing a creator business and using podcasting as a platform for storytelling. Whether you're a seasoned content creator or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable tips for building a sustainable, authentic, and tech-savvy creator brand. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Becoming a Full-Time Creator: The Importance of Branding 01:07 Introduction to the Media Machine and Nicki Sun 02:54 Chapter 1: Building Your Creator Identity 06:47 The Evolution of a Creator Identity 11:18 Chapter 2: The Business Behind the Content 21:10 Chapter 3: Advocacy and Purpose in Content Creation 24:36 Chapter 4: Innovation and Infrastructure for Creators 26:54 Tech Gear and Tools for Efficient Production 29:06 Branding and Protecting Your Content 31:52 Monetizing on Different Platforms 37:15 Chapter 5: Scaling a Creator Business 43:01 Chapter 6: Podcasting Evolution and Tips 47:56 Quick Fire Questions, Social Plugs & Credits CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar and Mia Vinciguerra.This episode was edited by Adriana Saravia. Our show art was designed by Gabriel Pareja. This episode features music, graphics and visuals from Envato Elements. WEBSITE LINK mediamachinepodcast.com SOCIALS LINKS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast X/Twitter: @themediamachinepod PODCAST LINKS Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YOUTUBE @TheMediaMachinePod ABOUT THE PODCAST This is The Media Machine - where media, business and innovation intersect. Host Johanna Salazar will explore the future of content, technology, and entertainment through the lens of four key pillars - process, profits, people and planet. Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. #MediaMachine #TheMediaMachinePodcast #MediaMachinePodcast #JohannaSalazar #NickiSun #NickiSunShow #Youtube #TikTok #Instagram #Disney #Pixar #TurningRed #Descript #Frame.io #Samsung #SanDisk #KingstonTechnology #NAB #RedDigitalCinema #Lightcraft #OpusClips #Descript #ToyotaSiennaMinivan #PopSugar #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia

Jul 15, 2025 • 48min
Dead Duo & Bold Moves: Rebeca Ricoy on Building a New Marketing Playbook at Duolingo
Join host Johanna Salazar on The Media Machine as she delves into the innovative marketing strategies of Duolingo with International Marketing Director, Rebeca Ricoy. Their discussion explores Duolingo's unique marketing strategies, including their viral 'Dead Duo' campaign and the collaboration with HBO Max for High Valyrian language courses. Rebecca highlights Duolingo's approach to combining education with entertainment to keep users engaged and the importance of not taking marketing too seriously. The conversation also touches on the challenges and tactics of localizing global campaigns, the impact of AI on marketing, and the company's commitment to making education accessible. Rebecca shares insights from her career, emphasizing the power of storytelling and the importance of a flexible and creative team. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Introduction to Duolingo's Iconic Character: Duo the Owl 00:47 Meet Rebeca Ricoy: Duolingo’s International Marketing Director 01:51 The Viral “Dead Duo” Campaign: How It All Started 05:02 Global Reaction and Adaptation: The Chaos and Success of "Dead Duo" 10:51 Localization Strategies: Adapting Campaigns for Different Markets 15:02 Duolingo's Bold Marketing Philosophy: Risk-Taking and Creativity 21:47 Entertainment with Purpose: The Secret Sauce of Duolingo's Marketing 25:45 Global Trends and Cultural Nuances 28:40 Understanding Duoingo’s Demographic 29:30 Career Journey and Leadership Insights 33:34 Empowering Gen Z in the Workplace 36:45 AI's Role in Marketing and Operations 41:38 Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships 46:08 Quick Fire Questions and Closing Remarks CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar and Mia Vinciguerra.This episode was edited by Adriana Saravia. Our show art was designed by Gabriel Pareja. This episode features music, graphics and visuals from Envato Elements. WEBSITE LINK https://mediamachinepodcast.com SOCIALS LINKS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast X/Twitter: @themediamachinepod PODCAST LINKS Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YOUTUBE @TheMediaMachinePod ABOUT THE PODCAST This is The Media Machine - where media, business and innovation intersect. Host Johanna Salazar will explore the future of content, technology, and entertainment through the lens of four key pillars - process, profits, people and planet. Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. #MediaMachine #TheMediaMachinePodcast #MediaMachinePodcast #JohannaSalazar #RebecaRicoy #DuoLingo #HBO #MTV #DuaLipa #McDonald’s #TikTok #Mad//Fest #Glean #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast #DeadDuo

Jul 8, 2025 • 39min
Redefining Radio: Amanda Sapp on Community Power, Purpose, and the Mic
In this episode of The Media Machine, host Johanna Salazar engages in a deep conversation with Amanda Sapp, VP of Media at Bread of Life, Inc. and General Manager of Amazing 102.5 FM in Houston. Amanda shares her inspiring journey from being a volunteer on-air talent to becoming the General Manager of the radio station. She discusses the importance of saying yes to opportunities, her role in mentoring young talent, and how she utilizes radio for social impact and cultural storytelling. Amanda also opens up about her past experiences, including overcoming homelessness, and emphasizes the power of community, faith and leadership. Tune in to learn about Amanda’s strategies for sustaining media, fostering new talent, and leading with purpose. SHOW NOTES 00:00 From Volunteer to Radio Station Manager 01:02 Introduction to The Media Machine Podcast 02:04 Amanda Sapp's Journey to Finding Her Voice 04:12 Transitioning to The Morning Show 07:29 A Day in the Life of a Radio Station GM 09:16 Sustaining Success in Media 12:51 Mentorship and Empowerment in Media 17:10 Partnerships and Community Impact 20:14 Embracing Change in Media 20:50 Redefining Media for Social Impact 22:18 The Future of Radio 23:52 Overcoming Homelessness 29:58 Faith and Leadership 33:09 Empowering Advice for Listeners 36:38 Connecting with the Community 38:50 Closing Thoughts, Social Plugs and Credits CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar and Mia Vinciguerra.This episode was edited by Andrés Cote. Our show art was designed by Gabriel Pareja. This episode features music, graphics and visuals from Envato Elements. WEBSITE LINK mediamachinepodcast.com SOCIALS LINKS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast X/Twitter: @themediamachinepod PODCAST LINKS Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YOUTUBE @TheMediaMachinePod ABOUT THE PODCAST This is The Media Machine - where media, business and innovation intersect. Host Johanna Salazar will explore the future of content, technology, and entertainment through the lens of four key pillars - process, profits, people and planet. Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. #MediaMachine #TheMediaMachinePodcast #MediaMachinePodcast #JohannaSalazar #AmandaSapp #BreadofLife #Amazing102.5FM #NAB #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast