

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

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

Jul 1, 2025 • 41min
From Verizon and 23andMe to LinkedIn: Kevin Flores on Designing Stories That Shape How We Live and Work
EPISODE DESCRIPTION In this episode of The Media Machine, host Johanna Salazar sits down with Kevin Flores, a seasoned design leader, strategist, and co-author of The Design Career Handbook. With over 25 years of experience, Kevin shares insights from working at major tech companies like LinkedIn, 23andMe, and Verizon, focusing on user-centered design and mentorship. He discusses the importance of storytelling and presentation skills in design, the iterative process of design development, and the need for continuous reinvention in one's career. Kevin also talks about the genesis of his book, co-written with his wife Janine, aimed at mentoring and guiding designers through their careers. The conversation touches on his work at 23andMe, the impact of design sense versus taste, and the value of mentorship programs like those at First Round Capital. This episode is packed with valuable advice for designers and anyone looking to excel in their careers. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Introduction to Kevin Flores and The Podcast 02:25 Kevin Flores' Journey at 23andMe 06:56 Designing for LinkedIn 11:34 The Design Career Handbook 15:10 The Importance of Storytelling in Design 20:14 Iteration Failure: Learning Through Process 21:50 Defining “Design Sense” 24:21 “Spelunking” at New Jobs 27:34 The Litterati Project 30:15 Mentorship and Coaching 34:07 Career Pivots and Future Plans 38:44 Conclusion, 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 https://www.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 #KevinFlores #LinkedIn #23andMe #Verizon #Litterati #FirstRoundCapital #TedTalks #DesignCareerHandbook #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast

Jun 24, 2025 • 53min
Building a Music Empire: Leslie Arredondo on TikTok Strategy, Sync Deals, and Latin Music’s Rise
In this episode of The Media Machine, host Johanna Salazar interviews Leslie Arredondo, founder of LAC Music. Leslie discusses her journey starting in corporate roles at TikTok, Paramount, and Viacom to launching her own sync licensing agency specializing in the Spanish-language independent music sector. Leslie explains the challenges of transitioning from a corporate role to entrepreneurship, the intricacies of music synchronization, and valuable advice for emerging creatives. Tune in to learn how Leslie’s passion for music and innovation continues to drive her success in the ever-evolving media landscape. SHOW NOTES 00:00 The Journey Begins: From Passion to Profession 01:16 Introducing Leslie Arredondo: A Music Industry Maverick 02:39 Early Career: From College Radio to J Records 04:17 Diving into Sync Licensing at Sony and MTV 07:44 The Entrepreneurial Spirit: From Side Hustles to Full-Time 10:44 Navigating the Pandemic and Embracing Change 12:15 The TikTok Experience: Music Business Development 17:16 Launching LAC Music: Building a Business from Scratch 27:22 Managing Music Files and Artwork 28:35 Transitioning from Corporate to Founder 31:48 The Importance of Music Strategy 33:42 Challenges in Music Licensing 36:05 Understanding Copyright in Music 40:52 Advice for Aspiring Creatives 42:35 The Power of TikTok for Brands 47:03 The Rise of Creators as New Studios 51:03 Conclusion, 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 https://www.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 #LeslieArredondo #LACMusic #TikTok #Viacom #Paramount #MTV #Sony #JayRecords #GoDaddy #LegalZoom #DISCO #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast

Jun 17, 2025 • 34min
From MTV to Media CEO: Julie Kellman Reading on Reinvention, Commerce and Creative Freedom
In this episode of The Media Machine Podcast, host Johanna Salazar interviews Julie Kelman Reading, an executive producer and founder of Love + Daydreams. They discuss Julie's unique journey from traditional media production at MTV and Disney to starting her own media and lifestyle company. Julie shares her experience adapting to industry changes, learning digital tools like Canva and CapCut, and the challenges and opportunities of creating and marketing her own content. She elaborates on the greenlighting process in media production, the evolving challenges of the industry, and the importance of embracing new technologies like AI. Julie also offers advice to aspiring creators, emphasizing the potential of digital platforms for building a business and maintaining creativity. SHOW NOTES 00:00 The Unexpected Journey Begins 01:06 Introducing Julie Kellman Reading 02:24 Julie's Early Career and MTV Experience 03:33 The Greenlight Process Explained 05:02 Significant Projects and Disney Fa Jam 07:36 Challenges in the Evolving Media Industry 10:30 Pivoting to Digital Content Creation 12:11 Building Love + Daydreams 17:49 Tools and Tips for Content Creation 23:37 The Role of AI in Content Creation 28:15 Opportunities in a Changing Industry 32:45 Final Thoughts, 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 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 #JulieKellmanReading #LoveandDaydreams #Love+DayDreams #Shopify #Canva #Disney #Viacom #MTV #Nickelodeon #LiquidTheory #Peacock #CapCut #Printify #Etsy #Instagram #TikTok #ChatGPT #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast