

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
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
Jun 10, 2025 • 43min
Scaling the Creator Empire: Sean Atkins on the Future of Digital Media
In this episode of The Media Machine, host Johanna Salazar sits down with Sean Atkins, CEO of Dhar Mann Studios, one of the fastest-growing digital media companies with over 136 million followers and a billion monthly views. Sean, a seasoned media and tech veteran, discusses his inspiring journey through major brands like MTV, Discovery, HBO, and Jellysmack, where he led significant innovations. Johanna delves into Sean's strategies for digitizing media libraries, reviving MTV, and scaling digital content creation. Sean shares his insights on the evolving creator economy, the growing influence of AI in media production, and the challenges and opportunities for content creators and media companies. Highlighting his role in Dhar Mann Studios, Sean discusses the company's impressive reach and its innovative approach to scripted digital content. He also introduces the Fifth Quarter Agency, which helps creators maximize revenue through their content libraries. The discussion touches on the future trends in audience engagement, data management complexities, and the impact of vertical integration on creative industries. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Introduction to Dhar Mann Studios 00:57 Introduction to The Media Machine Podcast 01:56 Sean Atkins' Journey in Digital Media 04:18 Reviving MTV: Strategies and Challenges 09:38 The Evolution of Digital Content Creation 13:04 Scaling Content Creation with Technology 17:02 Fifth Quarter Agency: Helping Creators Thrive 20:23 Scaling Success with Jellysmack 22:40 The Power of Data in Content Creation 23:22 Understanding Trends and Data Measurement 24:24 Brand Partners and Data Sharing Issues 27:14 Emerging Tools and AI in Workflows 30:13 Investor Perspectives on the Creator Economy 32:28 Scaling and Letting Go for Creators 35:32 Future of the Media Industry 41:22 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 mediamachinepodcast.com SOCIALS LINKS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast X/Twitter: @themediamachinepod PODCAST LINKS Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YOUTUBE LINK @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 #SeanAtkins #DharMannStudios #Jellysmack #MTV #5thQuarterAgency #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast
Jun 3, 2025 • 36min
Cathy Hackl on the Future of Media: AI, Intimacy, and the Rise of Immersive Worlds
In this episode of The Media Machine, host Johanna Salazar interviews futurist and innovation expert Cathy Hackl. They discuss the future convergence of AI, immersive tech, and media, emphasizing the importance of human-created content alongside AI-generated work. Cathy outlines the evolving landscape of spatial computing, AI applications in hardware, and the emergence of a 'protopian' future where technology benefits society. They also explore the balance between innovation and ethical scaling, the future of dating apps, and the significance of building and maintaining trust within communities. Cathy shares insights into her personal mission to inspire other BIPOC creators and advice for media executives to remain adaptable and curious in a rapidly changing industry. SHOW NOTES 00:00 The Future of Content Creation 01:16 Introduction to the Media Machine 01:34 Introducing Cathy Hackl 02:16 Blueprint for Media Companies 04:27 Understanding Spatial Computing 06:29 The Evolution of Content Formats 09:22 The Augmented Workforce 12:17 Empowering BIPOC Creators 14:52 Protopian: A Balanced Future 18:00 Preparing for the New Frontier 19:50 Navigating the Creative Job Market 20:31 Embracing New Technologies 21:36 Introduction to Lovable 23:34 Future Trends and Innovations 24:50 Quantum Computing and Space Commerce 25:59 Tech Intimacy and Relationships 27:02 AI Matchmaking Experiment at TEDx 30:30 Balancing Innovation and Inclusion 33:10 Future of Dating Apps 34:42 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 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 LINK @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 #CathyHackl #FutureDynamics #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast
May 27, 2025 • 36min
The Real Life Ted Lasso: Simon Leslie on Transforming Football Clubs and The Business of Football
Join host Johanna Salazar as she delves into an inspiring conversation with Simon Leslie, the serial entrepreneur, founder of Ink and ReachTV, author, speaker and chairman of Eastbourne Borough Football Club. We cover Simon's passion for football and his vision of creating an engaging, community-centered football club that develops human beings beyond the sport. Simon discusses the importance of learning from older generations, leveraging media and technology to engage modern audiences, and innovating within football through unique revenue models and family-friendly experiences. He also touches on his career as an author and media mogul, the parallels between managing a business and a football club, and his approach to revitalizing the sleepy seaside town of Eastbourne. Key topics include resilience, innovation, community building, digital storytelling, and the challenges and opportunities of leading both a media empire and a lower league football club. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Introduction to Simon Leslie: The Real Ted Lasso 01:13 Meet the Host: Johanna Salazar 01:31 Simon Leslie's Background and Achievements 02:28 Simon's Personal Story about his Grandmother and Shared Wisdom 04:04 Operational Differences: Media Empire vs. Football Club 05:50 Reinventing Ink Magazine Post-Pandemic 08:21 Innovative Strategies for Eastbourne Borough FC 10:40 Engaging the Community and Building a Legacy 10:59 The Power of Testing and Learning 11:32 Family and Community in Football 15:59 Digital Storytelling and Social Media Success 18:37 New Soccer Leagues and Their Impact 21:48 Revitalizing Eastbourne Through Football 27:14 Football Club Challenges and Financial Needs 28:19 The Future of Print Media 30:01 Salesmanship: The Key to Success 34:30 Final Thoughts, Closing Remarks 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 #SimonLeslie #InkMagazine #EastbourneBoroughFC #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast
May 20, 2025 • 33min
Navigating the Next: Peter Blacker on Innovation in Streaming
In this episode of The Media Machine, host Johanna Salazar sits down with Peter Blacker, founder of Navigating the Next and former EVP of Streaming and Data Products at NBC Universal. They discuss challenges in the streaming space, the future of ad monetization, and the integration of AI in media. Peter shares insights from his extensive career in multicultural media, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and innovation in today's rapidly evolving media landscape. They also delve into the significance of an inclusive content pipeline, the impact of mobile technology, and the excitement around upcoming global events like the FIFA World Cup. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Introduction to Streaming Challenges 01:17 Meet Peter Blacker: A Media Pioneer 02:37 Building Inclusive Content Pipelines 04:23 The Media Machine: Process, Profits, People, and Planet 08:04 Innovations in Advertising: Pause Ads and Power Breaks 09:39 The Future of Ad Monetization 11:29 The Rise of Mobile Commerce 12:54 Multicultural Rock Stars in Media 17:59 The Impact of the World Cup & Women's Sports 20:30 Technological Innovations: AI, AR, and VR 26:09 Navigating Risk and Making Bold Moves 28:38 Launching Navigating the Next 31:36 Conclusion and End 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 #PeterBlacker #NavigatingTheNext #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast


