

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

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

May 13, 2025 • 44min
Larry Jones: From President of TV Land to Reinventing TV & Rethinking Reality
In this episode, Johanna Salazar delves into the future of content consumption with Larry Jones, former president of TV Land and Co-Founder of ADLAR Studios. With over 25 years in Hollywood, Larry discusses his remarkable career, from reinventing TV Land with original programming to producing cutting-edge virtual and augmented reality experiences. The conversation touches on the writer's strike, AI in content creation, and the evolution of AR/VR technologies. Larry also shares insights on his latest venture, ADLAR Studios, a fine art publishing studio that blends high-quality prints with augmented reality. Tune in to understand how advanced technologies are shaping new business models in the media and entertainment industry. This episode was recorded in 2023. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Introduction to AI and Content Creation 00:59 Meet Larry Jones: A Media Visionary 02:51 Reinventing TV Land: From Reruns to Original Programming 07:47 The Future of Cable Networks 11:55 Impact of the Writer's Strike on the Industry 17:37 Embracing AI in Content Creation 19:57 Venturing into AR and VR with Blackthorn Media 23:39 Hollywood to VR: A Journey of Storytelling 24:25 The Evolution of VR and Gaming 26:39 Founding ADLAR Studios: Merging Art and Technology 27:28 Innovative Projects and Collaborations 34:15 The Impact of New Technologies on Content Creation 36:07 Future of Business Models and Content Consumption 43:31 Conclusion, Final Thoughts and Ending Credits CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar, Mia Vinciguerra and Anthony Martinez.This episode was edited by Adriana Saravia. Our show art is 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 #LarryJones #TVLand #ADLAR #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast

May 7, 2025 • 14min
The Power of Positivity: Michael Tanzer on Autism, Advocacy, and Gaming Dreams
In this bonus, mini episode of The Media Machine, host Johanna Salazar sits down with Michael Tanzer, an author, speaker, and advocate, to discuss his personal journey with autism and his work in shifting the narrative around neurodiversity. Michael talks about the importance of inclusive education, his memoir Michaelism: My POV on Life with Autism,' and his aspirations to work in media and video game production. Through honesty and hope, Michael encourages action, empathy, and inclusiveness. This episode is sponsored by Food Stream Network, a platform aimed at eradicating food insecurity and providing food education to neurodiverse schools. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome 00:40 Meet Michael Tanzer: Advocate and Author 01:59 Michael's Journey and Achievements 03:12 Challenges and Misunderstandings of Autism 03:41 Michael's Memoir and Creative Pursuits 05:01 Advocacy and Inclusivity in the Workplace 10:07 Michael's Future Aspirations 11:55 Closing Remarks and Call to Action 13:54 Podcast Outro 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 #MichaelTanzer #AutismAwareness #Foodstream #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast

May 6, 2025 • 41min
Revolutionizing Classrooms: XR and AI with Alex Grady
In this episode, Alex Grady, prior Senior Product Manager at Unity, discusses the pivotal role of Unity in creating immersive real-time 2D and 3D content for gaming, education and beyond. Unity powers over 70% of AR and VR experiences and originated as a game development tool. Grady, a former classroom educator, explains the concept of spatial computing and Unity's collaboration with Apple on polyspatial technologies, which enable multiple AR and VR experiences to coexist in the same space. We delve into the effective integration of XR in educational environments, emphasizing the need for context-specific applications and training, personalized learning and the evolving role of educators. We also cover Unity's partnership with Meta, which provided VR headsets and training to under-resourced schools, and Unity's broader social impact initiatives aimed at promoting equitable access to technology. Grady also discusses the transformative potential of these technologies for future job markets and the importance of industry collaboration in providing affordable and accessible educational opportunities. This episode was recorded in 2023. SHOW NOTES 00:00 The Exciting Future of Education 01:12 Introduction to Our Guest: Alex Grady 02:06 Unity's Role in AR and VR 03:11 Embracing Emerging Technologies in Education 05:16 Understanding Spatial Computing 08:35 XR in the Classroom: Effective Uses and Challenges 13:28 The Impact of XR and AI on Education 18:34 Unity's Partnership with Meta and EdTech Initiatives 20:33 The Importance of Big Tech in EdTech 22:22 Optimism and Challenges in XR and AI 32:40 Future Job Markets and Workforce Training 39:26 Conclusion, Final Thoughts and Credits CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar, Mia Vinciguerra and Anthony Martinez. This episode was edited by Andrés Cote. Our show art is 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 Watch this Episode Here 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 #AlexGrady #Unity #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast

Apr 29, 2025 • 42min
Evan Shapiro: The Rebel Cartographer Challenging Media Giants
In this episode of the Media Machine Podcast, Johanna Salazar hosts Evan Shapiro, the unofficial cartographer of the media universe. They discuss the end of the streaming wars, Netflix's transformation and current streaming challenges, and the rise of big tech in dominating the media landscape. Shapiro shares his personal journey from being a TV executive to becoming an independent media analyst, consultant and creator, discussing the challenges and successes he faced along the way. They delve into the importance of radical collaboration in traditional media, the role of data, the live sports bubble and the surprising resilience of companies like Spotify and The New York Times. Shapiro also touches on the evolving consumption patterns and the impact of YouTube as a major competitor in the media space. Shapiro's personal battle with cancer and how it shaped his professional resilience is also touched upon, offering an inspiring perspective on facing challenges. Tune in for an insightful conversation about the past, present, and future of media. SHOW NOTES 00:00 The End of the Streaming Wars 01:08 Introducing Evan Shapiro: The Media Cartographer 01:50 Evan’s Personal Journey - Career Realization After Being Fired at 50 07:42 Navigating Career Pivots 10:31 Teaching College Students and Staying Relevant 12:10 Mapping the Media Universe 16:09 Spotify's Surprising Profitability 18:05 Challenges and Criticisms in Media 21:21 Radical Collaboration in Media 22:52 The Power of Data in Advertising 24:50 Challenges in Traditional Media 27:17 The Great Media War 32:10 The Sports Gold Rush 35:04 YouTube: The Ultimate Competitor/Partner 37:46 Personal Reflections on Cancer Diagnosis and Authenticity 41:29 Conclusion, Socials 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 is 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 #EvanShapiro #MediaCartographer #StreamingWars #MediaUniverse #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast

Apr 22, 2025 • 39min
From BET to Amazon: Ken Gibbs Jr. on Winning the Digital Media Game
In this episode, host Johanna Salazar interviews Digital Strategy Consultant and former executive from Ebony Media, BET, MTV, Amazon, Spotify, Essence Magazine, and AOL Time Warner - Ken Gibbs Jr. With over 20 years of experience in digital marketing and content strategy, Ken shares his thoughts on the evolution of digital content, the impact of mobile devices and short-form content, and the future of content consumption in a post-pandemic world. He discusses the challenges and opportunities in the ever-changing digital landscape, emphasizing the need for brands to follow user engagement across decentralized platforms while maintaining data privacy and ethical practices. Ken also talks about the rise of generative AI and augmented reality and the importance of diversity in tech and media. Our conversation ends with a surprising revelation that many of the interview questions were generated using ChatGPT, demonstrating the advancements in AI technology. This episode was recorded in 2023. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Introduction to Generative AI and Media Disruption 00:30 Welcome to The Media Machine 01:10 Guest Introduction: Ken Gibbs, Jr. 01:41 Early Predictions and Current Reflections 03:13 The Evolution of Digital Marketing 04:50 Impact of MTV on Culture 05:42 Strategies for Staying Ahead 07:46 Global Perspective on Black Culture 08:36 Pandemic's Impact on Digital Content 10:47 Challenges in Content Consumption 11:33 Mobile and Short-Form Content Trends 12:50 Leveraging Data for Content Creation 14:50 Balancing Ethics and Personalization 16:12 Future of Content Consumption 23:50 AI and Content Recommendations 35:16 Diversity in Tech and Startups 38:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar, Mia Vinciguerra and Anthony Martinez. This episode was edited by Gabriel Pareja. Our show art is edited 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 #KenGibbs #KenGibbsJr #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast

Apr 15, 2025 • 38min
He Brought You South Park and Jon Stewart. You're Welcome.
In this episode of The Media Machine, Johanna Salazar interviews media legend and former President of Comedy Central and Viacom, Doug Herzog. We begin with Herzog’s early days of college radio, his media influences and his early career trajectory at MTV News. Doug delves into his upward mobility with Viacom - producing groundbreaking shows at Comedy Central like The Daily Show and South Park. Doug offers his insights into the future of cable television - is there an end approaching? We hear more about his evolving leadership roles, focusing on executive coaching with a purpose-driven approach to guide leaders through the changing media landscape. SHOW NOTES 00:00 The Comedy Central Gamble 00:25 Welcome to the Media Machine 00:53 Introduction to Doug Herzog 01:39 Doug's College Radio Days 04:04 From Radio to Cable TV 05:16 MTV's Evolution 07:50 The Birth of The Daily Show 15:19 South Park's Rise 17:08 The Future of Media 21:43 Generative AI in Content Creation 23:39 The Future of Traditional Cable Television 26:06 Niche Content and Its Opportunities 31:24 The Rise and Fall of Blockbuster 34:34 Embracing Change in the Media Landscape 37:34 Conclusion and Farewell CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar, Mia Vinciguerra and Anthony Martinez.This episode was edited by Adriana Saravia and Camilo Garzón. Our show art was designed by Gabriel Pareja. This episode features music, graphics and visuals from Envato Elements. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music WATCH THE PODCAST Youtube OUR WEBSITE mediamachinepodcast.com OUR SOCIALS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast X/Twitter: @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 #DougHerzog #MTV #MTVNews #ComedyCentral #DailyShow #TheDailyShow #SouthPark #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #DigitalContent #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast