This is a special tribute re-release of an in depth interview with the legendary late Pepe Willie, a foundational figure in the Minneapolis music scene and an early mentor, producer and cousin-in-law to Prince. Originally published on February 25, 2023, this interview captures Pepe’s passion, stories and the brilliant musical mind that helped influence an entire musical movement. Pepe was a genius and Godfather of the Minneapolis Sound.

In this episode, we talk about:

• His early life and musical journey
• Working with 94 East and developing young talent
• His amazing relationship with a young Prince, how he helped shaped his career and unbelievable insights into a young Prince and the early Minneapolis sound
• His thoughts on creativity, legacy and the future of music
• Iconic stories from behind the scenes

This interview is being re-released in Pepe’s honor as we reflect on his extraordinary contributions to music. His influence continues to live on through the artists he inspired and the history he helped create.

Thank you for listening and for helping celebrate the legacy of Pepe Willie.

From the streets of Bed-Stuy to the studios of Minneapolis, Pepé was a multi-talented powerhouse: producer, songwriter, musician, mentor, and consultant. Widely known as the Godfather of the Minneapolis Sound, he played a pivotal role in shaping the early artistic identity of one of music’s greatest icons.

He not only produced Prince’s earliest sessions with 94 East, but personally guided the young prodigy—opening doors, sharpening his studio instincts, and teaching him the business side of music.

In this interview, Pepé shares:

• What it was like discovering Prince as a teen and instantly recognizing a once-in-a-generation talent
• Behind-the-scenes stories from the early Minneapolis scene, the rehearsal rooms, and those legendary demo sessions
• Rare insights into Prince’s work ethic, creative evolution, and the moments that foreshadowed his superstardom
• Powerful personal stories from Pepé’s own journey - From Brooklyn’s music culture to becoming a foundational figure in Prince’s artistic development

If you’re fascinated by music history, creative genius, or the origins of an icon, this interview is unmissable. Get ready for deep insights, untold stories, and an up-close look at a true pioneer who helped shape modern music.

Anika Hussen and Nia Raasikh join Nick Egan Times to discuss their dark comedy short film Girl Dinner, a bold and honest exploration of modern relationships, friendship, identity, and the complexities of navigating life as young women.

Drawing on their diverse backgrounds in filmmaking, storytelling, and entertainment, Anika and Nia have combined their creative talents to write and direct a film that blends humor, chaos, and emotional authenticity. Anika brings experience from projects and collaborations connected to Marvel, Hulu, and Dolby, while Nia’s background in entertainment marketing includes work with major studios such as Warner Bros. and Amazon MGM.

In this episode, they share the inspiration behind Girl Dinner, the creative process of co-writing and co-directing a film, the challenges of independent filmmaking, and the importance of telling stories that feel genuine and relatable. They also discuss character development, visual storytelling, collaboration, and what it takes to bring a passion project from concept to screen.

The conversation explores filmmaking, directing, screenwriting, independent film, dark comedy, storytelling, creativity, women in film, and the future of emerging voices in the entertainment industry.

A fascinating discussion with two rising filmmakers whose work is helping shape the next generation of independent cinema.

Marc Friedant joins Nick Egan Times for an insightful conversation about leadership, business transformation, entrepreneurship, and the challenges of guiding an iconic American brand through periods of change and growth.

As CEO of Robbins Brothers Fine Jewelers, Marc Friedant has helped lead one of the most recognized names in the jewelry industry through a remarkable evolution. With a background in finance and business leadership, Marc shares how his experience prepared him to navigate complex challenges, drive innovation, and help reshape the future of the company.

In this episode, Marc discusses his journey from the world of finance to becoming CEO of Robbins Brothers, the lessons learned from leading during the pandemic, and the employee-led buyout that helped redefine the company’s culture, vision, and direction. He also shares valuable insights into leadership, decision-making, customer experience, company growth, and building resilient teams in an ever-changing business environment.

The conversation explores entrepreneurship, executive leadership, business strategy, company culture, personal development, and what it takes to successfully lead a well-established brand into the future.

A fascinating discussion with one of the business leaders helping shape the next chapter of an iconic American company.

Orlando McGhee joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about talent development, artist management, A&R, music business strategy, and the behind-the-scenes work that helps shape successful careers in the music industry.

Currently Head of Urban Music at ONErpm and formerly an A&R executive at Roc Nation and Warner Bros., Orlando McGhee has spent decades identifying talent, building careers, and helping artists navigate the ever-changing music business landscape. Throughout his career, he has worked with and helped develop artists including Lil Jon, Future, E-40, Method Man, CeeLo Green, Goodie Mob, Jaden Smith, Willow Smith, Crime Mob, Organized Noize, and many others.

In this episode, Orlando shares insights from his journey through the music industry, discusses the realities of artist development, management, A&R, record labels, streaming, and entrepreneurship, and reflects on what it takes to build a lasting career in music. He also offers valuable advice for emerging artists, producers, executives, and anyone looking to succeed in today’s entertainment business.

The conversation explores Roc Nation, Warner Bros., ONErpm, hip hop, urban music, artist branding, talent discovery, leadership, music marketing, and the future of the industry.

A fascinating discussion with one of the music industry’s most respected executives and talent developers, whose influence can be seen across multiple generations of artists and hit records.

Kelsey Marie Edwards joins Nick Egan Times for a conversation about acting, music, creativity, and building a career across multiple areas of the entertainment industry.

Known for her performances in Minor Details, The Wolf of Snow Hollow, The Counterfeit Kid, Underdeveloped, and the Tribeca-selected feature Memes & Nightmares, Kelsey Marie Edwards has established herself as a versatile actress with experience across film, television, comedy, and independent cinema. Beyond acting, she is also a singer, songwriter, content creator, and storyteller who continues to connect with audiences through her creative work.

In this episode, Kelsey discusses her journey into acting, the lessons she has learned working on film and television productions, balancing multiple creative passions, and the importance of authenticity in an ever-changing entertainment industry. She also shares insights into her music, content creation, and what inspires her as both an artist and performer.

The conversation explores Hollywood, independent film, acting, songwriting, creativity, career development, storytelling, and the realities of pursuing a life in the arts.

An engaging discussion with a multi-talented performer whose work continues to span film, television, music, and digital media.

Marcia Kimpton joins Nick Egan Times for an inspiring conversation about filmmaking, storytelling, travel, entrepreneurship, and building a creative career across multiple industries.

An award-winning filmmaker, director, producer, writer, actress, and global travel expert, Marcia Kimpton has spent decades creating original projects that blend adventure, culture, and compelling storytelling. She is the creator of the feature film An American Abroad, a unique travel-inspired production that explores personal discovery, international experiences, and life beyond borders.

In this episode, Marcia discusses the making of An American Abroad, her passion for independent filmmaking, and the lessons she has learned throughout her career working across film, television, media, and digital platforms. She also shares insights into launching her travel and lifestyle platform Kimpton Travels & Films and hosting her late-night television program Bright Lights Late Night.

The conversation explores filmmaking, directing, screenwriting, travel, entrepreneurship, creative freedom, storytelling, women in film, and the importance of pursuing ambitious ideas on a global scale.

A fascinating discussion with a multi-talented creator whose work continues to inspire audiences through film, travel, media, and authentic storytelling around the world.

Larissa Dali joins Nick Egan Times for an inspiring conversation about acting, filmmaking, producing, modeling, and building a creative career through resilience, determination, and storytelling.

A true multi-hyphenate talent, Larissa Dali has earned recognition across film and television with appearances in projects including The Cleaning Lady, Becky, A Gettysburg Christmas, Deadly Escape, The Omicron Killer, and Tyler Perry Studios’ Ole Gray Mare. Her work spans drama, thriller, comedy, and independent filmmaking, showcasing a versatility that has helped her carve out a unique place in the entertainment industry.

In this episode, Larissa reflects on her journey as an actress, producer, model, writer, and filmmaker, discussing the lessons she has learned while navigating Hollywood, overcoming challenges, and pursuing creative opportunities across multiple disciplines. She also shares insights into the importance of perseverance, authenticity, and believing in your vision even when the path forward is uncertain.

The conversation also explores her exciting upcoming limited television series Linda, where Larissa steps into the roles of creator, director, and star. She discusses the inspiration behind the project, the creative process of developing original content, and what audiences can expect from this ambitious new chapter in her career.

A fascinating discussion about creativity, entrepreneurship, filmmaking, personal growth, and the power of turning challenges into opportunities while building a lasting career in entertainment.

Freya Adams joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about her acting career, filmmaking journey, and passion for creating meaningful stories both in front of and behind the camera.

Known for her acclaimed performance as Gwen 2.0 in the science fiction film Advantageous, Freya Adams has built an impressive career across film, television, and commercial productions. Her work has earned recognition for its depth, versatility, and commitment to portraying complex and compelling characters.

In this episode, Freya discusses her experiences working on projects including Advantageous, New Amsterdam, The Rookie, and The Blacklist, while sharing insights into the realities of life as a working actress in today’s entertainment industry. She also reflects on screenwriting, producing, creative storytelling, and the importance of diverse voices in film and television.

The conversation explores acting, filmmaking, television, independent cinema, character development, creativity, women in entertainment, and building a sustainable career in Hollywood.

A fascinating discussion with an accomplished actress, writer, and producer whose work continues to inspire audiences and contribute to the future of film and television.

Reggie Gooden joins Nick Egan Times for an in-depth conversation about the business side of the entertainment industry, managing major artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, and influencers, and building one of Hollywood’s fastest-growing business management firms.

As the Founder and CEO of 360 Business Management, Reggie has become one of the most respected business managers in entertainment, earning recognition from Billboard, Variety, and The Hollywood Reporter for his work with top tier talent across music, film, television, sports, and digital media.  

In this episode, Reggie discusses the financial and business strategies behind successful entertainment careers, the realities of managing elite talent, and what artists need to know about wealth creation, long-term planning, and career longevity. He also shares insights from working with Grammy winning producers and major music industry figures, including those involved in Justin Bieber’s global success and hit records such as Peaches.  

The conversation explores artist management, entertainment business, music industry finance, entrepreneurship, wealth management, celebrity branding, business leadership, and the evolving landscape of Hollywood and digital media.

A fascinating discussion with one of the entertainment industry’s leading business advisors, offering a behind the scenes look at how successful careers are built, protected, and sustained.

Charmaine Dominguez joins Nick Egan Times for an insightful conversation about diabetes reversal, metabolic health, nutrition, entrepreneurship, and her mission to help people transform their lives through evidence-based lifestyle change.

As the founder of Reversing Diabetes Revolution, Charmaine has become one of the leading voices in the metabolic health space, building a community of nearly one million followers and helping more than 1,000 people achieve Type 2 diabetes remission through sustainable nutrition and lifestyle strategies. Her work has been recognized by leading health and medical publications, making her a trusted educator for people seeking practical solutions to improve their health.

In this episode, Charmaine discusses her personal journey, the science behind insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes, the power of whole-food, plant-focused nutrition, and the lifestyle habits that can dramatically improve long-term health outcomes. She also shares insights into building a successful online business, creating impactful health content, and empowering individuals to take control of their wellbeing.

The conversation explores diabetes prevention, diabetes remission, metabolic health, nutrition, healthy living, entrepreneurship, coaching, wellness education, and the future of preventative healthcare.

A fascinating discussion with one of the most influential voices in modern health and nutrition, dedicated to helping people live healthier, longer, and more fulfilling lives.