Unglossy

By Bun B, Jeffrey Sledge, Tom FrankSociety & Culture Business Entrepreneurship Personal Journals Marketing

Unglossy episodes

October 31, 2024 Isaac Hayes III: Reshaping the Digital Content Landscape
Isaac Hayes III, a visionary entrepreneur and tech innovator, joins Tom and Jeffrey to talk about the journey behind Fanbase, a platform poised to change the game in content creation and monetization. Imagine a space where creators can truly own their narratives and get paid directly for their influence—Isaac shares how this idea became a reality. He opens up about the moment he saw the need to bridge the gap between social media platforms and Black culture, inspiring him to create Fanbase’s subscription model, which challenges the norms of traditional engagement.
From the music world to the tech space, Isaac’s journey is full of lessons in resilience and ingenuity. He delves into his experience bootstrapping Fanbase without traditional venture capital, drawing connections between the power dynamics of record labels and venture funding. With insights into pivotal choices—like bringing on CTO Ramiro Cánovas—Isaac takes us behind the scenes to see how Fanbase’s unique subscription model was built to offer monetization opportunities similar to streaming services.
We explore the future of content creation and what a decentralized model could mean for influencers, brands, and the broader tech landscape. Isaac sheds light on his journey to raise $10 million through equity crowdfunding, highlighting how ownership and community support are reshaping tech. Plus, he shares his perspective on a key issue—music rights and how they’ve been handled in recent years, including his thoughts on the controversy surrounding music use in the Trump campaign.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of innovation, equity, and the power of creators to shape the digital future.

"Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Creative and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/
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1 hr 17 min
October 15, 2024 Jonny Price: Democratizing Capitalism, WeFunder, and the Future of Investing
Unlock the secrets of equity crowdfunding (yikes! that's another 25 cents for the swear jar), scratch that, "community round" with our insightful guest, Jonny Price – VP of Fundraising at WeFunder. Learn how the 2012 JOBS Act has transformed the way everyday Americans can engage in pre-IPO investments, making it accessible beyond the traditional wealthy elite. Embark on a captivating journey as we explore Jonny's personal story of transitioning from a consulting career in London to impacting lives through Kiva's crowdfunded microloans in the United States.

Imagine a world where investment opportunities are not confined to an exclusive circle but are open to everyone. Jonny demystifies the legal and strategic complexities of raising capital and shares how WeFunder empowers anyone to make meaningful contributions to the startup ecosystem, leveling the playing field for all investors.

We delve into the successes of guys like Troy Carter and Nas in angel investing and explore how platforms like Wefunder are reshaping capitalism. Emphasizing the importance of community funding, the guys discuss how democratizing investment can reduce wealth concentration and empower diverse communities.

Tune in to a thought-provoking conversation about the future of investment, the power of diverse voices, and the innovative spirit driving a financial revolution.
"Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Creative and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/.
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58 min
September 25, 2024 Backstory: The Origins of Unglossy with Mickey, Jeffrey and Tom
How did a CCO, a music industry veteran, and a hip-hop artist come together to explore the intersection of branding and culture? In this episode, discover the invisible thread that connects hosts Tom Frank, Jeffrey Sledge, and Mickey Factz, forming the foundation of Unglossy.
First, we dive into Jeffrey Sledge’s remarkable career. Known as one of "Hip-Hop’s Most Impactful Black Music Executive," Jeffrey recounts his transformative years at Jive Records, where his broadened perspective beyond New York artists, helped diversify his reach across the country. Hear how Jeffrey scouts talent, nurtures emerging artists, and makes bold moves—like recognizing the potential in the viral hit "Stanky Leg" and helping Shaquille O'Neal transition from the basketball court to the music studio.
Mickey shares his own perspective, detailing his initial encounter with Jeffrey and reflecting on his experiences touring with Nas and crossing paths with Lupe Fiasco while working as an editor for Laced Magazine. Although Mickey eventually signed with Jeffrey, the experience was far from the Hollywood depiction.
Tom adds his story, recounting a pivotal assignment that brought him face-to-face with Lupe Fiasco at SXSW. The encounter sparked a long-lasting creative partnership and led to Tom working with Lupe as the creator, producer, and co-host of the popular Lupe and Royce podcast. The show facilitated deep discussions on everything from music to social issues and laid the groundwork for the formation of Unglossy.
Tune in to hear the journey that brought these three hosts together, the surprising connections, and their favorite episodes to date.
"Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Creative and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/.
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53 min
September 18, 2024 Stirman: Part 1 – From Under the Hood to Social Media Titan
What happens when a tech visionary starts his journey in an auto repair shop with no mechanical knowledge? In this captivating episode, Jason Stirman, a multifaceted innovator, shares his unconventional path from running a failing business to making significant strides at Twitter and Medium. We dive into his early challenges, managing unreliable employees, and dealing with dissatisfied customers, revealing how these initial setbacks sharpened his business acumen and conflict resolution skills.

Get ready to hear Stirman's nostalgic trip back to the early days of Twitter, packed with memorable anecdotes, including Snoop Dogg’s visit to the office. This episode explores not just the evolution of a social media giant, but the cultural impact it’s had ever since.

We delve into Stirman's friendship with Ev Williams, uncovering how their collaboration at Twitter and Medium, shaped the digital landscape. Discover the passion behind their efforts to create platforms that balance media consumption, foster thoughtful writing, and champion the exchange of ideas. Tune in for an episode filled with personal stories, insightful reflections, and the raw truth about combining vulnerability, creativity, and cultural branding.

"Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Creative and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/.
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39 min
September 18, 2024 Stirman: Part 2 – The Intersection of Tech, Meditation, and Music
Get ready to be inspired by Stirman, a visionary who has left a lasting impact on the tech and mindfulness landscapes. He shares his transformative journey of building Medium, the platform that bridged long and short-form writing, and his personal story of discovering meditation amidst the high-pressure of Silicon Valley, leading to a more grounded family life. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at Medium's creation and Sturman’s decision to leave.
Stirman also discusses his encounter with George Mumford, mindfulness coach to NBA legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, and how it inspired him to found Lucid, scaling mindfulness training globally. With real-world success stories from athletes and executives, this chapter showcases the shift from skepticism to mainstream acceptance of mindfulness.
We also dive into Sturman's time at Facebook and the emotional journey behind the launch and closure of the Bars app. From childhood piano lessons to his passion for hip-hop, he reflects on the release of his album "Beats for Friends," featuring contributions from the Bars community. Tune in for insightful anecdotes, industry wisdom, and a celebration of creativity and mindfulness.

"Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Creative and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/.
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46 min
September 05, 2024 Jeff and Eric Rosenthal: Part 1 – From Kitchen Table to Documentaries
Join us (minus Mickey) as we navigate through technical mishaps and laugh-out-loud moments with our special guests, Eric and Jeff Rosenthal from It's The Real. From their kitchen table in Westchester County to collaborations with hip-hop legends, their journey is a testament to passion and perseverance. These brothers bring authenticity and humor, sharing their evolution from comedic sketch creators to serious documentarians.

Rewind to 2007: imagine producing weekly sketches on YouTube from a cramped kitchen, driven by a distant love for hip-hop. We'll take you through those early days, where financial struggles and odd jobs couldn't dampen the Rosenthal brothers' creative spirit. Highlighting a pivotal moment when Bun B reached out, we'll show how one opportunity can open doors to collaborations with industry giants like Cam'ron, Max B, and the Clipse. Their story underscores the importance of leveraging the internet to bypass traditional gatekeepers in the entertainment industry.

We also explore the meticulous, multi-year process behind their latest project, The Blog Era. Learn how the pandemic transformed their storytelling approach, propelling them from weekly content creators to long-term documentarians. Discover the significance of a giant bulletin board filled with clues and how Mickey's narrative became central to uncovering the intricate layers of the music industry. As we discuss potential future projects, get ready for an episode that celebrates the art of long-form storytelling, authenticity, and the transformative power of blogs in hip-hop culture.

"Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Creative and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/.
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40 min
September 05, 2024 Eric and Jeff Rosenthal: Part 2 – Building Relationships and Embracing Chaos
Ever wondered how a simple apartment podcast evolved into a cultural phenomenon? Join us for Part 2 of our amazing conversation with Eric and Jeff Rosenthal, as they take us through the extraordinary journey from creating comedic sketches to becoming recognized voices in the podcasting world. They open up about the magic that happens when genuine relationships and authenticity become the foundation of your work, sharing unforgettable moments from their podcast, 'A Waste of Time with ItsTheReal," and guests like Kevin Gates, Jim Jones, and Swizz Beatz, whose warmth and spontaneity turned simple recordings into lasting memories.

Listen to Jeffrey recount Andre 3000 telling his story of Pimp C on The Shop and the importance of staying true to the culture we love. You'll hear about the New York City escapades, building meaningful connections with industry heavyweights, and the ways in which a podcast has inspired others to chase their dreams.

From Kodak Black's antics to the Migos' unique demands, and even a dream of playing Connect Four with Stevie Wonder, we explore the blend of creativity, persistence, and fun that keeps this dynamic duo going. This is not just a recounting of past podcast episodes but a heartfelt appreciation of the support system and relationships that has fueled their success. Tune in for laughter, inspiration, and a genuine look at what it takes to build something meaningful in the world of content.

"Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Creative and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/.
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29 min
August 28, 2024 KJ Rose: Part 1 – Insights from the Stage
Join us as we explore the incredible journey of Kianna Henson, aka KJ Rose. From her roots in Southside Chicago to her academic achievements at Florida A&M, KJ's story is one of passion, perseverance, and profound success. You'll hear firsthand about her early days overcoming stage fright and then balancing a corporate job with session artist gigs and finally her evolution into a sought-after performance coach.

She has worked with massive stars like Janet Jackson, Britney Spears, and Justin Timberlake, major brands such as Doritos, Adidas, and Amazon, and has an exciting newly published book, "The Rose Effect: Eight Steps to Delivering the Performance of your Life."

KJ’s storytelling is both inspiring and educational, offering valuable lessons from her experiences with industry giants such as Clive Davis. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for aspiring artists and anyone curious about the world behind superstar performances. Buckle up for a vibrant, energetic, and deeply inspiring conversation with KJ Rose.

"Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Creative and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/.
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34 min
August 28, 2024 KJ Rose: Part 2 – Behind the Curtain
Join us for Part 2 of our conversation with KJ Rose as she reveals her transformative journey, from signing to discovering her true calling in coaching. She shares with the guys her invaluable lessons learned from music industry giants like Clive Davis, and how these experiences shaped her passion for helping other artists find their unique strengths.

KJ Rose offers a deep dive into her personalized artist development strategies, including her impactful work with Lil Nas X. Learn how she tailors her coaching to each artist's narrative and strengths, ensuring they shine both in the studio and on stage. And hear about her collaborations with iconic figures like LL Cool J and Nas.

From directing performances to fostering brand collaborations, KJ's multifaceted role is crucial in an artist's career journey. Through high-profile campaigns and intimate coaching moments, KJ emphasizes the importance of continuous growth, constructive feedback, and creating supportive environments. Tune in to understand the intricate balance between artistry and branding and get inspired by KJ Rose's dedication to empowering artists at every stage of their careers.

"Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Creative and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/.
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46 min
August 15, 2024 Chris Atlas: Part 1 – Evolution of Marketing in Music
Ready to dive into a world where music meets marketing? Join us on Unglossy as we sit down with industry veteran Chris Atlas to uncover the symbiotic relationship between music, brand, marketing, and culture. We reminisce about our personal encounters with promotional products from major brands and how they’ve shaped our views, giving you a peek into the unpolished reality behind the glossy ads. Chris shares his incredible journey from working with industry giants to spearheading innovative projects at Fat Beats, offering a treasure trove of insights on the creative and strategic decisions that define this dynamic landscape.

Travel back with us to the vibrant 90s music scene, where we explore the legacy and evolution of music labels through Chris’s experiences, from aspiring artist to a key player at Tommy Boy Records. Learn how digital piracy transformed the industry and discover the cyclical nature of hip-hop, where periods of creative lull give way to groundbreaking artistry. We also discuss the resurgence of veteran artists and the inspiration they provide to the younger generation, all while emphasizing the importance of maintaining a unique and genuine voice in the ever-evolving world of hip-hop. This is more than just a podcast—it’s a masterclass in understanding the interplay between music, culture, and branding.

"Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Creative and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/.
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36 min

About Unglossy

From the publisher's feed

Is influence built through hard work—or shaped by the choices no one sees? Hosted by hip-hop legend Bun B, music industry veteran Jeffrey Sledge, and brand strategist Tom Frank, Unglossy cuts…