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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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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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/.

Send us a text

Support the show