Mixed and Mastered

Today's guest is Scoop Jackson — writer, cultural critic, and one of the most distinctive voices at the intersection of hip-hop, basketball, and Black identity. From the South Side of Chicago to Howard University, Scoop turned his academic study of hip-hop into a career that reshaped sports and culture journalism — as a founding voice at Slam Magazine, a key architect of XXL, and a national columnist at ESPN. Now he's telling the origin story of hip-hop itself, co-writing the Grandmaster Flash memoir that brings the DJs, breakers, and writers of the Bronx together in one place for the first time. This is Mixed and Mastered with Scoop Jackson. Mixed and Mastered is hosted by Jeffrey Sledge and produced and distributed by Merrick Studios. Catch all our episodes at https://merrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod and for early access, live recordings and more, join us on Merrick Studios+

Today’s guest is Mike B — a stylist, designer, and cultural force who helped define the look of one of hip-hop’s most iconic eras. From Westchester to Bad Boy Entertainment, Mike B was in the room as the culture evolved—working alongside Groovy Lou and Puff to shape the style of artists like Biggie, Faith Evans, Mase, and Black Rob. From standout moments like “Special Delivery” to influencing the jersey era, his work helped turn fashion into a language that matched the music. Now, through his brand Bogard, he’s focused on bringing individuality and intention back to fashion while building on a legacy rooted in authenticity. This is Mixed and Mastered with Mike B. Mixed and Mastered is hosted by Jeffrey Sledge and produced and distributed by Merrick Studios. Catch this and all our episodes at wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod

Today on Mixed and Mastered, we sit down with Byron Kirkland — entrepreneur, marketer, and founder of Stealth Worldwide Group, a force behind some of the biggest names in music. From growing up in Brooklyn to landing a high school internship at Arista and Uptown Records, Byron learned early how to turn access into opportunity. That mindset carried him through fashion at Sean John, into artist management with Machine Gun Kelly, YBN Nahmir, and Cordae, and now into building his own brand in golf and lifestyle with Masterpiece. In this conversation, Byron breaks down the realities of developing artists, navigating the highs and setbacks of the business, and what it really takes to build something that lasts. He also reflects on resilience, relationships, and how life-changing moments shaped his approach to both business and family. This is Mixed and Mastered with Byron Kirkland. Mixed and Mastered is produced by Merrick Studios and hosted by Jeffrey Sledge. Join the conversation on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod and get early access plus live events, additional content and more at Merrick Studios+

Before the South ran hip-hop, Julia Beverly was documenting it. In this episode of Mixed and Mastered, Julia Beverly, founder of Ozone Magazine, shares how she helped amplify a region the industry once overlooked. From building Ozone into the definitive voice of Southern rap to breaking artists before the mainstream caught on, Julia played a key role in shifting the culture’s center of gravity. She talks about turning a photography hustle into a media platform, navigating a New York-dominated industry as an outsider, and earning trust from artists across the South. She also reflects on her relationship with Pimp C—from interviewing him in prison to documenting his release and later telling his full story through biography. This is Mixed and Mastered with Julia Beverly. Mixed and Mastered is produced by Merrick Studios and hosted by Jeffrey Sledge. Join the conversation on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod and get early access plus live events, additional content and more at Merrick Studios+

This week on Mixed and Mastered, Jeffrey Sledge sits down with Wendy Day — a legendary music industry advocate, dealmaker, and founder of the Rap Coalition who helped shape the blueprint for independent success in hip-hop. From pulling artists out of bad contracts to helping structure groundbreaking deals for Cash Money, No Limit, and more, Wendy has spent decades fighting for artist ownership, leverage, and long-term wealth. In this conversation, Wendy shares the real stories behind some of the culture’s most pivotal deals, how she built leverage for artists before labels came calling, and why her mission was never about money — but empowerment. She breaks down the evolution of the music business, the shift from physical to streaming, and why today’s artists may not need labels at all. This is Mixed and Mastered with Wendy Day. Mixed and Mastered is produced by Merrick Studios and hosted by Jeffrey Sledge. Join the conversation on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod and get early access plus live events, additional content and more at Merrick Studios+

This week on Mixed and Mastered, Jeffrey Sledge sits down with veteran music executive Rodney Shealey — a Brooklyn-born industry leader whose career spans the rise of modern hip-hop and R&B and includes shaping records for some of the biggest artists in the world. From growing up in East Flatbush and getting his start on the road during hip-hop’s earliest touring era, to rising through the ranks at Virgin, Epic, Island, and Def Jam, Rodney walks us through a journey built on proximity, relationships, and seizing opportunity. Along the way, he shares stories about breaking records in the golden age of radio, working alongside legends, navigating the inner workings of major labels, and the real dynamics behind Black music departments. They also get into the evolution of the business, the shift from radio to streaming, career vs. money decisions, and how those experiences led Rodney to his current role at HarbourView Equity — where he’s helping build one of the most ambitious Black-led investment platforms at the intersection of culture and capital. This is Mixed and Mastered with Rodney Shealey. Mixed and Mastered is produced by Merrick Studios and hosted by Jeffrey Sledge. Join the conversation on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod

This week on Mixed and Mastered, Jeffrey Sledge sits down with Grammy-winning music executive, producer, and A&R Max Gousse — a Brooklyn-born music industry powerhouse whose career runs through some of the biggest moments in modern R&B and hip-hop. From learning the business at The Box in Miami to being mentored by legends like Cassandra Mills, Sylvia Rhone, David Renzer, and L.A. Reid, Max walks us through a career that includes working on Adina Howard, B2K, Dreamgirls, B’Day, I Am… Sasha Fierce, YG, and Saweetie. Along the way, he shares stories about building records from the ground up, navigating label systems, developing artists, and why work ethic still beats hype every time. They also get into regional music culture, brand partnerships, the future of artist management, and Max’s take on AI’s role in the music business — not as a replacement for real artists, but as a tool that’s here to stay. This is Mixed and Mastered with Max Gousse. Mixed and Mastered is a Merrick Studios podcast hosted by Jeffrey Sledge. 

Ian Burke — known throughout hip-hop and R&B as the DreamWeaver — is one of the quiet architects behind Atlanta’s rise as a global music capital. Born in Mount Vernon, New York and “made” in Atlanta, Ian’s 30+ year journey runs through the rooms where culture actually gets built — from loading equipment as a roadie to living inside The Dungeon during the Organized Noize era, to shaping early development moments around TLC and Xscape, and witnessing the 60-second decision that led to signing Akon. Ian and Jeffrey connect over their unexpected Mount Vernon roots before tracing Ian’s path from DeVry student to trusted creative executive during Atlanta’s most formative years. Ian shares what it was really like inside The Dungeon — one couch, one bathroom, chains falling into the cushions — and how relationships, instinct, and timing built movements before the world caught up. They dive into: • Discovering Left Eye and meeting T-Boz at 2AM • The early Jermaine Dupri era • Managing inside the Organized Noize camp • Why Atlanta’s R&B story gets overlooked • His chapter at Elektra and ASCAP • Building without a mentor • His mission to tell the full Atlanta story through film and television This is Mixed and Mastered with Ian Burke. Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text This week on Mixed and Mastered, Jeffrey Sledge sits down with April Walker — fashion pioneer, cultural architect, and the founder of Walker Wear, one of the brands that helped define modern streetwear before it had a name. April traces her journey from Bed-Stuy and Clinton Hill to the clubs, studios, and streets of ’80s New York, where hip-hop, style, and entrepreneurship collided. She breaks down how Walker Wear was built from the culture outward, the story behind her iconic WW logo, and how word-of-mouth turned her designs into a movement — from early hip-hop artists to Mike Tyson making history in the ring. They also talk legacy: being a woman in a male-dominated industry, protecting her IP, walking away at the height of success, and what’s next as she approaches 40 years of Walker Wear. This is Mixed and Mastered with April Walker. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text This week on Mixed and Mastered, Jeffrey Sledge sits down with Steve Carless, a senior creative executive whose 20+ year career spans Def Jam, Atlantic Records, and the front lines of modern artist development. From studying liner notes as a kid in New Jersey to shaping careers for artists like YG, Jeezy, Pusha T, 2 Chainz, Big Sean, and Nipsey Hussle, Steve breaks down how relationships, risk-taking, and cultural intuition drive longevity in the music business. Steve shares never-told stories from the Star Trak and Jay-Z–era Def Jam days, the rise of mixtape culture as a marketing engine, developing YG’s My Krazy Life, working alongside Nipsey Hussle, and earning Grammy recognition through projects with Beyoncé. This conversation is a masterclass in A&R instincts, creative leadership, and building careers that last beyond the moment. This is Mixed and Mastered with Steve Carless. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text Jeffrey Sledge sits down with James McMillan, Esq. — entertainment attorney, label executive, and CEO of Art @ War Records (in partnership with Warner Records) — for a real conversation about power, ownership, and how leverage actually works in music. James breaks down the mindset behind creative dealmaking, why chasing fees isn’t the same as building equity, and how his path evolved from entertainment law into management and label ownership. Along the way, he shares stories from the Swishahouse era, building with MGK, navigating high-stakes negotiations, and what artists need to understand about streaming, hits, and the next wave of AI-driven rights issues. He also speaks on his leadership with BMAC and The Living Legends Foundation — and why protecting creators requires both cultural fluency and boardroom strategy. This is Mixed and Mastered with James McMillan, Esq. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text Originally released March 31, 2025 "My man. Always an inspiration!!" - A-Trak Step into the extraordinary world of Sean C — legendary DJ, producer, A&R, and true architect of hip-hop. From Harlem block parties to Grammy nominations, Sean’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and cultural impact. In this powerful episode, Sean shares how a cancer diagnosis became the unlikely spark that launched him from the mailroom at LOUD Records to producing era-defining records. He takes us back to where it all began — from his name being given by DJ Master Don, to co-founding the Executioners, to shaping the sound of artists like Big Pun, Jay-Z, Dead Prez, and Beyoncé. Hear the untold stories behind the making of “Still Not a Player,” the creative battles that birthed “Hip Hop” by Dead Prez, and the cinematic vision that powered American Gangster. Sean also opens up about teaching RZA’s techniques to actors on Wu-Tang: An American Saga and his shift into music supervision and mentorship. More than just stories — this is a conversation about the soul of hip-hop, the balance between art and industry, and the power of staying true to the craft. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text Originally released on July 10, 2025. Jeffrey Sledge sits down with legendary music executive, producer, and A&R Dante Ross for Part 1 of a deep dive into his extraordinary journey. From growing up on New York’s gritty Lower East Side to immersing himself in punk rock, graffiti, and skateboarding, Dante shares how music became his first true escape. He talks about the artists who shaped his taste – from Chuck Berry to The Beatles to The Jackson 5 – and how the cultural collision of punk, new wave, and hip hop in downtown NYC pulled him into the scene. Hear firsthand stories about sneaking into iconic clubs, witnessing The Specials and The Clash live, discovering the Bad Brains, and becoming part of the tight-knit crew that included the Beastie Boys. Dante also reveals how his eclectic upbringing and fearless hustle led him to work with Eric B. & Rakim, De La Soul, Queen Latifah, and ultimately become one of hip hop’s greatest A&Rs. Check out Part 2 of this  conversation with Dante Ross from July 17, 2025. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text This year-end episode of Mixed and Mastered is something special. Jeffrey Sledge sits down with Mickey Factz for a deep, unfiltered conversation that goes far beyond music. From growing up between Harlem and the Bronx to battling in schoolyards, interning at Def Jam and Loud, navigating the blog era, major-label deals, viral moments, and hard industry lessons—this is the full arc. Mickey breaks down the mindset of a true craftsman: lyricism, independence, evolution, and longevity. The conversation traces his journey from underground standout to cultural architect, including the creation of Pendulum Ink, hip hop’s first school dedicated to rap theory, business, and mental health—and his recent turn as a professor teaching hip hop at NYU. This isn’t just an artist interview. It’s a masterclass in survival, reinvention, and staying sharp when the culture keeps shifting. Mixed and Mastered with Mickey Factz. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text From DJing the Stardust Ballroom at 15 to shaping Strong City Records, from Rowdy to Blackstreet, and ultimately to founding the world’s premier Hip-Hop Museum, Rocky Bucano’s journey is a masterclass in vision, grit, and cultural stewardship. In this episode, he sits down with us inside the soon-to-open, $100M+ museum rising on the Harlem River—where he breaks down his Bronx roots, the early record-pool grind, Teddy Riley’s first sessions, the MCA rollercoaster, his years shaping Gauchos basketball, and the 16-year odyssey to build Hip-Hop’s permanent home. It’s history, hustle, heartbreak, and triumph—told by the man who lived every chapter. This is Mixed and Mastered with Rocky Bucano. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text In this powerhouse episode of Mixed and Mastered, Jeffrey sits down with the incomparable Dyana Williams — radio icon, cultural architect, co-founder of Black Music Month, longtime Philly International insider, and the heartbeat behind some of the most important stories in Black American music. From her Harlem and Bronx roots to her early days as “Ebony Moonbeams,” Dyana walks us through a five-decade career that includes: Breaking into radio at CCNY and WHUR Learning under the legendary Frankie Crocker at WBLS Working across TV at BET, VH1, and PM Magazine A front-row seat to Philadelphia International Records during its golden era Founding the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville Her lifelong mission to preserve, protect, and elevate Black music and its creators And of course… the origin story of Black Music Month, from the White House lawn with Jimmy Carter to official national recognition Dyana’s stories reach from the Apollo to the Oval Office, from D’Angelo to Teddy Pendergrass, and from Harlem stoops to global stages. It’s a living masterclass in culture, community, and the power of music to move the world. This is history told by someone who made it.  Buckle up — This is Mixed and Mastered with Dyana Williams. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text This week on Mixed and Mastered, Jeffrey sits down with Dr. Jason King — Dean of the USC Thornton School of Music, founding faculty at NYU’s Clive Davis Institute, and one of the most forward-thinking voices in music education and criticism. From growing up Trini in Canada to shaping the next generation of music innovators, Jason takes us on a journey through hip-hop’s 90s New York heyday, global music-making in Abu Dhabi and Berlin, his deep dives into icons like Sylvester, D’Angelo, and Michael Jackson — and how he’s redefining what it means to study pop. This one’s equal parts intellect and soul. This is Mixed and Mastered… with Dr. Jason King. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text This week on Mixed and Mastered, Jeffrey Sledge sits down with a true New York legend — DJ Enuff, the man who helped bring hip-hop from the block to the world stage. From growing up between Harlem, the Lower East Side, and Brooklyn, Enuff breaks down how New York’s diverse sounds shaped his ear and his journey from neighborhood park jams to radio royalty at Hot 97. He shares early stories of club life in the Red Zone and the Tunnel, building the Heavy Hitters DJ crew, and his time as The Notorious B.I.G.’s tour DJ — including why he’s stayed solid in protecting Biggie’s legacy to this day. Plus, Enuff talks about breaking records before Shazam, discovering Kanye West knocking at his door, and what the next chapter of DJ culture looks like in the age of podcasts and social media. It’s history, hustle, and heart — straight from one of the architects of the sound. 🎙️ This is Mixed and Mastered with DJ Enuff. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text On this week's Mixed and Mastered Jeff chops it up with Paul “DJ P” Stewart—Crenshaw-raised connector, A&R whisperer, and music-supervision ace. We hit his come-up at Delicious Vinyl (Tone Lōc, Young MC), managing The Pharcyde, and the day Coolio cut the bones of “Gangsta’s Paradise” in Paul’s living room. Then the Def Jam era: bringing in Warren G (triple-platinum lifeline), plus Domino and Montell Jordan (“This Is How We Do It”). Paul breaks down the Singleton years—Poetic Justice, Barbershop, 2 Fast 2 Furious, Hustle & Flow, Insecure, Snowfall—and the real differences between film and TV. We close on what’s next: his DR doc Heart of the City, a Dante Ross documentary, a major video-game project, and how he helps indie artists land their first syncs. Plug in for lineage, hustle, and receipts. This is Mixed and Mastered with Paul Stewart. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text Jeff chops it up with Yvette Love Dávila—yes, DÁ-vi-la, accent and all—about a life that runs from East New York block parties to the executive suites and back to the heart. We trace her come-up through Violator with Chris Lighty, road-managing Angie Martinez, a pit stop in politics with Sen. David Paterson (featuring the recurring villain/hero, Lenny the Barber), then into the Arista/Def Jam blast furnace under L.A. Reid. Yvette drops the inside story on rebuilding bridges for Nas at Hot 97—commercials suspended, Dom P flowing, history made—and why Rick Ross became “her artist.” Then the pivot: founding Eve of Wellness, becoming an esthetician and integrative health coach, and transforming unimaginable loss—the passing of her son, Dasan—into service. She breaks down grief as a universal language, how she moves energy in and beyond the treatment room, and why her new Merrick Studios show, Two Mothers, One Aché: A Grief Dialogue, lands right in time for the holidays when hearts are heaviest. Big Libra energy, zero fluff. Culture meets care, and the purpose is loud. Listen in and take notes. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text From graffiti tags to global playlists, Rob “Reef” Tewlow has been at the center of hip-hop’s evolution for 30+ years—and this episode maps the whole arc. Reef walks us through NYC in the late ’70s/’80s, bounces from BU to NYU, and lands at The Source where he helps build the legendary mic-rating system and champions era-defining records. He then pivots to A&R at Atlantic/Big Beat (Artifacts, Lil’ Kim, Junior M.A.F.I.A.), slides behind the boards (an early Eminem cut; 50 Cent’s “What Up Gangsta”), and shares fly-on-the-wall moments with Biggie, Puff, Primo, and more—right down to how greats learn to write hits. Reef also breaks down launching Eminem’s Shade 45 at SiriusXM, his leap to Apple Music (now leading hip-hop/R&B/reggae mixes), and why new tools like AI-powered stems are turbocharging real DJ creativity. It’s history, craft, and blueprint-level career wisdom—analog heart, digital hustle.  This is Mixed and Mastered with Datwon Thomas. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text In Part 2 of our conversation with Datwon Thomas, we trace his path from creating King Magazine to producing some of the biggest shows on television. He shares how his vision for a lifestyle publication—once rejected—became a cultural force that gave us iconic covers with stars like Tyra Banks, expanded into Rides Magazine, and helped launch XXL’s legendary Freshman List. Datwon opens up about his leap from print to digital at Global Grind, to live television with Dick Clark Productions, where he produced the American Music Awards and New Year’s Rockin’ Eve. He also reflects on surviving open-heart surgery in 2022, reminding us that no career milestone matters without your health. From Brooklyn’s hip-hop roots to Hollywood’s biggest stages, Datwon’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and cultural impact. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text From Brooklyn to Tokyo and back again, Datwon Thomas’ story is as global as it is deeply rooted in hip-hop. In Part 1, he shares how growing up during the crack era, moving to Japan in the mid-’80s, and facing both culture shock and racism shaped his worldview long before he became an architect of music media. Datwon walks us through his early hustle—interning at VIBE, boldly cold-calling XXL’s Reginald Dennis, and turning deep knowledge of the culture into paid opportunities that launched his career. Along the way, he reflects on the golden era of hip-hop, the mentors who opened doors, and the relationships that would carry him through XXL, King, and eventually to producing some of the biggest stages in entertainment. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text In Part 2 of our conversation with Lisa Cambridge-Mitchell, we follow her journey from LaFace Records—where she went from publicity to marketing and helped launch Usher’s My Way—through the politics of Arista, HBO’s digital experiment, and Jive Records. She shares raw stories of industry clashes, the reality of being paid not to work during her most lucrative years, and the constant challenges of being a Black woman executive in a business built on loyalty and power plays. Along the way, Lisa gives us a front-row seat to artist development at its highest stakes, from guiding a teenage Chris Brown to shaping how international audiences experienced some of the biggest names in R&B. Lisa also opens up about her transition into coaching and why mentorship alone won’t sustain the next generation of creatives. For her, true patronage—the intentional act of surrounding emerging talent with the support they need to succeed—is what built her own career and what’s missing in today’s music and media landscape. It’s a conversation that mixes career highs and industry politics with timeless lessons on leadership, resilience, and the future of creative communities. This is Mixed and Mastered with Lisa Cambridge-Mitchell. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Jeffrey Sledge welcomes industry vet Lisa Cambridge-Mitchell for a deep dive into her early life and rise in music. From growing up in New York and navigating a volatile home, to founding We Three Marketing and landing at Uptown and LaFace, Lisa shares candid stories of resilience, risk-taking, and working with icons like Andre Harrell, Mary J. Blige, and TLC. A raw and inspiring look at how she carved her path in a business that wasn’t built to support women—and why her story still resonates today. Tune in for Part 1 now, and stay locked for Part 2 where the story continues. This is Mixed and Mastered with Lisa Cambridge-Mitchell. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text This week, Jeffrey sits down with the incomparable Caron Veazey — a music industry force whose career has spanned MCA, Epic, RCA, Island Def Jam, global marketing at Sony, and nearly a decade managing Pharrell Williams. Caron shares her journey from growing up in the DMV to discovering the music business at NBC’s Saturday Night Live, championing artists across genres, and helping shape landmark moments like Rage Against the Machine x Wu-Tang Clan, Christina Aguilera’s Stripped era, and Pharrell’s “Happy.” She opens up about navigating a male-dominated industry without being pigeonholed, the global impact of music, the founding of Black Music Action Coalition, and what it means to create space for artists — and executives — to be their full, multidimensional selves. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text In this special Best Of episode, Jeffrey Sledge celebrates the first 25 episodes of Mixed and Mastered by revisiting three unforgettable moments that capture the soul of the series. From Faith Newman’s raw, hilarious, and inspiring stories of being one of the first five employees at Def Jam, to Joseph Patel’s emotional journey from Sundance to Oscar night (yes, that Oscars), to Grace Harry’s behind-the-scenes insight into managing Usher during a pivotal career transformation—these are the stories that show just how much grit, vision, and vulnerability it takes to shape the music industry from the inside. If you've been riding with us, thank you. If you're just tuning in, this episode is the perfect place to start. Welcome to Mixed and Mastered. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text This week on Mixed and Mastered, host Jeffrey Sledge sits down with journalist, tastemaker, and cultural force Emil Wilbekin for a deeply personal and powerful conversation. From his roots in Cincinnati to shaping the voice of Vibe Magazine during hip-hop’s golden era, Emil reflects on the journey that made him one of the most influential Black voices in media. They talk fashion, identity, HBCU pride, and breaking barriers—especially what it meant to be an openly gay Black man in a historically homophobic industry. Emil opens up about the support that carried him, the resistance he faced, and the legacy he's building through Native Son, a platform created to empower Black queer men. This is Mixed and Mastered with Emil Wilbekin. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text Prepare for an electrifying episode of "Mixed and Mastered" as Jeffrey Sledge sits down with the legendary Wardell Malloy! Journey from the vibrant streets of the Bronx to the epicenter of the music industry, where Wardell shares his incredible path, working alongside icons like Chris Brown, Trey Songz, and Mariah Carey. Dive into the art of mentorship, the thrill of discovering new talent, and Wardell's creative passion for photography. With tales of nurturing future stars and insights into the music business, this episode is a must-listen for music lovers and aspiring executives alike. Don't miss this dynamic and inspiring conversation! Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text In Part 2 of our conversation with legendary A&R exec and producer Dante Ross, the ride gets even crazier. Dante breaks down the highs and lows of his time at Elektra and Def Jam, working with iconic artists like Brand Nubian, ODB, MF Doom, and Everlast. He shares the wild backstory of Whitey Ford Sings the Blues—from late-night jam sessions to a near-fatal heart attack that almost stopped the album before it started. We also get into the aftermath of success, chasing the next high, and why Dante finally decided to write the book everyone told him to write. This one’s about friendship, survival, reinvention—and keeping it honest. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text This week on Mixed and Mastered, Jeffrey Sledge sits down with legendary music executive, producer, and A&R Dante Ross for Part 1 of a deep dive into his extraordinary journey. From growing up on New York’s gritty Lower East Side to immersing himself in punk rock, graffiti, and skateboarding, Dante shares how music became his first true escape. He talks about the artists who shaped his taste – from Chuck Berry to The Beatles to The Jackson 5 – and how the cultural collision of punk, new wave, and hip hop in downtown NYC pulled him into the scene. Hear firsthand stories about sneaking into iconic clubs, witnessing The Specials and The Clash live, discovering the Bad Brains, and becoming part of the tight-knit crew that included the Beastie Boys. Dante also reveals how his eclectic upbringing and fearless hustle led him to work with Eric B. & Rakim, De La Soul, Queen Latifah, and ultimately become one of hip hop’s greatest A&Rs. Stay tuned for part 2 of this incredible conversation with Dante Ross coming next week. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text In this episode of Mixed and Mastered, Jeffrey Sledge sits down with legendary songwriter and producer Jasper Cameron to explore his journey from Atlanta church pews to crafting chart-topping hits. Jasper shares how Atlanta shaped his view of success, the church’s role in honing his talent, and how mentors like Dallas Austin opened pivotal doors. They dive into Atlanta’s tightly knit music scene, the rise of artists like Lloyd, Sammy, and Nivea, and the balance of writing mature songs for young voices. Jasper reveals behind-the-scenes stories of hits like “You” and “Girls Around the World,” working with icons like Christina Aguilera, and navigating the ever-changing music business. From CeCe’s star power to the complexities of girl groups and the magic of demo sessions, Jasper offers rare insights into what it truly takes to create music that moves the world. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text From the heart of Harlem to the red carpet at the Met Gala, Kwasi Kessie’s journey is stitched together with culture, community, and style. In this episode of Mixed and Mastered, Jeffrey Sledge talks to the the stylist, runner, and creative force behind Lace Magazine and Kill Off Season. He shares how Harlem shaped his eye, how Foot Locker opened industry doors, and how working with BET and A$AP Ferg cemented his voice in fashion. Kwasi talks sneaker culture, storytelling through style, and why running the NYC Marathon means more than just crossing the finish line. Whether he’s dressing icons or lacing up for his next race, Kwasi is repping Harlem all the way. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text This week, Jeffrey Sledge sits down with the incomparable Grace Harry—creative executive, joy strategist, and a true behind-the-scenes force in the music industry. From her early days in Brooklyn to her evolution from chef to artist marketer to founder, Grace shares an unfiltered look at her career, her creative collaborations, and the personal growth that shaped it all. They swap wild stories from iconic photo shoots, reflect on the evolution of music marketing, and talk candidly about the pressures of working with high-profile artists. More than a career retrospective, this episode dives into identity, joy, intimacy, and the deep emotional work behind the scenes of success. This is Mixed and Mastered with Grace Harry. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text This week on Mixed and Mastered, O’Neal McKnight pulls back the curtain on a career that spans styling, music, film, and cultural impact. From his roots in South Carolina to interning at Motown and working alongside his late cousin Andre Harrell, O’Neal shares how he went from dressing stars like Usher, Jessica Alba, and Jermaine Dupri to becoming one himself. He breaks down the creation of Kosher Soul, producing TV specials with legends like Stan Lathan and Cedric The Entertainer, and the rise of Pass the Mic. Plus, why ownership, mentorship, and financial literacy matter more than ever in the business. This one’s packed with hustle, humor, and hard-earned wisdom. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text Here's your Extra Credit episode with Harlem’s own Terrell Jones, aka Terrellish. He took DJ Khaled and Fat Joe and made them fashion icons. Twenty years in, Terrell dresses stars and is putting hip-hop style into luxury fashion.  Our bonus questions for Terrell: Artist You Wanted to Style Three Favorite Designers Fashion Movie Recommendation Favorite Vacation Place Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text On this episode of Mixed and Mastered, we kick it with Rob Markman—Brooklyn-bred storyteller, journalist, and artist—as he rewinds to his roots in hip hop’s golden age. From bumping Ladi Dadi on cassette to catching inspiration from CL Smooth’s T.R.O.Y., Rob shares how the culture raised him and why storytelling remains the heartbeat of his music. He opens up about navigating the grind—from freelancing for Vibe, Complex, and The Source to launching XXL’s digital presence and leveling up at MTV. With Bronx family roots that run deep—shoutout to his great uncle Willie Bobo and cousin Eric Bobo of Cypress Hill—Markman breaks down how legacy shaped his vision and fueled his path to becoming an artist in his own right. We talk Genius, podcasting, media politics, and the pressure of public opinion—but more than that, we dive into what it means to keep hip hop honest. Whether he’s writing bars or crafting platforms, Rob stays focused on impact, mentorship, and building a future where artists can speak freely and fans can truly connect. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text This quick-hit Extra Credit episode finds Jeffrey Sledge volleying rapid-fire prompts at industry trailblazer Vivian Scott Chew, who fires back with stories that prove a great A&R ear is equal parts instinct and heart. She recalls the one artist who slipped through her fingers, reflects on the eclectic mix of acts that still give her chills, and names the producers who defined entire eras of sound. Vivian’s tales jump from surprise arena moments to late-night overseas after-parties, all threaded by a single belief: music’s first job is to make you feel something real. Her behind-the-scenes perspective—especially as a woman who’s spent decades championing other creatives—turns this bite-size conversation into a masterclass on passion, purpose, and the magic that happens offstage. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text This week on Mixed and Mastered, we sit down with powerhouse executive and producer Shanté Paige for an inspiring, no-holds-barred conversation about her journey through the entertainment industry. From her Bronx roots and Silver Spring upbringing to her formative years at Howard University, Shanté takes us through the hustle, the heart, and the hard lessons that shaped her career. She shares behind-the-scenes stories from managing artists in the early days, to building her rep at Jive and Volcano Records, and eventually helping to revitalize Motown. We dive into the iconic Scream Tour, the magic of Kedar Entertainment, and her bold pivot into television and film production — including working with Tyler Perry and leading campaigns for major brands. Now as the founder of She’s A Movement Media Group, a transformational speaker, and a mentor to rising talent, Shanté reflects on what it really takes to build a lasting career in entertainment — and why giving back is always part of the mission. 🎙️ Tap in for a masterclass in vision, resilience, and reinvention. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text In this Extra Credit episode of Mixed and Mastered, Faith Newman shares some unforgettable stories and insights from her legendary career in the music industry. From the artist she desperately wanted to sign (but couldn’t) to the wild experience with Public Enemy and some unforgettable concert moments, Faith’s journey is packed with amazing memories. Tune in to hear more about her life in music and the unforgettable moments that shaped it. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text From A&R meetings to ab workouts, Angelique Miles has lived many lives—and in this episode of Mixed and Mastered, she’s telling all. Join us for a powerful, no-holds-barred conversation as Angelique takes us from her roots in Queens, NY, to the boardrooms of Warner Chappell and Universal, where she helped shape the sound of hip-hop and R&B alongside legends like Michael Jackson, Missy Elliott, and Busta Rhymes. But the journey doesn’t stop there. Angelique opens up about navigating personal loss, the shifting tides of the music industry, and how she boldly stepped into a new chapter as a wellness and lifestyle influencer. We talk beauty, balance, the art of the pivot, and why being over 50 is just the beginning. Get ready for a masterclass in reinvention, resilience, and staying real in a world that’s constantly remixing itself. Hit play—you don’t want to miss this one. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text Class is back in session! In this bonus episode, we hit Whitney-Gayle Benta with three rapid-fire questions. From the tracks that first lit her fuse to the wildest “you-had-to-be-there” label moments, Whitney pulls back the curtain on the soundtrack of her life and the lessons she’s learned shepherding superstar careers. Craving the whole story? Queue up our earlier full-length convo with Whitney for the deep dive on breaking artists, building bridges, and surviving the music biz with style. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text Oscar-winning filmmaker, producer, and journalist Joseph Patel joins Jeffrey Sledge for a deep, honest, and inspiring conversation about music, media, and finding your true voice. Patel shares his journey from growing up in the Bay Area to becoming a key part of the college radio and underground hip-hop scenes at UC Davis—where he connected with legends like DJ Shadow and Blackalicious. He opens up about his rise through the industry, from early music journalism to producing groundbreaking content at MTV, including the acclaimed My Block series. Joseph also talks about teaming up with Questlove to create Summer of Soul, the award-winning documentary that unearthed the lost history of the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival—and went on to win the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. Now, he's turning his lens toward the next chapter: directing a documentary on the legendary J Dilla. 🎧 This one’s for the culture, the creators, and anyone chasing the real. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text In this episode, Damon DeGraff joins host Jeffrey Sledge to trace his journey from his musical roots in Bermuda to the heart of New York’s nightlife and DJ culture. Damon opens up about the early influences that shaped his sound, the rise of celebrity DJs, and the challenges he faced building a career in music management and nightlife. They dive into his experiences at Cheeba Sound, pivotal industry connections, and the evolution of DJ culture in the social media era. Damon also shares insights on mentorship, the power of cultural growth, and finding purpose beyond the spotlight. Listen now and get inspired by a true pioneer. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text This week on Mixed and Mastered, Harlem-born stylist Terrell Jones pulls back the curtain on his journey from the block to the big stage, styling icons like Mary J. Blige and Fat Joe. Terrell breaks down how growing up in Harlem shaped his eye, why individuality is everything in fashion, and how the game has changed in the age of social media. From wild stories with fashion legends to building a new lane in the art world, Terrell keeps it real about creativity, culture, and staying true to your style. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text This week on Mixed and Mastered, we sit down with the incomparable Faith Newman — a true architect of hip-hop history and a champion of timeless music. From cataloging records as a kid to co-executive producing Illmatic and signing legends like Nas, Jamiroquai, and The Isley Brothers, Faith’s journey is nothing short of iconic. As one of the first five employees at Def Jam and now EVP at Reservoir, she’s spent four decades shaping culture—always with a sharp ear, real passion, and a strict no asshole policy. Tap in for a conversation with the woman who’s kept the soul of the music alive.  Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text From Far Rockaway to the global stage, Vivian Scott Chew has spent a career turning "no" into new lanes. In this  episode of Mixed and Mastered, Vivian sits down with Jeffrey Sledge to share her boundary-breaking journey—from becoming ASCAP’s first African-American female rep and launching the Rhythm & Soul Awards, to fielding a call from Little Richard and reshaping the global music landscape. With humor, insight, and fierce determination, Vivian recounts pivotal moments: a 37-minute unemployment window that ended with a bike crash and a new career, bringing dancehall to America through Epic Records, and founding Time Zone International—the first Black-owned international music marketing company. We dive into the glamour and grit of the business, the myths she dismantled (like “Black music doesn’t sell overseas”), and the legacy she’s building today through the Power to Inspire foundation with her husband, Ray Chew—including a mobile studio changing lives in real time. This episode is a tribute to vision, perseverance, and the power of building what doesn’t yet exist. Vivian’s story is not just about music—it’s about movement. Don’t miss it. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text In this captivating episode of Mixed and Mastered, we are thrilled to welcome the phenomenal Whitney-Gayle Benta, a Harlem native who rose to become a pivotal figure in the music industry. From her roots in a community rich with history and culture to her ascent as a top music executive, Whitney-Gayle shares her inspiring journey. Whitney-Gayle recounts her experiences at Def Jam, where she faced immense pressure while working on groundbreaking projects like Jay-Z's The Blueprint and Ashanti's debut album. She reflects on her transition to MTV and then to Revolt, emphasizing the fast-paced changes in the music industry and her evolution from coordinator to vice president. Whitney-Gayle also dives into her recent roles at tech giants like Facebook and Spotify and her current involvement in music finance at Harvard View Equity. Throughout, she discusses the importance of adapting to technological advancements and the crucial role of relationships in her career. Tune in to explore Whitney-Gayle Benta’s journey through the music and tech industries, filled with insights on innovation, resilience, and strategic growth. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text Step into the extraordinary world of Sean C — legendary DJ, producer, A&R, and true architect of hip-hop. From Harlem block parties to Grammy nominations, Sean’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and cultural impact. In this powerful episode, Sean shares how a cancer diagnosis became the unlikely spark that launched him from the mailroom at LOUD Records to producing era-defining records. He takes us back to where it all began — from his name being given by DJ Master Don, to co-founding the Executioners, to shaping the sound of artists like Big Pun, Jay-Z, Dead Prez, and Beyoncé. Hear the untold stories behind the making of “Still Not a Player,” the creative battles that birthed “Hip Hop” by Dead Prez, and the cinematic vision that powered American Gangster. Sean also opens up about teaching RZA’s techniques to actors on Wu-Tang: An American Saga and his shift into music supervision and mentorship. More than just stories — this is a conversation about the soul of hip-hop, the balance between art and industry, and the power of staying true to the craft. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a text Ever wonder how the biggest music careers are built behind the scenes? Nicole Bilzerian's story is a masterclass in music industry evolution. Nicole shares her journey in the music industry, starting from her early interest in music to her internships at RCA Records and Jive. She discusses her experiences working with major artists, the transition to Interscope, and her role in building Geffen Records during the pandemic. Nicole reflects on the challenges and successes she faced as a woman leading urban marketing in a predominantly male industry, emphasizing the importance of integrity and hard work in her career. In this engaging conversation, Nicole shares her insights into the music industry, discussing her experiences with marketing new artists like Olivia Rodrigo, the evolution of artist-fan engagement, and her new venture, 81B. She emphasizes the importance of genuine connections between artists and their fans, the strategic planning behind successful music releases, and her vision for helping indie labels with operational support. Nicole also reflects on her favorite artists and memorable songs she has worked on, providing a comprehensive look at her career and aspirations. Support the show Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices