Explore every episode of the podcast Butternomics the Business of Culture

On this episode of Butternomics, we’re kicking it with Angela Watts, the visionary behind Atlanta Fashion Week. Angela saw the potential for ATL to be more than just a hub for music and culture—she knew it could be a global fashion hotspot too. So, she built a platform that highlights everything from streetwear to high fashion. Fast forward over a decade, and Atlanta Fashion Week is pulling in designers, brands, and fashion lovers from around the world. Tap in as Angela breaks down how she turned her vision into one of ATL’s biggest fashion events, what it really takes to make it in the fashion game, and where she sees the future of Atlanta’s fashion scene heading.

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In this episode of Butternomics, Brandon Butler chops it up with Jah Rawlings, the mastermind behind AEBL, to break down how he flipped Atlanta’s basketball culture on its head. From surprise drop-ins by NBA superstar Kyrie Irving to teaming up with big brands and pulling in ATL legends like 2 Chainz and Lou Williams, Jah gives us the inside scoop on how he built AEBL into a basketball movement that’s all about the community.

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Brandon Butler sits down with Dr. Fahamu Pecou, a celebrated artist known for his unique fusion of hip hop and cultural commentary. Dr. Pecou shares his journey from graphic design to achieving global recognition and knighthood. He share the challenges of breaking into the art world, the influence of visual culture on Black masculinity, and how his work challenges stereotypes and inspires future generations.

Butternomics is a part of the iHeart Podcast network // Production by Ramsey Yount // Marketing support by Queen Anaeki // If you haven’t already, please hit that subscribe button to never miss an episode and follow us @ButterATL // For more podcasts from iHeartMedia, visit the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your favorite shows.

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Brandon Butler talks with Keith Dorsey, CEO of Young Guns Entertainment and Collab Studios. Keith shares his journey from managing social media celebrities to building a million-dollar empire. He talks about launching Atlanta's first Black content house, navigating the influencer industry, and the importance of authenticity when building an influencer brand.

Butternomics is a part of the iHeart Podcast network // Production by Ramsey Yount // Marketing support by Queen Anaeki // If you haven’t already, please hit that subscribe button to never miss an episode and follow us @ButterATL // For more podcasts from iHeartMedia, visit the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your favorite shows.

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 Butternomics: The Business of Culture takes a deep dive into the intersection of business and culture, showing how brands, entrepreneurs, and tastemakers use culture level up. Join serial entrepreneur, thought leader, and CEO of Butter.ATL, Brandon Butler (@mrsuperbran), as he brings you exclusive interviews, trends, insights, and more. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned pro, Butternomics is for you.

Listen to Butternomics - The Business of Culture starting July 30th on the iHeartRadio App, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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Cxmmunity’s Ryan Johnson discusses the journey of building the largest HBCU Esports League and the company’s mission to diversify gaming. Explore how this initiative is bridging the gap between culture, education, and the esports industry, empowering the next generation of talent.

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In this episode of Butternomics, host Brandon Butler chats with Candace Mitchell, CEO of MYAVANA, the AI-powered platform transforming haircare. Candace shares her journey from a Georgia Tech grad to building the “Amazon of Haircare,” using technology to offer personalized product recommendations. Tune in to hear how MYAVANA is changing the game in the beauty industry, the challenges Candace faced in raising capital, and her mission to empower Black women and men with the perfect haircare solutions—backed by data.

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In this episode of Butternomics, we’re diving into The Hollywood Blueprint with none other than Fight Night’s Executive Producer, Will Packer. From blockbuster films to iconic TV moments, Will takes us behind the scenes of his latest project and reveals what it takes to succeed in Hollywood. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the art of storytelling, navigating the business side of entertainment, and how to craft a winning strategy in a competitive industry. Whether you’re a film buff or a business-minded creative, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!

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On this episode of Butternomics, we’re sitting down with none other than Cam Kirk, the visionary behind Cam Kirk Studios in Atlanta. From a single room to building a creative empire, Cam shares the real story behind his rise in the world of photography and entrepreneurship.

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On this episode of the Butternomics podcast, Brandon chops it up with Maya Table—director, producer, and all-around creative powerhouse. Listen as she shares how her journey from Memphis to ATL shaped her one-of-a-kind style, what it’s like working with heavyweights like Anderson .Paak and TI, and her thoughts on where film and AI are headed.

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J. Carter, the visionary behind One Musicfest, joins Butternomics to break down the business behind one of the most influential mega festivals in the country, One MusicFest. From securing major brand partnerships to navigating the challenges of scaling a festival that brings out 100,000+ people in Atlanta, J. shares insights that go beyond the surface. Discover how he turned passion into a cultural staple, the strategies that helped him secure big deals, and why understanding your value is crucial in the world of brand activations and events.

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Brandon Butler talks with MeShae' Prophet, former Director of Digital Marketing at Shondaland, who stepped out on faith to build her own brand. MeShae' shares her journey from working on high-profile projects in the corporate world to venturing into entrepreneurship. She shares the challenges and triumphs of leaving a stable career to pursue her passion for storytelling and creating her unique path.

Butternomics is a part of the iHeart Podcast network // Production by Ramsey Yount // Marketing support by Queen Anaeki // If you haven’t already, please hit that subscribe button to never miss an episode and follow us @ButterATL // For more podcasts from iHeartMedia, visit the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your favorite shows.

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In this episode of "Butternomics," Brandon Butler sits down with Melissa A. Mitchell, the creative powerhouse behind Abeille Creations. Melissa shares her journey from working a 9-to-5 job to becoming a full-time artist and entrepreneur.

Butternomics is a part of the iHeart Podcast network // Production by Ramsey Yount // Marketing support by Queen Anaeki // If you haven’t already, please hit that subscribe button to never miss an episode and follow us @ButterATL // For more podcasts from iHeartMedia, visit the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your favorite shows.

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In this episode of Butternomics, host Brandon Butler sits down with Latif Yahya, founder of Wisdom Fashion House, to dive into his journey from budding designer to eyewear industry trailblazer. Latif shares how his personal experiences and cultural roots have shaped his creative vision—from early sketches to a respected fashion line. Discover how he’s navigated challenges, committed to quality, and built a brand that stands out in the world of fashion. Tune in to hear Latif’s insights on blending artistry with entrepreneurship and how Wisdom Fashion House is redefining the game with every frame.

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In this episode of Butternomics, host Brandon Butler sits down with Rechelle Dennis, the dynamic founder of Girls United, to explore how she built the movement into a powerful cultural force. Rechelle shares her journey from gymnast to media leader, her experiences with leadership, and how Girls United has become a platform that empowers and uplifts the next generation of young Black women. Tune in to hear about the challenges of brand-building, the importance of community, and how Rechelle is redefining what it means to lead with purpose in today’s digital age.

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In this special live episode of Butternomics, Brandon Butler sits down with Jai Ferrell, the CEO of the Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta, to discuss her remarkable journey from managing commercial operations at the world’s busiest airport to leading one of Atlanta’s most impactful organizations. Jai shares how her experiences at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, overseeing a $2 billion portfolio, shaped her leadership style and prepared her for her current role. Tune in to hear how she broke barriers, embraced authenticity, and continues to inspire the next generation of leaders through her work with the Girl Scouts. This episode is filled with insights on leadership, community building, and personal growth.

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Join us on this inspiring episode of Butternomics as we sit down with Jasmine Crowe, the visionary founder of Goodr, a social enterprise tackling food insecurity through innovative food rescue logistics. Discover how Jasmine’s journey began with a single act of compassion and evolved into a groundbreaking business model that not only fights hunger but also combats food waste across the nation. In this conversation, Jasmine shares the challenges and triumphs of scaling a social enterprise, the logistics of turning excess food into opportunities, and how individuals and companies can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable food system. Whether you’re interested in entrepreneurship, sustainability, or making a tangible impact in your community, this episode is a testament to how powerful combining innovation with intention can be. Tune in to learn how every meal has the potential to change the world.

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In this episode of Butternomics, host Brandon Butler sits down with the legendary DL Warfield, a visual artist whose creative influence spans far beyond the iconic album covers he’s designed for hip-hop legends like Outkast, TLC, and Usher. From shaping the visual identity of LaFace Records to breaking boundaries in fashion, fine art, and branding, DL has left an indelible mark on culture. Tune in as he shares stories behind some of the most memorable album artwork of all time, his journey through the art world, and how his passion for creativity has influenced everything from music to fashion to fine art. This is an inspiring conversation about vision, persistence, and the power of art to define a generation.

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On this episode of Butternomics, Brandon Butler chops it up with Keinon Johnson, the guru at blending hip-hop beats with big biz buzz. Keinon dives into how he’s shaped the culture by hooking up top artists with major brands, changing the game from the days he was curating hits for radio to now calling the shots in boardrooms. Plus, he’ll break down his “Never Sold Dope” movement, proving you can win big in this industry without following the clichéd paths. Don’t miss out on Keinon’s real talk on making moves and making history in music and marketing.

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On this episode of Butternomics, host Brandon Butler sits down with Jay Bailey, a champion for Black economic empowerment and the driving force behind the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs. Dive deep into Jay’s journey and his dedicated efforts to create a sustainable ecosystem that uplifts and transforms Black businesses in Atlanta and beyond. Discover how the Russell Innovation Center is not just a hub for business but a beacon of community and cultural pride, providing the tools, resources, and network Black entrepreneurs need to thrive. Jay shares his insights on overcoming barriers, the power of community investment, and his vision for a future where economic success is accessible to all.

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On this episode of Butternomics, host Brandon Butler sits down with Avoilan Bingham, the General Manager at Drive Capital. Tune in as Avoilan dishes out expert advice on using venture capital to build standout tech businesses. He breaks down the critical role of team dynamics in startup success and walks us through the venture capital world—from nurturing new ideas to guiding companies toward IPO. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned investor, Avoilan’s insights on innovation, investment, and leadership are invaluable.

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On this episode of Butternomics, host Brandon Butler sits down with Marina Skye (@SetBySkye), the design genius behind the Trap Music Museum and beyond. Tune in as she breaks down how she turns designs spaces that both reflect and shape the culture. If you’re all about art, music, or just dope spaces, you won’t want to miss Marina’s take on designing for the culture.

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On this episode of Butternomics, Brandon Butler sits down with Corey “Mr. Hanky” Denard, the hitmaking producer behind anthems like “Living My Best Life” and “Wobble.” They dive into the creative process behind turning everyday moments into chart-topping songs, how to build meaningful connections in the music industry, and the balance between artistry and business. Mr. Hanky shares insights on leveraging culture, creating opportunities, and staying relevant in a competitive industry. Whether you’re an aspiring producer, a creative entrepreneur, or just love good music, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration.

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On this episode of Butternomics, Brandon Butler chops it up with Rashan Ali, the ultimate Atlanta homegirl and multimedia trailblazer. From breaking into radio to thriving in TV, voiceover, and beyond, Rashan shares how she built her legacy by staying true to herself and her city. Hear how she learned the game, stayed moving, and became one of Atlanta’s most beloved voices.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Omar Ali to break down how commercial real estate actually creates long term wealth. Omar shares the mindset shift most people miss when they think about property, including why patience, scale, and structure matter more than quick wins. They talk through capital access, government programs, and the quiet mechanics behind deals that last for generations. This conversation goes beyond buying buildings and gets into how wealth is built, protected, and passed down over time. If you want a clearer picture of how real estate works at the highest level, this episode delivers it.

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Most people leave the military with a thank you and a handshake. Aristole left with a million dollars. On this episode on Butternomics hosted by Brandon Butler, we sit down with Aristole Investments, the Atlanta-raised financial educator who went from cutting hair in the barracks to teaching thousands of soldiers how to build wealth through the stock market. At 18, he joined the Army with no plan B. By 24, he walked out a millionaire. Now he's building an 8-figure legacy center in East Point and dropping gems on how Atlanta can own its own economic power.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Terri Lee, President and CEO of Atlanta Housing, to explore what the future of affordable housing looks like in one of America’s fastest-growing cities. They discuss the challenges of rising rents, the opportunities in public-private partnerships, and how housing serves as the foundation for thriving communities. Terri shares her vision for equity, innovation, and sustainability in building homes that truly open doors for Atlanta families.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, dives into the story of how Black Spades turned a classic card game into a thriving culture brand. From learning manufacturing lessons in Shenzhen to testing product demand through Kickstarter, this episode shows what it takes to build a business rooted in authenticity. Mackey breaks down the power of sampling before scaling, the grind of overseas trips, and why cultural trust beats big budgets every time.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Brandon Chubb, former NFL player and founder of Do Not Disturb Wellness. Chubb breaks down how he’s taking pro-athlete-level recovery practices like sauna, cold plunge, and massage and making them accessible to the public. The conversation dives into the business model behind wellness memberships, the cultural shift toward recovery as lifestyle, and why Atlanta is the perfect home for this new wave of wellness.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with DJ, producer, and cultural curator Jeremy Avalon to explore how parties can become platforms. Jeremy shares the story behind The Groove, the R&B experience that has lasted nearly a decade, and why building community around music is just as important as the music itself. From filling cultural gaps in Atlanta to securing sponsorships and turning nightlife into a business, Jeremy breaks down what it takes to transform creativity into sustainability.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Dr. Kevin James, the president responsible for the extraordinary resurgence of Morris Brown College. Dr. James shares the gripping story of how he led the Atlanta-based HBCU from bankruptcy and lost accreditation back to national recognition. From his audacious decision to pursue the presidency, to rallying alumni, partners like Arthur Blank, and the AME Church, Dr. James reveals the strategy and resilience behind the rebirth of this historic institution. He also dives into his philosophy of "no excuses," team-building insights, and why he believes preparation is the key to overcoming impossible challenges.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with media powerhouse Dawn Montgomery to discuss how she's mastered the elusive art of going viral. Dawn shares her journey from modeling to journalism, revealing the intentional strategies and authenticity behind her most talked-about moments. From valuing her work and pivoting careers to leveraging cultural insights, Dawn breaks down exactly what it takes to turn buzz into lasting business success.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Michael MacDonald, the behind-the-scenes architect of Earn Your Leisure and Invest Fest, to share the real story of how it all came together. Michael opens up about his early hustle designing flyers, the pivotal equity deal that taught him the power of residual income, and the bold moves that helped EYL grow into a global brand. He also breaks down the business strategy behind EYL University, the Mac Pack legacy project, and why Invest Fest has become the Black Friday for entrepreneurs.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Playboy Tre and B Rich, hosts of Atlanta’s hottest sports podcast, The Waterboyz Show. They dive into the real struggles and triumphs of being Atlanta sports fans, revealing how they've turned that passion—and pain—into a powerhouse podcast. Hear the behind-the-scenes stories of their journey, how their entertainment background shaped their unique style, and why the city has fully embraced their authentic take on sports.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, talks with financial strategist Nicole Garner Scott about breaking down the myths that keep people from true financial empowerment. Nicole shares her journey from PR powerhouse to financial expert, revealing the common misconceptions about wealth, generational financial literacy, and why cultural narratives around money often keep communities stuck.

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From humble beginnings in Milwaukee to building one of the South’s most respected hip-hop platforms, Spitty shares how he turned a camera, a porch, and a passion for storytelling into a full-scale media business. He opens up about working with legends like Young Dolph and Snoop Dogg, surviving the pandemic, and stepping out from behind the camera to become a voice of the culture. This is a masterclass in consistency, vision, and staying true to the streets.

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On this episode of Butternomics, host Brandon Butler sits down with Greg Mike—the artist who turned painted soda cans into a global brand and a 500 square foot studio into ABV Gallery, one of Atlanta's most influential creative houses. Greg Mike's signature character, Larry Loudmouth, is everywhere from the Beltline to the Swiss Alps. But his story isn't about overnight success. It's about starting with nothing, using what you have, and building something that lasts.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with CJ and Kelli Stewart to break down how they’re using baseball to build character, confidence, and cultural pride in Black youth. From turning $40,000 into a million-dollar mentorship program to creating coaching certifications that heal generational trauma, they’re transforming more than just talent. The Stewarts share real talk on pricing your value, showing up with purpose, and building community through sports. This is a masterclass in what it means to lead with love—and legacy.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Curtis Daniel III to uncover the real story behind Patchwerk Studios, the legendary recording space that helped shape the sound of the South. Curtis breaks down how he built a world-class studio without outside backing, earned trust across the music industry, and stayed relevant for 30 years. From working with Outkast and Jeezy to running a studio with zero debt and 26 employees, Curtis shares game for creatives and business owners alike. He also opens up about the importance of standards, customer service, and raising the bar, not lowering it.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, talks with J-Bizz about what it truly takes to create authentic content that resonates and goes viral. J-Bizz shares insights from his journey—from growing up in Richmond, Virginia, to becoming a cultural force in Atlanta—detailing how consistency, creativity, and community connection led to his breakthrough moments. He breaks down the secrets behind leveraging culture, content, and personal authenticity to build a thriving multifaceted brand.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, talks with Jarvis George, the creative powerhouse behind VibesInATL, about the secrets to creating content that consistently goes viral. Jarvis shares his journey from Navy veteran and grad student to one of Atlanta’s most influential creators, detailing how he leverages culture, consistency, and authenticity to drive engagement and build community. From content creation tips to understanding algorithms, this episode offers actionable insights for anyone looking to grow online.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, speaks with Sarah Oak Kim, co-founder of Our Bar ATL, about the intersection of nightlife, culture, and community advocacy. Sarah discusses how Our Bar became a gathering place for meaningful change, offering insights into initiatives like Hug the Block, Narcan training, and community-driven events. From challenging misconceptions to addressing social issues head-on, Sarah shares how nightlife can truly be a catalyst for change.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, talks with Chilly-O, a cultural pioneer and community advocate who has shaped Atlanta’s creative identity for decades. From his early work in the city’s housing projects to becoming a streetwear innovator and action sports enthusiast, Chilly-O has consistently leveraged his influence to uplift the youth and creative communities. In this conversation, he shares the importance of authenticity, the power of mentorship, and how creative communities can help Atlanta maintain its cultural edge.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with marketing legend Darryl “DC” Cobbin to explore what it truly means to create culture, not just chase it. From his groundbreaking work at Sprite, shaping hip-hop’s first mainstream brand partnerships, to driving billion-dollar success at Boost Mobile and marketing blockbusters like Avatar, DC shares strategic insights on how brands can authentically shape culture. He dives into the difference between marketing and advertising, why asking the right questions matters more than having quick answers, and how real culture drives real profits.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Wintter Alex and Chic Lauren of The Manner Co to discuss their journey from styling one of Atlanta’s most iconic music videos, “Bad and Boujee,” to building a thriving creative empire. Wintter and Chic share how they’ve navigated fashion, marketing, and community to create a business that blends style with strategic success. This conversation dives into what marketing truly means beyond advertising, how to scale authenticity, and why community remains their most valuable asset.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with marketing expert Mahdi Woodard to explore his proven blueprint for turning content into commerce. Mahdi shares insights on the real definition of marketing, the secret behind finding product-market fit, and how he transitioned from hobby to thriving business without losing authenticity. This episode is a masterclass in translating your ideas, hobbies, and insights into commerce while staying true to yourself and your community.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Isaac Hayes III, the force behind Fanbase, a groundbreaking social media platform redefining creator monetization. Isaac opens up about his unique approach to raising capital through equity crowdfunding, his journey transitioning from entertainment to tech, and why building infrastructure is the key to securing the financial future of black creators.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with the one and only Nitti Beatz, a foundational figure in Atlanta's music scene. Nitti takes us back to his roots, from his gospel radio upbringing with his mother to learning seven instruments by ear. He recounts the early days of Atlanta hip-hop, being inspired by local legends like Mr. Cool, and his big break producing tracks for 8-Ball. Nitti pulls back the curtain on the creation of the multi-platinum hit "It's Goin' Down" for Young Joc, sharing the creative process and the lessons learned about the industry. This conversation is packed with insights on the importance of music quality, branding, mentorship from figures like Jermaine Dupri and Diddy, and his passion for developing the next generation of artists.

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Keyeriah Miles, founder of Ladies Who Golf, to talk about how a side hobby turned into a national movement. Keyeriah shares how a single text message evolved into the largest golf community for women in the country and what it really took to scale the brand with clarity, confidence, and culture. 

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On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, talks with Henry Mason about what it means to build a healthcare company rooted in care, not just code. From a tech background to running one of Georgia’s top hospice providers, Henry shares how he’s navigating the business of medicine with honesty, grit, and a clear vision. If you’ve ever felt like the healthcare system isn’t built for you—this conversation confirms it, then gives you the game plan.

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