From HBO to NASA+: How Rebecca Sirmons Built an Emmy-Winning Streaming Platform
In this episode of The Media Machine, host Johanna Salazar sits down with Rebecca Sirmons, General Manager of NASA+. Rebecca shares her inspiring journey from working with major networks like HBO, Netflix, and El Rey Network to leading NASA's global streaming platform. She highlights her mission to bring captivating space stories to the forefront, including Emmy-winning content like Cosmic Dawn and The Color of Space. Discover how Rebecca's background in storytelling, technology, and leadership is transforming NASA Plus into a hub for live space walks, documentaries, and educational content. Learn about her strategic partnerships with Netflix and Amazon Prime and the challenges of broadcasting live from space. This episode offers a deep dive into the intersection of media, innovation, and public service, emphasizing the importance of making space content accessible to all generations. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Introduction to NASA's Vision 00:40 Meet Your Host: Johanna Salazar 00:59 Introducing Rebecca Sirmons 01:31 Rebecca's Journey and Achievements 05:04 The Heartbeat of NASA+ 08:15 Building NASA+ 10:53 Challenges and Innovations 15:38 Content Strategy and Partnerships 21:21 Leadership Insights & Lessons 23:38 Learning from Small Networks and Mentorship 24:03 Rebecca’s Leadership Style and Career Highlights 29:04 The Future of Live Space Content 32:23 Technical Challenges of Space Broadcasting 35:34 Encouraging Creative Collaborations with NASA 38:18 Distribution and the Role of AI in NASA 40:04 Upcoming Projects, Social Plugs & Credits CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar and Mia Vinciguerra.This episode was edited by Adriana Saravia. This episode features music, graphics and visuals from Envato Elements. WEBSITE LINK https://mediamachinepodcast.com SOCIALS LINKS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast X/Twitter: @themediamachinepod PODCAST LINKS Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YOUTUBE @TheMediaMachinePod ABOUT THE PODCAST This is The Media Machine - where media, business and innovation intersect. Host Johanna Salazar will explore the future of content, technology, and entertainment through the lens of four key pillars - process, profits, people and planet. Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. #MediaMachine #TheMediaMachinePodcast #MediaMachinePodcast #JohannaSalazar #RebeccaSirmons #NASA+ #NASA #Netflix #Amazon #Artemis #CosmicDawn #GoddardSpaceFlightCenter #TheColorofSpace #FarOut #BillNyeSavestheWorld #Tubi #Kanopy #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast
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The Business of Being a Creator: A Master Class with Nicki Sun
In this episode of The Media Machine, host Johanna Salazar sits down with Nikki Sun, a multifaceted creator, producer, and media entrepreneur. Nikki shares her journey from starting as a student journalist to becoming a trusted voice in the creator economy. The discussion covers six key chapters: 1. Building your Creator Identity 2. The Business Behind the Content 3. Advocacy and Purpose 4. Innovation and infrastructure 5 Scaling a Creator Business 6. Podcasting Evolution. Nikki also offers valuable insights on leveraging brand partnerships, tech tools for creators, the importance of self branding, and advocating for representation and creator rights. Nikki emphasizes the necessity of purpose-driven content, collaboration, and continuous learning. She also provides practical advice on managing a creator business and using podcasting as a platform for storytelling. Whether you're a seasoned content creator or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable tips for building a sustainable, authentic, and tech-savvy creator brand. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Becoming a Full-Time Creator: The Importance of Branding 01:07 Introduction to the Media Machine and Nicki Sun 02:54 Chapter 1: Building Your Creator Identity 06:47 The Evolution of a Creator Identity 11:18 Chapter 2: The Business Behind the Content 21:10 Chapter 3: Advocacy and Purpose in Content Creation 24:36 Chapter 4: Innovation and Infrastructure for Creators 26:54 Tech Gear and Tools for Efficient Production 29:06 Branding and Protecting Your Content 31:52 Monetizing on Different Platforms 37:15 Chapter 5: Scaling a Creator Business 43:01 Chapter 6: Podcasting Evolution and Tips 47:56 Quick Fire Questions, Social Plugs & Credits CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar and Mia Vinciguerra.This episode was edited by Adriana Saravia. Our show art was designed by Gabriel Pareja. This episode features music, graphics and visuals from Envato Elements. WEBSITE LINK mediamachinepodcast.com SOCIALS LINKS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast X/Twitter: @themediamachinepod PODCAST LINKS Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YOUTUBE @TheMediaMachinePod ABOUT THE PODCAST This is The Media Machine - where media, business and innovation intersect. Host Johanna Salazar will explore the future of content, technology, and entertainment through the lens of four key pillars - process, profits, people and planet. Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. #MediaMachine #TheMediaMachinePodcast #MediaMachinePodcast #JohannaSalazar #NickiSun #NickiSunShow #Youtube #TikTok #Instagram #Disney #Pixar #TurningRed #Descript #Frame.io #Samsung #SanDisk #KingstonTechnology #NAB #RedDigitalCinema #Lightcraft #OpusClips #Descript #ToyotaSiennaMinivan #PopSugar #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia
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Dead Duo & Bold Moves: Rebeca Ricoy on Building a New Marketing Playbook at Duolingo
Join host Johanna Salazar on The Media Machine as she delves into the innovative marketing strategies of Duolingo with International Marketing Director, Rebeca Ricoy. Their discussion explores Duolingo's unique marketing strategies, including their viral 'Dead Duo' campaign and the collaboration with HBO Max for High Valyrian language courses. Rebecca highlights Duolingo's approach to combining education with entertainment to keep users engaged and the importance of not taking marketing too seriously. The conversation also touches on the challenges and tactics of localizing global campaigns, the impact of AI on marketing, and the company's commitment to making education accessible. Rebecca shares insights from her career, emphasizing the power of storytelling and the importance of a flexible and creative team. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Introduction to Duolingo's Iconic Character: Duo the Owl 00:47 Meet Rebeca Ricoy: Duolingo’s International Marketing Director 01:51 The Viral “Dead Duo” Campaign: How It All Started 05:02 Global Reaction and Adaptation: The Chaos and Success of "Dead Duo" 10:51 Localization Strategies: Adapting Campaigns for Different Markets 15:02 Duolingo's Bold Marketing Philosophy: Risk-Taking and Creativity 21:47 Entertainment with Purpose: The Secret Sauce of Duolingo's Marketing 25:45 Global Trends and Cultural Nuances 28:40 Understanding Duoingo’s Demographic 29:30 Career Journey and Leadership Insights 33:34 Empowering Gen Z in the Workplace 36:45 AI's Role in Marketing and Operations 41:38 Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships 46:08 Quick Fire Questions and Closing Remarks CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar and Mia Vinciguerra.This episode was edited by Adriana Saravia. Our show art was designed by Gabriel Pareja. This episode features music, graphics and visuals from Envato Elements. WEBSITE LINK https://mediamachinepodcast.com SOCIALS LINKS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast X/Twitter: @themediamachinepod PODCAST LINKS Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YOUTUBE @TheMediaMachinePod ABOUT THE PODCAST This is The Media Machine - where media, business and innovation intersect. Host Johanna Salazar will explore the future of content, technology, and entertainment through the lens of four key pillars - process, profits, people and planet. Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. #MediaMachine #TheMediaMachinePodcast #MediaMachinePodcast #JohannaSalazar #RebecaRicoy #DuoLingo #HBO #MTV #DuaLipa #McDonald’s #TikTok #Mad//Fest #Glean #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast #DeadDuo
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Redefining Radio: Amanda Sapp on Community Power, Purpose, and the Mic
In this episode of The Media Machine, host Johanna Salazar engages in a deep conversation with Amanda Sapp, VP of Media at Bread of Life, Inc. and General Manager of Amazing 102.5 FM in Houston. Amanda shares her inspiring journey from being a volunteer on-air talent to becoming the General Manager of the radio station. She discusses the importance of saying yes to opportunities, her role in mentoring young talent, and how she utilizes radio for social impact and cultural storytelling. Amanda also opens up about her past experiences, including overcoming homelessness, and emphasizes the power of community, faith and leadership. Tune in to learn about Amanda’s strategies for sustaining media, fostering new talent, and leading with purpose. SHOW NOTES 00:00 From Volunteer to Radio Station Manager 01:02 Introduction to the Media Machine 02:04 Amanda Sapp's Journey to Finding Her Voice 04:12 Transitioning to The Morning Show 07:29 A Day in the Life of a Radio Station GM 09:16 Sustaining Success in Media 12:51 Mentorship and Empowerment in Media 17:10 Partnerships and Community Impact 20:14 Embracing Change in Media 20:50 Redefining Media for Social Impact 22:18 The Future of Radio 23:52 Overcoming Homelessness 29:58 Faith and Leadership 33:09 Empowering Advice for Listeners 36:38 Connecting with the Community 38:50 Closing Thoughts, Social Plugs and Credits CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar and Mia Vinciguerra.This episode was edited by Andrés Cote. Our show art was designed by Gabriel Pareja. This episode features music, graphics and visuals from Envato Elements. WEBSITE LINK mediamachinepodcast.com SOCIALS LINKS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast X/Twitter: @themediamachinepod PODCAST LINKS Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YOUTUBE @TheMediaMachinePod ABOUT THE PODCAST This is The Media Machine - where media, business and innovation intersect. Host Johanna Salazar will explore the future of content, technology, and entertainment through the lens of four key pillars - process, profits, people and planet. Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. #MediaMachine #TheMediaMachinePodcast #MediaMachinePodcast #JohannaSalazar #AmandaSapp #BreadofLife #Amazing102.5FM #NAB #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast
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From Verizon and 23andMe to LinkedIn: Kevin Flores on Designing Stories That Shape How We Live and Work
EPISODE DESCRIPTION In this episode of The Media Machine, host Johanna Salazar sits down with Kevin Flores, a seasoned design leader, strategist, and co-author of The Design Career Handbook. With over 25 years of experience, Kevin shares insights from working at major tech companies like LinkedIn, 23andMe, and Verizon, focusing on user-centered design and mentorship. He discusses the importance of storytelling and presentation skills in design, the iterative process of design development, and the need for continuous reinvention in one's career. Kevin also talks about the genesis of his book, co-written with his wife Janine, aimed at mentoring and guiding designers through their careers. The conversation touches on his work at 23andMe, the impact of design sense versus taste, and the value of mentorship programs like those at First Round Capital. This episode is packed with valuable advice for designers and anyone looking to excel in their careers. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Introduction to Kevin Flores and The Podcast 02:25 Kevin Flores' Journey at 23andMe 06:56 Designing for LinkedIn 11:34 The Design Career Handbook 15:10 The Importance of Storytelling in Design 20:14 Iteration Failure: Learning Through Process 21:50 Defining “Design Sense” 24:21 “Spelunking” at New Jobs 27:34 The Litterati Project 30:15 Mentorship and Coaching 34:07 Career Pivots and Future Plans 38:44 Conclusion, Social Plugs and Credits CREDITS The Media Machine is hosted by Johanna Salazar. Our producers are Johanna Salazar and Mia Vinciguerra. This episode was edited by Andrés Cote. Our show art was designed by Gabriel Pareja. This episode features music, graphics and visuals from Envato Elements. WEBSITE LINK https://www.mediamachinepodcast.com SOCIALS LINKS Instagram: @themediamachinepodcast TikTok: @themediamachinepodcast Facebook: @themediamachinepodcast X/Twitter: @themediamachinepod PODCAST LINKS Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YOUTUBE @TheMediaMachinePod ABOUT THE PODCAST This is The Media Machine - where media, business and innovation intersect. Host Johanna Salazar will explore the future of content, technology, and entertainment through the lens of four key pillars - process, profits, people and planet. Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. #MediaMachine #TheMediaMachinePodcast #MediaMachinePodcast #JohannaSalazar #KevinFlores #LinkedIn #23andMe #Verizon #Litterati #FirstRoundCapital #TedTalks #DesignCareerHandbook #AIIntelligence #FutureOfMedia #InnovationInMedia #MediaBusiness #ContentCreation #TechAndMedia #MediaDisruptors #BusinessOfEntertainment #MediaStrategy #EntertainmentBusiness #MediaPioneers #MediaIndustryInsights #MediaAndTech #TechInEntertainment #MediaRevolution #CreatorsAndInnovators #NextGenMedia #MediaTrends #SustainableEntertainment #MediaConversations #Mediapodcasts #MediaBusinessPodcast
The Media Machine is where media, business, and innovation intersect. Hosted by industry veteran Johanna Salazar, the podcast explores the future of content, technology, and entertainment through the lens of four key pillars:
Process – The strategies, tools, and systems shaping media production and distribution.
Profits – The business models, investments, and revenue streams driving the industry.
People – The creators, executives, and changemakers redefining the landscape.
Planet – The impact of media on culture, society, and sustainability.
Through insightful conversations with visionaries, disruptors, and pioneers, The Media Machine unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping the next era of media. Whether you’re an industry insider or an innovator looking to break in, this podcast is your playbook for navigating the media machine.
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