Butternomics the Business of Culture

On this episode of Butternomics, host Brandon Butler sits down with Ryan Cameron, the unmistakable Voice of Atlanta, to break down his journey from intern to media legend. He shares how he built a lasting career, stayed relevant, and why Atlanta’s culture thrives on reinvention. We talk betting on yourself, staying present, and the power of collaboration—plus some wild stories from his radio days. Packed with laughs, wisdom, and real talk—this is one you don’t want to miss!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Butternomics, we sit down with Melissa Proctor, Chief Marketing Officer of the Atlanta Hawks, to explore her inspiring journey from a high school intern to a trailblazing executive. Melissa shares the unconventional path that led her to the C-suite, proving that success isn’t always a straight line. We dive into how she overcame challenges as a Black woman in sports, balanced motherhood with her demanding career, and used culture and authenticity to drive innovation. Melissa also reveals her strategies for shaping the future of fandom and inclusivity within the Hawks organization. Whether you’re looking for career inspiration, leadership insights, or just an incredible story of resilience and vision, this episode is packed with lessons that will leave you ready to take your own leap of faith.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Kelvin Collins, Vice President of Economic Development at the Atlanta BeltLine, to explore how the BeltLine has become more than a trail. Collins breaks down how it’s connecting 45 neighborhoods, sparking billions in investment, and creating opportunities for small businesses, artists, and everyday Atlantans. From affordable shipping container storefronts to preparing entrepreneurs for global events like the World Cup, this episode highlights the BeltLine as both Atlanta’s front porch and its billion-dollar future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Butternomics, our host, Brandon Butler, sits down with Michael Barclay II, Chief Events and Experience Officer at Sundial Media, to break down the massive machine behind Essence Fest, AfroPunk, and BeautyCon. Barclay shares how Essence Fest became more than concerts, growing into a conference, marketplace, and cultural touchstone driving over $350 million in economic impact for New Orleans. He also opens up about his journey from Def Jam college rep to leading some of the biggest cultural festivals in the world. Listeners will learn the truth about what it costs to stage massive events, how brands and partners really work behind the scenes, and why patience and community-building are non-negotiable for long-term success.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.