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Breaking Down the Biz

Breaking Down the Biz

By: Seth Schachner | StratAmericas
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 On Breaking Down the Biz, we simplify the big stuff in the business of music , entertainment, and technology. Industry insider Seth Schachner (ex Sony Music, Microsoft, AOL, Universal Music) brings you a bite-sized, insider’s guide to how the industry really works. Each week Seth is joined by the insiders who are making culture happen - the brains behind your favorite artists, movies, and media companies. Ever wondered how Apple helped save the music industry? What actually happened with those Taylor Swift tickets? And how did Bad Bunny go from unknown to global superstar? From timely breakdowns to the biggest industry-shifting moments in recent history, we’re unpacking the deals, the drama, and the decisions that shape what you watch and listen to every day. Social Sciences
Episodes
  • The Rise and Fall of Music Journalism | Ira Robbins

    The Rise and Fall of Music Journalism | Ira Robbins
    Apr 2 2026
    Most major music publications were born in the print era, but are now faced with shifting digital landscapes and an uphill battle to compete for eyes and ears. How has the music journalism category adapted as we shift from the paper to platform? How has the democraticization of music coverage changed the way we critique the industry? To answer all these questions and more, we speak with Ira Robbins, founder of Trouser Press. His seminal publication covered legendary artists like Cheap Trick, The Ramones, Brian Eno, The Clash, and more. We discuss how the attitude of his indie, DIY publication covering New York's emerging punk scene in the 70s can be applied today. We also touch on social media, the role of music critique and review for the modern listener, and the importance of honest, informed coverage in the industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    42 mins
  • Ivy on Music, Loss, & Legacy

    Ivy on Music, Loss, & Legacy
    Mar 27 2026
    Join us as we explore Ivy's musical journey, from their analog roots to digital evolution. Discover how they navigated the music industry, faced personal loss, and maintained their creative integrity. Featuring insights from band members on resilience, creativity, and the future of music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    33 mins
  • How iTunes Saved The Music Industry

    How iTunes Saved The Music Industry
    Mar 25 2026
    The digital revolution in music didn't just change how we listen; it upended the entire industry. From the chaos of piracy and industry decline in the early 2000s to Apple's game-changing iTunes, and now to the streaming era, one thing is clear: the business has never been more unpredictable or more exciting. In this episode of Breaking Down the Biz, Seth Shachner sits down with industry veteran Thomas Hesse to walk through the seismic shifts that transformed music from physical to digital to AI. You'll discover how the industry responded to piracy with innovative licensing models, the strategic dance with Apple to launch iTunes with the industry on board, and the rise of streaming platforms like Spotify that redefined access versus ownership. Thomas shares behind-the-scenes stories of negotiating with tech giants, and reveals how the industry’s revenue models changed, from the 99-cent song to subscription ecosystems that keep the industry alive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    43 mins
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