culture FYI'RS

FYI.AI

Welcome to the Culture FYI 'RS podcast. Culture FYI'RS is a creative collaboration meet-up held weekly at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles. Each week, we feature a fireside chat with a guest, showcase projects being worked on by members of the FYI community, and share product updates for FYI.AI, the creative collaboration app co-founded by will.i.am. Every episode presents the culture FYI'RS conversation and includes a project link to the event in the FYI App, including a discussion tab, photos, and more. The FYI app is available for free download in the App Store and Google Play.

  1. vor 16 Std.

    The Future is a Game with Jenn Garcia

    Welcome to the Culture FYI’RS Podcast. Culture FYI’RS is a creative collaboration meetup held weekly at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles. Each week, we feature a fireside chat with a guest, showcase projects being worked on by members of the FYI community, and share product updates for FYI.AI, the creative collaboration app co-founded by will.i.am. Learn more about FYI: https://fyi.me/p/jointhemovement This week, we are thrilled to welcome Jenn Garcia, the visionary CEO and founder of Metamoki Games. In an enlightening conversation with FYI Chief Growth Officer Julie Pilat, Jenn dives deep into her inspiring journey from growing up in South Central LA to pioneering social gaming and leading a global gaming company. Jenn shares her personal experiences growing up in a community filled with challenges and resilience, highlighting the importance of mentorship and community support. She reflects on her mother's impactful role as a business owner and community leader, emphasizing the power of giving back. As they discuss the evolution of gaming, Jenn recounts her early days in Silicon Valley, navigating the startup culture, and the serendipitous opportunities that led to her success in the tech industry. Curious to learn more about Jenn and her insights? Check out the project link for this Culture FYI’RS event: https://fyi.ai/p/cf130 Want to attend a Culture FYI’RS event in person at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles? Hit the link below to see a schedule of who’s speaking at a future event and to RSVP to join the next session: https://fyi.me/p/culturefyirs This episode’s Culture FYI’RS event was produced by FYI co-founder will.i.am, Aminah Muhammad, Emily Choi, Frankie Sandoval, Jafet Chavez, Julie Pilat, Markus Nielsen-Kolding, Roneal Madlani, Sean Kantrowitz, Shania Jafari, the FYI Product Team, and of course, the FYI Community. The podcast is edited by Rob Van Vranken.  Download FYI.AI for free in the App Store and Google Play

    The Future is a Game with Jenn Garcia
  2. 10. Aug.

    Music Documentaries with AJ Eaton

    Welcome to the Culture FYI’RS Podcast. Culture FYI’RS is a creative collaboration meetup held weekly at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles. Each week, we feature a fireside chat with a guest, showcase projects being worked on by members of the FYI community, and share product updates for FYI.AI, the creative collaboration app co-founded by will.i.am. Learn more about FYI: https://fyi.me/p/jointhemovement This week, we dive into the fascinating world of documentary filmmaking with acclaimed director A.J. Eaton, known for his compelling work on the David Crosby documentary “Remember My Name”. In an insightful conversation with FYI Chief Growth Officer Julie Pilat, A.J. shares his unique journey into the film industry, exploring how his musical background shaped his storytelling approach. A.J. recounts the serendipitous meeting with David Crosby, which sparked the idea for the documentary. He reflects on the emotional depth of Crosby's story, revealing how he captured the musician's candid moments and the intricate layers of his life. With a blend of humor and sincerity, A.J. discusses the challenges he faced while navigating the documentary landscape, including the struggle to secure funding and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. Throughout the episode, A.J. emphasizes the significance of building trust with subjects and the delicate balance of portraying their complexities. He also shares insights into the creative process, from the initial concept to the editing room, highlighting the unexpected moments that often yield the most powerful footage. As he looks ahead to his next project—a film about his family's musical journey—A.J. inspires listeners to recognize the remarkable stories that lie within their own lives. Curious to learn more about AJ and his insights? Check out the project link for this Culture FYI’RS event: https://fyi.ai/p/cf129 Want to attend a Culture FYI’RS event in person at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles? Hit the link below to see a schedule of who’s speaking at a future event and to RSVP to join the next session: https://fyi.me/p/culturefyirs This episode’s Culture FYI’RS event was produced by FYI co-founder will.i.am, Aminah Muhammad, Emily Choi, Frankie Sandoval, Jafet Chavez, Julie Pilat, Markus Nielsen-Kolding, Roneal Madlani, Sean Kantrowitz, Shania Jafari, the FYI Product Team, and of course, the FYI Community. The podcast is edited by Rob Van Vranken.  Download FYI.AI for free in the App Store and Google Play

    Music Documentaries with AJ Eaton
  3. 3. Aug.

    The Business of Access with Candace Newman

    Welcome to the Culture FYI’RS Podcast. Culture FYI’RS is a creative collaboration meetup held weekly at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles. Each week, we feature a fireside chat with a guest, showcase projects being worked on by members of the FYI community, and share product updates for FYI.AI, the creative collaboration app co-founded by will.i.am. Learn more about FYI: https://fyi.me/p/jointhemovement This week, we delve into the inspiring journey of Candace Newman, a passionate advocate for access and representation in the live music industry. In an engaging conversation with FYI Chief Growth Officer Julie Pilat, Candace reflects on her early experiences navigating the foster care system and how those challenges shaped her determination to succeed. With over six years as a member of the Recording Academy, Candace shares her insights on the importance of community and mentorship in the music industry. She discusses the recent announcements for the 2026 Recording Academy membership and highlights the significance of networking for aspiring artists. As the founder of Live Out Live, a dual-purpose organization that combines a nonprofit foundation with a for-profit business, Candace is committed to providing young people access to the music industry through mentorship, internships, and workshops. Throughout the episode, Candace emphasizes the need for emerging artists to equip themselves with the right tools and mindset to thrive in a competitive landscape. She shares her experiences at Live Nation and the lessons learned about navigating corporate environments as a woman in the industry. With a focus on authenticity and community building, Candace encourages listeners to pursue their passions while creating opportunities for others. Curious to learn more about Candace and her insights? Check out the project link for this Culture FYI’RS event: https://fyi.ai/p/cf128 Want to attend a Culture FYI’RS event in person at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles? Hit the link below to see a schedule of who’s speaking at a future event and to RSVP to join the next session: https://fyi.me/p/culturefyirs This episode’s Culture FYI’RS event was produced by FYI co-founder will.i.am, Aminah Muhammad, Emily Choi, Frankie Sandoval, Jafet Chavez, Julie Pilat, Markus Nielsen-Kolding, Roneal Madlani, Sean Kantrowitz, Shania Jafari, the FYI Product Team, and of course, the FYI Community. The podcast is edited by Rob Van Vranken.  Download FYI.AI for free in the App Store and Google Play

    The Business of Access with Candace Newman
  4. 27. Juli

    Navigating the Future of AI with X. Eyee

    Welcome to the Culture FYI’RS Podcast. Culture FYI’RS is a creative collaboration meetup held weekly at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles. Each week, we feature a fireside chat with a guest, showcase projects being worked on by members of the FYI community, and share product updates for FYI.AI, the creative collaboration app co-founded by will.i.am. Learn more about FYI: https://fyi.me/p/jointhemovement This week we explore the rapidly evolving landscape of technology with a focus on local AI models and the future of data centers. In an insightful discussion with FYI Chief Growth Officer Julie Pilat, tech visionary X. Eyee shares three key areas of excitement in the tech realm, shedding light on how these advancements can reshape our interaction with technology. X. Eyee kicks off by breaking down the concept of data centers, explaining their role in powering AI and the challenges they present, particularly in terms of energy consumption and environmental impact. With the demand for AI growing, X. Eyee highlights the need for innovative solutions to enhance data center efficiency and the emerging trend of local AI models—running AI directly on personal devices, reducing reliance on centralized data centers. Curious to learn more about X. Eyee and their insights? Check out the project link for this Culture FYI’RS event: https://fyi.me/p/culturefyirs Want to attend a Culture FYI’RS event in person at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles? Hit the link below to see a schedule of who’s speaking at a future event and to RSVP to join the next session: https://fyi.me/p/culturefyirs This episode’s Culture FYI’RS event was produced by FYI co-founder will.i.am, Aminah Muhammad, Emily Choi, Frankie Sandoval, Jafet Chavez, Julie Pilat, Markus Nielsen-Kolding, Roneal Madlani, Sean Kantrowitz, Shania Jafari, the FYI Product Team, and of course, the FYI Community. The podcast is edited by Rob Van Vranken.  Download FYI.AI for free in the App Store and Google Play

    Navigating the Future of AI with X. Eyee
  5. 20. Juli

    Building Live Experiences with Levi Downey

    Welcome to the Culture FYI’RS Podcast. Culture FYI’RS is a creative collaboration meetup held weekly at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles. Each week, we feature a fireside chat with a guest, showcase projects being worked on by members of the FYI community, and share product updates for FYI.AI, the creative collaboration app co-founded by will.i.am. Learn more about FYI: https://fyi.me/p/jointhemovement This week, we are excited to feature Levi Downey, co-founder of the innovative live performance series, The Rehearsal. In an engaging conversation with FYI Chief Growth Officer Julie Pilat, Levi shares the inspiration behind creating a culturally impactful experience for both artists and audiences, likening it to LA's answer to NPR's Tiny Desk. Levi takes us on a journey through his musical evolution, from his early days in Portland, Oregon, where he immersed himself in the jazz scene, to discovering his passion for music production while touring with various bands. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of stepping into a producer role, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and understanding the strengths of each team member. As the conversation unfolds, Levi reflects on the transformative power of technology in music, including his experience with NFTs and how they have shaped his relationship with money and creativity. He also highlights the significance of building community and fostering genuine connections in the music industry, particularly through intimate live performances. Curious to learn more about Levi and his work? Check out the project link for this Culture FYI’RS event: https://fyi.ai/p/cf127 Want to attend a Culture FYI’RS event in person at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles? Hit the link below to see a schedule of who’s speaking at a future event and to RSVP to join the next session: https://fyi.me/p/culturefyirs This episode’s Culture FYI’RS event was produced by FYI co-founder will.i.am, Aminah Muhammad, Emily Choi, Frankie Sandoval, Jafet Chavez, Julie Pilat, Markus Nielsen-Kolding, Roneal Madlani, Sean Kantrowitz, Shania Jafari, the FYI Product Team, and of course, the FYI Community. The podcast is edited by Rob Van Vranken.  Download FYI.AI for free in the App Store and Google Play

    Building Live Experiences with Levi Downey
  6. 13. Juli

    Hollywood Unlocked with Lee Charm

    Welcome to the Culture FYI’RS Podcast. Culture FYI’RS is a creative collaboration meetup held weekly at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles. Each week, we feature a fireside chat with a guest, showcase projects being worked on by members of the FYI community, and share product updates for FYI.AI, the creative collaboration app co-founded by will.i.am. Learn more about FYI: https://fyi.me/p/jointhemovement This week, we dive into the extraordinary journey of Lee Charm, a multi-talented creative who has navigated the complex worlds of music, media, and celebrity culture. In a candid conversation with FYI Chief Growth Officer Julie Pilat, Lee shares his unconventional path—from being a college dropout to becoming a sought-after music supervisor and stylist for some of the biggest names in the industry. Lee opens up about his early struggles with imposter syndrome, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, and the importance of viewing oneself through a lens of self-worth and ambition. He recounts a serendipitous audition that led him to the music business and discusses the challenges he faced while transitioning from artist to entrepreneur, including the lessons learned from failed projects and the power of resilience. As the conversation unfolds, Lee emphasizes the significance of community, collaboration, and the ever-evolving nature of creativity in the digital age. Curious to learn more about Lee and his work? Check out the project link for this Culture FYI’RS event: https://fyi.ai/p/cf126 Want to attend a Culture FYI’RS event in person at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles? Hit the link below to see a schedule of who’s speaking at a future event and to RSVP to join the next session: https://fyi.me/p/culturefyirs This episode’s Culture FYI’RS event was produced by FYI co-founder will.i.am, Aminah Muhammad, Emily Choi, Frankie Sandoval, Jafet Chavez, Julie Pilat, Markus Nielsen-Kolding, Roneal Madlani, Sean Kantrowitz, Shania Jafari, the FYI Product Team, and of course, the FYI Community. The podcast is edited by Rob Van Vranken.  Download FYI.AI for free in the App Store and Google Play

    Hollywood Unlocked with Lee Charm
  7. 6. Juli

    USC Music Management with Prof. Amy Blackman

    Welcome to the Culture FYI’RS Podcast. Culture FYI’RS is a creative collaboration meetup held weekly at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles. Each week, we feature a fireside chat with a guest, showcase projects being worked on by members of the FYI community, and share product updates for FYI.AI, the creative collaboration app co-founded by will.i.am. Learn more about FYI: https://fyi.me/p/jointhemovement This week on the Culture FYI’RS Podcast, we delve into the transformative power of education in the arts with the incredible Amy Blackman.  In this dynamic episode, hosted by artist Meka Lolita, Amy discusses her groundbreaking course at USC, developed in collaboration with FYI, designed to empower independent artists and foster their creative journeys. Throughout this engaging conversation, Meka reflects on her own life-changing experience as an artist in the course, highlighting the invaluable support and guidance provided by Amy and her dedicated students. From developing personalized project plans to tackling ambitious goals, the course offers a unique opportunity for artists to articulate their dreams in a nurturing environment, free from the fear of judgment. Join us as we unpack the challenges and triumphs of the artists involved, and discover how the course not only nurtures creativity but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration among emerging talents.  Curious to learn more about Amy and her work? Check out the project link for this Culture FYI’RS event: https://fyi.ai/p/cf125 Want to attend a Culture FYI’RS event in person at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles? Hit the link below to see a schedule of who’s speaking at a future event and to RSVP to join the next session: https://fyi.me/p/culturefyirs This episode’s Culture FYI’RS event was produced by FYI co-founder will.i.am, Aminah Muhammad, Emily Choi, Frankie Sandoval, Jafet Chavez, Julie Pilat, Markus Nielsen-Kolding, Roneal Madlani, Sean Kantrowitz, Shania Jafari, the FYI Product Team, and of course, the FYI Community. The podcast is edited by Rob Van Vranken.  Download FYI.AI for free in the App Store and Google Play

    USC Music Management with Prof. Amy Blackman
  8. 22. Juni

    The Art of the Rollout with Shawna Peezy

    Welcome to the Culture FYI’RS Podcast. Culture FYI’RS is a creative collaboration meetup held weekly at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles. Each week, we feature a fireside chat with a guest, showcase projects being worked on by members of the FYI community, and share product updates for FYI.AI, the creative collaboration app co-founded by will.i.am. Learn more about FYI: https://fyi.me/p/jointhemovement This week, we are thrilled to feature a discussion with cultural strategist and marketer Shawna Peezy. In a dynamic conversation with the legendary DJ Hed, who is currently leading the Music Curation team for FYI Radio, Shawna discusses the ups and downs of her journey in the evolving landscape of the music business. Shawna shares her unique experiences and insights, detailing how she navigated her path in the industry and the importance of storytelling in music marketing. Together with DJ Hed, she explores how artists can forge meaningful connections with their audiences and the critical role of community and networking in achieving success. Throughout the talk, Shawna reflects on her collaborations with various artists, sharing behind-the-scenes stories that highlight the challenges and victories encountered along the way. She and DJ Hed also dive into the impact of AI on the music industry, discussing the balance between human creativity and technological advancements. Curious to learn more about Shawna and her work? Check out the project link for this Culture FYI’RS event: https://fyi.ai/p/7f6USd5zoZ9YUAwxUKrBfliOvfCg8sOTgwsCI1R3R4o= Want to attend a Culture FYI’RS event in person at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles? Hit the link below to see a schedule of who’s speaking at a future event and to RSVP to join the next session: https://fyi.me/p/culturefyirs This episode’s Culture FYI’RS event was produced by FYI co-founder will.i.am, Aminah Muhammad, Emily Choi, Frankie Sandoval, Jafet Chavez, Julie Pilat, Markus Nielsen-Kolding, Roneal Madlani, Sean Kantrowitz, Shania Jafari, the FYI Product Team, and of course, the FYI Community. The podcast is edited by Rob Van Vranken.  Download FYI.AI for free in the App Store and Google Play

    The Art of the Rollout with Shawna Peezy

Info

Welcome to the Culture FYI 'RS podcast. Culture FYI'RS is a creative collaboration meet-up held weekly at the FYI Campus in Los Angeles. Each week, we feature a fireside chat with a guest, showcase projects being worked on by members of the FYI community, and share product updates for FYI.AI, the creative collaboration app co-founded by will.i.am. Every episode presents the culture FYI'RS conversation and includes a project link to the event in the FYI App, including a discussion tab, photos, and more. The FYI app is available for free download in the App Store and Google Play.