music — Podcast Transcripts

After selling a software company and working in consulting, Patrick Riley took a risk and produced the film Tuscaloosa. He shares his experience during the making of the film, how he collaborated with the cast and crew, and shares hilarious stories about making the best of situations that are going all wrong. Patrick comments on the complexity of creating an accurate depiction of 1970s Alabama for a 2020 audience. Patrick offers advice for creatives and provides examples for how to nurture creativity while working in a professional career. Finally, Patrick discusses the innovations developing in the film industry and their impact on the way we consume, create, and find films.

Patrick Riley is a veteran technology entrepreneur, producer, and musician. As a technology entrepreneur, Patrick co-founded and was CEO of Modern Survey. Over the course of his career, Patrick has directed and produced dozens of music videos, documentaries, and short films.

leadership, the futuredon macphersonJune 30, 2025creativity, music, art, filmmaking

E21 The Spiritual Creative

In this interview, hip-hop artist Brother Ali explores what makes a successful artist, how to create work that speaks to others, and where creativity originates. He discusses what the touring lifestyle is like, how he grounds himself while traveling, and the importance of Islam in his life and in his creative pursuits. Ali describes his process for creating songs and albums, how he pushes himself to get out of his creative comfort zone, and the collaboration process with other artists and producers. Later in the interview, Ali dives deep into the role music and art have on informing the human experience and expression.

For two decades, Brother Ali has earned wide critical acclaim for his deeply personal, socially conscious, and inspiring brand of hip-hop. Under Rhymesayers Entertainment, he’s unleashed a series of lauded projects, establishing himself as one of the most respected independent voices in music.

leadership, the futuredon macphersonJune 30, 2025creativity, music