Mixed and Mastered
Mixed and Mastered is the podcast where the untold stories of the music industry come to life. Hosted by Jeffrey Sledge, a veteran music executive and former VP of A&R at Atlantic Records and Jive Records, each episode dives deep into the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of the people shaping the sound of today. From label executives and producers to artists, songwriters, and managers, Jeffrey brings you behind the scenes to meet the minds driving the industry forward. There’s a gap in the marketplace for these voices, and Mixed and Mastered is here to fill it—one conversation at a time. Because the best stories are told by those who lived them.
Mixed and Mastered
Rene McLean on Community, Creativity & the Art of the Pivot
Rene McLean’s journey reads like a blueprint for reinvention in the music industry. From growing up on the Lower East Side during the crack era—surrounded by jazz legends, culture-shifters, and downtown chaos—to interning his way into radio promo, becoming a 21-year-old regional rep, getting fired, re-entering the game through pure hustle, and eventually creating the Mixshow Power Summit… Rene’s story is a masterclass in evolution.
Jeff and Rene dive into hip-hop’s club era, the rise of Hot 97, launching RPM, breaking LMFAO, navigating brand partnerships, and building Influence Media—the powerhouse behind major modern catalog deals.
If you want to understand how the music business actually works—and how to survive every cycle—this episode is essential listening.
Mixed and Mastered. With Rene McLean.
Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod
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