S2|EP13 Backstage w. CJ Mills

Episode 037 | From a McDonald’s Campaign in Arizona to the Summer 26 Classic

Marcey Yates takes the Backstage Podcast on the road, traveling to Tempe, Arizona, for a behind-the-scenes look at a promotional campaign with McDonald’s. After wrapping the shoot, it’s back to Omaha to prepare for the Summer 26 Classic at Culxr House. This episode follows the balance between national brand opportunities and grassroots community work, offering a glimpse into the life of an independent creative juggling music, media, and nonprofit arts programming. From commercial production to fashion show preparations, Marcey shares what it takes to keep multiple creative worlds moving at once.

#036 Josh One: J Dilla’s Final Sessions, Haitian Jack & Independent Hip-Hop | The Backstage Podcast

Producer, DJ, and Boomnote Music founder Josh One joins The Backstage Podcast for a conversation that spans decades of hip-hop history. Josh shares memories of witnessing J Dilla track out beats from his MPC while battling illness, reflects on time spent in the studio with Haitian Jack, and tells the story of meeting Busta Rhymes. The conversation also explores his journey as an independent producer, the evolution of beat-making, DJ culture, and building a career rooted in authenticity. From legendary studio moments to lessons learned over a lifetime in music, this episode offers a rare look inside the creative process and relationships that helped shape hip-hop.

Mick Jenkins on Independence, Artist Pay & Going Direct-to-Fan | Episode #035

In this conversation, Mick opens up about independence, artist ownership, and why he’s embraced a direct-to-fan model through EVEN. We talk about challenging the traditional music industry, fair compensation for artists, and building sustainable careers outside the streaming economy. A candid conversation with one of hip-hop’s most thoughtful independent voices.

Kyle Eustice’s Craziest Hip-Hop Stories + Jordan The Ninja | EPISODE #O34

Back with Episode 34 of the Backstage Podcast featuring two Omaha natives making major moves in their respective lanes: writer Kyle Eustice and musician, filmmaker, and influencer Jordan The Ninja. Kyle Eustice joins the conversation to discuss her journey from Omaha to becoming a respected voice in music journalism. With bylines in SPIN, VIBE, Thrasher, and many more, Kyle has interviewed hundreds of hip-hop legends and industry figures. She shares stories from the road, memorable interviews, funny Grammy moments, and lessons learned while documenting the culture. Jordan The Ninja brings his perspective as one of Omaha’s rising creative voices. As a musician, filmmaker, and influencer, he’s becoming one of the city’s most recognizable faces, building an audience through authentic content, creative storytelling, and a consistent presence both online and in the community. Together, the group dives into hip-hop, media, music, filmmaking, content creation, Omaha culture, and the realities of carving out a creative career in today’s world.

EPISODE #032 | New York State of Mind

Back with Episode 32 of the Backstage Podcast featuring special guests Joubel Teko, founder of Afrofest and Afromaha, and comedian Joslyn Debonis. This episode explores culture, community, and the power of creating spaces that bring people together. Joubel shares the vision behind Afrofest and Afromaha, discussing representation, cultural celebration, and building connections across Omaha. Joslyne joins the conversation with her unique perspective on comedy, creativity, and navigating life through humor. From cultural events and entrepreneurship to storytelling, entertainment, and community impact, this episode is packed with insightful conversation and plenty of laughs along the way.