In this exclusive Hype #LiveSession, we sat down with Dr. Ladaro 'Monsta Yo' Pennix II, a multifaceted figure whose impact on the music industry and his community is undeniable. As a Hip Hop artist, entrepreneur, author of over 15 books, and CEO of Scrilla Guerillaz West, Monsta Yo has earned his place as a true game-changer with messages of affirmation directed at the next generation who eagerly lean in to catch his gems on life.

Music and Business Ventures

Monsta Yo’ is no stranger to the spotlight, collaborating with industry heavyweights like Snoop Dogg, Xzibit, and Kokane. His music career blends raw talent with an entrepreneurial mindset, driving his success in entertainment and business. But beyond the music, Monsta Yo’ is committed to creating lasting change in his community.

Fighting for Mental Health Awareness

In addition to his music and business ventures, he is deeply passionate about mental health. As the driving force behind the YANA (You Are Not Alone) suicide prevention hotline, he is dedicated to helping those struggling with mental health issues find support and hope. His resilience and advocacy are at the forefront of his mission to change lives.

A Journey of Resilience

From his martial arts background to his ventures in publishing and film, Monsta Yo’ continues to inspire others with his determination and drive. His story is about overcoming obstacles and using one's platform to make a difference. This interview provides an in-depth look at a man who refuses to be defined by a single role and embodies the spirit of transformation instead. This isn't just any story; the twists and turns in an excruciating journey of self-discovery and improvement are astounding.

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In this #LiveSession from NAMM 2025, Karla Ortiz (IG: @misskortiz) shared her expertise on building sustainable music careers, emphasizing digital marketing, education, and artist empowerment. As the founder of Monark Entertainment and a former VP of Marketing and Label Services for Vydia, Ortiz brings decades of industry experience to the forefront. From her work at Universal Music Group to mentoring the next generation at the Los Angeles College of Music (LACM), Ortiz continues to shape the future of the music business.

At NAMM 2025, Ortiz participated in the LACM (IG: @lacmofficial) panel, "Cutting Through the Noise: Creating a Career in the Music Industry," presented by the NAMM Foundation. Joined by other industry experts, Ortiz shared strategies for boosting visibility through social media, digital marketing, and personal branding. Attendees walked away with actionable tips on leveraging tools, resources, and networking opportunities to create sustainable careers in the ever-evolving music industry.

Ortiz’s career spans a variety of high-profile roles, including VP of Marketing at Vydia and Digital Marketing executive at Universal Music Group. In 2020, during the pandemic, she launched Monark Entertainment, providing strategic support to independent and major-label artists. Ortiz spearheaded the early Vydia one-stop video distribution, which soon set a standard for digital video syndication across social video platforms.

In 2022, Ortiz was appointed professor and counselor at LACM, where she now oversees digital distribution and mentors aspiring music leaders in the Music Business Department. Her dedication to educating the next generation is grounded in a passion for equipping artists with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in a competitive landscape.

Ortiz’s approach to artist empowerment centers on digital marketing expertise and a deep understanding of online streaming. She emphasized the importance of maintaining control over one’s narrative in the digital age, saying, "Artists today have more tools than ever to share their stories authentically and connect directly with their fans."

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Explore Skitso’s journey from Eastside Buffalo to the music industry spotlight. The producer and songwriter speaks about resilience and authenticity, and his single “Well Connected” featuring West Coast Music icons Kokane and Tha Eastsidaz.”

Skitso, an emerging producer and songwriter from Eastside Buffalo, recently sat down with me to discuss his journey in the music industry, the creative inspiration behind his single *Well Connected,* and the values that drive his artistry. Drawing from his upbringing in a vibrant yet challenging environment, Skitso highlighted how these experiences shaped his resilience and informed his approach to music.

“I’ve always believed in turning struggles into stories,” Skitso shared, emphasizing the role of personal experiences in crafting authentic art.

Reflecting on his career, Skitso discussed the theme of creating opportunities where few exist. He attributed much of his success to perseverance and a goal-oriented mindset, noting that obstacles often serve as stepping stones.

“Adversity can be the greatest teacher,” he remarked, sharing how challenges fueled his drive to hone his craft and connect with his audience on a deeper level.

For Skitso, authenticity is central to his creative process. He explained how staying true to his roots allows him to create music that resonates with listeners. This approach is evident in “Well Connected,” a track that blends personal reflection with universal themes of resilience and ambition.

“People relate to real stories,” Skitso noted, underscoring the importance of genuine expression in building a loyal fanbase.

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