For more than 40 years, Tod Turner has repeatedly developed software that addresses the needs of a specific market, and that sells-in to that industry at an enterprise level. He has led companies that offer software solutions in a wide range of industries including entertainment, healthcare, hospitality, real estate and technology, among many others.

Tod started his entrepreneurial journey in the 1970s by founding STAT Systems, one of the first companies to offer automated medical and dental billing software as an alternative to manual, billing service bureaus. After selling that business, he founded a software company based in Mexico called Romy d’Vallarta, which created property management, construction, and front-desk software for the hospitality industry. That company sold three years later; then Tod focused on software for the commercial real business, to track commissions and inventory; some of that software is still in use today.

Tod’s next venture was Fox Industries, a software development firm specializing in niche software for a variety of industries. During its 20-year run, Fox spun off several companies that offered huge promise within their niches. For example, Norfox Software, which focused on the equipment calibration industry, sold in to many global accounts including the United States Army, Navy and Marines Corps, as well as many defense contractors. With sales of up to $11 million annually, the company sold in 1999.

Mr. Turner then saw a need for collaborative online workspaces and founded LINQware. Before Skype or other web conferencing software we know today, LINQware developed 11 patents around telephony and collaboration. Those technologies are now used by Microsoft, Amazon, Google, Skype, Facebook, WhatsApp, and more than 80 other companies.

Prior to creating Intercept Music, he founded and is chief executive officer of LiveChime, a software-as-a-service company that enables real-time communication for online sales across any platform or device. Under his guidance, LiveChime developed several patents around interactive chat, which ultimately led to the development of the Intercept Marketing platform, which is the basis for the marketing platform used in Intercept Music.

In 2017, Tod saw that the Intercept Marketing platform could be custom-tailored to directly address the needs of more than 12 million global independent musicians who are competing for attention in a crowded music marketplace. Now Tod is leading the way to ensure that that vision, combined with insights of experts in the music industry and contemporary artists, delivers Intercept Music to its full potential.

James Barry is the Chief Technologist and Co-Founder of Intercept Music, where he architects and oversees the technology powering the company’s global music distribution, marketing, analytics, and royalty-processing platform. He leads the end-to-end engineering strategy that keeps Intercept’s systems fast, scalable, and aligned with the needs of today’s digital music ecosystem.

With more than two decades of experience building large-scale, cloud-based platforms, James specializes in designing high-performance systems for music delivery, metadata management, creator tools, financial reporting, and real-time analytics. At Intercept, he guides the architecture and evolution of the company’s distribution engine, royalty-processing pipelines, artist dashboards, and advanced AI-driven quality assurance and compliance frameworks.

Earlier in his career, James held senior engineering roles at companies developing patented real-time communications and telephony technologies—innovations that later became foundational to modern streaming, messaging, and global digital content delivery. The technologies he helped build now underpin products used by Microsoft, Amazon, Google, Meta, Apple (via Skype and WhatsApp), and dozens of other major tech platforms.

James remains dedicated to advancing music technology that empowers independent creators. His focus on simplicity, automation, and transparency enables artists and labels to navigate distribution, understand performance, and grow their careers in an increasingly competitive digital music landscape.

Ariana Arciniega is an accomplished global music executive and legal professional with more than a decade of experience leading digital distribution, business development, and strategic growth across Latin America and international markets. As EVP of Global Operations and Business Development Strategy at Intercept Music, she oversees the company’s global vision for distribution, revenue expansion, and cross-territory operational excellence. Ariana partners closely with executive leadership and key divisions—Marketing, A&R, and Technology—to design and execute forward-thinking strategies, new service models, and global partnerships that elevate artists and labels worldwide.

Before joining Intercept Music, Ariana served as Head of Business Development and Label Strategy LATAM at Virgin Music Group, where she led market growth initiatives, negotiated high-value partnerships, and strengthened relationships with leading artists and labels throughout the region. Her earlier role as Country Manager for Ingrooves Mexico (now Virgin Music Group) established her as a key force in regional digital distribution, overseeing P&L, business development, DSP relations, and a growing team that supported releases from DEL Records (Eslabón Armado), Dirty Hit (The 1975), Steve Aoki, and other influential acts.

Ariana’s career foundation includes launching and managing Believe’s Artist Services division in Mexico, running Sofar Sounds Mexico for over a decade, and shaping digital marketing, trade strategy, and A&R for hundreds of artists across genres. Known for her analytical approach to content performance, deep understanding of global distribution ecosystems, and her passion for artist discovery, she has built a reputation as a transformative leader who bridges creative vision with measurable business results.

A graduate of Universidad Panamericana with additional studies at The Hague Academy of International Law, Ariana brings a rare blend of legal insight, operational leadership, and global market expertise. She continues to champion transparency, innovation, and equitable opportunities as she helps guide Intercept Music into its next era of international expansion.

J.C. Montes is a seasoned music executive with more than twenty years of experience driving commercial strategy, marketing, and digital innovation across Mexico, Latin America, and the U.S. Latin markets. As EVP, Global Marketing & Strategic Partnerships at Intercept Music, he leads global marketing initiatives, strengthens high-impact industry partnerships, and develops strategies that connect artists, audiences, and platforms.

Before joining Intercept Music, J.C. founded About Music, a boutique agency specializing in digital strategy, audience development, and commercial growth for artists including Diego Verdaguer, Amanda Miguel, Brray, and C-Kan. He also co-founded WKMX Records, overseeing label operations, DSP partnerships, and artist development, including the breakout success of Los Esquivel.

J.C. previously held senior roles at Amuse, Spotify, Millicom (Tigo Music), and Universal Music Group, where he led regional expansion, launched landmark digital initiatives, managed major commercial partnerships, and delivered consistent revenue and audience growth. His work includes driving Spotify’s first Latin brand initiatives, launching Latin America’s first bundled music service with Deezer, and leading digital strategy for top Latin artists across global markets.

With deep expertise in commercial strategy, partnerships, and digital transformation, J.C. brings a powerful combination of creativity and operational leadership to Intercept Music’s mission of empowering independent artists worldwide.

Raquel Martins is a Barcelona-based global music executive specializing in video strategy, audience development, and digital marketing. As Intercept Music’s Global Head of Social & Video Strategy, she leads the company’s worldwide approach to social platforms, video operations, and creative content initiatives—driving visibility, engagement, and growth for artists and labels across diverse markets.

Raquel previously spent eight years at Believe, culminating in a promotion to Global Head of Video & Audience Development. In this role, she led the company’s global video strategy and managed a worldwide team, driving content monetization and audience growth for labels and artists across international markets. This followed her success in developing and managing Believe’s video operations across Spain, Portugal, and Latin America.

A recognized expert in digital strategy, Raquel has delivered masterclasses and spoken at major industry events including SAE Institute (Mexico City and Bogotá), Circulart (Medellín), FIMPRO (Guadalajara), and MIL (Lisbon). She has collaborated with key players across the music and film industries, shaping digital growth frameworks and strategic content initiatives in an evolving global landscape.

With a passion for innovation, cross-cultural collaboration, and the power of visual storytelling, Raquel continues to advance Intercept Music’s mission to amplify independent artists worldwide.

Jesse Flores is a veteran music industry executive with more than twenty years of experience building high-impact partnerships between artists, labels, and global music platforms. As Vice President of Artist & Label Partnerships at Intercept Music, Jesse leads the company’s strategic relationships with independent labels and marquee talent, driving growth opportunities and shaping innovative pathways for artist development and distribution.

Before joining Intercept Music, Jesse served as Senior Director of Label & Business Development at Virgin Music Group and Ingrooves, where he managed relationships with leading artists and independent labels, working closely with Stephen Marley, Slum Village, Royce Da 5'9", DJ Premier/Gang Starr, Carla Morrison, Dax, and others. His ability to identify emerging talent and cultivate long-term partnerships positioned him as a trusted leader across the indie and hip-hop communities.

Jesse previously served as Vice President of Business Development at Lyric Financial, expanding financial solutions for artists and rights holders through key industry alliances. Earlier in his career, he held influential roles at EMI/Capitol Music Group, generating more than $20 million in new business through partnerships with Tyrese, Ice Cube, Raekwon, Trina, E-40, and additional chart-topping acts. His foundational experience at Universal Music Group and PolyGram Distribution further strengthened his expertise in artist development, commercial marketing, and sales strategy.

A graduate of the University of Florida with a B.S. in Business Administration, Jesse brings deep industry knowledge, relationship-driven leadership, and a passion for empowering artists at every stage of their careers. His strategic vision continues to shape Intercept Music’s mission to elevate independent creators worldwide.

Martin Roca is a veteran entertainment executive with more than thirty years of experience spanning sales, client procurement, marketing, promotions, licensing, syncs, and online business development. As General Manager, México at Intercept Music, he leads the company’s regional operations, drives market expansion in Latin America, and forges high-level partnerships that support independent artists and labels.

Throughout his career, Martin has worked with iconic Latin American artists including Julión Álvarez, J. Balvin, Danna Paola, Gloria Trevi, Lucero, and Morat, as well as international stars such as Justin Bieber, Metallica, and Imagine Dragons. His commercial leadership also extends to major brand collaborations with companies such as MasterCard, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Grupo Modelo, and BBVA Bancomer.

Before joining Intercept Music, Martin held senior commercial director and sales leadership positions at Universal Music Group and EMI Music. He also served in management roles at GTS Talent and Polygram, where he played a key role in major merger and acquisition processes involving EMI, Fonavisa, Disa, and Polygram.

At Intercept Music, Martin is at the forefront of the company’s Latin American strategy, overseeing client relationships, regional execution, and business development efforts in México. His deep industry network, strong commercial acumen, and decades of experience across music and brand partnerships position him as a driving force in expanding Intercept Music’s footprint in the region.

Martin holds an MBA from Universidad LatinoAmericana and remains committed to empowering independent creators while advancing innovative opportunities throughout the Latin American music ecosystem.

Danielle Giles is a dynamic leader and creative strategist dedicated to elevating independent artists in an increasingly competitive music landscape. As Head of Artist Success & Strategy at Intercept Music, she guides the company’s artist-facing vision — shaping growth strategies, overseeing client-success teams, and designing innovative service offerings that empower creators and labels to thrive.

With a career spanning Amazon Music and Virgin Music Group under the Universal Music Group umbrella, Danielle has managed global partnerships, developed high-impact release strategies, and collaborated with major platforms including Apple Music, Spotify, Pandora, SiriusXM, Peloton, and Apple Fitness+. Her strategic work has supported GRAMMY-winning releases, Billboard-charting campaigns, and bespoke promotional content for artists across genres.

Known for her ability to blend data insights with creative thinking, Danielle is a connector, advisor, and artist advocate who builds strong relationships while driving organizational vision. Independent artist empowerment is at the center of her work, and she continues to champion tools, education, and strategies that help artists navigate—and succeed in—a rapidly evolving industry.

Danielle is a professional member of the Recording Academy’s PNW Chapter and Women in Music Seattle.

Jim Urie lends to Intercept Music both credibility and substantive know-how, as a universally recognized leader in the field of music distribution. Since beginning his career in music distribution more than four decades ago, Jim’s vision has been instrumental in shaping the direction of the industry through several periods of profound change.

For more than 15 years, Jim was a key executive for Universal Music Group Distribution, successfully leading the company through the transition from CDs sales to digital distribution models. During his tenure, Universal Music cemented its position as the world’s number-one record company, with more than 30% of all album sales in the U.S. alone and billions of dollars of revenue. Significantly, his direction at UMGD spearheaded the industry’s approach to preserving sales and profitability for both physical and digital music.

Jim was named a power innovator by Billboard Magazine, sharing the recognition with such legends as Steve Jobs of Apple and Jimmy Iovine of Interscope. Under his leadership, Universal Music Group Distribution also was named the top distributor in 2001, 2002 and 2008.

Jim began his career in 1972 as a college rep for CBS Records, later moving to CBS Records distribution. He then joined PolyGram as senior vice president of sales and distribution, two years later becoming svp of marketing. He also served as svp of sales for Arista Records before joining UMGD.

In his career spanning four decades, broadcaster Dave Sholin has cemented a place as one of the most innovative and award-winning on-air hosts and producers in the country. Starting out as a program director and on-air host, he has also served as a music director and promoter on the recorded music side, bringing his passion, depth of experience and musical knowledge to projects with some of the biggest artists in the world.

Sholin received his first Program Director of the Year award while he was a student and PD of San Francisco State University’s campus radio station. Shortly after graduation he began his professional career at KLIV/San Jose. Sholin helped develop a new format, and within six months it became one of Silicon Valley’s highest rated stations. He then joined station KFRC in San Francisco, winning the award for Major Market Music Director of the Year at the Gavin Report Convention in Kansas City. Under Dave's leadership, KFRC won Billboard’s Major Market Station of the Year award seven years in a row.

Following his success at KFRC, RKO Radio promoted Dave to National Music Director, overseeing the playlists and music libraries for stations around the country. Dave also produced a string of radio specials and conducted interviews with Rod Stewart, Bob Seger, Paul Simon, The Doobie Brothers and Paul McCartney. He oversaw production of the in-depth Beatles documentary "From Liverpool To Legend."

On December 8th, 1980, Dave and his production team spent the afternoon with John Lennon and Yoko Ono at their apartment in New York City. It was the first radio interview Lennon had granted in five years. Five hours later, the famous Beatle was tragically shot and killed.

Sholin returned to San Francisco to join The Gavin Report and later revamped it into the Gavin magazine. In addition to serving as on-air personality and program director of KFRC, he also hosted weekly syndicated radio shows including “Countdown USA” for Westwood One and "The Insider" for Premiere Radio.

In his next role, Dave became Vice President of Promotion for Island Records and later served the same role at Capitol Records. When CBS Radio decided to relaunch San Francisco’s KFRC, Dave was the first person they contacted; he became the station’s morning drive radio host.

Today, Dave is a regular guest on KGO San Francisco on the Ronn Owens’ show. In 1995 Sholin was named a charter member of the radio section at the Rock ‘N Roll Hall Of Fame in Cleveland. He was the Rockwell Award recipient at the Conclave, a national radio and record convention. In October 2008 Dave was inducted into The Bay Area Radio Hall Of Fame.

Bob Frank is a veteran in the music and entertainment industries, with more than twenty years of experience in executive roles. He is currently the founder of Bob Frank Entertainment (BFE), a multi-faceted company engaged in film and television production, record label and distribution, music publishing, and management consulting for clients, such as BMG. Prior to Founding BFE, Bob co-founded Qello, where he served as Chairman and Chief Content Officer, handling all content acquisition, content management, and rights management.

Bob served as President of E1 Music Worldwide (formerly KOCH Records) and E1 Music Publishing (formerly KOCH Music Publishing), the content divisions of North America's largest independent music company. Under his leadership, E1 Music placed over 200 albums on the Billboard Independent Chart, far outpacing the competition and maintaining the #1 Billboard ranking for that period. Before E1, Bob was President of Walter Yetnikoff's Velvel Music Group, and General Manager/SVP at PolyGram, primarily at Mercury Records in Nashville.

Bob serves on a host of music-related charity organizations, including The Merlin Organization, a global rights organization representing the Independent music sector, the TJ Martell Foundation for cancer research, the annual Martell Family Day, and the UJA Federation Music for Youth Board, which funds music programs and scholarships for underprivileged children in New York City and surrounding areas.

Makeda Smith is the founder and driving force behind Jazzmyne Public Relations, a boutique agency that has been shaping the world of entertainment publicity for over 30 years. Known for her personalized approach and commitment to excellence, Makeda has provided expert publicity, management, and consulting services to a diverse range of clients, including A-list celebrities, athletes, authors, filmmakers, music producers, rappers, special events, and businesses. Her reputation for delivering results with a caring ear and a kind heart has solidified her standing as a respected figure in the industry.

Since launching Jazzmyne Public Relations in 1988, Makeda has built a client base that rivals larger firms, serving notable names like Kevin Eubanks, Jamie Foxx, Nick Van Exel, Mo'Nique, Dorien Wilson, and J. Anthony Brown, among others. Her agency, named after her eldest daughter, began as a home-based operation—a concept ahead of its time—and has flourished despite the initial doubts of critics.

Makeda's journey is both inspiring and remarkable. Starting her career as Associate Director of West Coast Publicity at Hervey & Company, she took a bold leap to establish her own firm with no financial backing and just one press release. Over the years, she has become an expert in urban entertainment publicity, demonstrating resilience and vision as a Black, single mother of two. Beyond her professional achievements, Makeda is deeply moved by the impact she has had on others, especially women who draw inspiration from her success story. She emphasizes the importance of carrying oneself with grace and integrity, believing that these values guide everything into place.

Specializing in publicity, branding, consulting, and management, Jazzmyne Public Relations continues to thrive under Makeda's leadership.