Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Attorney Jalene Mack.
Widely known as “America’s Favorite Entertainment Attorney.” The episode focuses on protecting creative and business assets, avoiding scams, and building a solid foundation for success in the entertainment industry and beyond.
🎯 Key Themes & Takeaways 🔹 The Lure of the Bad Deal
- Jalene warns about scammers posing as producers or financiers in the entertainment industry.
- These individuals often:
- Claim to have access to major networks or funding.
- Ask creators to sign away rights or pay deposits under false pretenses.
- Lack a verifiable digital footprint (e.g., no IMDb, LinkedIn, or credible references).
- Rashawn emphasizes the danger of the “lottery mentality” — believing one deal will change everything.
🛡️ Legal Red Flags
- Never assign your copyright without legal review.
- Be cautious of contracts that require you to relinquish ownership or control.
- Escrow accounts can be manipulated if you don’t control the signature authority.
- Always verify the legitimacy of a deal and the people behind it.
🧠 Jalene Mack’s Top 10 Business Development Tips
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Identify Your Project
- Know what you’re creating (film, TV, product, etc.).
- Define the scope and format clearly.
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Make Sure You Have a Plan
- Create a business and finance plan.
- Know where your funding will come from and how it will be used.
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Form a Team
- Surround yourself with experts (lawyers, accountants, producers).
- Avoid “yes people” — you need honest feedback.
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Prepare a Budget
- Hire a line producer or financial expert.
- Account for everything: cast, crew, locations, marketing, etc.
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Form a Business Entity
- Establish an LLC or corporation to protect your personal assets.
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Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
- Required for tax and banking purposes.
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Open a Business Bank Account
- Keep personal and business finances separate.
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Protect Your Assets
- Register copyrights and trademarks.
- Use NDAs (non-disclosure agreements) to safeguard ideas.
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Contracts
- Always put agreements in writing.
- Hire an attorney experienced in your specific industry (e.g., film, music, TV).
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Marketing
- Don’t assume people will show up just because your product is good.
- Build a brand and promote it strategically.
📚 Jalene’s Book
- Title: The Business of Stage Screen and In Between
- A practical guide for performers, playwrights, filmmakers, and entrepreneurs.
🗣️ Final Thoughts
- Rushion praises Jalene’s decades-long expertise and her role in protecting creatives.
- Jalene encourages listeners to invest in legal protection and business planning to avoid costly mistakes.
#SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMI
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