POPLAW

Latest Episodes:

“From Mixtapes 2 Monetization: DJs and Creators Rocking the Economy" with Ashli Jones-Mejia (S2:206) Sep 17, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of POPLAW, I’m joined by powerhouse entertainment attorney and culture curator Ashli Jones-Mejia, who’s been behind the decks of some of the most iconic legal deals in the creator economy—from music contracts and DJ agreements to co-producing the legendary Club Quarantine Live.

We dive into the legal beats behind how creators turned quarantine into a cultural reset, remixing their content into thriving businesses. Ashli shares her journey from law school to repping D-Nice and building his brand BRANDnice, discusses the legal strategy behind transforming Club Quarantine from Instagram into live shows at the Kennedy Center, and breaks down what it takes to protect creators in the age of infinite scrolling.

But it’s not all glam and brand deals—we also explore the darker side of digital growth, including the impact of social media on mental health, and whether the law should be hitting the pause button on addictive platform behavior.

Legal gems, social commentary, and a few rapid-fire questions (yes, we debated Claire Huxtable vs. Judge Judy) — this episode is for the creators, the lawyers, and everyone spinning their own lane in the new digital economy.

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“Contracts, Comebacks & Calling the Shots” with Brandon Marshall (S2:205) Sep 03, 2025

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In this episode of POPLAW, Desiree Talley sits down with her friend and six-time NFL Pro Bowler Brandon Marshall for a candid conversation that goes beyond the game. From catching touchdowns to closing deals, Brandon opens up about his evolution from star athlete to media mogul, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate.

The two reflect on their personal friendship, and Desiree shares the behind-the-scenes story of brokering the game-changing deal that launched REVOLT Sports in partnership with I Am Athlete. They dive into the power of ownership, the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, and how life’s timing and circumstances can shape the way we negotiate and do business.

Witty, unfiltered, and full of gems—this episode is a masterclass in reinvention, resilience, and playing to win both on and off the field.

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POPLAW BREAKDOWN: Trade Dress Infringement and Cultural Appropriation (S2: 204) Aug 27, 2025

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On the episode, “Cultural Currency: Creativity, Ownership, and Black Women’s Influence” with Tope Ajala we unpacked the cultural and branding implications of the OMG Girlz vs. MGA Entertainment lawsuit and explore what it really means to own your image in a world that loves to borrow from Black brilliance.

Here on this episode, we discuss the intellectual property right of trade dress so creators can know more ways you can own your “secret sauce.”

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“Cultural Currency: Creativity, Ownership, and Black Women’s Influence” with Tope Ajala (S2:203) Aug 13, 2025

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In this episode of POPLAW, we’re joined by Tope Ajala—global executive, cultural strategist, and founder of To A Tee—for a rich and unfiltered conversation at the intersection of identity, influence, and intentional living.

We unpack the cultural and branding implications of the OMG Girlz vs. MGA Entertainment lawsuit and explore what it really means to own your image in a world that loves to borrow from Black brilliance. From global boardrooms to wellness retreats, Tope has made a career out of creating space for women to lead with power and softness. Tune in as we talk about:

Why cultural influence is currency
How to shift from being the “inspiration” to owning the IP
Building a personal brand rooted in clarity, care, and boundaries

Whether you’re a creative, a corporate strategist, or just tired of seeing culture copied without credit, this episode is a masterclass in protecting your power and moving with purpose.

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POPLAW Breakdown: Understanding Life Rights (S2:202) Jul 28, 2025

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On the episode “Becoming the Blueprint: Life Rights, Legacy & Creative Ethos” with Algee Smith -- we scratched the surface on Life Rights before we talked about how he shows up in music and some of the iconic real-life people he played in several films.

Here on this episode, we are strictly talking about the law of Life Rights!

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Becoming the Blueprint: Life Rights, Legacy & Creative Ethos with Algee Smith (S2: 201) Jul 14, 2025

Show notes

In this powerful and playful episode of POPLAW, Desiree Talley sits down with multi-hyphenate star Algee Smith to talk portraying music icons in The New Edition Story and Detroit, tapping into emotional truth in Euphoria, and honoring real-life legacies in Judas and the Black Messiah. They dive into the legal side of Life Rights, the weight of representation, and the power of storytelling—from the courtroom to the writer’s room to the recording studio.

Plus, Algee opens up about his new r&b EP --Love Lost, navigating breakups and love in the spotlight, and whether he’d ever date a fan. Game segments, deep cuts, and maybe a little NDA talk—this one has it all.

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Buying Back the Block: Building Black Wealth with Desiree Talley feat. Ashely Bell, Ready Life & Redemption Bank Apr 04, 2023

Show notes

On this Special Edition of POPLAW, filmed at the House of Culture during the 2023 All-Star Weekend, Attorney and Host Desiree Talley sits down with attorney, producer, and businessman Ashley Bell to talk about his multifaceted career as an attorney, the importance of black owned banks, and his mission to create generational wealth for underserved communities.

DISCLAIMER: POPLAW is strictly for entertainment and educational purposes only. Any and all words used in this episode is strictly opinion. No words in this episode shall be considered fact and nothing in this episode shall be construed as legal advice.

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Book'd N Busy with Desiree Talley feat. Tamika Faulkner, Digital Media Strategist at Macro & Founder of Black Girls Who Write Mar 21, 2023

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In honor of Women’s History Month, attorney and host Desiree Talley sits down with digital strategist and creator of community organization Black Girls Who Write, Tamika Faulkner. We will be talking about the power of community and importance of black books.

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The Journey to Legacy with Desiree Talley feat. Adam Blackstone Mar 14, 2023

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On the Special Edition of POPLAW, filmed at the House of Culture during the 2023 All-Star Weekend, Attorney and Host Desiree Talley sits down with Grammy Nominated Artist and Emmy Award Winning Musical Director, Adam Blackstone to discuss his musical journey from Philly, experience as the music director for the Super Bowl halftime shows, and his debut album Legacy.

Charles Beloved of R&B House Party Featured as special guest.

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Mo' Money, Mo' Problems: Building Black Wealth with Desiree Talley feat. Baron Davis Mar 07, 2023

Show notes

On the Special Edition of POPLAW, filmed at the House of Culture during the 2023 All-Star Weekend, Attorney and Host Desiree Talley sits down with two-time NBA All-Star player, entrepreneur, investor, master connector, and businessman Baron Davis. The duo discuss life after basketball and the business of building black wealth.

1500 or Nothin Band and Charles Beloved of R&B House Party Featured as special guests.

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