FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Independent Music Visionary Louis Posen Shares the Power of Purpose-Driven Leadership and the Impact of Community on MUBUTV’s Music Business Insider Podcast
HOLLYWOOD, CA – Monday, February 9, 2026 -- In a rare and inspiring interview, renowned indie label founder Louis Posen sits down with MUBUTV’s Ritch Esra and Eric Knight for an in-depth conversation about three decades of building Hopeless Records into a beacon of community, authenticity, and artist empowerment. The episode will premiere on Tuesday February 9th on the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast.
Louis Posen began Hopeless Records in his bedroom with $1,000 and a gut feeling about the power of punk culture and authentic connection. Today, his roster has included genre-defining acts like Avenged Sevenfold and The Wonder Years, and the label’s charitable arm has raised over $3 million for more than 50 causes.
In this candid interview, Posen opens up about the core values that have driven Hopeless Records’ growth—from a fierce sense of community and culture to radical artist-centricity. He explains how his own journey as a legally blind entrepreneur shaped his leadership style, as well as the vital role that punk and alternative communities played in making the label more than just a business, but a true hub for creative and personal belonging.
Highlights include:
Posen’s earliest influences and the values that still guide him today—from treating people right to always adapting and championing growth.
Why understanding culture, vision, and message matter more than chasing “hit singles” for lasting success in today’s music business.
The incredible impact of Hopeless’s philanthropic arm, the Hopeless Foundation, and initiatives like Songs That Saved My Life, which use music to drive real social change and support mental health.
How being independent is not just a business model, but a mindset, and why surrounding yourself with mission-driven people is the key to longevity.
His candid perspective on what success means in a streaming era where cultural legacy often matters more than streams or chart numbers.
Personal reflections on navigating the music business as someone living with legal blindness, and how challenges can be transformed into strengths.
Join Ritch Esra and Eric Knight for a powerful conversation that is equal parts practical advice for independent music professionals and an inspiring call to action for anyone who believes in the power of community, authenticity, and real change.
Louis Posen’s episode of the Music Business Insider Podcast launches June 24th.
For more information on MUBUTV, contact:
John Sanders at:
Phone: 424.245.0416
Website: www.mubutv.com
Ritch Esra & Eric Knight are available for interviews across all media.
ABOUT MUBUTV
MUBUTV™ | Music Business Television is an online music business channel featuring news, original programming, and interviews with leading experts in the music industry. Its mission is to educate, empower, and engage musicians and industry professionals of the twenty-first century.
About MUBUTV’s Music Business Insider Video Series:
The video series takes a deep dive into the many challenges and nuances of building a viable and sustainable career in today’s new music business. Guests have included music attorney and author Donald Passman, producer Mike Clink [Guns N’ Roses], A&R legend John Kalodner, independent artist Ari Herstand, and more. Hosted by Ritch Esra and Eric Knight, co-founders of the platform.
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