We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Anthony E Thompson Ii. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Anthony E below.
Anthony E, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s kick things off with a hypothetical question – if it were up to you, what would you change about the school or education system to better prepare students for a more fulfilling life and career?
The current education system, while foundational in many ways, often lacks the flexibility and real-world application needed to truly prepare students for fulfilling careers, especially in rapidly evolving industries like entertainment. If I could change one thing, it would be to integrate more practical, industry-specific experiences into curricula. Students should not only gain theoretical knowledge but also engage with hands-on projects and real-world scenarios that give them a deeper understanding of how their studies translate into actual careers.
One of the most pressing needs I see is the development of creative, entrepreneurial thinking within the education system. For example, in my own experience, as I transitioned from working in major companies like Capitol Records, Sony Music, and Disney Marvel Studios to founding ATNetwork Production Company, the most valuable lessons came from the challenges of building a business from the ground up. The formal education I received didn’t necessarily teach me how to navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry—how to merge creative vision with business strategy, or how to build lasting professional relationships.
This gap is something I’m actively addressing through Entertainment University Youth Programs, where we focus on bridging this gap by providing students with both creative learning and practical business insights. Whether it’s through developing original content, or working on fashion campaigns, I want students to understand the real-world impact of what they’re creating. For instance, I’ve seen firsthand how exposure to industry mentors, internships, and actual production work can reshape the career trajectory of a young person.
A key part of this shift is recognizing the value of mentorship and the exchange of knowledge between established professionals and aspiring creators. At Entertainment University, we’ve seen how combining creative education with mentorship can inspire students not only to learn the technical aspects of their craft but also to see their potential as business leaders, entrepreneurs, and cultural influencers.
When I reflect on my own journey—starting from humble beginnings to working in global entertainment powerhouses—there were moments where I wished I had more guidance or resources that were immediately applicable to my goals. These are the kinds of experiences that I now prioritize in the programs we offer, with the hope of better equipping the next generation for the rapidly evolving entertainment landscape.
In short, I would change the education system by fostering a more integrated approach to creative and business learning, ensuring that students are not just prepared academically but are empowered with the tools and networks they need to thrive in their careers. The world is changing fast, and we need to ensure that the next generation is ready to create, innovate, and lead.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Certainly! My name is Anthony E. Thompson II, and I am the Founder and CEO of ATNetwork Production Company & Studio, as well as the Founder and Chairman of Entertainment University Youth Programs. Over the years, I’ve built a career that blends creativity with strategic business acumen, and I’m passionate about delivering high-quality, innovative content across a variety of platforms in the entertainment industry.
How I Got Into This Industry
My journey into the entertainment industry started with a passion for both creative arts and business. I’ve always been fascinated by how stories, music, and visual arts can deeply resonate with audiences, while also being impactful from a business and cultural perspective. After gaining experience working with some of the biggest names in the entertainment world, including Capitol Records, Sony Music, Disney Marvel Studios, Live Nation, and the Oprah Winfrey Network, I recognized that there was an opportunity to create a production company that seamlessly integrates creative excellence with strategic thinking.
In terms of my education, I earned a degree in Business Administration from Michigan State University, where I had the opportunity to take a class taught by Professor Rodney Whitaker on Entertainment Business. This class was pivotal in shaping my understanding of the intersection between business strategy and the entertainment industry. It provided a unique perspective on how the entertainment sector functions from both a creative and operational standpoint, and it deeply influenced how I approached building ATNetwork and its multifaceted approach to content creation.
Building on my background and the networks I cultivated in those high-caliber organizations, I founded ATNetwork Production Company & Studio. The goal was to create a space where both artistic vision and business efficiency could coexist, ultimately producing projects that push boundaries and resonate deeply with audiences across the globe. I have always been drawn to content creation, from feature films and music videos to television and fashion campaigns, and ATNetwork reflects that diversity of creativity.
What We Do at ATNetwork
At ATNetwork, we specialize in creating high-quality content across several entertainment sectors, including Film, Music, Television, and Fashion. Our services span from concept development to final production, focusing on delivering projects that not only meet the highest creative standards but are also strategically aligned with our clients’ business goals. We understand that in today’s competitive landscape, it’s essential to have content that is both artistically groundbreaking and commercially viable.
Some of the key services we provide include:
Film Production: From original scripts to full production, we create feature films that challenge norms and engage audiences worldwide.
Music Videos: We work with artists to bring their creative visions to life, crafting visually striking and thematically cohesive music videos that elevate the artist’s brand.
Television & Digital Content: We produce episodic content for television and digital platforms, creating series that capture attention, spark conversation, and reflect the cultural zeitgeist.
Fashion Campaigns: Collaborating with top designers and brands, we create innovative and visually compelling fashion content, combining art, design, and media to tell powerful stories.
What Problems We Solve
At the heart of our work at ATNetwork, we solve the complex challenge of delivering innovative, high-quality content that connects with audiences, while also achieving business objectives for our clients. Many companies and individuals in the entertainment industry have fantastic ideas but may lack the resources or expertise to turn them into reality. That’s where we come in.
We offer an end-to-end solution for content creation, from ideation and scripting to production and distribution. This seamless approach allows our clients to focus on their core vision while we handle the details of execution, ensuring their projects not only stand out creatively but also have the necessary commercial impact.
Additionally, our commitment to integrating new technologies and production techniques ensures that every project is not only visually and creatively innovative but also efficient and forward-thinking. Whether it’s leveraging cutting-edge tools in virtual production, using immersive technologies like AR and VR, or adapting to new content distribution channels, we stay ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving industry.
What Sets Us Apart
What truly sets ATNetwork apart from others in the entertainment industry is our holistic approach to content creation. We don’t just focus on one aspect—be it the creative or business side—but we integrate both to deliver projects that are both artistically compelling and commercially successful. Our team is comprised of talented individuals who share a passion for storytelling and a deep understanding of the entertainment ecosystem. Whether we’re developing a feature film, a music video, or a fashion campaign, we’re committed to making each project an experience that resonates with audiences while also driving brand growth and cultural conversations.
Moreover, Entertainment University Youth Programs is a natural extension of my vision. I founded Entertainment University in 2023 to bridge the gap between education and real-world career opportunities in the entertainment industry. We equip young individuals, ages 13 to 23, with the skills, knowledge, and mentorship needed to thrive in the worlds of music, film, television, and fashion. This initiative reflects my commitment to empowering the next generation of creators and professionals.
What I’m Most Proud Of
I am incredibly proud of the work we’ve done at ATNetwork, but what I am most proud of is the impact we’re having on young people’s lives through Entertainment University Youth Programs. It’s deeply rewarding to see the next generation of creators—those who might not have had access to industry professionals or resources—step into their power, get hands-on experience, and understand what it truly takes to build a career in the entertainment industry.
I’m also proud of the work ATNetwork has done in pushing boundaries in content creation. Our ability to blend creativity with strategic business practices has allowed us to partner with global brands and talent, producing projects that drive culture forward and spark conversations. The world is rapidly changing, and I’m excited to be at the forefront of innovating entertainment and shaping what’s next.
What I Want Potential Clients/Fans to Know
At ATNetwork, we are committed to creating impactful stories that are not only original but that also have a lasting cultural impact. We work with the best talent and clients to bring creative visions to life, and we pride ourselves on our ability to deliver both artistically innovative and commercially successful content.
What I want our potential clients, followers, and fans to know is that we are always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. If you want to collaborate on a project that’s bold, innovative, and strategic, we are the company to help make that vision a reality.
I’m also incredibly passionate about empowering the next generation of creators. Through Entertainment University, we’re committed to providing young individuals with the knowledge and tools to not only succeed but to lead and innovate in their careers.
In essence, ATNetwork is a company that blends creativity, business strategy, and innovation to produce entertainment that resonates. We’re about making a difference—not just in the industry, but in the communities we serve.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Absolutely. Reflecting on my journey, one resource I wish I had discovered earlier is the power of mentorship—specifically in the form of direct, industry-specific guidance. While formal education and professional experience certainly laid a strong foundation, having access to mentors who could provide insight into the nuances of creative and business decision-making would have accelerated my growth exponentially.
For example, early on in my career, I was often navigating both the artistic and business sides of the entertainment industry with limited guidance on how to effectively balance the two. Understanding intellectual property law, branding, business development, and networking strategies within the creative industries are lessons I learned over time, but having a mentor who had walked that path would have been invaluable in helping me avoid some early pitfalls and make more informed decisions sooner.
Another crucial resource I wish I had earlier is the power of digital tools and platforms for both content creation and distribution. The shift to digital media is profound, and while I adapted, I think having a clearer understanding of platforms like NFTs, streaming services, crowdfunding, and social media algorithms earlier in my career would have helped me better capitalize on emerging opportunities in real time.
Additionally, there are some incredible educational resources—like those offered by Entertainment University—which I wish I had known about earlier. Programs that focus on both the technical aspects of content creation and the business strategy behind it would have bridged the gap between creative ambition and commercial success much sooner. Having access to these tools, networks, and training in the early stages of my career would have allowed me to focus more on innovation and creation instead of learning by trial and error.
In short, mentorship and industry-specific educational resources, combined with a deeper understanding of the digital ecosystem early on, would have been game changers for me. These tools would have accelerated my journey and helped me navigate the complexities of the entertainment world with more clarity and confidence.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on NFTs. (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice
My view on NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) is that they represent an exciting, albeit still evolving, space with great potential—especially in the realms of art, entertainment, and content creation. At their core, NFTs offer creators, artists, and brands an innovative way to monetize digital assets, connect directly with their audiences, and establish verifiable ownership and provenance for unique digital items.
From a creative standpoint, NFTs open up new opportunities for artists and creators to engage with fans and audiences in meaningful ways. For example, musicians, filmmakers, and fashion designers can tokenize their work, providing buyers with exclusive content or experiences that can’t be replicated. In fact, I see it as a natural extension of how content creators already engage with fans—whether it’s through exclusive drops, VIP experiences, or limited-edition products. NFTs can further deepen that connection by offering something truly unique and trackable, which is crucial in an age where everything feels so transient and easily replicated.
From a business perspective, NFTs also present an opportunity to tap into an emerging market with high demand for digital collectibles. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the market is still in its early stages, and there’s a lot of volatility and skepticism around its sustainability. The value of NFTs—like any asset—can be unpredictable, and the ecosystem has yet to mature fully. As such, it’s important to approach NFTs with both excitement and caution, especially when it comes to understanding their long-term value and practical applications.
In my own work at ATNetwork and Entertainment University, I see NFTs as a way for young creators and emerging artists to explore innovative business models and expand their creative horizons. I’ve seen firsthand how NFTs could offer not only financial benefits but also a new way to distribute and share content that cuts across traditional boundaries in the entertainment industry. For example, offering limited edition digital content or NFT-backed experiences could open up fresh revenue streams for independent creators and smaller companies looking to innovate.
That said, I believe the future of NFTs will be closely tied to their ability to offer tangible value to creators and consumers. It’s not just about owning a digital asset, but about offering something that has a genuine connection to the user or fan—whether that’s through access to exclusive content, community experiences, or other utilities. As technology continues to evolve and the market matures, I see NFTs having a long-lasting impact on the way we think about ownership, art, and even intellectual property in the entertainment space.
In sum, while NFTs are still figuring themselves out, I’m enthusiastic about their potential for creative industries and the new ways they can empower creators and change how we experience and value digital art. It’s an exciting time to be part of this shift.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://atnetwork.tv/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anthonyethompsonii/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thompsonii/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-e-thompson-ii-b9517954/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@atnetworktv
