Episode 109
Brand Story Podcast

The Future of Content

featuring William Mellis & Eric Markgraf

Co-Founders of Jupiter Festival

In this episode of Brand Story, our president, Steve Gilman, is joined by William Mellis and Eric Markgraf, co-founders of Jupiter Festival, to discuss the vision behind a new global gathering designed to shape the future of content.

The future of content needs a different kind of conversation.

In this episode, William Mellis and Eric Markgraf introduce Jupiter Festival, a new global event created to bring together leaders from media, marketing, entertainment, sports, and technology. Rather than building another trade show, they’ve designed an experience centered on learning, collaboration, and meaningful conversations about where content is headed.

The discussion explores why today’s brands need to think beyond traditional advertising, how owned content and intellectual property are reshaping the industry, and why the rapid pace of change has created a need for new ideas and new relationships. William and Eric also share the thinking behind the Jupiter brand, the festival’s intentionally different design, and their vision for creating an event where curiosity and connection take center stage.

At its heart, Jupiter Festival is built on a simple belief: the future of content will be shaped by the people willing to learn, challenge assumptions, and explore what’s next.

About the Guest

William Mellis & Eric Markgraf

Co-Founders of Jupiter Festival

William Mellis and Eric Markgraf are the co-founders of Jupiter Festival, a global event created to explore the future of content and bring together leaders across media, marketing, entertainment, sports, and technology. William previously led global events, including Cannes Lions and Money20/20, while Eric has spent decades working with some of the world’s most recognizable brands and entertainment companies, including Nike, Paramount, CBS, and USC. Together, they’re building Jupiter as a destination for bold ideas, meaningful connections, and the next generation of content leaders.

Quickfire Q&A

What was the belief behind founding Jupiter Festival?

William: We talked about uncharted territory—exploration. We don’t know what content will look like in three or four years, but there will always be a place where people need to go to learn.

Eric: Jupiter is the planet of knowledge and growth. The concept that this is about knowledge and growth just sat so perfectly with what we’re about.

What would you say to someone who's considering attending Jupiter Festival?

William: If you’re involved in content—whether you create it, sell it, leverage it, or use it to get your message across—come with an open mind and be prepared to absorb. You’re going to enjoy it.

Eric: If you’re curious about things, come to Jupiter.

What would success look like after the first Jupiter Festival?

William: I want people posting that they learned something, met people they want to follow up with, and had some fun. If that’s what we’re known for, then we’re building the destination we set out to create.

Eric: I want people to say, “I can’t wait for next year” or “I can’t wait to come back and learn more.”

About The Host

Steve Gilman

As the President of Gravity Group, Steve is passionate about helping brands reach their goals through honest, creative marketing and powerful brand stories.

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