After decades on national television, Michael Symon and Clinton Kelly walked away from network deals to build Chewed Up, an owned media company on their own terms. Joined by the production and distribution partners making it possible, this panel examines what it takes to pivot from legacy TV to owned platforms, and why brands benefit from authentic, long-term creator partnerships in a post-network world.
Symon, influenced by his Greek and Sicilian heritage, is a James Beard Award winner and Food & Wine Best New Chef. He owns Angeline and Bar Symon, hosts the Chewed Up podcast, and stars in Food Network's 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing and Symon’s Dinners Cooking Out. He's authored nine cookbooks, including NYT bestseller Symon's Dinners: Cooking Out. When he’s not working, Michael enjoys golf, gardening, and cherished moments with his family.
Clinton Kelly
Emmy-Award Winning TV Personality & Author, Co-Host of Chewed Up
Prior to Chewed Up and Why'd They Wear That?, Clinton Kelly co-hosted TLC's What Not to Wear for 10 years and ABC's The Chew for seven, winning an Emmy. He created Wear Whatever the F You Want for Amazon Prime, authored several books, and has appeared on HGTV & Food Network. In his spare time, he's an obsessive dahlia grower.
Nicholas Panagopulos
President & Executive Producer, Simple Alien Inc.
Panagopulos is an Emmy-nominated EP, Director, and President of Simple Alien Inc. He co-launched Chewed Up, a YouTube-first podcast and video series, with Michael Symon, Carla Hall & Clinton Kelly. Previously, he scaled BrainBox Enterprises to $30M+ in revenue and delivered high-impact content for major television networks, Fortune 500 brands, and global sports leagues. Nick graduated from UNC School of the Arts with a BFA in Filmmaking.
Kathi Chandler-Payatt
Head of Content Acquisition, LG Channels
Kathi Chandler-Payatt heads content strategy and acquisitions for LG Channels, securing strategic and exclusive programming and IP that define the platform’s differentiated offering. She previously held executive roles at Amazon MGM Studios and FOX.
Lucia Moses
Moderator (Senior Correspondent, Business Insider)
Lucia Moses covers the media and entertainment business at Business Insider, with a focus on the creator economy. She's broken stories about MrBeast's ambitions, TikToker Khaby Lame's mega mystery deal, and Netflix's push into podcasts. Her reporting has won the Los Angeles Press Club's National Entertainment Journalism Awards. She previously worked at Digiday and Adweek and graduated from Cornell University.
