89. Paul Butler
GM, Aspire
It is in large part due to Butler’s strategic business planning that Aspire is now a reality. What’s more, he sealed deals to secure its first originals, “ABFF Independent” and “The Root 100,” and land numerous blue-chip advertisers. On the one-year anniversary of the network, Aspire launched its third original, “Exhale,” a talk show featuring black women of all ages discussing real issues important to their communities. Butler will continue to build on the programming slate this year as he manages the network’s day-to-day ops. Besides being a savvy dealmaker with 17 years of experience in the entertainment industry, he serves as chairman of The Brotherhood/Sister Sol, a Harlem-based nonprofit committed to helping young African-American and Latino youths become empowered critical thinkers and community leaders.