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Over at my personal blog, I did an interview with the C.E.O. of MNET, Adam Ware. At the time, MNET was finding its footing on the cable networks and presenting great programming for today’s Asian youth. That particular interview continues to be read to this day and I’m not surprised.

In the time, since that interview, MNET has grown into a viable channel for all things in the Asian pop culture world. New original programming, plus a focus on great international JPop and KPop music has helped MNET grow and thrive.

So, naturally, I went back to Adam Ware to get a status report on MNET. I asked him how he feels about the growth and where else would he like to see it expand. Here’s my latest interview with him:

Since we last chatted in January, how do you feel about the current growth of MNET?

Really optimistic! We have made great progress on all fronts.

Mnet entered into a nationwide agreement with Comcast resulting in new carriage on the digital tier. San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose and Sacramento launch on next week. And then at the end of August Mnet launches in Chicago and Boston! Which will put the network in 9 out of the top 10 TV markets and over 30 total across the country! And there is more to come in early 2012.

On the programming front, we launched our two new original series: the daily Beats Per Mnet and the prime time series Short Notice.

The shows continue to grow and expand creatively. BPM has had over 30 amazing guests including Hines Ward, US Congresswoman Judy Chu and next week Michael Rapaport stops by to discuss the new film about A Tribe Called Quest that he directed.

And Short Notice, our show featuring original Asian American short films, has been renewed for 13 more episodes.

And of course, this past week was an amazing coupe for our little network with the worldwide premiere of 2NE1 TV Worldwide. The fact that the producers chose to give us the world premiere really helps solidify our position as the US leader in K Pop.

And there are more great programming announcements coming!

How many more original series does MNET have planned for 2011 (or even 2012)?

We've got two more planned for 2011 including a daily two hour hosted K Pop music and lifestyle series! We are starting to hold auditions and if any of your readers are interested in trying out just let us know.

Since we last chatted I'm sure your taste in music has evolved, right? What are you listening to now?

Sort of...

I would say that it evolves on an hourly basis. I really like the 2NE1 tracks I've heard as their new album drops next week. I just downloaded the Shaggy album which brings him back to his reggae roots! The Pitbull album is amazing! And I love the Buddy Holly covers tribute album!

With all of the additional new programming added to MNET, how would you describe the channel to Asian youth, today?

Mnet is where they can find both the coolest Asian pop trends from across the globe and the newest original voices on the Asian American scene! We are the #1 destination for all things Asian cool!

Tell me about the company culture? What is daily life like in the MNET offices?

It's an interesting blend. On one hand we are part of a much larger strategic vision that our parent company CJ Entertainment and Media is rolling out on a global basis. On the other hand, we are a brand new start up TV network experiencing all of the high and lows that comes with it. Personally, I love the start up environment. It's when you can take the most risks as you find out what works and what doesn't. The key, however, is to stay focused and on mission.

Tell us about Adam Ware? What is your background in television?

Let's see... I've been at the TV thing for 25 years now. Pretty much have done it all from and distribution to Programming, Marketing and PR. Was lucky enough to be part of some of amazing ventures like the FOX Network, UPN, HSN, USA Networks and now Mnet. Most importantly, I've worked with some great people and have a learned a lot from each one.

What are some of the next steps and goals for MNET?

Grow the distribution! We will finish off 2011 just over 11 million homes and want to be at 15 million or more by the end of 2012. We are hoping that DirecTv, Dish and AT&T Uverse will see the value in offering Mnet to their subscribers. We sure get a lot of requests.

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