Ponce Deleioun: Music, Media, and Entrepreneurship

Ponce Deleioun is an American entrepreneur and digital media executive whose career reflects a rare blend of creative vision, technological innovation, and cultural influence. With a background that spans entertainment, media, and consumer technology, Deleioun has consistently positioned himself at the forefront of emerging trends, transforming unconventional ideas into scalable, headline-making ventures.

He is the founder of Critical Content LLC, a production company that has become a notable force in digital media, known for developing content that resonates across platforms and audiences. Drawing on his deep understanding of storytelling and audience engagement, Deleioun has helped bridge the gap between traditional entertainment and the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Beyond media, Deleioun has gained widespread recognition for pioneering automated retail concepts. He created The Puppy Pitstop, widely recognized as the world’s first dog vending and wash machine, an invention that reimagined convenience and care within the pet industry. This innovation showcased his ability to identify overlooked markets and apply technology in unexpected, consumer-friendly ways.

Deleioun is also the founder of BUD10TENDER, recognized as the world’s first cannabis vending machine. The groundbreaking concept attracted national attention and was featured by USA Today, cementing his reputation as a forward-thinking entrepreneur willing to explore uncharted territory in regulated and emerging industries.

Before his entrepreneurial success, Deleioun was a hip-hop artist, an experience that continues to inform his creative instincts and business philosophy. Today, he is known for merging culture, technology, and commerce into ventures that challenge norms and redefine what’s possible.

Early life and musical career

Ponce Deleioun began his career as a hip-hop artist, using music as a foundation for branding and audience development. In 2013 and 2014, he became the first artist from West Virginia to be invited to London to freestyle with BBC Radio 1 DJ Tim Westwood, an appearance that brought him international exposure.

In 2015, Deleioun’s music reached number one on Snoop Dogg’s Underground Countdown, a platform highlighting emerging and independent hip-hop artists. The following year, in 2016, he became the first rap artist to officially partner with Swisher Sweets, maintaining the partnership for over five years and collaborating with numerous industry figures, including Gucci Mane, Keyshia Ka’oir, Machine Gun Kelly, and Cardi B.

In 2019, he released a collaborative project with NBA player and rapper Iman Shumpert, further establishing his footprint in both music and entertainment.

Brand partnerships

Deleioun later became the first rap artist to officially partner with Swisher Sweets, maintaining the partnership for more than five years. During this period, he worked alongside several prominent artists and industry figures, including Gucci Mane, Keyshia Ka’oir, Machine Gun Kelly, Cardi B, and others. His work with Swisher Sweets contributed to experiential marketing campaigns and artist-brand collaborations.

Transition to entrepreneurship

After years in the music and branding space, Deleioun transitioned into entrepreneurship, focusing on ownership, scalable systems, and technology-driven business models. His ventures often combine culture, automation, and consumer convenience.

The Puppy Pitstop – Pet Vending

Deleioun founded The Puppy Pitstop, widely described as the world’s first dog vending and wash machine. The concept integrates automated vending, pet care services, and experiential design. The machines are designed to be brand-customizable and feature surveillance cameras to enhance security and capture user interactions.

BUD10TENDER:
Automated Cannabis Vending

Deleioun launched BUD10TENDER, the world’s first cannabis vending machine, marking a significant development in automated retail within the legal cannabis industry. The innovation received national attention and was featured by USA Today.

Critical Content LLC

Deleioun is the founder and CEO of Critical Content LLC, a digital media and creator monetization company. Through the firm, he has helped thousands of creators generate income by monetizing content across social media platforms, particularly Facebook.

Philosophy

Deleioun’s work emphasizes ownership, leverage, and infrastructure. His career reflects a shift from cultural creator to systems builder, focusing on enabling creators to convert digital reach into sustainable income.