Justin P. Slaughter & MC King Khan on Producing Music, Home Studios, and Building an Acting Career

You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher |

One of the beauties of the Digital World is that creators and artists can completely take charge of their careers to produce music or any type of content. It’s easier than ever for musicians to create demos and completed songs in their home studios. Learning how to record yourself has so many different advantages too when working with producers. It gives you the ability to create a demo of what you envision your sound to be. Also, it opens up the ability for a great side hustle to record other artists. Justin P. Slaughter and MC King Khan are two DIY musicians, who have been building success through always learning, consistency, and always working on their craft.

Justin P. Slaughter has been on the podcast before on Episode 42, and returns to the show to share his journey in the world of acting. Since our last conversation, he’s been featured in Marvel films, worked on a movie with Kyle Chandler, and as well as wrestling legend the Heartbreak Kid Shawn Michaels. From the first episode, I always appreciated Justin’s positive attitude and work ethic. After almost having lost his life in a tragic motorcycle accident, he made a decision to never make excuses and to not waste time by always pushing himself to be the best fitness coach for his clients, leading by example, and thriving for excellence in his creative endeavors from music to acting.

MC King Khan is a rapper, producer, and audio engineer who came to Texas all the way from Russia. Khan is a DIY artist who prides himself to always be learning and mastering his art. He’s a student of the business and the art of producing music. Besides building his own music career, his big vision is to start his own record label. With the skills he’s acquired through his work ethic, he has already established a lot of value for himself to when he signs his first artist. Khan has built his own home studio where he’s constantly working on music but has also gained skill as a graphic designer and designing his own merch. One of the things I admire most about him is not only that he’s always working on mastering his craft, but that his family is always the top priority. Justin and MC King Khan met in Texas, and together recently released Justin P. Slaughter’s  song “Ride with Me.” 

In this episode, we discuss producing music, gear, finding and purchasing beats from producers online, how to get started as an actor, and all the different casting agencies that cast for extras, we get into some music promo, and so much more. 

To learn more about Justin P. Slaughter visit https://www.instagram.com/justinpslaughter/, and for MC King Khan visit https://www.instagram.com/kingkhanent/.  

Get in touch with Justin P. Slaughter
Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Get in touch with MC King Khan
Instagram | Twitter | Facebook
https://kingkhanent.com/

Bujie Leichtweis - Production Assistant for Alice Cooper & Production Manager for Meridian Entertainment Group on Producing Shows for Promoters & On Tour

You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher |

For every show, there are two sides to putting on a production, the touring and artist side, and then the promoter and venue side. Each side has its own unique ways of operating. The important thing to note is that no show, tour, venue, or promoter operates the same. There are many different methods, styles, and personalities in the music industry. That’s what makes this industry so unique and exciting. Some days you meet amazing people and it’s the best day ever, and other days you deal with challenging people. I like to look at the tough days as the days where you learn and grow. However, it’s all about having the right mindset and attitude. When you work with people who work hard, take pride in what they do, but they’re also great to work with and just have the right mindset and attitude, those to me were always the best days. 

One of those days I really looked forward to was working a show with Alice Cooper last year in 2019. As many listeners know, the artist manager I talk about the most and admire the most is Shep Gordon, who managed Alice Cooper since the beginning. It’s his philosophy of being in service to others, and always looking for win-win scenarios that I respect so much. I was so excited to work that show, and met their Production Assistant, Bujie Leichtweis, who has the attitude, work ethic, and works in service to everyone around her from the tour, the promoter, and the venue. Just what I had expected for someone that works with Shep. 

Bujie Leichtweis is the Production Assistant for Alice Cooper and Production Manager for Meridian Entertainment Group in Michigan. Having been on tour and working festivals and for venues on the promoter side, Bujie has deep experience on both sides of a production. She understands what the venue and promoter are looking for, and what the tour and artist’s team are looking for in a successful production. One of her strongest qualities is to lead with service to others, by going above and beyond to make every day wonderful for all involved, and produce shows with kindness. She’s been on tour with Alice Cooper since 2012 and started with Meridian’s Common Ground Music Festival in 2003. 

In this conversation, we talk about life on the road, working both sides of a production, how she worked her way up in Meridian Entertainment Group, how to produce successful shows, attitude, mindset, how to deal with difficult people, and much more. 

To learn more about Bujie Leichtweis visit https://www.facebook.com/bujierocks/. 

Detailed show notes coming…

Clinton Sparks - DJ, Producer, Songwriter, Serial Entrepreneur, and Author on How to Win Big in the Music Business

You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher |

After over 100 interviews for the podcast, I’ve learned one of the most important qualities to “making it” is about having the right mindset. Clinton Sparks is a world renowned DJ, Producer, Songwriter, Serial Entrepreneur and now Author. He’s a Grammy nominated artist who has worked with artists such as Akon, Bun-B, Ludacris, Tyrese, Pitbull, Lady Gaga, Jordan Knight, and many more. Today, he’s also an author of the  book “How to Win Big in the Music Business.”

In this conversation we talk about the new book, the importance of having the right mindset, setting goals and having a plan, building real genuine relationships in the music business, balancing family life and being a dad with the crazy music business and all the ventures he’s involved with, and much more. 

To learn more about Clinton Sparks visit https://clintonsparks.com/ and www.winbiginmusic.com/.

Get In Touch with Clinton Sparks:
https://clintonsparks.com/
https://www.winbiginmusic.com/
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube

Ana Reina - Spiritual Educator and Artist Manager on Finding Your Purpose, Deep Meditation, and Finding the Right Manager

You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher |

For many, one of the biggest questions we have in life is “what is my purpose?” That is one of the big questions of life. How do you know that what you’re doing is really a pursuit in the right direction for your long term overall well being and happiness? The question I usually try to answer is, are you happy right now? Because the present moment is the only thing that’s guaranteed. We can’t change the past, and we can’t guarantee the future.  I truly believe that if you focus on doing things that make you happy now, and as long as they don’t harm another person mentally, emotionally, or physically, then you’re doing something that you're supposed to be doing. We’re not going to always enjoy 100% of what we’re doing, but if you’re enjoying a large portion of what you do each day, I believe that’s a path that’ll lead to more happiness. 

My first mentor in the music business was Ana Reina. In the olden days, I used  to  be  a personal trainer, while Ana was a successful artist manager and music business instructor at Full Sail University. It’s important to never use not having enough money as an excuse to learn, grow, and make connections. It’s all about offering value. I used to trade free personal training sessions with Ana, for advice on how the music business works, how to promote shows, and how to manage artists. Ana Reina is a Spiritual Educator, Artist Manager, and Music Business and Marketing Instructor. She has managed and guided artists careers for over 15 years with a holistic approach. Ana has also been a music business and music marketing instructor at Full Sail University and LA Film School. She’s a wonderful human being who spreads love, kindness, and mentorship in everything she does. 

In this conversation we talk about finding your purpose, deep meditation and breathing techniques, finding the right manager to holistically guide your career and much more. 

To learn more about Ana Reina visit https://soulmanity101.com/. 

Get in touch with Ana Reina
Website: https://soulmanity101.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulmanity101 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soulmanity/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2o9Xcn3cP7JzT8cb1jAGuA?view_as=subscriber

Helpful links for your Spiritual Journey:
Discover Your Life Path Number (Your Purpose) - Use our calculator!
Did you know that the day you were born was not random, but rather on purpose?  Your life path number can give you some insights on your journey here on Earth.
https://soulmanity101.com/discover-your-life-path-number-and-what-it-says-about-you/  

Angelic Bubble of Protection
You should say this mantra every morning before you start your day or when you feel you need it. This bubble provides added protection from negative energies or frequencies trying to bring your vibrations down. 
https://soulmanity101.com/create-angelic-protective-bubble/ 

 Deeper Grounding for a Stronger Meditation - FREE GUIDE & Guided Meditation!
This simple yet powerful technique will help those who are beginning their journey with meditation or deepen the divine connection for those further along. 
https://soulmanity101.com/why-grounding-is-important/   

Luke Pierce of WORKS Entertainment and Promoter 101 on Building Artist Brands by Creating Communities, Content, and Digital Marketing

You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher |

Building a powerful brand in today’s music business includes creative marketing strategies, recurring content, and building communities. Luke Pierce is one of the artist managers and the production manager for WORKS Entertainment, which works with Straight No Chaser, Home Free, Brass Against, Brian Culbertson, Brain Newman, John Mclaughlin, Lucky Chops, Morgan James, and Striking Matches. He’s also one of the hosts for the popular music industry touring podcast Promoter 101. 

In this conversation we talk about ways to pivot during COVID-19, building communities, nurturing campaigns, what he looks for in artist management clients, digital marketing, and much more. 

To learn more about Luke Pierce visit https://www.worksentertainment.com/ or http://www.promoter101.net/. 

Highlights from this Episode
[01:32] Must go to Food Spots in Nashville 
[04:45] Nashville Music Scene 
[10:22] Current Projects 
[12:10] Real Estate Investing 
[14:00] House Hacking 
[16:54] Day to Day Managers 
[20:53] Pivoting During COVID-19 
[27:16] Strategies for Patreon 
[33:46] Building Communities 
[39:29] Opt Ins to Emails, SMS, or Discord Lists 
[42:25] Nurture Campaigns 
[47:39] Recurrent Content 
[52:45] Picking New Artist Management Clients 
[55:27] Resources to Learn About the Music Business 

Quotes from Luke Pierce
“There is really something biomechanically different between live music and recorded music.” 
“I would never underestimate the value of written word or blogs or poems or whatever types of media. It doesn’t need to be about music.” 
“If you’re really trying to build a community and business, it needs to be weekly” (on sharing content on Patreon)
“Try to cater to your audience in terms of technical styling and how you think they prefer to communicate.” 
“Wherever fans are go there.” 
“Having a really effectively run mailing list is an essential part of an artists digital life.” 
“Making sure you’re hitting the right people with the right funnels and right journeys through your catalog or body of work is an important thing to do.” 
“There is literally an algorithmic importance of having consistent content on YouTube.” 
“The consistent mix of consistency but authentic is really important.” 
“Are you an authentic creator? Can you create?” 
“Artists are entrepreneurs and they need to have an understanding of their business.” 
“The artists most important job is to deliver music and content and engagement on daily basis.” 

Links to people, places, and things mentioned
James Beard Awards
Sean Brock (Chef) 
RJ Cooper (Chef)
Saint Stephen (Restaurant)
Emmy Squared (Restaurant)
Pelican and Pig (Restaurant)  
Margot Cafe & Bar (Restaurant)
Setsun Pop-up (Restaurant) 
Prince’s Hot Chicken (Restaurant)
The Station Inn
Tim McGraw
Prescription Songs
Rusty Gaston
WORKS Entertainment
David Britz
Bigger Pockets Podcast
Amanda Palmer
Penny Fractions 
Discord 
Philip DeFranco
Grace Helbig
The Try Guys
Mailchimp
Shopify Masters Podcast
Dan Steinberg 
Emporium Presents 
The Mailroom - The Hollywood History from the Ground Up by David Rensin [BOOK] 

Luke’s Story on Promoter 101

Promoter101 · Promoter 101 # 183 - Works Entertainments' Luke Pierce

Luke Pierce Definition of Making It:
“If I can be safe and happy it’s fortunate.” 

Get in touch with Luke Pierce
Instagram | Twitter
https://www.worksentertainment.com/
http://www.promoter101.net/

Keep in touch:chris.goyzueta@gmail.com

Credits: 
Host: Chris Goyzueta (Chris G.)
Producer: Jason Trosclair
Executive Producer: ONElive Creative Agency  
Music: Emily Kopp

Conny Quintanilla and Gabriela Fernadez from the Historic Olympia Theater in Miami, FL on Running a Venue, Pivoting during COVID-19, and Side Hustles

You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher |

When running a venue of any size, it takes a team that operates as one unified front with mutual respect and empathy. Over my career, I’ve been able to work with all kinds of venues from clubs to theaters to amphitheaters and arenas. You would think there is a formula on how venues operate or some kind of standard. However, every venue runs completely different. It’s like the venue is an artist. They’re all unique and interesting in their own ways, and they all present different challenges. It’s usually the ones that are great communicators, organized, and bring that extra love and care to a show that are the most memorable and stand out. And it doesn’t matter how big or small the team running the venues are. I’ve worked with small teams that were amazing, and large teams that were horrible. One of my favorite smaller teams were working with Conny and Gaby at the Olympia Theater in Miami, FL.

Conny Quintanilla is the Production Coordinator at the Olympia, and founder and CEO of FansOnQ, a company that develops and hires casted audiences and seat fillers for major events. Gabriella Fernandez is the venues Director of Theater Operations, and founder and President for Front Yard Theatre Collective, a sketch comedy theater group. The two of them together are a dynamic duo that can outwork much larger teams. Conny and Gaby have always worn literally many hats, and are very passionate about their team, their venue, and making sure that the shows run smooth. Located in the heart of Downtown Miami and at a Historic Theater, made it one of the venues I looked forward to visiting the most during my time with AEG Presents. I look forward to the day I come back to work or see a show at the Olympia Theater.

In this conversation we talk about running a venue, how COVID-19 has affected their venue, having side hustles, working as a team, and much more. 

To learn more about Conny and Gaby visit http://www.olympiatheater.org/, http://fansonq.com/, and https://www.frontyardtheatrecollective.com/. 

Highlights from this Episode
[01:24] Conny and Gaby’s role at Olympia Theater 
[02:50] Surviving COVID-19 
[07:52] Journey before Olympia Theater & Side Hustles 
[20:55] Bicycle Theater 
[23:42] Courses to Prepare for Working at a Venue 
[28:20] Building Authentic Relationships 
[32:30] Different roles at a venue and opportunities 
[35:58] Working with co-promoters and partners 
[37:15] Dealing with difficult people 
[43:43] Things promoters should know when working with a venue 
[50:55] Surprise celebrity and special guest appearances 
[01:00:14] Things to pay attention to prior to opening a venue 
[01:04:30] Getting to know Conny and Gaby 

Quotes from Conny and Gaby 
“Taking an improv class can translate to so many areas of your life.” - Gaby 
“I don’t feel production is in textbooks. Production is all about hands on experience.” - Conny 
“In the entertainment industry...80% is who you know...10% is knowledge...and 10% is luck.” - Gaby 
“Once you’ve experienced your first burn, you start waking up to a lot of things. You pick up that sixth sense.” - Conny 
“A lot of people when they’re scamming you, the minute you ask a lot of questions, they’ll act annoyed.” - Gaby 
“You kind of have to get scammed (in this industry), it’s sort of like hazing.” - Gaby 
“You fall down 7, you get up 8.” - Conny 
“Get everything in writing.” - Conny and Gaby 
“It’s really important that you get to know who you’re working with...and when show day comes be on the same page.” - Conny 
“A good way to prevent drama is to build a solid team.” - Gaby 
“Make yourself a checklist of everything you need before you get to a new city.” - Gaby 
“You always gotta be ahead of the game.” - Conny 
“Always use common sense and common courtesy.” - Conny 
“As a promoter when you get to a venue, don’t just get familiar with the stage door.” - Gaby 

Links to people, places, and things mentioned
Olympia Theater 
ESPY Awards
FansOnQ (Casted Audience) 
Front Yard Theatre Collective (Sketch Comedy Group) 
Last Podcast on the Left 
 Shakira
NSYNC
Guns N’ Roses in Colombia
Keto Diet 

Conny & Gaby’s Definition of Making It:
“Pay your rent doing what you love.” - Gaby
“Loving what you do and being at peace with it. Loving it, and never stop learning.” - Conny 

Get in touch with Conny and Gaby
http://www.olympiatheater.org/
http://fansonq.com/
https://www.frontyardtheatrecollective.com/

Keep in touch:chris.goyzueta@gmail.com

Credits: 
Host: Chris Goyzueta (Chris G.)
Producer: Jason Trosclair
Executive Producer: ONElive Creative Agency  
Music: Emily Kopp

Jeremy Skaller - co-Founder of The Heavy Group on Building a Successful Artist Management & Production Company with Mindfulness and Empathy

You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher |

During a time with venues being shut down and tours being put on hold, this is a good time for us to look inward and turn up the volume on empathy. The music industry is broken. Millions of people have lost their jobs, and are looking for new ways to reinvent themselves and pay their bills. We don’t know when the music industry will open back up. Also, what will the music industry look like on the other side of COVID-19? This is a time to turn inward, and look for new creative ways to make a living as musicians. It’s a time to be mindful of those around us, and lead with empathy. 

Jeremy Skaller is someone who leads with empathy. It’s one of the most important elements to artist management, and the number one quality artists should look for in an artist manager. “A good manager is a manager that leads with his heart.” Jeremy Skaller is the co-founder of Artist Management and music production company, The Heavy Group. Jeremy has also Produced, Written, Published songs for or otherwise worked closely as Manager with artists such as Bazzi, Kiana Ledé, Jay Sean, Nicki Minaj, Ariana Grande, Rihanna, Normani, Khalid, and many more. In this conversation we discuss Jeremy’s journey in the music business, artist management, what makes a good artist manager, how COVID and Black Live Matter has impacted his company and the music business, meditation and breathing, and much more. 

To learn more about Jeremy Skaller visit https://www.theheavy.group/. 

Quotes from Jeremy Skaller
“People need to take the time to breathe.” 
“Mindfulness helps you define why.” 
“Nothing has changed. Most independent artists aren’t touring anyway.” 
“Touring is important. You gotta break your music to people.” 
“We all know that concerts are magic. You can’t replace the magic.” 
“Information informs action.” 
“You have to love the artist you work for.” 
“An artist's job is to see the truth, and tell the truth.” 
“A good manager is a manager that leads with his heart.” 
“Authenticity is everything, and everything in music.” 
“Kids are smart these days, they can smell inauthentic music.” 
“You have to know when the dollar doesn’t matter, and the joy matters most.” 
“Don’t be precious. Put your music out.” 
“If I can tell who you are by looking at your social media, listening to your music...you’ll have a much higher success rate.” 

Highlights from this Episode
[01:15] About The Heavy Group 
[3:20] The Heavy Group Team 
[06:35] The importance of Mindfulness for the Music Industry 
[13:10] Practicing Meditation 
[14:53] The effect of COVID-19 
[22:48] Artists Pivoting during COVID-19 
[24:38] Touring less in the New Music Business 
[34:06] Discrimination in the Music Industry 
[43:30] Mindfulness and Black Lives Matter 
[47:38] Record Deals 
[53:46] What Makes a Good Artist Manager 
[57:40] Recognizing When Your Artist is Going Down a Dark Path 
[59:00] Getting an Artist Managers Attention 
[01:04:30] Building Assets as Artist Managers 
[01:06:24] Starting Out in the Music Industry 

Links to people, places, and things mentioned
The Heavy Group 
Bazzi 
Jay Sean 
Kiana Lede 
Republic Records
Jared Cotter 
American Idol 
Cash Money Records 
Anthony Kronfle 
Jasmine Collier 
Childish Gambino 
Melanie Fiona
Russell Simmons
Birdman
Lil Wayne 
Amy Winehouse 

Jeremy Skaller’s Definition of Making It:
“Just be happy, bro!” 

Get in touch with Jeremy Skaller 
https://www.theheavy.group/
https://www.instagram.com/jeremyskaller/

Keep in touch:
chris.goyzueta@gmail.com

Credits: 
Host: Chris Goyzueta (Chris G.)
Producer: Jason Trosclair
Executive Producer: ONElive Creative Agency  
Music: Emily Kopp

Camille Barbone - A Polymath of the Music Business from Developing and Managing Madonna to Working with All Departments of Major Labels

You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher |

It’s tough for one to do a lot of things great at one time, but one can do a lot of great things over a career or lifetime. When I was in college at the University of Central Florida, I was teaching pre-med courses, working full time, started a nonprofit organization (Rock for Hunger), promoted shows, and managed artists. It was great, and a lot of fun to work countless hours, have something going on all day every day and get very little sleep. Knowing what I know today, I know I would’ve been much more productive if I would’ve focused on only one thing, and reached a very high level first, and maybe even building a team before adding more to my plate. It was later in my career when I laser-focused on one or two things when I really excelled.

Camille Barbone is a true polymath of the music business. She got her start working at Columbia Records as the Manager of New Release Coordination, which gave her the opportunity to work with all 28 different departments of a major label. In this role, she got a true understanding of what it took to launch an album at the highest level. During this time she learned that artist managers have a lot of power in launching an artist’s career and work in many different areas of the music industry. She was inspired to transition her career into artist management with the goal to discover, develop, and manage a superstar.

Besides her experience of working at a major label, Camille saw the value and importance of owning assets. One thing that every artist needs access to is a recording studio. This inspired her to open her own recording studio in New York City where she met and began to manage a young artist that went by the name Madonna. Throughout her career, she’s worked with many amazing artists and labels. Camille has a passion for giving back to the next generation of music business professionals with the goal of inspiring people to pursue their careers with good ethics and integrity. In this conversation, we talk about Camille’s journey of the music business, labels, artist management, what makes a good manager, and much more. 

To learn more about Camille Barbone visit https://camillebarbone.com/.

Detailed show notes with quotes, topics covered, and links to things mention coming soon.

Dr. Shanta Barton-Stubbs - Founder and Executive Director of New Image Youth Center a Real Life Superhero Creating Meaningful Change in Her Community

You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher |

Have you ever met a real-life superhero? What does that person look like to you? To me a real-life superhero is someone that inspires people, provides them with opportunities to hope and dream, and gives them the tools to fulfill those dreams. In 2020, we’re in a world in isolation fighting against COVID-19, and in a world where we’re challenged to look more within ourselves, and ask ourselves if we want to make a change. Do we want to become better as people and as a society, and become the leaders that we wish existed? I know I do. Since the death of George Floyd, I took a deeper look within and asked myself am I or have I ever been prejudiced towards someone? How will I change to be a  better human being, and be a  superhero to my child? In the music industry,  there is still a major racial injustice with labels, managers, and agents taking advantage of black artists, and even with the little things such as classifying Hip-Hop, Rap, R&B, and Soul music as “urban.” I want to challenge our industry to be better, and I want to be better by being more intentional.  

Dr. Shanta Barton-Stubbs is a real-life superhero! She’s the founder and Executive Director of the New Image Youth Center (NIYC) in the Parramore neighborhood in Orlando, FL, which was once considered one of America’s top 25 most dangerous neighborhoods. Through the NIYC, Shanta has created a place for hope, for dreams, a place to get away from “the hood” and a place where dreams become a reality. In a neighborhood where kids  are fighting for survival from their surroundings, and then survival in their schools, graduating High School and  going on to College is often an afterthought. Shanta has created a home, where kids develop and progress in their life academically, socially, are conscious about health and wellness, and learn how to deal with crisis intervention. These kids are not only thinking about graduating and attending College, but their dreaming of being leaders and making a change in their community. 

I had the honor to get to know Shanta during my days with Rock for Hunger, and we spent a few days at NIYC getting to know her and the kids, and being able to provide field trips, and other fun activities. Shanta has been someone I’ve wanted on the podcast for quite a while, and I’m so happy that life has finally steered me back into her path. This is such an important, powerful, and relevant conversation. In this conversation, we talk about Shanta’s story, the impact she’s had with New Image Youth Center, her educational background as a Licensed Mental Health Therapist, the impact on COVID-19 on her program, and the tough conversations she’s had with her students after the death of George Floyd and Black Lives Matter. 

I hope you enjoy his episode with the AMAZING Dr. Shanta Barton-Stubbs. 

Quotes from Shanta Barton-Stubbs 
“We give them a reason to dream, and we give them the resources to reach those dreams.” 
“You start at the elementary level, that’s when you’re beginning to start exposing them to life outside their norm, and they’re beginning to think.” 
“Parramore is like the movie Boyz N the Hood.” 
“There is a life that we may not even know about that they’re experiencing at home.” 
“We learn from each other when we are different.” 
“I know how to present myself, and I want to be able to do that freely without anybody judging me.” 
“There needs to be opposing sides presented in these classrooms so people can form their own opinions, thoughts, and values from there.” 
“It’s ok to feel and to express.” 
“You can’t minimize the issues of kids because they’re young, they internalize that. And what happens is they actually repress it, and you see those issues come out in their adult life.” 
“We have to remember that a lot of times not all kids are the same, and they’re going to express in different ways.” 
“I would rather see my kids alive, than dead because they’re standing up for what they believe in.”
“Give us the same opportunities that everyone else has.” 
“Let’s pour money into these communities not where you’re pushing them out but where you’re providing resources. Where you’re giving the opportunity to be able to be better.” 
“It’s hurtful when you see people who do not look like you coming in from the outside and tell you what your community needs.” 

Highlights from this Episode
[02:01] Introduction 
[06:04] Being an Author 
[09:40] Services provided by NIYC 
[12:14] Her Father Moving His Church from a Middle Class Neighborhood to Parramore 
[16:20] Changes in the Community since NIYC 
[18:08] Succeeding in a Dangerous Neighborhood and Succeeding in School 
[22:49] Mindset behind having a K-12 school in an at-risk neighborhood 
[25:53] Getting Education in White School with White Teachers 
[30:18] No judgement zone and re-education 
[33:20] Prejudice and learning to become better 
[36:52] Tools Gained from Studying Criminal Justice 
[38:15] Police Officer is a Career and Education 
[40:32] Diversity in Literature Required at Schools 
[43:22] Coping with the Rise of Depression, Anxiety and Suicide in Kids and Teens 
[49:00] Conversations with Kids Around the Death of George Floyd 
[54:06] The Wrong with Posting All Lives Matter 
[59:18] Understanding the Kneeling During the National Anthem 
[01:01:54] Making Permanent Changes that Matter 
[01:06:47] Actions and Changes we can Create in Our Community 
[01:11:17] Getting to Know Shanta Barton-Stubbs 

Links to people, places, and things mentioned
Boyz N the Hood (Movie) 
Beverly Hills Cop (Movie) 
Colin Kappernick 
Equal Justice Initiative 
Stacia Pierce 
NAACP 
Michelle Obama 
Jamie Fox 
Michael Jackson 
Madam CJ Walker 
Black Panthers 
Coffee and Counseling (Podcast) 
Cindy Trimm
Jay Shetty
[BOOKS]
There is Good in My Hood by Dr. Shanta Barton-Stubbs 
There is Good in My Neighborhood Coloring Book by Dr. Shanta Barton-Stubbs 
So You Want to Start a Non For Profit? By Dr. Shanta Barton-Stubbs 
Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates 
Dear Adults, We have Issues Too by Dr. Shanta Barton-Stubbs 
Becoming Michelle Obama 

Shanta’s Definition of Making It:
“Being able to look back and there is a long line of successful African American children who have come from an area such as Parramore, and now they’re viewed as successful and they’re also giving back to the same community or the same place that once gave back to them.” 

Get in touch with Shanta Barton-Stubbs 
https://newimageyouth.org/
https://www.underconstructionempowerment.com/

Keep in touch:chris.goyzueta@gmail.com
www.makingitwithchrisg.com
https://www.instagram.com/chrisgoyzueta/
https://www.facebook.com/makingitwithchrisg

Credits: 
Host: Chris Goyzueta (Chris G.)
Producer: Jason Trosclair
Executive Producer: ONElive Creative Agency  
Music: Emily Kopp

Kohrey - Building Artist Brands through Creating Views, Streams, and REAL Followers with Digital and Influencer Music Marketing

You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher |

In the last few years, for the first time we’re living in an age where musicians and artists can take control of their music career, and use powerful strategies to promote their own music. In the digital age, artists have the ability to find real fans to stream their music on Spotify and watch their videos on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.  Musicians don’t have to rely on labels or others to make a living doing what they love. Also, the artist team no longer needs to follow the traditional model of manager, attorney, agent, label, publicist, and publishing company. In the new music industry, one of the most powerful persons to have on your artist team is a digital marketing expert. 

Kohrey is a digital marketing expert, and the co-founder of the Brandman Network and Contraband Agency. Through their companies they have created powerful results for independent musicians in finding a real audience that they can convert to loyal fans. They teach artists how to do this through their agencies and with all the amazing content they share on their YouTube Channel and Instagram. Kohrey and his partners are making a real difference in artists careers, and taking them to build successful businesses. 

In this conversation, we talk about digital marketing, promoting shows, about the different platforms to promote music and much more. To learn more about Kohrey visit https://www.contrabrand.agency/ and https://www.instagram.com/kohreydasavior/. 

Quotes from Kohrey
“If we’re seeing that people are willing to come to an old bakery to watch a concert, it really opens up the world to what artist touring can look like.” 
“Events, if you have the stomach for it, the capacity for it, and the team for it, it’s one of the best networking things you can do.” 
“The way to play the game in marketing is the same whether you’re emerging or established.” 
“Content is 60% of the game. If you don’t start there, you’re not even competing.” 
“You should know enough to know what you’re not good at and what you need to delegate.” 
“You don’t need to run your marketing campaigns forever, but at least understand enough about it so when you’re hiring somebody you know what they’re talking about and what questions to ask.” 
“Spotify is like the industry scoreboard.” 
“YouTube is the most rewarding platform to grow on.” 
“TikTok is the first social media platform where there is music promo going on 24/7 and everyone is clearly fine with it.” 
“Spotify doesn’t convert as well to other platforms, as other platforms convert to Spotify.” “Ads alone are not enough to break an artist.” 
“Ads make it easier to take risks on the other stuff.” 
“The strategy is in the long term.” 
“The email list does show work ethic.” 

Highlights from this Episode
[02:35] Promoting Shows in Alternative Venues 
[10:58] Organizing Blue Summer Festival & Booking Touring Artists 
[22:07] Promoting lesser known artists through Digital Marketing 
[26:24] About Contraband Agency 
[31:10] Developing Your Artist Team 
[35:40] Booking Agents 
[41:40] How to know who’s a good manager
[47:27] Best platforms for musicians 
[53:03] The right time and way to direct people to Spotify 
[56:15] Advertising on YouTube 
[01:01:36] Engagement with retargeting ads 
[01:03:20] Directing fans to your email list 
[01:09:44] Taking care of your fans along the funnel 
[01:13:10] Getting to know Kohrey 

Links to people, places, and things mentioned
Blue Summer ATL
Paradigm Agency 
International Entertainment Buyers Association (IEBA) 
Jonathan Hay
Brandman Sean
Kendrick Lamar
Meek Mill
Travis Porter
Miguel 
Creative Juice Podcast
Earn Your Leisure 
Joe Budden Podcast 
[BOOKS] 
All You Need to Know About the Music Business by Don Passman
Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss
All Marketers Tell Lies by Seth Godin
Jab, Jab, Jab Right Hook by Gary Vaynerchuck 
The Art & Science of Respect by Jay Prince
Hustle Harder, Hustle Smarter by 50 Cent

Kohrey’s Definition of Making It:
“Being able to do whatever it is that I wanna do in the moment comfortably, without ever worrying.” 

Get in touch with Kohrey
https://www.contrabrand.agency
Instagram | YouTube 

Get in touch with Kohrey
https://www.contrabrand.agency
Instagram | YouTube 

Related Articles & Episodes: 
Cheryl B. Engelhardt - Rockin’ Your Email Subscriber List [Episode #083]
Mark Schaefer - Strategies to Building Your Brand [Episode #073]
Kyle “Circa” Lemaire - Disrupting the Traditional Music BusinessKyle “Circa” Lemaire - Disrupting the Traditional Music Business [Episode #054]

Keep in touch:
chris.goyzueta@gmail.com
www.makingitwithchrisg.com
https://www.instagram.com/chrisgoyzueta/
https://www.facebook.com/makingitwithchrisg

Credits: 
Host: Chris Goyzueta (Chris G.)
Producer: Jason Trosclair
Executive Producer: ONElive Creative Agency  
Music: Emily Kopp

Kendall Corso - Co-Founder and COO of Backline, A Holistic Approach to Mental Health for Touring and Festival Personnel

You can also listen to this episode on iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher |

For many years, discussions around mental health, especially depression, anxiety, fatigue, burnout, and addiction, were things we didn’t talk about in the music industry. They were looked at as signs of weakness. You’re only tough if you can work 12-16 hour days, five to seven days a week. The problem with doing that is that something else suffers when so much of your time is dedicated to one thing, especially if that one thing is completely mentally and physically draining. With a lifestyle like this, health can suffer (physical or mental), families, relationships, and we develop unhealthy habits. Is this really worth it? 

It makes me so happy to see the conversation around mental health becoming more common in the music industry, and being taken more seriously. Kendall Corso is the Co-Founder and COO of Backline. A company focused on the mental health of the people working behind the scenes of tours and festivals. Backline offers many services from referrals for counseling, courses in meditation, yoga, nutrition, support groups, and much more. Kendall got her start in the music industry in the touring and festival world, and has first hand witnessed the struggle with mental health and issues such as depression, addiction, anxiety, suicide, and more. In the music industry, we know the backline as being the backbone of the instruments on stage, the amps, the drums, keyboards, turntables, and so on. Kendall’s company, Backline, is like the backbone of your mental and physical health. 

In this conversation, we talk about signs for mental health issues, getting help, how to have open talks with your leadership, and much more.

Quotes from Kendall Corso
“Volunteering is a good way to start (with music festivals). It’s how to build a rapport with the people who are going to be making the decisions.” 
“Any part of the industry is kind of a 24/7 gig with not a lot of office hours or structure.” 
“When you're spending life on the road, it’s difficult for people to maintain their adulthood.” 
“It’s just healthy to talk it out and to not let things build up between people who are stuck on a bus or van for weeks at a time.” 
“Smoothies are awesome because you really feel the energy that those fruits and veggies give you.” 
“It’s about conversations and being up front, and asking more than telling.” 
“Feelings are ok.” 
“Another thing about the music industry is that their family doesn’t really understand it.” 
“There is a fine line between persistent and being annoying.” 
“Always have multiple sources of income.”  

Highlights from this Episode
[4:50] Early journey in the music industry and college 
[6:08] About Backline 
[8:03] Kendall’s Journey in the music industry 
[13:22] NOLA Crawfish Festival in New Orleans 
[14:38] Getting into the festival world 
[15:48] Inspiration to starting Backline 
[17:42] Common calls they receive 
[20:07] Making our industry more mindful 
[23:50] Getting venues involved with Backline 
[27:24] Small adjustments to transition to better health 
[31:06] Meditation and virtual offerings 
[32:25] Identifying when someone is struggling 
[34:05] Having more mindful conversations 
[36:12] Effect from COVID-19 
[44:44] Not feeling comfortable speaking up with bosses 
[48:41] Getting to Know Kendall Corso (Rapid Fire Questions) 

Links to people, places, and things mentioned
Florida Atlantic University (FAU)
Music Masters Camps
The Allman Brothers Band  
Brandon ‘Taz’ Neiderauer
School of Rock the Musical
Live for Live Music
 NOLA Crawfish Festival
Mempho Music Festival
Neal Casal 
Fit on Tour
St. Augustine Amphitheater 
Come Together Program from Backline
Frequency Mind
SunFest - West Palm Beach

Kendall Corso’s Definition of Making It:
”You’ve gotten to a place where people are recognizing that the work your doing is important for the larger community, but you’re also at a place personally where you’re comfortable.”

Get in touch with Kendall Corso:
https://backline.care/
Facebook | Instagram

Related Episodes:
Katie Zaccardi - Wellness and Self Care [Episode #095]
Heather Mae - Making Pop Music Her Own Way [Episode #093]
Neal Casal - Stories from a 30+ Year Career [Episode #043]

Keep in touch:
chris.goyzueta@gmail.com
www.makingitwithchrisg.com
https://www.instagram.com/chrisgoyzueta/
https://www.facebook.com/makingitwithchrisg

Credits: 
Host: Chris Goyzueta (Chris G.)
Producer: Jason Trosclair
Executive Producer: ONElive Creative Agency  
Music: Emily Kopp

Micah Davidson - A Music Industry Serial Entrepreneur on being a Booking Agent, Talent Buyer, and Festival Producer

You can also listen to this episode on iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher |

Micah Davidson is the founder and CEO of Charlotte, NC based Midwood Entertainment. His company has multiple divisions in the live concert production realm. Starting as a Booking Agency whose team of agents now represent over 20 artists, and growing to producing music festivals and representing music venues as Talent Buyers across the United States. Micah has booked and produced thousands of shows throughout his career, and that comes with a lot of experience for artists and people interested in getting a career on the business side of the industry. After playing in bands and touring across the country, Micah went into the behind the scenes side of the industry becoming the Talent Buyer for the legendary Double Door in Charlotte, NC. Shortly after, he became an agent at Blue Mountain Artists, while still booking the Double Door. Along with some partners, he launched the North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival, which reached its 10th year in 2020. 

Midwood Entertainment was founded in 2015, as a boutique multifaceted agency dedicated to guiding bands, festivals, events, and concert venues. Today, the company represents artists such as Acoustic Syndicate, Big Daddy Love, Dangermuffin, Flow Tribe, Robert Walters 20th Congress, Seth Walker, The Black Lillies, and many more. Along with the North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival, Midwood Entertainment also produces events such as Bristol Rhythm and Roots, WhigFest, Amplify Decatur, the Lake Wales Orange Blossom Revenue, Music in the Mill, Beech Mountain Winter Series, and many more. They also represent music venues across the country as their Talent Buyers, bringing in all kinds of national touring artists. 

In 2020, during the COVID-19 outbreak, like a classic entrepreneur, he pivoted with another business venture with the No Contact Concert Series. A live stream concert series from a warehouse in Hickory, NC with a multi angle camera shoot, and full lighting and audio production. This has been a way to create work and generate revenue for the artists and the crew producing these productions. 

In this conversation, we discuss Micah’s journey, being and becoming an agent, how to get a booking agent, how to get the attention of talent buyers and venues, and much more. 

To learn more about Micah Davidson visit https://midwoodentertainment.com/. 

Quotes from Micah Davidson
“At the end of the day, either you’re the kind of band that fans gravitate towards or they don’t.” 
“Things bands should be thinking about, number one, do they treat themselves as a business.” 
“At the end of the day this is a business, and our goal is to take your product, and have it become a more profitable product.” 
“At the end of the day if everybody is easy to work with, and everybody is gracious, I’m going to want to work with you more and more.” 
“If you’re the smartest person in the room, then everyone is learning from you, and you ain’t learning shit.” 
“Don’t ever expect to do everything on your own.” 
“If you’re not prepared to lose the money, don’t spend it.” 
“An agent should understand how to truly tour a band, whether they have a manager or not.” 
“Anything you can get done in two minutes, do now.” 
“Set goals, stick to those goals, and move on.” 
“I would rather have sold out on the door and be turning people away, because it not only builds the buzz for the venue, but it also builds the buzz for the bands.” 
“If it’s a question of playing to a half full house or selling out shows, you want to have sold out on the door every time.” 

Highlights from this Episode
[4:35] About Micah and Midwood Entertainment 
[6:48] Restrictions for Agencies to Promote Shows 
[10:44] Being affected by COVID-19 
[15:02] Experience playing in bands 
[18:09] Things not to when touring 
[20:55] When to start playing outside of your hometown 
[24:15] Guidelines to getting an agent 
[31:42] When to reach out to agents 
[36:55] Email tips when reaching out to Agents and Talent Buyers 
[50:01] Becoming an Agent at Blue Mountain Artists 
[58:10] Minimum Experience to Putting on a Music Festival 
[01:04:55] Building the talent for your festival 
[01:09:08] How to become an agent 
[01:13:27] Starting an agency 
[01:17:51] Bringing your agency roster to another agency 
[01:20:32] Artist Development from an Agency standpoint 
[01:23:15] Time management skills 
[01:26:30] Playing the right venues 
[01:29:45] Playing house concerts and alternative style venues 
[01:33:25] Growing and running music festivals  
[01:42:20] Getting to know Micah Davidson 

Links to people, places, and things mentioned
Midwood Entertainment 
Maxx Music
Madison House 
North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival
Neighborhood Theatre 
Front Country
The Attic [Venue in Tampa, FL] 
Bandsintown 
Pollstar 
The Dead South
Tab Benoit
Eric Lindell 
George Porter Jr. 
Tim Reynolds 
Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion
Gregg Hurwitz [Author]
How did this get Made [Podcast]
Criminal [Podcast]

Micah Davidson Definition of Making It:
“Waking up every morning and going to sleep every night making sure that you are happy and love everything you’re doing.” 

Get in touch with Micah Davidson
https://midwoodentertainment.com/

Related Articles & Episodes: 
Alec Vidmar - Booking Agent at United Talent Agency [Episode #007]
Joshua Knight - Booking Agent at Paradigm Agency [Episode #048]
Meg White - Booking Agent at ICM Partners [Episode #059]
Jim Mallonee - 35+ Years of Booking for Live Nation [Episode #080]
Ryan Murphy - Huntsville Amphitheater and St. Augustine Amphitheater [Episode #099]

Keep in touch:
chris.goyzueta@gmail.com
www.makingitwithchrisg.com
https://www.instagram.com/chrisgoyzueta/
https://www.facebook.com/makingitwithchrisg

Credits: 
Host: Chris Goyzueta (Chris G.)
Producer: Jason Trosclair
Executive Producer: ONElive Creative Agency  
Music: Emily Kopp

Andrew Duhon - Grammy Nominated Singer-Songwriter on Bringing Value to Your Audience and Learning How to Pivot with Alternative Revenue Streams

You can also listen to this episode on iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher |

Andrew Duhon is a singer-songwriter based in New Orleans, LA. His second album, ‘The Moorings’, was Grammy Nominated for the best-engineered album. Duhon has been touring the United States and the UK for the last decade, starting completely DIY. Since COVID-19, he learned how to quickly pivot his business, and created alternative revenue streams through live streaming and Patreon, offering a new experience and value to his fans. In this conversation, we discuss how Andrew Duhon built relationships with people at venues while on tour to further expand his touring business, going on a vacation to the UK that lead to touring the country, how he’s built revenue streams with live streaming and Patreon, and much more. 

To learn more about Andrew Duhon visit https://www.andrewduhon.com/. 

Highlights from this Episode
[6:23] Getting started playing music 
[8:13] DIY Touring 
[9:34] Playing open mics 
[13:05] Touring strategy 
[16:32] Talking with strangers at shows 
[18:52] Playing outside of your hometown 
[22:00] Communicating with fans for upcoming shows 
[23:10] Becoming a Creator on Patreon 
[27:50] Starting Facebook Live Streams 
[32:02] Engaging with people on a live stream 
[36:50] Encore performances on Patreon 
[38:12] Writing process and habits 
[42:55] Things he’s done different since COVID-19 
STUDENT Q&A 
[45:48] How do you attract people to your Patreon page? 
[47:25] How are you testing new songs since open mics are not an option? 
[50:01] Can the Global Quarantine help you build new fans overseas? 
[54:25] Do you think if you released the Patreon content for free, the audience would be as engaged? 
[57:42] Wrap up Questions - getting to know Andrew Duhon 

Quotes from Andrew Duhon
“The open mic is a petri dish for creativity.” 
“I think the open mic for me was important for playing a draft of a song...and see how it landed.” 
“The open mic was helpful to bounce songs off of strangers.”
“People who enjoy a set want a souvenir….give them an opportunity to take you with them.” 
“After starting Patreon, I’m reminded not everybody is on Facebook or Instagram.” 
“People who gravitate toward what an artist is doing or where that artist is going, are gonna love seeing incomplete stuff or stuff that doesn’t make the cut.” 
“That tip jar thing, that works. People are not tipping 5 bucks. They’re tipping what a concert ticket would cost.” 
“The only thing different from me recording a video and doing a live steam is the opportunity to interact.” 
“You have to figure out a way to talk your way down that comment list until you feel like you can engage.” 
“The corners of your mind when you just start sweeping around, there are ideas in there that you are going to enjoy, and you won’t find them unless you just start moving the pen.” 
“Not everything should feel like an effort to make a song on a record. Sometimes you’re just working the muscle some other way.” 
“When people hear a new song and they really like it, they want to let you know about it.” 
“If it feels like thoughtful content, people will appreciate it.” 

Get in touch with Andrew Duhon
https://www.andrewduhon.com/
https://www.patreon.com/andrewduhon
Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter 

Keep in touch:
chris.goyzueta@gmail.com
www.makingitwithchrisg.com
https://www.instagram.com/chrisgoyzueta/
https://www.facebook.com/makingitwithchrisg

Credits: 
Host: Chris Goyzueta (Chris G.)
Producer: Jason Trosclair
Executive Producer: ONElive Creative Agency  
Music: Emily Kopp

Chris Goyzueta - A Journey Through Life with Tourette Syndrome while Promoting and Producing Over 2,500 Shows with Live Nation, AEG Presents, and Independently

You can also listen to this episode on iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher |

Chris Goyzueta is the host of Making It with Chris G and founder of the Making It Academy. For the 100th episode, the tables have been turned and producer Jason Trosclair interviews Chris on his journey in the music industry. We share stories and lessons from having produced and promoted over 2,500 shows with the world's biggest promoters, Live Nation and AEG Presents, and also having promoted hundreds of shows independently. You’ll also learn from his experience in artist management, and adventure into teaching at Full Sail University that lead to the launch of the podcast and teaching at many other universities in Florida. 

This episode is a celebration of releasing 100 episodes. It was Jason and Chris’ wife Alicia’s idea to have Chris as the guest for episode 100. It’s all their fault this happened! They felt it was important to finally hear the story of your host, and his challenges and successes in the music industry. There may have been some drinking going on, and lots of side tangents. However, as always, you’ll learn a lot of lessons from Chris’ journey throughout this episode.

Video Version of the Episode

Quotes from Chris Goyzueta
“You gotta have alternative revenue streams. You can’t rely on just live events.” |
“It’s a dangerous business to play if you have no assets.” 
“The best way to get validity to what you’re doing is having your peers or people you work with wanting to do more work with you.” 
“I would not put a band on the road with someone else, unless they’ve been on the road on their own first.” 
“You should have quite a few shows under your belt before putting on a festival.” 
“You can never have a Friday or Saturday night that’s not booked.” 
“It’s not about me, it’s about the information that I’m sharing with others.” 
“You have to serve your audience what they want to hear. That’s how you build a good successful business.” 
“You don’t need to chase labels, you don’t need to chase investors. You can do it all on your own right now.” 

Highlights from this Episode
[7:15] Life in Quarantine 
[11:40] How COVID-19 has Affected his Role 
[14:50] The industry recovering from COVID-19
[20:22] A few rapid fire questions and first concerts  
[28:00] Going to College at UCF and intro to the Music Bu
[30:15] Introduction into the Music Business 
[37:00] Becoming the Talent Buyer at The Plaza Live in Orlando, FL 
[43:58] Time between The Plaza Live and House of Blues New Orleans 
[46:30] Getting the job at House of Blues New Orleans 
[51:52] Growing up in Germany and Coming to America 
[01:00:16] Moving to New Orleans 
[01:06:50] Favorite Shows at House of Blues 
[01:11:49] Local Showcases at House of Blues 
[01:17:29] Leaving House of Blues 
[01:24:38] Teaching at Full Sail University 
[01:28:58] Challenges with Tourette Syndrome 
[01:39:36] Original Inspiration and mission of the Podcast 
[01:46:05] Working for AEG Presents 
[01:53:30] Inspiration for Making It Academy and expansion 
[02:02:52] Getting to know Chris Goyzueta 

Links to people, places, and things mentioned
AEG Presents 
No Contact Concert Series 
Guns N’ Roses 
Rock for Hunger 
University of Central Florida (UCF) 
Leon Bridges
Trombone Shorty 
John Cleary 
Rage Against the Machine 
Foo Fighters 
House of Blues New Orleans 
John Secada 
Joe Cocker 
Tina Turner
Rod Stewart 
Volunteer UCF 
Ana Reina 
Greg Rollett 
The Plaza Live 
SOJA 
The Supervillains 
Soundbar (formerly BackBooth) 
Citrus Bowl (Camping World Stadium) 
Keller Williams
Zach Deputy 
Amway Center 
ONElive Concerts 
Hinder 
Flobots 
Sonny Schneidau (Talent Buyer at House of Blues New Orleans) 
Childish Gambino 
Macklemore
Jim Mallonee 
1995 Orlando Magic 
dba 
Maple Leaf
Tipitina’s 
The Revivalists 
Snoop Dogg 
New Orleans Jazz Fest
Voodoo Fest
French Quarter Fest 
Slightly Stoopid 
The 1975 
Future 
Keith Urban 
OG Blake Owens 
Full Sail University 
Tourette Syndrome
Rollins College
Billie Eilish 
Rap Coalition 
Ethan Levinson 
Ever 7 Management 
Derek Sivers 
Music Business Podcasts [Article] 
Creative Juice [Podcast] 
Gary Vaynerchuck  

Chris Goyzueta’s Definition of Making It:
“Having complete freedom of time and location, and doing something that truly fulfills and inspires you deeply, and being so good at it that it inspires the people that you love.” 

Keep in touch:
chris.goyzueta@gmail.com
www.makingitwithchrisg.com
https://www.instagram.com/chrisgoyzueta/
https://www.facebook.com/makingitwithchrisg

Credits: 
Host: Chris Goyzueta (Chris G.)
Producer: Jason Trosclair
Executive Producer: ONElive Creative Agency  
Music: Emily Kopp

Ryan Murphy, of Huntsville Amphitheater and Venue Group, on Building Venues and Strong Communities with a Foundation of Punk Rock

You can also listen to this episode on iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher |

Ryan Murphy is the President of Huntsville Venue Group and Head of Amphitheaters and Venues for Venue Group. His company is currently working with the city of Huntsville, AL to design, construct, and operate the Huntsville Amphitheater, an 8,000 seat venue. His career started playing in Punk Rock bands around the world, and always being a leader within his community and local music scene. Living in Daytona Beach, FL  where there were no options for bands to play an all-ages venue, Ryan rented out a conference room at the local Ramada Inn to put on his first concert and mini music festival.  His journey led him to Gainesville, FL where he worked for No Idea Records, while still touring with his bands. 

With a giant passion for migrant workers and supporting his local community, Ryan and a group of friends organized the Harvest of Hope Festival in 2009 and 2010. The inaugural year included artists such as Against Me!, The National, Broken Social Scene, Bad Brains, Girl Talk, and many more. In 2010, Ryan started working for the St. Augustine Amphitheatre where he became the General Manager and Director of Cultural Events Division for St. John’s County. Ryan played a major role in building the culture and vibe that makes St. Augustine Amphitheatre such a special place to play, work, and experience concerts. In 2016, Ryan and his team launched the Sing Out Loud Festival, a month-long music festival that takes over all of St. Augustine, which featured headliner Kacey Musgraves in 2019.  Ryan is also very involved in operating venues that our environment and sustainability conscious. Through the Green Hands Project, they’ve drastically reduced the amount of waste that comes with promoting concerts. 

Ryan Murphy is one of the first people in the industry that took the time to meet with me. It was when he was organizing the second Harvest of Hope Festival when I took a ride from Orlando to Gainesville, and he invited me for pizza. It’s been inspiring to watch his journey and getting to work shows with him at St. Augustine Amphitheater. In this episode, we talk about Ryan’s journey, the importance of running a venue that’s mindful of its local community, and stories from his adventures throughout his journey. I hope you enjoy this conversation with the amazing Ryan Murphy. 

The Podcast Is Now Available as Video on YouTube

Quotes from Ryan Murphy
“Music is the lifeblood.”
“It’s a weird business to be in when you’re counting the number of beers that you sold.” 
“You gotta be able to be open to a lot of different people and their ideas.” 
“Find the people within institutions that you can have a heart to heart with.” 
“We have a lot more in common that we don’t.” 
“In the end, you’re probably making more money by spending a little more money to treat people well.” 
“You gotta make them feel like what you’re working towards is something they believe in.” 
“If I’m gonna expect for the community to give a shit, and defend the amphitheater, get behind the amphitheater and my vision, I better be out  there working for them, and what they believe in as well.” 
“I don’t really care who promotes, I want the artist to know that they’re playing St. Augustine.” 
“Being a neutral party is very important.” 
“Move to a community that really inspires you.” 
“Find the people that inspire you and try to reach out to them and learn from them.” 

Highlights from this Episode
[5:55] Working on Huntsville Amphitheater 
[8:50] Why Huntsville, AL? 
[15:00] Other venues in Huntsville, AL 
[16:45] Impact of COVID-19 
[22:10] Changes to how Venues do Business after COVID-19 
[25:36] Growing up in Daytona Beach, FL 
[31:05] Experience playing in bands 
[34:54] Studying at University of Florida 
[37:10] Passion for Local Businesses 
[38:30] Building your network and genuine relationships 
[42:10] Organizing house concerts 
[45:40] Creative touring strategy 
[47:50] House shows are not just for Singer-Songwriters 
[49:32] Harvest of Hope Festival and St. Augustine Amphitheater 
[58:50] The experience of St. Augustine Amphitheater
[1:03:45] Hiring, Recruiting, and Training Employees 
[1:06:20] Having a Volunteer Program for your venue 
[1:09:40] Supporting the local community 
[1:10:35] Working with outside promoters as a venue 
[1:17:30] Advice for new people in the industry 
[1:20:45] Being held back by your organization 
[1:24:28] Getting to Know Ryan Murphy 

Links to people, places, and things mentioned
Huntsville Amphitheater 
Venue Group 
St. Augustine Amphitheatre 
Ben Lovett of Mumford & Sons 
Sound Diplomacy 
Red Rocks Amphitheater 
Hollywood Bowl
The Greek Theatre 
Von Braun Center 
Live Nation
AEG Presents 
Peabody Auditorium 
Hot Water Music 
No Idea Records 
Fugazi 
Steve Aoki 
Diplo 
Harvest of Hope Festival 
Cafe Eleven in St. Augustine, FL 
Bill Graham (Legendary Concert Promoter) 
ZZ Top
John Legend
The Avett Brothers 
Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
Sing Out Loud Festival 
Green Hands Project 
Women in Music Festival in Huntsville, AL 
Jim Mallonee (Live Nation) 
Ian MacKaye   
University of Florida (UF) 
Devo 
Nine Inch Nails 
Jane’s Addiction 
Primus 
Michael Pollan (Author) 
The Potlikker Papers by John T. Edge  (Book)
Bitter Southerner
Dolly Parton 
Dolly Parton’s America Podcast 

Ryan Murphy’s Definition of Making It:
“No matter what you’re faced with, standing up for what you believe in.”  

Get in touch with Ryan Murphy
Huntsville Amphitheater 
Venue Group 
Instagram 

Related Articles & Episodes: 
Jim Mallonee of Live Nation - 35+ Years of Booking (Episode 80)
Ben Weeden - COO Of Live Nation Building the Largest Portfolio of Clubs & Theaters (Episode 50)
Jason Hunnicutt of 1904 Music Hall - Running & Operating Your Own Venue (Episode 30)
Kevin Stone - Program Director of Florida Theatre - Booking Philosophies (Episode 14 & 15)

Keep in touch:
chris.goyzueta@gmail.com
www.makingitwithchrisg.com
https://www.instagram.com/chrisgoyzueta/
https://www.facebook.com/makingitwithchrisg

Credits: 
Host: Chris Goyzueta (Chris G.)
Producer: Jason Trosclair
Executive Producer: ONElive Creative Agency  
Music: Emily Kopp

Rick Barker - Taking Your Independent Music Career to the Next Level Through Digital Marketing, Content Creation, and Building Relationships

You can also listen to this episode on iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher |

Rick Barker is one of the leaders in the DIY Musician space. He is a phenomenal speaker and has a great way of explaining things. I love his philosophies on the music business and his style of coaching and mentoring. His career started in radio in 1989, where he spent over a decade of his career learning what listeners want to hear and how to build a community around music. Rick started a country music station in 2001, KRAZy Country, and launched the first country radio tour “Nashville to You,” where artists were paid to perform. Through his experience in radio, he met Scott Borchetta, founder and CEO of Big Machine Label Group, the label that signed Taylor Swift. Scott hired Rick to be a radio promoter for the label, which led him to become the manager for Taylor Swift early in her career. Taylor once told Rick that she wanted a Gold Record (500,000 in sales), and he told her “then let’s go meet 500,000 people.” 

Today, Rick Barker coaches and manages musicians, working with over 1,600 clients. He teaches his lessons through his podcast “The Music Industry Blueprint,” YouTube Channel, courses, public speaking, and spending time coaching artists through Instagram Live. Rick is also the co-author of the book “$150,00 Music Degree.” People call him the Gary Vee of the music business. He’s constantly crushing it with valuable content through all his social media platforms, always going live, and finding ways to engage with people online. Not only is he a leader in the DIY Musician world, but he’s a brilliant digital marketer, spending countless hours always educating and improving himself. 

This was a really fun episode full of amazing insight. In this episode, you’ll learn about Rick’s journey in the music business, and so many tips to building the right relationships, where to start in your music career, touring strategies, marketing strategies, and so much more. I’m excited to share this conversation with the amazing Rick Barker. 

Quotes from Rick Barker 
“Focused hustle is more important.” 
“The best way today to build relationships is by putting out content and showing up on social media and say thank you.” 
“The internet now allows us to play that game. We have direct access to fans.” 
“Stop waiting to be discovered.” 
“Stop trying to be everything to everyone, and just focus on who your audience is.” 
“If you come in with something already happening, you can partner with a label. You don’t have to be at mercy to the label.” 
“Fall in love with the fans. Write music for your fans.” 
“When you buy courses, you’re buying someone else’s experience.” 
“We want to know what you’ve done, not what you’ve learned.” 
“Those that pay, pay attention.” 
“I would do a lot of getting to know before you just show and say you have tickets on sale.” 
“Too often people are trying to get seen before they’re ready.” 
“All you need in the beginning is a vocal coach. If you want to be a songwriter, write songs.” 
“Anyone who’s smart has a coach.” 
“They’re not there to see you, they’re there to be entertained.” 
“Get your music right, before you start to go out and do shows.” 
“If people aren’t showing back up, it’s all on you.” 
“Become a digital marketer. Period.” 
“If you are not having success doing it yourself you don’t have the skills and need to learn them.” 
“Until you have something to offer, don’t make those calls.” 
“Build relationships with your venue first.” 
“Become friends with promoters. They’re the ones taking the calls from the booking agents.” 
“There is no competition. There is only collaboration.” 
“Nobody can take advantage of you if you do your homework.” 

Highlights from this Episode
[7:20] Inspiration to coaching musicians 
[9:30] Focused hustle and redirecting your focus
[13:12] How Rick got started in the business 
[16:00] Radio for Independent artists 
[18:15] Benefit of labels 
[20:05] Lessons learned from Taylor 
[22:10] Standing out as an artist manager 
[26:30] Coaches and Mentors 
[32:15] Where to start after writing new music 
[34:45] Playing open mics 
[36:30] Knowing when you’re ready 
[37:50] Live music producers 
[38:58] Building your team 
[40:35] Relationships and playing the right venues 
[42:52] Building your email list 
[45:00] Getting people to come back to shows 
[46:20] Playing shows outside of your hometown 
[48:50] Booking Agents 
[50:05] Getting the attention agents and managers 
[52:35] Become friends with promoters 
[56:30] Getting to know Rick Barker 

Links to people, places, and things mentioned
Gary Vee 
Taylor Swift 
Scott Borchetta 
Big Machine Label Group 
Russell Brunson
Click Funnels
Todd Brown
Sunny Lenarduzzi 
Ari Herstand
Wade Sutton 
Circa from Indepreneur 
Episode with Rick on Creative Juice 
Amy Porterfield 
Dawn Beyer 
Shannon Curtis 
Tom Jackson
Prince
Bruno Mars 
Rel Carter
Roc Nation 
Creative Juice Podcast 
Chris Greenwood / Manafest
Rob Level / Smart Rapper 

BOOKS 
Traffic Secret by Russel Brunson
The One Thing by Gary Keller
One Million Followers by Brendan Kane
How to Make It in the New Music Business by Ari Herstand
Ask by Ryan Levesque 
Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook by Gary Vaynerchuck 

Rick Barker’s Definition of Making It:
“When someone is able to do what they love, and can make a living doing what they love.” 

Get in touch with Rick Barker 
https://rickbarker.com/
Music Industry Blueprint Podcast
YouTube Channel 
Instagram | Twitter | Facebook 

Related Articles & Episodes: 
Ari Herstand - Strategies for DIY Musicians (Episode #096)
Jasmine Star - Building a Successful Business of the RIGHT Fans (Episode #051)
Circa - Disrupting the Traditional Music Business (Episode #054)
Joe Pulizzi - Killing Old Marketing Practices and Building Media Companies (Episode #055)
Mark Schaefer - Strategies to Building Your Personal Brand & Becoming KNOWN (Episode #073)

Keep in touch:
chris.goyzueta@gmail.com
www.makingitwithchrisg.com
https://www.instagram.com/chrisgoyzueta/
https://www.facebook.com/makingitwithchrisg

Credits: 
Host: Chris Goyzueta (Chris G.)
Producer: Jason Trosclair
Executive Producer: ONElive Creative Agency  
Music: Emily Kopp

Derek Sivers - Creative Ways to Pursue Your Music Career, Life, Challenging Yourself, and Breaking the Habits of the Traditional Music Business

You can also listen to this episode on iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher |

One of my favorite things in life is having conversations with people that challenge the way I think and inspire me to break old habits to explore new ways to approach different situations in life. Derek Sivers has become one of my favorite thinkers when it comes to living a fulfilled life, breaking the habits of how we are “supposed to” do things, and living outside of the box, really never even allowing yourself to be in the box in the first place. One of his first ventures was the pursuit of becoming a professional musician, playing multiple instruments at a very young age. Eventually his journey lead him to the Berklee College of Music in Boston, and shortly after joining a circus as ringleader/MC musician.

 Derek was a professional touring musician, who was looking for a way to release his music online. At the time, the only way artists could sell their music online was being on a major label, or a label that had distribution through a major. This inspired him to the creation of CD Baby in 1997, which for the first time gave all musicians an opportunity to release their music online, and has become the biggest distributors and seller of independent music. In 2008, Derek sold CD Baby, giving the proceeds to a charitable trust for music education. Since, Derek has written several books, articles, frequent TED Speaker, has become a master programmer, philosopher, teacher, and inspiring creative thinker.

 In this conversation, you’ll learn about Derek’s story, philosophies and strategies on how artist can approach the music business in new and creative ways, and much more. It’s such a gift to have Derek on the podcast, and to share this conversation with the world. My tagline for the podcast is “go see shows, meet people, make stuff.” I hope this conversation inspires you to go make stuff and pursue the things that “interest you the most at this moment.”  

Quotes from Derek Sivers
“I like the idea of your site as the definitive source of information about you.”  
“It feels kinda cool, punk, and indie, to just do it myself.”
“When I look back at my career, so many great things happened because I was right there in the game. Right there in New York City where everything is happening.”
“It’s a huge benefit, it’s actually still underrated benefit, to be in New York, LA, and maybe Nashville.”
“When you go to these conferences you’re meeting people who are usually in the game right now, making things happen right now.”
“Hell, yeah or no is a mindset to use when you’re already successful and you’re overwhelmed with opportunity.”
“Have your shit together so that when you’re encountering people for the first time, it shows that you’re serious, you got it going on.”
“Always do whatever is interesting you the most at this moment.”
“For most of us what you need is right there already in your head and in your fingers, and it’s just a matter of mastering distraction.”
“Whoever works the hardest and work the smartest and master distraction instead of having distraction master you, that person is going to win.”
“Real change will feel like it’s not you. You’ll be acting like someone else. It will feel weird when you’re doing it right.”
“You have to try everything yourself. Feel the pain of making mistakes, and then feel the deep happiness of coming out on the other side of something difficult.”
“The fountain of youth is to make more mistakes.” 

Highlights from this Episode
[4:00] About Page and What I’m doing Now page
[7:35] What’s happening NOW with Derek Sivers
[11:36] Getting started in his Music Career
[15:15] Working at Warner Chapel Music
[19:35] Pursuing a Music Career in today’s Music Industry
[25:00] Moving to New York or Los Angeles, and Conferences
[27:36] Training your personal Self-Awareness
[30:33] Saying Yes
[33:11] Hell Yeah or No
[36:20] Tasks musicians can outsource
[38:58] Building your team – Strategies on how to get peoples attention
[44:10] Derek’s writing process
[51:20] Building your craft with experiments
[55:13] Experiments in personal life
[57:25] Writing and telling your story
[1:04:10] Getting unstuck from your current season
[1:07:20] Imitating your role model
[1:11:35] Note taking from reading books
[1:14:35] Mentors
[1:18:30] Advice for parents looking to build a creative environment
[1:27:00] Getting to Know Derek Sivers - Quick Questions 

Links to people, places, and things mentioned
Now, Now, Now
Ari Herstand
Kimo Williams
ASCAP Music Expo
SXSW
Moby
Bono from U2
Experiments in Music and Life – Article by Derek Sivers
Fela Kuti
Derek Sivers Book Notes & Book Reviews
Seth Godin
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
Frank Zappa
Learning Programming 

Books mentioned
 “Your Music And People” by Derek Sivers
 “How to Make It in the New Music Business” by Ari Herstand
“22 Immutable Laws of Branding” by Al and Laura Ries
“U2: The Definitive Biography” by John Jobling
“The Alter Ego Effect: The Power of Secret Identities to Transform Your Life” by Todd Herman
“Brain Rules for Baby” by John Medina
“Playful Parenting” by Lawrence J. Cohen 

Get in touch with Derek Sivers  
https://sivers.org/
https://sivers.org/contact
Twitter: @sivers 

Derek Sivers’ Definition of Making It
“You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do.” 

Related Articles and episodes
Ari Herstand, Episode 096 - Strategies for DIY Musicians
Bree Noble, Episode 082 - A Path to Being a Profitable Independent Musician
Kyle Lemaire, Episode 54 - Disrupting the Traditional Music Business
Mark Schaefer, Episode 073 - Strategies to Building Your Personal Brand
Brad Mason, Episode 067 - Finding Motivation by Being Full Engaged
Best Music Business and Marketing Podcasts in 2020

Keep in touch:
chris.goyzueta@gmail.com
www.makingitwithchrisg.com
https://www.instagram.com/chrisgoyzueta/
https://www.facebook.com/makingitwithchrisg

Credits: 
Host: Chris Goyzueta (Chris G.)
Producer: Jason Trosclair
Executive Producer: ONElive Creative Agency  
Music: Emily Kopp

Ari Herstand - Strategies for DIY Musicians and Exciting New Updates to the Book “How to Make It in the New Music Business”

You can also listen to this episode on iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher |

Ari Herstand returns to the show with another exciting episode filled with strategies and wisdom for DIY Musicians. In December 2019, he released the 2nd Edition of his book, “How to Make It in the New Music Business,” the book that’s required for my Music Business 1010 students, and I recommend to all aspiring artists, managers, producers, concert promoters, record labels, or anyone that is interested to learn about the Music Business. This book goes beyond just being a great resource for musicians. It’s the book everyone should read  first when getting into the music industry.

Over the years, Ari Herstand has offered so many amazing resources for DIY musicians through his blog https://aristake.com/. Being a musician himself, Ari always had a giant hunger to learn the business, and figure out ways to be successful as a musician. Ari would not take failure as an option. He was determined to make a career as a musician. Through his journey, he inspired many other musicians to reach out to him to ask for advice. After receiving many of the same questions over and over again, and getting busier, he created the blog to direct people to with questions, and offered a ton of value there for musicians worldwide. Eventually, this lead to the first edition of the book “How to Make It in the New Music Business.” Since he has held workshops, courses, lectures, and much more to continue to expand and share his knowledge in the music business. All the thousands of hours of interviews, and research have led him to where he is today. An amazing second edition of the book, an exciting new music business podcast (coming out in 2020), and the beginning of the first edition of courses for artists to dive deeper into marketing and strategies that’ll help take their career to the next level. 

In this episode, we talk about some of the new updates in the book. What has changed in social media since the first edition, Spotify strategies and playlisting, the international expansion of the book, Ari’s new podcast, and courses that are offered for DIY Musicians. The episodes with Ari are always full of amazing strategies and wisdom, and this one doesn’t fall short from that.

Get the 2nd Edition of “How to Make It in the New Music Business”

Quotes from Ari Herstand
“Video content is paramount.” 
“The most important aspect of a release is being able to tell the story behind that song and the project.” 
“I’m a firm believer that you need video content behind every song you release.” 
“Spotify will be the first to tell you that their curators definitely take into account what kind of traction you’re getting outside of their ecosystem.” 
“People don’t fall in love with an artist because of that one song. People fall in love with artists because of who they are and what they stand for.” 
“It’s not and cannot be all about the music.” 
“What makes you different from everyone else? And why  should people care about who you are?” 
“What’s the most compelling story in this moment?” 
“Social media platforms are not meant for selling...they’re meant for relationship building.” 
“There are artists who are reaching stratospheric levels of success independently that we haven’t really seen before.” 
“Using your  creative talents to find ways to provide value for people in any realm, that can return value.” 
“Find what your strengths are and identifying those, and how you can use your strengths that can benefit you.” 

Highlights from this Episode
[5:48] What’s new with Ari Herstand 
[9:24] How Ari will promote his music with all the lessons he’s learned 
[14:45] Video & Story with recurrent content 
[17:31] Figuring out your unique story 
[24:48] What should people look for in a publicist 
[35:53] Converting social media followers and listeners to ticket buyers 
[37:48] Changes for the next decade in the music industry 
[41:50] Always educating yourself on how to run your business 
[43:20] Updates in the 2nd Edition of Ari’s book 
[48:20] Areas outside of the music business that artists should explore 

Links to people, places, and things mentioned
“How to Make It in the New Music Business” by Ari Herstand (2nd Edition - BOOK)
Brassroots District 
The New Music Business Podcast (Ari’s Podcast Coming Soon)
Andy Grammer 
Ari’s Take Academy 
Phoebe Bridgers 
The White Stripes 
Submit Hub 
Chance the Rapper
Vulfpeck 
Madame Gandhi 

Ari Herstand’s Definition of Making It:
“Doing what I love and supporting the lifestyle that I’d like to have. Happiness needs to be built into every career decision.”

Get in touch with Ari Herstand
https://aristake.com/
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube

Related Articles & Episodes:
First Episode with Ari Herstand
Second Interview with Ari Herstand
Interview with Kyle Lemaire “Circa” from Creative Juice Podcast
Interview with Mark Schaeffer - Author of the book KNOWN

PR Resources:
Interview with Angela Mastrogiacomo - Building Story Through Written Form
Interview with Bree Noble - Path to Being a Profitable Musician
Interview with Kevin Calabro - Co-Founder of Indie Label Royal Potato Family
”How to tell Your Story on Social Media” - Guest blog by Katherine Forbes

Keep in touch:
chris.goyzueta@gmail.com
www.makingitwithchrisg.com
https://www.instagram.com/chrisgoyzueta/
https://www.facebook.com/makingitwithchrisg

Credits: 
Host: Chris Goyzueta (Chris G.)
Producer: Jason Trosclair
Executive Producer: ONElive Creative Agency  
Music: Emily Kopp

Katie Zaccardi – Bringing a Wellness and Self-Care Approach to Artist Coaching and the Music Industry with a Focus on Mental Health

You can also listen to this episode on iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher |

In today’s world we deal with a lot of societal pressures with social media and the chase for likes and followers being looked at with a microscope by the music business. Writing a great song that people connect with and selling tickets to a show is pressure enough. Combine the two, and it can lead to all kinds of issues when it comes to mental health. The music industry needs a different approach when it comes to artist management and coaching, and not just for artists but the music industry professionals behind the scenes as well. This is why I was really excited when the music industry-focused wellness and career coach, Katie Zaccardi, reached out to me to share her message on the podcast.

Kattie Zaccardi is a wellness and career coach that’s also a musician, songwriter, music industry professional, and certified yoga instructor. In her journey, she has been very open about her own experience with generalized anxiety disorder, which lead her to the discovery of the urgent need of having conversations around mental health and self-care within the music industry. Katie offers coaching that’s focused on self-care, mental wellness, but also traditional career coaching on how to successfully market yourself as an artist and build a career at being an artist. She also has her own podcast, The Out to Be Podcast, and is also the COO of Women Crush Music.

In this episode, we discuss some marketing tips for artists, her journey in the music industry, dealing with anxiety, tips for mental wellness and self-care, and much more.

Join Katie’s Free MASTERCLASS Session

Highlights from this Episode
[4:01] Studying Music Business at NYU
[6:28] Courses that were helpful for Real World Music Business
[7:45] Music Industry Internships
[9:25] Pitching Yourself
[13:58] Katie’s Current Music Career
[16:58] About Women Crush Music
[20:25] Wellness and Career Coaching
[28:05] Personal Experience with Anxiety
[32:30] Managing Anxiety and Panic Attacks
[41:30] Importance of Sleep
[45:35] Going to a Functional Medicine Doctor
[52:18] Managing Stress with Self-Care and Long Work Days
[56:11] Identifying someone that’s struggling
[58:48] Alternate Nostril Breathing
[1:00:35] Getting to Know Katie Zaccardi

Quotes from Katie Zaccardi
“You gotta know who you’re pitching to, because if you don’t, you can’t personalize it.”
“How can you look at everything you’re doing as building an actual relationship, instead of asking strangers for favors.”
“Nobody is looking at you [Artists] as a whole.”
“Sleep is the number one place to start…First of all start one thing at a time, second of all, start with sleep.”
“Make sure you’re staying hydrated, make sure you are taking a break for food.”
“When you do grab lunch, see if you cannot use your phone, see if you can just be present with your food, take a break, breathe deeply while you do it.”
“Set boundaries and say no. You’re not obligated to do anything for anyone.”
“If you need a break, and keep saying yes, eventually your body is going to stop you.”
“It’s not your responsibility to make anyone open up, but it is your responsibility to be a compassionate human being, and that will make people comfortable.”
“Simply ask, what do you need from me right now…do you need advice or do you want me to just listen.”
“Nothing is super urgent, and I think a lot of times in the music industry everyone acts as if everything is the end of the world and so urgent.”

Links to people, places, and things mentioned
NYU Music Business
Women Crush Music
Functional Medicine Doctor (How to Find)
Adrenal Soothe
CBD
Blue Light Blocking Glasses
Whoop Wristband
Magnesium
Ayurveda
Paul McCartney
Living With Yourself (TV Show)
For the Love of Money (Podcast)
Online Marketing Made Easy (Podcast)

Get in touch with Katie Zaccardi
PODCAST: https://pod.link/1456146541
WEBSITE: www.katiezaccardi.com
INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/katiezaccardi

Join Katie’s FREE MASTERCLASS, The top four mindset shifts you need to make in order to manifest your dream artist career, happening 11/14: bit.ly/outtobemasterclass

Katie’s Definition of Making It
“Being in touch with yourself, and it’s not about reaching anybody else’s goals or what you feel is making it, but being genuinely fulfilled and happy with what you’re doing.”

Keep in touch:
chris.goyzueta@gmail.com
www.makingitwithchrisg.com
https://www.instagram.com/chrisgoyzueta/
https://www.facebook.com/makingitwithchrisg

Credits: 
Host: Chris Goyzueta (Chris G.)
Producer: Jason Trosclair
Executive Producer: ONElive Creative Agency  
Music: Emily Kopp

Jesse Stoll - AEG Presents SE Talent Buyer, Stories from Growing Up in the Business & Becoming a Talent Buyer

You can also listen to this episode on iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher |

Jesse Stoll is a Sr. Talent Buyer at AEG Presents Southeast based in West Palm Beach, FL. Jesse and his office book shows in the Southeast United States with their main focus being in Florida. His father, Jon Stoll, is the founder of Fantasma Presents, for which the majority of the senior management staff at AEG Presents SE used to work for. Jon Stoll and his team booked hundreds of shows in the Southeast and in Las Vegas. He was the recipient of numerous industry awards. Jesse literally grew up in the business following around his father at a very young age. Today, he works with some of the same team members as his father and has created quite a name for himself with his hustle and creative booking. He works with all types of touring talent from Hip-Hop Shows to EDM to YouTubers to Speakers to Comedy and much more. Over the last few years, Jesse has produced one of the biggest comedy tours in the world with Martin Lawrence.

I started working for AEG Presents SE in February of 2018. Right from the first day in the office, Jesse made an effort to be a friend. Over the last two years I’ve worked many of his shows such as Leon Bridges, Tyler Childers, Tiffany Haddish, Hasan Minhaj, Aziz Ansari, Ken Jeong, Sebastian Maniscalco, Big Giagantic, Dan + Shay, The Glitch Mob, Rufus du Sol, Culture Club, Dan & Phil, Jo Koy, Miguel, Matty B., The Price is Right, JoJo Siwa and many more. We’ve spent a lot of time talking and debating all things music business. I’m really excited to share his story with you and the many lessons he has to share from growing up in the business and also building a name for himself.  

In this episode, Jesse shares some of the stories of growing up in the business, his first job with a major labor to becoming a Talent Buyer for AEG Presents. He shares many lessons in what makes a good Talent Buyer, how to get started in the promoter side of the business and much more.

Highlights from this Episode

Detailed show notes coming soon…

Quotes from Jess Stoll

Detailed show notes coming soon…

Links to people, places, and things mentioned

Detailed show notes coming soon…

Get in touch with Jesse Stoll
IG: @whimsicalworldofstoll
https://www.aegpresents.com/  

Keep in touch:
chris.goyzueta@gmail.com
www.makingitwithchrisg.com
https://www.instagram.com/chrisgoyzueta/
https://www.facebook.com/makingitwithchrisg

Credits: 
Host: Chris Goyzueta (Chris G.)
Producer: Jason Trosclair
Executive Producer: ONElive Creative Agency  
Music: Emily Kopp