Benny Pough - Achieving Mastery: A 29 Year Major Record Label Career at the Highest Level to Entrepreneurship and New Adventures

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

Malcolm Gladwell famously wrote in his book “Outliers” that it takes 10,000 hours of focused hard work at something to reach a level of greatness. But what comes beyond 10,000 hours is a level of skill that only very few people reach in their lifetimes, and that’s a level of Mastery. In one of my very early episodes of the podcast (5 Steps to Building a Foundation of Mastery in the Entertainment Business), I was studying Mastery for a Masters Course at Full Sail University and identified 5 skills to reaching mastery. Those include studying the masters and collaborating with others, taking risks and trying new things, learning new skills, creating a unique product, and lifestyle and relationships. I could probably break that into 8-10 keys to mastery, but I lumped a few together back then. When it comes to working at the highest level of the major record label side of our industry, Benny Pough, is someone that encompasses all of those traits and has reached mastery many times over again. 

Benny Pough has had a 29-year career working for major labels. He got his start in 1990 working at the legendary Motown Records. His journey leads him to become the Promotions Manager for Arista Records in 1994. Then in 1996, he joined MCA records where he worked his way up to becoming the Senior Vice President of Promotions. After that, he had an 8-year adventure with the historic Def Jam Records as their Senior Vice President. In 2011, Benny became the Executive Vice President for Epic Records, the label that was once home for Michael Jackson. His final stop was as the President for Roc Nation. Benny had a career that most people who want to be in this industry can only dream of. But that came with a lot of hard work, endless hours, and lots of sacrifices. Throughout his career, he delivered radio hits for superstars such as Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Travis Scott, Future, DJ Khaled, 21 Savage, and many more. 

After having mastered the record label world, in 2020, Benny went all-in on himself starring his entrepreneurial journey with his own record label, D’Verse Media, the app KANDIID where people can turn one piece of content into multiple pieces of content and monetize them, he’s a life long Real Estate proprietor and manager, and has been working on a book that shares his journey. The book called “On Impact” will be available early 2021, and shares his story, lessons, and philosophies of a 29-year career in the record industry. In this conversation, we discuss Benny’s journey, lessons and philosophies for artists looking to work with major labels, how world events in 2020 have impacted the music industry, Entrepreneurship, spirituality, and much more. This episode was a true gift! Thank you, Benny! 

To learn more about Benny Pough visit:
https://www.bennypough.com/
Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn

Danielle Gray - Building a Strong Foundation with Internships, Freelancing, Starting a Music Business Club and Leadership

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

When you’re in college there is so much you can do to build your resume for the entertainment industry and really any industry you plan to go into. For the music industry, I always encourage students to work as many shows as possible, intern every semester as early as possible, and to find a local band/artist and find ways to help them. Vans Warped Tour founder, Kevin Lyman, used to work as many shows as possible while he was in college. It didn’t matter if he was working for free or if he was paid. Derek Sivers, the founder of CD Baby, says until you’re overwhelmed with opportunity, you say yes to everything. It doesn’t matter if one gig is a volunteer opportunity, the next one pays $25, and another one pays $150 or more, and anything in between. It’s showing up for these opportunities that build experience, character, and your network. This industry is all about who you know and getting in reps. 

When I first met Danielle Gray, we were working an Imagine Dragons show for CID Entertainment at Amway Center in Orlando, FL. What really stood out to me about Danielle was her work ethic, ease of conversation and getting along with others, initiative, and someone that showed pride in their work. A few months later, I called her to work shows for me at AEG Presents, one of which was the final Vans Warped Tour show in Orlando, FL. Danielle Gray is a total hustler that’s still early in her career and already has a resume full of freelance opportunities working shows for venues, CID Entertainment, AEG Presents, and many others, as well as having worked for the Broadway show Hamilton, an internship at a Major Label, and having started a music business club at the University of Florida. She is still a student at the University of Florida, and already has a show leadership, work ethic, and has the right attitude for the music industry. In this conversation, we discuss Danielle’s journey, how to she landed her internships, freelance gigs, how to start a music business club at your school, and much more. Danielle is someone that sets a great model of what college students should be doing while they are still in college to prepare for their industry. She’s definitely a future star in our industry! 

To learn more about Danielle Gray visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellegray99/. 

Kamal Moo - Entertainment Attorney and Author of The Straightforward Guide to the Music Biz on Becoming an Entertainment Attorney, Record Deals and Protecting Your Art

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

For decades, people in the music industry said that the Donald Passman book, All You Need to Know About the Music Business, is the bible of the music business. It probably is, but that doesn’t make it the best book for everyone to start with. It’s a book that very legally dense, challenging to understand without a basic understanding of the business, and talks about scenarios that definitely 99% of artists will not encounter in the first few years of their careers. But they will write a song, maybe even co-write a song, record a song, and even release it too. You might be a producer or aspiring indie label owner, or you might negotiate your first management deal. Entertainment Attorney, Kamal Moo, introduced a new book in 2020 called “The Straightforward Guide to the Music Biz,” and this book is my favorite new guide to understanding basic legal terms, scenarios that a musician will encounter right from the start of their careers, and much more. 

Kamal Moo is an Entertainment Attorney based in Los Angeles, CA. Since 2010, Kamal has been working as an Entertainment Attorney, he also teaches law as an adjunct professor, has been on the road, managed artists, and is now giving back to the next generation of musicians with his new book. In this conversation, we talk about how he became an attorney in the music industry, the new book, record deals, working with Janet Jackson, and much more. 

To learn more about Kamal Moo visit https://www.kamalandrew.com/.  

An Adventure from being a DIY Talent Buyer & Promoter to Booking the Fillmore New Orleans as a Talent Buyer for Live Nation

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

Alex Bowen is a senior Talent Buyer for Live Nation Entertainment in New Orleans, LA where he books the Fillmore NOLA. His journey began promoting shows independently and even owning a small venue. Eventually, Alex started booking the historic Varsity Theater in Baton Rouge, LA. Throughout his journey, he’s booked and promoted shows at many venues and has even managed artists such as Earphunk and the legendary George Porter Jr. In this conversation, we discuss what it takes to be a successful Talent Buyer, running a venue, managing artists, and much more. 

To learn more about Alex Bowen visit https://www.fillmorenola.com/. 

Eva Alexiou-Reo - Owner, Booking Agent, and Artist Manager at FATA Booking on the State of the Industry, Working with an Agent, and Teaching Music Business

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

On November 21, 2020, the touring side of the music industry is still completely shut down due to COVID-19. It has been shut down since March of 2020. 9-months with no revenue has forced venues to shut down and close it’s doors forever. Thousands of personnel in the industry are out of work with no end in sight. In some states, venues and artists are taking risks with outdoor shows, drive-in shows, and limited capacity shows. In 2019, the touring industry had a record year. It’s been steadily climbing for the past 20-years, and now 2020 is one of the worst years since the artists started touring. The industry is basically near zero revenue with no end in sight. There is speculation as to when we can go back to a touring schedule as in recent years, but this could be months or even until 2022 or beyond. 

Thankfully there are some organizations and people on the ground fighting to keep the industry alive. Eva Alexiou-Reo is a member of NITO the National Independent Talent Organization, for which she is the chairperson for the Touring and Live Streaming committee. NITO is an organization that was founded by a group of like-minded US-based independent talent agencies and independent management companies for the purpose of promoting the welfare of our members and their represented artists.  NITO advocates for the direct benefit of our members as well as for the indirect benefit of associate members represented in a broad coalition of entities in the live touring ecosystem. NITO is currently advocating for congress to pass the RESTART Act, Save Our Stages Act, and the HITS Act to save our music industry. As a member of NITO, Eva is one of the leaders in our industry trying to fight to keep businesses alive and for an income for the thousands of workers who are out of a job. 

Eva Alexiou-Reo is also the owner of FATA Booking since 1996, which is a booking agency and artist management company based in Philadelphia, PA. During a time where the industry is completely shut down, this is a great time for learning. There are many great music business programs, podcasts, YouTube channels, books, and much more out there to help prep people for this industry. Eva is one of those educators as a Music Business Professor at Northern Vermont University and also thought for 7 years at Drexel University. In this conversation, we talk about her journey in the music business, starting FATA Booking Agency, what she looks for in artists, teaching, and her work with NITO to help save our music industry. 

To learn more about Eva Alexiou-Reo, FATA Booking and NITO visit http://fatabooking.com/ and https://www.nitolive.org/ 

Danielle Reiss - Music Publicist and Music Business College Student Gets Fired from her PR Job for Going to a Donald Trump Rall

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

Danielle Reiss is a music publicist and music business masters student at the prestigious Berklee College of Music.  In September of 2020, she started a new job as a publicist at the Po Off Agency and was fired a few weeks later for attending a rally for President Donald Trump. She might sound like a controversial guest, but in this conversation, you will learn that Danielle is someone that seems very sweet, kind, soft-spoken, someone with morals, and someone who gives back to her community and less fortunate people. She’s a hard worker and took a massive risk uprooting her life and moving to Nashville in 2016 with no job or college lined up to pursue her dream in country music. 

She worked several internships to gain experience to then encounter such a heartless totalitarian company that violates all of its own company values, which we will talk about in this episode. I’m not a Trump or Biden supporter, but this whole cancel culture and extreme censorship have gone too far. To fire someone for their political views is absolutely ridiculous, and totalitarian behavior. My fear is that it’s socially acceptable amongst our citizens to censor or cancel someone for being a Trump supporter and that eventually bleeding into our government and the country going down a path towards communism.

America is losing its classic liberals who always fight for the individual against the Government and against companies. Where have they gone? We need their genuine heart, kindness, empathy, and fearless fight for social liberty and justice. True equality and unity give conservative Christian women a seat at the table too. We need to fight for ALL voices, ALL the time. I pray after this election, we put an end to the division amongst our fellow citizens and stop allowing politicians and the mainstream media on both sides to get in between our social and economic liberty. United we will always be stronger! 

Shane Hazel - Libertarian Candidate for US Senate for the State of Georgia talking Music, Marketing, and Liberty

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

When it comes to the 2020 Election, many are saying this is the most important election of our lives. I agree with that statement, but for completely different reasons. Most make it all about Donald Trump and getting him out of the white house, when really, what makes this election so important is our Liberty is at stake. Something nobody in mainstream media is talking about. Our daily lives, health, businesses, savings, investments, creative liberty, art, security, and future is at stake. Over the past 5 years I’ve been leaning towards the Liberty movement more and more each year. The Liberty movement, doesn’t necessarily mean Libertarian, even though most Libertarians will align with that. It means these are people from all walks of life, fighting for our social and economic freedom. 

Shane Hazel is one of those individuals out there fighting for our Liberty. He’s the Libertarian candidate running for the US Senate for the State of Georgia. In this conversation, we talk about music, marketing, and Liberty. We discuss his current campaign, and why he chose to run for Senate, different issues happening in our country and the Liberty solution to these issues, music, marketing, and much more. He has a podcast called Radical full of many amazing guests from all different walks of lives and political views to discuss Liberty, life, current events, and much more. 

To learn more about Shane Hazel visit  http://shanehazel.com/ and http://radicalpod.com/.

Highlights from this Episode
[5:50] First Memorable Concert 
[9:24] First Album 
[13:45] Becoming a Libertarian 
[16:45] Marketing strategy to reach voters 
[20:35] How a podcast has helped reach people 
[22:42] Using Restream for Podcasting 
[24:40] Content focused on Liberty 
[26:07] Inspiration to run for Senate 
[30:08] Credentials to run for Government 
[32:40] What can we do to get a multi-party system? 
[37:48] Top priorities running for Senate 
[40:18] The worse of the Duopoly and how Libertarians are different 
[45:20] Qualified Immunity 
[47:35] Average People Fighting against corrupt bills in Washington 
[55:20] Chances of Civil War and States Leaving the Union 
[01:01:33] Libertarian Stance on Human Rights
{01:03:35] Social Security and Elderly Feeling Safe

Quotes from Shane Hazel 
“Shut down the mainstream media. Stop listening to it...it’s not educating me it’s giving me talking points.” 
“People like authenticity.” 
“The more you Liberty, the more Liberty is coming right back at you. This is a crowd that feeds off of positivity.” 
“We gotta end the never-ending wars.” 
“It’s the hardest period in your life when you start divorcing yourself from all the friends that you had from one side of the duopoly.” 
“I believe the Democrats when they say that Trump is moving to the fascist route, and I believe the Republicans when they say the Democrats are moving the communist route...no thank you to both of them.” 
“One of the other differences with Liberty candidates. We’re gonna tell you don’t vote for the person if they don’t earn your vote, and that includes us.” 
“You as a single individual who may not have deep pockets, who doesn’t have a ton of time or anything can still make a difference.” 
“We don’t need a centralized anything at this point, and really to get away from it is one of the best things we can do to promote peace in our lifetime.” 
”You have a right to nature. As long as you’re not hurting somebody else.”
”We are the all your life, all your Liberty, all your property, all the damn time. You have a right to your rights, and nobody else has any power delegated to them to come and interfere with you at all.”

Links to people, places, and things mentioned
Audioslave 
Chris Cornell 
Rage Against the Machine 
Soundgarden 
Guns N’ Roses 
Radical Podcast
Episode with Haley Wood 
Restream 
Federalist Papers 
Anti-Federalist Papers 
U.S. Constitution 
Ryan Graham - LP President of Georgia
Ron Paul 
Ludwig Von Mises  
Murray Rothbard 
Tom Woods 
John Tayler Gotto 

Shane Hazel’s Definition of Making It:
”Being happy. If you’re happy, you got breath in your lungs, and you can sit there at the end of every day and say thanks for my life, my family, and my health.”

Get in touch with Shane Hazel 
http://shanehazel.com/
http://radicalpod.com/
YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | 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

Beth McKee - A Journey of Mastering the Classic Sounds of the South and Building Up a New Generation of Women in Music

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

Beth McKee is a true southern girl having been influenced by some of the Southeast’s best musicians and styles starting in Jackson, MS to Austin, TX to New Orleans, LA, and spending lots of time in the Appalachian Mountain in North Carolina. She’s a Singer-Songwriter, Touring Musician, and Founder of the Swamp Sistas an organization which is a grassroots movement of 2,500 women with a dual passion for music and community activism. 

In this episode, Beth shares her journey through the South and her musical influences.  We also talk about how she got discovered by Jimmy Buffett and signed to his record label Margaritaville Records with her band Evangaline. You’ll learn about record deals, touring strategies, songwriting, building a grassroots nonprofit organization to support other musicians, and much more. 

To learn more about Beth McKee and the Swamp Sistas visit http://bethmckee.com/ and https://swampsistas.com/. 

Lady J. Bookums - Empowering DIY Musicians with Skills in Digital Marketing, Live Performance, Artist Development, and Generating Revenue

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

Lady J. Bookums is a Digital Marketing and Music Business expert, who coaches artists and helps them develop skills in digital marketing, live performance, release strategies, building revenue streams, and much more. In this conversation, we dive into some digital marketing strategies as well as Lady J.’s story,  tips on releasing music, promoting music, branding and much more. 

To learn more about Lady J. Bookums visit https://www.instagram.com/ladyjbookums/.

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