The music industry will change whether you like it or not. Chicago house legend Gene Farris has watched it transform completely over three decades - from needing vinyl releases to get overseas gigs to watching sync buttons replace beatmatching skills. His survival strategy? Build your own infrastructure.
With over 500 releases on Ferris Wheel Recordings, Gene has created his own platform where he controls the quality, sound, and standards. When the industry shifts in ways you don't agree with, you have two choices: adapt completely or build your own lane where your values still matter.
Key Takeaways:
Want to create your own events? Get my complete 9-part DIY Pop-Up Party Guide for $25 - everything from permits to promotion, venue negotiation, content creation, and more. Get it here.
The industry keeps changing, but your standards don't have to. Hit play now to learn how to build something you can control.
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
Most DJs complain about not getting booked. Sarat, a drone pilot and DJ, created his own bookings instead. In just one year, he grew his sunrise sets from 30 people to 400+ people by building the scene he wanted to be part of.
Starting with nothing but a unique perspective of Chicago from his drone footage and a love for melodic house music, Sarat created sunrise events that serve a community craving something different from traditional club experiences. His story proves that when you stop waiting for permission and start solving real problems for real people, growth happens organically.
Note: Apologies for the shorter episode format - we lost some footage due to technical issues from the flood, but the story and insights remain powerful.
Key Takeaways:
Want to create your own events? Get my complete 9-part DIY Pop-Up Party Guide for $25 - everything from permits to promotion, venue negotiation, content creation and more. Grab it here.
Stop waiting for opportunities. Hit play now to learn how to create the scene you want to be part of.
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
Think you need millions of followers to build a successful music career? This conversation with Alex Hilburn, Co-Founder of Surge Marketing, will completely change how you think about fan engagement and marketing.
While most artists are burning money on digital ads and chasing follower counts, Surge has generated $3 million in ticket sales by turning regular fans into active ambassadors. Their secret? Understanding that one superfan with 1,000 followers can sell $50,000 worth of tickets because they have genuine influence within their network.
Key Takeaways:
Stop chasing metrics and start building relationships. Hit play now to learn how superfans could transform your music career.
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY DEEP TROPICS.
Deep Tropics is an immersive dance experience in the heart of Music City, Nashville, where party truly meets purpose. Known as the most sustainable festival in North America, Deep Tropics is an energetic celebration of culture, community, and the planet. Catch headliners like Chris Lake, Lane 8, Subtronics, and more on August 15th and 16th. Secure tickets here: https://www.deeptropics.org/
Think starting your own label is always the right move? Kyle Watson's insights about the current industry landscape might change your perspective entirely. While everyone is rushing to launch their own platforms, few are discussing the unintended consequences this creates for collaboration, content creation, and building careers.
From running No Context with his wife, Tash, to navigating the realities of social media as an artist, Kyle reveals the challenges and opportunities facing today's music industry. His 15+ year journey offers hard-won wisdom about persistence, authenticity, and building something sustainable in an increasingly complex landscape.
Key Takeaways:
-Why the proliferation of artist-owned labels is changing collaboration dynamics
-How to navigate release decisions when multiple labels are involved
-The reality of social media pressure
-Why content creation has become as important as music creation
-How to balance artistic integrity with business and social media demands
-The reality of learning label management from scratch
-Why having a supportive partner in business can be a game-changer
-How to maintain creative authenticity while building something sustainable
-Why persistence and long-term thinking trump viral moments
-The new rules of collaboration in an oversaturated label market
-How to build genuine connections in an increasingly competitive industry
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: patreon.com/oliviamancuso
The industry has changed - make sure your strategy has too. Hit play now to understand the new dynamics shaping modern music careers.
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY DEEP TROPICS.
Deep Tropics is an immersive dance experience in the heart of Music City, Nashville, where party truly meets purpose. Known as the most sustainable festival in North America, Deep Tropics is an energetic celebration of culture, community, and the planet. Catch headliners like Chris Lake, Lane 8, Subtronics, and more on August 15th and 16th. Secure tickets here: https://www.deeptropics.org/
Think you need to appeal to everyone to succeed? This conversation with John Hanna of Deep Tropics will completely change your perspective on building a sustainable music career.
While most artists chase broad appeal and try to please every possible audience, Deep Tropics has built North America's greenest festival by doing the exact opposite - doubling down on their specific values of sustainability, mindfulness, and community. Their approach proves that depth of connection trumps reach every single time.
Key Takeaways:
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: patreon.com/oliviamancuso
Stop trying to be everything to everyone. Hit play now to learn why the riches really are in the niches.
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
My studio flooded on June 25th. Everything is damaged. However, I'm here to show you how to navigate setbacks in your career without losing your momentum.
In this deeply personal episode, I share the story of losing my dream podcast studio just two months after investing $15,000 into building it. From vintage furniture sourced across Chicago to countless hours of equipment setup - all destroyed by a malfunctioning pipe in the bathroom above.
But this isn't a sob story. It's a lesson in resilience, emotional regulation, and why the way you handle setbacks determines your success more than the setbacks themselves.
What You'll Learn:
• Why every DJ needs business insurance
• How to move through the stages of grief quickly instead of staying stuck for months
• The difference between emotional regulation and toxic positivity
• Why your support system is your most important business investment
• How to audit your surroundings when crisis hits
• The mindset shift that separates successful entrepreneurs from those who give up
Key Takeaways:
Support the Show: This show is sponsored this month, but this is the first and only month the show has been sponsored. In order to reach that as a regular milestone, I need your help. If you found value in this episode, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and subscribe if you haven't already.
For personalized advice on growing your career, brand, and business, check out my artist development program at patreon.com/oliviamancuso
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY DEEP TROPICS.
Deep Tropics is an immersive dance experience in the heart of Music City, Nashville, where party truly meets purpose. Known as the most sustainable festival in North America, Deep Tropics is an energetic celebration of culture, community, and the planet. Catch headliners like Chris Lake, Lane 8, Subtronics, and more on August 15th and 16th. Secure tickets here: https://www.deeptropics.org/
Want to know what separates artists who build lasting careers from those who flame out? It's not talent, connections, or luck - it's ego management. Damon DeGraff's journey from managing music's biggest names to launching his own artistic career reveals how ego quietly sabotages more careers than any external factor.
After decades of developing artists like D'Angelo and Mark Ronson, Damon breaks down the ego traps that keep artists stuck: focusing on what other DJs are doing instead of your own work, hoarding opportunities instead of creating abundance, and protecting your position instead of expanding your influence. His philosophy challenges everything we think we know about competition and success.
Key Takeaways:
-Why focusing on other artists' success is killing your momentum
-How to shift from scarcity mindset to abundance thinking
-The vulnerability required to transition from behind-the-scenes to spotlight
-Why helping others succeed creates more opportunities for yourself
-How to compete without letting ego drive your decisions
-Why "what's for me will be for me" is a career game-changer
-How work ethic and consistency trump natural talent
-The power of putting ego aside to allow others to succeed
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: patreon.com/oliviamancuso
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
Want to know how to read and control any room, no matter how diverse the crowd? Ms. Mada's unique perspective as both booking operations manager and resident DJ at Space Miami offers insights that most artists never get access to.
From handling Miami's most eclectic crowds - mixing Space regulars with first-time tourists experiencing the legendary venue - to building her reputation as one of the industry's most respected selectors, Ms. Mada reveals what it really takes to move people through music. Her philosophy of immersive learning and strategic positioning proves that sometimes the best education comes from putting yourself directly in the environment you want to master.
Key Takeaways:
- How to read rooms with multiple audience types and expectations
- The psychology behind effective crowd control and energy management
- Why immersive learning beats online education every time
- Building credibility through proximity and consistent value
- Handling industry frustrations and difficult situations with grace
- The importance of understanding venue dynamics and crowd psychology
- How to balance artistic vision with crowd expectations
- Why working in the industry while building your career accelerates growth
- The art of selection: choosing tracks that move diverse audiences
- Building relationships that support long-term career development
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso
Stop trying to learn from your bedroom. Hit play now to discover why immersive learning could be the key to mastering your craft.
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
Want to expand your music career beyond your home market? Jeff's strategic approach to building Short Circuit across multiple cities offers a blueprint for sustainable geographic expansion.
Jeff reveals how he identifies the right partners in each market and creates authentic events that resonate with local scenes while maintaining his brand identity. His journey from corporate lawyer to label owner proves that expansion doesn't require aggressive tactics or massive budgets - just the right strategy.
Key Takeaways:
- How to identify the right partners and promoters in new markets
- Why working with independent promoters can be more effective than major players
- The importance of aligning your expectations with realistic demand
- How to maintain your brand identity while adapting to different scenes
- Building relationships that support long-term expansion rather than one-off events
- Why being intentional about market selection prevents costly mistakes
- The power of organic relationship building over forced networking
- How to create events that feel authentic to each local scene
- Strategic timing for multi-city tours and label showcases
- Why sustainable growth beats rapid expansion every time
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://www.patreon.com/oliviamancuso
Stop limiting yourself to one market. Hit play now to learn how to strategically expand your reach across multiple cities.
CHICAGO MUSIC NEXUS PRESALE ENDS TONIGHT, 6/19, AT MIDNIGHT. SECURE YOUR PASS AT THE LOWEST PRICE POINT POSSIBLE: http://www.chicagomusicnexus.com
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
Tired of waiting for someone to give you a chance? Josh Baker's story proves you don't need permission to start building something meaningful in music.
Starting with literally nothing - a £20 generator and field parties where people told him to "turn this shit off" - Josh created his own opportunities when no one would book him. Fast forward to today, and he's co-founded You & Me parties, created Hide and Seek Festival, and launched Syntho, his artist education platform.
This isn't about becoming a mogul overnight. It's about taking the first step when you're tired of waiting for others to validate your vision.
Key Takeaways:
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso
Stop waiting for permission. Hit play now to learn how to create your own opportunities in music.
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
🎫 PRESALE ALERT: Chicago Music Nexus 2025 presale tickets are now live for 2 weeks only! Last year completely sold out, so don't sleep on this. GET YOUR TICKETS HERE
Want to know what separates artists who complain about the industry from those who actually change it? This conversation between the co-founders of Chicago Music Nexus reveals the mindset and actions required to "put yourself on" and create the opportunities you wish existed.
From Sherm's journey building Sherm in the Booth into a respected platform to my own path creating Elevated Frequencies and building an artist development program, we both understood what it meant to create rather than wait.
This discussion explores how our shared frustration with the lack of industry education events led us to co-found Chicago Music Nexus, transforming our individual visions into a collective movement that's changed an entire community.
Key Takeaways:
- Why waiting for permission kills more careers than rejection
- How to identify gaps in your scene and fill them yourself
- The mindset shift from consumer to creator of opportunities
- Building something valuable even with limited resources
- Why taking initiative opens doors you didn't know existed
- How to turn frustration with the industry into fuel for change
- The compound effect of consistently showing up and adding value
- Creating community around shared vision rather than personal gain
- Why the industry rewards people who take action over those who wait
- How one event can transform an entire scene's trajectory
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: patreon.com/oliviamancuso
Stop waiting for the industry to change. This conversation reveals how to become the catalyst for the opportunities you want to see.
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
Think your local scene holds the key to your DJ success? This conversation with Hiroko Yamamura will change that perspective entirely. Even in a major music city like Chicago, waiting for local validation can be a career-limiting strategy.
Hiroko reveals why looking beyond your hometown - even when it's a music capital - might be the most important move you make. But this conversation goes far deeper, offering insights into the psychology of DJing, crowd management, and what it really takes to sustain a career in this demanding industry.
Key Takeaways:
-Why local scenes often overlook talent in their own backyard
-How to build a career when your hometown doesn't support you
-The strategy of representing your city while building elsewhere
-How to read and control rooms with multiple distractions
-The psychology behind effective DJ transitions and crowd management
-Why empathy is essential for DJs - understanding crowd comfort and safety
-Why international opportunities can be easier than local ones
-Balancing artistic integrity with reading what the crowd needs
-Learning from different venue types and their unique dynamics
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso
Stop waiting for your local scene to validate you. This conversation reveals how to build a thriving career by thinking beyond your backyard while mastering the essential skills every DJ needs.
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Connect with Hiroko: @hiroko__music
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
For our milestone 100th episode, we're celebrating in our brand new Chicago studio with someone who's been part of this journey from day one - my brother, Proppa. His recent success with Warner Bros. offers the perfect case study in what it really takes to break through in music.
From years of producing remixes to finally seeing his work gain major label support, Proppa's journey embodies the persistence required in this industry. Our conversation explores the reality behind "overnight success" stories and the importance of staying true to your vision even when progress seems slow.
Key Takeaways:
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso
Follow Proppa's journey: @itsproppa
Plus: Stay tuned for the announcement of our Chicago Music Nexus 2025 contest winner at the end of this episode!
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
Want to know what it takes to navigate the music industry from both sides of the table? This week's conversation with Mouna Dif offers a unique perspective from someone who's journeyed from singer-songwriter to respected manager and label executive.
After experiencing firsthand how artists can be taken advantage of - from having vocals used without approval to never receiving payment - Mouna transformed these challenges into motivation to protect others. Now, after co-founding Quality Goods Records and working with artists like UZ, she shares insights on building a career with integrity in a complex industry.
Key Takeaways:
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso
This conversation offers a candid look at the realities of the music industry and how to navigate them with your dignity and passion intact.
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
Want to know why most dance music marketing fails? In this eye-opening conversation, former TikTok UK/EU music marketing lead Dan Roy Carter reveals the insider metrics, hidden paid strategies, and fundamental shifts that are reshaping how music is promoted in 2025.
From his early days working with Avicii and Tiesto to leading TikTok's global music initiatives, Dan has seen the evolution of release strategies from every angle. Now, as founder of Carter Projects and World Go Round, he's helping artists build sustainable careers through strategic marketing and community-first approaches. His candid assessment of dance music as "one of the laziest genres in the world when it comes to marketing" offers a wake-up call for artists still relying on outdated approaches.
Key Takeaways:
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso
Don't forget to enter for your chance to win a pass to Chicago Music Nexus 2025!
Here's how to enter:
1. Create a 60-second video explaining your artist brand - your unique sound, target audience, value proposition, and the industry challenge you're tackling in 2025
2. Upload your submission to the Dropbox link by May 9th
3. No need for high production value - just clarity of vision and purpose
The winner will be announced during Episode 100 on May 22nd and will receive a pass to Chicago Music Nexus on November 22nd, 2025!
Follow Dan's journey: @danroycarter
Stop wasting time and money on outdated marketing strategies. Hit play now to learn the release tactics that actually work in 2025.
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
Want to know how Mark Knight built Toolroom Records into one of dance music's most enduring empires? In this conversation with the legendary DJ, producer, and label founder, he breaks down the exact blueprint that's kept him at the top of his game for over two decades.
While most artists chase trends and quick wins, Mark has methodically constructed something built to last through principles that apply whether you're selling tech house or washing machines. From controlling your own destiny to outworking the competition, his insights offer a roadmap for anyone looking to build something sustainable in this industry.
Key Takeaways:
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video editor/Audio engineer: James Fixx
In an era obsessed with overnight success, Mary Droppinz offers a radical perspective: give yourself at least 10 years in this industry before you even consider throwing in the towel. This conversation is a wake-up call for anyone looking for shortcuts in dance music.
From her recent move to Miami to her journey of staying true to her musical vision despite industry pressure to conform, Mary breaks down why persistence might be the most underrated skill in an artist's toolkit. Her insights on building a sustainable career through consistent action rather than viral moments offer a refreshing counterpoint to today's quick-win culture.
Key Takeaways:
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso
Follow Mary's journey: @marydroppinz
Stop looking for shortcuts. Hit play now to learn why the marathon mindset might be your greatest competitive advantage.
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
Want to know how one of dance music's biggest stars built a movement through vulnerability? In this special Miami Music Week episode, James Hype and Tita Lau reveal the counterintuitive strategies behind their massive online communities and why authenticity trumps "cool factor" every time.
From being called "cringe" to having fake news articles written about him, James has faced every form of criticism possible - yet he's built a following of millions by deliberately showcasing the struggles behind his success. Meanwhile, Tita has cultivated a YouTube community of 200,000+ through consistent live streams that prioritize connection over performance.
Key Takeaways:
- Why showcasing your struggles creates stronger connections than highlighting success
- How to find your place on the spectrum between "cool" and "cringe"
- The truth about criticism and why polarizing content builds stronger communities
- Why social media might be equally as important as music in 2025
- How to build global communities through live streaming
- The importance of representation and diversity in lineups
- Practical content strategies that work even without millions of followers
- Why documenting your journey creates powerful storytelling opportunities
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: patreon.com/oliviamancuso
Six weeks of consistent TikTok content connected me with one of the biggest DJs in the world. What could happen if you started today?
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
What happens when you sell your company to Amazon for nearly a billion dollars? For Twitch co-founder Justin Kan, it meant following an unexpected passion - building one of Burning Man's most impressive art installations and launching a music label focused on community.
From constructing a 70-foot iceberg with 200,000 LEDs to learning to DJ while building it, Justin's journey offers powerful insights about community building that apply at any scale. His transition from tech entrepreneur to artist reveals principles about authenticity, collaboration, and finding fulfillment that transcend industries.
Key Takeaways:
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso
Learn more about Titanic's End: @titanicsend
Behind every billion-dollar exit are principles that work at any scale. Hit play now to discover insights that apply whether you're just starting out or are already established.
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
Want to know how to read a room when multiple distractions compete for attention? This week's guest, Mister Gray, has mastered this skill during his 11-year residency at E11even, a unique venue that combines the energy of a nightclub with the dynamics of a strip club.
From sharing decks with Tiesto and Marshmello to working 12-hour marathon shifts, Mister Gray reveals practical insights about crowd psychology, handling requests, and maintaining your passion, which apply to DJs in any setting. His approach to creating experiences rather than just playing music offers valuable lessons for artists at every level.
Key Takeaways:
Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: patreon.com/oliviamancuso
Stop focusing only on the music. Hit play now to learn how understanding room psychology could transform your DJ sets.
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
