When the skies open and the gig’s a wash, how do you keep the energy alive? Mike Schulte joins Dave Hamilton to break down how The Pork Tornadoes handled a rainout, what happens when the audience doesn’t get the memo, and why your contract better say who’s in charge. From chaotic “throw and go” setups to must-do line checks, this episode reminds you that you’re not just playing music—you’re leading a production. Always Be Performing means preparing like a pro, even when the show gets messy.
You’ll dive deep into the power of in-ears (spoiler: “best decision we ever made”), the delicate art of song arrangements, and why understanding the assignment matters more than raw talent. Plus, practical tips for turning fans into superfans—one drumstick, comment reply, and authentic connection at a time. If you want your audience to show up for you, you’ve got to show up for them first.
00:00:00
Gig Gab 490 – Monday,
July 14th, 2025
July 14th:
Bastille Day
00:01:32 Guest co-host:
Mike Schulte from
Pork Tornadoes
00:05:28 Mike and The Pork Tornadoes had to deal with a rainout!
This is a team effort…but someone needs to tell that to the crowd (and the organizers).
You can’t negotiate with alcohol
00:16:06 When you know better, exercise the authority in your contract (and make sure you put that authority in your contract!)
00:18:06 Sometimes that means you do a non-soundchecked “throw and go” gig
But…NEVER skip line checks!
00:23:22 It’s time to sing the benefits of in-ears vs. monitor wedges
“It was the best decision we ever made”
00:29:13 SPONSOR:
Gig Performer is a plugin host, an audio mixer, a backing tracks player, and more that gives you real-time control…live. Visit
GigPerformer.com/GigGab for 10% off.
00:31:02 PODCAST:
The Excellent 80s Rewind. Each episode revisits a specific week from the greatest decade in pop music, revisiting the songs AND throwing in fact and stories to dig deep.
wave80hits.com
00:32:11 Navigating song choices and arrangements in your band
Being in a band is an intricate relationship
“I need you to understand the assignment more than I need you to be really good at your instrument.”
00:51:30 Review:
Soundbrenner Wave – $99 universal fit IEMs
00:58:02 Tips/systems for engaging with EVERY fan (and building your base of superfans)
First, once you get a superfan, ALWAYS acknowledge them at every gig
At the end of every gig, find someone who was engaged all night, and give them a guitar pick or a drumstick
Respond to every Facebook comment
Reverse the situation: Put yourself in the mindset of being a superfan (of another group)
Create the ability for those superfans to feel more special than everyone else
He’s the Rhombus King!
01:11:45 Gig Gab 490 Outtro
Follow
Mike Schulte
Confused Breakfast
The Pork Tornadoes
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@GigGabPodcast on Instagram
feedback@giggabpodcast.com
