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Poducer
The Podcast for Producers
156 episodes
11 hours ago
In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Slot-A — a Chicago-based DJ, producer, curator, and community-builder whose journey bridges Detroit grit and Chicago soul. Known for his work with Jamila Woods, his Open Swim Chicago event series, and deep roots in the city’s underground, Slot-A embodies what it means to turn passion into longevity. From growing up in Ypsilanti, Michigan, to producing in New York and ultimately building a home in Chicago’s scene, he shares how faith, hustle, and self-awareness have guided his creative path. Slot-A takes us through his musical beginnings—discovering Sony Acid and Fruity Loops, experimenting with beatmaking on early software, and landing sync placements on shows like Jersey Shore and Stomp the Yard. He reflects on his time interning in New York studios, learning from industry veterans, and realizing that DJing is just as much a sales game as it is an art form—about knowing your value, understanding your crowd, and building leverage through relationships. We explore how he evolved from a bedroom producer to a full-fledged DJ, curator, and event programmer, and how each phase taught him the importance of networking, creating “randomness,” and turning luck into opportunity. Slot-A breaks down the differences between Chicago and New York as creative ecosystems, the philosophy behind Open Swim Chicago and Colors, and what it really takes to build sustainable music communities. Finally, he reflects on executive-producing Jamila Woods’ album “LEGACY! LEGACY!”, sharing how that project reshaped his understanding of collaboration, communication, and artistic integrity. 🎧 Follow Slot-A: https://www.slot-a.com 🎙️ Follow Poducer: linktr.ee/poducerpodcast The Podcast for Producers Chapters 00:00 Intro & name origin 02:30 PlayStation beatmaking & MTV Generator 05:00 DJing, events & Open Swim Chicago 08:00 Early production journey (Sony Acid → Fruity Loops) 11:00 First concerts: Prince, Missy Elliott, Alicia Keys, Ludacris 18:00 From Michigan to New York to Chicago 23:00 The Columbia College chapter 26:00 Detroit’s DIY scene & creative freedom 33:00 New York hustle, industry lessons & losing everything 39:00 Returning to Chicago & finding purpose 45:00 DJing as a sales gig — leverage, proof, & professionalism 51:00 Knowing your lane, your people, and your weapon 56:00 Networking, motion, & maintaining authenticity 1:03:00 The Chicago advantage — why the city takes care of its own 1:10:00 Executive producing Jamila Woods’ LEGACY! LEGACY! 1:30:00 The language of musicianship & learning collaboration 1:38:00 Reflections on creative faith, community & leadership 1:41:00 Closing thoughts, shout-outs, & where to find Slot-A
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In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Slot-A — a Chicago-based DJ, producer, curator, and community-builder whose journey bridges Detroit grit and Chicago soul. Known for his work with Jamila Woods, his Open Swim Chicago event series, and deep roots in the city’s underground, Slot-A embodies what it means to turn passion into longevity. From growing up in Ypsilanti, Michigan, to producing in New York and ultimately building a home in Chicago’s scene, he shares how faith, hustle, and self-awareness have guided his creative path. Slot-A takes us through his musical beginnings—discovering Sony Acid and Fruity Loops, experimenting with beatmaking on early software, and landing sync placements on shows like Jersey Shore and Stomp the Yard. He reflects on his time interning in New York studios, learning from industry veterans, and realizing that DJing is just as much a sales game as it is an art form—about knowing your value, understanding your crowd, and building leverage through relationships. We explore how he evolved from a bedroom producer to a full-fledged DJ, curator, and event programmer, and how each phase taught him the importance of networking, creating “randomness,” and turning luck into opportunity. Slot-A breaks down the differences between Chicago and New York as creative ecosystems, the philosophy behind Open Swim Chicago and Colors, and what it really takes to build sustainable music communities. Finally, he reflects on executive-producing Jamila Woods’ album “LEGACY! LEGACY!”, sharing how that project reshaped his understanding of collaboration, communication, and artistic integrity. 🎧 Follow Slot-A: https://www.slot-a.com 🎙️ Follow Poducer: linktr.ee/poducerpodcast The Podcast for Producers Chapters 00:00 Intro & name origin 02:30 PlayStation beatmaking & MTV Generator 05:00 DJing, events & Open Swim Chicago 08:00 Early production journey (Sony Acid → Fruity Loops) 11:00 First concerts: Prince, Missy Elliott, Alicia Keys, Ludacris 18:00 From Michigan to New York to Chicago 23:00 The Columbia College chapter 26:00 Detroit’s DIY scene & creative freedom 33:00 New York hustle, industry lessons & losing everything 39:00 Returning to Chicago & finding purpose 45:00 DJing as a sales gig — leverage, proof, & professionalism 51:00 Knowing your lane, your people, and your weapon 56:00 Networking, motion, & maintaining authenticity 1:03:00 The Chicago advantage — why the city takes care of its own 1:10:00 Executive producing Jamila Woods’ LEGACY! LEGACY! 1:30:00 The language of musicianship & learning collaboration 1:38:00 Reflections on creative faith, community & leadership 1:41:00 Closing thoughts, shout-outs, & where to find Slot-A
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Episodes (20/156)
Poducer
Slot-A — The Business of DJing: Value, Leverage & the Art of Connection
In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Slot-A — a Chicago-based DJ, producer, curator, and community-builder whose journey bridges Detroit grit and Chicago soul. Known for his work with Jamila Woods, his Open Swim Chicago event series, and deep roots in the city’s underground, Slot-A embodies what it means to turn passion into longevity. From growing up in Ypsilanti, Michigan, to producing in New York and ultimately building a home in Chicago’s scene, he shares how faith, hustle, and self-awareness have guided his creative path. Slot-A takes us through his musical beginnings—discovering Sony Acid and Fruity Loops, experimenting with beatmaking on early software, and landing sync placements on shows like Jersey Shore and Stomp the Yard. He reflects on his time interning in New York studios, learning from industry veterans, and realizing that DJing is just as much a sales game as it is an art form—about knowing your value, understanding your crowd, and building leverage through relationships. We explore how he evolved from a bedroom producer to a full-fledged DJ, curator, and event programmer, and how each phase taught him the importance of networking, creating “randomness,” and turning luck into opportunity. Slot-A breaks down the differences between Chicago and New York as creative ecosystems, the philosophy behind Open Swim Chicago and Colors, and what it really takes to build sustainable music communities. Finally, he reflects on executive-producing Jamila Woods’ album “LEGACY! LEGACY!”, sharing how that project reshaped his understanding of collaboration, communication, and artistic integrity. 🎧 Follow Slot-A: https://www.slot-a.com 🎙️ Follow Poducer: linktr.ee/poducerpodcast The Podcast for Producers Chapters 00:00 Intro & name origin 02:30 PlayStation beatmaking & MTV Generator 05:00 DJing, events & Open Swim Chicago 08:00 Early production journey (Sony Acid → Fruity Loops) 11:00 First concerts: Prince, Missy Elliott, Alicia Keys, Ludacris 18:00 From Michigan to New York to Chicago 23:00 The Columbia College chapter 26:00 Detroit’s DIY scene & creative freedom 33:00 New York hustle, industry lessons & losing everything 39:00 Returning to Chicago & finding purpose 45:00 DJing as a sales gig — leverage, proof, & professionalism 51:00 Knowing your lane, your people, and your weapon 56:00 Networking, motion, & maintaining authenticity 1:03:00 The Chicago advantage — why the city takes care of its own 1:10:00 Executive producing Jamila Woods’ LEGACY! LEGACY! 1:30:00 The language of musicianship & learning collaboration 1:38:00 Reflections on creative faith, community & leadership 1:41:00 Closing thoughts, shout-outs, & where to find Slot-A
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11 hours ago
1 hour 42 minutes 48 seconds

Poducer
Aria Pedraza | Chicago Series — Preserving the Midwest’s Rave Legacy & The Story Behind MWRCA
In this Poducer: Chicago Series episode, we sit down with Aria Pedraza, community archivist and founder of the Midwest Rave Culture Archive (MWRCA) — a living digital collection preserving the Midwest’s underground electronic music history. From growing up surrounded by DJs and renegade parties to scanning and cataloging decades of flyers, zines, cassette tapes, and VHS footage, Aria shares how the project began and why documenting rave culture matters now more than ever. She opens up about the process of digitizing fragile materials, the ethics of archiving a misunderstood subculture, and how Chicago’s DIY spirit continues to shape the city’s dance music identity. Together, we explore the evolution of the Midwest rave scene — from illegal warehouse parties with 24-hour info lines to the influence of modern technology — and discuss how community-driven preservation keeps these stories alive for future generations. Aria also reflects on her vision for exhibitions, collaborations with museums, and the future of the archive as both a cultural and academic resource. For anyone passionate about house, techno, and the roots of Midwest dance music, this episode captures the heart of a movement determined not to be forgotten. 🎧 Follow Aria Pedraza & MWRCA: https://mwrca.org https://archive.org/details/@midwest_rave_culture_archive/uploads 🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast The Podcast for Producers Chapters: 00:00 Intro and welcome to Poducer 02:14 Aria’s career in aesthetics and how it connects to archiving 03:40 Preserving rave flyers, zines, and VHS footage 06:08 Her first rave experience and family’s role in the culture 10:38 How the Midwest rave scene spread across Chicago, Milwaukee, and beyond 14:39 Decoding rave flyers and what they tell us about the times 15:58 The era of illegal parties and 24-hour info lines 17:18 Designers, sound systems, and the artistry of early flyers 20:33 Archiving ethics: ownership, representation, and cultural preservation 27:37 Tech, scanning, and community-based preservation methods 42:49 Storage, humidity, and the science of keeping history alive 46:02 From analog to digital: when archiving meets art 50:40 Museums, installations, and building legitimacy for rave culture 52:48 House vs. rave: defining the difference in Chicago’s lineage 54:47 The philosophy behind early raves—DIY, defiance, and creativity 58:38 Why archiving matters and how memory keeps scenes alive 1:03:13 What survives: from marble inscriptions to digital decay 1:12:02 How sound evolved from jungle and acid to modern house and techno 1:14:49 The future of MWRCA and the importance of community input 1:20:40 Where to find the archive and how to get involved
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1 week ago
1 hour 28 minutes 6 seconds

Poducer
John Rynecki | Chicago Series — Building Chicago’s Electronic Music Culture & The Vision Behind CEMC
In this Poducer: Chicago Series episode, we sit down with John Rynecki, a DJ, producer, event promoter, and educator whose mission is simple: bring abundance to the dance floor. From growing up across Panama, Puerto Rico, and Germany to finding his creative home in Chicago, John shares how his multicultural upbringing shaped his sound and his vision for a more collaborative, community-driven nightlife. He talks about his early influences from salsa and Everything But the Girl to Craig David and Rusko at Congress Theater, and how those experiences evolved into his approach to DJing: sets that breathe, connect, and tell stories rather than chase drops. We explore how growing up abroad helped him view music as a universal language, and why he believes Chicago’s scene can thrive through openness and shared purpose rather than competition. John also shares the story behind co-founding the Chicago Electronic Music Conference (CEMC), an event built to educate, connect, and inspire, and how it aims to elevate dance music to the same cultural status as jazz and blues. He reflects on the realities of leaving a stable tech career to pursue music full-time, the challenges of sustaining creativity in today’s economy, and what “success” really means as a modern artist. From imagining a city-backed Chicago Electronic Music Week to breaking down how to market independent releases and use data-driven ads effectively, John offers grounded, actionable insights for artists carving their path. 🎧 Follow John Rynecki: https://linktr.ee/jryneckimusic?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf2Dbmz2LTETyU2La0npSgj8Cz3oKyLkCfXR5XiUukwSdmkZrhecuL5ZAZaEA_aem_AwVhYoROjgZFE7nqWkJhqg 🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast The Podcast for Producers Chapters: 00:00 Intro and welcome to Poducer 01:34 First concerts: Shakira and Rusko at Congress Theater 06:04 Musical influences: Salsa, Everything But the Girl, Craig David 08:45 Early production talk: Reese bass and breakbeat love 12:32 Growing up abroad and third-culture identity 17:09 Chicago as home and finding purpose in house music 23:24 Founding CEMC and building a movement inspired by Amsterdam Dance Event 26:39 The city’s role in preserving house music 31:27 Mainstream vs progressive house and the art of storytelling sets 35:45 CEMC year one: Wins, lessons, and next steps 38:00 How to make dance music a respected art form 40:49 Money talk: The truth about art and survival 45:42 Defining success as an artist 51:33 The idea for a Chicago Electronic Music Week 55:15 Track break: “Sirena” (deep progressive and jazz-house blend) 1:03:27 Jazz-house culture and the future of day events 1:06:26 Smart marketing for independent artists 1:08:35 Most influential sets and final shout-outs
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2 weeks ago
1 hour 13 minutes 49 seconds

Poducer
Dr. Shannon Switzer — Hearing Health, Sensaphonics & Why the World Got Too Loud
In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Dr. Shannon Switzer, Doctor of Audiology at Sensaphonics, the Chicago based clinic trusted by touring artists around the world. Specializing in music industry hearing health, Dr. Switzer bridges the gap between science and sound, helping musicians protect the very tool that defines their craft. From growing up in Vermont to studying audiology at Northwestern and joining Sensaphonics, she shares how her background in music led her to a career focused on preserving it. We dive into how hearing actually works, why the modern world has become dangerously loud, and how overexposure to sound quietly reshapes your ability to create and enjoy music. Dr. Switzer breaks down everything from the physics of hearing and tinnitus to custom in ear protection, high fidelity earplugs, and the misconceptions that make musicians ignore hearing care until it’s too late. She also explains why properly fitted, filtered earplugs can improve how music sounds and how Sensaphonics helped pioneer custom in ear monitors for some of the biggest names in the industry. From the science of the cochlea to the culture of live shows in Chicago, this episode bridges the worlds of music and medicine, showing why protecting your ears isn’t just about safety; it’s about preserving your art. 🎧 Follow Dr. Shannon Switzer: https://www.instagram.com/ears.by.shannon/?hl=en 🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast The Podcast for Producers
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3 weeks ago
2 hours 23 minutes 3 seconds

Poducer
DÊTRE — Detroit Roots, Panic Attacks & The Reality of Modern Bass Music | NSW x Poducer EP 8
In this collaboration episode of Poducer with NSW, we sit down with Detroit-based producer DÊTRE (pronounced “Detra”) an artist whose path runs from guitars and rap vocals to intricate bass design, blending grit, groove, and raw self-expression. He grows weed by day (as an irrigation manager) to building bass-heavy tracks rooted in emotion and precision, DÊTRE opens up about his creative evolution, mental health, and the balance between passion and stability. We explore the meaning behind his name, how Vital and additive distortion shaped his sound, and why he sometimes records his own vocal hooks instead of relying on samples. We dive into Detroit’s warehouse scene, Movement Festival, and the “homie fest” culture that keeps underground music alive. Along the way, DÊTRE shares unfiltered thoughts on panic attacks, moderation, and staying grounded while navigating the modern music industry from corporate festivals to small, community-built events. 📲 Follow DÊTRE: https://linktr.ee/detrebeats?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacLYvf57T6mdjiybQWbGOWeEzhpKSANYlABzHC1JLo5hEjARFVH6P-MSWFIBQ_aem__Tf82tMrHP8JgfUHa6d9JA 🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast Chapters: 00:00 Cold open (ZYNs, Electric Forest) 03:14 Intro & name—what “DÊTRE” means 03:38 Day job: growing weed (irrigation manager) 05:46 Panic attacks, Apple Watch chaos, and coping 10:41 Healthcare costs & hot takes 11:06 From trim tables to iPad-run grow ops 12:36 Michigan vs. Chicago weed reality 15:54 Moderation, mushrooms, and festival culture 19:23 Music without substances & set-night nerves 22:55 Icebreaker → first concert (Eminem/G-Unit) 24:47 Family roots, college crew, and starting to produce 30:51 Play: “10 Bands” (vocal hooks + identity) 36:13 Sound design: Vital, harmonic distortion, additive layers 38:18 “James Cameron,” Titanic jokes, and advisors from hell 40:14 DIY Detroit warehouse parties 42:46 Movement Festival & why it matters 49:16 Is bass music “up”? Pockets, Denver, and $18 drinks 55:36 Why small festivals slap (Infrasound energy) 57:02 Growth, money, and keeping your values 1:07:17 Ignore the negativity, build what you love 1:12:48 Play: “Quarter Hook” (quarter-note concept) 1:20:37 Play: “Wind” (Wubaholics) 1:23:55 Following the signs + choosing your people 1:29:29 Favorite live memory: ZHU at Burning Man 1:33:53 Shoutouts & where to find DÊTRE
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4 weeks ago
1 hour 35 minutes 11 seconds

Poducer
Greg Corner — Kill Hannah, Darkwave Disco & Chicago’s Underground Music Scene
In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Chicago creatives Greg Corner — bassist, DJ, promoter, and co-founder of the legendary Darkwave Disco parties. From playing bass with Kill Hannah to booking breakout artists at JBTV, Greg has lived through multiple eras of Chicago music and helped shape the city’s underground into a global influence. He shares the journey from sneaking into raves and punk shows to sharing stages with icons, why the “bloghouse” years created a blueprint for today’s DJ culture, and what it really takes to build a scene. We dive into his philosophy on curation, taste, and trust, plus the challenges of breaking artists in a city that often celebrates its own only after they’ve left. Greg also gives his perspective on the future: how AI could flood dance music, why bands may be poised for a comeback, and why real fans — not algorithms — still decide which art lasts. 🎧 Follow Greg Corner: https://www.instagram.com/gregcorner 🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast 00:00 – Intro 01:22 – Darkwave Disco & Chicago’s Bloghouse Era 06:00 – From Metal to Electronic: Skrillex, Justice & Bass Culture 11:20 – Joining Kill Hannah & Blending Rock with Electronic Influences 22:31 – Life on a Major Label in the 2000s 28:20 – JBTV & Discovering Bands Before They Blew Up 36:43 – Why Music Became a Rich Kids’ Pastime 41:05 – AI, Dance Music, and the Future of Live Bands 46:16 – Culture Over Headliners: Throwing Parties in Chicago 48:46 – Daft Punk, French Touch & Chicago House Legacy 55:36 – Bands Writing Together vs. Bedroom Producers 1:12:32 – From Tracks to Songs: How EDM Went Mainstream 1:13:21 – DIY Culture vs. Capitalist Festivals 1:15:07 – Touring the World with Kill Hannah 1:20:22 – Behind the Scenes with Kesha’s Comeback 1:36:12 – Best Concert Ever: Rage Against the Machine at Metro 1:42:43 – Closing Thoughts & Shoutouts
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1 month ago
1 hour 47 minutes 16 seconds

Poducer
Channel — Inside Chicago’s Most Artist-Friendly Studio (w/ Zino B & Jimmy Bonks)
In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Vincenzo Zino B and Jimmy Box — producers, engineers, and co-founders of Channel Recording Company, a brand-new Chicago studio designed to feel like a living room while sounding world-class. They share the story of transforming a raw warehouse into a fully treated space in Fort Knox Studios, complete with cedar diffusion walls, a 25×25 ft live room, and a glass-walled ISO booth big enough for a grand piano. We dive into their philosophy of hospitality-driven engineering, why “good sound should be the default,” and how creating a comfortable environment frees artists to focus on making their best music. Beyond the technical build, Zino B and Jimmy reflect on their paths through the Chicago scene — from Joyride sessions with legends like Buddy Guy to Grammy-nominated projects, to building a community hub where artistry, collaboration, and care come first. They also tackle big topics like AI in music, the importance of “first listeners” in mastering, and how true fans sustain independent art. 📲 Follow Channel Recording Company: https://www.instagram.com/channelingcompany/ 🎚️ Learn more & book sessions: https://channelrecordingcompany.com/ 🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast 00:00 Intro — Channel opens to the public 03:15 From Joyride to Channel: credits, craft, and workflow 05:45 Designing for comfort: glass wall, open doors, quiet rooms 14:35 Building a studio (cedar, diffusion, floors) 23:50 What makes Channel different (hospitality + musicianship) 33:05 Chicago scene: world/jazz, Americana, blues lineage 45:20 AI & the “first listener” argument for human mastering 52:30 True fans, community, and sustainable careers 57:40 What’s next: projects, outreach, and how to book
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1 month ago
1 hour 8 minutes 51 seconds

Poducer
Summer's End Smokeout 2025: Porch
In this episode of Poducer, recorded live at Summer’s End Smokeout in Republic, Michigan, we sit down with Porch (Nick Loporchio) — a multi-instrumentalist and producer whose journey bridges music, science, and spirit. From his first spark of inspiration through Weird Al parodies to years of playing guitar, handbells, and powerlifting, Porch opens up about the pivotal injury that led him toward reggae, bass, and ultimately the Porch project. He shares stories from touring with his band Iya Terra (200+ shows a year across the U.S. and abroad) and how his sound evolved into a fusion of roots, funk, hip-hop, and heavy dub. We dive into his scientific background in molecular biology, exploring how concepts like epigenetics and energy transfer connect to sound, and why he sees music as a kind of “potion.” Porch also reflects on the spiritual side of creation, from the unique frequencies of Joshua Tree to the vibrations we carry in everyday life. 📲 Follow Porch: https://www.instagram.com/porch.bass/ 🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast Chapters: 00:00 – First Concert & Weird Al Inspiration 01:20 – Musical Upbringing & Handbells 03:40 – Guitar, Bands & Powerlifting Years 07:00 – Injury, Recovery & Path Toward Production 10:20 – Discovering Reggae & Bass Culture 12:40 – Iya Terra, Touring & Live Shows 15:00 – Scientific Background & Epigenetics 18:20 – Music as Potion: Vibration & Healing 21:30 – Spiritual Insights from Joshua Tree 23:30 – Festivals, Cali Roots & Career Defining Moments
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1 month ago
23 minutes 52 seconds

Poducer
NSW x Poducer Ep 7 HIJINX — From Mr. K to Mischief, Evolution & Originality in 140
In this collaboration episode of Poducer with NSW, we sit down with UK producer HIJINX (formerly known as Mr. K) — an artist who’s evolved from heavyweight dubstep roots into a boundary-pushing sound that blends groove, texture, and raw energy. From his beginnings in Essex and early raves at Brixton Academy to releasing on respected labels like 1985 Music, White Peach, and his own imprint Fortune, HIJINX opens up about the creative reinvention that’s carried him through two distinct eras of his career. We dive into his transition from Mr. K to HIJINX, his shifting production style, and why he’s more interested in originality and groove than chasing trends. Along the way, he reflects on collaboration, the challenges of staying inspired in dubstep, and the crossover influences of metal, skate culture, and techno in his music. HIJINX also shares candid thoughts on the music industry — from the realities of releasing on major labels to the freedom of running his own platform, and what true success looks like outside of metrics. 📲 Follow HIJINX: https://www.instagram.com/morehijinx/ 🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast
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1 month ago
1 hour 3 minutes 21 seconds

Poducer
Summer's End Smokeout 2025: Hypho & CØNTRA
In this episode of Poducer, recorded live at Summer’s End Smokeout in Republic, Michigan, we sit down with Hypho and CØNTRA — two forward-thinking artists bridging UK and US bass culture with a shared love for heavy sound design, collaboration, and community. Hypho reflects on his roots in Manchester’s dubstep and MC scene, releasing on labels like Swamp81 before co-founding Manuka Records, while CØNTRA shares his path from classical violin and guitar to discovering rave culture in San Francisco and eventually settling in Denver’s thriving bass scene. We dive into the vision behind Manuka, the freedom of running an independent label, and their upcoming plans — from no-phone club tours to festival highlights like Wicked Woods and Lost Lands. Along the way, Hypho and CØNTRA open up about influences ranging from UK drum & bass and 90s hip-hop to French downtempo, world bass, and reggae. 📲 Follow Hypho: https://www.instagram.com/hypho.mnk/ 📲 Follow CØNTRA: https://www.instagram.com/contra.slaps/ 🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast
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1 month ago
19 minutes 55 seconds

Poducer
Charlie Heldman: Building Community, Creating R&B Vibes & Finding Balance
In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Charlie Heldman — Chicago-based artist, producer, and founder of Windy City Wavs, a grassroots music production collective dedicated to building community, fostering creativity, and supporting independent artists. Charlie opens up about his journey from his early teenage band days to developing his own R&B-inspired sound — blending sweet lyrics with soulful, sexy beats. We explore his approach to growth as an artist, the role of collaboration in shaping his music, and how consistency and community feedback have fueled his development. Beyond music, Charlie shares his perspective as a studying therapist, reflecting on mental health, empathy, and the importance of creating safe spaces for expression. He talks candidly about navigating self-doubt, learning to shift negative self-talk, and balancing passion with purpose. 📲 Follow Charlie Heldman: https://www.instagram.com/cbbeatsofficial/ 🌊 Learn more about Windy City Waves: https://www.instagram.com/windycitywaves/ 🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast
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2 months ago
1 hour 48 minutes 3 seconds

Poducer
Summer's End Smokeout 2025: Manic Focus
In this episode of Poducer, recorded live at Summer’s End Smokeout, we sit down with Manic Focus. The genre-bending producer who has built a reputation on soulful beats, heavy grooves, and an unfiltered approach to storytelling through music. From his first concert memories to the dynamics of working with his brother as both manager and creative partner, Manic Focus opens up about the honesty, trust, and tension that shape his art. We dive into his unique production style, how he avoids chasing trends by designing sounds with swing and swagger, and the lessons he’s learned from years of performing on stage. He also speaks candidly about living with bipolar I, how music serves as his medicine, and why being open about mental health matters not only for himself but for the wider community of fans and artists. Along the way, we touch on his biggest live inspirations, creative rituals, and what it means to keep growing while staying true to your sound. 🎧 Listen to Manic Focus: https://manicfocus.com 📲 Follow Manic Focus: https://www.instagram.com/manicfocus 🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast Chapters: 00:00 – First Concert Memories (Pretenders & B-52s) 01:12 – Working With His Brother as Manager 04:23 – Early Inspirations & Making Beats 05:42 – Sound Design, Wobbles, and Avoiding Trends 10:41 – Music, Mental Health & Bipolar I Journey 12:40 – Game-Changing Concert: Moby’s Play Tour
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2 months ago
15 minutes

Poducer
Summer's End Smokeout 2025: Joe Nice (Live)
In this live episode of Poducer, recorded at Summer’s End Smokeout, we sit down with Joe Nice — a pioneering figure often credited with bringing Dubstep to the United States. From launching the legendary Dub War parties in New York to shaping the global spread of the genre, Joe has been at the heart of underground culture for nearly two decades. We dive into his journey as a tastemaker, his thoughts on the modern expectation for DJs to also be producers, and how he stays grounded through organization, sobriety, and a commitment to mental health. Joe also speaks on the responsibility of artists to use their platform for advocacy, his favorite sound systems around the world, and why unionization could be the future of fair treatment in electronic music. 🔥 Whether you’re a longtime Dubstep head or just discovering the roots of the scene, this conversation is packed with history, honesty, and perspective from one of the culture’s most respected voices. 📲 Follow Joe Nice: https://www.instagram.com/joenicedj 🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction at Summer’s End Smokeout 00:20 – Joe Nice & the origins of Dub War 04:09 – DJ vs Producer: changing expectations in electronic music 07:16 – Mental health, energy, and preparation on tour 12:34 – Sobriety, veganism & living with balance 13:40 – Advocacy, activism & using your platform responsibly 18:10 – Sound system culture & community through music and food 22:13 – Unionization & fair treatment for DJs and artists 25:11 – Closing thoughts & gratitude
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2 months ago
26 minutes 38 seconds

Poducer
Arum: Indie Marketing, Artist Advocacy, Attorney, .beyond_____(ECSTASY)
In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Chicago-based house producer, DJ, and attorney Arum — a rising voice in the underground scene known for his soulful, groove-forward productions, community organizing, and fiercely human-centered approach to music. He shares how early influences like Crystal Castles and Death from Above shaped his love for experimental rhythms, and why he now champions house music with emotion, texture, and intention. Arum breaks down his creative process, his views on algorithm-driven promotion, and how he uses marketing tools like Meta ads with intention — all while avoiding the industry’s pressure to chase empty numbers. We also dive into his legal background, discussing music contracts, AI concerns, and why empowering artists with knowledge is at the core of his mission. Plus, we talk about Beyond Ecstasy Vol. 2, the multi-genre event he’s curating at Book Club Chicago on August 2, featuring names like Backpack, Dante Drives, Yannaa Lynette, and more — a night that blends house, hip-hop, experimental electronics, and rave history into one vibrant community gathering. 🎟️ Beyond Ecstasy Vol. 2 Tickets: https://bookclubchi.com/event/beyond_____ecstasy-2-ft-backpack-beatz-more/bookclub/?direct=true 🎧 Listen to Arum: https://linktr.ee/iswearimarum 📲 Follow Arum: https://instagram.com/iswearimarum 🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast
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3 months ago
1 hour 56 minutes 3 seconds

Poducer
Joe Big & Sling Wave Sound Haven 2024
🔗 Links & Credits 📲 Follow Sling Wave: https://linktr.ee/Sling_Wave 📲 Follow JoeBig: https://linktr.ee/JoeBig 🎧 Listen to Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast 📌 Support the Podcast: Like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth artist interviews and behind-the-scenes insights from the music industry!
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3 months ago
14 minutes 46 seconds

Poducer
Treegaud & Ozztin Sound Haven 2024
In this episode of Poducer at Sound Haven 2024, we link up with Tree Gaud and Ozztin — two close friends and rising names in the underground bass scene. From throwing down original edits on the UFO stage to geeking out about lasers at a Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert, this convo covers it all. We get into their unique approaches to performance, like Tree Gaud’s “Flip God” set packed with bootlegs and bass, and Ozztin’s genre-blurring style that lands somewhere between weird and heavy. They talk about growing up on Grateful Dead, Weird Al, and Adventure Club, and how those early shows shaped their path into electronic music. We also hear the full story of a surprise backstage moment with Skrillex at Soul Quest, and why that night was a turning point. From dreadlock maintenance to military stories and festival bromance, this one’s full of wild memories, unexpected tangents, and pure Sound Haven energy. 📍 Recorded live at Sound Haven Festival 2024 🎙 Hosted by Jerry Valakas | Poducer: The Podcast for Producers 👉 Follow Tree Gaud: https://linktr.ee/TreeGaud?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaccTsBipv1fYdAEiG65aLYp0KbbXDZVmmtYloN9p-RX_G5uRU24GmVCpaMwdQ_aem_2p_Gsc6BxDJO58xMfm63ZA 👉 Follow Ozztin: https://linktr.ee/ozztinmusic?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAael8zUmyeKJFGQ3TTXzmg-uaUrlpt6n3czoPNegkPTtkun1Nr5jxp74e29MfQ_aem_WOzd5ia5U1g21Mwixk7uww 🎟️ Grab your tickets for Sound Haven 2025 now at https://soundhavenfestival.com/
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3 months ago
15 minutes 35 seconds

Poducer
Medicine Place at Sound Haven 2024
Medicine Place joins Poducer live at Sound Haven 2024 to share stories about his musical roots, cultural background, and the path that led him from college basketball to becoming one of the tallest DJs in the game. We talk about his first concert (Beyoncé in Miami), growing up on a reservation, and how the name “Medicine Place” represents something deeper than just music. This episode touches on Native tradition, the healing power of sound, learning from elders, and how Electric Forest changed everything. Plus shoutouts to Snake Blood, Big Bird, and the Wiggles. 📍 Recorded live at Sound Haven Festival 2024 🎙 Hosted by Jerry Valakas | Poducer: The Podcast for Producers 👉 Follow Medicine Place: https://linktr.ee/medicineplace?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacPFX-Mjflt8TOprinTwU8TkTedkZSqoyuDxPaIj0ZVFpvqw3TDm6nsbd0-0A_aem_N5o15RTfhTkISNKczg3qvg 🎟️ Grab your tickets for Sound Haven 2025 now at Had the chance to catch up with the homies EAZYBAKED backstage at Sound Haven 2024. We talk about their first concert (Mac Miller + hotboxed arenas), early inspiration from Wiz Khalifa’s day-to-day vlogs, and what it feels like to play iconic venues like Red Rocks and the Ogden Theater. They share stories from the road, what it’s like being in full creative control right now, and how wild their Shambhala set was last weekend. There’s some Swiftie talk, too—don’t ask, just watch. 📍 Recorded live at Sound Haven Festival 2024 🎙 Hosted by Jerry Valakas | Poducer: The Podcast for Producers 👉 Follow EAZYBAKED: https://linktr.ee/eazybaked?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAadJIOMbGZF-r5kBmOvJVt2k18ZVokto4BQbIhFK7aazo3cWx65InJuTU2OS4w_aem_itILm9OPprQrQUk-1VIg7Q 🎟️ Grab your tickets for Sound Haven 2025 now at https://soundhavenfestival.com/
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3 months ago
14 minutes 4 seconds

Poducer
EAZYBAKED at Sound Haven 2024
Had the chance to catch up with the homies EAZYBAKED backstage at Sound Haven 2024. We talk about their first concert (Mac Miller + hotboxed arenas), early inspiration from Wiz Khalifa’s day-to-day vlogs, and what it feels like to play iconic venues like Red Rocks and the Ogden Theater. They share stories from the road, what it’s like being in full creative control right now, and how wild their Shambhala set was last weekend. There’s some Swiftie talk, too—don’t ask, just watch.
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3 months ago
5 minutes 14 seconds

Poducer
Himboism Explained: Emotionally Intelligent Masculinity
Artie Do Good dives into the philosophy of himboism, exploring the rise of emotionally intelligent masculinity in modern culture. From Dragon Ball Z's Goku to Chris Hemsworth’s Thor, we break down the core traits of the modern himbo: strength, kindness, and a blissful lack of ego. Artie shares how working with kids in the age of Andrew Tate has influenced his perspective on masculinity, and why he’s embracing the “himbo” identity as a way to promote compassion, vulnerability, and self-awareness. We also touch on the need to shatter outdated gender norms, and how big-hearted energy just might help save the world. Links: 🎶 Follow Artie Do Good: https://www.instagram.com/artiedogood 💿 Listen on Bandcamp: https://artiedogood.bandcamp.com 🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast
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4 months ago
7 minutes 31 seconds

Poducer
NSW x Poducer Ep: 6 Sam Binga — Bristol Roots, DIY Spirit & the Future of Club Music
In this collaboration episode of Poducer with NSW, we connect with genre-warping UK producer Sam Binga — known for pushing the boundaries of club music with raw textures, cheeky edits, and forward-thinking sound design. From his early days in Bristol’s drum & bass scene to becoming a global force in hybrid electronic music, Binga shares the creative mindset and community ethos that have shaped his path. We dig into his evolution as an artist, his approach to collaboration (with names like Nikki Nair, Addison Groove, and Bianca Oblivion), and why he's more interested in vibe than perfection. Binga talks honestly about the current state of gig culture, the pressure of staying relevant on social media, and how he balances underground respect with broader recognition. He also shares the story behind Pineapple Records, his outlet for fun, functional, and distinctly weird club tools — and how it’s become a space for artists to explore sound without overthinking. 🎧 Listen to Sam Binga: https://sambinga.bandcamp.com 💿 Listen to Pineapple Records: https://pineapplerecords.bandcamp.com/ 📲 Follow Sam Binga: https://www.instagram.com/sambingamusic 🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast
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4 months ago
1 hour 35 minutes 1 second

Poducer
In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Slot-A — a Chicago-based DJ, producer, curator, and community-builder whose journey bridges Detroit grit and Chicago soul. Known for his work with Jamila Woods, his Open Swim Chicago event series, and deep roots in the city’s underground, Slot-A embodies what it means to turn passion into longevity. From growing up in Ypsilanti, Michigan, to producing in New York and ultimately building a home in Chicago’s scene, he shares how faith, hustle, and self-awareness have guided his creative path. Slot-A takes us through his musical beginnings—discovering Sony Acid and Fruity Loops, experimenting with beatmaking on early software, and landing sync placements on shows like Jersey Shore and Stomp the Yard. He reflects on his time interning in New York studios, learning from industry veterans, and realizing that DJing is just as much a sales game as it is an art form—about knowing your value, understanding your crowd, and building leverage through relationships. We explore how he evolved from a bedroom producer to a full-fledged DJ, curator, and event programmer, and how each phase taught him the importance of networking, creating “randomness,” and turning luck into opportunity. Slot-A breaks down the differences between Chicago and New York as creative ecosystems, the philosophy behind Open Swim Chicago and Colors, and what it really takes to build sustainable music communities. Finally, he reflects on executive-producing Jamila Woods’ album “LEGACY! LEGACY!”, sharing how that project reshaped his understanding of collaboration, communication, and artistic integrity. 🎧 Follow Slot-A: https://www.slot-a.com 🎙️ Follow Poducer: linktr.ee/poducerpodcast The Podcast for Producers Chapters 00:00 Intro & name origin 02:30 PlayStation beatmaking & MTV Generator 05:00 DJing, events & Open Swim Chicago 08:00 Early production journey (Sony Acid → Fruity Loops) 11:00 First concerts: Prince, Missy Elliott, Alicia Keys, Ludacris 18:00 From Michigan to New York to Chicago 23:00 The Columbia College chapter 26:00 Detroit’s DIY scene & creative freedom 33:00 New York hustle, industry lessons & losing everything 39:00 Returning to Chicago & finding purpose 45:00 DJing as a sales gig — leverage, proof, & professionalism 51:00 Knowing your lane, your people, and your weapon 56:00 Networking, motion, & maintaining authenticity 1:03:00 The Chicago advantage — why the city takes care of its own 1:10:00 Executive producing Jamila Woods’ LEGACY! LEGACY! 1:30:00 The language of musicianship & learning collaboration 1:38:00 Reflections on creative faith, community & leadership 1:41:00 Closing thoughts, shout-outs, & where to find Slot-A