He built a 10,000-person Santa-themed party… and that’s not even the craziest thing he’s done in the music industry. Today on SITB, Wes Berger—San Diego entrepreneur, event producer, and all-around legend—shares how he went from Chicagoland kid to running some of the wildest events in SoCal… and the insane stories that came with it.This San Diego-based entrepreneur, talent buyer, label manager, event producer—and all-around solid dude— is a true legend. This guy’s done it all behind the scenes: from Santacon to Freedom Fest to Daisy Chain and Subsessions, Wes has built brands that pull serious crowds.He’s originally from Chicagoland, and in this episode he shares how he took a massive leap to the West Coast, the wins, the struggles, and some crazy industry stories along the way.You’ll also catch the dynamic between us—we’re longtime friends, which means plenty of roasting, plenty of laughs, and a lot of genuine insight into what it takes to thrive in this business.
In September 2016 I started a journey that didn't have an end goal.
I just wanted to do something that I would always enjoy and have no hesitation on consistency or passion. 249 episodes later I've interviewed over 200 guests ranging from DJs, producers, agents, talent buyers, entrepreneurs, and more.
The most rewarding part is the relationships and friendships that have come from SITB. There has been a lot of ups and downs but sitting here today I can say for certain that this is my calling.
The biggest thing I've learned is that the podcast has to make me happy first. If it doesn't, then why would anyone else want to listen or watch? Just look at my smile throughout this interview.
Thank you to everyone that has supported me in any way, shape or form. Thank you to my friends and family for believing in me. Thank you to Olivia Mancuso for inspiring me and also keeping me on track during this interview... lol.
Cheers to 250 episodes and here's to the future.
This is still just the beginning
So you want to be a touring music artist?
This live panel in Denver Coloardo will give you some perspective on how to make that happen.
Featuring founder of 128 Productions and Denver talent buyer, Alex Padgett, DJ/Producer/Podcast Host Lizzy Jane, and DJ/Producer Housewife.This conversation goes into the realities on what it takes to go from a local DJ to a touring act and offers insights on how to get booked, build your brand, and create opportunities.
Key Takeaways:
-Why is it so hard to get gigs outside of the city you're based
-How to build a career when your hometown doesn't support you
-The strategy of representing your city while building elsewhere
-Maintaining your brand through genuine connections
-How to make money on tour and how to protect yourself
-What talent buyers look for when booking artists-
Why relationships matter and how to build them
Episode 249 features Chicago based but Detroit rooted DJ Nanoos - a Palenstian Armenian DJ who is making a big splash in the scene.We had an absolute blast sitting down in person and getting her full story and perspective on some hot topics in the industry right now. Nanoos is a real one on so many levels and there's good reason for his quick rise in following - she's a really good selector on the decks and fuses tons of different genres together in her sets creating one of a kind experiences for anyone who sees her. She's also got an insanely dope sense of fashion and charisma that had me hooked even before I met her. We chatted about the afro-house movement, the state of the scene in the US and what we think is to come, her tour that's taking her all over the country, and her plans for the future.
248 features an artist that I have over 50 tracks from and play at least 1 every set I perform. He goes by the name of BVRNOUT and if you aren't familiar with the name, I guarantee you've heard one of his remixes.Chris has an amazing story and it was so much fun talking about his journey from day 1 through now. He is a prolific producer with an expertise in remixes but has now started focusing on originals and creating his own label- BVRN'D Records - as a way to give himself a platform for his sound.He's been supported by some of the biggest DJs in the world like Loud Luxury and his music has helped many artists go viral on social media when they play a BVRNOUT record. I really mean it when I say that without BVNROUT remixes, this scene would be a different place and I certainly wouldn't be where I am without his music.
Our guest for today is Brad Sweet - the co-founder of Same Same But Different Festival and co-host of the Different Paths PodcastWe had such a great time getting into the origins of SSBD - for those that haven't heard of it, you need to. It takes place in Lake Perris, CA just outside of LA and San Diego. It's grown so much since their first run in 2018 and have had artists like Griz, Polo and Pan, Louis The Child, Big Wild and What So Not on - and that's just to name a few. We talked a lot about purpose, community and longevity and why these things matter when it comes to music festivals but that's what makes SSBD different - it's a truly special experience not just for the fans, but also the artists and they'll tell you that themselves! This is a truly unique festival because everyone contributes in their own way - the artists, the fans, and the staff. Really special.His podcast called "Different Paths" explores the stories of creatives and gets deep into their journeys - he's had guests like Mikey Lion, Mary Droppinz, and Ravenscoon on thus far and I love the format. The 2025 SSBD lineup is going to be dropping soon so make sure to keep an eye out for the announcement. Brad says it's the biggest yet and as you can tell they go BIG so this will be a very special treat.
Episode 246 features SoCal based DJ/Producer XIE - We have been trying to line up a date for an interview for a minute and I'm so glad we found some time to connectXIE is truly a unique talent not just because of her history as a classically trained musician but also her approach and perspective on what her intentions are on her journey as an artist.It's all about the music to XIE and I couldn't agree more - we got deep on topics like purpose, finding your sonic identity, support DJ sets vs headlining, and so much more. XIE you are a real one and I had so much fun talking with you and I'm sure everyone else will enjoy this episode as well!
SITB 245 features Chicago House Music legend Terry Hunter - a 3x grammy nominated DJ, Producer and label owner who needs no introduction.
Many of you know how passionate I am about the history of Chicago House Music and to have a 1-1 conversation with this icon just a few blocks away from the Warehouse is truly surreal.
Terry and I got connected through Chicago Music Nexus where he sat on a panel that I moderated called Adapt Or Die: Cultivating Resilience.
His attitude on the past present and future of the music industry is refreshing, authentic and genuine - we share a lot of the same beliefs and perspectives which is why the energy was incredible from start to finish during this interview.
We have a returning guest and dear friend of mine who many of you know - the wildy talented Colton Bachar! Our conversation last year was so well-received that we knew it was time to run it back. Colton's experience as a videographer and editor goes far beyond the basic levels of creativity - he takes everything to the next level and it's been really special to see the work he has been putting out and the people he's collaborating with.We can't help but get deep whenever we talk and this episode goes straight into it. I know you will all enjoy this from the beginning to the end. Enjoy!
There is nothing better than meeting an internet friend, especially when it's the one and only R3Wire!!
Timing worked out perfectly because he was playing in Chicago for his first ever US Tour and we got together on a Sunday afternoon to chat it up.
What a great conversation from start to finish - he is seriously a real one on every level. He is one of the most prolific DJ's in the game and has hit after hit which only amplifies his live sets and not to mention he's the A&R and label manager for one of the most respected labels in house music - Stereohype.
I don't want to tease too much but you're going to want to listen to this one from front to the back - it's filled with amazing stories and perspectives that anyone can relate to.
Much love my friend and thanks for coming on the show
Episode 242 features Chicago based DJ/Producer duo Pods! My boys Mike and Dom stopped by and we had such a great conversation the entire time. Many of you are already familiar with Pods because I've had 2 really successful collaborations with them and more on the way - they are really talented producers with good heads on their shoulders too. I believe in their vision and am a huge fan of them. This interview has it all and it was so much fun swapping stories, talking shop (music and basketball related) and what their plans are for the future. Big year comin for the boys!!
We've got Jackin House master hailing from NYC - the one and only Pinto! I had so much fun talking with Joey about his journey as a producer, dj, label owner and growing up in NYC. Pinto is a wildly dope producer who has carved out his own lane during the course of his career. His music has garnered support and respect from artists like Carl Cox and the Blessed Madonna and was the #5 Jackin House producer on Beatport. His talents as a DJ have taken him all over the world and his label Jack City Records is making serious waves in the scene. Awesome dude and even better conversation - thanks for making some time to come on brother and I look forward to seeing you soon.
Episode 240 features the incredibly talented Perry Donta'e - creative director and leader of The Pack Drumline!
I'd be willing to bet you know who they are even if you think you don't... they're the official drumline of the Chicago Bulls, The Chicago Sky, and recently are now the drumline for the Colts AND they've been finalists on America's Got Talent - they even won over the toughest judge of them all, Simon Cowell.
Needless to say they are a one-of-a-kind group that is changing the entire landscape of what a drumline really is. Perry's story is incredible and we got it all in pretty much from start to finish.
What he is doing with The Pack is soooo dope and they'll stop at nothing to show the world who they are. I'm extremely inspired by their story and passion.
Thanks for coming on Perry!
Ladies and gents, Dani Deahl is BACK on SITB and it's an absolute honor. Dani is doing some incredible things right now in dance music but for this episode we mostly focused on Chicago Music Nexus and her involvement in the event.
Dani is one of the panelists on the "Adapt or Die" portion of CMN and I wanted to get Dani's take on a few things leading up to the conference.
As a multi-faceted individual in dance music, her unique perspective and experience deserves all the respect in the world. This was a really fun conversation about the state of the industry, evolving an artists brand, and why you should care about something like Chicago Music Nexus.
Dani, I appreciate you so much and it's always so much fun choppin it up with you!
Hood Politics is a reminder that there should never be politics when we are all from the same neighborhood. We all live on the same street and are part of a much larger community that has to support each other in order to survive. Hood Poli for LIFE! Featuring Sherm, DJ Susan, CJ., Jenny Voss, Chris Diaz, Smith & Sorren, Michael Jay, Dr Mar, Proppa, Rich DietZ, and more
This is the FIRST co-hosted episode with my fellow podcaster, friend and business partner Olivia Mancuso.
Some of you might have seen but Olivia and I are hosting a 1 day conference and networking event later this year called "Chicago Music Nexus"
CMN was created to help fill a massive void in the US dance market where artists can learn, grow, and collaborate together in a space outside of the club or festival.
Our mission is to help artists, entrepreneurs and music business professionals elevate their brands by connecting with other like-minded individuals through engaging panels and conversations with leaders from various parts of the industry.
It's happening Saturday November 23rd at Loft Lucia and we couldn't be more excited to make it all happen.
This episode is dedicated to the background on why Olivia and I created CMN, the panels, the people, the experience and so much more.
If you're as serious as you say or think you are about building a career in the music industry, then we should see your bright smiling face in November.
