In 100+ episodes of the Helping Musicians Podcast - arguably the one piece of advice shared most is 'get a lawyer'. At the start. Asap.
So, we're gassed to say that today's guest - Ryan Schmidt Esq - is not just a lawyer (and a v good one at that) - but also a musician himself, so he has that empathy and understanding of what you'll be going thru yourself.
On this episode Ryan shares a greatest hits of all the things you need to watch out for so you don't get screwed - keep things fair and fun - plus a breakdown of all the big scary words that get thrown around that we don't really understand.
RYAN IG - https://www.instagram.com/ryanschmidt.esq/
OUR IG - https://www.instagram.com/helpingmusicianspod/
Episode Features:
- Ryan's top three things a musician should watch out for so they don't get screwed.
- Top tips to spot music industry scams in 2025.
- Why you NEED to know your copyrights and who owns what.
- What actually counts as a contract? And why why generally speaking emails are bettet than Ms.
- How to lock in a 3AM
- How to keep the creative vibe and energy without losing the paperwork.
- Why you need to watch out for “perpetuity,” “exclusive,” and long terms - and why short terms generally protect your future value.
- Using AI smartly to translate legalese, not to replace legal advice - plus how to ask labels to cover your own lawyer.
- Social content basics for musicians: why using your own song in posts converts best.
- Covers vs samples vs interpolations - the simple definitions, what needs clearance, plus some sick music industry examples.
- “Pro bono” in real life: when free/discounted help happens and where legal aid actually fits.
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