Russ Robson is the founder of Gussapolooza Music Festival and the Indie Distributor Project. With a deep passion for supporting emerging artists, Russ has grown Gussapolooza into a thriving platform where musicians can showcase their talents and connect with a like-minded community. Beyond music, Russ is committed to using alternative therapies, including plant medicine, to help individuals facing trauma and addiction. In this episode, Russ shares his journey, insights into the power of music, and the role of leadership in overcoming personal challenges.In this episode, Russ dives into the transformative power of music, community, and personal growth—revealing how artists can overcome fear and build meaningful connections with their audience.In this episode, we explore:How Gussapolooza is creating real opportunities for emerging artists to thrive.The healing power of music and community for individuals struggling with trauma and addiction.Embracing fear and leading with courage in both life and creative pursuits.To learn more about Russ Robson and his work, visit: https://gussapolooza.com/----Apply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast

Mershad Javan is the CEO of Octiive, a music distribution platform committed to helping indie artists thrive by providing transparency, artist support, and a wide distribution network. With years of experience in the music industry, Javan understands the challenges artists face and is passionate about fostering authentic growth and real connections. His leadership at Octiive has empowered countless indie musicians to focus on creating quality music while building loyal fan bases.In this episode, Mershad dives into the challenges indie artists face in the music industry and how to avoid common pitfalls. He explains the value of focusing on genuine fan connections and discusses how Octiive’s unique features are designed to empower artists for long-term success.Key TakeawaysWhy high-quality music and a solid fan base matter more than chasing artificial streams.Proven strategies for building meaningful relationships with fans, both online and in person.How Octiive’s transparent artist support and distribution network set indie artists up for success.------To learn more about Mershad Javan and Octiive, visit their website: https://www.octiive.com/Tune into the live podcast & join the Modern Musician community here: https://link.modernmusician.me/join-podcastApply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast

Evan Price, CEO of Artist Collective, has over 15 years of experience in the music industry, having worked in nearly every aspect of the business. Launching Artist Collective from his dorm room at Columbia College Chicago, where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Music Business, Evan has since helped over 100 music brands transform into thriving "artistpreneur" ventures. His mission is to help artists build strong, sustainable business foundations that will carry them throughout their careers.In this episode, Michael Walker and Evan Price dive deep into the art of creating high-ticket offers and VIP fan experiences for musicians. They explore how artists can position and package their unique value to stand out in the crowded music industry. Learn how to co-create offers with your fans and leverage testimonials and stories to boost your confidence in delivering these premium experiences.Key Takeaways:Discover how high-ticket offers and VIP fan experiences can significantly enhance your income while deepening fan engagement.Learn the critical importance of positioning and packaging your offers to rise above the noise in the music world.Gain insights on overcoming sales fears and reframing the process as a way to provide genuine value to your fans.------To learn more about Evan Price and his work with Artist Collective, visit: https://www.artistcollect.com/120Tune into the live podcast & join the Modern Musician community here: https://link.modernmusician.me/join-podcastApply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast

Jeremy Sirota, CEO of Merlin, champions independent music labels by leading global digital licensing efforts. At the helm of a company representing 15% of the global market share, Sirota helps artists secure premium deals with platforms like Spotify, TikTok, and YouTube. His career spans roles as a technology lawyer, senior executive at Warner Music Group, and a key player on Facebook's music team.Jeremy Sirota unpacks the ever-evolving music industry landscape, emphasizing how artists can leverage AI, build genuine audience connections, and reframe selling as value-driven relationships to thrive in today’s attention economy.Key Takeaways:How the attention economy is reshaping the music landscape.Why authentic audience connections are key to lasting success.How AI can streamline music rights and boost monetization for artists.------Discover more about Jeremy Sirota’s work with Merlin by visiting: https://merlinnetwork.org/Tune into the live podcast & join the Modern Musician community here: https://link.modernmusician.me/join-podcastApply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast

Brian Zisook is the co-founder of Audiomack, a pioneering music streaming platform with a strong emphasis on artist discovery and engagement. With a background in music journalism and digital media, Brian has been instrumental in championing emerging artists, especially in underserved markets like Africa and the Caribbean. His deep understanding of the music industry, combined with his innovative approach to digital streaming, has made Audiomack a go-to platform for both artists and fans.In this episode, Brian Zisook dives deep into how Audiomack is changing the game for artists worldwide. From its focus on emerging markets to the role of AI in music creation, Brian offers valuable insights for artists looking to grow their careers in a rapidly evolving industry.Key Takeaways:Learn how Audiomack's unique features are designed to help artists find and grow their audience, especially in underserved regions.Discover why human creativity remains irreplaceable, even as AI becomes more integrated into the music-making process.Get practical advice on how to build a community, create a catalog, and strategically monetize your music using Audiomack's tools, including the sponsored songs feature.To learn more about Brian Zisook and his work with Audiomack, visit: https://audiomack.com/Tune into the live podcast & join the Modern Musician community here: https://link.modernmusician.me/join-podcastApply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast

Chris Alba’s journey from Mechanicsburg, PA, to Los Angeles’ vibrant music scene is a testament to his passion for music, branding, and storytelling. After DJing alongside legends like Steve Aoki and DJ AM, and being mentored by Skrillex, Chris created music and remixes for major labels and toured internationally. He also produced the iconic CONTROL event at Avalon Hollywood, breaking new talent on the West Coast. In 2014, he founded The Cult Creatives, a boutique agency now trusted by top artists and Fortune 500 companies.In this episode, Chris shares invaluable insights on how artists can carve out their unique voice, the pivotal role of branding, and the balance between creativity and technology.Key Takeaways:Discover the power of branding and how it sets successful artists apart.Learn how to tap into your life experiences to find and amplify your unique artistic voice.Understand how to use AI as a tool to enhance creativity without compromising your artistic integrity.-----To learn more about Chris Alba and The Cult Creatives, visit: www.thecultcreatives.comTune into the live podcast & join the Modern Musician community: https://link.modernmusician.me/join-podcastApply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast

Niclas Molinder is a music industry expert and co-founder of Session Studio, a platform dedicated to helping creators secure proper credit and compensation. With a focus on simplifying the administrative side of music creation, Nicholas is committed to empowering artists to navigate the complexities of the industry.In this episode, Niclas discusses the challenges music creators face in securing fair compensation and credit in an increasingly crowded market. He shares insights on the importance of administrative skills, understanding industry terminology, and how Session Studio can help streamline these processes.Key Takeaways:Understand why mastering the administrative side of music is crucial for getting paid.Learn the essential industry identifiers every creator should know.Discover how Session Studio can help ensure you receive proper credit and compensation.To learn more about Niclas Molinder and Session Studio, visit: https://www.sessionstudio.comTune into the live podcast & join the Modern Musician community here: https://link.modernmusician.me/join-podcastApply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast

Kyle Weber is the president and co-founder of Indieonthemove.com, a leading platform for show and tour booking in the music industry. Before creating Indie on the Move, Kyle toured extensively with his band ZELAZOWA, performing over 600 shows worldwide from 2006 to 2009. His experience in booking and passion for helping musicians led to the launch of Indie on the Move. Today, Kyle is dedicated to empowering artists by simplifying the booking process and connecting them with opportunities.In this episode, Kyle Weber dives into the story behind Indie on the Move, discussing how the platform revolutionized show and tour booking for musicians. Kyle shares insights on the importance of live music, its communal value, and the future of the industry as it intersects with AI and technology.Key Takeaways:Discover how Indie on the Move has transformed the show and tour booking process for musicians worldwide.Understand the irreplaceable communal connection that live music fosters, transcending the digital age.Learn about the future of live music, blending in-person performances with digital enhancements.To learn more about Kyle Weber and Indie on the Move, visit https://www.indieonthemove.com/indie-on-the-move-101Tune into the live podcast & join the Modern Musician community here: https://link.modernmusician.me/join-podcastApply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast

Cari Cole is the CEO and Founder of CariCole.com and CCVM, a female-owned music company empowering artists. As a Holistic Vocal Coach, Artist Development Expert, and A&R Director, Cari has worked with top artists like Kelly Clarkson, John Legend, and FINNEAS, helping them refine their sound and navigate the music industry. With over 30 years of experience, she leads a new approach to artist support, focusing on authenticity and owning content.In this episode, Cari reveals her holistic approach to artist development, emphasizing the importance of mastering each stage of the creative process and staying true to one’s unique sound.Takeaways:Discover how mastering the Four Seasons of Being an Artist—gathering, writing, recording, and promoting—can elevate your creative output and career.Learn how to find and develop your unique sound and identity, ensuring you resonate deeply with your audience and differentiate yourself from others.Understand the importance of quality over quantity, and how a focused, authentic approach to music creation can lead to sustained success and industry recognition.Register for Cari’s free 4-Day Better Voice Challenge: https://caricole.com/better-voice-challengeTune into the live podcast & join the Modern Musician community here: https://link.modernmusician.me/join-podcastApply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast

Kimberly Shires owns Hear Me Roar Studio in Silver Spring, MD, producing music exclusively for female and non-binary artists. With deep musical roots, she transitioned from corporate life back to music, founding the studio to create a safe, empowering space. Kimberly's work spans multiple genres, earning accolades like the Mid-Atlantic Song Contest and American Songwriter Lyric Contest.In this episode, Kimberly discusses the challenge of self-doubt among artists, the importance of a supportive environment, empowering women in music, and her views on goal setting and staying present.Takeaways:The importance of women representation in the music industry and the unique perspective they bring as producers and audio engineers.How vulnerability plays a significant role in music, and how artists can trust producers with their most vulnerable pieces.How goal setting is important, but being present in the moment and aligning actions with objectives is equally essential.To learn more about Kimberly and connect visit: https://hearmeroarstudio.com/Tune into the live podcast & join the Modern Musician community here: https://link.modernmusician.me/join-podcastApply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast