Elevated Frequencies

Jonas Blue Sold Everything and Started Over | EF EP 147

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0500

What happens when billions of streams stop meaning anything? In this episode of Elevated Frequencies, Olivia Mancuso sits down with multi-platinum artist Jonas Blue to talk about the moment commercial success stopped being enough.

Jonas opens up about the summer of 2024, when years of touring and making EDM left him feeling creatively empty and personally unhappy in London. Instead of staying comfortable, he made a drastic decision: sell everything, leave the major label system, and move to Miami to rebuild from scratch.

This conversation goes deep into what it actually looks like to rebrand after a decade at the top. Jonas talks about returning to his house music roots, DJing on vinyl again for the first time in years, and writing songs the way he always did: starting at the piano, not with drums and bass.

They also dig into why originality matters more than ever in the AI era, what Jonas learned by standing on the dance floor as a fan instead of behind the booth, and why the younger generation's relationship with phones is changing club culture for better and worse.

Whether you're an artist thinking about making a creative pivot or just curious about what happens when someone at the top decides to start over, this episode is a masterclass in trusting your gut.

👉 Want personalized guidance on your music career? Book a one-on-one consultation with Olivia on GreenRoom where you can get tailored advice on branding, business strategy, and sustainable career growth
👉 Instagram: @oliviamancuso__
👉 Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

500 Tracks. 2 Brothers. 1 That Changed Everything. | EF EP 146

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0500

Ever wonder what happens when two brothers make 500 tracks before one finally breaks through? In this episode, Olivia Mancuso sits down with Murphy's Law, the UK brother duo taking the US dance music scene by storm.

From growing up in a studio at the end of their garden (their dad played with Stevie Wonder) to making rap music as teenagers, Sonny and his brother Finn built their careers through relentless grassroots hustle. They share the full story behind their breakout remix of Christina Aguilera's "Ain't No Other Man," including the 13 month clearance nightmare and the McDonald's car park moment they got the news.

The conversation gets real about why being sober behind the decks makes you a sharper, more honest DJ. They break down the industry's ripping culture, why most DJ duos implode, and how they strategically built relationships with artists like Joseph Capriati and Jamie Jones.

Murphy's Law also reveal the trap of chasing a viral hit after your first big record, and why going back to making whatever feels cool is always the answer.

Whether you're an up and coming DJ or deep in the scene, this one's packed with real talk about resilience, patience, and playing the long game in dance music.

👉 Want personalized guidance on your music career? Book a one-on-one consultation with Olivia on GreenRoom where you can get tailored advice on branding, business strategy, and sustainable career growth.
👉 Instagram: @oliviamancuso__
👉 Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

How Flashgea Went From Bottle Service Clubs to Techno Touring | EF EP 145

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0500

What does it actually take to go from bottle service gigs to touring techno DJ? Flashgea has a very specific answer.

Olivia Mancuso sits down with Flashgea, a Bronx-born, Ecuadorian-Trinidadian producer and DJ who discovered rave culture at 20 years old on an illegal boat party during COVID lockdown and never looked back.

They cover the story behind Took the Night, his biggest track to date, how a single caption about the genre police triggered a viral moment that brought Hannah Laing, Sarah Landry, and eventually JSTJR into his orbit.

Flash breaks down the exact bar deal strategy he used to make free events financially viable, how he grew the Mezcla party series from a Brooklyn rooftop to a 1000-person birthday show, and why he asked for just two stops on JSTJR's tour and ended up with seven.

This episode is essential listening for any DJ or independent artist trying to understand how to build leverage before you have it, how to stay mentally grounded in the quiet periods between wins, and why being genuinely interesting outside of your genre matters more than most people admit.

Subscribe to Elevated Frequencies for weekly conversations with the artists, DJs, and industry figures actually building careers in dance music.

👉 Want personalized guidance on your music career? Book a one-on-one consultation with Olivia on GreenRoom where you can get tailored advice on branding, business strategy, and sustainable career growth
👉 Instagram: oliviamancuso__
👉 Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

TikTok Is Changing How DJs Make Music (feat. Archie Hamilton) | EF EP 144

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 20:00:51 -0500

Laylo is the drop platform and CRM used by artists and promoters like Fisher, Chris Lake, James Hype, Mochakk, Whethan, and TekSupport to create hype around big moments and build a direct line to fans. With Laylo, you can capture phone numbers from social media and message your biggest supporters when tickets or merch go live, plus reward them with exclusives. It works across SMS, email, WhatsApp, and Instagram DMs, with integrations like Shopify and Spotify, voicemail hotlines, and a complete tour suite when you’re ready to hit the road. Laylo makes it easy and affordable for DJs to drop in your style and build a fandom that lasts.
Get 15,000 free messaging credits here with code Olivia15:
https://laylo.com/auth?affiliate=eZ9o...

You’ll also have a chance to meet Thatch Sammet, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Laylo and get direct insights on how to leverage the platform at Miami Music Nexus!

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What does it actually take to build a DJ career that lasts 16 years? The answer involves sacrifice, grief, loneliness, and a studio in an attic.

Olivia Mancuso sits down with Archie Hamilton, a UK-based house and tech house DJ and label founder who has spent over a decade and a half touring internationally and releasing music across multiple imprints.

This conversation gets real about the parts of the industry nobody glamorizes. Archie opens up about moving back home at 26 to pursue music full-time, why external studio setups quietly destroyed his creative output, and how building a home studio this year has him producing 6 hours a day for the first time in years. He talks about the discipline behind longevity versus the trap of chasing a two-year hype cycle.

From the TikTok effect on how music gets made, to the loneliness of touring, to why smart money habits matter more than most artists realize, this episode is a blueprint for artists who want a real career, not just a moment.

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Subscribe for more real industry insights and deep dives into electronic music!
👉 Want personalized guidance on your music career? Book a one-on-one consultation with Olivia on where you can get tailored advice on branding, business strategy, and sustainable career growth
👉 Instagram: oliviamancuso_
👉 Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Make Better Music in 3 Hours (feat. Josh Butler) | EF EP 143

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0500

Ever struggle to finish tracks because of endless screen time and studio distractions? Host Olivia Mancuso sits down with underground house heavyweight Josh Butler to discuss how strict time limitations actually fuel his creativity.

Josh reveals how balancing fatherhood with his DJ career forced him to embrace constraints, proving you can produce a great track in just three hours by stepping away from your phone and protecting your creative flow.

They also dive into his hands-on workflow with analog synthesizers, the minimal mixing principles of vintage dub reggae, and the launch of his new vocal-led imprint, MYC Records.
For electronic music producers, this conversation is a masterclass in working efficiently and keeping your focus strictly on the music.

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Ready to turn Miami Music Week into more than just parties?
Join us at Miami Music Nexus and spend your time in Miami learning how to build real fanbases, tour smarter, and grow your career in electronic music—with industry pros who actually know what they're talking about.
👉 Get tickets here

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Virality Doesn't Fill Shows (feat. SIPPY) | EF EP 142

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0500

Laylo is the drop platform and CRM used by artists and promoters like Fisher, Chris Lake, James Hype, Mochakk, Whethan, and TekSupport to create hype around big moments and build a direct line to fans. With Laylo, you can capture phone numbers from social media and message your biggest supporters when tickets or merch go live, plus reward them with exclusives. It works across SMS, email, WhatsApp, and Instagram DMs, with integrations like Shopify and Spotify, voicemail hotlines, and a complete tour suite when you’re ready to hit the road. Laylo makes it easy and affordable for DJs to drop in your style and build a fandom that lasts.

Get 15,000 free messaging credits here with code Olivia15.

You’ll also have a chance to meet Thatch Sammet, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Laylo, and get direct insights on how to leverage the platform at Miami Music Nexus!

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What happens when a DJ bets her career on the one album she wrote only for herself?

Olivia Mancuso sits down with Sippy, the Australian-born bass music and dubstep producer who just wrapped her Scars In Stereo album tour. Sippy built a loyal fanbase on lighthearted, high-energy club sets. Then she released something completely different. They dig into how Sippy held onto years of moody, personal music before finally committing to an album, and how that decision had nothing to do with strategy or bookings.

Olivia and Sippy also break down when it actually makes sense to pivot your sound, how to build a fanbase that rides with you through career changes, and why chasing virality produces fans who will never buy a ticket or a piece of merch. This episode is essential listening for any artist trying to build something that lasts in dance music without losing themselves in the process.

Ready to turn Miami Music Week into more than just parties?

Join us at Miami Music Nexus and spend your time in Miami learning how to build real fanbases, tour smarter, and grow your career in electronic music—with industry pros who actually know what they're talking about.
👉 Get tickets here

👉 Instagram: @oliviamancuso__

👉 Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

The FBI Method: From Miami Music Week to Opportunities | EF EP 141

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 07:24:58 -0600

Laylo is the drop platform and CRM used by artists and promoters like Fisher, Chris Lake, James Hype, Mochakk, Whethan, and TekSupport to create hype around big moments and build a direct line to fans. With Laylo, you can capture phone numbers from social media and message your biggest supporters when tickets or merch go live, plus reward them with exclusives. It works across SMS, email, WhatsApp, and Instagram DMs, with integrations like Shopify and Spotify, voicemail hotlines, and a complete tour suite when you’re ready to hit the road. Laylo makes it easy and affordable for DJs to drop in your style and build a fandom that lasts. Get 15,000 free messaging credits here with code Olivia15:

You’ll also have a chance to meet Thatch Sammet, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Laylo and get direct insights on how to leverage the platform at Miami Music Nexus!

Miami Music Week can transform your dance music career, but only if you arrive with a proven networking strategy. Olivia Mancuso delivers a solo masterclass on navigating the chaos, breaking down her "FBI approach" to intelligence gathering, identifying real decision-makers, and naturally bypassing gatekeepers before you even walk through the door.

Olivia also reveals how to craft the perfect 30-second elevator pitch without sounding like a walking EPK, and lays out a clear 90-day follow-up plan to turn the connections you make into real opportunities, whether that's getting tracks signed, securing bookings, or building relationships that actually last.

Subscribe for more real strategies, and join us at Miami Music Nexus on March 26th to put it all into practice!

👉 Want personalized guidance on your music career? Book a one-on-one consultation with Olivia on GreenRoom where you can get tailored advice on branding, business strategy, and sustainable career growth.
👉 Instagram: @oliviamancuso__
👉 Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Making a 10-Year Hit (feat. Valentino Khan ) | EF EP 140

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0600

The music industry's trend cycle is moving faster than ever, but surviving for over a decade requires more than just bowing to the algorithm.

Host Olivia Mancuso sits down with iconic DJ and producer Valentino Khan (@ValentinoKhan) to dissect his unique journey from making hip-hop beats on basic software to dominating the dance music scene with decade-defining hits like "Deep Down Low."

They dive deep into the reality of modern music consumption, discussing how bringing a hip-hop perspective into dance music helps simplify your production and why strong vocals are often the secret to a timeless track.

You’ll learn critical insights on navigating the "TikTok-ification" of the industry, what it really takes to perform for massive crowds at WWE's WrestleMania, and why investing your time into high-quality music videos and original skits beats getting lost in a sea of short-form content.

This episode is a masterclass on career longevity, proving that relentless adaptability and making art you genuinely think is cool is far more valuable than just chasing viral moments.

Want personalized guidance on your music career? Book a one-on-one consultation with Olivia on GreenRoom where you can get tailored advice on branding, business strategy, and sustainable career growth:
👉 Instagram: @oliviamancuso__
👉 Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

12 Years to Go Viral (feat. OKAYVAL) | EF EP 139

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0600

Viral fame looks like overnight success, but building a sustainable music career often takes a decade of grinding behind the scenes.

Host Olivia Mancuso sits down with tech house artist OKAYVAL ( @OKAYVAL ) to dissect her journey from making beats in 2013 to dominating charts with viral hits like "Techno" and "Designer."

They dive deep into the reality of modern music production, discussing how to evolve your sound design and mix engineer skills across genres like House and Big Room to finally find your unique signature.

You’ll learn critical insights on the self-release vs. record label debate, producer tips for avoiding social media burnout, and how to navigate music industry marketing without losing your creativity.

This episode is a masterclass on producer mindset, proving that staying humble and building genuine community is more valuable than just chasing algorithm trends or collecting plugins.

Ready to turn Miami Music Week into more than just parties?

Singles Are Holding DJs Back (feat. ALLEYCVT) | EF EP 138

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0600

Creating a cohesive body of work is the ultimate challenge for rising artists. We explore the pressure of music production while balancing a relentless release schedule and touring.

Host Olivia Mancuso sits down with bass music powerhouse ALLEYCVT to discuss her journey from professional songwriting to becoming a headlining EDM producer.

We dive into technical sound design, the complexity of mixdowns, and the workflow required to bridge melody writing with professional electronic music production in the studio.

Learn how authenticity drives social media growth and why investing in a tour production team is vital for elevating your live DJing experience.

Beyond studio gear, we discuss the producer mindset, navigating the music industry, and the importance of fostering a tight-knit community within the bass scene.

Subscribe for more exclusive interviews and expert producer tips to level up your career!

👉 Want personalized guidance on your music career? Book a one-on-one consultation with Olivia on GreenRoom where you can get tailored advice on branding, business strategy, and sustainable career growth.
👉 Instagram: @oliviamancuso__
👉 Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Why Avello Stopped Teasing His Music | EF EP 137

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0600

Stop dreaming about the mainstage and start building your music career today. Discover how a bedroom producer went from downloading an Ableton Live trial to performing with Illenium at Lost Lands.

Host Olivia Mancuso sits down with EDM artist Avello to decode his rapid ascent in the electronic music industry. Learn how he turned a basic studio setup into a touring reality through sheer focus.

Master modern music marketing with Avello’s "Trust and Dopamine" content strategy. We break down why post-release promotion beats pre-release teasing and how to effectively cut through the noise on social media.

Explore professional music production workflows, from mastering VST plugins like Serum to overcoming the learning curve of DAWs. Get essential producer tips on navigating label deals and refining your DJing skills.

Whether you are focused on sound design or business strategy, this episode offers vital career advice. Shift your mindset from fear to "best case scenario" visualization to finally unlock your true potential.

👉 Instagram: @oliviamancuso__

👉 Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

The Financial Mistake That Ends More Music Careers Than Bad Music | EF EP 136

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0600

You're finally making money from music. Shows are coming in. Maybe you just got your first $10K, $50K, or $100K check. This is the moment every artist works toward—and the moment where most careers start falling apart.

The music industry doesn't teach you what to do when the money actually arrives. There's no handbook for navigating profit vs. expenses, budgeting for inconsistent income, or knowing when you actually need professional financial help. By the time most artists realize they're in trouble, they've already made costly mistakes that set them back years.

Jasmine Kwok has seen it from every angle. From artist relations to booking during the Avicii era, to banking, and now running ICONAC as a business manager for top DJs—she knows exactly where artists go wrong and how to fix it.

This isn't just about managing money. It's about understanding the difference between a business and gambling, building the right team at the right time, and recognizing that financial literacy isn't optional if you want longevity in this industry.

Key Takeaways:

- The critical difference between a business manager, CPA, and financial advisor (and when you need each one)

- Why most artists wait until there's a financial emergency to get help—and how much that costs them

- The invisible infrastructure behind every successful artist that fans never see

- What to actually do with your first big paycheck (hint: it's not buying a Rolex)

- The "need vs. want" test that stops impulse purchases in their tracks

- Red and green flags when interviewing business managers

- Why communication matters more than technical expertise

- How lifestyle creep kills more careers than bad music

Whether you're just starting to make money from music or you're already earning six figures, this conversation will change how you think about building sustainable wealth in the music industry.

Connect with Olivia on Instagram

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Sam Divine on Sobriety & Starting Over | EF EP 135

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0600

When success starts destroying you, do you walk away or do you rebuild on your own terms?

Sam Divine spent 25 years grinding her way to the top—from handing out flyers on Ibiza streets to becoming the Queen of Defected. But the journey nearly broke her. Depression, addiction, relentless touring, and the loss of her mother pushed her to a breaking point where the music that once saved her started hurting her.

In January 2025, she checked herself into rehab. Not just for the drugs and alcohol, but for exhaustion. For being a workaholic who couldn't remember the last time she just breathed. What she found there changed everything.

If you've ever felt like giving up, like the industry is too much, like you're losing yourself in the chaos—this conversation is for you. Because on the other side of rock bottom, Sam found something unexpected: a new era, a new label (555), and a profound new energy that's redefining what success means.

Key Takeaways:

Why being a workaholic is just as dangerous as being an alcoholic
How Sam went from hating her first sober gig to thriving in sobriety
The real cost of 25 years on the road and how burnout compounds over time
How rehab unlocked her creativity and led to writing "Scars" about addiction and faith
What it means to rebuild your career when you can't even listen to music anymore
The art of the 5-hour set and why going back to grassroots venues matters
How losing her mother became the catalyst for finding herself
Why the industry needs more female producers, not just more female DJs
How to maintain your standards while the industry evolves around you

Sam's journey proves that hitting rock bottom doesn't mean it's over—it means you finally have solid ground to rebuild from.

Want personalized guidance on building a sustainable career in dance music? Book a consulting call with me on GreenRoom and let's map out your next move.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

It's a Burden, But What Does It Outweigh? Will Clarke on the Artist's Trade-Off | EF EP 134

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0600

Will Clarke posted that he was retiring. For 48 hours before revealing it was a remix album announcement, he experienced something unexpected: complete freedom. "I woke up the next day after retiring and was like, my god, this is so free."

That moment revealed a truth most artists won't admit - this career is both a calling and a cage. Will's been doing this since he was nine years old, DJing longer than he hasn't, and sometimes the only way to remember why you started is to imagine walking away.

Key Takeaways:

- Why the artist career is gambling - and what that really means
- The truth about sacrifice: how to know if what you're giving up is worth it
- Why playing more bad gigs than good gigs is the only path forward
- The windscreen vs. rearview mirror: why regrets are valid but what's ahead matters more
- Why dating outside the industry might save your sanity
- The real question: would you still make music if no one was listening?

If you're struggling with whether this career is worth the sacrifice, this conversation will give you the framework to decide.

Need personalized guidance on building your career and protecting your mental health in this industry? Book a consultation with me on GreenRoom. and let's create a strategy that works for your life.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

The Hidden Costs of Starting a Label with Charles D | EF EP 133

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0600

Think running a label is just passion and good taste? Charles D is learning the hard way what it actually costs to build something from scratch.

With releases on Drumcode and Pryda Presents, Charles has earned his stripes in techno. But now that he's launched KONKRTE, he's pulling back the curtain on what nobody talks about: the $2,500 per release, the £1,000 promo campaigns, and why most artists have no idea what they're signing up for.

We get into his bootcamp tour with Eric Prydz (9 shows in 12 days, every set different), the imposter syndrome that comes from calling yourself an artist when you grew up in an immigrant household, and the difference between being a producer who makes things sound good versus being an artist who has something to say.

Key Takeaways:

• The actual breakdown of what it costs to release music on your own label

• Why promo companies are eating most of your budget (and why you need them)

• The difference between producers and artists - and why most never make the shift

• Why imposter syndrome doesn't go away even after you've "made it"

• The economics of running a label without burning your artists

Need help building your artist brand or navigating the business side of dance music? Book a call with me on GreenRoom for personalized strategies that actually work: https://greenroomnetwork.com/creator/OliviaMancuso

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Map Out Your DJ Career in 2026 Using This Framework | EF EP 132

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0600

New year, same you? Good. Because I'm not here to tell you to hustle harder or add seventeen new habits to your routine. The artists crushing it right now aren't doing MORE than you - they're doing DIFFERENT. They've figured out how to stop being a full-time employee in their own career and start being the CEO.

In this episode, I'm breaking down the one framework that separates DJs who plateau at year three from the ones who build sustainable, growing careers: Working ON your career versus working IN your career. And by the end, you'll have a four-week action plan to map out your entire 2026 strategy.

Key Takeaways:

• The difference between working IN (day-to-day tasks) vs ON (strategic planning) your career
• Why most DJs spend 95% of their time on the wrong things and plateau as a result
• How I built Chicago Music Nexus by spending 6 months exclusively working ON the business
• Why some gigs are strategic moves and others are just survival mode
• The 5 key areas where you need to work ON: strategic planning, content & releases, marketing assets, relationship building, and career development
• The Weekly CEO Hour: How to implement strategic thinking without adding more work
• The post-performance analysis framework (featuring insights from Rituals founder Rami Dabura)
• Your 4-week action plan to completely map out Q1 and set yourself up for success

Why This Matters: You cannot build momentum if you're constantly in the weeds responding to DMs, tweaking tracks that are already done, and staying busy without actually growing. Strategic thinking is what separates successful artists from everyone else - and it's the one thing most DJs completely skip.

Want help building your 2026 strategy? Book a 1-on-1 artist development call with me on GreenRoom where we'll map out exactly what you need to focus on to reach your goals.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

No One Is Teaching Industry Etiquette (This Competition Is Changing That) | EF EP 131

Olivia Mancuso — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Think learning to DJ means mastering your equipment? You're missing the entire point.

Your Shot just wrapped their first-ever US competition after 15 years of success in Australia, and what I witnessed at the LA finals completely shifted my perspective. Hundreds of people across LA and New York signed up for six weeks of free DJ training - most had never touched a deck. The LA finals drew 4,000 people (the largest crowd Catch One has ever hosted), and NYC brought 3,600 across two days.

Nobody was competing against each other. Complete strangers were hyping each other up like lifelong friends. No one was on their phones unless they were recording their friends perform. Pure community, pure support.

The LA winner was Ashley Wilkins (@jellybean.dj), a 29-year-old wellness consultant from Santa Clarita. NYC's champion was Jade Letlow (@punkybutter), a 34-year-old Senior Claims Examiner from Brooklyn. These aren't industry insiders - they're regular people who committed six weeks to betting on themselves.

In this conversation, Rashna Krishnan explains why Your Shot teaches the soft skills and industry etiquette that no one else does. How to approach promoters correctly. Why showing up for your scene matters more than your mixing ability. The difference between networking and asking for gigs. And why putting yourself in uncomfortable situations is the fastest way to grow.

Key Takeaways:

• Your DJ career starts on the dance floor, not behind the decks
• Industry etiquette and soft skills matter more than technical ability
• Show up for your scene before expecting your scene to show up for you
• The right way to approach venues, promoters, and other DJs
• Why building genuine community beats competition every time
• How six weeks of pressure with a deadline creates transformation
• Creating your own opportunities when they're not presenting themselves

Registration for Your Shot 2026 is now open. Even if you never do the competition, the principles in this conversation will change how you approach your career.

Follow Your Shot: @yourshot_usa

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

'I Turn Down More Gigs Than I Accept': The ANATTA Approach | EF EP 130

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 08:25:00 -0600

Most artists think saying yes to every opportunity is how you build a career. ANATTA proves the opposite is true.

Since our last conversation, ANATTA has mastered one of the hardest skills in this industry - strategic rejection. He turns down more bookings than he accepts, including clubs he's been dying to play and gigs that could pay six months of rent. This isn't about being difficult or playing hard to get. It's about understanding that every yes to the wrong opportunity blocks you from the right one.

In this conversation, ANATTA breaks down his approach to selective booking, reveals his genius content creation hack that involves ditching your phone entirely, and explains how fashion and visual identity play into building a recognizable brand in dance music.

Key Takeaways:

→ The camcorder hack for creating better tour content without distractions
→ How to know when to turn down bookings
→ Why planning content while traveling beats scrambling for posts later
→ The real reason top artists say no more than they say yes
→ How fashion choices impact your brand identity as a producer

If you're struggling with FOMO around opportunities or don't know which bookings to take, this episode will shift your entire approach to career strategy.

Want personalized guidance on building your brand and making strategic career decisions? Schedule a one-on-one session with me on GreenRoom where we can dive deep into your specific goals and create an action plan.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Should You Adapt to Trends? Ferreck Dawn's 20-Year Answer | EF EP 129

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0600

The world is at 134 BPM right now. Your sound sits at 125. Do you adapt or wait for the trend to pass? This is the choice every producer faces, and Dutch house legend Ferreck Dawn has navigated it for over two decades.

Fresh from Amsterdam Dance Event, Ferreck breaks down how he's built a career that's lasted through multiple industry shifts, sound evolutions, and market changes. From his signature "clock" element that's hidden in every track to balancing a touring career with family life, this conversation reveals what it actually takes to build longevity in dance music.

Key Takeaways:

• How to distinguish between creative evolution and chasing trends
• Why consistency and discipline matter more than viral moments
• The power of having a signature sound (even if it's subtle)
• Navigating the pressure to speed up your BPM when the market shifts
• Why the work never stops - no matter what level you reach
• How touring impacts family life and what sacrifices look like
• The importance of having your own sound versus following what's popular

The industry will keep changing whether you're ready or not. But artists who last are the ones who know when to adapt and when to hold their ground.

Want personalized guidance on navigating your own career decisions? Book a strategy session with me on GreenRoom to gain clarity on your next steps and build a career development plan tailored to your goals. Chat with me on GreenRoom.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

The Real Timeline to Quitting Your Day Job as a DJ with Malone | EF EP 129

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Most artists agonize over when to quit their day job. Malóne spent 9 years building his career strategically until the timing was finally right. After nearly a decade of playing Miami clubs, growing his WHYNOTUS label, and building the right relationships, quitting his corporate job before Miami Music Week wasn't a risk - it was the natural next step.

This conversation reveals the real timeline of building a sustainable music career. From playing for $200 as the "promoter DJ" to touring Europe all summer, Malóne's journey shows why patience and strategic thinking beat impulsive leaps every time.

Key Takeaways:

How to know when the timing is actually right to go full-time
Why years of grinding creates sustainable success
The hidden truth about "dream labels" vs. labels that actually support artists
How to build a label that puts artists first while staying profitable
The real financial considerations when you have a family depending on you
Why some of the best opportunities come from labels you never considered

Ready to build your own sustainable music career? Book a strategy call with me on GreenRoom for personalized guidance on timing your transition, building your brand, and creating multiple revenue streams in dance music.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Why Desperate Artists Fail (And Grateful Ones Succeed) | EF EP 127

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Most artists think gratitude is just feel-good fluff. But what if I told you it's actually one of the most powerful business strategies you can use to transform your career?

In this deeply personal episode, I'm sharing the exact gratitude practice that took me from making $30,000 a year in a job I hated to building multiple businesses in the music industry. This isn't toxic positivity or woo-woo manifestation - this is strategic psychology that changes how you show up, make decisions, and attract opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

• The brutal rejection that forced me to bet everything on myself
• Why operating from gratitude beats desperation every time
• The psychology behind why your brain can't tell the difference between real and imagined success
• How to use gratitude strategically (not just "be thankful for what you have")
• The difference between genuine gratitude and toxic positivity
• My exact morning practice that rewired my entire career trajectory
• Why grateful artists make better business decisions and attract better opportunities
• How to maintain gratitude during setbacks (like when my studio flooded)
• The strategic gratitude framework you can start using today

The Bottom Line: When you operate from genuine appreciation instead of desperation, you become magnetic to the people and opportunities that can transform your career. Your dreams aren't just possible - they're inevitable when you align your energy with them.

Stop chasing success from a place of lack. Start attracting it from a place of gratitude.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

How to Turn Your Other Skills into Career Gold with Rebūke | EF EP 126

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Most artists compartmentalize their lives - music over here, other interests over there. Rebūke shows how to fold your entire self into your music career. The same kid who got pulled out of geography class to fix teachers' computers now creates stunning 3D visuals that have transformed his live shows and opened entirely new revenue streams.

While other artists outsource their visual content, Rebūke taught himself Cinema 4D, Unreal Engine, and AI visual generation. His shows now feature production value that looks like a massive team but runs with just him and his VJ, sometimes creating content on planes between gigs.

Key Takeaways:

• Why learning adjacent skills can become your biggest competitive advantage
• How to identify which of your existing talents could enhance your music career
• The strategic decision between outsourcing vs. learning new skills yourself
• How visual content has expanded his career beyond traditional DJ bookings
• Why being the "computer nerd" in school set him up for success in modern music
• The mindset shift from "I just make music" to "I create experiences"
• How childhood interests can become professional superpowers
• Why artists who embrace technology early gain massive advantages

Stop limiting yourself to just music production. Your "other" skills might be exactly what sets you apart in a crowded industry. Hit play to learn how to identify and leverage the talents you already have.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

How Jamie Jones Mastered the Long Game | EF Ep 125

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Most DJs burn out, fade away, or get replaced by the next big thing within five years. Jamie Jones has been dominating dance music for over two decades. So what's his secret to mastering the long game?

In this rare, in-depth conversation, we dive into the strategic decisions and mindset shifts that have kept Jamie relevant while countless others have disappeared. From his isolated beginnings in rural Wales to building Paradise into a global phenomenon, this is the blueprint for sustainable success in dance music.

Key Takeaways:

• The mindset shift that transformed his relationship with performing and creativity
• The strategic psychology behind moving Paradise from DC-10 to Amnesia
• Why he evolved from being mentored to becoming the mentor everyone credits
• How his 8-year sobriety journey transformed his relationship with performing and creativity
• How he restructured his entire life around family without sacrificing career momentum
• The counterintuitive approach to scaling a brand globally while keeping its soul intact

This isn't just another "how I made it" story. This is a masterclass in longevity from someone who's watched entire generations of DJs come and go while he continues to thrive. If you want to build something that lasts in this industry, this conversation is essential.

REMINDER: You have ONE WEEK LEFT to secure your Chicago Music Nexus pass! This is the industry event of the year - don't miss your chance to connect with the people shaping dance music's future. Get tickets now before they're gone.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

"Not Everyone Deserves Access": The Controversial Strategy Behind Chicago's Biggest Nightlife Success | EF EP 124

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Most people think inclusivity is the key to building a successful venue or event. Dom Brown built his empire doing the exact opposite - and he's not apologetic about it.

As the founder of Porn & Chicken (Chicago's most legendary weekly party), owner of Never Have I Ever bar, and touring manager for Green Velvet and Shermanology, Dom has one controversial principle: not everyone deserves access to everything.

While other promoters were chasing numbers, Dom was implementing no-phone policies in 2010 and hand-selecting who could enter his parties. The result? A cultural phenomenon that grew from 150 to 5,000 people weekly and is still talked about fifteen years later.

Key Takeaways:

• Why saying "no" at the door created safer spaces and legendary experiences
• How the no-phone policy became Dom's secret weapon (years before it was trendy)
• The psychology behind why exclusivity creates more demand than inclusion
• The difference between being seen vs. creating genuine experiences
• Why artists need to give authentically to the community before expecting anything back
• How door hosts became the "ethos" of successful parties
• Why themed events require every element to serve the overall experience

The Controversial Truth: Dom openly admits "I am discriminating" - and explains why this approach built multiple successful businesses while creating genuinely safe spaces for marginalized communities.

Actionable Strategy: Learn why your standards aren't gatekeeping - they're brand building. Discover how scarcity creates value and why the most powerful word in your vocabulary might be "no."

Stop chasing everyone and start curating intentionally. Hit play to learn how exclusivity became Dom's path to building a legendary career in dance music.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Your Most Valuable Fans Aren't Who You Think They Are | EF EP 123

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Think you know who your most valuable fans are? This conversation with Ritesh Patel, co-founder of Ticket Fairy, will completely flip your understanding of fan value and event data.

While most artists focus on big spenders and VIP customers, Ritesh has discovered through processing over $300 million in ticket sales that your most valuable fans are actually the ones who spend the LEAST money. Why? Because they're the early adopters buying early bird tickets and bringing their friends along.

From throwing underground events at a loss for a decade to building the "Salesforce for live entertainment," Ritesh breaks down how data intelligence can transform any artist's career - whether you're throwing 30-person pop-ups or planning festival expansions.

Key Takeaways:

• Why your early bird buyers are more valuable than big spenders (and how to identify them)
• The 3 essential data points every artist must track from their first 30-person event
• What $300M in global ticket sales reveals about fan behavior and market opportunities
• The difference between vanity metrics and revenue-driving data
• How to turn casual fans into people who travel to your shows using data insights
• Why most artists completely misunderstand what their audience actually wants

Stop guessing and start knowing. Your fans are giving you all the data you need to build a sustainable career - you just need to know how to read it.

Looking for more insights on your artist journey? Join us November 22nd at The Joinery for industry education, networking, and career-defining connections. We're covering the same essential topics as the major conferences - monetization, brand building, industry evolution - plus professional headshots, pitch consultations, and premium food and drinks. We sold out last year, so don't wait. Get tickets at chicagomusicnexus.com

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

$9K Debt to $200K Months: Marketing Events When Nobody Knows You | EF EP 122

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Think you need a big budget and industry connections to throw successful events? Kyle Cassico proves otherwise. He went from $9,000 in credit card debt to building a thriving experiential company, and his guerrilla marketing tactics work whether you're throwing your own events or trying to get booked.

Kyle breaks down exactly how to create content that moves people from scrolling to showing up, how to build credibility when nobody knows who you are, and why your biggest limitation might not be money - it might be mindset.

Key Takeaways:

• How to market events with zero budget and no industry credibility
• Content strategies that actually convert followers into ticket buyers
• Why authenticity beats polish when building your brand
• The psychology behind getting people to take action on your events
• How to leverage relationships when you're starting from nothing
• Why feeling "average" might mean you just haven't found your alignment yet
• Practical steps for building buzz around your shows and career

Whether you're a DJ trying to get booked, a producer planning your first event, or an artist wondering how to build a following from scratch, Kyle's blueprint shows you exactly how it's done.

Stop waiting for permission and start creating the opportunities you want to see.

Can't make it to ADE? Chicago Music Nexus is your answer. Join us November 22nd at The Joinery for industry education, networking, and career-defining connections. We're covering the same essential topics as the major conferences - monetization, brand building, industry evolution - plus professional headshots, pitch consultations, and premium food and drinks. We sold out last year, so don't wait. Get tickets at chicagomusicnexus.com

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

"Going Viral Changed Everything": Lawrence James on Breaking Out of Your Local Scene | EF EP 121

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Think you need millions of followers to break out of your local DJ scene? Lawrence James from Crossfader proves that one viral video can change everything - but only if you know what to do next.

Lawrence went from playing the same local clubs seven nights a week to touring internationally, all because he decided to film one garage routine with a cheap camera. That video hit 80,000 views overnight and opened doors he never imagined. But here's the twist - the real success came when he pivoted from touring to education, working at Crossfader, and helping thousands of DJs worldwide.

Key Takeaways:

• Why one viral moment can unlock opportunities beyond your local market
• The platforms and strategies actually moving the needle for DJs in 2025
• Why networking and speaking to people still outperforms social media algorithms
• Why being super niche wins over trying to appeal to everyone
• How to document your journey from day one (even the embarrassing parts)
• Why entering competitions and putting yourself out there always pays off

Lawrence's biggest lesson? Stop waiting for permission and start putting yourself out there. Whether it's entering DJ contests, networking at events, or just filming that routine you've been perfecting -- you never know which door will open next.

Can't make it to ADE? Chicago Music Nexus is your answer. Join us November 22nd at The Joinery for industry education, networking, and career-defining connections. We're covering the same essential topics as the major conferences - monetization, brand building, industry evolution - plus professional headshots, pitch consultations, and premium food and drinks. We sold out last year, so don't wait. Get tickets at chicagomusicnexus.com

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Stop Being Broke: The Financial Wake-Up Call Every DJ Needs | EF EP 120

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Think you need to wait until you're making six figures to start planning your financial future? Think again. DJ and financial advisor Danner destroys every excuse artists make about money management and reveals why wedding DJs often out-earn nightclub residents by thousands.

This isn't your typical "save money" advice - this is real talk from someone who's built two successful careers simultaneously. From knowing when it's safe to quit your day job to why DJ snobbery is costing you serious cash, Danner breaks down the financial strategies that separate struggling artists from those building real wealth.

Key Takeaways:

The 6-month survival test before going full-time
Why wedding DJs can earn $1500/night while club DJs make $300
How to diversify your DJ income beyond nightclubs
The biggest financial mistakes artists make early in their careers
Alternative DJ opportunities beyond nightclubs (gyms, spin classes, corporate events)

Ready to level up your career AND your finances? Meet Danner in person at Chicago Music Nexus on November 22nd at The Joinery - he's both our sponsor and speaking on our financial planning panel. Want to network before the main event? Join us at the pre-party where tickets are moving fast and you don't need a CMN ticket to attend (but we highly encourage both for the full experience).

All details: chicagomusicnexus.com

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

The Secret to Packed Shows (Hint: It's Not Big Names) | EF EP 119

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 02 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Why do some artists pack rooms while others play to empty floors? It's not about follower count, label releases, or who you know. BINGEWATCH from Blind Tiger cracked the code - he built a brand so trusted that people show up before they even know who's playing.

In this conversation, we break down how he created LA's most reliable underground experience and what every artist can learn about building genuine fan loyalty. Whether you're playing other people's shows or creating your own opportunities, this is about becoming the artist people seek out, not just stumble upon.

Key Takeaways:

• Why your personal brand matters more than the venues you play or labels you're on
• How to build trust with your audience so they show up for YOU, not just the lineup
• The psychology behind creating anticipation and genuine excitement around your music
• Why most artists fail because they have no consistent identity or standards
• The difference between building community and just collecting followers
• Why Instagram metrics and streaming numbers don't guarantee packed shows
• How to create experiences people can't get anywhere else
• The art of setting standards that make people respect your brand
• Why consistency in quality beats viral moments every time

The Link - Chicago Music Nexus Pre-Party is LIVE!

Join us on November 21st, 10 PM - 2 AM at Loft 22 for the official CMN pre-party. Network with fellow attendees, panelists, and Chicago's music community before the main event.

Tickets: fourvenues.com/chicago-music-nexus-the-link
CMN Main Event: chicagomusicnexus.com

Stop being forgettable. Start being the artist people actively seek out.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

How to Turn Your Culture Into Your Competitive Advantage w/Henry Fong | EF EP 118

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Think you need to post every day to stay relevant? Henry Fong went from viral post after viral post to completely rethinking his social media strategy - and discovered something way more powerful than chasing algorithms.

While most artists are burning out trying to keep up with content demands, Henry created his own world. His Night Market concept brings Asian street food culture to electronic music, featuring his Filipino family cooking for 300 people and Vietnamese pho vendors serving soup at club events. The result? Sold-out shows and deeper fan connections than any viral post ever created.

Key Takeaways:

• Why community building beats content creation in oversaturated markets
• How to turn your cultural background into your unique competitive advantage
• The business lessons learned from coordinating a large-scale event
• Why going above and beyond with experiences creates lasting fan loyalty
• How to evolve your sound and strategy when the industry shifts around you
• The psychology behind creating something fans can't get anywhere else
• Why learning every part of your business before outsourcing is crucial
• How to maintain momentum when social media algorithms change
• The difference between chasing trends and building your own lane
• Why phone calls still matter more than DMs in building real relationships

Stop fighting for attention in crowded spaces and start creating experiences only you can deliver. Henry's story proves that the artists building their own worlds are the ones who'll survive the next industry shift.

THE LINK - Chicago Music Nexus Pre-Party is LIVE!

Join us on November 21st, 10 PM - 2 AM at Loft 22 for the official CMN pre-party. Network with fellow attendees, panelists, and Chicago's music community before the main event.

DJ CONTEST: Submit your 20-30 minute mix by October 6th for a chance to win the opening slot, free CMN 2026 ticket, and more! Send mix + bio + tracklist to hello@chicagomusicnexus.com

Tickets: fourvenues.com/chicago-music-nexus-the-link
CMN Main Event: chicagomusicnexus.com

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Stop Copying DJs: Layton Giordani & Parker Cohen on Creating Your Own Lane | EF EP 117

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Think you need to follow someone else's blueprint to make it in dance music? This conversation with Layton Giordani and Parker Cohen, co-founder of Metatone, will completely change how you think about building a lasting career.

Fresh off his performance at ARC Music Festival, Layton rarely gives interviews - but he opened up about his journey from New York warehouse parties to global recognition. Alongside Parker Cohen, they reveal why the artists everyone wants to work with share one crucial trait: authenticity.

While most artists are trying to be the next John Summit or copy viral TikTok trends, Metatone has built their reputation by developing artists who stay true to themselves. Their approach? Treat artists like additional managers on their own projects and focus on entrepreneurial mindsets over follower counts.

Key Takeaways:

• How Output NYC's no-phone policy created the perfect training ground for real DJing skills

• The real reason behind launching MADMINDS label (hint: it's not just about release schedules)

• Why Parker looks for artists who can be "another manager on the project"

• How social media is a tool, not everything - and why authenticity beats algorithm chasing

• The psychology behind why people can "sniff out" fake artists immediately

• Why building your own path matters more than copying someone else's success

• How the European vs. American underground scenes shaped Layton's evolution

• The importance of learning to "warm up rooms" and create club chemistry

• Why timing and natural relationships lead to the best career opportunities

The Bottom Line: Stop trying to be the next someone else. The most successful artists in dance music today got there by being authentically themselves and treating their career like a business. Your path is your own - embrace it.

THE LINK - Chicago Music Nexus Pre-Party is LIVE!

Join us on November 21st, 10 PM - 2 AM at Loft 22 for the official CMN pre-party. Network with fellow attendees, panelists, and Chicago's music community before the main event.

DJ CONTEST: Submit your 20-30 minute mix by October 6th for a chance to win the opening slot, free CMN 2026 ticket, and more! Send mix + bio + tracklist to hello@chicagomusicnexus.com

Tickets: fourvenues.com/chicago-music-nexus-the-link
CMN Main Event: chicagomusicnexus.com

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

'I Don't Care About Your Follower Count': Slugg's Music-First Philosophy | EF EP 116

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 08:06:08 -0500

Most labels won't sign you without 10,000 followers. Slugg's Get Busy label will sign an artist with 20 followers if they make better music than someone with 20,000. This conversation will completely change how you think about building a music career in the social media age.

While the industry obsesses over vanity metrics, Slugg has built his reputation on a simple philosophy: good music makes people move, period. From his early days in Orlando to playing Paradise with Jamie Jones in Ibiza, his journey proves that staying true to your sound - even when others don't understand it - eventually pays off.

Key Takeaways:

• Why music quality should always trump social media metrics when signing artists
• The entrepreneurial mindset every modern DJ needs: labels, events, and multiple revenue streams
• Why patience and learning from mistakes are essential for long-term success
• How to "play the room" and adapt your sets while staying true to your sound
• Building genuine fan relationships that create superfans who travel across the country
• The importance of surrounding yourself with people who keep you grounded

Stop chasing metrics and start chasing musical excellence. Hit play now to learn how authenticity built Slugg's career from the ground up.

THE LINK - Chicago Music Nexus Pre-Party is LIVE!

Join us on November 21st, 10 PM - 2 AM at Loft 22 for the official CMN pre-party. Network with fellow attendees, panelists, and Chicago's music community before the main event.

DJ CONTEST: Submit your 20-30 minute mix by October 6th for a chance to win the opening slot, free CMN 2026 ticket, and more! Send mix + bio + tracklist to hello@chicagomusicnexus.com

Tickets: fourvenues.com/chicago-music-nexus-the-link
CMN Main Event: chicagomusicnexus.com

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

"I ALMOST QUIT DJING": Bijou's Brutal Career Reset | EF EP 115

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Most artists think talent is enough. Bijou proves that discipline is what separates the successful from the struggling. After 13 years of building his career around G-House, he hit a wall - he hated his music, hated touring, and wanted to quit everything.

Instead of giving up, he rebuilt his entire approach to artistry. We're talking 13 years of sobriety, 6 AM wake-ups even while touring, cold plunges, meditation, and meal prep routines that most people think are impossible for a DJ lifestyle.

The result? Fisher is now playing his tracks in Ibiza, he's signed to Catch & Release, and his Mind Eraser tour is selling out venues across the country. This isn't just a comeback story - it's a blueprint for what happens when you treat your body and mind as seriously as your music.

Key Takeaways:

• Why getting comfortable in your career is the most dangerous place to be

• How 13 years of sobriety unlocked his true creative potential

• The morning routine that gives him 3 hours of distraction-free time daily

• Why he switched from G-House after years of success and how he navigated the transition

• The psychology behind why fans stick with artists through genre changes

• How meal prep and fitness routines directly impact studio productivity

• The mindset shift that turned career crisis into creative breakthrough

• How building genuine fan connections creates loyalty beyond any single sound

• Why discipline, not talent, determines long-term success in music

Stop making excuses about your schedule. If a touring DJ can wake up at 6 AM, meal prep, and maintain strict routines while traveling the world, you can build better habits too. Hit play now to learn how discipline became Bijou's secret weapon.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

The Uncomfortable Truth About Who's Really Winning in House Music | EF EP 113

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Most artists won't say this out loud, but DJ Lady D will: the house music scene has a problem, and it's not what you think. Chicago's House Music Queen is calling out the uncomfortable truth about who's really getting rewarded in dance music - and it's not always the people who deserve it.

While the world's best DJs created the culture in Chicago, only a handful are seeing the financial success that matches their influence. Lady D breaks down why focusing on the past might be holding the scene back, and what artists need to do differently to build sustainable careers.

This isn't just about Chicago house music - it's about every artist who's wondered why talent doesn't always equal success, and what you can actually control in an industry that loves to celebrate history while the future slips away.

Key Takeaways:

• The controversial truth about focusing on history vs. building profitable careers
• How to navigate the cyclical nature of the music industry without burning out
• Why "moderation is sexy" and could save your career and your life
• Why giving back to your community isn't just good karma - it's good business
• How to balance creative passion with financial sustainability

The industry rewards who it wants to reward, but your response to that reality is what defines your career. Hit play now to hear the truth most people won't tell you.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

How to Build Multiple Revenue Streams as an Artist w/Night Tales | EF EP 113

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Think you need to stay in one lane to build a successful music career? Night Tales just proved that wrong by creating CLR (Colour, Love, Rhythm) - a groundbreaking event series that's taking them around the country.

CLR is a hybrid experience that partners with local bands, dancers, and cultural performers in each city, creating shows that reflect each community's unique identity. From working with a 10-piece marching band and Outkast horn players in Atlanta to collaborating with indigenous Navajo tribes in Utah, each show is completely different while maintaining the core Night Tales DNA.

Key Takeaways:

• Why owning your IP is crucial for long-term career sustainability
• How to expand your brand without confusing your core fanbase
• The importance of building community-focused experiences over traditional DJ sets
• How to handle inevitable setbacks when building something new
• How to balance multiple creative projects under one artist umbrella
• Why building your own infrastructure gives you creative freedom

Stop limiting yourself to one revenue stream. Hit play now to learn how Night Tales built a music empire that goes far beyond the decks.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

The Industry Will Change Whether You Like It or Not: Gene Farris' Strategy | EF EP 112

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0500

The music industry will change whether you like it or not. Chicago house legend Gene Farris has watched it transform completely over three decades - from needing vinyl releases to get overseas gigs to watching sync buttons replace beatmatching skills. His survival strategy? Build your own infrastructure.

With over 500 releases on Ferris Wheel Recordings, Gene has created his own platform where he controls the quality, sound, and standards. When the industry shifts in ways you don't agree with, you have two choices: adapt completely or build your own lane where your values still matter.

Key Takeaways:

Why building your own platform is essential for long-term survival
How Chicago's house music culture shaped modern dance music standards
The controversial truth about sync buttons vs. traditional beatmatching skills
Why technical proficiency still matters in an automated world
How to maintain artistic standards while the industry evolves around you
The importance of controlling your own distribution and releases
How sobriety can unlock your true creative potential and productivity
The evolution from underground warehouse parties to global recognition
Why waiting your turn and building organically leads to lasting success
The balance between staying true to your roots and adapting to change

Want to create your own events? Get my complete 9-part DIY Pop-Up Party Guide for $25 - everything from permits to promotion, venue negotiation, content creation, and more. Get it here.

The industry keeps changing, but your standards don't have to. Hit play now to learn how to build something you can control.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

From 30 to 400 People in 12 Months: How to Build Your Own Scene | EF EP 111

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Most DJs complain about not getting booked. Sarat, a drone pilot and DJ, created his own bookings instead. In just one year, he grew his sunrise sets from 30 people to 400+ people by building the scene he wanted to be part of.

Starting with nothing but a unique perspective of Chicago from his drone footage and a love for melodic house music, Sarat created sunrise events that serve a community craving something different from traditional club experiences. His story proves that when you stop waiting for permission and start solving real problems for real people, growth happens organically.

Note: Apologies for the shorter episode format - we lost some footage due to technical issues from the flood, but the story and insights remain powerful.

Key Takeaways:

Why starting with 10 people is better than waiting for the perfect moment
How to identify gaps in your local scene and fill them yourself
Using your unique skills and perspective to create something original
The power of consistency and respect in building sustainable events
How word-of-mouth marketing outperforms paid promotion
Why authentic experiences attract the right community
Building something that serves people rather than just promotes yourself
How to evolve your concept while maintaining your core audience
The importance of contributing something beautiful to your community
Why morning events create different energy than traditional nightlife

Want to create your own events? Get my complete 9-part DIY Pop-Up Party Guide for $25 - everything from permits to promotion, venue negotiation, content creation and more. Grab it here.

Stop waiting for opportunities. Hit play now to learn how to create the scene you want to be part of.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

The $3 Million Marketing Strategy Every Artist Needs to Know | EF EP 110

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Think you need millions of followers to build a successful music career? This conversation with Alex Hilburn, Co-Founder of Surge Marketing, will completely change how you think about fan engagement and marketing.

While most artists are burning money on digital ads and chasing follower counts, Surge has generated $3 million in ticket sales by turning regular fans into active ambassadors. Their secret? Understanding that one superfan with 1,000 followers can sell $50,000 worth of tickets because they have genuine influence within their network.

Key Takeaways:

Why superfans matter more than follower counts in tough economic times
How to identify and nurture your most engaged fans into ambassadors
The psychology behind what actually motivates people to attend events
Why word-of-mouth marketing outperforms digital advertising
How to build genuine relationships instead of transactional interactions
The difference between fans and superfans (and how to create more of the latter)
Why people want to go where their friends are going
How to create authentic community around your music
The evolution from digital ads back to relationship-based marketing
Why consistency and authenticity build sustainable fan bases

Stop chasing metrics and start building relationships. Hit play now to learn how superfans could transform your music career.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

When Everyone Has a Label: The New Rules of Music Collaboration with Kyle Watson | EF EP 109

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0500

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY DEEP TROPICS.

Deep Tropics is an immersive dance experience in the heart of Music City, Nashville, where party truly meets purpose. Known as the most sustainable festival in North America, Deep Tropics is an energetic celebration of culture, community, and the planet. Catch headliners like Chris Lake, Lane 8, Subtronics, and more on August 15th and 16th. Secure tickets here: https://www.deeptropics.org/

Think starting your own label is always the right move? Kyle Watson's insights about the current industry landscape might change your perspective entirely. While everyone is rushing to launch their own platforms, few are discussing the unintended consequences this creates for collaboration, content creation, and building careers.

From running No Context with his wife, Tash, to navigating the realities of social media as an artist, Kyle reveals the challenges and opportunities facing today's music industry. His 15+ year journey offers hard-won wisdom about persistence, authenticity, and building something sustainable in an increasingly complex landscape.

Key Takeaways:

-Why the proliferation of artist-owned labels is changing collaboration dynamics
-How to navigate release decisions when multiple labels are involved
-The reality of social media pressure
-Why content creation has become as important as music creation
-How to balance artistic integrity with business and social media demands
-The reality of learning label management from scratch
-Why having a supportive partner in business can be a game-changer
-How to maintain creative authenticity while building something sustainable
-Why persistence and long-term thinking trump viral moments
-The new rules of collaboration in an oversaturated label market
-How to build genuine connections in an increasingly competitive industry

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: patreon.com/oliviamancuso

The industry has changed - make sure your strategy has too. Hit play now to understand the new dynamics shaping modern music careers.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

How to Build a Profitable Music Career by Serving Fewer People | EF EP 108

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0500

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY DEEP TROPICS.

Think you need to appeal to everyone to succeed? This conversation with John Hanna of Deep Tropics will completely change your perspective on building a sustainable music career.

While most artists chase broad appeal and try to please every possible audience, Deep Tropics has built North America's greenest festival by doing the exact opposite - doubling down on their specific values of sustainability, mindfulness, and community. Their approach proves that depth of connection trumps reach every single time.

Key Takeaways:

Why trying to appeal to everyone naturally dilutes your artistic vision
How to build deeper connections with your audience instead of casting a wider net
Why talent buyers prefer artists with clear positioning over generic crowd-pleasers
The business case for niching down rather than broadening your appeal
How to identify and communicate your unique values as an artist
Why authentic positioning creates more opportunities than mass appeal
Building a sustainable career through community-first thinking
How to stand out in an oversaturated market by being specific
The courage required to niche down and why it pays off
Creating memorable experiences that people want to be part of, not just attend

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Stop trying to be everything to everyone. Hit play now to learn why the riches really are in the niches.

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

I Spent $15K on a Studio That Got Destroyed in 2 Months | EF EP 107

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0500

My studio flooded on June 25th. Everything is damaged. However, I'm here to show you how to navigate setbacks in your career without losing your momentum.

In this deeply personal episode, I share the story of losing my dream podcast studio just two months after investing $15,000 into building it. From vintage furniture sourced across Chicago to countless hours of equipment setup - all destroyed by a malfunctioning pipe in the bathroom above.

But this isn't a sob story. It's a lesson in resilience, emotional regulation, and why the way you handle setbacks determines your success more than the setbacks themselves.

What You'll Learn:

• Why every DJ needs business insurance
• How to move through the stages of grief quickly instead of staying stuck for months
• The difference between emotional regulation and toxic positivity
• Why your support system is your most important business investment
• How to audit your surroundings when crisis hits
• The mindset shift that separates successful entrepreneurs from those who give up

Key Takeaways:

It's not what happens to you, it's how you react to it
Peaks and valleys are inevitable - flexibility beats rigidity
Tomorrow isn't promised, so start taking risks now
True entrepreneurs choose uncertainty over safety every time

Support the Show: This show is sponsored this month, but this is the first and only month the show has been sponsored. In order to reach that as a regular milestone, I need your help. If you found value in this episode, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and subscribe if you haven't already.

For personalized advice on growing your career, brand, and business, check out my artist development program at patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Why Your Ego Is the Biggest Threat to Your Music Career | EF EP 106

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0500

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY DEEP TROPICS.

Want to know what separates artists who build lasting careers from those who flame out? It's not talent, connections, or luck - it's ego management. Damon DeGraff's journey from managing music's biggest names to launching his own artistic career reveals how ego quietly sabotages more careers than any external factor.

After decades of developing artists like D'Angelo and Mark Ronson, Damon breaks down the ego traps that keep artists stuck: focusing on what other DJs are doing instead of your own work, hoarding opportunities instead of creating abundance, and protecting your position instead of expanding your influence. His philosophy challenges everything we think we know about competition and success.

Key Takeaways:

-Why focusing on other artists' success is killing your momentum
-How to shift from scarcity mindset to abundance thinking
-The vulnerability required to transition from behind-the-scenes to spotlight
-Why helping others succeed creates more opportunities for yourself
-How to compete without letting ego drive your decisions
-Why "what's for me will be for me" is a career game-changer
-How work ethic and consistency trump natural talent
-The power of putting ego aside to allow others to succeed

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

The Space Miami Formula: How to Handle Any Crowd | EF EP 105

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Want to know how to read and control any room, no matter how diverse the crowd? Ms. Mada's unique perspective as both booking operations manager and resident DJ at Space Miami offers insights that most artists never get access to.

From handling Miami's most eclectic crowds - mixing Space regulars with first-time tourists experiencing the legendary venue - to building her reputation as one of the industry's most respected selectors, Ms. Mada reveals what it really takes to move people through music. Her philosophy of immersive learning and strategic positioning proves that sometimes the best education comes from putting yourself directly in the environment you want to master.

Key Takeaways:

- How to read rooms with multiple audience types and expectations
- The psychology behind effective crowd control and energy management
- Why immersive learning beats online education every time
- Building credibility through proximity and consistent value
- Handling industry frustrations and difficult situations with grace
- The importance of understanding venue dynamics and crowd psychology
- How to balance artistic vision with crowd expectations
- Why working in the industry while building your career accelerates growth
- The art of selection: choosing tracks that move diverse audiences
- Building relationships that support long-term career development

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Stop trying to learn from your bedroom. Hit play now to discover why immersive learning could be the key to mastering your craft.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

How to Take Your Music to New Cities with Jeff Sorkowitz | EF EP 104

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Want to expand your music career beyond your home market? Jeff's strategic approach to building Short Circuit across multiple cities offers a blueprint for sustainable geographic expansion.

Jeff reveals how he identifies the right partners in each market and creates authentic events that resonate with local scenes while maintaining his brand identity. His journey from corporate lawyer to label owner proves that expansion doesn't require aggressive tactics or massive budgets - just the right strategy.

Key Takeaways:

- How to identify the right partners and promoters in new markets
- Why working with independent promoters can be more effective than major players
- The importance of aligning your expectations with realistic demand
- How to maintain your brand identity while adapting to different scenes
- Building relationships that support long-term expansion rather than one-off events
- Why being intentional about market selection prevents costly mistakes
- The power of organic relationship building over forced networking
- How to create events that feel authentic to each local scene
- Strategic timing for multi-city tours and label showcases
- Why sustainable growth beats rapid expansion every time

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://www.patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Stop limiting yourself to one market. Hit play now to learn how to strategically expand your reach across multiple cities.

CHICAGO MUSIC NEXUS PRESALE ENDS TONIGHT, 6/19, AT MIDNIGHT. SECURE YOUR PASS AT THE LOWEST PRICE POINT POSSIBLE: http://www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

From House Parties to Throwing Festivals: Josh Baker's Journey | EF EP 103

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Tired of waiting for someone to give you a chance? Josh Baker's story proves you don't need permission to start building something meaningful in music.

Starting with literally nothing - a £20 generator and field parties where people told him to "turn this shit off" - Josh created his own opportunities when no one would book him. Fast forward to today, and he's co-founded You & Me parties, created Hide and Seek Festival, and launched Syntho, his artist education platform.

This isn't about becoming a mogul overnight. It's about taking the first step when you're tired of waiting for others to validate your vision.

Key Takeaways:

Why you need initiative when no one's asking you to DJ
How Josh went from £20 field parties to successful events
The power of leverage: understanding when and how to hire help
Why starting small with generators and boomboxes leads to bigger opportunities
How to prove your worth when you can't get traditional bookings
The evolution from solo artist to team leader
Why house music wasn't mainstream 13 years ago (and what that meant for early adopters)
How multiple projects can complement and support each other
The importance of taking action rather than waiting for permission

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Stop waiting for permission. Hit play now to learn how to create your own opportunities in music.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Stop Waiting for Permission: How to Put Yourself On in Music | EF EP 102

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0500

🎫 PRESALE ALERT: Chicago Music Nexus 2025 presale tickets are now live for 2 weeks only! Last year completely sold out, so don't sleep on this. GET YOUR TICKETS HERE

Want to know what separates artists who complain about the industry from those who actually change it? This conversation between the co-founders of Chicago Music Nexus reveals the mindset and actions required to "put yourself on" and create the opportunities you wish existed.

From Sherm's journey building Sherm in the Booth into a respected platform to my own path creating Elevated Frequencies and building an artist development program, we both understood what it meant to create rather than wait.

This discussion explores how our shared frustration with the lack of industry education events led us to co-found Chicago Music Nexus, transforming our individual visions into a collective movement that's changed an entire community.

Key Takeaways:

- Why waiting for permission kills more careers than rejection
- How to identify gaps in your scene and fill them yourself
- The mindset shift from consumer to creator of opportunities
- Building something valuable even with limited resources
- Why taking initiative opens doors you didn't know existed
- How to turn frustration with the industry into fuel for change
- The compound effect of consistently showing up and adding value
- Creating community around shared vision rather than personal gain
- Why the industry rewards people who take action over those who wait
- How one event can transform an entire scene's trajectory

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Stop waiting for the industry to change. This conversation reveals how to become the catalyst for the opportunities you want to see.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Your Hometown Won't Make You Famous: How to Build Beyond Local Scenes with Hiroko | EF EP 101

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 29 May 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Think your local scene holds the key to your DJ success? This conversation with Hiroko Yamamura will change that perspective entirely. Even in a major music city like Chicago, waiting for local validation can be a career-limiting strategy.

Hiroko reveals why looking beyond your hometown - even when it's a music capital - might be the most important move you make. But this conversation goes far deeper, offering insights into the psychology of DJing, crowd management, and what it really takes to sustain a career in this demanding industry.

Key Takeaways:

-Why local scenes often overlook talent in their own backyard
-How to build a career when your hometown doesn't support you
-The strategy of representing your city while building elsewhere
-How to read and control rooms with multiple distractions
-The psychology behind effective DJ transitions and crowd management
-Why empathy is essential for DJs - understanding crowd comfort and safety
-Why international opportunities can be easier than local ones
-Balancing artistic integrity with reading what the crowd needs
-Learning from different venue types and their unique dynamics

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Stop waiting for your local scene to validate you. This conversation reveals how to build a thriving career by thinking beyond your backyard while mastering the essential skills every DJ needs.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__
Connect with Hiroko: @hiroko__music

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

The Overnight Success Story that Took 15 Years | EF Episode 100!

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 22 May 2025 07:00:00 -0500

For our milestone 100th episode, we're celebrating in our brand new Chicago studio with someone who's been part of this journey from day one - my brother, Proppa. His recent success with Warner Bros. offers the perfect case study in what it really takes to break through in music.

From years of producing remixes to finally seeing his work gain major label support, Proppa's journey embodies the persistence required in this industry. Our conversation explores the reality behind "overnight success" stories and the importance of staying true to your vision even when progress seems slow.

Key Takeaways:

The truth about how long success actually takes in music
How to maintain belief in yourself when no one else does
The mindset shifts that transform challenges into opportunities
Finding balance between day jobs and creative pursuits
Building genuine connections that survive industry challenges
The importance of documenting your journey
Why consistency matters more than overnight virality
How siblings can help each other navigate the industry

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Follow Proppa's journey: @itsproppa

Plus: Stay tuned for the announcement of our Chicago Music Nexus 2025 contest winner at the end of this episode!

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

The Artist-to-Manager Journey: Lessons from Both Sides of the Table | EF EP 99

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 15 May 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Want to know what it takes to navigate the music industry from both sides of the table? This week's conversation with Mouna Dif offers a unique perspective from someone who's journeyed from singer-songwriter to respected manager and label executive.

After experiencing firsthand how artists can be taken advantage of - from having vocals used without approval to never receiving payment - Mouna transformed these challenges into motivation to protect others. Now, after co-founding Quality Goods Records and working with artists like UZ, she shares insights on building a career with integrity in a complex industry.

Key Takeaways:

The reality of transitioning from artist to management
How multicultural backgrounds influence music industry perspectives
The challenges women face in gaining respect in the industry
Building a career through consistent value rather than shortcuts
The importance of resilience when facing rejection
How to maintain your passion through industry challenges
Finding your unique voice in a crowded landscape
The evolving landscape for artist development and support

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

This conversation offers a candid look at the realities of the music industry and how to navigate them with your dignity and passion intact.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Your Release Marketing Strategy Is Outdated: Here's What Works Now | EF EP 98

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 08 May 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Want to know why most dance music marketing fails? In this eye-opening conversation, former TikTok UK/EU music marketing lead Dan Roy Carter reveals the insider metrics, hidden paid strategies, and fundamental shifts that are reshaping how music is promoted in 2025.

From his early days working with Avicii and Tiesto to leading TikTok's global music initiatives, Dan has seen the evolution of release strategies from every angle. Now, as founder of Carter Projects and World Go Round, he's helping artists build sustainable careers through strategic marketing and community-first approaches. His candid assessment of dance music as "one of the laziest genres in the world when it comes to marketing" offers a wake-up call for artists still relying on outdated approaches.

Key Takeaways:

The death of the 6-week teaser campaign and what works instead
TikTok's hidden "follow-up publish rate" metric and how it drives the algorithm
Why most "organic" success stories actually involve paid strategies
The dangers of platform dependency and how to diversify your approach
Why email marketing remains powerful despite being overlooked
How to build direct audience relationships that survive platform shifts
The Shermanology case study: how a rejected track became their biggest hit
Practical marketing tactics that work at any level without massive budgets

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Don't forget to enter for your chance to win a pass to Chicago Music Nexus 2025!

Here's how to enter:

1. Create a 60-second video explaining your artist brand - your unique sound, target audience, value proposition, and the industry challenge you're tackling in 2025
2. Upload your submission to the Dropbox link by May 9th
3. No need for high production value - just clarity of vision and purpose

The winner will be announced during Episode 100 on May 22nd and will receive a pass to Chicago Music Nexus on November 22nd, 2025!

Follow Dan's journey: @danroycarter

Stop wasting time and money on outdated marketing strategies. Hit play now to learn the release tactics that actually work in 2025.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Building an Empire: Mark Knight's Toolroom Blueprint for Artists | EF EP 97

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 01 May 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Want to know how Mark Knight built Toolroom Records into one of dance music's most enduring empires? In this conversation with the legendary DJ, producer, and label founder, he breaks down the exact blueprint that's kept him at the top of his game for over two decades.

While most artists chase trends and quick wins, Mark has methodically constructed something built to last through principles that apply whether you're selling tech house or washing machines. From controlling your own destiny to outworking the competition, his insights offer a roadmap for anyone looking to build something sustainable in this industry.

Key Takeaways:

Why controlling your own destiny is non-negotiable for long-term success
How to build a team with complementary skills that amplify your strengths
The business principles that apply across industries, not just music
Why outworking everyone else is more valuable than natural talent
The importance of reinvesting in growth, especially in the early years
How taking consistent small steps forward creates sustainable momentum
Creating a clear manifesto to guide every decision in your career
Building something that reflects your values rather than chasing trends

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video editor/Audio engineer: James Fixx

The 10-Year Rule: Why Mary Droppinz Says You Can't Quit Before Then | EF EP 96

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In an era obsessed with overnight success, Mary Droppinz offers a radical perspective: give yourself at least 10 years in this industry before you even consider throwing in the towel. This conversation is a wake-up call for anyone looking for shortcuts in dance music.

From her recent move to Miami to her journey of staying true to her musical vision despite industry pressure to conform, Mary breaks down why persistence might be the most underrated skill in an artist's toolkit. Her insights on building a sustainable career through consistent action rather than viral moments offer a refreshing counterpoint to today's quick-win culture.

Key Takeaways:

Why the 10-year timeline is essential for building a lasting career
How to stay true to your sound when others suggest you change
The reality of relocating to a new music scene and building from scratch
Practical approaches to social media that don't compromise your vision
The importance of community in sustaining your motivation
How to weather creative droughts and rejection
Building habits that support long-term growth
The competitive advantage of playing the long game when others quit

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Follow Mary's journey: @marydroppinz

Stop looking for shortcuts. Hit play now to learn why the marathon mindset might be your greatest competitive advantage.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

James Hype & Tita Lau’s Content Strategy (That Most DJs Won't Try) | EF EP 95

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Want to know how one of dance music's biggest stars built a movement through vulnerability? In this special Miami Music Week episode, James Hype and Tita Lau reveal the counterintuitive strategies behind their massive online communities and why authenticity trumps "cool factor" every time.

From being called "cringe" to having fake news articles written about him, James has faced every form of criticism possible - yet he's built a following of millions by deliberately showcasing the struggles behind his success. Meanwhile, Tita has cultivated a YouTube community of 200,000+ through consistent live streams that prioritize connection over performance.

Key Takeaways:

- Why showcasing your struggles creates stronger connections than highlighting success

- How to find your place on the spectrum between "cool" and "cringe"

- The truth about criticism and why polarizing content builds stronger communities

- Why social media might be equally as important as music in 2025

- How to build global communities through live streaming

- The importance of representation and diversity in lineups

- Practical content strategies that work even without millions of followers

- Why documenting your journey creates powerful storytelling opportunities

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Six weeks of consistent TikTok content connected me with one of the biggest DJs in the world. What could happen if you started today?

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

From $970M Twitch Exit to Burning Man's Massive Art Car | EF EP 94

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0500

What happens when you sell your company to Amazon for nearly a billion dollars? For Twitch co-founder Justin Kan, it meant following an unexpected passion - building one of Burning Man's most impressive art installations and launching a music label focused on community.

From constructing a 70-foot iceberg with 200,000 LEDs to learning to DJ while building it, Justin's journey offers powerful insights about community building that apply at any scale. His transition from tech entrepreneur to artist reveals principles about authenticity, collaboration, and finding fulfillment that transcend industries.

Key Takeaways:

Why community-first thinking creates sustainable projects
How to build something meaningful without focusing on profit
Practical approaches to collaborative creative projects
Why giving value to others creates stronger communities
The importance of enjoying the process over the outcome
How to maintain authenticity while scaling a creative project
Building something that lasts beyond your involvement

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Learn more about Titanic's End: @titanicsend

Behind every billion-dollar exit are principles that work at any scale. Hit play now to discover insights that apply whether you're just starting out or are already established.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Miami's Most Notorious Venue: The E11even DJ Experience Revealed | EF EP 93

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Want to know how to read a room when multiple distractions compete for attention? This week's guest, Mister Gray, has mastered this skill during his 11-year residency at E11even, a unique venue that combines the energy of a nightclub with the dynamics of a strip club.

From sharing decks with Tiesto and Marshmello to working 12-hour marathon shifts, Mister Gray reveals practical insights about crowd psychology, handling requests, and maintaining your passion, which apply to DJs in any setting. His approach to creating experiences rather than just playing music offers valuable lessons for artists at every level.

Key Takeaways:

How to read and control a room with multiple distractions
Practical strategies for handling song requests professionally
How to maintain energy during marathon sets
Balancing your artistic vision with crowd expectations
Creating experiences that keep people coming back

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Follow Mister Gray's journey

Stop focusing only on the music. Hit play now to learn how understanding room psychology could transform your DJ sets.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Collect More Failures: The Counter-Intuitive Path to Success | EF EP 92

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Want to know what it really takes to build something in dance music? When Jason Euler's emails to Relentless Beats went unanswered, he didn't just try again - he threw his own block party, betting everything he had. We're talking maxed-out credit cards, a pink slip against his car, and a call to his mom saying, "If this fails, I'm moving home."

From losing thousands in a single night to massive success, Jason's journey proves that the people who 'make it' in this industry aren't the ones who never fail - they're the ones who refuse to stay down. Now, as Senior Director of Partnerships at Relentless Beats, he reveals exactly what it takes to turn setbacks into comebacks.

Key Takeaways:

How to approach industry relationships with zero expectations
Specific strategies for adding value before asking for anything
When to go all-in vs when to pivot
The exact mindset shifts that transform rejection into opportunity
Practical ways to build resilience in tough moments
How to turn small losses into long-term wins
Strategic risk-taking: knowing when to bet big
Building genuine connections in a competitive industry

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Follow Jason's journey

Stop letting fear of failure hold you back. Hit play now to learn how collecting rejections might be the key to your success.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Miami Music Week: The Insider's Guide You Can't Afford to Miss | EF EP 91

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Want to know why some artists leave Miami Music Week with game-changing opportunities while others just leave broke? This week's guest Paul Campbell isn't just another industry veteran - he's the ultimate Miami insider who's seen it all from every angle.

From throwing his first party at Club Space at age 16 to co-founding the legendary Dayglow events to now managing Grammy-nominated duo Side Piece, Paul reveals exactly how to navigate one of the most important weeks in dance music. As a lifelong Miami resident who's been part of Miami's scene for over two decades, his insights go far beyond the surface-level advice you've heard before.

Key Takeaways:

Why most artists approach Miami Music Week completely wrong
How to network effectively when events are spread across the city
The real cost of MMW and how to maximize your budget
Strategic differences between daytime and nighttime networking
Why timing your activities throughout the week is crucial
How to get into events when you're on a tight budget
The importance of preparation months before the event
Why some relationships take years to pay off (and why that's okay)

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Follow Paul

Connect with me

Don't let another Miami Music Week go by without a strategy. Hit play now to learn how to make the most of this career-defining opportunity.

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

From Viral Hit to Identity Crisis: The Story Artists Need to Hear w/GUDFELLA | EF EP 90

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Want to know why some artists crumble under success while others turn it into sustainable careers? When GUDFELLA's remix of "Rule the World" exploded, getting picked up by major European soccer teams and even Tiësto, it marked the beginning of an incredible journey - but one that came with unexpected challenges that would ultimately make him a stronger artist.

In one of the most honest conversations I've had on the show, GUDFELLA opens up about transforming viral success into authentic artistry. His ability to navigate early wins, overcome imposter syndrome, and build genuine fan connections offers invaluable insights for any artist facing similar crossroads. What makes his story so powerful is how he turned every challenge into an opportunity for growth, proving that authenticity always wins in the long run.

Key Takeaways:

Why viral success often triggers imposter syndrome (and how to handle it)
How to navigate the pressure of following up a big release
The truth about balancing partying with performing
Why authenticity matters more than numbers
Converting viral moments into real fans
Finding your voice beyond remixes
Building genuine connections with your audience
The mindset shifts that transform careers

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Follow GUDFELLA's journey

Stop letting success become your biggest obstacle. Hit play now to learn how to turn moments into momentum.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Industry Wake-Up Call: Your Health Can't Afford to Ignore This | EF EP 89

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0600

In an industry where burnout is normalized and careers end before they begin, most DJs don't realize they're one health crisis away from losing everything. This week's guest, Ethan Schiff, knows this reality all too well - after watching countless artists sacrifice their health for success, he's on a mission to change how the music industry thinks about wellness.

After transforming his own life with a 130-pound weight loss journey, Ethan left his successful artist management company to focus on something even more important - helping artists stay healthy on the road. His company, Optimized Touring, is revolutionizing how we think about wellness in dance music.

Key Takeaways:

The real impact of sleep vs. alcohol on performance
How to maintain healthy habits with an irregular schedule
Why most artists' approach to exercise is backwards
Practical nutrition strategies for touring life
The connection between mental health and career longevity
How to build sustainable routines that actually work
Why your current wellness approach might be hurting you
Simple shifts that create massive impact

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Follow Ethan's journey and learn more about Optimized Touring

Stop letting poor health habits hold back your career. Hit play now to learn how prioritizing wellness could be the missing piece in your artist journey.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__ and @elevatedolivia

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

DJs, Stop Getting Played: My Exact System for Getting Paid On Time | EF EP 88

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Name another industry where it's normal to wait three months to get paid for work you've already done. In this episode, I'm sharing my exact system for getting paid on time - the same system that earned me the nickname "The Collector."

From crafting bulletproof invoices to handling awkward payment conversations, I break down how I went from timidly waiting months for payment to running a professional operation that gets paid on schedule. If you're tired of chasing payments or afraid to seem "difficult," this episode will transform how you handle your business.

Key Takeaways:

Essential elements every professional invoice needs
The follow-up system that never fails
How to handle late payments without burning bridges
Why your fear of being "difficult" is costing you money
Red flags to watch for before accepting work
The exact templates I use for payment follow-ups
Why deposits aren't just for big projects
How to create professional distance in payment discussions

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Get my complete collection of payment follow-up templates and my professional invoice template on Patreon now.

Stop letting late payments drain your energy and bank account. Hit play now to learn the system that will transform your business.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Tired of Making No Money? Industry Experts Share Their Solution | EF EP 87

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Want to know why most DJs struggle to make a living while others build sustainable careers? In this special episode from Chicago Music Nexus, a powerhouse panel of industry experts breaks down the revenue streams you're probably missing and the mindset shifts needed to monetize your brand effectively.

From sync licensing deals worth $80,000 to building academies and D2C revenue streams, our panel reveals how thinking beyond gigs could transform your financial reality in dance music. If you're tired of struggling to make ends meet in this industry, this conversation is your wake-up call.

Key Takeaways:

Why relying solely on gigs is a dangerous game
How to identify and leverage your unique value
The truth about building multiple revenue streams
Real numbers: What's possible beyond performing
Why your personal brand matters more than ever
Practical steps to start monetizing your expertise
How to build sustainable income in dance music

🎫 EXCLUSIVE ANNOUNCEMENT: Year One loyalty tickets for Chicago Music Nexus 2025 dropping soon! Follow @chicagomusicnexus for first access to early bird pricing and exclusive perks.

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Featured Experts: Mike Salvione, Celia Rose - What Up Pitches! Anj Fayemi - Rivet App

Don't let another year go by struggling to make money in music. Hit play now to learn how to turn your passion into profit.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Your Music Isn't Enough: A Stylist's Guide to Getting Noticed | EF EP 86

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Want to know why some DJs instantly capture attention while others fade into the background? This week's guest, Wardrobe Consultant, Stylist, and My Friend Camille Ries reveals how developing your signature style can be the difference between being forgettable and unforgettable in dance music.

In an oversaturated market where everyone has access to the same music and technology, your personal style isn't just about looking good - it's a powerful tool for building genuine connections with your audience. From Peggy Gou to Skrillex, we break down how the most memorable artists use style to amplify their artistic vision.

Key Takeaways:

Why most DJs' style mistakes are costing them opportunities
How to develop your signature look without breaking the bank
The connection between personal style and networking confidence
Strategic styling differences for photo shoots vs. live performances
How to build a cohesive wardrobe that represents your artist brand
Practical tips for elevating your current wardrobe immediately
Why accessories are the secret weapon for stage presence
The importance of understanding your creative identity beyond music

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Connect with Camille and start your style journey here.

Stop letting basic style choices hold back your music career. Hit play now to learn how developing your signature look could be the missing piece in your artist journey.

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

My TikTok Manager Said 'Keep Streaming' - 2AR on Surviving the Ban Scare | EF EP 85

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0600

When TikTok vanished for 12 hours, most creators panicked. But Miami-based DJ and artist manager 2AR stayed calm - because he'd built something bigger than just a following. His twice-daily streams have evolved into a digital morning show, creating a community that shows up whether TikTok is working or not.

In this episode, 2AR breaks down his journey from Denver club DJ to founding Silent Movement Group and becoming one of TikTok's most consistent music streamers. He shares candid insights about the recent platform uncertainty and reveals why his top supporters remain loyal across any platform.

Key Takeaways:

Converting casual viewers into dedicated super fans
Why TikTok remains unmatched for artist discovery
Smart strategies for multi-platform presence
The "morning show" approach to live streaming
How to monetize your following beyond platform gifts
Building a community that transcends any single app
Why long-form content is making a comeback in 2025

Ready to build your own platform-proof music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Follow 2AR's journey on TikTok @2AR
Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Want to learn how to build a fan base that sticks with you through any platform changes? Hit play now.

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

From Outsider to Industry Connected: My Networking Playbook | EF EP 84

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Want to know how I went from being an awkward outsider to building genuine industry relationships? In this episode, I break down my complete networking playbook - including the FBI agent strategy that changed everything. If you've ever felt uncomfortable at industry events or struggled to turn connections into opportunities, this conversation will transform how you approach networking in dance music.

From being the kid sitting alone at birthday parties to now running successful industry events, I share how I overcame social anxiety to build authentic relationships in the dance music industry.

Key Takeaways:

The FBI agent strategy for researching before events
How to approach different networking environments (clubs vs. industry events)
Converting conversations into opportunities without being opportunistic
Why most networking fails (and how to fix it)
Building relationships that last beyond the first meeting
The 3-6 month rule for asking favors
How to follow up without being annoying

Ready to level up your networking game? Join me for my live networking workshop on Tuesday, February 11th from 5-6pm CST, exclusively for Patreon members. We'll work through specific scenarios, practice conversation starters, and create your personal networking strategy. Join Strategy Circle at patreon.com/oliviamancuso to secure your spot.

Connect with me on Instagram

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

'They Told Me to Change My Sound. I Refused.' 3x Grammy Nominated Terry Hunter | EF EP 83

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0600

If you've ever felt pressure to change your sound, this episode is your permission slip to stay true to your vision. Chicago house legend Terry Hunter shares how refusing to compromise his artistry led to three Grammy nominations and working with artists like Beyonce and Aretha Franklin.

When industry experts told Terry his music was "too musical" and needed to be stripped down, he faced a choice many artists confront: change your sound or stay true to your vision. His decision to believe in his artistry didn't just preserve his integrity - it launched him to unprecedented success.

From his first track, "Madness," in 1990, to remixing for the world's biggest artists, Terry proves that authenticity isn't just an artistic choice - it's a powerful business strategy. In this conversation, he shares how he's maintained his Chicago house roots while reaching mainstream heights, and why your unique sound might be your most valuable asset.

Key Takeaways:

Why staying true to your sound can be your biggest advantage
How to evolve without losing your identity
Building confidence in your artistic vision
Navigating industry pressure to change your style
The importance of understanding music history
Why collaboration strengthens rather than threatens your success
How mainstream attention is growing house music

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Follow Terry's journey on Instagram @djterryhunter

Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__

Stop chasing trends and start believing in your sound. Hit play now to learn how staying true to your artistry can lead to unprecedented success.

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

How Pre-judgement Affects All Artists (And What To Do About It) with Haylee Wood | EF EP 82

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0600

She was mistaken for a groupie at her OWN SHOW.

When we pre-judge artists - for their gender, age, appearance, or background - we all lose out on potential innovation and creativity. This week's guest, Haylee Wood, shares how she went from making bedroom DJ sets during COVID to becoming one of dance music's rising stars, and why maintaining authenticity while navigating industry challenges has been key to her success.

Whether you've been pushed aside, underestimated, or had to prove yourself repeatedly, this conversation offers practical strategies for building confidence and turning challenging situations into opportunities for growth. Because when artists have to spend mental energy proving they belong somewhere, it takes away from the energy they could spend on their art.

Key Takeaways:

How to maintain confidence when facing industry prejudice
Practical strategies for commanding respect in professional situations
Building authentic relationships while maintaining boundaries
Converting challenging situations into opportunities
Why creating inclusive spaces benefits everyone's creativity
The importance of finding champions in the industry
Balancing authenticity with professional growth

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Follow Haylee's journey on TikTok: @itshayleewood

Stop letting preconceptions hold you back. Hit play now to learn how creating space for authenticity can transform your career in electronic music.

Connect with me on Instagram: @oliviamancuso__

Video editor/audio engineer: James Fixx

Make Music People Can Actually Use (Label Secrets Revealed) | EF EP 81

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 09 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Think you know what your audience wants? This week's guest might change your perspective entirely. Moody Jones, GM of Disposable Records under EMPIRE, shares crucial insights about understanding how people actually experience music - insights that have helped his label generate over 20 million streams and launch careers across 10 countries.

From smuggling illegal CDs in Saudi Arabia to running a successful label, Moody's unique journey offers a fresh perspective on what really matters in today's music industry. If you're struggling to connect with audiences or wondering why your releases aren't getting traction, this conversation will help you understand what you might be missing.

Key Takeaways:

Why understanding WHERE people listen is as important as WHAT they're listening to
How to identify which contexts your music works best in
The importance of experiencing music from your audience's perspective
Why stepping away from the industry made him a better label executive
How cultural shifts affect music preferences (and how to capitalize on them)
The real reason some music connects more easily than others
Why accessibility doesn't mean compromising artistry

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Want to learn more about Disposable Records? Follow @disposablerecs on Instagram.

Stop making music in a vacuum. Hit play now to learn how understanding your audience's experience could be the key to your success in electronic music.

Connect with me: instagram.com/oliviamancuso__
Connect with Moody: instagram.com/moodyjones

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

How One Festival Grew 17% in 2024 By Putting Community First (And Why Artists Should Care) | EF EP 80

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0600

In an era where festivals are shutting down left and right, Same Same But Different Festival grew revenue by 17% while others struggled. How? By challenging the "bigger is better" mindset and putting community first. In this episode, SSBD CEO Brad Sweet shares actionable insights about building trust, taking calculated risks, and creating experiences that keep people coming back.

Whether you're an artist looking to throw your own events or trying to understand where festival culture is heading, this conversation offers a blueprint for sustainable success through community-first thinking.

Key Takeaways:

Why smaller, focused events can be more profitable than massive festivals
How to identify and fill gaps in your local scene
The business impact of prioritizing experience over expansion
Strategic ways to build trust with your audience
How giving away 500 free tickets led to long-term growth
The importance of creating spaces for genuine connection
Why transparency in pricing and decision-making matters

Ready to level up your music career? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Want to experience SSBD Festival for yourself? Visit ssbdfest.com for tickets and information.

Stop chasing bigger numbers at the expense of genuine connection. Hit play now to learn how putting community first can transform your career in electronic music.

Connect with me: http://www.instagram.com/oliviamancuso_

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Don't Set 2025 Goals Until You Hear This (Game-Changing Framework) | EF EP 79

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0600

Think vision boarding is just arts and crafts? Think again. In this special episode, I'm breaking down the exact manifestation framework that helped me scale my business from zero to six figures in six months, book dream gigs, and create multiple revenue streams in the music business.

But this isn't just another "new year, new me" episode. I'm sharing a completely new addition to my goal-setting process that changed everything: the rules list. Because here's the truth - goals without rules are just wishes.

Learn why most artists fail to achieve their goals (hint: it's not lack of talent or motivation) and how to create a framework that actually works.

Key Takeaways:

Why traditional goal-setting fails most artists
The step-by-step vision boarding process that went viral
How to create rules that protect your time and energy
Why quarterly goals work better than yearly ones
The four categories of rules every artist needs
Real examples of manifested goals and how they happened
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
Implementation strategy for Q1 2025

Want to dive deeper? Join my Strategy Circle on Patreon for access to the complete workshop recording, implementation guides, and monthly coaching calls: patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Don't wait until January 1st to start planning. Hit play now, and let's set you up for success in 2025.

Connect with me: https://www.instagram.com/oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

What Fans REALLY Want in 2024: Insights from Dance Music's Trusted Voice Emma Kapotes

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0600

Want to know what dance music fans really care about in 2024? This week's guest has her finger on the pulse of festival culture. Content creator and podcast host Emma Kapotes has built a community of over 36,000 subscribers by being boots on the ground at festivals, having real conversations with fans, and truly understanding what they want from their music experiences.

If you're an artist trying to build stronger connections with your audience, this episode is your insider guide to what fans are actually saying about everything from set times to crowd control to artist accessibility.

Key Takeaways:

How fan expectations have evolved in the post-COVID festival landscape
What makes certain artists stand out and build devoted followings
The role of authenticity and accessibility in building fan loyalty
Why community building matters more than ever in dance music
How to bridge the gap between artist intentions and fan experience
Common mistakes artists make when trying to connect with their audience
Practical ways to make your fans feel seen and heard

Want personalized guidance on implementing these strategies? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Don't miss this unique perspective on what your fans really want from their music experiences. Hit play now to learn how to build genuine connections that last.

Connect with me: https://www.instagram.com/oliviamancuso__
Follow Emma: https://www.instagram.com/emmakapotes
Check out Rave Culture Cast: https://www.instagram.com/raveculturecast/

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Why Your Non-Music Experience Matters More Than You Think: Lessons from Henry Fong | EF EP 77

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0600

Think your non-music experiences don't matter to your artist career? Think again. This week's guest, Henry Fong, reveals how becoming a national laser tag champion and competitive fisherman taught him the universal patterns of excellence and discipline that would later fuel his success in dance music.

From growing up in a small Florida town to becoming an internationally touring DJ/producer, Henry shares how recognizing these patterns across different domains - whether it's martial arts, surfing, or music production - has been key to building a sustainable career in dance music. His story challenges the stereotype of the party DJ lifestyle, showing how discipline and high performance habits are crucial for longevity in this industry.

Key Takeaways:

Why the blueprint for excellence remains the same across different domains
How early competitive experiences shape your approach to success
The importance of building sustainable routines and habits
Why being a high performer requires more than just musical talent
How to maintain physical and mental health while touring
The role of discipline in creative pursuits
Why consistent habits matter more than sporadic motivation
Practical ways to apply lessons from other areas of life to your music career

Don't miss this unique perspective on what it really takes to be world-class. Hit play now to learn how your diverse experiences and disciplined approach might be the key to your success in music.

Connect with me: https://www.instagram.com/oliviamancuso__
Follow Henry: https://www.instagram.com/djhenryfong
Check out Henry's artist mentoring program: https://www.djhenryfong.com/

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

The Face Behind ARC Festival's Viral Tweets | EF EP 76

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0600

Ever wondered who's behind the most talked-about festival account on Twitter? In this exclusive reveal, ARC Music Festival's marketing lead, Alan Brant, finally steps out from behind the curtain to share how a small but mighty team built one of house and techno's most powerful brands.

If you're trying to break into the music industry, feeling overwhelmed by social media, or curious about how major festivals operate behind the scenes, this conversation is your backstage pass. Learn how authenticity and a strong point of view can help you build a cult following - even with limited resources.

Key Takeaways:

- How ARC built a global festival brand with a micro-team
- Why being polarizing on social media can be your secret weapon
- The real story behind ARC's launch and early marketing strategy
- Practical advice for breaking into festival marketing
- How to balance education and entertainment in your brand voice
- The importance of honoring dance music history while pushing culture forward
- Strategic ways to build community through social media

Want personalized guidance on growing your career, brand, and business? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Stop letting limited resources hold you back. Hit play now to learn how authenticity and strategic storytelling can help you stand out in a crowded industry.

Connect with me: instagram.com/oliviamancuso__
Follow ARC on twitter: x.com/arcmusicfest

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

How to Create Memorable Shows on Any Budget with Rhizome Music | EF EP 75

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0600

Ready to take your DJ sets beyond mixing tracks? This episode is your blueprint for incorporating live elements and creating unforgettable experiences. Rhizome Music founders Calhoun McDougall and Louis DeMarco share their decades of experience managing hybrid electronic acts and producing major festivals to help you level up your performance game without breaking the bank.

If you've ever wondered how to start adding live elements to your shows, felt intimidated by the technical requirements, or worried about the costs involved, this conversation will give you a clear roadmap. Learn how to build memorable performances that get you booked again and again.

Key Takeaways:

How to start incorporating live elements into your shows on any budget
The most common mistakes artists make when adding production elements (and how to avoid them)
Why intentional show design matters more than expensive equipment
Practical tips for working with lighting directors and VJs
How to write music with live performance in mind
Strategic ways to build your brand identity through performance
The business considerations of transitioning from DJ to live act

Stop letting limited budgets hold back your creative vision. Hit play now to learn how to build unforgettable performances that will set you apart from the crowd.

Connect with me: https://www.instagram.com/oliviamancuso__
Follow Rhizome: https://www.instagram.com/rhizomemusic/

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Dance Music's Collaboration Crisis: A Candid Talk with Nadia Ali | EF EP 74

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0600

In this powerful episode, dance music icon Nadia Ali—the voice and songwriter behind explosive hits like "Rapture" and "Pressure"—breaks her silence on the industry's biggest blind spot—the lack of recognition for singers, songwriters, and collaborators who help create electronic music's biggest tracks. With 23 years of experience and countless chart-topping anthems, Nadia shares candid insights about collaboration, credit, and creating authentic art in an increasingly individualistic scene.

From her unexpected start as a Versace executive assistant to becoming one of dance music's most recognizable artists, Nadia reveals how the industry's "bro culture" affects artistry and why a more inclusive approach to recognition benefits everyone in the scene.

Key Takeaways:

Why proper recognition of singers, songwriters and collaborators is crucial for dance music's future
How cultural differences shape attitudes toward collaboration in the industry
The real impact of social media on artist recognition and relationship-building
Why treating artists as transactions hurts the creative process
Practical ways producers can better celebrate their collaborators
How to maintain artistic authenticity in an ego-driven industry
The importance of building direct relationships with your audience

Ready to level up your music career with more industry insights? Join us at Chicago Music Nexus, where you'll connect with top professionals and learn cutting-edge strategies for success. Reserve your spot now: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Don't miss this rare, candid conversation with one of dance music's most influential voices. Hit play now to learn why recognition, authenticity, and collaboration are key to creating lasting impact in electronic music.

Follow Nadia
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Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Create Months of Social Content in One Day: A Former VH1 Strategist's Framework | EF EP 73

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0600

Tired of posting randomly and hoping something sticks? In this game-changing episode, former BET and VH1 social media strategist Sabrina Diamond reveals her proven framework for creating months of engaging content—without the burnout.

Learn how the same strategies that powered major music brands can help independent artists build a loyal following and consistent engagement. Sabrina breaks down her proprietary approach that takes the guesswork out of what to post, when to post it, and how to make it resonate with your audience.

Key Takeaways:

The exact content pillar framework used by major music brands (and how to adapt it for artists)
How to create 3 months of content in a single planning session
Why most artists burn out on social media (and the simple fix you're probably missing)
The secret to maintaining authenticity while scaling your content
How to benchmark your success without getting lost in vanity metrics
Practical strategies to stay consistent even when inspiration runs dry

Don't miss this opportunity to transform your social media strategy from scattered posts into a powerful career-building tool. Hit play now to learn how to create content that converts followers into superfans.

Connect with Sabrina: https://www.sabrinadiamond.com/

Connect with Olivia: https://www.instagram.com/oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Stand Out and Score Gigs by Creating Unique Festival Experiences with Drew Dapps | EF EP 72

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Are you looking to stand out in the music industry and secure more bookings? This episode features Drew Dapps, who shares how creating a unique community around his concept, Camp Dappington, not only differentiated him from the crowd but directly led to numerous gig opportunities.

Drew discusses his journey as a boutique house artist and the strategic moves behind Camp Dappington, a themed activation that has captured attention at festivals. He emphasizes the power of building a community as a proof of concept that showcases your value to promoters and venues.

Key Takeaways:

Community Creation: How forming a unique community can significantly enhance your visibility and appeal to festival organizers.
Proof of Concept: Demonstrating your ability to draw and engage an audience, proving your potential for bigger bookings.
Diversification: The importance of diversifying your offerings beyond music to include merchandise and unique fan experiences that reinforce your brand.
Brand Investment: Investing in your brand isn’t just about spending money—it’s about creatively engaging your followers and turning them into a loyal community.
Merchandising Strategy: How smart merchandising can not only increase profitability but also serve as a walking billboard for your brand.

Dive deeper into the world of music and community building at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Here, you’ll connect with influencers and industry professionals who are eager to share their knowledge and network. Secure your spot now with the code PODCAST for $30 off: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Continue your journey on my Patreon, where we explore more in-depth strategies for artist development and career growth. Join today for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Connect with me on Instagram: @oliviamancuso__

Video editor/audio engineer: James Fixx

Conquering Imposter Syndrome – Insights and Tools for Every DJ | EF EP 71

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Have you ever felt like you don't belong, even with some significant achievements under your belt? Today, I'm diving deep into a scenario that might hit close to home for many of you: battling imposter syndrome.

This isn't just about feeling out of place; it's about understanding why high-achievers like us often feel undeserving of our successes and how we can conquer this crippling mindset.

Don’t miss your chance to connect at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. The code PODCAST saves you $30. Secure your spot now: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

In this episode, we cover:

The Reality of Imposter Syndrome: It strikes when you least expect it, turning your achievements into question marks.

Embracing Your Achievements: How to anchor in your success and remind yourself of your worth and capabilities.

Practical Tools to Combat Doubts: From watching your triumphs to keeping a folder of positive feedback, discover strategies to fortify your confidence.

The Power of Self-Care and Letting Go: Learn why treating yourself well and shedding perfectionism is critical in battling imposter syndrome.

Building Resilience: I'll share how creating spaces for intentional networking, like Chicago Music Nexus, can transform your approach to industry challenges.

Whether you're a budding DJ or a seasoned producer, understanding and managing imposter syndrome is crucial for your growth and well-being. Remember, you're not alone in this journey—the best among us wrestle with these doubts, and together, we can overcome them.

Remember to secure your tickets for Chicago Music Nexus with the code 'podcast' for $30 off. Don't miss out on this opportunity to grow, network, and thrive. www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Connect: oliviamancuso__

Video editor/audio engineer: James Fixx

Unlock the Secrets to Going from Local Artist to Touring Pro with Max Pohlmann | ELEVATED FREQUENCIES #70

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Are you ready to hit the road and make a name for yourself beyond your local scene? In this episode, Max Pohlmann, co-founder of Audisbliss and a veteran touring manager, unpacks the essentials of moving from local stages to nationwide tours. With extensive experience managing tours for artists like Subtronics and Mindchatter, and orchestrating over 150 events globally, Max brings unparalleled insights into making it big in touring.

Join us for an exclusive opportunity to connect with industry leaders like Max at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. The code PODCAST gets you $30 off. Secure your spot now: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Elevate your career with targeted business and branding insights on my Patreon. Exclusive content starts at just $5/month: patreon.com/oliviamancuso

In this episode, we explore:

The Local Launchpad: Learn what foundational steps you need to dominate at home before you can dazzle on the road.
Strategic Moves: Discover whether you should aim for headlining smaller venues or seek direct support roles in bigger shows as your entry into touring.
The Real Cost of Touring: Touring isn't all glamour and applause. Uncover the often-overlooked downsides, from financial strains to mental health challenges.
Tour Construction: Crafting a successful tour involves more than just showing up. Dive into the nuts and bolts of effective tour planning, from branding and venue selection to overall management.
Universal Traits of Success: Hear surprising qualities shared by all successful clients Max has worked with—traits that could set you apart from the crowd.

About Max Pohlmann: With a background ranging from tour management for high-profile clients to event production, Max is a beacon of knowledge in the touring and event management industry. His experience spans coordinating high-stakes festival operations and managing critical emergency situations, making him an invaluable resource for anyone looking to break into or excel in the world of music tours.

Why This Matters: Many dream of stepping up from local artist to touring powerhouse, but the path is fraught with challenges and requires meticulous planning and personal resilience. Max’s firsthand experiences offer a roadmap for aspiring artists to navigate this transition successfully.

Connect with me here: oliviamancuso__

Video editor/audio engineer: James Fixx

What Every Artist Must Master Before a Manager Steps In with Corynne Burrows | Elevated Frequencies #69

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Do you think a manager is your all-in-one solution in the music industry? Let's set the record straight. In this enlightening episode, I chat with Corynne Burrows, the founder and CEO of Midas Touch MGMT, where we dive into what managers truly look for when scouting new talent.

Corynne demystifies the role of a manager and underscores the essential skills artists must already have polished before teaming up with a management team.

In our discussion, we tackle personal branding, fan engagement, and the continuous efforts required from both artists and managers to ensure success. Corynne highlights:

The importance of artists being proactive and knowledgeable in building their brand and network.
How crucial it is to authentically engage your audience and maintain consistent content.
The balance needed between artistic integrity and business acumen to thrive in this competitive industry.

Exclusive on Patreon: Dive deeper into our discussion on crisis management, where Corynne shares her strategies for handling public scrutiny and maintaining an artist's reputation when old tweets resurface or accusations fly.

Join us at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus, where you can connect with industry leaders like Corynne and gain firsthand insights into the business dynamics of music management. Use code PODCAST for $30 off your pass: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Elevate your career with targeted business and branding tips on Patreon, where exclusive content starts at just $5/month: www.patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Connect with Olivia

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Making DJ Duos Work with Walker & Royce | Elevated Frequencies #68

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Can perfect harmony in a DJ Duo amplify your success in the music industry? Dive into this special rerun with Walker & Royce as they unpack the secrets behind their dynamic partnership. Explore how they've turned their complementary skills into a tech-house powerhouse and learn how you can apply these principles to your own musical endeavors.

Join us for more transformative discussions at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. The code PODCAST gets you $30 off for a limited time. Secure your spot now: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Elevate your career with targeted business and branding insights on my Patreon: Exclusive content starts at just $5/month: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

In this episode, we explore:

Synergistic Partnerships: How finding a music business partner that complements your strengths can revolutionize your approach and success in the music industry.
Resilience in Rejection: Insights on building resilience against the inevitable rejections and how to bounce back stronger.
Sustained Motivation: Strategies for maintaining dedication and motivation, even when career growth feels sluggish.
Creative Energies: Knowing when to push forward and when to step back, ensuring each project resonates with the right creative energy.

Why This Matters: Walker & Royce share invaluable lessons on partnership, perseverance, and adapting to the ebbs and flows of the music industry. Whether you're a solo artist or part of a duo, understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone looking to make a mark in the competitive world of electronic music.

Don’t miss your chance to connect at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Use the code PODCAST for $30 off. Secure your spot now: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

What Strategies Do Top DJs Swear By? Insights from Arc Music Festival | Elevated Frequencies #67

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Are headlining DJs truly untouchable, or do they face the same hurdles as rising stars? Dive into a unique episode of Elevated Frequencies, where we unravel the reality behind the excitement of festival fame. I joined forces with ARC Music Festival to bring you candid interviews with top-tier artists, revealing the persistent challenges and strategies that define their careers.

This isn't just another festival highlight reel; it's a profound look into the industry's core, highlighting that success doesn't shield you from the grind. Whether it's dealing with imposter syndrome, the relentless pace of performances, or the sting of online critiques, these artists share how they navigate the highs and lows with grace.

Join us for a transformative discussion at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. The code PODCAST gets you $30 off for a limited time! Secure your spot now: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Elevate your career with targeted business and branding insights on my Patreon. Exclusive content starts at just $5/month: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

In this episode, we explore:

The Persistent Struggle: Uncover the relentless challenges that even the most successful DJs face and the resilience required to overcome them.
Business and Branding Insights: Learn from the firsthand experiences of industry giants on how they maintain their brand and manage the pressures of fame.
The Role of Community: Discover the importance of support systems and community in navigating the complex landscape of music festivals.

Hear from Hot Since 82 about balancing life on the road with family responsibilities, and Mau P about handling the inevitable online backlash with a cool head.

Hiroko Yamamura shares her unique approach to social media, turning potential distractions into engaging content that complements her music career.

Eats Everything dives into the nuances of crafting a distinctive sound that resonates across venues, proving that your "sound" is as much about consistency as it is about music.

Wrap up the episode with LP Giobbi, who discusses leveraging her platform for greater causes beyond music, showing that success offers a chance to give back and shape the industry positively.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone aspiring to make it big or understand the intricate dynamics at the pinnacle of the DJ world. It's a reminder that the journey is fraught with challenges at every level, but also rich with opportunities for those prepared to tackle them head-on.

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Revenue Streams Most Dance Music Producers Miss with What Up Pitches | Elevated Frequencies #66

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Producers: are you missing out on a major revenue stream?

In this episode of Elevated Frequencies, Celia Rose, co-founder of the boutique sync licensing agency What Up Pitches, demystifies the lucrative world of sync licensing. Celia breaks down how this underutilized strategy can transform tracks into a significant source of income by aligning them with TV, film, and ad placements.

In this episode, we cover:

Sync Licensing 101: Celia explains the basics of sync licensing, from creating custom music for TV, films, and ads to curating an artist’s catalog for media placements.
The Song Lottery: Learn why producing a high volume of tracks increases your odds of sync success, with each song acting as a "lottery ticket" for potential placements.
Navigating Contracts: Gain insight into the crucial aspects of sync deals, including the pitfalls of exclusive contracts and the importance of understanding terms and conditions.
Writing for Sync: Discover the unique approach to composing music that appeals specifically to sync opportunities, differentiating it from traditional track production.
Maximizing Your Catalog: Celia discusses how artists can leverage their existing, unused tracks as assets in the sync world.
Building Industry Relationships: Strategies for connecting with sync agencies and the value of attending industry events to expand your knowledge and network.

Why This Matters: Sync licensing isn’t just a side hustle—it’s a substantial opportunity to fund your passion projects and sustain your musical career. With potential payouts of more than $100,000+ for a single ad placement, understanding sync could be your ticket to financial stability, enabling you to balance artistry with income.

Are you leveraging every opportunity in your music career? Join us at Chicago Music Nexus and connect with industry pioneers like Celia (literally - she's a panelist!) to learn how you can elevate your music business strategy. Secure your spot now! The code "PODCAST" gets you $30 off your ticket for a limited time.

Elevate your career with actionable insights from music industry experts. Explore more strategies on Patreon, where we dive deep into the business side of music. Start enhancing your understanding today.

Olivia's Instagram

The next Listening Fiesta is on 9/26, and it's free! Find it here: https://www.whatuppitches.com/

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Mastering DMs: How to Build Powerful Industry Connections with Austin The Manager | Elevated Frequencies #65

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0500

How do you slide into DMs and ACTUALLY get results?

This episode of Elevated Frequencies features Austin The Manager with Black 17 Media, who turns DMs into music opportunities.

As an artist manager and digital marketing mogul, Austin reveals how authentic engagement and strategic content creation are key to thriving in today’s digital music landscape.

In this episode, we dive into:

Mastering DM Etiquette: Austin shares his personal success story with DMs, including the strategic approach that landed him on this show! Learn the do’s and don’ts to make genuine connections without stepping over the line.
The Power of Short-Form Content: Discover how platforms like YouTube Shorts can be used effectively to catch the eye of industry leaders and grow your audience.
Building Lasting Relationships: Unpack the importance of nurturing connections within the music industry for long-term success.
Consistency and Patience: Why these virtues are non-negotiable in your marketing strategy.
Adaptive Marketing Strategies: Gain insights on staying relevant by continuously adapting and improving your approach to digital marketing.

Why This Matters: In a digital era where everyone is vying for attention, Austin's tactics provide a roadmap to cut through the noise. His advice isn’t just theoretical—it’s a proven formula that has propelled artists from obscurity to the spotlight by leveraging the power of networking and smart content.

Don’t miss your chance to connect at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Use the code “podcast” for $30 off your ticket: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Ready to dive deeper? Join my Patreon for ongoing access to business and branding insights that can revolutionize your approach to the music industry: patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Follow Austin: https://www.instagram.com/austinthemanager/

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

80% of DJs Aren't Making Enough to Survive: Can Chicago Music Nexus Help? | Elevated Frequencies #64

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Is the electronic music industry leaving you behind? Recent stats reveal that despite the growth of the EDM market, only 20% of producers make a living from dance music.

This episode of Elevated Frequencies dives into why Chicago Music Nexus is the revolutionary event needed to combat these grim statistics and propel artists into successful careers.

Don’t miss your chance to connect. Secure your spot now and save $30 with code "PODCAST": www.chicagomusicnexus.com

In this episode, we explore:

-The Urgent Need for Chicago Music Nexus: With the North American EDM market rapidly expanding, learn why this event is crucial for artists looking to make their mark and sustain their careers.

-Building Strong Connections: How the Nexus fosters a welcoming environment for networking, making it natural and beneficial for attendees.

-The Stats Tell the Story: Discussing how understanding these market dynamics is critical for anyone in the industry, from new artists to seasoned professionals.

Why Chicago Music Nexus? This event is designed to bridge the significant gap between talent and tangible opportunities. Chicago Music Nexus provides actionable insights and direct access to industry leaders, reshaping how artists and professionals engage with the music scene.

What You Gain by Attending:

-Strategies for Enhanced Income: Sessions focused on practical approaches to increase and diversify revenue streams.

-Insights on Team Building: Advice on assembling a dynamic team to help lift your music projects to new heights.

-Maintaining a Competitive Edge: Learn to navigate an evolving industry and ensure your music and brand resonate in the current market.

Join us for a transformative experience that combines education with entertainment. Enjoy interactive panels, intimate networking opportunities, gourmet food, and specialty cocktails in a creative and vibrant setting.

Interested in more exclusive content? Dive deeper into the strategies discussed by joining my Patreon for behind-the-scenes insights and additional resources: patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Connect with me on Instagram

Download the IMS Business Report: https://www.internationalmusicsummit.com/business-report

How to Beat Producer Perfectionism with ANATTA | Elevated Frequencies #63

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Note from Olivia: sorry about my audio quality today, guys! My mic wasn't working, and I was running a solo operation. I will be getting better gear soon.

Is your quest for the perfect track sabotaging your music career? This episode of Elevated Frequencies with ANATTA dives deep into why letting go of perfectionism can be your biggest career boost.

As a minimal house producer and sound engineer, ANATTA explores the crucial balance between quality and productivity, revealing how embracing imperfections in your tracks can lead to greater creativity and output.

Don’t miss your chance to connect at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Secure your spot now: https://www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Elevate your career with strategic insights available exclusively on Patreon. Start learning today: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

In this episode, we uncover:

The Perils of Perfection: How over-focusing on perfecting a single track can hinder your overall productivity and emotional resilience.
Embracing the Reps: The importance of repetition and quick execution in music production, akin to training muscles in the gym.
The Core of Success: Understanding that the strength of a song lies in its idea, not just the technical execution.
Strategies for Letting Go: Practical tips from ANATTA on how to move projects forward without getting bogged down by details.
Feedback and Iteration: How stepping away from your work and returning with fresh ears can transform your creative process.

About ANATTA: Rising swiftly through the ranks of the minimal house scene, ANATTA not only crafts hits but also imparts wisdom as a sound engineer and instructor. His approach to music production is about striking the right balance between perfection and speed, ensuring that his creative output remains high without sacrificing quality.

Why This Matters: In a world that often praises flawless production, ANATTA’s philosophy offers a refreshing perspective that can liberate artists from the paralysis of perfectionism. His advice is crucial for anyone feeling stuck or overwhelmed by the pressures of the music industry.

Tune in to learn how adopting a mindset of ‘good enough’ can free you to create more music, experiment more boldly, and recognize your best ideas faster.

Follow ANATTA: https://www.instagram.com/anattasounds

Have thoughts or questions about the episode? Connect with me: https://www.instagram.com/oliviamancuso__

Thriving with ADHD: Crucial Tips for DJs and Producers with Tristan Hunt | Elevated Frequencies #62

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Are the challenges of ADHD crushing your music career, or are they the secret to your next big breakthrough? In this pivotal episode, Tristan Hunt, a certified transformational coach who specializes in ADHD, dives deep into the complexities of neurodiversity within the electronic music scene. With firsthand experience and a groundbreaking study under his belt, Tristan reveals how ADHD impacts creative giants in the industry and what you can do to harness its power.

Join us for more transformative discussions at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Secure your spot now:

www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Elevate your career with targeted business and branding insights on my Patreon. Exclusive content starts at just $5/month: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

In this episode, we explore:

The Attraction of Neurodiversity: Why the electronic music industry draws in and amplifies neurodiverse talents.
The Double-Edged Sword: How ADHD fuels creativity but challenges project completion and career sustainability.
Strategic Empowerment: Practical strategies to manage ADHD, from establishing safe routines to understanding your neurobiology.
Stigma vs. Support: The critical role of coaching and community in transforming ADHD challenges into career-defining advantages.

About Tristan Hunt: As a transformational coach diagnosed with ADHD himself, Tristan has not only studied the impact of neurodiversity in electronic music but has also been a pivotal figure behind the scenes, supporting headlining artists at major festivals. His unique insights into addiction risks and the need for robust support structures in the industry make his advice invaluable.

Book an ADHD Discovery Call with Tristan: https://calendly.com/tristanhuntcoaching/30-min-adhd-discovery-coaching-call-with-tristan

How to turn your iPhone on greyscale: https://agio.com/how-to-make-your-iphone-grayscale/

Working with Neurodivergent Musicians by Tristan Hunt: https://musiciansunion.org.uk/legal-money/workplace-rights-and-legislation/equality-rights/working-with-neurodivergent-musicians

Olivia’s Instagram: https://instagram.com/oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Is the Festival Era Over? Desert Hearts Founder Mikey Lion Reveals What Artists Need to Survive | Elevated Frequencies #61

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 15 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0500

“WE WERE GOING TO LOSE EVERYTHING.”

Is the festival scene surviving the post-pandemic world? What does it take for a festival to thrive amidst skyrocketing costs and a new wave of attendees?

In this deep dive with Mikey Lion, co-founder of Desert Hearts Festival and a pivotal figure in the house and techno community, we explore the seismic shifts in festival production and what artists need to do to stand out.

Learn more tips like these from experienced DJs, producers, managers, and more at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Get tickets here: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Join my Patreon for business and branding tips to take your DJ career to the next level. Tiers start as low as $5 a month for a limited time: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

In this episode, we cover:

The evolving challenges for festival producers, from unprecedented financial strains to adapting to new audience behaviors.
How Desert Hearts navigated venue losses, re-education of festival-goers, and radical shifts in festival planning post-pandemic.
Essential traits and strategies for artists aiming to break into the festival scene: accessibility, branding, and the power of showing up.
Mikey's perspective on the current state of festival economics, including the impact of inflated headliner fees and operational costs.

Mikey Lion, a central figure in creating transformative festival experiences, shares his story:

From the inception of Desert Hearts on an Indian reservation to overcoming the obstacles of the pandemic and finding new ground in Flagstaff.
Insights into Desert Hearts' "one stage, one vibe" philosophy and how it fosters a unique community atmosphere.

Interested in how to stand out to festival bookers or what it really takes to run a festival? Mikey goes into detail in our Patreon-exclusive clip, sharing wild festival stories and industry secrets that every upcoming DJ and producer needs to hear.

Follow Mikey Lion and Desert Hearts for updates and behind-the-scenes looks at their events:

Mikey
Desert Hearts Records
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Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

How to Stay Consistent with Your DJ Career with AQUTIE | Elevated Frequencies #60

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0500

How do you thrive as a DJ in a competitive industry? What strategies support authentic growth in music? Why is community support vital, especially for women in DJing? This episode features an inspiring conversation with AQUTIE, a trailblazing DJ whose rapid rise is marked by authenticity and community engagement.

Learn more tips like these from experienced DJs, producers, managers, and more at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Get presale tickets here: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Join my Patreon at the link below for business and branding tips to take your DJ career to the next level. Tiers start as low as $5 a month for a limited time: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

In this episode, we explore:

The importance of being true to yourself as a DJ and how to maintain authenticity through music and branding.
The significance of consistency and patience in building a successful DJ career.
Strategies for connecting with the community and supporting other artists, leading to mutual growth and opportunities.
The value of building genuine connections and surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals for personal and professional development.

AQUTIE is a Harlem-born and raised South African/Guinean producer/DJ whose meteoric rise has led to sharing the stage with Black Coffee & Uncle Waffles, her Boiler Room debut, and curating a stage on the Coachella grounds, all within the past year. Through her own monthly Brooklyn-based event series, Heat House, AQUTIE brings the sounds of the African diaspora together, transcending borders and embodying her ethos of unity and inclusivity.

Follow Aqutie
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Audio Engineer & Video Editor: James Fixx

How to Make a DJ Career Out of Live Streaming with Whistleface | Elevated Frequencies #59

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Should you stream your DJ sets on Twitch? How does a DJ grow a streaming audience? Is a large streaming presence helpful in booking in-person DJ gigs?

In this conversation with DJ and streamer Whistleface, we discuss how he built his career in live streaming his music, which platforms he uses and why, and how he found monetary success in this nontraditional format.

Join my Patreon for business and branding tips to take your DJ career to the next level. For a limited time, tiers start as low as $5 a month.

In this episode, we cover:
-Streaming your DJ sets on Twitch and TikTok
-Roadblocks to becoming a successful streamer
-Making live streaming a viable career with effective layered marketing

Whistleface is a house and techno streamer known for his well-curated DJ sets on Twitch and TikTok. He mastered the skill of engaging with his community while streaming his sets and has amassed over 42,000 followers on Twitch and 84,000 followers on TikTok.

Catch his sets live on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 10am EST. Follow Whistleface on Twitch

Instagram

Audio Engineer & Video Editor: James Fixx

Sobriety in Music, Ghost Producing, Spotify Streams, & more with FREAK ON | Relevant Frequencies #58

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0500

How does opting out of drinking impact your music production? If you found out an artist you like always uses a ghost producer, would you stop supporting? Is there a Spotify alternative where artists can release tracks and actually see streaming revenue?

In this conversation with FREAK ON, we discuss EDM industry topics like navigating the music scene without alcohol, the integrity (or lack thereof) in using ghost producers, and the ethics of music streaming platforms.

Learn more tips like these from experienced DJs, producers, managers, and more at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Get presale tickets here: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Join my Patreon at the link below for business and branding tips to take your DJ career to the next level. Tiers start as low as $5 a month for a limited time: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

In this episode, we cover:

-How sobriety helped FREAK ON's process in the studio
-The social media struggles artists face today
-How streaming platforms have changed the way artists produce & release their music

FREAK ON is an LA-based producer making a name for himself through his distinct take on driving, party tech originals. With influences from dance and hip-hop, FREAK ON developed his unique style with emphasized basslines and high-energy synths.

Follow FREAK ON: https://www.instagram.com/freakonmusic/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oliviamancuso__/

Finding Purpose in Your Music Career with Fredy Lane | Elevated Frequencies #57

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Have you thought about pivoting to a full-time music career? What would leaning into your authentic passion do for your overall well-being and happiness? How can mental health support or detract from the success of your creative career? In this conversation with producer Fredy Lane, we talk through her own mental health journey when transitioning from running a successful events company to pursuing music.

Learn more tips like these from experienced DJs, producers, managers, and more at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Get presale tickets here: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Join my Patreon at the link below for business and branding tips to take your DJ career to the next level. Tiers start as low as $5 a month for a limited time: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

In this episode, we cover:

- How career choices impact your mental health

- Taking financial risks for the sake of happiness

- Finding purpose in your music career

Fredy Lane is a tech house producer and DJ from Los Angeles, California. Having played Beyond and Nocturnal Wonderlands, EDC Las Vegas, the Hollywood Palladium, and more, Fredy has built her reputation as an energetic performer with a knack for pop-style songwriting. Fredy has garnered support from top labels like Insomniac, IN/ROTATION, Deadmau5's Hau5trap, and Thrive Music. She hosts a podcast called Alone Together, which aims to help her listeners feel less lonely. Catch Fredy's new episodes airing on Insomniac Radio biweekly.

Follow Fredy Lane: https://www.instagram.com/iamfredylane/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oliviamancuso__/

How to Get Past the Fear of Making Social Media Content with Goshfather | Elevated Frequencies #56

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Are you scared to promote your music on social media? Do you feel lost on how to make entertaining content? Do you get stuck on negative feedback from peers or online comments? In this conversation with DJ, producer, and social media expert Goshfather, we discuss the importance of social media promotion for artists and how to effectively commit to creating content.

Learn more tips like these from experienced DJs, producers, managers, and more at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Get presale tickets here: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

In our exclusive Patreon clip, Goshfather and I discussed how talent alone isn't enough to succeed as a musician. Goshfather explains the other aspects of a music career that are arguably more important than musical skill.

Join my Patreon at the link below for business and branding tips to take your DJ career to the next level. Tiers start as low as $5 a month for a limited time: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

In this episode, we cover:
- Mental blocks that keep DJs from posting content
- How DJs make social media content that their audience actually wants to watch
- Ways to get out of a social content rut

Goshfather, based in San Francisco, blends disco, funk, and tech house, inspired by artists like Daft Punk and Duck Sauce. In 2023, he released a record weekly, amassing over 40,000 downloads and solidifying his presence in the EDM industry. Goshfather built a solid core following on social media through consistent content and engagement with his community. Associated with Hysteria and Spinnin Records, Goshfather aims to dominate the electronic music scene with his unique sound and vocals, performing at major venues like Academy Nightclub in LA.

Follow Goshfather: https://www.instagram.com/goshfather/
Follow me for exclusive clips and tips: https://www.instagram.com/oliviamancuso__/

How DJs Grow a Loyal Fanbase with X & Ivy | Elevated Frequencies #55

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0500

NOTE FROM OLIVIA:

Hey guys! I shot this episode live at my friend's pizzeria. You may hear some slight background noise - so just a fair warning if you use headphones.

Special shoutout to Professor Pizza for sponsoring this episode:

How can you convert social media followers to loyal fans of your music? Can going viral make you an overnight music success? How can a manifestation and meditation practice support your music career goals?

Learn more tips like these from experienced DJs, producers, managers, and more at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Get presale tickets here: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Join my Patreon at the link for business and branding tips to take your DJ career to the next level. Tiers start as low as $5 a month for a limited time.

In this episode, we cover:

Why people follow you on social media, and how that may not convert to loyal music fans
The power of manifestation in creating your dreams and meditation for keeping you grounded within them
The cons of going viral and how building an audience over time may be more effective

Minimal techno and house DJ/producer duo, X & Ivy, began under a different alias, PARTY SHIRT, and amassed 20M followers as the world went into lockdown. The duo decided to start a completely new project as X & Ivy, which began in 2023, but has quickly gained noise, including sets for Book Club Radio, and gigs in US, UK, and Australia.

Their tracks have received support from the likes of FISHER, Jamie Jones, Marco Carola, and more. Their upcoming release with frequent Daft Punk collaborator, Todd Edwards, and an album worth of unreleased IDs has positioned them perfectly for an exciting 2024.

Follow X & Ivy

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What Record Labels Look For & How They Help DJs Grow with Deron Delgado | Elevated Frequencies #54

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0500

How do you get signed to a record label that values artist development?

What will a label do to evolve your artist story and support individual releases?

Should you be producing for DJ promo or to play your tracks directly to your audience?

Learn more tips like these from experienced DJs, producers, managers, and more at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Presale tickets go live TOMORROW, June 21, 2024.

In our exclusive Patreon clip, Deron and I discuss how AI is changing music promotion, for better or worse. Join my Patreon for business and branding tips to take your DJ career to the next level. Tiers start as low as $5 a month for a limited time.

In this episode, we cover:

What marketing tactics Deron uses for his signed artist releases
How his label plays a part in artist development
The personality traits he looks for when trying to sign an artist

Deron Delgado is a label manager for Dirtybird Records (under EMPIRE Records), who’s built a reputation as one of underground dance music’s most influential curators. Since 2015, Delgado has managed the label’s day-to-day operations, and helped shape and execute the label’s vision across their releases, events, festivals, and more. He's overseen dozens of artists' careers, helping many grow from local openers to festival headliners. Delgado has worked with names like John Summit, FISHER, Nikki Nair, Walker & Royce, and Catz N Dogz, to name a few.

Follow Deron: https://www.instagram.com/derondelgado/

Follow Me: https://www.instagram.com/oliviamancuso__/

4 Business Mistakes Most DJs Make | Elevated Frequencies #53

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Do you know where to find resources to take your music business to the next level?

When should you invest in tools, products, or additional people on your team?

How can you negotiate deals in a professional manner?

Watch this episode to learn the common mistakes music industry professionals make when trying to grow their careers. Learn more tips like these from experienced DJs, producers, managers, and more at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Presale tickets go live on June 21, 2024.

In this episode, we cover:

How to build a strong artist brand that supports your social media strategy
Knowing the right way to invest in tools, products, and yourself
How to become resourceful in running your music business
The importance of standing up for yourself in a professional way

Join my Patreon and get exclusive access to branding and business resources for your artist journey

Follow me on Instagram

What to Know Before Hiring Music PR with Franz Hilberath | Elevated Frequencies #52

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0500

What can a strong PR strategy do for your music career? When is the right time to add a PR expert to your artist team? How can PR help refine your artist brand identity?

Listen to this episode to learn how PR maven Franz Hilberath recommends you build your brand. His tips aim to not only grow your career but maintain your integrity and connection to your audience at the same time. Franz is a panelist at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus, where artists can talk directly to him. Presale tickets go live on June 21, 2024! Sign up for early bird access here.

In our exclusive Patreon clip, Franz explains top 40 artists' recent PR strategies. We discussed Billie Eilish's new album promotion, Kendrick Lamar's smart and subtle marketing for his diss tracks, and other artists who have dipped their toes in EDM (Beyonce, Drake). Join my Patreon for business and branding tips to take your DJ career to the next level. Tiers start as low as $5 a month for a limited time.

In this episode, we cover:

How a PR strategy can support your music career
How to build a PR story that audiences relate to
The value of a niche, engaged audience over viral numbers

Franz Hilberath is a writer, publicist, artist manager, and editor/founder of MP3 MAG. His byline spans live event coverage, music reviews, and interviews with innovators such as ODESZA, Marc Rebillet, RUFUS DU SOL, Lee “Scratch” Perry, GRiZ, & SOFI TUKKER. Franz works as an independent publicist (Franz.mp3), representing true creatives and esteemed labels such as Zeds Dead (Deadbeats), Shaq (Diesel), Gravitas Recordings, Mersiv (MorFlo Records), Night Tales (Ultra Records), and more. Follow Franz.

Join my Patreon and get exclusive access to branding and business resources for your artist journey.
Connect on Instagram

What to Invest in Your Music Career (Real Numbers) with Mario Danza | Elevated Frequencies #51

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 30 May 2024 07:00:00 -0500

How do you make money as an artist? How much does it actually cost to turn your music into a career? What steps should you take before you spend a penny on achieving your goals?

In this episode, talent manager Mario Danza takes us through the hard numbers that go into making a music career take off. In our exclusive Patreon clip, Mario explains how to make sure you're getting the best deal through contracts and negotiations - EVEN if you don't have a manager or lawyer to help you out. Join my Patreon for business and branding tips to take your DJ career to the next level. Tiers start as low as $5 a month for a limited time.

In this episode, we cover:

What to invest in to make music your full-time job
Figuring out your artist brand, and using monetary investments to push that vision forward
Actual numbers of what investing in yourself costs

Mario Danza is the founder of Define Group, a management group for dance music artists. He also runs a network of over 2M followers across his digital work for DJ Lovers Club, EDM Lifestyle, and EDM Lovers Club. On top of all of that, Danza does programming for TTYL Events.

Follow Mario

Join my Patreon and get exclusive access to branding and business resources for your artist journey.

Instagram

How to Start Your Own Record Label with Maxinne | Elevated Frequencies #50

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 23 May 2024 07:00:00 -0500

What does it take to create your own record label? What are the benefits of having your own label? How can you take control of your music career by running releases and events?

This interview with Maxinne shares her step-by-step experience in creating Red Alert Records.

In this episode, we cover:

A comprehensive guide on creating your own label
The level of control you have over your music career when you have your own label
How to set up label operations and build a brand
How to balance building a label with your own music career

Maxine is a DJ, producer, and founder of Red Alert Records, known for her groove-driven percussion, catchy vocals, and infectious bass lines. Maxinne has gained global recognition for her exclusive releases on Toolroom Records, Saved Records, and Knee Deep In Sound, as well as regular features on various line-ups in Ibiza, Italy, and the UK, including the Labyrinth and Resistance official pre-parties at Tantra Ibiza, Café Mambo, Sankeys, and DJ Mag.

Follow Maxinne

Join my Patreon and get exclusive access to branding and business resources for your artist journey.

Instagram

Trusting Your Creative Process with Kevin Knapp | Elevated Frequencies #49

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 16 May 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Does your creative process fuel your motivation? How can you build up your tenacity and self-confidence in your craft? How can you intentionally create timeless, career-building music rather than get caught up in trendy sounds?

This interview with Kevin Knapp shares his expertise on fostering longevity in your music career.

In this episode, we cover:

Living and working with a partner (Kevin's spouse, Hutch, is co-owner of Plump Records)
Building a creative process that inspires and fuels motivation
The importance of tenacity in your business and craft
Low alcohol or sober life as a DJ

Kevin Knapp is a pioneer of the sounds crowds yearn for through his own individual production style and his proclivity for vocal contributions. His stand-out vocals turned our heads back in 2012, proclaiming “My Beat Will Control You" with Audiojack, and his first Hot Creations cut, "The Drums” alongside A&R head Richy Ahmed in 2013, is still owning dance floors to this day. Kevin has taken every opportunity to continue his craft, leading him from San Francisco to the capital of Techno: Berlin.

As a world-touring DJ, Kevin has performed at many seminary festivals and stages, including Dirtybird Campout, Lucidity Festival, Paradise, Get Lost, Cityfox, Sonar, Fabric, Kater Blau, Elrow, and Sankeys. Knapp founded Plump Records alongside his spouse, Hutch Knapp.

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Consistency in Your Music Brand Identity with REAPER | Elevated Frequencies #48

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 09 May 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Do you always need to keep consistent in your artist branding? When can you begin to experiment and explore new branding elements? What parts of your music identity are recognizable as unique to you? REAPER shares their expertise on building a consistent brand, while leaving room for evolution.

In this episode, we cover:

How to explore other music genres while maintaining your recognizable brand
Having identifiable branding markers, like REAPER’s signature mask
An intro to the Drum & Bass genre
Appreciating live music and the artist behind the decks

Known for their signature masked appearance, REAPER is a unique drum & bass flavor that piques the interest of Bass music enthusiasts across the spectrum. Following their debut, REAPER has had a massive touring schedule, joining Kayzo on both of his 2021 and 2022 NA tours as well as performing at major festivals, including Insomniac’s EDC Las Vegas, Nocturnal Wonderland, EDC Orlando, Countdown NYE, Excision’s Lost Lands, and many more. REAPER’s latest project, CHALLENGER, is the culmination of over two decades of production experience. Their music is a portal to the new era, a gateway to Drum & Bass.

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Self Care to Support Your Music Career with XIE | Elevated Frequencies #47

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 02 May 2024 07:00:00 -0500

What qualifies success or failure as a House music artist? For DJ and producer XIE, it's perseverance in the face of a challenging industry. So, how do you keep yourself motivated? How do you support your artistic endeavors with self-care? How do you balance hard work and filling up your own cup?

In this episode, we cover:

Pulling inspiration from House music and other genres
The work-life balance of putting in the hours to your craft and self-care to reduce stress and creative burnout
Perseverance in the face of common House music career challenges

XIE is a Los Angeles-based Chinese-American producer, DJ, and singer-songwriter. With her multi-hyphenate skillset in writing, producing, performing, designing her own artwork, and more, XIE creates moody, melodic soundscapes with a unique touch. XIE performed at Coachella's DoLab, HARD Summer, and EDC Vegas. Check out her latest single, 'Birds In Paradise' from Thrive Music.

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Matching Your Artist Brand to Your Beliefs with Lucati | Elevated Frequencies #46

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0500

We're running it back with Lucati!

How can you take part in controversial conversations and still get booked? How can you share your beliefs in a productive and open way? What do you do when you realize your take isn't quite right?

In this conversation with Lucati, we talk about his ability to own his voice and engage his audience in a real way. In this episode, we cover:

Finding purpose in your art
Standing up for your beliefs, but knowing when to admit if you were wrong
Building a community that wants to engage in real conversations
The fear of being controversial and owning your point of view

Lucati is a DJ and producer with over 10 years in the House music scene. Garnering support from House music legends such as Claude Von Stroke, Dennis Ferrer, Green Velvet, Chris Lake, Lee Foss, and countless others has brought Lucati into the spotlight. He's played at EDC Vegas, EDC Mexico, HARD Summer, and more. Mixing deep, unrelenting grooves with sensual minimal vibrations, Lucati's one-of-a-kind sound emerges at the forefront of the new wave.

Special thanks to DJ Simoné and Key Club Studios for hosting our conversation!

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Finding Gratitude From Difficult Experiences with Andrew Lux and Proppa | Relevant Frequencies #45

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 08:34:25 -0500

In Relevant Frequencies, we cover all of the hot topics in the electronic music industry, from making friends on SoundCloud, brand cohesion across projects, pivoting creative ideas, and inspiring yourself with a secondary creative outlet in addition to music.

We spoke about having fun with your social media and promotion and finding the balance between mindfulness of others and authenticity. We discussed filling up your own cup and protecting yourself from media burnout.

In this episode, we cover:

Having a secondary creative outlet other than music.
Creativity in content creation to build a unique brand.
Pivoting and adapting as an essential step for growth.
Protecting your mental health and be mindful of the content you consume.
Using past experiences to find gratitude in your present.
Maintaining mental health against digital fatigue and overwhelm.

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Uplifting BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and Gender-Inclusive EDM Artists | FEMME House | Elevated Frequencies #44

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0500

What steps can you take to ensure you're supporting diverse EDM artists?

What opportunities are gatekept from BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, women, and gender-expansive artists?

How can you, as part of the music scene, engage in conversations around these topics effectively?

This episode is guided by two experts in diversifying electronic music. Lauren HERMIXALOT Spalding and Lauren "Mini Bear" Kop give their advice on how to be an activist in the music industry. In this episode, we cover:

Inclusivity in the EDM industry
Ways to diversify your lineup to be representative and inclusive of the roots of house music
How to engage in conversations around representation and diversity
How to ensure your event is a safe space for everyone

FEMME House creates opportunities for women, gender-expansive, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ creatives in the technical and behind-the-scenes areas of music. They are developing the future producers, mixers, engineers, DJs, artists, and executives of the industry by providing education and scholarships, cultivating community, furthering visual representation, and leveraging their platform to amplify the voices of marginalized communities. Lauren HERMIXALOT Spalding serves as their Co-Founder and Executive Director and Lauren "Mini Bear" Kop as their Chief Education Officer.

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Taking Control of Your Music Career with Z3LLA | Elevated Frequencies #43

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Do you need a big social media presence to become a successful DJ? Do you need to go viral for your music career to thrive? How can you create a social media strategy that feels authentic, sustainable, and on your terms?

DJ duo Z3LLA prioritizes their music over social media, meaning that when they are on social, they engage with intention. Find out their tips for building a brand off of social media and navigating as women in electronic music. In this episode, we cover:

The balance between working on the music versus building a social media brand
How to make social media sustainable and authentic to you
How to develop your team to bring you to the next level
Being a woman in the electronic music scene

Z3LLA is a female singing, songwriting, and DJing duo. Entering a heavily male-dominated space, Z3LLA stands to redefine the house music scene and leave a lasting impression with their unique blend of styles, undeniable talent, and international backgrounds. Currently, you can find their latest single "Why Should I?" featured in over twelve DSP editorial playlists, as well as in the top 25 on the US Dance Radio Charts, making their chart debut whilst still climbing through the ranks.

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How to Make the Most Out of a Music Networking Event | Miami Music Week | Elevated Frequencies #42

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0500

How can you get the most out of music events, both personally and professionally? What kind of prep work will make you stand out at a busy networking event? I spoke with the crew from Hood Politics, including DJ Susan, Sherm, and signed artists about networking, standing out in a crowd, mindset, and how to prepare your pitch so you never fumble an opportunity.

In this episode, we cover:

How to use an event like Miami Music Week to further your career
What not to do at these kinds of music events
How to effectively network and pitch yourself
Healthy mindset for networking

Thank you to BLNK CNVS for hosting me at this Miami Music Week. They put on 30+ events throughout MMW, and took care of their guests despite difficult weather. BLNK CNVS hosts shows all around the Miami, Jacksonville, Orlando, and Nashville areas. Check out their Instagram linked below for their full lineup.

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Knowing Your Music Business Strengths with Walker & Royce | Elevated Frequencies #41

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Are you losing motivation in your music career because of slow growth? How do you build the skill of resiliency against rejection? Can you find a music business partner that keeps you motivated and dedicated to your art? This episode shares the story of DJ duo Walker & Royce, who not only developed a perfectly complementary partnership, but also have countless stories of perseverance in becoming the successful artists they are today.

In this episode, we cover:

Finding a business partner that compliments your strengths & weaknesses
Building resilience to rejection
How to keep yourself dedicated despite slow career growth
Working on projects with the right creative energy and knowing when to take a step back

Walker & Royce are a tech-house DJ duo from New York City. The pair produced their first two full length albums, Self Help and No Big Deal, with Dirtybird Records after successful tracks with labels like Crosstown Rebels, OFF Recordings, and Moda Black. They’ve collaborated with Green Velvet, Diplo, Channel Tres, and more for the bass-heavy tracks that built them a name in the electronic music scene.

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Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Mental Blocks with Nik Cherwink | Elevated Frequencies #40

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 02:00:00 -0500

Are your limiting beliefs holding you back? What current mental blocks do you have surrounding your career? How can a manifestation and mindset practice build your music business? How can you effectively tap into your spiritual energy to become a better creative? This episode teaches you how to find your worth as an artist and lay the foundation for a successful career.

In this episode, we cover:

Manifesting your music business
Overcoming career obstacles with mindset
Unlocking your full creative energy
Common career mistakes that may be holding you back
Checking your current beliefs and letting go of ones that limit you
The benefit of having an artist coach

Nik Cherwink is an artist coach and host of the podcast Headliner Mindset. After a long career working with top record labels, artists, event producers, and educational music programs, Nik pivoted to become a full-time life coach for creatives. He teaches manifestation and mindset practices that guide artists through the hurdles of pursuing their music business.

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Resilience: The Key to Becoming a Successful DJ with Night Tales | Elevated Frequencies #39

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0600

How do you use personal or career hardships to build the skill of resilience? How do you surrender to circumstance yet remain hopeful during uncertain times in your career? How can you fortify your belief in your artistic work? The story of house music duo, Night Tales, is one of perseverance in the name of bringing their musical vision to life. Through personal and professional struggles, the pair learned the value of their own voice.

In this episode, we cover:

Managing your doubt and fear during uncertain times
Building confidence in your artistic voice, even in periods of slow growth
How to create music that enhances your live performances
How to plan your DJ sets for each type of show
Highlighting Black artists in the house music scene

Night Tales is an Australian house music duo merging Black culture and electronic music. Known for their multifaceted sets that include electronic and live elements, Night Tales brings an emotional authenticity to their sound through songwriting, chord progressions, and striking lyricism. Check them out on tour all over Europe and the US this spring and summer.

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How to Build Confidence in Your Music Career with Sherm | Elevated Frequencies #37

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0600

How do you build confidence in your artistic brand? How do you overcome the fear of putting yourself out there, either on stage or on social media? How do you put 100% into your dreams while still managing other responsibilities and self care? Listen to Sherm share his journey of owning his identity as a DJ through being present, open, and confident in his instincts.

In this episode, we cover:

How to build confidence as an artist knowing that not all audiences will resonate with your music.
Stepping outside your comfort zone and finding new audiences that lead to growth and opportunities.
Believing in your personal brand and stepping into your dream persona.
Learning how to change adversity into motivation.
How to balance music pursuits, your day job, and self-care.
Collaborating with brands in a natural and authentic way to expand your opportunities.
Leaning into an abundance mindset and setting ambitious goals.

Sherm is a Chicago based DJ, producer, A&R for Hood Politics Records, and host of the Sherm in the Booth podcast. Known for his successful interview podcast (200 episodes and counting), memorable DJ sets, and clever collaboration with liquor brand Malort, Sherm holds an unmatched ability to entertain.

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Turning Your Music Into a Full Time Career with Cloverdale | Elevated Frequencies #36

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0600

How can authentic branding help make music into your full-time career? How can you build a sharp brand image while leaving room for artistic growth and exploration? Discover how developing your brand to align with your genuine self can propel your creative passion into a full-time career. Cloverdale’s story of self-expression and branding strategy is a must-listen for artists looking to grow their music business.

In this episode, we discuss:

Unveiling the liberating power of staying true to your artistic identity, transcending genre constraints.

Building social media credibility by embracing a less curated, more authentic online presence.
Empowering fellow artists through community building and sharing valuable insights.
Strategic financial management for pursuing a dream career, as exemplified by Cloverdale's frugal approach.

Cloverdale is a DJ and producer known for taking risks, blending music genres, and empowering others to embrace their authentic selves. Named one of Dancing Astronaut’s and Your EDM’s Artists to Watch, Cloverdale is known for his high-octane house style in both his own tracks and those released by his label, Vibrancy. Previously seen at EDC Las Vegas and Vibrancy Festival, you can next catch Cloverdale at the Montreal Lights Festival.

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Curating Your DJ Set to Connect to Your Audience with Ky William | Elevated Frequencies #35

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0600

In this special episode of Elevated Frequencies x House Calls, we’re talking to DJ and producer Ky William. It was a pleasure to have Ky back on the podcast right before he went on stage for House Calls’ newest warehouse initiative, Area Code. Ky shared his experience playing for a well-versed Chicago crowd, and how playing for different types of audiences helps you push your creative limits. As a musician, you can glean valuable tips on crafting sets that resonate with varied audiences and learn about Ky's commitment to musical experimentation.

The episode explores Ky's unconventional approach to show preparation, emphasizing the advantages of creating playlists based on the energy of the venue. Having performed in cities like Phoenix, Boston, Vegas, and Montreal, Ky offered valuable insights into navigating different music scenes.

We spoke about Ky's label showcase in New York. For those of you interested in music management, you can gain inspiration from Ky's hands-on approach with artists, participating in collaborative sessions, and providing mentorship. Our discussion also underscores the importance of fostering a collaborative spirit in the music production process, challenging the prevailing trend of individualism.

Returning to the Chicago music scene, Ky applauds the knowledgeable audience and shares how musicians can benefit from performing in such environments. The podcast provides an insightful perspective for musicians looking to connect with educated crowds, experiment with diverse sets, and gauge audience engagement. When performing, Ky takes on the role of a guide, understanding the power of controlling the energy and flow of a room.

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Opening Your Mind to Opportunity with Nitti | Elevated Frequencies #34

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Grammy award-winning producer Nitti, aka Nitti Gritti, half of Side Piece and half of Say My Nitti, joins me today to talk about how he achieves high-level success without burnout. This episode of Elevated Frequencies is a must-listen for anyone looking for the push to invest in their entrepreneurial goals.

Nitti explains his philosophy of being a social media maven, active on multiple social platforms while still managing the creative side of his business. As an entrepreneur, he balances it all with the help of a skilled team. Knowing how to delegate and relinquish control when needed has allowed Nitti to focus on the music.

We talked about the financial investment needed to fuel growth. As a seasoned artist, Nitti has reinvested in his business multiple times. However, especially in the beginning, new artists must find comfort in financially backing their dreams. Not only is it essential to fuel projects, but it also adds a layer of accountability to the work.

Nitti's expert social media presence is one to note. He purposefully dedicates time to create content with clarity, resulting in relevant and entertaining posts that speak directly to his growing audience. In our conversation, he gives his actionable tips on how to strategize content that aligns with his personal brand.

Part of Nitti's branding ethos is reinvention and experimentation. He switches up his inspirations and style of content creation, which often helps him push through bouts of creative block. He emphasizes the importance of creating for yourself and avoiding comparison to other artists.

Nitti leans into setting intentions aloud as an act of visualization while staying alert and receptive to signs from the universe. His story demonstrates the power of mindset.

Tune into Elevated Frequencies for an inspiring journey of growth with Nitti, and find tips for artists looking to build their brand, regardless of your field or career stage.

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Crafting Your Authentic Artist Brand: A Guide to Meaningful Impact | Elevated Frequencies #34

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Are you ready to level up your personal brand as an artist? Listen up, because this episode of Elevated Frequencies is about to transform the way you approach your creative branding.

Many artists struggle to balance their artistry with the demands of building a personal brand. In this episode, I break down the overwhelming task of branding into actionable steps, offering a roadmap for those who want to shine without losing their artistic focus.

Wondering how a strong brand can elevate your career? I go through my personal and client examples of how a cohesive brand unlocks new opportunities. Learn how to organically build a loyal following, secure coveted gigs, like interviewing at EDC, and discover why quality trumps quantity when it comes to building a powerful brand.

It's never too late to align your professional endeavors with your true passions. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting, this discussion will inspire you to take bold steps towards creating a brand that resonates with your authentic self.

In this conversation, I explain the four-step framework for building a brand identity. From setting SMART goals to understanding your audience's desires and problems, this episode provides practical strategies to help you craft a brand that stands out in the crowded digital landscape.

Don't miss the crucial insights on positioning yourself as a guide in your audience's journey. Learn how to demonstrate empathy and authority, fostering a connection that goes beyond self-promotion. Plus, discover the platforms that matter most for your audience and how to create a content calendar that adds value for your followers.

Ready to take your brand to the next level? Tune in to Elevated Frequencies and embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. Your authentic brand is the key to unlocking untapped opportunities and connecting with your audience on a deeper level.

Subscribe now and leave a comment to share your thoughts. We'll be back next week with another insightful interview to fuel your creative journey.

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00:00
Introduction: The Importance of Personal Branding

02:02
The Benefits of Building a Personal Brand

03:29
Overcoming Fear and Putting Yourself Out There

04:00
Creating a Brand Centered Around Your Preferences

05:15
A Four-Part Framework for Building Your Brand Identity

06:42
Step 1: Writing Down Your Goals

08:09
Step 2: Identifying Your Audience

09:03
Step 3: Understanding Your Audience's Wants and Problems

10:56
Positioning Yourself as the Guide, Not the Hero

13:17
Identifying Main, Internal, and Philosophical Problems

15:57
Demonstrating Empathy and Authority

18:03
Creating a Content Calendar and Choosing Platforms

20:51
Sample Content Calendar for Instagram and Twitter

Mastering Career Pivots with Barclay Crenshaw | Elevated Frequencies #33

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0600

When Barclay Crenshaw, previously known as the renowned house music DJ Claude VonStroke, chose to step back and realign his career, it marked a profound shift not just in his professional life but also in the music world. This episode of Elevated Frequencies is a must-listen for anyone feeling cornered in their current career trajectory and seeking inspiration for a more fulfilling path.

Barclay Crenshaw originally captivated audiences under the alias Claude VonStroke, carving out a career that spanned over two decades and included five albums. He was the creative powerhouse behind Dirtybird Records, an underground house label from San Francisco that evolved into an international festival, clothing, and music brand. In a bold move in 2024, Barclay stepped away from his label to dive back into his first loves: bass, dub, jungle, funk, and hip-hop. His journey serves as an inspiring beacon for those looking to make a significant career shift.

Many professionals, despite successful careers, find that their work no longer sparks their inner passion. Barclay's story stands as a powerful example for those aspiring to break away and pursue a path more in tune with their evolving interests and passions. This episode offers not just a glimpse into Barclay's unique transformation but also provides practical strategies for those contemplating their own career pivots.

We're excited to explore Barclay Crenshaw's narrative, detailing his courageous move away from Claude VonStroke and Dirtybird Records to embrace his authentic musical identity. This decision to return to his roots and his true self is filled with insights and inspiration for anyone wishing to reshape their professional life.

In this episode, we delve into the key moments and decisions of Barclay's career, underlining the significance of aligning one's work with true passions. We discuss the challenges and victories of such a substantial change, providing listeners with valuable lessons on embracing change, staying true to one's roots, and the delightful surprises that come with rediscovering one's passion.

Tune into Elevated Frequencies for an inspiring journey of transformation with Barclay Crenshaw, and discover the courage to navigate your own career pivot, regardless of your field or career stage. His story is a reminder that it's never too late to align your professional endeavors with what truly moves you.

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Making Music with Purpose with Luzi Tudor | Elevated Frequencies #32

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Luzi Tudor, an artist with a remarkable life story, shares her journey of resilience and courage. From fleeing communist Romania as a child to seeking asylum in various countries, Luzi's experiences have deeply influenced her music. She discusses the importance of finding peace and satisfaction, the role of recovery in her creativity, and the support of her parents. Luzi also emphasizes the power of meditation and the benefits of slowing down in a fast-paced world. She shares her upcoming projects and collaborations, highlighting her intention to make a positive impact through her music and brand. Want me to interview a specific artist? Let me know in the comments.

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Want to cut back on drinking? Tips for Dry January | Elevated Frequencies #31

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0600

This episode discusses the upcoming Dry January, as sober curiosity and the trend of cutting back on alcohol are becoming more popular. I provide tips for drinking less and drinking better. I then delve into alcohol's impact on the gut microbiome, like causing inflammation, and its effects on the brain. I emphasize the importance of mindfulness when engaging with the drinking experience. I also share strategies for approaching Dry January with flexibility and setting realistic goals. Planning ahead, exercising discipline, and keeping a journal can help in drinking less. Finally, I explore mocktails and non-alcoholic alternatives as options for those looking to reduce their alcohol intake.

Studies mentioned in episode:

https://arcr.niaaa.nih.gov/volume/38/2/alcohol-and-gut-derived-inflammation
https://www.bmj.com/content/357/bmj.j2353

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Drawing Inspiration from Outside the Music Industry with Bijou | Elevated Frequencies #30

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0600

In today’s episode, we're talking to DJ and producer Bijou. We talked about how he finds inspiration, overcomes challenges, and stays true to himself in the music industry. Bijou shared how he draws inspiration from different genres, such as hip-hop, to create his own unique sound. He emphasized the importance of originality and pulling inspiration from a variety of sources to create his own brand. Bijou discussed the challenges he faced as a creative entrepreneur and how he found the motivation to continue pursuing music. He highlighted the value of hard work, authenticity, and surrounding oneself with good people. Bijou talked about the importance of emotional intelligence and the ability to adapt to changing trends in the music industry. Want me to interview a specific artist? Let me know in the comments.

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Creating Music & Content From Pop Culture That Shaped You with Jake Shore | Elevated Frequencies #29

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0600

In today’s episode, we're talking to a DJ and producer you may recognize from TikTok, Jake Shore. His popular social media series, House Music You Should Start Your Day With, put him on the map and helped him transition from teaching into a full-time music career.

Looking at his socials, it's like a masterclass in content creation, with his emphasis being to entertain, inform, or inspire in every video. He shared his authentic life of being a teacher who loves house music. That kind of genuine passion helped him grow an audience that wanted him to succeed.

Not long after, Jake was able to transition into a full-time career in music. He also practices sober living, which he recognizes is not a black-and-white journey. He emphasized that his choice to not drink only has to do with his own preferences and that differing lifestyle choices around alcohol are still valid. His musical inspirations come from the pop culture he grew up with, including Fresh Prince and Nick at Night. By piecing together what has shaped him, Jake has built a brand of house music unique to him.

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Nurturing Your Creativity Through Intentional Mental Health Practices | Elevated Frequencies #28

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0600

In today’s episode, we're bringing back to DJ and producer Flashmob. After our first episode together, Flashmob and I decided to dig deeper into the topics of mental health in the music industry. Watch out for these episodes dropping monthly. This first chapter of the series touches on ways to nurture your creative self and avoid the overwhelm, distraction, and pressure that comes along with pursuing your goals.

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Avoiding Trends & Branding Yourself Authentically with Dateless | Elevated Frequencies #27

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0600

In today’s episode, we're talking to DJ and producer Dateless. He is a disruptor in the electronic music scene. Brother of Elevated Frequencies alum, Lucati, he leans on his family for support and inspiration.

Dateless takes a lot of pride in his work, managing always to stay authentic to himself and not get sucked into industry trends. He developed his vision early alongside Dirtybird Records. His influences come from his Latin American culture and hip hop. All of it rings true to his dream of becoming a legend in South America.

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Throwing Unique Events & Staying True to Your Own Vision with Destructo | Elevated Frequencies #26

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0600

Today's episode is brought to you by Memore Greens. Kickstart your motivation with the only greens blend that offers a full serving of leafy goodness and brain-boosting nootropics to increase BDNF and dopamine levels. Say goodbye to your probiotic supplements; Memore Greens has your gut covered with natural probiotics from fermented veggies.

Stay hydrated with essential electrolytes and reduce inflammation with antioxidant-rich blueberries. All of this, naturally sweetened without the weird aftertaste of stevia or artificial sweeteners. Get your greens, brain boost, and gut health all in one go with Memore Greens. Use this link: www.yourmemore.com/OLIVIA15-134 or code OLIVIA15-134 at checkout for 15% off your purchase at Memore Greens! (PS - my fave is the lemongrass + lavender)

In today’s episode, we're talking to DJ and producer Destructo. He's been curating unique events in the electronic music scene for decades. He was immediately hooked after his first electronic event and knew he needed to be involved in creating these parties. He threw multiple successful event series and now focuses on Friendship Cruise, a 5-night cruise stacked with performers. He curates one-of-a-kind experiences that defy the norms of typical EDM shows.

We discussed his ability to listen to criticism but still stay true to his own mission of creating out-of-the-box events.

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ADE, The Controversy of Ghost Producing, Festival Icks, & More | Relevant Frequencies #25

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0600

In Relevant Frequencies, we cover all of the hot topics in the electronic music industry, from needing an ADE type of networking event in America to the controversy of ghost producing. We spoke at length about branding yourself authentically, which doesn't necessarily mean sharing intimate details of your personal life. But, when you do share more of your personality and your process, it can unlock opportunities and create a deeper connection with your audience. We finished this episode with a long list of festival and show icks. People with no spatial awareness, people who talk through the whole set, phone signs, and, unfortunately, so much more.

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Salvione's Visualization and Manifestation Practice Led to His Dream Gig | Elevated Frequencies #24

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0500

In today’s episode, we're talking to producer Salvione. We spoke about his visualization and manifestation practices. He says they have been pivotal in achieving his dreams, from playing a specific gig in Ibiza to starting his show Elevated Radio. Elevated Radio is his weekly show with now 3.9M listeners. His goal was to share his favorite artists and up-and-comers with his community. He credits his ability to manage so many creative projects to his robust journaling practice. He sits down every week to plan his priorities, noting which drive him towards his big goals. He touched on some of his favorite moments in the scene, all of which were times he felt deeply grateful for his community. Hearing support from his listeners has been the biggest inspiration for Salvione to keep creating.
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Eskuche's Experience Being Alcohol-Free | Elevated Frequencies Byte Sized #23

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In today’s episode, we're talking to producer Eskuche. We touched on his life in Miami, unplugging from your online presence, and his choice to go alcohol-free for two years. Jumping off last week's episode all about my low-alcohol life, I loved hearing Eskuche's experience of being sober in the DJ community. We talked about his first sober show, how his social circle changed after cutting out drinking, and how he was able to stick to his values despite this huge lifestyle change.

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My Low Alcohol Lifestyle - Tips, Benefits, Downsides | Elevated Frequencies #22

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0500

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY BONBUZ.

Bonbuz is an award-winning female-founded alcohol-free beverage company that is pioneering the future of drinking and how we get buzzed.

Their new line of ready-to-drink Functional Fizz cans empowers consumers with enhanced mood states to combat the midday slump like never before.

Functional Fizz contains a blend of over 970MGs of nootropics, adaptogens, and medicinal mushrooms that work symbiotically with our body’s natural functions to elevate mood and energy, whilst promoting focus, reducing stress, and improving overall sense of wellbeing.

BUY BONBUZ HERE.

Today’s episode discusses my decision to live a low-alcohol lifestyle. I share all of my tips on how to enjoy nightlife to the fullest while cutting back on excessive drinking. I go over the benefits of drinking less, from clearing my skin to improving my gut health and so much more. My life totally changed after cutting back on alcohol.

But of course, choosing not to drink or drink less affects how you'll feel in the nightlife scene. My tolerance for drunk people has definitely gone down, and it's often hard to find a spot at shows where people with diminished spatial awareness won't bump into me. I have to acknowledge that this can be difficult, but I have a few tips that can help you feel at ease, even without the drinks.

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Blending Music Styles & Curating Thoughtful Events with Ky William | Elevated Frequencies #21

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In today’s episode, we're talking to producer Ky William. We touched on his creative process, love for different sounds, and approach to running his business in the music scene.

Ky spoke about his newest work and how dedicating himself to the studio has let him recharge from the grind of networking. He focuses on healthy habits and partying in moderation to keep him from burning out.

He shared how his community is everything to him. They hold him accountable and keep him motivated. Having friends who can give you honest feedback is what pushes you most, according to Ky.

We spoke about his creative through-line. Though his work style changes, he produces every track the same way. Reusing sounds across his tracks keeps cohesion in his varying body of work.

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Energy Exchanges and Fashion Influences with House DJ Duo RaeCola | Elevated Frequencies #20

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In today’s episode, we're talking to the fashion-forward duo, RaeCola. Born and raised in the home of house music, Chicago, this DJ pair shared their journey into the music scene, from childhood clarinet to being on the road. RaeCola gave their thoughts on the energy exchange we experience at intimate shows and a look into their creative process. Like all of us, they faced the fears of being new at something. We discussed how to push past your own insecurities in order to create.

I had to ask how they chose their iconic outfits for each show. They shared their fashion influences and how they fully conceptualize their surroundings to pick the perfect fit. Whether it be the 50th anniversary of hip hop, their current city, or Fashion Week, RaeCola finds creative ways to incorporate their influences into their wear.

We spoke about how they connected instantly to the energy of Dirty Bird festivals. The events' priority of self-expression resonated with RaeCola, who wanted to find a part of the electronic music scene that could feel creative and be a conduit for connecting with others.

Want me to interview a specific artist? Let me know in the comments. Check out my TikTok and Manifestation Resource Hub for extensive resources and tips on addressing these mindset challenges.

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Break Through Mental Barriers - 4 Mindset Questions Artists Must Face: Elevated Frequencies Episode #19

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0500

***FOUR MINDSET QUESTIONS I ASKED MYSELF TO BUILD A SIX-FIGURE BUSINESS, INCLUDING WORKING IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY***

In today’s episode, we explore the idea that making it in the music industry isn’t solely about your connections, resume, or the physical output of your work, but fundamentally about your mindset. We'll uncover how shifting your mentality can be the key to unlocking a world of opportunities within the music sector.

We unravel the process of shifting into your dream career and debunk the myths surrounding career changes. We explore the psychological barriers and mindset obstacles that often hold us back from achieving our dreams and aspirations.

Using my personal journey in the music industry as a guide, I walk you through four pivotal mindset questions to aid you in accomplishing your goals. From a traditional path in journalism to running a six-figure business, my story serves as a testament to overcoming mental blockages and achieving success.

Throughout the episode, we chat about:

1. Addressing Logistical Roadblocks: Turning challenges into opportunities and breaking the confines of traditional requirements.
2. Viewing Failures as Lessons: Developing a fail-forward mentality and learning from our experiences.
3. Overcoming Scarcity Mindset: Building a mindset of abundance and investing in oneself.
4. Visualizing and Believing in the Unseen: Creating unique pathways and realizing unseen possibilities.

Check out my TikTok and Manifestation Resource Hub for extensive resources and tips on addressing these mindset challenges

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Mastering the basics with Josh Butler: Elevated Frequencies Episode #18

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I dive deep with the incredibly talented Josh Butler, a figure revered for his musical mastery. Fresh off seeing him perform at House Calls, our conversation unveils surprising insights, especially around his creative process.

Josh's humble approach to music creation will resonate with many; he often crafts his best tracks with just headphones and a laptop. His journey shatters the misconception that one needs high-end equipment to produce quality music. In reality, it's more about skill, passion, and creativity.

We also explore the origins of his own label, which bridges the gap between house music generations. With collaborations involving legends like Marshall Jefferson, Robert Owens, and Kerri Chandler, the label becomes a musical history lesson.

Finally, Josh emphasizes the importance of artists finding their unique sound. Drawing from a rich tapestry of influences - from early house to dub reggae and UK rave music - he exemplifies how an artist can mold diverse inspirations into a distinct style.

Join us as we debunk myths, celebrate the connective power of music, and encourage every aspiring artist to find their unique voice in the vast world of electronic music.

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Manifest anything you want using these tips from top DJs: Elevated Frequencies Episode #17

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0500

The four pillars of manifestation are:

1. Setting Clear Goals
2. Taking Aligned Actions
3. Cultivating Gratitude
4. Tuning into Universal Signals

Every artist featured on this show has harnessed these principles, propelling them to incredible heights in their careers.

Discover how you can adopt these strategies to turn any vision into reality.

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From Law School to the DJ Booth - Flashmob's True Calling: Elevated Frequencies Episode #16

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0500

Many of us follow paths thinking they're right for us, only to find out they don't match our true passions. Flashmob's journey is a clear example, as he first chose a career in law but soon realized his heart was set on a different beat.

Flashmob sheds light on a critical aspect of life: the peril of living in cognitive dissonance. Many are trapped in jobs or situations that they believe they're "supposed" to be in. But what happens when this existence is not in sync with their true desires? The weight of such a life is evident.

However, Flashmob's story isn't just about finding a new path; it's about the courage to step off the beaten track. It's about recognizing that the hustle, often celebrated in today's world, can sometimes be a futile chase. Instead, Flashmob champions the concept of what we on the show call aligned action – working in tandem with one's core beliefs and desires. This doesn't just lead to success; it brings forth joy, purpose, and true fulfillment.

His candid discussion about the superficial nature of the industry is eye-opening. Where many see music as a means to fame or riches, Flashmob sees it as a tool for healing, sharing, and celebrating beauty. He refuses to wear a mask, prioritizing genuine connections over industry norms.

Join us as Flashmob delves deep into his transformation, highlighting that it's never too late to follow one's passion. His journey from the structured world of law to the fluid rhythms of music is a testament to the power of self-reflection and true alignment.

Tune in, and be inspired to ask yourself: Are you hustling, or are you taking actions aligned with your soul?

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All About ARC Music Festival | Set Recommendations, Afters, What I'm Bringing, Food and Travel Tips - #15

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0500

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY BONBUZ.

Bonbuz is an award-winning female-founded alcohol-free beverage company that is pioneering the future of drinking and how we get buzzed.

Their new line of ready-to-drink Functional Fizz cans empowers consumers with enhanced mood states to combat the midday slump like never before.

BUY BONBUZ HERE.

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In this Elevated Frequencies episode, I'm answering all of your pressing questions on ARC Festival and giving you some insider hacks on maximizing your experience as someone going on their third ARC and as a native Chicagoan.

In this episode, we'll cover food and transportation options, how to plan your day across different stages, must-see earlier in the day sets, what I'm bringing in my bag, feeling comfortable breaking away from the group, and how to make it through the whole festival and the afters.

If you're going to ARC, I'm so excited to see you there. I'm taking a week off from the podcast, but I'll be bringing you lots of live content, so stay tuned to my socials for day-of content.

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0:00 Try BonBuz
0:30 Intro to Arc
3:14 Transportation to festival
6:40 Food options in Chicago
9:33 Planning your day at ARC festival
16:18 Can't-miss early sets
18:04 What to bring to the festival
21:47 Solo exploration
24:28 Important afters info
26:56 Tips/hacks to make it all weekend

Dark Beats and Enlightening Vibes with Mari Lee: Elevated Frequencies Episode #14

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0500

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY BONBUZ.

Bonbuz is an award-winning female-founded alcohol-free beverage company that is pioneering the future of drinking and how we get buzzed.

Their new line of ready-to-drink Functional Fizz cans empowers consumers with enhanced mood states to combat the midday slump like never before.

BUY BONBUZ HERE.

---------

In a world pulsating to techno beats, Mari Lee has carved out a space that thrums to the darker melodies of screamo, emo, metalcore, and post-hardcore. Her love for these genres isn't just a fleeting obsession; it defines her distinctive dark techno style both in her solo performances and as half of the female power duo, Black Diamond.

A believer in authenticity and personality, Mari infuses her DJing with a spark of who she is. That spark also ignites her humorous TikTok videos, where she satirically commentates on social behaviors in clubs, poking fun at pretentious attitudes.

Mari is candid about her struggles with anxiety but also shares how DJing makes her feel truly alive. Her belief in the law of attraction and meditation guides her path, manifesting positivity and abundant opportunities.

Her philosophy is one of learning rather than jealousy, seeking growth from those who have walked the path before her. It's about harnessing energy, projecting positivity, and letting those dark techno beats resonate with something profound and real.

Join us for a conversation with Mari Lee, where music, mindfulness, and a touch of social satire blend into a rich tapestry of a DJ's life.

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Full episode show notes: www.elevatedfrequenciespodcast.com

Setting Vibes and Invisible KPIs with Jia Wang: Elevated Frequencies Episode #13

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0500

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY BONBUZ.

Bonbuz is an award-winning female-founded alcohol-free beverage company that is pioneering the future of drinking and how we get buzzed.

Their new line of ready-to-drink Functional Fizz cans empowers consumers with enhanced mood states to combat the midday slump like never before.

BUY BONBUZ HERE.

A native of Guam, Jia's journey began with his love for techno, leading him to DJing and eventually creating "6AM Disturbance." The name symbolized his double life, where weekdays were about his finance job, and weekends were a celebration of music.

His dedication brought him from San Diego to LA, opening doors to the music scene and eventually leading to the development of Guam's Electric Island Festival, an award-winning house and techno sensation. But 6AM is more than just festivals and events; it's about enriching lives through community, belonging, and creating opportunities for the next generation of artists.

Jia’s belief in what he calls an “invisible KPI” emphasizes that the energy and intention of an event’s creator directly influence the event itself. It must be real and genuine.

With new projects like ArtistMap, aimed at educating and guiding aspiring artists, 6AM continues to foster an inclusive community serving something greater than itself.

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A Tribute to Chicago House Music Legend, Paul Johnson: Elevated Frequencies Episode 12

Olivia Mancuso — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0500

Paul Johnson, a Chicago-born house music icon, emerged as one of the genre's most influential figures in the 1990s. A self-taught DJ prodigy, Johnson began captivating audiences at the age of 13, and his unmistakable beats, such as the global hit "Get Down," remain dance floor anthems. Beyond his musical genius, Paul was known for his unyielding spirit, unwavering passion, and commitment to community values in an ever-changing industry. His legacy stands as a testament to the true essence of house music: culture, community, and pure joy.

Paul was a dear friend of Olivia's and many others, and he is sorely missed. May he continue to rest in peace.

The Power of Teamwork with Truth x Lies: Elevated Frequencies Episode 11

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 03 Aug 2023 04:04:00 -0500

In this episode, we dive into the musical odyssey of Truth x Lies with Ian and Ryan. While Ian's early exposure to diverse musical genres laid the foundation for his musical journey, Ryan's relocation to New York sparked his love for dance music. Formed in 2014, Truth x Lies embarked on a journey to discover their distinct sound. With invaluable guidance from their management and the unwavering support of the music community, the duo emphasizes genuine community building and cherishes open communication with their fans. Join us as they unveil the secrets behind their innate musicianship, team dynamics, and the ethos of Truth x Lies.

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More good stuff and full show notes: www.elevatedfrequenciespodcast.com

Proppa is Turning Adversity into Advantages: Elevated Frequencies Episode #10

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Join us as we dive into the music industry with Proppa, an artist who's overcome physical adversities and navigated the ups and downs of his career with resilience and authenticity. In this episode, Proppa discusses the origins of his DJing career in high school, the importance of creating quality music over chasing social media trends, and the invaluable role of engaging with his fanbase. He also shares his insights on the importance of DJs' energy during performances and his appreciation for the accepting and loving nature of the electronic music community. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation filled with unique insights and tips for artists and music lovers alike.

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Lucati is Leading By Example: Elevated Frequencies Episode #9

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0500

From his humble beginnings as a college blogger to standing alongside industry heavyweights, Lucati's story underscores the importance of authenticity, perseverance, and a deep love for the craft. Listen in as we discuss navigating life's trials, the nuanced art of DJing, and the value of authenticity over virality in shaping an artist's career.

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Malcolm Brown, Harmonizing Nightlife and Wellness: Elevated Frequencies Episode #8

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Join us in this enlightening episode as we chat with holistic health coach and DJ, Amanda, aka Malcolm Brown. She takes us through her unique journey, transitioning from a party-hard lifestyle to becoming a beacon of balance in the nightlife scene. Learn how she transformed her habits and now coaches 'party people' to create healthier, more balanced lives.

Amanda shares insightful tips about mindful drinking, setting boundaries, and creating structure in the midst of the party whirlwind. Tune in to uncover how you can balance the exhilaration of nightlife and personal well-being.

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Maxinne, Building Community All Over the World: Elevated Frequencies Episode #7

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0500

In this enlightening episode of Elevated Frequencies, we sit down with the incredibly talented Maxinne. She discusses her creative process, the impact of her travels on her music, and how she maintains a deep connection with her fans. Maxinne also shares her enthusiasm for the diverse cultures she's experienced and how living in the moment fuels her dynamic career. Tune in as she shares about thriving in the vibrant house music scene and maintaining balance in a hectic yet fulfilling lifestyle.

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Speaker Honey is on Mars Time: Elevated Frequencies Episode #6

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we delve into the nocturnal rhythm of Speaker Honey, who harnesses her creativity during the peaceful hours of the early morning. Discover how her unconventional 'Mars time' lifestyle fuels her artistry and how journaling serves as a conduit for self-reflection and capturing serendipitous moments. But the journey doesn't stop there; we also explore the profound connections and healing power embedded within her performances. Join us as we unravel the unique bond between Speaker Honey and her fans, formed not just through shared music but through shared life experiences and emotional healing.

#SpeakerHoney #Manifestation #Nightlife #Affirmations #Journaling #ElectronicMusic #TechnoMusic

Find Speaker Honey on

Twitter - https://twitter.com/speakerhoney?lang=en

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/speakerhoney/?hl=en

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/7dzM8rBjimBLgsQ9pfZIXO

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Kaleena Zanders, Manifesting Magic: Elevated Frequencies Episode #5

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we’re granted access to the beautiful mind of powerhouse vocalist and DJ Kaleena Zanders. We explore her unexpected journey from rock music to DJing, her advocacy for Black vocalists, and her unique approach to manifestation. Kaleena shares her techniques for crafting her life and career, balancing present enjoyment with future ambition, and even the lessons she's learned from rappers about affirmation and manifestation.

#KaleenaZanders #Manifestation #MindsetMotivation #Affirmations #Visualization #ElectronicMusic #HouseMusic

Find Kaleena Zanders on

Twitter - https://twitter.com/KaleenaZanders
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kaleenazanders/?hl=en

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/0Sz2jslaxjcw2VM5zYh2jK

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More good stuff and full show notes: www.elevatedfrequenciespodcast.com

Will Clarke, Setting and Keeping Boundaries: Elevated Frequencies Episode #4

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we delve into the unique journey of DJ/Producer Will Clarke, who navigates the fast-paced electronic music scene while valuing authenticity, mental health, and living alcohol-free. Discover how he balances privacy and vulnerability, thrives as an introvert in an extroverted space, and builds a supportive community that extends beyond the club scene. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about remaining true to your roots in the face of fame.

#WillClarke #Authenticity #MentalHealth #Sobriety #ElectronicMusic #HouseMusic

Find Will Clarke on

Twitter - https://twitter.com/djwillclarke

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/djwillclarke

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/1OmOdgwIzub8DYPxQYbbbi

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Disco Fries, Building Beyond Beats: Elevated Frequencies Episode #3

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Join us on this episode as we dive into the world of Disco Fries, who extended their influence beyond festivals and shows to build a suite of music businesses. Learn about the duo’s unique approach to partnership and delegation, how they balance their passions with practical business sense, and their unwavering dedication to nurturing new talent. Get inspired by their journey from college friends to industry mentors, sharing the wisdom they've picked up along the way. Don't miss their insights on managing time, tasks, and teams and how they turned setbacks into stepping stones to success.

#DiscoFries #musicbusiness #Nightlife #ElectronicMusic #TechnoMusic

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Westend, the Power of Nostalgia: Elevated Frequencies Episode #2

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Elevated Frequencies, we join tech house mainstay Westend in revisiting the joy and tranquility of his childhood passion - fishing. We explore how such nostalgic pursuits offer not just an escape from the tech-saturated modern life but also a pathway to creativity and mindfulness. Tune in on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform, and discover how embracing your inner child could elevate your life.

#ElevatedFrequencies #ChildhoodMemories #DigitalDetox #Passions #Inspiration #PodcastEpisode #InnerChildConnection #HouseMusic #TechHouse

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Elevated Frequencies - Intro

Olivia Mancuso — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0500

My name is Olivia Mancuso, and I'm thrilled to welcome you to Elevated Frequencies: the show that gives you access to the next level of house and techno, so you can explore an elevated lifestyle.

You're likely here because, like me, you're deeply connected to the house and techno scene. But, just like me, you're also striving for more out of life than just an electrifying party. Balancing 7 am afters with personal and professional growth isn't always easy. Perhaps you're setting boundaries around your social life, reserving late nights for experiences that are truly worth it.

This is a unique conundrum we find ourselves in, one that many other music fans don't quite understand. It's not like country concerts extend until 4 am, or people go to mainstream clubs out of pure love for top 40 radio edits. Our connection to house and techno is on a deeper level, making it harder to say no when your favorite DJ is in town... and won't be on until 2:30 am.

So, how do we stay connected to the scene and get our “fix” of house and techno without inducing a three-day hangover? That's precisely what I'm trying to figure out.

I’m fortunate to have the chance to sit down with some of the biggest names in house and techno. Together, we discuss how to immerse ourselves in this vibrant lifestyle while still thriving in other areas of our lives.

We'll delve into topics like how to stay sober in the scene, how to build a supportive network, spotting signs of burnout before hitting a creative rut, and choosing the best festivals and experiences that won’t leave you feeling dopamine depleted. We’ll also explore manifestation, understanding how these artists manifest success, and how their mindsets shape their realities.

My promise to you is that these interviews will inspire you to elevate your own life in whatever way that means to you. Whether it’s pursuing a new passion or career, finally taking that trip to Monaco, or just establishing a morning routine. All pursuits of an elevated lifestyle are valid and celebrated here.

I invite you to join me in these enriching conversations and be part of this community. My episodes drop every Thursday, so be sure to subscribe on YouTube. Let’s elevate together!

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More good stuff: http://elevatedfrequenciespodcast.com