Summary

Aaron Curnow, the founder of Spunk Records, discusses his career in the music industry and the relationships he has built with artists. He reflects on the success of the label and the challenges he faced, including the impact of COVID-19. Curnow also talks about the importance of being connected to the music and the artists he works with. He discuss the changing landscape of the music industry, particularly in relation to the rise of streaming platforms like Spotify. They talk about the challenges faced by up-and-coming bands and the shift in focus from live performances to online streaming. They also touch on the role of record labels and the importance of creativity in the industry. Aaron shares his top three live music experiences and reflects on the nostalgia of mixtapes and vinyl records. They conclude by discussing the future of Spunk Records.

Takeaways

Building relationships with artists is crucial in the music industry.

Being connected to the music and having a passion for it is essential for success.

The challenges of running a record label include managing multiple artists and adapting to industry changes.

COVID-19 has had a significant impact on the music industry, particularly in terms of international releases and live performances. The music industry has undergone significant changes with the rise of streaming platforms like Spotify, which have impacted the way artists promote and monetize their music.

Up-and-coming bands face challenges in getting their music heard and building a fanbase, as traditional avenues like live performances and record labels have become less accessible.

Creativity remains a crucial aspect of the music industry, and artists need to find innovative ways to stand out and connect with audiences.

The nostalgia of mixtapes and vinyl records highlights the importance of physical media and the personal touch it brings to music consumption.

Spunk Records plans to take a break from releasing new music but will continue to support artists through their existing catalog and explore new opportunities in the industry.

The podcast will continue, with a focus on recording episodes at a pace that allows for quality content without overwhelming the hosts' other commitments.

Get ready to dive into an exciting and inspiring part 2 with Blakey Johnston, the world record holder for continuously surfing for 40.07 hours, riding 707 waves. Not only is Blakey, a skilled surfer, but he's also a passionate advocate for mental health, having raised $400,000 for Youth Mental Health and the Chumpy Pullin Foundation.

In this episode, we get an exclusive glimpse into Blakey's journey towards breaking the world record and learn about his physical and mental challenges during the attempt. But that's not all, as Blakey and Lauren have a surprise in store for Ben, which you won't want to miss! Just keep listening to find out what it is - but we'll give you a clue; it might get a little chilly.

So join us as we chat with Blakey about his record-breaking feat, his passion for mental health awareness, and the surprise that awaits. Get ready to be inspired, motivated and entertained in this inspiring episode.

Wondering what could have gone wrong in 40 hours? Here is a list:

This episode is essential listening. Every human should take the time to listen to Dave's story. Dave Winner is a lifelong, all-season surfer and ocean swimmer. He can often be seen striding confidently into the surf, regardless of the weather. In August 2020, at the age of 69, large unpredictable waves caught him off-guard and swept him off the rocks and into a deep rockpool, where he was knocked unconscious and failed to resurface. Dave was under the water for more than 6 minutes while witnesses on the beach rushed to his aid.

It took five people to retrieve him from the water and carry him to safety, where he was given immediate, life-saving CPR by members of the public, including several off-duty first responders. Emergency services arrived, and more than 2 hours after leaving the water, Dave was airlifted to Royal North Shore Hospital, where he remained in an induced coma for five days. After an agonising wait with his family by his side in the ICU, Dave regained consciousness. Sadly, he broke his neck and suffered spinal damage rendering Dave a paraplegic.

Please enjoy this conversation with this real life superhuman, Dave Winner and his son, Steve.

Please register for your first aid training here: https://www.surflifesaving.com.au/first-aid-courses/

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Trust us, charging through not only your daily grind, but flying through the entire galaxy goes better with some Vashti Whitfield wisdom. Whether it be through her books, films, personal coaching or even a daily hit of "Vashti" that you can find on social media platforms, her inspiring words make intergalactic travel so much smoother. Following the tragic loss of her husband, actor Andy Whitfield, Vashti has opened the portal of truth and light to millions throughout the world and now she sits down with Luke and Ben (in studio) to discuss just how to they can maximise the potential of hopefully not just this episode but all of season 2. 

Welcome to our first official "Guestless" episode, where we break down the previous season and discuss what we have learnt, where we are heading and what it means to be a filmer maker and own a digital agency in times of upheaval and disruption. This episode shares our experiences through unscripted dialogue and organic confusion with your hosts, Luke Shanahan and Ben Rennie (Guestless). What follows is a conversation that will make you laugh, squirm & feel oddly inspired. Luke and Ben hope to feed the creative mind (or help you rediscover the one you may have lost). Welcome to "Dear Luke & Ben", New Episodes every Thursday.