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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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