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

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

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

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

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

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

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