Headliner Mindset

JIA is a DJ, promoter, educator, and founder of the 6AM Group and ArtistMap. In this episode, we explore what it really means to be a successful artist in today’s music industry—and it goes way beyond just making tracks and playing shows.

JIA shares the full story behind building his promotion company and brand from the ground up, the hard lessons he learned about burnout, ego, and leadership, and why mindset is the foundation of everything. We talk about redefining success, building a career with purpose, and the importance of personal growth in the artist journey.

This episode is for any artist who’s feeling stuck, burned out, or limited by the industry’s rules. If you’ve ever questioned your path or felt like there must be more to it all, this conversation will reignite your fire and remind you why you started in the first place.

Aren Goldberg is a tour manager for some of the biggest artists in the dance music industry including NGHTMRE, Peekaboo, Dimension and more. In this episode we dive into the realities of life on the road, the biggest mistakes artists make when booking their first tours, and how to actually make money while touring—without blowing your budget on things you don’t need.

If you’re an artist, DJ, or producer who wants to tour one day—or if you’re already playing shows and want to level up—this episode is packed with insights that will save you time, money, and stress.

Follow Aren here:
https://www.instagram.com/arengoldd

Follow Nik Cherwink here:
https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwink

And visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:
https://www.nikcherwink.com

Nick Ruffalo is a music marketing expert who helps artists cut through the noise and build real, engaged audiences with his agency, Unleashd Creative Solutions. In this episode, we break down the biggest mistakes artists make when promoting their music, why simply posting content isn’t enough, and how to actually connect with fans in a way that drives long-term success.

We also talk about the platforms that matter most in 2024, the strategies that actually move the needle, and how to market your music without feeling like you’re selling out. If you want to grow your brand, increase your reach, and make a lasting impact, this episode is packed with game-changing insights.

Follow Nick and apply to work with Unleashd Creative here:
https://www.instagram.com/ruffmusicofficial
https://www.unleashdcreative.com

Follow Nik Cherwink here:
https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwink

And visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:
https://www.nikcherwink.com

Arta Majd is an entertainment attorney who has worked with labels, independent artists and industry professionals to protect their rights, negotiate better deals, and avoid the common pitfalls that ruin careers. In this episode, he breaks down the biggest mistakes artists make when signing contracts, why legal knowledge is just as important as branding and marketing, and when you should bring a lawyer onto your team.

We also dive into the realities of the music business—how deals are structured, the hidden clauses that can lock you in for years, and how to navigate negotiations like a pro. Whether you’re an up-and-coming artist or already deep in the industry, this episode is a must-listen if you want to protect your future and take full control of your career.

Follow and connect with Arta here:
https://www.artamajd.com
https://www.instagram.com/artamajdesq

Follow Nik Cherwink here:
https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwink

And visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:
https://www.nikcherwink.com

Are you creating from the heart or just chasing the algorithm? In this solo episode of The Headliner Mindset Podcast, I reflect on what it means to reconnect with the soul of creativity. Inspired by Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way and my experiences teaching The Art of Flow at ICON Collective, we’ll explore how to break free from overthinking and rediscover the joy of creating from a place of intuition and authenticity.

This episode is for anyone feeling stuck, uninspired, or disconnected from their art. I also introduce my new 12-week coaching program based on The Artist’s Way, designed to help you overcome creative blocks, tap into your flow, and create art that truly resonates. If you’re ready to embrace a more soulful approach to your art, this conversation will inspire and guide you.

Follow Nik Cherwink here:
https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwink

And visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:
https://www.nikcherwink.com

Dan Sugarman is the lead guitarist of Ice Nine Kills and has played on some of the world’s biggest stages. But his path has been anything but ordinary...

In this episode, he opens up about his early obsession with music, the challenges of balancing ambition with health, and how he turned setbacks—like a life-changing cancer diagnosis—into fuel for reinvention. We also dive into his passion for mentoring musicians, the power of authenticity in branding, and his personal growth journey with coaching and plant medicine.

Whether you're an artist or someone chasing big dreams, Dan’s insights on resilience and purpose will leave you inspired.

Follow Dan and Ice Nine Kills here:
https://www.instagram.com/dansugarman
https://www.dansugarman.com
https://www.instagram.com/iceninekills

Follow Nik Cherwink here:
https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwink

And visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:
https://www.nikcherwink.com

NITTI is a genre-bending force in the electronic music world, also known for being one half of the Grammy-nominated duo SIDEPIECE, and is now making waves with his bold new project Alt Rave. After years of grinding in the studio and locking into his craft, he’s found his stride by merging his love for rock, metal, and electronic music into something entirely his own.

In this episode, Nitti shares how he went from church bands to headlining stages, the mindset that keeps him pushing boundaries, and why building the right team has been key to his success. We also dive into the creative freedom he’s found with Alt Rave and his vision for building a community that’s all about passion, quality, and authenticity. If you’re an artist or a fan of next-level music, you won’t want to miss this one.


Follow NITTI here:
https://www.instagram.com/nittimusic
https://www.tiktok.com/@nittimusicoff...

Follow Nik Cherwink here:
https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwink

And visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:
https://www.nikcherwink.com

In this special solo episode of The Headliner Mindset Podcast, I reflect on the top five lessons I’ve learned from hosting over 70 inspiring conversations with artists, DJs, and industry leaders. These takeaways are packed with actionable insights to help you thrive in your career and life. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or dreamer, this episode will resonate with anyone striving for growth and success.

Here are the five lessons we dive into:

• Cultivate resilience and embrace the journey.
• Stay authentic to yourself and your unique voice.
• Treat your career like a business with focus and strategy.
• Prioritize mental and emotional health for long-term success.
• Build strong relationships and foster community connections.

Tune in to discover how these lessons can elevate your mindset and help you unlock your full potential.

Follow Nik Cherwink here:
https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwink

And visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:
https://www.nikcherwink.com

Sippy is a powerhouse in the dubstep and bass music scene, known for her high-energy performances and fearless authenticity. From playing the main stage at Lost Lands to headlining her own tour, she’s built a career that’s both inspiring and impactful. But her journey hasn’t been without challenges. As one of my coaching clients, Sippy has worked to overcome anxiety, embrace balance, and transform her mindset into one that fuels creativity and growth.

In this episode, we reflect on how far she’s come since our very first podcast together. Sippy shares her experience of coaching with me, the daily practices that keep her grounded, and how she shifted from a fear-driven mentality to a love-fueled approach to her career and life. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to create lasting change and thrive under pressure.

Follow Sippy here:
https://www.instagram.com/sippyau
https://www.tiktok.com/@sippyau

Follow Nik Cherwink here:
https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwink

And visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:
https://www.nikcherwink.com

Jake Shore is a rising star in the house music scene, known for his high-energy sets and an authenticity that’s built him a loyal following. After years as a school teacher, Jake made the leap into music full-time, and now he’s touring, creating non-stop, and building a brand that’s truly his own.

In this episode, we dive into Jake’s journey from teaching to the stage, the content strategies that have taken his social media to new heights, and his disciplined 10X mindset for success. We also chat about staying balanced, the importance of gratitude, and what it takes to build a long-lasting career in the music industry.

Follow Jake Shore here:
https://www.instagram.com/itsjakeshore
https://www.tiktok.com/@itsjakeshore

Follow Nik Cherwink here:
https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwink

And visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:
https://www.nikcherwink.com