Heartdea13r Podcast with Christopher Gonda // the 513 // Con Raso (Music & Technology Entrepreneur / CEO & Co-Founder, Tuned Global)

The 5•1•3

9 questions. 3 layers. 1 person. Some rapid fire, some heady. All killer, no filler. Five questions for the head. One question for the heart. Three questions for the soul. This is our fun way of getting to know someone intimately, quickly.

Summary

Con Raso shares his vision for a music industry where technology, AI, and rights management work together to create a fairer future for artists. From balancing innovation with ethics to reflecting on entrepreneurship, risk, family, and leadership, he explains why honesty, transparency, and long-term thinking matter more than ever. The conversation explores how AI is reshaping the music business, why artists deserve a greater voice in that evolution, and the lessons learned from decades of building a company through uncertainty. Ultimately, Con reminds us that success is built on relationships, resilience, and making decisions that align with what—and who—you truly value.

Key Topics

• AI's impact on artist rights and industry shift
• Balancing personal life and entrepreneurship
• The evolution of music licensing and rights management
• Con Raso's journey from music to tech leadership
• The importance of honesty and communication in leadership

Heartdea13r theme song by William J. Sullivan

• https://linktr.ee/wjpsullivan
• https://williamjsullivan.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/wjpsullivan/
• https://x.com/wjpsullivan
• https://www.tiktok.com/@wjpsullivan
• https://www.youtube.com/@wreckinjoint

Heartdea13r Podcast with Christopher Gonda // Episode 100 // Klayton aka Celldweller (Artist & Producer, Founder & CEO at FiXT), James Rhodes (President & Co-Founder, FiXT), and Lance Marwood (President & Co-Founder: V13 Promo + V13 Press, Dir. of Comms: V13 Media)

Summary

In this milestone 100th episode of Heartdea13r, FIXT co-founders Klayton and James Rhodes unpack two decades of building an independent music company around fairness, artist ownership and genuine relationships. They discuss the failures that shaped FIXT, their commitment to 50/50 artist deals, streaming fatigue, the resurgence of physical music and why direct-to-fan relationships may define the industry’s next chapter. Alongside Christopher Gonda and Lance Marwood, the conversation explores entrepreneurship, adapting through failure and why people—not profits—remain at the heart of sustainable creative businesses. Ultimately, Klayton and James make the case for patience, trusting your instincts and building something that lasts without sacrificing your values.

Key Topics

• Klayton's journey reflects the struggles many artists face in the music industry.
• FiXT Music Group was founded to create fair opportunities for artists.
• The label operates on a 50/50 deal structure, prioritizing artist rights.
• Communication and transparency are key to maintaining artist relationships.
• The music industry is evolving, and labels must adapt to survive.
• Success is measured not just in profits but in artist satisfaction.
• Building a positive reputation takes time and consistent effort.
• The importance of direct fan relationships in the current music landscape.
• Advocacy for independent music rights is crucial for industry change.
• Learning from mistakes is essential for growth and improvement.
• Building a strong foundation is crucial for long-term success.
• Good art is the primary motivator for music labels.
• Patience is essential in achieving success in the music industry.
• Communication and transparency foster better relationships in business.
• Artists should focus on small wins to build momentum.
• The importance of people in the music industry cannot be overstated.
• Learning from failures can lead to unexpected successes.
• Creating value for artists is a key focus for labels.
• The future of the music industry requires adaptability and foresight.

Heartdea13r theme song by William J. Sullivan

• https://linktr.ee/wjpsullivan
• https://williamjsullivan.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/wjpsullivan/
• https://x.com/wjpsullivan
• https://www.tiktok.com/@wjpsullivan
• https://www.youtube.com/@wreckinjoint

Heartdea13r Podcast with Christopher Gonda // Value Session 009 // Jo James (Americana, Soul & Blues Musician)

Learn about V13 Media Group's Values (our 13 V's) here: https://mediagroup.v13.net/values/

Summary

This conversation goes far beyond music, exploring the life experiences that shaped Jo James as both an artist and a person. Jo opens up about surviving depression, rediscovering faith, and how authenticity, compassion, and vulnerability became the foundation of his songwriting, while Christopher Gonda reflects on grief, healing, and finding meaning through life's darkest moments. Together, they discuss the power of honest conversation, the role of music in bringing people together across differences, and why hope and pain can coexist. The result is a thoughtful, deeply human conversation about resilience, purpose, and the stories that connect us all.

Key Topics

• The role of music in healing and self-expression
• Overcoming life's hardships and finding hope
• The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in art
• Spirituality, faith, and the concept of God as universal energy
• The power of community, love, and discourse in society

Heartdea13r theme song by William J. Sullivan

• https://linktr.ee/wjpsullivan
• https://williamjsullivan.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/wjpsullivan/
• https://x.com/wjpsullivan
• https://www.tiktok.com/@wjpsullivan
• https://www.youtube.com/@wreckinjoint

Heartdea13r Podcast with Christopher Gonda // Episode 99 // Alex Henry Foster (Artist, Singer, Musician, Writer and Activist)

Summary

Alex Henry Foster joins Christopher Gonda for a powerful conversation about surviving life-threatening heart surgery, confronting mortality, and rediscovering who he is beyond music. From finding unexpected healing in Tangier, Morocco, to reflecting on grief, mental health, compassion, creativity, and the search for purpose, Alex shares one of his most honest and vulnerable interviews to date. Together, they explore resilience, authenticity, human connection, and why our greatest struggles often become the foundation for our greatest growth.

Key Topics

• The impact of childhood health challenges on personal development
• The role of adversity in fostering resilience and gratitude
• Living in the present moment and embracing vulnerability
• The influence of personal history and cultural background on identity
• The importance of self-awareness and emotional honesty
• Healing journey after surgery and trauma
• The importance of safe spaces for self-expression
• The role of community and shared experiences in healing
• The concept of choosing oneself and others
• Reflections on Morocco, music, and personal growth

Special thanks to Zandrew Sonnemaker (@p0pezandy) for his massive help fixing (ironically) audio & video sync issues with this episode’s footage.

Heartdea13r theme song by William J. Sullivan

• https://linktr.ee/wjpsullivan
• https://williamjsullivan.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/wjpsullivan/
• https://x.com/wjpsullivan
• https://www.tiktok.com/@wjpsullivan
• https://www.youtube.com/@wreckinjoint

Heartdea13r Podcast with Christopher Gonda // Guest 2 Guest #020 // Chris SD (Producer & Founder, Sync Songwriter) x Alex Henry Foster (Artist, Singer, Musician, Writer and Activist)

Summary

Welcome to Guest 2 Guest, the Heartdea13r mini-series, where our latest podcast guest asks our next guest a question. Today, Chris SD asks Alex Henry Foster: “What do you personally do to create a positive moment?”

Special thanks to Zandrew Sonnemaker (@p0pezandy) for his massive help fixing (ironically) audio & video sync issues with Chris SD’s footage.

Heartdea13r theme song by William J. Sullivan

• https://linktr.ee/wjpsullivan
• https://williamjsullivan.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/wjpsullivan/
• https://x.com/wjpsullivan
• https://www.tiktok.com/@wjpsullivan
• https://www.youtube.com/@wreckinjoint

Heartdea13r Podcast with Christopher Gonda // Episode 98 // Chris SD (Producer, Founder Sync Sonwriter)

Summary

Chris SD joins Christopher Gonda for a thoughtful conversation about what it really takes to build a lasting career in music. Drawing on his journey from Canadian fencing champion to award-winning producer and founder of Sync Songwriter, Chris shares why authenticity, relationships and purpose matter far more than chasing fame or money. Together, they explore the realities of sync licensing, the power of community, and the mindset that helps artists create opportunities instead of waiting for them. It's an inspiring discussion for musicians, creatives and anyone pursuing a passion with long-term vision.

Special thanks to Zandrew Sonnemaker (@p0pezandy) for his massive help fixing (ironically) audio & video sync issues with this episode’s footage.

Key Topics

• The importance of authenticity and passion in music
• Building genuine relationships in the industry
• The three Ps: Product, Performance, Placement
• Strategies for successful sync licensing
• The role of community and networking in success
• Overcoming challenges as an indie artist
• The significance of timing and luck
• Practical advice for aspiring musicians

Heartdea13r theme song by William J. Sullivan

• https://linktr.ee/wjpsullivan
• https://williamjsullivan.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/wjpsullivan/
• https://x.com/wjpsullivan
• https://www.tiktok.com/@wjpsullivan
• https://www.youtube.com/@wreckinjoint

Heartdea13r Podcast with Christopher Gonda // Guest 2 Guest #019 // Phil Nealy (Career Advisor, Life Coach, Motivational Speaker) x Chris SD (Producer, Founder Sync Songwriter)

Summary

Welcome to Guest 2 Guest, the Heartdea13r mini-series, where our latest podcast guest asks our next guest a question. Today, Phil Nealy asks Chris SD: “What do you personally do to create a positive moment?”

Special thanks to Zandrew Sonnemaker (@p0pezandy) for his massive help fixing (ironically) audio & video sync issues with Chris SD’s footage.

Heartdea13r theme song by William J. Sullivan

• https://linktr.ee/wjpsullivan
• https://williamjsullivan.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/wjpsullivan/
• https://x.com/wjpsullivan
• https://www.tiktok.com/@wjpsullivan
• https://www.youtube.com/@wreckinjoint

Heartdea13r Podcast with Christopher Gonda // Value Session 008 // Duane Lawrence (Retired Teacher & Children’s Book Author of Sammy Squirrel and Rodney Raccoon series)

Learn about V13 Media Group's Values (our 13 V's) here: https://mediagroup.v13.net/values/

Summary

Duane Lawrence shares the remarkable journey behind his beloved Sammy the Squirrel books, revealing how a simple walk through Vancouver’s Stanley Park and years spent teaching in Japan shaped his vision as a storyteller. In this thoughtful conversation with Christopher Gonda, he explores the power of creativity, cultural understanding, and why building a meaningful life is about serving others, embracing curiosity, and staying true to your purpose. From inspiring thousands of schoolchildren to dreaming of seeing his characters brought to life through animation, Duane offers a heartfelt reminder that the biggest ideas often begin with the smallest moments—and the courage to follow them.

Key Topics

• Duane Lawrence's journey from teacher to author
• The influence of Japanese culture and language on his mindset
• The role of passion and authenticity in creativity
• How vision shapes his projects and future plans
• The importance of cultural understanding and emotional intelligence

Heartdea13r theme song by William J. Sullivan

• https://linktr.ee/wjpsullivan
• https://williamjsullivan.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/wjpsullivan/
• https://x.com/wjpsullivan
• https://www.tiktok.com/@wjpsullivan
• https://www.youtube.com/@wreckinjoint

Heartdea13r Podcast with Christopher Gonda // Episode 97 // Phil Nealy (Career Advisor, Life Coach, Motivational Speaker)

Summary

Phil Nealy's story is one of extraordinary resilience, proving that mindset can be more powerful than circumstance. After a devastating diving accident left him a quadriplegic, Phil refused to accept the limits placed on him by others, using gratitude, determination and relentless mental discipline to rebuild his life against overwhelming odds. In this deeply personal conversation with Christopher Gonda, he reflects on overcoming trauma, living with chronic pain, finding purpose through service, and why choosing hope every day has become his greatest achievement. It's an inspiring reminder that while we can't always choose what happens to us, we can choose who we become because of it.

Key Topics

• Mindset and mental wellness before and after the accident
• The importance of gratitude and positive thinking
• Overcoming physical and emotional challenges
• Humour as a tool for resilience
• The role of purpose and helping others in healing

🔗 Heartdea13r theme song by William J. Sullivan

• https://linktr.ee/wjpsullivan
• https://williamjsullivan.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/wjpsullivan/
• https://x.com/wjpsullivan
• https://www.tiktok.com/@wjpsullivan
• https://www.youtube.com/@wreckinjoint

Heartdea13r Podcast with Christopher Gonda // guest 2 guest #018 // Billy Morrison (Artist, Musician, & Guitarist in Billy Idol) x Phil Nealy (Career Advisor, Life Coach, Motivational Speaker)

Summary

Welcome to guest 2 guest, the Heartdea13r mini-series, where our latest podcast guest asks our next guest a question. Today, Billy Morrison asks Phil Nealy: “In this world of 30-second attention grabs, how do you take a mental breath?”

Heartdea13r theme song by William J. Sullivan

• https://linktr.ee/wjpsullivan
• https://williamjsullivan.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/wjpsullivan/
• https://x.com/wjpsullivan
• https://www.tiktok.com/@wjpsullivan
• https://www.youtube.com/@wreckinjoint