Prepare to be swept away by the vinyl revival as we sit down with Terry Currier, the maestro behind Music Millennium Record Store and the co-founder of National Record Store Day. Terry's tale is one for the books, spanning a remarkable 52 years of twists, turns, and tunes. This episode is a treasure trove of stories that will have you reminiscing about the crackle of a needle on vinyl and the unmistakable scent of a new album sleeve.

From the pangs of Napster's upheaval to the backstage whispers of music festivals, Terry unravels the fabric of an industry that's as vibrant as the records it presses. We weave through Terry's earliest encounters with music retail, his fervent support for independent stores amid digital disruption, and the moments that sculpted his career into the legacy it is today. You'll be privy to the infamous Garth Brooks CD controversy that sparked a media frenzy and hear personal anecdotes that showcase the power of live music, like Chris Isaac's extraordinary fan engagement.

As we reflect on the shifts and shimmies of the music world, you’ll discover the ingenious ways Music Millennium danced through the pandemic, and why vinyl remains the soul of soundwaves. The episode crescendos into a conversation filled with gratitude, illustrating the timeless power of music to unite and inspire. Tune in for an episode that pulls back the curtain on the music industry's evolution and celebrates the tunes that continue to unite generations.

Music Millenium
Oregon Music Hall of Fame

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This conversation with DJ Indica Jones buzzes with stories about passion, dedication, and a rhythmic journey from Phoenix heat to the cool vibes of the Nectar Lounge in Fremont. We spun through Indica's origin story, touching on the influence of his contemporary DJ Z-Trip and the unwavering support from his wife who believed in his dream to the tune of a new set of turntables. Indica's tale isn't just about beats; it's about the beats of the heart, the connections made, and the community of musical aficionados inspired by his 3,000 performance-strong career.

Change is the only constant in the world of music and DJ Indica Jones knows it better than most. Indica dissects the evolution of DJing from the tactile thrill of spinning vinyl to the digital wizardry of today's music scene. Sharing his love for the hunt of rare cassettes and the first pressings of classic albums, Indica's words became a vinyl groove of memories highlighting the blend of nostalgia and innovation that keeps his sets pulsing with life. This episode wasn't just an exploration of musical trends; it was an ode to the collectors, the crate diggers, and the auditory archaeologists keeping the soul of music alive.

We wrapped things up with the sweet, swirling debate of the ages: Which ice cream flavor reigns supreme? Indica and Jon scooped up the topic with gusto, laughing over the merits of mint chocolate chip versus peppermint—and his peculiar preference for eating cones from the bottom up. It was a playful finale to an episode rich with the spirit of live performances and the power of music to move and unite us. So grab your favorite cone, press play, and join us for a journey that promises as much variety and delight as the ice cream aisle itself.

Indica's Links:
DJ Indica Jones
DJ Z-Trip
DJ Wicked
Nectar Lounge
Jazz Bones

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Embark on a revealing exploration with industry finance expert Susan Den, unravelling the intricate dance of finance, HR, and strategy in the nonprofit realm. Susan's prestigious transition from the thrill of amusement parks to the nuanced world of arts and music organizations has endowed her with a keen perspective on using accounting as a vibrant storytelling medium. Our conversation dives into how this narrative power shapes the future, positioning finance and HR not just as support functions but as pivotal architects in the edifice of organizational strategy.

The journey continues with a heartfelt look at Treehouse's transformative work with foster youth and how their financial strategies have masterfully balanced expansion with innovation. We also navigate the post-pandemic fundraising landscape, now a terrain of shifting donor preferences and engagement tactics. This new world challenges us to redefine community support, highlighting the crucial role of intimate, donor-centered events in sustaining nonprofit vitality.

Concluding our session, we traverse the realms of transparency, trust, and mentorship, pillars of a robust financial framework. The exchange of financial insights across all organizational levels emerges as a catalyst for empowered decision-making and problem-solving. Through anecdotes from the festival industry's unpredictability, we underscore the trust and quick-thinking demanded in high-stakes environments, and celebrate mentorship's lasting legacy in sculpting finance professionals ready to tackle the sector's complexities. Join us for this thought-provoking voyage that not only demystifies the fiscal narrative but also celebrates the human connections that underpin the very essence of nonprofit success.

https://www.treehouseforkids.org/

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This week we sit down with Amy Maxwell, the trailblazing force behind Ticket Tomato, for an in-depth conversation that's as ripe and juicy as the company's namesake. Amy's personal crusade for a better way of event ticketing has reshaped the landscape for festival-goers and event organizers alike, bringing affordable and accessible ticketing solutions to the forefront. Throughout our talk, she shares the triumphs and trials of her transition from event coordination to leading a mini revolution in the ticketing world, offering a glimpse into the creative synergy between her work with musicians and programmers that fuels her vision.

This episode isn't just about buying and selling tickets—it's a narrative on the transformative power of technology in event management and the human connections that keep it grounded. Amy takes us back to the days of pioneering palm pilots for ticket scanning, reflecting on the deep trust between her and festival founders that laid the groundwork for success. We pull back the curtain on the intricate dance of tackling ticket fraud and cyber threats, where Amy's expertise shines in devising strategic defenses and maintaining the crucial element of live customer service amidst an automated industry. For anyone who's ever tapped their foot to a festival beat or scanned a QR code, this conversation is a testament to the innovative spirit that keeps the music playing.

As we wrap up, the spotlight shines on the unsung heroes of the ticketing saga—collaboration and education. Amy champions the cause of small event organizers, illuminating how Ticket Tomato empowers them to master promotion and ticket management, no matter the size of their stage. Peering into the crystal ball of industry trends, she advocates for transparent pricing and the paramount importance of customer satisfaction. So tune in as Amy's stories of resilience and her dedication to crafting temporary communities will inspire you long after the final encore.

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Imagine leaving the predictable comforts of a dental office for the dizzying heights of high-rigging in the entertainment industry. That's the story of Renee Munholand, whose remarkable career leap has seen her ensure the safety and success of everything from colossal concerts to Super Bowl extravaganzas. In our conversation, Renee peels back the curtain to reveal the resilience and passion required to soar in this high-stakes profession. She recounts the personal growth and life lessons learned on the job, providing an inspiring look at what it takes to leave a grounded job for one that literally hangs in the balance.

Renee doesn't hold back on the realities of work-life equilibrium and the unique pressures of tour life, offering insights into how a positive mindset can transform a grueling schedule into a rewarding adventure. She walks us through the evolving landscape of rigging, where certification and safety dance hand-in-hand with the irreplaceable wisdom gained from hands-on experience. Renee's stories serve as a masterclass in navigating the rigging world  where precision and neutrality are everything.

To round it all off, our audience gets a taste of how, sometimes, it's the small things—like mentoring the next generation of riggers or choosing between chocolate and caramel—that truly sweeten life's journey. Join us for this episode and strap in for a behind-the-scenes tour that ascends to new heights, offering heart-racing anecdotes and valuable lessons from one of the industry's most adept high-fliers.

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From her pirouettes in New York to steering Seattle's most vibrant festivals and innovative events, Jane Zalutsky's journey is nothing short of a masterclass in fearlessness in the arts and entertainment space. This episode is a treasure trove of backstories, pioneering spirit, and the everlasting imprint of arts on community fabric.

With leadership as our compass, we navigated the twists and turns of event management, the development of organizational culture, and discussing how cultivating a fearless approach can pave the way to success. We peel back the layers of narrative, revealing the early imprint on Jane of family and mentors that led to the apex of innovative event creation in the Pacific Northwest including the genesis of Teatro Zinzanni. We ponder over the seesaw of managing eclectic and seasonal extravaganzas, the art of balancing teamwork with assertiveness, and how encountering imposter syndrome is less about overcoming and more about embracing our shared vulnerabilities.

As the curtains draw to a close on this behind-the-scenes tour, we celebrate the influential ripples that Jane's work has cast across the landscape, illustrating how the embrace of diversity and culture enriches us all. Jane and Jon laugh over the unexpected turns that event planning can take and concluded with a toast to the quirky, nostalgic personal tastes that hallmark life's adventures, with a nod to the polarizing nature of licorice ice cream. Join us as we reminisce, reflect, and revel in the quirky chapters of collective history while revealing timeless insights and advice for generations to come.

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This week we visit with the illustrious John McEuen, whose fingers have danced across banjo strings to the rhythm of a music revolution. Reflecting on his journey, John transports us from his first brush with Hank Williams' "Jambalaya" to the halls of fame with the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Our hearts beat to the strumming of nostalgia as we explore the band's early days, their rise through the ranks of bluegrass, folk and country, and the magical intersection of music and childhood memories.

A sprinkle of Disney dust transforms our conversation, taking us from the acoustic corners of Orange County to the poignant notes played at the funeral of Mickey Mouse's voice actor, Wayne Allwine. Music's role in the tapestry of our lives is revealed in heartfelt stories, the hustle of a musician's path, and the whimsical moments that connect us to the greater narrative of Americana. Through John's multifaceted career, we uncover his habit of wearing many hats, from road managing to promoting music festivals like the Deadwood Jam.

Put on your headphones and settle in for a discussion that harmonizes the echo of a life in music with sage advice for those just beginning their journey. John and Jon share a laugh over the quirks of the industry, shared passions, and the simple joy of a well-tied knot trick. Join us for an episode that's not just an interview but a concert, filled with the melodies of life, laughter, and the unexpected chords that make every tune worth listening to.

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Join us for a fireworks extravaganza of conversation with Rick Olsen, owner of Pyro and Fire FX in Gig Harbor, Washington. Discover his transformative journey from firefighter to pyrotechnician, as Rick recounts the heights he's scaled, both literal—in the form of the towering King Dome—and metaphorical, in the impacts his work has had on audiences across the globe. From sporting events to the unforgettable Times Square New Year's Eve ball drop, Rick shares the sheer joy and technical mastery behind each dazzling display.

Venture into the meticulous trade of professional pyrotechnics where regulations, licenses, and written testing are just the beginning. Rick lays bare the complexities of this explosive industry, contrasting the rigorous standards of Washington State with the varying requirements of other states. As the conversation sparks with anecdotes from theatrical productions to the daredevilry of Robbie Knievel, we also delve into the tech horizon—where drones are the newest players in the sky's ballet. Rick's narrative is a testament to the perennial need for expertise and the gravitas of maintaining and advancing professionalism in this booming field.

Lastly, under the shimmer of 'jellyfish' and chrysanthemum fireworks, we address the burning issue of safety in public events, emphasizing the indispensable role of fire department training. The haunting memory of the Rhode Island concert tragedy serves as a stern reminder of what's at stake. We examine the benefits of Rick's ground-breaking training programs for local fire officials.  As the episode wraps, Rick reflects on the sheer scale of the Times Square ball drop and the dedicated professionals who orchestrate such breathtaking moments. Today's conversation is guaranteed to light up the skies and warm the heart with every sparkling burst.

Pyro and Fire FX

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Ever found yourself in a room with someone whose very presence changes the air, sparking a light bulb moment that shifts your career trajectory? That's the magic Mardig Sheridan brought to Jon's world, and in our latest episode, we navigate his winding path from small strategic envisioning workshops to the boardrooms of tech giants. Mardig, with his treasure trove of strategy consulting expertise, unravels the intricacies of guiding companies through the thorny thicket of change and innovation.

Strap in for a ride from strumming guitar strings to crafting ad campaigns as Mardig recounts his transformation from rising star rock musician to advertising maven and strategic savant. The journey reveals the birth of a strategic visioning methodology that reshapes how decisions are made within an organization, proving that the most profound solutions often lie within. There's something to learn about the courage to question the status quo, the boldness to challenge, and the discovery that every industry, including the competitive world of venture capital, is ripe for innovation.

As we round out this melody of strategy and storytelling, we reflect on the rhythm of commitment in achieving personal and professional peaks. The real life example of Truepanion's trailblazing strategy in pet insurance, alongside Maveron's distinct venture capital approach, provide a backdrop to a broader contemplation on positioning oneself in the marketplace in ever changing times. So, prepare for a symphonic blend of laughter, strategic revelations, and the occasional nod to the nostalgia of a beloved Fender guitar.

As discussed in this episode here is a link to The Bard's Moses Lake Recordings.

This episode was recorded at the Totem Star studios at King Street Station in Seattle. Totem Star provides access to a diverse community of young recording artists learning music and life skills through mentorship and meaningful relationships

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Instagram: www.instagram.com/totemstar
Facebook: www.facebook.com/totemstar

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This week we meet a young artist at the beginning of his career. When Seattle's own Kiddus Fecto traded his basketball aspirations for the pulsing heart of music, a star was born in the lush soundscapes of the Pacific Northwest. This episode sings a tale of transformation, as Kiddus shares his melodious journey from the echo of church choirs to his first steps onto festival stages. We unravel the fabric of his musical background, underscoring the lucky strike of having found access to an array of production tools and the critical and sometimes unexpected role arts play in shaping our lives.

The symphony of creativity doesn't end there. We dissect the essence of Kiddus's standout tracks, where Spanish melodies meet the haunting echoes of choirs and operatic vocals, creating a genre-defying auditory experience. As Kiddus opens up about the alchemy of collaboration, we reflect on the surprising growth and skills unearthed when musicians collaborate. It's evident that music is more than a solo act; it's an ensemble of shared expertise and the unexpected joys of artistic interplay.

Our finale crescendos with Kiddus's dreams of global connections and the bittersweet nostalgia of a world less digital, less immediate. Venturing through the trials of live performances to the ebb and flow of musical trends, we celebrate the inspirations fueling the creative forge and the invaluable support of mentorship from communities like Totem Star. And for a dash of humor, Kiddus's audacious off-the-cuff claim as the "baddest Rockstar living" is the cherry on top of our sonic sundae, reminding us that confidence can be as catchy as a chart-topping hook.

Check out Kiddus Fecto on SoundCloud.
Jon's favorite tracks mentioned in this episode:
Nonexistent
1/2 Man 1/2 Amazing
Married To The Game

This episode was recorded at the Totem Star studios at King Street Station in Seattle. Totem Star provides access to a diverse community of young recording artists learning music and life skills through mentorship and meaningful relationships

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Website: www.totemstar.org
Instagram: www.instagram.com/totemstar
Facebook: www.facebook.com/totemstar

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