He built a 10,000-person Santa-themed party… and that’s not even the craziest thing he’s done in the music industry. Today on SITB, Wes Berger—San Diego entrepreneur, event producer, and all-around legend—shares how he went from Chicagoland kid to running some of the wildest events in SoCal… and the insane stories that came with it.This San Diego-based entrepreneur, talent buyer, label manager, event producer—and all-around solid dude— is a true legend. This guy’s done it all behind the scenes: from Santacon to Freedom Fest to Daisy Chain and Subsessions, Wes has built brands that pull serious crowds.He’s originally from Chicagoland, and in this episode he shares how he took a massive leap to the West Coast, the wins, the struggles, and some crazy industry stories along the way.You’ll also catch the dynamic between us—we’re longtime friends, which means plenty of roasting, plenty of laughs, and a lot of genuine insight into what it takes to thrive in this business.

In September 2016 I started a journey that didn't have an end goal.

I just wanted to do something that I would always enjoy and have no hesitation on consistency or passion. 249 episodes later I've interviewed over 200 guests ranging from DJs, producers, agents, talent buyers, entrepreneurs, and more.

The most rewarding part is the relationships and friendships that have come from SITB. There has been a lot of ups and downs but sitting here today I can say for certain that this is my calling.

The biggest thing I've learned is that the podcast has to make me happy first. If it doesn't, then why would anyone else want to listen or watch? Just look at my smile throughout this interview.

Thank you to everyone that has supported me in any way, shape or form. Thank you to my friends and family for believing in me. Thank you to Olivia Mancuso for inspiring me and also keeping me on track during this interview... lol.

Cheers to 250 episodes and here's to the future.

This is still just the beginning

So you want to be a touring music artist?

This live panel in Denver Coloardo will give you some perspective on how to make that happen.

Featuring founder of 128 Productions and Denver talent buyer, Alex Padgett, DJ/Producer/Podcast Host Lizzy Jane, and DJ/Producer Housewife.This conversation goes into the realities on what it takes to go from a local DJ to a touring act and offers insights on how to get booked, build your brand, and create opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

-Why is it so hard to get gigs outside of the city you're based

-How to build a career when your hometown doesn't support you

-The strategy of representing your city while building elsewhere

-Maintaining your brand through genuine connections

-How to make money on tour and how to protect yourself

-What talent buyers look for when booking artists-

Why relationships matter and how to build them

Episode 249 features Chicago based but Detroit rooted DJ Nanoos - a Palenstian Armenian DJ who is making a big splash in the scene.We had an absolute blast sitting down in person and getting her full story and perspective on some hot topics in the industry right now. Nanoos is a real one on so many levels and there's good reason for his quick rise in following - she's a really good selector on the decks and fuses tons of different genres together in her sets creating one of a kind experiences for anyone who sees her. She's also got an insanely dope sense of fashion and charisma that had me hooked even before I met her. We chatted about the afro-house movement, the state of the scene in the US and what we think is to come, her tour that's taking her all over the country, and her plans for the future.

248 features an artist that I have over 50 tracks from and play at least 1 every set I perform. He goes by the name of BVRNOUT and if you aren't familiar with the name, I guarantee you've heard one of his remixes.Chris has an amazing story and it was so much fun talking about his journey from day 1 through now. He is a prolific producer with an expertise in remixes but has now started focusing on originals and creating his own label- BVRN'D Records - as a way to give himself a platform for his sound.He's been supported by some of the biggest DJs in the world like Loud Luxury and his music has helped many artists go viral on social media when they play a BVRNOUT record. I really mean it when I say that without BVNROUT remixes, this scene would be a different place and I certainly wouldn't be where I am without his music.

Our guest for today is Brad Sweet - the co-founder of Same Same But Different Festival and co-host of the Different Paths PodcastWe had such a great time getting into the origins of SSBD - for those that haven't heard of it, you need to. It takes place in Lake Perris, CA just outside of LA and San Diego. It's grown so much since their first run in 2018 and have had artists like Griz, Polo and Pan, Louis The Child, Big Wild and What So Not on - and that's just to name a few. We talked a lot about purpose, community and longevity and why these things matter when it comes to music festivals but that's what makes SSBD different - it's a truly special experience not just for the fans, but also the artists and they'll tell you that themselves! This is a truly unique festival because everyone contributes in their own way - the artists, the fans, and the staff. Really special.His podcast called "Different Paths" explores the stories of creatives and gets deep into their journeys - he's had guests like Mikey Lion, Mary Droppinz, and Ravenscoon on thus far and I love the format. The 2025 SSBD lineup is going to be dropping soon so make sure to keep an eye out for the announcement. Brad says it's the biggest yet and as you can tell they go BIG so this will be a very special treat.