In this episode, we sit down with Howard Monk, founder and CEO of The Wrd – a dynamic online music education platform aimed at anyone aged 16 and above looking to explore, enhance, or enter the music industry. With a background in artist management, live event production, and music strategy, Howard shares his journey from the live music scene to education, and how The Wrd is transforming access to industry insights.

🔑 Key Points:

• The Wrd’s Mission: Making music industry knowledge accessible through flexible online courses led by industry professionals.
• Courses for All: Whether you’re a budding artist, manager, or curious creative – The Wrd offers short and long-form learning tailored to real-world industry needs.
• Bridging the Gap: Howard discusses how The Wrd helps close the knowledge gap between formal education and lived experience in music careers.
• The Future of Music Education: Howard shares thoughts on community learning, accessibility, and the shift towards digital-first creative learning.
• His Personal Journey: From gig promoter and tour manager to creative educator – Howard gives us a real look behind the curtain of his career path.
• Advice to Creatives: His no-nonsense, encouraging advice for those starting out or pivoting into the music business.

🧠 Great For:

• Independent musicians and bands
• Creative industry students
• Early-career managers, agents, and promoters
• Educators in music and the arts
• Curious creatives looking to build music careers

📚 Mentioned in This Episode:

• The Wrd online platform: www.thewrd.com
• Insta/TikTok: @sharethewrd
• Course highlights, guest lecturers, and upcoming workshops
• Howard’s previous work with festivals, artists, and industry bodies

Howard's Recommendation:

The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield

If you want to connect or are interested in working with me then you can find me here:

Website: https://www.thecreativityclinic.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecreativityclinicuk/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstyhunterthecreativityclinic/