What happens when a format rooted in analog tradition meets a generation raised on digital convenience?

In this episode of Vinyl Futures, host Dan Cole interrogates the learning curve facing new vinyl fans when it comes to setting up their gear. Joined by three voices from across the vinyl landscape—John Kunz of Austin’s iconic Waterloo Records, Amelia Spragg of Audio-Technica, and social media influencer Tyler Melton (aka @Tyler.ForTheRecord)—the conversation dives into the challenges of educating new buyers, the rise of Bluetooth turntables, and why “plug and play” isn’t always so simple.

Their discussion spans everything from Audio-Technica’s bestselling turntables to the rise of lifestyle vinyl content on TikTok and Instagram. Combining insights from retail, manufacturing, and online influence, this episode highlights the importance of meeting new listeners where they are—digitally, accessibly, and without judgment.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just unboxing your first turntable, this episode tackles the big question: Does vinyl have an education problem?

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Can record stores still just be record stores?

On this episode, Vinyl Futures explores how stores across the globe are creating unique spaces for music lovers, beyond just selling records. We speak with three stores each offering an entirely unique experience, from the pop-infused plant haven of Indie Earth in Minnesota, where listening parties spark friendships, to HHV in Berlin, where hip-hop, electronic, and jazz fans converge around a zeitgeisty mix of music and streetwear culture. We then step into London's Raven Records, a heavy metal hub that cultivates community alongside its alcohol-free bar, creating a safe space for everyone.

Each store reveals how they curate their collections, host events, and create environments that resonate with their communities. We explore how these stores exist for more than just retail - they're vital gathering spaces where fans connect, discover new artists, and share their passion. Discover how these stores, each with their own genre focus, are building thriving communities around vinyl. Ahead of Record Store Day 2025, we celebrate the diverse ways record stores are keeping the spirit of music fandom alive.

Vinyl Futures is produced by the Vinyl Alliance, a global non-profit organization formed to support the vinyl format within the wider music industry and culture at large. 

Read more about our mission and work at vinylalliance.org. 

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Gen Z’s passion for vinyl is a major force behind the format’s resurgence. Of all consumers who purchased records in the past 12 months, 13-24 year-olds make up a staggering 25%¹.

On this episode of Vinyl Futures, we explore this phenomenon, digging into what drives Gen Z's love for vinyl. Guided by findings from the brand new Vinyl Alliance Gen Z Report, host Dan Cole speaks directly with members of Gen Z, discussing the thrill of collecting, the connection to artists and community, and the influence of factors like price and limited editions. Are they drawn to the physical artifact, the artwork, or the unique listening experience? We unpack it all.

Our guests are Brady Jager, Jayda Hurtado, and Sophie Eye from the Warner Music U team offering firsthand insights into the Gen Z mindset, along with WMU program head Kathi Ramsey to help us interpret the findings.

Join us for a fascinating look at the future of vinyl through the eyes of the generation that's leading the charge.

Sign up here to receive a free summary copy of the Vinyl Alliance Gen Z Report!

Vinyl Futures is produced by the Vinyl Alliance, a global non-profit organization formed to support the vinyl format within the wider music industry and culture at large. 

Read more about our mission and work at vinylalliance.org. 

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¹According to data from Luminate's US Music 360 Survey

In episode 3, we dive into the world of VGM, or video game music, on vinyl. Video games are an enormous industry, valued at more than $250 billion annually worldwide. And an essential part of video games is the music. From the nostalgic sounds of retro 8-bit classics to immersive open world games soundtracked by full orchestras, video game music holds special meaning for fans. Increasingly, those fans want to collect this music on vinyl. 

Joining host Dan Cole to explore the rise in VGM, the particularities involved in crafting vinyl releases, and where VGM sits in the broader vinyl resurgence are Jon Gibson, co-owner of VGM vinyl label iam8bit, Pablo Manyer, director of production at Milan Records, and Frederik Lauridsen founder of fan site Blip Blop. 

Read more about our mission and work at vinylalliance.org.

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What is the carbon footprint of a vinyl record? A new report takes the first steps to understand vinyl's impact and what's being done to reduce emissions in the production of vinyl records. In Episode 2, host Dan Cole unpacks the report's findings with three of its contributors: Ian Stanton of Beggars Group, John Service of Key Production, and Vladimir Višek of GZ Media. 

Vinyl Futures is produced by the Vinyl Alliance, a global non-profit organization formed to support the vinyl format within the wider music industry and culture at large.

Read more about our mission and work at vinylalliance.org.

Follow us on Instagram & LinkedIn. 

In Episode 1, host Dan Cole speaks with Record Store Day organizers from the US, UK & the Netherlands to look at the event's unprecedented success. In a conservation with regional directors Carrie Colliton (US), Esther Vollebregt (NL), and Kim Bayley (UK), we discuss the event's origin, its global reach, and the factors that made this year’s edition such a hit with the record buying public.

Read more about our mission and work at vinylalliance.org.

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The Vinyl Alliance Presents Vinyl Futures, the podcast about everything vinyl.