Shows
Secrets From The SceneEp. 68: What Journalists Wish You Knew Before Pitching Them with Youa VangEver sent a press email and heard nothing back? You're not alone.Too many great musicians get overlooked—not because their music isn’t good, but because their pitch falls flat.In this week’s episode of Secrets From the Scene, I sat down with Youa Vang, a Twin Cities-based music journalist who’s written for outlets like The Current, MSP Magazine, MN Monthly, and MPR. She’s interviewed over 500 artists—from household names like Jeff Bridges and Aimee Mann to local indie bands trying to break through—and she’s seen it all.We talk about...2025-05-0754 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 67: The Reinvention of Yam Haus: A Conversation About Change, Branding, and Being Real with Lars PruittWhat do you do when the music you’ve been making just doesn’t feel right anymore?In this episode, I sit down with Lars Pruitt from Yam Haus to talk about what it really looks like to evolve as a band — not for clicks, not to stay trendy, but just to stay inspired. After years of building momentum with pop-driven songs, national TV appearances, and sold-out shows, the band started to feel a disconnect between what they were putting out and what actually excited them.So they pivoted.We talk about how that s...2025-04-241h 02Secrets From The SceneEp. 66: Pushing Creative Boundaries with Chase Bliss Founder Joel KorteIf you're trying to carve out a unique sound but feel like you're swimming in a sea of sameness, you're not alone. So much of the gear and tools we rely on push us toward what's familiar rather than what's possible.In this episode, I talk with Joel Korte, the founder of Chase Bliss, a Minnesota-based company known for designing some of the most innovative and creatively inspiring effects pedals in the world. Whether you're a guitarist, producer, or home studio explorer, Joel's work encourages you to break patterns, take creative risks, and truly experiment....2025-04-0954 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 65: Essential Legal Tips Every DIY Artist Needs to Know with Jonathan SimeMost indie artists don’t realize they’re unprotected until it’s too late.This week, I sat down with attorney Jonathan Sime of Spence Law Firm to talk through one of the most overlooked areas in the DIY music space: the law.We get into the real-world stuff musicians deal with—copyrights, trademarks, split sheets, contracts, band breakups, shady deals—and how to actually protect your work without breaking the bank.Jonathan doesn’t just give the “go hire a lawyer” speech. He breaks down practical steps you can take today to lock down your i...2025-03-261h 17Secrets From The SceneEp. 64: Touring, Merch, and Money: Smart Strategies for Indie Bands with Tommy Rehbein (Toilet Rats)Are you leaking money as an indie artist?Making music isn’t about turning a profit for most indie artists—it’s about creating something meaningful. But that doesn’t mean you have to overspend. Whether music is your career or your passion project, being smart with your money can help you do more of what you love.That’s why in this episode of Secrets From the Scene, I sat down with Tommy Rehbein (musician, producer, and frontman of Toilet Rats) to talk about how indie bands can stretch every dollar and make smart financial...2025-03-121h 01Secrets From The SceneEp. 63: Orchestrating Success: From Local Gigs to A-List Collabs with Andy ThompsonEver feel like you’re grinding away in music but not sure how to break into bigger opportunities?This week on Secrets From The Scene, I sat down with Andy Thompson, a producer, arranger, and multi-instrumentalist who’s built a career working with Taylor Swift, Celine Dion, Dan Wilson, Dessa, Jeremy Messersmith, and even orchestras like the Minnesota Orchestra and LA Philharmonic.Andy’s one of those rare musicians who’s made it all work—recording, producing, arranging, and composing—without getting stuck in one lane. We talked about:🎹 His early days bouncing between instrum...2025-02-261h 29Secrets From The SceneEp. 62: Uniting Musicians for Change: Nadi of Gully Boys Talks TCUP and Building a Better Music CommunityWe’re kicking off Season 2 of Secrets from the Scene with a conversation about something that affects every musician: the fight for fair pay, better conditions, and a more supportive music community.
This week, I sat down with Nadi McGill, drummer for Gully Boys and lead organizer of Twin Cities United Performers (TCUP). We talked about:
How Gully Boys came up in the Twin Cities scene and built momentum beyond Minnesota
The story behind TCUP and how it grew out of the First Ave unionization movement
What TCUP is doing right now to improve transparency, pay, an...2025-02-051h 07Secrets From The SceneEp. 61: Do I Need To Go To School For Recording? with Matt HolmesWe’re wrapping up an incredible first season of Secrets from the Scene with a question many aspiring audio engineers face:
Do you really need to go to school for recording?
This week, I’m joined by Matt Holmes, a seasoned instructor at Hennepin Tech, to break it all down. We explore the pros and cons of pursuing formal audio education and dig into these key topics:
🎧 Structured Learning: Why having a curriculum might accelerate your growth.
🤝 Networking Opportunities: The connections you make at school can shape your career.
🎛️ Access to Pro G...2024-11-271h 01Secrets From The SceneEp. 60: Misunderstandings of the Recording Process with Zach Zurn (Carpet Booth Studios)Have you ever walked into a recording studio with high hopes, only to realize the process wasn’t quite what you expected? Or maybe you're considering recording your first song and wondering how to prepare? This week’s episode is for you.
I sit down with Zach Zurn, the talented producer, songwriter, and studio owner behind Carpet Booth Studios in Rochester, MN, to dissect the most common myths and false assumptions about the recording process.
Why Listen?
We dive deep into topics every musician needs to understand:
🎤 Pre-production prep: Why it's the secr...2024-11-201h 15Secrets From The SceneEp. 59: 7 Common Gig Mistakes Musicians Make (And How to Avoid Them)Ever felt like your gigs aren’t landing quite like you hoped? Maybe the soundcheck goes sideways, or you’re scrambling with load-out while juggling merch and keeping the venue happy. In this episode of Secrets from the Scene, my co-host Max Greene and I are tackling exactly these pain points, covering the seven most common gig mistakes bands make—and how to steer clear of them!
Here’s what we cover:
Effective Communication: How to keep venues and other bands in the loop for smooth collaborations.
Streamlined Load-In and Load-Out: Tips for making this process quicker...2024-11-1351 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 58: Local Business Spotlight: The Avant Garde with Chadwick PhillipsFull Transcript and Show Notes
Interested in working with us on your next song?
👋 https://helvigproductions.com/letsconnect
Connect with the Guest:
🔗 Theavantgardeis.com
🔗 The Avant Garde Instagram
Connect with Me:
✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter
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🎙️ Brought to you by Helvig Productions
Production, videography, and coaching to help you sound your...2024-11-0646 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 57: Perfect Snare Tuning Made Easy with Nashville Drum DoctorsFull Transcript and Show Notes
Interested in working with us on your next song?
👋 https://helvigproductions.com/letsconnect
Connect with the Guest:
🔗 nashvilledrumdoctor@gmail.com
Connect with Me:
✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter
📷 Connect on Instagram
🕺 Connect on TikTok
📺 Subscribe on YouTube
Give Feedback:
📬 Send me a message: stephen@secretsfromthescene.com
💬 Suggest a guest or topic: podcast@secretsfromthescene.com
🧡 Leave a rating on Spotify
✍️ Write a review on Apple Podcasts
🎙️ Brought to you by Helvig Productions
Production, videography, and coaching to help you sound your best, tell your story, and promote your music...2024-10-301h 19Secrets From The SceneEp. 56: What If No One Hears It? Finding Meaning In The Process with Waltzing on WavesIn a world obsessed with likes, streams, and followers, it’s easy for artists to feel like they’re falling short. What happens when your latest single doesn’t get many streams? Or your reel goes unnoticed? The pressure to validate your art with numbers is real—but is it the right way to measure success?
In this episode, I’m joined by Jen Bluhm (aka Waltzing on Waves)—a talented musician and neurodiversity advocate—to remind you of the deeper value in creating music. Together, we dive into why the act of creation itself holds more power than any...2024-10-231h 04Secrets From The SceneEp. 55: Building an Indie Music Career. The Bad Bad Hats Story of Growth and PersistenceIn this week's episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredibly talented indie rock band, Bad Bad Hats. Kerry Alexander and Chris Hoge took me on a deep dive into their decade-long journey, from their early college days releasing music on MySpace to becoming full-time musicians with national tours and professional records under their belt.
We cover a lot in this episode, including:
How they balanced flexible jobs with their passion for music while self-managing their career.
Key milestones, like scoring their first record deal with Afternoon Records and their experience working with...2024-10-161h 36Secrets From The SceneEp. 54: Leading or Following? Nelson Devereaux on the Art of Band CollaborationBeing a full-time musician often means juggling two different worlds—playing in other people’s bands while managing your own solo projects. Each role requires a unique skill set and mindset.
In this episode, Nelson Devereaux—an in-demand musician known for his work with Bon Iver and others—discusses how he balances these two careers. From leading his projects to being a hired player on tours, Nelson shares his strategies for gig prep, managing finances, and collaborating creatively.
We also dive into the importance of communication and situational awareness in both band dynamics and solo projects...2024-10-0957 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 53: Creating Connections: How Collaboration Benefits the Scene with Drew Kinkade of Flavor WorldFull Transcript and Show Notes
Interested in working with us on your next song?
👋 https://helvigproductions.com/letsconnect
Connect with the Guest:
🔗 Flavorworld Website
🔗 Flavorworld Instagram
🔗 Drew Kinkade
Connect with Me:
✉️ Subscribe to the newsletter
📷 Connect on Instagram
🕺 Connect on TikTok
📺 Subscribe on YouTube
Give Feedback:
📬 Send me a message: stephen@secretsfromthescene.com
💬 Suggest a guest or topic: podcast@secretsfromthescene.com
🧡 Leave a rating on Spotify
✍️ Write a review on Apple Podcasts
🎙️ Brought to you by Helvig Productions
Production, videography, and coaching to help you sound your...2024-10-021h 11Secrets From The SceneEp. 52: Producer, CEO, Visionary - Lazerbeak’s Impact on the SceneIn this episode, I’m joined by legendary hip-hop producer Aaron Mader, aka Lazerbeak, who has been a driving force in Minnesota’s music scene for nearly two decades. From his early days in the indie rock scene to becoming a key member of the Doomtree collective—and even producing Lizzo’s debut album—Aaron shares his incredible journey.
We dive deep into his career, discussing everything from working with top artists and launching his solo projects to his mindset for success. Aaron opens up about:
Climbing the ranks in the music industry
Going full-time with music
Th...2024-09-251h 21Secrets From The SceneEp. 51: Demystifying Music Publicists: Timing, Strategy, and What to Expect with Krista VilinskisEver thought about hiring a publicist? Whether it’s never crossed your mind or you’ve written it off as too expensive or exclusive to signed artists, this episode will change your perspective.Krista Vilinskis of Elephants and Flowers Media is here to demystify the role of a music publicist. She’ll share the common pitfalls new artists make—and how you can avoid them—while maximizing your next press campaign.With over 30 years of experience, Krista has worked across independent labels, music festivals, and studios. She ran her own "record-label-for-hire" company, Tinderbox, before starting her curren...2024-09-181h 00Secrets From The SceneEp. 50: Viral Hits, Managing Collabs, and Lots of Hard-Earned Wisdom with Landon ConrathIn just 5 short years, indie pop artist Landon Conrath went from releasing his first song to amassing over 600,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. Thanks to key placements on Spotify playlists, a few of Landon’s tracks went viral, propelling him into the spotlight. Since then, he’s signed a record deal, booked extensive tours, and traveled to LA for whirlwind writing sessions—all while consistently dropping new music.
Sounds like the dream, right? But can you maintain that pace forever?
In this episode, Landon shares his candid thoughts on what it really takes to rise quickly in the...2024-09-111h 12Secrets From The SceneEp. 49: Understanding Sync: Expert Tips For Getting Your Music Into AdsEver wonder what makes a song click in a commercial? How does it differ from other sync placements?
In this episode, I’m joined by industry veterans Jim Weber and Christy Van House, the masterminds behind Hitlist, a renowned music house specializing in curating music for media. Together, we discuss the unique aspects of creating music for advertisements and how it stands apart in the sync world.
What We Cover:
Crafting Music for Ads: Discover the nuances that set ad music apart from other sync opportunities.
Licensing Insights: Learn how the music licensing world has...2024-09-041h 11Secrets From The SceneEp. 48: Exploring Modern Music Marketing - From Spotify Ads to Email Campaigns with Joe FlipIf you’re a musician, chances are the "algorithm" has shown you ads for music it thinks you’ll love. Maybe you’ve clicked, maybe you haven’t—but have you ever considered if those ads actually work?
In this episode, we dive into the world of modern music marketing with the talented guitarist Joe Flip. This is more than just a discussion about ads; it’s a hands-on case study of what it takes to create, fund, and successfully launch advertisements that reach the people who genuinely care about your music.
Joe takes us through his...2024-08-281h 07Secrets From The SceneEp. 47: They Went From Playing Prom To Playing First Avenue One Stage At A Time with GuytanoNot many bands can say they started making music at 13, but for Guytano, it’s the foundation of their journey. Hailing from Sartell, MN, this band of childhood friends began by playing their high school prom. Fast forward, and they’ve worked their way up through the Twin Cities venue circuit, from headlining 7th St. Entry to rocking the Fine Line and, ultimately, taking the stage in First Avenue's legendary main room. Their latest achievement? A coveted spot at the Basilica Block Party.
What does it take to climb that ladder? In this episode, I sit down with...2024-08-2152 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 46: Emerging Music Tech in the Twin Cities Featuring Caedence and EkweIn today's music world, technology is more than just a tool—it's the backbone of our creative process. Whether it's recording software, social media platforms, graphic design apps, or streaming services, staying ahead of the curve is essential. We’re always on the lookout for the best ways to create, manage, and connect. But where do you find the latest tools that make a real difference?
Right here in the Twin Cities, a vibrant music tech scene is blossoming, offering innovative solutions to everyday challenges. In this episode, I sit down with two trailblazing founders—Jeff Bernett of Cae...2024-08-1456 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 45: The Slow and Steady Grind From DIY to Industry Support with HumbirdWhen you set out to pursue a career as a musician, it can be difficult to know what that even looks like. There's a "mist" that surrounds the music business, and knowing what to aim for can feel like a complete guess. Even knowing if you're hitting your target can be elusive.
The truth is, the path from hobbyist to pro or indie musician to signed artist will look different for everyone. But some things remain true in almost all journeys: it's one foot in front of the other, one step at a time. One show builds...2024-08-071h 05Secrets From The SceneEp. 44: Essential Tips for Sync Success with Danny BurkeThis week, we’re thrilled to welcome award-winning songwriter, composer, and producer Danny Burke to the podcast. With nearly 20 years of experience in the sync industry, Danny has an impressive portfolio featuring placements in TV shows, network promos, movie trailers, and ads for some of the world’s biggest brands.
In this episode, Danny shares his journey into the sync world and offers invaluable insights that only come from years of experience. The music industry is complex, and the sync side can feel especially secretive. Danny is passionate about demystifying it and helping others succeed.
Topi...2024-07-311h 07Secrets From The SceneEp. 43: Changing The Way You Think About Identity, Success, and Money in the Music Biz with Holly HansenWhat does success in the music business mean to you? Is it about fame and fortune, or is it about playing shows and releasing music? For many of us, it also involves our personal standards for when we get to call ourselves "musician," "songwriter," "producer," or any other title we aspire to.
In this episode, we explore the intersection of identity, success, and money. As independent musicians, we are all self-employed entrepreneurs, forging our own paths toward our goals. It's up to us to decide what success means and when we can call ourselves "professionals." Our standards...2024-07-241h 01Secrets From The SceneEp. 42: How To Collect All Your Music RoyaltiesThis episode includes a free resource guide with tons of extra information to help you register your music appropriately. You can get yours here.
As of April 2024, more than $2 billion in music royalties are unclaimed by artists, songwriters, and performers, according to one YouTube video. Other sources estimate that 20–50% of music payments never reach their rightful owners. Let's ensure you're not part of that unfortunate statistic!
Registering your music for royalties can be frustratingly difficult and complex. Many independent artists end up with incomplete registrations and partial collections or simply ignore the process and miss out o...2024-07-1728 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 41 : Myths and Misunderstandings in the Music Business with Kevin BoweThe music business is a realm filled with anecdotes and half-remembered stories that often get mistaken for gospel truths. We've all encountered strong opinions and tales about "the way things should be done." But what do these notions really mean? How can we separate fact from fiction?
In this episode, I'm joined by the renowned Kevin Bowe to debunk some of the most pervasive myths, misunderstandings, and outright lies that circulate in the industry.
Kevin Bowe is a multifaceted writer, producer, mixer, and musician, boasting credits on multi-platinum, Grammy-winning albums. His impressive roster includes collaborations...2024-07-101h 21Secrets From The SceneEp. 40: Syncing Music with Business: Insights from Brian Reidinger of In The GrooveIn episode 40 of Secrets From The Scene, I sit down with Brian Reidinger, co-founder of In The Groove, a sync company celebrating three decades in business. Brian shares the story of how In The Groove started, detailing his own journey from an aspiring rock drummer to a successful business owner with Darren Drew. The episode covers the challenges faced, the importance of understanding the business side of music, and the ethos of In The Groove, which focuses on advocating for artists and maintaining a values-based company culture. Brian discusses various deal structures for musicians interested in sync opportunities and...2024-07-031h 14Secrets From The SceneEp. 39: Booking Festivals and Balancing Band Life with Maygen and the BirdwatcherHave you ever wondered what it takes to successfully book festival gigs? I sit down with Maygen Lacey and Noah Neumann from the band Maygen and the Birdwatcher to explore just that.
In this episode, Maygen and Noah share their journey as an independent band, offering valuable insights into the strategies they use to secure festival spots. We also discuss the challenges of maintaining a band once you get those coveted gigs, especially when your band members have families and day jobs. The logistics of balancing ambitious band goals with personal commitments is an often overlooked detail...2024-06-261h 02Secrets From The SceneEp. 38: Give Your Guitars Some Love with Overman GuitarsReady to finally tackle that annoying string buzz? Show your guitar, bass, mandolin, ukulele, or other favorite strumming box some extra love this year by bringing it to Overman Guitars.
In this episode, I sit down with Wyatt Overman, the owner of Overman Guitars, to talk about all things guitar maintenance and repairs. Wyatt walks us through what a "setup" involves and shares best practices for basic maintenance between tune-ups. If you're anything like me, you might lean towards the "ignorance is bliss" mentality and wait until something goes wrong before taking action. But there are simple...2024-06-191h 01Secrets From The SceneEp. 37: Mixing Music: Where to Start and When to Hire with Jason McGloneIf you've ever recorded music at home, you've likely dipped your toes into the world of mixing. Among all the stages of recording a song, mixing stands out as one of the trickiest and most complex skills to master. But for me, it's also one of the most rewarding parts of making music.
In this episode, I sit down with Jason McGlone, a talented audio professional and music professor at Hamline University. We discuss the intricacies of mixing, explore steps to take if you want to dive into this wonderful art form, and discuss when it might...2024-06-121h 06Secrets From The SceneEp. 36: How Creative Teams Get Things Done with Mike BorellFeeling like your creative goals are always bogged down by poor execution? Whether it's bad planning, lack of communication, or simply not following through, our ambitions often outweigh our accountability. Despite our good intentions, time keeps slipping by and nothing seems to get done. If this sounds like you, it's time to get organized and start working like a professional creative team.
In this episode of Secrets from the Scene, I'm excited to welcome Mike Borell, a local musician and experienced project manager. Mike's got some fantastic insights, drawing from both his corporate gig and his music...2024-06-0558 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 35: Unique Challenges Facing Women in Music with Maria Coyne, Laura Hugo, & Faith BoblettIn this episode of Secrets from the Scene, I sit down with Maria Coyne, Faith Boblett, and Laura Hugo to discuss the unique challenges faced by women in the music industry. Our discussion spans various issues such as underrepresentation, ageism, societal pressures, harassment, safety concerns, and the impact of social media. Emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and mutual support amongst women, Maria, Faith, and Laura reflect on overcoming cultural conditioning and inappropriate advances while advocating for a more professional and respectful music scene. This episode aims to foster understanding and empowerment, offering advice for young women pursuing their musical...2024-05-291h 25Secrets From The SceneEp. 34: The Sync Licensing Landscape: Who's Who and How It Works with Dan LuedkeMost indie musicians have heard of sync licensing and have a general idea of what it entails. It's often one of those things that gets put on the back burner as "something I should probably look into." Sound familiar?
Even if you've dabbled in it—maybe signed some tracks with a sync agency or opted in for sync opportunities through your music distributor—chances are you still don't feel entirely clear on the details.
I can relate. Despite having extensive experience in sync licensing, I still find the topic complex.
If you search "What...2024-05-221h 07Secrets From The SceneEp. 33: Creating and Nurturing Musical Communities with Sarah MorrisCommunity building is crucial for independent artists. In this episode, I chat with Sarah Morris, a celebrated artist and community builder in the Twin Cities music scene. Sarah shares her journey and insights on creating and nurturing communities through music.
Have you been looking for ways to better connect with your fanbase? Or maybe you're trying to deepen your relationships with other artists and creatives? This conversation is packed with examples from Sarah's own career that have not only supported her impressive music journey but also helped her network and connect with people she otherwise wouldn't have met...2024-05-151h 04Secrets From The SceneEp. 32: Building An Audience From Scratch with Clayton RyanBuilding a fanbase is no easy task. Building one from scratch in a new city is especially challenging. That’s the challenge Clayton Ryan faced last November when he relocated to the Twin Cities from Los Angeles.
From his humble beginnings performing bar gigs in South Dakota, composing for sync in LA, and his strategic approach in the Minneapolis music scene, Clayton Ryan shares his journey's challenges and triumphs on this episode of SFTS.
Our conversation brings to light the significance of artist-fan connections, crafting a recognizable brand, and the benefits of genuine fan engagement bo...2024-05-081h 10Secrets From The SceneEp. 31: Life As A Full-Time Guitarist with David FeilyDive into the music-filled world of a full-time guitarist with David Feily. With mastery across multiple instruments and a role as an educator at MacPhail, Feily epitomizes the essence of a committed artist. He plays with notable names like the BZ3 Organ Trio, Minneapolis String Project, and LA Buckner, to name just a few.
Beyond his extraordinary guitar-playing abilities, Feily understands the multifaceted nature of sustaining a successful career as a guitarist. In this episode, he sheds light on his everyday routine, providing a detailed account of his work, how he manages his busy schedule, the skills...2024-05-011h 10Secrets From The SceneEp. 30: Pitbull, Pop Saxophone, and Pushing Your Boundaries with Lucia SarmientoWhat do Pitbull, pop saxophone, and pushing your boundaries have to do with one another?
After finishing her degree at McNally Smith, Lucia Sarmiento read Ari Herstand's book "How To Make It in the New Music Business" and decided to write down her goals and dreams for her music career.
On that list, she included:
Tour with a big pop star
Grow her social media for opportunities and community
Get better on the saxophone
Whether you attribute it to manifestation, luck, or hard work, talent, and courage - they all play a role.
...2024-04-241h 07Secrets From The SceneEp. 29: The Recording Decision: Exploring Studios, Producers, and DIY Routes with Matt PatrickDeciding where you’d like to record your first project can be a little daunting. Like many industries, the advancement of technology has made for an incredible amount of choices. For this reason, a lot of people just opt for the path of least resistance: choosing to work with someone they know, a place nearby, or whatever is cheapest. For others, the natural first choice is to start doing it on their own.
While there is no single right or wrong way to make a record, there may be a right or wrong way for you. And the...2024-04-171h 02Secrets From The SceneEp. 28: Packaging THE PITCH: Tips on Branding, EPKs, and Emailing Venues with David OstromThere are three essential components every musician must have to successfully pitch their music for gigs: an artist brand, an EPK, and the ability to craft effective emails. Missing any of these can potentially cost you the gig.
In this episode, David Ostrom joins me to delve into the art of "packaging the pitch." David, the brains behind Ostrom Entertainment, an agency specializing in entertainment and bookings for local artists, shares insights on:
The significance of an effective artist brand and why it's crucial.
Strategies for crafting a compelling EPK.
Tips and best practices for composing...2024-04-101h 05Secrets From The SceneEp. 27: Photo-Ready: Strategies for Your Next Shoot with Maddi WaldoEver put off getting professional photos for your artist profiles because of the dread associated with staged photo shoots? You're not alone. For many, the process is nerve-wracking, struggling to bridge the gap between imagination and actual capture.
I've had my fair share of awkward photo shoots; it can be intimidating. Thankfully, Maddi Waldo joined me on this episode to give insider advice on prepping for your next shoot so you can feel confident that you'll get the results you're after.
With extensive experience covering weddings, couple portraits, band sessions, and concert photography for the...2024-04-0351 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 26: Gear Maintenance and Tech Advice for Live Gigs with Johnny Balmer of Alchemy AudioIf you've ever experienced a gear failure during a gig, you know just how stressful it can be. The frantic scramble to find a workaround while trying to conceal the issue can seriously disrupt your flow. And depending on the severity of the failure, it can throw off the entire performance.
The aftermath of such mishaps? You're left feeling distracted, frustrated, embarrassed, or simply annoyed – definitely not the vibe you were aiming for.
But fear not! With the right approach to maintenance, having basic backup items on hand, and honing your troubleshooting skills, you can sw...2024-03-271h 01Secrets From The SceneEp. 25: Performance Opportunities and Building Connections with Coffee Break EntertainmentIn this episode I’m joined by Alek Glauvitz of Coffee Break Entertainment. Coffee Break Entertainment is a new booking and events agency located here in the Twin Cities, serving local artists and businesses by coordinating and hosting live music events. If you’re a singer-songwriter and you’ve been struggling to figure out where your next show is going to be, you may be in luck.
Alek’s company looks to connect artists with live performance opportunities. From new and emerging artists looking to play their first show at a small cafe to experienced acts hitting the road...2024-03-201h 04Secrets From The SceneEp. 24: From Beats to Breathing - Balancing Music and Wellness with Chance YorkMusic has long been recognized for its ability to contribute to mental health, relaxation, a sense of community, and more. However, it's intriguing that many musicians, despite creating this therapeutic art, often struggle with anxiety, substance abuse, poor habits, and a myriad of unique challenges found in the music industry. In this episode, I’m joined by Chance York, an independent musician well-acquainted with the hurdles of the industry. During a difficult period, York turned to Yoga for self-discovery and answers. Today, he stands as a leader in the health and wellness space. This conversation delves into the vital as...2024-03-131h 03Secrets From The SceneEp. 23: How to Improve Your Music Game for Free with Mike HallenbeckTrying to pursue music can be financially challenging, especially when you're just starting out. If financial constraints have been impeding your progress in the realm of music, Mike Hallenbeck offers a valuable list of cost-free and time-efficient ideas to propel your musical pursuits forward.
Hallenbeck, a versatile audio enthusiast, boasts a skill set spanning across multiple instruments, composition, sound design, and mix engineering. As the proprietor of Cool Cat Audio, a post-production sound house, he brings a wealth of experience to the table. Recently, Hallenbeck rekindled a former project, 10 Items or Fewer, after a nearly two-decade hiatus...2024-03-0650 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 22: From High School Bands to Sold-Out Shows - The Uncertain Journey of an Indie Artist with Colin BracewellWhere do you start when you don’t know where to start?
That’s the question that many musicians face when they first get the itch to start sharing their music. There’s no real guide when it comes to weaving your way into the fabric of our local scene. That’s because it’s different for everyone, and there is no “right” or “wrong” way.
Do you want to start a band? Go solo? Do you want to write your own songs or collaborate with others? How do you meet other musicians, record your music, and build a...2024-02-281h 11Secrets From The SceneEp. 21: Propel Your Music Career - Mastering Your Mindset with Brandon CommodoreIn our quest to advance in our music careers, the usual path often involves practicing our instruments more, penning more songs, and aiming for more gigs. However, there's a foundational skill that's often overlooked yet crucially significant: cultivating a positive mindset. Effective communication, strong leadership, and strategic goal-setting all stem from a mindset that propels you forward rather than holding you back.
In this episode, we are joined by the multi-talented Brandon Commodore, who shares invaluable insights from his journey in the music industry. As a musician, music director, producer, and songwriter, Brandon has an impressive portfolio...2024-02-211h 24Secrets From The SceneEp. 20: Behind the Scenes at Green Room with Tanner MontagueFor our first local VENUE feature, I’m so happy to have Tanner Montague join the podcast for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the Twin Cities’ newest and finest live music venues. Green Room opened up at the start of 2023, and it’s already made a name for itself amongst local bands. With its musician-first ethos, beautiful aesthetic, balanced sound, full bar/kitchen, and convenient location, Green Room is definitely becoming one of my favorite venues in town.
And the man making it all happen is Tanner Montague. Tanner is also a musician, playing drums in multiple...2024-02-1450 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 19: Becoming Irreplaceable - Isaac Levy's Approach to MusicLet’s be honest… It isn’t exactly hard to find a guitar player. It’s not even that hard to find an incredibly talented guitar player. But now try to find a great guitar player who can also handle musical director responsibilities, manage your in-ear monitor rig, and produce and play all the instruments on your record. That level of utility really starts to thin the herd.
Meet Isaac Levy, an immensely talented and hard-working jack-of-all-trades. Isaac has been following in his father’s footsteps (Noah Levy) and is making quite a name for himself in the Twin C...2024-02-0738 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 18: Insider Tips For Improving Your Stage Sound with Joey VesuviusThink back to the last show you were at that had absolutely great sound. It makes for such an amazing experience, right? Now think of the last show you attended or performed at where the sound was not so good, maybe even awful. It can completely ruin the moment.
Unfortunately, dealing with bad sound is a sad reality all local musicians face at one point or another. Sometimes it simply can't be avoided - the room or venue you're playing in has terrible acoustics, the PA is half broken, or the sound engineer working that night is hun...2024-01-3159 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 17: The Music Release Maze: Essential Steps To A Pro ReleaseIf you’ve ever gone through the process of uploading and releasing your music on all the streaming services, you know how much work goes into it. Of course, the writing and recording of the music in the first place is no small task, but then trying to navigate the entire upload process with all their questions, random codes, unfamiliar acronyms, and miscellaneous option features can be quite overwhelming the first time you attempt it.
Do you have your royalty splits? What distributor should you use? Will the credits show up correctly? What about the extra features tha...2024-01-2446 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 16: Creating Content That Actually Works with Taylor Lewin of Underscore AudioBeing an independent artist today is becoming synonymous with being a content creator. As much as many of us would like to deny that fact, it’s happening. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. If you approach it right, it might end up being your differentiator that connects people to your music.
I think the first step to “getting in the game” is actually to step backward and figure out what you want it to look like for you. If you start by asking yourself, “How can I connect/help/entertain the people I want to reach?”...2024-01-171h 08Secrets From The SceneEp. 15: Launching Your Career In the Church Music Scene with Derek DroogsmaThe “church music scene,” or “church circuit,” for lack of any better term, has always been something I’ve known a little bit about but never really understood. I’ve met so many incredible musicians that have come out of playing churches, that it’s really piqued my interest. It seems to be a launchpad for musical talent. But why?
In this episode, my good friend and musical colleague, Derek Droogsma, sheds light on what these church gigs can all entail. Derek has been making a career for himself playing the church scene for the last few years. He brea...2024-01-1054 minSecrets From The SceneEp 14: Insights From a Professional Singer-Songwriter with Chris Koza of Rogue ValleyChris Koza is a successful singer-songwriter based in Minneapolis and Denver. Koza discusses his solo career as well as collaborations with his band Rogue Valley and shares his experience of working with notable artists, including Brandi Carlile, Gordon Lightfoot, and Stephen Kellogg. With music regularly featured on popular shows like ABC's General Hospital, 60 Minutes, and Good Morning America, Koza talks about his process of creating music, collaborations, and achieving longevity in the music industry.
We cover topics such as staying present during big opportunities, accepting and honoring fan support, the importance of taking breaks, and a whole...2024-01-0351 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 13: Breaking Into The 'Work For Hire' World As A Musician with Max Greene“Work for hire” gigs can be a critical part of a musician’s career. If you’re trying to make a living by playing your instrument, for many, this is where it’s at. But what does it take to break into this side of the industry? If you get hired to do a gig, how do you make sure it’s successful?
In this episode, Max Greene, a seasoned musician and engineer, speaks about the fundamental aspects of preparing for a 'work for hire' gig. Whether it be for live shows, recording sessions, music videos, or church servi...2023-12-2746 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 12: Branding and The Power of Being Authentic with Nur-DIf you’ve done any sort of research on how to market your music or grow your fanbase, you’ve likely heard the phrase “building your personal brand” somewhere along the way. “Branding” is a hot buzz word amongst social media influencers and online educators. But the truth is, it’s always been a key part of any successful business or organization. But knowing that it’s important, and knowing how to actually utilize it for your self or your band, are not the same.
That’s why I’m so excited about this conversation with Nur-D (Matt Allen). Nur-D ful...2023-12-201h 31Secrets From The SceneEp. 11: Songwriting Philosophies with Leslie Rich & Annie EnnekingThis episode explores the art of songwriting with Leslie Rich (Leslie Rich and The Rocket Soul Choir) and Annie Enneking (Annie and the Bang Bang). These two veteran songwriters have been fronting bands and writing songs for decades. Leslie and Annie share their unique insights into the songwriting process. They discuss their personal approaches to creating music, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, the role of emotions, and the benefits of collaboration. We cover overcoming creative blocks, the process of revising drafts, the organic evolution of ideas over time, and more.
If you’re a songwriter looking to le...2023-12-131h 09Secrets From The SceneEp. 10: The RIGHT WAY to Book Small Venue Shows with Nick Elstad of Sleeping Jesus and Sweet and LonelyThe episode features Nick Elstad, the lead singer and guitarist of the band Sleeping Jesus and his solo project Sweet and Lonely. Nick is the booking agent for No Name Bar in Winona, MN and shares tips on how artists can approach booking, suggesting important factors like a short but concise emails, providing the dates you want in the first email, linking music and social media platforms, and providing possible partnering bands for the show.
Besides sharing his booking expertise, Nick walks us through the background of Sleeping Jesus, their new album, doing social media, setting up...2023-12-1349 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 09: Amassing 50 Million Plays with a DIY Ethos with Christian Grey of Villain of the StoryThis episode is great for bands that are looking to be as DIY as possible. Christian Grey from the band 'Villain of the Story' talks about their journey from the band’s formation in Minneapolis in 2014 to their impressive success, facilitated in large part by their DIY ethic. Incorporating elements of metalcore and radio rock, the band has released several successful albums and gained over 50 million plays across platforms. The group's experience ranges from signing with a label to being fully independent and returning to a label. Christian emphasizes their DIY approach specifically for music videos, citing that mainstream qu...2023-12-061h 10Secrets From The SceneEp. 08: Avoiding the Comparison Trap!We've all been there. You find yourself scrolling, going deeper and deeper into someone's account or profile, and the more you scroll, the worse you feel. It happens to the best of us.
It's the comparison trap.
We think, "How are they doing it?" or “They’re so much further/better/more attractive/cooler than me”, or perhaps it's just the inward judgment along the lines of "Why am I so disappointing?"
You get the point - it's an awful feeling and a terrible mental trap that has become so easy to fall into wi...2023-12-0617 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 07: Diversifying Your Income: Cover bands, Voice Acting, Real Estate and More with Ashley DuboseAshley DuBose discusses her multifaceted career, sharing experiences from her journey in the music industry, highlights from her performances on NBC's 'The Voice,' and insights from her work in a cover band. Ashley and I discuss the importance of diversifying your income, both in and out of the music industry. Ashley attributes much of her success to trying new things and saying yes when opportunities present themselves. Because of that, she has income not only from her solo career, but from a successful cover band, voice acting jobs, real estate, and more.
This episode demonstrates many...2023-11-291h 17Secrets From The SceneEp. 06: Four Ways to Make Sure You Don’t Burn Money in the StudioIn this episode, I talk about four ways you can maximize your time in the studio and get the most value out of your investment. This topic will be great for new artists looking to do their first recording session, but it will also be a good reminder for everyone of how to prepare, communicate, and fully utilize your recording session.
I want to help you avoid making some common mistakes like:
Not knowing what you actually want
Not communicating with your engineer/producer or knowing their history to ensure a smooth session
Not being ready...2023-11-2917 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 05: What Exactly Is Mastering?? With Greg Reierson of Rare Form MasteringHave you ever found yourself questioning exactly what mastering is? Or perhaps you're considering hiring a professional to master your next release? There's a lot of confusion around the "dark art" of mastering, so let me shed some light. In this episode, you'll hear all about the mastering process, why artists work with mastering engineers, what to expect when you get a song mastered, and a whole lot more. You're going to get a solid understanding of what mastering is, what it is NOT, what makes mastering important, and how to effectively work and communicate with a professional mastering...2023-11-221h 01Secrets From The SceneEp. 04: Drumming Up Success: From Dillinger 4 to Twin Cities Drum Collective with Lane PedersonLane Pederson is a man of many talents. He's the drummer in the punk band, Dillinger Four, the owner of a local drum shop, Twin Cities Drum Collective, and oh yeah, he's also a clinical psychologist and an author.
This episode covers the nuances of building custom drums and the value behind investing in and personalizing your gear, balancing multiple pursuits in your career, the importance of community in music, and a little history on Dillinger Four and the origins of Twin Cities Drum Collective.
Lane drops a lot of valuable tips ranging from customizing...2023-11-221h 24Secrets From The SceneEp. 03: How to Crowdfund Your Next Project with Maria CoyneDownload our free crowdfunding guide and use it to plan your next campaign!
Ever thought about crowdfunding your music project? It's a thrilling journey, but let's face it, the idea can be nerve-wracking. Well, guess what? Maria Coyne from Maria and the Coins is here to spill the beans on her crowdfunding experience. And trust me, it's extremely insightful. Maria dives into the nitty-gritty of it all, tackling all the common roadblocks such as:
🤔 "Can I really pull this off?"
📚 "How do I get people to care?"
👥 "But what about my tiny fanbase?"
💰 "Will I end up in a financial bl...2023-11-2256 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 02: Creating a Life as a Professional Drummer with Arthur “L.A.” BucknerArthur “L.A.” Buckner is a performing musician, teaching artist, and producer from the Northside of Minneapolis. He holds a master’s degree in Percussion Performance from McNally Smith College of Music. Currently, LA is playing with his band BiG HOMiE, teaching drums, and also serves as co-host for the two-time Webby award-winning PBS music education YouTube series Sound Field, a video project exploring the music theory, production, history, and culture behind our favorite songs and musical styles. Back in 2020, LA took iTunes by storm with the release of his project, also titled BiG HOMiE, which reached #1 on the iTunes Jazz...2023-11-2259 minSecrets From The SceneEp. 01: How to Plan a DIY Tour with Austin Davis of Silver WarehouseHear all the ins and outs of planning your own DIY tour. Austin Davis talks with us about what planning a DIY tour looks like for his indie/alt/rock band Silver Warehouse.
We cover topics such as:
Setting goals/purpose for the tour
Budgeting logistics
Planning a route
Contacting venues: What to expect, how to write compelling emails that get opened, and what to avoid.
Finding local support acts
Booking agents And much more.
This episode has some really great insights for anyone looking to book their own DIY tour.
Full transcript...2023-11-2247 min
Secrets From The SceneSpreading Knowledge and Building Community in the Minnesota Music SceneMy name is Stephen and I’m a local music producer and recording engineer. I’ve been in the recording world for 15 years now. I run a studio in the Excelsior neighborhood called Helvig Productions where I help local artists make music they’re proud of. At my studio, there’s often discussions on a wide range of topics concerning the music industry. This podcast is an effort to bring those discussions to a public forum.
This podcast is going to be all about the local musician’s world. Everything from navigating the recording process and content creation t...2023-09-0605 min
6 Figure CreativeHow To Break Through An 8-Year Income Plateau To FINALLY Hit 6 Figures | With Stephen HelvigWhat do you do when your income hits a plateau?Do you...(A). Give up and move on to a new career(B). Keep going but try something new in your business(C). Keep doing the exact same thing for 8 years straight and keep getting the same resultIf you chose option C, then congrats, you're probably in what we call "zombie land".This is the place where your business is earning just enough to survive, but not enough to thrive.Our guest this week...2022-04-121h 00
Catching Up With...EP 6 - How’d You Wind Up Running A Studio? (Stephen Helvig [Helvig Productions])DEREK:https://linktr.ee/droogsmaSTEPHEN:https://www.helvigproductions.com/https://www.instagram.com/helvigproductions/2020-03-1900 min