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Episode #207: Proud, But Never Satisfied | Danny McGonegle What happens when you stop waiting to feel ready—and start giving yourself every chance to succeed? Drummer Danny McGonegle joins NOMAD to talk discipline, sobriety, preparation, social media, and the mindset shift that took him from feeling like an underachiever to attacking his career with purpose. His philosophy: be comfortable being uncomfortable. ✅ Why consistency beats motivation✅ How preparation helps kill audition anxiety✅ Building a career instead of chasing the next gig✅ Using social media without sacrificing the music✅ Why most people quit before the work starts paying off✅ Danny’s mantra: “Proud, but never satisfied.” Talent gets you noticed. Preparation gets you hired. 👉 GET THE GIG:https://www.thecareermusician.com/get-the-gig Get ETHOS: The Career Musician’s Code and learn the principles behind becoming the musician people call back. 👉 GET ETHOS: https://www.thecareermusician.com/ethos Book a 1-on-1 coaching call with NOMAD. 👉 https://www.thecareermusician.com/coaching If this episode gave you value: Subscribe. Like. Comment. Share. Follow.Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating + review and send this episode to one musician who needs it. https://www.thecareermusician.com/podcast GET THE GIG. KEEP THE GIG. GO BEYOND THE GIG.MAKE MUSIC YOUR BUSINESS. #TheCareerMusician #DannyMcGonegle #MusicCareer #ProfessionalMusician #MusicianMindset 🎯 IN THIS EPISODE🚨 WOULD YOU BE READY IF THE GIG CAME TOMORROW?📘 STOP CHASING GIGS. BUILD A CAREER.🎯 NEED A CAREER GAME PLAN?🔥 SUPPORT THE SHOW🥁 FOLLOW DANNY McGONEGLE📲 THE CAREER MUSICIAN Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#206 — Mitch Beer on Bass: What They Don’t Teach You Being a great bass player can get you noticed. But chops alone won’t build you a career. In this episode of The Career Musician, NOMAD sits down with bassist, producer, engineer, studio owner, and music industry lifer Mitch Beer for a real-world conversation about the stuff they DON’T teach you in music school — the lessons you usually have to learn on the gig. 🚨 READY TO GET THE GIG? START HERE:👉 https://www.thecareermusician.com/get-the-gig If your next audition, session, tour call, referral, or opportunity showed up tomorrow… would you actually be ready? Don’t wait until the gig is already on the table to figure out the business side of your career. Getting hired is about more than playing the notes — it’s your preparation, relationships, reputation, communication, gear, mindset, and your ability to deliver when somebody puts their trust in you. Your next opportunity could come sooner than you think. Get ahead of it.👉 https://www.thecareermusician.com/get-the-gig Mitch has built the kind of multidimensional career we talk about constantly at TCM. He’s worked as a bassist and producer on Lil Uzi Vert’s #1 platinum album Pink Tape, contributed to Tierra Whack’s World Wide Whack, toured with Digable Planets and The Bacon Brothers, and has worked as a studio bassist for nine-time GRAMMY-winning producer Joe “The Butcher” Nicolo. But Mitch’s career doesn’t stop when he puts the bass down. He’s also a producer, recording engineer, educator, content creator, podcast host, and owner/operator of Retro City B Room — making him the perfect person to talk about what a sustainable music career actually looks like in the real world. Because being a Career Musician isn’t just about mastering your instrument. It’s about becoming the person people want to hire again. NOMAD and Mitch get into the real-world lessons behind becoming — and remaining — a working professional musician: 🎯 Why being an incredible player is only the beginning 🎸 The things music lessons and music school can’t fully prepare you for 🤝 Why relationships, reputation, and being a good hang matter 🎧 Understanding the session from more than just the player’s perspective 💼 Thinking like a professional instead of waiting to be “discovered” 🔥 Showing up prepared when opportunity finally calls 🧠 Developing the mindset required for longevity in the music business 🎛 Why learning production, recording, and the technology around your instrument makes you more valuable 🚀 Building a career that extends beyond one artist, one tour, or one gig ❤️ And how to stay in love with music while treating it like a profession This one is for bass players, session musicians, touring musicians, producers, students, and anybody trying to turn musical ability into an actual livelihood. Because eventually you learn the truth: Talent may get you into the room.What you do once you’re there determines whether you get called back. Don’t just practice your instrument. Practice being the musician people can depend on. Preparation. Communication. Awareness. Adaptability. Relationships. Those are chops too. And remember… EVERYTHING YOU DO IS AN AUDITION. Website:https://mitchbeerbass.com/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mitchbeerbass/ Asses in Seats Podcast:https://mitchbeerbass.com/podcast Ready to turn your musical skills into more real-world opportunities? Start here:👉 https://www.thecareermusician.com/get-the-gig L.A. musicians: Get 20% OFF your next booking. Use code: NOMAD👉 https://parehearsalstudios.com/ Sharpen your skills, expand your vocabulary, and stay inspired. Free Trial — Use code: NOMAD👉 https://jamplay.com/get-free-access?code=NOMAD Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thecareermusician/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/TheCareerMusician/ YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@thecareermusician TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thecareermusician Podcast Hub:https://www.thecareermusician.com/podcast Apple Podcasts:https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Apple Spotify:https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Spotify 📚 Online Courseshttps://www.thecareermusician.com/store 💼 Expert Career Coachinghttps://www.thecareermusician.com/coaching 🔖 TCM Bloghttps://www.thecareermusician.com/blog/ The Career Musician exists to empower musicians with strategies for building a sustainable career in music. 🎯 Get the Gig.🔥 Keep the Gig.🚀 Go Beyond the Gig.💼 Make Music Your Business. #TheCareerMusician #MitchBeer #BassPlayer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the recent Oscars spotlight on Sinners and breakout artist Miles Caton, this episode shares a great behind-the-scenes story from a performance a few months earlier at the Hollywood Music in Media Awards (HMMA). The TCM Pro Band had the opportunity to perform with Miles Caton during the event, and it turned into one of those classic live music moments that perfectly illustrates what professional musicianship is all about. When you work in live performance, things don’t always go exactly as planned — and that’s where preparation, experience, and teamwork make all the difference. It’s a great reminder of the deeper tradition behind American music as well, including the profound influence of Black culture and artists on the foundation of modern music. This story also connects to a broader conversation we’re having inside The Green Room, where we explore how musicians can navigate the modern music industry — from live performance skills to emerging tools like AI for musicians. A weekly live session for musicians who want to build real careers in music. Topics include: • Getting the gig and keeping the gig • Touring, sessions, and professional musicianship • Music industry insights from 30+ years on stage and in studios • AI tools and modern workflows for musicians 🟢 Live every Tuesday — 6PM Pacific First session is FREE Join here:https://www.skool.com/tcm-green-room Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

👉 Join The TCM Green Room Your backstage pass to community, coaching, accountability, and next-level strategy: https://www.skool.com/tcm-green-room-3722/about NAMM 2026 Special – Do You Even Gig, Bro? (Part 1) On this special two-part series, the TCM Pro Team — Joel Meza, Emily Lauren, and myself — hit the floor of NAMM Show at the Anaheim Convention Center to ask some of the baddest players, creators, producers, and industry pros what gigging really means in 2026. Because at TCM, we don’t just talk about playing music… We talk about: 🎯 Getting the Gig 🔥 Keeping the Gig 🚀 Going Beyond the Gig 💼 And ultimately — Making Music Your Business This episode is raw, fast, funny, insightful, and full of gold nuggets from artists who are actually in the trenches. Each one answered the question differently. Some talked about: Staying ready so you don’t have to get ready. The evolution of the modern working musician. Social media vs. stage time. Touring realities. Studio hustle. Faith, consistency, and relationships. Why reputation travels faster than talent. 💎 Themes That Kept Coming Up Across the board, a few Career Musician truths stood out: Your reputation is your résumé. Everything you do is an audition. Consistency vs. clout. Preparation creates opportunity. The gig isn’t just the stage — it’s the mindset. This wasn’t influencer fluff. This was real talk from real working pros. And that’s what TCM is about. 🎯 Why We Did This NAMM is full of shiny objects. But behind every endorsement, booth demo, and viral clip… there’s a musician who had to: Grind. Practice. Network. Deliver. Stay humble. Stay savvy. In other words — live the ETHOS. Because methods change… Principles remain. 🚨 BIG CALL TO ACTION 🚨 If you’re serious about becoming a true Career Musician — not just a hobbyist, not just a content creator — but someone building a sustainable music career… 👉 Join The TCM Green Room Your backstage pass to community, coaching, accountability, and next-level strategy. https://www.skool.com/tcm-green-room-3722/about 🎸 Ready to Land the Gig? If auditions are part of your path — whether live, studio, MD, touring, worship, corporate, or artist support… You NEED this: 🔥 Rockstar Audition Hacks – 3 Proven Steps to Landing Your Dream Gig https://thecareermusician.com/audition/ Because remember… Everything you do is an audition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

NAMM 2026 Special – “Do You Even Gig, Bro?” (Part 1) On this special two-part series, the TCM Pro Team — Joel Meza, Emily Lauren, and myself — hit the floor of NAMM Show at the Anaheim Convention Center to ask some of the baddest players, creators, producers, and industry pros what gigging really means in 2026. Because at TCM, we don’t just talk about playing music… We talk about: 🎯 Getting the Gig 🔥 Keeping the Gig 🚀 Going Beyond the Gig 💼 And ultimately — Making Music Your Business This episode is raw, fast, funny, insightful, and full of gold nuggets from artists who are actually in the trenches. We chopped it up with: Stanley Randolph Eric Moore II Sean Sentdabeat Trevan Music Lington Mitch Gallagher Amayita Davy Nathan Eaddy Yasmine Azaiez J.J. Blair YAGKI Morganizm Knick Smith Sir Cory James Bobby Ross Avila The Mighty Giants Each one answered the question differently. Some talked about: Staying ready so you don’t have to get ready. The evolution of the modern working musician. Social media vs. stage time. Touring realities. Studio hustle. Faith, consistency, and relationships. Why reputation travels faster than talent. Across the board, a few Career Musician truths stood out: Your reputation is your résumé. Everything you do is an audition. Consistency > clout. Preparation creates opportunity. The gig isn’t just the stage — it’s the mindset. This wasn’t influencer fluff.This was real talk from real working pros. And that’s what TCM is about. NAMM is full of shiny objects. But behind every endorsement, booth demo, and viral clip… there’s a musician who had to: Grind. Practice. Network. Deliver. Stay humble. Stay savvy. In other words — live the ETHOS. Because methods change…Principles remain. If you’re serious about becoming a true Career Musician — not just a hobbyist, not just a content creator — but someone building a sustainable music career… Your backstage pass to community, coaching, accountability, and next-level strategy. 🔓 Join here:https://www.skool.com/tcm-green-room-3722/about If auditions are part of your path — whether live, studio, MD, touring, worship, corporate, or artist support… You NEED this: 🔥 Rockstar Audition Hacks – 3 Proven Steps to Landing Your Dream Gighttps://thecareermusician.com/audition/ Because remember… Everything you do is an audition. If this episode hit home: Share it with your band. Send it to your producer. Drop it in your musician group chat. Tag us. Let us know — Do YOU even gig, bro? This is The Career Musician. Where business meets music. Where we help you get the gig…Make sure you keep the gig…And eventually go beyond the gig…So you can build a sustainable career doing what you love. 🎙️ Let’s go. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Award season is here — and in this episode of The Career Musician, Nomad and the TCM Pro Team sit down for a post-show Green Room debrief after working an awards-show house band gig in the trenches. We kick things off with a real talk “post-Grammys” perspective: why awards can help your career (visibility, awareness, doors opening)… but why music will always remain opinion-based and subjective — and why no trophy should ever define your value as a working musician. 🎸 Grab the free 3-step Audition Guide: thecareermusician.com/audition Then we go full behind-the-curtain and unpack what actually happened on the show day: ✅ the prep… the advancing… the last-minute curveballs ✅ the playback chaos (sample rate drama + tech chain breakdowns) ✅ the “stop and restart” moment that felt like an eternity ✅ a surprise performance rescue where the house band had to jump in and save the set in real time ✅ and the most unexpected pivot of the night: getting told to “stretch the show” and jam with a full orchestra on the spot This isn’t just a story about an awards show. It’s a masterclass in what it really means to be a career musician: professionalism under pressure, adapting on the fly, and keeping the show moving no matter what. We’re joined by Michael "Ace" Baker, Front of House engineer and production pro, who breaks down what was happening from the mix position and why “plan A” isn’t enough when you’re dealing with live production. Ace’s notable credits include: FOH Engineer for Dream Theater (including their touring production) FOH for Sammy Hagar (including major touring runs) Longtime work with Joe Satriani (including the G3 Tour ) FOH history with Chickenfoot Working alongside guitar heroes like John Petrucci and Mike Mangini through touring worlds that overlap at the highest level Also in this episode... The “awards don’t define you” mindset — and why consistency + relationships beat headlines every time A real-world example of submit & omit / send it & forget it The Green Room format debut: how pros *actually* debrief after the show A reminder that rehearsal studios like CenterStaging are where the pros iron out the chaos before the spotlight hits Nomad also references his colleague and friend Harvey Mason Jr., who leads the The Recording Academy — Find Harvey’s episode in The Career Musician archive for an inside look at how the ecosystem really works here 👉 https://megaphone.link/PAN2101942231 🔥 TCM Pro Tip When the stakes are high and the clock is ticking, don’t just “hope it works.” Lock your fundamentals: Advance your assets early (tracks/video/stems) Never introduce mission-critical files at the last second Build redundancy (backups, alternate plans, human fallbacks) And most importantly: practice the mindset of the pivot Because in the real world… EVERYTHING YOU DO IS AN AUDITION!!! 🌟 Nail the Audition and Get the Gig! (Audition Secrets—Free Guide) → https://thecareermusician.com/audition/ 🎛 PA Rehearsal Studios Official Sponsor (L.A.) Get 20% OFF your next booking Use code NOMAD → https://parehearsalstudios.com/ 🎸 JamPlay Guitar Lessons (Free Trial) Sharpen your skills & stay inspired Use code NOMAD → https://jamplay.com/get-free-access?code=NOMAD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your professionalism is already “enough.”Don’t put management or “important people” on a pedestal. Show up prepared, play great, be a pro. Prioritize relationships over “impressing.”Instead of trying to win over the top boss, find one person in the firm or at the company you can genuinely connect with. Be a good hang; that’s your X-factor.There are tons of great players. What separates you is being a solid human: chill, personable, easy to be around, making others feel comfortable. The “care less, play better” mindset.When you’re too hyped or anxious, your performance suffers. You generally play better when you’re relaxed, not gripping so hard. For introverts: small, doable behaviors.You don’t have to turn into a cartoon extrovert. Just push your comfort zone a bit: smile, say hi, repeat people’s names, be present for a moment. Energy is currency (ETHOS: Attitude + Vibe).Bring positive, high-vibe energy into sessions, shows, and NAMM. Like Kenny Aronoff, you can “save” a room just by the energy you bring. NAMM is for friends, not “networking.”Use the 3-foot rule: if someone’s within three feet, talk to them. Go to NAMM with clear goals, not delusions.Don’t show up thinking, “I’ll get signed to five endorsements in a day.” Instead, go with 1–2 concrete missions. Understand what endorsements really are. Beware of “fake” endorsements that are just tiny discounts and bad support. Real endorsement = you truly back the product, and the company truly backs you. Relationships outlast companies and reps.Artist reps leave. Deals lapse. That’s normal. Keep nurturing relationships so you can re-ignite deals. Say “yes” more, but stay discerning.Don’t shut down opportunities just because they don’t fit your old mental picture (tours, panels, gear deals, etc.) NAMM is more than a gear expo.The NAMM org does year-round work: lobbying in D.C., helping with regulations (woods, tariffs, shipping), and creating educational panels on social media, AI, mental health, business, etc. Everything is an audition — including content.Whether it’s a tour, a bar gig, a podcast, or your IG reel, people are always seeing you “audition” for the next thing. Don’t be jaded — let yourself be excited.Locals love to say “It was better 10 years ago.” That mindset kills joy and keeps you stuck in the past. Exclusive Career Musician Resources  🌟 Nail the Audition and Get the Gig! (Audition Secrets—Free Guide)  → https://thecareermusician.com/audition/ 🎛 PA Rehearsal Studios Official Sponsor (L.A.)  Get 20% OFF your next booking Use code NOMAD  → https://parehearsalstudios.com/ 🎸 JamPlay Guitar Lessons (Free Trial)  Sharpen your skills & stay inspired Use code NOMAD  → https://jamplay.com/get-free-access?code=NOMAD Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecareermusician/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCareerMusician/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecareermusician TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecareermusician Apple: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Apple Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Spotify 📚Online Courses  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/store 💼Expert Career Coaching  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/coaching 💡 TCM Pro Tip: Don't fall into the trap of being jaded, go to ENJOY NAMM and watch your future blossom! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Episode 200 of The Career Musician Podcast! This milestone episode celebrates 200 conversations, lessons, and real-world strategies for working musicians. Nomad reflects on recent gigs with legendary bassist Nathan East, introduces the TCM Pro team (Joel Meza and Emily Lauren), and dives deep into the philosophy that's driven the show from day one: action over resolution, principles remain methods change, and execution over perfection. 🎯 Core Philosophy: Action over resolution: Why consistent action compounds into results Methods change, but principles remain The importance of having a Plan of Attack (POA) Done is better than perfect 👥 Meet the TCM Pro Team: Joel Meza and Emily Lauren share their transformative goals for the year Emily's focus: Being present and not "watering all the flowers at once" Joel's commitment: Actively using a CRM (Contacts Relations Manager) to maintain relationships 💡 Key Insights: The danger of over-scheduling and setting unrealistic daily goals How to stay "top of mind" in the music industry The power of sincere relationship building vs. transactional networking Why execution beats perfection every time 🎸 Real Talk: How Nathan East kept the Eric Clapton gig for over 40 years Working with legendary artists (Aretha, Barbara Streisand, Celine Dion, David Foster) The importance of auditioning with intention Minimum Viable Product (MVP) mindset for musicians 📊 Practical Tools Discussed: CRM/Contacts Relations Manager for musicians Plan of Attack (POA) worksheet Audition preparation framework Balancing work, life, and creative pursuits Exclusive Career Musician Resources  🌟 Nail the Audition and Get the Gig! (Audition Secrets—Free Guide)  → https://thecareermusician.com/audition/ 🎛 PA Rehearsal Studios Official Sponsor (L.A.)  Get 20% OFF your next booking Use code NOMAD  → https://parehearsalstudios.com/ 🎸 JamPlay Guitar Lessons (Free Trial)  Sharpen your skills & stay inspired Use code NOMAD  → https://jamplay.com/get-free-access?code=NOMAD 📲 Follow The Career Musician  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecareermusician/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCareerMusician/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecareermusician TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecareermusician 🎙 Stream The Podcast: Podcast Hub: https://thecareermusician.com/podcast/ Apple: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Apple Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Spotify iHeart: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-iHeart Stitcher: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Stitcher-Pod 📚Online Courses  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/store 💼Expert Career Coaching  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/coaching 🔖Read Our Blog  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/blog/ 💡 TCM Pro Tip:Done is better than perfect. Execute faster than anyone else, and get it to market first. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Action > Resolution New year.New you.New gigs. But not just more gigs. The right gigs. In this episode, Nomad breaks down why New Year’s resolutions don’t work for musicians—and what to do instead if you want real progress this year. Instead of setting goals you’ll forget by February, Nomad introduces a simple Plan of Action (or as he calls it, a Plan of Attack) designed to help you stop procrastinating, stop chasing the wrong opportunities, and start taking consistent action toward the career you actually want. This episode is built around Nomad’s ETHOS framework and the core pillars of The Career Musician—helping you improve your mindset, your business decisions, and your gig and studio life. Why “more gigs” isn’t better if they’re pulling you in the wrong direction The real reason New Year’s resolutions fail musicians How to replace resolutions with a simple Plan of Action Why Nomad also calls it a Plan of Attack (and what you’re actually attacking) How to beat procrastination, self-doubt, complacency, and excuses A clear, easy-to-follow framework you can use all year—not just in January This episode is practical, simple, and built for real working musicians—not hype, not motivation, just action. To go along with this episode, Nomad created a free, fillable one-page Plan of Action worksheet you can use immediately. 👉 Download it here:https://thecareermusician.com This worksheet walks you through: Telling the truth about where you are Choosing one clear focus for the next 90 days Identifying simple weekly actions Building daily momentum—even when you don’t feel motivated This episode and worksheet come directly from ETHOS: The Career Musician’s Code—Nomad’s complete framework for building a sustainable music career. ETHOS shows you how to: Think like a career musician Make smart decisions Take consistent action that leads to real opportunities Learn more at:https://thecareermusician.com Resolutions are easy to break. Action—done consistently—changes everything. If you’re ready to stop hoping and start building, this episode is your starting point. 👉 Download the free worksheet👉 Take action👉 Get after the right gigs 🌟 Nail the Audition and Get the Gig! (Audition Secrets—Free Guide)  → https://thecareermusician.com/audition/ 🎛 PA Rehearsal Studios Official Sponsor (L.A.)  Get 20% OFF your next booking Use code NOMAD  → https://parehearsalstudios.com/ 🎸 JamPlay Guitar Lessons (Free Trial)  Sharpen your skills & stay inspired Use code NOMAD  → https://jamplay.com/get-free-access?code=NOMAD 📲 Follow The Career Musician  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecareermusician/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCareerMusician/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecareermusician TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecareermusician 🎙 Stream The Podcast: Podcast Hub: https://thecareermusician.com/podcast/ Apple: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Apple Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Spotify iHeart: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-iHeart Stitcher: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Stitcher-Pod 📚Online Courses  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/store 💼Expert Career Coaching  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/coaching 🔖Read Our Blog → ⁠https://www.thecareermusician.com/blog/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the 2025 Year in Review Wrap-Up episode! Celebrate our milestones, meet the team, and discover the top 10 career tips that defined this year. From building your brand to mastering auditions and networking, this episode is your guide to thriving as a professional musician. As we approach our 200th episode, Nomad reflects on a year of incredible growth, community, and music industry insights. This episode features reflections on the top 10 career tips of 2025, including: • Building your brand as a musician • The importance of preparation and professionalism • Navigating auditions and getting the gig • Business savvy and protecting standardized rates • Building alliances and networking in the industry • Communication and showing up for yourself and others 🙏 🎶 ❤️ Heartfelt thanks to listeners and the global Career Musician community Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration to help you build a sustainable music career. 🤘 Exclusive Career Musician Resources  🌟 Nail the Audition and Get the Gig! (Audition Secrets—Free Guide)  → https://thecareermusician.com/audition/ 🎛 PA Rehearsal Studios Official Sponsor (L.A.)  Get 20% OFF your next booking Use code NOMAD  → https://parehearsalstudios.com/ 🎸 JamPlay Guitar Lessons (Free Trial)  Sharpen your skills & stay inspired Use code NOMAD  → https://jamplay.com/get-free-access?code=NOMAD 📲 Follow The Career Musician  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecareermusician/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCareerMusician/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecareermusician TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecareermusician 🎙 Stream The Podcast: Podcast Hub: https://thecareermusician.com/podcast/ Apple: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Apple Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Spotify iHeart: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-iHeart Stitcher: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Stitcher-Pod 📚Online Courses  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/store 💼Expert Career Coaching  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/coaching 🔖Read Our Blog  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/blog/ 💡 TCM Pro Tip: Three qualities that determine you're a TCM Pro—Dedication, Communication, Preparation! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🎙️ From Baltimore hustle to shaping a music career on his own terms. Drummer, producer, father, and brand-builder — Bryant Wilson (aka The Beatqualizer) proves that success isn’t defined by location or industry hype. After COVID nearly knocked him out of the game for years, he rebuilt from the ground up: steady wedding gigs, a home studio, his own sample pack, and even branded cereal. Yes — cereal. 🍽️🥁 Bryant’s story is a blueprint for musicians who are determined to provide, create, and stay consistent — no matter what season of life they’re in. In this episode, Bryant & Nomad dive into: ⭐ Consistency > luck — how steady wedding gigs rebuilt his career after COVID ⭐ Create your own opportunities — drum studio, remote sessions, sample packs, and a production team ⭐ Brand yourself like a business — unique products (like drummer cereal!) and always evolving your brand ⭐ Seasons of life and music — balancing fatherhood, ambition, and survival ⭐ Mindset shifts that keep you in the game — comparison kills creativity; focus on your path Exclusive Career Musician Resources  🌟 Nail the Audition and Get the Gig! (Audition Secrets—Free Guide)  → https://thecareermusician.com/audition/ 🎛 PA Rehearsal Studios Official Sponsor (L.A.)  Get 20% OFF your next booking Use code NOMAD  → https://parehearsalstudios.com/ 🎸 JamPlay Guitar Lessons (Free Trial)  Sharpen your skills & stay inspired Use code NOMAD  → https://jamplay.com/get-free-access?code=NOMAD 📲 Follow The Career Musician: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecareermusician/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCareerMusician/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecareermusician TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecareermusician 🎙 Stream The Podcast: Podcast Hub: https://thecareermusician.com/podcast/ Apple: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Apple Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Spotify iHeart: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-iHeart Stitcher: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Stitcher-Pod 📚Online Courses  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/store 💼Expert Career Coaching  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/coaching 🔖Read Our Blog  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/blog/ 🌐 Find Bryant Wilson on: ⁠https://thebeatqualizer.com/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠💡 TCM Pro Tip:Writing your goals down coupled with consistent work toward those goals will produce results. Be patient and consistent and you will reap the benefits! #careermusician  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How a versatile bassist built a career touring with today’s pop stars From Six Flags shows to Coachella, Bonnaroo, and headline runs with modern chart-toppers like Dominic Fike and Remi Wolf, bassist Sean Sobash has built a sustainable touring career through community, versatility, and smart business decisions. He shares how jam sessions led to major gigs, how to negotiate fair pay, when to say no — and why prioritizing relationships will book you far more work than any other avenue. If you’re a young musician dreaming of the road… Sean’s journey is the blueprint. In this episode, Sean, Nomad, and Joel dive into: ⭐ The power of community over cattle calls — jam sessions → touring opportunities (not waiting in 100-person audition lines) ⭐ What touring should pay (and why rates matter) — minimums, sliding scales, and protecting the profession from undercutting ⭐ Knowing when to walk away — juggling overlapping tours, friendships, and long-term opportunities ⭐ Balancing “rockstar energy” with professionalism — look the part, but remember: you’re there to work ⭐ Why versatility = survival — electric bass, synth bass, upright, doubling duties ⭐ Making LA sustainable — networking with intention, good hangs, and keeping your ego out of business decisions 📌 Connect with Sean Sobash Instagram: @seansobash Artist credits: Dominic Fike, Remi Wolf, Luke Hemmings, Rooney… and more Exclusive Career Musician Resources  🌟 VIP All-Access Pass (All TCM Products in One Bundle)  → https://thecareermusician.com/membership/all-access-vip-pass/ 🎛 PA Rehearsal Studios Official Sponsor (L.A.)  Get 20% OFF your next booking Use code NOMAD  → https://parehearsalstudios.com/ 🎸 JamPlay Guitar Lessons (Free Trial)  Sharpen your skills & stay inspired Use code NOMAD  → https://jamplay.com/get-free-access?code=NOMAD Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecareermusician/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCareerMusician/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecareermusician TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecareermusician Podcast Hub: https://thecareermusician.com/podcast/ Apple: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Apple Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Spotify iHeart: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-iHeart Stitcher: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Stitcher-Pod 📚Online Courses  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/store 💼Expert Career Coaching  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/coaching 🔖Read Our Blog  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/blog/ 💡TCM Pro Tip: Whether you're in LA or not, the same rules apply—be a good hang and do the job of playing your instrument consistently and you'll succeed! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, host Nomad sits down with Ron Perry, aka RPP, a seasoned outbound sales leader and former aspiring guitar hero, to unpack the universal principles of success in music and business. Broadcasting from Breckenridge, Colorado, they dive deep into why building a strong personal brand is just as important—if not more so—than mastering your craft.Key Topics: Why “brand” matters as much as talent for musicians and professionals How to develop a marketable identity and create memorable audience experiencesThe role of social media in amplifying your brand Embracing rejection: mastering the “art of no” and playing the numbers game Real-world stories: from LA’s music scene to creative sales tactics (like the legendary “red shoe” story) The importance of networking and being a “good hang” in the industryLessons from icons like John 5, Slash, and the value of standing outHow creative branding can overcome higher prices and competition Takeaways: Your brand is your ticket to opportunity—craft it intentionally Rejection is part of the journey; persistence pays off Networking and being authentic open doors you never expected Creativity and thinking outside the box can set you apart in any field About the Guest: Ron Perry (RPP) is known for his dynamic approach to sales, music, and personal branding. With roots in LA’s music world and a passion for helping others succeed, Ron shares actionable advice and entertaining stories from his career. Follow The Career Musician Podcast for more insights and inspiration Tune in for a blend of music industry wisdom, business strategy, and plenty of laughs! Exclusive Career Musician Resources 🌟 VIP All-Access Pass (All TCM Products in One Bundle) → https://thecareermusician.com/membership/all-access-vip-pass/ 🎛 PA Rehearsal Studios Official Sponsor (L.A.) Get 20% OFF your next booking Use code NOMAD → https://parehearsalstudios.com/ 🎸 JamPlay Guitar Lessons (Free Trial) Sharpen your skills & stay inspired Use code NOMAD → https://jamplay.com/get-free-access?code=NOMAD 📲 Follow The Career Musician Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecareermusician/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCareerMusician/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecareermusicianTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecareermusician 🎙 Stream The Podcast:Podcast Hub: https://thecareermusician.com/podcast/Apple: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-AppleSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-SpotifyiHeart: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-iHeartStitcher: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Stitcher-Pod 📚Online Courses → https://www.thecareermusician.com/store 💼Expert Career Coaching → https://www.thecareermusician.com/coaching 🔖Read Our Blog → https://www.thecareermusician.com/blog/ 💡 TCM Pro Tip: The power of your brand carries your talent beyond organic reach and opens the gates of discovery for new audiences! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Inside the House Band: What It Really Takes To Play an Elite Hollywood Awards Show with Joel Meza — Drummer/Playback Tech, The Career Musician House Band Most musicians see the glitz, the cameras, the red carpet, and the highlight reels… But very few ever get to experience what really goes down behind the scenes of an elite Hollywood awards show—like the Hollywood Music in Media Awards—especially from the vantage point of the house band. In this episode, Joel gives us his reaction to the vlog in which Nomad pulls back the curtain on the discipline, professionalism, and mindset it takes to thrive in one of the most demanding gigs in the industry. As the Music Director, Nomad shares the unfiltered truth: it’s not about chops alone. It’s about Preparation, Precision, Adaptability, Communication, and Respect—the core pillars of both TCM and The ETHOS. You’ll discover: What separates a “good” musician from a trusted musician on a high-pressure show Why consistency, humility, and reliability matter more than flashy playing How the house band becomes the heartbeat of a live broadcast The mental game required to handle last-minute changes, cue-based performance, and artist unpredictability How to show up like a pro, even in the most chaotic backstage environments The real expectations from producers, directors, artists, and MDs The unwritten rules that every elite house-band member lives by How ETHOS values—Energy, Talent, Humility, Objectivity, and Savvy—are the secret to getting called back Why being musical is only half the job—and being a dependable human is the other half Whether you’re a session cat, a touring musician, a rising pro, or a music-biz student, this episode gives you the blueprint for earning and keeping the kinds of gigs most players only dream about. This is the side of the industry no one teaches. This is music professionalism in real time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🎙️ The Career Musician Podcast — Featuring Rob Garland From England to Los Angeles, navigating soul bands, jazz fusion, and iconic guitar hero moments. Rob Garland has built a lasting career through sheer passion, persistence, and the willingness to evolve. From teaching 40+ students during the pandemic to interviewing legends like Steve Vai and Dweezil Zappa, Rob embodies what it means to be a true Career Musician — adaptable, self-made, and dedicated to lifelong growth. Whether he’s performing original music, breaking down fretboard systems, or helping others develop their sound through Real World Guitar, Rob is proof that there’s no single path to a thriving career — only the path you relentlessly walk. In this episode, Nomad & Rob dive into: ⭐ Persistence over perfection — landing interviews and gigs with consistency + professionalism (“You can email someone once and never hear back — don't leave it there.”) ⭐ Diversify or die — live gigs, teaching, online courses, YouTube, real-world auditioning ⭐ Surviving the changing music landscape — from tube amps exploding to digital-only generations (“Digital is great… I don’t think it’s quite the same.”) ⭐ Carving space for your unique musical identity — sounding like you in a world full of clones ⭐ Intentional career building — planning gigs before moving cities, hustling for students, finding visas ✅ 5 Key Takeaways for Career Musicians 1️⃣ Plan your opportunities ahead of time Rob sent audition tapes and answered “guitarists wanted” ads months before moving to the U.S. 2️⃣ Creativity + stubbornness = longevity You don’t just “decide” a music career — you refuse to do anything else. 3️⃣ Diversification keeps you working Teaching, gigging, original music, content, courses — he embraces all revenue lanes. 4️⃣ Persistence beats proximity Some auditions go to friends-of-friends… Keep showing up anyway. 5️⃣ Develop YOUR voice The greats sound like nobody but themselves — strive for that. 📌 Listen & Connect with Rob Garland Website: rwg.robgarland.net Exclusive Career Musician Resources  🌟 VIP All-Access Pass (All TCM Products in One Bundle)  → https://thecareermusician.com/membership/all-access-vip-pass/  🎛 PA Rehearsal Studios Official Sponsor (L.A.)  Get 20% OFF your next booking Use code NOMAD  → https://parehearsalstudios.com/  🎸 JamPlay Guitar Lessons (Free Trial)  Sharpen your skills & stay inspired Use code NOMAD  → https://jamplay.com/get-free-access?code=NOMAD 📲 Follow The Career Musician  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecareermusician/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCareerMusician/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecareermusician  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecareermusician 🎙 Stream The Podcast: Podcast Hub: https://thecareermusician.com/podcast/ Apple: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Apple Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Spotify iHeart: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-iHeart Stitcher: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Stitcher-Pod 📚Online Courses  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/store  💼Expert Career Coaching  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/coaching  🔖Read Our Blog  → https://www.thecareermusician.com/blog/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices