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We brought the Hood Politics Community Link up to Charleston and people showed out! Topics included: -What Talent buyers look for in new acts -Throwing your own events -Breaking through locally -Getting signed to labels -Connections or talent Panelists included: -Sherm (DJ, Producer, A&R Hood Politics) -DJ Susan (DJ, Producer, Founder Hood Politics Records) -Ryan Williams (Project 91) -Kyle B. Jones (Co-Founder, EDM.com) -DJ Soto(DJ, Producer) -Eric Gussin (Founder, Trio)

If you’re an artist, producer, or DJ trying to build something real right now, this episode is for you. Goshfather has spent years figuring out what actually works in today’s music landscape — not just getting streams or chasing a viral moment, but building a project people actually care about. And in this conversation, we get into everything from why most artists are posting the wrong content, to what “real fans” actually look like in 2026, to why the algorithm probably isn’t your biggest problem. We also talk about branding, artist development, the death of the old SoundCloud playbook, and the moment Goshfather realized that people didn’t even understand what his project was — even while he was dropping music every single week. This one is honest, funny, super practical, and packed with gems for anyone trying to turn momentum into something sustainable. Here’s my conversation with Goshfather.

Claude VonStroke built what many people consider the most influential house music label in American dance music history. Through Dirtybird, he didn't just release records—he built a movement, launched careers, and created a community that helped shape an entire generation of dance music culture. Then, after nearly two decades of growth and success, he made the difficult decision to step away from the company he created and begin a new chapter on his own terms. That chapter is Wrong Number—his most personal project to date. It's a reflection on reinvention, creativity, and having the courage to make decisions that don't always make sense on paper. In this conversation, we dive into the story behind leaving Dirtybird, the making of Wrong Number, what it means to stay authentic when everyone has an opinion, and the lessons he's learned from a career spent building one of dance music's most recognizable brands. This is an ICONIC episode.

A top question from any aspiring producer... and we answered with the honesty that needs to be shared.-How to build relationships with labels-Developing your sound -Finalizing tracks for submission-How to stand out Thanks to Fame Sounds and Tony H for being part of this and everyone who came out!

We brought the Hood Politics Community Link up to Charlotte and the turnout was incredible! Topics included:-What Talent buyers look for in new acts-Breaking through locally-Getting signed to labels-Connections or talentPanelists included:-Sherm (DJ, Producer, A&R Hood Politics)-DJ Susan (DJ, Producer, Founder Hood Politics Records)-Stu Hackley (Insomniac Talent Buyer)-Kyle B. Jones (Co-Founder, EDM.com)-Angelo The Kid (DJ, Producer)-Eric Gussin (Founder, Trio)Enjoy

What happens when you take a Luke Combs singalong, drop it into a Calvin Harris-style DJ set, and turn it into a national touring brand? Boots ’N Beats is one of the fastest-growing live event concepts in North America right now — and today I’m joined by co-founder Ryan Sterne to break down how they scaled the idea across 50+ cities, what’s actually working in live event marketing right now, and how ads, audience building, and artist development all play into the bigger strategy. This episode will give you everything you need to know about event and artist marketing. Enjoy!

Every artist hits a moment where the question isn’t how do I grow — it’s what do I stand for now. This is our third time sitting down with King Topher, but this conversation marks a real next chapter. Because what started as a private prayer call for the music industry back in 2019 has quietly evolved into his latest project: Rave Jesus. At its core, this isn’t about changing lanes — it’s about expanding the mission. Taking everything he’s built in dance music and asking a bigger question: what does it look like when purpose, faith, and club culture exist in the same space? Rave Jesus reflects a desire to see God’s presence permeate every corner of the music world — regardless of what you believe, we have all felt something special on the dance floor. T oday, we’re unpacking the strategy, the responsibility, and the reality of stepping into a new chapter — creatively, professionally, and publicly. Welcome back to the show… King Topher.

I’m sitting down with Iman Tucker — an Indy-based DJ and producer who’s also a fashion designer and the official DJ for the Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers, and Indiana Hoosiers. We talk about how sports culture influences music, what AI means for creativity moving forward, and why being honest with yourself might be the most important skill you can develop. This conversation is real, reflective, and packed with gems — let’s tap in.

From the Midwest to the heart of LA’s dance music industry—today we’re sitting with Ryan Roth, also known as Roy LaCroix and Driver405. He’s a DJ and producer who packed up from St. Louis, took a massive risk, and now works inside the world of Pioneer DJ—helping shape the future of AlphaTheta. We’re talking Midwest roots, house music obsession, and how he’s working to elevate what DJs and fans experience everywhere. This was a really fun episode and I'm so excited to share.Let's go!

Only in Chicago do you get a world-class pizza chef, his dad, and his grandpa — all talking family, legacy, and the culinary arts… all while Professor Pizza and I throw back Malört like it’s holy water.This is just one of those episodes. I had the pleasure of sitting down with my guy Tony Scardino, aka Professor Pizza — a chef, creative, and hometown hero who’s turned his obsession with pizza into a legit culinary movement.But here’s where it gets special — Tony’s family was in the city for his birthday so we decided to have his dad and grandpa join us. Three generations, one family, and enough stories to serve the whole restaurant.So grab a slice, pour yourself something questionable, and enjoy one of the most fun and authentic convos I’ve ever had on the show.

What do sports media broadcasters and DJs have in common? A nonstop grind fueled by passion and a love of the game. That’s the thread running through today’s episode — and the crazy part is, this story starts in the same place. Tony East and I both grew up in Zionsville, walked the same high school halls, and chased completely different careers. He went all-in on sports media and became one of the go-to voices for the Pacers and Fever. I dove headfirst into music and built my path as a DJ and podcaster. Two different arenas, but the same mindset: hustle, resilience, and chasing the dream. And now, years later, we’re linking up full circle — recording this conversation on a back porch in Zionsville, right where it all began. This is a very special episode that I'm sure you will enjoy!

Episode 182 features the one and only Tyler Morris AKA Westend!! I caught up with this tech house stallion last week while he was at home in NYC and had so much fun getting his full story. 📖In 182 we discussed:•Early inspirations and influences: Westend was born and raised in NYC and grew up surrounded by tons of different music and cultures. In high school, he was exposed to DJing and electronic music that eventually inspired him to start creating music on his own. He found a groove balancing real-life with music until he knew it was time to turn his passion into a career. He hasn't looked back since! ➡️➡️•Discography: I'm a massive Westend fan and it was truly amazing running through his catalogue of bangers from 2016 through today. We got the full story on how some of his most profound productions came together like "Detonate" with John Summit via Dirtybird, the "Pay Attention" EP via Solotoko, "Get This Party Started" via Glasgow Underground, and "Jumpin" with CID via Repopulate Mars. We also unlocked some old memories from Westend's humble beginnings - loved this portion of the interview. 🎶•Kick + Bass: During lockdown, Westend started doing 1-1 sessions with producers and helped them learn the ins and outs of house music production. It gained so much traction that he eventually started a discord called "Kick + Bass"  that now has over 200 members! I personally know 10 producers that have worked with Westend through this program and it's truly incredible what he is building. 👨‍🏫I am now an even bigger Westend fan than before because he is such a genuine guy who loves making music and sharing it with the world. He has worked so hard for years to make it and is now touring worldwide playing original tracks for fans new and old. Very inspiring. ⭐️Thank you so much for coming on the show my friend and I can't wait to meet in person someday soon.  🙌🏻

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

It's been too long since I did an in person interview and I was quickly reminded why I love them so much - I had a BLAST getting the full story of one of Chicago's biggest rising acts in dance music, Levity! ⭐️John and PJ were kind enough to let me into their home for SITB 202 and we got it all in for this one In 202 we discussed:•Becoming Levity: John was born and raised in Chicagoland and PJ is from just outside Los Angeles and their paths crossed in college at Iowa. They immediately bonded over music and quickly became close friends. They both shared a true passion for music and decided to join forces and become Levity. They haven't looked back since! 🙌🏻•Discography: Although the Levity project is still relatively new, their quality of music comes at a veteran level. They describe their music as "having colorful sounds, upbeat drums, and euphoric landscapes with playful vocals" and they deliver every time. They just passed 2 million cumulative plays on Spotify and with tracks like their remix of "Deliliah" with GUDFELLA and "Paradise" with LINDZ, there's no question that this duo is only just getting started. 🎸•Levity Live Sets: I had heard of Levity through some mutual friends but when I saw them live I was immediately taken back by their stage presence. Straight up, these guys LOVE to perform and their sets are incredibly unique because they legit love so many kinds of music. They say it best, "we aren't there just to DJ, we are there to put on a performance". Love it! ❤️‍🔥This interview was too much fun and we are sorry not sorry for the side-bar conversations that occurred throughout - we were just podcasting and enjoying it!! 🤩So much love and respect to these dudes and I cannot wait to see what the future holds for them! 💫

Not gonna sugar coat how excited I am about this one for even a second!! Episode 172 features 2 time Grammy Award winning DJ/Producer/Label Head and all around good guy CID ! I have been following him for over 7 years and am genuinely a massive fan. Truly honored to have this legend on the show and it was a blast getting his full story. 🙌🏻linktr.ee/shermintheboothIn 172 we discussed:•Early inspirations and influences: Born and raised in Queens, NY Carlos is the youngest of three brothers and has always had a passion for music. NYC's rich music and dance culture played a huge role in finding his way to becoming a DJ and eventually made the jump to pursuing production. In 2006, he sent a record to Markus Schulz and got his first track signed - hasn't looked back since! 👟•The CID Discography: We took a sonic journey through CID's incredible catalogue of originals, remixes, and collaborations over the years and got the full scoop on his creative process and how his sound has evolved since day 1. We ran through how some of his biggest hits came together like "Jumpin" with Westend, "Us" with Kaskade, "Fever" with Don Diablo, and solo releases such as "Believer" featuring Cee Lo Green, "Downstairs" and his grammy award winning remix of Lizzo's "Truth Hurts". Can I get a SHEESH?! 🗣•Night Service Only: In June 2019, CID launched his new label "Night Service Only" with one goal in mind - release club bangers. He's given a massive platform to talented artists like J. Worra, Chapter & Verse, Black V Neck, MUUS, Cloverdale and so many more. We had a great discussion on his long-term vision for the label and what he looks for in demos - "It needs to be something I would play in my sets” 📝CID is on FIRE right now and is fresh off a massive Lollapalooza set and an incredible release called "Honey" with Volkoder on Musical Freedom. It's truly incredible to see him continue to grow on all levels but also bring others along on this crazy ride with him. Big things for 2021 and beyond! ⭐️Thank you thank you THANK YOU for making some time and coming on the show - one of the biggest and best interviews yet. I can't wait to meet in person someday soon and I'm looking forward to hearing some new Night Service Only releases! 🔥@cidmusic