Creative Minds Podcast

Bradley "The Sting" Rea is a professional middleweight boxer with an undefeated record of 10-0. Hailing from Manchester, Bradley had over 90 amateur fights under his belt before turning pro, he trains out of Ricky Hatton's gym and is trained by respected coach Blain Younis. I spoke to Brad about the importance of mindset, the gruelling and demanding daily routines that go into his dietary and training commitments, the sacrifices he's made so far even by the age of 23, the realities of the ups and downs that people don't see away from social media, his future ambitions, and staying focused during a pandemic when opportunities to fight were almost non existent at times. Brad's impressive string of consecutive back-to-back victories has caught the eye of influential promoters including Eddie Hearn and his Matchroom team, and Brad recently earned the opportunity to fight on undercards on Sky Sports. I wanted to switch it up for this episode, and it was great to speak to such a motivated and humble young man. Brad is a fighter that will no doubt become a champion in his division when the title shots arise in future. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bradrea_/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BradleyTheStingRea YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USM7BK6p6XE

Janai is a singer ~ songwriter hailing from London, and in this next episode we discuss the inner work and self reflection that we were forced to do in the last year since Covid slowed the music industry down, collaborating with Sonny Fodera, and Jan-ai reminisces on being in creative circles with the likes of Gorgon City & Dusky during her time at college. She's toured the UK with Sonny Fodera for his sold out Solotoko tours, and has collaborated with him in the studio on multiple occasions. The results have been straight up magic as they've conjured up successful records “You & I” that was released on Defected Records, as well as “Give Me A Reason” on his album Rise. We also go deeper discussing racial discrimination, gender inequality in the music industry and wider society, why it's important to get a music lawyer, the importance of finding passions away from music, her interesting London Carnival experiences & much more. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JanaiMusic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janaimusic/ Important books on racial discrimination, inequality & mental health: Why I'm No Longer Talking To White People About Race - Reni Eddo Lodge Natives / Race & Class In The Ruins Of Empire - Akala Behind The Mask - Tyson Fury

Alessandro, better known as Flashmob, is a DJ & Producer who is responsible for one of the greatest house records in recent years - ‘Need In Me'. Surpassing 30 million views over numerous platforms, the timeless classic was awarded the accolade of Essential New Tune by Pete Tong, & was the biggest selling track on Defected Records during 2012. Alessandro joined me live & direct from his beautiful pad in Milan (apologies if the audio isn't perfect), and there's no holds barred in this life story so far podcast. We talk about the realities behind the world of social media, his humble upbringing & his Irish and Italian roots, the importance of hard work, making mistakes, not fearing failure when it comes to progression, playing the long game & staying true to yourself, a positive mindset, the ups and downs of being a touring DJ and we then take it right up to the present day where he discusses the period of reflection and ability to reset since Covid hit. The timeless classic ‘Need In Me' of course gets an honorary mention, as well as the great work being implemented by the respective Defected & Toolroom teams not just on his releases, but for also using their platforms to improve equality with gender and race issues. We finish off by discussing his favourite gigs to date as an international touring artist, his standout timeless house records that feature in his sets (or he loses himself to at home in Milan), & there's important advice for any aspiring artists who may be looking to climb the ladder in the industry. New release 'Closer' on Toolroom: https://www.beatport.com/release/closer/3322046 & https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecnVAVaa2xI Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flashmobdj/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flashmobdj

Tom Frankel is a DJ, producer, one half of the duo Frankel & Harper, and is also A&R for his respected and rapidly rising record label Council Work. Tom is someone who I've always bonded well with on a personal level due to his outlook on the music industry and the political landscape as well. As a born and bred West Londoner growing up in a culturally diverse environment - he's never pigeonholed himself musically or conformed to the belief of sub genres, supporting everyone from Robin Schulz to Skream over the years. Jungle/Drum & Bass, Dubstep, Garage, House, Techno - name the genre & there's a good chance he's turned his hand to it. We discuss networking, getting your foot in the door, playing the long game & doing it for the love of music and the art of DJing, 3 consecutive seasons as a worker in Ibiza in 2011, 2012 & 2013, his imprint Council Work and the feeling of landing the labels 'Instinct' remix on Rockstar's legendary Grand Theft Auto franchise, what he'd like to see change in the music industry, artists to watch out for & the importance of empowering women on the scene + much more. This episode is in partnership with Nathan Kay's independent business Origin Creations. They specialise in artwork, motion art, videos, animation & branding. Let's continue to support independent businesses. Origin Creations Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creations.origin/?hl=en Origin Creations Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Origin-Creationss-101719754891959 Council Work Record Label: https://www.discogs.com/label/1641292-Council-Work Council Work Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/councilwork/ Frankel & Harper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frankelandharper/

Tom Frankel is a DJ, producer, one half of the duo Frankel & Harper, and is also A&R for his respected and rapidly rising record label Council Work. Tom is someone who I've always bonded well with on a personal level due to his outlook on the music industry and the political landscape as well. As a born and bred West Londoner growing up in a culturally diverse environment - he's never pigeonholed himself musically or conformed to the belief of sub genres, supporting everyone from Robin Schulz to Skream over the years. Jungle/Drum & Bass, Dubstep, Garage, House, Techno - name the genre & there's a good chance he's turned his hand to it. We discuss networking, getting your foot in the door, playing the long game & doing it for the love of music and the art of DJing, 3 consecutive seasons as a worker in Ibiza in 2011, 2012 & 2013, his imprint Council Work and the feeling of landing the labels 'Instinct' remix on Rockstar's legendary Grand Theft Auto franchise, what he'd like to see change in the music industry, artists to watch out for & the importance of empowering women on the scene + much more. This episode is in partnership with Nathan Kay's independent business Origin Creations. They specialise in artwork, motion art, videos, animation & branding. Let's continue to support independent businesses. Origin Creations Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creations.origin/?hl=en Origin Creations Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Origin-Creationss-101719754891959 Council Work Record Label: https://www.discogs.com/label/1641292-Council-Work Council Work Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/councilwork/ Frankel & Harper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frankelandharper/

Sacha Lord is the co-founder and Managing Director of The Warehouse Project, Parklife, has held the position of Night Time Economy Adviser for Greater Manchester working alongside the Mayor Andy Burnham since 2018 & is a board member for the Night Time Industries Association. Apologies in advance, as there is feedback in parts throughout this episode due to us experiencing signal/connection interferences. This was recorded live on Instagram during the third lockdown following the Covid-19 pandemic. In part one of this episode, I sat down with Sacha to discuss the difficulties hospitality and nightlife have been faced with during 3 consecutive lockdowns, what he hopes to see in the Chancellor's budget, his early years and the decision to venture into the music industry by chance after deciding further education wasn't for him. We finish part one off by discussing his role in politics and business as Night Time Economy Adviser for Greater Manchester, his favourite performance he's seen at The Warehouse Project & who he'd choose to book if he could resurrect one legendary act and bring them back to life for one night on the main stage. This episode is in partnership with local independent business Fit N Fresh. They deliver freshly cooked, macro and calorie controlled meals in and around the Luton area, and their protein bars are shipped nationwide for you to reach your health goals. The protein bars are a firm favourite for many (including myself), so message them through Instagram or Facebook to order. We should be supporting independent businesses in normal times, but even more so now with how uncertain the economic climate is. Fit N Fresh website: https://www.fitnfresh.co.uk Fit N Fresh Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitnfreshuk/ Fit N Fresh Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fitnfreshfoodprep Sacha Lord LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sacha-lord/?originalSubdomain=uk

First of all, thank you for joining me on this journey podcast journey. The idea was brought to life at the start of lockdown in 2020 after the Covid-19 pandemic hit the UK, and I wanted to take this opportunity to interview everyone from artists in the music industry to promoters, venue owners, festival directors, singers, songwriters, record label owners, tour managers, visual artists & more. Away from the music industry I speak to interesting figures ranging from actors to scientists & psychologists. I'm a big advocate of using even the smallest platform and the relationships I've built over the last 5 years to help others and give back, and I appreciate you taking the time to listen.

Rue Jay is an entrepreneur, businessman, DJ & party starter - a guy who rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most respected, successful & well connected figures to come out of Birmingham. He has achieved success worldwide as his RockNRolla brand went on a maiden voyage to everywhere from Ibiza to even the more obscure countries including South Korea. This is a full life story so far podcast, as we detail Rue's journey from his humble beginnings growing up in a working class environment in Birmingham's Nechells area, to being taken under the wing of Eddie Boulton with brands including Steering Wheel & Spin, before he then went on his own path with legendary brands RockNRolla and OurHouse. The second half of the podcast moves on to his entrepreneurial ventures into hospitality, tattoos, property and interior design with The Funky Bear and The New Masons restaurants & bars, Vivid Ink shops in Sutton, Derby and Stafford, villas in Spain & the R&R projects that involve him working alongside the likes of England international and Premier League star Jack Grealish. There's an abundance of wise words and knowledge in here on the importance of manifestation, visualisation, overall mindset when operating at this level, work ethic, networking, remaining humble, taking calculated risks, the reality of occasionally being ruthless in competitive dog-eat-dog arenas, standing out from the crowd with branding and marketing, adapting and evolving since the Covid-19 pandemic hit the UK and the added determination to grow the empire since he has settled down with his lovely partner Lou and his daughter Romy. This episode is in partnership with local independent jewellers Goldtaste. The two brothers Lex & Lou are based in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter district, but they ship their products worldwide. Goldtaste is one of the most unique jewellery brands on the market as they take classic jewellery recipes, then they mash them up and remix them to the taste of the 21st century. Rings - Gold Chains - Sovereigns - Pendants - Grillz. Worn by Skepta, Kurupt FM & viral Instagram satirist Munya Chawawa. The brothers have built this business from scratch and are continuing to grow their empire - so make sure you show some love to independent businesses. Goldtaste website: https://goldtaste.co.uk Goldtaste Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldtasteuk/ Goldtaste Grillz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldtastegrillz/ Vivid Ink Sutton, Stafford & Derby: https://www.instagram.com/vividinksutton/ https://www.instagram.com/vividinkstaffs/ https://www.instagram.com/vividink.derby/ The Funky Bear: https://thefunkybear.co.uk R&R Interior Design: https://www.instagram.com/rr_interior_design/

Habs Akram is a pioneering visual artist, and was Carl Cox's personal visual artist at the world renowned Space Ibiza for 8 years. Habs also travelled around the world with Carl as he conjured up magic with his visuals at the likes of Ultra Miami, and before that he worked on other projects including Glastonbury's iconic Pyramid Stage. There's many things that we should be reflecting and re-evaluating on about the music industry since Covid-19 brought the industry to its knees last March - and one of them is giving credit to those behind the scenes who make the events what they are. Whilst the DJs are amazing at what they do, the focus and limelight is of course always on them in the centre of the booth, but the events at that scale even down to your more intimate affairs would not be the same spectacle without visual artists like Habs. Habs recalls his first initial encounter with Carl Cox, the inspiration and patience that went into his visual mixing app, reminisces on the amazing years at Space, meeting the likes of Uma Thurman to Lionel Messi & Kyle Minogue, refusing Paris Hilton entry into the booth, hilarious stories from when he did the visuals at a fetish party in London, the importance of remaining humble & never forgetting where you've come from, and the highs and lows that come with the demands of touring the world. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Habs2ci Website for App: https://djvj.app/habs-welcome/

Hannah Wants is an international artist who you may have seen at Creamfields, Parklife, We Are Fstvl, Reading & Leeds festival, Printworks, Hideout, Annie Mac presents Lost & Found, Pacha, Amnesia terrace, EDC in New York, Vegas, Mexico, during her tours of Australia, America, four consecutive years of sold out large scale U.K and Ireland tours for her PLAY and WHAT HANNAH WANTS concepts, then further sold out intimate tours across the UK & Ireland in more recent years. Some of her awards include being crowned as Mixmag's Best Breakthrough DJ in 2012, DJ Mag's Best Breakthrough DJ in 2012, Mixmag's Star of the Year in 2014 + so much more. Hannah's talent combined with a vision for success & an unwavering relentless work ethic has seen her become one of the true international superstar DJs, a position that she has rightly maintained as well. In this episode we discuss her musical influences growing up, her grandad being an original don of a DJ in the post WW2 era, the importance of starting from the bottom as a DJ, work ethic, lessons learnt about physical & mental well-being due to the demands of being a touring DJ, her stand out moments from over the years, maintaining success & longevity, and also her upcoming releases with vocalists Nathan Nicholson & Clementine Douglas. This episode of the Creative Minds podcast is in partnership with Birmingham based independent streetwear brand Dark Circle. Their pre SS21 drop is launching on 10th Feb. Show some love to the independent brands out there and #SupportLocal. Dark Circle: https://www.darkcircleclothing.com Hannah Wants Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hannahwantsdj Hannah Wants Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannah_wants/?hl=en

Jack Brabant is the founder of Digbeth Dining Club, a multi award-winning street food event that has transformed the city's food landscape by turning some of the Midlands most unique venues into vibrant, street food destinations. Even when abbreviated, when someone mentions “DDC” in Birmingham or further afield, it's become one of the main brands that people associate with Digbeth. DDC is a brand that has become synonymous with this cultural hotspot & it embodies everything the district is about. Digbeth Dining Club isn't your usual dining experience, they strip back the frills and fanciness of fine-dining and offer an authentic, unique experience where they let the food do the talking. In this episode, we discuss the pilot of the free school meals and the other amazing pieces of charity work they've been doing since last October to ensure all children are fed, Jack's upbringing & organic path into street food, the inspiration behind bringing the DDC vision to life, the realities of the struggles in the first few years when developing the business, the exponential growth in recent years, the ambitious calculated risks that paid off when they worked with the likes of Warwick Castle, and overall how DDC has stayed true to its roots by retaining the core family values that's in turn taken the brand to where it is today. Whilst there are no definitive ingredients to success in business, Jack shares inspiring wise words on the importance of giving it a go, taking risks, treating people right & knowing your worth. Website: https://www.digbethdiningclub.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DigbethDiningClub Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/digbethdiningclub/

Joe Hunt is a DJ, promoter, former radio host on Silk City's pirate radio, owner of NICE Underground, and a viral sensation who raised over £30,000 in 2020 for NHS charities through his live streams. In this next episode I was joined by a true 0121 legend and someone who is still very much a key player in the scene even now after 20+ years. We go right the way back to his musical influences passed down from his lovely mum, his first encounter with garage on West End Bar, becoming a DJ, his iconic pirate radio shows, being a pioneer of the “Phunky Basslines” sound, the inception and vision of NICE Underground, winning awards, raising over 30k for NHS charities through his live streams & there's some proper wise words about how you can authentically stay relevant and achieve longevity in such a competitive and cut throat industry. Joe opens up about the struggles and harsh realities he faced before his music career even started for the very first time in this exclusive interview. He also reflects on some of the other knock-backs he's experienced along the way, so I cannot thank Joe enough for his honesty as he provides the real lowdown. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/letmehearthedj Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joehuntdj/

Bradley Gunn is still championed as one of the most inspiring figures to enter the music industry. We could all do with some positivity at the moment, and the story of Bradley Gunn Raver is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Bradley unintentionally went viral through his sober raving antics, attracting everyone from all corners of the industry for all the right reasons by breaking down barriers worldwide with his message of positivity and advocacy of inclusion. In this very special episode and a personal one for me, Bradley reveals his first experience in a rave, the dancing videos from his early days unintentionally going viral, dancing everywhere from Vietnam to Italy and America, why he realised it was the right time to withdraw from the industry, his favourite memories and best events he went to around the world, and numerous spontaneous moments including staying at Joris Voorn's house, dancing on a beach with Seth Troxler & lunch with Kölsch. There's some great advice in this episode on authenticity, retaining integrity, doing what's right for your happiness & mental health, building your brand gradually, not forcing the message of sobriety on people, and there's some very inspiring words on how Brad overcame his barrier of nerves to do a keynote interview in Ibiza for International Music Summit. You can also find out if Bradley Gunn Raver will return to the dancefloor in a post-Covid world. Brad was one of the first people I met in the industry, and bringing his story to life when I was editing his monthly rave review through Ministry Of Sound is a memory I'll never forget. Keynote interview at IMS 2018: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jkalxb5HNRY BBC Three's Amazing Humans: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSx_v0klPUM Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bradleygunnsailor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bradleygunnsailor/

Jordyn Young is a Research Associate in the Psychology Department at the University of Pennsylvania, one of America's most prestigious Ivy League research universities (ranked #6 by Forbes in the list of America's top colleges in 2019). In my first Creative Minds podcast of 2021, we discuss the pros and cons of social media and general smartphone use to improve your mental well-being, and to help people try and use them in a productive & positive way. Likes, followers & feeling like you need to buy certain things or living beyond your means to keep up with the world of social media isn't necessarily the key to true or long term happiness, and this is something I can vouch for from my own personal experiences in the past. Never tell yourself you're not good enough based on how many likes you get, how many followers you have, what material possessions you own or how you look. You are good enough and remember that we're all on our own journeys. Most of what you see is “perfectionist presentation”, a highlight reel and not the reality for over 95% of people. Be grateful for what you do have instead of focusing too much on what you don't have. Watch: The Social Dilemma on Netflix - https://www.netflix.com/title/81254224 “The Pros and Cons of social media in our lives” w/ Dr Melissa Hunt on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qPTgPDu4rM Read: No More FOMO: Limiting Social Media Decreases Loneliness and Depression (PDF available for free on Guildford Journals) - https://guilfordjournals.com/doi/10.1521/jscp.2018.37.10.751 The Four Pillar Plan by Dr Rangan Chaterjee - https://drchatterjee.com/book/ How To Break Up With Your Phone by Catherine Price - https://phonebreakup.com

Kieren Lythgow is a Senior Bioinformatics Scientist specialising in virology, phylogenetics, genomics and outbreaks. Kieren's selfless hard work and dedication to this field over the years has earned him numerous accreditations, the likes of which include a degree in Biology, a Masters in Genetics and a PhD in Genetics. He has worked in disease research for 20 years, with the last 10 of those years in viral genomics and public health. With everything going on in the world at the moment with Covid-19, I felt it was absolutely necessary and important to bring on my friend Kieren for this next episode. As someone who I only knew on social media at first from working in the music industry, I noticed that after the pandemic broke out and with the constant ongoing developments - Kieren was and still is consistently putting his platform on social media to good use by educating others by breaking down the science as simply as he possibly can. To be clear, this instalment of the Creative Minds podcast is not about forcing anyone to do anything, or trying to push an agenda about mandatory vaccines or masks. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, to educate themselves, and if you wish to challenge the status quo then that is your choice and have the right to do so. I wanted to do this to try and reassure people and educate others about the importance of getting their information from reliable sources, because we live in an age now where social media is a breeding ground for misinformation and this can be dangerous at times, especially of course during a global pandemic. I'm sure most of us have questioned the shambolic way in which this government has dealt with the situation and the fact they haven't held themselves accountable when they've made mistakes. I am certainly not taking the moral high ground as I've had my own doubts at times, but this is about the science behind the virus. We discuss the origins of the virus, why we are still in the position we're in now in the UK, the governments handling of the pandemic, the dangers of social media & the wider media during a pandemic, pros and cons of vaccines, progressive medicine, when we're likely to return to normal & we round things off on a lighter note by sharing our passion & love for house music. Reliable media sources recommended by Kieren: https://www.theatlantic.com/world/ & https://www.ft.com Facebook (regular updates from Kieren as ongoing developments relating to Covid-19) unfold: https://www.facebook.com/kieren.lythgow

Liz Cass is a singer ~ songwriter, DJ & Producer based in London. Liz has over 18 years experience as a singer ~ songwriter and has collaborated with everyone from Hot Since 82 to Leftwing & Kody, and Jansons to Hot Natured's Ali Love. She is known for her melancholic sultry tones and highly emotive style of writing. She has previously leant her iconic vocals to globally recognised imprints including Defected, Anjunadeep, Knee Deep In Sound & Classic. This is the longest podcast I have done so far, but the conversation flowed so naturally and there was so much to take away from speaking to the lovely Liz. We discuss everything from moving away from dance music as she has found her voice with her solo career, cutting her teeth in jazz & blues growing up, the importance of being open minded & listening to different genres when you're seeking inspiration, being strategic when getting noticed by high caliber artists, not comparing yourself with others, building confidence, networking, executing a solid promo strategy for your releases, protecting yourself as an up and coming artist & what she has in the pipeline in a post-Covid world. There's never been a better time to educate yourself, and Liz is another special guest of mine that has been there & done it. There is plenty of solid tips & wise words in this episode. New singles - Chaos & Bad Love: https://open.spotify.com/track/1CnoVYjGLtRwFK8ZFtShgO?si=lpkBQODEQXC6qiymX3G8Hg // https://open.spotify.com/track/10TiqosXjC00zZziJjM1uL?si=SYehXqoZTgmx5bvcNjHMfQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liz__cass/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lizcasslive

Lee Harrison is one of Birmingham's most respected and consistent promoters in the nightlife industry. Lee is now General Manager at Henman & Cooper, a venue situated in Colmore Row that has become one of the most talked about in the city for all the right reasons. For the first time in his career he has agreed to sit down to discuss his journey so far. Over the years he's experienced great success at the likes of Levana, Bambu, and has worked alongside the likes of fellow city legend Rue Jay on iconic brands such as Spin. Lee details his journey from turning his passion for partying into a career, Levana becoming one of the main hotspots in the highly competitive Arcadian, and also his plans for Henman & Cooper in a post Covid-19 world too. There's also some blinding stories in here from Lee's antics over the years to keep you smiling & laughing during these tough times (thanks to his partner Rachel for dishing the dirt to me). Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/henmanandcooper/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/henmanandcooper/?hl=en

Steven Braines is a successful and well respected artist manager in electronic music. He is the co-founder of He.She.They. - an open minded house & techno rave for everyone which places an emphasis on the importance of inclusivity over exclusivity. He is also co-founder of The Weird & The Wonderful - an international, multi-faceted talent consultancy, record label, events curation and management collective alongside Sophia Kearney. Steven has been a manager for the pioneer Maya Jane Coles for the last 12 years, and has also managed other iconic artists such as Tale Of Us, Magda, Tricky and has been an instrumental player in projects that include KDA beating One Direction to number 1 in the charts. In this episode, Steven tells his journey from humble beginnings in Sunderland to London and touring around the world, and the struggles he's been through on the way on a mental and financial level to get to where he is today. We also discuss what he looks for as an artist manager, when management might be necessary for an artist, what's required to breakthrough and make it in such such a competitive and saturated industry, and also the importance of inclusivity for the LGBTQIA community through his and Sophia's He.She.They. brand. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/he.she.they/ & https://www.instagram.com/andthewonderful/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HE.SHE.THEY.OFFICIAL & https://www.facebook.com/theweirdandthewonderfulofficial/ Website: https://www.heshethey.me

Josh Wilson was, and will forever be remembered as a Birmingham legend. As a respected promoter, most notably as founder and owner of Foliée, he orchestrated countless undeniable strokes of genius by mobilising the ravers within Birmingham's underground scene to get behind him and push the brand since its inception in 2016. Josh gave so many opportunities to up and coming DJs, members of the wider music community, took his residents to new heights & touched the lives of everyone that he came into contact with over the years. I am humbled and privileged to have been approached by Andy Bell for a very special episode of Creative Minds, as we reflect on the positive impact Josh made, and the legacy that will continue even though he has now sadly left us. Andy was Josh's main right hand man at Foliée and worked tirelessly behind the scenes on the brand alongside Josh, and will be carrying on Josh's legacy alongside the other crew members. Andy has an abundance of knowledge and experience in the music industry, achieving great success over the years as a key player at the iconic Rainbow Venues, he previously co-owned Portal, has DJ'd alongside some of the most respected artists in the game, and is also an integral member of Steve Lawler's Viva Warriors team. We paid tribute to everything Josh accomplished, touched upon the importance of removing the stigma from men's mental health, what plans are in the pipeline to ensure the legacy continues, and at the end I was joined by Foliée residents Shakti, Juran Jones & Josh Gregg. If you are suffering with anxiety, depression, or any kind of mental health problems - then please know that you are not alone. Mind: 0208 215 2243 / https://www.mind.org.uk Samaritans: 116 123 / https://www.samaritans.org Get Well Together: https://www.facebook.com/BrandonBlockGetWellTogether/ GoFundMe link to continue donations to secure a positive future for Josh's son Jaiden: https://uk.gofundme.com/f/im-loving-memory-of-josh-wilson

Will Power is one of the founders and co-owners behind Lab11, a club that was voted as Skiddle's best UK club venue in 2019. He is also owner and partner of legendary Birmingham brands such as TRMNL, AFTA DARK & GLAS. Have you ever wondered how the Lab11 movement started? What risks were taken to develop the venue into what it is today? What was the partying culture like before social media and smartphones changed the culture? The realities of being a venue owner? How relationships were built with the likes of East End Dubs and Sonny Fodera? What Lab11 means to the owner, team and clubbing community as we find ourselves fighting to #SAVELAB11? Well look no further, as Will Power provides the real low-down here with a straight up open and honest conversation about the journey so far. This podcast is part of the #SAVELAB11 campaign, so please follow the link below to read the story and find out what your donation will go towards. Crowdfunder link: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/save-lab11

Dan Edwards is founder and co-owner of Me Myself And Mind, a wellbeing and mindfulness organisation that focuses on both corporate and community wellbeing. Dan is a respected Personal Trainer with a degree in Strength & Conditioning, a diploma in Neuro-linguistic programming as well as being trained in mental health first aid. Dan is also currently working towards becoming an Instructor in mental health first aid as well. With the way Covid-19 has impacted all of us in one way or another, whether that be with loss of employment, businesses, loved ones, lockdowns and restrictions - the conversation around mental health has never been more important. I wanted to have an open and honest discussion with Dan man to man, mainly due to the historic stigma attached to mens mental health. We discuss our past experiences with battling mental health, how the lockdowns have impacted us, our flaws, British culture, the rise of social media & Dan provides some great advice on ways you can improve your mental health. Never feel like you're a burden by reaching out for help, but we also need to make sure we're checking in on those around us too. Website: https://memyselfmind.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/memyselfmind/ & https://www.instagram.com/danedwards_fitness/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/memyselfandmind

Graham Sahara is an award-winning DJ, producer, label owner, label manager & Ibiza veteran who has lived on the island since 1998 and has been a long-standing resident DJ at the globally recognized superclub Pacha since 2001. In this episode, Graham reveals what it's been like adapting and evolving during the pandemic as a resident DJ who graces the decks of most respected venues during the season, amusing tales from over the years on the island, playing for award-winning Jazz musician Jamie Cullum's after-party in Paris, new years at the Cavalli Club in Florence, common mistakes he sees as a label manager and advice for up and coming artists who produce music that are looking to devise a solid strategy for releasing their music. Graham is undoubtedly one of the most respected figures in electronic music, and his role as a label manager sees him look after the likes of Do Not Sleep, Sidney Charles's Heavy House Society, Mele's Club Bad, Seb Zito's Seven Dials, his own imprint Seamless Recordings & more. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grahamsahara/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grahamsaharaofficial

Leo Gregory is a respected British actor who has starred in BAFTA-winning films such as The Mark of Cain, Out Of Control and has appeared in Hollywood movies including Green Street alongside The Lord of the Rings star Elijah Wood and Sons of Anarchy's Charlie Hunnam. Leo joined me live & direct from his gaff in Ibiza as he reveals what it's been like living on the island during the strangest year to date, missing DC10, being expelled from school and his drama class to becoming an established actor, how he gets into character for his roles, his forthcoming signature collection with Weekend Offender that drops on October 29th and any words of advice he has for up and coming actors and actresses who are honing their craft. Weekend Offender x Leo Gregory Signature Collection: https://weekendoffender.com/pages/the-leo-gregory-collection Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leogregs/?hl=en

Olli Ryder is the one of the co-creators behind the Animal Crossing movement, a brand being championed by some of the industries finest as "one of the most exciting brands to come out of Manchester and the scene as a whole in recent years." He also heads up the promotions and marketing for The Warehouse Project and Parklife group, and has previously DJ'd at both too. Here we discuss what it's like to grow up in the heart of Manchester's vibrant musical culture, his musical influences, what inspired him to take a career in music, working his way up in The Warehouse Project team, the success already experienced with Animal Crossing, how him and the team have adapted and evolved to put on socially distanced events throughout the ongoing pandemic and his long term plans in a post Covid-19 world. There's some really wise words here from a really positive individual who has achieved a significant amount already by the age of 26. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/animalcrossing_music/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnimalCrossing-383694672102848

Alex Mills is one of the most prolific, successful, and talented singers and songwriters to grace the electronic music scene. Alex has worked with everyone across the spectrum from Andy C to Wiley's & Target's Roll Deep Crew, and Sonny Fodera to Hot Since 82. Her music has been championed worldwide with releases on the biggest imprints in the game, with the likes of Defected, Ultra Music & Knee Deep In Sound being just a few of the labels to sign her. In this episode, we talk about learning curves, how to protect yourself as an artist, and there's some really inspiring life advice too from an artist who has been there, done it, and smashed it. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blamealexmills/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blamealexmills Beatport: https://www.beatport.com/artist/alex-mills/70217

Brandon Block is the original Ibiza superstar DJ. A resident on the legendary Space terrace in the early 1990's, and a man who by all accounts brought an energy like no other. Brandon gives an insight into his journey that has all the highs and lows you can think of: DJing at one of the best clubs in the world, his miraculous recovery from a heavy cocaine habit in the mid-late '90s, and the amazing work he has been doing to help others that have been through similar experiences since. With everything going on and the strain it has put on people both physically, and even more so mentally - I wanted to highlight the work Brandon and his colleagues are orchestrating with their organisation “Get Well Together”. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrandonBlockGetWellTogether Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandonblock/?hl=en Website: https://www.happydaysforeveryone.com/brandon-block/

Sorley is a DJ, producer, and promoter from Sunderland and another shining star who has joined the next wave of talent to break out of the North-East of England, a breeding ground for talent that has produced the likes of Patrick Topping, Richy Ahmed & many more over the years. We discussed everything from playing it tactically as a promoter when booking headline artists for his brand Haze, clever ways of getting signed to your target record labels, taking the leap to quit his full-time job to focus solely on developing as an artist & building a relationship with Danny Howard that has resulted in numerous BBC Radio 1 peak-time plays. Sorley is without a doubt one of the hardest working and most humble young artists on the scene, and he is definitely a name to keep a close eye on with the bright future that lays ahead of him. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sorleymusic/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Sorleymusic/ Beatport: https://www.beatport.com/artist/sorley/746236

Jansons is undoubtedly one of the most talented producers in underground electronic music. He joined me live & direct from his London studio as the Knee Deep In Sound, Circus and Hot Creations signee tells us about his journey from going to old school raves such as Helter Skelter, breaking through as an artist, how to go about getting signed to some of the most reputable labels in the underground scene & working with unbelievably talented vocalists too. This is one for the producers out there that are looking for inspiration during Covid-19 and beyond! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jansonsmusic/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jansonsmusic Beatport: https://www.beatport.com/artist/jansons/530307

Morgan Bennett is Patrick Topping's Tour Manager and has undertaken the role of A&R for his record label Trick, as well working on the branding and events aspect of one of the most exciting brands in recent years. We discussed his journey so far as he worked from the very bottom in Newcastle's underground music scene. After years of persistence and hard graft he became event manager and artist liaison for Shindig, before eventually securing his dream job as an integral member of Patrick's team. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tricklabel/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tricklabeluk/ Bandcamp: https://tricklabel.bandcamp.com/ Beatport: https://www.beatport.com/label/trick/75364

Ash-R (Asher Robinson) is a DJ and producer hailing out of East London. Before embarking on production he has played at numerous hotspots in the capital, and has also played in prestigious venues in Sydney during a brief stint down under. In this episode we discuss the importance of long overdue problems such as racial discrimination in the music industry and wider society, as well as important advice to up and comers from an artist who has been grafting in the studio developing his sound for a number of years. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashrdj/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MusicAshr/ Black Lives Matter Website: https://bit.ly/3eboF09

Howard Boyle is a long-standing Ibiza resident who owns a successful 5* concierge service on the island called Ibiza Unlocked. We discuss his antics from when he first landed on the island in the late '90s with his "Helvis" tribute act that saw him go on tour with Jamiroquai & Fatboy Slim, being part of the infamous & legendary brand Manumission then up to the present day with his business Ibiza Unlocked. Over the years Howard has looked after the likes of under the radar billionaires, Queen drummer Roger Taylor and David Holmes - the man who created the film scores for Ocean's 11, 12 & 13. Howard's wild tales during the height of hedonism on the white isle bring some real humour during these uncertain times, and he also provides invaluable advice to those who are considering venturing to Ibiza for work. There are also some wise words in here for anyone running a business as we talk about networking, building contacts, maintaining relationships with longevity, and what makes him stand out in such a competitive market. Website: https://www.ibizaunlocked.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ibizaunlockedofficial/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ibizaunlocked

Wilf Gregory is one of the music industries most respected and recognised promoters. Wilf started out as a DJ from the age of 16, and his work ethic and relentless calculated risk taking alongside his business partners has seen him on an upward trajectory ever since. From legendary D&B brand Metropolis to being part of the duo North Base, founding and directing Annie Mac's Lost & Found Festival, Hideout, Worried About Henry and conquering other continents with Rolling Loud & Afro Nation. The list of brands is almost endless. We discuss everything from building these events brands, the dangers of the party lifestyle, sobriety, the inspiration behind establishing drugs charity The Loop and what the landscape of the music industry may look like in a post Covid-19 world. North Base Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northbaseuk/?hl=en The Loop (Drugs Charity) Website: https://wearetheloop.org/ The Loop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theloop_uk/?hl=en

Mikey Brain is one of the most recognised artists and illustrators in the world of underground music. Mikey has been an integral part of the Hot Creations & Paradise family for several years now, with his abstract work capturing the imagination of those who purchase the records and the ravers who flock to DC10 Ibiza and the brands other events around the globe year after year. We discuss his role at Hot Creations & Paradise, his freelance work, stand out tracks on the label, and special moments from DC10 over the years. He also gave some great advice to anyone up & coming in the industry too. Website: http://www.mikeybrain.com/about/?LMCL=vulRQa&LMCL=kkh8xP&LMCL=vulRQa Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeybrain/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeybrains/