Nice Minds

Surprise! It's been many months but I'm back with another episode of Nice Minds! My friend Kev (who I've had on "Nice Minds" a couple times previously) requested I come out of hiatus and do an episode with him so I had to do it for my guy. We sat down last month and had a great conversation! Forgive me for my extended absence but I've been taking care of a lot of necessities and haven't had a ton of time for my passions such as this podcast but I hope to bring it back fully in the new year. In this episode I'm joined once again by my friend Kevin Loesch AKA KevLoe. Kev is an artist manager, tour manager, podcaster, musician, and music biz wiz. He's been killing the game tour managing extensively for artists like Dizzy Wright and other heavy hitters in the music industry! In this episode we talk extensively about his life as a tour manager as well as all of the anxieties and mental hurdles that come along with fully diving into a demanding career in the music business. NOTE: The video cuts out for the last few minutes around 33:33 but the audio continues for the duration of the episode. Check out "Kev's Perspective" on YouTube and all major podcast streaming services.... https://anchor.fm/CLMKev https://www.youtube.com/c/kevsperspectiveclm Follow @KevsPerspectivePodcast, @TourManagerKev, & his photography page @KevLography Peep his LinkTree for all other links: https://linktr.ee/Kevloe Be sure to follow my new "Nice Guy Creative Services" Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/NiceGuyCreativeServices

NOTE: After this episode I will be taking a brief hiatus from this podcast to focus on other areas of my life. I plan on being back in late spring or early summer though! This episode is with my friend Nate Anderson. I've known Nate for about a decade. As a huge supporter of the local twin cities music scene and a musician/creative himself, Nate has always been someone who's been really supportive over the years and incredibly smart dude who I wanted to talk to and get to know a little more on this podcast. In this episode we discuss a wide array of topics. We discuss how we know each other, the local twin cities hip-hop scene, his experience in a punk band, his experience as a therapist, his experience with doing podcasts, our own struggles with mental health, pandemic setbacks, struggling with work/life/creativity balance, his love for vinyl, and his ideas for a future podcast.

This episode is with Tearra Oso. Tearra is a musician, model, actress and multi-talented person from St. Paul, MN. Tearra is an extremely passionate, intelligent, driven, and amazingly talented individual. I met Tearra years ago through the local twin cities music scene and I've been a fan of hers for years. In this episode we discuss her background in her music/culture, blending her culture into her music, her passion in helping people, overcoming generational trauma, mental health, stuff she's been working on, and get a surprise visit from her son!

This episode is with Kyle Coghlan. Kyle is a talented musician originally from Minnesota who is currently based out in the Los Angeles area. I met Kyle through a mutual friend and he is someone who's talent, consistency, and determination I really admire. In this episode we talk about Kyle's background in music, his move to LA, how he stays consistent/motivated, views on collaboration, in depth conversation about NFT's and how they will change the music industry, and much more.

This episode is with my friend Kid Clever. I know Kid Clever from our time as students at Institute of Production & Recording. I booked him on many shows and collaborated with him on music when NGE operated as a record label. Kid Clever is an extremely talented emcee, live streamer, and creative. Originally from Kansas City, MO and now based in Los Angeles, CA. His versatility, energy, and determination is inspirational to say the least. In this episode we talk about our history with knowing each other, his history with music, the greatness of our time at the school we both attended, living in Los Angeles, his next project, live streaming, and more.

This episode is with my good friend Colin The Troubadour formerly known as Analyrical. Colin is an incredibly talented hip-hop artist from the twin cities who I've known for about 15 years. In this episode we talk about how we know each other, his origins with hip-hop in St. Paul, freestyle rapping, our love for Eyedea, his new project he's coming out with, advice for younger artists, and much more. To pre-order Colin's latest project "all'italia, con amore" for only $3 you can do so here: https://colinthetroubadour.bandcamp.com/releases Check out the other stuff I have going on including beats for artists, sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​ Follow me @NiceGuyEnt on IG!

This episode is with Reed Benjamin. Reed is a staple in the twin cities hip-hop scene and a vet who's been in the game for quite a while. A super talented emcee/vocalist with an impressive catalog and deep knowledge about the twin cities hip hop scene. In this episode we talk about his origins with music, starting Mill City Collective, consistency with creating/releasing music, the twin cities hip hop scene, and past/future projects of his. Check out his music videos on his official YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/c/ReedBenjaminn Follow him on all of his socials: @reedbenjaminn Check out the other stuff I have going on including beats for artists, sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​ Follow me @NiceGuyEnt on IG!

In the music industry and entertainment world, the artists and ones in the spotlight always get the shine while the managers, producers, and people helping the artists generally play the back. The industry is built like this for obvious reasons but I want to make it a point to give the people behind the scenes a little love on this podcast. Darrian Kaye is someone who I've been familiar with since summer of 2021. We connected on Facebook, both having been students at IPR, and Darrian hired me to record an artist on their label Inner City Sound or ICS for short. Darrian has been a musician since a young age and through their work with ICS now represents artists as a manager. ICS also launched their merchandise line as well and there are plans to expand into a full fledged clothing brand over the coming years. Darrian is an extremely determined person who I really relate to in many ways. In this episode we discuss Darrian's background with music, our similarities with our companies, shared passions for helping artists, hopes for the future, and much more. To check out the song that I recorded/mixed for an ICS artist that we refer to in the episode, check that out here: https://www.facebook.com/InnerCitySound/videos/5410501665642842 Check out all things Inner City Sound and order merch on the official website: http://www.innercitysound.org Be sure to like/follow the ICS Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/InnerCitySound Check out the other stuff I have going on including beats for artists, sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​ Follow me @NiceGuyEnt on IG!

Prerequisites to getting on Nice Minds isn't how many followers someone has, it isn't how many records they've sold, it isn't about how successful someone is with their art…it's generally based on my opinion on the person and how they interact. Mark Schirmacher is not only a talented and seasoned musician but he's also a great person who I've had the pleasure of getting to know a bit over Instagram over the last 6 months. I had to invite him on and get to know him a little more. Mark is a multi-instrumentalist who puts singer/songwriter music out under his real name but also puts out instrumentals (generally in the lo-fi genre) under the name Low Key Trampoline. In this episode we talk about Mark's background with music, starting in the Lo-fi space as Low Key trampoline, open/vulnerable conversation about cancer, how cancer has affected both of our lives in different ways, music/life balance, and much more. To learn more about Mark and what he does as well as hear his music, visit his personal website: http://www.markschirmacher.com/ Follow Low Key Trampoline on IG: @LowKeyTrampoline Check out the other stuff I have going on including beats for artists, sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​ Follow me @NiceGuyEnt on IG!

Even though this is my shortest interview with a guest on Nice Minds thus far, it is packed with value. Especially for artists who are part of the twin cities hip hop scene. My guest for this episode is Katie McDonough who is an A&R, manager, and owner of Real Deal Entertainment. Katie manages 7 artists within the label and is a force to be reckoned with in the twin cities hip hop scene. Katie is one of the most knowledgable people I've met when it comes to the local scene in Minnesota. In this short episode we talk about Katie's background with starting Real Deal Entertainment, what keeps Katie motivated/consistent over the years, the twin cities hip hop scene as a whole, advice for artists' careers, and more. Follow Real Deal Entertainment on Facebook to find out what they have going on: https://www.facebook.com/realdealmusicpage Check out the Real Deal artist roster's music and videos: https://linktr.ee/RealDealEntertainment Be sure to follow Real Deal Entertainment on IG: @realdealentmn Check out the other stuff I have going on including beats for artists, free sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​ Follow me @NiceGuyEnt on IG!

If there's anything I enjoy the most in doing Nice Minds, it's not only talking to creatives that I'm good friends with and have known for a while, it's also getting to connect with new people that I've never had a previous conversation with. Especially younger up and coming artists. Cortez Williams AKA G0ldilock (formerly PrettyBoyTez or Tezzy) is a rap artist from the twin cities with a current yet unique style that is sure to take him places. I was very impressed by his style, brand, and flow so I had to invite him on the podcast to see what he's about and get familiar with each other. In this episode we talk about each other's background with music, how important branding is for an artist, what he's been doing to stay consistent during the pandemic, what his future plans are, advice for up and coming artists, and more. If you'd like to check out G0ldilock's music videos you can do so here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBL7NGJw4AZQTmc6wcchvjQ/videos Check out G0ldilock's music on SoundCloud: http://www.soundcloud.com/G0ldilock Follow @G0ldilock on IG! Check out the other stuff I have going on including beats for artists, sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​ Follow me @NiceGuyEnt on IG!

This episode is with Stephanie Lombardo. Stephanie is a multi-talented singer/songwriter, radio DJ, and comedian based out of New York. I enjoyed doing this episode with Stephanie for quite a few reasons. We both quickly found out in our conversation that we have a lot in common with our creativity and the way we view creativity. We're both people who make music and share an interest in comedy and broadcasting as well. In this episode we talk about how she got her start with music, origins in comedy, how the pandemic has affected what we do, the creative/songwriting process, and more. To keep up with everything Stephanie is up to, check out her official website: http://www.StephanieLombardo.com Check out Stephanie's YouTube page here with music and content: https://www.youtube.com/user/nte1288 Follow Stephanie on IG: @stephanie_lombardo_music Check out the other stuff I have going on including beats for artists, sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​ Follow me @NiceGuyEnt on IG!

This is a special episode of Nice Minds. I decided to do a reaction video to the first time I hear the final mix for my song “Melancholy Sunshine” which is a song I wrote dedicated to my mom.

 My wonderful mother passed away on June 2nd, 2021. A little less than 2 months shy of her 60th birthday. I created this song to honor her memory. I thought it would only be fitting to release it on the very last day of 2021. The summer following her death, it was sunny and extremely hot. There was little to no rain. I usually enjoy the summertime but grieving with intense sadness at the same time inspired the "Melancholy Sunshine" vibe and song title. This song came together over the course of six months. The beat was started in June, the lyrics came weeks later, and the song was recorded/arranged/edited/mixed across the months that followed. The song was incredibly intense and difficult to create. A whole lot of tears shed during the various stages during the creation of it. My mom was my biggest fan when it came to my music. She was always in the front row at every show dancing and shouting every lyric. My mom would always say "you're going to buy me a Versace dress and bring me to the Grammys" and I made her a promise that I would do so. Although she can't be at the Grammys with me physically, I want to honor that promise and do whatever I can to get us there. This song is the start of me creating and releasing the best music I possibly can to get to the Grammys. If you liked this song please purchase it for whatever price you'd like and share it to your social media. I know it would have meant the world to my mom and I appreciate it so much. Thank you all so much for the love and support. Stream or purchase the song at my BandCamp page:
 https://bmc-c.bandcamp.com/track/melancholy-sunshine

 Check out the other stuff I have going on. Including my own music, beats for artists, sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com Follow me @NiceGuyEnt on IG!

This episode is with my friend Josh Hedquist. I know Josh because his mom is friends with my aunt and he grew up with my cousin. I've pretty much known of Josh my whole life. Josh is an extremely talented chef from Minneapolis, MN. Josh has traveled the U.S. as a chef, been on numerous Food Network shows, opened countless restaurants, and is currently owner of the restaurant chain Joey Meatballs. He's opened 3 Joey Meatballs locations with more opening in the near future. In this episode we talk about his start as a chef, his experience on Food Network shows, systemic racism and ways he wants to contribute to ending it, our ultimate goals in career/life, the music industry, and a whole lot of positive and motivating words. If you're in the twin cities area, be sure to check out his restaurant Joey Meatballs at the Mineapolis, St. Paul, or Roseville locations: https://www.joeymeatballs.org/ (be on the lookout for more opening soon!) Check out the other stuff I have going on. Including beats for artists, sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​ Follow me @NiceGuyEnt on IG!

This episode is with my friend LVNDSCVPES. LVNDSCVPES is an extremely talented hip-hop artist originally from Akron, Ohio who has been based in Minneapolis, MN for the last 5+ years. I met LVNDSCVPES while we were both students at IPR (Institute of Production & Recording) and they were involved with NGE when it operated as a record label for a short period of time. I have always extremely admired LVNDSCVPES and think they have an extremely bright future ahead of them! In this episode we discuss LVNDSCVPES history with music, moving to Minneapolis, the live show world, future goals/plans, advice for younger artists, and more. Be sure to follow @lvndscvpesmusic on social media! Check out LVNDSCVPES website where you can find music and everything they are involved in: http://www.LVNDSCVPES.com (be sure to check out the new album "New Foundations" when it drops!) Check out the video for the track "Gryffindor Yellow" which is a Harry Potter themed spoof of Cardi B's "Bodak Yellow" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejjAdTdmPoY (see if you can spot me in the video!) Check out the other stuff I have going on. Including beats for artists, sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​ Follow me @NiceGuyEnt on IG!

This episode is with Eline Van Audenaerde. Eline is a holistic nightlife coach from Belgium helping producers & DJs move the needle in dance music through wellness. Eline runs a company called The Unicorn Mothership (also a podcast called The Unicorn MotherSHIT which is an amazing play off her company name) and she is very passionate about helping producers & DJ's overcome things such as procrastination and things related to mental health to find success not only in their careers but also their lives. In this episode we talk about her passions for helping DJ's and producers, past struggles with mental health, how the pandemic has affected things, I share with her some of my hardships, and she talks about how she would help someone like me through coaching. Check out Eline's website and hire her for a coaching session: https://www.theunicornmothership.com/ Check out Eline's podcast "The Unicorn Mothershit" on your favorite podcast streaming platform: https://pod.link/1581318614 Follow Eline's social media: @theunicornmothership @unicorneline Check out the other stuff I have going on. Including beats for artists, sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​ Follow @NiceGuyEnt on IG!

This episode is with my friend Micah Johnson. Micah was one of my instructors at IPR (Institute of Production & Recording) and someone who I have a lot of respect for. Not only has he taught me a lot by being one of my teachers but he is also a huge inspiration. Micah has worked for many heavy hitters in the music and entertainment industry. He has worked for big companies/brands such as the Hit Factory in Miami as well as Capitol Records in Los Angeles. Micah currently works in MN and lives in WI with his family. He releases synthwave/chillwave style music under the alias Galaxy 80. Not only is he very accomplished but he is also a fantastic dude and someone who I am proud to have learned from and call a friend. In this episode we talk about his history in the industry, the changes Covid has had on the industry and will continue to have, how maintaining a good attitude has helped his career, and more!

This episode is with my friend Brett Bailey. Brett is from Canada and currently based in Bali, Indonesia. I met Brett through a mutual friend and he invited me to be a guest on his podcast "Life Like A Movie" in February of 2020. He's someone who's been nothing but pleasant, supportive, and someone who actually inspired me to take the leap and start this podcast so I just had to return the favor and invite him to be a guest on my podcast! Brett is a life coach who is extremely passionate about helping people live/find their true purpose. He is all about being yourself no matter what and fully embracing the person that you are which I think is amazing! In this episode we talk about his passion for helping people, how the pandemic has changed things, I share with him my recent hardships, and he talks about how he would help someone like me through coaching and breathwork. If you'd like to check out the unedited/unfiltered episode of his podcast "Life Like A Movie" that we mention in this episode you can do so on my YouTube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFsuSgm2WBM&t If you'd like to check out other episodes of his "Life Like A Movie" podcast you can do so here: https://pod.link/1453550938 Check out everything Brett has going on and book a coaching call with him: https://linktr.ee/Brettbaailey Be sure to follow Brett on IG and other social media platforms: @Brettbaailey Check out the other stuff I have going on. Including beats for artists, sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​ Follow me @NiceGuyEnt on IG!

This episode is with my good friend Sassan Scott Zaker AKA FADEDAEON. Known to me and many of his friends as Scotty. I've known Scotty since the early 2000's. I met him through my younger brother and we've ended up having a lot of mutual friends over the years. Scotty is an extremely talented drummer and musician. He puts out music under the name FADEDAEON. In this episode we have a very in depth conversation about coming from CA and growing up in MN, his start with music, the loss with both of our mothers, the power of music, music production, what he is doing with music currently, mental health, the pandemic, and a lot of stuff related to the craziness of 2020/2021. If you'd like to check out his music you can do so by streaming the 3 albums he has available on your favorite streaming platform.... "These Fleeting Moments" album: https://album.link/us/i/1457526771 "Aqueous Anemoia" album: https://album.link/us/i/1530513444 "Sleepy Head" album: https://album.link/us/i/1580059086 If you'd like to keep up with what Scotty is up to, follow him on IG: @fadedaeon If you'd like to check out the documentary "Alive Inside" that he mentions in the episode, you can do so here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aN_Cpd_NpMY Check out the other stuff I have going on. Including beats for artists, sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​ Follow me @NiceGuyEnt on IG!

This episode is with my friend Ap the Rockzstar. Ap is an extremely talented artist/producer from St. Paul, MN who is now based in Portland, OR. I met him around 4 or 5 years ago through a mutual friend and we've been fans of each other's work over the years. In this episode we talk about Ap's history, his travels, our musical influences, continuing to make music regardless of setbacks, confidence, 2020/2021 bull shit, and much more. If you'd like to check out Ap's latest album "Gnarkill" you can do so on any of your favorite streaming services: https://album.link/i/1518005097(also be sure to check out the other music he has on streaming music as well including his "Suddenly" album and "XXX" EP and stay turned for his next album coming in late November) Follow him on IG at @AptheRockzstar Check out the other stuff I have going on. Including beats for artists, sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​

This episode is with my good friend Ben "Jammin" Kath. Ben is a super talented producer and sometimes rapper. A master of the keys. He's an old friend that was a part of Nice Guy Entertainment when it ran as a record label and someone who I have partnered with on numerous occasions including the Yeah Dude Samples sample pack brand. In this episode we talk about how we met, how Ben started his musical journey, music production, mental health, and more. Check out Ben's LinkTree for everything he's involved in, including his latest new singles and other music... https://linktr.ee/benjamminbeats If you're a fellow producer, check out the "Global Lofi" sample pack we released for free earlier in 2021: https://www.mediafire.com/file/b4ctisb4bdozfcy/Global_Lofi_Vol._1.zip/file Check out other sample packs we created together with friends: http://www.YeahDudeSamples.com Be sure to follow Ben on IG and other socials: @ben.jammin.beats Check out the other stuff I have going on. Including beats for artists, my music, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​ Follow me @NiceGuyEnt on IG!

This episode is with my very good friend Claude Culotta. We shot this episode in Cluade's back yard in early October. I met Claude in April of 2001 while we were in 10th grade at Maple Grove Senior High. We became close friends instantly and really started our paths in music together. Claude is one of the most fundamental people in my journey as an artist as well as a human being. In this episode we talk about our history together, Claude's creative journey, LGBTQIA+ issues, human rights, spirituality, the craziness of 2020/2021, and the projects Claude is currently involved in. Check out Claude's new band "Twin Cities Bridge Club" and their new project "Cost of Fruit" on Bandcamp: https://twincitiesbridgeclub.bandcamp.com/ Follow Twin Cities Bridge Club on IG: @tc_bridgeclub If you want to check out the other stuff I have going on, check it out here: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com Be sure to follow me on IG: @NiceGuyEnt

Just as the description says. Haha. I didn't have a full episode ready to go this week so I thought I'd give you a short and sweet episode to hold you over until I finish next Friday's episode! Check out the other stuff I have going on. Including beats for artists, sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​ If you'd like to contact me please e-mail B@NiceGuyEnt.com

This episode is with my good friend Doug "Layte" Linburg. It was recorded over Zoom in late September right before Doug moved to Hawaii. Doug is someone I met when we were both students at IPR (Institute of Production & Recording) and we clicked because we were similar in a lot of ways. We both started as rappers who started our label/production companies while we were students. Together put together many shows with our artists and even shared an artist that was part of both of our companies. Doug currently does photography with his company Initiative Media Group and also started "Wingsburg Station" on YouTube where he posts chicken wing related content. In this episode we talk our history, his origins as a rapper, Doug's time in the Navy, and what he's doing currently. If you would like to check out his YouTube channel filled with tons of amazing chicken wing content you can do so here: https://www.youtube.com/c/WingsburgStation/videos Check out his first episode of his "Birds & Bars" show with The Rift: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvkmWz_QpDw Be sure to follow @initiativemg, wingsburgstation, & @thelayteshow on Instagram and other social media as well. If you want to check out the other stuff I have going on, check it out here: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com Be sure to follow me on IG: @NiceGuyEnt

I'm joined once again by my friend Kevin Loesch AKA Kev Loe. Kevin is a podcaster, musician, music biz wiz, and operations manager for CLM (Cato Live Music) Presents. In this episode we talk about Donda VS CLB, re-entering the live show world in 2021, his move to KY, opinions on MN music scene, how artists should/shouldn't carry themselves, and the music industry as a whole. Check out "Kev's Perspective" on YouTube and all major podcast streaming services.... https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9f4... https://anchor.fm/CLMKev Follow @KevsPerspectivePodcast, @KevLoeLLC, & @CLMPresents on Instagram If you want to check out the other stuff I have going on, check it out here: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com Be sure to follow me on IG: @NiceGuyEnt

This episode is with my very good friend Bryan "Mengy" Mengelkoch. We recorded this at Mengy's house by the lake on the first day of fall, September 22nd. I've known Mengy since high school. He's one of the people I got my start with in music. Not only that but he's one of the reasons I chose to pursue the path that I'm on. He recorded my album "Mr. Nice Guy" back in 2009 and is part of the legacy behind Nice Guy Entertainment. He is also the reason why I went to IPR (Institute of Production & Recording) and decided to become a recording engineer as well as a producer. Mengy is an extremely talented and successful live sound and studio engineer. He's worked with hundreds of bands/artists on their albums as well as live shows. He's also become one of Paisley Park's main live sound engineers. Mengy is one of the most down to earth, inspirational, hilarious, and amazing individuals I've ever had the privilege of calling a friend. I'm honored to have him as a friend and stoked for you to view and listen to this episode. In this episode we discuss our origins, Mengy's history in the music business, the state of the country after Covid, and have some deep and light hearted best friend conversation. Be sure to follow @BryanMengy on his socials and hire him if you need a badass live sound or studio engineer. His mixes slam! Check out the other stuff I have going on. Including beats for artists, sample packs for producers, and more: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​​​ Follow me @NiceGuyEnt on IG!

My amazing and beautiful mother passed away on June 2nd. I thought it would be a great tribute to do a mini solo episode in dedication to her. Huge thank you to family, friends, all the listeners/viewers of this podcast, and everyone who's reached out to wish me and my family well and for all of the support.

This episode is with my friend Dan Bianco. Dan is someone I've known since 2005/2006. I met him when he was 11 years old (I was 20 at the time) because he would frequent the teen center where I worked inside the Maple Grove Community Center. Over the years that I worked there, I became somewhat of a mentor figure to Dan. Dan told me that I helped shape his taste in music among many other awesome things involved in his growth as a person. Dan and I kept in touch over the years well after I stopped working at the community center and we remained friends who touched base every now and then. In early 2021, Dan reached out to me and presented the idea that he had to start a Bachelor based podcast where he would interview different contestants on the show as well as the related spin-off shows. I told him his ideas were solid and he hired me to edit his podcast and quickly became one of my favorite clients to work with. This idea grew into The Roses That Be Podcast. It's been amazing to see Dan's growth over the last couple months as he begins his podcasting journey! In this episode we discuss not only his podcast and reasons for doing it but also the history of our friendship, him going back to school to become a teacher, the importance of having teachers/mentors in children's lives, and go in depth about mental health as well as our struggles with it. If you'd like to check out Dan's "The Roses That Be" podcast, you can do so here: https://pod.link/1554702705

This episode is with my good friend Mawuli AKA Bass Violator/Free Drugs. Mawuli and I met about 6 or 7 years ago in the local twin cities music scene through mutual friends. He quickly became a good friend and joined Nice Guy Entertainment when it operated as a label. We did a bunch of shows together and heavily collaborated throughout the years. Mawuli is a beast when it comes to everything music related. He produces and DJ's under the name Bass Violator as well as raps under the name Free Drugs. On top of that Mawuli is an excellent audio engineer, mixer, songwriter, and vocalist. Mawuli is also a great friend and someone who has always had my back since day one. In this episode we go off in many tangents which include our friendship, Mawuli's history with music, him being from Ethiopia, ideas for our careers, a song we did for his new EP called Syntax with a small controversy surrounding my verse, the future/past of Nice Guy Entertainment, and all things 2020/2021 related. Mawuli was supposed to drop his new EP "Still Loading" this week but due to some technical difficulties it will be released at a slightly later date. Expect to hear a guest B Mc-C verse (as well as Jezebel James AKA 2JD who was also an NGE artist) and some amazing music when the EP drops!

This episode is with my friend Rhaelee Gronholz. Rhaelee is one of the most impressive people I’ve ever met. We met as students at IPR (Institute of Production & Recording) and have collaborated in a couple different ways. Rhaelee is an impressive force in the music/audio/entertainment space. Rhaelee performs and releases solo music under her first name as her stage name. On top of being a singer/songwriter she’s also a live sound engineer, producer, college instructor, and business owner. Rhaelee owns and operates Androgynous Audio and even owns a SL100 mobile concert stage. Most recently Rhaelee became an instructor and Assistant Program Director at a college in FL called F.I.R.S.T Institute. Rhaelee is an amazing human that I admire and I am so grateful to know and call a friend. In this episode we discuss all things 2020/2021, Rhaelee’s move to FL, purchasing the SL100 mobile stage, Rhaelee’s music/studio, being an instructor at F.I.R.S.T Institute, personal struggles/setbacks, and overcoming obstacles to be the best person you can be. Be sure to search “Rhaelee” on any streaming platform to find Rhaelee’s music and follow @RhaeleeGronholz on IG!

I recorded this one at Gravebomb Studios with my friend Bob Lindberg. Bob and I know each other not only from the twin cities music scene but also because we're real life neighbors (we live less than a mile from each other) and our younger brothers are friends. Bob is a very accomplished recording and live sound engineer. Bob has literally worked on hundreds of records and hundreds of clients throughout the years! Not only this but he's also a fantastic human being and great friend. He's always been very open, honest, kind, and accepting. In this episode we talk about how we know each other, his history with music/audio engineering, and go in depth about mental health, working in the mental health field, and his experience with schizophrenia.

First episode of "Nice Minds" shot in person instead of on Zoom! Shot live at "The Honey House" owned by Ames Farm in Delano, MN where Brandon lives and works. I thought it would only be fitting after getting my vaccination, that I do my first in person episode with the person that I did the very first episode of this show with, my friend Brandon Scott. Brandon Scott is someone who I've known for a couple years and has grown to be one of my closest friends. I have collaborated with him on many songs, partnered with him on several endeavors over the last couple years ( including a sample pack for producer company: http://www.YeahDudeSamples.com​ ) and he is a person I developed the idea of this show with. He even played guitar on the theme music I use for this show! He is a gifted bassist, guitarist, and an all around musical beast. He is also a father and one of the hardest working dudes I know. All around great person and someone I am proud to call my friend. In this episode we talk about a large range of topics and go into many tangents as we usually do in our conversations. We discuss mental health in depth (which is a huge reason I wanted to create this show) and we also talk about his new job/living space, his history with music, musical/personal identity, racism, ideas for the future, and much more.

This episode is with my friend Orikal Uno. I've known Orikal for 15+ years from the local twin cities hip-hop scene. Him and I go way back with doing shows and networking. He is a multi-talented dude. He is an emcee, visual artist, producer, engineer, and probably more that I'm unaware of. I have endless admiration for this dude and what he does! In this episode we talk about the craziness of 2020/2021, his artwork, his music, the hip-hop scene, and get really vulnerable about topics regarding health and mental health. Be sure to follow @OrikalUno on all his social media accounts! (he also does custom graffiti art on things like canvas/skate decks so be sure to hit him up if you're looking for that sort of thing!)

This episode is with my friend AK Knowledge. It was recorded in late January of 2021. AK is an emcee who is constantly seeking knowledge and truth. We used to work at the Maple Grove Community together and I've known him for about 13 or so years. We did numerous shows together and in 2017 he recorded an album all to beats I made between 2006 and 2016 that is finally being released this year. In this episode we talk about finally releasing the album that we made together, his musical history, what he's been doing in 2020/2021, the future of the twin cities hip-hop scene, hip-hop as a whole, the future of for profit colleges/universities, and a lot more.

This episode was recorded with my friend Corvaa. Corvaa is an incredibly talented music artist and business woman based out of New York. She wears nearly every single hat you can think of in the music/entertainment world. She's an unstoppable force! In this episode we discuss Corvaa's career, 2020 setbacks, career goals, and also discuss topics such as mental health, women empowerment, and talk about what artists should do when they're starting their careers. Her new song "Say Something" is available now on Spotify, YouTube, Tidal, etc under: the MJP & Corvaa (be sure to check out all of her other songs on those streaming services as well) Be sure to follow her and her team on Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/corvaa http://www.instagram.com/corvaamusic http://www.Instagram.com/themjpmusic Check out her company's website and see all the entertainment/creative services they offer! http://www.corvaamusic.com/ Check out the other stuff I have going on: http://www.NiceGuyEnt.com​​ Follow me @NiceGuyEnt on IG and Twitter!

This episode was recorded with my friend Sterling Banks. Sterling is incredibly talented rapper, singer, songwriter, recording engineer, producer, business woman, and wears nearly every single hat you can think of in the music/entertainment world. I feel like there's nothing she can't do! In this episode we discuss Sterling's career, 2020 setbacks, career goals, and also discuss some heavy topics involving mental health, woman empowerment, and toxic masculinity. Follow her on social media platforms: @SterlingBanksBaby Check out her official website for everything else: http://www.SterlingBanks.net

This episode is with Amanda Yang. Amanda is an extremely talented vocalist and songwriter from the Twin Cities area. She has over 90 million streams collectively on Spotify as well as many other accomplishments. Not only that but she's an incredibly nice and down to earth person. In this episode we talk about her history with music, clever ways to find collaborators, advice for younger artists, our talented mutual friends, the local music community, 2020 nonsense, mental hurdles she's had to overcome, her future plans, and much more! Be sure to follow @AmandaYangMusic on social media! Check out her latest song "Don't Want You" which is a duet with Jay Vera on any of your favorite streaming services! https://song.link/i/1495312076

This episode is with my good friend Tyler Davis. I was a mentor (like W.A.R from my previous episode was for me) in Ty's earlier career as an emcee/producer. We met as students at IPR and Ty is someone I took under my wing when I was first starting Nice Guy Entertainment and put him on his first shows and produced/co-produced a lot of stuff with him. Ty is in a group with another artist I worked with in the earlier days of NGE who goes by the name of Austin AKA AP Lifted. Together they are known as Bottle Kids. Bottle Kids have opened up for countless major artists, done more shows than I can count, have had TV placements, and have generally been killing the game. Ty also produces under the Buttercream Beats alias. In this episode me and Ty talk about how we met, how he got his start in the industry, where we feel like the industry/scene is headed, talk about Bottle Kids TV placement, and much more. Be sure to follow @realtylerdavis, @buttercream_beats, and @BottleKids on IG (and other social media as well)

This episode is with one of my very good friends, Jerry Osowski AKA W.A.R. Jerry is a super important person in my life and career. He was the first one to give me the opportunity to record my music, the first one to offer to give me beats to rap over, and the first one to take me under his wing as as mentor when I was getting started with creating hip-hop music. Jerry is a veteran to the twin cities hip-hop scene with around 25 years of experience in production and rapping. He also threw yearly Halloween shows for almost 20 years straight that were very important to myself and friends and gave so many people a platform when it came to performing and displaying their talents. In this episode we talk about our friendship, hip-hop, everything that's happened with 2020, his efforts in helping the community, and had some deep conversations about hardships and stuff that's happened to him and his family. Be sure to follow @WARHipHopMusic on FB, IG, and Twitter to keep up to date with what Jerry is up to! To learn more about the charity organization that Jerry helped start called Feed The People, check out their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FeedThePeopleMPLS (please consider donating if possible) To learn about his Pier 22 Fishing non profit initiative to help military vets and under privileged kids, check out their website: https://pier22fishing.org/

In this episode I talk with my friend Breakneck The Mage. Breakneck is a twin cities based emcee originally from Wisconsin. Aside from his solo music, he is well known in the battle rap community and organizes battle rap events. In this episode we talk about our history, his experience in the battle rap community, his unboxing YouTube videos he does with his son, and what he's done throughout 2020 with his various projects. Follow him at @Breakneck_TV on IG & Twitter and be sure to look up his channel on YouTube!

Vanlice Washington (better known as Vii) is a long time friend that I've known for over a decade. We've been been collaborating on music and doing shows together since 2009. In 2017 Vii created his own lemonade brand called Vanlice Lemonade. If you've been listening to previous episodes then you may have heard me talk about it. We have formed a brand partnership where I am helping him sell lemonade and we are using a portion of the profits to build a studio. In this episode we talk about his background in music, coming to the United States from Liberia, his other talents besides music, starting his lemonade company, and the future. Be sure to follow Vii on social media accounts at @VanliceLemonade and @ViiWashington You can use the code YDS21 for 5% off your purchase of lemonade at http://www.VanliceLemonade.com​ and there's free shipping for local twin cities orders!

Some of my favorite conversations are super long, tangent filled, and raw. The conversation in this podcast is no exception. This episode was recorded in early January and it's with my friend Kyle Rucker. Kyle is a twin cities musician who's originally from Chicago. Although we're the exact same age, Kyle is someone who I look up to in the music industry. Not only is he an incredibly gifted and talented musician but he's also brilliant. He started a non profit organization called Project Footsteps that he ran for a decade and some change and helped thousands of youth learn music and valuable life lessons. Now Kyle runs Ruck B Media and manages artists, writes songs/jingles, organizes events, and does just about everything you can think of in the industry. In this episode we go in depth about a lot of things and bounce around from subject to subject. We talk about the power of music, teaching the youth through creativity, the current state/future of hip-hop, racism, and many other tough and deep subjects. If you'd like to learn more about Kyle and the work he does be sure to visit his website: https://www.ruckbmusic.com/

This episode was done with Morrison Machiavelli. He's a super driven and multi-talented dude originally from the twin cities but now based out in Los Angeles. He's an emcee and entrepreneur who has his hands in many different aspects of music, creativity, and business. In this episode we talk about a lot of the different things that he's involved with. From his work as an emcee/engineer/producer, his involvement with the Zulu Union, his work with the youth, his record label Prosaic Minds, and new business venture which is a virtual assistance for creative professionals company called Casablanca Connect. We also talk about the twin cities music scene, how 2020 was for us, our hopes/plans for the future, and a lot more. To check out everything Morrison Machiavelli is involved with and his music, check out his website: https://www.morrisonmachiavelli.com/ If you're a creative professional in need of virtual assistance then check out "Casablanca Connect" and hire them for all your creative professional needs: https://www.casablancaconnect.com/

One of my mottos in life and things I like to live by is "support the people that support you" and to always show love and appreciation to the ones that care. Jorge Fuentes is a person who I went to IPR (college) with but never really got to know. I would always see his name pop up in my likes or the comments section of a lot of my creative posts though so I noticed how much he was supporting what I do. I saw some of his motivational videos that he creates and thought he would be an awesome person to get to know and invite on the podcast, especially since he's always shown me love. This episode was recorded at the very end of 2020. In this episode we talk a lot about our creativity, motivation, ambition, setbacks, the importance of family, and have a genuine conversation while getting to know each other. Follow him at @itsjorgefuentes on social media!

This episode is with my friend Ali Elabbady AKA Egypto Knuckles. This episode was recorded on December 23, 2020. I've known Ali for about 13 years from the twin cities hip-hop scene. I consider Ali a mentor who I've come to many times for advice, creatively as well as personally. Ali is an incredible individual with experience as a radio DJ, music journalist, music producer, and used to own his own record label called Background Noise Crew. In this episode we talk about our friendship, experience in the music scene, stuff that happened in 2020, and the future of the music scene/industry. Be sure to follow @EgyptoKnuckles on all social media accounts!

This episode is with my friend Tony Hughes AKA MrHUES. MrHUES is an emcee, graphic artist, videographer, and a man of many other talents. He is someone I've known for many years in the hip-hop scene. We began our friendship when I assisted mixing on an album of his and from doing shows together. In this episode we talk about our history in the hip-hop scene, some personal struggles, our hopes for the future, and genuinely hype each other up. Follow Mr. Hughes on his social media accounts: @IAM_MRHUES

This episode is with my friend Dee Bomb. He is a twin cities based emcee/producer who runs his own company called Bangin Noize Entertainment. I met him during my IPR days and we've done shows together as well as collaborated on music. In this episode we talk about his background, the music he's been creating, the music scene/industry, and personal stories related to our careers. Follow @DeeBombMusic & @BanginNoize on all social media!

In this episode I have a conversation with my friend Miles Graves. Miles is a multi-talented dude with a lot of experience in the music industry. He has been a lyricist, recording engineer, music producer, artist manager, and more. He runs his own artist empowerment firm called the Miles Graves Company. This episode was recorded in December of 2020. In this episode we dive into his history and have an in depth conversation about different ways that artists can empower themselves and make a career without the use of social media. To find out more information and hire Miles for audio engineering and artist services be sure to visit his website: http://www.MilesGraves.com

This episode is with Joe Fabiano. Joe is the other half of the twin cities based hip-hop podcast The Wisemen Show. I say the other half because I did episode 7 with his partner in crime Jake Faircloth. Joe was super helpful, supportive, and somewhat of a mentor to me when I decided to start Nice Minds. In this episode we discuss his influences with music, starting his podcast, the local scene/industry, the future, and also talk about things directly related to the episode I did with Jake. To support Joe and The Wisemen Show check these links out... Become a member of their Patreon to support and view all of the latest episodes of The Wisemen Show: https://www.patreon.com/TheWisemenShow/ Stream The Wisemen Show on your favorite podcast app: https://pod.link/1089009194

This episode is with my very good friend Nick Morris AKA Nimo The Hooligan. Nimo is a twin cities DJ that has been mentioned several times already in a few of my podcasts. He's someone who I came up with in the local music scene and someone who I greatly respect and admire. This episode was recorded in December of 2020. In this episode we talk about Nimo's start as a DJ in the local hip-hop scene, his work as a DJ for major Minnesota sports teams, setbacks of 2020, the future, and some very personal things as well. Follow @NimoTheHooligan on all of his social media pages

This episode is with Jake Faircloth. Jake is one half of the twin cities based hip-hop podcast The Wisemen Show. This episode is very special to me. Not only is The Wisemen Show very influential to me (I've been a fan of them for years) but Jake opens up and shares some very personal things with me. In this episode we discuss his origins with music/podcasting, favorites in the local scene, hardships, anxiety, and very personal stories. This episode is a prime example of why I wanted to do this podcast to begin with and is truly special to me. To support Jake and The Wisemen Show check these links out... Become a member of their Patreon to support and view all of the latest episodes of The Wisemen Show plus exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/TheWisemenShow/ Check out their YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheWisemenShow/videos Stream The Wisemen Show on your favorite podcast app: https://pod.link/1089009194