The Musician's Venture

On this episode, Nick O'Brien interviews the 6 Wisconsin Music Ventures artists that will be performing at this year's Mile of Music Festival in Appleton, Wisconsin. This year we have interviews with Amelia Ford, Ben Mulwana, Sit Kitty Sit, Wise Jennings, 7000apart, and Isiah Driessen (Isiah & The New People). Tune in to hear everyone's excitement for the 10th year of the original music festival, and where you can catch the artists next weekend August 3rd through the 6th.Check out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

A lot of musicians are finding themselves having to "fit in a box" more than usual lately. This is likely due to the sensation of streaming platform playlists. Tune in to hear Allison's take on this topic.Find more info about the topic in this youtube video:https://youtu.be/bQDudbp-pagCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with flutist Emi Ferguson. With two graduate degrees in performance, Emi plays shows all over the country. She showcases her talents on several film and music projects and has released her own chart-topping albums. While a distinguished and accomplished musician, Emi is also a teacher, podcaster, and author. Tune in to dive into her path into becoming the musician she is today.Find more information about Emi at:http://www.emiferguson.com/iconiccomposersCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with singer/songwriter Mie. Mie talks us through the journey that has led her to no other choice but to pursue music fully and completely. While it may have come at a price, she tells us about how it has led to new and exciting connections and support. Tune in to get not just her perspective of music, but also her thoughts around mindfulness and tools to dealing with trauma and pain.For more information about Mie:therealmie.comCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Allison Emm is solo to bring up some points related to Artificial Intelligence and its current and possible impact on the music industry.Check out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with Nashville pop artist, songwriter, producer Ivory Layne. Ivory takes us through what it was like to develop and hone her talents at a young age and being able to pursue music full-time right out of high school. Collaborating with high caliber producers in places Nashville and London, Ivory has created a discography of over 30 EPs and singles.For more info about Ivory Layne:ivorylayne.comCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Allison Emm joins us once again for a short piece with some helpful advice for local musicians.Check out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with Milwaukee singer-songwriter Jesús Villa. Jesús is also founder of the Kangaroo Lake Songwriting Collective, a Wisconsin Music Ventures Green Room member, as well as the leader of local bands The Unrulies and the Front Porch Rockers. Tune in to hear Jesús' story about pursuing music all while balancing a non-music centered career at the same time.Find more info about Jesús at:https://www.jesusvillasongs.comCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with folk musician Christopher Gold. With releasing 9 albums and playing around 150 shows a year, Christopher takes pride in his work both on is own and with his band The New Old Things. Christopher values being kind and sincere, and channels that energy into charity work as well.Find more info about Christopher Gold:https://www.christophergold.com/Check out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with Janet Schiff and Victor DeLorenzo from Nineteen Thirteen. The duo has an 11th studio album releasing this year and talk us through the process of developing their careers. Both Janet and Victor also dive into just what it was that brought them to pursue music in the first place.Find more info about Nineteen Thirteen at:www.NineteenThirteen.comCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode Allison Emm hosts with guest Trinity Velez-Justo. Trinity details her collegiate experience as well as her work in the community and teaching others the ways of composition and the music industry. Wrapped in sociology and musicology, Trinity travels to speak at conferences all over.To find more info about Trinity:www.reelscoring.com www.soundcloud.com/cristina-trinity-velezCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode both Nick O'Brien and Allison Emm tackle a topic that has surfaced a lot recently - the concern that comes with being a woman in the music industry. Through Wisconsin Music Ventures there have been panel discussions, musician meetups, and all sorts of efforts to raise awareness about this issue and the dangers it could lead to. The two discuss safety for women giving an overview of what was shared at events, sharing some new information that's come to light. Article referenced: https://www.milwaukeemag.com/milwaukee-restraining-order-case-spurs-women-in-music-to-band-together/Check out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode Nick O'Brien talks with Armchair Boogie Frontman Augie Dougherty. Augie talks us through how he met his bandmates in college at Steven's Point, and how the "New-Grass" band came to be. He also talks us through his challenges balancing the life of a musician, but also the love and drive he has to make it through. Tune in to hear more about Augie's experience and his future goals.Find more info about Augie and Armchair Boogie at:Armchairboogiemusic.comCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode Nick O'Brien talks with founder and frontman of Billy Bronsted & the Loot - Billy Bronsted. This conversation highlights Billy's journey through addiction and becoming sober. This includes a wonderfully open dialogue about just how much the life of a musician can be impacted by drugs and alcohol. Tune in to hear Billy's journey to becoming a musician and carving out the life he has now.Find more info about Billy at:https://www.billybronsted.com/epk-1Check out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode Nick O'Brien talks with writer/musician Noah Lekas. While being a touring artist and working with different bands over the years, Noah also has a career in writing and editing for different publications. Noah talks about his journey to get to where he is today, including a recently resurrected project created 15 years ago and paused: American Restless.Find more info about Noah and American Restless at:instagram.com/americanrestlessfacebook.com/americanrestlessyoutube.com/@americanrestlessinstagram.com/noahclekasCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode Nick O'Brien talks with musician, writer and organizer Bob Weigandt. Bob is the mandolin player for Dig Deep, a well-known string band in the grassroots world. The band is taking on over 120 shows this year and has no plans to slow down. Tune in to hear how Bob handles juggling the music scene, and as he dives into the importance of his sobriety while offering his own advice and support for others who may need it.Find more information about Dig Deep at:digdeep.wi.comCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with Tlalok Rodriguez of MKE Music Night! Tlalok is part of several bands in the Milwaukee music scene and has been for many years now. Tune in to learn about MKE Music Night and hear how Tlalok juggles all of his projects while also being a full time college student!Find more info about Tlalok at:https://www.flowcode.com/page/tlalok-musicCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with Joe Humiston, Isaac Repinski, and Sterling Dorsey of the band Moonglow. After coming together in 2019, the band has since released a debut album in 2021 and have set on learning how to work together within music and within the industry. Tune in to also hear a word from one of Moonglow's own fans and what Moonglow means to him.Find more Info about Moonglow at:moonglowtheband.comCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick conducts interviews at the Sconni River Bluegrass Festival! Tune in to hear interviews with Bob Wiegandt, Ben Swanson, Augie Dougherty, Oscar Noetzel, Billy Bronsted, and Adam Greuel as they present their unique perspectives about what the festival means to them! Check out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, we are at the conclusion of the story of Donna Woodall & Ethan Bender with Part Two! On this episode, the pair talk about branching off as musicians, as well as blending musical styles in both originals and covers.Find more info about Donna Woodall Group at: www.donnawoodall.comCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with Donna Woodall & Ethan Bender of the Donna Woodall Group! The couple have been together for decades and are largely known in the Milwaukee area! Part I goes over how the two started in music and how that relationship has evolved into a partnership in both music and life.For more info on On Donna Woodall:www.donnawoodall.comCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Allison Emm jumps on with a solo show for Women's History Month by giving some suggestions when it comes to being safe as a woman in the public eye such as in music.Check out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with Hometown Foundation and HomeGrown Music Festival founder Mike Christian! Based in West Bend, WI, the Hometown Foundation's mission is to raise awareness and assist those in need. HomeGrown Music focuses on finding gigs and venues for artists in Southeast Wisconsin. HomeGrown Music also puts on a Festival every July to showcase these artists.Find more info about Mike and the Hometown Foundation at:www.hometown.foundationCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode Allison Emm talks with entertainment lawyer Ryan Kairalla! Ryan is also a teacher, author, and host of "Break the Business" on SiriusXM 145, a radio show, podcast, and livestream geared toward empowering independent creators. Tune in to hear some tips and stories from Ryan!

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with Sofar Milwaukee Local Lead & Var Gallery Stage Manager, Sam Brunelli! Sam talks us through his roles with the Sofar sound concert series, the sound environment Var Gallery, as well being the keyboardist in the band Wire & Nail. Tune in to explore the music industry from Sam's perspective as well as the resources he is a part of that are fully available to all kinds of artists.Find more about Sofar Sounds at:https://www.sofarsounds.com/cities/milwaukeeCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with singer/songwriter, guitarist and artist TAE. TAE performs mainly as a one-woman band, pulling influences from soul, R&B and Pop/Rock. After a debut album in 2020, TAE teams up with The Neighborly to bring out another album in the summer of 2023 as a full band.Find more info about TAE at:taemusic.comCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with Isiah Driessen, a western psychedelic folk musician. Mainly singing acoustic originals, Isiah doesn't hold back telling personal stories in his music and as well as expanding on them in this podcast. Isiah started out in the band Salmon run, and now works with The Cedar Project, connecting local musicians.To find more info about Isiah's project at:www.thecedarsproject.comCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with singer/songwriter Abby Shreve! Originally from Kenosha, Wisconsin, Abby now finds herself interning at Tree Sound Studios in Atlanta Georgia. She recently released her debut single "Misery" which can be heard at the end of this episode. Tune in to hear about her perspective about her very new and very fresh experiences in the music industry. Find more info about Abby at:https://www.abbyshrevemusic.com/Check out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

Emily White is back! Back in Wisconsin and back on the podcast. On this episode, we join her and Allison and Nick at Emily's reception in Nō Studios. This event was to kick off the recording of Emily's second season of the How to Build a Sustainable Music Career and Collect all Revenue Streams podcast - the number one Music Business Podcast in the World! Follow us through our interviews with event guests and hear their perspectives. And finally, an interview with Emily herself!Find info about the workshop here:https://www.nostudios.com/emily-white)Check out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with Milwaukee based female vocalist B.D. Greer! Returning to Wisconsin after 21 years in New York, B.D. has been immersing herself comfortably in Milwaukee's music scene - so far as to be named Milwaukee's Best Female Vocalist of 2022! Reflecting on her time in New York, B.D. talks performances, music communities, and shifting her focus to working in hospitality.Find more info about B.D. at: www.bdgreer.comCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Allison Emm talks with internationally renowned accordionist and composer Stas Venglevski! Writing since he was 5 years old, Stas now holds a Masters of Music from the Russian Academy of Music in Moscow. Now Stas is taking gigs all over in Milwaukee and has immersed himself in the local scene.Find more info about Stas atwww.stasv.comCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talk with the founder of RAF & Company, and vocalist and bass guitar player for Secret Menu, Raf! RAF & Company comes together as "the collective spirit between creatives," and is known as a group that is always changing and shifting and healing through music. Raf gives insight into his journey into creating and releasing music in a way that is at the same time both powerful and vulnerable.Find more info about RAF & Company at:https://www.facebook.com/rafandcompanyCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, we are joined by both current TMV host and previous TMV host, Nick O'Brien and Allison Emm! They reflect on interviews and milestones and progress on the podcast this year as we close out 2022 with The Musician's Venture!

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with Ben Harold of Ben Harold and the Rising! Growing up on Washington Island, Ben started off as a solo act and eventually quit his day job to pursue music with a band full time! These days, Ben is working on a new album, planning tours for 2023, and rereleases.Find more info about Ben Harold at:https://youtu.be/XRFH8zsfKcE https://youtu.be/c4P5x-IuiaoCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with full time musician, singer-songwriter Kal Schimmers! Kal grew up watching his family around him playing music, and soon began pursuing music form an early age. Growing up in Appleton, Kal was influenced by all the wonderful music venues and events that the city has to offer.Find more info about Kal at:https://linktr.ee/KalSchimmersCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On the date this episode is being released Allison is celebrating a big, round-number birthday. In looking back at her work in music over the years, she wanted to share some of the lessons she's learned that have served her well - and why. She also candidly discusses her recent struggles with addiction issues, and how that has impacted her work. Podcast Episode Referenced: The Entrepreneurial Musician with Andrew Hitz, Episode 260: Allison Emm

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with Milwaukee-based independent artist, film maker, creative director, and lyricist Bisca Rae! Bisca talks creativity, collaboration, and community! Through her life, Bisca has built herself up on her own and works hard to give voice to what she cares about.Find more info about Bisca at:https://linktr.ee/BiscaraeCheck out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with therapist turned musician from Tasmania, Australia - John Justus! John is the main songwriter/creative for Hallowtribe. Hallowtribe was made with the idea of a "group of people that helps eachother meet their fullest potential,"(in John's words). John talks moving from being a therapist to becoming a full time musician here in Milwaukee Wisconsin.Find more info about John and Hallowtribe at:Https://www.hallowtribe.com

On this episode, Nick O'Brien is rejoined with previous host, Allison Emm! The two talk about a wide range of musician-related topics. Tune in to hear their thoughts on pricing, what success really means, and the diversity of being a musician.Check out more about TMV Podcast at www.themusiciansventure.com, @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with Texas born and raised musician, Jesse Stratton! Jesse talks about learning to play the saxophone, staying busy in the music scene, and playing all over Texas and Wisconsin. Jesse values music that is very moving and emotional and works with the Jesse Stratton band to bring these songs to life on stage. Find more info about Jesse at: www.jessestrattonmusic.com

On this weeks episode, Nick O'Brien takes the podcast on site at the Wise Fest! Ran by the two members of Wise Jennings, this was the festivals first year being put on in a new location at the Kettle Moraine Ranch in Eagle, Wisconsin. Nick and Allison talk with a few prominent people and artists: Melissa Jennings, one of the musicians and runner of the festival, Allie Thomas, who runs their social media and promotion, Mike Murphy, who is helping to run sound, and artists Cullah, Anthony, and the members of Sit Kitty Sit.

On this episode, Allison Emm chimes in on the heavy question: is college necessary for career growth? For musicians, this may have an even more complicated answer. Allison finds her inspiration from a blog post by Lauren LaFond on the Wisconsin Music Ventures website that can be found here: https://wisconsinmusicventures.com/2022/09/20/continuing-music-education-university-or-no/ Check out more about TMV Podcast at http://www.themusiciansventure.com/ (www.themusiciansventure.com), @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with Emile Pandolfi. He is a second generation Italian from New York. As a pianist, Emile has traveled the world playing pop standards with over 30 solo albums on his own label, selling over 3.5 million copies and 1 million streams a month on Spotify. A 25+ year musical career has led to him being known as a premier pop pianist. Today, he spends a lot of time on his own in his home studio creating original music. Find more info about Emile at: https://www.youtube.com/emilepandolfi Check out more about TMV Podcast at http://www.themusiciansventure.com/ (www.themusiciansventure.com), @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Allison talks again with Mark Tonelli - artist, author, songwriter and professor. Since speaking 7 months ago, Mark recaps with us his trip to Brazil. He spent his time playing soccer, immersing in the language, and teaching electric guitar. Tune in to hear about his adventures! Find more info about Mark at: www.mtonalmusic.com Check out more about TMV Podcast at http://www.themusiciansventure.com/ (www.themusiciansventure.com), @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with Texas-bred country musician Will Carter! From singing the national anthem at age 3 to winning songwriter of the year at the Texas Country Music Association awards! Will tells us the stories of house he was inspired to create music through the love of his father, and how he learned and perfected his craft to create the career he has today. Find more info about Will at www.willcarterband.com Check out more about TMV Podcast at http://www.themusiciansventure.com/ (www.themusiciansventure.com), @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien talks with pianist and vocalist Kristin Sponcia! She talks about her beginnings going to Milwaukee High School of the arts and how she got into Jazz! She shares her transition from teaching to performing, as well as tips on conquering performance anxiety. As a performer, composer, arranger, and educator, Kristin stresses the importance of uplifting women in these fields - especially in jazz. Find more info about Kristin at www.kristinsponcia.com Check out more about TMV Podcast at http://www.themusiciansventure.com/ (www.themusiciansventure.com), @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick talks with the leader of the Extra Crispy Brass Band - Greg Cramer! Greg shares his experience on how he got into jazz and all the different places he has gotten to play. He talks us through why he chose to stay in Milwaukee, and how he has maintained ECBB for over 10 years now. Find more info about Greg and ECBB at: www.extracrispybrassband.com Check out more about TMV Podcast at http://www.themusiciansventure.com/ (www.themusiciansventure.com), @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick chats with Melissa Garcia and Lesly Montes who work behind the scenes preparing the iVoted Festivals! Melissa is the co-founder and partner at Collective Entertainment and the Chief Marketing Officer at #iVoted Festival, and Lesly is the Festival Director for #iVoted Festival, and a freelance event producer. The two talk about their industry experiences prior to working with iVoted, as well as how they met and what drew them to and kept them in the work they do. Find more info about iVoted Festival and Collective Entertainment at https://collectiveentinc.com/ https://ivotedfestival.org/ Check out more about TMV Podcast at http://www.themusiciansventure.com/ (www.themusiciansventure.com), @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Allison Emm talks the value of venues! The goal is to create and uphold a good relationship with your venues to earn work with them in the future! Check out more about TMV Podcast at http://www.themusiciansventure.com/ (www.themusiciansventure.com), @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick O'Brien catches up with 7 Wisconsin Music Venture artists playing this years Mile of Music in Appleton Wisconsin! Tune in to hear on site interviews and hear the artists talk about their experiences during Mile this year. Check out more about TMV Podcast at http://www.themusiciansventure.com/ (www.themusiciansventure.com), @themusiciansventure on Facebook and Instagram, and @MusicianVenture on Twitter.

On this episode, Nick and Allison team up to compare notes and ideas about the podcast, the industry, and Wisconsin Music Ventures. The two touch on old podcast episodes and guests, as well as events Wisconsin Music Ventures has held. They also talk about what being a musician means to them.