Business Side of Music

Business Side of Music

The Business Side of Music podcast features interviews with leading industry professionals and working musicians, offering real-world advice to help artists grow their careers and incomes. Founded by Tom Sabella and Traci Snowe in 2008, the show has a rich legacy of empowering musicians. For many years, the podcast was hosted by Bob Bender, a respected industry veteran known for his work with Ringo Starr, Billy Preston, and Curb Records. Bob’s passing in 2023 left a lasting impact, and we continue to honor his legacy. Today, the podcast is hosted by Sarah Fleshner, a music industry professional with over 12 years of experience in artist management, live sound, touring, and business development. As owner of 362 Entertainment, Sarah brings fresh insights while carrying forward the show's mission: pulling back the curtain on the business side of music and helping artists succeed. businesssideofmusic.com

Episodes

September 9, 2025 44 mins

In this episode of The Business Side of Music Podcast, NAMM President & CEO John Mlynczak shares what it takes to put on the world’s largest music trade show. We cover NAMM’s year-round opportunities, music industry innovations, and the impact of AI on the future of music. Perfect for artists, managers, and music business professionals looking to stay ahead.

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In this episode of The Business Side of Music, host Sarah Fleshner sits down with Nikki Sanz, founder and CEO of Giggs, the platform revolutionizing how talent gets hired in the live event industry. Nikki shares her journey from an aspiring tour manager to a tech entrepreneur, opening up about the challenges facing today’s...

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On this episode of Business Side of Music, we sit down with Hamilton Byrd, Senior Talent Buyer for Venue in Colorado Springs, CO. Hamilton dives into what makes a show successful from the venue’s perspective, how artists can catch a talent buyer’s attention, and why routing, budgeting, and building real industry relationships are key to getting booked. If you're an artist, manager, or industry pro, this is your backst...

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In this episode of The Business Side of Music, we sit down with country music royalty Pam Tillis. Grammy winner, Grand Ole Opry member, and business-savvy artist who’s done it all with grace and grit.

Pam pulls back the curtain on what it's really like navigating the music industry as the daughter of a legend, carving out her ow...

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May 20, 2025 27 mins

In this special episode of The Business Side of Music, we sit down with Dan Rogers, the Executive Producer of the Grand Ole Opry, to celebrate the Opry’s 100-year anniversary — a century of shaping country music history.

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In this heartfelt farewell episode of The Business Side of Music Podcast, we say goodbye to our host, mentor, and friend, Bob Bender. As we close this chapter, we reflect on the incredible journey, invaluable lessons, and unforgettable moments shared with our listeners. Thank you for being part of this community and for supporting the podcast through the years. Join us as we celebrate Bob’s legacy and bid a fond farewell to the sho...

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December 10, 2024 34 mins

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December 10, 2024 39 mins

In this episode of The Business Side of Music Podcast, host Bob Bender sits down with Jeff Delia to discuss the intricacies of artist management and the evolving music industry. From building artist careers to navigating industry challenges, they share valuable insights and real-world experiences. Don’t miss this deep dive into the business side of making music.

  • Creator and Executive Producer Emerit...
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December 9, 2024 54 mins

In this episode of The Business Side of Music Podcast, host Bob Bender sits down with Nick Allegro and the team from Mastering.com to explore the art and business of music production and mastering. From the intricacies of creating the perfect sound to learning mastering in today's music industry, they share valuable insights and practical advice for artists and producers. Tune in for an engaging discussion that bridges creativity a...

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December 9, 2024 52 mins

Join host Bob Bender on The Business Side of Music Podcast as he dives into the world of rock and roll and the modern music industry with special guest Donovan White. Together, they explore the evolution of the industry, share behind-the-scenes stories, and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing artists today. Whether you're a music enthusiast or an industry insider, this episode offers unique insights and a fresh perspect...

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Nashville-based musician Nick Hickman epitomizes the dedication and artistry required to leave an indelible mark on country music. Originating from Harriman TN, Nick embarked on his journey to Nashville in 2016, driven by his passion for songwriting and performance. Since then, he has graced the stage alongside notable influences such as Blake Shelton, Lee Brice, Jason Aldean, and more, solidifying his reputation for electrifying p...

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September 3, 2024 41 mins

You see it all the time. Someone out on social media has hundreds of thousands, if not millions of followers on their Tik Tok, YouTube, Instagram, or Facebook accounts. But how do they get there, and how difficult can it be? Enter social media influencer Nicole de la Cruz.

Nicole de la Cruz is a Puerto Rican singer-songwriter, filmmaker, actress and TikTok Content Creator with over 460K Followers and 350 M...

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August 27, 2024 64 mins

Back in the 1940's, 50', and into the 1960's, the recording studio was rather a simple affair. Typically one or a few mics would be used to record an artist or a band, with all of the members in the studio at the same time. Then in the 1970's, the recording studio changed, and became a structured environment, where each member could be isolated, with a selection of microphones recorded onto multiple tracks.

Things have changed sinc...

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August 22, 2024 46 mins

The music business is probably more so like the Wild, Wild West these days, than it ever has been, even going back to the 1960’s. Joining us on the show today is the legendary music industry veteran Charlie Peacock, who is a multi Grammy winner,  along with being a multiple genre Billboard chart topping music producer, composer, and recording artist. He has been named by Billboard’s encyclopedia of record producers, as...

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August 13, 2024 49 mins

When it comes to such simple things as communication, networking, and even relationships, there are three basic skills you need to remember. You need to build upon the relationship. You also need to maintain them, and work towards them growing. Joining us in the studio is music industry veteran Lyn Stevens who is an award winning photographer, who combines her lov...

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Joining us on today's episode is noted author Steve Rosen, who shares his story of his time spent with guitar legend Eddie Van Halen. This strikingly personal account of Rosen's twenty six-plus year odyssey with Eddie, one of the greatest and most enigmatic musicians of the 20th Century. What was it like to call Ed a friend? Rosen shares with our listeners how he came about writing his book "Tonechaser - Understanding Edward: My 26...

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July 30, 2024 36 mins

It is a significant milestone for the Charlie Daniels Patriot Awards Dinner, which will be held on September 11, 2024, at City Winery Nashville. The awards dinner is a program of The Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project, a 501c3 that supports military veterans, first responders and their families. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the program, co-founded by Country Music legend, Charlie Daniels with his longtime manager, Davi...

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On this special episode of "Between The Notes" edition here on The Business Side of Music, show contributor Jack Sharkey and host Bob Bender go on a rant, discussing the value of the larger venue concert, and why some acts are having a difficult time selling out these days. Are they (the artist) still viable? Is the cost (and the unpredictable weather when its outdoors) worth going to stand around with hopefully thousa...

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July 16, 2024 50 mins

Artificial Intelligence. It’s in all the latest hot button topic conversations when it comes to the entertainment industry, especially the music business. How is AI going to affect the future of what we do for a living? Will AI replace the live performance? The artist who’s seeking a record deal? Is this the beginning of the end as we know it, or is it the end of the beginning? Legendary record producer Joe Hand is a g...

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Are you looking for ways to engage your digital audience? Are you seeking out ways to know your fan base better? What about finding ways to market to those fans (and turning them into consumers)? Sometimes, it just feels overwhelming, as though you're trying to boil water in the entire ocean.

Joining us in the studio today is Darshan Kaler, who is the founder and CEO of fan engagement for the technology co...

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