Headliner Mindset

Headliner Mindset

The Headliner Mindset podcast explores what it truly takes to succeed as an artist in the EDM industry. Through interviews with some of the biggest DJs, artists and professionals in the game, we dig into not only the business strategies for success but also how to navigate the mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of the artist journey. For more info, go to www.nikcherwink.com.

Episodes

July 14, 2025 49 mins

Steller just wrapped her first headlining tour — and she’s doing things differently. In this episode, we talk about what it really takes to build a career with intention, from learning to trust your gut to putting your mental health first in an industry that often glorifies the grind.

We get into:

  • How Steller partnered with To Write Love On Her Arms to bring mental health resources to her shows
  • Why she waited a full year before go...
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Nostalgix is the definition of a multi-talented artist—producer, rapper, singer, songwriter, and performer—and she’s here to share the REAL story behind her rise.

We dive deep into:

  • How she went from bedroom DJ to touring globally (without even planning on becoming an artist)
  • The mindset shifts that took her from just having fun to fully committing to her craft
  • Why burning out every week was part of the process—and how she finally ...
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In a music industry that never stops moving, how do you stay grounded, intentional, and actually enjoy the journey?

This week I’m joined by Dr. Sunni, a licensed psychologist and coach for DJs and creatives, whose work sits at the intersection of mental health and the electronic music industry. We dive into the deep end of artist mindset — from burnout and comparison to self-worth, imposter syndrome, and the hustle culture that keep...

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Use code "MINDSET" for free month of Event Sheet:  https://eventsheet.com/


Geoff Shames has been in the game for over a decade, helping shape the marketing strategy behind some of the biggest names in bass music. From launching the marketing division at Circle Talent Agency (which later became UTA) to running his own digital agency, Geoff is a master at helping artists build their brands and following. 

In this episode...

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PhaseOne is a undeniable heavy-hitter in the bass music scene, fusing metal and dubstep to carve out a sound that’s as aggressive as it is intentional. In this episode, we talk about what it really means to stay relevant in an industry that moves fast — and why, after 15 years in the game, he’s choosing to slow down and make an album, not just chase singles.

We get into:

  • The pressure artists feel to constantly stay visible
  • Choosin...
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This time, the mic's turned around.

I recently joined my friend Wyatt on the DAW Nation podcast for a deep dive into the mindset, spirituality, and authenticity that fuel a thriving music career. We explored what it truly means to succeed from the inside out—beyond the algorithms and into the heart of artistry.

If you're ready to ignite your inner fire and align your energy with your creative journey, this one's for yo...

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If you’re a DJ or producer trying to build a real fanbase, this episode is essential listening.

Grahame Farmer — founder of Data Transmission, YouTube educator, and creator of The Artist Blueprint — breaks down exactly how artists are growing in 2025.

From social media strategy to automation tools, Grahame shares the real tactics that are helping artists get signed, grow on SoundCloud and Instagram, and actually build community — not...

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From dropping out of grad school to crushing festival stages — Nikita the Wicked is proving that the real win comes when you stop following the rules and start following your calling.

In this episode, we get into the story behind his rise, how he built a viral artist brand without a label and why bringing your full personality into your project is what separates artists from entertainers.

We talk about:

  • What it really takes to wal...
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Wes Mills is living proof that with the right mindset, relentless work ethic, and pure love for the craft, anything is possible. From commuting late nights to ICON Collective to now performing at iconic venues like Red Rocks, Wes shares what it truly takes to become a headliner.

In this episode, we dive deep into how he learned music production from scratch, the moment that inspired him to chase his dream, and the role that authenti...

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Proppa is a house music producer from Chicago whose recent remixes are lighting up DJ sets across the globe—from Dom Dolla to Cloonee to John Summit and many more.

But this didn’t happen overnight...

Proppa shares the real story behind his 15-year journey in music—starting out as a drummer, battling perfectionism, finding his sound through consistent remixing and figuring out his brand and identity as an artist.

In this episode we tal...

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Join the next round of the Headliner Mindset coaching program, starting 4/7:
 https://www.nikcherwink.com/headlinermindset

Feeling stuck in your music career—even though you're doing all the things?

In this special episode, Nik shares the full recording of his recent live masterclass, UNSTUCK: The Mindset Masterclass for Artists Who Are Ready to Finally Break Through.

You’ll learn the 4 mindset and energy shifts tha...

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Sign up for the free Headliner Mindset Masterclass on 3/31 here:
https://www.nikcherwink.com/masterclass

And check out 6am Group's free ArtistMap training here:
https://artistmapby6am.teachable.com/p/artistmapby6am-phase1

JIA is a DJ, promoter, educator, and founder of the 6AM Group and ArtistMap. In this episode, we explore what it really means to be a successful artist in today’s music industry—and it goes wa...

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Aren Goldberg is a tour manager for some of the biggest artists in the dance music industry including NGHTMRE, Peekaboo, Dimension and more. In this episode we dive into the realities of life on the road, the biggest mistakes artists make when booking their first tours, and how to actually make money while touring—without blowing your budget on things you don’t need.

If you’re an artist, DJ, or producer who wants to tour one day—or ...

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Nick Ruffalo is a music marketing expert who helps artists cut through the noise and build real, engaged audiences with his agency, Unleashd Creative Solutions. In this episode, we break down the biggest mistakes artists make when promoting their music, why simply posting content isn’t enough, and how to actually connect with fans in a way that drives long-term success.

We also talk about the platforms that matter most in 2024, the ...

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Arta Majd is an entertainment attorney who has worked with labels, independent artists and industry professionals to protect their rights, negotiate better deals, and avoid the common pitfalls that ruin careers. In this episode, he breaks down the biggest mistakes artists make when signing contracts, why legal knowledge is just as important as branding and marketing, and when you should bring a lawyer onto your team.

We also dive in...

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January 20, 2025 33 mins

Are you creating from the heart or just chasing the algorithm? In this solo episode of The Headliner Mindset Podcast, I reflect on what it means to reconnect with the soul of creativity. Inspired by Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way and my experiences teaching The Art of Flow at ICON Collective, we’ll explore how to break free from overthinking and rediscover the joy of creating from a place of intuition and authenticity.

This episod...

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Dan Sugarman is the lead guitarist of Ice Nine Kills and has played on some of the world’s biggest stages. But his path has been anything but ordinary...

In this episode, he opens up about his early obsession with music, the challenges of balancing ambition with health, and how he turned setbacks—like a life-changing cancer diagnosis—into fuel for reinvention. We also dive into his passion for mentoring musicians, the pow...

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January 6, 2025 57 mins

NITTI is a genre-bending force in the electronic music world, also known for being one half of the Grammy-nominated duo SIDEPIECE, and is now making waves with his bold new project Alt Rave. After years of grinding in the studio and locking into his craft, he’s found his stride by merging his love for rock, metal, and electronic music into something entirely his own.

In this episode, Nitti shares how he went from church bands to hea...

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November 25, 2024 34 mins

In this special solo episode of The Headliner Mindset Podcast, I reflect on the top five lessons I’ve learned from hosting over 70 inspiring conversations with artists, DJs, and industry leaders. These takeaways are packed with actionable insights to help you thrive in your career and life. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or dreamer, this episode will resonate with anyone striving for growth and success.

Here are the five le...

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November 18, 2024 60 mins

Sippy is a powerhouse in the dubstep and bass music scene, known for her high-energy performances and fearless authenticity. From playing the main stage at Lost Lands to headlining her own tour, she’s built a career that’s both inspiring and impactful. But her journey hasn’t been without challenges. As one of my coaching clients, Sippy has worked to overcome anxiety, embrace balance, and transform her mindset into one that fuels cr...

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