Headliner Mindset

After 2.5 years and 106 episodes of the Headliner Podcast, we are officially complete!Thank you SO MUCH to all of the guests that took time out of their lives to share their energy, inspiration and wisdom with us. And thank you to all of YOU for listening, sharing and supporting over the years.My heart is FILLED with gratitude as I wrap up this Hero's Journey and move on to the next chapter and adventure. Wishing you all the best as you continue to create, express, share and grow :)-Nik

In this episode of the Headliner Mindset Podcast, Rave Jesus joins the show for an expansive, honest conversation about faith, creativity, and the deeper spiritual current running through dance music culture.The discussion traces Rave Jesus’ journey from touring internationally and releasing music on major labels to following an unexpected calling that reshaped both his career and identity. Rather than stepping away from rave culture, the conversation explores how electronic music, community, and worship intersect — and why those worlds aren’t as separate as they’re often made out to be.Topics include:The spiritual hunger behind rave culture and dance musicCreativity as a form of listening, intuition, and surrenderLetting go of control, ego, and industry expectationsFaith, worship, and authenticity in electronic musicWhy silence, stillness, and trust are essential for creative flowThe episode also dives into the realities of success, burnout, and reinvention — and how following a deeper calling can lead to a more aligned and sustainable creative life.

In this episode of the Headliner Mindset Podcast, I sit down with one of my coaching clients NIMDA for a raw, honest conversation about the realities of building a career in heavy music.We talk about touring burnout, creative pressure, comparison, and what it actually takes to stay mentally healthy while flying nonstop, staying up all night making music, and performing at a high level.NMDA opens up about:Burnout from touring and constant travelThe pressure of making new music for every setStaying disciplined without burning outLetting go of comparison and worst-case thinkingWhy great music and a strong brand matter more than going viralThis episode is for artists who love what they do — but are feeling the weight of it.If you’re chasing the dream and trying not to lose yourself in the process, this conversation will hit home.Follow NIMDA here:www.instagram.com/nimda_ukAnd follow Nik Cherwink here:www.instagram.com/nikcherwink

In this episode of the Headliner Mindset Podcast, I sit down with Modestep for an honest conversation about what it really takes to last in the music industry.We talk about the parts of the artist journey that don’t make it onto social media — burnout, mental health, physical wear and tear from touring, and the pressure to keep showing up even when you’re struggling.Josh shares real insight on:Why going viral doesn’t equal selling ticketsThe difference between online hype and real fansDJ culture vs live band performanceThe realities of touring, injuries, and burnoutHow AI is changing music — and where artists should be cautiousThis episode is for artists who want longevity, not just momentary attention — and who care about building something real.Follow Modestep here:www.instagram.com/modestep

What happens when your passion becomes your paycheck?In this episode, San Holo and I unpack the real journey of turning your art into a business — and how to stay grounded when success starts pulling you in every direction. From his first viral remix on SoundCloud to headlining global festivals, San shares the mindset that’s kept him authentic through it all.We talk about the creative struggle, the pressure to keep up with trends, and why staying different is both a blessing and a curse.🔥 Topics we cover: – The art vs. the algorithm – Turning writer’s block into creative fuel – Making peace with the business side of music – How to protect your relationship with your artThis episode will remind you why you started — and why you’ll never be able to stop.

In this episode, Big Gigantic’s Dominic Lalli shares how he went from broke jazz gigs in New York to headlining festivals around the world. We talk about building Big Gigantic from the ground up, the mindset behind 15+ years of success, and how to stay creative, relevant, and inspired in an industry that’s always changing.Whether you’re a DJ, producer, or artist chasing long-term growth, this conversation is packed with lessons on teamwork, consistency, and trusting the process.🎧 Listen now and learn how to build a music career that actually lasts.Follow Big Gigantic here: https://www.instagram.com/biggiganticFollowing Nik Cherwink here:https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwink

100 episodes. What a milestone!In this solo episode, I open up about the highs and lows of reaching this point with the Headliner Mindset Podcast. I share honestly about the self-doubt that crept in, the voice that told me to quit, and the support that reminded me why I started. From stepping on stage recently with Bella Renee to hearing encouragement from past clients, this episode is about the importance of having people in your corner.We dive into:Why consistency is everything (and what happens when you lose it)How to navigate the “inner gremlin” of self-doubtThe role of community and accountability in staying inspiredA special announcement about the new Headliner Mastermind launching October 6If you’re an artist who’s ready to stop spinning your wheels and lock in for the rest of 2025, this episode is for you.

RIOT just dropped their new album The Machine on Slander and NGHTMRE’s label, Gud Vibrations, and are hitting the road for their first-ever national headlining tour.In this episode, we talk about what it takes to build a sustainable career in bass music—while staying true to your vision and leveling up every step of the way.We dive into:The grind of moving from support slots to headlining showsHow they balanced singles, a full album, and tour prep all at onceThe investment behind their visuals, branding, and comic book universeThe realities of touring life, burnout, and building healthy routinesWhy up-and-coming artists need to slow down, stop chasing trends, and focus on quality musicIf you’re serious about building a real career as an artist, this one’s packed with lessons on patience, strategy, and doing things the right way.Follow RIOT here:https://www.instagram.com/riotmusichttps://www.tiktok.com/@itsriotmusicFollow Nik Cherwink here:https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwinkAnd visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:https://www.nikcherwink.com

What happens when the dream you’ve been chasing no longer feels like yours?In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Fredy Lane returns to the podcast to share why she’s walking away from her artist project at the height of her momentum — and what it really means to let go, evolve, and trust your intuition.We get into:Why she decided to retire the Fredy Lane project and leave the touring DJ lifestyle behindThe pressure to stay in the game vs. the peace of choosing yourselfWhat alignment actually feels like — and how to know when something’s no longer right for youLetting go of ego, comparison, and “success” to find real happinessHer next chapter: moving to Paris, reclaiming her creativity, and starting fresh on her own termsThis is a conversation about courage, clarity, and what it means to pivot with grace — not because you failed, but because you grew.Follow Nik Cherwink here:https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwinkAnd visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:https://www.nikcherwink.com

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 showsWhy she waited a full year before going on tour — and how she knew the timing was rightThe emotional and somatic signals she listens to when making big career decisionsHow to avoid burnout and comparison while still building a successful brandWhy putting yourself out there on socials is a non-negotiable — even if it feels scaryIf you’re building something meaningful and want to do it on your own terms, this one’s for you.Follow Steller here: https://www.instagram.com/stellersoundsFollow Nik Cherwink here:https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwinkAnd visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:https://www.nikcherwink.com

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 craftWhy burning out every week was part of the process—and how she finally learned to manage itHer journey to finding community, mentorship and her teamThe truth about building your own universe as an artistHow her fans helped support through her darkest timesWhether you’re just starting out or already on tour, this one is packed with gems about grinding, leveling up, and staying connected to your WHY.Tune in for a powerful reminder: You can do anything you set your mind to—but you can’t skip the steps.Follow Nostalgix here: https://www.instagram.com/nostalgixmusicFollow Nik Cherwink here:https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwinkAnd visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:https://www.nikcherwink.com

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 keeps so many artists stuck.We get into:How to stay connected to your purpose when social media takes overThe trap of chasing external validation (and how to break free from it)The common challenge of imposter syndrome Simple tools to rewire your brain and create lasting mindset shiftsWhy mindfulness is the antidote to burnout — and how to actually practice itWhether you’re trying to grow your brand, build momentum, or just keep your sanity intact, this one’s full of grounded wisdom and real talk.🎧 Tune in, take notes, and share it with a friend who needs it.Follow Dr. Sunni here:https://www.instagram.com/shaping_successFollow Nik Cherwink here:https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwinkAnd visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:https://www.nikcherwink.com

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, we dive deep into the real strategies artists can use to grow their audience — from running ads to creating engaging content and everything in between.We get into:How to use lookalike audiences and retargeting to grow beyond your current fanbaseWhy so many artists waste money on ads — and how to do it rightWhat makes a brand “stick” — and how to become instantly recognizableHow to think about content, aesthetic, and social presence like a real businessThis is a no-fluff breakdown of what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to building a real career in electronic music today.—🎧 Want to work with me directly to grow your audience and brand? Book a free strategy call here: https://www.nikcherwink.com📲 Follow Geoff: @geoffshames📲 Follow Nik: @nikcherwink

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 visibleChoosing creative fulfillment over algorithmic successHow his sound and brand have evolved over timeThe freedom that comes with knowing who you are as an artistWhether you’re just starting out or deep in your career, this conversation is a reminder to trust your gut, play the long game, and make art that actually matters.—📲 Follow PhaseOne: Instagram: @phaseonemusic🎧 Ready to take your artist career to the next level? Book a free call to see if coaching is a good fit: https://www.nikcherwink.com

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 you.Follow DAW Nation here:https://www.dawnation.nethttps://www.instagram.com/daw_nation Follow Nik Cherwink here:https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwinkAnd visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:https://www.nikcherwink.com

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 just followers.🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn:Why most DJs fail to grow on social media (and what to do instead)How to pick one platform and master itHow SoundCloud became a powerful social tool againDM hacks, Instagram bio tips, and audience-building strategiesTools like ManyChat and ChatGPT that are changing the game for artist marketingWhy YouTube might be the best platform for DJs right nowThe mindset shift from “content creator” to business ownerWe also dive into Grahame’s new book, Gather, Give & Grow, and how he used AI to write it — plus the launch strategy that got it to #1 on Amazon.Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your project to the next level, this is a deep, practical conversation full of gems.🎧 Follow Grahame: https://www.instagram.com/grahamefarmerhttps://www.youtube.com/@grahamefarmerdthttps://www.grahamefarmer.com/the-artist-accelerator Follow Nik Cherwink here:https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwinkAnd visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:https://www.nikcherwink.com

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 walk away from the “safe” pathThe moment he knew grad school wasn’t for himHow he built a team around his project Building a character, a brand, and a movement in bass musicThe importance of staying inspired and avoiding burnout as a creatorIf you're an artist trying to find your sound, your lane, or your voice — this conversation will remind you that you don’t need permission to go all in.Follow Nikita The Wicked here:https://www.instagram.com/nikitathewickedhttps://www.tiktok.com/@nikitathewickedFollow Nik Cherwink here:https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwinkAnd visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:https://www.nikcherwink.com

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 authenticity, consistency, and feeding the "feeling" has played in building his project. We also explore the realities of balancing a full-time job while growing a music career, the decision to go all-in, and the lessons he's learned about trusting the process.Follow Wes Mills here:https://www.instagram.com/itswesmillshttps://www.tiktok.com/@itswesmillsFollow Nik Cherwink here:https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwinkAnd visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:https://www.nikcherwink.com

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 talk about:What it really takes to get noticed in today’s music industryThe mindset shift that helped him finally let go of perfectionWhy knowing who you are is the key to building your brandHow he turned his Patreon into a sustainable income streamIf you're trying to hit that next level in your artist career, this one will give you some great tips and guidance.Follow Proppa here:https://www.instagram.com/itsproppahttps://www.patreon.com/proppaFollow Nik Cherwink here:https://www.instagram.com/nikcherwinkAnd visit my site to join the mailing list or book a free coaching call:https://www.nikcherwink.com

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 that help artists move from burnout and self-doubt to clarity, momentum, and creative flow. If you’ve been grinding, posting, and still feel like nothing’s clicking—this one’s for you.Inside this episode:Why most artists stay stuck (and how to shift out of it)The hidden mindset blocks behind burnoutHow to build consistent energy and creative momentumThe real key to growing your career from the inside out