The Tour Life

Well Better Best

Stories from music industry professionals about life on & off the road to help you lead a happier & healthier life. Hosted by Janine, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and NASM-CPT. Follow on Instagram @thetourlifepodcast & check out thetourlifepodcast.com.

  • 58 minutes 34 seconds
    What Starting My Music Career Behind the Scenes at WWE Taught Me About Work with Live Sound Engineer Jair Crews

    Jair Crews has worked with 21 Savage, JID, Dominic Fike, Brockhampton, Lil Mosey, and Kid Ink. In this episode, Jair shares his unique experiences, including his foundational work on a WWE production, which helped shape his efficient workflow. The discussion also delves into mental health, the importance of chasing dreams, and an amusing story about Jair trying an orange for the first time in Perth, Australia. He emphasizes the value of maintaining strong support systems, capturing memorable moments, and the pivotal role of mentorship in his career journey.

    Chapters:

    • [00:00] Welcome to The Tour Life with Janine Richards
    • [02:56] Jair Cruz's Journey into Live Sound
    • [07:37] Behind the Scenes of WWE Productions
    • [27:55] Realizing the Need for Change
    • [30:48] The Power of Mentorship and Community
    • [35:22] Chasing Dreams and Seizing Opportunities

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    27 August 2024, 8:28 pm
  • 1 hour 2 minutes
    Building Professional Relationships in the Music Industry with Security Director Sarge Villarreal

    David 'Sarge' Villarreal has worked with Sabrina Carpenter, Alison Wonderland, Whyte Fang, SZA, Lizzo, Maroon 5, Kendrick Lamar, and Ziggy Marley. We delve into his incredible journey from working in construction to becoming a key player in the music industry's security sector. We talk about the importance of building professional relationships, managing life on the road to avoid burnout, and the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life. Sarge shares valuable insights on adapting to new industry norms and stresses the significance of mutual respect and thorough preparation. Join me as we explore the intricate and often unseen world of tour security and its far-reaching impact on both personal and professional realms.

    Chapters: 

    • [00:00] Welcome to The Tour Life
    • [00:54] From Construction to Coachella: Sarge's Journey Begins
    • [04:34] Navigating the Music Industry: Lessons and Challenges
    • [31:45] Navigating Tour Life: Building Relationships and Conflict Resolution
    • [39:23] Balancing Family and Career: Personal Stories and Challenges
    • [51:24] Adapting to New Normals: Insights and Future Outlook

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    7 August 2024, 3:41 pm
  • 59 minutes 9 seconds
    The Value of Authenticity in High-Stress Environments with Sound Designer Rayna Zemel

    Rayna Zemel has worked with Lana Del Rey, Dua Lipa, Pentatonix, The Lonely Island, and Keisza. In this episode, Rayna discusses her unexpected journey into the music industry, the mental health challenges associated with touring, and the significance of community. She shares personal anecdotes about handling high-stress situations, combating post-tour depression, and the importance of advocacy for better working conditions, including providing healthcare for touring crews. The episode underscores the value of emotional intelligence, the power of community, and the need for systemic changes to support those in the live music industry.

    Chapters:

    • [00:00] Welcome to The Tour Life
    • [0:59] Rayna Zemel's Journey into Music
    • [04:28] Touring and Mental Health Insights
    • [31:11] Understanding Post-Tour Depression
    • [33:57] The Importance of Community and Connection
    • [39:01] Advocating for Better Working Conditions

    Connect with Rayna:

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    22 July 2024, 10:37 pm
  • 58 minutes 55 seconds
    Turning Setbacks into Comebacks with Tour Manager Adam Labov

    Adam Labov has worked with The Linda Lindas, Rüfüs Du Sol, Nico Vega, Mini Mansions, The Record Company, The Growlers, Crash Kings, Crooked Colours and Princess. In this episode, Adam shares his journey in the music industry, the challenges he faced, including overcoming severe illness leading to a kidney transplant, and the immense support he received along the way. He also delves into his passion for travel, the significance of questioning authority, and the importance of stepping back from the digital world to maintain mental health. The conversation is a deep dive into finding happiness, setting boundaries, and realizing the value of community and curiosity.

    Chapters:

    • [00:00] Welcome to The Tour Life with Janine Richards
    • [05:05] Adam Labov's Journey in the Music Industry
    • [09:22] Overcoming Challenges and Giving Back
    • [31:58] The Importance of Questioning Authority
    • [35:49] Navigating the Digital World
    • [44:19] Lessons from a Life of Travel

    Connect with Adam:

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    14 July 2024, 11:16 pm
  • 50 minutes 24 seconds
    Keeping the Band and Fans Safe with Shinedown Security Director John Guarnieri

    John Gaurnieri is Shinedown's Security Director, a former U.S. Secret Service member, and COO of Silver Spear Security. In this episode, we discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the music industry, his experiences touring during the pandemic, and the innovative measures taken to ensure safety at live events. Gaurnieri also shares insights into launching his podcast 'Spear Talk,' aimed at continuous learning and growth. We also cover his career journey, creative solutions for holding safe concerts, and the importance of adapting to new challenges in the industry.

    Chapters:

    • [00:00] Introduction and Guest Overview
    • [01:18] John Gaurnieri's Career Journey
    • [06:25] Touring During the Pandemic
    • [25:20] Navigating State Regulations for Live Events
    • [27:18] Creative Solutions for Safe Concerts
    • [37:45] Launching the Spear Talk Podcast

    Connect with John:

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    7 July 2024, 6:33 pm
  • 1 hour 9 minutes
    Losing Use of My Hand Almost Ruined My Touring Career & Other Cautionary Tales with Guitar Tech Nick Bataran

    Nick Bataran has worked with Jenny Lewis, Gossip, The Kills, and Bruno Mars. Nick shares his journey through a severe medical condition involving his hand, delving into his terrifying and frustrating experience with radial nerve palsy. He also opens up about the challenges and learnings of living on the road, the complexities of creative work, and the importance of maintaining relationships and mental health amid a demanding tour life. Through humorous anecdotes and candid reflections, Nick offers valuable insights into the music industry's behind-the-scenes and life on tour.

    Chapters:

    • [00:00] Introduction and Guest Introduction
    • [01:01] Nick's Medical Journey
    • [14:57] Life on Tour and Industry Insights
    • [34:58] Nick's Creative Process and Challenges
    • [40:51] Dealing with Creative Insomnia
    • [46:44] Life on the Road and Maintaining Relationships

    Connect with Nick:

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    28 June 2024, 7:15 pm
  • 48 minutes 4 seconds
    What You Need to Know Before Touring So You Don't End Up Broke & Depressed with Musician Nathan Graham

    Nathan Graham shares his experiences and lessons learned from years of touring with artists like Buddy Guy, BB King, Koko Taylor, and Yelawolf. Nathan talks about the highs and lows of touring, his stint on The Voice, and how he keeps himself healthy and sane on the road. Tune in to discover valuable insights on communication, work-life balance, and unexpected challenges faced by musicians.

    Chapters:

    • [00:00] Welcome to The Tour Life
    • [00:39] Nathan Graham's Musical Journey
    • [07:30] Life on the Road: Challenges and Lessons
    • [24:58] Reflecting on Performances and Overseas Experiences
    • [29:32] Challenges of Touring and Maintaining Relationships
    • [36:18] Finding Balance and Personal Growth

    Connect with Nathan:

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    18 June 2024, 8:17 pm
  • 48 minutes 51 seconds
    The Wellness Non-Negotiables of Touring: Inside the Life of Guitarist Kelly Appleton

    Kelly Appleton is a session and touring guitarist who has collaborated with a wide range of artists including Beth Ditto, Tricky, Nicola Roberts, and Craig David. Kelly shares her journey from the UK to the US, the challenges she faced in the music industry, and how she found community and opportunities in LA. They discuss her love for touring, the balance between work and personal life, and the importance of staying adaptable and resourceful. Kelly also talks about the benefits of running while on tour, dealing with rejection, and the influence of various musical genres on her style. This inspiring conversation sheds light on the life of a musician on the road and the intricacies of maintaining a career in the ever-evolving world of music.

    Chapters:

    • [00:00] Introduction and Guest Overview
    • [00:57] Kelly's Journey to America
    • [04:31] Life on Tour and Personal Insights
    • [24:34] The Journey to Becoming a Musician
    • [26:41] Navigating the Music Industry
    • [34:08] Balancing Life and Career

    Connect with Kelly:

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    Follow Janine on Instagram: https://instagram.com/j9richards

    Official Podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/thetourlifepodcast

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    Support the show:

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    11 June 2024, 9:30 am
  • 54 minutes 12 seconds
    The Do's and Don'ts of Tour Management with The Rolling Stones Tour Director Marty Hom

    Marty Hom has worked with The Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac, Barbra Streisand, Lenny Kravitz, Chicago, Paula Abdul, Alicia Keys, Shakira, Janet Jackson, and Beyonce. In this episode, Marty shares his journey through the music industry and discusses taking a leap of faith by leaving the family business to pursue a non-traditional path, how the industry can provide healthcare for touring professionals, the importance of educating people about the industry to create diversity in touring, the path to fulfillment in your career, and adapting to home life when you get off the road. He provides valuable insights and personal experiences that highlight the importance of passion, work ethic, and diversity.

    Chapters:

    • [00:00] - Introduction
    • [00:01:31] - Taking a Leap of Faith in the Music Industry
    • [00:06:00] - Building and Trusting Your Team
    • [00:27:00] - The Future of Healthcare and Diversity in Touring

    Key Takeaways:

    • Marty Hom discusses the importance of taking a leap of faith in pursuing a career in the music industry despite the uncertainties and lack of a traditional path.
    • He emphasizes the necessity of building a trustworthy and reliable team and how the right attitude and work ethic are crucial for success.
    • Marty highlights the need for healthcare for touring professionals and the importance of increasing diversity within the industry.

    Connect with Marty:

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    Support The Tour Life:

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    Thank you for tuning in! Be sure to catch the next episode for more exclusive insights and stories from the music industry.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    28 May 2024, 6:35 am
  • 56 minutes 21 seconds
    Challenges, Social Dynamics, and Insights from a Life on the Road with Bright Eyes Bassist Macey Taylor

    Macey Taylor has collaborated and toured with Conor Oberst, Bright Eyes, Jenny Lewis, The Grenadines, Wilder Atkins, Maria Taylor, Jesse Marchant, and Amanda Shires. In this episode, Macey shares his journey through the music industry and discusses the challenges of touring, the importance of social dynamics, and maintaining personal well-being on the road. His valuable insights and personal experiences highlight the balance between career and personal life in the demanding world of music.

    Chapters:

    • [00:00] - Introduction
    • [00:51:00] - Interview Part 1: The Touring Lifestyle
    • [00:21:56] - Interview Part 2: Finding Balance
    • [00:45:19] - Interview Part 3: Words of Advice

    Key Takeaways:

    • The significance of social dynamics and communal living in touring
    • The impact of long tours on personal relationships and well-being
    • Strategies for maintaining health and personal sanity on the road

    Connect with Macey:

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    Support The Tour Life:

    • Share this episode to help our community grow!
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    Thank you for tuning in! Be sure to catch the next episode for more exclusive insights and stories from the music industry.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    21 May 2024, 9:30 am
  • 55 minutes 51 seconds
    Reducing Stigma By Talking About Your Own Mental Health with Tour Manager Mary Jo Kaczka

    Mary Jo Kaczka has worked with Beth Ditto, Tool, Florence + The Machine, Beck, Bassnectar, Ryan Adams, Bauhaus, King Crimson, and Kraftwerk, among many others. In this episode, Mary Jo shares her journey through the music industry and discusses personal growth, mental health, and navigating the unpredictable world of tour management, providing valuable insights and personal experiences that highlight the importance of resilience and self-awareness.

    Chapters:

    • [00:00] - Introduction
    • [00:01:25] - Interview Part 1: Early Inspirations and Deciding on a Career in Tour Management
    • [00:15:06] - Interview Part 2: Challenges and Achievements in Tour Management
    • [00:28:28] - Interview Part 3: Navigating Mental Health and Personal Growth

    Key Takeaways:

    • Understanding the influence of early experiences on career choices in the music industry.
    • Practical advice on building a career in tour management through persistence and networking.
    • Insights on handling mental health issues and the importance of self-awareness and support networks.

    Connect with Mary Jo:

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    Support the show:

    • Share this episode to help our community grow!
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    Thank you for tuning in! Be sure to catch the next episode for more exclusive insights and stories from the music industry.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    15 May 2024, 1:04 am
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