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Yes, Quit Your Day Job

Yes, Quit Your Day Job

By: Seven Dunbar
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About this listen

Yes, Quit Your Day Job is a real-talk podcast for music industry creatives. Hosted by award-winning, multi-platinum producer Seven Dunbar, each episode dives deep into the challenges and breakthroughs of building a sustainable career in music. From artists and audio engineers to tour crew, booking agents, content creators, and label insiders—we spotlight the people who make the machine move. These are the unfiltered stories behind the grind—and the choices that changed everythingCopyright 2025 All rights reserved. Music
Episodes
  • YQYDJ: Ep 5 Ready for Anything: The Road Life of Eric Bergen
    Jul 8 2025

    In this episode, Eric Bergen shares his journey as a multi-instrumentalist and the importance of adaptability in the music industry. He discusses his early musical influences, the challenges of touring, and the dynamics of joining established bands. Eric emphasizes the significance of mental health on the road, the creative process, and the need for aspiring musicians to have a backup plan. He also reflects on his future aspirations and the desire to create music that resonates with his children.

    Takeaways

    Eric Bergen emphasizes the importance of adaptability in the music industry. His early musical influences shaped his career path significantly. Touring can be mentally exhausting, requiring a strong support system. Handling on-stage challenges is crucial for a successful performance. Mental health is a key aspect of life on the road for musicians. Collaboration and outside perspectives are vital for creative growth. Having a backup plan is essential for aspiring musicians. Eric's passion for live performance drives his career choices. He aims to create music that his children can appreciate. The camaraderie among musicians is a valuable part of the experience.

    Sound Bites

    "I shit my pants on tour." "Don't do so much bad stuff." "Have a backup plan, not just Plan B."

    Keywords

    Eric Bergen, music career, touring life, band dynamics, creative process, musician advice, live performance, music industry, adaptability, mental health

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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • YQYDJ Ep 4: Suffer in Silence, Sing in Truth: Aaron Nordstrom on Loss, Identity, and the Long Road to Clarity
    Jul 2 2025

    In this episode, Aaron Nordstrom shares his journey from being a touring guitarist to the frontman of Gemini Syndrome and his solo project, Mannequin Music. He discusses the importance of taking risks, navigating personal challenges, and the impact of sobriety on his creativity. Aaron reflects on the early days of Gemini Syndrome, the excitement of touring, and the lessons learned along the way. He emphasizes the significance of gratitude and being open to new opportunities in the music industry. The conversation also touches on his exploration of acoustic performances and the creative process behind his new music.

    Takeaways

    Aaron Nordstrom discusses his evolution from a touring guitarist to a frontman. He emphasizes the importance of taking leaps of faith in one's career. The early days of Gemini Syndrome were filled with excitement and challenges. Navigating personal challenges has shaped his music and creativity. Sobriety has made touring and creativity more manageable for him. He finds joy in exploring acoustic performances and connecting with audiences. The creative process involves being emotionally transparent in songwriting. Gratitude plays a crucial role in his perspective on touring and success. He encourages artists to listen to their inner voice and take risks. The future holds new music and projects for Aaron Nordstrom.

    Aaron Nordstrom, Gemini Syndrome, Mannequin Music, music evolution, sobriety, acoustic performances, creative process, personal challenges, artist journey, gratitude

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • YQYDJ Ep 2. “Booking the Unbookable: Christina Graves on Rebuilding, Reputation, and Representing the Unconventional”
    Jun 17 2025
    In this episode, Sevan Dunbar interviews Christina Graves, founder of Last Rites Agency, discussing her unconventional journey in the music industry, the challenges faced, and the importance of advocating for artists. Christina shares her experiences transitioning from a band member to an audio engineer and event planner, and ultimately to running her own agency. The conversation highlights the significance of setting boundaries, building trust, and the evolving landscape of music, especially for female artists. Akeaways
    • Christina's journey in music began with a band and synthesizers.
    • She took a break from music to focus on audio engineering.
    • The idea for Last Rites Agency evolved from her experiences in the industry.
    • Advocacy for artists is a core principle of Christina's work.
    • Setting boundaries is crucial for sustainability in the music industry.
    • Christina emphasizes the importance of reassessing and restructuring.
    • Empathy plays a significant role in her approach to management.
    • She encourages open communication and understanding with artists.
    • The agency aims to support female representation in music.
    • Christina is excited about future collaborations and projects.
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    47 mins

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