Sitb

Every artist hits a moment where the question isn’t how do I grow — it’s what do I stand for now.This is our third time sitting down with King Topher, but this conversation marks a real next chapter. Because what started as a private prayer call for the music industry back in 2019 has quietly evolved into his latest project: Rave Jesus.At its core, this isn’t about changing lanes — it’s about expanding the mission. Taking everything he’s built in dance music and asking a bigger question: what does it look like when purpose, faith, and club culture exist in the same space?Rave Jesus reflects a desire to see God’s presence permeate every corner of the music world — regardless of what you believe, we have all felt something special on the dance floor. Today, we’re unpacking the strategy, the responsibility, and the reality of stepping into a new chapter — creatively, professionally, and publicly. Welcome back to the show… King Topher.

I’m sitting down with Iman Tucker — an Indy-based DJ and producer who’s also a fashion designer and the official DJ for the Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers, and Indiana Hoosiers.We talk about how sports culture influences music, what AI means for creativity moving forward, and why being honest with yourself might be the most important skill you can develop.This conversation is real, reflective, and packed with gems — let’s tap in.

From the Midwest to the heart of LA’s dance music industry—today we’re sitting with Ryan Roth, also known as Roy LaCroix and Driver405. He’s a DJ and producer who packed up from St. Louis, took a massive risk, and now works inside the world of Pioneer DJ—helping shape the future of AlphaTheta. We’re talking Midwest roots, house music obsession, and how he’s working to elevate what DJs and fans experience everywhere. This was a really fun episode and I'm so excited to share.Let's go!

Only in Chicago do you get a world-class pizza chef, his dad, and his grandpa — all talking family, legacy, and the culinary arts… all while Professor Pizza and I throw back Malört like it’s holy water.This is just one of those episodes. I had the pleasure of sitting down with my guy Tony Scardino, aka Professor Pizza — a chef, creative, and hometown hero who’s turned his obsession with pizza into a legit culinary movement.But here’s where it gets special — Tony’s family was in the city for his birthday so we decided to have his dad and grandpa join us. Three generations, one family, and enough stories to serve the whole restaurant.So grab a slice, pour yourself something questionable, and enjoy one of the most fun and authentic convos I’ve ever had on the show.

What do sports media broadcasters and DJs have in common? A nonstop grind fueled by passion and a love of the game. That’s the thread running through today’s episode — and the crazy part is, this story starts in the same place. Tony East and I both grew up in Zionsville, walked the same high school halls, and chased completely different careers. He went all-in on sports media and became one of the go-to voices for the Pacers and Fever. I dove headfirst into music and built my path as a DJ and podcaster. Two different arenas, but the same mindset: hustle, resilience, and chasing the dream. And now, years later, we’re linking up full circle — recording this conversation on a back porch in Zionsville, right where it all began. This is a very special episode that I'm sure you will enjoy!

Episode 182 features the one and only Tyler Morris AKA Westend!! I caught up with this tech house stallion last week while he was at home in NYC and had so much fun getting his full story. 

He built a 10,000-person Santa-themed party… and that’s not even the craziest thing he’s done in the music industry. Today on SITB, Wes Berger—San Diego entrepreneur, event producer, and all-around legend—shares how he went from Chicagoland kid to running some of the wildest events in SoCal… and the insane stories that came with it.This San Diego-based entrepreneur, talent buyer, label manager, event producer—and all-around solid dude— is a true legend. This guy’s done it all behind the scenes: from Santacon to Freedom Fest to Daisy Chain and Subsessions, Wes has built brands that pull serious crowds.He’s originally from Chicagoland, and in this episode he shares how he took a massive leap to the West Coast, the wins, the struggles, and some crazy industry stories along the way.You’ll also catch the dynamic between us—we’re longtime friends, which means plenty of roasting, plenty of laughs, and a lot of genuine insight into what it takes to thrive in this business.

It's been too long since I did an in person interview and I was quickly reminded why I love them so much - I had a BLAST getting the full story of one of Chicago's biggest rising acts in dance music, Levity! ⭐️John and PJ were kind enough to let me into their home for SITB 202 and we got it all in for this one In 202 we discussed:•Becoming Levity: John was born and raised in Chicagoland and PJ is from just outside Los Angeles and their paths crossed in college at Iowa. They immediately bonded over music and quickly became close friends. They both shared a true passion for music and decided to join forces and become Levity. They haven't looked back since! 

Not gonna sugar coat how excited I am about this one for even a second!! Episode 172 features 2 time Grammy Award winning DJ/Producer/Label Head and all around good guy CID ! I have been following him for over 7 years and am genuinely a massive fan. Truly honored to have this legend on the show and it was a blast getting his full story.

In September 2016 I started a journey that didn't have an end goal. I just wanted to do something that I would always enjoy and have no hesitation on consistency or passion. 249 episodes later I've interviewed over 200 guests ranging from DJs, producers, agents, talent buyers, entrepreneurs, and more. The most rewarding part is the relationships and friendships that have come from SITB. There has been a lot of ups and downs but sitting here today I can say for certain that this is my calling. The biggest thing I've learned is that the podcast has to make me happy first. If it doesn't, then why would anyone else want to listen or watch? Just look at my smile throughout this interview.Thank you to everyone that has supported me in any way, shape or form. Thank you to my friends and family for believing in me. Thank you to Olivia Mancuso for inspiring me and also keeping me on track during this interview... lol. Cheers to 250 episodes and here's to the future.This is still just the beginning

So you want to be a touring music artist?This live panel in Denver Coloardo will give you some perspective on how to make that happen. Featuring founder of 128 Productions and Denver talent buyer, Alex Padgett, DJ/Producer/Podcast Host Lizzy Jane, and DJ/Producer Housewife.This conversation goes into the realities on what it takes to go from a local DJ to a touring act and offers insights on how to get booked, build your brand, and create opportunities.Key Takeaways:-Why is it so hard to get gigs outside of the city you're based-How to build a career when your hometown doesn't support you-The strategy of representing your city while building elsewhere-Maintaining your brand through genuine connections -How to make money on tour and how to protect yourself-What talent buyers look for when booking artists-Why relationships matter and how to build them

Episode 249 features Chicago based but Detroit rooted DJ Nanoos - a Palenstian Armenian DJ who is making a big splash in the scene.We had an absolute blast sitting down in person and getting her full story and perspective on some hot topics in the industry right now. Nanoos is a real one on so many levels and there's good reason for his quick rise in following - she's a really good selector on the decks and fuses tons of different genres together in her sets creating one of a kind experiences for anyone who sees her. She's also got an insanely dope sense of fashion and charisma that had me hooked even before I met her. We chatted about the afro-house movement, the state of the scene in the US and what we think is to come, her tour that's taking her all over the country, and her plans for the future.

248 features an artist that I have over 50 tracks from and play at least 1 every set I perform. He goes by the name of BVRNOUT and if you aren't familiar with the name, I guarantee you've heard one of his remixes.Chris has an amazing story and it was so much fun talking about his journey from day 1 through now. He is a prolific producer with an expertise in remixes but has now started focusing on originals and creating his own label- BVRN'D Records - as a way to give himself a platform for his sound.He's been supported by some of the biggest DJs in the world like Loud Luxury and his music has helped many artists go viral on social media when they play a BVRNOUT record. I really mean it when I say that without BVNROUT remixes, this scene would be a different place and I certainly wouldn't be where I am without his music.

I can't begin to tell you how excited I am to share this interview because I've been a long time fan of this amazingly talented DJ/Producer who goes by the name of Max Styler! 

Our guest for today is Brad Sweet - the co-founder of Same Same But Different Festival and co-host of the Different Paths PodcastWe had such a great time getting into the origins of SSBD - for those that haven't heard of it, you need to. It takes place in Lake Perris, CA just outside of LA and San Diego. It's grown so much since their first run in 2018 and have had artists like Griz, Polo and Pan, Louis The Child, Big Wild and What So Not on - and that's just to name a few. We talked a lot about purpose, community and longevity and why these things matter when it comes to music festivals but that's what makes SSBD different - it's a truly special experience not just for the fans, but also the artists and they'll tell you that themselves! This is a truly unique festival because everyone contributes in their own way - the artists, the fans, and the staff. Really special.His podcast called "Different Paths" explores the stories of creatives and gets deep into their journeys - he

Episode 246 features SoCal based DJ/Producer XIE - We have been trying to line up a date for an interview for a minute and I'm so glad we found some time to connectXIE is truly a unique talent not just because of her history as a classically trained musician but also her approach and perspective on what her intentions are on her journey as an artist.It's all about the music to XIE and I couldn't agree more - we got deep on topics like purpose, finding your sonic identity, support DJ sets vs headlining, and so much more. XIE you are a real one and I had so much fun talking with you and I'm sure everyone else will enjoy this episode as well!

SITB 245 features Chicago House Music legend Terry Hunter - a 3x grammy nominated DJ, Producer and label owner who needs no introduction. Many of you know how passionate I am about the history of Chicago House Music and to have a 1-1 conversation with this icon just a few blocks away from the Warehouse is truly surreal. Terry and I got connected through Chicago Music Nexus where he sat on a panel that I moderated called Adapt Or Die: Cultivating Resilience. His attitude on the past present and future of the music industry is refreshing, authentic and genuine - we share a lot of the same beliefs and perspectives which is why the energy was incredible from start to finish during this interview.

We have a returning guest and dear friend of mine who many of you know - the wildy talented Colton Bachar! Our conversation last year was so well-received that we knew it was time to run it back. Colton's experience as a videographer and editor goes far beyond the basic levels of creativity - he takes everything to the next level and it's been really special to see the work he has been putting out and the people he's collaborating with.We can't help but get deep whenever we talk and this episode goes straight into it. I know you will all enjoy this from the beginning to the end. Enjoy!

There is nothing better than meeting an internet friend, especially when it's the one and only R3Wire!! Timing worked out perfectly because he was playing in Chicago for his first ever US Tour and we got together on a Sunday afternoon to chat it up. What a great conversation from start to finish - he is seriously a real one on every level. He is one of the most prolific DJ's in the game and has hit after hit which only amplifies his live sets and not to mention he's the A&R and label manager for one of the most respected labels in house music - Stereohype.  I don't want to tease too much but you're going to want to listen to this one from front to the back - it's filled with amazing stories and perspectives that anyone can relate to.  Much love my friend and thanks for coming on the show

Episode 242 features Chicago based DJ/Producer duo Pods! My boys Mike and Dom stopped by and we had such a great conversation the entire time. Many of you are already familiar with Pods because I've had 2 really successful collaborations with them and more on the way - they are really talented producers with good heads on their shoulders too. I believe in their vision and am a huge fan of them. This interview has it all and it was so much fun swapping stories, talking shop (music and basketball related) and what their plans are for the future. Big year comin for the boys!!