The Key to a Happier, Healthier, & More Fulfilling Career with Tour Manager Mary Jo Kaczka

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: @kellyappletonguitar Kelly's Website Join Our Community for Exclusive Content & More! Follow Janine on Instagram: https://instagram.com/j9richards Official Podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/thetourlifepodcast Join us on Q101 Chicago: https://instagram.com/q101chicago Support the show: Share this episode to help our community grow! Subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. Review us on Apple Podcasts or rate us on Spotify—your feedback is crucial for our improvement! 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.

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: @thehomster The Conference LIVE at Lititz Join Our Community for Exclusive Content & More! Follow Janine on Instagram: @j9richards Official Podcast Instagram: @thetourlifepodcast Join us on Q101 Chicago: @q101chicago Support The Tour Life: Share this episode to help our community grow! Subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. Review us on Apple Podcasts or rate us on Spotify—your feedback is crucial for our improvement! 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.

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: @tmaceyt Join Our Community for Exclusive Content & More! Follow Janine on Instagram: @j9richards Official Podcast Instagram: @thetourlifepodcast Join us on Q101 Chicago: @q101chicago Support The Tour Life: Share this episode to help our community grow! Subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. Review us on Apple Podcasts or rate us on Spotify—your feedback is crucial for our improvement! 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.

Mary Jo Kaczka is a tour manager and tour accountant who 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: @missmjk Tour Management 101 Join Our Community for Exclusive Content & More! @j9richards @thetourlifepodcast @q101chicago Support the show: Share this episode to help our community grow! Subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. Review us on Apple Podcasts or rate us on Spotify—your feedback is crucial for our improvement! 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.

Adam Wayne is a touring and session bassist who has worked with Jenny Lewis, Greta Morgan, and members of bands like Family of Geniuses, Springtime Carnivore, and Hellogoodbye among others. In this episode, Adam shares his journey through the music industry and discusses the realities of life on the road, the importance of financial planning, and managing band dynamics. His insights and personal experiences highlight the importance of open communication and adaptability in navigating the music business. Chapters: [00:00] - Introduction [00:01:34] - Interview Part 1: Starting in music and first big tours [00:14:31] - Interview Part 2: The challenges of touring and financial management [00:42:19] - Interview Part 3: Maintaining personal relationships and balancing life In this episode, you'll learn about: Strategies for balancing personal relationships while on tour The importance of clear and upfront communication about finances in the music industry Managing the highs and lows of touring life and staying grounded Connect with Adam: @adamwithpicture  @villekullaband  @familyofgeniuses  Join our community for exclusive content, engaging discussions, and the first look at our events and giveaways! @j9richards @thetourlifepodcast @q101chicago Support the show: Share this podcast episode with your network and help us grow our community. Subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts to not miss our future episodes. Please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or rate us on Spotify; your feedback helps us improve and reach a broader audience. 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.

Marc Walloch, is a musician who has toured with Beck, AWOLNATION, Walk The Moon, Juliette Lewis, and Company of Thieves. This episode dives deep into Marc's journey from the local Chicago music scene to international tours, revealing the realities of life as a touring musician. He shares personal stories of on-stage triumphs and the often overlooked challenges of returning to everyday life after months on the road. Marc also offers invaluable advice for aspiring musicians on navigating the complexities of the music industry, from handling failures to building a sustainable career. Whether you're an emerging artist seeking guidance or a music enthusiast curious about the behind-the-scenes dynamics of touring, this conversation provides essential insights into the professional music world. Join us to learn from Marc Walloch's experiences and discover what it takes to succeed in the competitive landscape of touring musicians.Chapters: [00:00] The Journey of a Touring Musician [18:47] Life Lessons and Wellness on the Road [28:37] The Thrill of Hockey and Last-Minute Stage Changes [31:10] Embracing Uncertainty and the Power of Asking Questions [33:49] The Journey from Local Gigs to Touring Life [53:38] Real Honest Advice for Aspiring Musicians In the episode: Journey of a Musician: Marc discusses his musical career from his early influences and his initial interest in music, to his experiences playing with bands like Company of Thieves and touring with well-known acts like Beck and AWOLNATION. Life on Tour: Insights into the daily realities of touring life, including the challenges and excitement of being on the road, adapting to different environments, and the camaraderie among tour members. Personal Growth and Development: Marc talks about the personal changes and growth he experienced through his career, emphasizing the importance of adapting, learning from failures, and the transformative power of music in his life. Navigating Challenges: The conversation touches on how to handle various challenges that arise in the music industry, from dealing with band breakups to the pressures of maintaining a public image and personal relationships. Creating Music and Collaborations: Marc shares his experiences in songwriting, collaborations, and the creative process, highlighting how these collaborations have influenced his musical style and career. Advice for Aspiring Musicians: Throughout the episode, Marc offers advice for upcoming musicians, sharing tips on perseverance, the importance of passion for music, and practical advice on navigating the industry. Join our community: @j9richards @thetourlifepodcast @q101chicago Connect with Marc: @spill_sounds See Marc on tour with @AWOLNATION Feeling inspired by Marc's journey and insights on personal growth and community support in the music industry? Join the conversation and share how music has shaped your life! Connect with us on social media to celebrate the power of music and its ability to connect us, no matter the challenges we face.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rachel Pfenning Hales shares her journey from working with the Black Eyed Peas and Lynyrd Skynyrd to contributing to the live event culture as Experience Manager at Rock Lititz. We explore the hidden world of live event crew members and the roadmap to a fulfilling career on the road. Rachel discusses her book 'Tour Book', offering an in-depth view of a roadie's life which challenges common misconceptions about the touring industry. The conversation encompasses the importance of asking questions, the transition from theory to practical knowledge in the industry, and the evolving landscape of live events, including the impact of COVID-19. Rachel opens up about personal growth, the crucial balance between professional commitments and self-care, and the power of community within the industry. This episode shines a light on the unnoticed efforts of the live event crews and the intricate dynamics of working in the music and event industries. Chapters: [00:00] Introduction to Rachel Pfenning Hales and Rock Lititz [02:09] From Starting in Theatre to Touring with Top Music Acts [13:12] The Why Behind Tour Book [27:52] Lessons Learned and Shared from Life on the Road [36:02] The Impact of Mentorship and Education in Shaping Careers Key Topics Discussed: Career transitions within the live event industry Insights into the daily challenges and rewards of tour life The importance of mentorship and community in navigating a non-traditional career path The role of personal experiences in shaping professional insights and writings Future trends and shifts in the live event industry post-pandemic Connect with Rachel: @rapfenhales @rocklititz Tour Book available on Amazon and other major platforms Join our community: @j9richards @thetourlifepodcast @q101chicago See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Teddy Kwo is a proud trans man and talented bassist. In this episode, he shares his inspiring journey from a self-taught musician in the grassroots DIY scene of the Pacific Northwest to performing on international stages alongside Beth Ditto. We delve deep into the essential topic of safety protocols and the creation of inclusive spaces, especially in regions where being openly queer is challenging. Teddy opens up about his personal narrative, discussing the supportive community of the Pacific Northwest during his transition, the vibrant DIY music scene and the critical role physical activities play in staying grounded amidst the chaos of touring. Our discussion further branches into the intricacies of tour life, revealing insights on managing personal safety, cultural interactions, and financial sustainability amidst the backdrop of an ever-changing global music landscape.Chapters: [0:00] Navigating the Music World as a Proud Trans Man with Gossip Bassist Teddy Kwo [01:30] The Evolution of a Music Career: From DIY to Professional Touring [07:31] Navigating the World of Music: Safety, Culture, and Community [19:03] New Experiences and Challenges on Tour [42:46] Life Off the Road: Home, Projects, and Personal Time What's Inside: Safety Discussions: Teddy highlights the importance of knowing emergency exits and staying alert, especially in venues with historical safety incidents (e.g., Bataclan). Cultural Sensitivity: In-depth discussion about respecting and understanding local cultures while touring internationally to avoid misunderstandings and foster positive interactions. Community Support: Teddy emphasizes the role of the tour manager in maintaining safety and the supportive community that forms among tour members, contributing to a safer and more enjoyable experience. Advocacy for Trans Visibility: Throughout the episode, Teddy discusses his role as a trans man in the music industry, advocating for visibility and inclusion, which is a recurring theme enriching the conversation. Join our community: @j9richards @thetourlifepodcast @q101chicago Connect with Teddy and Gossip: @teddykwo @gossipmusicofficial Feeling inspired to elevate inclusivity in your community? Share your own experiences and thoughts with us! Connect with us to join the conversation on social media and help promote a movement towards a more inclusive world. #tourlife #prideSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jim Digby, the legendary tour manager behind Linkin Park, Backstreet Boys, and Enrique Iglesias, shares groundbreaking insights on creating a healthier, more supportive environment in the high-pressure world of music tours. Discover the transformative strategies and personal revelations that Jim has learned through decades of navigating the ups and downs of tour life. From fostering empathetic leadership to implementing mental health first aid, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone looking to cultivate positivity and resilience in their professional and personal lives. Whether you're a fan of the music, a professional in the industry, or just someone passionate about workplace wellness, Jim's experiences and advice offer invaluable lessons on taking accountability for toxic behavior making impactful changes for a better, more sustainable and inclusive work environment. Featured Moments: [00:17] Behind the Scenes with Jim Digby  [01:46] Jim's Journey into Live Events  [10:54] Empathetic Leadership  [25:20] Mental Health First Aid: Chester Bennington  [39:55] Toolbox Talks: Integrating Mental Health [47:26] Boundaries: Work-Life Balance, and Self-Care  Useful Links: Event Safety Alliance - For resources on creating safer event environments. Mental Health First Aid Training - Equip yourself with the tools to support mental well-being in your workplace. Behind the Scenes Charity - Mental health and wellness resources tailored for the entertainment industry. Feeling inspired by Jim’s journey towards a healthier workplace? Share your own experiences and thoughts with us! Connect with us at to join the conversation on social media and help promote a movement towards better workplace health and leadership. #tourlife #workplacewellness Join our community: @j9richards @thetourlifepodcast @q101chicago Connect with Jim Digby: LinkedIn Instagram Twitter Facebook  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Hershman's work has been published by NPR, The Grammys, Rolling Stone, Paste, and Consequence of Sound, among others. His stories of touring with bands straight out of high school, transitioning into filmmaking with a simple Nikon camera feature, and eventually becoming a Nikon Ambassador shed light on the power of persistence, creativity, and the importance of gratitude. From capturing live sessions with the Alabama Shakes and Brittany Howard to touring with Switchfoot and embracing the freelance life, Chris's narrative is a testament to following one's passion against all odds. Join us as we dive deep into Chris's journey, his reflections on personal growth, and his advice for aspiring creatives. Featured Moments:  [00:00:00] Introduction to Chris Hershman  [00:01:42] Early Days & Inspirations  [00:03:54] The Leap of Faith: Touring with Bands  [00:07:39] From Guitar Center to Filmmaking  [00:19:59] Navigating Freelance Challenges  [00:22:16] Gear, Travel, and Financial Management  [00:27:23] Finding Work-Life Balance  [00:44:34] Chris's Advice for Aspiring Creatives  Join our community: @j9richards  @thetourlifepodcast @q101chicago  Explore more about Chris Hershman:   @chrishershman  https://chrishershman.com  Alabama Shakes Music video filmed by Chris For those who love deep-dives into creative processes, behind-the-scenes stories of the music industry, and heartfelt discussions on navigating life's challenges, this episode is a must-listen. Follow @j9richards for updates, reflections, and more exclusive content from The Tour Life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.