Business Side of Music

What does it really take to build a sustainable music career? In this episode of The Business Side of Music Podcast, Sarah Fleshner talks with Dillon Carmichael about navigating Nashville, overcoming early setbacks, and turning talent into a long-term career.
Dillon shares insider lessons on artist development, building the right team, touring strategies, songwriting, and growing fans organically. If you’re an aspiring musician, songwriter, or industry professional, this episode gives practical insights into the business side of music you won’t find anywhere else.

https://dilloncarmichael.com/

Most independent artists focus on making music and plan to figure out the business side later—but that approach can lead to missed income and unnecessary headaches.

In this solo episode of The Business Side of Music, host Sarah Fleshner shares key steps independent artists can take to properly set up the foundation of their music business. Drawing from over a decade of experience in the music industry, Sarah walks through practical things artists should consider early in their careers—from setting up a business structure and separating finances to registering songs and building a direct-to-fan audience.

This episode is based on industry experience and perspective, not legal or financial advice, but it offers a clear look at what many successful independent artists do to build sustainable careers.

Because while great music gets attention, great business keeps the career alive.

Resources:
https://www.copyright.gov/registration/performing-arts/
https://www.362entertainment.com/

To stay in the loop, follow Business Side of Music on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for updates, resources, and new episodes.Follow us:Facebook: @tbsompodcastInstagram: @bsompodcastTikTok: @bsompodcastThe Touring Playbook for Independent ArtistsVisit www.businesssideofmusicpodcast.com© 362 Entertainment 2026. All rights reserved.

What separates a good live performance from a show that builds lifelong fans?
In this episode of Business Side of Music, host Sarah Fleshner sits down with live music producer Amy Wolter of Tom Jackson Productions to break down the psychology behind unforgettable concerts. From stage presence and authority to setlist strategy and audience connection, this conversation unpacks how artists can design intentional “moments” that increase ticket sales, boost merch revenue, and turn casual listeners into loyal fans.
You’ll learn:
• Why the first 30 seconds on stage matter more than you think
• How to structure a setlist that takes audiences on a journey
• The small changes (like eye contact) that dramatically improve engagement
• Why live performance drives 90–95% of artist income
• How confidence, preparation, and stage authority impact your brand
If you're an independent artist, band, or music industry professional looking to grow through touring and live shows, this episode gives you practical, actionable strategies you can implement immediately.
Because in today’s music industry, streams introduce you — but your live show builds the business.

Resources:
https://onstagesuccess.com/
https://onstagesuccess.com/merch-table/

To stay in the loop, follow Business Side of Music on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for updates, resources, and new episodes.
Follow us:
Facebook: @tbsompodcast
Instagram: @bsompodcast
TikTok: @bsompodcastThe Touring Playbook for Independent Artists
Visit www.businesssideofmusicpodcast.com
© 362 Entertainment 2026. All rights reserved.

In this solo episode of Business Side of Music, host Sarah Fleshner breaks down the step-by-step touring framework every independent artist needs to tour professionally, even without a big team.

You’ll learn how to:
• Build a professional EPK that booking agents actually open
• Write a booking email that gets responses
• Use data (Spotify for Artists, Bandsintown, Songkick) to choose the right markets
• Route and organize shows using tools like TourSmart and BookingAgent.io
• Lock in pay, merch splits, and promo expectations
• Advance shows, create day sheets, and run smooth show days
• Work the merch table, follow up properly, and get rebooked
• Review tour data and refine your strategy for long-term growth

This episode is designed for independent artists, DIY musicians, and small teams who want to tour smarter, look professional, and build sustainable momentum in today’s music industry.

Resources:

Website builds: https://www.362entertainment.com/

Promotion and tour booking:
https://www.artist.bandsintown.com/
https://www.toursmart.io/
https://booking-agent.io/

To stay in the loop, follow Business Side of Music on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for updates, resources, and new episodes.

Follow us:
Facebook: @tbsompodcast
Instagram: @bsompodcast
TikTok: @bsompodcastThe Touring Playbook for Independent Artists
Visit www.businesssideofmusicpodcast.com
© 362 Entertainment 2025. All rights reserved.

In this episode of Business Side of Music, host Sarah Fleshner breaks down 5 moves artists should make to start the year strong from a business-first perspective.

This episode kicks off a new monthly series focused on clarity, strategy, and momentum for independent artists and music professionals. Sarah shares practical insights on defining your business identity, owning your data, understanding where your income really comes from, and learning how to think like a CEO.

You’ll also walk away with 5 actionable steps you can take right now to clean up your digital presence, strengthen one revenue stream, and set focused goals for the year ahead.

To stay in the loop, follow Business Side of Music on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for updates, resources, and new episodes.

Follow us:
Facebook: @tbsompodcast
Instagram: @bsompodcast
TikTok: @bsompodcast
Visit www.businesssideofmusicpodcast.com
© 362 Entertainment 2025. All rights reserved.