Business Side of Music

What does it really take to build power in the music industry?

In this episode of The Business Side of Music, host Sarah Fleshner sits down with renowned entertainment attorney, activist, author, and artist advocate Dina LaPolt for a candid conversation about the evolving music business and what artists need to know to protect their careers.

From her unconventional journey as a musician-turned-lawyer to helping shape landmark legislation like the Music Modernization Act, Dina shares the experiences that made her one of the most influential voices in entertainment law. Together, Sarah and Dina discuss artist ownership, negotiating leverage, catalog sales, streaming royalties, the rise of artificial intelligence, and why business education is one of the most valuable investments any artist can make.
Whether you're an independent artist, manager, songwriter, or music industry professional, this episode offers practical insights on building a sustainable career and maintaining control of your creative future.

You'll also hear Dina's perspective on why artists should focus on creating great art before chasing deals, how to recognize when it's time to partner with a label, and what the next generation of creators needs to know about protecting their rights in an AI-driven world.

If you're serious about understanding the business behind the music, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Street Smart - Dina LaPlolt: https://linktr.ee/streetsmartlapolt

Watch the full episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/DSB7inGE08A

Topics Included:
Music industry attorney Dina LaPolt, artist rights, music business education, AI in the music industry, artificial intelligence and copyright law, artist ownership, music publishing, songwriter royalties, streaming royalties, Music Modernization Act (MMA), Music Licensing Collective (MLC), mechanical royalties, music copyright law, intellectual property rights, No Fakes Act, AI voice cloning, artist advocacy, independent artist success, record label deals, music industry contracts, entertainment law, music business strategy, catalog sales, music catalog acquisitions, artist leverage, negotiating record deals, music industry trends, creator rights, songwriter compensation, independent music careers, artist development, music management, women in the music industry, building a sustainable music career, protecting your music rights, music industry leadership, future of the music business, digital streaming, music licensing, entrepreneurship for artists, music industry news and insights.

In this episode of Business Side of Music, host Sarah Fleshner sits down with Stephen Parker, Executive Director of the National Independent Venue Association, for an in-depth conversation about the growing controversy surrounding concert industry monopolization, ticketing fees, artist touring control, and the future of independent music venues.

From rising ticket prices and restrictive tour routing to venue consolidation and the challenges facing independent artists, this episode breaks down how today’s live music ecosystem impacts musicians, managers, promoters, venues, and fans alike. Stephen explains the ongoing antitrust lawsuit making headlines across the music industry, why independent venues are struggling to survive, and what changes could reshape the future of concert touring.

Sarah and Stephen also discuss:
How major concert companies control touring, ticketing, and venue access
Why independent venues are critical for developing artists
The impact of radius clauses and tour restrictions on musicians
The future of concert ticket prices and resale markets
How independent artists can build touring careers outside the major systems
Why artist advocacy and industry transparency matter more than ever

If you’re an independent artist, artist manager, venue owner, promoter, music industry professional, or live music fan, this episode gives a behind-the-scenes look at the business of touring and the fight for the future of independent music.

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© 362 Entertainment 2026. All rights reserved.

In this episode of Business Side of Music, host Sarah Fleshner sits down with artist manager and branding expert Leigh Holt to break down what it really takes to build a sustainable career in today’s music industry. From artist management and tour chaos to leadership, team building, and execution over perfection, this conversation is packed with real-world insights for independent artists, managers, and music entrepreneurs.

Leigh shares hard-earned lessons from working with major artists, navigating live events, and surviving industry challenges like COVID—covering topics like how to grow a loyal team, why your word is your currency, and how indie artists can succeed without waiting on a record label. If you’re building a career in music, scaling your brand, or trying to stand out in the independent music scene, this episode delivers actionable strategies on leadership, communication, and long-term success in the music business.

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:
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Instagram: @bsompodcast
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www.businesssideofmusicpodcast.com
© 362 Entertainment 2026. All rights reserved.

What does it really take to build a long-term career in the music industry?

In this special anniversary solo episode of The Business Side of Music, host Sarah Fleshner reflects on one year behind the mic and dives into the realities of staying in the music business—beyond the highlights, viral moments, and sold-out shows.

From artist development to tour life, this episode breaks down the three critical pillars of longevity:
What most people get wrong about success in the music industry
The silent career killers (and how to avoid them)
What actually keeps artists, managers, and teams in the game long-term

Sarah shares real-world insight on:
Why it’s always about the fans (not the artist)
How execution beats ideas every time
The importance of communication, leadership, and emotional intelligence
Why your team can make or break your career
And how mental health, boundaries, and balance are essential for longevity

Whether you’re an artist, manager, songwriter, or industry professional, this episode is your reminder that success isn’t just about getting in—it’s about staying in.

If you’re in the middle of the grind, this one’s for you.

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
www.businesssideofmusicpodcast.com© 362 Entertainment 2026. All rights reserved.

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/