084: Unique Opportunities in the Music Industry

Catalyst is a Creative Industries podcast, from Chapman University. Each episode features Chapman students who have completed a Podcasting course through the Center for Creative and Cultural Industries at the university. Students who had no podcasting experience or technical ability in the genre before taking the course were able to contribute all the segments to Catalyst this season with the goal being that they will take this ‘hands-on’ experience and carry it over to the launching of their very own series. Each episode of Season 10 will feature one to two different interviews conducted by CCI students, exploring different aspects of the Creative and Cultural Industries.

Kaylee Scott begins the show this week with her interview of Lexi Zdanov, owner of Stray Booking and Promotional Agency. Scott leads an interesting conversation with Zdanov, which covers what led to the creation of Stray, and how Lexi has experience in crafting everything from intimate acoustic shows to large festival settings. They discuss her ability to craft unique themed shows that provide an immersive experience for the fans and the performers. The conversation also delves into what it is like to be a woman in this field, with Lexi offering some important messaging on what women entering the music industry should understand how to be successful and not get pushed aside.

To conclude the show Ava Ganz interviews Jordan Lebowitz. Who has experience working as a tour facilitator. The two discuss the ins and outs of organizing tours and the challenges he has faced along the way.  Ava also talks with Jordan about how he manages to maintain his creativity and flow while juggling his responsibilities as a student and employee. He shares his tips for staying excited and engaged despite the stress that can come with managing multiple responsibilities at a fairly young age.  As a postscript to this interview, following graduation, Jordan has secured the position of Staff Tour Accountant at David Weise and Associates, where he no doubt employs the skills and creative concepts that he acquired from his previous industry positions.