The Toolroom Academy Artist Breakthrough Podcast

EP016: How To Build A Music Community People Actually Care About - Girls Don't Sync

From grassroots clubs in Liverpool to sold-out headline shows around the world, Girls Don't Sync have become one of the most influential collectives in electronic music. In this live conversation recorded at our conference, the Girls Don't Sync crew share the real story behind their rise - from playing seven-hour sets for £50 and building local communities, to navigating social media, producing music, dealing with criticism, and staying authentic in an industry obsessed with virality. We dive into why community matters more than followers, how they built a movement around inclusivity and friendship, the realities of life behind the scenes, and why supporting grassroots culture is more important than ever. Whether you're a DJ, producer, promoter or simply passionate about dance music culture, this episode is packed with honest insights, practical advice and powerful stories from one of the most exciting acts in electronic music today. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

EP015: Why Most DJs Never Build a Real Audience - Grahame Farmer

In this episode of The Artist Breakthrough Podcast, we sit down with Grahame Farmer, founder of Data Transmission and The Artist Blueprint. He is one of the most respected voices in electronic music, to explore what really drives artist growth in today's industry. From building one of dance music's biggest media platforms to helping artists navigate social media, branding, networking and long-term career development. We discuss why most artists focus on the wrong things, how to grow a genuine audience, the importance of consistency, and why going viral isn't the shortcut many people think it is. Whether you're a DJ, producer, label owner or artist trying to break through, this episode is packed with practical advice you can apply immediately. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

EP014: Is DJ Culture Built for Neurodivergent Minds? - Harold Heath

From acid house and record shops to ADHD, autism and redefining success in dance music... In this episode of The Artist Breakthrough Podcast, Pete sits down with legendary DJ, producer, journalist and author Harold Heath to explore his remarkable journey through over 30 years of electronic music culture. Harold shares how he discovered DJing through record collecting, built a career in the early house and tech-house scenes, and why some of his most celebrated records were created with little more than second-hand gear and instinct. He also opens up about receiving an ADHD and autism diagnosis later in life, how neurodiversity shaped his career, and why he believes DJ culture has always been a place where different minds can thrive. The conversation dives into creativity, record shop culture, social media, the changing definition of success, and why a life spent doing what you love is worth more than any headline slot. Whether you're a DJ, producer, artist or simply passionate about dance music culture, this episode is packed with wisdom, perspective and inspiration. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

013: How To Actually Finish More Music (Overthinking, Feedback & Creative Block)

Finishing Tracks, Overthinking & Producer Mindset... In this episode of The Artist Breakthrough Podcast, Pete and Cal dive deep into one of the biggest struggles producers face - actually finishing music. From perfectionism and overthinking to feedback, rejection, and creative block, they unpack the mindset shifts that help artists move forward and release more consistently. They discuss whether a “perfect track” really exists, how to handle opinions on your music, why too much feedback can hurt creativity, and the importance of trusting your instincts as a producer. The conversation also explores DJing your own tracks, working with engineers, red flags in feedback, social media’s impact on music culture, and why every artist’s journey looks completely different. An honest conversation packed with practical advice for producers trying to break through without losing themselves in the process. 📈 ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

012: Steven Braines - How To Build A Career In Dance Music (Without Faking Who You Are)

Steven Braines joins us on The Artist’s Breakthrough Podcast to share his incredible journey through the global music industry - from promoting club nights in Sunderland to becoming one of electronic music’s most respected voices. Steven is the co-founder of the award-winning HE.SHE.THEY., former Head of Events for Defected & Glitterbox, and has worked across legendary brands including Ministry of Sound, Kiss and TAP Music. He’s also served on the boards of the NTIA, MMF and AFEM, while managing internationally acclaimed artists including Maya Jane Coles, Tale Of Us, Tricky, Nadine Shah, SYREETA, Catz N Dogz, Emily Nash, KDA and more. In this episode we dive deep into artist management, networking, club culture, diversity in dance music, mental health, building long-term careers, and what truly separates successful artists from the rest. Steven also shares powerful advice for new producers and DJs trying to break through in today’s music industry. From Ibiza stories and underground culture to major festivals, chart success and global touring - this episode is packed with honest insight, inspiration and real-world industry knowledge. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.