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Indhold leveret af Donovan Bankhead. Alt podcastindhold inklusive episoder, grafik og podcastbeskrivelser uploades og leveres direkte af Donovan Bankhead eller deres podcastplatformspartner. Hvis du mener, at nogen bruger dit ophavsretligt beskyttede værk uden din tilladelse, kan du følge processen beskrevet her https://da.player.fm/legal.
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Imani Ellis has always believed community is a superpower. What began as a small gathering in her Harlem apartment grew into The Creative Collective NYC and CultureCon — one of the largest conferences celebrating creators of color. But behind the highlight reels and celebrity speakers, Imani’s journey has been defined by burnout, bold leaps and learning when to pause. In this episode, Ben and Kathleen sit down with Imani and explore what it takes to transform a passion project into a cultural movement. From balancing a demanding career at NBCUniversal with late-night CultureCon planning, to walking away from work at the height of burnout for a self-designed “creative residency” in Paris, Imani shares the realities of leadership, rest and why joy and community must stay at the center of her work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
Indhold leveret af Donovan Bankhead. Alt podcastindhold inklusive episoder, grafik og podcastbeskrivelser uploades og leveres direkte af Donovan Bankhead eller deres podcastplatformspartner. Hvis du mener, at nogen bruger dit ophavsretligt beskyttede værk uden din tilladelse, kan du følge processen beskrevet her https://da.player.fm/legal.
A podcast dedicated to instrumental music retailers, featuring interviews with the best retailers in our industry, as well as other leaders. Hosted by Donovan Bankhead, President at Ernie Williamson Music - a NAMM Top 100 Full-Line Instrumental Music Retail Business.
Indhold leveret af Donovan Bankhead. Alt podcastindhold inklusive episoder, grafik og podcastbeskrivelser uploades og leveres direkte af Donovan Bankhead eller deres podcastplatformspartner. Hvis du mener, at nogen bruger dit ophavsretligt beskyttede værk uden din tilladelse, kan du følge processen beskrevet her https://da.player.fm/legal.
A podcast dedicated to instrumental music retailers, featuring interviews with the best retailers in our industry, as well as other leaders. Hosted by Donovan Bankhead, President at Ernie Williamson Music - a NAMM Top 100 Full-Line Instrumental Music Retail Business.
In this special episode, I was interviewed by Dave Simon from Ensemble Performing Arts, and I couldn’t be more excited to share our conversation with you. We dive into the rich history of Ernie Williamson Music—from its humble beginnings in 1935 in Pittsburg, KS, to its evolution into a multi-location powerhouse serving generations of musicians. Dave and I explore everything from the origins of our iconic music store and its fascinating acquisition story, to the challenges and triumphs of marketing in today’s digital world. We also discuss the vital role of social media and e-commerce in modern retail, and I share personal insights on embracing technology and innovation, including the impact of AI on business decisions. I believe the stories and strategies we discussed on Dave’s podcast will resonate with the listeners of my podcast, offering a unique blend of nostalgia, practical marketing tips, and forward-thinking ideas. Tune in for an engaging, candid, and sometimes humorous look at how tradition and innovation come together in the ever-changing landscape of music retail. Dave's podcast can be found here: https://www.ensembleschools.com/blog/podcast/…
In this conversation, Dave Rogers shares the journey of establishing and growing Dave's Guitar Shop, from its humble beginnings in a small space to becoming a significant player in the guitar retail market. He discusses the evolution of the business, the impact of the internet on sales, and the challenges faced over the years. Dave emphasizes the importance of company culture, the dynamics of his team, and the need for personal connections in retail. He reflects on the changing landscape of the guitar market and offers insights into the future of music retail. TAKEAWAYS Dave's Guitar Shop started in a small rented space in 1982. The early days involved trading and flipping guitars for profit. Company culture is built on passion for music and guitars. Online sales now account for over 70% of the business. Dave emphasizes the importance of personal connections in retail. The guitar market has seen shifts between electric and acoustic sales. Challenges in inventory management have evolved over the years. Dave's personal collection has grown to between 500-600 guitars. Advice to younger self: take life more seriously and start earlier.…
This conversation explores the innovative approach to teaching high school students about band instrument repair, initiated by Aaron Moss in response to the retirement of a local music store. The discussion covers the development of a curriculum, student engagement, funding through CTE programs, and the importance of balancing educational initiatives with professional repair services. Moss emphasizes the need for in-house repair solutions in schools, the high interest from students, and the potential career paths available in the repair industry. Link to NAfME Article Link to Aaron's Slide Deck Takeaways The initiative to teach band instrument repair arose from a local music store's retirement. Career Technical Education (CTE) funding was crucial for establishing the program. Student interest in repair classes was consistently high, leading to full enrollment. Classes were structured with prerequisites to ensure students had a foundational understanding of instruments. The program included hands-on experience with real instruments, enhancing learning. Funding for the program grew from an initial budget of $27,000 to over $100,000. The curriculum was developed by paralleling existing classes, such as bicycle repair. Moss aims to advocate for the repair industry and create pathways for students into apprenticeships. Balancing educational repair initiatives with professional repair services is essential. The future of band instrument repair education looks promising with ongoing discussions and collaborations.…
In this conversation, Donovan Bankhead and Bill Matthews discuss the current state of the instrument repair industry, focusing on the growing demand for repair technicians, particularly among younger generations. They explore the appeal of instrument repair as a career, the challenges faced by technicians, and the importance of fair compensation and a supportive work environment. The discussion also highlights the value of networking through organizations like NAPBIRT and the need for store owners to recognize and invest in their repair teams. In this conversation, Bill Mathews and Donovan Bankhead discuss the importance of networking and community within the repair industry, particularly through events like NAPBIRT conferences. They emphasize the need for proactive recruitment strategies to attract new technicians, the significance of growing talent from within, and the necessity of succession planning in repair shops. The discussion also highlights educational pathways for aspiring technicians and the resources available through NAPBIRT to support ongoing professional development.…
In this episode of the Music Retail Podcast, Donovan Bankhead interviews John Tarpley from Tarpley Music. They discuss the history and founding of Tarpley Music, which dates back to the 1920s. They also talk about the challenges and benefits of having multiple locations, as Tarpley Music has nine locations. They touch on the importance of culture by design and how it has helped shape their company. The conversation also explores the role of e-commerce in the music retail industry and the significance of the school music market. Tarpley Music is focused on building a strong company culture and maintaining a positive work environment. They use a culture method that emphasizes behaviors rather than platitudes or values. They have core fundamentals that they incorporate into their weekly emails and team meetings to reinforce their culture. Implementing this culture method has been a challenge, but they believe it is worth the effort. Tarpley Music also discussed their approach to e-commerce and the importance of having a functional website. They use the Shopify platform and have worked on improving their content and customer experience. They also discussed the challenges of keeping a family business going and the importance of having a clear plan for succession.…
Summary In this episode of the Music Retail Podcast, Donovan Bankhead interviews Jennifer and Linden Lantz, the owners of Bandwagon Music and Repair in Nashville, Tennessee. The Lantz's background is in music education, with Lyndon specializing in instrument repair. They started Bandwagon as a small repair shop and gradually expanded to include retail and rentals. They faced challenges along the way, including a failed acquisition and financial uncertainty, but their dedication and faith in their vision helped them overcome these obstacles. Jennifer's role in the business includes HR, marketing, and handling various tasks as needed. The conversation in this segment revolves around the daily routines and responsibilities of Linden and Jennifer Lantz in running their music store. They discuss how they manage their time between working in the shop, handling emails and communications, and empowering their employees. They also touch on the importance of financial management and the challenges they faced with accountants and software. The Lantz's share their experiences with starting their own rental program and the financing involved. They also talk about the pride and support they receive from their parents and their hopes for their children's future involvement in the business. Lastly, they discuss the challenges of brick-and-mortar retail in the music industry and the need to adapt to online platforms. In this final part of the conversation, Linden and Jennifer discuss the importance of education and staying relevant in the music industry. They highlight the value of attending conferences and events like NAMM, which provide excellent education and networking opportunities. They also emphasize the need for brick-and-mortar stores to create unique experiences that can't be replicated online. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the power of mentorship and building relationships within the industry.…
Summary Donovan Bankhead and E.J. Dombrowski discuss their friendship and the impact of reaching out to each other. They talk about the challenges of running a music store, being resourceful, and staying competitive in the industry. They also touch on the importance of automation and delegation in order to focus on innovation and growth. The conversation highlights the constant need for adaptation and the role of competition in driving improvement. They share their experiences of starting and expanding their music stores, as well as the lessons they've learned along the way. Creating a culture where people can speak up and provide feedback is crucial for success. It is important to have a team of people who are willing to challenge and question decisions. Hiring people who are smarter and better than you at certain tasks is key. Trusting and empowering employees to make decisions and take ownership leads to their success and the success of the business. It is necessary to pitch ideas and gain buy-in from the team before implementing changes. Admitting when you're wrong and being open to feedback is essential for building a culture of trust and growth. In this conversation, Donovan Bankhead and EJ discuss the importance of industry relationships and friendships, as well as the value of using Crystal Reports for automation and data analysis in small businesses. They also share insights on hiring and managing employees, setting goals and benchmarks, and the challenges of running a small music store. The conversation highlights the benefits of learning from and sharing with other music store owners. Chapters 00:00 Building Relationships and Friendships 03:02 Resourcefulness and Creativity in a Small Music Store 09:23 Automation and Delegation for Innovation and Growth 12:27 The Role of Competition in Driving Improvement 14:17 Adapting to the Constantly Changing Marketplace 16:07 The Importance of a Supportive Team and Confidants 27:12 Hiring the Right People for Success 28:30 Empowering Employees to Take Ownership 31:04 Pitching Ideas and Gaining Buy-In 34:43 Admitting When You're Wrong and Being Open to Feedback 57:45 Building Relationships and Friendships 01:05:14 Automating Business Processes with Crystal Reports 01:02:54 Setting Goals and Benchmarks 01:04:12 The Importance of a Strong Work Ethic in Managers 01:06:21 Sharing Insights and Ideas 01:16:07 Finding Inspiration and Learning Opportunities…
Donovan Bankhead interviews Michael Santander, General Manager of Instrumental Music Center, about his journey in the music retail industry and the importance of hiring the right people. They discuss the shift in employee mindset from wanting to be part of a 'family' to valuing a team environment. They also emphasize the need for businesses to prioritize their employees and create a supportive culture. Michael shares how IMC focuses on supporting individuals with outside passions while still maintaining a dedicated work ethic. The conversation discusses the importance of hiring for personality attributes and creating a strong team culture. They emphasize the need for businesses, regardless of size, to be intentional about their culture. They also highlight the industry's acceptance of diversity and the desire to see more diversity in positions of power. The conversation then shifts to the challenges of e-commerce and the need for the music industry to catch up in terms of online presence. They discuss the importance of being active on social media and having a strong online presence to connect with customers. In this final part of the conversation, Michael and Donovan discuss the importance of marketing and finding the right person to handle it. They emphasize the need for someone who understands the company's culture, product, and vibe. They share their own experiences with hiring marketing professionals and the challenges they faced. They also talk about the changing landscape of marketing and the need to adapt to new trends and technologies. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the value of mentorship and the benefits of having a mentor in the music industry.…
What a treat it was to get to talk with Sammy Ash about Sam Ash Music, his thoughts on the other national competitor, how he feels about vendors selling direct (here’s looking at you, Fender), and much more! Hosted by Donovan Bankhead, President at Springfield Music, Inc - a NAMM Top 100 Full-Line Instrumental Music Retail Business. Want help with your business? Find Articles, Resources, and Coaching/Consulting services at http://www.musicretailconsulting.com…
What's the point of doing marketing that checks a box if it doesn't move the needle? Bob gives us excellent, expert advice on how to connect to our customers.
This was recorded off the cuff using my cell phone, so please excuse the poor audio quality. But I think you'll hear the love, respect, and gratitude we have for one another in this episode. This is a bit of a trip down memory lane for Springfield Music, but for those interested in our history or growth, or those who are considering an ownership transition, it's totally worth a listen.…
Cosmo Music has blown my mind ever since I first heard of them at the NAMM Top 100 Awards! One of the largest interactive music stores in the world - there is lots to learn from this episode. The history of Cosmo Music Pictures of the store
I know I got LOTS of useful things from this conversation that I needed to hear NOW, and I’m sure you will too. Learn how to be proactive in getting women in leadership roles in your organization, design products and programs to meet your customers desires, building culture, growth through acquisition, making key hires, how to do all the marketing things through outsourcing, and so much more! Grab a notepad, listen, and LEARN!…
How has the pandemic affected music studios - specifically those businesses that are primarily focused on teaching? What are their thoughts on the future?
Jon is not only an MI industry rep, he also represents products in the powersports industry as well. And, fun fact, he used to own the store that I purchased in KC!
Whitney gives us a quick history of Ted Brown Music and how she came to be President, and then we have some fascinating conversations about adaption, adoption, and more!
Cris shares not only his best marketing promotion, but also talks about what it’s like working in a family business when the patriarch and CEO passes, plus some GREAT ideas on staff development that you can put in to place today!
How did one of my favorite strap companies get started? What bit of happenstance changed Jen’s life and the life of her employees? Why did she go work for Gator cases, and is she glad to be back at the helm of Souldier? Listen to find out!
A second generation business is always a challenge - even more so when the first generation was a local LEGEND that ran the entire business from his head!
Today’s conversation was really interesting. Laura purchased Nick Rail Music in the fall of 2019, right before the global pandemic. We discuss how things are going, her background, and we had a really interesting and honest conversation about sexism in MI - you’ll definitely want to tune in!
Maureen Doron, from women’s fashion retailer Skirt, shares with us what is clienteling and how it can dramatically grow your revenues. THIS IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE INTERVIEWS - IT’S A MUST LISTEN!
Bertrand’s Music - an eight-location school music dealer based in San Diego, has grown their business despite a lot of tough competion. In this episode, Jeff shares lessons learned, leadership advice, and so much more.
Joel found himself in a difficult position - how do you continue to grow your regional music business when there is lots of competition? Joel also shares his thoughts on whether it’s better to buy our build, his thoughts on the best Point of Sale & E-commerce for School Music Dealers, thoughts about this fall, and so much more!…
When the music store that Greg was working for decided to get out of combo, he and his wife, Angela, decided to go their own way and open their own guitar shop! Since that fateful day, Third Rock Music Center has been a NAMM Top 100 Dealer, a nominee for Best Merchandising and Store Design, and much more!…
Leslie and I talk about how IMC came to be, the difficulties she has with dealing with all of the COVID stuff, the difficulties of starting a store from scratch, and so much more! Also, now available with video on YouTube! Want help with your business? Find Articles, Resources, and Coaching/Consulting services at http://www.musicretailconsulting.com…
So, what’s it like for someone with only a high school education (and a guitar player, no less) to take over one of the top music retail businesses in Nebraska? What lessons did he learn along the way to pay off millions in debt and keep growing? Take a listen to find out! Now also available on Youtube! Want help with your business? Find Articles, Resources, and Coaching/Consulting services at http://www.musicretailconsulting.com…
Sweetwater is on track to soon be a billion dollar business - one with almost no debt, a terrific reputation in the industry and with customers. How did Chuck do it? And how is he managing his business during the COVID pandemic of 2020? Plus, like a good box of Raisin Bran, there are TWO SCOOPS of new parts of the Sweetwater story unveiled in this episode! Listen and be the first to know what’s coming next for this super giant! Want help with your business? Find Articles, Resources, and Coaching/Consulting services at http://www.musicretailconsulting.com…
Candyman Strings & Things was one of the first business in our industry forced to close due to the COVID-19 pandemic. How did this NAMM Dealer of the Year award winner handle this crisis? Want help with your business? Find Articles, Resources, and Coaching/Consulting services at http://www.musicretailconsulting.com…
I’m publishing this episode early due to the conversation about the Corona virus. While we share our thoughts about the hysteria behind the virus, this is not intended to downplay it’s importance, rather we are sharing our desire for people to remain calm and take reasonable precautions. I wanted to air this episode right after the previous one as kind of a book end - the end of one business and the beginning of another... We also discuss how he tripled his lesson program over the last two years, his thoughts on hiring, and why and when you should look at hiring a consultant.…
This episode is one of the most insightful and thought provoking episodes yet! Listen up! Want help with your business? Find Articles, Resources, and Coaching/Consulting services at http://www.musicretailconsulting.com
Want to hear of a crazy way to do group lessons? How about how to recruit for new employees? Want to hear embarrassing stories about me? Then stay tuned! Want help with your business? Find Articles, Resources, and Coaching/Consulting services at http://www.musicretailconsulting.com
Why would you put an $8,000 guitar in a beginner's hands? What's the advantage of group lessons over private? When's the right time to close a lesson sale? Listen and learn! Hosted by Donovan Bankhead, President at Springfield Music, Inc - a NAMM Top 100 Full-Line Instrumental Music Retail Business. Want help with your business? Find Articles, Resources, and Coaching/Consulting services at http://www.musicretailconsulting.com…
From humble beginnings to a major player in the school music scene in Chicago, Frank Pampenella has guided PM Music Center to annual growth year after year. Hosted by Donovan Bankhead, President at Springfield Music, Inc - a NAMM Top 100 Full-Line Instrumental Music Retail Business. Want help with your business? Find Articles, Resources, and Coaching/Consulting services at http://www.musicretailconsulting.com…
This episode we discuss leadership, what to do when you've hit the ceiling, how to get the most out of your video content, and so much more. If you'd like video or marketing help, reach out to gabe at Gabriel@upperhandstudios.com or visit his website Upperhandstudios.com. Hosted by Donovan Bankhead, President at Springfield Music, Inc - a NAMM Top 100 Full-Line Instrumental Music Retail Business. Want help with your business? Find Articles, Resources, and Coaching/Consulting services at http://www.musicretailconsulting.com…
Topics include:Family business succession, college education for retail store owners, rental growth through aquisition and how to keep those new customers, finding road reps, the RTO changes in the 90s, the value of value brands, long range planning, and how to make the most of your NAMM show. Whew! Hosted by Donovan Bankhead, President at Springfield Music, Inc - a NAMM Top 100 Full-Line Instrumental Music Retail Business. Want help with your business? Find Articles, Resources, and Coaching/Consulting services at http://www.musicretailconsulting.com…
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