ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music & Artist Interviews

Zak Davis & Matt Allen

The ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music & Artist Interviews connects you with the artists shaping independent music today. Hosted by Zak Davis and Matt Allen of Z Frequency, each episode features authentic conversations with indie musicians about their music, creative journey, and life beyond the stage. For artists, it's a platform to share their story and reach new listeners. For fans, it's a place to discover your next favorite band. 🎧 New episodes weekly — subscribe now to discover your next favorite artist and join us inside the world of independent music. 🎙️ Want to be a guest on the show? Click here

  1. Aug 11

    Making Music on Your Terms: How Mark Miller Embraces the DIY Spirit

    How do you start releasing music after writing privately for decades? Mark Miller shares how he began putting out songs in his mid‑fifties—learning Logic, recording with affordable gear, and finding a creative process that fits real life. This interview is for independent musicians, late‑starting songwriters, and home‑recording artists wondering if it’s ever “too late” to begin again. Mark, a songwriter from St. Louis, talks with Zak and Matt about bedroom recording, mixing in different environments, writing across decades, and keeping human roughness in the final production. He also explains why he makes music for fun rather than chasing touring or streaming numbers. We cover his latest release “The Girl Who Says No,” his upcoming track “Nobody,” his love of Elvis Costello, Nick Lowe, the Descendents, Bob Dylan, and Dave Brubeck, plus his DIY builds—from a foot controller to a Raspberry Pi synth and cigar‑box guitars. A relaxed conversation about authenticity, creative confidence, and learning by doing. Mark’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to return to an old passion. Key Takeaway - It is never too late to release music or return to an old creative passion. Chapters 00:00 – Intro 00:22 – Meet Mark Miller 05:10 – Why He Started Releasing Music Later 15:32 – Recording, Gear & Human Sound 25:52 – Songwriting & Staying Authentic 41:32 – Building Connections 49:36 – DIY Projects 56:13 – Soundtrack To My Life 01:00:18 – Rapid Fire 7 01:14:37 – Final Message Guest Links • Stream The Girl Who Said No: https://open.spotify.com/album/3YuGJdQYxzsnCw74ZfO2jM?si=E8PETZ6RR7u649nH_7Oiaw • Mark Miller on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1XCOGhNPRMIk4zmPnINeko?si=m0D6sEw8QkmzTJVvQgCsHg 🎙️ About The ZHZ Podcast The ZHZ Podcast spotlights independent artists, producers, engineers, and creators—digging into songwriting, recording, mixing, live performance, music marketing, video creation, and the real work behind building a creative life. 🌐 Watch & listen: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com 🎵 Z Frequency: https://zfrequency.com 🎤 Be a guest: https://forms.office.com/r/WwF9RLGgg 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zhzpodcast/ 🎧 Start your podcast with Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=zak-davi Disclosure: We may receive a small commission if you sign up through our Riverside link. 🎶 Curated playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/207DJA6ZPtbfNSrG8NKxlA?si=U88ZpKEWQB2LTiRF_4bwBw #ZHZPodcast #IndependentMusic #ArtistInterviews #Songwriter #HomeRecording

  2. Aug 4

    What You Learn From Nick Stefanacci’s Genre-Hopping Career

    The conversation covers Nick Stefanacci's diverse musical background, including his experiences with international music and his journey as a musician. It also delves into his album releases and his approach to singing in the studio and live performances. The conversation delves into the influence of Latin music on the artist's work, the importance of versatility in the independent music world, and the need for adaptability and flexibility in musical genres. The conversation delves into the challenges of exposure and social media in the music industry, the impact of streaming platforms on music distribution, the art of releasing albums vs. singles, and the role of branding in music. The conversation delves into the subjective nature of success, highlighting the importance of happiness as a measure of success. Additionally, the significance of confidence and swagger in the music industry is emphasized, showcasing their role in achieving success. Takeaways Diverse musical backgroundInternational music experiences VersatilityInfluence of Latin MusicAdaptability in the Independent Music World Branding is essential for musiciansChallenges of exposure and social media in the music industry Success is subjective and can be defined by happinessConfidence and swagger are important for success in the music industry 🎧 Listen to the full episode, subscribe, and find more resources: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com   👉 Follow Nick Stefanacci on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickstefanaccimusic/   🔥 Subscribe to the ZHZ Podcast for weekly episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzC7AFK7Kl3ivHV7_DlbSgg?sub_confirmation=1   🎵 Check out our band, Z Frequency: https://www.zfrequency.com   🎤 Be a guest on the show: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/WwF9RLGgg1 Chapters 00:00 Introduction01:22 Nick Stefanacci's Musical Journey19:31 Album Releases and Singing20:31 Influence of Latin Music36:18 Versatility in Music38:09 The Challenge of Exposure and Social Media41:11 The Impact of Streaming Platforms on Music Distribution42:09 The Art of Releasing Albums vs. Singles53:34 The Role of Branding in Music01:10:31 Defining Success01:12:23 The Importance of Confidence and Swagger

  3. Jul 28

    How You Keep Creating When You Wear Every Hat | Nayadnara

    Nayadnara and Galiyano join Zak and Matt to break down their new Afro-fusion/UK Garage single, "With a Little Help." The duo gets real about the grit of independent music: wearing every hat, beating imposter syndrome, and building a creative partnership across state lines. Plus, a deep dive into the Soundtrack to My Life and Rapid Fire rounds. Real talk for every artist doing it all themselves. Follow Nayadnara & Galiyano - Nayadnara: www.nayadnara.com - Galiyano: https://linktr.ee/galiyano Catch Up With The ZHZ Podcast: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

  4. Jul 21

    Just Be Enough: Todd Anthony on Rediscovering Music

    Just Be Enough: Todd Anthony shares how rediscovering music and overcoming imposter syndrome led to his most authentic album yet. What happens when you stop trying to write music for everyone else and finally create the music you've always wanted to hear? In this episode of The ZHZ Podcast, we sit down with independent artist Todd Anthony to talk about rediscovering his passion after nearly two decades away from recording. Todd shares the story behind his self-produced album, "Words & Music," why authenticity matters more than perfection, and how learning to "just be enough" changed everything. We also dive into songwriting, recording, music production, live performance, creative burnout, imposter syndrome, balancing business and family, and the healing power of music. Beyond music, Todd opens up about running Peer Support Alliance, a nonprofit supporting adults living with mental illness, and why community matters. If you're a musician, songwriter, creator, or anyone who's ever questioned whether it's too late to chase a dream, this conversation is for you. Listen to Todd Anthony: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/6W2DBBX0QBHiwveC10nwd7 Follow Todd Anthony: Instagram: https://instagram.com/ToddAnthonyMusic Website: https://ToddAnthonyMusic.com Live near Exton, PA? Book your own escape: https://www.eliteescape.net/ Learn more about Peer Support Alliance: https://peersupportalliance.org Enjoying the show? 👍 Like the video 💬 Leave a comment with your biggest takeaway 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with independent artists, musicians, and creators. 🌐 Check out our website: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction & Meet Todd Anthony 00:00:42 Todd's Journey Back to Music 00:02:16 The Moment Music Became Everything 00:04:13 Saxophone, College & Finding Guitar 00:07:21 Touring, Original Bands & The Stage Rush 00:11:24 Why "Words & Music" Changed Everything 00:15:02 Recording an Album Completely Solo 00:17:23 Songwriting, Voice Memos & Capturing Inspiration 00:21:03 Why the Album Happened Now 00:23:08 Lessons from Self-Producing an Album 00:25:13 Letting Go of Perfection 00:30:41 Songs That Came Together (and Ones That Didn't) 00:35:35 Which Songs Best Represent Todd? 00:36:35 What's Next After "Words & Music"? 00:41:12 Advice for Independent Musicians 00:45:49 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 00:47:47 Rediscovering Old Passions 00:51:12 Shoutouts, Escape Rooms & Mental Health Advocacy 00:55:15 Where to Find Todd Anthony 00:57:28 Rapid Fire Round 01:08:50 Final Thoughts & Farewell

  5. Jul 14

    Rapid Fire Round: How Elena Hirsch Builds CONFIDENCE ON STAGE

    Discover how she builds CONFIDENCE ON STAGE in this high-energy Rapid Fire Round. The ZHZ Podcast reveals live performance secrets! In this Rapid Fire Round, singer-songwriter Elena Hirsch answers seven fast-paced questions about songwriting, live streaming, connecting with fans, handling unexpected moments on stage, and the mindset that fuels confident performances. From adapting to audience requests in real time to sharing what it takes to build genuine stage presence, Elena offers honest insights that every musician and performer can learn from. Whether you're an independent artist, a live performer, or simply looking to become more confident in front of an audience, this episode is packed with relatable stories, practical takeaways, and plenty of laughs. If you enjoy conversations with independent artists and musicians, be sure to subscribe for more interviews, music industry discussions, and Rapid Fire Rounds from the ZHZ Podcast. Follow Elena Hirsch: 🔗 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/elena.hirsch 🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4DP7IzXc1AFBcNMWpWKd8L?si=_ieGmfRTSU-FgTElrHuAxg Follow the ZHZ Podcast: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com 🎙️ Subscribe for more independent music interviews, artist conversations, and music industry insights. 🎸 Follow Z Frequency for new music and updates. Chapters ➡ 00:00 First Thing I Do When Sitting Down At The Piano 00:55 Spam The Chat 01:45 Go-To Move To Turn A Random Listener Into A Fan 02:28 The One Thing In Life I Find Irresistable (Hint: Food) 03:47 I Might Actually Be Built For This 07:56 The Title If My Life Was A Movie 08:27 If Irresistible Was A Scene 11:05 You Want To Look Pretty 12:20 Twelve Year Old & Makeup at 9:30 PM 13:15 Follow Elena - Conclusion #RapidFireRound #ConfidenceOnStage #ElenaHirsch #ZHZPodcast #IndependentArtist #LivePerformance #SingerSongwriter #StagePresence #MusicPodcast #IndieMusic

  6. Jul 7

    Landing Huge Gigs With Just One Email: Elena Hirsch

    Landing huge gigs is easier than you think. Elena Hirsch reveals her "Power of the Ask" inside our latest Independent Music & Artist Interviews. 🎤💃🏻 Watch this episode to learn how Elena went from cold-emailing news stations in Detroit to opening at The Troubadour in LA. 🔗 GUEST LINKS: - LinkTree: Elena Hirsch - Spotify: Listen to Irresistible - Instagram: @elena.hirsch - TikTok: @elenahirschx - YouTube: @elenahirsch - Discord: Join the Server 🔗 OUR LINKS: - Podcast App: ZHZ Podcast - Official Site: Z Frequency - Be Our Next Guest: Inquiry Form - The Guest List on Spotify: Playlist CHAPTERS ➡ 00:00 - The Power of the Ask 00:32 - Meeting Elena Hirsch 01:23 - How she found ZHZ Podcast 04:23 - The Detroit to LA Musical Journey 06:00 - Opening for Morgan St. Jean 07:35 - The "One Email" Strategy Revealed 10:55 - Building a Band from Scratch (The Struggle) 16:31 - Persistence: Making Your Own Luck 20:45 - Breaking Down "Irresistible" 26:00 - Streaming vs. Live Audience Strategy 35:30 - Future Plans & Michigan Residency 43:00 - Advice for Independent Musicians 50:00 - Grow Your Audience Tip 56:00 - Wrap Up & Shoutouts

  7. Jun 30

    CROCHET Butterflies and DARK Pop? Briauna Rapid Fire

    CROCHET butterflies and DARK pop vibes with Briauna—our fastest Rapid Fire yet from Independent Music & Artist Interviews. 🎙️ Briauna pulled up for a Rapid Fire round that goes from wholesome to unhinged in the best way—crochet butterflies, dark pop energy, and the creative mindset behind the world she’s building as an indie artist. If you love quick questions, real answers, and finding new artists before they blow up, this one’s for you. This is exactly why we do Independent Music & Artist Interviews—to show the human behind the art. Watch the full interview episode ▶️ Full Interview episode: [LINK] Support Briauna 🩸 Pre-Save “Lobotomy” (out July 17): https://tr.ee/-gDp12c3o7   🔗 Briauna Linktree: linktr.ee/briauna.official   📩 Booking / EPK: briaunamusic.kit.com ZHZ Podcast 🎧 Subscribe / follow the show for more episodes + updates: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com   Quick CTA Hit Subscribe if you want more indie artists, real convos, and more Rapid Fire episodes like this. Chapters 00:00:00 Rapid‑Fire Kickoff & Handmade Gifts 00:03:30 Influences, Road‑Trip Pick & Creative Philosophy 00:07:00 First Songs, Childhood Stories & Early Creativity 00:10:30 Secret Languages, School Projects & Growing Up Different 00:14:00 Perfect Pitch, Sensory Overload & Musician Life 00:17:30 Storytelling, Metaphors & The Heart of Independent Music

  8. Jun 23

    Why This Indie Pop Artist Is Obsessed With Butterflies

    Discover how Briauna built a unique artist identity through butterflies, storytelling, and Independent Music & Artist Interviews. Singer-songwriter, pianist, and independent artist Briauna joins Zak and Matt on the ZHZ Podcast to share her journey from writing songs at 11 years old to building a unique "musical biosphere" rooted in storytelling, vulnerability, and artistic world-building. In this episode, we dive into her upcoming single "Lobotomy," the inspiration behind releasing three different versions of the song, the realities of navigating both the Los Angeles and Utah music scenes, and what it really takes to build a sustainable career as an independent artist. We also explore her butterfly symbolism, film scoring work, creative process, artist branding, and practical music marketing strategies for today's independent musicians. Whether you're an artist, songwriter, music fan, or someone looking for inspiration on building a creative brand, this conversation is packed with valuable insights and real-world experience. 🦋 Follow Briauna: LinkTree: http://linktr.ee/briauna.official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briauna.official/ 🎵 Pre-Save "Lobotomy": https://tr.ee/-gDp12c3o7 🎙️ Listen to More ZHZ Podcast: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com If you enjoy Independent Music & Artist Interviews, artist stories, music marketing discussions, and conversations about the Utah music scene, make sure to subscribe, like, and leave a comment. CHAPTERS 00:00:00 Intro & Cold Open 00:00:48 Meet Briauna: Utah, LA & Her Musical Journey 00:03:20 Inside "Lobotomy" & The Three-Version Release Strategy 00:08:33 Film Scoring, Collaboration & Creative Growth 00:13:54 The Meaning Behind "Lobotomy" & Dark Pop Storytelling 00:21:23 Building A Musical Biosphere: Butterflies & Artist Branding 00:33:07 Independent Artist Challenges, Social Media & Community 00:41:32 Music Marketing, Playlist Pitching & Release Strategy

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About

The ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music & Artist Interviews connects you with the artists shaping independent music today. Hosted by Zak Davis and Matt Allen of Z Frequency, each episode features authentic conversations with indie musicians about their music, creative journey, and life beyond the stage. For artists, it's a platform to share their story and reach new listeners. For fans, it's a place to discover your next favorite band. 🎧 New episodes weekly — subscribe now to discover your next favorite artist and join us inside the world of independent music. 🎙️ Want to be a guest on the show? Click here

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