Q'd Up by QSIC

Nikki Wishart
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Q'd Up is a podcast from QSIC, the global audio technology platform reaching over 350 million in-store shoppers monthly. We pull back the curtain on music, retail media and the culture of sound, diving into trends, fresh releases and real conversations with the people shaping audio today. Whether you're here for the music, the industry insights or the big ideas at the intersection of sound and commerce, there's something in every episode worth turning up.

  1. May 25

    Jac Shaw – The Science of Sound: Transforming Retail Through Audio Strategy

    In this episode of Q’d Up, host Nikki Wishart is joined by Jac Shaw, Retail Media Lead at QSIC, to pull back the curtain on the rapidly evolving world of Retail Media. With nearly two decades of experience at Nova Entertainment under her belt, Jac explains how she’s transitioned from traditional radio to pioneering the Retail Media space. She dives into the psychology of how audio shapes our subconscious shopping habits, explaining why a well-curated playlist is "companion, convincing, and connecting" for customers with a basket in hand. Jac shares the behind-the-scenes magic of recent standout campaigns, including the "Rave Cave" activation with Liquorland for Mardi Gras and the Troye Sivan x Penfolds 389 partnership . From the staggering $440 billion spent in physical retail to the power of layering audio over visual assets, Jac makes a compelling case for why marketers can no longer afford to treat in-store music as an afterthought. We also get a glimpse into Jac’s disciplined routine (including those 3:30 a.m. workouts!) and her journey from high school musical theatre to Big Day Out mosh pits. [00:00:00] – Introduction to Jac Shaw and her transition from Nova to Qsic [00:01:33] – Defining Retail Media: Leveraging assets to drive purchase [00:02:56] – Summarising 17 years of audio in three words [00:04:04] – The evolution of the purchase funnel: From awareness to the shelf [00:06:10] – Accountability in advertising: Using digital analytics in-store [00:07:28] – The power of impulse: Influencing the $440 billion retail market [00:08:37] – Subconscious impact: How music gets "stuck in your head" and drives sales [00:11:04] – Case Study: The Liquorland "Rave Cave" and celebrating community [00:16:01] – Commercialising the floor plan: How audio and screens work together [00:18:36] – Case Study: Troye Sivan x Penfolds audio takeover and contextual tagging [00:23:18] – Retail Media 3.0: Moving toward experience-led activations and wine tastings in-store [00:25:22] – Quickfire round: 3:30 a.m. workouts and why silence is a "vibe killer" [00:28:10] – Music memories: From Jesus Christ Superstar to Jebediah and Sabrina Carpenter We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we are filming today, the people of the Kulin Nation. We also pay respect to their Elders, past and present. Follow Us: Instagram - @qdupbyqsic LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/qsic⁠ YouTube - ⁠https://youtube.com/@getqsic?si=w9nuA0AqgG1jqa6r⁠ Nikki: Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/nikki_wishart/⁠

    33 min

  2. May 11

    Why Your Spotify Premium Isn't Enough: Karen Holmes on Music Rights and Revenue

    In this episode of Q'd Up, host Nikki Wishart is joined in Sydney by Karen Holmes, Director at One Music, to demystify the world of music licensing. Often viewed as a niche corner of the industry, music licensing is the vital bridge that ensures artists, songwriters, and labels are fairly compensated when their work is played in public spaces. Karen shares her journey from media sales and radio into the world of copyright, explaining why a One Music license is the "liquor license for sound" that every business owner needs to understand. Karen dives into the common misconceptions surrounding streaming services like Spotify Premium - explaining why a personal subscription doesn't cover commercial use - and discusses the simplified licensing structure in Australia compared to the complex systems in the US and UK. We also explore fascinating research on how the right genre and volume can shift retail sales, the resurgence of vinyl in small bars, and the emerging challenges posed by AI in the creative industry. From cautionary tales of major court fines to heartwarming stories of bars dedicated exclusively to Aussie music, this conversation is an essential guide for both business owners and creators looking to protect their work. [00:00:27] – Welcome to Karen Holmes and an introduction to One Music [00:02:13] – The Spotify misconception: Why personal memberships don't cover commercial spaces [00:06:47] – Why One Music was formed: Combining APRA AMCOS and PPCA for simplicity [00:08:27] – How licenses are calculated across different industries like gyms and restaurants [00:10:00] – The impact of music on consumer behaviour: Research on retail and dining [00:15:09] – Case study: Rosella's and the power of playing 100% Australian music [00:17:15] – Tracking the data: How artists actually get paid for their plays [00:21:22] – Emerging trends: The vinyl resurgence and the future of AI licensing [00:25:24] – Advice for songwriters: Registering works and claiming performance reports [00:28:04] – A cautionary tale: The $235,000 cost of ignoring copyright warnings [00:30:07] – What’s next for One Music: Regional roadshows and upcoming education series [00:32:15] – Quickfire round: INXS, David Bowie, and Taylor Swift on repeat We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we are filming today, the people of the Kulin Nation. We also pay respect to their Elders, past and present. Q’d Up Follow Us Instagram - @qdupbyqsic LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/qsic⁠ YouTube - ⁠https://youtube.com/@getqsic?si=w9nuA0AqgG1jqa6r⁠ Nikki: Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/nikki_wishart/⁠ Visit One Music's website - https://onemusic.com.au/

    39 min

  3. Apr 27

    Coachella 2026: Maximalist Sets, Minimalist Biebs, and the Influencer Olympics

    In this episode of Q'd Up, host Nikki Wishart is joined by Kim to unpack the highs, lows, and "did that really happen?" moments of Coachella 2026. From the comfort of their couches, the pair dive into why this year saw the highest streaming numbers in the festival’s history and whether the "Influencer Olympics" culture is actually killing the vibe on the ground. They break down the stark contrast between Sabrina Carpenter’s high-budget theatrical "SabrinaWood" set and Justin Bieber’s laptop-led minimalist performance, sparking a juicy debate on industry double standards and the business behind selling your masters. Kim and Nikki also celebrate the legendary Madonna joining Sabrina on stage for a 10-minute masterclass in Vogue, and discuss how Latin icons like Karol G and Bad Bunny have officially moved from subculture to global dominance. Between chats about $40 tacos, the dusty reality of Palm Springs, and why Anyma’s visuals at the Sphere and Giza are the future of music, the girls also play festival booker - pitching their dream headliners for 2027. [00:01:10] – Glastonbury vs. Tomorrowland: Which festival vibe wins? [00:02:22] – Dead crowds and the "Influencer Olympics" culture [00:03:50] – Sabrina Carpenter’s theatrical set and the Terry Crews cameo [00:07:08] – Iconic guest spots: Madonna’s 10-minute Vogue takeover [00:09:44] – Madonna’s legacy: Breaking doors down for the next generation [00:10:05] – Unpacking the JB set: R&B influences and stripping it back [00:11:58] – Double standards: Do female pop stars have to do more? [00:13:51] – The business of music: Selling masters and $10 million paychecks [00:20:20] – The dominance of Latin music: Karol G & Becky G [00:22:45] – KATSEYE, K-pop academies, and 2026 highlights [00:25:53] – Marketing & Billboards: From Teddy Swims to $40 tacos [00:27:15] – Festival fashion, 2016 nostalgia, and desert dust [00:34:20] – 2027 Wishlist: Who should headline next? We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we are filming today, the people of the Kulin Nation. We also pay respect to their Elders, past and present. Follow Us: Instagram - @qdupbyqsic LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/qsic⁠ YouTube - ⁠https://youtube.com/@getqsic?si=w9nuA0AqgG1jqa6r⁠ Follow Nikki: Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/nikki_wishart/⁠ Follow Kim: Kimberley: Instagram - h⁠ttps://www.instagram.com/kimberleyldavis/⁠

    38 min

  4. Apr 13

    Pantjiti Lawrence – Managing the Magic: Festivals, Volunteers, and Crowd-caring with Untitled Group

    In this episode of Q'd Up, host Nikki Wishart sits down with Pantjiti Lawrence, a country girl from Gippsland turned powerhouse workforce manager for Untitled Group. Pantjiti shares her journey from performing at local "Frieze" events to overseeing the massive logistics behind iconic festivals like Beyond the Valley and Pitch Music & Arts. She pulls back the curtain on what it’s really like to manage thousands of staff and volunteers - from the "non-negotiable" ice cream meetings to the surprising number of people who apply for camping festivals having never actually pitched a tent before. Pantjiti also speaks deeply about the importance of "Crowd Care" and Untitled Group’s industry-leading safety initiatives. She shares moving stories about the impact of the "Help Hubs" and their partnership with Teach Us Consent, illustrating how a safe environment can fundamentally change a patron's festival experience. From building "mini hospitals" on-site to mentoring the next generation of industry professionals, Pantjiti offers an honest, grounded look at why passion and enthusiasm are the real keys to a career in music. [00:00:00] – Introduction to Pantjiti Lawrence and her country roots [00:01:43] – The "mindblowing" realisation: Getting paid to go to gigs [00:03:05] – Moving to Melbourne: Exploring the city’s thriving gig culture [00:05:39] – Managing festival staff: Camping surprises and volunteer passion [00:07:22] – Changing the narrative: What volunteers actually do (it’s not cleaning toilets!) – What makes a standout hire? Enthusiasm and passion over experience [00:13:57] – Crowd Care & Help Hubs: Creating a safe haven for patrons [00:20:57] – Australia’s largest camping festival: Celebrating 10 years of BTV [00:22:12] – Pushing against the grain: Why some festivals are still thriving [00:28:02] [00:28:02] – Dream Festival: Woodland folk, regional Victoria, and river swims If you have been impacted by any of the themes discussed in this episode, please feel free to contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) available 24/7. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we are filming today, the people of the Kulin Nation. We also pay respect to their Elders, past and present. Follow Us Instagram - @qdupbyqsic LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/qsic⁠ YouTube - ⁠https://youtube.com/@getqsic?si=w9nuA0AqgG1jqa6r⁠ Nikki: Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/nikki_wishart/⁠ Learn more about Untitled Group - https://untitledgroup.com.au/

    37 min

  5. Mar 30

    Eminem’s ‘Stan’: The Dark Origin of Fandom and the Cost of Influence

    In this episode of Q'd Up, Nikki Wishart kicks off a brand-new format by diving deep into the haunting backstory of one of hip hop’s most iconic tracks: Eminem’s "Stan". Released in 2000 on The Marshall Mathers LP, the song wasn't just a chart-topper; it was a raw response to the overwhelming and often intense fan mail Eminem received as he exploded from Detroit’s underground to global superstardom. Nikki explores how the character of Stan was born from real-life letters and the blurred lines between admiration and a dangerous, entitlement-driven dependence. Joined by Kim, the pair unpack the tragic narrative of the song - from the chilling use of Dido’s "Thank You" to the reveal that the story wasn't a metaphor, but a tragedy built on miscommunication and emotional isolation. They also tackle the modern-day relevance of "Stan" in our current era of DMs and parasocial relationships, questioning the weight of responsibility artists carry when their words become an emotional lifeline for those feeling unseen. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a Gen Z listener who only knows "Stan" as internet slang, this episode is a fascinating look at the "scary part of fame" and the enduring power of honest storytelling. [00:00:00] – Welcome to Q’d Up: Acknowledging the Traditional Owners [00:00:29] – Diving into the backstory of Eminem’s "Stan" [00:00:55] – From Detroit to global fame: The reality of intense fan mail [00:01:42] – Deconstructing the character: When admiration turns to obsession [00:02:43] – The chilling reveal: Miscommunication and the final verse [00:03:10] – The haunting contrast of Dido’s chorus [00:03:39] – "Stan" enters the dictionary: The cultural impact and dark origins of the term [00:04:31] – Loneliness in the digital age: Predicting parasocial relationships [00:05:27] – Unpacking the story with Kim: Letters vs. the speed of DMs [00:06:47] – The "Taylor Swift" effect: Responsibility and the healthy line of fandom [00:07:50] – Music curation and knowing your history: A message for the "cusp" of Gen Z. If you have been impacted by any of the themes discussed in this episode, please contact Lifeline available 24/7 13 11 14. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we are filming today, the people of the Kulin Nation. We also pay respect to their Elders, past and present. Follow Us Instagram - @qdupbyqsic LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/qsic⁠ YouTube - ⁠https://youtube.com/@getqsic?si=w9nuA0AqgG1jqa6r⁠ Nikki: Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/nikki_wishart/⁠ Kimberley: Instagram - h⁠ttps://www.instagram.com/kimberleyldavis/⁠

    10 min

  6. Mar 16

    Jena Marino – The Power of Community: Building a One-Stop Shop for Melbourne Songwriters

    In this episode of Q’d Up, host Nikki Wishart is joined by Jena Marino, the founder of the Real Songwriters of Melbourne (RSOM). From starting a blog as a 19-year-old journalism student to building one of Melbourne’s most vital music communities, Jena has spent over a decade lifting the veil on the industry for emerging artists. She shares how she has built a platform of showcases, networking nights, and the Release Academy, helping artists navigate the often confusing "business" side of music. Jena reflects on the challenges of being a young woman starting out in a foreign industry landscape and the pivotal moment in 2020 when the community truly found its voice through digital connection. Whether it’s discussing the "good karma" of supporting local gigs or the success stories of artists like Mr. Coe and Moss Rose, Jena’s passion for creating a sustainable, inclusive space for creatives shines through. This episode is a must-listen for any songwriter looking to find their tribe, upskill their career, and turn their passion into a business. [00:00:21] – Introduction and Acknowledgement of Country [00:01:03] – Jena’s background: From 80s rock bands to journalism [00:03:54] – The birth of the Real Songwriters of Melbourne blog [00:05:58] – Moving from online to in-person: The first showcases and networking events [ 00:07:21] – The 2020 shift: How the pandemic solidified the RSOM community [00:10:21] – Overcoming industry "knockbacks" and the challenges for young women in music [00:12:39] – Treating your art like a business: The Release Academy and marketing [00:14:45] – Why RSOM open mics are different: Support over silence [00:16:42] – Artist success stories: Mr. Coe and the power of networking [00:19:17] – How social media has changed the "breakout" journey for songwriters [00:23:03] – Practical advice for finding your community and local music hubs We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we are filming today, the people of the Kulin Nation. We also pay respect to their Elders, past and present. Follow Us Instagram - @qdupbyqsic LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/qsic⁠ YouTube - ⁠https://youtube.com/@getqsic?si=w9nuA0AqgG1jqa6r⁠ Nikki: Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/nikki_wishart/⁠ Learn more about Real Songwriters of Melbourne: https://rsom.au/ https://www.instagram.com/rsomelbourne

    35 min

  7. Mar 2

    Unpacking the Super Bowl Halftime Show: Bad Bunny, Cultural Moments and Ad Clout

    In this episode of Q'd Up, we’re hitting up the latest in culture to unpack 2026's Super Bowl halftime performance that had the internet exploding. From the iconic "grass people" and sugar cane fields to the deeper political statements woven throughout the set, we dive into how Bad Bunny turned a 13-minute show into a powerful cultural moment for the Latin community. We chat about those Lady Gaga "Guadalupe" memes, why Ricky Martin still reigns supreme, and the universal power of music that hits you right in the feels, even if you don’t speak the language. Beyond the music, we talk shop on the high-stakes world of Super Bowl advertising. We break down our favourite clips - from Pepsi taking a cheeky dig at Coca Cola to Chris Hemsworth’s Alexa takeover fears and question whether spending millions on production is actually worth the ROI or just a massive play for prestige and clout. Plus, we throw our hats into the ring with some bold predictions for future headliners, from Post Malone’s country-crossover potential to the likelihood of T-Swift eventually taking the stage. [00:00:41] – First impressions: Is Bad Bunny the biggest artist on the planet? [00:01:45] – Comparing the greats: Usher, Kendrick, and the evolution of the halftime show [00:03:41] – Cultural nods: Lady Gaga, Ricky Martin, and the salsa rendition we didn't know we needed [00:07:40] – The language of music: Connecting with audiences beyond English [00:13:30] – The most powerful message: Choosing unity and love over hate – A Super Bowl wedding? The wild story behind the on-stage nuptials [00:17:10] – Advertising deep dive: Pepsi vs. Coke and the battle for the fridge [00:18:45] – Celeb cameos: Chris Hemsworth, Pringles, and the $16 million production tag [00:23:40] – Future predictions: Will Taylor Swift ever say yes to Jay-Z? [00:25:52] – Could Post Malone bridge the R&B and Country gap for the NFL? We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we are filming today, the people of the Kulin Nation. We also pay respect to their Elders, past and present. Follow Us Instagram - @qdupbyqsic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/qsic YouTube - https://youtube.com/@getqsic?si=w9nuA0AqgG1jqa6r Follow Nikki: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nikki_wishart/

    31 min

  8. Feb 16

    Stuart Willett – From Geelong Pubs to Nashville Stadiums: Engineering Sound for Global Stars

    In this episode of Q’d Up, host Nikki Wishart sits down with live sound engineer Stuart Willett, who is currently making waves in the Nashville music scene. Stuart shares his journey from a high school technical production class in Australia to mixing sound for major artists like Alana Springsteen on massive US stadium tours supporting Keith Urban. Stuart opens up about the reality of life behind the scenes, detailing the meticulous preparation required for live shows—from managing complex input lists to the high-pressure environment of loading onto a stage with multiple opening acts. He reflects on the "vibe check" nature of the industry, explaining why interpersonal skills and being a "good hang" are often just as important as technical expertise when living on a tour bus 24/7. From the technical hurdles of American power connectors to the wholesome tradition of watching Bluey as a "tour mascot" to wind down after a show, Stuart provides a candid and witty look at the highs and lows of an international career in audio. The episode concludes with a rapid-fire round covering The Wiggles, the influence of country-pop, and the "tour rules" of the road. [00:01:20] – Getting started: High school technical production and the first gig in Geelong [00:03:10] – The life of a sound engineer: Emails, input lists, and the "exciting" 10% of the job [00:04:46] – Tour bus vs. Van life: The "no pooping" rule and the convenience of waking up at the next venue [00:06:18] – Moving to Nashville: Being "coerced" by Seaforth and the leap of faith [00:08:46] – Adjusting to the US: Different power gear and finding a "Nashville bestie" [00:10:35] – The "Pinch-me" moment: Working US stadiums and crying during a Morgan Wallen show [00:13:56] – Job interviews in the music industry: Coffee, vibe checks, and interpersonal skills [00:17:48] – The grind of the road: Nine-hour drives, missed soundchecks, and trusting the system We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we are filming today, the people of the Kulin Nation. We also pay respect to their Elders, past and present. Follow Us Instagram - @qdupbyqsic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/qsic YouTube - https://youtube.com/@getqsic?si=w9nuA0AqgG1jqa6r Nikki: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nikki_wishart/ Stuart: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/stuartwillett

    38 min
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About

Q'd Up is a podcast from QSIC, the global audio technology platform reaching over 350 million in-store shoppers monthly. We pull back the curtain on music, retail media and the culture of sound, diving into trends, fresh releases and real conversations with the people shaping audio today. Whether you're here for the music, the industry insights or the big ideas at the intersection of sound and commerce, there's something in every episode worth turning up.

Information

  • Creator
    Nikki Wishart
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    17
  • Show Website
    Q'd Up by QSIC