Off Script with Jarvis 'Jeb' Barnes

Jarvis 'Jeb' Barnes

Off Script is the leading podcast on what it really takes to build a career in live entertainment. Hosted by Jarvis “Jeb” Barnes, the show pulls back the curtain on how great performances are built, careers are shaped, and real success in touring and entertainment is earned. Each episode features honest conversations with the professionals who make the stage happen, including musicians, dancers, music directors, creative directors, choreographers, tour managers, playback techs, and other leaders in live performance. This is where the highlight reel ends and the real story begins. Off Script explores how opportunities are earned, how rehearsals really work, how leadership decisions get made, and what separates raw talent from lasting success. From preparation and pressure to relationships, excellence, and professionalism, the show gives listeners a rare inside look at what it truly takes to build a career in music, touring, and live entertainment. Whether you are trying to break into the industry, grow within it, or simply understand what happens behind the performance, Off Script delivers real stories, real lessons, and real insight from the people shaping live entertainment at the highest level.

Épisodes

  1. 13 AVR.

    Off Script Live: Drummer Edition Pt. 1 | Ep. 7

    In Off Script Live: Drummer Edition Pt. 1, host Jarvis “Jeb” Barnes is joined by Al Cleveland III, Tony Taylor Jr, Clemons Poindexter IV, Jermaine Poindexter, and Quinton Robinson for an in depth conversation about the realities of building a career in music. The panel discusses professionalism, endorsements, relationships, relocation, self worth, negotiation, criticism, preparation, and the mindset needed to create longevity in the industry. This episode offers honest perspective on sacrifice, resilience, humility, and what it truly means to serve the music at a high level. A must listen for drummers, musicians, creatives, and anyone committed to excellence. Episode OverviewIn this live drummer panel, Jarvis “Jeb” Barnes leads a candid and insightful conversation with Al Cleveland III, Tony Taylor Jr, Clemons Poindexter IV, Jermaine Poindexter, and Quinton Robinson about the realities of life in the music industry. The discussion explores professionalism, authenticity, endorsements, relationships, career transitions, relocation, supplemental work, struggle, preparation, education, negotiation, handling notes, and maintaining humility. Throughout the conversation, the panelists share hard earned lessons on what it takes to build a sustainable career and remain respected in a highly competitive field. TakeawaysProfessionalism, discipline, and consistency are foundational to lasting successClout chasing can distract from real growth and meaningful career buildingEndorsements should come from authentic alignment, not ego or free gearGenuine relationships are one of the most valuable assets in the music industryRelocating for opportunity requires strategy, sacrifice, and self awarenessMany musicians work other jobs before music becomes sustainable full timePreparation begins with listening, understanding, and serving the musicBoth formal education and real world experience offer value when applied wiselyKnowing your worth matters, but so does the ability to communicate it professionallyHumility, respect, and the ability to receive notes are essential for longevityChapters 00:00 Clout Chasing and Artificial Validation 16:09 Navigating Endorsements and Structuring Deals 21:46 Professionalism and Authenticity in the Industry 36:18 The Power of Relationships 41:32 Moving to a Major City for Opportunity 52:47 Prior Jobs and Supplemental Income 59:24 Overcoming Struggles and Homelessness 1:11:33 Approach to Music and the Preparation Process 1:18:20 The Importance of Listening and Understanding 1:30:14 Setting Rates and Negotiating Your Worth 1:46:33 Handling Criticism and Receiving Notes 1:51:31 Maintaining Professionalism and Respect

    2 h
  2. 6 AVR.

    Patch Mahoney on Touring, Endorsements, Social Media, and Building a Music Career I Ep.6

    In this episode of Off Script, Patch Mahoney joins Jarvis “Jeb” Barnes for a real conversation about life, music, fatherhood, and what it actually takes to build a lasting career in the industry. Patch Mahoney is a Los Angeles based touring/session drummer. Working primarily in the pop world, Patch has recently worked with artists including Bebe Rexha, j-hope, KATSEYE, Surfaces, Eric Nam, and is currently on the road with Hilary Duff for the lucky me tour!  Patch opens up about his life in Phoenix, his move to Los Angeles, and the challenges of balancing family, work, and creative ambition. The conversation explores how he navigated the LA music scene, created opportunities for himself, and stayed intentional about the kind of career and life he wanted to build. They also dive into social media strategy for musicians, creating content with purpose, how endorsements and brand partnerships really work, and what artists need to understand about turning visibility into opportunity. Patch shares honest insight on touring, finding gigs, sub work, filling in at a high level, and why character, preparation, and intentionality matter just as much as talent. This episode is packed with practical insight for musicians, drummers, creatives, and anyone trying to build a serious career in live entertainment, touring, and the modern music industry. FOLLOW PATCH: HERE Topics covered in this episode: Fatherhood and balancing work with family lifeMoving from Phoenix to Los AngelesNavigating the LA music sceneSocial media strategy for musiciansCreating content with intentionHow endorsements and partnerships developNavigating the endorsement processTouring opportunities and career growthThe value of sub work and filling in wellWhy character and professionalism matter in music Refined chapter titles: 00:00 Life in Phoenix and the Joy of Fatherhood 06:31 Early Background and the Move to Los Angeles 15:40 Starting Over and Building a Career in LA 23:22 Navigating the LA Music Scene 30:18 Using Social Media with Intention 38:09 Endorsements, Partnerships, and Brand Relationships 46:25 How the Endorsement Process Really Works 51:29 Touring Opportunities and Career Growth 01:18:38 Why Character Matters in the Music Industry

    1 h 30 min
  3. 30 MARS

    Big Mike Hart on Becoming an Artist, Building Modern Classic, and What Musicians Need I Ep. 5

    Show NotesIn this episode, Big Mike Hart joins the conversation to talk about his journey from Sacramento to Los Angeles, the leap from sideman to artist, and the creative process behind his album Modern Classic. He opens up about the sacrifices it takes to build a real career in music, what it means to create work with substance, and how his collaboration with Boney James helped push the record onto the Billboard charts. The conversation also dives into live performance, musicianship, production, and songwriting, with a strong focus on why understanding the history of music matters. Big Mike shares why storytelling is essential in great songs, what separates strong musicians from average ones in live settings, and why professionalism still opens doors in every room. This episode is also a powerful reminder that talent alone is not enough. Big Mike speaks on punctuality, discipline, consistency, health, and fitness, and why those habits can directly impact longevity in the music industry. For musicians, producers, artists, and anyone serious about building a lasting career, this episode is full of insight. In This EpisodeBig Mike Hart’s move from Sacramento to LAThe shift from sideman to artistThe story behind Modern ClassicWorking with Boney James and Billboard successWhy musical history mattersThe role of storytelling in songwritingWhat artists look for in live musiciansPunctuality, discipline, and professionalismWhy health and fitness matter on the road FOLLOW BIG MIKE HART HERE Chapters00:00 Success and the creation of Modern Classic 32:18 Why old school music still moves crowds 38:33 Building an album with timeless feel 47:03 Collaboration, musicianship, and chemistry 53:27 Influences, storytelling, and songwriting

    1 h 23 min
  4. 23 MARS

    Arnetta Johnson on Music Industry Networking, Berklee, Mentorship, and Touring I Ep. 4

    In this episode of Off Script with Jarvis, trumpeter Arnetta Johnson shares what it really takes to build a lasting career in music. From discovering her path as a young musician to navigating Berklee College of Music, Arnetta opens up about the experiences, relationships, and lessons that shaped her journey. Jarvis and Arnetta dive into music industry networking, using social media for musicians, the power of mentorship, and how consistency can open doors over time. They also talk through adversity, protecting your personal time, creating opportunities for others through her music camp, and what it looks like to navigate touring as an introvert while still showing up at a high level. This episode is packed with insight for musicians, creatives, music students, touring professionals, and anyone trying to build a career with intention, discipline, and resilience. Arnetta's Short Bio: Arnetta Johnson is a trumpet player from Camden,NJ. Graduating from Berklee College of Music she went on to perform with major acts from jazz greats such as Terri Lyne Carrington all the way to Beyonce. With her own album “If You Hear A Trumpet It’s Me”, Arnetta has created her own sound called Disruptive Jazz. Recently she has launched her nonprofit called The BOP Foundation and has a free music camp for young musicians called Arnetta’s Band Camp.  The BOP Foundation donation link! Topics covered: music industry advice, social media for musicians, networking in music, Berklee College of Music, mentorship, overcoming adversity, touring as an introvert, time management, consistency, career growt

    1 h 32 min
  5. 16 MARS

    Pyrotechnics on Tour: What It Really Takes | Tiffany Watson | Ep. 3

    In this episode of Off Script, Tiffany Watson shares how she went from college to becoming a pyrotechnician and tour operator in the live entertainment industry. She's worked with Artist such as Blink 182, Tate McRae, and Kendrick Lamar. She breaks down what it really takes to run pyrotechnics on tour, from strict safety protocols and high pressure decision making to managing a team in one of the most intense environments in live production. Tiffany opens up about the responsibility that comes with firing effects during live performances, the preparation required behind the scenes, and the level of trust needed between every department on a show. She also talks about leadership, earning respect in a male dominated field, and how communication, accountability, and composure can make or break a team on the road. This conversation is a must listen for anyone interested in touring, concert production, live events, pyrotechnics, stage management, crew leadership, and the entertainment industry. TIFFANY WATSON BIO: Tiffany Watson is a pyrotechnician who has toured with artists such as Blink 182, Tate McRae, and Kendrick Lamar. She also worked in production for television and film for 5 years before switching over to touring and the music industry. Right now, Tiffany spends most of her time living on a tour bus but is currently working towards managing artist accounts and getting more involved with the creative process from the beginning, meaning less time sleeping on a bus and more time in her own bed. FOLLOW TIFFANY ON IG In this episode, we cover: • How Tiffany became a pyrotechnics operator on tour • The safety protocols behind live pyro effects • What makes live event production so high pressure • Leadership and team dynamics in touring environments • Earning trust and respect in a male dominated industry • The qualities of a great crew member in live production • Problem solving in real time during live shows • Where the live entertainment industry is headed next

    1 h 13 min
  6. 9 MARS

    How TJ Rodriguez Built a Career in Playback Engineering and Music Production Ep.2

    TJ Rodriguez joins Off Script with Jarvis to talk about playback engineering, live performance, music production, and the transition from touring into studio work. He breaks down the real responsibilities of a playback engineer, the pressure of making musical decisions in real time, and why preparation, confidence, and communication are essential at the highest level. TJ also shares lessons on moving to Los Angeles, adapting after COVID, trusting faith, and building a career with real support, real friendships, and real conviction. In this episode, TJ Rodriguez sits down with Jarvis for an honest conversation about building a modern music career across live performance, playback engineering, songwriting, and production. TJ shares what it looks like to transition from the road into studio work, how COVID shifted the industry, and why lifestyle, family, and long term vision shape major career decisions. They break down the role of a playback engineer from a real world perspective, including musical responsibility, problem solving under pressure, communication during live shows, and the preparation it takes to handle last minute changes with confidence. The episode also explores networking, moving to Los Angeles, stepping into songwriting and production, and the importance of trusting your abilities when entering a new season. This conversation is full of practical insight for drummers, musicians, producers, playback engineers, and anyone serious about building a career in live entertainment and music production. Takeaways • Transitioning from live performance into studio production requires a new mindset, new routines, and a willingness to adapt COVID changed the music industry and forced many professionals to rethink how they work and growMoving to Los Angeles opened new opportunities, relationships, and creative pathwaysNetworking can happen in unexpected spaces, including gaming and online communitiesPlayback engineers are a vital musical part of the live show, not just technical supportGreat playback work requires confidence, awareness, communication, and real time problem solvingPreparation and research build the confidence needed to handle pressure and last minute changesMusical knowledge matters because playback engineers often have to make musical decisions on the flyOver communication is one of the most valuable skills in live performance and productionSongwriting and production growth often begin with taking risks and trusting your instinctsReal support systems and genuine friendships matter deeply in both personal and professional growthFaith, preparation, and self belief often go hand in hand when stepping into a new lane Get In Touch With TJ Rodriguez Chapters 00:00 Introduction to TJ Rodriguez 03:42 From Live Performance to Studio Production 10:18 How COVID Changed the Music Industry 15:20 Moving to Los Angeles and Starting Fresh 22:11 Networking, Gaming, and Unexpected Opportunities 29:35 New Standards, New Challenges, New Growth 34:37 Confidence, Preparation, and Problem Solving 43:00 What a Playback Engineer Really Does 51:01 How to Get Started in Playback Engineering 01:01:40 Awareness and Communication During a Live Show 01:08:03 Transitioning into Songwriting and Production 01:14:15 Taking Leaps of Faith and Trusting Your Ability 01:19:40 Real Support, Real Friendships, Real Growth

    1 h 29 min
  7. 2 MARS

    How Izzy Lamberti Turned Drum Covers Into a Real Music Career I Ep. 1

    How Izzy Lamberti Turned Drum Covers Into a Real Music Career | Off Script with Jarvis In this episode of Off Script with Jarvis, I sit down with Izzy Lamberti for a real conversation about drum covers, content creation, touring, branding, and what it actually takes to build a lasting career in the music industry. Izzy shares her journey from posting drum cover videos to creating real opportunities as a working musician. We talk about her move to Los Angeles, balancing school and touring, building momentum through social media, and learning how to navigate the modern music business as both a drummer and a creator. We also get into the behind the scenes reality of filming content, adapting to different environments during video shoots, building trust with an audience, and staying authentic when it comes to brand partnerships and product endorsements. This episode is a deep look at how drummers, musicians, and content creators can turn online visibility into real world opportunities. Izzy also breaks down the importance of live arrangements, performance, musicality, image, and branding, and why alignment matters when building a name in today’s entertainment space. From touring musician life to social media strategy for drummers, this conversation is packed with insight for anyone serious about growing in music. Whether you are a drummer, musician, music student, touring artist, or content creator, this episode offers real perspective on building a music career, growing your brand, and creating content that actually opens doors. In this episode, we cover: • Izzy Lamberti interview • Drum covers and music career growth • Touring and balancing school • Moving to Los Angeles as a musician • Social media strategy for musicians • Content creation for drummers • Music industry networking • Authenticity in endorsements • Live arrangements and performance • Branding and image in the music industry Connect with Izzy Lamberti: Website: https://www.izzylamberti.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/izzy.lamberti/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@izzylamberti?lang=en Chapters 00:00 Life in L.A. and Hiking Adventures12:58 Transition to L.A. and Music Career22:55 Content Creation and Social Media Strategy30:30 Adapting to Different Environments36:12 Authenticity in Endorsements57:52 Incorporating Live Arrangements01:09:03 Approach to Drumming and Arrangements01:22:47 Considerations for Branding and Image

    1 h 28 min

À propos

Off Script is the leading podcast on what it really takes to build a career in live entertainment. Hosted by Jarvis “Jeb” Barnes, the show pulls back the curtain on how great performances are built, careers are shaped, and real success in touring and entertainment is earned. Each episode features honest conversations with the professionals who make the stage happen, including musicians, dancers, music directors, creative directors, choreographers, tour managers, playback techs, and other leaders in live performance. This is where the highlight reel ends and the real story begins. Off Script explores how opportunities are earned, how rehearsals really work, how leadership decisions get made, and what separates raw talent from lasting success. From preparation and pressure to relationships, excellence, and professionalism, the show gives listeners a rare inside look at what it truly takes to build a career in music, touring, and live entertainment. Whether you are trying to break into the industry, grow within it, or simply understand what happens behind the performance, Off Script delivers real stories, real lessons, and real insight from the people shaping live entertainment at the highest level.