Yes, Quit Your Day Job

About Yes, Quit Your Day Job

Yes, Quit Your Day Job is a real-talk podcast for music industry creatives. Hosted by award-winning, multi-platinum producer Seven Dunbar, each episode dives deep into the challenges and breakthroughs of building a sustainable career in music. From artists and audio engineers to tour crew, booking agents, content creators, and label insiders—we spotlight the people who make the machine move. These are the unfiltered stories behind the grind—and the choices that changed everything

Publisher

Seven Dunbar

Category

music

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

10 Jun 2025

Latest episode

9 Apr 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   9 Apr 2026

   YQYDJ Ep. 17 Steven Seibold:The Enduring Core of Music and Art: Human Connection Beyond Technology

   summary In this episode, Seven Dunbar interviews Stephen Seibold, a veteran of the industrial music scene. They discuss the importance of immersing oneself in art, the evolution of the music industry, and how major events like September 11th have impacted the perception of artists. Seibold shares his personal journey through the industrial genre, the technological advancements in music production, and the changing metrics of success for artists today. In this conversation, Seibold and Seven Dunbar explore the evolution of musical influences, the challenges of navigating relationships in a divisive culture, and the controversies surrounding the Dark Force Fest. They discuss the importance of writing music that resonates with a broad audience, the complexities of hip hop culture, and the impact of online interactions on personal relationships. The conversation also touches on the dynamics within the Goth industrial scene and the personal growth that can arise from navigating difficult situations. In this engaging conversation, Seven Dunbar and Seibold explore the complexities of the music industry, touching on themes of social gatekeeping, the evolution of musical genres, and the impact of AI on music creation. They reflect on their personal musical influences, the importance of human connection in art, and the challenges posed by technology in the creative process. The discussion culminates in a thoughtful examination of the future of music in an AI-driven world, emphasizing the need for authenticity and artistic integrity. Art is essential and should be pursued wholeheartedly.The industrial genre has evolved significantly over the decades.Major cultural events can shift the perception of music and artists.Technology has transformed music production and creativity.Young artists today measure success by follower counts rather than artistic merit.The punk ethos continues to influence industrial music.Personal experiences shape an artist's journey and creativity.Happy accidents in music can lead to unique sounds.The music industry has changed from record deals to online fame.Engaged fans are more valuable than large follower counts. Writing songs for everyone means writing songs for no one.Diversity in music leads to broader appeal.Navigating hip hop culture can be challenging.Forgiveness and love are essential in difficult relationships.The internet creates a false sense of safety in communication.Engaging in civil discourse is increasingly difficult today.The Goth industrial scene is rife with drama and conflict.Personal connections can transcend political differences.Community can be both supportive and toxic.Personal growth often comes from navigating difficult situations. The collapse of social gatekeeping in music is inevitable.Musical evolution is driven by individual choices and influences.AI's role in music creation raises ethical concerns.Artists often have problematic pasts that challenge their legacies.The human connection to music remains irreplaceable despite technological advances.AI can be a useful tool but should not replace human creativity.Navigating the music industry requires understanding both art and technology.The future of music will be shaped by how artists embrace or resist AI.Authenticity in art is crucial in an increasingly automated world.Reflections on personal artistic journeys reveal the importance of community support. keywords art, music, industrial genre, streaming, artist success, technology, punk ethos, cultural impact, music industry, creativity music, songwriting, hip hop, culture, community, controversy, Dark Force Fest, Goths Against Cancel Culture, relationships, personal growth music, AI, social gatekeeping, musical influences, human connection, music industry, artistic journeys, evolution, creativity, technology

2. 

   11 Mar 2026

   YQYDJ Ep16. Daph Doll:The Art of Tattooing: A Journey of Sacrifice

   In this episode of 'Yes, Quit Your Day Job,' host Sevan Dunbar interviews tattoo artist Daph Doll , who shares her journey in the tattoo industry, the sacrifices made to build her career, and the importance of balancing art with business. They discuss the unique culture of tattooing, the impact of being based in Las Vegas, and the significance of client relationships. Daph  emphasizes the need for creativity, the challenges of freelance versus shop life, and the importance of maintaining professionalism while being approachable. The conversation also touches on the misconceptions surrounding tattoo artists and the personal experiences that shape their craft. Takeaways Tattooing is about personal sacrifice and dedication. Building a career in tattooing requires hard work and resilience. Artistic passion should drive the business side of tattooing. Freelance work offers freedom but requires self-motivation. Working in a shop provides valuable learning opportunities. Tattoo culture is deeply intertwined with personal identity. Mistakes in early tattooing can lead to significant growth. Las Vegas offers unique opportunities for tattoo artists. Maintaining client relationships is crucial for success. Social media plays a role, but in-person connections are vital. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 06:49 Freelance vs. Shop Work: The Artist's Perspective 12:50 First Exposure to Tattoo Culture 21:03 Learning from Mistakes as a Tattoo Artist 27:47 Differences Between Painting and Tattooing 33:19 Misconceptions in the Tattoo Industry 39:12 Rapid Fire Questions: Preferences and Experiences

3. 

   3 Mar 2026

   YQYDJ EP. 15:Cadmus Royale: A Journey Through Music

   In this episode of 'Yes, Quit Your Day Job,' host Seven Dunbar interviews musician Cadmus Royale, who shares his journey through music, from his early experiences with his father's band to his current project, Shattered Shell. They discuss the challenges of pursuing a music career, the impact of personal loss on creativity, and the importance of collaboration. Cadmus reflects on his growth as a musician, the transition to the Pacific Northwest, and his aspirations for future tours and projects. The conversation emphasizes the need for musicians to stay true to their passion while navigating the complexities of the music industry. Takeaways Empowerment is key for musicians pursuing their passions. Music is often a lifelong journey, starting from a young age. Personal experiences shape artistic expression and creativity. Moving to a new place can provide a fresh start and new opportunities. Joining a band can be both exciting and challenging. Loss can deeply impact creativity and inspire new works. Finding one's voice as a singer can be a surprising journey. Collaboration is essential in the music industry. Professionalism and clear communication are vital in band dynamics. Building an online presence is crucial for modern musicians.

4. 

   30 Sept 2025

   YQYDJ EP 13:Building a Career, Ocelot's Musical Journey and insights

   Summary In this engaging conversation, Ocelot, an underground rapper, shares his unique journey from Michigan to Utah, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced in building his music career. He emphasizes the importance of networking, authenticity, and passion over fame in the music industry. Ocelot reflects on his collaborations with iconic bands like KMFDM and Limp Bizkit, and how these experiences shaped his artistic identity. He also highlights his current projects, including the rap group Street Sweepers and the new metal band Lobster Knockout, showcasing his versatility as an artist and his commitment to creating meaningful music. Sound Bites "I can take the crown here.""I just wanted to do the art.""I create music to perform it." Takeaways Ocelot's journey began in Michigan and evolved in Utah.Networking is crucial in the music industry.Staying true to oneself is key to authenticity.Overcoming personal challenges can fuel creativity.Collaborations can lead to unexpected opportunities.The importance of passion over fame in music.Creating music is about connection and community.Ocelot emphasizes the significance of family in his life.The evolution of music styles can lead to new projects.Success is defined by personal fulfillment, not just fame. Keywords Ocelot, underground rapper, hip hop, KMFDM, Limp Bizkit, music career, Utah, collaborations, motivation, authenticity

5. 

   17 Sept 2025

   YQYDJ Ep 12:Exploring the Depths of Misanthropy with Matty Corvin

   Summary In this episode of 'Yes, Quit Your Day Job', host Seven Dunbar interviews Matty Corvin, the founder and frontman of Corvins Breed. They discuss Matty's journey in the music industry, the evolution of his band, and the challenges of touring. Matty shares insights into his creative process for the album 'Misanthropy', his collaboration with Nero Bellum, and the unique experiences of live performances. The conversation also touches on the symbolism of crows, the lessons learned in the music industry, and the future of industrial music. Takeaways Matty Corvin has been active in the music industry for over 11 years.The music industry has changed significantly over the years.Live shows are a blend of personal emotions and performance.Crows symbolize resilience and are a personal connection for Matty.The album 'Misanthropy' was a therapeutic process for Matty.Collaboration with Nero Bellum was a seamless creative experience.The music video for 'Straight to the Curb' was a collaborative effort.Live shows are designed to create a ritualistic experience for the audience.Consistency and patience are crucial for independent artists.Industrial music continues to evolve and blend with other genres. Sound Bites "Misanthropy is therapeutic.""Consistency is key.""Patience is everything." Keywords Matty Corvin, Corvins Breed, industrial metal, music industry, touring, collaboration, Misanthropy, music video, live shows, music lessons

6. 

   9 Sept 2025

   YQYDJ Ep. 11:Sascha Konietzko of KMFDM, Collaboration, Chaos & Creativity

   In this engaging conversation, Sascha reflects on his journey in the music industry, discussing the origins of KMFDM, the evolution of industrial music, and the collaborative dynamics that have shaped the band's sound. He shares insights into his creative process, the importance of visual identity, and how technology has transformed music production. Sascha also talks about his aspirations for future tours, the significance of community in the music scene, and his personal reflections on success and pride. Takeaways The sampler was a defining moment for Sascha's creativity.KMFDM's visual identity became a strong brand over time.Collaboration in KMFDM is modular and remote, adapting to technology.Sascha collects sound bites and ideas for new music.The creative process often leads to unexpected results.Staying relevant requires continuous inspiration and hard work.Sascha values kindness and accessibility in the music industry.He has no social media presence due to its challenges.Future tours are planned for East Asia and beyond.Sascha reflects on the importance of luck and hard work in his career. Sound Bites "I want to go back to Australia.""I would have found a way to not make it." Keywords KMFDM, industrial music, music production, collaboration, creative process, technology in music, visual identity, touring, music industry, Sascha KMFDM

7. 

   13 Aug 2025

   YQYDJ Ep 10. QA With Seven Dunbar

   Summary In this conversation, Seven Dunbar shares insights from his music career, focusing on the creative process of songwriting, the challenges of touring, and the importance of networking in the music industry. He reflects on his journey, discussing the concept of finishing a song, the milestones in his career, and the lessons learned from his experiences on tour. Dunbar emphasizes the significance of collaboration and support from other musicians, as well as the realities of buying onto tours and the dynamics of the music industry. Takeaways Art's never completed, it's only abandoned.The journey in music is ongoing; there's no final destination.Networking is crucial for booking tours and gaining opportunities.Every experience, even failures, contributes to growth.Buying onto tours can be a strategic move for exposure.Collaboration with other artists can lead to valuable opportunities.The music industry is filled with challenges that require resilience.Setting deadlines can help overcome perfectionism in creativity.Support from established bands can make a significant difference.Reflecting on past experiences can provide perspective on current achievements. Sound Bites "I don't think I've made it.""We booked it through networking.""They treated us really well." Chapters 00:00 The Journey Begins: Defining 'Making It' in Music07:27 The Pursuit of Excellence: Ambition vs. Fulfillment10:05 Reflections and Realizations: The Impact of Others' Perceptions11:16 The Nature of Completion in Art14:07 The Role of Deadlines in Creativity17:27 Purpose Behind Creating Music

8. 

   5 Aug 2025

   YQYDJ Ep: 9 Basslines and Breakthroughs: Lindsay Manfredi on Music, Self-Worth, and heartbreak along the way

   Summary In this engaging conversation, Lindsay Manfredi shares her journey as a musician and author, discussing her experiences with the band Cold, the themes of her books, and her personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of self-worth, mental health, and the impact of art on individuals. Lindsay also reflects on her creative process, the challenges of writing, and the significance of community support through initiatives like Girls Rock Camp. The discussion highlights the balance between touring and personal projects, as well as the lessons learned from her artistic endeavors. Takeaways Lindsay's journey into music began over 20 years ago.She initially thought she would be a front person in a band.Playing with Cold has provided her with a supportive fan base.Her books are a reflection of her personal experiences and growth.Writing is a way for her to connect with others facing similar struggles.Editing her new book has been a challenging emotional process.She emphasizes the importance of mental health and self-exploration.Lindsay manages her time effectively between touring and creative projects.Her experiences with Girls Rock Camp have empowered young girls in music.Art and music can have a profound impact on people's lives. Sound Bites "It's a letter to myself.""It's devastating to be honest.""I live my life off of a list."

9. 

   29 Jul 2025

   YQYDJ Ep:8 Lucia Cifarelli: Sound, Soul, and the Space Between

   Summary In this engaging conversation, Lucia Cifarelli, lead singer of KMFDM and solo artist, shares her experiences on tour, the creative process behind her latest album 'No God Here', and her evolution in the music industry. She discusses the challenges of performing solo, the importance of connecting with audiences, and the impact of collaborations on her songwriting. Lucia reflects on her personal growth, vulnerability, and the significance of authenticity in her music. The conversation also touches on memorable moments in her career and her aspirations for the future of music. Takeaways Lucia's experience on the Lords of Acid tour was both challenging and rewarding.Performing solo for the first time pushed Lucia out of her comfort zone.Connecting with the audience is crucial, regardless of the crowd size.The creative process for 'No God Here' was deeply personal and reflective.Lucia emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in her music.Collaboration with Sasha from KMFDM has been pivotal in her growth as a songwriter.The music industry has changed significantly since the 90s, impacting artists' reach.Lucia believes in the power of authenticity and personal storytelling in music.She aims to create songs that resonate and stand the test of time.Lucia's desire to collaborate with Bob Dylan highlights her respect for songwriting craftsmanship. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lucia Cifarelli03:59 The Lords of Acid Tour Experience07:09 Connecting with the Audience10:07 The Creative Process Behind 'No God Here'13:17 The Evolution of KMFDM and Personal Growth16:18 Reflections on the 90s Music Scene18:56 The Journey of Becoming a Solo Artist22:09 The Impact of Vulnerability in Music25:07 The Story Behind KMFDM's Formation28:06 Lucia's Role in KMFDM Over the Years39:18 The Art of Songwriting40:44 Collaboration Dynamics with Sasha45:07 Creative Freedom and Growth47:47 The Evolution of Collaboration50:50 Overcoming Industry Challenges56:46 The Impact of Influential Artists58:50 Reflections on Home and Identity01:00:01 Dream Collaborations01:03:10 Lessons from the Journey01:09:31 yesquityourthemesong.wav Keywords Lucia Cifarelli, KMFDM, Lords of Acid, No God Here, music industry, creative process, personal growth, collaboration, songwriting, live performance

10. 

    22 Jul 2025

    YQYDT Ep 7:From Musician to Entrepreneur: Jonathan Price's Journey

    Summary In this conversation, Jonathan Price shares his journey from a young musician to an entrepreneur in the music industry. He discusses the therapeutic nature of music, the importance of financial literacy, and the sacrifices artists often make. Jonathan emphasizes the need for commitment, accountability, and professionalism in building a successful music career. He also highlights the significance of networking and mentorship, as well as the realities faced by local bands. The conversation culminates in insights gained from touring with major acts and working with industry legends. In this engaging conversation, Jonathan Price and Seven Dunbar explore the intricacies of touring, the importance of building relationships in the music industry, and the evolving landscape of music business. They discuss the significance of work ethic, the challenges faced by independent artists, and the impact of AI on music creation. The dialogue emphasizes the need for artists to embrace change while maintaining their unique voice and vision. Keywords music, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, touring, accountability, mentorship, local bands, professionalism, relationships, performance, music, touring, work ethic, independent artists, AI in music, music business, relationships, songwriting, branding, industry insights Takeaways Jonathan Price's journey began at a young age with a piano.Music has been a therapeutic outlet for Jonathan throughout his life.Transitioning from musician to entrepreneur requires understanding the business side.Financial literacy is crucial for artists to sustain their careers.Artists should not sacrifice their personal lives for their dreams.Building a band requires commitment and understanding from all members.Networking and mentorship are key to success in the music industry.Local bands often misunderstand the path to national recognition.Professionalism is essential when touring with larger acts.Personal accountability is vital for growth and success. Touring in Texas offers unique experiences and great shows.Building friendships on tour can lead to memorable moments.Work ethic is crucial for success in the music industry.Relationships can open doors and create opportunities.Independent artists can thrive without label support.Understanding the business side of music is essential.Investing in your music career requires financial foresight.AI is changing the music landscape, presenting both opportunities and challenges.Artists must maintain their unique voice amidst technological advancements.There are multiple paths to success in the music industry. Summary In this conversation, Jonathan Price shares his journey from a young musician to an entrepreneur in the music industry. He discusses the therapeutic nature of music, the importance of financial literacy, and the sacrifices artists often make. Jonathan emphasizes the need for commitment, accountability, and professionalism in building a successful music career. He also highlights the significance of networking and mentorship, as well as the realities faced by local bands. The conversation culminates in insights gained from touring with major acts and working with industry legends. In this engaging conversation, Jonathan Price and Seven Dunbar explore the intricacies of touring, the importance of building relationships in the music industry, and the evolving landscape of music business. They discuss the significance of work ethic, the challenges faced by independent artists, and the impact of AI on music creation. The dialogue emphasizes the need for artists to embrace change while maintaining their unique voice and vision. Takeaways Jonathan Price's journey began at a young age with a piano.Music has been a therapeutic outlet for Jonathan throughout his life.Transitioning from musician to entrepreneur requires understanding the business side.Financial literacy is crucial for artists to sustain their careers.Artists should not sacrifice their pe

11. 

    16 Jul 2025

    YQYDJ EP:6 Seven Dunbar interviews William Zimmerman, founder of Mooncoil Media

    Summary In this conversation, Seven Dunbar interviews William Zimmerman, founder of Mooncoil Media, a PR and branding company specializing in goth, post-punk, and industrial music. They discuss the origins of Mooncoil Media, the importance of building relationships in the music industry, and the unique challenges faced in niche genres. William shares insights on the significance of visuals in branding, the impact of community, and how to navigate controversies. He emphasizes the need for artists to engage with their audience and the importance of resilience in the face of failure. The conversation concludes with William's thoughts on future aspirations and advice for artists. Takeaways William Zimmerman founded Mooncoil Media to help underground artists.Building relationships is key in the PR industry.Mistakes in PR often stem from a lack of personal connection.Visual identity is crucial for a band's branding.The goth scene has its unique challenges and drama.Community support has grown stronger post-COVID.Handling controversy requires careful navigation.Finding balance and inspiration is essential for creativity.Artists should engage consistently with their audience.Failure is a learning opportunity, not the end. Chapters 00:00 The Birth of Mooncoil Media03:44 Building Relationships in PR06:43 Learning from Mistakes09:32 The Impact of Visuals12:47 Crafting Compelling Stories15:31 Navigating the Goth Scene18:50 Challenges and Opportunities in Niche Genres22:13 Handling Controversy25:02 Finding Balance and Inspiration28:05 Future Aspirations and Advice31:12 The Importance of Resilience37:07 Julia close.wav Sound Bites "Engage, engage, engage.""Refuse to give up.""This is all I do all day."

12. 

    8 Jul 2025

    YQYDJ: Ep 5 Ready for Anything: The Road Life of Eric Bergen

    Multi-instrumentalist Eric Bergen discusses his adaptability and mental health while touring as a musician, highlighting the need for backup plans in an interview.

13. 

    2 Jul 2025

    YQYDJ Ep 4: Suffer in Silence, Sing in Truth: Aaron Nordstrom on Loss, Identity, and the Long Road to Clarity

    Aaron Nordstrom details his evolution as a musician, emphasizing risk-taking and sobriety's impact on his creativity, while reflecting on Gemini Syndrome's early days and his solo work in this interview.

14. 

    25 Jun 2025

    YQYDJ Ep 3 Creating Safe Spaces with Blake Attebury

    Summary In this episode, Sevan Dunbar interviews Blake Attebury, founder of Sinister Salon and frontman of System 6. They discuss the importance of building community through creativity, creating safe spaces for misfits, and the challenges of balancing artistry with business. Blake shares his journey of establishing Sinister Salon as a welcoming environment for diverse individuals, the evolution of his band, and the lessons learned from failure. The conversation emphasizes the significance of authenticity, resilience, and the power of creating one's own space in the world. Takeaways Building community starts with intention and authenticity.Creating safe spaces is essential for marginalized groups.Consistency in presence fosters a strong culture.Embracing diversity enriches the community experience.Navigating criticism is part of personal and business growth.Failure is a valuable teacher in the journey of entrepreneurship.Creating your own space is easier than ever with social media.Helping others can be its own reward.Balancing multiple roles can be chaotic but fulfilling.It's important to stay true to oneself amidst external pressures. Keywords community, creativity, Sinister Salon, System 6, LGBTQ, music industry, safe spaces, entrepreneurship, failure, personal growth

15. 

    17 Jun 2025

    YQYDJ Ep 2. “Booking the Unbookable: Christina Graves on Rebuilding, Reputation, and Representing the Unconventional”

    In this episode, Sevan Dunbar interviews Christina Graves, founder of Last Rites Agency, discussing her unconventional journey in the music industry, the challenges faced, and the importance of advocating for artists. Christina shares her experiences transitioning from a band member to an audio engineer and event planner, and ultimately to running her own agency. The conversation highlights the significance of setting boundaries, building trust, and the evolving landscape of music, especially for female artists. Akeaways Christina's journey in music began with a band and synthesizers. She took a break from music to focus on audio engineering. The idea for Last Rites Agency evolved from her experiences in the industry. Advocacy for artists is a core principle of Christina's work. Setting boundaries is crucial for sustainability in the music industry. Christina emphasizes the importance of reassessing and restructuring. Empathy plays a significant role in her approach to management. She encourages open communication and understanding with artists. The agency aims to support female representation in music. Christina is excited about future collaborations and projects.

16. 

    10 Jun 2025

    YQYDJ Ep. 1:From the Break Room to the Green Room: Building a Career Across Worlds

    In this episode of 'Yes, Quit Your Day Job,' host Seven Dunbar speaks with Thomas Crawford, a musician and entrepreneur who shares his journey from local bands to national tours, navigating the complexities of the music industry. They discuss the importance of having a clear vision for one's art, the financial realities of touring, and the role of PR in promoting music. Thomas also talks about his transition to becoming a frontman, the creation of his management company, Darkstream, and his plans to establish the Independent Musicians Guild to support and empower artists. The conversation emphasizes the need for artist development, overcoming imposter syndrome, and building a community for musicians to thrive.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

34,077

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 40 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

50

Social presence

0

YouTube

72

Engagement

0

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.