We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful James Michael Hollenstein. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with James Michael below.
James Michael, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you wish you had started sooner?
Throughout our lives, we often encounter those defining moments when we realize our true passions. For me, it was early on when I discovered my longing to be involved in broadcasting — whether it was being in front of the mic, sharing stories, or working behind the scenes to create compelling content. This dream fueled my enthusiasm; however, it was a double-edged sword. The ambitions I nurtured were often hindered by an all-too-familiar foe: insecurity.
Reflecting on my journey, I understand how my insecurities crept in, casting shadows of doubt over my abilities and worthiness. The broadcasting field, despite its allure, can be intimidating. The constant cycled barrage of criticism and comparison sends many of us into spirals of self-doubt, questioning if we’re “enough” to step into the spotlight. I often grappled with thoughts like, “What if I’m not as articulate as the others?” or “Will anyone even want to hear what I have to say?”
Adding to this struggle was the environment I found myself in. Being surrounded by negative people further compounded my insecurities. Their dismissive remarks and lack of support created a toxic atmosphere that stifled my ambition. I often felt like an outcast in a field brimming with unique voices, and the weight of others’ negativity often clouded my passion. This dynamic is a critical reminder of how profoundly our surroundings can influence our journeys and mindsets.
Yet, as I reflect on this tumultuous relationship with my aspirations, I recognize the importance of resilience. The broadcasting industry, much like life, is filled with challenges. Overcoming insecurities requires not only self-belief but also the courage to distance ourselves from negativity. I learned that the first step in carving out my space in this world is believing I have merit, regardless of the opinions of others.
My journey is far from over; I still strive to step out of the shadows and embrace the microphone. As I continue to navigate this path, I understand that broadcasting is not solely about talent; it’s about authenticity, passion, and the ability to connect with others. Through every trial and moment of doubt, I’ve come to appreciate that my story and voice are valuable just as they are.
In conclusion, while insecurity and negativity can be formidable barriers, they do not have to define our dreams. Recognizing these challenges is the first step toward overcoming them. My passion for broadcasting remains unwavering, fueled by a desire to share my experiences and listen to others. It is a journey of growth, and I am learning to turn my insecurities into strengths, forging a path unique to my voice. As I move forward, I hold on to the belief that my place in broadcasting is not just a dream, but a reality waiting to be embraced.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Growing up in the Garden State of New Jersey, I always knew there was something special about the world of broadcasting. The neon lights of music clubs, the hum of excitement at private events, and the pulse of live audiences captured my imagination at an early age. It wasn’t long before I realized that I wanted to be a part of that energy, and by the time I turned 19, I took my first step into the vibrant world of music as a disc jockey.
My journey as a DJ led me to multiple venues across the tri-state area, the Midwest, and even the sun-soaked clubs of the West Coast. Each gig was an opportunity to hone my skills, connect with talented artists, and learn what it truly meant to engage an audience. I played everything from the latest hits to classic crowd favorites, always seeking to create the perfect atmosphere for my listeners. Those formative years taught me the ins and outs of the industry, the importance of reading a crowd, and the thrilling rush of live performance.
In 2006, taking the leap from live events to radio felt like a natural progression. I launched “The Record Machine Show” on Live365.com, where I hoped to bring my passion for music directly into listeners’ homes. The thrill of broadcasting opened up a whole new world. My show quickly gained traction, airing on several radio stations and resonating with audiences far and wide.
As the years rolled on, I realized that I wanted to take my show in a new direction. In 2017, I made the decision to evolve my format from solely playing music and taking requests to featuring interviews with the artists themselves. This change ignited a deeper passion—getting to know the people behind the music. Each interview provided a unique glimpse into the lives of musicians, revealing their stories, inspirations, and the challenges they faced in an ever-evolving industry.
To date, I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing hundreds of talented artists, including legends like Suzi Quatro, Harriet Schock, Billy Vera, and Walter Egan. Some names that have graced my show include Gary Talley, Liberty Divitto, Jelly Roll Johnson, David Reece, PJ Farley, Rob Fraboni, Donnie Vie, Brian Vollmer, and Genya Ravan. Each conversation deepens my admiration for these creators and enriches my understanding of the art of music.
The beauty of “The Record Machine Show” is the connection I forge with my audience. By showcasing the stories of artists, I not only share their music but also create an atmosphere where listeners can immerse themselves in the culture of the industry. With new episodes airing weekly on Mixcloud.com and on my website, therecordmachineshow.com, I remain dedicated to delivering engaging content that resonates with music enthusiasts around the world.
With a loyal following that continues to grow, my journey in broadcasting has been a fulfilling adventure. From spinning records in clubs to hosting a radio show that celebrates the magic of music and storytelling, I’m grateful for every moment I’ve spent in this dynamic world.
Here’s to the next chapter in my journey and to the melodies yet to be shared! Keep tuning in—there’s so much more music and so many more stories to explore.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
In an era where digital consumption often overshadows physical interaction, it’s vital to recognize the value of supporting artists in every way possible. Artists—whether they’re musicians, visual creators, or performers—thrive on community engagement and financial backing. As consumers, the choices we make directly impact their careers and creativity. So how can we step up our support for our favorite artists?
While streaming music has its benefits, it’s essential to remember that artists earn a fraction of a penny for each streamed song. Purchasing their music—be it through digital downloads or physical copies—provides much-needed revenue. Furthermore, buying merchandise such as t-shirts, vinyl records, or posters not only supports artists financially but also allows you to sport your fandom proudly. When you wear that band tee or display that art print, you’re showing the world who you support, creating a ripple effect of awareness.
There’s something magical about live music and performances. Not only do concerts and shows provide a chance to experience an artist’s work in the most authentic way, but they also serve as one of the most significant income sources for many creators. By purchasing tickets and attending live events, you’re directly contributing to their livelihood while enjoying a delightful night out. Plus, nothing beats the electric atmosphere of a concert, where you can sing along with fellow fans and create lasting memories.
In today’s digital landscape, social media plays a crucial role in an artist’s visibility and success. By liking, sharing, and commenting on their posts, you amplify their reach to a broader audience. Encourage your friends to check out your favorite artist’s latest release or upcoming event. Even a simple share can expose them to new fans who may become just as passionate. Your support on social media can create a snowball effect that significantly impacts an artist’s career.
Mailing lists are a direct line of communication between artists and their fans. By signing up for your favorite artist’s newsletter, you gain access to exclusive content, updates on new releases, and early information about tours and merchandise drops. Moreover, these subscriptions often represent a reliable revenue stream for artists, as dedicated fans are more likely to purchase tickets or merchandise when they have direct access to product launches. Additionally, artists appreciate knowing who their dedicated supporters are, enabling them to create more personalized experiences.
Beyond the basics of purchasing and attending, take the time to deeply engage with an artist’s work. Write reviews, create fan art, or even make video supports showcasing why you love their music. This not only helps them gain new followers but encourages other fans to rally behind them in a meaningful way. Engagement isn’t just about interaction; it’s about building a community of supporters who celebrate art together.
Supporting artists is a collective effort. As consumers, it’s essential to acknowledge the value of our purchases and our voices in promoting creativity. By purchasing music and merchandise, attending live shows, sharing social media posts, and engaging through mailing lists, we can help create a sustainable environment for artists to thrive. Your actions—no matter how small—can make a significant difference. Let’s keep the creative spirit alive by supporting artists in every way possible! Let’s be the community that champions artists, empowering them to continue expressing their unique visions for years to come.
Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?
Reflecting on my journey, I often find myself wishing I had discovered social media and the vast resources of the internet earlier. It’s easy to imagine how those tools could have accelerated my progress and opened doors that remained closed for so long. With platforms to share my thoughts, connect with others, and access a wider audience, I believe I might have reached important milestones much sooner. However, despite this longing for an earlier start, I hold no regrets about the path I’ve taken. Each twist and turn has contributed to my growth and resilience, shaping me into the person I am today.
The highlight of this journey has undeniably been my nomination for Podcast of the Year by Elite Music Awards. This recognition feels like a culmination of all the hard work and passion I’ve poured into my craft. It’s a validation of my efforts and a reminder that the right opportunities can arise at the perfect moment, even if they come along later than I had hoped. I see this nomination as a beacon of possibility, one that showcases the power of perseverance. The experiences I’ve had and the relationships I’ve built along the way have been invaluable, making every challenge worthwhile and pushing me to embrace the future with excitement and optimism.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.therecordmachineshow.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therecordmachineshow/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therecordmachine/
- Twitter: https://x.com/recordmachine
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo8nmgoFdyXan7i7c5IipyA?view_as=subscriber
- Soundcloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/therecordmachineshow/
- Other: Mixcloud:
https://www.mixcloud.com/therecordmachineshow/
Image Credits
James Michael Hollenstein