Scene Mom Says: Navigating the Music Industry in 2026 with Michael Zimmerlich Part Deux

Time: ~29 min. It’s Episode 85! No music again this week but I’ve got the second half of my interview with my good friend, Mike Zimmerlich from Omelet Prevail and Creatives Prevail Podcast. We talk about why diversification is no longer optional, how relying on a single platform or revenue stream puts artists at risk, and what the rise of AI-generated music means for streaming payouts and long-term sustainability. Mike also shares his perspective on using AI ethically, not as a replacement for creativity, but as a tool for saving time, improving marketing, and working smarter. We wrap up by coming back to the most important thing of all: Craft. In a world flooded with low-quality content, intentional, human-made work still stands out, and audiences are actively searching for it. If you’re an independent musician trying to balance creativity with sustainability, this episode is a must-listen! Before the chat I finally share with you a big announcement I've been teasing for several months now. It's such a relief to get Montapalooza Music Festival out in the world!  LINKS: Montapalooza Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/montapalooza Montapalooza Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/montapalooza.ma Omelette Prevail Website https://www.oprevail.com/ Creatives Prevail Podcast https://www.oprevail.com/podcast SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER!  http://eepurl.com/i77C9U Get your merch! https://scenemomsays.threadless.com/ Join the exclusive group on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/965285292398533  Content Calendar Special!  Feedback: [email protected] Submit Your Music: https://danicutler.com/podcast/submit-your-music/ All Things Dani https://linktr.ee/dcutleraz