SlamCast Ep. 6 - Mike Rat

Welcome to SlamCast, where your hosts Neil and Brea chat with creatives about their process and how they navigate the grind of promoting themselves. In this episode of Slamcast, we sit down with Mike Rat, a bass music producer, DJ, and instructor at Slam Academy. Mike shares how he found his way into the Slam Academy community. From witnessing a performer lose themselves in the music, Mike was inspired to create his own electric sounds and samplers, eventually discovering his passion for teaching through private lessons. Teaching, for him, feels sacred and has become a significant part of his life, especially as the in-person Ableton instructor at Slam Academy, where each class takes on its own unique life. Mike also opens up about his personal journey, including learning about his birth family's creative roots after being adopted and how moving to Minneapolis quickly led to shows and opportunities. We discuss the challenges of self-promotion for talented individuals, the supportive, community-driven music scene in the Twin Cities, and the incredible sober community that has helped Mike enjoy more shows and channel his creativity into his music. He shares insights on the importance of consistency, habitual practice, and collaboration, including his new project "Skavi," which embraces the spirit of teamwork. Don't miss this deep dive into the mind of an inspiring artist and teacher.