Party With Strategy Podcast

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Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:  AIRELOOSH - @aireloosh

Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategy

Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:  ABSNTH - @absnth_music

Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:  HEAVY - @cationitsheavy

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Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:  CHUCK BONO - @chuckbono

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Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:   SAM KHASAWNEH - @samdechicagoLETS DO SOMETHING FUN (CHICAGO) - @letsdofunthingschicago

Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS: SAMMY FRISHMAN - @sammyfrishmancomedy

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INFO!

Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:MAX WAGNER - @waxmagner

INFO:

This podcast is not about headlines, strategy, or winning arguments.It’s about people.We’re talking about the experience of serving in uniform in Jerusalem during the October events tied to Gaza — what it was like on the ground, what it demanded, and what it took away.War doesn’t just happen in moments of violence. It lives on in memory, in silence, in the spaces between right and wrong where decisions are made too fast and carried for too long.Here, we talk about the good and the bad — the bonds formed under pressure, and the toll it takes on the mind, the morals, and the sense of self. We talk about fear, responsibility, doubt, and the weight that follows people long after the shift ends.This is not a story meant to persuade.It’s meant to bear witness.These are lived experiences — shared with honesty, respect, and care — because understanding the human cost matters.Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:JOSH - @josh_andre26

INFO:

Today’s episode is LIVE with DJ Dex, the open-format party rocker now shaping the Nashville nightlife scene! Originally from Milwaukee, Dex has made waves as a resident DJ at Barstool Nashville, Director of Entertainment at Stanton & Bowery, and the creator/host of The Platform — a weekly mix & podcast series featuring global guests and genre-blending sets.  🎧 In this episode, we cover:• Dex’s journey from Milwaukee to Music City 🇺🇸 — how he navigated city shifts and built his craft in nightlife & entertainment.  • What it really takes to run weekly shows, DJ sets, and produce community-driven events.• The creative process behind The Platform and how Dex bridges DJ culture, tech, & community.  • Tips for aspiring DJs and creators hustling to make their mark in a competitive industry.💥 Whether you’re into EDM, hip-hop, open format, nightlife strategy, or music entrepreneurship, Dex’s story is packed with insight, hustle, and inspiration.Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:DEX - @thedjdex

INFO:

🚨KNOW GOOD SURVIVED A BLIZZARD, A WEDDING, AND DROPPED A TOUR🚨This episode of the Party With Strategy Podcast is PURE MAYHEM.We’re joined by Know Good — Houston-based producers, artists, DJs, and all-around vibe curators — who did the unthinkable:they came to CHICAGO on the COLDEST DAY OF WINTER 🥶❄️ to celebrate Zack’s wedding with a star-studded crew of close friends, creatives, and absolute animals.That’s real friendship. That’s insanity. That’s KNOW GOOD.❄️ Sub-zero temps🍾 Wedding weekend turn-ups🎧 Podcast mics on🧠 No thoughts, just vibesAND THEN — as if that wasn’t enough — they casually drop HUGE CAREER NEWS mid-conversation like it’s nothing:🚨🚐 FIRST EVER HEADLINING U.S. TOUR ANNOUNCED 🚐🚨🎟️ THE ALL IN TOUR 🎟️Going coast-to-coast with Terminal 6 🇺🇸🔥NO WARM-UP.NO HALF STEPS.JUST ALL IN.🎧 In this absolutely unhinged episode:• Houston vs Chicago (weather trauma edition)• Wedding weekend chaos & legendary friend stories• What it really takes to go ALL IN on a career• Touring life, studio madness & future plans• Laughing, yelling, and probably oversharingThis episode is funny, heartfelt, loud, borderline reckless, and exactly what happens when real friends, real music, and real moments collide.Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:KNOW GOOD - @knowgood

Today on the pod, we’re hyped to welcome back DJ Heavy — and not just once this month, but TWICE. That’s right.Widely known as one of Chicago’s most in-demand DJs and music producers, Heavy isn’t just spinning records alongside Strategy anymore — he’s stepping into the studio with one mission: talk Strategy out of making the biggest mistake of his career… potentially ruining his wedding 💍😬What follows is an absolutely unhinged episode packed with:📍 Wild takes📍 Unfiltered opinions📍 Questionable adviceAnd a few suggestions that were definitely not approved for public viewing 👀With double the chaos and zero regard for consequences, this episode proves why the internet can’t get enough of The Strategy & Heavy Show — the pod duo that somehow keeps coming back for more damage.⚠️ Buckle up. Press play. And prepare yourself for one wild ride.Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:HEAVY - @cautionitsheavy

We’re thrilled to welcome Hastom to the show — a talented Chicago-based music producer and DJ known for his infectious house and Latin house beats that keep dance floors moving. 🎶🏙️  Based in Chicago, Hastom has been carving out his sound in the electronic and house music scene, blending deep grooves with vibrant rhythms that speak to both classic house fans and new listeners alike. From Saturday morning vibes to late-night sets, his music bridges energy and emotion with a signature Chicago flair. 🎛️💥  ✨ On today’s episode, we dive into: • His journey as a producer and artist in the Chicago music scene • Influences behind his signature house and Latin house sound • Behind-the-scenes stories from the studio and DJ booth • What’s next for his music in 2026 and beyondWant more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:HASHTOM - @hashtommusic

Get ready for one wild ride as we welcome Chicago native Orville Kline to the show — a seasoned DJ/producer, certified Ableton Live trainer, and founding member of the legendary party-turned-production crew Porn and Chicken.  🎧 Stories from behind the decks — Orville’s career spans house, techno, electro-house, minimal, and industrial vibes, built from years playing guitar, drums, sax, and producing with both analog instruments and digital tools.  🌍 Tales from a global grind — touring 4 continents, DJ sets around the world, major festivals, and behind-the-scenes of top-tier live shows & radio residencies.  🧠 The studio masterclass — as one of the Midwest’s top Ableton Certified Trainers, he’ll dive into how he builds tracks, mixes live sets, and crafts soundscapes from Chicago to Tokyo.  🎶 Deep cuts, collabs & legacy — solo releases, collabs, remixes, and the evolution from underground DJ roots to global dance-floor presence.  Why you don’t want to miss this:Orville’s journey bridges raw Chicago house-techno roots + modern electronic sound design + global festival energy — a blueprint for hustling hard, staying real, and pushing creative boundaries. If you’re into music, mixing, nightlife, or building a brand like we are — this one’s for you.Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:ORVILLE KLINE - @orvillekline

NYC-born house & jackin’ house maestro Pinto — a name that’s been lighting up dancefloors worldwide with his signature grooves. From early breakthroughs on legendary labels like Nervous Records, Pets Recordings, Glasgow Underground and Moxy Muzik, to launching his own imprint Jack City Records in 2025 — Pinto’s rise has been raw, relentless, and real.  With support from heavy-hit sets and playlists by icons like Carl Cox, Seth Troxler, Mark Knight and more — plus a #2 peak on Beatport’s Jackin’ Top 100 with his recent single “Dangerous” — Pinto’s sound is resonating globally.  Tune in to hear Pinto share the story behind his journey — from NYC underground DJ booths to international club stages, building a label, and crafting a sound that fuses old-school house energy with modern club intensity 🔥Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:PINTO - @pintomusicnyc

When these two link up… sparks fly.At this point, he’s less of a “guest” and more of a full-blown resident — DJ Heavy is back on The Party With Strategy Podcast for another legendary installment of the Monthly Black Update.This episode is PACKED.Heavy taps in to update us on everything happening within the Disco_nect movement, what he and Zack have cooking with White Shadow, and how they’re planning to expand their vision to the masses.From shop talk to controversial topics affecting today’s DJ community… from behind-the-scenes stories to the future evolution of nightlife… this one goes deep. The dynamic duo does not hold back.If you’re in the culture, in the clubs, or anywhere near the Chicago nightlife ecosystem — you NEED this episode.🎧 Tune in, lock in, and enjoy another jam-packed sit-down with DJ Heavy on The Party With Strategy Podcast.Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:HEAVY - @cautionitsheavy

From the city where house music was born, Chicago’s Alex Wolf joins The Party With Strategy for a rare, all-access conversation. We explore the evolution of a creator who used social media to bring niche subgenres to the global stage, inspiring millions to dive deeper into the roots of dance music.Alex opens up about getting his music supported by top-tier EDM artists, navigating the politics of clubs and bookings, and the shadowy side of networking that no one talks about.It’s honest. Raw. Motivating.One of our most informative episodes yet.Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:ALEX WOLF - @alexwolf.music

Today’s guest is a very special one. Coming straight from the Sad Boy Radio airwaves, Matt joins us for a deep, emotionally diverse conversation that dives into what it really means to build something from the ground up.Host of the hugely successful and viral Sad Boy Radio, Matt opens up about the highs and lows of producing and managing an ever-growing platform — from wrangling a wide range of guests to the constant challenge of pulling out their most honest, vulnerable moments.We talk about the creative grind, the emotional toll, and the lessons learned along the way. Matt also shares what it means to represent the Latino community in media during these trying times, and how that identity shapes his purpose and approach.From his early struggles to his vision for the future, this episode is a powerful look at hustle, authenticity, and passion in the digital age. Tune in to hear what drives Matt, what keeps him grounded, and how he’s expanding his reach as a true digital nomad in the ever-shifting world of content creation.Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:SAD BOY RADIO - @sad.boy.radio

They’ve been brothers from different cities for years — life took them on separate paths, but the bond never faded. One came back home to Chicago. The other stayed down in Houston, building a life, a family, and his own legacy. But when Strategy and Dolo link up again… it’s like they never missed a beat.Sparks fly. Laughter erupts. Stories unfold from the wildest era of their lives — one that defined a generation of late nights, inside jokes, and unforgettable moments.This once-a-year reunion brings you the energy, the chaos, and the nostalgia that made the Strategy & Dolo Show legendary. Hear what Dolo’s been up to in H-Town, relive the madness of their old adventures, and find out the question on everyone’s mind…👉 Is Dolo coming back to the greatest city in the world — Chicago?All that and more on today’s episode of The Party With Strategy Podcast.Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:DOLO - @dolomatic

Today’s guest is a true creative innovator and a breath of fresh air in the world of music management — Barry Nienhaus! As the mind behind Solicitous, Barry is redefining what modern artist management looks like, breaking away from outdated industry models to craft something more forward-thinking and artist-focused.In this episode, we dive deep into the new era of managing talent — when artists should start seeking management, what qualities truly matter in choosing the right manager, and how collaboration—even with the competition—can be the ultimate advantage. Barry shares sharp insights on navigating today’s ever-changing musical landscape, staying ahead of the curve, and building authentic partnerships that push creativity forward.Tune in for a conversation packed with game-changing perspective, practical advice, and the kind of energy that challenges everything you thought you knew about artist management.Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:BARRY NIENHAUS - @barry_nienhaus

On today’s episode of The Party With Strategy Podcast, we get real about what’s happening on today’s dance floors.Is being too inclusive hurting the night?Are people going overboard with song requests that kill the vibe?And does every party really need to please everyone in the room?Chicago’s own Slot-A joins Zack to break it all down — from how DJs can protect the energy of a night to why curating the right sound is more important than ever. The times are changing… but not always for the better.Hear his take on how to shift perspectives, raise the bar, and bring back those unforgettable nights that remind people why they showed up in the first place.Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:KID CLAY - @iamslota

A Chicagoan through and through, Kid Clay joins us on today’s episode of The Party With Strategy Podcast! Known citywide as a party curator, DJ unifier, and all-around good vibe specialist, Clay has carved his name into the soundscape of Chicago nightlife — and beyond.Whether he’s lighting up the radio airwaves, curating energy at your favorite local hot spot, or putting on unmissable events across the nation, Kid Clay embodies what it means to bring music, fun, and community wherever he goes. His passion for connecting DJs, pushing boundaries, and showcasing both hometown heroes and out-of-town talent has made him one of the most influential tastemakers in the game.In this episode, we dive into:🔥 What it takes to build a successful event in Chicago⚡ How to stay ahead of the curve as a DJ and creative🧠 The mental shift from burnout to balance — and what it means to truly evolve🎵 Why he’s redefining what “cool” means in the Chicago sceneThis isn’t just a conversation — it’s a journey through sound, hustle, and self-discovery.Tune in, tap in, and let’s talk vibes with Kid Clay — one of Chicago’s most genuine and forward-thinking creators.Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:KID CLAY - @djkidclay

Today’s guest is none other than Zack’s fiancé — the blonde bomber herself, the plant-based baddie… ERIN! 🌱💍With the wedding right around the corner, Erin joins the show to spill some top-secret tea about what’s really going down on the big day. From never-before-heard plans to exclusive sneak peeks at the wedding playlist, she’s giving us the inside scoop. 👀🎶Will Zack hold it together during the vows, or are the waterworks inevitable? 👰‍♀️💒Tune in for laughs, love, and maybe even a few leaks straight from the soon-to-be Mrs. herself.👉 Subscribe, like, and hit that bell — because this episode is packed with exclusive wedding energy you won’t want to miss!Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:

This week’s episode is a straight-up classic in the making — one third of DISCO_NECT steps into the studio for our monthly (and let’s be honest… sometimes quarterly) Black Update! Friend to the show and always a fan favorite, HEAVY returns to chop it up with the crew. From wild takes to laugh-out-loud moments, this one’s got it all — pun-packed jokes, controversial comments, and Zack crossing lines that only Heavy can pull him back from. 😂Expect heated opinions, some uncomfortable truths, and a whole lot of energy as we dive into what’s really going on out here. Whether you’re here for the laughs, the insight, or just the chaos — this is NOT the episode to miss.🎙️ Featuring: Heavy (DISCO_NECT)👀 Watch till the end for the most unfiltered takes yet.💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments — who was more out of pocket this time?#PartyWithStrategyPodcast #Heavy #DISCONNECT #ChicagoPodcasts #NightlifeTalks #ComedyPodcastWant more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:HEAVY - @cautionitsheavy

In this episode, we’re joined by a true Chicago native whose name is synonymous with the city’s iconic House scene. Known for his deep knowledge of what’s making waves in nightlife and his ever-growing library of funky, infectious tracks, today’s guest brings the kind of groove that nobody can ignore.We peel back the layers and get personal as he shares stories from his life, his journey in music, and even some wild encounters—like the time he crossed paths with none other than André 3000!Come for the unforgettable stories, but stay for the insight, knowledge, and passion for the music that moves Chicago—and the world.Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:NICK MCCORD - @quicktastic1

On today’s powerful episode, we welcome a truly special guest — Strategy's very own brother, Brandon Igra. Together, they open up about their bond and the deep challenges that have shaped their lives. Brandon shares his journey of facing debilitating struggles from childhood into adulthood, and how he found the strength to overcome them.With raw honesty and vulnerability, he takes us through the pivotal moment of getting sober at just 16 years old, and how that decision changed the trajectory of his life. This conversation is a heartfelt look at resilience, mental health, growth, and the power of transformation.Whether you’re struggling yourself or simply looking for an inspiring story of overcoming adversity, this episode is a testament to the human spirit and the possibility of change.🎧 Listen now and be inspired by a story of courage, recovery, and growth.Want more Strategy?! Subscribe to the Patreon for an EXTRA EPISODE A WEEK!Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/partywithstrategySOCIALS:INSTAGRAM:BRANDON IGRA - @brandonigra