Ria Mae is a platinum-selling, Juno-nominated pop singer-songwriter from Halifax, Nova Scotia.In this episode, Ria shares insights on finding balance between creative freedom and industry expectations, the role of collaboration in staying inspired, and the importance of staying grounded through success and change.The conversation dives into growth as an artist in Canada, trusting instincts, and learning when to say no to protect creative peace. Whether navigating a first release or a fifth album, this episode offers honest reflections from an artist who continues to evolve with purpose and heart.
--------
41:39
--------
41:39
The Ultimate Music Fan with Michael Coll
In this episode of The Side Door Sitdown, host Laura Simpson sits down with Michael Coll, one of the biggest DIY music fans she knows. For Laura, seeing Michael in the crowd is always a good sign that she’s in the right place.Michael shares what it means to show up for artists as a fan. Paying fair ticket prices, buying merch, and letting musicians know when their set moved you. He talks about the joy of being part of the scene without organizing festivals or asking for guest lists, just supporting artists because you love what they do.
--------
34:41
--------
34:41
A Hot Tip Sandwich with Sug Daniels
In episode 06 of The Side Door Sitdown, Philadelphia-based singer-songwriter and storyteller Sug Daniels joins us to serve up a “hot tip sandwich” full of practical advice for indie musicians.From the importance of always having merch (even if it’s handmade), to treating booking agents with kindness, to why house concerts should be part of every artist’s plan, Sug shares lessons learned from years on the road. We also talk about making tours out of festivals, playing all-ages shows, and finding a balance between day jobs and music in today’s economy.With influences ranging from Janet Jackson to Brittany Howard, Sug’s music and insights are equally vulnerable, empowering, and unforgettable. Sug’s debut album drops September 23, 2025.
--------
41:20
--------
41:20
Khari Wendell McClelland
In Episode 05 of The Side Door Sitdown, we welcome Khari Wendell McClelland.Khari Wendell McClelland is a diversely talented and ever-evolving artist. Originally from Detroit, Khari has become a darling on the Canadian music scene with reviewers lauding his performances as a clever mix of soul and gospel. Khari’s songwriting crosses genres and generations, joyfully invoking the spirit of his ancestors who straddled the US-Canadian border in efforts to escape slavery and discrimination. His music draws from this rich history, integrating the rhythms and folklore of early African-Americans with contemporary sounds and stories of struggle. Recently, Khari received critical acclaim for his Freedom Singer project, recreating the music fugitive slaves carried on their journey north into Canada. Khari also performs with the Roots Gospel group The Sojourners. Whether on stage or in the studio, Khari's passion for community, equality and justice is palpable, as is his belief in the redemptive power of music.khariwendellmcclelland.com----In a world where everything is free, the work of the artist has been devalued to the point where independent musicians are in crisis. Live performance is one of the few places left where artists can truly gain more control, connection, and financial security.But booking and playing shows takes work.That’s where The Side Door Sitdown comes in, our new podcast featuring honest conversations with the good folks who make up the independent live music scene. We talk to DIY artists, indie venue owners, and behind-the-scenes pros about how they book shows, build their audience, and try to make a living without losing their minds.
--------
35:34
--------
35:34
What Does It Mean to "Make It" in Music with Mikhail Laxton
Episode 04 of The Side Door Sitdown dives into what it really means to "make it" in today’s music industry and why your definition of success might need a reset. Ahead of his Side Door show in Halifax, singer-songwriter Mikhail Laxton sits down with us for a candid conversation about the realities of being a working artist.We dig into what it really means to “make it,” how to find joy and balance between chasing a music career and simply making music, and what happiness looks like in today’s music industry. Mikhail’s music is deeply shaped by love, loss, and personal growth. After moving from Australia to Canada, signing a record deal, and releasing his debut EP just as the world shut down in 2020, Mikhail reconnected with his roots and rebuilt his sound from the ground up. His self-titled album, Mikhail Laxton, is a raw, soul-infused reflection of identity, resilience, and healing.mikhaillaxton.com
In a world where everything is free, the work of the artist has been devalued to the point where independent musicians are in crisis. Live performance is one of the few places left where artists can truly gain more control, connection and financial security.
Whether you're booking your first tour, trying to sell more tickets, or running an indie venue, The Side Door Sitdown podcast offers practical tips, behind-the-scenes stories, and real advice from people making it work.
Listen to The Side Door Sitdown, Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond and many other podcasts from around the world with the radio.net app