Meet Mike Warner | Author, Independent Artist and Speaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mike Warner and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mike, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I always had a passion for music from a young age. As soon as I had access to a computer I was using CD burning software to create my own “mix-tapes” and setting the cross-fade time to keep the music flowing. From there I got into DJing by doing a weekend crash course and spending many years at various venues watching and learning from other DJs.

This inspired me to create music and I did a course in electronic music production. After years of releasing music with record labels I went independence with my friends and our project Date Night. In the process of going independent there was a lot to learn and many mistakes to be made. I documented the process and shared everything I learned with artists and friends.

This led to me converting all of these learnings into a book and an audiobook. Since releasing the first book as a paperback there’s been a large amount of interest in me hosting workshops and speaking at various events. I thoroughly enjoyed this and it’s exactly what I want to do, I love to share, help and educate.

So the short answer is, I decided to pursue a creative career by starting out as a music lover and then going through all of the different steps from DJ to producer to author and instructor.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Everything I share is in my own voice as if we are having a conversation directly. I used to really struggle with imposter syndrome and self doubt, wondering if I am providing value despite the fact that all of the information I’m giving away is in YouTube videos, blog posts, podcast episodes and other mediums and it is all free.

I’ve learned not to let one negative response or one “no” mean that what you are putting out can’t help others.

Continue to show your true self online because if you are anything other than your authentic self, people will see right through that and they will no longer be interested.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Sip Wine and Beer in Escondido. Beautiful “gram worthy” space and the owner Cassandra is such a funny and warm host. It’s like walking into a friends house on a Friday night.

Disneyland. They don’t call it the happiest place on earth no reason. First time visiting I was already an adult and had such an incredible time. California Adventure Park is definitely more for the adults with lots of great spots to grab a drink as well.

Surfliner. This is an experience everyone must have. Taking the train to or from LA and getting Ocean Views from the window. There’s one point where it’s literally going over the sand and it is such a beautiful view and unique experience.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Gallery 130 in San Diego deserve a big shout out. They are a nonprofit and provide a space for those in the music industry to access equipment, mentors and even engineers. Artists are available to book space and an engineer regardless of their budget. I had the pleasure of hosting a workshop here thanks to Lee K and Circulate Records who host incredible free events for artists.

I can’t say enough wonderful things about this space and the team. So much love has been poured into this and it shows.

Gallery130.org

Website: WorkHardPlaylistHard.com

Instagram: @askmikewarner

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/askmikewarner

Twitter: @askmikewarner

Youtube: YouTube.com/askmikewarner