
Go behind the scenes of the Entertainment Industry
The Backstage Insider Podcast pulls back the curtain on the billion-dollar entertainment industry with exclusive interviews featuring industry professionals, breakthrough artists, and the power players shaping tomorrow's industry. Host Jim Norris - Publisher of Entertainment Spotlight and President of Entertainment Marketer — brings you insider access to the deals, decisions, and dreams that drive global entertainment.
Whether you're an industry professional, aspiring creator, or entertainment enthusiast, you'll gain insider knowledge that money can't buy.
New episodes drop weekly—your backstage pass to the entertainment world's biggest secrets.
Episodes

Tuesday Nov 25, 2025
The Journey of Angelique Francis: A Musical Family Affair
Tuesday Nov 25, 2025
Tuesday Nov 25, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Jim Norris interviews the talented vocalist Angelique Francis, who shares her journey in music, her family background, and her achievements as a young artist. From her early performances at age seven to winning a Juno Award, Angelique discusses the importance of family support, her musical education, and her aspirations for the future. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring musicians, emphasizing the need to believe in one's vision and creative power.
Website - angeliquefrancis.net

Friday Nov 21, 2025
Friday Nov 21, 2025
The conversation with Toronto musician, Richard Todd' highlights the alarming rise in homelessness in Toronto, with a focus on the initiative 'The Forgotten Homeless' by Artists Against Homelessness, which aims to raise awareness and funds for vulnerable populations through music.
Donate at - www.woodgreen.org/unmet

Thursday Nov 20, 2025
A conversation with Robyn Stewart from Women in Music Canada
Thursday Nov 20, 2025
Thursday Nov 20, 2025
The conversation with Robyn Stewart from Women in Music Canada explores the progress and ongoing challenges faced by women in the music industry, highlighting the persistent disparities in representation, particularly in radio. Despite some strides being made, issues of discrimination and harassment continue to plague the industry, indicating that more work is needed to achieve true equality and diversity.
Women In Music Canada Website - www.womeninmusic.ca/en

Wednesday Oct 29, 2025
The Creative Spark: Ian Thomas's Musical Journey
Wednesday Oct 29, 2025
Wednesday Oct 29, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Ian Thomas shares his journey as a songwriter, reflecting on the influence of his family, the creative process, and the evolution of his music career. He discusses the success of his hit song 'Ladies', the formation of his band Tranquility Base, and the challenges and joys of touring. Ian also emphasizes the importance of gratitude in his life and career, offering valuable advice to aspiring songwriters about the creative process and the realities of the music industry.
Website - ianthomas.ca

Wednesday Oct 29, 2025
A Conversation With Fred Mollin
Wednesday Oct 29, 2025
Wednesday Oct 29, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Fred Mollin shares his journey through the music industry, from his early influences and aspirations as a performer to his successful transition into production and film scoring. He discusses his experiences in Nashville, the challenges of modern music, and the insights he gained while writing his book. Fred emphasizes the importance of perseverance and belief in oneself for aspiring musicians navigating today's competitive landscape.
Website - www.fredmollin.com

Saturday Oct 25, 2025
Catching Up With Gil Moore from Triumph
Saturday Oct 25, 2025
Saturday Oct 25, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Jim Norris interviews Gil Moore, delving into his extensive musical journey from the early days of drumming to the formation of the iconic band Triumph. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of being a musician, the importance of mentorship, and the evolution of music production. Gil shares insights on balancing a successful career in music with personal life, the impact of technology on the industry, and offers valuable advice for aspiring musicians.
Website - www.triumphmusic.com

Saturday Oct 25, 2025
Celebrating 30 Years of Honey Jam With Ebonnie Rowe
Saturday Oct 25, 2025
Saturday Oct 25, 2025
In this conversation, Jim Norris interviews Ebonnie Rowe, the founder of Honey Jam, a multicultural artist development program for young female artists. They discuss the origins of Honey Jam, the challenges faced in the early years, the programming and community engagement efforts, the recent 30th anniversary concert, and the future challenges of sustainability in the current economic climate. Ebonnie shares insights on time management and personal well-being, emphasizing the importance of passion and community support.
Website - www.honeyjam.com

Friday Oct 24, 2025
A Discussion with John Mlynczak, President and CEO of NAMM
Friday Oct 24, 2025
Friday Oct 24, 2025
In this conversation, Jim Norris interviews John Mlynczak, the president and CEO of NAMM, discussing the organization's rich history, its evolution over the years, and the future of the music products industry. They explore the importance of community, the impact of technology on music products, and the role of NAMM in supporting music makers worldwide. John shares his personal journey in music education and leadership, highlighting the significance of adaptability and innovation in the ever-changing landscape of the music industry.
Website - www.namm.org
