<p>As a media promoter, I've had a few opportunities to speak with those whose music and content are celebrated by a large audience. </p><p>Usually, these interviews are quirky with a side of cheeky and in promotion of an event the artist will have upcoming. </p><p>Well......</p><p>This one....</p><p>This one is a little different.</p><p>See, it's not that I can't be a deep or intellectual podcaster, but you have to kind of pick your thing and stay in your lane (as one of my two yoga mentors puts it) when podcasting. </p><p><br /></p><p>However, some things are destined to come to you.</p><p><br /></p><p>I cannot deny that I am a person who is deeply introspective. I have such a keen awareness of the, "second chance life," I am in, I don't let it slip from my forefront of thought. When one has had their ego burnt in a wildfire, as I (rightfully) did, one takes careful measure of the factors which create wildfire. </p><p>Now, my life has been 12 years removed from my past detriments. I remain in my restorative practices as of this day.</p><p><br /></p><p>Enter Nahko, another man currently working his hardest at a second chance life. I remembered the name Nahko, not from controversy, but from another way (which you can learn by listening in the cast). Because I was familiar with this name Nahko, I took a chance to see if he wanted to make Reno a stop on the tour. He did. Then we had to see if Reno wanted him. Turns out you did, because that show is selling like ribs in August.</p><p>So, we work toward an arrangement and become close to confirming the show, when Nahko's representative agent took the first in a series of, "pro-accountability," steps now required by Nahko. </p><p><br /></p><p>He sent me a disclaimer about Nahko's past controversies.</p><p><br /></p><p>He was so thorough in his disclaimer that I felt comfortable moving forward with the show. </p><p>Why is that important? Because essentially, we now have a mutually agreed upon, "behavior clause," in effect between us. Think of it as- Nahko guarantees the safest possible space for his fans to return to -and- I as the venue agree to stand behind the show. </p><p>From there, Nahko's people were helpful and connected. Many times, promoters are left to do the, "leg work," on a show, but in this case, Nahko is what I would describe as being in the top 1% in terms of artist participation in every aspect of the show. </p><p>They asked if we received any negative feedback. We told them that we had received a small amount. Full disclosure, it was very little and from a group of, "usual suspects," in Reno, known for engaging political warfare online.</p><p>At that point, Nahko personally entered the chat.</p><p><br /></p><p>"We will do absolutely anything you need to address present issues arising from past circumstances."</p><p>Ok, I paraphrased that a bit for characters' sake so I am not giving it that second, dramatic paragraph break, but when you're used to how tight ship people work in this business, the message was C-L-R clear!</p><p>*Note the 2nd Dramatic Paragraph Break</p><p><br /></p><p>I asked for the boldest solution I could think of, as is often my way by creation, "Would you be willing to be a guest on my podcast and address the controversy?"</p><p>"Absolutely." Nahko replied.</p><p>Now, in my mind personally and professionally, I think that anyone willing to go onto a podcast he doesn't know, with a promoter he doesn't know, and address the issue directly? That's someone I'm going to support in a second chance life. And when you're a supported second chance lifer, that can go a long way. Forefront of mind. </p><p><br /></p><p>By now, I had seen enough to believe that Nahko's intent was and is to get back to playing music for people. THEN, we got into the podcast, where I learned of multiple OTHER measures Nahko is taking to ensure the most enjoyable, safe and authentic performance possible. From there, I think about what the venue has in place in terms of protections, and I feel satisfied that we can create a safe and fun (and healing!) environment for people. </p><p><br /></p><p>I understand there are those who do not believe in second chances, and to those I say...</p><p><br /></p><p>Well...I do. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>
