CAREER ESSENTIALS LAB 3
Starting Your Career
F Crew to Command
G Setting Up Your Business
H Ask the Money Panel
I Getting the Gig
CAREER ESSENTIALS 3
Starting Your Career
This brand-new session is designed specifically for students, recent grads, and anyone just beginning their journey in the live event and touring industry. Starting Your Career will focus on the two areas most essential to building a strong foundation in the live events world—mental health and financial wellness.
Through practical guidance, real-world insight, and open conversation, attendees will gain the tools they need to navigate the challenges of starting out, from managing the ups and downs of gig life to building financial habits that support long-term success.
Hosted as part of the Career Essentials Lab, this pre-workshop event session creates a supportive space for emerging professionals to ask questions, learn from experienced voices, and connect with peers who are also taking their first steps in the industry.
SPEAKERS
Rachael Bronstein
Rachael Bronstein is a financial coach and the founder of Life’s Jam, where she empowers music industry professionals with practical tools for financial organization and planning. Her career began in production finance at NBC, where she developed a deep respect for the behind-the-scenes talents that make live performances possible. Motivated by the challenges posed by the pandemic, she launched Life’s Jam to help these professionals manage their personal and professional finances more effectively.
Over the past four and a half years, Rachael has collaborated with industry organizations including the Country Music Association, where she also serves as a CMA Ambassador, and Women in Music. She helped start the financial coaching program with MusiCares, extending support to those in need, and regularly provides on-the-road coaching for touring crews navigating the unique challenges of tour life. She also shares her expertise through a monthly financial wellness column for Projection, Lights, & Staging News (PLSN) magazine and is a proud member of the Recording Academy.
In addition to her work with Life’s Jam, Rachael serves on the board of ECCHO Live, a nonprofit supporting live event professionals with tools, workshops, education, networking, and mental health resources. For more information about Life’s Jam and Rachael’s work, please visit www.lifesjam.com.
Stephen Navyac
Stephen Navyac provides counseling for individuals and couples, helping people who want to improve their significant relationships, improve or change their habits, career paths, and understanding of the families they came from. Certified in EMDR for those who have experienced trauma, unpleasant memories or life experiences. Pre-marital and pre-engagement counseling available utilizing the Prepare Enrich Program. As a former Tour Manager (20+ years), Stephen has unique insights and understanding of those working in the touring profession.