
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 are also featured on the major podcast platforms, YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@BackstageCircle) and Backstage Circele (www.backstagecircle.com)
Episodes
Dec 25, 2025
Dec 25, 2025
26 min
In this conversation, Jim Norris interviews Mark Alexander, a music producer and educator, who shares his journey from a young piano player to establishing his own company, 905 Music and Sound. Mark discusses his early musical influences, his transition from teaching to music production, and the impact of technology on the music industry. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to new tools and the challenges of balancing work with family life. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in music creation and the future of the industry.
Website - 905music.com
Dec 17, 2025
Dec 17, 2025
22 min
In this engaging conversation, Jason McCoy shares his journey from a supportive musical family in Ontario to becoming a prominent figure in country music as a member of The Road Hammers. He discusses the challenges of balancing a busy touring schedule with family life, his experiences working with younger artists, and the evolution of his music career. McCoy also highlights the importance of community in the music industry and shares insights into his radio career and future plans.
Jason McCoy website - www.jasonmccoy.com
The Road Hammers website - www.theroadhammers.ca
Dec 13, 2025
Dec 13, 2025
27 min
In this engaging conversation, Brad Merritt of 54-40 shares his musical journey, from early family influences to the formation of the band. He discusses the evolution of their music, the challenges of the industry, and the importance of balancing family life with a music career. Brad also provides insights into their upcoming album and the creative process behind it, highlighting the band's longevity and future plans.
Website - https://www.5440.com/
Dec 12, 2025
Dec 12, 2025
39 min
In this conversation, Jim Norris interviews Jonny Dovercourt, a prominent figure in the Toronto music scene, discussing his musical roots, the evolution of Wavelength Music, and the upcoming festival and conference. Jonny shares insights into his early influences, the challenges of promoting local music, and the importance of community in the indie music scene. He also talks about his book, 'Any Night of the Week,' which chronicles the history of Toronto's music scene and its cultural significance.
Website - www.wavelengthmusic.ca
'Any Night Of The Week' Publisher - chbooks.com
Dec 9, 2025
Dec 9, 2025
37 min
In this engaging conversation, Chris McKhool shares his musical journey, from his early influences in a musical family to the formation of his band, Sultans of String. He discusses the importance of diverse musical styles, the transition from studying psychology to pursuing a music career, and the impact of community engagement and charity work. Chris also highlights the dynamics of his band and the joy of performing, emphasizing the significance of having fun in music and the connections made along the way.
Sultans Of String website - sultansofstring.com
Fiddlefire website - fiddlefire.com
Nov 27, 2025
Nov 27, 2025
39 min
In this conversation, Danny Marks shares his thrilling experiences as a musician, including opening for legendary bands like Led Zeppelin and Humble Pie. He reflects on the excitement of performing and the memorable encounters he had with iconic artists, highlighting the impact these experiences had on his career and personal growth.
Website - dannym.com
Nov 25, 2025
Nov 25, 2025
15 min
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

Nov 21, 2025
Nov 21, 2025
15 min
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
