We smash the starving artist stereotype and explain why self-confidence in music isn't narcissistic.

Is believing in your art a sign of a massive ego, or is it just survival? In this Rapid Fire 7 episode of The ZHZ Podcast, Zak Davis and Matt Allen (Z Frequency) sit down with Ariel Vizzini to dismantle the "narcissistic" starving artist stereotype.

Ariel breaks down the thin line between being a "crazy cat lady" and a confident creator, offering a raw look at how she balances a demanding 50-hour work week with high-level songwriting and production. We dive deep into the internal battle between self-criticism and the confidence required to call yourself an artist.

From stacking three-octave harmonies to the hilarious story of Zak’s bold encounter with Fishbone’s Angelo Moore, this episode covers the vulnerability and the grit it takes to move your art from a "hobby" to a way of life.

Inside this Rapid Fire 7:

- The Narcissism Myth: Smashing the idea that wanting to be heard makes you a narcissist.

- The Inner Critic: Why the "Theater Director" is the one giving Ariel notes in the studio.

- Creative Burnout: How cats (and not music) actually refill Ariel's creative battery.

- The "Worst Day" Outfit: Dressing dark themes in glitter.

- Honest Feedback: The struggle of sending demos to family and the "Disclaimers" we all use.

- The Mystery of "Chocolate Roads": Zak and Ariel try to solve a misheard lyric mystery.

Connect with Z Frequency:

- Listen to our music: https://zfrequency.com

- Follow us on Socials: https://seemlify.com/zfrequency

Subscribe to The ZHZ Podcast: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Join Zak and Matt every week as we talk music production, mixing, marketing, and sit down with the artists who are actually doing the work. Don't forget to hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode!

Support the Guest:

- Follow Ariel Vizzini: linktr.ee/arielvizzini linktr.ee/arielvizzini

- Stream her latest music: https://arielvizzini.bandcamp.com/

Chapters:

00:00 - ZHZ Rapid Fire: 7 Questions

00:12 - If your worst day ever was an outfit...

01:05 - Learning to stop "translating" yourself for others

01:47 - Why cats are the ultimate creative battery refill

02:46 - What is your motivation? The theater director's voice

03:16 - DEEP DIVE: Smashing the Artist Narcissist Stereotype

04:59 - The “Angelo Moore” story (Zak’s boldest career move)

06:18 - Why wives and moms are the hardest critics

07:42 - How music production changes the way you hear everything

08:32 - The emotional release of "The Last Exit"

09:41 - The "Chocolate Roads" misheard lyric debate

Discover how an indie artist transformed her first song into a polished masterpiece, blending raw emotion with professional quality.

Most indie artists get lost in the noise—unless you're Ariel Vizzini, who’s straight-up rewriting the rulebook. She’s a Mississippi native turned Utah sound wizard, dressing her pain in glitter and seamlessly blending vulnerability with polished, radio-ready pop. Spoiler: her secret sauce is taking raw emotion and smothering it in sparkles—because who says you can’t be deep AND dazzling?

In this episode, Ariel drops truth bombs about her DIY production journey, from battling the dreaded “compression” mystique to crafting a signature sound built on honest vocals and layered personality. You'll discover why she deliberately keeps her music off streaming giants for now, how her musical theater roots influence her mixing, and her bold stance on smashing the “starving artist” stereotype—she’s here to show that following your passion can be powerful, not petty.

We break down:

• The art of turning life's messy journal entries into addictive melodies
• Navigating the psychological rollercoaster of self-doubt vs. confidence
• Her unique approach to vocal play: raw, dynamic, and sometimes “accidentally too far from the mic”
• How her musical DNA, from Thunderhead’s Southern Rock roots to indie glam, shapes her evolving sound
• The importance of authenticity in a world obsessed with perfection

Connect with Z Frequency: https://zfrequency.com

Subscribe to The ZHZ Podcast: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Join Zak and Matt every week as we talk music production, mixing, marketing, and sit down with the artists who are actually doing the work. Don't forget to hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode!

Support the Guest:

- Follow Ariel Vizzini: linktr.ee/arielvizzini linktr.ee/arielvizzini

- Stream her latest music: https://arielvizzini.bandcamp.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

04:38 Ariel's Musical Journey

07:44 The Art of Mixing and Production

10:19 Exploring Unique Sound and Style

13:09 Lyrics and Emotional Connection

18:41 Ariel's Career and Creative Process

25:03 The Glittered Grief Aesthetic

27:00 Understanding Compression in Music Production

33:45 Songwriting Processes and Collaboration

41:31 High School Musical Memories

44:42 Balancing Art and Stability

47:09 The Challenge of Live Performances

51:55 Exploring Musical Influences and Genres

01:01:36 Ariel's Musical Journey: Distribution and Growth

01:05:29 The Authenticity of the Artist

01:07:08 Shoutouts and Support Systems

01:09:03 The Challenges of Music Production

01:11:02 The Soundtrack of Life: Personal Connections in Music

Most artists are just happy to build a following. Alice? They built an army—no, a full-blown underground universe. If you think music is just about sounds, think again. This band has navigated the chaos of 2020, doubling down on community, creativity, and authenticity, proving that true fans want more than just a playlist—they crave belonging.

Imagine a sound that feels like a cyberpunk movie colliding headfirst with a post-apocalyptic dance club—dark, cinematic, and utterly hypnotic. Alice’s fusion of electronic, dark wave, and rock isn’t just genre-bending; it’s genre-defining. And the journey from late-night TikTok scroll to their ambitious double album As Above, So Below feels like discovering the secret realm where innovation and emotional intensity collide.

You'll discover: how Alice turned a worldwide shutdown into a creative renaissance, crafted a fan community that's everything a modern band dreams of, and how their campaign of authentic engagement is rewriting how artists connect with listeners. The band’s latest album isn’t just music; it’s a bold statement that artists can evolve, and fans are more than just followers—they’re family.

If you’re an independent artist, a music lover tired of surface-level fandom, or just someone who loves discovering those rare gems that challenge the status quo, this episode is your backstage pass to how true connection and killer tunes can reshape your entire perspective on music.

Ready to be part of the Mad Hatter Army? Press play—because Alice is just getting started, and this rabbit hole’s about to get even weirder—and way more interesting.

ARTIST LINKS:

Official Website

https://www.ilikealice.com/

Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0OEswCup9P8ou9tFbOUSE5

Apple Music

https://music.apple.com/us/artist/al1ce/1257569065

YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/@AL1CE

Bandcamp

https://ilikealice.bandcamp.com/

https://www.instagram.com/alicemusicofficial/

https://www.facebook.com/ilikealice

Follow us at https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Ever felt like music is just noise and not a journey? Buckle up, because today’s Z Frequency Spotlight takes us into the moody, cinematic world of Briauna, a self-taught indie dark pop artist who’s not just creating tunes; she’s crafting atmospheres. Imagine Lana Del Rey meets Danny Elfman.

In this mini episode, I explore:

- How Briauna’s raw, instinct-driven songwriting creates vulnerability that resonates deeply.

- The influences that shape her ambient, eerie storytelling, including a playlist featuring Lana Del Rey and Elfman.

- The significance of community and collaboration in the indie scene.

- Why Briauna’s new single “Lobotomy” tackles heavy themes, such as erasing memories and confronting darkness.

- Two must-listen tracks: “Skeleton Boy” and “Tired,” emphasizing the importance of mood and message.

- The power of focusing on “what I’m learning” rather than dwelling on what’s wrong.

Connect with Briauna:

- Instagram: https://instagram.com/briauna.official

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1gH1iS0bw6ulgsnvOWH1td?si=56k0BYPDSUaVn5ivOvc4SQ

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCH1y7dGhv3M8HyaqvacVgAg

- Booking: https://briaunamusic.kit.com/d6f401f3f4

Most importantly, support Briauna by streaming her singles, sharing her story, and following her creative journey. Peace out!

For more, visit: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Chapters:

00:00: Introducing Brianna: The Dark Pop Artist

02:24: Exploring Brianna’s New Single ‘Lobotomy’

03:23: The Importance of Collaboration and Community

The Gilder Era is here! Indie pop artist Charlie Gilder breaks down his mindset, the "Play the Game" philosophy, and finding your sound on the ZHZ Podcast.

In this episode of the ZHZ Podcast, Zak and Matt sit down with musician and producer Charlie Gilder to dive deep into his artistic journey. We talk about the transition into "The Gilder Era," the grit required to make it as an indie pop artist today, and what it really means to "play the game" in the modern music industry. Charlie shares the stories behind his latest tracks, his creative process in the studio, and why having the right mindset is the only thing that keeps you moving forward as a creator.

Support & Follow Charlie Gilder:

Charlie is making waves in the indie pop scene—make sure you’re following the journey and streaming the latest tracks:

* Official Website & Hub: https://gilder-prod.square.site

* Listen on Spotify: Stream “ITOLDYA” and more https://open.spotify.com/track/4r6Hs2yVVzXC5TGgXp84UF?si=Y8DB8yvNR16lMRrtHSSPYg

Connect with the ZHZ Podcast:

Love the conversation? Discover more episodes, behind-the-scenes footage, and exclusive content from Zak and Matt at our main hub:

👉 https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with all things Z Frequency and the ZHZ Podcast!

Chapters:

00:00 I Didn't Wake Up to Be Average

01:03 The Real Reason We Do This

10:18 Rapid Fire Round

21:31 Music as the Soundtrack to Life

25:35 Outro

#independentmusic #artistinterview #zhzpodcast

Charlie Gilder is stepping into what he calls “The Gilder Era”—and if you’ve been stuck overthinking every move, this episode is your wake-up call.

In this ZHZ Podcast interview, we talk about the mindset shift that helps artists stop staring at the problem up close and finally zoom out. Because in Independent Music, it’s way too easy to feel behind, feel overwhelmed, and feel like the whole game is stacked against you. Charlie keeps it real: you can either complain about the current music landscape… or learn how to play it and move forward.

If you’re building in the Utah Scene (or anywhere, honestly), this conversation is packed with perspective, encouragement, and practical ways to keep chasing your dreams without burning yourself out.

What we get into:

• The “Zoom Out” mindset (and why it changes everything)
• What “The Gilder Era” means and why people connect with it
• How to keep moving even when the work feels like a lot
• Encouragement for artists who feel stuck, tired, or behind
• Why “playing the game” doesn’t have to kill your creativity

Follow / Support Charlie Gilder:

Want to keep up with Charlie and what he’s building? Hit these links:

• Charlie’s main hub / store: https://gilder-prod.square.site
• Spotify (featured release): https://open.spotify.com/track/4r6Hs2yVVzXC5TGgXp84UF?si=Y8DB8yvNR16lMRrtHSSPYg
• (“Echo After Midnight” is expected around July 2026 — keep it on your radar.)

More ZHZ Podcast:

For more episodes, guest info, and everything we’re building, visit:

https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Quick favor (helps a ton)

If this episode helped you, please like, subscribe, and drop a comment:

What’s one thing you need to “zoom out” on right now?

Chapters:

00:14 Introduction to the Gilder Era

00:45 Rapid Fire with Charlie Gilder

00:57 Connecting Through Music and Social Media

03:22 The Journey of an Independent Artist

05:37 The Gilder Era: A Movement of Self-Belief

07:39 Navigating Social Media's Impact on Connection

11:28 Echoes After Midnight: A New Musical Release

20:15 Zooming Out: Gaining Perspective as an Artist

24:49 The Importance of Music Promotion

28:41 Finding Your Audience and Release Strategy

31:34 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Vulnerability

33:53 The Mental Challenges of Being an Artist

38:00 The Power of Boldness and Self-Belief

45:04 Preparing for Live Performances

49:18 Incorporating Live Elements into Performances

52:20 The Importance of Authenticity in Live Music

53:17 Embracing Mistakes and Authenticity on Stage

57:15 The Role of Support in an Artist's Journey

#independentmusic #artistinterviews #zhzpodcast

A rapid fire interview moment turns emotional when an artist describes a scent that instantly reminds everyone of grandma’s house.

What started as a fun rapid fire round took a surprisingly deep turn… and honestly, nobody saw this answer coming.

When asked what a signature scent would smell like, Michael Isaak didn’t go with anything typical—he said it reminded him of his grandparents’ house. And just like that, the whole room felt it.

It’s one of those rare moments where music, memory, and emotion all collide—and you can literally see it hit everyone in real time.

If you’ve ever had a smell instantly take you back to a place, this clip is going to land.

🎙️ From The ZHZ Podcast:

Hosted by Zak Davis & Matt Allen

Featuring: Michael Isaak

👉 Subscribe for more artist interviews, real conversations, and moments that hit deeper than expected:

https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Chapters:

00:00 Life in New York: Challenges and Experiences

03:15 Musical Inspirations and Cultural Connections

08:28 The Emotional Impact of Music

10:44 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

#PodcastClips #MusicInterview #EmotionalMoment #Storytelling #ArtistInterview

Discover how an artist's diaspora dreams led to the creation of a genre-defining sound, blending cultural authenticity with innovative music.

Meet Michael Isaak, a Brooklyn-based Egyptian American artist blending folk with Arabic traditions in a fresh genre he calls Arabesque Folk. From living vicariously through imagined desert carpets to crafting a unique sound that bridges worlds, Michael's journey is nothing short of inspiring—and a little magic.

In this episode:

• Michael's early musical influences growing up in the Coptic Church and LA
• The eye-opening trip to Egypt at 19 and cultural rediscovery
• The evolution of his sound from learned guitar chords to blending oud and folk
• How the collaboration with Sohail shaped the "Carpet Maker" album
• Authenticity in production: live recordings, DIY shows, and raw emotion
• Effective marketing for independent artists—word of mouth to social media strategies
• The future of Arabesque Folk and expanding multicultural storytelling
• The power of music as a unifier beyond language and borders

Connect with Michael:

• https://www.michaelisaak.us/
• https://instagram.com/michaelisaacmusic
• https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelisaakmusic
• https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMtwn2Xci7HwsR-M_XPA1nw
• https://open.spotify.com/artist/559rQJZL0GYH9lVU6zi5ey

Follow Us: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Additional notes:

• Stay tuned for the album release on May 15, and catch his upcoming live shows.
• Dive into Arabesque Folk and discover new worlds of sound that unite, inspire, and challenge genre boundaries.
• Remember, in music and life, authenticity and community are the real magic.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Michael Isaac and Arabesque Folk

02:09 Cultural Influences and Musical Education

05:10 The Evolution of Michael's Sound

07:42 The Carpet Maker: Concept and Inspiration

10:28 Collaboration and Creative Process

13:17 Recording and Production Insights

23:59 Marketing Music in 2026

26:59 The Art of Busking and Live Performances

32:09 Cultural Identity and Self-Discovery

36:36 Challenges in Musical Fusion

43:42 The Future of Arabesque Folk Music

54:33 Exploring New Musical Horizons

57:13 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

#michaelisaak #zhzpodcast #independentmusic #artistinterview