

Other Record Labels
Other Record Labels
Taking the Mystery out of Running a Record Label
A podcast for independent record labels with interviews from Sub Pop, Ghostly International, Mute Records, Jagjaguar, and more. Tips and advice for people starting and running a record label. http://www.otherrecordlabels.com
A podcast for independent record labels with interviews from Sub Pop, Ghostly International, Mute Records, Jagjaguar, and more. Tips and advice for people starting and running a record label. http://www.otherrecordlabels.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 22, 2025 • 1h 7min
Hideout Records (Record Label Interview)
Meet Danny in our upcoming Labelmates Group! http://otherrecordlabels.com/register
In this episode, Scott talks with Danny from Hideout Records, a brand new jazz label based in Vienna, Austria. Danny shares how his journey as a bassist, studio owner, and producer led to launching a record label that supports the local jazz community.
They discuss the blurred lines between creativity and entrepreneurship, the challenges of balancing multiple musical roles, the story behind Hideout’s unique name, and why collaboration and community are at the heart of every great label.
If you’ve ever thought about starting your own label — especially one rooted in passion and purpose — this conversation will inspire you.
👉 Learn more at otherrecordlabels.com
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Oct 18, 2025 • 7min
Have I told you this story?
In this episode, I want to share my story of how Other Record Labels began — not as a company, but as a podcast born from frustration, burnout, and a desire to connect with other indie label owners. How this rainy day moment in 2017 turned into hundreds of interviews with the world’s most inspiring labels and the creation of a thriving community for label owners.
If you’re feeling stuck or alone in your label journey, you’ll relate to this one — and you’ll want to check out Labelmates, our 6-week group program for indie label owners. Learn, grow, and find your people.
👉 Join now at otherrecordlabels.com/register

Oct 14, 2025 • 45min
Portal of Eels - (Record Label Interview)
“Every release is a statement in time — even if people don’t find it now, they might discover it years down the road.”
In this episode of Other Record Labels, I chat with Bryan, the founder of Portal of Eels, a new independent record label from Denver, Colorado.
Presented by LANDR - The Official Digital Distributor of Other Record Labels
Sign Up: landr.com/otherrecordlabels
We talk about the label’s origins, what it’s like to release your first vinyl record, and how to stay encouraged when promotion feels like a slot machine.
Bryan shares lessons from running a one-person label, the importance of community, and the joy of creating something lasting.
Join our upcoming Labelmates: http://otherrecordlabels.com/register
Check out Portal of Eels: https://portalofeels.bandcamp.com

Oct 7, 2025 • 1h 3min
Sun Records - (Record Label Interview)
Chase and Laura dive into the rich legacy of Sun Records, the birthplace of rock & roll. They discuss balancing the preservation of Sam Phillips' 'perfect imperfection' while evolving the label in the modern music scene. The hosts explore the studio's unique sound and the pivotal role of radio today. They highlight groundbreaking initiatives led by Sam, including support for Black artists. The conversation also touches on the importance of sync deals for reissuing obscure tracks and maintaining grassroots promotion as a legacy label.

Sep 30, 2025 • 9min
The Real Reason People Start a Record Label
Why do people really start record labels?
For some, it’s not always about money, streams, or press coverage. A lot of times, it’s about fulfillment, legacy, and the simple joy of working with great music.
In this episode of Other Record Labels, I share why I believe labels still matter and why so many indie label owners take the leap. From retirees starting labels as their “second act,” to artists who just want to build community, this conversation is both inspirational and practical.
I also talk about our upcoming Labelmates Core Sessions Cohort, a 6-week program I’m hosting to help indie label owners find clarity, confidence, and fulfillment while building their own version of success.
Register for Labelmates: http://otherrecordlabels.com/register
Labelmates - Fall 2025 Cohort | Oct 21 - Nov 25 | Every Tuesday at 4:00PM Eastern

Sep 23, 2025 • 15min
The New Record Label Model
In this episode, Scott Orr explores The New Record Label Model—a way of running a label that’s actually rooted in the oldest history of the music business.
Presented by LANDR - [landr.com/otherrecordlabels]
From early companies that sold machines first and music second, to today’s indie labels building sustainable, multi-faceted businesses, Scott makes the case for why the healthiest, most innovative labels are no longer “just record labels.”
Based on his new book Why We Still Need Record Labels, this episode is both a celebration and a roadmap for indie label owners who want to thrive in today’s industry.
GRAB THE NEW BOOK: http://geni.us/whyweneedrecordlabels

Sep 18, 2025 • 1h 22min
How Vinyl is Made - (For the Love of Vinyl) - Episode 09
“Don’t be embarrassed if you don’t know the process—just ask questions. That’s how I learned everything.”
Presented by A to Z Media (http://atozmedia.com)
In this episode, we sit down with Patrick from A to Z Media, one of the most trusted names in vinyl pressing and packaging.
Patrick pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to bring music from digital files to a physical record you can hold in your hands.
We talk about sequencing an album for vinyl, the science and craftsmanship behind plating and pressing, and the hundreds of skilled hands that touch a record before it reaches a fan’s turntable.
Patrick also shares his own journey as a lifelong collector, including the wild story of rescuing a vintage Wurlitzer jukebox off a Los Angeles street.

Sep 16, 2025 • 20min
Special Update from Scott!
In this episode, I share some updates on the podcast and community, including the release of my new book Why We (Still) Need Record Labels, which explores the value and evolution of indie labels today.
Order Here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/book
I also talk about the upcoming Labelmates cohort, a small group program for aspiring label owners. (otherrecordlabels.com/labelmates)
Special thanks to our friends at LANDR for partnering with Other Record Labels - Sign up and get 50% OFF your subscription here: http://landr.com/otherrecordlabels

Sep 11, 2025 • 47min
Interview with Numero Group - (BESPOKEN PODCAST)
In a fascinating conversation, Ken Shipley, co-founder of Numero Group, dives into the meticulous process behind their innovative archival reissues. He introduces Sequoia, a landmark 7-inch box set documenting the roots of American emo, emphasizing its role as a historical archive. Ken reveals how packaging enhances storytelling and shares insights on balancing visual aesthetic with music. He also discusses connecting with fans through diverse merchandise and preserving cultural memory long into the future.

Sep 9, 2025 • 18min
How to Find Your Record Label’s Unique Identity
Discover the secret to establishing a unique record label that thrives in today's music scene. Successful indie labels focus on hyper-specific niches tied to their founders' unique passions. Uncover what makes your label stand out by exploring your top obsessions and combining them creatively. Learn how a quirky interest can lead to innovative label concepts, and why specificity is essential for avoiding obscurity. Finally, delve into insights from a new book that explores the enduring need for record labels.


