Today we’d like to introduce you to Nick Leidl.
Hi Nick, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve proudly dedicated my life to entertainment. I’ve been a Wedding/Party DJ since I was in High School in northern NJ. Just always had a natural draw to music and microphones and stages. Wildly I was booked solid by the time I was 18 and became one of the top requested DJs in the area. A few years later, I began doing standup comedy and had a lot of success while always maintaining my DJ Entertainment Business. The DJ business allowed me to branch into other ventures such as opening a nightclub as well as a catering hall shortly after. But ultimately music has always kept me on course and kept me at peace. During covid quarantine, I started writing original music and posted some to my social media. Within a year I had 3 different songs chart in the TOP 50 on the iTunes Country chart and have been streaming really well on Spotify. So, I consider myself an entertainment jack of all trades. My east coast vibe has been quite well received in the area as I continue to personally perform about 100 DJ events per year. And I will be releasing several songs in 2022 as it’s been exciting to watch my music following grow.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Interesting question – I’d say my biggest obstacle is me. Getting in my own way. Negative self-talk. The doubt. The fear. The indecisiveness. Caring too much about what others think. Comparing myself to others. Not being in the moment. Should I go on?
I’m sure many people can relate. I’m proud of how I fight thru it but it’s definitely there.
I try try try to live in the moment more. To relax and enjoy the ride while keeping an eye on the long-term goal. Always easier said than done.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
I suppose it depends on your goals. If you want a career in the arts you need to work really hard to have reliable side hustles. It’s just the reality. Very few people are fortunate enough to generate an income from the arts. So that’s one of my proudest accomplishments.
Become an expert in your craft. Don’t ever stop learning. We all want success but how many of us are willing to put in the true effort to get there.
Please fight the fear of putting yourself out there. There are so many talented people who just don’t feel comfortable sharing their art. Share your gift!
Biggest advice — Find a mentor. Apprentice for someone and learn the ropes. I’m still grateful to the guy who taught me how to DJ when I was in high school. I went to all his gigs and was thrilled to make a couple bucks and break my back carrying his equipment in/out. But I learned. I learned hands-on from the eyes of a professional.
As for being an entrepreneur in general – here are some principles I follow. Diversify your risk – Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. I’ve noticed a lot of successful people do this. They have a lot of little hustles going. Try to think way outside the box, don’t follow the herd, take chances, and most of all, believe in yourself.
Contact Info:
- Email: entertainmentexplosion@gmail.com
- Website: www.entexplosion.com and www.nickleidl.com
- Instagram: @nickleidl @entertainmentexplosion
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EntExplosion/
