PODCAST 056

Battle of the Bands, B-Side, and the Future of Live Music in Central Minnesota

SUMMARY

In this episode of Behind the Brand, Taylor and Kelly from Moxie Creative sit down with John Schulte to talk about Project 37, B-Side Indie Music Cafe, and the power of building community through music. John shares his journey from hockey player to lifelong musician, drum instructor, and advocate for young artists in St. Cloud, Minnesota.

The conversation explores how Project 37 began, why safe and sober all-ages music spaces matter, and how the organization built momentum by hosting shows throughout the community before opening B-Side. John also discusses the importance of giving teens and young musicians a place to perform, connect, and be part of something meaningful beyond a screen.

Taylor, Kelly, and John also dive into Project 37’s annual Battle of the Bands fundraiser, which supports the organization’s mission and helps fund future improvements like a kitchen at B-Side. This episode is a powerful look at nonprofit leadership, local music advocacy, youth opportunity, and what it takes to create a thriving creative community in Central Minnesota.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Welcome to Behind the Brand
01:00 Meet John Schulte
02:11 From Hockey to a Life in Music
06:11 What Project 37 Is
09:14 Building Momentum Before B-Side
10:18 Creating a Safe Space for Music and Community
14:04 How Project 37 Supports Artists
17:54 Battle of the Bands Returns
21:42 Fundraising for B-Side’s Kitchen
25:01 How the Community Can Help

Takeaways

  • Project 37 is creating safe, sober, all-ages live music spaces in Central Minnesota.

  • B-Side Indie Music Cafe serves as both a nonprofit coffee shop and a community-centered music venue in downtown St. Cloud.

  • Battle of the Bands helps raise funds, spotlight young musicians, and support the future growth of the local music scene.

Key Topics Covered:

  • John Schulte’s background in music and music education

  • The mission and growth of Project 37

  • How B-Side Indie Music Cafe serves the St. Cloud community

  • The value of safe, sober, all-ages music venues

  • Supporting local artists with fair pay and better performance experiences

  • Battle of the Bands and fundraising for future growth

  • Building community through music, creativity, and connection