Own the problem, not the blame
Hey, Nikki here.
This week’s podcast guest is Jesse Sandler, production manager who’s worked with Bon Jovi, Phish, The Eagles, Nickelback, Prince, Steely Dan, and Aerosmith. We get into the kind of day-to-day leadership that keeps a show moving when the pressure spikes.
Why this one matters:
Tour life doesn’t always wait for you to feel ready.
Jesse’s theme was simple: competence matters, but composure + attitude scale further than most people want to admit. Calm can be a choice you make.
#1 You set the temperature
If you come in hot, the crew goes hot. Jesse’s point: your reaction dictates everyone else’s reaction — whether you mean to or not.
Takeaway: Calm leadership is a production tool, not a vibe.
Try this: Before you key up on comms, take one breath and say, “What do we know, what do we need, who owns it?”
#2 Pressure isn't permission to get aggressive
He’s dealt with real stakes (like an artist trapped on a flying riser) and still believes getting heated doesn’t solve the problem. Let people do their jobs, then step in to make the call if needed.
Takeaway: Pressure is inevitable; panic is optional.
Try this: In a problem moment, run this script: “Give me two options and a timeline.”
#3 Attitude gets your hired (and rehired)
Jesse said it plainly: he’d rather hire someone with a great attitude than someone experienced who’s difficult. Touring is too tight and too high-pressure to carry someone who makes the room heavier.
Takeaway: Be the person who makes the day easier.
Try this: This week, introduce yourself to someone one step ahead of you and say, “I’d love to grow into this space. If you see a way I can help, I’m in.”
#4 Be a sponge — then speak up
Early on, Jesse learned by listening, watching, and quietly getting good at the job in front of him. But when opportunity opened up, he didn’t wait to be noticed. He picked up the phone and said, “I want the job.”
Takeaway: Master your role. Then ask for the next one.
Try this: Be the most reliable person in your current position. Then tell someone directly, “I’m ready for more. If something opens up, I’d love a shot.”
If you want the full conversation, listen to Episode #51 of The Giggs Podcast with Jesse Sandler.
SPOTIFY | APPLE | YOUTUBE
— Nikki
P.S. One line that stuck with me was, “Just because you’re in charge of the problem doesn’t mean you created it.” That’s a line worth remembering. Leadership is ownership, not blame.
