The Giggs Podcast: #18 Ina Jacobs - Live From Lititz | More Than Math - The Tour Accountant Life

Welcome to The Giggs Podcast! Giggs is the career platform for live event professionals. We're starting this podcast because there's not nearly enough content out there about what it really takes to be on the road. Whether you're an aspiring tour manager, a seasoned backline tech, or just getting started in the business, this podcast is for you. We're taking you behind the scenes to explore the highs and the lows of life gigging on the Giggs Podcast. 

At THE Conference: Live At Lititz, Giggs CEO Nikki Sanz sat down with Ina Jacobs, a powerhouse in touring operations and financial analytics at Creative Artists Agency (CAA). Ina’s career—from her punk rock beginnings to managing finances for global tours—highlights grit, passion, and breaking barriers in the live music industry.

Listen to the whole episode now! Click here to listen on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube!

Starting Out: Punk Rock and Persistence

Ina’s love for music and math set the stage for her career. She landed her first job at CBGB by sheer persistence, pestering the booker until they gave her a chance. From working the door to booking Sunday matinees, Ina dove headfirst into the New York City music scene of the 1990s, learning the ropes in one of the industry’s most iconic spaces.

The Road Calls

Determined to work on tours, Ina eventually became a tour manager, thanks to her relentless drive. Her big break came when she hit the road with The Jesus Lizard, followed by years managing tours for various artists. While she loved the road, her knack for numbers pulled her toward tour accounting, a field dominated by men at the time.

Managing Millions

Ina’s career took off as she became a tour accountant for John Mayer’s Room for Squares tour. Over a decade, she handled everything from budgets to settlements while helping Mayer’s team grow into arenas and beyond. Later, she managed finances for massive acts like Mumford & Sons, Swedish House Mafia, and One Direction, navigating the complexities of stadium tours with unmatched preparation and precision.

Building the Next Generation

Today, at CAA, Ina’s role is as versatile as it is influential. She mentors up-and-coming women in touring, proving there’s space for them in a male-dominated field. Her philosophy is simple: “Open the door for others, and be brave enough to walk through when it’s your turn.”

Balancing Life and Career

After decades on the road, Ina transitioned to a quieter life in Los Angeles, trading tour buses for pottery classes and backgammon nights. But her impact on the live music industry continues, blending her expertise and passion into her current work at CAA.

Ina Jacobs’ journey is a reminder that persistence and adaptability can open doors, even in the toughest industries. Her story resonates with anyone chasing their dreams, proving that success often lies in the hustle.