Cody Lieberman Co-Founder + Chief Operations Officer
Markets: North America & Europe
"When you align your work with your values, every challenge becomes an opportunity to make an impact."
With over two decades of experience, my journey began in 2004 at Alpine Valley Music Theatre, where I first discovered the profound impact of immersive live events. Since then, I’ve gained invaluable insights into the complexities of Concerts, Festivals, and Touring, both independently and through partnerships with leading promotion companies. My career has been defined by embracing roles of constant change and challenge, from mastering the nuances of on-site logistics to overseeing the intricacies of remote touring operations.
In 2018, I made a pivotal decision to shift my focus from the "production" side to championing independent artists across all aspects of their careers. This transition was driven by my passion for organizing events and an innate enthusiasm for tour management. At the core of my leadership philosophy lies an unwavering commitment to ethics and excellence. I believe in leading by example, fostering growth in others, and cultivating relationships that endure long after the final encore.
Every role I’ve undertaken since 2004 has shaped the trajectory of my career, laying a solid foundation for operational excellence rooted in crowd safety, risk management, and advocacy for artists and venues alike. These priorities are not just professional—they are personal commitments to the well-being of every individual involved in an event.
Beyond the workplace, I find deep fulfillment in volunteering my expertise. For over a decade, I have proudly contributed to Lifest [Life Promotions], a prominent Christian Music festival in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, spearheading crowd management initiatives. This role has reinforced my belief in the power of connection and community through shared experiences.
As Chief Operations Officer, I lead with the understanding that every challenge is an opportunity, every decision a reflection of values, and every relationship a cornerstone of success. My journey is proof that growth comes from dedication, innovation, and a commitment to making a lasting impact.
Quick Fire QnA…
Q: What inspired you to co-found M23 Media Agency?
A: After years in event production and touring, I began to recognize the untapped potential within independent artists who lacked the guidance and resources to navigate the complex and ever-changing music industry. Many talented individuals were struggling to build sustainable careers or even get noticed in an oversaturated market. I realized that my experience, from on-the-ground logistics to strategic planning, could help bridge that gap. Co-founding M23 Media was the perfect opportunity to channel my knowledge and passion into creating tailored opportunities for these artists—empowering them with the tools, support, and strategic direction needed to succeed. By focusing on artist advocacy and career development, M23 Media is reshaping how independent artists approach their careers, helping them not just survive but thrive in the industry. It’s about offering a new path, one where artists have more control over their narratives and are equipped to build lasting, meaningful careers.
Q: How do you define leadership?
A: Leadership is about setting the tone through action—leading by example and demonstrating the values you want to see in others. It’s about fostering a culture of collaboration where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best. As a leader, it's important to stay grounded in ethics and accountability, ensuring transparency and trust within the team. A great leader doesn’t just give direction; they inspire growth by mentoring others, providing the tools they need to succeed, and creating an environment where the team thrives as a collective unit. True leadership is about elevating everyone around you, not just yourself.
Q: What’s your favorite part of your role as COO?
A: I thrive on solving complex challenges, whether it’s streamlining operations, coordinating intricate logistics, or ensuring an artist’s vision comes to life seamlessly. Each event or project presents a unique set of obstacles, and I take pride in finding innovative solutions that elevate the experience for both artists and audiences. However, what I truly enjoy beyond the operational side is mentoring emerging professionals. Sharing my insights, offering guidance, and seeing them grow into their roles is one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. Watching the next generation of industry professionals develop their skills, overcome challenges, and find their voice within the industry gives me immense satisfaction. It’s about empowering others to succeed while building a strong, collaborative community that continues to raise the bar for excellence.
Q: What’s been your most rewarding project to date?
A: Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of working with Lifest, one of the largest Christian music festivals, where I among the leadership of crowd management initiatives. In this role, I oversee everything from ensuring the safety and well-being of thousands of attendees to managing logistics for a seamless event experience. Watching individuals from all walks of life come together, connect, and create lasting memories through shared experiences is profoundly rewarding. It’s in those moments, when I see the impact we’ve made in providing both safety and joy, that I’m reminded of why I’m so passionate about this work—it's about creating spaces where people can connect deeply, safely, and meaningfully.
Q: What’s a career milestone you’re most proud of?
A: Making the leap in 2018 from production-focused roles to directly supporting artists was a pivotal moment in my career. For years, I had been deeply involved in the logistical and operational side of the industry, ensuring events ran smoothly. However, I felt a growing desire to be more involved in the creative and strategic aspects of an artist’s journey. This transition allowed me to align my passion for artist advocacy with the skills I had developed over the years, such as problem-solving, logistics, and operations. By focusing on supporting artists, I could now contribute in a more meaningful way—helping them navigate their careers, make informed decisions, and overcome challenges in the industry. This shift not only deepened my connection to the creative process but also allowed me to have a more direct and lasting impact on the artists I work with, helping them build sustainable careers and true artistic identities.
Q: Any advice for someone entering the industry?
A: My advice is to build genuine relationships from the start—these connections will support you through the inevitable ups and downs of the industry, offering guidance, insight, and opportunities along the way. A strong network of trust and collaboration is invaluable, as it creates a foundation that can help you weather challenges and celebrate successes. Stay adaptable and open to change, because the industry evolves rapidly, and what worked yesterday might not work tomorrow. Flexibility and the ability to embrace new ideas, technologies, and ways of thinking are essential for staying ahead. Most importantly, never compromise on ethics or quality. While it may seem tempting to take shortcuts or chase quick wins, maintaining integrity and delivering top-notch work will always lead to long-term success. In this business, your reputation is everything—building it on a foundation of honesty, hard work, and dedication will ensure that you not only survive but thrive in an ever-changing landscape.