Joel Wanasek is a mixer and entrepreneur, known for his powerful, polished productions and his dedication to helping artists and producers reach their full potential. With a career spanning over two decades, Joel has mixed multiple #1 songs, achieved billions of streams, and has worked with artists like Scott Stapp, Machine Head, Ice Nine Kills, Fuel, Voila, and Chrissy Costanza. 

Based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Joel started his career in full-time production in the early-2000s, building a reputation as a producer for artist development and a commitment to excellence. After a decade of running a commercial studio, Joel started transitioning into being a mixer working with producer Joey Sturgis at Mixing Bros. Joel has developed a mixing style that emphasizes massive low end, punchy drums, and vocals that cut through with power and clarity. His work spans multiple genres, but he is best known for his contributions to modern hard rock, alt rock, and metal.

In addition to his work behind the console, Joel is a co-founder of URM Academy and Nail The Mix. Through these platforms, he has helped build one of the largest online production education communities in the world. Joel is passionate about sharing what he’s learned with the next generation of producers, and his teaching style is both direct and encouraging. He breaks down complex concepts in a way that is easy to understand, while always emphasizing the importance of hard work, discipline, and staying true to the music. His sessions on Nail The Mix have become fan favorites for their honesty, humor, and practical value. 

Joel is also recognized for creating award-winning audio software tools at Drumforge, which are widely used by producers in the audio production industry. His successful releases include drum sample packs, guitar impulse response packs, and his signature line of “bus glue” mixing plugins (over 5,000 units sold) in collaboration with Joey Sturgis Tones. Today, thousands of producers worldwide rely on the innovative plugins and sample libraries Joel has developed.

Joel Wanasek is more than just a mixer. He’s a mentor, a business owner, and a relentless advocate for creative growth. Whether in the studio, online, or on stage with a student audience, Joel brings energy, insight, and passion to everything he does. His work continues to shape the sound of modern rock and metal, while inspiring others to raise the bar in their own productions.