Mihaly (Mike) Renaud

Founded in 2007 by "Parkside" Mike Renaud in Hamilton, Ontario, Hidden Pony Records & Management has established itself as one of Canada's premier talent development companies. With roots tracing back to my family history in music and his early career as a stagehand, the company has grown into a powerhouse of artist development and innovation.

Hidden Pony's philosophy centers on helping artists discover and realize their potential by recognizing and nurturing their unique assets. This approach has led to remarkable success, with their roster garnering over 20 JUNO nominations and multiple wins, including achievements with artists like Said The Whale, The Dirty Nil, and Hannah Georgas.

The company's diverse roster spans across Canada and represents various communities, including LGBTQ+ and BIPOC artists, as well as numerous strong female-fronted acts. Working with Universal Music for distribution and leveraging cutting-edge AI technology for catalog optimization, Hidden Pony continues to evolve with the industry while maintaining its commitment to authentic artist development

• Hired and managed employees to maximize productivity while training staff on best practices and protocols.
• Produced all content and media including music videos, concert films, advertisements, social media etc.
• Developed innovative marketing campaigns, resulting in increased brand awareness and customer engagement.
• Managed crisis situations effectively while minimizing disruption to daily operations.
• Enhanced company performance by implementing strategic plans and overseeing daily operations.
• Prepared annual budget forecasts and monitored performance to meet organizational objectives.
• Drove revenue growth by expanding product offerings and identifying new market opportunities.
• Cultivated strong relationships with external partners to foster collaboration and maximize resources.
• Inspired innovation by creating an environment that encouraged creative thinking and problem-solving capabilities.

Continue to be a member of IATSE Local 129.

Have worked every department including sound, electrics, carpentry, rigging and video. Have worked shows ranging from rock shows to TV productions such as the Juno Awards.

• Collaborated with stage managers, directors, and other team members to create visually appealing and functional stage environments.
• Enhanced stage production quality by efficiently setting up and breaking down sets, lighting, and sound equipment.
• Stored, loaded and unloaded set pieces and technical equipment for daily performances.
• Ensured timely completion of all tasks for seamless transitions between scenes during live performances.
• Worked with stage technicians set up and calibrate lighting, microphones and recording equipment.
• Upheld professional standards of conduct and performance etiquette, contributing to a positive work environment among team members.

Token of Gratitude was an innovative fundraising initiative that beautifully merged AI technology, NFTs, and music to support vital music industry charities. Founded by Mike 'Parkside' Renaud (Hidden Pony Records & Management) and Gleb Divov (FAYR Ecosystem), this groundbreaking project created unique AI-generated musical and visual works inspired by photographs of empty venues. These digital artworks are then auctioned as NFTs, with proceeds benefiting three essential organizations: Behind the Scenes, MusiCounts, and the Unison Fund. The initiative not only pioneered new ways of artistic creation but also introduces cryptocurrency donations to the charitable sector, demonstrating how cutting-edge technology can be harnessed to support and sustain the music community. The Token of Gratitude was the first creative AI/Human collaboration in support of Charity in the world.

• Co-created the concept and curated the human creative team. Artists included in each Token of Gratitude pod are as follows:
• POD 1 - Sulene, Austin Nops (The Effens), Dave Brownsound (Sum 41)
• POD 2 - Isaac Carpenter (awolnation), Tal Vaisman/Jimmy Chaveau (Kadeema), DANKE
• POD 3 - Adam Bentley (Allegories), Terra Lightfoot, Luke Bentham (The Dirty Nil), Brett Detar (The Juliana Theory)

Co-Creator of the CBC Kids show Jeremy and Jazzy. Involved from concept through production of storyboards, puppet creation and end product. Jeremy and Jazzy airs on CBC in Canada, Tiny Pop in the UK and the Kartoon channel in the United States.

• Worked with The Meligrove Band, Gosling, Josh Ritter, The Greenhornes and Elbow as well as the soundtrack to the movie The Aristocrats.
• Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
• Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.

• Worked with Sum 41, Serial Joe as well as the soundtrack to the movie FUBAR.
• Developed innovative solutions to complex problems, resulting in improved organizational performance.
• Mentored junior staff members for accelerated career growth, developing future leaders within the organization.
• Established long-term client relationships through consistent delivery of high-quality products and services.