We’re thrilled to introduce you to Kourtlyn Immel, the Chief of Staff at Nashville Record Pressing. Kourtlyn plays a pivotal role in aligning departments, overcoming challenges, and advancing the mission of crafting the best vinyl records in the industry. Passionate about people and culture, she’s dedicated to fostering a collaborative and empowering environment where everyone can thrive and feel valued.

Nashville Record Pressing (NRP), a proud part of the GZ Media family, has officially established its home in Nashville. With pilot operations underway, full-scale record pressing began in May, and production is ramping up to reach a maximum capacity of over 20 million records annually by Fall 2023. At full capacity, we aim to employ more than 250 team members. By choosing Nashville, we’re reinforcing our commitment to music, the music industry, and the vibrant spirit of Music City.

Outside of work Kourtlyn is a fan of live music, who loves discovering new artists in Nashville, "...country music will always have a special place in my heart." She also enjoys hiking with her dogs and exploring new coffee spots around town, "finding the best cup of coffee wherever I go has become a bit of a personal ritual!"

How did you get into your industry / What motivated you?

When I saw the opportunity to join a team dedicated to creating something as tangible and timeless as vinyl records, I knew I had to jump on it. Being part of preserving music in such a classic format was incredibly motivating. And in a city like Nashville, where music is at the heart of everything, this role felt perfect—it keeps me close to the music world but in a refreshingly unique way. I also love a good challenge.. building something from the ground up definitely pulled me in.

What is a day in the life like?

Each day is a mix of collaboration, problem-solving, and planning. I spend time with multiple departments each day, making sure all pieces fit together to meet our goals. No day is the same, and I love that! It keeps things fresh and allows me to stay engaged and connected with everyone on the team.

In your opinion what has been your favorite / the coolest thing you've worked on?

It hard to pick a favorite! One of the coolest things about working in vinyl is that every project is unique to the artist. Each record feels like its own creative journey, capturing the artist’s vision in a tangible way. Being part of a process that brings such a personal and unique expression to life is incredibly rewarding. Whether it's a debut album or a special edition release, every project has its own story and personality!

What has been / is the most difficult part of your job?

Balancing priorities across departments in a people-focused role can be incredibly complex. Each team has unique needs and pressures, and aligning them all while supporting each person’s growth and morale feels like a constant balancing act. Ensuring everyone feels heard, valued, and aligned requires careful attention and adaptability, but it’s taught me so much about communication, empathy, and prioritizing people alongside tasks.

What advice do you have for someone wanting to get into pursuing what you’re doing?

One of the most valuable skills is learning to listen more than you speak; there’s so much insight to gain by listening to those around you.

My advice would be to dive in and learn as much as you can from every angle, and don’t be afraid to work in multiple roles to gain perspective—from running a press to packaging the finished product. One of the most valuable skills is learning to listen more than you speak; there’s so much insight to gain by listening to those around you. Connecting with others in the industry, whether through LinkedIn or groups like Women in Vinyl, can also be incredibly valuable. Staying curious, adaptable, and open to new ideas will take you far!

Are you a vinyl collector yourself? What drew you to it? If not, why the vinyl industry?

Yes, I am a vinyl collector! For me, it’s all about the experience. There’s something magical about setting a record on the turntable, hearing the first few notes play, and immersing myself in the music. It’s so much more engaging than just pressing play on a digital file—it feels like an event every time.

What types of things are happening in your industry / with vinyl that you’re excited or worried about? i.e. innovation, or trends you’re seeing.

At Nashville Record Pressing, innovation and our clients are at the center of everything we do. We’re always looking for ways to refine our processes, introduce new technology, and improve sound quality to ensure our clients receive the absolute best. Keeping our clients’ needs first drives us to adapt and innovate, so we can deliver records that meet their highest standards and truly enhance the listener’s experience. It’s a commitment that keeps us pushing forward, creating records that both our clients and their fans can be proud of.

Who has been influential to you and your growth as a professional in this industry? 

Drake Coker, NRP’s CEO, has been incredibly influential in my growth as a professional in the vinyl industry. His vision and dedication to creating a high-quality, people-centered operation have set the tone for how we approach our work every day. Working closely with him has taught me the importance of balancing operational excellence with a strong focus on team culture and collaboration. His mentorship has been invaluable in helping me grow not only in my role but also in understanding the bigger picture of what we’re building together at Nashville Record Pressing.

Anything else you’d like to add; if not tell us what you're listening to: 

Lately, I’ve been all about country music. Artists like Chris Stapleton, Zach Top, and Ella Langley have been my go-tos; their sound brings such a comforting vibe. Zach Top, especially, takes me back to those Saturday mornings riding shotgun in my dad's pickup truck, listening to late 90s and early 2000s country. There’s something timeless about country music that just feels right, especially this time of year!