Artist United Network (AUN) is an empowering platform, revolutionizing the entertainment industry by providing exposure and recognition to artists worldwide. Founded by Matt Schmitt, it offers a dedicated space for artists to showcase their talents to a broader audience, cultivating a diverse showcase of their skills. AUN's core value lies in its unwavering support for artists. Notably, the network doesn't burden artists with financial barriers, making interviews and performances accessible to all. This authentic commitment to talent promotion distinguishes AUN as a genuine force for artists' growth and success. The network's focus on networking and affiliating with various services further strengthens its impact. By fostering a supportive community, AUN creates an environment for artists to evolve, inspire one another, and collaborate seamlessly. This interconnectedness propels artists towards greater heights in their creative journeys. Raving reviews and high ratings reflect the platform's effectiveness in unearthing hidden talents and amplifying their voices. AUN's positive influence is undeniable, providing artists with an unprecedented platform to shine brightly in the competitive entertainment realm. AUN's significance transcends boundaries, embracing artists from all genres. This unity forms a powerful front, reminding the world of the exceptional talent that thrives among us. As AUN continues to flourish, it redefines the art world, empowering artists and paving the way for artistic expression and appreciation. In conclusion, Artist United Network stands tall as a beacon of hope and opportunity for artists. With its founder's vision and dedication, it has become a transformative force, shaping the future of the entertainment industry, and celebrating the true essence of artistic brilliance worldwide
Matt Schmitt: Filmmaker & Founder of Artist United Network
Matt Schmitt is an inspiring filmmaker and content creator who has always sought to meet new people through his craft. As a filmmaker, he released his film The Rise of Jake Thomas. During post-production, he realized he needed to network with local bands to secure rights for the soundtrack. Back in 2003, music libraries weren’t available online, so he relied on local talent for music.
Through this experience, Matt realized that musicians faced the same struggles he did. By teaming up with local bands, he noticed both his audience and the bands’ audiences grew together—film fans discovered new music, and music fans became interested in his film. This inspired him to create a variety show called STL Live, which highlighted music videos and later expanded to comedy and local comic strip artists. STL Live aired on UPN 46 in the St. Louis market in 2005. The premiere party at Sally T’s drew a diverse crowd from the industry, sparking Matt’s desire to create even bigger events.
In 2007, Matt launched his own commercial production company and opened a brick-and-mortar studio. To network, connect with other artists, and grow his business, he organized a large-scale event that became the foundation for what would later be called Artist United (AU). The event featured live music, film screenings, belly dancers, vendors, and a fashion show—drawing more than 500 attendees and turning a profit.
Over the next decade, Matt worked on a show called Failures and continued commercial projects. He collaborated with his uncle Jim, who ran Jelly Bean Academy, a children’s education company. He also partnered with Tom Hannegan, owner of Streetscape Magazine, to manage studio rentals and productions. During these years, people continued to reminisce about the Artist United event, which planted the idea of reviving it in a new way.
With the rise of live streaming, Matt envisioned transforming the event into a digital experience—an independent online TV station. In 2018, he officially launched the Artist United Network (AUN). The network introduced Sunday Music Sessions, where local musicians performed in an unplugged format reminiscent of MTV in the 1990s. Inspired by ‘80s and early ‘90s MTV programming, AUN featured live sessions, interviews, and quick news segments. The studio quickly became a hub for the local arts and entertainment scene, gaining over 10,000 social media followers.
Over the next two years, Streetscape Studios produced corporate videos while AUN expanded its original programming, including Karaoke Klassic, the Streetscape Show, and more live music events. Matt also revived STL Live as a comedy-focused variety show, paying homage to SNL with live skits and performances. The show quickly gained popularity, but in March 2020, COVID-19 forced the studio to shut down.
Matt rebuilt in his home, starting with a simple podcast setup that eventually grew into a full state-of-the-art studio. From there, The Daily Dirt emerged, producing more than 500 episodes and welcoming over 1,200 guests in four years. Hosted by Dustin Diggs, the show explored creativity and artistry through interviews with local talent.
As AUN expanded, Matt partnered with Brandi Thomas at Si Studios in Westport, a creative hub with recording studios, photo rooms, and a live concert space. AUN launched new shows, including Girls Night Out (hosted by Chamane Barbatti and Dearra Johnson), Rise and Grind (with photographer and veteran A.G. Shaw), Monday Model Mania (focused on fashion and modeling), and The Midnight Scratch (a live DJ show). AUN also revisited its Sunday Music Sessions, further cementing its role in the local creative community.
Unfortunately, Si Studios closed due to financial issues, ending that chapter of expansion. However, AUN remained connected with artists across industries and developed the idea for a multi-project casting call. This event attracted more than 300 participants and jumpstarted numerous projects. Inspired to go bigger, Matt began planning a massive festival. Looking for a name, he drew from the U.S. military’s “Mother of All Bombs” (MOAB). With a creative twist, it became M.O.-A.M. — Mother of All Movies, a media festival that went beyond film. The first event was held at the historic Miners Theatre, drawing submissions from across the country, including over 35 films within the first three weeks.
Now, two years later, Artist United Network is in pre-production of Late Night Diggs and is hosting another film festival. Alongside this, AUN has launched Artist United Magazine—a cross between Rolling Stone and Highlights for adults—continuing its mission to showcase, connect, and elevate the creative community.