For the entire interview transcript, please click here.
Kurt Bestor is an Emmy Award–winning composer, arranger, and performer whose music has touched audiences around the world. With a career spanning over four decades, he has written and produced scores for film, television, and stage, and is best known for his beloved song “Prayer of the Children.” Each year, his Christmas concerts bring together fans from all generations, celebrating both tradition and creativity.
What You’ll Learn
In this episode, you’ll learn how Kurt approaches composition as storytelling, why being teachable and adaptive keeps creativity alive, and how persistence and authenticity can sustain a long and meaningful career in music.
Things We Discussed
Kurt Bestor shares the lessons he’s learned throughout his remarkable journey as a composer and performer. He talks about how technology has changed the creative process, the importance of collaboration, and why connecting emotionally with audiences matters more than chasing perfection. He also reflects on balancing the art and business of music, staying curious, and continuing to learn—no matter how long you’ve been in the industry.
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For the entire interview transcript, please click here.
Brian Claeys, Alex Cote, and Jesse Hartov are accomplished composers and collaborators whose work spans a variety of genres and mediums. From bringing mythical worlds like Disney+’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians to life, to scoring heartfelt dramas and edge-of-your-seat thrillers, their combined talents have earned them recognition in the world of film and TV music. Their diverse backgrounds and shared passion for storytelling through sound make them a powerhouse creative team.
What You’ll Learn
Discover the creative process behind scoring for different genres, the collaboration dynamics between composers, and how musical themes evolve to enhance storytelling. You’ll hear how Brian, Alex, and Jesse balance their artistic voices while meeting the demands of directors, producers, and audiences.
Things We Discussed
They talked about the inspirations and challenges behind their recent projects, including the intricate themes in Percy Jackson and the Olympians and other notable films they’ve scored. The conversation also explored their early beginnings in music, their workflow as a team, the role of technology in composing, and their advice for aspiring musicians looking to break into the industry.
Connect with Brian Claeys, Alex Cote, & Jesse Hartov
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For the entire interview transcript, please click here.
Natasha Barbieri is a New York–based mezzo-soprano and the founder of Crossover Music Magazine. She’s interviewed major crossover stars like Sarah Brightman, Paul Potts, and members of Celtic Woman. Beyond her editorial work, Natasha performs with her sister as the duo Crystal & Natasha and is also known as “A Singing Wife.” Her mission is to uplift musicians who are blending classical music with modern influences — all while staying true to who they are.
What You’ll Learn
Discover what classical crossover really means and why it’s more than just mixing genres — it’s about honoring tradition while staying true to your creative voice. Natasha Barbieri shares how authenticity sets great artists apart, why gimmicks don’t last, and what musicians can do to build a lasting presence. You’ll also learn how to approach media coverage the right way, how to prepare yourself with the right materials, and what makes artists stand out to editors like her. Natasha also opens up about her own journey, why she created Classical Crossover Magazine, and how she’s now helping musicians succeed through artist coaching, storytelling, and media strategy.
Things We Discussed
We talked about how classical crossover is about “not letting the tradition get stagnant, bringing some new life to it.” Natasha reflects on artists who innovate naturally, saying, “The successful people — it’s authentic. They’re not staying in one box. They’re bringing new palettes into what they do.”
She shares insights on working with big names: “Some of the most successful people are the easiest to work with. They’re kind, generous, and prepared. Sarah Brightman could not have been nicer.”
For artists looking to gain media attention, Natasha offers real advice: “Know your USP. (Unique Selling Point) Get organized with your materials. Give something exclusive. You can’t be everything — so figure out what makes you different.”
We also touched on her possible coaching program for artists, which would include one-on-one sessions, help with telling their story, and planning media features that make a real impact.
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For the entire interview transcript, please click here.
Steve Matthew Carter is a Nashville-based media composer for film, TV, and advertising. He most recently scored Gazer (2025), a neo-noir thriller directed by Ryan J. Sloan, which premiered at Cannes Directors’ Fortnight and is distributed by Metrograph Pictures.
His music has also appeared in The Other Guys, Escaping Ohio, The Tomorrow Job, and national ad campaigns for brands like Honda and Body Armor (2024 Super Bowl). Steve’s work spans dozens of film festivals, music libraries, and TV networks, including Netflix, Bravo, TLC, and History.
What You’ll Learn
In this episode, Steve opens up about the myth of linear success, the pressure to "make it" young, and how wandering can be part of the creative process. He shares why it’s okay to have gaps in your journey and how those quieter moments often lead to a deeper artistic identity.
Things Discussed: Rather than chasing clout or traditional networking, Steve believes in “friend collecting”—building real, lasting creative relationships with people you respect and enjoy. He encourages younger musicians to stop waiting for permission and start making the kind of work they wish existed in the world—with friends, collaborators, and a sense of purpose.
Steve also offers practical advice: know your strengths, and let your style become your signature. Whether you’re the go-to guitar player or someone still exploring their aesthetic, his message is the same—be real, be kind, and keep making things.
Connect with Steve Matthew Carter
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For the entire interview transcript, please click here.
Thomas Haines is an award-winning composer, sound designer, and creative entrepreneur whose work spans film, television, and immersive audio. Based in the UK, Thomas is known for blending emotion, experimentation, and storytelling through sound. He is the co-founder of BrainAud.io, a groundbreaking platform focused on spatial and generative audio experiences. Whether he’s scoring a cinematic trailer like Wolf King or exploring how the brain responds to sound, Thomas brings curiosity and authenticity to every project. His journey from teenage pub gigs in Cornwall to internationally recognized composer is a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and staying true to your voice.
What You’ll Learn
In this episode, Thomas opens up about the real-life experiences that shaped him as an artist, the challenges of creative feedback, and why being consistently curious and courageous is more important than being perfect. You’ll learn why “failing fast” isn’t a failure at all, how nerves can be a sign you’re on the right track, and why creating something daily builds the resilience and readiness you need for a lasting career in music.
Things Discussed: Thomas reflects on his early years performing in a band that turned cheesy TV theme songs into sleazy disco anthems — and how this offbeat project led to packed pubs, diverse audiences, and his first paid gigs. These moments taught him early that music’s power lies in its ability to connect, surprise, and move people in unexpected ways.
He shares the importance of just making music — not waiting for permission, not chasing perfection, but playing, experimenting, and showing up daily. Thomas talks about how he still channels the same curiosity and drive he had at 13 years old, and how that raw instinct, paired with daily discipline, helps him meet high-pressure deadlines in his professional scoring work.
Thomas also digs into the emotional rollercoaster of sharing music with collaborators and clients. He explains why nerves mean you care, and why embracing feedback — even when it stings — is part of developing creative intelligence. Rather than sticking to one “specialty,” Thomas encourages musicians to explore widely, discover how and when they work best, and build a life around that rhythm.
He reminds listeners that you can’t wait to be discovered or hired — you have to do the work first. Even if you fail or have to start over, that effort is what strengthens your creative muscles. In his words, “If you want to catch a fish, you actually have to go fishing.”
Connect with Thomas Haines
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For the entire interview transcript, please click here.
You don’t have to be a superstar to make a living in music, but you do need a plan. Don Cusic, author, professor, and Western Music Association Hall of Fame inductee, reveals how to turn your passion into a profession. Learn how to balance self-expression with crowd-pleasing, navigate the business side, and build lasting momentum in today’s fast-moving music world.
Don Cusic is also the author of the newly released Chet Atkins: Mr. Guitar. This definitive biography from the University of Georgia Press explores the life and legacy of Chet Atkins, one of the most influential American guitarists of the twentieth century and a key figure in shaping the Nashville Sound.
What You’ll Learn:
*Why understanding the business side of music is crucial for artists
*How persistence and work ethic outweigh raw talent and luck
*The truth about mental health, fame, and staying grounded in the music industry
*What aspiring artists need to know about cover songs, crowds, and career strategy
Things Discussed:
*The intersection of music, business, and technology
*Importance of social media and self-promotion
*Major labels vs. independent careers
*The psychology of artists and emotional grounding
*Realistic steps for emerging musicians (playing covers, booking small venues, building an audience)
*Behind the scenes of writing about Chet Atkins
Connect with Don Cusic
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For the entire interview transcript, please click here.
Christian Ray Flores is a Chilean-Russian artist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Born in Moscow in 1969, he rose to fame in Russia’s music scene with hits like Our Generation, then shifted to social impact and venture building in the U.S., co-founding Third Drive to empower startups and causes worldwide.
What You’ll Learn
In this powerful and vulnerable episode, you'll hear the remarkable story of Christian Ray, a successful pop artist who left the spotlight to pursue something far more meaningful. Christian opens up about his journey from the height of fame to a life rooted in purpose, faith, and impact. You’ll discover how he navigated the pressures of the entertainment industry, overcame personal regrets, and ultimately redefined what it means to be successful. Through his story, you’ll gain insights on balancing creative ambition with personal integrity and why true fulfillment comes from within, not from applause or accolades.
Things Discussed:
Christian shares how his wife left behind a thriving career in the U.S. entertainment world to move to Russia in the 1990s—a gesture of deep love and commitment that he later mirrored by moving with her to the U.S. They settled in places without snow, a symbolic fresh start from their past lives.
He talks about his early career success, including how he retained full ownership of his intellectual property at a time when it was uncommon. Despite major wins, like producing successful music projects and forming brand deals with TV stations, he opens up about the deeper lessons learned along the way. Christian reflects on missed opportunities for collaboration, his reluctance to engage in the business side of the industry, and how those choices shaped his career.
One of the most striking revelations is how he once believed being “just the artist” was the noble path, only to realize too late that business is an art form in itself. He also discusses the importance of building a record label and how some of his innovative ideas, like creating a girl group that spun off multiple solo careers, had a long-term impact even after he stepped away.
But the heart of this episode lies in his honest reflection about identity, faith, and purpose. At the peak of his career, Christian was clinically depressed. He shares how meeting a Canadian missionary changed his life and helped him piece together a sense of wholeness he had never known before. Through coaching and a deeper spiritual life, he found a new definition of success: a vocation filled with purpose, a family built on love, and a character strong enough to sustain it all.
This episode is a deeply human story about creativity, regret, redemption, and the power of choosing impact over image. It’s a must-listen for artists, entrepreneurs, or anyone standing at a crossroads in life.
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For the entire interview transcript, please click here.Laura Sawosko is a Nashville-based singer-songwriterknown for her heartfelt lyrics and authentic storytelling. With roots in Arizona’s tight-knit music community, she brings a unique blend of emotional depth and country-inspired hooks to her music. Balancing her creative career with roles as a piano teacher and restaurant co-manager, Laura is passionate about using her life experiences to write songs that resonate and inspire.
What You’ll Learn
In this episode, Laura will be discussing her career journey and insights on success in the music industry. Here are some key takeaways:
Success Redefined: From chasing fame to finding purpose through storytelling and emotional connection.
Side Hustles Matter: Maintaining a day job (like teaching piano or running a family restaurant) brings stability and lifeexperience to fuel creativity.
Social Media & Marketing: Managing multiple platforms is vital, but overwhelming. Laura shares her thoughts on tools like Hyped It and the importance of email lists.
Nashville’s Influence: Living in the heart of country music has shaped her songwriting approach, emphasizing strong hooks and compelling storytelling.
Upcoming Album: “Not What I Do” —an honest reflection of her personal growth and artistic identity.
Things Discussed:
*Laura’s move from Arizona to Nashville and the city’simpact on her music
*Transition from cover songs to original songwriting
*Emotional songwriting as a response to grief and lifeexperiences
*Challenges of balancing music with a day job
*Strategies for handling rejection and staying emotionallyresilient
*Tips for self-marketing, including YouTube promotion andemail marketing
*Tools she’s exploring for better reach and monetization
Connect with Laura
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For the entire interview transcript, please clickhere.
In this episode, we welcome Andrés Silva and Alejandro Uribe Holguín, the talented co-founders of La Tina Sound Design & Film Scoring.
Andrés, a Colombian sound supervisor and designer with a Master's in Management for Creative Industries from Birkbeck, University of London, has worked on acclaimed projects like Suspensión and Narcos.
Alejandro, a seasoned sound supervisor and designer with over 15 years in the industry, has crafted immersive audio experiences for Netflix, HBO, Disney, and Prime Video, contributing to notable works such as Narcos and Monos.
Join us as they share their journey, creative process, and insights into the world of sound design for film and television.
What You’ll Learn
In this episode, you'll gain valuable insights into theworld of sound design and the music industry. Andrés and Alejandro will emphasize the importance of organization—how keeping your creative process structured can give you more time for everything, from mastering your craft tomanaging your career. You'll learn how to set a clear schedule for learning music without falling into the stereotype of late-night work. They'll also break down how to price your work, considering not just your creative fee but alsothe investment in your equipment and how to calculate its depreciation over time. Additionally, they'll discuss the often-overlooked power of sound, how it shapes emotions, and how different recording techniques impact the final result. You'll also get a perspective on modern audio technologies like Dolby Atmos—when they enhance music and when they don’t. Most importantly, this episode will highlight the need for honesty and passion in music, ensuring that your work resonates deeply with your audience.
Things We Discussed
*The importance of organization for artists and musicians tomanage time effectively.
*Setting a structured schedule for learning music instead ofrelying on late-night sessions.
*How to price your work, including creative fees andfactoring in equipment depreciation.
*The role of sound design in shaping emotions and howdifferent recording techniques affect the final result.
*The perception of sound—how people may not consciouslyrecognize it but still feel its impact.
*Dolby Atmos technology—when it enhances music and whentraditional formats work better.
*The importance of honesty and passion in music to create agenuine connection with the audience.
Connect with Andrés & Alejandro
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For the entire interview transcript, please click here.
In this episode, we’re joined by Tory Smith, a seasoned guitarist and manager of two thriving cover bands in Dallas. Tory shares his insights on the significance of confidence and audience connection for live performers.
A passionate advocate for elevating live music experiences,Tory discusses the common challenge of relying on tablets and smartphones during performances. Determined to address this issue, he co-developed the BLACKBOX Prompter, a game-changing device designed to replace screens and stands. This sleek, intuitive prompter empowers musicians of all levels to perform with confidence, ensuring every lyric and chord is delivered seamlessly.
What You’ll Learn
Discover why the BLACK BOX Prompter is a game-changingalternative to tablets on stage, how its professional design enhances performances and Tory’s insights on turning small wins into meaningful success as a musician. Gain motivation to keep pursuing your passion and practical tips for building opportunities in the music industry.
Things Discussed:
- The drawbacks of using tablets and music stands duringperformances and how the BLACK BOX Prompter offers a sleek, professional alternative.
- The craftsmanship and design of the BLACK BOX Prompter,built to blend seamlessly into any stage setup.
- Tory’s advice for staying motivated and finding joy inmusic, even through challenges.
- How to grow from small gigs to bigger opportunities likecorporate events and private parties.
- Tory’s refreshing take on success: celebrating small winsand staying persistent.
🎉 Special Offer: Get 10% off the BLACK BOX Prompter with promo code ‘SUCCESS’ at blackboxprompter.com!
Connect with Tory
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For the entire interview transcript, please click here.
In this episode, we’re joined by Juan Cortés Arango. He is a Colombian composer, orchestrator, and music producer based in Los Angeles, known for blending unconventional sounds with traditional composition to create emotionally resonant scores. He is the composer ofFunny Birds, his second collaboration with directors Marco La Via and Hanna Ladoul, following the 2018 romantic dramaAnywhere With You. With contributions from vocalist Elline and lyricist Adam Brock, Cortés crafted a beautifully authentic score forFunny Birds, drawing inspiration from its multigenerational tale of family and tragedy, showcasing his continued evolution as a storyteller through music.
What You’ll Learn
In this episode, Juan Cortés shares his journey from overcoming tendonitis to becoming a successful film composer, the importance of genuine relationships in creative growth, and the value of patience and continuous learning. He discusses how success is an ongoing pursuit of personal and professional growth, emphasizing the need to adapt and evolve over time.
Things We Discussed
- Juan’s early challenges and pivot from performance to composition
- The pivotal role of friendships and mentorship in his career
- Insights into film scoring and working with renowned composers
- His philosophy on success, growth, and the importance of authenticity
- How patience and consistent study shape a fulfilling career
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For the entire interview transcript, please click here. In this episode, we’re joined by John Gold, the founder of Hypeddit, a groundbreaking platform that simplifies music promotion for artists worldwide. John shares his journey of transitioning from focusing solely on making music to mastering the art of building an engaged fan base. Discover how Hypeddit helps musicians automate promotion, save time, and grow authentic connections with their audience in a competitive industry.
What You’ll Learn
In this episode, you’ll learn the crucial balance every musician needs to strike between creating great music and building a loyal fan base. John explains why relying solely on the quality of your music is not enough in today’s oversaturated market. He shares how Hypeddit was born out of his own challenges and how it empowers musicians with tools to automate and simplify promotion. You’ll also learn about the importance of email as a backup for sustaining long-term fan engagement and why building active, dedicated fans is key to success.
Things We Discussed
John dives into the realities of music promotion, explaining why traditional playlist promotion often fails to create meaningful connections with fans. He highlights the advantages of using ads on platforms like Facebook and Instagram and how Hypeddit’s innovative approach bridges the gap between complex marketing techniques and simplicity. Additionally, John emphasizes the significance of authentic fan engagement, effective use of email marketing, and creating systems that foster continuous growth for musicians in today’s competitive landscape.
Connect with John Gold
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For the entire interview transcript, please click here.
In this episode of Successful Musicians, we are joined by Will and Brooke Blair, a brother duo known for their work in the world of film and TV scoring. They share their journey, offer practical advice for musicians, and discuss how they’ve adapted to the fast-paced demands of the industry.
They are long-term collaborators with director Jeremy Saulnier, scoring his first feature, “Murder Party,” which won the Slamdance 2007 Audience Award.
Brooke and Will Blair’s music enhances the emotional and narrative depth of the projects they work on, making them a sought-after duo in the industry.
What You’ll Learn
The Blair brothers’ unique journey into the film and TV scoring world.
How scoring for different genres pushes them creatively and keeps their work fresh.
The importance of collaboration and building strong relationships in the industry.
Practical advice for musicians working under tight deadlines.
Things We Discussed
Will and Brooke emphasize the importance of mastering your tools when working in film and television scoring. Deadlines are tight, and musicians need to be fast, efficient, and decisive. Brooke advises musicians to get better at their tools, whether it’s recording, mixing, or any other technical aspect of music production.
In addition, the brothers share valuable advice on maintaining a healthy work-life balance. After years of experience, they've learned the importance of setting boundaries and making time for family, even in a demanding field like film composition. Will and Brooke emphasize that it's not about working long hours—it's about making the hours you work count. Whether it's taking a break to hike with family or simply stepping away from the project for a while, this balance can help keep creativity flowing. Often, solutions to creative problems come when you're not actively thinking about them.
Connect with Will and Brooke Blair
Will Blair:
Brooke Blair:
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For the entire interview transcript, please click here.
In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Zach Sprowls, an American pianist and composer known for his evocative and heartfelt piano compositions. He often uses the piano as his primary storytelling tool, creating music that resonates deeply with listeners.
Some of his notable works include:
“All Beginnings Are Hard” - This piece features both a solo piano version and a version with a string quartet. The solo piano version was recorded live on an acoustic piano.
“I Thought I Knew” - Another popular piece, is available in a live, piano-only version.
What You’ll Learn
Music Marketing Strategies:
Ads are a long-term investment that may take years to see profitability.
Caution with playlist placements (e.g., SubmitHub, Playlist Push) as they can lead to low engagement and confuse streaming algorithms.
Create a personalized "This Is [Artist]" playlist and direct ads to it for better streaming and fan engagement results.
Recommended ad spend is $50/month to start, with $300/month being a good sweet spot for measurable growth.
Business Education for Musicians:
Musicians need business knowledge to succeed in a capitalist society.
Understanding money management and market strategies is essential for promoting music effectively.
Musicians must develop business skills to reach a wider audience.
Outsourcing and Delegation:
Balancing creativity and business can be taxing for musicians, especially those who aren't wired for administrative tasks.
Hiring someone for even a few hours a week can lead to more peace of mind and greater overall productivity.
Delegating tasks allows musicians to focus on their strengths while someone else handles responsibilities that drain their energy.
Benefits of Outsourcing:
Outsourcing administrative tasks is more efficient and saves time.
Freed-up time can be redirected toward creative work, enhancing productivity.
Building a support system through outsourcing provides peace of mind and reduces overwhelm.
Things We Discussed
Zach Sprowls shares valuable insights on balancing creativity with business as a musician. He emphasizes the importance of learning marketing strategies, such as using ads and personalized playlists, to build a fan base over time.
Zach also discusses the necessity of acquiring business skills in a capitalist society, as promoting music effectively requires understanding money and markets. Additionally, he encourages musicians to consider outsourcing administrative tasks to free up time for creative work, highlighting how even small investments in hiring can lead to greater productivity and peace of mind.
Connect with Zach Sprowls
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For the entire transcript of the interview, please click here.
Ryan Waczek is an Emmy-winning soundtrack composer, producer, and songwriter. He is known for his diverse background and accomplishments, including scoring the award-winning documentary “Floating Horses: The Life of Casey Tibbs” (2017) and composing for the Emmy-Winning television show “Theater Corner” with Dulé Hill and Daniel J. Watts (2021). His hybrid orchestral style has drawn comparisons to renowned composers such as Hans Zimmer and James Newton Howard. He is also the founder of the Indie Music Academy, an online resource that provides musicians with training on how to grow their audience and monetize their music. Through the academy, he offers a comprehensive suite of video tutorials, audio lessons, and written content aimed at helping independent artists succeed in the music industry.
What You’ll Learn
Ryan Waczek emphasizes the importance of authenticity and audience engagement for musicians, highlighting that building a fan base should happen concurrently with the music creation process. He suggests that rather than striving for polished perfection, artists should share their genuine, sometimes messy, creative journey. This approach not only makes content more relatable but also fosters a deeper emotional connection with fans. By embracing vulnerability and involving their audience in the unfolding story, musicians can create a loyal and invested fan base, ultimately benefiting their long-term success.
Things We Discussed
Ryan also elaborates on two additional strategies for driving traffic and building an audience: direct advertising and playlisting. Direct advertising involves paying for traffic on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, using engaging content to capture attention within the first few seconds. This method offers more reliability compared to organic reach, making it viable for those with marketing budgets. Additionally, playlisting falls under influencer marketing, where artists leverage existing audiences curated by playlist creators. By getting their music featured on popular playlists, artists can gain streams and exposure, effectively borrowing the playlist's audience to promote their songs. Both strategies aim to enhance visibility and engagement with potential fans.
Connect with Ryan Waczek
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For the entire transcript of the interview, please click here.
Steve Larsen is a renowned entrepreneur and marketing strategist, best known for his expertise in creating high-converting sales funnels. He gained prominence as the Lead Funnel Builder at ClickFunnels, where he honed his skills by constructing over 500 sales funnels and working directly with Russell Brunson. After leaving ClickFunnels, Larsen quickly made his mark by building his own million-dollar company within just 13 months. He shares his knowledge through his podcast, Sales Funnel Radio, and educates others via courses like Secret MLM Hacks, OfferMind, and OfferLab. His success story is a testament to his innovative approach to online marketing and sales strategies.
What You’ll Learn
In this episode, Steve shares common misconceptions and emphasizes the distinction between marketing and sales functions within a funnel. He argues that while sales funnels are powerful tools for conversion, they primarily serve a sales function rather than marketing.
He also shares his idea of success. Success is deeply personal and encompasses both internal contentment and external accomplishments.
Things We Discussed
Importance of Sales Story and Offer: Larsen underscores the significance of having a compelling sales story and offers that prompt further engagement. He argues that success hinges on these elements rather than intricate funnel mechanics.
Connect with Steve Larsen
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For the entire transcript of the interview, please click here.
Shannon K, is an American-Indian singer and actress. She collaborated with Poo Bear on the song “A Long Time” in 2018, and her music video for this track has over 41 million views on YouTube. Shannon K also acted in the movie “The Big Feed” (2020) and is currently involved in the American drama series “Mystical Inheritance of Adina Hassan” and a short film called “Rolling,” which focuses on mental health awareness. Her versatility, passion, and dedication continue to make waves in the entertainment world.
What You’ll Learn
In this episode, Shannon K shares about the enduring importance of authenticity, resilience, and commitment to positive influence. Her dedication to staying true to herself amidst the pressures of the industry serves as a powerful reminder that success is not just about fame or fortune, but about staying grounded in one's values and morals. Shannon's emphasis on maintaining a strong work ethic and embracing every opportunity, no matter how small, underscores the significance of perseverance and seizing moments for growth. Moreover, her belief in the responsibility of artists and creators to inspire change and influence others for the better highlights the transformative potential of art and the impact it can have on shaping society. Ultimately, Shannon K's story encourages us to strive for authenticity, uphold our values, and use our platforms to make a positive difference in the world.
Things We Discussed
Shannon K has released a recreation version of the iconic old disco classic song “Jimmy Jimmy.” Her voice adds an upbeat twist to this beloved track. So put on your headphones and groove to the beats!
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For the entire transcript of the interview, please click here. Eric Thayne is a professional director, DP, and film educator. He is known for his work in cinematography and film production. Eric shares his expertise through educational content on platforms like YouTube and Cinema Mastery.
What You’ll Learn
From Eric Thayne's insights, we can glean several valuable lessons:
Entrepreneurial Thinking: Understanding the difference between creatives and entrepreneurs is crucial. Entrepreneurs start with identifying problems and then develop solutions, often involving assembling teams to execute them. Creatives can benefit from adopting this problem-solving approach.
Visibility and Personal Branding: In today's digital age, visibility is key. Thayne advocates for creatives to focus on building their personal brands, connecting with audiences on a deeper level beyond just their craft. Engaging with fans and showcasing personality can cultivate a loyal following.
Things We Discussed
Eric Thayne mentioned his upcoming book, 'Create, Don't Capture,' It is a game-changer for creatives, musicians, artists, and entrepreneurs alike. Packed with invaluable insights and practical advice, this book is a great tool for unlocking your full creative potential in today's digital landscape. You can preorder now at createdontcapture(dot)com.
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For the entire transcript of the interview, please click here.
Lead vocalist, bassist, and lyricist Carlos Baker hails from the United States and, together with his spouse, relocated to Northern Germany in 2009. Identifying himself as a seasoned artist, lyricist, and storyteller, Carlos authored the novel "SONGS For IVY" in 2020, now accessible on Amazon. With a repertoire spanning over 50 compositions, his musical range extends from country tunes to heartfelt ballads, and from rock anthems to bluesy melodies. Carlos crafts songs infused with the genuine sentiment, many delving into his personal encounters and battles with depression. Above all, Carlos expresses his utmost pride in the four children he and his wife have nurtured.
What You’ll Learn
Carlos's journey offers a profound exploration of resilience and transformation. From overcoming a rare bone cancer with candor and a unique perspective on mortality, he shares invaluable insights into the power of resilience and mental strength. His openness about mental health struggles, particularly with shame, underscores the importance of acknowledging and addressing emotional wounds. Rejecting conventional therapy, Carlos found solace and healing through music and writing, portraying them as his therapeutic outlets. His ability to seamlessly integrate music into his life, from carefree youth to responsible adulthood, emphasizes the enduring role of artistic expression in navigating life's challenges. Carlos teaches that embracing vulnerability, pursuing one's passions, and finding solace in creative outlets can be powerful tools for personal growth and healing.
Things We Discussed
Resilience and Transformation: Overcoming rare bone cancer with candor and a unique perspective on mortality.
Mental Health Awareness: Openness about mental health struggles, particularly with shame.
Creative Therapeutic Outlets: Choosing music and writing as therapeutic outlets for emotional healing.
Integration of Music in Life: Seamless integration of music from carefree youth to responsible adulthood.
Life's Transformative Moments: Family life, marriage, and parenthood as transformative milestones.
Connect with Carlos Baker
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For the entire transcript of the interview, please click here.
Chris SD is the go-to person for indie songwriters aiming to feature their music in top shows, movies, and ads. Initially an award-winning music producer, Chris recognized the potential for indie projects to gain greater visibility. He observed the impact of a single sync placement propelling artists onto charts and generating lucrative income. Beyond teaching indie songwriters the ropes, Chris actively connects them with key figures, opening doors to top music supervisors in TV and film.
What You’ll Learn
In this episode, Chris shares why indie music is so successful now in TV and film. He also explains the importance of metadata and reaching out directly to the source—the music supervisors who place music in TV and film. Building strong relationships with these decision-makers is crucial, as they have a select group of trusted individuals. By becoming one of their go-to contacts, you secure consistent and more lucrative sync placements. The key is delivering what they need when they need it, establishing trust and reliability in the process.
Things We Discussed
In January, Chris is hosting a free online panel featuring top music supervisors in the industry. These are professionals who curate music for the most prominent shows, movies, and ads. You're invited to join virtually and gain valuable insights into who they are, what they seek, and the criteria for music selection in TV and film. This event offers a unique opportunity to understand their perspective, helping you align your music with their preferences. It's a fantastic chance to learn, and it's entirely free. We typically have thousands of musicians participating each year. Don't miss out!
Connect with Chris SD
Sync Songwriter Music Supervisor Panel Registration
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