The Intelligent Vocalist

In this episode, John explores the crucial role of vocal rest for singers, comparing vocal care to athletic recovery. Learn how hydration, sleep, and mindful practices protect your voice, how to spot signs of fatigue, and why a holistic approach—including technique and environmental awareness—is key to vocal health.   Episode highlights: Vocal rest is vital for maintaining a healthy, resilient voice. Recognizing and addressing signs of fatigue ensures long-term vocal health. A holistic approach—balancing rest, technique, and environment—protects your voice as a precious instrument.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John explores the profound impact of belief on singing and vocal performance, emphasizing the placebo effect's role in enhancing a singer's experience and outcomes. He discusses how expectations and investment in lessons or techniques can lead to significant breakthroughs, even when the methods themselves may not be inherently superior. He encourages singers to find ways to cultivate belief in their abilities and the methods they choose to improve their craft.   Episode highlights: Singing is not just physical; it's deeply psychological and emotional. Even without scientific backing, belief can lead to perceived improvements. Rituals and costs can enhance the placebo effect in singing.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John explores the rapid advancement of AI technology, its potential benefits, and the importance of human interaction in learning. He emphasizes how AI can serve as a valuable tool for singers and voice teachers, providing personalized coaching, practice routines, and real-time feedback, while also acknowledging the limitations of AI compared to human guidance.   Episode highlights: AI serves as an extension of our cognitive abilities. Ask AI to explain complex concepts in simple terms. AI is a valuable tool, but not a replacement for teachers.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John explores flow state, a mental state where individuals become fully immersed in their activities, leading to enhanced performance and enjoyment. He discusses the key characteristics of flow, including the balance between challenge and skill, the importance of setting clear goals, creating a conducive environment, and the necessity of feedback.   Episode highlights: Flow will give you better learning experiences and practice sessions. You can set yourself up to achieve flow more often. Flow allows for a loss of self-consciousness during performance.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John discusses the importance of embracing ambiguity in singing and artistry. Ambiguity allows for exploration, experimentation, and the acceptance of multiple perspectives, which can lead to personal growth and artistic authenticity.   Episode highlights: Embrace the unknown as an opportunity to learn. Questions open us up to new perspectives. Adaptability is crucial in the face of change.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John discusses the importance of singing during uncertain times. Tap into the emotional connection that singing provides, and the power the voice has to heal. John encourages listeners to seize the moment and not let external chaos hinder their passion for singing.   Episode highlights: The voice is directly connected to emotion. It is the instrument of the soul. It's essential to create boundaries around negative influences like social media. When everything seems out of your control, the way you connect to singing is always in your control.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John Henny discusses the concept of studying singing through the metaphor of seasons. He describes 'summer' as a time for exploration and growth, where singers can experiment with new techniques and styles. Conversely, 'winter' represents a period of focused mastery, where singers hone in on specific skills and techniques. John emphasizes the importance of transitioning between these seasons to foster continuous growth and development in vocal training.   Episode highlights: Exploration outside of your usual study and experience can lead to unexpected insights and techniques. Be careful not to stay in ‘summer’ or ‘winter’ for too long. Trust your inner voice to know when to transition seasons.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with Ariel Bloomer, the lead vocalist for Icon for Hire. Ariel discusses the importance of prioritizing freedom and authenticity over fame in the music industry. She shares her journey of navigating the modern music landscape, emphasizing the significance of genuine connections with fans and the challenges of maintaining artistic integrity. Ariel reflects on her experiences with record labels, the evolution of her music career, and offers advice for aspiring musicians on finding their own path while staying true to themselves.   Episode highlights: Prioritizing freedom over fame leads to more sustainable results. Building a relationship with fans enhances the music experience. It's important to ask yourself what kind of path you want to make for yourself.   To learn more about Ariel Bloomer, go to https://www.instagram.com/arielforhire/ or https://iconforhire.net/   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John explores the concepts of the hedgehog and the fox as they relate to musicians and singers. He discusses the dichotomy between those who specialize in one area (hedgehogs) and those who are versatile across many styles (foxes). Through examples of iconic musicians, John illustrates how these approaches can influence an artist's career and sound. Reflect on your own musical aspirations and personality traits to determine which approach may suit you best.   Episode highlights: The hedgehog knows one big thing, while the fox knows many. Your approach to singing should reflect your personality. Understanding whether you're a hedgehog or a fox can guide your vocal journey.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this milestone 400th episode of The Intelligent Vocalist Podcast, John Henny reflects on the journey of the podcast, its impact on listeners, and the importance of an open mindset in exploring vocal techniques and personal growth. He emphasizes the value of understanding the voice, the connection between mind and voice, and the need for continuous exploration and questioning of traditional beliefs in singing and teaching.   Episode highlights: This podcast has been downloaded 900,000 times. Challenging traditional beliefs can lead to new insights. Listeners have shared that the concepts and resources provided through this podcast have changed their lives.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com