The Intelligent Vocalist

With most high-level skills, the better you get, the harder it can seem to improve. In this episode, John discusses what to expect as you become more advanced and how to push through the inevitable rough patches to come. EPISODE LINKS Beginning Singing Book

In her book, The Biggest Bluff, author, and psychologist Maria Konnikova takes a year off from writing to learn poker. In 12 short months, she goes from complete novice to tournament champion. Maria learns that poker is an almost perfect vehicle for learning how to make correct life decisions, and how to deal with the swings of luck we all experience. In this episode, John discusses how to deal with the current state of the world for musicians (known as a "bad beat" in poker) and how to make correct decisions going forward in your singing and music. EPISODE LINKS The Biggest Bluff by Maria Konnikova

There are so many decisions that go into a creative project. Knowing when something is good enough without getting stuck in the perfectionist trap can be incredibly hard to discern. In this episode, John discusses his journey to find the right cover for his latest book, and the creative struggles and decisions he dealt with. EPISODE LINKS: Cover Examples

When tackling a larger project, such as writing a song or reaching a vocal goal, it is all too easy to falter just before the finish line. After the initial inspiration wears off, it requires a level of sticktoitiveness to push through and see the goal to completion. In this episode, John discusses the mental roadblocks to finishing large projects and what to do to get over the hump and get it done.

There can be two planes of focus when singing. The inner is on physical adjustments - the breath, vocal fold resistance, etc. Outer focus is on the results - a brighter sound, feeling the tone more forward, etc. In this episode, John discusses the difference between both types of focus and how to balance them in your practice and performance.

Great singers are a fantastic source of inspiration, but the temptation to copy them can leave our singing struggling for originality. In this episode, John discusses how to breakdown your favorite vocal performances to create your unique style.

Singing, performing, and auditioning can be stressful, filling the mind with doubt and fear. Annie Little is an experienced actress and voice teacher who has been using guided meditations to help her students overcome anxiety and to find a calm mental space in which to learn and sing. EPISODE LINKS Annie's Website

Goals can give us focus and direction, but they can also cause us to miss new paths and opportunities. In this episode, John discusses why goals can be an illusion, how we never land on our perfect life or career, and why artists should embrace constant change.

RAab Stevenson is a first call voice teacher for superstars. His client list includes Rihanna, Justin Timberlake, Dave Matthews, Kelly Clarkson, and Pharrell Williams. In this episode, RAab shares his stories of hard work and dedication, and what it takes to be a successful performer. EPISODE LINKS RAab's Website

These days, it's all too easy to be negative. We end up focusing on the impacts of the pandemic and what we don't want from our future. In this episode, John discusses how to reframe the current situation and to find and achieve what you want as a singer and performer.