Be a Better Artist

Music That Builds Worlds – George Strezov on Instinct, Atmosphere, and Imagination

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 14:30:00 +0200

In this episode, I talk with George Strezov about how imagination, world-building, and instinct shape the way he writes music. We dig into growing up in Bulgaria, discovering film and game music through RPGs and early PC games, and why “vibe” often matters more than rules or theory. George shares how he thinks about atmosphere, writing to picture, and creating music that places the listener inside a world rather than explaining it. This is a conversation about how music works on a felt level — how it creates space, meaning, and immersion — and what happens when you trust instinct over formulas.

🔗 GEORGE STREZOV LINKS

Website: https://www.strezov.net/en

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/george-strezov/958294122

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2DNnA9F0OrEmC80UWEwrMi?si=jQrJ7S9HQcCPyP47jkEyNw

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Strezov

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strezov/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/George.Strezov

🎻 STREZOV SAMPLING LINKS

Website: https://www.strezov-sampling.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/StrezovSampling

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strezov_sampling/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StrezovSampling/

X: https://x.com/StrezovSampling

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/

Support this podcast by becoming a member:

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) Introduction & meeting George Strezov

(00:03:30) Bulgaria, culture, and creative roots

(00:10:30) Family, upbringing, and early artistic influences

(00:18:30) Discovering film music & formative listening

(00:27:30) Art vs commerce and creative identity

(00:38:00) Childhood, curiosity, and non-linear learning

(00:50:00) Role-playing games, imagination, and world-building

(01:02:00) First steps into music production and game music

(01:15:00) Education, self-teaching, and musical foundations

(01:30:00) Entering the professional world of composing

(01:55:00) Large-scale projects, orchestras, and collaboration

(02:20:00) Burnout, balance, and sustaining a long career

(02:40:00) Philosophy of music, success, and the future

(02:58:00) Final reflections and closing thoughts

Following Sound, Not a Plan — Ian Boddy on Creativity and Longevity

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 13:15:00 +0200

I talk with composer and sound designer Ian Boddy about curiosity, sound, and building a creative life without a roadmap.

We cover how Ian moved from studying biochemistry to discovering analogue synthesis by accident, teaching himself through experimentation, and falling in love with sound as art rather than rules or theory. We also talk about working jobs you don’t love, protecting your creative energy, finding your own tribe, and why solitude and patience matter more than visibility.

Ian shares practical insight into sound design, library music, and how writing hundreds of small pieces over time quietly became the foundation of his career. This is a grounded conversation about sticking with what fascinates you—and letting the long game do its work.

IAN BODDY LINKS:

Website: http://ianboddy.com/

DiN Records Bandcamp: https://dinrecords.bandcamp.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/theianboddy

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theianboddy/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theianboddy

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/ianboddy.bsky.social

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/

Support this podcast by becoming a member:

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) Introduction and life in Northeast England

(00:06:30) Childhood, family background, and early creativity

(00:13:30) Lego, imagination, and thinking in systems

(00:20:30) Discovering sound, synthesizers, and Spectro Arts

(00:29:30) First concerts, albums, and creative obsession

(00:38:30) Working life vs artistic life

(00:46:00) Akai, technology, and entering the music industry

(00:58:00) Sound design, sampling, and early libraries

(01:12:00) Library music and sustainable creative careers

(01:28:00) Technology shifts and changing tools

(01:43:00) Creativity, aging, and long-term perspective

(01:58:00) Advice for artists and industry realities

(02:13:00) Meaning, fulfillment, and artistic philosophy

(02:32:00) Reflections, lessons learned, and closing thoughts

Making Noise Until It Works — Gitae Kim (aka Gimgi) on Creativity, Discipline, and Game Music

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0200

In this episode, I sit down with Gitae Kim (aka Gimgi), the composer behind Ogu and the Secret Forest, for a long, honest conversation about creativity and the cost that sometimes comes with it.

We talk about discipline, hyperfocus, burnout, physical health, and what it’s really like trying to sustain a creative life. Gimgi shares how mandatory military service, learning instruments under pressure, and losing himself in flow states shaped the way he approaches music and game scoring today. We also get into the thinking behind the Ogu soundtrack — world-building, leitmotifs, and making music that serves the game rather than draws attention to itself. A grounded conversation about sensitivity, survival, and why we keep creating.

GITAE KIM / GIMGI LINKS:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@gimgi2974

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gimgi_tae/

X: https://x.com/Captain_Gimgi

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/

Support this podcast by becoming a member:

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) Opening meditation and restless creative minds

(00:04:30) Finally meeting after Tokyo Game Show

(00:07:40) Korea vs Finland seasons culture and daily life

(00:12:10) Mandatory military service in Korea

(00:21:30) Learning trumpet in the army band under pressure

(00:31:00) Discipline control and emotional survival

(00:43:20) Hyperfocus paranoia and losing track of time

(00:55:50) Overworking on Ogu and the limits of flow

(01:07:40) Physical consequences spine pain and burnout

(01:21:10) Standing desks ergonomics and creative health

(01:39:30) Responsibility family and structure as an artist

(01:56:40) Stress nervous system overload and sensitivity

(02:15:00) Health crisis and long-term recovery

(02:32:10) Reset after interruption continuing the conversation

(02:35:40) Early musical life and discovering instruments

(02:54:30) Bands guitar and finding a creative identity

(03:12:20) Music technology DAWs and self teaching

(03:28:40) Falling in love with game music

(03:45:50) How Ogu and the Secret Forest happened

(04:02:30) Composing Ogu themes structure and hidden ideas

(04:21:40) Real instruments vocals and production choices

(04:39:20) Working with developers and creative trust

(04:50:40) What’s next reflection and closing thoughts

Why Music Is Too Hard If You Don’t Love It – Geoff Knorr

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0200

Composer Geoff Knorr — known for his work on the Civilization series and other large-scale game soundtracks — joins us for a deep conversation about creativity, discipline, and what it really takes to build a life in music.

We discuss learning to accept criticism, letting go of ideas that don’t work, why good music can still be the wrong music, and why some composers grow while others stay stuck. Drawing from Geoff’s experience composing for major games, teaching at the Peabody Institute, and collaborating with musicians across diverse musical traditions, the conversation explores humility, perspective, and long-term creative growth.

The episode also touches on health, sustainability, and discipline — from staying physically active as a composer to recognizing that music is simply too hard to pursue unless you genuinely love it.

GEOFF KNORR LINKS:

Website: https://www.geoffknorr.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KnorrMusic

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1OFCjpSAsyIOWWzIAYb3OI?si=_eoobKhuQTSmDIWa4DYmjg

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/geoff-knorr/411130469

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geoff.knorr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Geoff-Knorr-Composer/174736382555080

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/

Support this podcast by becoming a member:

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:08) Introduction

(00:02:16) Growing Up, Family, and Early Influences

(00:08:32) Sports, Discipline, Health & Longevity as a Composer

(00:13:19) Failure, Hard Work & Lessons From Sports

(00:16:37) Subjectivity, Criticism & Facing Reality in Music

(00:23:14) Letting Go of Music That Doesn’t Work

(00:27:19) Teaching, Mediocrity & Why Some Musicians Don’t Improve

(00:34:15) Game Music Reality: Serving the Vision (Beyond Earth)

(00:38:19) Technology, Early MIDI & Audio Foundations

(00:45:33) Collaboration, Culture & Working With Musicians

(00:51:35) Childhood, Encouragement & Learning to Love Music

(00:56:05) Classical Foundations, Bach & Musical Identity

(01:01:04) Why Music Is Too Hard If You Don’t Love It

(01:05:11) Video Games, Direction & Choosing a Career Path

(01:16:10) Studying Composition, Recording & Wearing Both Hats

(01:30:10) Composing Process: Score, DAW & Sample Libraries

(01:46:00) Improvisation, Structure & Non-Western Traditions

(02:02:10) Trust, Sensitivity & Recording Real Musicians

(02:18:40) Sound vs Notes: Where Music Actually Lives

(02:36:00) Experience, Speed & Long-Term Creative Thinking

(02:57:30) What Keeps You Going (Final Reflections)

Inside Heavyocity: Dave Fraser on Art, Life, and Making Iconic Instruments

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0200

I sit down with Dave Fraser, co-founder of Heavyocity, one of the most influential companies in the modern virtual instrument and cinematic sound design world. Dave opens up about his earliest musical memories, the wild gigging years, studying at Berklee, his unexpected detour into the medical field, the grind of composing for TV and advertising, and the origins of Heavyocity. This episode is packed with wisdom for composers, producers, sound designers, and anyone navigating a creative life.

HEAVYOCITY LINKS:

Website: https://heavyocity.com/

Heavy Melody Music: https://www.heavymelodymusic.com/

Youtube: @Heavyocitymedia

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heavyocity/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/heavyocity-media-inc-/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Heavyocity

X: https://x.com/HeavyocityMedia

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/

Support this podcast by becoming a member:

https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/

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Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast.

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) – Intro, tech setup & the new Heavyocity instrument (“Aftermath”)

(00:12:31) – Reflections on 9/11, kindness & personal philosophy

(00:54:13) – Early musical beginnings & rediscovering the piano

(01:00:28) – First bands, gigging, and life as a young performer

(01:06:41) – College decisions, pre-med detour & finding Berklee

(01:21:06) – Touring life: reality checks, burnout & self-discipline

(01:33:52) – Leaving the road & entering professional composition

(02:09:20) – The Heavyocity origin story & creative philosophy

(02:28:03) – How Heavyocity instruments are made: ideas → prototypes → releases

(03:25:49) – Art, creativity, and Dave’s message to the world

Philosophy of UI Design in Music Technology – Nataliia Hera from Voger Design

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 13:30:00 +0200

In this episode, we speak with Nataliia Hera, co-founder of Voger Design, the studio behind some of the most recognizable virtual instrument interfaces in the world. Nataliia shares her journey from post-Soviet Ukraine to building a global creative business, the role of luck and collaboration, and why design isn’t just cosmetic — it’s essential to how we make music.

VOGER DESIGN LINKS:

Website: https://vogerdesign.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@voger_design

Voger Design Blog: https://vogerdesign.com/blog/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vogerdesign/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/voger/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vogerdesign

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/

Support this podcast by becoming a member:

https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/

Want me to answer your question?

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Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast.

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) Intro — Creative life and war in Ukraine

(00:03:00) What Voger Design does & why UI for audio matters

(00:07:00) From poetry to design — discovering beauty in bleakness

(00:11:00) Building Voger from scratch with $80 and a dream

(00:16:00) Early community work, Reaper themes & first clients

(00:21:00) How collaboration fuels creativity

(00:26:00) The philosophy of teamwork — “Skyscrapers aren’t built by solo people”

(00:31:00) Mentorship, proximity, and luck in creative careers

(00:37:00) Leadership lessons — hiring, structure & humility

(00:43:00) Balancing motherhood, time, and entrepreneurship

(00:50:00) Psychology of design — why looks do matter in plugins

(01:00:00) Developers, ego, and the empathy gap

(01:10:00) Lessons from building for humans, not markets

(01:18:00) The illusion of objectivity in design decisions

(01:22:00) Oversaturation in the plugin industry & design sameness

(01:28:00) Nataliia’s YouTube journey — teaching design philosophy

(01:35:00) Speaking uncomfortable truths about the industry

(01:42:00) Ideology bubbles & resistance to feedback

(01:48:00) Learning to collaborate with difficult personalities

(02:01:00) Facing the future — AI, identity & human meaning in design

(02:10:00) The deeper philosophy of empathy and beauty

(02:20:00) Closing reflections — art, family & creative balance

Jordan Chin – Monster Train 2 Composer Interview

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0200

Composer Jordan Chin (Monster Train 1 & 2) joins me to explore what it means to create with vulnerability, curiosity, and purpose. We talk about the courage to be a beginner, the balance between exploration and deadlines, and why great game music must serve both the artist and the larger world it belongs to. A conversation for anyone walking the creative path.

JORDAN LINKS:

Website: https://www.jordanchinmusic.com/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5FqaQ5TCnpKQCFJNyzrQJX?si=DbzIaktYSgO3boMn3cd5og

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/jordan-chin/1046850267

Bandcamp: https://jordanchinmusic.bandcamp.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClF_ljAEbAs1wL6B3Rci5vA

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jordanchinmusic

X: https://x.com/jordanchinmusic

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JordanChinMusic

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/

Support this podcast by becoming a member:

https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/

Want me to answer your question?

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Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast.

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) Intro & greetings

(00:01:02) Warhammer 40k – Factions, lore & painting as meditation

(00:11:01) The art of being a beginner & practicing discomfort

(00:16:47) Lessons from the gym – health, judgment & resilience

(00:25:01) Vulnerability in music & creating beyond validation

(00:30:06) Serving the larger whole in game music

(00:34:23) Music + medium magic – Ghibli, Final Fantasy & Monster Train

(00:38:42) Monster Train 2 soundtrack, guitars & band influence

(00:41:17) Drummers, rhythm, and the foundation of energy in composition

(00:49:28) The value of space, restraint & arrangement in music

(00:58:38) Curiosity vs. practicality in the creative process

(01:07:40) Origins – growing up in San Jose & family influences

(01:20:00) First bands, instruments & discovering composition

(01:36:00) Breaking into game music & career lessons

(01:54:00) Creative workflow, iteration & collaboration

(02:15:00) Monster Train 1 & 2 – writing process & challenges

(02:40:00) Finding your own sound & balancing influences

(03:05:00) Tools, production & mixing philosophy

(03:30:00) Reflections on vulnerability, judgment & creative growth

(04:17:19) What your dog can teach you

What I Learned After Recording 100 Podcast Episodes

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0200

After 100 episodes of Be a Better Artist, this milestone isn’t about views, likes, or follower counts—it’s about meaning, persistence, and the impact you create. In this episode, I share the biggest lessons from the journey so far: why chasing numbers is a trap, how to keep going when you want to quit, the power of persistence, learning to be proud of your work (even when it’s not perfect), and why real connection with people matters more than metrics.

If you’re a creative struggling with motivation, battling self-doubt, or feeling stuck in the numbers game, this episode is for you.

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/

Support this podcast by becoming a member:

https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/

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Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast.

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro & Episode 100 reflections

(01:32) Why chasing numbers leads to failure

(03:25) Expectations vs. reality of the podcast

(05:01) Persistence, setbacks & staying consistent

(08:09) Finding meaning and building resilience

(13:49) Quality, perfection & being proud of your work

(18:49) Real connection, trust & audience impact

(25:01) Wrap-up & how to support

Cameron Paxton – Dome Keeper Composer Interview

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0200

We sit down with composer Cameron Paxton, best known for his work on the hit indie game Dome Keeper. From growing up in a music-filled home to serving in the Air Force and eventually carving a path into game audio, Cameron’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and rediscovery.

We explore what it means to balance youthful creative urgency with the more deliberate craft of maturity, how to chase sparks of inspiration before they fade, and why discipline is just as important as inspiration. Cameron shares lessons from his journey through rock bands, tape recorders, game jams, and ultimately finding his voice in game music.

This episode is about more than music — it’s about the art of becoming. Whether you’re a musician, creative, or simply curious about the philosophy behind making art, you’ll walk away with insights to fuel your own journey.

CAMERON LINKS:

Website: cameronpaxton.com

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1OBr3Jn1ePWfUJ4f0Vp0VE?si=mwcfwL4JRy-nKI_Zq8scWg

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/cameron-paxton/608985830

Bandcamp: https://cameronpaxton.bandcamp.com/

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/

Support this podcast by becoming a member:

https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/

Want me to answer your question?

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Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast.

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) – Intro & Tech Setup

(00:09:12) – Life in Austin & Texas Stories

(00:17:41) – Growing Up Military & Air Force Years

(00:28:33) – Lessons from the Military & Diversity of People

(00:53:14) – Discovering Music as a Teenager

(00:55:03) – C-Lane Project & Early Recordings

(01:09:10) – Inspiration vs Discipline in Creativity

(01:24:45) – Game Jams & The Road to Dome Keeper

(01:36:23) – Dome Keeper’s Development & Soundtrack Expansion

(01:46:45) – Release Reflections & Creative Validation

(02:32:46) – Sound Design, Tools & Process Insights

(02:51:41) – Work-Life Balance, Therapy & Sustaining Creativity

(03:10:00) – What It Means to Be an Artist

(03:18:17) – Closing Thoughts & Outro

Feeling Stuck? Why Moving Abroad Might Save Your Life

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 14:00:00 +0200

Are you feeling stuck in life — drifting, lost, and disconnected from who you truly are? In this episode, I share my personal story of how changing my physical environment — and eventually moving abroad — became the catalyst for profound internal change.

We explore how emotional attachment to people and places can silently shape your identity, limit your potential, and keep you locked in outdated versions of yourself. I dive into the difference between reinvention and reconnection, why some environments make growth nearly impossible, and what it means to truly start from a clean slate.

If you've ever felt trapped by your city, your relationships, or your past — this conversation is for you.

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

1-on-1 Coaching: https://markusjunnikkala.com/consultation/

Become a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/

Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media:

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Rating, subscribing, and sharing helps the podcast.

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) - Feeling Stuck in Life

(01:45) - Growing Up Trapped

(03:31) - The Cage Is in Your Mind

(05:11) - Place Holds Power

(07:05) - You’re Not Who They Think You Are

(08:40) - The Smirks That Stop You

(10:45) - Nowhere Left to Grow

(13:04) - Getting Into Music School Abroad

(16:42) - Friends on Purpose

(19:00) - No Past, Just You

(20:14) - Why Moving Cities Isn’t Enough

(21:01) - Make an Exit Plan

(22:42) - Regret Hurts More

(23:49) - Pick Your Place With Purpose

(25:36) - New Place, Same You?

(29:38) - Final Invitation

(31:50) - When Locations Hold Feeling

(32:45) - Call to Action

What Causes Creative Burnout?

Tue, 27 May 2025 12:00:00 +0200

In this episode, we explore some of the mental causes behind creative burnout. We dive deep into the psychology of stress, the danger of unspoken expectations, and how your internal “mental software” might be running faulty code that leads to frustration, exhaustion, and creative stagnation. If you’re a creative person constantly feeling depleted, stuck, or under pressure to “do more,” this episode is for you.

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

1-on-1 Coaching: https://markusjunnikkala.com/consultation/

Become a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/

Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media:

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Rating, subscribing, and sharing helps the podcast.

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) Intro: Facing Burnout

(00:01:54) The Body Can't Differentiate Stress

(00:04:49) How Expectations Fuel Burnout

(00:06:46) Unspoken Expectations Destroy Relationships

(00:13:01) Meet People Where They Are

(00:17:53) The Hidden Burnout of Pleasing Everyone

(00:23:37) Reprogram Your Mental Software

(00:30:49) Break Patterns to Break Through

(00:33:06) Why Creatives Need Small Wins

(00:41:03) Burnout and the Battle With Time

(00:47:14) You Can Only Do Your Best

Social Media is Destroying Your Creativity

Tue, 20 May 2025 12:00:00 +0200

In this episode we explore the effects of deleting your social media apps from your phone.

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) – The Decision to Delete the Apps

(00:01:44) – The Power of Getting Fed Up

(00:02:44) – Scrolling in the Bathroom

(00:03:34) – Breaks That Don’t Recharge

(00:04:56) – Information Overload Isn’t Learning

(00:06:30) – Willpower is Limited, Use It Wisely

(00:07:48) – You’re Fighting Tech Giants

(00:08:23) – A Moment in Nature and Self-Reflection

(00:09:25) – Saving Willpower for What Matters

(00:11:42) – Protein Bars and Mindful Choices

(00:13:28) – Addicted, Quit, Repeat

(00:14:44) – Can Social Media Be Fixed?

(00:16:14) – Strategic Consumption

(00:17:48) – Failed Experiments in Self-Limiting

(00:30:04) – Someday, You’ll Wish for That Time

(00:32:13) – The Poison is in the Dose

(00:33:02) – Delete the Apps, Keep the Account

(00:33:50) – Final Thoughts and How to Connect

Magnus Pålsson / Souleye – VVVVVV Soundtrack Composer Interview

Tue, 13 May 2025 18:45:00 +0200

Magnus Pålsson is a composer best known for their soundtrack for the video game VVVVVV under the artist name Souleye. He opens up about ego death, creativity, and building a gamified platform for personal growth. A raw, inspiring conversation about transformation, vulnerability, and what it means to live truthfully in a digital age.

MAGNUS LINKS:

Website: https://www.magnuspalsson.com/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2wguicPfR7ne0MDX7mYPRq?si=z153KlHtQPGc0SzT4I1KSw

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/fi/artist/magnus-p%C3%A5lsson/806918599

Bandcamp: https://souleyedigitalmusic.bandcamp.com/album/pppppp-the-vvvvvv-soundtrack

X: https://x.com/MagnusRender

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/

Support this podcast by becoming a member:

https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/

Want me to answer your question?

Ask it on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/

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https://x.com/markusjunnikkal

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https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/

Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast.

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) - Technical Issues and Settling In

(00:02:00) - Moving to Portugal for Economic Reasons

(00:04:00) - From Music to Investments and Personal Growth

(00:08:00) - Gamifying Personal Development

(00:12:00) - Transparency, Public Growth, and Personal Accountability

(00:16:00) - Magnus’s Ego Death Experience

(00:24:00) - Living Without an Ego and Resetting Perceptions

(00:28:00) - Integrating the Shadow and Emotional Maturity

(00:34:00) - Impact on Creativity and Expressing a Wider Emotional Range

(00:40:00) - Music, Hopefulness, and Emotional Complexity

(00:46:00) - The Return of the Inner Voice

(00:53:00) - Managing the Ego's Influence in Daily Life

(00:57:00) - Relational Meditation and Circling Practice Explained

(01:03:00) - Building a Gamified Growth Platform

(01:09:00) - Truth, Trolling, and Documenting Transformation

(01:17:00) - Philosophy, AI, and the Search for Truth

(01:19:00) - Facing AI and Redefining Human Connection

(01:23:00) - Human Imperfections and the Future of Authenticity

(01:27:00) - AI Adapting to Mimic Humanity

(01:31:00) - The Futility and Beauty of Seeking Truth

(01:35:00) - Finding Joy in Simplicity and Process

(01:39:00) - Early Music Career and Unexpected Opportunities

(01:44:00) - The Strange Story Behind Magnus’s First Game Soundtrack

(01:49:00) - Creative Integrity Versus External Expectations

(01:55:00) - Sustaining Creativity Amidst Day Jobs and Long Commutes

(02:00:00) - Using Old-School Trackers to Compose Legendary Music

(02:04:00) - Evolving Creativity and Embracing New Horizons

(02:10:00) - Gaming, Childhood Inspirations, and Musical Beginnings

(02:15:00) - The Role of Play and Joy in Developing Skills

(02:20:00) - Building a New Life Focused on Passion Projects

(02:30:00) - Creating a Gamified Platform for Growth and Connection

(02:38:00) - Life Philosophy: Living Authentically and Courageously

(02:45:00) - Final Reflections and Closing Thoughts

Mudeth – Binding of Isaac Antibirth OST Composer Interview

Tue, 06 May 2025 12:00:00 +0200

Mudeth is a composer from Bangalore, best known for his soundtrack for The Binding of Isaac Antibirth OST.

MUDETH LINKS:

Website: https://www.mudeth.org/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/mudeth

'The Unsung' (Mudeth's podcast): https://unsung.mudeth.org/The_Good_and_the_Flawed

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6ERwcThkHmFXYHH3TagPOY?si=AjEodAaXRZOAEUhbS4fZLA

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/mudeth/1189772212

Bandcamp: https://mudeth.bandcamp.com/

X: https://x.com/htedum

LINKS FOR THINGS MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST:

The Bioacoustics podcast: https://india.mongabay.com/2024/07/podcast-wild-frequencies-find-wildlfe-with-bioacoustics/

Knytt (video game): https://archive.org/details/Knytt

Iji (video game): https://www.remar.se/daniel/iji.php

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/

Support this podcast by becoming a member:

https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/

Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/

https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/

https://x.com/markusjunnikkal

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https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/

Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast.

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) Intro & The Binding of Isaac Mod Origins

(00:05:00) Burnout from Ad Work & Discovering Creative Joy

(00:12:00) Artistic Integrity vs Client Expectations

(00:20:00) Artist vs Craftsperson: Personal Philosophy

(00:25:00) Fan Favorites and Musical References

(00:30:00) Cultural Influences Growing Up in India

(00:35:00) Host’s Background and Creative Journey

(00:43:00) Making Indie Games: Breachway Development

(00:49:00) Perfectionism, Releasing Music, and Artistic Growth

(00:56:00) Creative Process and Avoiding Overthinking

(01:04:00) Knowing When to Let Go of a Song

(01:10:00) Early Childhood, Curiosity, and Synth Exploration

(01:20:00) Computer Music, Trackers, and DAW Evolution

(01:30:00) Creative Confidence and Trusting Instincts

(01:40:00) Learning Through Releasing Music

(01:50:00) Mixing Tricks & Gaining Perspective

(02:00:00) Fixing Weak Sections and Structural Flow

(02:10:00) Letting Go & Binary Nature of Art

(02:20:00) Music, Emotion, and Avoiding False Satisfaction

(02:30:00) Playfulness, Simplicity, and Authenticity

(02:45:00) Final Reflections on Growth and Creativity

Damjan Mravunac

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 14:00:00 +0200

Damjan Mravunac is a Croatian composer and musician, best known for his music for the Serious Sam video game series, as well as the Talos Principle 1 and 2 video games.

DAMJAN LINKS:

Website: http://www.damjanmravunac.com/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4JCHmi2aI31AP3VsVKE2ks?si=dCSHw9drRGa0doPgjPReJA

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/fi/artist/damjan-mravunac/726774063

Bandcamp: https://damjanmravunac.bandcamp.com/

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) Parenting

(00:05:02) Music Tech & Production

(00:14:05) Personal Music Journey

(00:24:50) First Gig, Croteam, Serious Sam

(00:31:24) Dreaming Big, Creative Restriction

(00:38:25) Procrastination, Workflow, Routine

(00:45:07) Sound Design

(01:01:09) Studio Setup, Remote Work

(01:14:00) Networking, Game Music Industry, Advice for New Composers

(01:28:15) Talos Principle 1 and 2

(01:45:07) Inspiration, Composition, and Mixing

(02:00:45) Approach to Game Soundtracks

(02:07:31) Mixing and Composing Simultaneously

(02:16:15) Evolution of Technology in Music

(02:27:29) Impact of War on Creativity

(02:30:03) Digital Technology's Impact on Creativity

(02:34:06) Work-Life Balance and Parenting

(02:41:07) Passion for Music and Creative Process

(02:48:20) Fitness Journey and Health

(02:56:24) Future Projects and Aspirations

(03:00:42) Definition of an Artist

(03:10:13) Message sent to Everyone's Smartphone

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/

Want me to answer your question?

Ask it on social media:

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Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast.

Paul Kilduff-Taylor

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 14:00:00 +0200

Paul Kilduff-Taylor is a composer and artist known for his music as nervous_testpilot as well as _ensnare_. He is also the co-founder of Mode 7, an indie game publisher and development company, known for titles like Frozen Synapse, Fight in Tight Spaces, and Tokyo 42.

PAUL KILDUFF-TAYLOR LINKS:

https://www.nervoustestpilot.com/

https://www.mode7.games/

X: https://x.com/mode7games

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mode7games/

nervous_testpilot Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7zhakwCorTNUwe17WxD3kh?si=Iuf-uikKTKqr9BTCqhe_5A

_ensnare_ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1XYSXyGl3WXrHN7EPBQ1fc?si=bPiDLZzqQHq5Ood8dbfUAg

nervous_testpilot Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/fi/artist/nervous-testpilot/192738401

_ensnare_ Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/fi/artist/ensnare/888028958

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) Intro

(02:19:00) Emotional and Spiritual Connection in Music

(05:02:00) Podcast Goals

(07:52:00) Branding Challenges as an Artist

(12:30:00) Game Development background

(15:04:00) Personal Background

(15:12:00) Early Life and Family

(16:46:00) Technology Exposure in Childhood

(18:00:00) Relationship with Technology

(21:30:00) Childhood, Family

(24:21:00) Risk Management, Anxiety, Collaboration

(30:20:00) Early Music Exposure

(32:23:00) Music as a Career Consideration

(39:04:00) Humour in Music and Life

(47:27:00) Early Career in Game Development and Music

(56:02:00) Frozen Synapse (2011)

(01:02:03) Mixing music, Sound selection, Retaining Emotion

(01:06:53) Dynamic Music in Video Games

(01:11:15) Creativity vs. Technical Precision

(01:20:30) Approach to SNES Style Music

(01:34:01) Music Technology in Composition

(01:37:01) Inspiration

(01:42:01) Compositional process

(01:45:01) Musical Influences

(01:53:22) Non-musical Influences

(01:57:50) Time Management and Work Structure

(02:00:30) Balancing Work and Personal Life

(02:05:54) Challenges with Sleep and Coping Mechanisms

(02:15:00) Emotion and Decision Making

(02:23:33) Music Tech Talk

(02:30:02) Mixing Techniques

(02:45:02) Upcoming Exciting Music Tech

(02:49:42) Balancing Work and Life

(02:56:05) Future Plans and Projects

(02:59:12) Definition of an Artist

(03:18:33) Message Sent to Everyone's Phone

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/

Want me to answer your question?

Ask it on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/

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https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/

Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast.

Peppsen

Tue, 07 May 2024 14:00:00 +0200

Peppsen (Petter Sumelius) is a Finnish composer now residing in Sweden. He is known for his music mod for the video game Rimworld, as well as Shapez; a factory-building and automation game. He is also the composer for the upcoming and awaited Shapez 2.

PEPPSEN LINKS:

Website: https://www.peppsen.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Peppsen

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0VmuJa5WFTghyy3P2ng9HO?si=CbcW9Q5VQZS0jogbNYssiw

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/fi/artist/peppsen/1439733884

Bandcamp: https://peppsen.bandcamp.com/

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) Intro
(06:43:00) Background, growing up, family, hobbies
(22:12:00) Video game influence
(30:01:00) Music theory, Playing instruments
(45:01:00) Early DAW experiences, Adolescence, Music mods
(49:06:00) Pursuing music as a profession
(01:02:05) Work process, Mindset, Networking
(01:10:30) Creative freedom, Constraints, Feedback
(01:42:02) Silence in music, dynamic/adaptive music in games
(01:48:15) Full-time job and composition, finances
(01:57:40) Profession VS Hobby
(02:00:02) Expectations, Pressure, Criticism
(02:17:03) Iterative Process of Creation
(02:20:16) Sources of Inspiration
(02:25:04) Avicii
(02:30:05) Cost of living, Music gear, Software Updates
(02:36:13) Inspiration (continued)
(02:38:56) Life and work balance, Collaboration, Time management
(02:47:47) Software and Virtual Instruments
(02:50:19) Using Loops in Composition
(03:03:24) Definition of an Artist
(03:07:08) Message to Everyone's Smartphone
(03:12:10) Wrapping up

Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland.

https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/

Want me to answer your question?

Ask it below in the comments or on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/

https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/

https://twitter.com/markusjunnikkal

https://www.twitch.tv/markusjunnikkala

https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/

Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast.

Chris Christodoulou

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 14:00:00 +0200

Chris Christodoulou is a composer based in Athens, Greece, writing music for video games (Risk of Rain series, The Sea Will Claim Everything), movies and other media (audio drama Gospels of the Flood), as well as stand-alone compositions.

CHRIS CHRISTODOULOU LINKS:

Website: https://www.chrischristodoulou.com/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/63OPPk7uHFdcpTuOFYpNfV?si=ZChNAaDnQGenP5pdEDnWOw

Bandcamp: https://chrischristodoulou.bandcamp.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AstronautDown

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astronautdown

X: https://twitter.com/AstronautDown

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) Workspace, Workflow, Need for change, Gear Organization

(14:01:00) Value of the long-form conversation format

(25:04:00) Turning professional, Creative freedom, Work project selection

(39:58:00) Early life, Upbringing, Parental influence on music, Cultural influences

(56:25:00) Realizing and pursuing a career in music, Band Environment

(01:06:30) Evolution of music culture, Formalized music education, Impact of social media on musicianship, Value of being an Instrumentalist

(01:15:04) Understanding musical instruments as a composer, Importance of musical education

(01:22:42) Creativity, Inspiration, and the Creative process

(01:30:00) Originality in music composition, Studying music theory in Athens

(01:38:22) Studying music for film in Amsterdam, Love for film editing

(01:46:42) Reinventing yourself, Personal growth, Social pressure and expectations

(01:54:35) Becoming a video game composer, Proactivity, Dealing with rejection

(02:01:27) Taking risks, Trusting your creative intuition

(02:05:06) Inspiration beyond music

(02:14:32) Writing process, Creative block, Dealing with negative thoughts

(02:21:03) Work-Life balance, Becoming a father

(02:27:50) Lovecraftian themes and gaming

(02:30:48) Risk of Rain soundtrack process

(02:33:09) Daily routine and Creative process

(02:39:11) Knowing when to step away, Taking breaks

(02:44:30) Excitement about new audio gear, Thoughts on overreliance on modern tools

(02:56:38) Lessons learned from cats

(03:00:01) Lessons learned by becoming a parent

(03:05:59) Definition of an Artist

(03:10:13) Message sent to everyone's smartphone

(03:12:02) Finland and Greece

Adam Fligsten

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 14:00:00 +0200

Adam Fligsten is a composer for games and other media, based in Los Angeles, California. Video game credits include Outreach (Pixel Spill) and Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite, and his music has been licensed to countless TV shows and commercials. He is the founder of Silen Audio, a full service video game audio house, and also now maker of virtual instruments.

ADAM FLIGSTEN LINKS:

Website: https://adamfligsten.com/

Silen Audio: https://www.silen.audio/

https://x.com/adamfligsten?s=20

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) - Intro

(00:01:09) - Creativity and sleep patterns

(00:05:14) - Credits

(00:07:03) - Silent Audio

(00:10:12) - Background and upbringing

(00:15:03) - Live music, studio music, working in a band

(00:16:28) - Transitioning towards electronic music

(00:18:59) - Music as a coping mechanism

(00:21:14) - Music as a teacher and inspiration

(00:24:05) - Pursuing music professionally

(00:29:58) - Staying creative while working another job

(00:35:03) - Negotiation skills

(00:38:00) - Longevity in a career as a film composer

(00:43:08) - Finding passion in media composition

(00:49:42) - Experience working for a composer

(00:52:52) - Adaptability and growth

(00:59:03) - Managing stress in high-pressure situations.

(01:01:28) - Leadership - Cultivating a positive atmosphere

(01:11:23) - Experience at UCLA's music composition program

(01:15:00) - Education and Transition to Entrepreneurship

(01:19:25) - Business Lessons Learned

(01:30:06) - Building Trust and Collaboration in the Creative Industry

(01:32:45) - Selling Yourself as a Composer

(01:36:00) - Understanding Clients' Needs and Expectations

(01:45:04) - Pouring Heart and Soul into Work

(01:46:17) - Commitment to Artistry

(01:51:30) - Effective Branding as a Composer

(01:56:20) - Transitioning to Full-time Entrepreneurship

(02:00:00) - Existential fear and dread

(02:11:19) - Time and the creative process

(02:15:01) - Trusting instincts

(02:19:01) - Challenges of maintaining inspiration

(02:22:08) - Ego, humility, and the creative process

(02:30:03) - Work and self-worth.

(02:35:22) - Infinite Flow Synth

(02:42:49) - Importance of interface design

(02:45:03) - Silen Audio future plans

(02:52:28) - Retaining creativity

(02:55:52) - Definition of an artist

(02:58:48) - Message sent to everyone’s smartphone

Arnaud Roy

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 14:00:00 +0200

Arnaud Roy is a composer, music producer, and sound designer. He has written music for video games and films, and is most notably known for composing the music for Amplitude Studios' Endless video game series, Humankind, and Neoproxima.

ARNAUD ROY LINKS:

http://www.arnaudroy.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ArnaudRoyMusic/

https://www.instagram.com/arnaudroymusic/

https://twitter.com/ArnaudRoyMusic

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) - Intro

(00:02:18) - The Harp, professional harp players, harp tech

(00:11:04) - Early life

(00:15:01) - Music education and classical music

(00:19:14) - Finding the bass guitar

(00:21:31) - Discovering improvisation

(00:26:15) - Benefits of classical music education

(00:28:00) - Hands-on instrument playing as a part of composition

(00:29:04) - Early life continued

(00:34:20) - Choosing a career path

(00:39:02) - Discovering compositional potential

(00:45:02) - Texture and flow as compositional elements

(00:47:10) - Sound design and mixing for animation

(00:54:00) - Perfectionism

(00:57:23) - Reflecting on career milestones

(01:02:34) - Childhood influences

(01:09:27) - Non-musical sources of inspiration

(01:12:05) - Musical influences

(01:25:31) - Composition process

(01:30:54) - Collaboration and Creativity

(01:34:05) - Personal Limits and Style

(01:39:06) - Balancing Work and Life

(01:49:51) - Dealing with Creative Blocks

(01:54:12) - Studio Setup and Gear

(02:06:05) - Mixing

(02:19:55) - Overcoming Challenges and Maintaining Perspective

(02:25:40) - Live Music Performances

(02:35:03) - Collaboration with Amplitude Studios

(02:42:21) - Qualities in Collaborators

(02:47:04) - Definition of an Artist

(02:49:57) - Message to Everyone's Smartphone

Peter Dyer

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 14:00:00 +0200

Peter Dyer is an LA-based keyboardist, producer, and sound designer. He has toured extensively with artists like Mariah Carey, Adam Lambert, Aloe Blacc, & St. Vincent, as a keyboardist, musical director, and sound designer. He is currently in the house band for American Idol on ABC. Notable cowrites include Avicii’s #1 hit “Wake Me Up”, "Shame On Me", & Flo Rida’s “Wobble” & “Can’t Believe It”. He also works as a sound designer and consultant for Sequential, Novation Music, Strymon Effects, Moog Music, & Pioneer DJ, and has scored commercials for B.M.W., Chevrolet, and WWE.

PETER DYER LINKS:

Website: https://www.peterdyer.net/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgfrmrO0pxm920zbVZw7mrQ

https://www.instagram.com/peterjdyer/

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) Intro

(00:00:16) Audio equipment tech issues, SM7B and Cloudlifter

(00:01:22) Sleep problems

(00:07:21) Stress management

(00:21:01) Benefits of exercise and diet, lifestyle changes, stoic philosophy

(00:25:55) Change takes time

(00:30:01) Pandemic, stress, insomnia

(00:45:01) Adversity and change

(01:00:01) Seizing opportunities

(01:11:04) Creativity and artistic sensibility as an instrumentalist

(01:17:11) Teamwork and social skills in professional music settings

(01:30:01) Managing emotions and the ego, humility

(01:34:14) Significance of Social Connections

(01:37:30) Managing Expectations

(01:39:15) Personal Background and Inspirations

(01:45:05) Synths, Moving, Musician's Institute, networking, Van Hunt

(01:46:23) Time at the Musicians Institute (MI), audition for Mariah Carey, stage fright

(02:00:05) Humility and observation as skills

(02:04:05) Career choices, honesty in musical preferences

(02:09:02) Emulation, crossing boundaries, parental influence

(02:15:04) Learning music theory by singing in a choir

(02:17:08) Software vs hardware

(02:19:06) Favourite synths

(02:23:50) Music tech

(02:30:03) General public understanding of an audio engineer

(02:35:46) Collaboration with Strymon and Sequential

(02:40:17) Creative retention

(02:45:00) Purity of creation

(02:47:03) Definition of an artist

(02:52:04) Message sent to everyone's smartphone

Danimal Cannon

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Danimal Cannon (Dan Behrens) is an artist and musician best known for his guitar-driven Gameboy/chiptune music. He's also a mixing and mastering engineer, and has toured and performed live extensively.

DANIMAL CANNON LINKS:

Website: https://www.danimalcannon.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0AqwYovalxngrN9eVyiUXg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danimalcannonmusic

X: https://twitter.com/armcannon

Bandcamp: https://danimalcannon.bandcamp.com/music

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1RFcDZxxdM1jEchZNxJMAs?si=wmbYBTnVT7K-teJIiioqCA

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/danimal-cannon/617198535

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:02:03) Finland trivia

(00:03:59) About Danimal Cannon

(00:09:37) Importance of music production

(00:12:36) Working with non-musician clients

(00:16:36) How people perceive music

(00:20:30) Relationship between composition, arrangement, and orchestration

(00:26:16) Danimal Cannon’s mixing process

(00:30:51) Danimal Cannon’s reference audio tracks

(00:33:11) Markus’ musical background

(00:38:51) Reference audio tracks (continued)

(00:45:30) Thoughts on Hans Zimmer

(00:52:30) Oblivion (movie) OST by M83 and Joseph Trapanese

(00:55:29) Working on the video game Soundfall OST

(00:58:52) Modern sample libraries

(01:06:32) Soundfall OST continued

(01:08:13) Creative constraints, creative block

(01:17:15) Current work and life situation

(01:21:23) Current gaming industry landscape

(01:22:05) Balancing personal life with work

(01:29:16) Luck and Preparation

(01:31:28) Future of the industry and AI

(01:45:01) Dealing with change

(01:47:29) Staying a student and preparing

(01:50:43) Perfectionism

(01:54:07) Studying video game music

(02:00:01) Chiptune music and the indie video game industry

(02:01:30) Modern music technology

(02:06:13) Music tool user interfaces, Sample libraries

(02:10:12) How Danimal Cannon got into music

(02:15:04) Central musical concepts

(02:18:20) Musical notation/scores

(02:30:02) Music engineering

(02:33:04) Guitar playing

(02:35:37) Collaboration, ego, competitiveness, trusting yourself

(02:43:06) Retaining creativity; Obsession

(02:49:13) Balancing personal life with work, Loneliness in creativity

(03:05:03) Definition of an Artist

(03:08:10) Sending a message to everyone’s smartphone

Why & How You Should Be Vulnerable

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Creatives need to be open. It's what allows them to see the depth and nuance of life. You then take those observations, and speak of them through your creative medium. But that openness is a two-way street. While it feeds your creativity, it can leave you open to attack. In this episode, we discuss why it's still important to remain open, and how one can manage this state constructively and effectively.

How Complaining is Destroying Your Life

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0200

In this episode we talk about complaining and how it drains your time, energy, and willpower. I discuss my past experiences with it, as well as some of the approaches I've taken to reduce the amount of it, and how it has positively impacted my life.

What are Attitudes?

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0200

In this episode we explore attitudes as tools that you should be able to deploy at will to explore and enforce certain perspectives against the outcomes you want to see in life.

Despite our current emotions and feelings, we can choose to act in contrast to those emotions. We can choose to follow a set of actions that support us in moving towards the outcomes we want to see, despite how we're feeling right now.

Attitudes are one of the tools that we can use to recontextualize the situations we're in, to rekindle a new, more empowering and energizing approach that supports us in getting to where we want to go.

Why We Get Stuck In Life

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0200

In today's episode we explore the idea of how learning new things, expanding your understanding, equates to moving around to discover new perspectives. You must not let yourself become stagnant in life when it comes to your mind. You have to keep moving. Learn new things. Garner new perspectives. Observe problems from multiple angles. This is how you revivify your outlook on life and maintain a more realistic picture of what's possible and how to move past barriers. You do so by learning. By experiencing. By expanding your understanding. You must entertain the possibility that a different, better perspective is out there. Pick up that new book. Start listening to that new podcast. Change is possible. You just lack a key piece of information.

Using a Schedule to Manage Yourself as a Solo Creative

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0200

We're back. It's been a heck of a year, but for me there can be no life without BABA, so let's go.

In this episode we talk about the need for management for creative people, especially for those who work alone, and how you can use a schedule to assure stuff gets done faster, more effectively, and more reliably.

BABA interviews will be coming back, so let me know if there's an artist you'd like me to interview.

Thanks for sticking around. Your interest means the world to me.

I filmed 100+ episodes of this podcast that I'll never release

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0200

It's been a while since I released an episode, but I haven't been sitting on my laurels. I've been tremendously prolific, filming over 100+ episodes of this podcast, but the audio is not salvageable unfortunately.

In this episode, we talk about how all creatives can look at these types of "lost and wasted work" -scenarios, and how to orient themselves towards these challenges in the most constructive and positive manner possible.

I want to thank you for sticking around, and for tuning in once again. This podcast is a deeply meaningful and important mission for me. I want to do better in the future, and deliver you the best possible content I can make.

As always, let me know if there's a topic you'd like me to discuss!

Stefan Runstrom from Circles Drum Samples

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 07:00:00 +0200

Stefan Runstrom is the owner and founder of Circles Drum Samples, a sample library development company focusing on drum sampling. He's also an audio engineer, a drummer, and is known from the band Tickle Me Pink.

We talk about music, business, music business, sample library development, creativity, recording, dogs, life balance, finding the right business partners, marketing, branding, and drumming.

Chris Child – Kodomo

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0200

Chris Child is an electronic music composer and music producer, best known by his moniker/alias Kodomo. He's also an Emmy award winning TV composer, and has contributed music to games like Amplitude and Rock Band.

We talk about his path in music, mindsets, philosophies, practical approaches to creativity, some synth nerd stuff, music tech, and mixing.

Kasson Crooker

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 07:00:00 +0200

Kasson Crooker is best known from his work in bands like Symbion Project, Freezepop, and Splashdown. He has worked for the music video game company Harmonix, and lately joined THX as a Director of Product Development.

We talk about his path in music, mindsets, philosophies, and practical approaches regarding it, some synth nerd stuff, music tech and how that inspires to creativity, as well as our upcoming collaboration on Symbion Project's next album 'Saturnine'.

http://symbionproject.com/

How Should Artists Use Their Money?

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 07:00:00 +0200

How you use your money is a massive part of building success and happiness. We often waste a lot of our resources when we're not mindful of what we're doing, and how those resources could be used in other ways to play into building our dreams. In this episode, we explore the concept of 'luxuries' further, and where you might want to be allocating your money in the future.

Growth Will Change Your Relationships

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 07:00:00 +0200

One of the fundamental truths of life is change. Everything will change. And to expect relationships to be an exception is foolish. People choose different paths, and sometimes that means parting ways, and sometimes it means redefining the relationship. In this episode we talk about how to orient yourself towards that change in the most efficient and effective manner.

Why Working on Your Dreams Feels Tedious

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0200

We've all felt the immense joy and pleasure of thinking about all the amazing things you'll one day achieve and fulfil. But then the day comes when you actually start doing something about it, and you feel uninspired, empty, and scared.

It's so easy to fall in love with your romanticized ideas of how and what it will feel like to finally pursue your dreams, but what is missing from this conversation is a more realistic look of what it will look and feel like once you're in the trenches.

Never confuse ideas with execution. Learn to understand the difference, and then fall in love with it.

Should You Celebrate Your Victories?

Sat, 06 Mar 2021 07:00:00 +0200

You nailed it. You won. You succeeded. But how should you respond that? Go out and celebrate, or take the energy from that victory and keep going? In this episode, we talk about momentum and how to keep it alive in a lasting and balanced way.

Hating Losing VS Being a Sore Loser

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 07:00:00 +0200

Losing doesn't feel good. Even when you know that in the long-term it's just a part of the bigger game, it still sucks in the moment. However, you shouldn't judge those negative feelings as simply being bad, or you being bad as a result of experiencing them; Emotions come and go, and often we have little say in them, but what really matters is what you choose to do about them and how you handle them. That's what defines our character.

Destroy Laziness by Controlling Your Perspective

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 07:00:00 +0200

Laziness plagues most of us. But why? In today's episode, we explore perspective management as a tool for curbing laziness, so that you may start to aligning your longterm goals with your actual internal values.

Should You Make New Year's Resolutions?

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 07:00:00 +0200

2020 turns into 2021, and suddenly we come to the realization that yet again another year has passed by, and the change we want to see in our lives hasn't taken place. While wanting your life to change is great, what we want to avoid is unrealistic and romanticized ideas of how the change WILL happen and what it will FEEL like. In this episode I offer some alternative approaches of how to look at change overall, and how to start applying it more realistically on a day-to-day basis.

Learning to Enjoy the Pursuit of Long-Term Goals

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 07:00:00 +0200

It's no mystery why we choose short-term pleasure over long-term dedication. The rewards are here, now, guaranteed, and pleasurable. But every time we choose those over our goals and dreams, we delay our arrival to them. In this episode I propose some ideas of how to stick to those long-term goals, and how one might even learn to get pleasure and happiness out of the process of pursuing them.

How to Structure Your Day for Success

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 07:00:00 +0200

I've been disappointed in my performance lately. I've fallen out of habits that have previously been very lucrative for me. And I miss those days. But I know not to take it too heavily, because falling off the horse happens all the time. That's just life. What matters the most, is learning how to get back on. And a big part of that is setting up your day strategically. By simply designing your day in ways that you find inherently motivating and complementary, you get so much more done, and reserve your willpower for the moments when you absolutely need it.

How to Deal with Any Challenge

Sat, 21 Nov 2020 15:00:00 +0200

The biggest hurdle when facing an obstacle often is that we refuse to accept what's in front of us. We didn't expect it, it makes us uncomfortable, or it doesn't fit our inner narrative of what we think 'should' be happening. It's this refusal to accept whatever's there that stunts our growth. We always think it's going to be something different. We think this is not what things are supposed to look like. But life will always be like that. Reality is complex and unpredictable. In this episode, I offer a mindset and strategy that assists you in facing whatever comes your way.

How Financial Stress Affects Creativity

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 09:00:00 +0200

Financial stress is still stress, and a very strong one at that, as money has a hand in almost everything. As we talked about in the previous episode, stress puts you in survival-mode, and that will make accessing creativity increasingly difficult. In this episode, I share some of my basic concepts of how I think about money and expenses, and how those relate to pursuing a creative career as a musician. The information in this episode is not financial advice. I am not a financial expert. I am simply sharing my own experiences and story. Always consult a professional when seeking financial help.

Define and Prioritise Your Goals in Music

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 09:00:00 +0200

When real life bears down upon you.. When you struggle to find time and energy for music.. Working on it can feel more like a depressing reminder of what you can't have, and it's very easy to feel overwhelmed and consider just ditching music altogether. But of course, I won't let you do that. In this episode we touch on a number of topics, but primarily focus on defining, categorising, and prioritising your goals so that you get CLARITY and CONTROLLABILITY back into your own musical journey.

When You Have No Energy to Write Music

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 09:00:00 +0200

Real life can be hard and taxing. You get home from work, and you don't have any juice left to fire up the DAW and get to work. We've all been there. It's a tricky beast to figure out. But we CAN do so much about this. In this episode, I lay out some fundamental perspectives and concepts for you to brew and contemplate on regarding your mental energy.

Should You Write Music for Yourself or for Others?

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 07:00:00 +0200

There are several theories of 'How to make it in music' out there. Some say you have to tread your own path, some say you have to study others in order to be able to figure out how to succeed. In this episode we inspect both perspectives, and in fact explore why you should explore and integrate BOTH approaches to your career as an artist.

Is Sensitivity a Weakness?

Sun, 27 Sep 2020 09:00:00 +0200

Sensitivity is what allows artists to pick up information and patterns that they can leverage to create their art. But if your art isn't currently producing you any financial or other benefits, your view of sensitivity can turn on you, seeing it more as a curse and a burden. In this episode we talk about how that's not true, and how every single trait in us is a double-edged sword.

When Your Music Isn't Working

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 09:00:00 +0200

We've all been there. Sitting in front of the computer or our instrument, and feeling frustrated, hopeless, useless, or all of the above.

Worry not, there's a solution. There's always a solution!

https://beabetterartist.com/

How Can Creative People Find Stability in Their Life

Sat, 29 Aug 2020 13:00:00 +0200

Artists are notoriously known for their instability and turbulent emotional life. But why exactly is that, can something be done about it, and why would you WANT to do something about it?

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to Overcome Crippling Self-Consciousness

Sat, 22 Aug 2020 09:00:00 +0200

Self-awareness is undoubtedly a superpower. When used correctly, it's the key to tremendous success. But what should you do when it turns on you? How to stop being overly self-aware and self-conscious in situations where it doesn't help at all? In this episode, as I walk through the streets of Florence Italy, not only do I explain, but also apply some of the techniques and approaches that have helped me overcome paralyzing self-awareness. It's not "just a part of who you are", and yes it can be defeated by training against it!

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to Approach Your Career's Future

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 10:04:00 +0200

Originally published 27 Apr 2019.

The only thing that's guaranteed in life is change.

https://beabetterartist.com/

The Love You Need

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 10:03:00 +0200

Originally published 11 Apr 2019.

We all need Love. But love comes in many forms. This is not the easy form, but it is one of the most important ones.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Who Are You?

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 10:02:00 +0200

Originally published 6 Apr 2019.

Do you really wish to know who and what you are?

https://beabetterartist.com/

What it Really Takes to Succeed in Music

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 10:01:00 +0200

Originally published 30 Mar 2019.

We all want success. But are you actually aligned with that reality?

https://beabetterartist.com/

On the Other Side of Fear

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 10:00:00 +0200

Originally published 22 Mar 2019.

We all are afraid to confront our fears. But what if you did?

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to Overcome Fear

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:59:00 +0200

Originally published 28 Feb 2019.

We all want to be less afraid. But how do you do that?

https://beabetterartist.com/

Why You Fail to Grow

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:58:00 +0200

Originally published 13 Feb 2019.

We all want to grow, we all want to become better. But do you actually want to know what happens when you try?

Why or When Should you be Optimistic?

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:57:00 +0200

Originally published 28 Dec 2018.

So many of us think of optimism as a fool's errand, a pointless outlook that only idiots exercise. But how does it actually work and where does it come from?

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to Manage Your Creativity

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:56:00 +0200

Originally published 21 Dec 2018.

Your creativity is a magnificent, powerful force. But if gone unchecked, you will struggle to direct it in the right direction.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Optimizing Self-Comparison for Growth

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:55:00 +0200

Originally published 15 Dec 2018.

It's so easy to get distracted by so many things. One thing's for sure: without focus, you have no chance of moving in a direction that's meaningful to you.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Why You're Afraid to Finish Your Music

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:54:00 +0200

Originally published 6 Dec 2018.

We all can spin excuses about why that song isn't finished yet, what it needs, what we'll still do with it. But in most cases, you're afraid to confront the truth of it.

https://beabetterartist.com/

The Power of Ownership

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:53:00 +0200

Originally published 29 Nov 2018.

What if everything was you fault? What if it really is?

https://beabetterartist.com/

Why You Struggle to Commit To Your Music

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:52:00 +0200

Originally published 23 Nov 2018.

We all know the rush and excitement of writing a new song you love. But a big part of the process of finishing a song is not exciting and glorious. In fact it can be grey and boring. What to do about it?

A Cure for Overwriting Your Music

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:51:00 +0200

Originally published 12 Oct 2018.

You want to make your music the best it can be. But when should you stop? How do you know it's ready? What is "too much"?

https://beabetterartist.com/

Why is it so Difficult to Start Writing Music?

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:50:00 +0200

Originally published 4 Oct 2018.

We all know the feeling. You sit down in front of your computer. Think about launching the DAW, but you don't. And you wonder why.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Why You Never Finish Your Songs

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:49:00 +0200

Originally published 28 Sep 2018.

You have terabytes of music on your hard drive, but none of it is finished, and none of it will see a release date. That needs to stop.

https://beabetterartist.com/

The Cake is a Lie.

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:48:00 +0200

Originally published 21 Sep 2018.

Quick! Grab a slice from that cake before someone else gets it! But what if I told you.. There is no cake.

https://beabetterartist.com/

The Playing Field Isn't Even

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:47:00 +0200

Originally published 14 Sep 2018.

It isn't fair. Never was. But what to do about it?

https://beabetterartist.com/

Why You're Unfocused and Undefined

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:46:00 +0200

Originally published 7 Sep 2018.

We creative types find it easy to be fascinated by and play other roles. This is an advantage in creative efforts for sure, but when does it work against you?

https://beabetterartist.com/

Using Consistency to Generate Momentum

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:45:00 +0200

Originally published 1 Sep 2018.

What is Momentum? Is it real? How can you use it to your advantage?

https://beabetterartist.com/

You Already Have and Know Enough.

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:44:00 +0200

Originally published 23 Aug 2018.

It's easy to think "I just need that one more X or Y and then I can do Z". We all have done it. But it's a broken strategy. Here's why.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Do You Need Luck to Succeed in Music?

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:43:00 +0200

Originally published 17 Aug 2018.

Luck is a factor that many like to think about. But what is it, and how can you affect it?

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to Start Learning Music Theory

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:42:00 +0200

Originally published 3 Aug 2018.

Music theory can feel frightening and overwhelming at first glance. But it doesn't need to be.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Just Keep Moving Forward.

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:41:00 +0200

Originally published 27 Jul 2018.

The crushing weight of lack of progress can feel overwhelming. In the dark times, as well as the good, just remember one thing.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Exhaust Your Mind for Better Sleep

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:40:00 +0200

Originally published 29 Jun 2018.

So many creative types suffer with sleeping problems. In this episode, I go through some strategies I use and have found help in.

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to Build a Healthy Ego

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:39:00 +0200

Originally published 14 Jun 2018.

Ego. The antagonist and protagonist of any creative mind. How should you balance it?

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to deal with Gear Acquisition Syndrome

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:38:00 +0200

Originally published 24 May 2018.

Gear Lust is a real thing, any musician either has done it, or knows someone who actively does. In this episode we offer some countermeasures to this destructive behaviour.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Stop Waiting to be Discovered

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:37:00 +0200

Originally published 17 May 2018.

Most of us fantasise about the day suddenly something you do goes viral, someone discovers your talent, and fans and labels start knocking at your door. And most of us will say that we don't ACTUALLY expect that to happen, yet when we look at our actions, they don't map to that statement.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Don't be a Prisoner of your Emotions

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:36:00 +0200

Originally published 11 May 2018.

Emotions are strong, powerful forces. But what exactly are they, how can you control them, and why should you?

https://beabetterartist.com/

Death of Tim Bergling / Avicii | Why I make this Show

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:35:00 +0200

Originally published 5 May 2018.

My thoughts on the passing of Tim Bergling, and why making this show is so important to me.

https://beabetterartist.com/

The Importance of Consolidating What You've Learned

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:34:00 +0200

Originally published 28 Apr 2018.

Learning new things is excellent, but how to best retain that information and integrate it?

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to Find a Mentor

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:33:00 +0200

Originally published 20 Apr 2018.

Finding a mentor has probably crossed your mind, but how to find one?

https://beabetterartist.com/

Audit Your Inner Circle

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:32:00 +0200

Originally published 12 Apr 2018.

There's a saying: You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with. How would that be true if it were? What to do about it?

https://beabetterartist.com/

Respect Your Listener's Time

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:31:00 +0200

Originally published 6 Apr 2018.

Time is everything.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Why People Don't Understand Your Music

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:30:00 +0200

Originally published 30 Mar 2018.

It can be frustrating to write your music, and not see them click with it. Is there something to be done?

https://beabetterartist.com/

The Current State of Pop Music

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:29:00 +0200

Originally published 20 Mar 2018.

Where is Pop Music right now? What is it all about?

https://beabetterartist.com/

What is Pop Music?

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:28:00 +0200

Originally published 16 Mar 2018.

We dig deep into the definition of Pop.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Should You Give up on Music?

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:27:00 +0200

Originally published 10 Mar 2018.

The question on so many musician's mind: Is there any point? Should you quick? I've been there too. There's a simple question to end all of that wondering.

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to Finish Your Mix

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:20:00 +0200

Originally published 14 Dec 2017.

Anyone who has ever attempted to mix music knows, that completing it can be an arduous, painful process. In this episode we explore a very practical, strategical technique that will get you to the finish line.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Fastest Way to Grow as a Person

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:19:00 +0200

Originally published 24 Nov 2017.

If you're truly interested in achieving and optimizing personal growth, then there is one core element that you must include in your life.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Breaking Patterns

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:18:00 +0200

Originally published 8 Nov 2017.

Our lives are largely defined by the cycles we are in, the processed we are engaged in. This automation is necessary and beneficial, but it has its dark side.

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to Fight Anxiety by Doing

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:17:00 +0200

Originally published 15 Oct 2017.

Anxiety can easily cause situations where you find yourself lost in thoughts and scenario simulations. We explore breaking that cycle with action, and that often the only thing you need to reduce anxiety is just to be in the process of dealing with it.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Why Are You So Negative?

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:16:00 +0200

Originally published 6 Oct 2017.

So many of us find ourselves in a place where we're sick and tired of our negativity, and wonder when and why we became this way. But the truth behind it is very simple.

https://beabetterartist.com/

It's OK to have Vain and Superficial Goals

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:15:00 +0200

Originally published 19 Sep 2017.

Vain goals are primarily silently glorified, but openly demonized and deemed as anti-intellectual. But can they work as a gateway to something better?

https://beabetterartist.com/

Can You Care Too Much?

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:14:00 +0200

Originally published 18 Aug 2017.

Caring is what gives life depth. But what happens when it's not managed and directed properly?

https://beabetterartist.com/

You Will Always Have Haters

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:13:00 +0200

Originally published 4 Aug 2017.

Many people say "fuck the haters", but is that the best and most holistic approach to the issue?

https://beabetterartist.com/

Does Your Music Need to be Perfect?

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:12:00 +0200

Originally published 8 Jul 2017.

Perfection is a tricky beast, one that often sinks or mangles more creative endeavours than anything else. We explore the concepts of Absolute and Relative perfection.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Working Hard VS Working Smart

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:11:00 +0200

Originally published 6 Jul 2017.

It's not about which one is better, it's about both being necessary.

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to Discover your Passion

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:10:00 +0200

Originally published 2 Jul 2017.

Passion is something that a lot of people seem to be missing. In this episode we explore the idea of how a lack of passion links to self-esteem.

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to be more Creative by using your Tools

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:09:00 +0200

Originally published 2 Jul 2017.

We explore how you can use your musical equipment to incite and increase creativity.

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to Stay the Course

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:08:00 +0200

Originally published 30 Jun 2017.

We explore techniques and mindsets that can help you stay focused and increase your resolve when you lose faith in your mission and path.

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to Truly Not Give a Fuck

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:07:00 +0200

Originally published 4 Jun 2017.

'Not Giving a Fuck' sounds empowering and "alpha", but what does it actually truly mean?

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to be a Successful Musician

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:06:00 +0200

Originally published 6 Apr 2017.

We explore the definition of success, and how that may be achieved in your musical career.

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to get Inspired

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:05:00 +0200

Originally published 25 Feb 2017.

We explore approaches, strategies, and techniques for how to enhance and create inspiration.

https://beabetterartist.com/

What is an Artist?

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:04:00 +0200

Originally published 16 Feb 2017.

We explore how to define 'artist'.

https://beabetterartist.com/

How to be a Better Artist | Series Introduction

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:03:00 +0200

Originally published 16 Feb 2017.

In this episode we define BABA's mission, as well as explore what an artist is, and how their mission in the world might be defined.

https://beabetterartist.com/

Show Update | Context | Background | What's Happening

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:01:00 +0200

In this episode we give context to the show's background, previous episodes, and update where the show is going, as well as what's happening in the coming weeks!

https://beabetterartist.com/

Be A Better Artist – Show Introduction

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:00:00 +0200

Introduction to what the Be A Better Artist show is all about.

https://beabetterartist.com/