The Intelligent Vocalist

In this episode, John Henny explains that while it is helpful to group similar things together to understand complex skills, it becomes problematic when we assume that similar things are the same. The physical and acoustic aspects of different vocal modes and how they relate to chest voice, head voice, and mix are often misunderstood.  It is important to constantly refine our approach to singing and be aware of the nuances and subtleties of our own voice.

Episode highlights:

• Grouping similar things together helps us understand complex skills, but assuming they are the same can be problematic.
• Vocal registers, such as chest voice, head voice, and mix, have both physical and acoustic aspects.
• As we age and our voice changes, we need to constantly refine our approach to singing.
• Every note in our voice is its own register, and it's important to treat them differently.

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 impact of social media on our focus and attention. He warns about the addictive nature of platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, and how they can consume our time and mental energy. John emphasizes the importance of reclaiming our focus and taking control of our time by limiting our use of social media. By doing so, we can have more time and mental clarity to focus on our passions, such as singing.

Episode highlights:

• Social media platforms can be addictive and consume our time and mental energy.
• It is important to be mindful of the content we consume on social media and the impact it has on our focus and attention.
• Removing social media apps from our phones and limiting our use can help us reclaim our focus and have more time, energy, and mental clarity for our passions, like 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 discusses the importance of taking control of your vocal journey. Singers cannot be good at everything and should focus on their strengths and passions. Consider your mind, personality, and innate gifts to help determine your limitations and potential as a singer. It’s also important to find the right teacher who aligns with your goals and interests.

Episode highlights:

• Singers should focus on their strengths and passions rather than trying to be good at everything.
• The mind, personality, and innate gifts play a significant role in a singer's limitations and potential.
• Finding the right teacher who aligns with your goals and interests is crucial for progress.
• Investing time and/or money in improving your voice can lead to faster advancement.

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 importance of understanding time signatures for singers, and how rhythm and phrasing separate great singers from average ones. He explains the basics of time signatures, such as the meaning of the top and bottom numbers, and focuses on the most common time signatures. Henny highlights the significance of internalizing the rhythmic clock as a singer and the advantage singers have in playing with time.

Episode highlights:

• Understanding time signatures is crucial for singers to develop rhythm and phrasing skills.
• Odd time signatures like 5/4 and 7/4 require counting the number of pulses between downbeats.
• Singers have the advantage of playing with time and can speed up, pull back, or hesitate while staying anchored in their internal clock.
• Being rhythmically precise and confident as a singer enhances collaboration with other musicians and makes for a better 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 Henny discusses natural talent versus training in singing. He shares examples of famous singers who have worked hard on their voices, debunking the myth of effortless talent. He emphasizes the value of voice teachers and the benefits of formal training, though self-study and listening to other singers can also be valuable. Ultimately, he encourages singers to work hard and find the right teacher or method to develop their voices to their fullest potential.

Episode highlights:

• The myth of natural talent in singing is often perpetuated by the media and fans, but the reality is that even the most talented singers work hard and receive training.
• Formal voice training with a qualified teacher can provide valuable guidance and help singers improve their vocal technique and overall performance.
• Self-study and listening to other singers can also be beneficial, but it's important to have a strong foundation and understanding of vocal technique.
• There is no one-size-fits-all approach to singing, and each singer should find the right teacher or method that suits their voice and goals.

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 May Oskan about rough vocal effects and the techniques behind them. May also discusses the importance of creating vocal effects safely and the different parts of the vocal tract that can be used to create distortion. She explains that coordination and control are key in creating different vocal effects. 

Episode Highlights

• Creating vocal effects safely involves controlling volume, avoiding extrinsic tension, and using specific structures in the vocal tract.
• Learning vocal effects may be easier for singers who have already developed specific coordinations and have a playful attitude towards their voice.
• Voice teachers interested in teaching vocal effects should listen to a variety of vocal effects, listen to their students' desired sounds, and explore vocal effects themselves to better understand and teach them.

You can learn more about May Oskan at mayoskanvoice.com

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 concept of the vocal prime, its significance, characteristics, and implications for singers of all ages. He emphasizes the importance of honoring and investing in the voice, regardless of age, and encourages continuous improvement and care.

Episode highlights:

• The vocal prime is a significant period in a singer's life, characterized by strength, stability, and flexibility in the voice.
• Investing in vocal care and improvement is essential at every stage of a singer's life, regardless of age.
• Creating a new vocal prime is possible at any age, emphasizing the potential for continuous growth and development in singing.
• The voice is a valuable instrument that should be honored, nurtured, and used consistently to maintain its strength and flexibility.

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 charisma and owning the space as a performer. He emphasizes the cultivation of energy and emotional communication, and highlights the role of vocal technique and emotional intention in creating a powerful performance.

Episode highlights:

• Charisma is a quality that can be cultivated and developed by performers to own the energy and space during a performance.
• Vocal technique is a tool for communication, and emotional communication is the highest level of singing.
• The shared humanity and emotional connection between the performer and the audience create a powerful and unique experience.

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 importance of emotional support for singers. He emphasizes that singing is different from learning any other instrument. Singers expose themselves in a way that other instruments don't because the average listener focuses on the singer more than any other aspect of music. Singers also face emotional challenges such as stage fright, self-doubt, and criticism. It is essential for singers to have emotional support from friends, family, and the right voice teacher or mentor.

Episode highlights:

• Singers expose themselves in a way that other instruments don't.
• Singers face emotional challenges such as stage fright, self-doubt, and criticism.
• You need safe support from your family, friends, singing community, voice teacher, and from yourself.
• Mindfulness and developing strategies to deal with irrational fears and negative thoughts are important for singers.

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 interviews Kenneth Bozeman about the concept of the chiaroscuro whisper. Ken explains that the chiaroscuro whisper is a technique used to identify the resonances of the vocal tract by introducing a white noise into the vocal tract. This technique allows singers to tune their vocal tract and hear the pitches of each resonance peak. Ken also discusses the difference between vocal fry and the white noise of the whisper, as well as the importance of tuning resonances for efficient and pleasurable singing. He emphasizes the need to focus on expression and feelings rather than language when singing.

Episode highlights:

• The chiaroscuro whisper helps identify the resonances of the vocal tract.
• Tuning resonances is important for efficient and pleasurable singing.
• The white noise of the whisper is different from vocal fry, and the chiaroscuro whisper may be closer to a regular singing sound than vocal fry.
• When using the chiaroscuro whisper, it is important to focus on expression and feelings rather than language.
• The sensation of pleasure is a good indicator of vocal efficiency.

To learn more about Ken Bozeman, go to kenbozeman.com

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 experience of failure and setbacks in the context of pursuing one's goals. He shares personal stories of failure and how he dealt with them, emphasizing the importance of allowing oneself to feel the emotions that come with failure and not judging or trying to fix them immediately. 

Episode Highlights

• Failure and setbacks are inevitable when pursuing goals, and they provide valuable learning experiences.
• Allowing oneself to feel and process the emotions that come with failure is important for personal growth.
• Shifting the focus from seeking approval to valuing the experience itself can lead to a more fulfilling journey.
• Failure should be seen as an opportunity for improvement and not as a reflection of one's worth or abilities.
• Being authentic and embracing failure as part of the journey can lead to greater success and connection with others.

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 desire for simplicity and easy answers in singing. He emphasizes the complexity of the voice and the need for a nuanced approach.

John explores the challenges of finding solutions for vocal issues and the ever-changing nature of the voice. He also highlights the importance of embracing the complexity of singing and the joy of not knowing everything. John encourages singers to appreciate the uniqueness of their voice and to embark on the beautiful challenge of exploring its complexity.

Episode Highlights:

• The voice is incredibly complex, and there are no easy answers or quick fixes.
• Vocal issues require a nuanced approach and understanding of the individual's unique voice.
• Singing is a journey of ever-unfolding complexity, and embracing the mystery and joy of not knowing everything is part of the process.
• Appreciate the uniqueness of your voice and the beauty of the challenge it presents.

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 Tracee Theisen-Henny about her role as an accountability coach for creatives, particularly singers. Tracee emphasizes the importance of setting realistic goals, prioritizing tasks, and staying organized to maintain positive momentum. Her approach to accountability coaching is focused on providing truthful and realistic guidance while offering effective encouragement.

Episode highlights:

• Accountability coaching provides guidance and effective encouragement to help creatives achieve their goals.
• Feedback and a supportive community are crucial for the success of creative projects.
• Having a calendar and deadlines can help overcome decision fatigue and resistance.
• Breaking down big projects into smaller, manageable tasks can prevent overwhelm and increase productivity.

For accountability coaching with Tracee, click on this link below:

 Tracee Accountability Coaching

Or feel free to contact the Front Desk email with questions for Tracee [email protected]

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 challenges that singers face as they progress in their vocal journey. He highlights the necessary shift in mindset, the need to let go of technical exaggerations, and the importance of developing a vocal identity.

Episode highlights:

• The technical exaggerations that helped you as a beginner will need to become more nuanced.
• Embracing one's voice and understanding one's genetic limitations is crucial for intermediate singers.
• Letting go of perfection and being open to different sources of knowledge is important for growth as a singer.

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 essential steps to developing vocal power. Vocal power is achieved by creating a more intense sound wave and filtering it through the vocal tract. He also explains the importance of activating the vocal tract and using semi-occluded vocal tract exercises to increase baseline pressure.

Episode highlights:

• The closed phase of the vocal folds is crucial for power, as it allows for more contact and longer closure.
• Semi-occluded vocal tract exercises can increase baseline pressure and assist in developing vocal power.
• The tongue, jaw, lips, and larynx play important roles in achieving vocal power.

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 process of being productive and completing projects. He shares his experience of writing and publishing books to help others, emphasizing the importance of deadlines and accountability.

Episode highlights:

• Setting deadlines and having accountability are crucial for being productive and completing projects.
• The process of finishing and publishing can be challenging, but it is important to overcome self-doubt and decision fatigue.
• Decide that what you want to create is important enough.

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 shares 10 things he wishes he knew before he started singing. He discusses the unique nature of the voice compared to other instruments, highlights the changing nature of the voice, and encourages us to apply the knowledge we gain.

Episode highlights:

• The voice is different from other instruments and requires patience and understanding.
• The voice is a changing instrument, so it is important to be open and welcoming to the change.
• Embrace the uniqueness of your voice and enjoy every moment of 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 talks with Mike Massé, a musician known for his popular YouTube covers, about his journey from being a lawyer to a full-time musician. Mike explains his approach to choosing songs and how he strives to recreate them faithfully while adding his own touch. He also discusses the challenges of staying healthy as a vocalist and the transition to being self-employed.

Episode highlights:

• There's a charm to a casual gig setting that people can relate to and find comfort in.
• Your music career doesn't have to happen before a "real job."
• Try to emulate rather than imitate.
• Being self-employed can make it difficult to "clock out."

To learn more about Mike, go to https://mikemasse.com/ and https://www.youtube.com/@mikemasse

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 introduces the HEROES system, a method to keep your voice healthy and flexible. Each element of the system is essential for maintaining vocal health and longevity.

Episode highlights:

• The HEROES system (hydration, exercise, range, optimization, energy, and sing) is a comprehensive approach to maintaining vocal health and flexibility.
• Both topical and systemic hydration are crucial for keeping the vocal folds properly hydrated.
• Regular exercise, both for the body and the voice, is essential for maintaining overall vocal health.
• Optimizing vocal technique and resonance can help prevent vocal strain and ensure efficient phonation.

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 breaking through self-imposed limitations in singing. He explores the power of memories and stories in shaping our beliefs about our voice and potential, and encourages singers to embrace their unique voice and let go of negative self-talk.

Episode highlights:

• Past experiences and memories shape our beliefs about our voice and potential.
• Accept and embrace your unique voice, including any physical limitations.
• Change negative self-talk and focus on the present moment.
• Share your unique universe with others and let go of stories that hold you back.

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 lessons he learned from writing and publishing his latest book, 'The Mature Singer's Guidebook.' He talks about the challenges he faced during the writing process, how he overcame self-doubt and resistance, and offers valuable advice for anyone embarking on a big project.

Episode highlights:

• Imposter syndrome and self-doubt come with big projects after the initial excitement wears off.
• Stay in the present moment to persevere and see your project to completion.
• Only “done” gets paid.
• Break down the work, set due dates, and hold yourself accountable.

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 importance of singing from the vocal tract. He shares his inspiration for writing his book, The Mature Singer's Guidebook, and how his work with Kerrie Obert helped him understand the significance of the vocal tract in maintaining a healthy voice.

Episode highlights:

• The vocal tract plays a crucial role in singing and should not be overlooked.
• Balancing tension in the vocal tract is essential for a healthy voice.
• Observing and manipulating the vocal tract during practice can lead to improved 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 talks with Susan Lowell de Solórzano about the concept of biotensegrity and its application to singing. Susan shares her personal experience with biotensegrity and how it changed her approach to singing. She emphasizes the importance of balancing tension and relaxation in singing, and explores the use of metaphors and imagery to enhance vocal performance.

Episode highlights:

• Biotensegrity is a framework for understanding biology using the principles of tensegrity.
• Fascia is a connective tissue that interlinks and holds the body together.
• Balancing tension and relaxation is crucial in singing.
• Metaphors and imagery can be used to enhance vocal performance.

To learn more about Susan, visit https://www.youtube.com/@smlbtarchive and get her book at https://a.co/d/2fWhjV9

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 vocal values and how they can shape your success as a singer. He emphasizes the difference between what is within your control and what is not, and encourages focus on the things that are within your control as defined by your values.

Episode highlights:

• Focus on what is within your control and accept what is not.
• Identify and prioritize your personal vocal values.
• Consistent study and application of knowledge are crucial for improvement.
• Push through fear and judgment to achieve your singing goals.

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 tenor, pedagogue and researcher Nicholas Perna about the topic of voice issues and the stigma surrounding them in the singing community. They discuss the concept of technique shaming, how singers often blame themselves for vocal struggles, and highlight the complexity of singing and the various factors that can affect the voice, emphasizing the need for understanding and support.

Episode highlights:

• Voice issues are common among singers and can be caused by various factors unrelated to technique.
• Blaming singers for their vocal struggles is unfair and unhelpful.
• The singing community should provide support and understanding to those experiencing voice issues.
• Singers should seek help from professionals, such as otolaryngologists and speech language pathologists, and not hesitate to share their struggles with trusted individuals.

To learn more about Nicholas Perna, visit https://nicholasperna.com/ and https://www.vocalfri.com/

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 his top strategies for optimizing the voice. He emphasizes the importance of simplifying the singing process and breaking it down to first principles.

Episode highlights:

• Simplify the singing process by focusing on air, cord, and vowel (ACV).
• Practice efficient breathing and maintain a tall posture.
• Use narrow vowels and semi-occluded vocal tract exercises to optimize the voice for different registers and styles.

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 top voice-over artist Liz Hill as she discusses her experience with freelance work and how it has changed her life. Liz highlights the advantages that singers have in voiceover work, as their vocal training and skills are easily transferable. She shares her journey of starting out in freelancing, the potential for income in this field, and her new venture of creating courses and training content to help others get started in freelancing.

Episode highlights:

• Freelance work, particularly in voiceover, can be a lucrative source of income for singers.
• Singers have an advantage in voiceover work due to their vocal training and ability to connect emotionally with the audience.
• Starting out in freelancing may require charging lower rates initially, but as skills improve, rates can be increased.
• Creating courses and training content can be a valuable way to share knowledge and help others succeed in freelancing.

To learn more about Liz Hill, visit https://www.freelancebff.com/

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 how to deal with changing information in the field of singing. Information needs to change and evolve, but it’s important to start with simpler and bigger chunks of information in the beginning of one's singing journey.

Episode highlights:

• Don't fall for the advertising trope that claims everything you know about singing is wrong.
• Focus on the basics and foundational concepts before diving into more esoteric topics.
• Be cautious of misinformation and clickbait in the singing industry.
• Continuously seek knowledge and information that works for you at your current stage.

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 interviews Karin Titze Cox and Ingo Titze about their book 'Voices Free After SOVT.' They discuss the groundbreaking approach to voice and the importance of semi-occluded vocal tract exercises (SOVTs).

Episode highlights:

• Having that back pressure helps the vocal folds maintain a more stable and a more efficient posture for vibration.
• Getting the motor memory from SOVTs is a very individual system.
• Do a lot of practice, and do variable practice.
• Don’t resist resistance.

To learn more about Karin Titze Cox and Ingo Titze, and to get the book, visit https://ncvs.org/book-purchase-voice-is-free-after-sovt/

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 Dani Elliott as she shares her journey as a backup vocalist and provides insights into the challenges and rewards of touring.

Episode highlights:

• Building a community and making connections is crucial for success as a backup vocalist.
• Taking care of mental and physical health is essential while on tour.
• Preparation, professionalism, and being a good hang are qualities that set successful artists apart.

To learn more about Dani Elliott, visit http://www.danielliott.com/

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 about what he would say to his younger self, inspired by Ian Howell’s book “Advice for Young Musicians.”

Episode highlights:

• It’s ok to no longer want what you thought you did before.
• Permanence is an illusion.
• Don’t let the need of others’ approval take you off the path.
• Be present.

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 shares his New Year’s resolutions and his approach to make sure he follows through with them.

Episode highlights:

• Making resolutions just once at the beginning of the year isn’t enough.
• You need strategies to build a habit, which then becomes a routine.
• Having accountability is crucial.

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 highlights the Top 10 podcast episodes from 2023, based on the number of listens and feedback from listeners.

Episode highlights:

• You should be using your voice all the time.
• Singing is not easy, but if you’re struggling with your voice, you can’t quit.
• John’s personal vocal “setback” has been transformative.

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 new information we’re getting about how the voice works, and how these new findings don’t necessarily discount the old ways of learning the voice.

Episode highlights:

• The feedback we get from the voice tends to lie to us.
• There is not just one way of doing things.
• Be open to all the valuable information available.

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 about how everything in the body is interconnected, and how having a better sense of this connection can greatly affect your singing.

Episode highlights:

• One thing moves; everything moves.
• We are biotensegrity models.
• Imagery is a very powerful way to get better control of the body.

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 explains the four levels of competency, and what it really means to reach your highest level of singing.

Episode highlights:

• There is bliss in the first level, unconscious incompetence, but that disables us from growth.
• We may experience frustrations as we progress through the levels of competency.
• All the work we put in during the lower levels of competency is what gives us freedom at the highest level.

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 drummer, singer, and author Jason Thomas Gordon about his book, The Singers Talk. Jason spent nearly a decade interviewing some of the greatest vocalists in modern music to compile this wonderful resource guide for singers.

Episode highlights:

• Singers don’t seem to have many resources compared to other musical instruments.
• This is a book you can continuously to learn from.
• Even these incredible professionals struggle with self-doubt.
• Jason asked questions that these singers were never really asked before.

To learn more about Jason Thomas Gordon and his book, visit https://thesingerstalk.com/.

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 about the three terrible Cs that can affect your singing growth.

Episode Highlights:

• Our own human nature can trap us in the three Cs.
• Your journey is to uncover and express the best, most honest version of you.
• Singing and the voice provide continuous learning.

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 Kerrie Obert, a Speech-Language Pathologist, Singing Voice Specialist, and Voice Teacher, about vocal tremors that can develop in aging voices, and the current treatments available to help find stability in the voice again. 

Episode Highlights:

• There is unfortunately still not a lot that is known about what can cause a tremor to develop
• A tremor and vibrato have some shared neurological origins
• The techniques in Kerrie Obert’s course can also help with wobbly vibrato

You can learn more about Kerrie and her courses at: obertvoicestudios.com and getvocal-now.com

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 about how frustration can actually be a guide for us in our singing journeys, and how to better navigate frustration when we experience it.

Episode Highlights:

• Frustration shows that something is important to you and that you care
• Quitting is not always wrong
• Frustration is like a “check engine” light
• Asking “What, why, and how?” can help you work through frustration

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 and singing teacher Lisa Perks explore the hidden cost of vocal shame. They share personal stories and strategies to overcome self-doubt, making it a riveting listen for all.

Episode Highlights:

• The Challenge of Vocal Wobble
• The Psychological Consequences of Vocal Damage
• The Impact of Losing One's Voice

To find out more about Lisa and her programs, visit epiphanyvocalstudio.com.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John engages in an enlightening conversation with Heather Baker, a distinguished vocal coach and the first British teacher certified as Level 5 in Speech Level Singing (SLS)—their discussion centers around the intriguing relationship between singing and gesturing. 

Episode Highlights:

• The neuro side of singing
• The advantages of gestures to singing
• The use of gestures in conducting singers

To find out more about Heather and her programs, visit thesingingteacher.biz.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John explores the difficulties of trying to master everything all at once, and shares his advice on how we can all learn to not get over our vocal skis. 

Episode Highlight:

• The temptation to step beyond the starting point
• Good ways of checking in on your growth
• The practice of learning how to filter information

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John engages in a riveting conversation with law lecturer turned voice coach, Debbie Winter, exploring the importance of continuing education and reclaiming your vocal power after a setback.

Episode Highlights:

• Rediscovering your voice
• Working towards a vision
• Completing one idea at a time

To know more about Debbie Winter, visit: https://voicestudycentre.com/ 

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John discusses with the first-rate vocal coach and vocalist Jim Dix about committing to a disciplined routine to achieve your higher musical self.

Episode Highlights:

• Envisioning the ultimate, optimal self
• Different practice approaches
• Challenges in starting your skills-improvement journey

To find out more about Jim and his programs, visit jimdixvoicestudio.com.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John talks about the magic of music and how, just as you never step in the same stream twice, you never sing the same note twice.

Episode Highlights:

• The Transient Vocal Theory
• The Natural Tremors in the Body
• The Illusion of Permanence 

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John explores the wonders of imagery, movement, and singing with the person behind the revolutionary Franklin Method–Eric Franklin.

Episode Highlights:

• The Franklin Method
• Imagery in Singing
• Error Amplification

To know more about Eric, visit: https://franklinmethod.com/thank-you-the-intelligent-vocalist/

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John Henny discusses vibrato with voice professor and researcher, John Nix.

Episode Highlights:

• How emotions and physiology affect vibrato
• Adjusting the speed of vibrato
• The potential to sing vibrato

To know more about John Nix, visit: johnnixvoiceteacher.com

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John discusses with voice teacher Gabriel Weiner the limits of technique in singing.

Episode Highlights:

• Matching students with the right voice teachers
• Teaching learners to have a vocal vision
• The Passaggio is a Boogeyman

To know more about Gabriel, visit: https://www.contemporaryvoicelessons.com/

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John dives headfirst into a whirlpool of thoughts, opinions, and outbursts surrounding the voice-teaching community.

Episode Highlights:

• Voice teachers blasting other voice teachers
• Need for respect for professionals and their expertise
• Rejection and demeaning of older knowledge

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John talks about the utilization of models for the voice. He looks into models that serve as tools to decipher intricate systems, particularly highlighting the Machine Model Fallacy.

Episode Highlights:

• The voice is not a machine
• Fight or flight shows up in your voice
• Different voice methods work for different people

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John talks with Sacramento Pop Choir Managing Director Emily Perez about singing as an emotional music language, a birthright, and a built-in communication system.

Episode Highlights:

• Singing is a skill that can be learned and improved
• Singing connects people with themselves, others, and nature.
• Learning to work on your voice can make it a glorious and rich instrument.

To find out more about Emily and her programs, visit macondomusic916.com.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John creatively discusses quarter-wave resonators, resonance, and registration.

Episode Highlights:

• The voice is a quarter-wave resonator
• Sound wave starts at equilibrium until a disturbance is created
• Nodes are zero displacements, while antinodes represent maximum velocity

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John shares some crucial tips on preparing yourself before every performance and avoiding stage fright.

Episode Highlights:

• It's important to spend enough time in preparation
• Positive self-talk may not be the most effective antidote to stage anxiety
• Give others permission not to like you
• Communication and connection are the highest levels of singing

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with professional singer and vocal coach Jeff Alani Stanfill about the significance of understanding and training the Contemporary Commercial Music Tenor.

Episode Highlights:

• Common struggles faced by CCM Tenors
• Importance of good posture in singing
• Normalizing high notes
• Embracing your unique voice type

Find out more about Jeff at voicesoaring.com.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John talks about the importance of taking steps to sharpen your skills.

Episode Highlights:

• Plan and prepare
• Set time to practice
• Find the right people

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this podcast episode, John discusses how skill assessment can help you celebrate your strengths and work on your weaknesses.

Episode Highlights:

• Singers are vocal athletes
• Paving your way with your unique abilities
• Improving your musicality
• Developing emotional expression

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John discusses the importance of active listening in improving musicianship and how to develop it.

Episode Highlights:

• Working on rhythm
• Getting into music theory
• Expanding your music palette

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John talks about the importance of embracing boredom.

Episode Highlights:

• The attributes of great musicians
• Great breakthroughs that come from boredom
• The mind and body connection

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John discusses the vocal tract and its primary importance in the singing process.

Episode Highlights:

• The transient theory of voice production
• The surprising way the vocal folds produce sound
• The primacy of the vocal tract

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with Rick Cowley, founder of VysionQuest, about getting in touch with your "true self" to gain direction and inspiration for understanding your greater purpose.

Episode Highlights:

• How did VysionQuest, start?
• How do you get True Clarity?
• How do people find their "greater purpose"?
• What is the triangle of self-understanding?

For more information on VysionQuest and Rick Cowley, visit VysionQuest.com 

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about the concept of the small mind.

Episode Highlights:

• The small mind does have its purpose and importance. 
• Goals of meditation
• Allowing yourself to let go
• How to move to your larger mind

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about handling feedback and criticism.

Episode Highlights:

• Constructive vs Destructive criticism
• Welcoming feedback
• Healthy self-criticism is important
• The power of continuous improvement

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John discusses how to persevere when facing challenges.

Episode Highlights:

• Struggles in singing
• The challenge of aging
• Finding new ways to work

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John talks with voice teacher Spencer Welch about quick vocal tips and the almost addiction that singers can have, jumping from vocal tip to vocal tip.

Episode Highlights:

• The dangers of quick tips in a quick tip video
• Learning voice from Youtube is not the same
• Experience is important
• Find that person who can be empathetic to your needs

Find out more about Spencer at https://www.spencerwelch.com

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John talks about the importance of skill and knowledge in singing.

Episode Highlights:

• Importance of investing in your singing knowledge
• Main principle concepts of music and singing
• How singing can impact life skills
• Development of emotional intelligence through singing

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about finding the balance between professional and personal life with vocalist entrepreneur Danielle Tucker.

Episode Highlights:

• What are the Professional Boundaries?
• How we adjust to technology during the pandemic
• Taking responsibility for ourselves
• The risks we take if we don't create those boundaries

Attend the FREE Unstoppable Singer Summit: https://jhvs--unstoppablesinger.thrivecart.com/all-access-backstage-pass-2023/

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Voiceschool.com, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about his experiences and struggles with his vocals.

Episode Highlights:

• At one point in our lives, we will experience challenges.
• Our voice is our most important tool of communication.
• Choose the right mentor.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with James Swanwick about singing and alcohol and how to break that relationship.

Episode Highlights:

• Singing and alcohol go hand in hand.
• How do we know we crossed over the line?
• Breakthrough comes when we are clear and focused.
• Cultural conditioning is real.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about the Three Biggest Project Obstacles

Episode Highlights:

• What are the Three Biggest Project Obstacles?
• The journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step.
• Imposter Syndrome.
• Accountability.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Voiceschool.com, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about the power of limitation and adversity

Episode Highlights:

• Know your limitations
• Do not resist adversity
• Embrace You and what you have to offer

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with the expert Stefanos Antypas about social media for artists.

Episode Highlights:

• How to set yourself apart in social media
• Misconceptions about social media
• Identify what makes you different.
• Focus is essential.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.

In this episode, John talks about the mystery of the creative mind.

Episode Highlights:

• Focus on your creativity.
• How Mindless entertainment can be "junk food".
• Embrace all aspects of you.
• Benefits of allowing occasional boredom.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about how instruments can give you an advantage in music.

Episode Highlights:

• Instruments give you better grounding and understanding of music.
• What are the advantages of playing piano?
• Rhythm is one skill that sets singers apart.
• All work in music is rewarded.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about how singing and speaking are basically synonymous.

Episode Highlights:

• The human voice is music.
• What is vocal fry?
• A healthy speaking voice is going to help your singing voice.
• Music is speech.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about vocal ruts and what to do if you're stuck in one.

Episode Highlights:

• What is vocal rut?
• The challenges of vocal ruts
• How self-study can help with vocal rut
• Get yourself lessons

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about singing and stoicism and how this can be an opportunity to learn and grow.

Episode Highlights:

• What is stoicism?
• Failure is okay and instructive.
• Ultimate lessons to learn from stoicism
• Use the information to grow and be the best version

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about singing and the yips.

Episode Highlights:

• What are the Yips in terms of relating them to singing?
• Taking a break can be the best thing you can do.
• Try learning from other teachers.
• Meditation can be helpful.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with the bestselling author Nancy Bos about singing and the subconscious.

Episode Highlights:

• The mindset and how it is connected to the instruments.
• The ego, consciousness and frontal cortex are the things that keeps us from being creative, mindful and in the moment.
• How anxiety affects your singing performance.
• Getting rid of your fear will make you enjoy the experience wholely and completely.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about developing groove and time and how these are important in contemporary music.

Episode Highlights:

• Contemporary music is time and groove-oriented.
• Developing your sense of time.
• Breaking a song into pulses.
• Another word for groove is feel.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about how to develop your natural drive, do better and improve.

Episode Highlights:

• How dopamine works and helps us
• We are given certain gifts that are sometimes taken for granted
• What to do to increase dopamine in our brain
• Focus to get the reward of improvement

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about The Key to Vocal Breakthroughs and how they are necessary for our motivation and drive.

Episode Highlights:

• The importance of a three-month planner
• Why it is important to handle our thoughts?
• What are the best things you can do over the 13 weeks?
• Get your right moves to have the best breakthroughs.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about following the process that helps us focus and being aware of what we can and can't control.

Episode Highlights:

• When all else fails, follow the process.
• Think about what you really can control
• Be careful that you're not jumping from one piece of information to another
• Taking risks

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about the vocal range and why your range may be limited.

Episode Highlights:

• Common Issues with vocal folds
• A smooth pathway from your lower to upper register 
• Opening Vowels 
• A tuned larynx 
• Lack of confidence

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

It's episode 300, and to celebrate, John looks back at five of his top episodes.

In this episode, John talks about how experienced singers choose a voice teacher. 

Episode Highlights:

• What experienced singers and teachers do when they're looking for lessons
• Finding a teacher for your vocal needs
• Having clear and precise directives
• The importance of improvement
• What do we look for in a voice teacher

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about the Singing Hero's Journey and the exploration of becoming the best version of yourself.

Episode Highlights:

• Power of the hero's journey myth 
• Why the Voice is different from all other instruments
• Developing the discipline to reflect and use deliberate practice properly.
• Find a guide for your story.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments, and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about the importance of physical movement to improve your singing voice.

Episode Highlights:

• Nature and Time are working against you and your singing
• Movement can create positive (or negative changes) 
• Balancing the connection with your mind and body
• Recommended exercises for singers to improve singing

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: johnhenny.com

In this episode, John reminds us to be open minded and find something of value to learn from the world of Voice Teachers. 

Episode Highlights:

• Avoid dismissive or myth debunking styles of teaching
• Let your Voice Teacher be your vocal tour guide 
• Keep a "beginners open mind"
• Invest in your "singing self"
• The importance of Trust But Verify

To learn more about John Henny, his best selling books, on-line courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with professional vocalist Tessa Smith about the reasons we need to warm up.

• Why we need to warm up 
• Importance of mirror work 
• Silent singing and getting in touch internal sensations
• Structuring mental preparation before a performance

In this episode, John talks with professional learning coach Gregg Goodhart about the real purpose of practicing.

• Practicing as a solution to problems 
• How we truly deliberately practice
• Engaging the part of the brain that orients selective attention 
• Slowing down and learning to deal with discomfort
• How solving problems with grows your mental model
• Refraining from the way we talk about mistakes
• Rewards of great performance 

In this episode, John discusses how to go deeper into vocal registration to fine-tune your vocal balance.

Episode Highlights:

• The essential differences between "similar" and "same"
• Refining your registers
• How to experience micro-registration

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, John’s Singing School, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John discusses how to break out of ruts and routines with our singing and practice.  

Episode Highlights:

• Reconnecting your mind and body
• Finding and embracing issues
• Building focus

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks with professional vocalist Nad Sylvan, who is currently singing on tour in "Steve Hackett Genesis Revisited." John and Nad discuss how to maintain top vocal condition when delivering world-class performances night after night.  

Episode Highlights:

• Nad talks about how he maintains a healthy voice during a demanding tour schedule
• How breath support and controlling abdomen muscles have helped Nad to hit high notes and control sustains
• Taking care of yourself on tour is imperative to be able to maintain your voice
• Nad shares how he stays in top vocal shape in between tours

To learn more about Nad Sylvan and tour dates, visit:

nadsylvan.com and hackettsongs.com

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks with professional vocalist and voice-over artist Liz Hill about navigating session work and how to work with producers. 

Episode Highlights:

• Challenges that can come up when working with producers, and the importance of clear communication
• Liz talks about how she got her start being a demo singer, and how singers need to have boundaries around their vocal health, time, and creative input
• The importance of using clear references when working with session singers 
• When working in a session, both the singer and the producer need to have some give and take, and understand each other's roles

To learn more about Liz Hill, visit her Instagram page:

lizannehill 

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks with author and voice teacher Becky Gilhespie about the terms Creak, Cry, Tilt, Twang, and Sob, and why you need to know what these are. 

Episode Highlights: 

• How using different postures of the voice can boost frequencies 
• Vocal fry and how it is similar to "creak"
• How to feel where the vocal fold muscles are to be able to fine-tune the voice
• "Cry" and how it can add so much emotive quality to the singing voice

To learn more about Becky Gilhespie visit:

fearlesssingingacademy.com

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, VoiceSchool.com, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks about the importance of taking the knowledge and theory you have learned and putting it into practice in various settings, not just in the rehearsal studio. 

Episode Highlights:

• You must "experience" the theory learned to truly understand how to apply it in all settings
• Some singing methods or terms can be a trap
• The importance of connecting with your voice teacher
• We are learning new discoveries about the voice every day, so being open to putting new methods into practice can help your singing 

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks with Mindset Coach, Creativity Counsellor, Holistic Hypnotherapist, and Author Elisa Di Napoli about combining scientific and holistic approaches to managing stage fright. 

Episode Highlights:

• Elisa talks about how her passion for both music and psychology inspired her to become a Mindset Coach
• Hypnosis explained, and how it can be a tool to help with stage fright
• What is "negative mental rehearsal?"
• Steps that you can take today to help minimize stage fright

To learn more about Elisa Di Napoli, visit:

elisadinapoli.com 

For her free book go to: elisadinapoli.com/vocalstudio

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, John's Singing School, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks about why you and you alone are responsible for your voice. By understanding and acknowledging all aspects of your voice, strengths, and weaknesses, you can create a clear path to better singing.

Episode Highlights:

• We need to take responsibility for where we are and where we want to go with our singing
• Each of us only has so much energy, so we need to spend it wisely
•  Places in our lives that we can adjust to be more efficient
• The environments we work in are just as important as the time we take to practice

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, John’s Singing School, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks with Licensed Massage Therapist and Manual Voice Specialist Christine Schneider about the cutting-edge practice of Manual Laryngeal Therapy, where she specializes in laryngeal and TMJ treatments for professional voice users.

Episode Highlights:

• Christine talks about how her own experience as a professional voice user inspired her path to become a Manual Voice Specialist/Massage Therapist
• How the whole body needs to be taken into consideration when treating the voice
• Common issues that singers encounter
• The importance of movement and "equal load-share" explained

To learn more about Christine Schneider, visit:

www.thevisceralvoice.com

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, John's Singing School, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks with voice teacher Jeremy Ryan Mossman about our body's "fascia" and how it relates to our singing. 

Episode Highlights:

• What is fascia?
• How fascia actually can make adjustments both subconsciously and consciously
• How to really listen to your body
• "Turning your voice off" to fast-track sensation of the singing process 

To learn more about Jeremy, visit "Singing with JMoss" on FaceBook, and click this link to find out more about his next workshop: "Why We're Made of Gummy Worms and How that Will Help Your Jaw Tension."  Click here and use coupon code "JHEN" to get 1/3 off.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, John's Singing School, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks with top professional session singer Suzanne Waters about how she is able to balance contemporary and classical vocal styles of session work.

Episode Highlights: 

• Suzanne talks about how she got her start in the music business
• The importance of paying your dues
• Warming up to get into "the zone" for a specific genre 
• Each genre of singing has its challenges

To learn more about Suzanne Waters, visit:

suzannewaters.com 

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, John's Singing School, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks about managing your time and the choices you will have to make regarding your singing career to be able to reach your goals efficiently.

Episode Highlights: 

• Time is finite
• We need to make choices in our singing careers, and all of the options can be overwhelming
• Cross-over success - is it possible?
• Reality and fantasy and how to let go of certain things to start being efficient and clear about your goals

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, John's Singing School, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks about vocal tip trends in social media and the risks of using these tips without foundation in vocal technique fundamentals. 

Episode Highlights: 

• Navigating vocal tips on social media
• The shout mechanism and the risk of "over-muscling" in a higher pitch
• Resonances explained
• Vowel modification and vowel tuning and the difference between the two

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, John's Singing School, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks with arranger, vocal percussionist, and author Rob Dietz about his latest book, "A Cappella 101," and how vocal techniques and an understanding of how your voice works will help singers develop their voices.

Episode Highlights:

• Rob talks about his experience and how it inspired his latest book
• Vocal drumming explained
• How understanding formants and vowels will help you create contrast in textures and tone
• The importance of groove, feel, and articulation       

To learn more about Rob Dietz, visit:

robdietzmusic.com

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, John’s Singing School, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks about how trying to keep up with the information coming at us in a continually speeding up world can be overwhelming and distract us from truly connecting with our voices and creativity.

Episode Highlights: 

• We are in a modern world where it is constantly speeding up, and the rate at which we are navigating all of this fast information affects us all 
• Slowness nurtures attention, and how speed shatters it
• How slowing down while you practice your singing can bring together mind-body awareness 
• Distractions are everywhere, and how to get clarity and focus in your vocal study and open up creativity

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, John’s Singing School, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks about how concepts and judgment can hold us back from truly experiencing our voices and that learning to let go and embrace being in the moment will enhance our singing and our performance.

Episode Highlights:

• What are you truly experiencing when you are singing?
• How labeling or trying to define moments can take you away from the actual experience
• How to bring more of "being in the moment" into your vocal practice and performance
• Letting go of pre-conceptions 

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, John's Singing School, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks with world-renowned guitarist and author Jeffrey Lee Campbell about his experiences touring with Sting, among others, and his journey as a professional musician.

Episode Highlights:

• Jeffrey talks about his passion for music and how his feelings of "music or bust" drove his career
• How touring as a musician is both amazing and, at times, overwhelming
• Not every musician is cut out to be a performer on tour  
• What it takes to be a musician at the professional level

To learn more about Jeffrey Lee Campbell, visit:

jeffreyleecampbell.com

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, John's Singing School, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks about how humility and accepting the twists and turns in life and our singing journeys will help us to grow and experience more. 

Episode Highlights:

• There are times in life when circumstances force you to be humble
• Resistance to reality can hold you back
• Success is not a straight line and sometimes not what you think it will be
• Openness and flexibility can lead you to new opportunities 

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, John’s Singing School, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks about the fear of criticism and how to re-adjust your mindset to be able to put yourself out there to share your knowledge and talents.

Episode Highlights:

• How the fear of criticism holds people back from sharing their knowledge 
• Understanding how social media can feed off of negativity and how to navigate through this to use the platforms in a positive way
• How to appreciate your own unique gifts
• Not all criticism is bad  

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, John's Singing School, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks with Kerrie Obert, a Speech-Language Pathologist, singing voice specialist, and voice teacher, about endoscopies and the insights about the voice she has found. 

Episode Highlights:

• Kerrie talks about her journey in developing a deeper understanding of the voice through her experience with endoscopies
• Vocal folds are only part of the equation when making sound
• The pharynx and pharyngeal walls explained
•  Why diagnostic terms are complex

To learn more about Kerrie Obert, and her new book, go to: getvocal-now.com

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, John's Singing School, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks about mindset around major vocal breakthroughs and how arriving at our "big" goals is a good thing, but only focusing on big wins can cloud our daily awareness with "small wins" and the important steps we take daily in our vocal growth. 

Episode Highlights:

• How breakthroughs can lead to a feeling of plateau 
• How being present in the moment with your voice "as it is today" can better your results overall 
• Not all breakthroughs are monumental, and how micro-breakthroughs are just as important
• Deliberate practice explained

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks with Jeff Alani Stanfill, an accomplished vocal coach, and singer, about how weight loss can affect someone's singing voice. 

Episode Highlights:

• Jeff talks about his musical journey and how his health played a part in his decisions around weight loss
• John and Jeff share similar experiences of how, as they began to lose a certain amount of weight, they noticed changes in their voices
• After weight loss, compression of the vocal cords and alignment of breathing support can change due to the physical changes in the body
• The importance of continuing to work on your voice as you go through physical changes, either due to life stages or weight loss

To learn more about Jeff Alani Stanfill, visit:

voicesoaring.com

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

Episode Highlights:

• Dialing down the difficulty level to isolate and focus on core elements of singing can reinforce good habits
• Breaking down "Air, Cord, and Vowel"
• Journalling and how it can help you tap into more awareness of your voice
• Something even as simple as a "hum" can isolate imbalances

To learn more about John Henny, his best selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

Episode Highlights:

• The importance of fundamental techniques
• High-level concepts can be distracting
• Steps a new singer can take to prepare for high-level concepts
• Reading about the voice and techniques is good, but singing is better

To learn more about John Henny, his best selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

Episode Highlights: 

• Time is fleeting, and there is no better time than now to embrace your vocal instrument and start working towards your goals
• Coming to terms with who you are and where your voice is right now
• Who can help you reach your goals? And what habits can you change or acquire to help you develop?
• How to shift your mindset to understand that the reward is not the destination but the journey

To learn more about John Henny, his best selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

Episode Highlights:

• Aliki's inspiration and path to singing with distortion
• The different ways you can introduce distortion into the voice
• Do languages and voice types affect how easily you can find distortion?
• Guidelines for how to approach singing with distortion safely  

To learn more about Aliki Katriou, visit: www.aliki.katriou.com

To learn more about John Henny, his best selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

Episode Highlights:

• The signs that you are hitting the wall, either physically or mentally
• The voice is an instrument where a positive mindset is as important as mastering vocal technique
• How to figure ways in a busy life to re-charge mentally 
• What to watch for in your voice if, physically, you need to rest it

To learn more about John Henny, his best selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks about what is meant by singing with an "open throat" and how to approach this vocal technique with balance in mind.

Episode Highlights: 

• How to tell if you are using excess muscle
•  There is a balance to having an open throat
•  How to gain awareness of your resonant spaces
• How tongue placement can help boost resonance

To learn more about John Henny, his best selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks about how singing is not just about mastering vocal techniques but also about mastering our mindset.

Episode Highlights:

• There is more to singing than just "cause and effect"
• How overthinking about technique or a bad experience in the past can get in the way of your singing today
• Isolating exercises and how they can help you "let go" in your singing
• How meditation and reflection can help you look at your singing objectively and without harsh judgment 

To learn more about John Henny, his best selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

Episode Highlights:

• Create a schedule for your practice - it can be a ritual 
• How long should you practice?
• The importance of creating a good practice space and tools that can help you
• Getting your mind clear and relaxed for good singing 

To learn more about John Henny, his best selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks about how vocal imbalances can creep into our singing and how we sometimes have to dig a little deeper to find these imbalances to be then able to correct them. 

Episode Highlights:

• Maintaining balance in singing is a constant practice
• More advanced singers can sometimes discover imbalances after time off, introducing new styles of musical material or illness
• Subtle imbalances can lay below our awareness
• Get some outside ears listening to your voice - Even having a diagnostic check-up once in a while can help you find imbalances before they snowball into a more significant vocal issue

To learn more about John Henny, his best selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

 Episode highlights:

• What is vocal distortion, and can it be done safely?
• Everyone is capable of creating distortion - when and why you would use this sound 
• What is false fold/cord distortion?
• What is "fry scream?"

To learn more about Matthew Johnson, visit:

elitesinger.com

To learn more about John Henny, his best selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

Episode highlights:

• What is relaxed breathing?
• How the muscles work together to create a "good" balance of engagement for singing
• When too much tension or clenching in the stomach muscles can cause tension in the vocal cords
• Expansion explained

To learn more about John Henny, his best selling books, courses, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit:

johnhenny.com

• Breaking down core concepts for singers
• Voice science for the vocal student 
• Everyone can be a singer and how to value your voice
• Technique can be the "key pathway."

• How to be in the moment without judgment when you sing
• Are you overthinking?
• Fear, anticipation, and tension and how it gets in the way
• Navigating comparison and perfectionism

If you would like to learn more about John Henny, his best selling books, courses, Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, and John's Singing School, visit: johnhenny.com

Episode highlights:

• What is support?
• How connection is the key
• How to recognize if you are grabbing or forcing the sound 
• Warming up your voice is more like "re-awakening" your nervous system to an optimal singing condition 

To learn more about Daniel Formica, visit:  yourvocalteacher.com

Daniel Formica YouTube Link

• Navigating the waves of the "starts" and "stops" as a performer during this time
• Stay connected to "why" you love music and "why" you sing
• Take this time to find something in your singing or your education that you can take to the next level
• Don't be afraid to learn from many avenues 

johnhenny.com

Episode highlights:

• The mucus membrane on the vocal folds and how aging and environment affect it 
• Humidity, hormones and medications, and the voice
• How much water should we drink?
• The difference between superficial hydration and systemic hydration

To learn more about John Henny and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: johnhenny.com

In this episode, John talks with Dr. H. Steven Sims, director at the Chicago Institute for Voice Care, University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System, about overall vocal health.

Episode highlights:

• Lifestyle choices and how they can affect your voice
• Acid reflux - when and what you eat matters
• Hormones and age and how they relate to the voice  
• Supplements that can support the voice  

To learn more about Dr. H. Steven Sims visit:

chicagovoicecare.com

In this episode, John talks with Grammy award-winning producer and arranger Ben Bram (Pentatonix, Pitch Perfect, Glee, A Cappella Academy) about how a cappella can "up" your singing game. Episode Highlights:

• Ben talks about his musical journey
• How to get started "arranging" and layering your own voice 
• Understanding the musical "rules" of different genres will help you, along with developing your ear and your vocal instincts
• Vowel sounds and how they play into the arrangement of songs

To learn more about Ben Bram and his A Cappella Academy program, visit: acappellacademy.org

• What "twang" is and the misconceptions around it
• The tongue and its role in producing brightness in the sound
• Finding exercises to find new ways to use the tongue to adjust your sound
• Vibrato and the balance of tension in the tongue and larynx 

Show Notes In this episode, John talks about when to put the books, podcasts, and study down to take that knowledge you have learned and utilize it to understand your voice better.

• Science is not perfect, and knowledge is ever-growing
• Simplifying the science of resonance and pitch is not that simple 
• Knowledge is great, but singing is better - putting it all together
• Take time to experience your voice without judgment 

• Mistakes happen, and they happen to me! 
• If mistakes happen, it may be telling you something in your process that needs attention or adjusting
• How to come back from mistakes and negative self-criticism in your singing
• Where are your "leaks?"   

In this episode, John talks with Jeff Alani Stanfill about his vocal journey and how to let your own voice soar.

Episode Highlights:

• The inspiration behind Jeff's Let Your Voice Soar audio course and his journey to find the right vocal coach
• How adjusting vowels and "space" can help a singer to reach higher notes and smooth transitions through bridges
• Jeff talks about his relationship with David Phelps and developing a master class
• Finding your own original sound

To find out more about Jeff and his courses, visit: https://voicesoaring.com

In this episode, John talks with Chris Liepe about exploring your voice, the importance of expression and experiencing your voice freely.

2:40 - Chris talks about what inspired his musical path and teaching style 8:24 - The importance of expression 16:12 - Be willing to fail - it will lead to success 23:06 - Learning vs experiencing

To learn more about Chris Liepe visit: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/chrisliepe/featured Website: https://chrisliepe.com

In this episode, John talks with Tracee Theisen-Henny about setting goals, accountability, and how to break through overwhelm to be a "productive creative."

Episode Highlights:

• The new year can be stressful with setting goals and resolutions for the creative mind
• Making accountability positive
• The “now,” “next,” and “necessary” list
• Celebrating the gain over the gap
• Organize and edit to keep moving forward

Contact Tracee at [email protected]

Why is it easier for some of us to sing while others struggle?

Genetics may be part of the answer.

In this episode, John talks with voice teacher Julie Miles about her work with the genetics company, 23 and Me.

Among the topics covered are:

• Is there a pitch matching gene?
• Why do some of us hesitate to sing for others?
• Nature vs nurture in singing
• Tone deafness

A focused, detailed analysis of our voice is a great way to find areas of weakness. This can help us know what to work on in practice sessions.

In this episode, John discusses how recording and analyzing small parts of music over and over can help us refine our singing to higher levels.

In this episode, John talks about the biggest misconceptions about vocal technique.

Show Highlights:

2:06 - The first myth; technique is the highest level of singing 4:38 - Does technique inhibit artistry? 6:51 - Vocal lessons to study technique can be a shortcut to getting to a higher level of singing 16:35 - Keep the joy of singing and let technique be a tool

In this episode, John talks with internationally recognized voice teacher and mentor Chris Johnson about the importance of articulation in singing.

Episode Highlights: 3:20 - How different sounds can become troublesome for a singer 7:50 - What is co-articulation? 16:10 - Consonants can be our rhythm makers in singing 24:30 - Tongue placement and how it can change vocal acoustics

To learn more about Chris Johnson, visit: www.teachvoice.com or https://www.chrisjohnsonvocalcoach.com

In this episode, John talks about exploring your musical mind and how expanding your imagination can support your creativity and help you be a better singer.

3:08 - Get curious about the music you listen to 4:25 - Texture in sound 12:38 - Listening to the colours of the voice 15:38 - Let your mind "play" and spend time in your imagination and your own creativity

In this episode, John talks with renowned singing teacher, Karyn O'Connor, about the most effective techniques for breathing.

For more information about Karyn O'Connor visit https://www.singwise.com

Episode highlights:

2:38 - How is breathing for singing different? 10:25 -Getting back to intuitive breathing and what it is. 15:07 - "Support" explained and why we don't want to overthink it. 18:50 - The balance of feeding air to the vocal folds.

In this episode, John talks about what to consider when looking for a vocal coach or singing teacher.

It is important to research and ask questions to help you find a teacher that is the right fit for you.

Episode Highlights:

2:36 - What is a teaching sweet spot?

6:59 - Why singing is different from teaching other instruments.

10:06 - Key skills a teacher should have.

16:18 - Connection is vital.

In this episode, John discusses confident swagger and how it can help to improve your singing performance.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 1:32 - Singers are front and center, and the challenges involved 5:05 - Where to get your swagger (this may surprise you!) 8:32 - Mastering your vocal instrument 13:14 - Letting go of perfectionism

John talks with "Singing for the Self-Conscious" author, Becky Gilhespie about overcoming fear and discovering the joy of singing.

4:45 - What is Fearless Singing?

10:45 - The number one way to become fearless

13:32 - Recognizing self-sabotage

20:00 - Practice being uncomfortable

EPISODE LINKS

Becky's Website

How to Get Over Performance Nerves

In this episode, John talks with the incredibly talented songwriter and educator Shane Adams.  Shane is on the faculty of Berklee College Of Music, is a Grammy-nominated music educator, an award-winning songwriter, and lectures worldwide.  Here he breaks songwriting down to make it simple and understandable, and he encourages everyone of all ages to start songwriting.

If you want to have a career as a singer, learning the craft of songwriting is a way for you to reach and connect to a larger audience, collaborate with other musicians and make extra income.

The creative mind is often a double-edged sword: The ability to dream and create can also lead to indecision and unfulfilled goals.

Tracee Theisen-Henny helps creatives, singers, and voice teachers (including her husband, John) eliminate roadblocks and accomplish realistic goals.

In this episode, John and Tracee discuss typical challenges creatives face and some of her best tips to refocus and get things done.

EPISODE LINKS

Contact Tracee at [email protected]

In this episode, John discusses what vocal strain is and the difference between vocal intensity and strain.

As singers develop and work towards auditions and performance they have to ask for more power from their voices. It is a fine balance of "pressing in" and engagement of the vocal folds.

John explains what happens in the voice as singers create robust sounds and how to engage more intensity safely.

Straw phonation can be an excellent warm-up and can help a singer find vocal balance, but at the same time, it should be used within reason as a tool but not relied on as a crutch.

In this episode, John discusses arguments for and against using the straw and its role in a singer's vocal development.

John also explains some of the vocal science behind the straw and tips on adding it to your singing practice.

In this episode, John speaks with Dr. Reena Gupta on the challenges of singing and performing in this continued pandemic.

Dr. Reena Gupta, a specialist in Otolaryngology and the founder of the Center For Vocal Health covers topics such as navigating breakthrough Covid infections as well as Long Covid and the lingering symptoms that some singers experience after having Covid.  

EPISODE LINKS:

The Singer Summit 2021

Center for Vocal Health

"On Having No Head" by Douglas Harding is a short, concise book that shows a simple method to finding states of open awareness and flow.

This state of lowered self-awareness is perfect for creativity and musical performance.

In this episode, John discusses singing with "no head" and how to glimpse this place of openness and flow.

Long COVID is defined as symptoms lasting over 12 weeks. The lingering fatigue and respiratory issues can be devastating for the singer.

Dr. Rachel Goldenberg has extensive experience working with long COVID sufferers. In this episode, Rachel and John discuss the impact of ongoing symptoms and how to approach and manage long COVID as a singer.

EPISODE LINKS:

Dr. Rachel Glodenberg's Website

Voice teacher Philippe Hall calls emotion "the most neglected skill in singing."

Not only does emotion connect you with the listener, but it also helps support and refine your technique. 

In this episode, John and Philippe discuss his performing career, the importance emotion has played in his success, as well as Philippe's new singing course.

Episode Links:

Singing Revealed Course

Vocal acoustics is one of the most confusing yet important parts of singing.

In this episode, John gives you the essential knowledge you need to understand this crucial element of your instrument.

The world of the working musician is competitive, and the best singer does not always get the job.

You need to be a top-level professional in both skills and attitude.

James Eager is a veteran bass player in the UK music scene and the creator of ebassguitar.com, a leading music education site.

In this episode, John and James discuss working with other musicians and what band leaders are looking for when hiring singers.

There comes a period in a singer's development where the mind becomes the challenge rather than the voice.

Reaching the highest levels requires a mindset that is quite different from the beginning or intermediate singer.

In the episode, John discusses what to work and focus on as you transition to advanced levels.

Range is often the yardstick singers use to measure themselves and others.

But range alone does not a singer make.

In this episode, John is joined by voice Teacher Matt Ramsey to discuss developing vocal range, its place in the singer's skill set, and why it may not be as important as you think.

EPISODE LINKS:

Matt Ramsey Website

Both professional and amateur singers have misconceptions about singing.

From breathing to belting, misconceptions can lead singers down rocky paths.

In this episode, John discusses his top five vocal misconceptions and how you can get focused and clear about your singing.

Singing higher is usually at the top of the goal list for singers but they are often unsure how to extend their range.

Range has two primary elements, the physical and the acoustic, and both need to be balanced to create vocal freedom.

In this episode, John gives his best tips and exercises to safely and consistently reach your upper register.

Voice lessons are an essential part of improving as a singer.

However, lessons are not cheap, and you want to make sure you get the maximum benefits and results.

In this episode, John gives his best tips to increase your learning and get the most out of your voice lessons.

If you have spent any time learning to sing, you know the larynx can be incredibly difficult to control.

There's also the question of how high or low should the larynx be?

In this episode, John helps you understand the larynx and gives his tips to get better control of your singing.

Pulled chest voice is a singing condition most vocalists struggle with.

But what is the definition of pulled chest, and how do you solve the problem?

In this episode, John discusses the root issues of pulled chest and his best exercises for correcting this vocal imbalance.

As the joke goes, getting older is better than the alternative.

What should I work on? This is a question singers ask themselves each time they enter the practice room.

In this episode, John breaks down 5 essentials that all skilled singers should possess.

Eliminating vocal cracks and breaks is the #1 issue for most singers. 

In this episode, John discusses the main causes of vocal cracking and gives his best advice for smoothing out your voice throughout your full range.

Positive, focused energy is vital for good singing, but there is so much in our lives that saps this precious resource.

Social media, stress, and negative thinking are just some of the ways we sabotage our energy resources.

In this episode, John discusses how to revitalize and protect your focused energy so you can have positive practice sessions and performances.

Natalie Weiss is one of the most popular vocal coaches on YouTube. Her videos have been viewed over 30 million times.

In this episode, Natalie and John discuss how to learn pop style and vocal riffs, as well as her brand new course "Breaking Down the Riffs."

EPISODE LINKS

Breaking Down the Riffs Course

Shannon Coates is not only a brilliant educator, she is also down-to-earth, funny, and delivers high-level concepts with easy-to-understand language.

In this episode, John and Shannon discuss practical voice pedagogy and how knowledge can help singers flourish.

SHOW LINKS:

Shannon Coates' Website and Courses

One of the significant challenges of singing is that it is sensation-based, especially vocal resonance. These sensations in the human voice can be tricky as they are not easy for everyone to feel and often don’t present themselves until you are singing correctly. 

In this episode, John gives simple exercises to increase awareness of your resonators, their sympathetic vibrations, and to improve your quality of tone.

The quality of our singing is directly related to the quality of our thoughts. 

Insecurity, doubt, or hesitation can quickly derail our vocal efforts.

In this episode, John talks with celebrity voice teacher, Michael Goodrich about the science of the brain and getting the mind ready for singing.

Show Links

The Inner Singer

Great lyricists use words not just for rhyme schemes or emotional context but for musical color.

Finding the right shade and intensity level of a word will boost your singing to a new world of artistic expression.

In this episode, John discusses how to break down a song to find the right vowel shades for balance, intensity, and the highest levels of musical and emotional impact.

Jamila Ford is an experienced singer with a long list of credits, including Seal and the Coachella Festival.

Jamila brings the perspective of a successful working singer to her podcast audience (The Working Singer) and her lucky voice students.

Just as in life, music and singing will bring disappointments.

Most of these disappointments are not in our control, but that doesn't mean we can't get back on track.

In this episode, John discusses how to handle setbacks and why self-forgiveness can be a powerful step in moving forward.

Teachers and singers often struggle to fix a vocal issue because the root cause has been misdiagnosed or missed completely.

Making a proper assessment of your or a student's voice is an essential step in finding your way forward.

In this episode, John talks with Chris Johnson of the Naked Vocalist podcast on his detailed assessment method and how you can more accurately discover what's happening in the singing voice.

EPISODE LINKS: Chris' Website

It can be difficult to know what to practice, especially if you are having a bad vocal day.

In this episode, John breaks down a recent practice session and how he analyzed and corrected his vocal issues

A full, rich-sounding voice is highly sought after by singers.

But what if you find your voice to be thin or nasal?

In this episode, John explains what causes a thin tone and his best tips to make your voice fuller and richer.

Almost every creative endeavor carries the question, "am I good enough? Do I have talent?"

This feeling of not being good enough has caused many worthy voices to stumble and go quiet.

In this episode, John discusses the role of talent in singing and why your fear of not being talented enough should never stop you from expressing yourself.

Our minds can be a terrible place to live. Constant chatter, worry, and criticism are the opposite of what we need to practice and create music with our voice.

In this episode, John discusses how to calm the mind and find a state of flow to help you practice and sing at your best.

Getting stuck in chest voice or the lower register is a common problem for developing singers. Much work is devoted to lightening this part of the voice to reduce yelling and strain on higher notes.

But many singers develop a fear of their chest voice and avoid its full power for fear of overloading and straining their voice.

In this episode, John discusses the need to initially get the chest voice under control and then bring it back in for vocal richness and power.

Interruption has been the theme of this past year. The lack of performances and general uncertainties has led to many of us taking a break from our singing.

In this episode, John discusses how to carefully and properly return your voice to peak shape and performance.

Vocal tension is one of the top issues singers deal with. However, not all tension is bad. We need a certain amount of tension to produce sound.

Knowing good from bad tension is essential for singers.

In this episode, John discusses how to identify and correct tension to sing at your best.

We all have likes and dislikes; however, we need to keep our musical minds and options open. Every song is a form of art created by talented people who wish to express themselves in a unique way.

In this episode, John discusses the importance of learning from a variety of music and singers and why criticism is a negative force best avoided.

Mix singing is one of the most sought after singing skills, but there is much confusion about the topic.

In this episode, John answers your top questions about mixed voice and how to find and develop your mix.

Although most people are uncomfortable listening to their recorded voice, singers need to constantly listen to and analyze their singing.

In this episode, John discusses how to incorporate self-recordings into your practice and how to analyze the results for continuous improvement.

There is only so much we can read and study about a physical skill. At some point, you need to establish the sensations and balances in your nervous system and awareness.

In this episode, John discusses the need to experience singing and performance at higher and higher skill levels and establish a path of continuous improvement.

Change is inevitable but rarely easy. In our current turbulent times, change is accelerating at a breakneck and often frightening pace.

In this episode, John discusses how change can be positive and how to start creating future singing success.

In Part II of John's interview with Steve Giles and Chris Johnson of the Naked Vocalist Podcast, they discuss the ultimate question: "What's the secret of singing?"

Steve Giles and Chris Johnson of the Naked Vocalist Podcast are two of the world's leading contemporary voice teachers.

In Part I of a two-part interview, John talks with Steve and Chris about what they currently find most exciting in the world of voice and how to have successful online lessons.

Episode Links:

The Naked Vocalist Website

The pandemic has allowed some industries to thrive while nearly wiping out others.

Performance has been hit especially hard, creating a long struggle for singers.

In this episode, John talks with performance anxiety coach and mental health professional, Ingela Onstad.

Ingela discusses the stresses singers have been dealing with and how to stay focused, motivated, and ready to hit the stage when performance opens up again.

EPISODE LINKS:

Ingela's Website

As you progress in your singing, you will likely start to interact with better musicians.

Higher-level musicians will listen to and interact with you differently than novice players. At the same time, you will need to respond to these musicians on a deeper level.

In this episode, John discusses how to listen and respond to great players and suggests two classic recordings to help develop your listening skills.

Our current world has many of us retreating to us vs. them, binary thinking. This attitude can creep into our views of singing and technique, which can blind us to other helpful methods and views.

In this episode, John explores the problems of binary thinking and why the ideas of "one true technique" are misguided and harmful for singers.

Kristian Lavercombe has starred in major productions from Urinetown to Jesus Christ Superstar, but he is best known for playing Riff Raff in the Rocky Horror Show. Kristian holds the world record at over eighteen hundred performances.

In this episode, John and Kristian discuss his successful career and his best advice for singers looking to work in musical theatre. Plus, Kristian tells the best opening night story ever!

EPISODE LINKS

Kristian's Website

Vocal technique is a vital skill, but it can also become a trap, leaving singers frustrated and less connected with their performances.

In this episode, John discusses getting beyond technique to the highest level of singing - selfless communication and connection.

You can have all the vocal technique in the world, but if you can't conquer your mental fears and roadblocks, you will struggle to perform at your best.

Becky Gilhespie, a leading voice teacher in London, and now Australia, has published a new book, Singing for the Self-Conscious, to help singers breakthrough their mental hurdles.

In this episode, John and Becky discuss the everyday mental struggles singers face and the steps to breakthrough to confident singing.

EPISODE LINKS:

Becky's Website

The current challenges we face have been incredibly disruptive for musicians and creatives. Projects, goals, and livelihoods have been displaced, creating untold amounts of stress and worries of the future.

In this episode, John discusses how to navigate these difficult times and how a cable TV show about restoring cabins has helped him find a positive mental space.

Singing is full of little interrupters, changes in pitch, vowels, or consonants that can throw you off balance and into vocal tension.

By utilizing legato to smooth out your singing, you can diminish these interruptions and stay locked-in to your vocal sweet spots.

In this episode, John discusses legato and how to practice and employ this concept in your own singing.

EPISODE LINKS

Beginning Singing Book

Video Breakdown of Floor Jansen

No matter your level of experience, it's always a good idea to revisit the fundamentals.

In this episode, John discusses his brand new book, Beginning Singing, and his approach to the fundamentals for beginners as well as advanced singers.

EPISODE LINKS

Beginning Singing Book

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.

The global pandemic has stopped all live performance and in-person lessons for the time being.

How soon can we get back to singing with and for others in a communal setting? Unfortunately, for singers, the news is not encouraging.

In this episode, John discusses the latest information regarding COVID-19 and singing and the realities of moving forward as vocal performers.

EPISODE LINKS: NATS Chat - What Do Science and Data Say About the Near-Term Future of Singing?

The voice is a difficult instrument to control. One of the main ways we interact with our voice is through sensation. However, the sensations of singing are often misleading and can differ from singer to singer.

In this episode, John discusses how to catalog the varying sensations of singing to help improve consistency and confidence.

Some argue that great performances should never be analyzed, but rather, only enjoyed.

While no musician would take this argument seriously, we still need to remember not to lose the joy of listening.

In this episode, John discusses how to practice both types of listening, to grow your skills as a musician as well as a communicator of emotion.

Dr. Reena Gupta is one of the premier ear, nose, and throat doctors in Los Angeles. Dr. Gupta is the "go-to" specialist for A-list professional voice users.

In this episode, John and Dr. Gupta discuss vocal health during the current pandemic, the importance of science and knowledge for the singer, and her upcoming Voice Forum conference, which will give singers virtual access to the world's leading voice specialists.

Sidonie Smith is a leading musical theatre star in Europe. Sidonie not only has a fantastic work ethic, but she also specializes in helping singers with mindset coaching.

In this episode, John talks with Sidonie about her journey to musical theatre success and how singers can keep their voices and minds in top shape while dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic and shutdown.

EPISODE LINKS

Sidonie's Instagram

Our schedules and habits are a bit out of whack these days. Amid quarantine and confusion, our practice sessions can take a backseat.

Consistency is vital in vocal development, and short practice sessions of just a few minutes can still be effective.

In this episode, John discusses how to utilize and structure micro practice sessions to help you stay on the path of improvement.

Daniel Formica has 25 years of experience singing with some of the top show and corporate bands in the US. Daniel has to be vocally ready to sing a wide variety of material, including Journey and Whitesnake.

Daniel's vocal skills are the result of study and hard work.

In this episode, Daniel shares with John what it takes to reach your vocal potential, as well as the insights he has gained from studying with some of the world's top voice teachers.

EPISODE LINKS:

Daniel's Website

Daniel's YouTube Channel

Stability is something that's missing in all our lives right now, but we can still find stability in our voice.

Having a stable voice across your range is not the product of one aspect of singing, but a blending of optimal balance in breath, phonation, and resonance.

In this episode, John discusses how all parts of the voice need to come together to create the ultimate singing goal of rock-solid stability

Singers tend to focus on the money notes, the big, high notes usually found in the chorus of a song.

But there is a world of musical expression to be found in the verses. Although the verse tends to be lower and less vocally exciting, there is much of a song's story to be found there.

In this episode, John discusses how to inject more color and musical contrast into the verse of a song, to help your performances reach new artistic heights.

Phonation is the act of creating sound waves from the vocal folds. While we phonate naturally in speech, singing requires a higher level of awareness and control.

In this episode, John discusses the three main types of phonation and the elements you need to be aware of for healthy singing.

We often like to think of our musical heroes as being more than human, imbued with supernatural talent.

This belief is unfair to both our heroes and ourselves, as it ignores a great deal of the hard work and constant learning all singers and musicians must go through.

In this episode, John discusses the myth of pure talent and why education and practice is a vital part of the process.

No matter where you live, you have likely heard Gerald White sing. Gerald is a first-call session singer in Los Angeles, whose voice has appeared on numerous TV shows and major motion pictures.

Gerald is also a highly skilled voice teacher, and sight-singing instructor.

In this episode, Gerald discusses the demanding world of session work and how he keeps his voice in top shape.

EPISODE LINKS

Gerald's Website

Sight Singing Online Course

It's the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, and social distancing has already begun in earnest.

In this episode, John discusses online voice lessons and how to get the most from your remote study.

Sam Johnson is a leading online voice teacher whose YouTube Videos have garnered tens of millions of views.

John talks with Sam about his journey to teaching voice, the current state of pop singing, the role of voice science in his teaching, and much more.

EPISODE LINKS:

Sam's Website

Sam's YouTube Channel

We spend so much time depressed about the past or anxious about the future that we often miss the miracle of the present.

Every moment you get to spend with your voice should be treasured and experienced fully.

In this episode, John discusses the mindset of gratitude and awareness that will bring a new sense of joy to your singing and practicing.

When you get serious about singing, it's not uncommon to go through periods of feeling like you are getting worse instead of improving.

The path of learning to sing is not a straight one, and we often need to take detours that can lead to frustration.

In this episode, John discusses why we may need to take a step back in our singing before we get better, but also how not to get stuck there.

Body acceptance is a growing trend, freeing us from attempting to fit into narrowly defined concepts of attractiveness.

Yet this often doesn't happen with the voice. Singers struggle to make their voice some it's not, often to frustrating results.

In this episode, John discusses the concept of vocal acceptance, and why your natural voice is more than good enough.

We speak much more than we sing, yet while we work to have a dynamic singing voice, we can often neglect these qualities in our speech.

By utilizing the concepts of music in speech, we can be more convincing and exciting to our listeners.

In this episode, John discusses the elements of great speakers and how you can develop these qualities in your voice.

"The results a person obtains are inversely proportionate to the degree to which he is intimidated." - Robert Ringer

Being a singer is to face constant intimidation, real or imagined.

The fear of criticism or the idea you need to wait until it's your turn can stymie and choke your goals and progress.

In this episode, John discusses why you shouldn't be intimated by anyone or anything and how to push through on your singing journey.

Brute force learning is a concept taken from computing. The idea is to approach a problem or area of learning from multiple angles.

With singing, it can be highly beneficial to get a wide array of sources to increase your understanding and skill.

In this episode, John discusses how brute force learning has helped him and why it might very well work for you.

The poet, David Whyte, has a beautiful poem entitled, The Bell and the Blackbird. The verse speaks of the pull to deep inner work and the contrasting pull to take our wares to the outside world.

This contrast is a constant pull for the artist - how much more do I need to practice? Am I ready to perform for others?

In this episode, John discusses the importance of finding this balance to grow as an artist and singer.

Belting is the high-wire act of singing. To vocalize intense high notes while not falling into vocal stress and shouting requires a precise balancing of resonances.

In this episode, John discusses the acoustic aspect of belting, to help you better navigate this sought after vocal skill.

Mindy Pack is a leading celebrity voice teacher who is steeped in the latest voice science.

In this episode, Mindy gives her best advice for staying healthy on the road, as well as her approach to straw-based phonation.

EPISODE LINKS:

Mindy's Website

Voice Straw

2019 was a year of explosive growth for The Intelligent Vocalist. The monthly downloads have tripled in just the past 12 months alone.

John looks back at this past year and recaps the ten most popular episodes.

Singing in tune is an essential skill for singers (autotune aside). 

If you struggle with pitch, you may think you are tone deaf (don't worry, it's very rare), but you may be a bit tone shy.

In this episode, John discusses effective ways to build your ear and the ability to match pitch and sing in tune.

We all want pure emotion in singing, but we also need to control and analyze our instrument to effectively deliver this emotion. How do we find a balance?

In this episode, John once again welcomes Laurel Irene and David Harris of Voice Science Works to discuss how they fuse the mind and heart, as well as their upcoming NEO Voice Festival, which brilliantly combines the two with singers from all over the world.

EPISODE LINKS:

NEO Voice Festival

Voice Science Works

Mix singing is a key way to move smoothly through your vocal range. However, this skill is often misunderstood and tricky to develop.

In this episode, John discusses some of the common problems singers have when developing their mix and ways you can break through to a seamless voice.

Resonance is the essential "polish" of your voice. Balanced resonance will make your voice shine and sparkle.

Resonance is also crucial in balancing and blending through your vocal registers. 

In this episode, John discusses how to find and enhance your awareness and control of essential resonance, helping you to find your best voice.

EPISODE LINKS:

Chadley Ballantyne

Without a clear vision of why we sing and where we want to go, it can be all too easy to wander off the path of daily vocal improvement.

In this episode, John discusses how clarity can help you find a laser focus to take you to your vocal goals.

Singing is a mental game, and we need to keep our minds as positive and focused as possible.

Yet there are common traps singers often find themselves falling into - traps that can sap our confidence and growth.

In this episode, John covers five of the most common traps he sees in singers and how to reframe and regain a positive mental outlook.

The vocal break is what keeps voice teachers in business, and you can find plenty of advice on how to smooth out the break.

But what do you do when nothing seems to work?

In this episode, John discusses how to approach this problematic vocal area and gives some tips on how to patiently eliminate cracking and straining.

As we approach a new year (and decade), we tend to have a period of new beginnings, with resolutions and promises of doing and being better.

But rather than wait for a new year, we can begin again, moment to moment, continually renewing our promise and purpose. This works particularly well for singers, as it is all too easy to drag baggage from the past into each practice session and performance.

In this episode, John discusses the benefits of this renewing mindset and how to apply it to your voice.

Nikki Loney is a well-regarded vocal educator who specializes in teaching young children.

In this episode, John and Nikki discuss the debate around children and voice lessons and how to best help your child discover the joy of singing.

EPISODE LINKS:

The Full Voice Website

Singers often want to sing in a breathy style - but it is usually done in a way that weakens their vocal performance.

What singers often miss is the variety of texture and intensity great singers use when sounding breathy.

In this episode, John discusses how and when to sing breathy for maximum musical effect.

Being a working musical theatre actor is not just the bright lights of Broadway. There is opportunity working in touring and regional companies in the US and all over the world.

Alexander Mendoza has a flourishing career touring the world in musical theatre.

In this episode, John and Alex discuss his vocal journey and the demands of singing at a very high level.

Learning to sing is an evolving process, and you will need to change your approach as you improve.

Exercises to help with common beginner problems can get you "stuck" if you continue with them too long.

In this episode, John discusses two of the most common "helpful" exercises that can become a hindrance for singers.

Putting yourself out there is an essential step for a singer.

Getting your music heard by other than friends or family can give you invaluable feedback from which to improve.

But the troll culture is out there, waiting to derail you. And it's only getting worse.

In this episode, John discusses his recent experiences with online trolls, and why you need to prepare to handle this often vicious criticism mentally, so you can get out there and SING!

We are often encouraged to stay positive - think positive thoughts! But can negative thoughts help us with our singing?

Negative reframing is a powerful psychological tool that can help break us out of complacency and setbacks.

In this episode, John discusses how to use negative reframing to give yourself a mental boost and to stay energetically moving forward on your vocal path.

We all love comparisons - top ten best and worst lists are consistently reliable clickbait.

We also love to categorize and compare singers - including ourselves. But the comparison game often leads to frustration loss of motivation.

In this episode, John discusses why comparing ourselves to others is often a losing proposition and why you need to compete with only one person - yourself.

A great voice is the product of great thoughts. The delicate balances of singing require precise thoughts to control the many muscles involved in the process.

In this episode, John discusses the importance of a clear, focused mind, and how to approach thought in your practice and performance.

It takes work and dedication to learn to mix and blend through the vocal break. It also requires a period of being very careful to establish the new balanced in the voice.

The problem is when the singer gets stuck in this particular place, afraid to sing more openly and robustly.

In this episode, John discusses this issue and why you need to get out of this overly careful approach once it has done its job.

"Research your own experience. Absorb what is useful, reject what is useless, add what is essentially your own." - Bruce Lee

Bruce Lee's quest to fuse the martial arts in his way still inspires. His philosophies are also applicable to the art of singing.

In this episode, John discusses how to adapt and apply Lee's approach to find your technique and artistry.

EPISODE LINKS:

Voice Teacher Influencer book

Science and Saucery podcast

Voice Teacher Reacts YouTube video

Boldly Belting course

The tongue is a critical part of good, balanced singing, but our awareness can often be lacking.

In this episode, John discusses why tongue placement helps with registration and balance, and how to control the tongue when belting high, strong notes.

EPISODE LINKS

Boldly Belting