Building a home studio doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming. In this episode, we break down the essential gear, software, and room setup tips to help musicians, songwriters, and producers create professional recordings right from home.

Do you really need a music or audio degree to make it in the industry—or can you just jump right in? John Kimbrough and Trent Harrison share how their very different paths shaped their careers, from formal schooling and scholarships to self-teaching, internships, and real-world trial by fire. Packed with stories, lessons, and straight talk, this episode helps you figure out which path might be right for you.

In Part 2 of our conversation on the music-making journey, we dive into what happens after the final master. You’ve poured your soul into the song—now what? In this episode, John and Trent break down the modern landscape of music distribution in 2025, exploring how to release your music effectively in a post-CD world.

We unpack the pros and cons of platforms like DistroKid and CD Baby, discuss how physical media like CDs and vinyl still have a role (yes, really), and outline why a solid release strategy matters more than ever. We also explore the “waterfall method,” smart social media tactics, the value of good mastering, and how to get your music on playlists.

Whether you’re a DIY artist ready to share your first single or a seasoned musician looking to adapt to today’s fast-moving industry, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you get your music heard.

Welcome back to Audio Path! In this episode, we dive into the first half of what it takes to bring a song to life—from rough idea to polished track—before it ever hits streaming platforms.

We walk through the real-world steps of recording: scratch tracks, studio sessions, editing, mixing, and mastering. Whether you're flying solo or working with a band, we share actionable advice, hard-earned insights, and some funny horror stories to help you better understand the full recording journey.

Whether you’re new to recording or knee-deep in your next project, you’ll walk away with clear next steps and maybe even a little inspiration to level up your craft.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we get into the release process.

Welcome to the very first episode of Audio Path! We’re taking a real-world look at what it means to make a living in music—far from the major industry hubs. In this kickoff episode, we introduce ourselves and share how this podcast came to be.

We also dive into what it's like stepping into a professional recording studio or performing live on stage for the first time. From preparation and performance tips to studio etiquette, gear checklists, and the importance of hydration and metronomes—we cover it all from our own experiences behind the board and on the road.

You’ll also hear what we’re currently working on, from video translation projects to mastering a new genre-blending EP.

This is Audio Path—where the hustle is real, and the passion runs deep.