#liveandcreate

Ashira is a genre-blending collective merging alternative rock, dark pop, electronic production, and hip hop into a cinematic, emotionally charged sound. Inspired by the intensity of Linkin Park, Poppy, Praise the Fallen, and Evanescence, the group combines heavy rock textures, atmospheric melodies, modern production, and powerful vocals. Vancouver Island artist Kotarah brings a dark, emotionally driven vocal edge, while Charlotte-based Omega Sparx delivers raw hip-hop energy and aggressive, commanding vocals backed by more than 15 years of sync experience. Producer Adrian Tailor brings his rock and classical background to the group, using his production and arrangement skills to weave complex musical ideas into cohesive, dynamic compositions. Together, Ashira creates music that feels visceral, cinematic, and unapologetically powerful.

 Summary

In this episode, Omega Sparx, Kotarah, and Adrian Tailor share insights into their collaborative process, the importance of communication, and how working together enhances their creativity. They discuss the journey of blending genres, overcoming imposter syndrome, and navigating the sync licensing world. In this episode, Adrian Tailor, Kotarah, and Omega Sparx share their insights on creative process, maintaining wellness, and leveraging AI and systems to build sustainable music careers. They discuss practical strategies for artists to stay inspired, automate workflows, and grow their presence in the sync licensing industry.

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Welcome to the #liveandcreate podcast, hosted by Miguel Antonio, singer-songwriter, speaker and Lead Vocalist of the band Run With It . In this podcast, Miguel engages in meaningful conversations with artists and entrepreneurs, delving into the essence of living a great life and creating great things.

Our discussions revolve around the personal stories and inspirations of our guests, touching on practical aspects of both business and artistic creation. These conversations evolve into philosophical explorations, encompassing the art of life, music, and the pursuit of a better world.

To be a guest on the show email ⁠⁠[email protected]

To check out Miguel's band Run With It as they release one new song every month

⁠https://runwithitband.net⁠

 live and create, #liveandcreate, music podcast, entertainment industry podcast, sync licensing

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 keywords

music collaboration, sync licensing, creative process, genre blending, artist growth, music production, community, music industry, songwriting, collaboration tips music production, sync licensing, creative process, artist wellness, automation, social media, music career, AI in music, content creation, artist tips

KATZROAR is a Los Angeles-based psychedelic rock project led by Kat Avila. A self-proclaimed witch and muse, she uses ethereal vocals, poetic lyrics and instrumental landscapes to cast spells for body, soul and spirit. As a completely independent artist, she has amassed over 28 million streams and opened for and toured with artists such as Christian Kuria, BALTHVS, and Kerala Dust on the east and West Coasts. 

Summary

In this conversation, Kat shares her journey through the music industry, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, community, and spiritual connection in creating meaningful art. Together, we explore the evolving landscape of streaming, live performance, and sync licensing, along with how artists can build sustainable careers while staying true to themselves. Kat also dives into the transformative power of music as both a healing practice and a spiritual experience, offering thoughtful takeaways on creativity, connection, and purpose in today’s industry.

Connect with Kat here:

https://www.dothekatzroar.com/

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Welcome to the #liveandcreate podcast, hosted by Miguel Antonio, singer-songwriter, speaker and Lead Vocalist of the band Run With It . In this podcast, Miguel engages in meaningful conversations with artists and entrepreneurs, delving into the essence of living a great life and creating great things.

Our discussions revolve around the personal stories and inspirations of our guests, touching on practical aspects of both business and artistic creation. These conversations evolve into philosophical explorations, encompassing the art of life, music, and the pursuit of a better world.

To be a guest on the show email ⁠⁠[email protected]

To check out Miguel's band Run With It as they release one new song every month

⁠https://runwithitband.net⁠

 live and create, #liveandcreate, music podcast, entertainment industry podcast, sync licensing

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Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Recording and Live Performances

02:05 Navigating the Live Music Landscape

04:57 The Shift in Music Industry Dynamics

07:41 Streaming Success and Its Challenges

10:31 The Role of Sync Licensing in Music Careers

13:15 Understanding the Business of Music

15:57 The Spiritual Side of Music Creation

22:21 Channeling Creativity: The Role of Ego in Music

24:20 Music as Healing: The Original Medicine

27:17 The Artist as Conduit: Spirituality in Creation

32:25 Navigating the Changing Music Industry

39:08 Starting Out: Advice for New Artists

41:36 Overcoming Emotional Blocks in Creativity

46:30 Living a Great Life: Finding Your Passion

48:41 Creating Great Things: Tapping into Universal Inspiration

50:03 #liveandcreate Opening Bumper.mp4

Amani “Burt Blackarach” Smith is an award-winning music supervisor, composer, producer, DJ, and publisher whose work spans film, television, global stages, and streaming platforms, with credits including Netflix’s The Perfect Neighbor and Stamped From The Beginning, ABC’s The Wonder Years, and Nat Geo’s Genius: MLK/X. Known for his rare dual role as both music supervisor and composer, he has collaborated for over two decades with Public Enemy’s Chuck D while creating music for major networks, iconic brands, and projects with filmmakers like Mara Brock Akil, Ryan Murphy, and Brian Grazer. Carrying forward his family’s legacy through Salamani Music, Burt continues to innovate with his Airbnb experience Be A DJ For A Day, and his one-man show UnShazamable, bridging generations through music, storytelling, and culture.

Summary:

In this insightful interview, Burt Blackarach shares his journey through the music industry, emphasizing the importance of finishing and presenting work, building relationships, and managing mental health. Discover practical advice on sync licensing, artist development, and maintaining happiness while pursuing a creative career.

Connect with Burt here:

https://www.instagram.com/djburtblackarach/

Check out Be A DJ for a Day Here:

https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/67342

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Welcome to the #liveandcreate podcast, hosted by Miguel Antonio, singer-songwriter, speaker and Lead Vocalist of the band Run With It . In this podcast, Miguel engages in meaningful conversations with artists and entrepreneurs, delving into the essence of living a great life and creating great things.

Our discussions revolve around the personal stories and inspirations of our guests, touching on practical aspects of both business and artistic creation. These conversations evolve into philosophical explorations, encompassing the art of life, music, and the pursuit of a better world.

To be a guest on the show email ⁠⁠[email protected]

To check out Miguel's band Run With It as they release one new song every month

⁠https://runwithitband.net⁠

 live and create, #liveandcreate, music podcast, entertainment industry podcast, sync licensing

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Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Recording and Candor

02:27 Embracing Candor in Creative Spaces

05:25 The Role of Mentorship and Encouragement

08:13 Understanding Your Worth in the Industry

10:52 Navigating Feedback and Artistic Confidence

13:56 The Journey into Sync Licensing

16:43 Artistry as a Process of Trying

19:22 Building a Career in Sync and Publishing

23:32 The Journey to Music Supervision

26:50 Navigating the Sync World

28:03 The Mental Aspect of Music Creation

31:33 Balancing Artistry and Performance

35:45 The Evolution of a One-Man Show

38:42 Mental Health in the Music Industry

47:48 Navigating Anxiety and Embracing Positivity

50:39 Facing Anxiety: A Journey of Self-Discovery

52:08 Finding Happiness in Music and Life

56:50 Defining a Great Life: Happiness in Simplicity

01:02:30 Creating Great Things: The Importance of Completion

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 keywords

music industry, sync licensing, artist development, mental health, songwriting, music production, career advice, creative process

Doctor turned musician, MAGPIE is an alt/pop artist who believes music is medicine. She writes music with the purpose of healing herself and healing others. Her first EP “Mischief” brings empowerment through heartbreak, while her new EP “Memoir” focuses on recovering from your past.

In this inspiring interview, the artist MAGPIE shares her journey from medical doctor to musician and author, overcoming lupus and societal expectations to pursue her passions.  Discover how creativity, resilience, and community support can transform lives and unlock hidden potential.

Connect with MAGPIE here:

https://www.instagram.com/magpie_melodies/

Or here:

https://www.tiktok.com/@magpie_musings

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Welcome to the #liveandcreate podcast, hosted by Miguel Antonio, singer-songwriter, speaker and Lead Vocalist of the band Run With It . In this podcast, Miguel engages in meaningful conversations with artists and entrepreneurs, delving into the essence of living a great life and creating great things.

Our discussions revolve around the personal stories and inspirations of our guests, touching on practical aspects of both business and artistic creation. These conversations evolve into philosophical explorations, encompassing the art of life, music, and the pursuit of a better world.

To be a guest on the show email ⁠⁠[email protected]

To check out Miguel's band Run With It as they release one new song every month

⁠https://runwithitband.net⁠

 live and create, #liveandcreate, music podcast, entertainment industry podcast, sync licensing, Sync Licensing 

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Chapters

00:00 Family Dynamics and Parenting Challenges

02:31 Transitioning from Medicine to Music

05:12 The Decision to Leave Medicine Behind

08:02 Writing a Memoir: Sharing Personal Struggles

10:53 The Impact of Lupus on Life and Creativity

13:21 Community and Support Through Writing

16:11 Reconnecting with Music and Songwriting

19:06 The Journey of Releasing Music

22:12 Introduction to Sync Licensing Journey

23:53 Discovering the Sync Alliance Community

25:46 Collaborative Growth and Songwriting Skills

27:23 Overcoming Personal Challenges and Building Confidence

30:22 Focus on Songwriting and Vocal Development

32:19 The Pressure of Speed in Music Creation

35:05 Finding Balance Between Perfection and Progress

38:57 Motivation and Purpose in Pursuing Dreams

40:50 Defining a Great Life and Creating Impactful Art

51:09 Closing Bumper .mp4

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 keywords

music, lupus, medical career, songwriting, creativity, community, inspiration, personal growth, sync licensing, mental health

Kemy J is an independent artist and keynote speaker known as a “Joy Booster,” using music and storytelling to inspire connection, motivation, and personal growth. A first-generation Haitian-American and international speaker, he creates uplifting, high-energy music and is actively expanding into sync licensing, bringing his sound to film, TV, and commercial opportunities.

This conversation explores the intersection of music, purpose, and personal growth through the lens of sync licensing and creative evolution. Miguel Antonio and Kemy J discuss their journeys as artists, highlighting the shift from traditional music paths to more sustainable, relationship-driven models like sync. Along the way, Kemy shares how personal tragedy, mentorship, and intentional positivity shaped his mission to create uplifting music and meaningful impact, while both artists emphasize consistency, collaboration, and aligning goals with long-term vision.

Connect with Kemy J here:

https://kemyj.com/

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Welcome to the #liveandcreate podcast, hosted by Miguel Antonio, singer-songwriter, speaker and Lead Vocalist of the band Run With It . In this podcast, Miguel engages in meaningful conversations with artists and entrepreneurs, delving into the essence of living a great life and creating great things.

Our discussions revolve around the personal stories and inspirations of our guests, touching on practical aspects of both business and artistic creation. These conversations evolve into philosophical explorations, encompassing the art of life, music, and the pursuit of a better world.

To be a guest on the show email ⁠⁠[email protected]

To check out Miguel's band Run With It

⁠https://runwithitband.net⁠

 live and create, #liveandcreate, music podcast, entertainment industry podcast, sync licensing

CHAPTERS

1. Entering the Sync World

• Sync Alliance and writing to briefs

• Fast turnaround songwriting

• Building a usable catalog

1. From Long Cycles to Fast Output

• Moving from year-long songs to monthly and 7-day tracks

• Goal of one-day turnaround

• Systems and collaboration

1. Creative Origins & Early Influences

• Poetry, freestyle rap, and early music exposure

• Finding identity beyond genre

1. Personal Turning Point

• Loss of Kemy’s father at 13

• Shift from negativity to responsibility

• “Life is not just about me”

1. Choosing Positivity & Impact

• Mentorship and support systems

• Free hugs and acts of kindness

• Creating positive impact

1. From Artist to Speaker

• First speaking opportunity at graduation

• Transition into keynote speaking

• Blending music and message

1. Social Media vs. Sustainable Careers

• Viral fame vs. long-term relationships

• Content as value vs. ego

• Sync as a long-term strategy

1. Defining Success & Goals

• Clarifying personal goals

• Fame vs. freedom

• Wealth vs. attention

1. Collaboration & Creative Trust

• Knowing strengths and communicating clearly

• Handling feedback and miscommunication

• Balancing humility with confidence

1. The Future of Music Careers

• Song-first vs. performance-first

• Content → connection → demand

• Building assets instead of chasing output

KEYWORDS

Music / Industry

• Sync licensing

• Songwriting briefs

• Catalog building

• Collaboration

• Production

• Content strategy

Personal Development

• Positivity

• Purpose

• Responsibility

• Mentorship

• Growth mindset

• Identity

Business & Strategy

• Long-term income

• Relationships

• Value creation

• Wealth vs revenue

• Sustainability

Creative Process

• Consistency

• Experimentation

• Feedback

• Authenticity

Themes

• Resilience

• Transformation

• Impact

• Community

• Alignment

 A lifelong drummer and multi-instrumentalist, Mike’s career highlights include being a top-ten Guitar Center Drum-Off finalist and performing on legendary stages like SXSW, Music Tastes Good, KROQ, and KEXP. After decades of touring and recording with diverse artists, including two-time Latin Grammy nominee Luz Rios, he now focuses on his solo project, Micro Giant, and his work as a professional sync composer. Today, he leverages his deep production experience to create premium music specifically for placement in film, television, and global advertising.  

Summary:

In this conversation, Mike Vallejo shares his journey from touring musician to music producer and sync licensing artist. He discusses the challenges and rewards of the industry, emphasizing the importance of community, feedback, and finding a clear niche. We also dive into the sync licensing world—exploring opportunities, strategy, and how artists can position themselves for placements. Mike highlights the need for strong time management, balancing personal life with creativity, and ultimately defining success on your own terms in today’s evolving music landscape.

Connect with Mike Here: 

https://www.microgiant.live

________________

Welcome to the #liveandcreate podcast, hosted by Miguel Antonio, singer-songwriter, speaker and Lead Vocalist of the band Run With It . In this podcast, Miguel engages in meaningful conversations with artists and entrepreneurs, delving into the essence of living a great life and creating great things.

Our discussions revolve around the personal stories and inspirations of our guests, touching on practical aspects of both business and artistic creation. These conversations evolve into philosophical explorations, encompassing the art of life, music, and the pursuit of a better world.

To be a guest on the show email ⁠⁠[email protected]

To check out Miguel's band Run With It

⁠https://runwithitband.net⁠

 live and create, #liveandcreate, music podcast, entertainment industry podcast, sync licensing

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Chapters

00:00 The Journey Begins: From Feedback Sessions to Touring Life

04:10 The Reality of Touring: Trials and Tribulations

07:08 The Shift to Production: Discovering New Passions

09:54 Sync Licensing: A New Frontier

12:51 Reflections on Live Performance and Future Aspirations

19:43 Building a Global Following

22:58 The Importance of Constructive Criticism

26:50 Navigating the Sync World

29:39 The Pitching Process

32:30 Learning from Rejections

34:09 Understanding Music Rights and Payouts

38:28 The Impact of Music in Media

38:57 Navigating the Music Industry

40:19 The Power of Focus and Decision-Making

42:06 The Journey of Music Creation

43:43 Finding Your Niche in Music

45:34 Mixing and Mastering Tips

50:41 Time Management for Creatives

53:36 Defining a Great Life

55:45 Creating Great Things

57:22 Closing Bumper .mp4

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Keywords

music, touring, production, sync licensing, creativity, community, feedback, indie electronic, music industry, artist life

SHORUNNA is an Eritrean producer from Seattle now based in Portland who draws heavily on the natural environment around him to shape his sound. He uses textures, space, and organic elements from nature as inspiration while composing and scoring across multiple styles.

Summary

In this conversation, Aaron and Miguel Antonio explore the intersection of music, culture, and identity. They discuss the challenges of navigating cultural heritage and language barriers, as well as the powerful role music plays in shaping and influencing young people. Aaron also shares about taking his first steps into the sync licensing world and the community supporting that journey through the Sync Alliance. Together, the conversation highlights the importance of self-expression through music and the value of cultural appreciation and understanding in today’s society.

Connect with SHORUNNA 

https://www.instagram.com/sho_runna/

__________

Welcome to the #liveandcreate podcast, hosted by Miguel Antonio, singer-songwriter, speaker and Lead Vocalist of the band Run With It . In this podcast, Miguel engages in meaningful conversations with artists and entrepreneurs, delving into the essence of living a great life and creating great things.

Our discussions revolve around the personal stories and inspirations of our guests, touching on practical aspects of both business and artistic creation. These conversations evolve into philosophical explorations, encompassing the art of life, music, and the pursuit of a better world.

To be a guest on the show email ⁠⁠[email protected]

To check out Miguel's band Run With It

⁠https://runwithitband.net⁠

 live and create, #liveandcreate, music podcast, entertainment industry podcast, sync licensing

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:42 Day Job and Music Aspirations

05:20 Live Music and Performance

08:13 Teaching Music to Youth

11:04 Cultural Influences in Music

13:56 Navigating Identity and Culture

16:51 Language and Communication Challenges

19:34 Understanding Cultural Nuances

22:25 The Impact of Cultural Identity on Music

25:18 Conversations on Social Issues

28:05 The Role of Music in Self-Expression

33:53 Nature as Inspiration in Music Creation

36:27 The Impact of Sound and Environment on Music

39:41 The Importance of Learning Production Basics

42:37 Mixing Techniques and Vocal Production

46:38 The Journey Back to Music Production

51:20 Sync Licensing and the Path to Music Placement

57:03 Building a Workflow for Sync Success

01:01:46 Navigating the Sync World and Metadata

01:06:21 Investing in Your Music Career

01:09:40 Defining a Great Life and Creating Meaningful Art

01:12:52 Closing Bumper .mp4

The Perilous Ones is a Kansas City–based three-piece “party metal” band blending heavy riffs with infectious grooves. Guitarist and bassist Kenny Saunders drives the band’s explosive sound, while vocalist Tyler Butler brings raw power and unfiltered emotion to every track. 

Summary

In this conversation, Miguel Antonio, Kenny Saunders, and Tyler Butler discuss their musical journey, the challenges of creating a band, and the importance of community and authenticity in music. They share personal experiences, influences, and the balance between day jobs and their passion for music. The discussion highlights the creative process of songwriting, the significance of mental health, and the excitement of touring. Ultimately, they reflect on what it means to live a great life and create meaningful art.

Check out The Perilous Ones here: 

https://theperilousones.com/

________________

Welcome to the #liveandcreate podcast, hosted by Miguel Antonio, singer-songwriter, speaker and Lead Vocalist of the band Run With It . In this podcast, Miguel engages in meaningful conversations with artists and entrepreneurs, delving into the essence of living a great life and creating great things.

Our discussions revolve around the personal stories and inspirations of our guests, touching on practical aspects of both business and artistic creation. These conversations evolve into philosophical explorations, encompassing the art of life, music, and the pursuit of a better world.

To be a guest on the show email ⁠⁠[email protected]

To check out Miguel's band Run With It

⁠https://runwithitband.net⁠

 live and create, #liveandcreate, music podcast, entertainment industry podcast, sync licensing

_____

Chapters

00:00 The Journey of Music Creation

02:50 Finding the Right Fit in a Band

05:47 Musical Influences and Backgrounds

08:35 The Evolution of Heavy Music Communities

11:24 Navigating Band Dynamics and Responsibilities

14:04 Songwriting and Emotional Expression

17:03 The Art of Performance and Connection

27:05 The Art of Live Performance

29:23 Navigating Band Dynamics

36:45 Balancing Music and Day Jobs

41:23 Future Aspirations and Creative Growth

48:23 Defining a Great Life

51:22 Creating Authentic Art

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Keywords

music, band, songwriting, community, authenticity, heavy music, creative process, mental health, touring, collaboration

Nathan Foreman, is a music producer for artists, television, commercials, and film. Originally from Woodbridge, Virginia, this Virginia native graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Recording Arts from Full Sail University in 2014.

Some of his most notable music placements include Fortnite, Real Housewives of Potomac NBA, League of Legends, Rhythm + Flow, J.I. The Prince (a finalist on Rap Game), and many more.

After creating an organic and driven community, he decided to start his own sync agency in 2023 called Supr Selectiv.

Supr Selectiv is a sync agency that celebrates diversity and authenticity in TV, film, and Ads. We’ve built a home for distinctive, artist-driven music, uniting creative minds from around the world.

In this episode, Miguel Antonio and Nathan Foreman dive into balancing family and music, networking, education, and the evolving world of sync licensing. They highlight the power of relationships, creativity, patience, and staying connected to your inner child. Nathan shares his journey as a producer and offers insight for artists breaking into sync, defining a purposeful life through meaningful connections and creative expression.

Connect with Nathan here: 

https://www.instagram.com/xcaliberzero

Check out Supr Selectiv here:

https://www.suprselectiv.com/

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________________

Welcome to the #liveandcreate podcast, hosted by Miguel Antonio, singer-songwriter, speaker and Lead Vocalist of the band Run With It . In this podcast, Miguel engages in meaningful conversations with artists and entrepreneurs, delving into the essence of living a great life and creating great things.

Our discussions revolve around the personal stories and inspirations of our guests, touching on practical aspects of both business and artistic creation. These conversations evolve into philosophical explorations, encompassing the art of life, music, and the pursuit of a better world.

To be a guest on the show email ⁠⁠[email protected]

To check out Miguel's band Run With It

⁠https://runwithitband.net⁠

 live and create, #liveandcreate, music podcast, entertainment industry podcast, sync licensing

________

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Family in Music Careers

03:28 Navigating the Balance Between Work and Family

06:19 The Journey into Music Production

09:02 Learning and Growing in Music Production

11:54 The Role of Education in Music Careers

14:36 Networking and Community in the Music Industry

17:15 The Transition from Intern to Music Supervisor

19:59 Building a Music Catalog and Community

22:48 Finding Opportunities in Sync Licensing

30:35 Navigating Professional Communication in Music

32:11 The Importance of Patience in Music Careers

34:23 Building Reliable Relationships in Music

37:19 Setting Long-Term Goals for Success

39:43 The Role of Collaboration in Music Creation

42:21 Understanding the Sync Licensing Journey

50:48 First Steps into Sync Licensing

54:51 Defining a Purposeful Life

57:29 Nourishing Creativity and the Inner Child

01:00:54 Closing Bumper .mp4

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Keywords

music, sync licensing, family, production, networking, creativity, education, relationships, community, purpose

Kadesh Flow is a rapper with an MBA, a trombone Super Saiyan, and a Billboard Charting recording/ performing artist. He brings all of the above together, both on tracks and on stage, in riveting form as he actively blends his jazz and hip hop backgrounds. 

In this episode, Kadesh Flow and Miguel Antonio discuss the challenges and triumphs of balancing a music career with personal life, the importance of authenticity in art, and the evolving landscape of the music industry. They delve into topics like sync licensing, the impact of community, and the journey of self-discovery as an artist.

Connect with Kadesh here:

https://www.kadeshflow.com/

__________

Welcome to the #liveandcreate podcast, hosted by Miguel Antonio, singer-songwriter, speaker and Lead Vocalist of the band Run With It . In this podcast, Miguel engages in meaningful conversations with artists and entrepreneurs, delving into the essence of living a great life and creating great things.

Our discussions revolve around the personal stories and inspirations of our guests, touching on practical aspects of both business and artistic creation. These conversations evolve into philosophical explorations, encompassing the art of life, music, and the pursuit of a better world.

To be a guest on the show email ⁠⁠[email protected]

To check out Miguel's band Run With It

⁠https://runwithitband.net⁠

 live and create, #liveandcreate, music podcast, entertainment industry podcast, sync licensing

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