Ever wondered how to write songs more consistently? In this conversation, Xylo Aria chats with Francesca De Valence to discuss the strategies and concepts on how to overcome writer's block and write songs consistently. Find techniques to tap into a more playful and child-like state, to create more freely.

Join a community of female artists and producers around the world and get free access to masterclasses, mentoring and more by becoming a member of MPW: ⁠https://musicproductionforwomen.com/membership

More about Francesca:

https://fdvmusic.com

Ever wondered while mixing music, what role creativity plays in the process or whether you should follow more of a mixing formula? In this episode, Xylo Aria sites down with Kia Shavon, AKA The Mix Artist who talks through her mixing process and provides advice on when and how to lean into your creativity during the mixing process.

Distrokid has kindly offered all MPW listeners a 30% discount off the first year of their annual subscription! Use the following link to redeem the discount:⁠ http://distrokid.com/vip/mpw

More from Kia Shavon:

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

Website: https://www.themixartist.com/

Ever wondered why we strive for perfection in music even though we know, deep down, that it's the raw emotion, often with imperfections that we connect with? In this episode, Xylo Aria sits down with INEZ who highlights the emotional connection that can be created through raw performances and the challenges of perfectionism in the music industry.

She offers valuable advice for new musicians on overcoming self-criticism and the significance of creating a safe space for artistic expression.

Distrokid has kindly offered all MPW listeners a 30% discount off the first year of their annual subscription! Use the following link to redeem the discount:⁠ http://distrokid.com/vip/mpw

Ever wondered how to become a music producer and build a sustainable career in today’s music industry? In this episode, Xylo Aria sits down with acclaimed producer Tim Bran (London Grammar, Birdy, AURORA) to explore the journey from beginner to pro.

We cover everything from whether you need a music production degree, to how to land your first paid work, the skills you really need to develop, and what it takes to stay relevant as technology evolves. Tim also shares his three guiding principles for building a long-term career as a producer.

Get your FREE ticket to the MPW Music Production Bootcamp here: ⁠⁠https://musicproductionforwomen.com/events⁠

More about Tim Bran: http://www.echobeachmanagement.com/artist/tim-bran/

Why are there less women in electronic music and why do we hear less electronic music made by women? In this episode, Xylo chats to university professor, producer and DJ, Sam Parsley on her research and findings on the systemic barriers that women encounter and offers practical advice for aspiring musicians and industry gatekeepers alike.

Get your FREE ticket to the MPW Music Production Bootcamp here: https://musicproductionforwomen.com/events

More about Sam Parsley:

Website: www.inthekey.org/minor-keys-book 
instagram: @inthekeyofficial
Publisher website for book where discount code in episode can be used from 9 Oct until Feb 2026 
Eventbrite to sign up for ADE panel and book launch

What does it take to build a thriving music career without the backing of a label and how can artists stay true to their vision while doing it on their own terms?

In this episode, Xylo sits down with 23-year-old singer, songwriter, actress, and dancer Briannagh Dennehy, whose career spans from the Apollo Theater stage to chart-topping singles, millions of streams, and even a Nike campaign with LeBron James.

Briannagh shares her journey as an independent artist, the freedom and challenges of creating without a label, and how she’s built a global career on her own terms. If you’ve ever dreamed of going indie and owning your artistry, this episode is for you.

Distrokid has kindly offered all MPW listeners a 30% discount off the first year of their annual subscription! Use the following link to redeem the discount: http://distrokid.com/vip/mpw

As an independent musician, diving into the world of MIDI controllers and studio gear can feel intimidating, especially if you’re unsure where to start or which tools best suit your creative process. In this episode, Xylo chats with Alex Godfrey, Product Specialist at the Focusrite Group, about what MIDI controllers actually are, how they work, and how to choose the right one for your music.

With over 10 years at Focusrite and hands-on experience representing brands like Novation, Sequential, Oberheim, Focusrite, Adam Audio, and Sonnox, Alex breaks down the essentials of MIDI technology in a clear and practical way.

From testing music tech as part of Focusrite’s QA Engineering team to producing experimental tracks as Psychedalex, he brings both technical expertise and creative insight. Whether you’re just setting up your first home studio or looking to expand your gear, this conversation will help you make confident, informed choices.

Distrokid has kindly offered all MPW listeners a 30% discount off the first year of their annual subscription! Use the following link to redeem the discount: http://distrokid.com/vip/mpw

What does it take to create musical magic with someone in the studio and how do you know when it’s the right fit?

In this episode, Xylo sits down with certified platinum artist Jaki Nelson — a powerhouse singer, songwriter, producer, and DJ whose music has hit over 200 million streams, landed on Billboard’s Top 10, and soundtracked everything from Coca-Cola commercials to Love Island.

Now based in Miami, Jaki has worked with some of the industry's biggest names and knows firsthand what makes a collaboration truly work. From building trust to navigating creative clashes, she shares the secrets behind her most electric studio sessions and how artists can cultivate real chemistry with the right collaborators.

Whether you're a producer trying to vibe with a vocalist or a songwriter looking to connect with a co-creator, this episode unpacks the emotional and technical side of making music together and what it takes to turn a session into a hit.

If you’ve ever wanted to sharpen your creative instincts and learn how the pros build unforgettable tracks through synergy, this one’s for you.

Distrokid has kindly offered all MPW listeners a 30% discount off the first year of their annual subscription! Use the following link to redeem the discount: http://distrokid.com/vip/mpw

As an independent musician, the idea of confidently owning the stage can feel overwhelming, especially if nerves, self-doubt or lack of experience keep getting in the way. In this episode, Xylo chats with performance coach and artist Lucie Burns (aka Lazy Hammock) about how to build true confidence on stage, reconnect with your presence and unlock the power of performance.

With nearly 30 years of experience, 11 albums, over 25 million streams, and four No.1s in the World Chill Lounge Charts, Lucie shares practical tips for managing stage fright, commanding an audience, and finding your flow—whether you're just starting out or stepping back into the spotlight.

Distrokid has kindly offered all MPW listeners a 30% discount off the first year of their annual subscription! Use the following link to redeem the discount: https://distrokid.com/vip/mpw

Have you ever wondered how to find the right collaborators to level up your music career?

In this episode, Xylo speaks to Josh Simons, tech entrepreneur, former touring artist, and the CEO of Vinyl Group — home to platforms like Jaxsta, Vinyl.com, and the globally renowned Vampr. With over $35 million raised across his ventures and a vision that connects 1.4 million creatives across 180 countries, Josh shares how Vampr became the “LinkedIn for musicians” and how you can use it to find real, career-changing collaborators.

Josh dives into the tech, trends, and practical strategies behind building connections in the music industry, whether you're just starting out or scaling fast.

Whether you’re a songwriter, producer, or indie artist, this episode is packed with insight on networking, brand-building, and how to build meaningful, profitable partnerships in today’s music landscape.

Grab your Free ticket to MPW's EmpowHer Europe tour of music production workshops across Dublin, Berlin, Amsterdam and London. Learn about Beatmaking, Synthesis and Audio Effects in an encouraging environment while making like-minded friends. Tickets are limited to the venue capacity so make sure you don't miss out!

https://musicproductionforwomen.com/events