Music Explored Podcast

What if the word potential was actually holding you back?

Karl Phillips grew up in Barbados being told he had it — by teachers, coaches, piano instructors. And somewhere along the way, hearing it over and over made him feel like he already had what he hadn't yet built. A biology degree. A master's degree. Counting seagulls on an island in the Pacific. Applying to every police department in Michigan and getting denied — even to volunteer.

Then he met Eric Thomas. Then CJ. Then Jamal.

And even surrounded by some of the most driven voices in personal development, Karl found himself doing the one thing that stops most people cold: comparing himself to everyone around him instead of going inside.

In this episode, Karl shares the journey behind his book Moving Past Potential: Break Free of Self-Limitations to Unleash Your Best Life — the real story of how he went from lost to leading, what faith actually means when you live it out loud, and why 1 in 3 people will face exactly what he faced.

One of those conversations you'll want to replay.

📖 Get the book + free community: thegcguide.com

📲 S2S Podcast: @s2spodcast on Instagram

🎵 This episode is sponsored by Mauril — a free app by CBC/Radio-Canada for learning real Canadian French and English through authentic shows, documentaries and podcasts.

📱 Download free on App Store | Google Play | mauril.ca

This collaboration is part of an advertising campaign managed by the agency Podpass for Mauril, developed by CBC/Radio-Canada.

Mentioned in this episode:

Links to the app & website : Download on iOS | Download on Android | mauril.ca

What happens when you build a successful life but abandon the one thing that makes you feel whole?

Tara Shannon did everything right. Thirty years in music and business, a thriving career, a beautiful family. But somewhere along the way she stepped away from music — and a life-changing health scare brought her back.

In this episode of Music Explored Podcast, Anthony Lewis sits down with Tara Shannon — Canadian singer-songwriter, record label founder, music coach, author of You and the Music Business, and Executive Director of the Ottawa Festival Network — for a conversation about what it really means to build a life in music on your own terms.

This is not a conversation about getting discovered. It's about stopping the wait for someone else to give you permission to live the life you want. Tara's coaching philosophy starts with one principle — to succeed in the business of music, you first have to succeed in the business of you.

They cover the Cinderella myth the music industry keeps selling, why looking for external validation keeps musicians stuck, how mindset is at the core of every successful artist she's coached, and what it means to redefine success on your own terms.

Whether you're a working musician, an independent creator, or someone who put their passion on the back burner — this one will stay with you.

🎧 Listen on all streaming platforms — link below

🎙️ Hosted by Anthony Lewis

🎧 Co-hosted by Diriki

📍 Toronto, Canada

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 — Music is woven into who I am

02:00 — The void of abandoning your passion

04:00 — Stop waiting for permission to live your life

06:00 — The Cinderella myth the industry keeps selling

08:00 — To succeed in music, succeed in yourself first

12:00 — Why we look for validation outside ourselves

16:00 — What Tara's coaching actually looks like

20:00 — Working with artists at every level

24:00 — You and the Music Business — what the book is really about

28:00 — Redefining success beyond money and stuff

Note — confirm exact timestamps against your edit before uploading

CONNECT WITH TARA SHANNON

Instagram: @tarashannonmusic

Book: You and the Music Business

Website: jointara.com

CONNECT WITH MUSIC EXPLORED

Instagram: @musicexploredpod

• Website: musicexplored.com

What happens when a father pours everything into his son — not just musically, but as a man — and then watches that son surpass every expectation?

In this episode of Music Explored Podcast, Anthony Lewis sits down with Pastor Chris Baker and his son Jaden Baker from The Bridge Frisco for one of the most powerful conversations we've had on this show. Jaden is a Grammy Award winning musician currently touring globally with Israel Houghton, and Chris is the music pastor who didn't just raise a musician — he raised a man of character first.

Together they talk about the intentionality behind Jaden's development, the tension and honor that comes with working alongside your father in ministry, what the road teaches you that the church stage can't, and why your talent gets you called but your character keeps you.

Chris drops one of the most memorable lines we've heard on this show — "My ceiling is his floor" — and everything that surrounds it is just as powerful.

This one is for every musician trying to figure out how to carry themselves, every parent wondering how to pour into their child's gifting, and everyone building something that's meant to last beyond them.

Timestamps for show notes:

00:00 — You can't take people where you don't go

02:00 — Introducing each other

05:00 — Was it intentional? How Chris shaped Jaden's path

12:00 — My ceiling is his floor

14:00 — The tension of working with your father in ministry

19:00 — Playing multiple instruments — Jaden's preference and why

22:00 — From church musician to touring with Israel Houghton

26:00 — What the road teaches you that the church can't

30:00 — Don't chase doors — let your gift open them

31:00 — What to do when your standard exceeds your environment

38:00 — Preparation — spiritually, mentally, musically

42:00 — Structured spontaneity and Sunday morning preparation

45:00 — The Brazil and Asia tour coming up

50:00 — Staying rooted in your home church while touring the world

The dialogue unfolds in a lively atmosphere as the hosts of the Music Explored podcast engage with the dynamic duo from Fellowship Bass. They delve into the genesis of Fellowship Bass, a thriving platform dedicated to elevating bass players in the music community. The hosts express their admiration for the initiative, highlighting its unique approach to showcasing talent and cultivating a supportive online environment. As the conversation progresses, the guests recount their personal musical journeys, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and community within the industry. They share anecdotes about their shared experiences, including their recent trip to Atlanta during the World Cup, which allowed them to reconnect and collaborate in person after a period of separation. This context sets the stage for a rich exploration of the challenges and triumphs faced by musicians, particularly bass players, in an evolving digital landscape. The episode culminates in a discussion about the significance of authenticity in music and the power of social media to amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard, all while maintaining a focus on the core mission of Fellowship Bass: to help musicians thrive in their craft and connect with audiences worldwide.

Takeaways:

• The episode offers insightful discussions highlighting the evolution of bass playing and its significance in contemporary music culture.
• FellowshipBass serves as a platform dedicated to helping bass players gain visibility and recognition in the music industry.
• The importance of community and collaboration among musicians, particularly in the context of social media.
• Listeners are encouraged to embrace their unique musical styles while also being adaptable to current trends and expectations within the industry.
• The importance of consistency in content creation is stressed, as it plays a crucial role in building an audience and fostering engagement.
• Reflecting on personal experiences and challenges faced by musicians, providing a relatable narrative that underscores the dedication required to succeed.

Links referenced in this episode:

• fellowshipbass
• madetominister

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Fellowship Bass

Their initial meeting, characterized by a brief yet impactful conversation, sparked a mutual interest in collaboration, highlighting the power of chance encounters in creative endeavors. Throughout the episode, we delve into Alan's illustrious career, including his experiences with jingles and his reflections on the advertising industry. As we celebrate Canada Day, we honor the contributions of Canadian artists such as Alan, whose work resonates deeply within our cultural landscape. This episode serves not only as a tribute to Alan's achievements but also as an exploration of the artistic journey and the significance of networking in the creative field.

Takeaways:

• Alan Shiner's extensive experience in jingles reveals insights into the advertising industry's evolution.
• The conversation explores the significance of networking and its impact on career development.
• Shiner's anecdotes about his jingle writing illustrate the intersection of creativity and commerce.
• The dialogue emphasizes the importance of adaptability in the music industry, especially in advertising.
• Understanding the nuances of jingle composition is crucial for effective brand communication.

Links referenced in this episode:

• thednaproject.ca
• sunwing.ca

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Shangri La
• radio and TV Canada
• Sunwing
• Ikea
• Sleep Country Canada
• Marine Land
• African Lion Safari
• linens and things
• Toy House Media Creations

The conversation between Anthony and Dee delves into the evolving landscape of Gospel and Christian music, addressing the stark contrasts between the music of their upbringing and the contemporary sounds dominating today's worship services. They articulate a clear observation: the shift towards a more homogenized style of praise and worship has led to a notable lack of diversity in musical expression across various congregations. This phenomenon raises significant questions about the authenticity and emotive quality of modern worship music, particularly when compared to the rich, dynamic traditions of Gospel music that are often deeply rooted in cultural expression. Dee shares his experiences attending multiple churches, noting a pattern of musical uniformity that reflects a broader trend within the industry. Both speakers express concern that the formulaic nature of contemporary Christian music (CCM) may sacrifice the emotive engagement that is a hallmark of Gospel music. They explore the implications of this homogenization, considering whether it serves to create a welcoming environment for newcomers or if it inadvertently dilutes the profound spiritual connections that music can foster within worship. Their insights provoke a critical examination of the balance between inclusivity and the preservation of the rich, emotive heritage of Gospel music. Throughout their discussion, Anthony and Dee encourage listeners to reflect on their own experiences with worship music and consider how these changes in musical style influence their faith and community engagement. They advocate for a deeper appreciation of the nuances that characterize both Gospel and contemporary Christian music, ultimately celebrating the power of music to unite, inspire, and transform the worship experience.

Takeaways:

• Over the years, the stylistic evolution of Gospel and Christian music has been profound, reflecting significant cultural shifts and artistic developments.
• The uniformity observed in contemporary praise and worship music points to a prevalent template that many churches adopt, often relying on familiar platforms for their music selections.
• There exists a distinct emotional depth and dynamic nature to black gospel music that seems less pronounced in much of contemporary Christian music, leading to varied worship experiences.
• The accessibility of music production tools has allowed for a wider reach, enabling a more diverse audience to engage with Christian music, albeit sometimes at the cost of musical complexity.
• The blending of musical styles, while intended to foster inclusivity, can lead to a dilution of authentic expressions found in traditional Gospel music.
• The global embrace of Christian contemporary music fosters a sense of unity among diverse cultural backgrounds, enhancing community worship experiences.

Michael McCaslin, the owner and creative director at Keyhole Piano Shells, elucidates the innovative approach to creating lightweight, portable piano shells that have garnered attention in the music industry. He recounts the genesis of his venture, inspired by a need for musicians to transport instruments with ease, particularly in performance settings where space is often constrained. The discussion delves into the evolution of his designs over the past two decades, emphasizing the importance of material selection and the development of efficient production techniques. McCaslin shares anecdotes regarding customer interactions and bespoke requests, illustrating the diverse clientele who seek his products, ranging from homeowners to professional musicians and churches. This episode provides a compelling insight into the intersection of creativity, craftsmanship, and the demands of modern music performance. A discourse unfolds surrounding the artistry and craftsmanship behind the hollow pianos produced by Keyhole Piano Shells, under the expert guidance of Michael McCaslin. The conversation begins with a vivid recollection of Dolly Parton's performance at a Thanksgiving halftime show, where the necessity of a lightweight piano becomes apparent. McCaslin elucidates the challenges of transporting traditional grand pianos, thus establishing the revolutionary concept of hollow pianos. He recounts the inception of his business, attributing inspiration to an earlier model crafted by a fellow musician, which led to a surge of creativity and innovation in his designs. The dialogue progresses to explore the evolution of production techniques over the past two decades, highlighting the transition from rudimentary methods to the utilization of advanced machinery, such as CNC machines, which have significantly enhanced efficiency and precision in manufacturing. McCaslin’s reflections on the initial struggles and gradual success of his enterprise provide insight into the entrepreneurial spirit required to navigate the complexities of the music industry, ultimately resulting in a broadened clientele that spans individual musicians to large-scale production companies.

Takeaways:

• Michael McCaslin discusses the evolution of Keyhole Piano Shells, emphasizing the importance of lightweight materials for portable pianos.
• The initial inspiration for the piano shells originated from a fellow dueling piano player who commissioned a custom design.
• Customer feedback has directly influenced the design process, leading to improvements in both aesthetics and functionality of the piano shells.
• The production efficiency has drastically improved, evolving from making twenty pianos in a year to potentially three hundred.
• Customization is a significant aspect of their service, with clients requesting unique designs and finishes for their pianos.
• Keyhole Piano Shells serves a diverse clientele, ranging from homeowners to professional musicians and churches, illustrating the versatility of their products.

Links referenced in this episode:

• keyhole shells.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Dolly Parton
• Christopher Cross
• Gretsch
• Home Depot
• Sam Ferguson
• Keyhole Shells

Florian Zimmendinger from Soundbrenner elucidates the innovative concept behind their vibrating metronome, a device that offers musicians an alternative to traditional auditory cues. By harnessing haptic feedback, the device allows users to feel the rhythm, thus accommodating various learning styles and preferences among musicians. Florian shares his journey from conceptualization at a startup event in Berlin to establishing operations in Hong Kong, driven by the need for proximity to manufacturing resources. He discusses the challenges faced during development, including sourcing components and refining the product through extensive testing with musicians. Furthermore, he emphasizes the importance of resilience in the face of criticism and the value of customer feedback, underscoring the evolving nature of Soundbrenner’s offerings in the realm of music technology.

Takeaways:

• Florian Zimmendinger elucidates the inception of Soundbrenner, originating from a serendipitous event in Berlin, showcasing the power of spontaneous collaboration.
• The innovative vibrating metronome developed by Soundbrenner revolutionizes the way musicians perceive rhythm, offering tactile feedback that enhances their practice sessions.
• Florian emphasizes the significance of prototyping and user testing, which informed the design choices for the Soundbrenner device, ensuring its effectiveness for musicians.
• The podcast discusses the challenges faced in manufacturing, particularly the logistical intricacies of sourcing components in Asia versus Europe, highlighting the efficiency of Asian manufacturing hubs.
• Florian shares insights on the emotional resilience required to navigate criticism and skepticism in the music industry, advocating for relentless determination in pursuit of one's vision.
• Soundbrenner's expansion into software reflects their commitment to enhancing musicians' practice habits, indicating a holistic approach to musician support beyond hardware.

Links referenced in this episode:

• soundbrenner.com
• soundbrenner

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Soundbrenner
• Google
• Indiegogo
• Kickstarter

The profound essence of this podcast episode centers on an enlightening dialogue with Leo Bernard, the innovative mind behind Ableset, a groundbreaking set list management tool designed for musicians utilizing Ableton Live. Bernard elucidates the latest features of Ableset 3, emphasizing its dual innovations: the newly developed canvas and mixer interface, which collectively enhance user interaction and control during live performances. This discussion not only highlights the technical advancements of the software but also reflects on Bernard's personal journey, from its inception as a tool for his own band to its evolution into a widely adopted application within the music community. Furthermore, Bernard shares insights into the importance of user feedback, which he actively incorporates into his development process, thereby fostering a collaborative environment that enriches the functionality of Ableset. As we delve deeper into this episode, listeners are invited to appreciate the intricate interplay between technology and artistry in the realm of modern music production.

Léo Bernard, the innovative mind behind Ableset, elucidates the transformative capabilities of his software, which serves as a pivotal set list manager for Ableton Live. This episode delves into the recent launch of Ableset 3, highlighting its significant enhancements and the thoughtful features designed to streamline live performances. Central to our discussion are the two paramount advancements: the newly developed mixer, which facilitates the management of track groups, and the customizable canvas interface that empowers users to create bespoke user experiences. Léo articulates the iterative nature of his development process, emphasizing the importance of user feedback in shaping Ableset's evolution. Listeners will gain insight into the meticulous craftsmanship that underpins this essential tool for musicians and playback engineers alike. The podcast episode features an enlightening dialogue with Léo Bernard, the innovative mind behind Ableset, a cutting-edge set list management tool designed for musicians and playback engineers utilizing Ableton Live. The conversation delves into the evolution of Ableset, beginning with its inception as a beta product meant for Bernard's own band, which initially only allowed for basic song navigation. As the episode progresses, Bernard elaborates on the substantial advancements made in the latest version—Ableset 3—which introduces a host of new features aimed at enhancing the user experience. Notably, the inclusion of a customizable canvas interface and an advanced mixer system empowers users to create tailored setups that cater to their specific performance needs. Through their exchange, the speakers reflect on the importance of community feedback in shaping the development process, underscoring how user suggestions have been instrumental in evolving the software to meet varied requirements, ensuring that Ableset remains at the forefront of music technology.

Takeaways:

1. Léo Bernard emphasized that Ableset is fundamentally a set list manager designed for Ableton Live, enhancing the live performance experience for musicians.
2. The newly launched Ableset 3 introduces significant features such as a customizable canvas and an advanced mixer, streamlining performance management.
3. The development of Ableset was significantly influenced by user feedback, showcasing a community-driven approach to product enhancement and feature implementation.
4. Bernard highlighted the importance of usability, noting that many features stem from musicians' collective desires for improved functionality within the Ableton environment.
5. The canvas feature allows for unprecedented customization, enabling users to create tailored interfaces that cater specifically to their unique performance needs.
6. In discussing the evolution of Ableset, Bernard revealed that the development process is guided by balancing community needs with technical feasibility, ensuring practical implementations.

The discussion delves into the intricacies of the music industry, particularly through the lens of Leo Bernard, the creator of Ableset, a set list management software for Ableton Live. Leo elaborates on the evolution of Ableset from its nascent stages, where it initially served as a rudimentary tool developed for personal use, to its current iteration, which boasts an array of sophisticated features designed to enhance the live performance experience for musicians and playback engineers alike. The conversation navigates the pivotal enhancements introduced in Ableset 3, including the innovative canvas feature that allows for custom user interfaces, thereby enabling users to tailor their performance setups to their specific needs. Furthermore, Leo discusses the importance of community feedback in shaping the development of new features, illustrating how user suggestions have informed the evolution of the software. This segment serves not only to highlight the technical advancements of Ableset but also to underscore the collaborative spirit that underpins its development, fostering a sense of shared purpose among its users. Moreover, the episode sheds light on the personal sacrifices Leo has made in pursuit of his vision, revealing the intense dedication that has characterized his journey. As he recounts the pressures of meeting deadlines while balancing his responsibilities as both a musician and a developer, listeners are given insight into the challenges of navigating dual careers in the creative and tech industries. The conversation also touches upon the emotional weight of releasing a new version of Ableset, capturing the blend of excitement and apprehension that accompanies such milestones. Leo's reflections on these experiences resonate with anyone who has faced the daunting task of putting their work before an audience, making this episode a compelling exploration of the intersection between creativity and technology.

Takeaways:

1. Leo Bernard emphasized the importance of community feedback in the development process of Ableset, highlighting that many features originate from user suggestions.
2. The latest iteration of Ableset, known as version three, introduces significant features such as a customizable canvas and an advanced mixer for enhanced live performance.
3. Bernard noted that the transition from a solo developer to a two-person team has greatly improved the efficiency of customer support and product development.
4. The development of the canvas feature took over a year to complete, showcasing the complexity and potential it offers to users in creating custom interfaces.
5. User feedback on the new features in Ableset 3 has been overwhelmingly positive, providing a sense of relief and validation for Bernard after extensive development efforts.
6. Bernard shared that while he initially developed Ableset for personal use, its success has transformed his role, requiring him to balance his time between app development and his musical endeavors.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. ableset.com
2. forum.ableset.app
3. instagram.com/ablesetapp
4. youtube.com/ableset

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Able Set
2. Ableton

Today's discussion delves into the intriguing phenomenon of synesthesia, as we engage with the insights and experiences of our esteemed guests, Brigit O'Regan and Blake Hamilton, both of whom possess this fascinating sensory condition. Synesthesia, characterized by the blending of sensory modalities, manifests uniquely in each individual, leading to a rich tapestry of perceptions that intertwine sound, color, and taste. Throughout our conversation, we explore how this condition influences their musical interactions and artistic expressions, revealing the profound ways in which they experience the world around them. We also reflect on the societal perceptions and personal implications of synesthesia, ultimately celebrating the diversity of sensory experiences that shape our understanding of art and creativity. Join us as we uncover the complexities and wonders of synesthesia, offering a deeper appreciation for the interplay between our senses and the arts.

Takeaways:

• Brigit O'Regan elucidates the intricacies of synesthesia, a condition involving cross-sensory perception, showcasing its profound effect on artistic expression.
• Through detailed exploration, we delve into the correlation between music and color, revealing how different notes evoke distinct visual experiences.
• The podcast highlights the personal narratives of Brigit O'Regan and Blake Hamilton, who share their unique experiences with synesthesia and its implications in their musical journeys.
• Listeners gain insights into the challenges and gifts associated with synesthesia, as the speakers articulate how it shapes their perception of the world around them.
• A comprehensive understanding of how synesthesia influences creativity and learning is presented, offering a fascinating perspective on cognitive diversity.
• The episode emphasizes the importance of community and shared experiences among synesthetes, fostering a deeper appreciation for their unique perceptions of reality.

Links referenced in this episode:

• thednaproject.ca

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• The DNA Project
• Canadian Synesthesia Association
• Blake's Makes Noises