What if leadership wasn’t about titles or power—but presence, purpose, and the way you carry your voice? In this episode, Dr. Calvin H. Lawrence, author of The Happy Leader, joins Tzayla to unpack the deep connection between artistry and leadership. Whether you’re an emerging musician or building a creative movement, this conversation will challenge you to lead with more vision, integrity, and heart.

• Artists are leaders. Every post, lyric, reel, and stage appearance influences others—so lead with intention.
• Your team matters. Whether it’s a full production crew or just your best friend, how you lead and collaborate will define your success.
• Protect your vision. The people around you shape your path. Build a trustworthy core who believe in your artistry and purpose.
• Failure is part of the process. Great artists fall forward. Don’t fear mistakes—learn from them, grow, and keep creating.
• Be yourself on stage. Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s your superpower. Own who you are, flaws and all.

• Get his book The Happy Leader: Available Here or on Amazon!
• Follow him and learn more at https://www.calvinlawrencespeaks.net/ 

• Website: tzayla.com
• Instagram: @tzayla.official 
• TikTok: @tzaylaofficial 

• Love the show? Don’t keep it to yourself!
• Follow on your favorite podcast app and share with your fellow music nerds.

Leadership isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present. As artists, we have the power to shape culture, move hearts, and light the way for others. So lead with vision. Lead with courage. Lead with love.

Thanks for listening!

Adventure sounds like THIS

___________

Tzayla Official Website

• Podcast
• Blog 
• Music 
• EPK 
• Upcoming Shows

Making music is magic—but making it a career takes more than just streams and shows. In this episode, Tzayla breaks down the real income streams available to musicians today, how to start them, and which ones can turn your passion into a paycheck. From sync licensing to TikTok live streaming, you’ll learn exactly how to diversify your earnings so your music career can actually last.

Key Takeaways:

• Don’t rely on one leg of the table: Multiple income streams = stability.
• Streaming is the gateway, not the goal: Use it to attract fans, then guide them to merch, shows, and direct support.
• Private gigs, merch, and house concerts can be shockingly profitable.
• Sync licensing can generate big one-time payments plus royalties.
• Fan funding works when you give value in return.
• Teaching, services, and grants are steady but underused income sources.
• YouTube and TikTok can pay more than you think—especially through live streams and sponsorships.

• Website: tzayla.com
• Instagram: @tzayla.official 
• TikTok: @tzaylaofficial 

• Love the show? Don’t keep it to yourself!
• Follow on your favorite podcast app and share with your fellow music nerds.

You’re not just an artist—you’re a creative entrepreneur. Build your art, but also build your business. The more legs you give your career table, the stronger it will stand.

Thanks for listening!

Adventure sounds like THIS

___________

Tzayla Official Website

• Podcast
• Blog 
• Music 
• EPK 
• Upcoming Shows

What if the thing that almost broke you…became the very thing that saved you? In this episode, Tzayla sits down with Orphan Prodigy to explore how music became his medicine during a mental health crisis—and how he’s now using his sound to heal others. From agoraphobia to charting at #78, this story is raw, inspiring, and deeply human.

• Mental Health Is Not a Weakness: Orphan Prodigy shares how he battled agoraphobia, anxiety, and rejection—and how music helped him heal, reenter the world, and reclaim his voice.
• Healing Happens in the Process: His debut album Medication for a Modern World isn’t just a collection of songs—it’s a survival story, written in real time.
• Say Yes to the Voice That Believes in You: “You’re always scared before you’re confident.” Ian’s advice to artists struggling with mental health is to keep listening to the voice that says you can.

• Website: orphanprodigy.com
• Follow on Instagram, YouTube, Twitch & more via the site.
• Stream his debut album Medication for a Modern World on all platforms.

You are not broken. You are becoming.

Music isn’t just what we do—it’s what helps us become. Keep showing up, even when it's hard. Your voice matters. Your story matters. And you’re right on time.

Thanks for listening!

Adventure sounds like THIS

___________

Tzayla Official Website

• Podcast
• Blog 
• Music 
• EPK 
• Upcoming Shows

If your Notes app is overflowing with half-written lyrics, scattered ideas, and dusty voice memos, this episode is your sign to start finishing. Tzayla sits down with singer, songwriter, producer, and creative coach Marli Delaney to talk about turning fragments into finished songs, building sustainable artistic momentum, and why mindset matters more than fancy gear. You’ll learn Marli's 3-month songwriting method, the “Three I’s” that guide her creative life, and why your scraps aren’t trash—they’re seeds.

Key Takeaways:

• You don’t need to be “ready”—you just need to start. Marley's songwriting clients begin with what they have, not what they lack.
• The “Three I’s” Framework:
• Inspiration – Connect with what lights you up.
• Introspection – Identify what’s holding you back.
• Innovation – Turn it all into something uniquely yours.
• Songwriting is a muscle. Like any habit, it strengthens with daily use—even just a few minutes a day.
• Mindset is everything. Talent is great, but consistency, courage, and self-awareness build real artistry.
• Structure helps freedom. Marley’s coaching program gives creatives a 3-month roadmap to go from raw ideas to a polished, pitch-ready EP.
• You’re not alone. Whether you’re just starting or rebooting, having a coach—or a creative community—can keep you accountable, inspired, and growing.

Connect with Marliii: 

• Website & coaching program: marliii.com
• Instagram + TikTok: @mundowithmarliii
• Music on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube: Just search “Marliii”

More from Tzayla:

• Blog, music, podcast & more: tzayla.com
• Instagram: @tzayla.official

The scraps don’t mean you’re broken. They mean you’re building. So keep writing, keep becoming, and keep dreaming big.

Thanks for listening!

Adventure sounds like THIS

___________

Tzayla Official Website

• Podcast
• Blog 
• Music 
• EPK 
• Upcoming Shows

In this follow-up to the “Copyrights Crash Course” episode, Tzayla reveals three major legal exceptions that could strip you of your rights—even if you wrote, recorded, and released the song yourself. Whether you’re doing work-for-hire, releasing covers, or writing with friends, this episode is your roadmap to protecting your music before it’s too late.

Key Takeaways:

• Work-for-Hire: You may lose all rights to a song if you sign the wrong contract. No credit, no royalties, no control—unless it's spelled out clearly. Some work-for-hire deals can still serve your goals—just read the fine print.
• Compulsory Licensing: Once your song is released, anyone can legally cover it—without asking your permission. They just need to follow the rules and pay the standard fee. Bonus: You can also use this to release your own cover songs legally and grow your audience.
• Collaborations: Without a split sheet, copyright ownership defaults to equal shares—no matter who did most of the work. Everyone must approve licensing, edits, remixes, or placements. Protect yourself by putting agreements in writing and getting clear on ownership before release.

Helpful Tools & Resources:

• Need a Split Sheet Template? DM @tzayla.official and she’ll send you the one she uses.
• Missed the first copyright episode? Go listen to “The Copyright Crash Course Every Musician Needs”
• Want to license a cover? Use EasySong.com or The Harry Fox Agency

More from Tzayla:

• Music, blog, podcast & more: tzayla.com
• Instagram: @tzayla.official

Let’s Connect: Questions about collaborations, cover licenses, or contracts? DM Tzayla or drop a comment—she’s here to help artists navigate the stuff nobody teaches.

Copyright gives you rights. But contracts, licenses, and collaborators can take those rights away—or split them up. So read the fine print, know your people, and never sign your power away by accident.

Adventure sounds like THIS

Thanks for listening and Keep Dreaming Big!

____________

Tzayla Official Website

• Podcast
• Blog 
• Music 
• EPK 
• Upcoming Shows 
• Linktree

Tired of pitch forms, playlist chaos, and all the backend stuff that takes time away from making music? In this game-changing episode, Tzayla talks with Sam Friske, founder of the music tech startup Cadence I.O., about how artists and teams can streamline their marketing—and write Spotify pitches that actually work. Whether you’re DIY or building a label of your own, this episode is packed with tools, insight, and clarity you didn’t know you needed.

Key Takeaways: 

• Stop wasting time: Cadence I.O. simplifies the entire pitching process—one form, all platforms.
• How to write a great Spotify pitch:
• Start with a heartfelt artist quote or what the song means to you.
• Then brag—mention tours, features, syncs, anything that shows momentum.
• Keep it tight, compelling, and personal.
• Each DSP wants something slightly different: Cadence translates your pitch to fit what Spotify, Amazon, Tidal, SoundCloud, and others want.
• Don’t do it all alone: Build systems that support your creativity instead of draining it.
• Pitching isn’t just about placement: It also feeds the algorithm and helps your music reach the right listeners—even if it doesn’t land on a playlist.

Resources & Links:

• Cadence I.O. — The tool for pitching smarter, not harder: cadenceio.com
• Contact Sam: [email protected]
• Follow Sam on Instagram: @samgfriske
• LinkedIn: Sam Friske on LinkedIn

More from Tzayla:

• Music, blog, podcast, & more: tzayla.com 
• Instagram: @tzayla.official

You don’t need to do everything. You just need the right tools, the right people, and the courage to stay authentic.

Adventure sounds like THIS

Thanks for listening and Keep Dreaming Big!

_____________

Tzayla Official Website

• Podcast
• Blog 
• Music 
• EPK 
• Upcoming Shows 
• Linktree

This one’s for every songwriter, producer, and creator who’s ever wondered, “Do I actually own my song?” In this must-hear episode, Tzayla breaks down everything you need to know about copyrights—what they are, how they’re created, how to protect them, and how to avoid getting ripped off. Whether you’re releasing your first single or building a catalog, this episode will help you stop guessing and start owning your work like a pro.

Key Takeaways:

• Copyrights happen automatically the moment you record or write something original—but proving ownership requires documentation.
• You own six exclusive rights when you hold a copyright, including the right to perform, reproduce, license, and stream your music.
• Registration matters. You can’t sue for infringement or collect damages unless your work is officially registered at copyright.gov.
• Dated evidence is your friend: Keep lyric sheets, voice memos, session files, and email chains as proof of creation.
• Use split sheets for every collaboration to agree on who owns what before the song goes public.
• Be careful what you post. Don’t share full demos online if you haven’t protected them yet.
• Some creations you don’t own: Work-for-hire contracts, collaborations, or samples without clearance can mean you lose all rights—even if you made the song.

Resources & Links:

• Register your music: www.copyright.gov
• Need a split sheet template? DM @tzayla.official and she’ll send you one.
• Want to go deeper? Future episodes will cover royalties, ASCAP, SoundExchange, and how to get paid properly.

More from Tzayla:

• Music, blog, podcast, & more: tzayla.com
• Instagram: @tzayla.official

Got questions?

DM @tzayla.official or leave a comment—especially if there's a specific copyright, royalty, or contract topic you’d like her to break down in a future episode.

Your music is valuable. Your rights are real. And protecting them is one of the most powerful things you can do for your future. Don’t wait until something goes wrong—get smart now.

Adventure sounds like THIS

Thanks for listening and Keep Dreaming Big!

_____________

Tzayla Official Website

• Podcast
• Blog 
• Music 
• EPK 
• Upcoming Shows 
• Linktree

In this heartfelt episode, Tzayla sits down with Nashville-based artist, producer, and songwriter Daniel McCurdy to talk about his journey from producing behind the scenes to stepping into the spotlight with a fresh country-inspired artist project. They dive deep into community, calling, the spiritual journey of being “good clay,” and the messy beauty of letting go of control in both music and life. If you've ever wrestled with direction or doubted your dream—this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways:

• “Be good clay.” Let God shape your path, even if it looks wildly different from what you imagined.
• Surround yourself with creatives who stretch you, challenge you, and share your love for music. Growth happens in community.
• Perfection isn’t the goal—connection is. Sometimes your voice cracking or a weird snare hit is what makes the song feel real.
• Nashville isn’t just country music—it’s a movement of creatives supporting each other. The “pitch meeting” open mic scene is a must-experience.
• Follow the open doors. Don’t get so stuck on your five-year plan that you miss the detours meant to lead you home.

Resources & Links: 

• Follow Daniel McCurdy on Instagram: @danielamccurdy
• Discover Tzayla’s music, blog, and more: www.tzayla.com
• Mentioned verse: Isaiah 64:8 – “We are the clay, you are the potter...”
• Want to get inspired in Nashville? Check out “Pitch Meeting” songwriter nights on Tuesdays!
• Message Tzayla on Instagram with your takeaways or questions: @tzayla.official

Subscribe, share this with your fellow music nerds, and remember:

Adventure sounds like this.

Thanks for tuning in, and Keep Dreaming Big! 

______________

Tzayla Official Website

• Podcast
• Blog 
• Music 
• EPK 
• Upcoming Shows 
• Linktree

In this solo episode, Tzayla breaks down the music business in plain language, covering everything from copyright to contracts to making money as an indie artist. If you want to protect your music, scale your artistry, and build a sustainable career without selling your soul, start here. No fluff. Just the truth, tools, and tough love you need.

Key Takeaways:

• Your song is your baby — learn the difference between composition and master rights, and why both matter.
• Join a PRO (Performing Rights Organization) like ASCAP or BMI to collect royalties every time your music is played.
• Use split sheets when collaborating to avoid future drama and protect friendships (and your finances).
• Read your contracts — and if it says “in perpetuity” or “exclusive rights,” you better think twice.
• Pick the right distributor (like DistroKid, CD Baby, or TuneCore) to get your music on streaming platforms.
• Don’t count on streaming alone — real success comes from multiple income streams: licensing, merch, teaching, Patreon, and more.
• Think like an owner — Taylor Swift’s story is your reminder that owning your masters equals owning your power.

If something in this episode helped you or made you think, DM Tzayla on Instagram at @tzayla.official. She loves hearing from you all! Feel free to ask her questions, too, or let her know if you want her to do a deeper dive on something. 

You can keep your soul and share your song. You can protect your art and still dream like crazy.

Your legacy doesn’t start when you blow up — it starts now, with every choice you make.

So keep dreaming big, and thanks for tuning in!

______________

Tzayla Official Website

• Podcast
• Blog 
• Music 
• EPK 
• Upcoming Shows 
• Linktree

“Networking” gets tossed around in every industry conversation — but what does it really mean, and how do you actually do it (without being awkward, fake, or annoying)? In this episode, Tzayla breaks down the art of building authentic, long-term relationships in music. From her own story of going from Berklee classrooms to music biz lobbies, to practical steps you can take today, this is your no-fluff guide to connecting your way into the career you want.

Key Takeaways:

• Why networking matters: Talent opens ears, but relationships open doors.
• What networking really is (and isn’t): Hint — it’s not about handing out business cards like candy.
• Tzayla’s personal journey: How a Berklee summer and a bold “POLKA DOTS!” moment led to real industry partnerships.
• 5 types of networking you should be doing: From co-writes to compliments, every connection counts.
• How to start networking today: A 5-step beginner plan to break the ice, follow up, and stay in touch.
• Where to go: Online and IRL spaces where real connections are made — even if you don’t have a VIP badge.
• What not to do: Don’t ghost. Don’t pitch too soon. And don’t be vague — be intentional.

Send one DM. Attend one event. Ask one question.

You never know what conversation could change your life. 

Subscribe, share this with your fellow music nerds, and remember:

Adventure sounds like this.

Thanks for tuning in, and Keep Dreaming Big! 

______________

Tzayla Official Website

• Podcast
• Blog 
• Music 
• EPK 
• Upcoming Shows 
• Linktree