🎙 Letting Go of Perfectionism in Music Production
On this roundtable episode of Producer Points, we’re getting real about one of the most universal—and paralyzing—challenges for music producers: perfectionism. Host Justin Gammella is joined by three dynamic producers with unique workflows, candid stories, and practical wisdom on how to stop overthinking and start finishing music.

🔹 Joe Pepe – LA-based producer/songwriter with credits including MGK, Travis Barker, and Kiana Ledé. Joe’s relaxed, intuitive approach blends rawness with polish.
🔹 Stephen Conley – Songwriter, producer, and mixer known for his work with GAYLE. Stephen brings a thoughtful balance of technical precision and emotional instinct.
🔹 Matt Parad – Alt-pop producer and composer for Tinashe and Olivia O’Brien. Matt thrives in minimalist, emotionally driven production environments.

In this episode, we dig into:
🎛️ The difference between refining and over-editing—and how perfectionism often hides as “just one more tweak”
🎛️ The vocal comping trap: when endless takes kill the vibe
🎛️ Building trust in your taste, and why your first idea is usually the right one
🎛️ How to know when a song is done (hint: it’s usually a feeling, not a checklist)
🎛️ Why committing to sounds, using templates, and simplifying your toolkit leads to better records
🎛️ The high cost of mixing fatigue—and strategies for resetting your ears
🎛️ The underrated magic of “imperfections” that make a record feel human
🎛️ What letting go really means for both technical mixers and emotionally-driven artists

Plus:
🎧 Listener Q&A covering vocal tracking limits, artistic perfectionism, mixing with crickets (literally), and whether AI tools are helping—or hurting—the creative process.
🔥 Our unfiltered take on plugins like God Particle, Tonal Balance Control, and the surprisingly useful $30 Maserati Waves plugin.

Whether you’re battling vocal takes, struggling to call a mix finished, or trying to break free from the loop of endless tweaks, this episode offers perspective, humor, and actionable tools to help you move forward.

🎧 Listen now and give yourself permission to stop chasing perfect.
🎶 Check out the Producer Points playlist featuring songs discussed in this episode: Producer Points Playlist

🎙 Building a Sustainable Career in Music Production
On this roundtable episode of Producer Points, we’re tackling one of the most important—and rarely talked about—topics in the industry: what it really takes to build a sustainable, long-term career in music production. Host Justin Gammella is joined by two powerhouse producers who’ve each carved out their own paths, offering hard-earned wisdom, unfiltered stories, and actionable advice:

🔹 Midi Jones – A versatile producer whose catalog spans pop, R&B, and hip-hop. Known for his adaptability, consistency, and technical mastery, Midi has quietly built a career rooted in relationships, creative integrity, and staying ahead of the curve.
🔹 Sarcastic Sounds (Jeremy) – A producer and artist with a signature lo-fi-meets-indie aesthetic. From self-released viral hits to major label deals and publishing breakthroughs, Jeremy has built a diverse, multi-faceted career that bridges both the artist and producer worlds.

In this episode, we break down:
🎵 What “sustainability” actually means in the modern music industry—beyond just placements and plaques
🎵 Balancing passion projects with paid work (and why you shouldn't be ashamed of doing both)
🎵 How to organize your sessions, back up files, and avoid losing your hard work
🎵 Why so many producers never see their master royalties—and how to navigate label deal realities
🎵 Monetizing your skills in a crowded market: syncs, indie artists, content creation, and more
🎵 Adapting to a changing industry: plugins like Serum 2, the rise of producer content, and staying creatively fulfilled
🎵 Mental health, burnout, and how to stay inspired for the long haul

Plus:
🎧 Listener questions about finding artists, starting late, and the myth of the “Nepo Baby advantage”
🔥 Our unfiltered take on Serum 2 and how it stacks up in 2025’s synth landscape

Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, this episode is full of real talk, practical insight, and a ton of perspective on what longevity in music production really looks like.

🎧 Listen now and invest in your long game.
🎶 Check out the Producer Points playlist featuring songs discussed in this episode: Producer Points Playlist

🎙 Crafting the Perfect Vocal Production: Secrets to Stellar Vocals

On this special roundtable episode of Producer Points, we're diving into the art and science of vocal production—one of the most crucial yet nuanced aspects of music creation. From tuning and layering vocals to fostering the perfect recording environment, host Justin Gammella is joined by three top industry talents who share their expert insights:

🔹 Ryan Marrone – A versatile producer whose innovative touch has elevated projects for artists like Sabrina Carpenter and JP Saxe, consistently bringing fresh creativity and technical precision to every track.

🔹 Alex Bilowitz – A songwriter and producer whose impressive credits include global icons BTS and Bebe Rexha. Beyond his chart-topping work, Alex might just be one of the greatest keys players around—and he's equally known for his sharp humor and engaging studio presence.

🔹 DJ Kyriakides (Daylight) – Renowned for his versatility, DJ Kyriakides (Daylight) has produced hits across genres for artists like Shawn Mendes and Fifth Harmony. His keen musical instincts and adaptive production style make him a respected figure in the industry.

In this episode, we break down:

🎵 The essentials of vocal production: roles, responsibilities, and balancing technique with artistry.🎵 Gear and pre-production strategies: microphone choices, vocal warm-ups, and setting session expectations.🎵 Creating the ideal atmosphere: techniques to help vocalists feel comfortable, confident, and ready to deliver their best performances.🎵 Technical insights: A deep dive into vocal tuning software (Melodyne, Auto-Tune, Waves Tune), clip gaining strategies, and vocal layering.🎵 Mixing magic: EQ and compression tips that will ensure vocals sit perfectly in the mix.🎵 The rise of AI-generated vocals: Impacts, challenges, and ethical considerations for producers.

Join us as we reveal insider tips and techniques that can take your vocal productions to the next level.

🎧 Listen now and elevate your vocal production game!

🎙 Spotify’s Pay Cuts: What It Means for Songwriters & Producers

For the first time on Producer Points, we’re bringing you a roundtable discussion on one of the most pressing issues in the music industry—Spotify’s recent rate changes and their impact on songwriters, producers, and artists.

Host Justin Gammella is joined by two incredible guests to break down what’s happening, why it matters, and what can be done about it:
🔹 Scott Robinson – Grammy-nominated producer, songwriter, and engineer with a diverse career spanning major labels, indie success, and everything in between. A returning Producer Points guest and fan favorite.
🔹 Jeremy Silver – Powerhouse songwriter and producer with credits including Christina Aguilera, Michael Bublé, and countless major sync placements. He’s also a candidate for the ASCAP Board of Directors, advocating for songwriter rights.

Together, they dive into:
🎵 The Spotify rate decrease: How bundled services like audiobooks have led to significant cuts in publishing payouts.
🎵 The songwriter master share debate: Should songwriters get a percentage of the master, or is this just a band-aid solution?
🎵 Producer points & publishing struggles: The challenges of tracking royalties, why fees may be a better alternative, and what needs to change.
🎵 What’s next? How songwriters and producers can push for fairer rates, the role of unions, and whether major catalogs can leverage power over streaming platforms.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the music industry who wants to understand where things stand and what the future holds for songwriters and producers.

🎧 Listen now and join the conversation!
🎶 Don’t forget to check out the official Producer Points playlist on Spotify featuring songs discussed on the show. ⁠Listen here.

🎙 Imad Royal: Crafting Genre-Defying Hits

On the Season 1 finale of Producer Points, host Justin Gammella sits down with the innovative and multifaceted Imad Royal. As a producer, songwriter, and artist, Imad’s work spans across genres and borders, making waves in the worlds of pop, electronic, and beyond. His impressive portfolio includes collaborations with top-tier artists such as Doja Cat, BTS, The Chainsmokers, Panic! At The Disco, Charlotte Lawrence, Oliver Tree, ASHE, Quinn XCII, MAX, and Jawny. From the streets of D.C. to the studios of Los Angeles, Imad has carved out a distinctive path in the music industry with his forward-thinking approach to production.

In this episode, Imad takes us through his journey from his early musical influences to his work with some of the most exciting names in the industry. We explore his collaborative process, building rapport in the studio, and how relationships shape creativity. Imad also opens up about his personal artist project and the versatility that makes him a force in music.

We dive into the production of standout tracks like Doja Cat’s “Boss Bitch” and Oliver Tree’s “Alien Boy,” revealing the techniques behind their unique sounds. From dynamic drum processing to the secrets of imperfect vocals, Imad shares invaluable insights for producers of all levels. Plus, in our “Plug or Unplug” segment, he gives his quick takes on must-have production tools and techniques.

Whether you’re a seasoned producer or just starting out, this episode is packed with tips, stories, and inspiration from one of the industry’s most forward-thinking creators.

Don’t miss out on the full experience—be sure to check out the official Producer Points playlist on Spotify, featuring all the songs discussed in our episodes. Listen here.

🎙 Ruslan Odnoralov: From Russia to Nashville, Shaping the Sound of Modern Music

In this episode of Producer Points, host Justin Gammella sits down with Ruslan Odnoralov, a music producer, songwriter, and vocal producer who has journeyed from Russia to Nashville, where he’s making a significant impact on the music scene. With collaborations that include artists like Lennon Stella, Charlotte Sands, Hunter Hayes, CMC$, and RUEL, Ruslan has a unique ability to elevate every project he touches. Recently, his work on Catie Turner’s latest EPs has been turning heads, showcasing his fresh and dynamic approach to production.

Join us as Ruslan shares his journey from his roots in Russia to becoming a key player in Nashville’s music industry. We explore his favorite local spots and the stories behind them, offering a glimpse into the life of this multi-talented producer.

We also delve into the making of standout tracks like Charlotte Sands' "Dress" and Catie Turner’s "Step Mom," where Ruslan reveals the techniques and creative processes that brought these songs to life. From innovative guitar processing to vocal effects that push boundaries, this episode is packed with insights that will resonate with producers at every level.

In our "Plug or Unplug" segment, Ruslan gives his take on essential gear and plugins that are integral to his workflow. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just starting out, this episode is filled with inspiration and practical advice from one of the most versatile talents in music today.

Don’t miss out on the full experience—be sure to check out the official Producer Points playlist on Spotify, featuring all the songs discussed in our episodes. Listen here.

🎙 Ryan Marrone: Crafting Modern Pop with Heart

On this episode of Producer Points, host Justin Gammella dives into the creative world of Ryan Marrone, a dynamic music producer and songwriter known for his work with some of the most exciting names in pop music today. Ryan’s impressive portfolio includes collaborations with JP Saxe, Sabrina Carpenter, GAYLE, and Lauren Spencer Smith, showcasing his ability to blend heartfelt melodies with contemporary pop sensibilities that resonate deeply with listeners.

In this episode, Ryan shares his journey from his early musical influences to the key moments that shaped his career. We explore his favorite local spots to eat during studio sessions and hear some unforgettable stories from his time in the studio—including a few disasters and how he overcame them. Ryan also offers valuable advice for aspiring producers on navigating the challenges of music production, emphasizing the importance of honesty in sessions.

We take a closer look at the production of standout tracks like JP Saxe’s “The Few Things” featuring Charlotte Lawrence and Sabrina Carpenter’s “how many things,” where Ryan reveals the behind-the-scenes stories and technical details that brought these songs to life. Plus, in our "Plug or Unplug" segment, Ryan gives his quick takes on essential gear and plugins that have shaped his sound.

Whether you’re a seasoned producer or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and inspiration from one of pop music’s most versatile and talented creators. Tune in to discover the secrets behind Ryan Marrone’s success and his thoughts on the future of music production.

Don’t miss out on the full experience—be sure to check out the official Producer Points playlist on Spotify, featuring all the songs discussed in our episodes. Listen here.

🎙 Bendik Møller: From Norway to Global Hits

On this episode of Producer Points, host Justin Gammella welcomes Norwegian music visionary Bendik Møller, a powerhouse producer and songwriter with over a billion streams to his name. Bendik’s journey from the scenic landscapes of Norway to the bustling music scene of Los Angeles has led to collaborations with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Bella Poarch, Salem Ilese, imanbek, Jamie Miller, Pussy Riot, and Sam Feldt.

In this episode, Bendik shares his origin story, from his early musical influences in Norway to key turning points in his career that have shaped his unique sound. We delve into a day in the life of Bendik, exploring his approach to songwriting, production, and balancing the creative and business aspects of the music industry.

We also take a deep dive into the making of hit tracks like Salem Ilese’s “Mad At Disney” and Jamie Miller’s “Here’s Your Perfect,” where Bendik reveals the stories behind these songs and the techniques that brought them to life. Plus, Bendik shares his current favorite gear and plugins in our "Plug or Unplug" segment, offering invaluable insights for aspiring producers.

Don’t miss out on the full experience—be sure to check out the official Producer Points playlist on Spotify, featuring all the songs discussed in our episodes. Listen here.

Whether you’re a seasoned producer or just starting out, this episode is packed with tips, stories, and inspiration from one of the industry’s most talented and down-to-earth creators. Tune in to discover the secrets behind Bendik Møller’s global success.

Join host Justin Gammella on this episode of Producer Points as we dive into the creative world of Petro AP, a versatile music producer, songwriter, and engineer whose talent knows no bounds. Petro has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Renee Rapp, Alexander 23, Grace Enger, and FRANKIE, as well as global icons like Enrique Iglesias, One Direction, Martin Solveig, and Dillon Francis. His ability to craft music that resonates across genres, from pop to TV and film soundtracks to captivating musicals, showcases his impressive breadth of talent.

In this episode, Petro shares his journey from his early days in music production to becoming a sought-after name in the industry. We explore his venture into musical theatre and how it complements his other work, as well as his innovative approach to blending genres and pushing the boundaries of music production. Petro also offers valuable insights into the future of music production, technology, and AI, providing advice for up-and-coming producers.

We take a deep dive into the creation of specific tracks, including Renee Rapp’s “Pretty Girls” and Grace Enger’s “The Neighborhood,” where Petro shares behind-the-scenes stories and the technical details that make these songs stand out. From vocal layering to drum processing, Petro reveals the secrets behind his production techniques.

In our "Plug or Unplug" segment, Petro gives his quick takes on essential production gear and software, sharing his go-to tools for creating his signature sound.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an aspiring producer, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips. Don’t miss the chance to learn from one of the music industry’s most talented and down-to-earth creators—Petro AP.

Be sure to check out the official Producer Points playlist, featuring all the songs discussed in our episodes. Listen here

Join host Justin Gammella on this exciting episode of Producer Points as we dive into the creative universe of Doug Schadt, the Brooklyn-based producer, songwriter, and mixer who’s shaping the sound of today’s pop and indie music. Doug’s magic touch has brought life to tracks by artists like Maggie Rogers, Ashe, Maddie Zahm, Claud, and Claire Rosinkranz, establishing him as a powerhouse in the industry.

From crafting hit soundscapes to sharing some of the most mind-blowing stories, Doug is more than just a producer—he’s a storyteller. In this episode, we chat about his journey from his early influences to becoming a sought-after name in music. Discover what a typical day looks like for Doug as he balances creativity with the hustle and bustle of the music biz. We also get into some juicy stories about his favorite local hangouts and how food plays a role in his creative process.

Dive deep into the making of iconic tracks like “Alaska” by Maggie Rogers and “Shitty Places” by Ashe. Doug reveals the secrets behind their production, from unique sound choices to technical wizardry. We also geek out over his favorite gear and plugins, and in our "Plug or Unplug" segment, Doug gives rapid-fire takes on studio essentials, sharing his expert insights with up-and-coming producers.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with inspiration, laughs, and the kind of insider knowledge you won’t find anywhere else. Tune in on all major podcast platforms to catch the full conversation with Doug Schadt.

Be sure to check out the official Producer Points playlist, featuring all the songs discussed in our episodes. Listen here.