A Note on This Episode: 

I’ve also released this Episode on my personal Podcast (The Mike del Ferro Podcast), but because I’m now also focusing on Mindset Episodes in this series, I felt it was useful to share it here as well.

A big part of my musical identity and my approach to the "inner game" comes from the 10 years I spent with Toots Thielemans. I learned so much from Toots about mindset and professional mentality, and I talk about those experiences a lot in this interview. 

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I recently sat down with Alexandre Piret, a dedicated researcher and musicologist who is currently conducting in-depth academic research on the life and music of Toots Thielemans.

In this episode, which is part of my Podcast series "Echoes of Toots Thielemans", where I interview Harmonica Players, Alexandre interviews me about my ten-year collaboration with Toots. It was a humbling experience to revisit those memories—not just the technical aspects of accompanying such a unique instrument, but the personal moments we shared on tours around the world.

We discuss the nuances of Toots' playing, the chemistry we built on stage, and the "echoes" of his influence that I still feel in my own music today. If you are interested in the history of jazz or the legacy of Toots, I hope you enjoy this conversation.

Send me a text message with your comments, questions and requests for topics

Find Mike's Music, Schedule, Podcasts, Sheet Music (PDF's) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.com

For private online Sessions and Webinars, requests for Topics or other Questions, Email to: [email protected]

Or send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferro

Join the forum/user groups on Telegram.

I also host another, personal Podcast: "The Mike del Ferro Podcast". Listen my Mike’s travel stories, interviews with fascinating people I have been encountering on my international journey, some psychology for musicians , humor and much more. Listen on your favorite Podcast app

Mike del Ferro's YouTube Channel

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...

Hi Everybody, Mike del Ferro here.

First off, I want to say that the success of Self Management for Musicians has been incredible, and I deeply appreciate every one of you who listens and shares the show.

However, I have faced a challenge recently: I cannot be as productive as I want to be due to my heavy international touring schedule all year round. I want to keep providing the information you appreciate, but the editing time has become a bottleneck.

Here is how I am solving this:

• Introducing AI Narration: I have been experimenting with AI-generated voices, and I am very impressed with the quality. Moving forward, I will be utilizing this technology for narration. This is a massive time-saver regarding editing and will allow me to return to a consistent schedule.
• New Schedule: Thanks to this workflow change, I will be back to producing and releasing new episodes every 2 weeks.
• New Name & Focus: I have decided to dedicate more episodes to the mental aspect of our industry. To reflect this, I am officially changing the name of the podcast to "Self Management and Mindset for Musicians".

I love sharing my experiences with you, and these changes ensure I can keep doing that consistently, no matter where I am in the world.

Let me know what you think of these developments, and please keep sharing this podcast with your colleagues.

Send me a text message with your comments, questions and requests for topics

Find Mike's Music, Schedule, Podcasts, Sheet Music (PDF's) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.com

For private online Sessions and Webinars, requests for Topics or other Questions, Email to: [email protected]

Or send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferro

Join the forum/user groups on Telegram.

I also host another, personal Podcast: "The Mike del Ferro Podcast". Listen my Mike’s travel stories, interviews with fascinating people I have been encountering on my international journey, some psychology for musicians , humor and much more. Listen on your favorite Podcast app

Mike del Ferro's YouTube Channel

Listen to Mike on Spotify / Apple Music and Tidal

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Facebook

Piano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by Mike

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...

In Dutch, but you can also watch this Episode on YouTube with English Subtitles or Listen with Automatic Translation. 

Pianist en Wereldreiziger Mike del Ferro vertelt openhartig over muziek, discipline en creatief ondernemen. Hij wordt geïnterviewd door advocaat en jurist Edgar Stam van "Team Juridische Zaken".

Dit gesprek is onderdeel van de podcast "Bulletproof Ondernemers", waarin Edgar diverse ondernemers spreekt over hun uitdagingen en successen.

🎙️ Host: Edgar Stam: https://hub.htjz.nl 
Connect with Edgar on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edgar-stam-329401/
Edgar's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@BulletproofOndernemers

🎧 Luister / volg deze Podcast op Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0DsWVa23ltilGXPZBjGltq?si=9a9f60d618754cb3

Wat als je creativiteit kunt inzetten als businessmodel — wereldwijd?

Mike del Ferro reisde door 120 landen, speelde met de grootste artiesten ter wereld
en ontdekte dat muziek niet alleen kunst is, maar een ondernemersvaardigheid.

Hij bouwde een internationale carrière zonder plan, zonder zekerheid,
maar met discipline, nieuwsgierigheid en totale toewijding aan zijn vak.

Je hoeft geen wereldster te zijn om groot te denken.
Je hoeft geen perfecte strategie te hebben om wereldwijd impact te maken.
Je moet alleen durven vertrouwen op je unieke geluid — letterlijk of figuurlijk.

Mike laat zien dat elke ondernemer — creatief of niet —
kan groeien door discipline + nieuwsgierigheid + lef.

Van de favela’s van Brazilië tot opera-huizen in Europa,
van jazzclubs tot grote festivals —
Mike gebruikte elke plek als springplank,
en elke ontmoeting als inspiratie.

Zijn carrière is geen toeval.
Het is het resultaat van duizenden uren vakmanschap
en beslissen dat je blijft spelen — óók als niemand luistert.

In dit gesprek met Edgar Stam deelt Mike:
1️⃣ Hoe je creativiteit omzet in een schaalbare carrière
2️⃣ Waarom discipline het grote verschil maakt tussen talent en succes
3️⃣ Hoe je overal ter wereld kansen ziet — en pakt
4️⃣ Wat AI betekent voor muzika

Send me a text message with your comments, questions and requests for topics

Find Mike's Music, Schedule, Podcasts, Sheet Music (PDF's) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.com

For private online Sessions and Webinars, requests for Topics or other Questions, Email to: [email protected]

Or send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferro

Join the forum/user groups on Telegram.

I also host another, personal Podcast: "The Mike del Ferro Podcast". Listen my Mike’s travel stories, interviews with fascinating people I have been encountering on my international journey, some psychology for musicians , humor and much more. Listen on your favorite Podcast app

Mike del Ferro's YouTube Channel

Listen to Mike on Spotify / Apple Music and Tidal

Instagram

Facebook

Piano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by Mike

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Twitter

...

In a world dominated by streaming, the choice to release CDs is a decision that artists and creators grapple with. Join me as I delve into the heart of this dilemma, exploring the pros and cons of releasing CDs in a digital age. From the nostalgia and tangibility of physical copies and Vinyl to the convenience and reach of streaming platforms.

Disclaimer: I’ve been hosting this podcast for quite some time now, and I’m thrilled with the success it has achieved so far. However, I’ve noticed that some of my earlier episodes— which are still highly relevant and evergreen—haven’t received as much attention as they deserve. So, I’ve decided to re-upload these valuable episodes to give you another chance to dive into them.

If you haven’t already, please subscribe to the podcast, and don’t forget to like and share it with fellow musicians. Your support means the world and helps us grow together! 

Send me a text message with your comments, questions and requests for topics

Find Mike's Music, Schedule, Podcasts, Sheet Music (PDF's) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.com

For private online Sessions and Webinars, requests for Topics or other Questions, Email to: [email protected]

Or send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferro

Join the forum/user groups on Telegram.

I also host another, personal Podcast: "The Mike del Ferro Podcast". Listen my Mike’s travel stories, interviews with fascinating people I have been encountering on my international journey, some psychology for musicians , humor and much more. Listen on your favorite Podcast app

Mike del Ferro's YouTube Channel

Listen to Mike on Spotify / Apple Music and Tidal

Instagram

Facebook

Piano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by Mike

Piano Tutorials

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...

Picture this: You step into an elevator, and standing right beside you is the music industry heavyweight of your dreams. Let’s say it’s the artistic director of a big Music festival you always wanted to play. You’ve got 60 seconds to captivate their attention and make them believe in your musical vision. What would you say?

An elevator pitch is a concise, compelling summary of a product, idea, or oneself, typically delivered in the time it takes to ride an elevator (around 30 - 60 seconds). Its purpose is to grab the listener's attention, convey key information, and generate interest, making it a powerful tool for networking and pitching.

In this Episode I will give you some great tools to create your one minute Elevator Pitch for your Music Career. Very useful! 

Disclaimer: I’ve been hosting this podcast for quite some time now, and I’m thrilled with the success it has achieved so far. However, I’ve noticed that some of my earlier episodes— which are still highly relevant and evergreen—haven’t received as much attention as they deserve. So, I’ve decided to re-upload these valuable episodes to give you another chance to dive into them.

If you haven’t already, please subscribe to the podcast, and don’t forget to like and share it with fellow musicians. Your support means the world and helps us grow together! 

Send me a text message with your comments, questions and requests for topics

Find Mike's Music, Schedule, Podcasts, Sheet Music (PDF's) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.com

For private online Sessions and Webinars, requests for Topics or other Questions, Email to: [email protected]

Or send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferro

Join the forum/user groups on Telegram.

I also host another, personal Podcast: "The Mike del Ferro Podcast". Listen my Mike’s travel stories, interviews with fascinating people I have been encountering on my international journey, some psychology for musicians , humor and much more. Listen on your favorite Podcast app

Mike del Ferro's YouTube Channel

Listen to Mike on Spotify / Apple Music and Tidal

Instagram

Facebook

Piano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by Mike

Piano Tutorials

Twitter

...

I know your time is precious, especially when you're eager to get back to creating your music!

That's why most of my episodes are short and to the point, ensuring you get the valuable insights you need quickly:-)

However, I also have some special episodes where I dive deep into conversations with fascinating individuals from the music business. This episode features the incredibly talented and versatile Marieke Meischke. With extensive experience as a booking agent, (showcase) festival director/programmer, juror, coach and much more...

In this particular episode, Marieke will share her perspective as a booking agent, shedding light on why showcases are of utmost importance for aspiring artists. Whether you're just starting out on your musical journey or aiming to take your career to the next level, this discussion is packed with valuable information and tips that you won't want to miss.

Visit Marieke's Website.   www.mariekemeischke.com

Website of the European Jazz Network  https://www.europejazz.net

More about Marieke:
Since over 25 years Marieke Meischke has been exploring and walking the field of music, internationally, as a booking agent, tour manager, teacher, lyricist and festival producer/director with particular interest in emerging bands/projects. 
She was running eclectic music festivals FlatFest and So What’s Next? in the Netherlands and a new 3-day festival (2024) is in the making. Marieke is equally passionate about being a coach/guide in talent development (applying Voice Dialogue) and being an advisor at the Dutch Performing Arts Fund, on many festival/award juries and boards.
It is all about connection, communication and collaboration, the sowing and reaping that leads to the right artist on the right stage in the right frame of mind and body, expressing the core of their story.

I’ve been hosting this podcast for quite some time now, and I’m thrilled with the success it has achieved so far. However, I’ve noticed that some of my earlier episodes— which are still highly relevant and evergreen—haven’t received as much attention as

Send me a text message with your comments, questions and requests for topics

Find Mike's Music, Schedule, Podcasts, Sheet Music (PDF's) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.com

For private online Sessions and Webinars, requests for Topics or other Questions, Email to: [email protected]

Or send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferro

Join the forum/user groups on Telegram.

I also host another, personal Podcast: "The Mike del Ferro Podcast". Listen my Mike’s travel stories, interviews with fascinating people I have been encountering on my international journey, some psychology for musicians , humor and much more. Listen on your favorite Podcast app

Mike del Ferro's YouTube Channel

Listen to Mike on Spotify / Apple Music and Tidal

Instagram

Facebook

Piano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by Mike

Piano Tutorials

Twitter

...

In this Episode I talk about a tough subject for many Musicians:  discussing MONEY.

When it comes to discussing money, many of us find ourselves in uncharted waters, grappling with uncertainty, fear, and even imposter syndrome.

I will give you some tips and tricks to make this much easier. 

Let me know if you have any questions/comments, or would be interested in a private online session. 

I’ve been hosting this podcast for quite some time now, and I’m thrilled with the success it has achieved so far. However, I’ve noticed that some of my earlier episodes— which are still highly relevant and evergreen—haven’t received as much attention as they deserve. So, I’ve decided to re-upload these valuable episodes to give you another chance to dive into them.

If you haven’t already, please subscribe to the podcast, and don’t forget to like and share it with fellow musicians. Your support means the world and helps us grow together! 

Send me a text message with your comments, questions and requests for topics

Find Mike's Music, Schedule, Podcasts, Sheet Music (PDF's) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.com

For private online Sessions and Webinars, requests for Topics or other Questions, Email to: [email protected]

Or send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferro

Join the forum/user groups on Telegram.

I also host another, personal Podcast: "The Mike del Ferro Podcast". Listen my Mike’s travel stories, interviews with fascinating people I have been encountering on my international journey, some psychology for musicians , humor and much more. Listen on your favorite Podcast app

Mike del Ferro's YouTube Channel

Listen to Mike on Spotify / Apple Music and Tidal

Instagram

Facebook

Piano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by Mike

Piano Tutorials

Twitter

...

In this episode, I want to talk about something that’s often overlooked but absolutely essential for any serious musician: having your own website.

I know—social media is powerful. But platforms come and go, algorithms change, and relying solely on them means you're building your career on rented land. Your website, on the other hand, is your digital home. It’s the one place online that you fully control, and it speaks volumes about your professionalism.

I’ll share why I believe every musician—whether you're performing, composing, or teaching—needs a website, and how mine has helped me connect with venues, collaborators, and audiences around the world.

-

I’ve been hosting this podcast for quite some time now, and I’m thrilled with the success it has achieved so far. However, I’ve noticed that some of my earlier episodes— which are still highly relevant and evergreen—haven’t received as much attention as they deserve. So, I’ve decided to re-upload these valuable episodes to give you another chance to dive into them.

If you haven’t already, please subscribe to the podcast, and don’t forget to like and share it with fellow musicians. Your support means the world and helps us grow together! 

Send me a text message with your comments, questions and requests for topics

Find Mike's Music, Schedule, Podcasts, Sheet Music (PDF's) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.com

For private online Sessions and Webinars, requests for Topics or other Questions, Email to: [email protected]

Or send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferro

Join the forum/user groups on Telegram.

I also host another, personal Podcast: "The Mike del Ferro Podcast". Listen my Mike’s travel stories, interviews with fascinating people I have been encountering on my international journey, some psychology for musicians , humor and much more. Listen on your favorite Podcast app

Mike del Ferro's YouTube Channel

Listen to Mike on Spotify / Apple Music and Tidal

Instagram

Facebook

Piano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by Mike

Piano Tutorials

Twitter

...

In this episode, I dive into a powerful yet often overlooked principle in building a sustainable music career: putting your own artist name out there first. Whether you're collaborating, producing, or performing, making sure your name is visible and credited is key to long-term recognition and growth.

I’ll explain why this mindset shift is essential—not ego-driven, but career-smart—and how it can change the way you're seen (and remembered) in the industry.

-

I’ve been hosting this podcast for quite some time now, and I’m thrilled with the success it has achieved so far. However, I’ve noticed that some of my earlier episodes— which are still highly relevant and evergreen—haven’t received as much attention as they deserve. So, I’ve decided to re-upload these valuable episodes to give you another chance to dive into them.

If you haven’t already, please subscribe to the podcast, and don’t forget to like and share it with fellow musicians. Your support means the world and helps us grow together! 

Send me a text message with your comments, questions and requests for topics

Find Mike's Music, Schedule, Podcasts, Sheet Music (PDF's) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.com

For private online Sessions and Webinars, requests for Topics or other Questions, Email to: [email protected]

Or send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferro

Join the forum/user groups on Telegram.

I also host another, personal Podcast: "The Mike del Ferro Podcast". Listen my Mike’s travel stories, interviews with fascinating people I have been encountering on my international journey, some psychology for musicians , humor and much more. Listen on your favorite Podcast app

Mike del Ferro's YouTube Channel

Listen to Mike on Spotify / Apple Music and Tidal

Instagram

Facebook

Piano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by Mike

Piano Tutorials

Twitter

...

In this episode, I’m diving into one of the simplest yet most powerful strategies for boosting your reach on social media: uploading videos natively on Facebook. I’ll share why Facebook’s algorithm heavily favors native uploads over external links like YouTube, and how this little shift can make a massive difference in your engagement. I’ve tested this myself, and the results are real—more views, more interaction, and a stronger connection with your audience.

If you’ve been posting YouTube links on autopilot, it’s time to rethink that habit. Join me as I break down the reasons and share practical tips to help you get the most out of your videos on Facebook.

Send me a text message with your comments, questions and requests for topics

Find Mike's Music, Schedule, Podcasts, Sheet Music (PDF's) and Socials on www.mikedelferro.com

For private online Sessions and Webinars, requests for Topics or other Questions, Email to: [email protected]

Or send a Voice Message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/mikedelferro

Join the forum/user groups on Telegram.

I also host another, personal Podcast: "The Mike del Ferro Podcast". Listen my Mike’s travel stories, interviews with fascinating people I have been encountering on my international journey, some psychology for musicians , humor and much more. Listen on your favorite Podcast app

Mike del Ferro's YouTube Channel

Listen to Mike on Spotify / Apple Music and Tidal

Instagram

Facebook

Piano Transcriptions / SheetMusic and PDF's as played by Mike

Piano Tutorials

Twitter

...