To read the complete transcript and watch the podcast video, visit the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠episode blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Are you overpaying taxes as a musician without even realizing it? Many independent artists miss valuable write-offs, misunderstand IRS rules, or treat their music like a hobby instead of a business, and it ends up costing them thousands.

In this episode of the Successful Musicians Podcast, Jason Tonioli sits down with artist, accountant, and tax educator Hannah Cole to break down the tax write-offs musicians often overlook and explain how the IRS actually views creative work. From business vs hobby rules to startup losses, home studio deductions, and quarterly taxes, this conversation brings clarity to what can feel like a confusing system.

Hannah began her career as a working artist before going back to school for accounting after being failed by the financial system herself. Now she helps musicians and creatives understand how to run their work like a real business, take full advantage of tax deductions, and avoid costly mistakes.

Her book, Taxes for Humans, was written specifically for people who feel overlooked by traditional financial advice and need practical, visual tools instead of intimidating number crunching.

If you have ever felt confused, stressed, or overwhelmed by taxes, this episode will give you clarity and confidence.

What You’ll Learn

- Why musicians must think like business owners, not hobbyists

- The difference between a hobby and a business in the eyes of the IRS

- What “profit motive” really means and how to prove it

- How startup losses can benefit you tax-wise

- Why bookkeeping should never be done from a shoebox of receipts

- How a separate business bank account simplifies everything

- What counts as ordinary and necessary business expenses

- How education, software, gear, and studio upgrades become deductions

- Why Kickstarter income is taxable and how to offset it

- When and how to hire the right tax professional

Topics Covered in This Episode

- Hannah’s journey from painter to accountant

- Why money is an amplifier, not the enemy

- The mindset shift around artistic integrity and income

- Common tax mistakes musicians make

- Startup deductions most creatives miss

- Home studio and home office deductions

- Business mileage for gigs and sessions

- Client meals and collaboration expenses

- Quarterly taxes and self-employment basics

- Building simple systems that reduce stress every year

Who This Episode Is For
- Musicians running their own business

- Independent artists and creators

- Touring performers

- Songwriters and producers

- Crowdfunding musicians

- Creative entrepreneurs

- Artists overwhelmed by bookkeeping

- Musicians wanting financial confidence

- Creators building long-term sustainability

Connect with Hannah Cole

Website

TikTok

YouTube

Visual Guide to Performer’s Deductions (Free Resource)

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

To read the complete transcript and watch the podcast video, visit the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠episode blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of the Successful Musicians Podcast, Jason Tonioli sits down with pianist, composer, and arranger Anne Britt. With nearly 15 piano books, multiple album recordings, and a growing catalog of intermediate-level piano duet arrangements, Anne shares how she built a publishing career rooted in collaboration and communication, and how she builds meaningful piano duets and hymn arrangements that connect with listeners.

From earning a math degree to studying composition later in life, Anne’s journey proves that it’s never too late to develop your creative voice. This episode is especially relevant for pianists, hymn arrangers, and musicians who want to publish their own sheet music but struggle with self-doubt.

What You’ll Learn

- Why Anne believes music is a language

- How to define success as communication rather than comparison

- Why starting composition later in life is not a limitation

- The power of mentorship in developing musical confidence

- How to overcome the belief that you are “not creative enough”

- Why intermediate-level piano music fills an important need

- What makes piano duets uniquely collaborative

- How sharing your music builds courage over time

- Why feedback from listeners matters more than online criticism

- How small, meaningful moments define real musical success

Topics Covered in This Episode

- Growing up in a musical family

- Studying math at BYU while continuing piano performance

- Becoming a collaborative pianist and staff accompanist

-The turning point during a high school production of Guys and Dolls

- Studying music theory and composition in her 30s

- Publishing her first CD and songbook

- Writing and publishing hymn arrangements

- Creating intermediate piano duet collections

- Contributing to the Hymn Sampler collaboration

- Upcoming holiday piano duet projects

Who This Episode Is For

- Pianists who want to publish sheet music

- Church musicians and hymn arrangers

- Intermediate-level piano players

- Musicians who feel like they started late

- Creative professionals overcoming self-doubt

- Piano teachers looking for duet repertoire

- LDS musicians building niche catalogs

- Collaborative pianists

- Arrangers developing their own voice

- Anyone who believes music should communicate meaning

Connect with Anne Britt

Website

Facebook

YouTube

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

To read the complete transcript and watch the podcast video, visit the ⁠⁠⁠⁠episode blog⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of the Successful Musicians Podcast, Jason Tonioli sits down with Ross Brunson, a longtime business consultant who has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs structure their businesses correctly, reduce unnecessary taxes, and build long-term stability.

Ross is also the father of Russell Brunson, and shares behind-the-scenes stories from both his own career and Russell’s early entrepreneurial journey.

This is a longer, in-depth conversation focused on business fundamentals, mindset, and defining real success. It is especially relevant for musicians and creative professionals who often avoid the business side of their careers.

What You’ll Learn

- Why most musicians and creatives overpay in taxes

- How the business structure directly affects financial freedom

- The dangers of ignoring bookkeeping and accounting

- Why do many CPAs avoid a proactive tax strategy

- How understanding the IRS code can legally reduce taxes

- Why time freedom is a better measure of wealth than income

- When to stop doing everything yourself and hire help

- How long-term thinking creates sustainable success

Topics Covered in This Episode

- Ross Brunson’s early career and first business ventures

- Lessons from insurance, restoration, and entrepreneurship

- Why business is a game with rules

- Common tax mistakes creative professionals make

- Real stories of entrepreneurs who ignored structure

- Why compliance and strategy must work together

- Russell Brunson’s early marketing journey

- The importance of focusing on strengths

- Residual income versus earned income

- Redefining success as time, service, and impact

Connect with Ross Brunson

Website

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

To read the complete transcript and watch the podcast video, visit the ⁠⁠⁠⁠episode blog⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of the Successful Musicians Podcast, Jason Tonioli sits down with professional cellist Marc Christian to explore how musicians can build a profitable and deeply fulfilling career in the wedding and special events space.

Marc shares how he transitioned from classical cello training and large-stage performances into a thriving wedding music business—one that provides both financial stability and meaningful service through music.

Marc Christian is a professional cellist who began playing cello at the age of nine and pursued formal classical training through college at Cal State Northridge. While originally on a traditional orchestral path, Marc realized he wanted a more creative and personal approach to music.

After performing with bands, singer-songwriters, and high-profile events in Los Angeles, including Grammy-related work, Marc shifted his focus to weddings and special events. Over the past five years, he has built a highly successful wedding music business, becoming a preferred vendor at more than 20 venues and performing hundreds of events.

Marc is known for tailoring each performance to the couple and the moment, creating emotionally powerful experiences that elevate life’s most important milestones.

What You’ll Learn

- How Marc transitioned from classical music to a profitable wedding music career

- Why tailoring music to each event creates unforgettable experiences

- How musicians can grow confident in pricing and value over time

- Why small gigs can lead to big opportunities

- How service and emotional impact support long-term fulfillment

- Why success as a musician should include both income and purpose

Topics Covered in This Episode

- Starting cello at a young age and classical training

- Leaving the orchestral path for creative freedom

- Building a wedding and special events music business

- Tailoring music for ceremonies and guest experiences

- Pricing confidence and turning down low-paying gigs

- Building reputation through referrals and venues

- The emotional impact of music in weddings, funerals, and hospitals

- Defining success as service and financial stability

If you’re a musician searching for a career that combines creativity, service, and sustainability, this episode offers powerful insight into how music can become both a calling and a livelihood.

Connect with Marc Christian

Website

YouTube

Instagram

Facebook

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

To read the complete transcript and watch the podcast video, visit the ⁠⁠⁠episode blog⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of the Successful Musicians Podcast, Jason Tonioli sits down with Mark Spier, President and CEO of Royalty Solutions, to unpack how music royalties really work and why so many artists are leaving money on the table.

Mark founded Royalty Solutions in 2009 with a mission to bring transparency, accuracy, and efficiency to royalty processing and music publishing. With more than 30 years of experience across music publishing, technology, and finance, he brings a rare, well-rounded perspective to the evolving music rights landscape.

He is also the third-generation President of Memory Lane Music Group, a family-owned publishing company established in 1921. The company’s catalog includes songs that have been recorded, covered, and sampled by some of the biggest artists in the world. Mark holds a degree in Computer Science from Colgate University and an MBA from Columbia Business School, and previously worked at IBM and Credit Suisse.

Through his work at Royalty Solutions and Memory Lane Music Group, Mark helps artists, labels, and publishers maximize royalty income, properly register their works, and protect their rights in the digital age.

What You’ll Learn

This conversation explores how the music industry has shifted from physical sales to streaming and digital distribution, and what that means for royalty collection today. Mark explains why understanding music publishing, performance royalties, and mechanical royalties is essential for independent artists. He also breaks down the role of organizations like the MLC and why correct registration is critical to getting paid.

Jason and Mark discuss the common mistakes artists make as they move from hobbyists to professionals, why unclaimed royalties are so common, and when it makes sense to bring in experts to manage the business side of music.

Topics Covered in This Episode

- How music royalties work in the streaming era

- The difference between publishing, performance, and mechanical royalties

- The role of the MLC and why registration matters

- Why many independent artists miss out on royalty income

- How audits can uncover unpaid or misreported royalties

- When artists should consider professional royalty administration

- Protecting your music rights while scaling your career

If you are an independent musician, songwriter, label owner, or publisher looking to better understand music royalties and maximize your earnings, this episode offers practical insights from someone who has spent decades inside the system.

Listen now to learn how to take control of your music rights and get paid what you are owed.

Connect with Mark Spier

Website

Royalty Solutions’ LinkedIn

Mark’s LinkedIn

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

To read the complete transcript and watch the podcast video, visit the ⁠⁠episode blog⁠⁠.

Daniel Blomberg is a Swedish music producer, arranger, and composer based in the United States. He is known for helping songwriters transform raw ideas into polished, world-class productions that have reached millions of listeners across YouTube and streaming platforms. From growing up in a small village in Sweden to building a thriving music production business in the U.S., Daniel’s career is shaped by a deep focus on mindset, collaboration, and understanding the music business. His latest release, Sacred Christmas II, reflects this same commitment to excellence and is now available through Uplift Music.

What You’ll Learn

In this episode of The Successful Musicians Podcast, Daniel shares how his upbringing in Sweden and his years outside of music helped shape his approach to producing and entrepreneurship. He explains why mindset and business skills matter just as much as musical talent, how working with hobbyist songwriters became a powerful niche, and why building the right team accelerates success. You’ll also hear Daniel’s insights on overcoming self-doubt, investing in yourself, and learning to serve your audience at a higher level as a musician.

Things We Discussed

Daniel talks about his journey from studying music in Sweden to stepping away from music for several years before returning with a renewed perspective. He reflects on the importance of understanding the music business, surrounding yourself with people who complement your strengths, and letting go of the belief that you must do everything yourself. The conversation also explores marketing, hiring help, learning through books and podcasts, and why many musicians stall not because of lack of talent, but because of fear, comfort, and mindset barriers.

Connect with Daniel Blomberg

Website 

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

To read the complete transcript and watch the podcast video, visit the ⁠episode blog⁠.

Panu Aaltio is an award-winning Finnish film composer known for his evocative scores that blend classical tradition, experimental textures, and modern storytelling. From his early days studying at the Sibelius Academy to composing for internationally recognized films and documentaries, Panu has built a career defined by curiosity, intuition, and a deep love for the craft of music. His work spans feature films, television, and documentaries, with a style that captures both emotional depth and cinematic scope. You can explore more of his credits on IMDb. His latest film, Little Siberia, is now streaming on Netflix.

What You’ll Learn

In this episode of The Successful Musicians Podcast, Panu shares how his upbringing, education, and love for both computers and film shaped his unique approach to composing. He explains how intuition, experimentation, and collaboration with directors allow him to capture the deeper meaning behind stories. You’ll also hear about his early struggles with self-doubt, how subconscious problem-solving plays into his creative process, and why focusing on the joy of making music matters more than external success.

Things We Discussed
Panu talks about his journey from playing cello as a child to becoming one of Finland’s most respected composers. He reflects on the lessons he learned working with directors, the importance of experimenting without fear of failure, and the way subconscious creativity often provides breakthroughs when composing. He also shares memorable experiences from his first feature film recording in London, working with experimental vocal groups, and the evolving perspective that keeps him grounded and inspired as a musician.

Connect with Panu Aaltio

Website 

Facebook

Instagram

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

To read the complete transcript and watch the podcast video, visit the episode blog.

Fabiana Claure is a pianist, educator, and entrepreneur who has dedicated her career to helping musicians move beyond the “starving artist” model and into sustainable, thriving businesses. After co-founding a successful music academy and directing the music business program at the University of North Texas, she launched her coaching company to empower musicians around the world. Through her Musicians’ Profit Umbrella® framework, Fabiana helps artists turn their skills, knowledge, and stories into high-value online businesses that create both financial freedom and artistic fulfillment.

What You’ll Learn

Fabiana shares her journey from finishing her doctorate to launching businesses in the busiest season of her life. She explains why universities can be fertile ground for entrepreneurship, how internships and networking can open unexpected doors, and why musicians should stop trading time for money. You’ll learn about the four steps she uses to guide musicians toward profitable online business models, how to package your knowledge into premium offers, and why delegating is key to avoiding burnout.

Things We Discussed

Jason and Fabiana dive deep into the tension between traditional music education and the realities of building a career. They discuss how musicians can take ownership of their opportunities instead of waiting for permission, the importance of building a personal brand that reflects more than just skills, and why investing in yourself can change your career trajectory. Fabiana also opens up about her own lessons learned, including the power of mentorship, the importance of community, and her wish that she had started delegating much earlier in her journey.

Connect with Fabiana Claure

Website

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

For the entire interview transcript, please ⁠click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Brent Maher is a seven-time Grammy Award–winning producer, engineer, and songwriter whose career has helped define the sound of American music. Known for his work with The Judds, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, and Tina Turner, Brent’s influence spans across genres and generations. From his early beginnings in the Air Force to producing Elvis Presley’s final number-one record, his story is one of perseverance, creativity, and heart. Most recently, he released The Night of the Orphan Train, an original audiobook and musical project that blends storytelling with songs inspired by real American history—available now on Audible, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.

What You’ll Learn

In this inspiring conversation, Brent shares how perseverance, purpose, and sacrifice shape a fulfilling music career. He talks about the true definition of success—not in fame or awards, but in finding happiness and meaning in what you do. You’ll also discover the creative process behind The Night of the Orphan Train, and how stories of resilience from history can inspire powerful art today.

Things We Discussed

Brent reflects on his decades-long career, the lessons learned from working with musical legends, and the deep drive that keeps artists moving forward. He opens up about the personal sacrifices behind success, the challenge of balancing passion with family life, and the importance of defining happiness on your own terms. The episode also dives into the inspiration behind The Night of the Orphan Train—how a roadside sign sparked a heartfelt project that combines history, emotion, and music to tell the forgotten stories of thousands of orphaned children in early America. Jason and Brent close the conversation by exploring what it truly means to be a “successful musician” and how fulfillment often comes from helping others find joy through music.

Connect with Brent Maher

Website 

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

For the entire interview transcript, please ⁠click ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Kurt Bestor is an Emmy Award–winning composer, arranger, and performer whose music has touched audiences around the world. With a career spanning over four decades, he has written and produced scores for film, television, and stage, and is best known for his beloved song “Prayer of the Children.” Each year, his Christmas concerts bring together fans from all generations, celebrating both tradition and creativity.

What You’ll Learn

In this episode, you’ll learn how Kurt approaches composition as storytelling, why being teachable and adaptive keeps creativity alive, and how persistence and authenticity can sustain a long and meaningful career in music.

Things We Discussed
Kurt Bestor shares the lessons he’s learned throughout his remarkable journey as a composer and performer. He talks about how technology has changed the creative process, the importance of collaboration, and why connecting emotionally with audiences matters more than chasing perfection. He also reflects on balancing the art and business of music, staying curious, and continuing to learn—no matter how long you’ve been in the industry.

Connect with Kurt Bestor

Website 

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music