Too Late To Quit

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:df99d171-6b0d-4bfc-82df-6ca520734db1-44" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:df99d171-6b0d-4bfc-82df-6ca520734db1-44" data-testid= "conversation-turn-74" data-turn="assistant"> Episode 26: Andy Martin "Things Can Go Wrong and Then They Can Get Better Again"

I first met Andy at an open mic at Opa's in Austin where he was kind enough to lend his guitar to an artist who had forgotten theirs. He did it without thinking and that generosity has always stuck out to me. I've watched Andy run sound and perform regularly at the New World Deli and other venues around the city. Andy is always ready to help at a moment's notice and is a true story teller.

In this episode Andy and I talk about his musical journey from growing up in England and Canada to eventually finding his way to Austin. Andy shares his adventures picking the guitar back up, playing open mics, writing his own songs, and becoming part of a community of musicians.

Have you ever experienced stage fright? Andy shares about having stage fright so intense that his hands would shake and he couldn't even fingerpick when he would perform. It took him years of getting back up there and doing it again before that fear finally started to loosen its grip. When you watch Andy perform today, it's a true testament to how much work he has put in towards his craft.

Andy and I also get into songwriting, failure, mentors, creativity, and why sometimes you need to stop worrying about what something is going to become and just enjoy the process of creating.

Stay tuned until the end because Andy is going to play his original song "Splinters."

Remember that it's always the right time to start and it's too late to quit. You got this!

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In Episode 25 of Too Late to Quit, Jeff sits down with Austin singer-songwriter Mason Kinard for a conversation about creativity, authenticity, and what happens when you stop trying to force the art and learn to listen for it instead.

Mason shares his journey from playing bass in punk and rock bands to unexpectedly finding his voice as an acoustic singer-songwriter. He talks about the influence of artists like Johnny Cash and Leonard Cohen, overcoming his early discomfort as a solo performer, and learning to embrace the soft, intimate singing voice that became part of his sound.

The conversation dives deep into Mason's songwriting process, why melody often comes before words, how songs can help us find language for feelings we don't yet understand, and why he sometimes feels less like he's writing a song and more like he's receiving one.

Mason and Jeff also explore dreams, intuition, creative fear, getting older, and the pressure artists put on themselves to be perfect. His advice to anyone wondering whether they've waited too long to create is beautifully simple: start, enjoy it, and don't worry about where it leads.

The episode closes with Mason performing his brand-new original song, "The Painting of a Girl," live in the Too Late to Quit studio.

Because it's always the right time to start, and it's Too Late to Quit. Lets Go!

Episode 24: Melanie Collup: "You Don't Need Permission To Create"

What if the only thing standing between you and your creative dream is waiting for someone else's approval?

After a viral film festival moment sparked a worldwide conversation about age and creativity, actor, writer, producer, and director Melanie Collup joins Too Late To Quit to share the remarkable journey that brought her there.

Melanie didn't pursue acting professionally until her 30s. She left behind a stable career, sold her house, moved to New York, battled imposter syndrome, and ultimately discovered that creating your own opportunities is often the key to building the career you want.

We talk about:

• Going viral for all the right reasons
• Starting an artistic career later in life
• Building confidence despite imposter syndrome
• Writing roles for yourself instead of waiting to be cast
• Creating a community that helps you grow
• Why collaboration beats competition
• The courage to bet on yourself

This conversation is filled with wisdom, warmth, and practical advice for anyone who's ever wondered if they're "too late" to pursue the life they really want.

Remember: You don't need permission to create.

Episode 23 – Adam Elara (Sikeen)

Have you ever wanted to throw in the towel? Do you need help finding your way out of the woods? Today's episode may be just what the doctor ordered.

Adam Elara of Arab/Desi Rock group Sikeen joins Jeff for a fascinating conversation about creativity, persistence, and building something unique from the ground up.

Adam shares how a Walmart First Act guitar, a family computer, and countless hours of self-teaching eventually led him to create Sikeen's distinctive blend of rock, metal, and Middle Eastern influences. Along the way, he talks about learning to record music on his own, drawing inspiration from Bollywood, Linkin Park, and Arabic music, and why he believes great songs should work with nothing more than a voice and an acoustic guitar.

The conversation also explores Adam's work as an actor, the visual storytelling behind Sikeen's striking artwork and videos, and the moment he nearly gave up on music entirely before finding a new path forward.

If you've ever wondered whether it's too late to start, too late to reinvent yourself, or too late to keep chasing your creative vision, Adam's story is a powerful reminder that sometimes the breakthrough happens just after you're ready to quit.

The episode concludes with Sikeen's latest single, "Draw the Line."

adamelara.com

Sikeen: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6AlgbBjWVJDjRgXDG8adqR?si=58930d57c17a41cf

Accomplished television and film actor, athlete, and gifted musician Marc Anthony Samuel joins Jeff for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about creativity, presence, and finding your artistic voice.

Marc opens up about his journey from acting to creating music with the band Triptides. Along the way, he shares deeply personal stories about his parents, artistic intuition, and the importance of staying emotionally present both in life and in performance. Marc has always been a supportive force in every community he has set foot in, and this energy is also felt and transmuted through his music.

One of the most fascinating parts of the conversation centers around Marc's songwriting process. He describes hearing complete songs in his head; drums, harmonies, textures, and melodies fully formed before bringing them to life in the studio. Jeff and Marc dive deep into the creation of songs like "Free Yourself" and "The Way," discussing how music, memory, emotion, and even color all connect together creatively.

Marc exemplifies the belief that 'how you do anything os how you do anything.' His music is nuanced, present and lifts you up.

The two also explore:

• artistic sensitivity and emotional presence

• creativity as a lifelong calling

• composing music entirely in his mind

• the influence of soul, Brazilian pop, disco, and psychedelic music

• acting, storytelling, and listening

• why generosity matters in creative communities

• learning to trust your inner voice

• pursuing art fearlessly at any age

The episode closes with Marc introducing his stunning song "Free Yourself", a cinematic, emotionally rich track made for late-night drives (in a car) and quiet moments of reflection. Please welcome the one and only Marc Anthony Samuel to the Too Late To Quit family!

Episode 21: Phil Dutra - "Go through the fear"

"I want every song to either lift you up or hold you steady, especially if life's thrown you a curveball." - Phil Dutra

In this episode of Too Late to Quit, I sit down with Austin-based singer-songwriter Phil Dutra. Phil is an artist who creates music that will always take you on a musical journey filled with heartfelt lyrics, amazing production and hooks for days.

Phil's been writing and performing for years, starting with an a cappella group at NYU and eventually building a catalog of melodic, emotionally driven songs that blend retro-pop sensibility with a modern edge. His work has earned real recognition along the way, including winning the National Michael Lloyd Songwriting Contest at the TAXI Road Rally and a placement in the Warner Bros. film Something Borrowed.

We talk about his songwriting process, how his sound developed over time, and what it actually looks like to keep creating without overthinking every step. Phil also shares how dealing with anxiety shaped both his music and his approach to performing, and how things like meditation have helped him stay grounded. Phil is truly an open book and I know his stories of courage will remind you that we need to simply 'go through the fear.' Phil also shows us how having a great sense of humor can make this process of life much easier when facing critics and dealing with bumps in the road.

It's a straightforward conversation about making music, sticking with it, and figuring things out as you go without pretending you have it all together. Does anyone have it all together?

If you're working on something of your own, or trying to stay consistent creatively, there's a lot in here that'll resonate and I can't wait for you to hear this episode! Remember, it's always the right time to start, and it's too late to quit.

You can learn everything about Phil on his website below; tour dates, music and more all at:

www.phildutra.com

Artie Tobia has the ability to stop anyone in their tracks with just a glance. Walk up to him after a show and you'll be met with a bear hug and a genuinely warm connection. When I was just starting to make music in New York City, Artie always made space for me to play in true listening rooms in the city, places where songs were meant to be heard. He's someone who has advised me throughout my own musical journey and who truly lives and leads with abundance and from a place of service.

Fresh off his South by Southwest set with his phenomenal band, Redtail Revival, Artie stopped by the TLTQ Studios to record an incredible episode recounting many musical adventures. He also does a stellar Optimus Prime imitation.

Artie shares the story of how he became a musician, why cowboy boots have always been part of who he is, and how he creates his art. A true renaissance man and authentic creative spirit, Artie Tobia is a songwriter, performer, actor, educator, and someone whose kindness has left a mark on thousands of people and will continue to do so. Artie represents the true spirit of the Too Late To Quit family.

Come along for the ride, and stay tuned for an absolutely rip-roaring live performance at the end of our interview.

Catch Artie Tobia and Redtail Revival on tour:

https://artietobia.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ARTIETOBIAREDTAILREVIVAL/

John Smith is a living example of what can happen when you keep saying yes to the unexpected turns in life. I first met John back in 1994 when he and Dan Sabranek came to Viterbo University to perform as their duo Runaway. I was blown away by John's voice, his songwriting, and the way his songs stayed with me long after that night. I bought a CD in the student union, and honestly, I've been humming those melodies ever since. That very CD has travelled with me through every move, every adventure over the past 32 years.

Recently, I got back in touch with John, who graciously responded while he was literally in the middle of a cruise on the other side of the world. That warmth, openness, and genuine support for fellow songwriters is simply magnificent.

What I love most is that even while preparing to release his tenth album, John still sees himself as a student of song. That's rare. To meet someone who has accomplished so much in the world of music (with the awards to prove it!) and still talks openly about learning is deeply inspiring, and very much in the spirit of what this podcast is about.

John's entrance into music is truly remarkable. It's the kind of story that sounds like it belongs in a song itself. At a young age, a guitar was literally thrown to him, and from there began a journey that took him from growing up in Iowa to becoming an internationally recognized songwriter and performer.

This conversation is a reminder to trust your gut and your vibes, and to rememer that the universe is there to help us.

I can't wait for you to hear my conversation with John. Without further adieu, let's all give a very warm welcome to the one and only, John Smith!

https://johnsmithmusic.com/

John Smith new CD Fan-funding: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=415nZ2KjW_4

Diana was kind enough to stop by the podcast early last year and she returned. This time we decided to record the podcast in Diana's native language, Spanish. If you are looking to practice your Spanish or if you know someone who loves music and speaks Spanish please be sure to take a listen and share this episode. Diana's story is completely incredible and her persistence and resilience will remind you of how strong a person can be. I am confident that when you listen to this episode, where Diana invites us into her world, you will be truly inspired to chase down your dreams!

While I was editing this podcast it made me think of all my Spanish teachers throughout my life who encouraged me to keep practicing. I never imagined that one day I would be able to conduct a podcast interview in my second language. Learning Spanish has opened up so many doors that I would have never discovered if I only spoke English. Thanks to learning how to speak Spanish I ended up meeting the love of my life and my greatest supporter, my wife Margarita.

Diana tuvo la amabilidad de acompañarnos nuevamente en el podcast, después de haber estado con nosotros a comienzos del año pasado. Esta vez decidimos grabar el episodio en su idioma natal, el español. Si estás buscando practicar tu español, o conoces a alguien que ama la música y habla español, te invito a escuchar este episodio y compartirlo. La historia de Diana es realmente increíble, y su persistencia y resiliencia son un recordatorio de lo fuerte que puede llegar a ser una persona. Estoy seguro de que al escuchar este episodio, donde Diana nos abre las puertas de su mundo, te vas a sentir verdaderamente inspirado a perseguir tus sueños.

Mientras editaba este podcast, me puse a pensar en todos los profesores de español que tuve a lo largo de mi vida y que siempre me animaron a seguir practicando. Nunca imaginé que algún día iba a poder hacer una entrevista para un podcast en mi segundo idioma. Aprender español me ha abierto muchísimas puertas que jamás habría descubierto si solo hablara inglés. Gracias a haber aprendido español terminé conociendo al amor de mi vida y a mi mayor apoyo: mi esposa Margarita.

On this episode of Too Late to Quit, I sit down with Austin singer-songwriter Claudia Gibson, whose music blends folk at its core with elements of rock, bluegrass and Celtic, creating a sound that feels both expansive and deeply personal.

In our conversation, Claudia reflects on her early years making rock music in her twenties, and her current musical era where she has returned to songwriting with a new sense of purpose, creating work rooted in real experience, family history, and emotional truth.

A 1st place winner of the Woody Guthrie Songwriting Contest and a Kerrville New Folk finalist, Claudia approaches songwriting with a methodical, almost historian-like discipline. In the tradition of storytellers like Bruce Springsteen and Joni Mitchell, her songs are grounded in lived experience, carefully observed details, and a deep respect for craft, never rushed, never accidental.

Her most recent album, The Fields of Chazy, reflects that philosophy. We talk about Claudia's songwriting process, her razor sharp sense of humor and her ability to turn a song prompt into a song that will stop you in your tracks.

Facebook.com/claudiagibsonmusic