In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back mastering engineer and host of The Mastering Show, Ian Shepherd. They dive into the current state of mastering, AI’s growing role, work/life balance, and in-the-box vs. out-of-the-box mastering. Enjoy!

In This Episode, We Discuss:

1. Companion podcast episode
2. Advances in mastering technology
3. The rise of AI mastering
4. Shift toward releasing singles
5. Impact of social media
6. Mastering now democratized
7. Lower barrier to entry
8. AI lacks human context
9. AI results often bland/generic
10. Humans provide taste and nuance
11. Networking challenges in rural areas
12. Technology removes many practical limits
13. Career hasn’t suffered despite changes
14. Facing an empty nest soon
15. Focus on intentional, joyful work
16. Known as the "loudness guy"

Links and Show Notes:

1. Ian's 100th episode
2. Ian on WCA #132

Matt's Rant: Building ThingsCredits:

1. Guest: Ian Shepherd
2. Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
3. WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
4. The Voice: Chuck Smith