What would happen if you walked away from a successful aerospace engineering career to chase a dream you discovered later in life?

In this episode, Jason sits down with singer-songwriter Mark Winters to discuss his journey from aerospace engineer to full-time touring musician. Influenced by artists like John Mayer, Tom Petty, and Jason Mraz, Mark combines poetic storytelling with what he calls his "rocket-scientist brain," using creativity and structure to turn complex emotions into songs that connect with audiences.

Mark shares how a simple anniversary gift sparked his passion for music, eventually leading him to leave a successful engineering career behind. Today, he performs more than 100 shows each year, building a growing fanbase through authentic storytelling, relentless touring, and a commitment to spreading positivity wherever he goes.

This conversation is filled with practical advice for musicians, creators, and anyone considering a major life change.

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

What You'll Learn

- How Mark transitioned from aerospace engineering to professional music

- Why learning music as an adult can be an advantage

- The anniversary gift that unexpectedly changed his life

- How songwriting became a creative outlet and career path

- What it takes to perform more than 100 shows per year

- How to build a sustainable touring strategy

- Why setting measurable goals matters

- The importance of mentorship and continuous learning

- How independent artists can grow an audience today

- Why email lists still matter for musicians

- How to stay motivated when progress feels slow

- The mindset required to reinvent yourself later in life

Topics Covered

- Aerospace engineering and music

- Learning guitar as an adult

- Songwriting and creativity

- Independent touring

- Building a fanbase

- Music marketing

- Email marketing for musicians

- Goal setting and accountability

- Mentorship

- Career transitions

- Creative entrepreneurship

- The business side of music

- Finding purpose through creativity

Who This Episode Is For

- Independent musicians

- Songwriters

- Performing artists

- Adult beginners learning music

- Touring musicians

- Creative entrepreneurs

- Anyone considering a career change

- Music students

- Artists building an audience

- Musicians interested in touring

- Creators balancing passion and practicality

Connect with Mark Winters

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Spotify

Apple Music

YouTube 

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music