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[Book] The Songwriting Guitarist Part 5
Mike dives into the deep questions every songwriter should ask themselves, the role the guitar plays in our songwriting lives, how to improve our skills without spending frustratingly long hours each day, and the often-overlooked financial potential for guitarists. In this impactful conclusion to his book, Mike offers words of encouragement, emphasizing the power of perseverance in the face of creative challenges.
[BOOK] The Songwriting Guitarist Part 4
In this essential chapter, Mike delves into the often-overlooked financial potential for guitarists.
This chapter is a must-listen for any guitarist looking to turn their skills into a profitable career!
[Book] The Songwriting Guitarist Part 3
This systematic approach revealed in this chapter will help you steadily improve your songwriting abilities as a guitarist and continue improving!
[Book] The Songwriting Guitarist Part 2
Breathe new life into your songs by playing chords in different positions, move beyond default strumming patterns, and explore diverse rhythmic feels. These techniques are designed to unlock more unique and interesting melodies, make your songs sound fresh, and craft a guitar part that perfectly complements the vocalist.
You'll also learn how to avoid sounding dated in your playing, and ensure that your music continues to evolve! Plus, he shares one crucial rule for learning that, if you didn't know it before, might have been holding you back all this time.
[BOOK] The Songwriting Guitarist (Transformation In Just 15 Mins A Day) Part 1
We’re releasing the first two chapters of Mike Meiers' game-changing book, “The Songwriting Guitarist”, exclusively on on the SFG podcast! In these first two chapters, you’ll dive into the deeper "WHY" and purpose of creating music, the reason it's so important to know first, and learn how to discover yours.
Don't miss this special opportunity to immerse yourself in the wisdom and exercises that will revolutionize your songwriting journey!
Episode 108: Leading with Guitar
Guess what? The best guitarist in the room isn’t always the most valuable for songwriting! AND just because you aren’t totally confident in your guitar playing, doesn’t mean you can’t be a songwriting guitarist.
Songwriting is more about the collective creativity, teamwork and ultimately a finished song, which is why this podcast is so important to listen to if you're wavering in your worth because of your skill level.
In this episode we explore the art of leading with your guitar so you can discover how your instrument can set the tone, spark creativity, and enhance song arrangements, all while fostering collaboration.
Episode 107: Three Tips for Songwriting Progress
Episode 106: Putting in the Work Part II
One choice can change everything - the decision that you make all comes down to willingness. Willingness to put in the work is the beginning and end to your songwriting woes. What will you miss out on by trying? Absolutely nothing.
Returning guest Josh Doyle and Mike Meiers argue that every bit of effort you give is worth your time because it’s all on a path to discovering your process and uncovering the ease of creating.
What will you gain if you get expert advice? Find out for yourself.
Don’t miss the chance to get a song critique from SFG Coach Josh Doyle, someone who put in the work and came out with six figure songs.
Episode 105: Putting in the Work - Part I
The finished product always sounds so flawless, so obvious, so easy, but behind the scenes of that creative project is blood, sweat and tears aka, process and development over months and years.
The problem with quick solutions is that you’re competing with artists and talent from all over the world putting in the work and doing the difficult things. So it's time to ask yourself what does putting in the work look like and how can you keep improving your process?
Episode 104: Behind The Process
Doing something new can be scary, it’s why most people stay in their comfort zones.
Mike and guest Seth Schaeffer from Behind the Act talk mindset, advancing towards goals, starting new ventures and the difference in navigating the process or running away from it.
In this episode, they tackle the fear of the unknown, the importance of seeking help, and the power of leaning into your strengths. They discuss the journey from perfectionism to unintentional growth, and the art of juggling different passions and talents.
Episode 103: Melody, Music, or Lyrics?
Songwriting is a craft, one that has many different approaches and perspectives on what to develop and work on. In this episode, Mike Meiers and Madeline Finn begin the episode discussing which is the most important aspect of a song: Music, Lyrics or Melody. What do you think it is? You might be surprised at their answer.
If you tend to get stuck in holding patterns with your songs, take a half hour and delve into the importance of intentionality and a growth mindset so you can work towards crafting unforgettable songs.
Episode 102: You're Crazy, You're a Genius
Are you pursuing an unconventional or creative passion? This episode explores the challenges faced by all who venture into unique paths. When host Mike Meiers first set out to pursue music, even close people in his life thought he was nuts to try it; until he succeeded and got his first co-write, his first sync placement, his Emmy. Once the courageous ones start to achieve what they set out to, those awkward looks become looks of admiration.
What does it take to persevere in an unconventional career path?
Episode 101: John Lunn
Mike sits down with the extraordinary composer, John Lunn, known for his outstanding work on shows like Shetland, The Last Kingdom, and Downton Abbey. Miek, dives deep into John's extensive background in both classical and pop music, exploring the intricate process of composing for television and film.
For anyone aspiring to comprehend the intricacies of composing for TV and film, Episode 101 is a must-listen.
Lessons Learned from 100 Episodes
From a rigid NPR-like beginning to lively chats with industry icons, the show evolved, creating a warm environment for insightful conversations. Now in the most current form, our episodes offer tangible takeaways for musicians learning and growing their craft.
As we celebrate this milestone, I invite you to embark on your own creative endeavors, bringing your authentic self to the table and enjoy the ride.
Episode 99: 5 Ways to Breakthrough Songwriter's Block
The infamous writer's block strikes again! Cue ominous drums, Duhn duhn duhhhn. It's a familiar struggle, an inevitable part of the creative process that can leave even the most seasoned songsmiths questioning their abilities.
There's a way out of this creative funk, and the path to renewed inspiration is within this episode.
Episode 98: Gain Confidence in Songwriting
In this episode, Judy and Mike provide valuable insights into developing your own unique process and system to unlock the emotional content in your lyrics and melodies as well as the keys to success in this industry.
They also discuss the importance of self-love, embracing your vulnerabilities, and the perpetual learning that is essential for growth.
Ep 97: Live Gigs to Full Time Production
Join Mike Meiers and Steph Trivison in this awesome podcast episode where they talk about the journey of going from live gigging into commercial production, and prove even though it’s not easy, it’s totally doable.
Ep 96: Five Steps for the Modern Songwriter to Start Getting Placements
A cut from a live session Mike gave at the Austin Music Foundation, this talk is an hour deep dive on how to start getting your music into sync licensing as a songwriter today.
Sync licensing isn't a sprint; it's a marathon that requires dedication and self-investment. Mike firmly believes that every songwriter should know the rules of the game.
Episode 95: Why’d You Write a Book, Mike?
In the world of short form viral videos and online courses, why would someone create a physical book as a a teaching tool?
C.O.O. Heather Taylor, asks the hard hitting questions in this week’s Songwriting for Guitar Podcast Episode.
Pre-Order your copy of "The Songwriting Guitarist" here before Sept. 26th: https://www.
Episode 94: Co-Writing, The Second Hour
Now that you've completed the first hour of your co-writing session (following our previous episode, "Co-Writing, The First Hour"), you've gained insights into how to maximize that initial hour by focusing on building a strong connection with your co-writer and ensuring certain steps are addressed.
In the second hour, you may encounter two distinct paths. It may have gone well, and you're now prepared for what comes next, or it may not have gone as smoothly, leaving you wondering about the next steps and what to communicate.
Episode 93: Co-Writing, The First Hour
In the world of songwriting, collaboration can lead to the best results. It has the power to transform your creative process and elevate your songwriting to new heights. But, most people shy away from co-writing because of its challenges and the unknowns.
Mike shares invaluable tips and techniques for starting co-writing sessions on the right note. Tune in to to elevate your creative process and redefine your understanding of co-writing.
Episode 92: Leverage your Guitar to Get Great Gigs!
Why do some people get great gigs and others can’t get a feature at an open mic?
In this episode, Mike and SFG Coach, Brian Belonzi argue that your guitar playing is in fact the gateway to better paying gigs.
Tune in to learn how.
Episode 91: Unlocking Creative Potential - The Five Books You Can't Miss
There’s so many ways to digest a book, and so many topics that you can explore, sometimes it’s hard to nail it on the first try and people end up getting turned off by reading.
Mike believes reading the right books has been absolutely transformational and would like to share the top five books he sees that could unlock your creative potential.
Episode 90: Seids, Making it Happen
Driven by a genuine passion to make musicians' lives easier, she introduces her followers to exciting tech innovations that make production and music creation more accessible to the public.
You may already be familiar with her through social media posts where she teaches about Logic Pro, new plugins and production tips.
Unlike those who paint a picture-perfect image, Seids keeps it honest, relatable, and educational.
Episode 89:
Jess Gramuglia - Life is Short
This episode is like a double shot of espresso, Mike Meiers and Music Supervisor, Jess Gramuglia bring a dynamic energy that will keep you engaged from start to finish.
Filled with insights, Jess shares her experiences in the industry, the big highs, the excitement and the challenges.
Episode 88: Be Relentless - A Coaching Client Success Story
An inspiring and empowering episode for anyone who finds themselves in pursuit of a dream but trapped in a cycle of doubt. Tune in as we dive into the extraordinary story of Chelsea Nettleton, an incredible songwriter and budding producer who has taken control of her direction and career.
Full Episode List
Episode 87: Music Reps in Sync Licensing
Ever wondered what it's like to have someone pitch your music for major opportunities? Tune into my discussion with Natalie Phan, the Founder and CEO of SoundSync Music Agency, specializing in representing Texas Pop artists.
It’s not straightforward or quick process. Natalie serves as the bridge between two different worlds: the artists and the music supervisors.
Episode 86:
Knowing Your Songwriter Rights
Have you ever wondered what rights you, as a songwriter, actually possess? What is a PRO, and should you sign up for one? Do you own your publishing, masters, and mechanical licensing? How do you know for sure? And how do you get your co-writers to talk about rights without being awkward?
In this episode, we have a special guest and old friend, Entertainment Lawyer Megan Pekar, who will shed light on the legal aspects that songwriters need to know and why it's important.
Episode 85:
It Has To Be A Great Song
In this episode returning guest host Josh Doyle and Mike chat on the telltale signs of a great song, how you can identify those hidden gems as well as insightful tips and strategies to help you hone your discerning ear.
Episode 83:
Building a Brand with Lauren Bateman
Guitar and entrepreneurship? Just for the already successful business people or rockstar guitar players? Nope 👎
Have you ever thought about creating your own brand, running a guitar school/teaching lessons? If so listen to this episode ASAP!!!
Episode 82: Co-Writing is for Everyone
Co-writing is an essential skill for any aspiring writer, in any genre. It's also a skill that you can improve! We want to ensure that you can approach it with confidence and enthusiasm, rather than feeling intimidated by the idea of being an expert right from the start.
Episode 81: Syncs and Serendipity
Join us as we explore the world of music supervision with the incredible Mike Turner. As an award-winning music supervisor, editor, and producer, Mike brings a wealth of experience to the table.
Discover Mike's unconventional journey into the sync industry, from navigating the complexities of the role to stumbling upon unexpected opportunities.
Episode 80: What's in Your Briefs?
Discover the essential questions artists should ask when dissecting a brief and be empowered to make informed creative decisions! 🎙️💡
Musicians often find themselves perplexed when it comes to understanding briefs and end up creating content that doesn't align with the scene or the supervisor's requests.
Join Mike and Josh as they delve into the elusive world of sync licensing briefs.
Episode 79: Asking Questions
In this episode, we talk with Josh Doyle, a creator, mixing engineer, and entrepreneur in the music industry. We discuss the power of asking questions and how it has helped us in our own careers in licensing, producing, and developing songs!
We believe that asking questions is a continuing trait of successful people. In this episode, we explore why questions are opportunities, not something to be embarrassed or afraid of.
Episode 78:
Riding the Wave of Change
Geoff Duncan's colorful journey is an inspiration to anyone in music. In this podcast, we'll explore the secrets of Geoff's successes and how to navigate big change in life.
We also delve into the pressures and quick turnarounds that come with opportunities, and how following through on your commitments can be scary but are not only necessary but worth it.
Episode 77: The Growth Blueprint
If his French Canadian accent doesn’t lure you in, this Growth Blueprint for musicians and online entrepreneurs might.
Building something from the ground up like a music career is full of disappointments and setbacks. Tune in to hear the six points that helped Chris Selim's career grow, because they are sure to help yours too.
Episode 76: Intro to Production Music
We're diving deep into this niche world of sync licensing and Dave Kropf is here to drop some serious knowledge bombs. Production music has become increasingly popular in recent years. With streaming services on the rise, there's a huge demand for it. This episode gives amazing insight into what to expect from this facet of the industry and how to wrap your head around it. If you like analogies with your education, you won't want to miss this episode.
Episode 75: Radical Growth for Radical Change
What causes some people to grow at a faster rate in their songwriting career?
Mike Meiers and COO of Songwriting for Guitar, Heather Taylor, dive deep into discussing people's resistance to collaboration and talk about three top reasons why.
Read the transcript here
Episode 74: In Defense of Pop
Lainey Dionne and I chat about the misconceptions of pop and why it gets such a bad rap. The truth is pop has heavily influenced music from the dawn of Western music to now, and it’s constantly evolving.
Lainey and Mike challenge you to find elements of the modern songwriting world and bring it into your own writing.
Episode 73: American Idol vs. What Actually Works
Have you ever had anyone say to you with great enthusiasm, “You should try out for American Idol!”? It’s a well intentioned but generally a misguided statement for musicians.
Our guest today and best bud of mine, Madeline Finn, is living proof it’s more something you get through than benefit from.
Episode 72: Sync Licensing Myths
If one of the greatest skills in our lifetime is adaptability and discerning what’s true and false, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for.
Since we can’t always know what to pay attention to when starting out, industry sync experts Mike Meiers and Anthony Clint Jr. get together to dispel myths about this growing field so you can make informed decisions going forward.
Episode 71:
Scaling Your Gigs
My friend Lainey Dionne has THE formula for getting your gigs to become a main source of income.
With some gigs you can get stuck and waste your time, but you don’t have. You can learn the signs to spot the good ones, know the ways to get them and then become such a boss you even know what you’re worth when booking them. There is a clear path to take your gigging mindset of a hobbyist to a gigging pro.
Episode 70: Lyft Affirmations
Last week's episode reminded me of my own first conference and how important this ONE thing I did was.
So many great things have come out of this technique that I call Lyft Affirmations. Heather Taylor and I sat down to chat about it in this week's episode.
Episode 69: Just Say Yes
Heather Taylor recognizes saying yes, and believing in yourself can be one of the hardest things to do. It took a lot for her to say yes to this opportunity she just came back from, but she’s so invigorated.
We talk about what taking a risk can feel like, what doors it can open up, what behind the scenes things can stop you and why YOU shouldn’t be the one to stop you.
Episode 65: Songwriting with Artist Lainey Dionne
What is working now in the industry as an artist?
Laiey Dionne is an award-winning, sync placing, indie-pop singing, songwriting, ROCKSTAR who graduated from Berklee. Find her most recent syncs on Making the Cut and Teen Mom 2.
Click for free training from Lainey.
Episode 64:
My friend & Mentor, Josh Doyle Pt. II
Part two of my conversation with friend and mentor, Josh Doyle, is my favorite. Not just because of all the juicy information, and insight throughout this conversation with Josh, but because of our announcement!
Episode 63: My friend & Mentor, Josh Doyle
We’re chatting with Josh Doyle, one of my most valued mentors and founder of L.A. based record label and sync licensing company, 3 Theory Music. 3 Theory Music is a collective who have been placed with Amazon, Nike, Nintendo, Toyota, Netflix, HBO, and so much more.
Episode 62: Playlists are a Songwriter's Best Friend
Playlist challenge! I challenge you to build better habits around listening to new music. Consistently listening to new and current music in your genre will do more for your music than you know!
Episode 61: Seth Mosley
Grammy-Winning Producer, Songwriter, Podcast Host, Publisher and Educator at Full Circle Music Academy Seth Mosley has some thoughts on shifting gears in the music industry.
Episode 60:
5 DAY BOOTCAMP (LIVE)
Listen to this week's episode to get your personal invitation and to hear what a past bootcamper has to say about the lasting effects of their experience.
Bootcamp: May 19 - 23rd, 2022
Episode 59:
Song Critiques with Josh Seawell
Have you ever wanted a song critique, but weren’t sure how to go about it? Or maybe you’ve asked for a critique, but you never heard back. It's common even to be intimidated by the idea of sharing your songs with professionals, but that all has the potential to change.
Let's get you in a helpful mindset before you ask for a song critique from a pro!
Episode 58: Student Success Story feat. Dan Walker
Listen to his episode to hear how one student has transformed his entire outlook and future in music.
Dan says, “Don’t let fear hold you back".
Episode 57:
Megan Barker
What does the work ethic of an up and coming country artist and songwriter look like? Megan Barker is the person to tell you. The grind is no stranger to Megan. And neither is the music industry. She shares insights that span generations.
Catch more from Megan on Jammin’ in Jammies podcast.
Episode 56:
Heather Evans
BIG announcement for the SFG team! Heather Evans is coming on board as an artist and sync coach and we could't be more excited!
Get to know Heather and her story on this special podcast episode.
Episode 55:
Enjoying the Process
Don't let it be drudgery all the way! If you've been discontented recently, this is the episode for you. Listen to the end for five tips to start finding joy in the process again.
Episode 54:
Tamara Bubble
Are you afraid there’s no opportunity for you to pursue your passion? This is the episode for you. Tamara is here to encourage other artists and share her wealth of knowledge about being a performing artist, getting into sync licensing and everything in between.
Episode 53:
John Clinebell
From busking on the street to having his song used in a Starbucks campaign, John doesn't keep his steps to success a secret.
Episode 52:
Meeting of the Minds
You may have heard the word, "mastermind" being thrown around, but do you know what it is, and more importantly, how it can benefit you as a creative type? Listen-in to hear Mike's experience and why he believes finding one can turn out to be a pivotal career decision.
Episode 51:
Self- Doubt
Self doubt might as well be a big flashing sign saying, "PAY ATTENTION!". Tune in to hear how to offset this tricky trap. With a new perspective, you can make decisions for your career in a more productive and soul fulfilling way.
Episode 50:
Six Tips to Get Your Organized
We're celebrating episode 50 here at the Songwriting for Guitar Podcast!
As a thanks for listening, Mike gives his top tips so you can stay productive, even in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
Episode 49:
Kevin McCarty
Talking with the CEO & co-founder of “We Should Write Sometime”, this episode examines the landscape of co-writing and the reasons collaboration is the best path to success.
Most importantly, now you don’t have to be in a music city to write songs professionally anymore.
Episode 48: Marketing with Rick Barker
Rick Barker resigned as Taylor Swift’s manager in 2008 to focus on helping artists all over the world build, grow, and monetize their fanbases. In this episode, Rick zeroes in on the common sense practices that artists should be following to navigate marketing in today’s musical landscape.
Episode 47:
Gabe Schillinger
Gabe Schillinger is a music producer who has worked with some of the biggest names in hip hop like Snoop Dogg. In addition to that, he also teaches entrepreneurs in music and other industries how to grow and scale their businesses!
Episode 46:
Creating Impactful Guitars
Want to know my biggest secret when it comes to recording impactful guitars? We're talking about the one concept that every recording professional knows, and the key to doing it well.
.
Episode 45: Production, Entrepreneurship & Licensing w/
Anthony Clint Jr.
Get the inside scoop about being a music entrepreneur and the world of production and licensing for TV, film, & media. @Clintmusic has worked with Grammy nominated artists as well as had major placements in the sync world.
Episode 44:
Dreams vs. Goals
Wake up! I think you're dreaming! In this episode, we talk about turning your dreams into reality, because I don't want your music dreams to stay a dream.
Episode 43: Student Success Story with Neil Turk
Mike talks with current student Neil Turk, about his turning points that have guided him into the best year of his life. He credits Mike’s course, Riff to Radio as one of those beginning turning points. Take a listen to Neil's story and get inspired, you might hear a lot of yourself in it.
Ep. 42: Active Listening For The Unconvinced
Let me make the case of why you need to be doing this now and why your songs will improve!
Episode 41:
Jody Friedman
Ever wonder what it takes to get your songs into film and TV?
This week, Mike talks with longtime music supervisor Jody Friedman about common mistakes and myths around licensing.
Episode 40:
Stephen Egerton
Legendary Descendents/All guitarist Stephen Egerton opens up about his early influences, the progression of his signature style, and the way his mind processes music.
Episode 39:
The Golden Corral Practicer
Is this you? If you have unfocused practice routines, listen to this podcast episode and find out!
Episode 38:
Suzanne Paulinski
Founder of the Rockstar Advocate, Suzanne helps artists develop a mindset of self-care and sustainability.
Episode 37:
Lisa McEwen
Lisa discusses the importance of mindfulness when it comes to all aspects of a career in music.
Episode 36:
Fake Your Mother-In-Law's Death And Book A Metal Band
Being able to laugh off frustration and disappointment...
Episode 35:
Christian Burns
Christian Burns has written for some of electronic music’s elite...
Episode 33:
Judy Stakee
Judy Stakee is a legendary music publisher, songwriting mentor...
Episode 32:
Madeline King & Nolan Jack
Are you ready for a sentimental episode? Before commercial...
Episode 31:
Femke Weidema
Femke Weidema chats with Mike for this week's episode. Femke ...
Episode 28:
Michelle Pettinato
This week, Mike talks with live sound engineer and educator...
Episode 27:
Nikki O'Neill
This week, Mike talks with artist, educator, and journalist Nikki...
Episode 26:
Trevor Hinesley
This week, Mike has an inspiring and insightful conversation ...
Episode 25:
Michael Elsner
Mike talks with sync licesning expert Michael Elsner. Michael...
Episode 21:
Staying Focused
Mike discusses the importance of staying focused to help achieve...
Episode 19:
Forest Whitehead
Mike talks with songwriter, producer, and guitarist Forest...
Episode 18:
Jaret Reddick
Mike closes out 2020 with Jaret Reddick, lead singer of the ...
Episode 16:
Keith Jeffery
This week, Mike talks with Keith Jeffery from the band Atlas...
Episode 15:
Chris Ballew
Chris Ballew (former lead singer and founder of The Presidents...
Episode 10:
Brett Resnick
Brett is a Nashville based pedal steel player. Brett talks about...
Episode 1: Frank Turner
Mike talks with English folk-punk singer/songwriter Frank Turner ...
