MPW Podcast

Ever wondered how to create a visual identity that truly reflects your sound? In this episode, Xylo Aria sits down with Malawian artist, producer, DJ, and community organizer Chmba to explore how culture, sound, and personal experiences can shape an artist’s visual world. Chmba shares their journey from making mixtapes in Malawi to performing internationally, how their cultural heritage influences...

Ever wondered how the role of a music producer has evolved in today’s rapidly changing industry? In this episode, Xylo Aria sits down with Grammy-nominated producer and mixing engineer Adrian Breakspear to explore the modern producer’s workflow, the impact of remote collaboration, and the balance between technical skills and artistic vision. Adrian shares insights on working with artists, building...

Ever wondered why being creative can come with such intense emotional highs and lows, especially in an industry changing so rapidly because of AI? In this episode, Xylo Aria sits down with clinical psychologist and author Julie Crabtree to explore the connection between creativity, mental health and the growing impact of AI on musicians. Julie shares practical insights on managing anxiety, rejecti...

Ever wondered how just five minutes could change the way you approach making music? In this episode, Xylo Aria sits down with producer, educator and author Brian Funk to explore how small, consistent creative actions can help overcome procrastination and keep you making music. Brian shares the thinking behind The Five Minute Music Producer , alongside practical insights on using limitations to spa...

Ever wondered what makes an artist feel comfortable enough to give their best performance in the studio? In this episode, Xylo Aria sits down with award-winning producer Greg Haver to explore the psychology behind successful recording sessions. Greg shares how communication, environment, and understanding each artist’s individual needs can shape a performance, alongside practical advice for handli...

Ever wondered what it really takes to build an international career in music? In this episode, Xylo Aria sits down with Grammy Award-winning producer and engineer Chris "Tek" O'Ryan, who shares how perseverance, preparation, and consistently delivering high-quality work helped him go from Australia to working with some of the world's biggest artists. From networking and vocal pro...

Ever wondered what Dolby Atmos actually is and why more producers are starting to embrace immersive audio? In this episode, Xylo Aria sits down with Myles to demystify Dolby Atmos, exploring how it differs from traditional stereo, why it isn't just for major studios, and how producers can start creating immersive mixes using the tools they already have. Whether you're simply curious about...

What if the secret to a better mix isn't boosting more EQ, but cutting the right frequencies? In this episode, Xylo Aria is joined by renowned audio engineer and author Bobby Owsinski to explore the fundamentals of EQ, covering everything from managing low end and avoiding muddiness to using high-pass filters, dynamic EQ, and critical listening. Resources 👉 Grab your free ticket to SoundLab:...

Do you notice how some artists seem to effortlessly juggle the double life of a producer as well? In this episode, Xylo sits down with artist and producer, Emeree, who shares her journey from being a classical musician to becoming a successful producer/artist, offering insights on balancing multiple roles, social media strategies, and maintaining creativity throughout her journey. Resources 👉 Gra...

Are you a musician who would love some insights on song splits, music copyright, using samples etc. but feel intimidated by approaching a music lawyer? In this episode, Xylo Aria chats with entertainment lawyer, Andrew Fuller on his advice on when artists need legal support, how to navigate contracts, collaboration, sampling, and AI in music. The conversation is perfect for emerging artists and pr...

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the term gain staging and wondered what it was exactly? In this episode, Xylo Aria chats with Lisa who shares her journey from aspiring singer to music producer and educator, emphasizing the importance of gain staging in music production. Discover practical tips on controlling levels at every stage, avoiding common pitfalls, and maintaining sound quality throughou...

Ever wondered what it takes to create multi-platinum records while building a successful career as a songwriter and a producer? In this episode, Xylo Aria chats with Tushar Apte who discusses his journey from a young songwriter in Australia to becoming a multi-platinum songwriter and producer working with top artists like Nicki Minaj, Blackpink and BTS. He discusses key career moments, the creativ...

Ever wondered where production ends and mixing begins? In this episode, Xylo Aria chats with Amy about her journey into music production, how she approaches her workflow, and some honest insights on making music from a home studio without overcomplicating it.  Resources 👉  Become a member of MPW: https://musicproductionforwomen.com/membership 👉 Free Intro to Music Production Masterclass: https:/...

Ever wondered how independent artists actually turn their passion into something sustainable? In this episode, Xylo Aria chats with Amani Roberts about navigating the industry, building community, and finding your own path beyond just chasing viral moments. 👉  Episode Sponsor: Kilohearts features a modular range of plugins designed for creative flexibility, including their popular Phase Plant syn...

Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of a producer’s creative process? In this episode, Xylo Aria chats with Alice Ivy about her unique approach to making music, working with others, and why enjoying the process might be more important than you think. 👉  Episode Sponsor: Kilohearts features a modular range of plugins designed for creative flexibility, including their popular Phase Plant s...

Have you ever wondered what it really takes to go from making music in your bedroom to releasing a track that connects with people? In this episode, Xylo Aria sits down with Sophie Edwards to talk about her journey into production, the story behind the production of the track “Gold,” and a few honest insights on finding your sound along the way.👉 Episode Sponsor: DistroKid offers free customizabl...

Curious how artists can build a sustainable career in today’s fast-changing music industry? In this episode, Xylo Aria sits down with Ariana Arciniega to talk about artist development, using data to make smarter decisions, and how new technologies like AI are opening up fresh opportunities for independent musicians. 👉 Become a member of MPW: https://musicproductionforwomen.com/membership👉 Free I...

Have you ever wondered how songwriters balance raw emotion with structure? In this episode, Xylo Aria sits down with Keppie to talk about the realities of writing songs, from creative habits to finding truth in the process, and how simple frameworks can sometimes unlock deeper creativity. Resources👉 Become a member of MPW: https://musicproductionforwomen.com/membership👉 Free Intro to Music Produ...

Have you wondered how the role of a music producer will change five years from now? In this episode, Xylo Aria and Louis Montgomery explore the evolving role of music producers, the impact of technology on music production, and the essential skills needed for future producers. They also touch on on productivity expectations in the music industry and offers valuable career and self-care tips for th...

What really helps an artist grow in today’s music industry? In this episode, Xylo Aria is joined by Rose Kirkham (Telepathic Instruments, Goodtwin) to explore what artist development looks like beyond just making great music. Together, they touch on the hidden challenges many artists face, the role of community in creative careers, and why relationships often matter more than reach. Distrokid has...

Ever wondered what it's like to get a major record deal? In this podcast episode, Xylo chat with Tamar Kaprelian who shares her journey in the music industry, discussing her experiences with major labels, the importance of hard work, and the realities of record deals. Grab your free ticket to Producer Launchpad 2026: https://musicproductionforwomen.com/events

Are you a musician or artist that struggles with procrastination? In this episode Xylo Aria chat with Penny Kate Oliver about the importance of self-development and specific techniques you can use to overcome procrastination, get creative and start completing more projects. Get a Free Ticket to MPW's Producer Launchpad 2026: https://musicproductionforwomen.com/events More from Penny Kate Oliver: h...

Do you feel you lack natural talent in music but would still love to create music. In this episode, Xylo Aria chats with Kendra Erika on her journey from being tone deaf to becoming a successful Billboard charting vocalist. She discusses her classical training, the importance of perseverance, and her tips for artist who are experiencing similar struggles. Visit kilohearts.com today to grab upto 30...

Ever wondered how to sound treat your home studio to get a cleaner sound without breaking the bank? In this conversation, Lukas Rimbach discusses the importance of sound treatment in home studios, the different types of acoustic panels, and practical tips for choosing the right room and speaker placement. Distrokid has kindly offered all MPW listeners a 30% discount off the first year of their ann...

Ever wondered how to write songs more consistently? In this conversation, Xylo Aria chats with Francesca De Valence to discuss the strategies and concepts on how to overcome writer's block and write songs consistently. Find techniques to tap into a more playful and child-like state, to create more freely. Join a community of female artists and producers around the world and get free access to...