The Sound Mind

In this episode, I dig into a simple but uncomfortable question: how much of yourself are you willing to change just to be successful? Inspired by Dijon’s conversation with Zane Lowe, I explore the tension between authenticity and validation — how easy it is to shape-shift for the tribe, and how rare it is to build a life that bends around who you actually are. From the pitfalls of creating for ap...

In this episode, I talk about being stuck in a rough writing patch — why it happens, and how we gently work through it. From dodging our emotions, comparing ourselves to others, and numbing with our phones, to learning to trust our ideas again. It’s about giving ourselves permission to make “bad” work, creating space for intuition, and remembering that clarity comes from making , not overthinking....

In this episode, I dive into redefining success as a creative and why external markers like getting up early or being constantly busy aren’t the key to growth. I talk about the disconnect between time spent and output, the importance of getting out of the “busy mindset,” and how to focus on what actually moves the needle. I also share my approach to backing vocals, advice for getting into producti...

In this episode, I dive into the wild ride of my recent social media growth - how it’s created opportunities, the pressure that comes with it, and how I’m learning to navigate the highs and lows. I share some go-to phrases that help when things feel overwhelming, plus why doing less (but with more focus) can actually get you further. We also get into your questions on working with producers for th...

Today, we welcome Jed Bevington to the podcast. Jed is a versatile multi-instrumentalist, string arranger, and violinist who has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including Eloise, Cavetown, Nix Northwest, Enny, Fat Dog, and  my old band, Yakul. Releasing his own music under the name Jed Holland, he brings a unique perspective to both string arranging and songwriting. In our chat, we d...

In this episode, we talk about the tricky balance of knowing when a project is finished and when it’s time to move on. We explore why “done is better than perfect” and how taking action often outweighs endless planning. We dive into the importance of maintaining a beginner’s mindset to spark creativity and discuss the value of investing in experiences that fuel artistic growth. If you're some...

In this episode, we reflect on James's final tour with Yakul, exploring the emotions and challenges of stopping a long-term project and the process of moving on. We dive into whether long-term goal setting is always beneficial or if it can box you in, discussing the importance of staying flexible and being open to new opportunities. We also talk about the need to define your focus and how tha...

In this episode, we're excited to welcome Beatmaker, producer, and multi-instrumentalist edbl to the podcast. Known for his prolific collaborations, edbl has collaborations with over 60 artists, helping to spotlight some of the most exciting up-and-coming talent in the UK. With over 70 million streams and support from platforms like Radio 1, 1Xtra, Radio 2, and Jazz FM—not to mention a presti...

In this special episode we're thrilled to welcome our first guest, John Elleson-Hartley, a seasoned mixing and mastering engineer with over 25 years of experience in the industry. Based in Horsham, UK, John has worked with a diverse array of composers and has contributed to high-profile projects like Nainita Desai’s Deepest Breath soundtrack on Netflix, Miguel Doliviera’s Ibiza Narcos on Sky,...

In this episode James explores essential life guidelines to help you stay on track, even when faced with challenges. Discover why prioritising physical and mental health is the foundation of sustained creative success, and how focusing on your environment can naturally enhance the quality of your work. James talks about the importance of setting boundaries, emphasising why it’s crucial to prioriti...

In this  episode we explore the essential elements of nurturing creativity and mental clarity for artists. We discuss the benefits of taking time off to reset your mind and the power of working less but diving deeper into your projects for more profound results. Learn how to set yourself up mentally for a creative headspace, drawing on techniques from the renowned "Artist’s Way" program....

This episode is a little different to normal, while Marcus is deep into a project I thought I'd jump in and do a solo quest! This episode is all about audience growth, resetting expectations when releasing, and how minimising the stakes can take the pressure off and allow you to progress without any desperation.  I go over some areas that can help maximise these including - consistent release...

In this episode we dissect the intricacies of success, failure, and the pursuit of recognition, all through the lens of our creative endeavours. Reflecting on the overbearing influence of ego on our sense of fulfilment.  Listen in as we discuss the paradox of balancing our ambitions with contentment, and the constant dance between personal achievements and the allure of public recognition. We shar...

In this  episode we delve into the multifaceted journey of musical and career development.. Gain valuable insights from observing and learning from those more experienced, understanding the power of mentorship in your growth. We discuss the debate on formal education in music—whether attending university or college is necessary for success in the industry. Learn the art of asking the right questio...

In this episode we explore the complexities of growing an audience in today's digital landscape. Discover why sometimes, overthinking and micromanaging don't necessarily yield better results, and how drowning in information can lead to decision paralysis. We delve into the challenge of finding balance between seeking advice and trusting your intuition, especially when the abundance of gu...

In this episode, we embark on a journey through the ups and downs of freelance life, uncovering the secrets to success and fulfilment. Join us as we explore consistency in writing, embracing those pockets of inspiration that propel us forward in our creative endeavours. We confront the realities of imbalance in our lives, recognizing that sometimes, it's necessary to prioritize certain areas...

In this  episode we delve into the challenges and triumphs of creativity in the digital age. Join us as we explore the art of being resourceful within a small budget, uncovering the innovative ways artists bring their visions to life. Discover the importance of clarity in your message when crafting release plans and video content, ensuring your artistic vision resonates with your audience. We cand...

In this  episode we explore the profound impact of music as a vessel for nostalgia, transporting us back to the past. We discuss the complexities of sacrificing engagement for a greater vision and the art of cultivating a loyal fan base from within. Discover the golden rule of providing value before expecting anything in return, and maintain a balanced relationship with your audience. Join us as w...

We're back finally after an indulgent break! In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of creative mastery and self-improvement. Join us as we unravel the concept of first-principle thinking, dissecting how it can transform your approach to understanding and connecting with your audience. Explore the wisdom of seeking the best in your field, taking cues from luminaries like Mr. Beast...

We take a deep dive into the art of goal-setting, reflecting on the milestones of 2023 while setting our sights on the  journey ahead in 2024. Join us as we explore the dynamic nature of goals, recognising how they evolve with our progress, and how we tend to reach them without necessarily noticing. We chat about the concept of compounding in your career growth, understanding the power of consiste...

We starting this episode with an extended rambling on heart rates and sleep, but stick with us, it doesn't go on for the whole hour. FYI there's some crackles going on for the first few minutes, again, these do not go on for the whole episode! We then explore the essential pillars of creative success. Diving into the significance of networking and the transformative impact of investing t...

In this  episode we embark on a nostalgic journey through the gaming consoles of our youth, reminiscing about the classics that inspired us. Join us as we explore the diverse approaches to writing, comparing the art of writing original music to the world of covers arrangements. We delve into the intricacies of writing to a brief, and how to best capture the client's vision while still being t...

In this  episode, we explore the fascinating realm of creativity and skill development. Discover the transformative power of keeping a beginner's mindset, which can breathe new life into your creative endeavours. We delve into the importance of not becoming too entrenched in a single way of creating, whether it's writing, art, or any other pursuit. Learn what it truly takes to establish...

In this episode, we dive into the world of performance anxiety, the quest for the elusive flow state, and the art of self-expression. Join us as we explore the challenges of dealing with anxiety under pressure and learn why it's absolutely okay to make mistakes while performing. Discover the liberating concept of caring less about what others think, and understand how self-consciousness can b...

In this episode we delve deep into the world of self-trust, intuition, and the pursuit of your true dreams. Join us as we explore the powerful concept of saying no to the secure path when it doesn't align with your aspirations, and the art of betting on yourself. We'll guide you through the importance of trusting your intuition, not spreading yourself too thin, and adapting your goals an...