The Songwriting Mind

In this episode of The Songwriting Mind , we hear from Fonteyn, a UK -born songwriter now based in Los Angeles. Fonteyn discusses the intangible relationship between melody and chords that defines her seventies soft rock sensibility, and explores the spiritual aspects of receiving songs from what she calls "the river of songs." This interview was recorded on March 28, 2025, at the Modern...

In this episode of The Songwriting Mind, we hear from Chad Monticue, producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Chad shares his perspective on collaboration, discussing his various roles across different projects from Animal Scream to producing Zack Keim’s “Battery Lane” album. He reflects on the art of identifying what a song needs, the balance between crea...

In this episode of The Songwriting Mind, we hear from Zack Keim, a singer-songwriter from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Zack shares personal insights and experiences that inspired the making of his latest album “Battery Lane.” He reflects on the collaborative process with producer and co-writer Chad Monticue. Recorded live at Boise Contemporary Theater for Podfort at Treefort Music Festival on March 2...

In this episode of The Songwriting Mind , we hear from This Old Man , a songwriter based in Tasmania. He shares his journey through songwriting, reflecting on the cathartic power of writing, the inspiration behind his songs, and the ways life’s challenges have shaped his music. This Old Man also discusses the importance of embracing emotions, using music as a vehicle for personal expression, and t...

In this episode of The Songwriting Mind , we hear from Kier Stevens, a songwriter based in Melbourne, Australia. Kier shares his evolution from electronic music and techno to heavy metal and eventually to blues, offering us a look at his journey and process. He reflects on the ways his songwriting has changed over time, from early experimental tracks to more refined and intentional works. Kier als...

In this episode of The Songwriting Mind , we hear from Blind John, a character from the forests of Bend, Oregon, created by Silverton, Oregon-based songwriter Jake Prahar. Blind John shares his journey with music, from initially rejecting it to discovering his gift for composing comedic songs. He shares the stories and inspiration behind some of his songs and how his process blends humor and visua...

In this episode of The Songwriting Mind , Sam Smith (My Favorite Boxer) of Le Pine Oregon shares his journey into songwriting, from overcoming self-doubt to embracing creativity through the subconscious. Sam talks about his songwriting process, the freedom of improvisation, and how his music comes from a blend of imagination and raw emotion. Sam's original music featured in this episode: How Do I...

In this episode of The Songwriting Mind , I reflect on the evolution of the podcast, sharing its origins from a songwriting group and how it grew into a platform to explore the creative process behind songwriting. The episode delves into the intrinsic value of an artist’s voice, regardless of success, and features clips from past guests in episodes 1-5. Recorded in Launceston, Tasmania on February...

In this episode of The Songwriting Mind , Micha Silvius, singer-songwriter from the southern Oregon coast, takes us through her musical evolution. From her early years as a classical pianist to drawing inspiration from film scores and personal experiences, Micha discusses how diverse influences shape her songwriting. She explores the importance of channeling emotions through characters, the power...

In this episode of The Songwriting Mind , T Bird (Teresa Bird), singer-songwriter of T Bird and the Other Birds, shares her journey from writing silly ditties with her siblings to crafting deeply personal music while traveling. She discusses how her travels and the people she meets along the way shape her songwriting and inspire her to explore emotional depths. Songs in this episode by T Bird: Rea...

In this episode of The Songwriting Mind , Tim Bulster, singer-songwriter of Tiller of the Moon , takes us through his journey from penning angsty lyrics as a teenager in Chicago punk bands to his current indie rock, folk and americana sounds, reflecting on the evolution of his songwriting. Tim shares his creative process, how he crafts songs with emotional depth and imagery, and what makes a song...

In this episode of The Songwriting Mind , Greg Thelen, a songwriter born in Oregon’s Willamette Valley and now residing on the southern Oregon coast, shares his journey through music. From his early days as a "folkie" through his evolution as a songwriter and performer, Greg reflects on the craft, emotion, and stories that define his songs. Greg offers insights into his songwriting process, includ...

In this episode of The Songwriting Mind , Heather Carpenter, a songwriter from the Oregon Coast, reflects on her journey of songwriting, from childhood moments of self-expression to her unique creative process today. Through her words and music, Heather explores the personal depths of creativity, the stories that shape her songs, and her reflections on life, art, and human connection. Recorded on...